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74.91% Winds of Change (DxD) / Chapter 197: Chapter 12 - Part 1 - Angel's Date Night and the Main Stage

Chapter 197: Chapter 12 - Part 1 - Angel's Date Night and the Main Stage

Aaron Toole's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

A few days had passed since our escapade in Ireland—a time cherished by all. However, the present called for a shift in focus. The preliminary rounds had concluded, and only the teams that had accrued sufficient points remained in contention.

I found myself in a room adorned with the names and symbols of the sixteen successful teams. My alterations to the timeline had given rise to a peculiar amalgamation of canonical and alternative teams. In truth, I had anticipated this turn of events.

"Yeah, this outcome was in the cards," remarked Azazel, who stood at my side.

Shiva, positioned on my other flank, chimed in with a reassuring tone. "The individuals intertwined with your journey have rightfully secured their places, Jin."

Tiamat, forever cryptic, offered a contemplative statement. "This promises to be an intriguing inaugural tournament..."

The unspoken anticipation hung palpably in the air, a collective recognition of the exceptional path that had brought us to this juncture.

— ○ ● ○ —

Avezza Cup Tournament Main Round Contenders:

— ○ ● ○ —

[Team Rias Gremory] – [King] – Rias Gremory

[Team Golden Rakshasa] – [King] – Aurelia Le Guin

[Team Imperial Purpure] – [King] – Sairaorg Bael

[Team Sona Sitri] – [King] – Sona Sitri

[Team Spear of the Draconic Emperor] – [King] – Cao Cao

[Team Babel Belial] – [King] – Diehauser Belial

[Team Vajra] – [King] – Indra

[Team Phantastic Dragons] – [King] – Hirokazu Miller

[Team Moon Rabbits] – [King] – Kurousagi

[Team Shinto] – [King] – Hachiman

[Team White Dragon Emperor of the Morning Star] – [King] – Vali Lucifer

[Team Trump Card of Heaven] – [King] – Dulio Gesualdo

[Team Slash Dog] – [King] – Kanami Minagawa

[Team Leisure of the Kings] – [King] – Typhon

[Team Journey to the West] – [King] – Sun Wukong (1st Generation)

[Team Black Satan of Darkness Dragon King] – [King] – Zeno (Grim Reaper)

— ○ ● ○ —

"I'm surprised that [Team Asura], [Team Surtr], [Team Shooting Star], and [Team Phoenix] didn't make the cut," I remarked, my gaze locked on the screen before us.

In this peculiar tournament, god-class teams and other formidable contenders had fallen before the relentless prowess of [DxD]. It was a bewildering period for deities and god-like beings, as they found themselves repeatedly bested within the arena. Even many human participants had achieved the elusive Balance Breaker during these fierce contests, reshaping the course of battles.

Regrettably, [Team Lightning] failed to secure their place, along with the team representing the Irish Gods and a few others. The outcome before us revealed a divergence from the canonical path. Three teams had emerged as victors in this modified tournament, distinct from the original storyline—though two of them had no existence in the canonical narrative.

[Team Sona Sitri], [Team Moon Rabbits], and [Team Phantastic Dragons] had earned their positions. Notably absent from the list were [Team Asura], as mentioned earlier, along with [Team Shooting Star], [Team Surtr], and [Team Phoenix].

"Yeah, but... We're also announcing those, right?" Satanael interjected, drawing our attention to a separate screen—one that displayed the current Longinus and the [New Longinus].

— ○ ● ○ —

Current Existing [Longinus] – Original 13:

— ○ ● ○ —

[True Longinus] – Wielder – Kanami Minagawa

[Zenith Tempest] – Wielder – Dulio Gesualdo

[Annihilation Maker] – Wielder – Leonardo

[Dimension Lost] – Wielder – Georg

[Boosted Gear] + [Divine Dividing] (Unique) – Wielder – Jin Skyward

[Divine Dividing] (Original) – Wielder – Vali Lucifer

[Canis Lykaon] (Original) – Wielder – Tobio Ikuse

[Sephiroth Graal] – Wielder – Vali Tepes

[Incarnate Anthem] – Wielder – Lint Sellzen

[Regulus Nemea] – Wielder – Sairaorg Bael

[Tempest Extinction] (Absolute Demise) – Wielder – Lavinia Reni

[Innovate Clear] + [Telos Karma] – Wielder – Mitsuya Kanzaki

— ○ ● ○ —

New Classified Longinus – [New Longinus]:

— ○ ● ○ —

[Aeon Balor] – Wielder – Gasper Vladi

[Alphecca Tyrant] – Wielder – Meridith Ordinton

[Unknown Dictator] – Wielder – Magnus Rose

[Nereid Kyrie] – Wielder – Ingvild Leviathan

[Star Buster Star Blaster] – Wielder – Shooting Star (Real Name: Unknown)

[Carnage Incarnate: Grand Chariot] – Wielder – Xenovia Quarta

[Demon God Manifestation: Demon's Extract] – Wielder – Yashina Lidia Vitalievna

[Linear Basiliki] – Wielder – Hirokazu Miller

[Demon Armor: Incursio] – Wielder – Jin Skyward

[Abyssal Twilight] – Wielder – Jin Skyward

— ○ ● ○ —

"Did you really fuse that adorable lion cub creature with the [Abyss Extinction]? And you're calling it '[Abyssal Twilight]?" Azazel inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Absolutely," I affirmed with a confident nod. "Abyss was already a part of the [Abyss Extinction], and Liadonn originated from the Phantasma—essentially, a poetic synonym for darkness is twilight. So, that name just clicked," I explained before turning around. "But let's not dwell on nomenclature. Anyway, it's time to kick off this announcement."

With that, I took the lead, striding out of the room, followed by Azazel, Shiva, and a handful of others. The grand tournament's main stage was about to burst into action!

— ○ ● ○ —

Suzaku Himejima's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

Seated comfortably within the VIP room, we bided our time, waiting for the grand spectacle of the main stage tournament's opening ceremony. The room was bathed in the glow of numerous cameras, both within its confines and scattered throughout the vast arena. The Rating Games, conceived by the cunning devils, unfolded within the Agares territory's grand arena, more precisely, the ethereal Floating City of Agreas. Nearly all of us had gathered here—those actively participating or aligned with teams were down in the stadium. The sole exception being Lavinia, who accompanied Aaron as his Queen, as he prepared to deliver a significant address, or in his own words, an audacious challenge to the supernatural realm.

Róisín and many others graced the room with their presence, though Róisín herself wore an uncharacteristic air of worry. She sat beside Azathoth, with whom she had engaged in lengthy conversations over the past few days. Surprisingly, Velgrynd was absent, as she had sought Grayfia's guidance to enhance her culinary skills, much to the surprise of many.

Azathoth had intended to join Velgrynd in her culinary quest, but Róisín's relentless chatter had successfully coerced her into joining us.

Out of the 16 teams present today, only five boasted the presence of deities among their ranks, a revelation that was sure to astonish many in the supernatural world, as today marked the announcement of the teams advancing to the main tournament.

"It's beginning!" Raynare exclaimed. Her own team, [Team Lightning], had not made the cut for the main tournament, but anyone in her team—or any other excluded team—had the option to join the remaining squads. Thus, Raynare herself could potentially become a part of [Team Golden Rakshasa] or another team of her choosing.

The music commenced, and...

"They chose this for the music...?" Hephaestus-sama gasped in dismay. The selected tune was none other than the Oppai Dragon Song. The audience's reactions ranged from astonishment to amusement, but it was unlikely that Aaron had any say in the matter; it was probably chosen by Serafall and Sirzechs Lucifer.

[The 16 teams advancing to the main stage have been determined! Stay tuned for the results and another important announcement!] boomed Naud Gamigin, a commentator for numerous matches, joined by an equally enthusiastic devil commentator.

"Did Aaron inform any of you about the teams that made it?" Lisa inquired.

"Well, the Gremory, Sitri, and Slash Dog Teams have certainly advanced, as they're not here with us. We can safely assume the same for the Cao Cao and Bael teams," Göndul-san deduced. She had sufficiently recovered to rejoin our ranks, though her attempts to reconcile with her husband had been met with refusal. We remained unaware of the underlying reasons, much like Göndul and Rossweisse, but it was suspected that Aaron possessed the answers, as he was typically privy to such information.

Consequently, four days ago, Göndul made the decision to relocate to our residence. Rossweisse had recommended the move, supported by other Valkyries from Aaron's household. Aaron himself had no objections, and with additional encouragement from us, especially the Mother's Association, she had comfortably resettled.

In our midst, surrounded by our collective energy, she quickly regained her usual vivacity. Rossweisse, the Valkyries, and the Mother's Association provided her with constant companionship, while everyone else did their utmost to accommodate her needs.

After a brief five-minute wait, Naud, the commentator, resumed speaking.

[We kick off with the first team to secure a spot in the main stage without a single defeat! They're the tournament favorites, and many believe they could emerge victorious! Led by the formidable Aurelia Le Guin, supported by an intriguing ensemble, give it up for [Team Golden Rakshasa]!!]

Aurelia and her team strode forward, sporting matching uniforms unlike their preliminary attire. Clad in blue blazers, white pants, capes, and their personalized footwear, they exuded an undeniable air of unity and purpose.

After Naud-san's announcement, the stadium erupted in resounding cheers. Her team's formidable reputation had cast a shadow over many other participants in the tournament, including those hailing from [DxD] and the ranks of God-class teams. With each bewildering twist in the competition—the attainment of Balance Breakers, the awakening of newfound innate powers, the reawakening of dormant Sacred Gears, or even the occasional shock upset—certain teams began to bow out.

This phenomenon extended beyond conventional teams; even those featuring deities began to withdraw, either due to an aversion to the impending challenges or apprehension toward the astonishing might displayed by their peers. Although most competitors were merely "playing the game," the showcase of powers was enough to unnerve them, earning the tournament the moniker of a "power display."

[The next team hails from the Underworld! Renowned as the first group ever trained by the enigmatic Middleman, and a vital component of Team [DxD], recognized for thwarting terrorist threats. Led by the Gremory clan's Princess and Heir, let's welcome [Team Rias Gremory] to the stage!!]

Rias and her team had come a long way since the previous year. Their newfound ability to take on God-class beings with ease left many bewildered and, at times, intimidated. However, as the word spread about their mysterious trainer, understanding began to dawn on some, shedding light on the sudden surge in their powers.

[The next team originates from the human world! Comprising humans who have vanquished Ultimate-class and God-class teams alike! A squad composed of the Middleman's subordinates, Sacred Gear wielders, and led by the possessor of the universe-piercing spear, let's give a warm welcome to Cao Cao and [Team Spear of the Draconic Emperor]!!]

Cao Cao and his team had pushed the boundaries of human capability. Cao Cao himself, according to Aaron, possessed an immortal essence despite his human form. His second chance at life, along with the enigmatic trials he underwent in the Phantasm, had sealed his loyalty to Aaron. The rest of the team followed suit after the inauguration of Aaron's shop, becoming his trusted subordinates. Aaron invested substantial trust in them and often dispatched them, alongside the Slash Dog Team and [EXE], on numerous Black-Ops missions, bolstering their efficiency.

[DxD] remained the last line of defense, addressing global issues that transcended both teams' scope.

[Next up is a legendary team featuring an even more legendary trio! Hailing from the Hindu Pantheon and Mount Meru! This jovial ensemble of elderly gentlemen with unique outlooks on life, please welcome [Team Journey to the West]! Led by none other than the First Generation, Sun Wukong!!]

The three First-Generation Sun Wukong, Zhu Baije, and Sha Wujing made their entrance one by one, followed by the heaven-sent child Nezha, a member of their team. Their unparalleled synergy outclassed 90% of the competing teams, enabling them to overcome most challenges with ease.

[Mount Meru's prowess is truly remarkable, with two of their teams making it to the main tournament!] exclaimed the other commentator.

[Next up! A team under the command of the King of Monsters, Typhon! Comprising young prodigies and even several gods, let's give a resounding welcome to [Team Leisure of the Kings]!! Many would find it strange if they didn't qualify for the main stage!!]

Despite suffering a defeat at the hands of Aurelia's team, in which Aaron participated, [Team Leisure of the Kings] secured victory in most of their subsequent matches. Fueled by the combined might of Asgard and Olympus, bolstered by newly empowered valkyries, they effortlessly breezed through the preliminaries.

[Another fan favorite in the tournament! Many eagerly anticipate a showdown between them and [Team Golden Rakshasa]! This team comprises nothing but gods, led by none other than the illustrious Indra! Please welcome [Team Varja]!!]

[Team Varja], centered on Buddhism, was accompanied by the Four Heavenly Kings: Vaiśravaṇa, Virūdhaka, Dhrtarāstra, Virūpaksa, and Indra's son, Arjuna. Like Aurelia's team, they emerged from the preliminaries unscathed, thanks in part to [DxD] members on other teams. These select individuals had caused the downfall or near-defeat of numerous God-class teams.

[An unexpected dark horse of the tournament! A roster comprising Grim Reapers and unknown devils! They've garnered immense support with their victories in the preliminaries. Let's give a warm welcome to [Team Black Satan of Darkness Dragon King]! What a mouthful of a name!!]

The team led by the High-class Grim Reaper, Zeno, who assumed the role of [King], comprised a unique blend of Artificial Devils and Grim Reapers. In the first half of the preliminaries, they suffered a string of losses. However, once they enlisted the aid of Artificial Devils like Balberith and Verrine, their fortunes took a remarkable turn, culminating in a series of victorious encounters.

One of their most notable triumphs came against [Team Asura], although they also tasted defeat at the hands of [Team Trump Card of Heaven]. This particular match proved arduous for all involved, with Dulio, Griselda, and Irina carrying the team on Dulio's side. The remaining members fought valiantly but were often overwhelmed by the Artificial Super Devils, each possessing unique 'traits' akin to those found within the devil clan.

Aaron speculated that these Artificial Super Devils may have originated from the Phantasma or Evie, as he doubted that such powers could arise naturally or awaken without external influence.

[Next up! Hailing from the Egyptian Parthenon, this team primarily comprises Rabbit Youkai and Monsters, led by a newfound goddess for both the Egyptian and Greek Pantheons. Please welcome Kurousagi and [Team Moon Rabbits]!!!]

Kurousagi and Vera, the [King] and [Queen] of the team, represented the most potent goddesses within their ranks. Yet, their lineup also featured two Satan-class rabbit Youkai, who had come to hone their skills in Aaron's domain, alongside a handful of Ultimate-class and High-class rabbits. This eclectic mix granted them formidable power, further augmented by their distinctive combat styles and gadgets provided by Aaron, along with their innate abilities.

[Another formidable human team! Their leader, a prominent figure in the renowned Grauzauberer magicians' organization, has recently earned the moniker of [Nascent Dragon]! Hailing from the USA, we introduce Hirokazu Miller and [Team Phantastic Dragons]!!]

Much like many others, Hirokazu regarded Aaron as a source of inspiration. His diligent efforts, coupled with the changes wrought by Aaron in Heaven, prompted the evolution of Hirokazu's Sacred Gear. He had even christened it recently, a rather straightforward moniker in stark contrast to Aaron's penchant for eccentric naming conventions.

[Next, we have another formidable squad! Two of their gods notably participated in the exhibition match hosted by the Middleman. The God of War and the Goddess of Lightning, Thunder, and Storms! Presenting [Team Shinto!], under the leadership of Hachiman-sama and Raijin-sama!!]

Hachiman-sama and Raijin-sama shared a close bond with Aaron. Following their defeat at the hands of Aaron and Lavinia in the exhibition match, they harbored a strong desire to face him again in the finals, aspiring for a genuine contest rather than an overwhelming defeat.

[Next in line is one of the renowned Rookies Four! The current heir to the Great King Bael, the Great Lion King—Sairaorg Bael, and [Team Imperial Purpure]!!]

Sairaorg, the last person to lift Aaron from his depression, remained a dear friend held in high regard. Reports suggested that, following the tournament's conclusion, he would marry Silveteela, just as Tobio and Sae were planning to tie the knot. The anticipation surrounding these unions was palpable.

[Another member of the Rookies Four! She has effortlessly navigated the tournament, showcasing both tactical acumen and formidable power. Heiress to the Sitri clan and sibling of a Satan, presenting Sona Sitri of [Team Sona Sitri]!!]

During the 100 years within Aaron's dimension, Aaron had conveyed to Sona and her peerage that they needed to bolster their raw power. Their training, spanning five decades, aimed to augment their strength, develop new techniques, and achieve their Counter Balances. This was imperative for facing teams that relied less on tactics and more on sheer might.

[Next up is a diverse team featuring both humans and fallen angels, aligned with the Grigori faction as their agents! Formerly led by the wielder of [Canis Lykaon], widely known as [Slash Dog], leadership has now been passed to a new figure—led by the current Kanami Minagawa, who wields the [True Longinus]—please welcome [Team Slash Dogs]!!]

As Kanami strode onto the stadium turf in their sleek black-ops attire, her characteristic cheerfulness remained undiminished. It seemed a facet of her personality that would persist, yet, like Aaron, she also knew when to don a more serious mantle in pursuit of her duties and responsibilities.

[The team has undergone significant changes in its lineup; the renowned [Ice Queen] has departed, making way for several newcomers! However, Tobio Ikuse-san will continue as a reserved member, so there's much to look forward to from [Slash Dog] in the future!] noted the other commentator.

[From Heaven itself comes the team that embodies hope! Led by the [Joker] of Heaven and the sub-leader of Team [DxD], please welcome Dulio Gesualdo of [Team Trump Card of Heaven]!!]

[Their supervisor is none other than Rudiger Rosenkreuzer, also known as the [Upsetting Sorcerer]!]

Dulio-san's team has achieved numerous victories but suffered an unexpected loss, albeit against a relatively weaker opponent. This incident had sparked significant discussion at the time, but most have since moved beyond it.

[Next up! A man renowned solely for his prowess in this game! A role model for many devils, believed by many to be the devil who will go the furthest in the tournament and expose corruption within the game! It's Diehauser Belial and [Team Babel Belial]!!!]

The thunderous roar and cheers that accompanied Diehauser's entrance were unfathomable. He had garnered a massive fan base in the Underworld, which had only grown as people watched his tournament matches. Even as we watched, the genuine smile on his face as he battled opponents from all walks of life left an indelible impression.

That man truly cherished the games, and as many had predicted, the champion staged a magnificent comeback, vanquishing team after team, including some God-class opponents. This only served to strengthen the belief that he was invincible among devils.

[Last, but not least—the final team to secure a spot in the tournament! A former terrorist, one of the Heavenly Dragons, a descendant of the Lucifer bloodline, and the adopted brother of our beloved Middleman—it's Vali Lucifer and [Team White Dragon Emperor of the Morning Star]!!!!]

[They participated in the most matches during the preliminaries, achieving one draw and winning the rest! An impressive feat!]

Once all the introductions concluded, the elevated stage in the air took the spotlight. A magic circle appeared, and several individuals teleported in. Azazel, Avezza, Michael, Sirzechs, Serafall, Shiva, Tiamat, and Ajuka graced the stage. While there were more tournament organizers, many preferred to stay out of the spotlight and away from cameras.

Speaking of spotlights, it was incredible to witness Aaron's transformation from someone who vehemently shunned it to becoming a worldwide sensation. One couldn't help but wonder how his past self would react if informed of his current status.

Azazel approached the microphone, his finger in his ear. Avezza playfully smacked the back of his head, eliciting laughter from the audience.

[I'd like to extend my gratitude to everyone who's joined us here today. Thanks to Jin, there will be complimentary food and drinks available at various stadium entrances. He prepared them himself, so enjoy!] Azazel announced.

[The main stage is finally underway, and we expect all of you to make it an electrifying event! However, we have one more announcement to share. It pertains to a new classification for Sacred Gears, which we've dubbed [New Longinus]. These Sacred Gears possess power on par with the original thirteen,] Azazel declared.

[So far, we've identified ten Sacred Gears worthy of this new classification, with Aaron owning two of them,] he continued.

The announcement stirred murmurs and gasps from the crowd, piquing their curiosity.

"Are there not a few more Sacred Gears that could qualify for this classification?" Penemue asked.

"Indeed, there are," Latia replied. "But according to Aaron, they have yet to reach the level of these ten. If the current wielders further evolve them one or two more times, Aaron intends to include them in the [New Longinus] category. However, for now, they fall short in the eyes of Aaron, Azazel, Avezza, and Satanael."

The discussion then ventured into various topics, including the Khaos Order, a subtle hint about revealing themselves to humans, more about Sacred Gears, and—

[I'm aware that some of you may be curious about the rules for the main stage matches,] Azazel interjected. [To ensure a streamlined and less chaotic experience, we have decided to utilize the standard rules of the Rating Games.]

[In other words, the match concludes upon the defeat of the [Kings], without any special rules applied. It's a straightforward battle on the game field. Of course, depending on the stage, some may be disqualified if they venture out of bounds. However, this primarily pertains to field rules rather than the game rules, so please keep that in mind.]

The audience members began conversing among themselves, while the teams appeared content with the decision. Some had thrived under unique game rules, while others had struggled, but most were adaptable and amenable to the change, recognizing the benefits of simplifying the competition.

Since some couldn't stay engaged for games like [One Day Long War], which lasted an entire day, particularly with less experienced and weaker teams, their viewership for such matches had plummeted.

[Lastly… this fellow behind me wants to say something,] Azazel remarked. Aaron stepped up behind him and delivered a light smack to Azazel's head, prompting a grumble from the latter.

Aaron took hold of the microphone and surveyed the crowd. Behind him stood Lavinia and Tiamat, with Lavinia offering waves to the attendees, albeit with only a few responding. She had garnered her own share of fame, even attracting a somewhat peculiar following devoted to 'The Adventures of the Ice Queen.'

It was indeed strange, and we had only discovered it due to Gasper and Ingvild's fans informing us. Any odd photos and artwork had been promptly removed, as Aaron had zero tolerance for such matters, which was entirely understandable.

He couldn't police it all since normal photos couldn't be seen as a crime, so he let them be, although he did admit a lot of them made Lavinia look even more beautiful, so they weren't too angry with it. He even considered hiring them to be the cameraman or woman for their wedding in the future.

Aaron began with a congratulatory tone, addressing those who had successfully made it this far and acknowledging those who hadn't. His smile widened as he continued, assuring the latter group that there would always be another opportunity to strive for. Then, he shifted his focus to the teams that had indeed advanced.

A palpable aura, silvery-white and encompassing, radiated from him, sweeping over the entire Underworld. It was a surprising spectacle, causing many to momentarily pause in surprise. However, it wasn't an aggressive or threatening aura; rather, it carried an undeniable weight, an imposing presence. In response to this display, many of the teams below couldn't help but break into grins, mirroring Aaron's infectious enthusiasm.

Fixing his gaze upon them, his pupils sharp and determined, Aaron delivered his challenge with a sense of daring. [...Come and get me,] he declared.

Indra-sama couldn't contain his excitement, shouting enthusiastically, [Hyahaha! That's the spirit, Jinppai Dragon! I'll definitely rise to the challenge too!!] He, too, released his own aura, a declaration of his unwavering determination.

Aaron exchanged a warm smile with Indra-sama before gracefully returning the microphone to Azazel. The latter sighed, likely contemplating the implications of Aaron's words.

Amidst the mixed reactions, I found myself sighing, unable to fully share the prevailing enthusiasm. It appeared, however, that most others were fully on board with the challenge, none more so than Róisín. She seemed to be utterly besotted with Aaron, almost like a doting mother.

— ○ ● ○ —

Aaron Toole's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

Several hours had passed since the announcement, and we were now in the midst of planning the broadcast of the group matchups and the fighters. I sat in my office, discussing the details with the other organizers.

Sirzechs couldn't contain his excitement. "Wouldn't it be a blast to just let it happen naturally?" he exclaimed. Both he and Serafall seemed more interested in provoking their sisters into fighting once more than in offering any practical input.

Serafall enthusiastically raised her hand in agreement. "I concur!"

However, their desires were promptly shut down by the unified voices of Shiva and Azazel, both of them wearing disappointed expressions as they disregarded the two Satans.

Turning to me, they sought my opinion. I glanced at the current groupings and potential matchups. I was keen on avoiding a confrontation between Aurelia and Rias because I had a fairly good idea of how that would play out. For the sake of variety, I decided to alter the future.

"How about this?" I proposed, unveiling my own version of the tournament brackets.

Avezza, taking the document from me, considered it. "Hmm… at least you're not showing favoritism. Plus, those who lose could potentially join the winning team afterward, right?"

I nodded, finding this arrangement more intriguing. It would also provide an opportunity for those who tasted defeat to challenge me, although I was aware that not all of them might be eager to do so, given their recent setbacks.

— ○ ● ○ —

Group A:

— ○ ● ○ —

Round 1 – [Team Vajra] vs [Team Black Satan of Darkness Dragon King]

Round 2 – [Team Sona Sitri] vs [Team Trump Card of Heaven]

Round 3 – [Team Babel Belial] vs [Team Rias Gremory]

Round 4 – [Team Shinto] vs [Team Moon Rabbits]

— ○ ● ○ —

Group B:

— ○ ● ○ —

Round 5 – [Team Phantastic Dragons] vs [Team Imperial Purpure]

Round 6 – [Team Spear of the Draconic Emperor] vs [Team Leisure of the Kings]

Round 7 – [Team Golden Rakshasa] vs [Team Slash Dog]

Round 8 – [Team White Dragon Emperor of the Morning Star] vs [Team Journey to the West]

— ○ ● ○ —

These were my initial thoughts on the revised brackets. Rias had always yearned for a shot at the number one spot in the Rating Games, particularly against Diehauser. This reshuffling provided her with that chance, here and now.

If Indra managed to best Balberith and Verrine, Sona would be facing a god-class opponent, and Vritra could exact some long-awaited revenge on Indra for his previous demise. Depending on the outcomes of the clashes between [Team Shinto] and [Team Moon Rabbits], an intriguing matchup between Rias and Diehauser could be on the horizon.

As for Group B, I structured it so that Cao Cao and Sairaorg might have a rematch if they emerged victorious in their respective games. Meanwhile, Hirokazu and Vidar were set for exciting battles on the main stage. However, I had my doubts about Kanami's team, even with the assistance of Meruem, unless they pulled off a miracle.

Entering the main stage, Aurelia would likely take things more seriously. Even if she had plans to intentionally lose at a certain point to someone else, those plans might be disrupted by the bracket changes. Vali, on the other hand, faced what could be his most challenging fight to date against Aurelia, and victory seemed improbable unless he acquired substantial power-ups.

Shiva, amused by the arrangements, chimed in, "If Indra wins, then Serafall Leviathan's little sister will be up against a god. Otherwise, the angels will be pitted against a god. Either way, it promises to be an entertaining tournament with these brackets. You've also provided some teams with the opportunity for a rematch if they secure victories."

Azazel added, "Yeah. Many are still eager to see a rematch between Sairaorg and Cao Cao, especially since their previous game was cut short due to the type of match. In a standard Rating Game, it's anyone's guess who would come out on top. Those two may have grown even stronger since then."

As they continued discussing the tournament, I found myself lost in thought, pondering which matchups to finalize when I should—

A voice interrupted my contemplation from beyond the door. It was Raiko. "Jin, Velgrynd, and Azathoth are looking for you in the kitchen. If you have the time, please come downstairs."

I hesitated for a moment, but Azazel encouraged me, "Go ahead. We came here to discuss the tournament, and it seems like we're mostly in agreement with your ideas. We'll stay a bit longer."

Sirzechs, in his playful manner, chimed in with a thumbs-up, "That's right, Jin-kun. It appears your ladies need you." He struck a goofy pose, sticking out his tongue, and acted like a child, a behavior Asteri would likely not tolerate if she were present.

The others shared similar sentiments, except for Serafall, who wanted to join but was overruled by the rest.

I nodded and replied, "I'll send Grayfia up with some food and beverages, then. Thanks," before leaving the room with Raiko. As we stepped outside, I inquired, "Cooking and food?"

She smiled and nodded. "Yes, cooking and food."

A soft chuckle escaped my lips as we descended the stairs. Velgrynd and Azathoth had left for trips during the past few days. They'd also been taking cooking lessons from Grayfia, Raiko, Cindy, the Pleiades, and Mom.

Kuroka, eager to join, was being restrained by Shirone, who was similarly excited. I handed them some snacks as we passed by, momentarily satisfying Kuroka's curiosity.

Upon entering the kitchen, I found a table set with what appeared to be a unique soup in the center, accompanied by bread and unfamiliar meat. Velgrynd and Azathoth stood nearby, awaiting my arrival.

Lavinia, Suzaku, and Danu wore strained smiles on their faces as they gathered in the room. Rossweisse sat on one of the couches, her arm covering her eyes, looking utterly exhausted.

I couldn't help but wonder what had transpired here. My eyes scanned the room, and I noticed Artemis, looking shell-shocked, and Grayfia, who stood in the kitchen, appearing similarly fatigued.

"What did you two do?" I inquired, directing my question to Velgrynd and Azathoth.

Their expressions mirrored confusion as Velgrynd replied, "What do you mean?"

I gestured toward the weary women around us, and Velgrynd shook her head. "Cooking... This turned out to be a lot more challenging than we initially thought."

Azathoth nodded in agreement. "We even had to battle a Flikamo."

I couldn't help but be bewildered. "A Flikamo? What the hell is that? And when you say 'fight,' are you referring to the creature for its meat or the ingredients for the soup?"

Azathoth stared at me and conjured a magical image that showed her and Velgrynd fighting some kind of bear-like monster in a bizarre, mostly purple and yellow world. In the background, there were strange "meat trees," and a voice continually uttered, "Move over," for reasons unknown.

I couldn't help but gawk. What kind of world or universe was that? It seemed like something straight out of "Rick and Morty."

Azathoth clarified, "A Flikamo is a bear from another universe. However, their blood is made of honey, and they are sexless. If you soak it in honey from this world as well as its honey-blood for a full day, it becomes quite delicious. If you cook it a certain way and eat it with that soup, then it will taste good."

Her assertion of it tasting "good" left me skeptical. I glanced around at the others, who avoided eye contact, and I began to suspect that "good" might be subjective.

I nodded wordlessly and took a seat. All eyes were on me as they eagerly awaited my reaction. I picked up a fork and knife, sliced a piece of the Flikamo meat, dipped it in the honey-blood sauce-thing, and cautiously placed it in my mouth. Following Azathoth's instructions, I also sampled some of the soup with the meat.

A bizarre, otherworldly taste flooded my palate. The meat itself was surprisingly tender, but the soup was a strange combination of lentil soup with hints of honey, blood, and a peculiar aftertaste that resembled a wet cloth wiped with unpleasant substances. In essence, it was a culinary disaster, but I managed to swallow it and quickly reached for a glass of water placed beside me. Raiko smiled at me after I took a sip; it appeared she was the one who prepared it for me.

"So?" Velgrynd asked anxiously, while Azathoth also looked expectant.

I debated how to approach this delicate situation. Should I be honest and risk hurting their feelings, or should I fabricate a compliment? Or perhaps there was a middle ground.

[Lie.]

{Tell the truth.}

<<Vomit.>>

'Tell them the truth and offer to help find a way to cook it that brings out its flavor without the unpleasant taste.'

Rudra's suggestion was the route I had intended to take. After all, Velgrynd and Azathoth had dedicated several days to this endeavor, and I doubted that Grayfia, Raiko, Cindy, the Pleiades, or Mom possessed the knowledge to prepare this unusual dish. They must have dreaded this moment as well.

"Hmm..." I pretended to ponder, placing a finger on my chin. "It's... not cooked right."

Velgrynd looked perplexed. "Not cooked right? What do you mean?"

I elaborated, "You know how there are multiple ways to cook something, and each method can yield a different taste? For this Flikamo, I believe it needs to be cooked in a special way; any other approach will make it taste... off. Give me a second..."

Locating the appropriate cooking method and practices from the world where Flikamo originated wasn't difficult for me. After a few seconds of research, I discovered the ideal method. They were correct about the honey-blood soak, but the best way to serve this creature was to grill or smoke it, paired with ice-cold tea.

I shared this newfound information with them, and both Velgrynd and Azathoth took notes. However, Kanami's sudden outburst caught us off guard.

"You mean you made us eat vomit and shit because you cooked it wrong!?" Kanami's voice echoed in the room as she stood by the entrance, her head poking in. "I've been puking in the bathroom—no, seriously, how can you eat that!?" She pointed at me in disbelief.

A bright, radiant ring materialized behind me, and with an air of feigned enlightenment, I placed my hands together in a prayer-like gesture. "It's the power of true love," I declared, stifling my own laughter at the absurdity of it.

The room fell into an uneasy silence, struggling to grasp the bizarre statement I had just uttered. Kanami's complexion turned as pale as it had been earlier, and she abruptly fled the scene, accompanied by gagging sounds.

"So, it was that bad, huh?" Velgrynd inquired, sounding somewhat disappointed.

"Just to clarify, did either of you actually taste it?" I probed.

"N-no..." Velgrynd admitted, and I turned to Azathoth, who also shook her head.

Well, no wonder they were unaware of the taste. Typically, when experimenting with new dishes, you serve as your own guinea pig. In my culinary journey, I had tasted every disastrous concoction I created until I became proficient. That's when I started sharing my food with others—after ensuring it didn't taste like, well, garbage.

"Next time, make sure you try it yourselves, so, you know..." I trailed off.

Azathoth nodded, looking somewhat awkward in the midst of the awkwardness that permeated the room. I could only assume that the others had been asked to taste it but struggled to find the right words. Then, I had an idea.

"Velgrynd, wait!" I suddenly shouted, startling everyone present.

"What...?" she asked, taken aback.

"Let's feed this to Azazel. Give everyone else normal snacks—Grayfia, can you handle that for me?" I requested.

Grayfia fixed her gaze on me, her expression oozing with disappointment. "Are you sure about this?" she asked.

"Yes, it's a rare occurrence—every now and then is fine, right?" I replied, a sly smirk tugging at my lips. She sighed in response and accepted the plate from Velgrynd, who played along with the plan.

I instructed Grayfia to tell Azazel that this dish had been specially prepared for him while serving the others regular snacks. She reluctantly agreed and proceeded upstairs with the food, leaving us to await the impending drama.

Satisfied with my little scheme, I joined the others in the kitchen, where we stood around in anticipation. However, I soon felt two pairs of hands pinching my cheeks, and I turned to find Suzaku and Danu delivering disapproving stares.

"A bit of fun every now and then isn't bad, right?" I quipped, grinning mischievously. They responded with disapproving silence.

"Ugh...Aaron, please, give me some kind of cure for this; my stomach feels horrible," Kanami moaned as she reentered the room, quickly hugging me and shedding tears of distress. I glanced at Velgrynd with a look of horror, while Azathoth simply stared at the crying Kanami.

"Poor thing," I muttered, patting her head and alleviating her discomfort. Kanami swiftly turned around and flashed a grin toward someone at the entrance—her younger sister, Natsume, who appeared thoroughly annoyed.

"Sis—"

"Jiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiin!!!" Azazel's thunderous voice resonated throughout my home, causing the very foundations to quiver.

The man himself burst into the dining room, his piercing glare fixed on me. "What the hell did you feed me!? Shit!?" he demanded, clearly irate. "I vomited that crap as soon as I tasted it!"

Arching an eyebrow, I feigned ignorance. "I haven't even cooked anything yet. All I did was ask Grayfia to distribute the snacks to everyone upstairs, and I thought you might enjoy it based on the appearance."

"Then who made it!?" he demanded, his tone suddenly shifting. I turned my gaze to a frowning Velgrynd and an apathetic Azathoth. Azazel's demeanor quickly changed, and he took a step back. "Er, th-they made it?"

"Yes. Azathoth and I collaborated on it, Governor of the Fallen Angels," Velgrynd informed him, directing her [Dragon Spirit Haki] towards him, effectively freezing Azazel in place.

Azazel couldn't move, let alone speak, in response to her question. I approached Velgrynd and gently patted her head. "Continuing might actually kill him, so could you stop?" I requested. "I'd prefer not to deal with Azazel's exploded body in my house, either."

Velgrynd regarded me with a thoughtful look before huffing and canceling her skill. Azazel slumped to the floor and let out a sigh of relief.

"Damn, I thought I was a goner. True Dragons are way too much for me..." he muttered. "Work on your cooking! You have the best chef in the world as your husband, for crying out loud!"

"I'll send you better food as an apology!" I called after him.

"You better, you damn brat!!" Azazel shouted back before hastily departing the room.

— ○ ● ○ —

Time passed, and night had fallen. Azazel and the others were set to announce the tournament brackets for the main stage, allowing all the participating teams to learn when they would face their opponents. This would enable them to plan their rest, training, and other activities accordingly.

I had informed everyone in my household about this, and we were now gathered in the living room, eagerly watching the supernatural news on TV.

[Up next is the tournament bracket for the main stage tournament! Everyone has been excitedly waiting for this, and we will now see it for the first time!] the news reporter exclaimed, capturing our attention.

The screen displayed the teams that would be pitted against each other, sparking various reactions in the room. However, the most profound reaction came from Rias and her team, who stared at the screen in disbelief.

"We...we're facing off against the Champion...?" Rias muttered in utter disbelief.

Sona, accompanied by her team, asked, "Aaron, who was responsible for choosing this?"

I replied honestly, "Me," prompting them to fixate their gazes on me. "I thought it would be interesting—I'd like to see everyone put in the effort to fight in these games. And hey, maybe certain people and teams may get rematches, right?"

I subtly implied that if Rias and Sona's teams emerged victorious against their initial opponents, they would face each other again—a rematch between Rias and Sona would serve as the culmination of Group A.

Both of them grasped the underlying message and exchanged thoughtful glances.

"Winning against Dulio-san's team and either a team full of Super Devils and Grim Reapers or Gods and Indra-sama himself..." Sona murmured.

"Diehauser-sama, Kurousagi, Vera, and the Shinto Gods—a challenging path lies ahead of us," Rias whispered to herself.

Deep in contemplation, they were likely already formulating strategies to defeat their formidable adversaries.

[The first game has been scheduled! The first teams fighting are... [Team Shinto] and [Team Moon Rabbits]!!] the news reporter declared.

Kurousagi and Vera, who were present with us, stared at the screen with wide eyes. The rest of us turned our attention to them.

"We'll be fighting first, huh? Against Hachiman-sama and Raijin-sama," Kurousagi mused.

"We've performed well so far; let's remain optimistic! Winning this match will bring us even more recognition!" Vera declared, offering a reassuring pat on Kurousagi's shoulder.

[The next game will be broadcast in three weeks' time, featuring [Team White Dragon Emperor of the Morning Star] vs [Team Journey to the West]!!] the news reporter continued.

"Vaa-kun's team is up after Kuro-chan's!" Lavinia exclaimed with evident excitement. Our younger brother was about to face Sun Wukong in battle.

"Two thrilling games lie ahead—Prince Nezha is also on their team; it will be an intriguing confrontation... Bikou will likely square off against the First-Generation Sun Wukong, as will Sha Wujing and Zhu Bajie. As for the rest of Vali's team, they'll have their hands full with Yu-Long," I speculated aloud.

Following this announcement, both Sona's and Rias's teams left the room. Crom Cruach seemed eager at the prospect of facing these formidable opponents, and Vritra was likely determined to secure victory, granting him a chance to challenge Indra—assuming Indra's team triumphed over Zeno's.

In this universe, both Vritra and Crom Cruach had awakened their devil traits, rendering them even more potent than in the canon timeline. This promised to be an exceptionally engaging match.

— ○ ● ○ —

The following evening, around nine o'clock, Gabriel, Griselda, Lint, Irina, and I prepared to depart. It was the long-awaited 'Angels Date Night,' and I had to attend for a couple of reasons. Firstly, I was asked to make a small speech, and secondly, Michael had contacted me earlier in the day, requesting my assistance with something that involved helping some angels.

Essentially, I was going to be a matchmaker for the night, a role that intrigued me. At least I was being asked to do it this time, unlike the previous year, but I tried my best to forget about that experience since it made me cringe.

"Let's get going, then—" I began to say.

"Lez goooo~!" Lint interjected enthusiastically, unexpectedly grabbing my arm and hugging it. I was taken aback for a moment but soon laughed it off as we headed for Heaven.

— ○ ● ○ —

We arrived in Sixth Heaven, and just outside of Big G's office, I could sense the presence of the other Seraphs, including the 10 Seraphs, Altaria, and Layla. Pushing the doors open, we entered the room, and they turned to look at us.

"Yo. So when's it starting?" I asked casually.

"In ten minutes, the event is going to be held in First Heaven, so we'll make our way down there soon, but may I ask you to wear something else, Jin?" Michael asked, his expression troubled.

I blinked in confusion and glanced down at my outfit, which was my usual attire—my 'Middleman Clothes,' as I liked to call them. Michael had even given me the green light to wear them a few days ago, so I wondered what had changed.

Not waiting for an explanation, I tapped my shoulder, instantly changing into a pure white three-piece suit with a blue tie. I ran a hand through my silver hair, slicking it back, and inspected myself.

"Will this do then?" I inquired.

They were taken aback by my swift transformation, but Michael nodded appreciatively. "Yes, that will do; thank you. If you're wondering why..."

I interrupted him, saying, "Nah, it's fine; probably something to do with angel attire or something, right?"

I then looked back at the angels who had accompanied me. They all wore dresses in various shades of white, silver, gray, blue, or gold. Most of them were in white, with Lint being the exception in her gray dress. She gave me a thumbs up. Gabriel, on the other hand, approached me and clung to my arm. She had been incredibly clingy and spoiled all day, which had led to a few clashes with Lavinia, although they usually got along.

"Yes. Shall we get going then?" Michael suggested, gesturing toward the door.

"Ah, can everyone else go ahead? I'd like to speak with Jin-sama," Altaria requested.

The rest of the group agreed, but Gabriel insisted on staying, which seemed to leave Griselda with something on her mind. However, she eventually left with the others.

As I began to ask Altaria why she wanted me to stay, she grabbed my tie and started fixing it, even though I had already ensured it was fine.

"Aaron-sama~," Layla cooed, hugging me from behind. "I wish I could visit you more often..."

Among my Electa, these two were the ones I saw the least, as they resided in Heaven. Besides accompanying Griselda, Gabriel, and Irina on their occasional visits or meeting Michael for certain matters, I didn't ascend to Heaven very often. In fact, I interacted more frequently with my Guardians and Guardians of Balance.

It might have been due to the allure of Heaven itself. As someone who had grown up hearing numerous stories about it, finally being allowed entry (especially on my first visit) felt surreal.

"Should I bring Big G back to life again and make him rule?" I joked.

"Father mentioned during Christmas that the world is functioning well without him, including the supernatural realm, so it would be pointless," Gabriel replied, conveying her father's words. However, the somber tone in her voice suggested her own dissatisfaction with his decision. This sentiment was shared by the Seraphs and Fallen Angels present during that discussion, though they ultimately had to accept his choice. Like other gods, he had the option to return if he wished, as he still had many believers.

"He can always come back if he wants. He believes I'm here to fulfill his role, which can be a bit annoying, but he's not entirely wrong," I remarked.

"I don't mind the work; it's quite fulfilling, but it does get lonely at times. Although Layla, Gabriel, Irina, Griselda, Lint, Jessica, Mirana, Dulio, Diethelm, Uriel, Raphael, and Michael visit me often, some of them only do it when there's an issue to be resolved. I suppose only the first eight come to chat, while the rest do so out of obligation," Altaria explained with a sigh.

She had finished adjusting my tie and stepped back, but I caught her wrist, preventing her from leaving. Reaching over, I cupped Altaria's cheek and said, "You can always visit my home, you know? I've mentioned this before, but if any of my Electa need a day off, they're more than welcome to ask me. I can send a Shadow Soldier or even an avatar or clone to cover for them."

Altaria's face turned bright red, but before she could respond, I was pulled away by both Layla and Gabriel, who looked quite jealous. I chuckled at their reactions and patted their heads.

"Anyway, let's go join everyone. Oh, and Layla, this offer applies to you too, as I said any of the Electa," I added before walking away.

— ○ ● ○ —

Upon our arrival in First Heaven, I was taken aback by the considerable number of angels present. It struck me that none of them had perished during the 666 war—well, at least not in this heaven. In the books, many factions and pantheons had suffered significant losses, and given that the angelic population was already dwindling, the 666 incident had dealt them a devastating blow. While the war had spared First Heaven, I couldn't help but question if the overall outcome was better or worse.

As I ruminated on this, Gabriel sensed my inner turmoil and gently tugged at my arm, silently inquiring, 'Are you okay?' I offered her a comforting pat on the head, assuring her that I was fine.

"Allow me to lead the way, Aaron-sama," Altaria chimed in, guiding us towards an elevated platform backstage. In the background, I noticed the presence of Michael, Uriel, and Raphael.

Michael outlined the plan: "Altaria, Uriel, Raphael, and I will handle most of the talking. Jin-kun, we'll leave the closing words to you. Feel free to say whatever you like, but please try to keep it positive."

"Understood," I replied.

With a reassuring smile from Michael, I observed as Layla and Gabriel left to join the crowd. I stood to the side, allowing them to proceed with their speeches.

Michael's words echoed through the venue, filled with praise for the Almighty and acknowledgments of my contributions in rectifying the system and implementing necessary changes. Following his address, Uriel and Raphael discussed topics such as the [Brave Saint] system and the resurgence of the angelic population.

Finally, Altaria gestured for me to step up to the microphone. As I faced the audience, I couldn't help but notice the swelling crowd of angels, some of whom were already forming families, and even a few humans among them. Those who had accompanied me waved enthusiastically, and I reciprocated with a warm smile.

"Hello, I'm Jin, as you already know," I began, gesturing behind me as I activated a magic circle that played a recorded message.

[You're recording this, correct?] inquired a man with white hair.

[Yes, I am. So you want to give the rest of your children a message?] I responded in the video.

In the recording, he nodded. Facing the gathered audience once more, I explained that before the God of the Bible had temporarily withdrawn, he had entrusted me with a message to convey to the angels. To clarify, it wasn't entirely his decision; I had asked him, and he had eventually agreed.

[To everyone listening to this, I would like to apologize first and foremost. I may have left many of you questioning my decision, but please, I hope you come to understand my decision as I explain further.]

[The war came at an opportune time, as it could also serve as a way for me to leave without much question. 666 or Trihexa—I discovered it after going through various realms and dimensions. As it was close to our world, I decided to use millions of forbidden seals to seal it. However, it came at the cost of my power—and then my life during the war.]

[At the time, I was a bit unsatisfied and also curious. I still love all of you as well as the humans I created, but they were going a certain way that I was unsure of, so I decided to see how everything would play out without me—but I couldn't simply disappear; I had to make it believable.]

The audience in First Heaven listened with rapt attention, some visibly shocked by this heartfelt confession. However, no one voiced their dissent or objections.

[However, a certain famous person you all know brought me back on Christmas Eve, and I am sorry to say that I'm not yet ready to come back. However, perhaps in the near future, I will. But for now, it won't be happening.]

The God of the Bible, tears glistening on his cheeks, smiled brightly as he looked up at the camera.

[Perhaps I was too pessimistic—and as a god, I should be, but... I am proud of all my children. Michael, thank you for carrying that burden after I passed. To the other Great Seraphs too, you've done a good job at keeping everything running in my absence. I would like to thank everyone else too.]

[The rules I set were quite harsh, and after speaking to Jin about the changes he made, I can understand how I made it nearly impossible to continue your species. I would like to apologize for that too,] he said, bowing deeply.

[…I have many things to say, but as I said, I will definitely come back, but for now, I'll leave it at that. I also support Jin's and the other leader's plan on revealing ourselves to the supernatural; perhaps before then, I will come back to aid in it. For now, though, please keep on living happy lives, and I love all of you.]

As the magic circle dissolved, I stepped away from the microphone. The Seraphs who had joined me onstage seemed too stunned to react, prompting Altaria to regain control and continue with her speech, subsequently starting the event.

Tears welled in the eyes of many angels, and some seemed disheartened after encountering their god once more. Nevertheless, a glimmer of hope remained, fueled by the promise of his eventual return.

My efforts in persuading the Almighty had been an uphill battle, primarily consisting of guilt-tripping him about missing mine and Gabriel's wedding. In the end, though, it had proven successful, and I considered it a triumph.

Amid the gathering, other angels and humans worked to lighten the mood, and gradually, the atmosphere began to shift as people engaged in conversation and laughter. Returning to our group, I received an immediate hug from Gabriel, her silence speaking volumes.

"Was... that a bit too much? Did I bring down the mood?" I inquired, surveying our surroundings.

"Well, you certainly brought the mood down, Jinppai-paisen," Lint chimed in. "But they're moving on from it quickly enough, so I think it's a good thing. See?" She pointed toward a group of angels mingling and sharing laughter, underlining her point.

Before I could react, a trio of male angels approached us, directing their attention to Irina, Griselda, and Lint.

"Irina-chan, are you seeing anyone?"

"G-Griselda-san, are you free tonight?"

"Lint-san, please become my bride."

Ddraig interjected with a wry comment. [Did they forget that those two proposed to you during their Rating Game?]

{That one has quite the nerve, proposing marriage out of nowhere,} chimed in Albion.

Irina responded with a slightly awkward smile, "Um, yes, I am. Did you forget that I got engaged to Jin? The same goes for Boss Griselda."

Griselda gracefully bowed and added, "As Irina said, I am already in a committed relationship, so I will be unable to accept your offer."

The two angels appeared momentarily frozen, their faces reflecting their embarrassment before they exchanged apologetic glances and hastened away.

Lint, on the other hand, adopted a contemplative expression as she rested a finger against her cheek and studied the angel before her. "It might be a bit premature to discuss marriage, especially when we hardly know each other. However, I don't mind starting as friends."

With this declaration, Lint retrieved a piece of paper from her belongings and offered it to the angel. "Here's my number," she said with a friendly smile.

The angel accepted it with a polite bow. "Thank you very much. I look forward to speaking with you from now on."

The interaction appeared promising at first, but the angel promptly stashed the piece of paper in his pocket and continued to approach other female angels with similar propositions.

Lint couldn't help but comment, "Well, it seems he wasn't as serious as he initially appeared. Perhaps he's simply looking for a wife," she observed before turning her gaze to me. "I was considering teasing you, Jin, with a 'Are you jealous now?' but it doesn't seem appropriate given his intentions. I do wonder why he persists, though."

...Was that her plan all along? And what compelled her to take such an approach? Our interactions had been limited thus far, and I currently saw her as a more restrained version of Freed, with fewer profanities and a different gender. Strangely, Yumi seemed more mature to me than Lint at the moment, as odd as that might sound.

I playfully flicked her forehead in response, and she countered with a playful tongue-out gesture. This exchange continued a few times until a more assertive angel approached, this time setting his sights on Gabriel.

"Gabriel-sama, I know this may be considered blasphemous, but I would like to request your hand in marriage!" he declared, shouting his intentions before dramatically prostrating himself on the ground, leaving a dent.

This spectacle captured the attention of those around us, and Gabriel appeared bewildered by the unexpected situation. She glanced at the angel and then at me, silently seeking guidance.

"...Would having two husbands be an issue?" he ventured, offering a strained smile as he looked up at us.

It seemed this individual was determined to pursue this unconventional path.

[Is this the rumored reverse harem?! Someone's finally doing this, holy shit!]

{Why are you excited about this...?}

"No... I'm... committed to Jin. I apologize," Gabriel responded, bowing politely.

"Very well, I will attempt again at a later time," he conceded, walking away. "I won't give up until you say yes, Gabriel-sama!"

Lint couldn't resist making a teasing remark, "What a persistent fellow, isn't he? He vowed not to give up until Gabriel-sama relents. So, Jin-chin-senpai, what's your take on this?"

Sighing, I scratched my head with my free hand, pondering the best course of action. He was an angel, and I had no intention of resorting to aggressive measures or confrontations. There wasn't a rule against pursuing someone already in a relationship; societal norms and conventions held more sway. Unless there was some obscure law from another realm that I was unaware of...

"I'm not leaving Aaron," Gabriel muttered, her gaze fixed on the ground.

"...Very well, then I shall alter reality."

[Isn't that taking it a bit too far!? My god, this is really petty!!]

<<Heh, go for it; I wholeheartedly support the idea.>>

{I prefer to remain uninvolved…}

"No need for that; I'll discuss this with Brother Michael," Gabriel stated before releasing my arm and walking away.

"I doubt he can exert any significant influence in this matter," I pointed out, but she continued her departure. Glancing behind me, I noticed Irina savoring some of the prepared food. Curious individuals approached her, but she simply pointed to her engagement ring, causing them to back off.

"It might come off as impolite, but it gets the job done. Aaron, what were your expectations for this event?" Griselda inquired as she approached. Behind her, members of [Team Trump Card of Heaven] were gathered.

"Hey there! We didn't anticipate seeing you, Leader-san!" Dulio chimed in, raising his hand. The remainder of his team stood beside him.

"Surprised to see you guys here too. Most teams have intensified their training due to the bracket announcements," I remarked.

"Haha, true, but our supervisor suggested we enjoy this evening before diving into rigorous training tomorrow. Speaking of which, is [DxD] on hold until the end of the tournament?" Dulio inquired, his expression tinged with uncertainty.

"It's not precisely 'on hold,' but my team will handle any terrorist activities that arise during the tournament, allowing most teams to concentrate on the competition. However, if [DxD] is needed, I'll promptly notify everyone," I explained.

"So, it's like a paid vacation."

"Yes, essentially. But if a significant event occurs—or when we're finally prepared to venture into the Phantasma or Evie—I'll be in touch with your team."

"Hmm-hmm." Dulio nodded in understanding before shifting his attention. "So, how's everything going here? Apart from the incident with Gabriel-sama just now."

I couldn't help but smirk at him. "I could pose the same question to you; it seems numerous angels have been vying for your attention, haven't they?"

Dulio chuckled bashfully, averting his gaze. "W-well, yes, I've had my fair share of admirers, but it's not like I'm actively seeking a partner right now. Besides, watching you navigate your own harem of women for a few months made it seem quite exhausting. Balancing everyone's needs, spending time with each of them individually, and handling other aspects—it's a lot of work, isn't it?"

I shared a laugh with him. "You're absolutely right; it's like having another full-time job. But the chaos and excitement it brings to every day are completely worth it."

Dulio pondered for a moment, his eyes scanning our surroundings. "Romance, huh? Well, I suppose I'd appreciate someone with culinary talents. Perhaps I'm secretly searching for a stay-at-home wife?"

Irina joined our conversation, holding some food in her hands. She offered some to Dulio, who accepted graciously. "There aren't too many of those these days, Dulio-san. Well, they still exist, but they're becoming increasingly rare. You might have to search for a while."

Dulio took a bite of his food, contemplating. "True, but as you mentioned, there are still women out there who fit the bill. It just takes time. I suppose an angel who doesn't mind such a role would be ideal."

Turning his attention to Diethelm, Dulio asked, "And what about you, Diethelm-san?"

The [Queen] of his team smiled but shook his head. "While I am now permitted to marry, I am uncertain if it's the right path for me. We were once exorcists, and although starting families wasn't discouraged, it wasn't a common occurrence due to the enemies we faced. But times have changed..."

Nero Raimondi, one of their [Rooks], interrupted with enthusiasm. "Times have changed, indeed! Don't hesitate, or you'll miss out on a wonderful opportunity!"

Diethelm responded with a thoughtful "Perhaps."

Dulio then directed his attention to Ryuu. "What about you, Ryuu-san?"

Ryuu cleared his throat bashfully. "Well, I, um, have a lover."

Everyone present was taken aback by the revelation.

"You're dating someone?! Who is it?" Nero asked, becoming even more animated. He started patting Ryuu on the back, prompting Ryuu to gently stop him.

"They're an exorcist I partnered with during an assignment from Raziel-sama," Ryuu explained. "We continued working together on several missions, and, well, you can fill in the rest."

Nero couldn't contain his excitement. "Kiyotora, did you hear that? Ryuu is finally making strides in the world of romance!" He grabbed Ryuu's shoulders and gave him an exuberant shake.

"I'm genuinely happy for him, but perhaps you could refrain from shaking him so vigorously," the former exiled Shinra suggested.

Like many members of the other Five Principal Clans, after most of their archaic rules and systems were overhauled or abolished, exiled clan members were given the opportunity to return. This often involved confronting the remaining elders, executives, and the current clan head (if they were responsible for the exile). Some chose to reunite with their families, while others opted for continued contact without full reintegration.

Kiyotora Shinra, a devout believer in Big G, had chosen to rejoin his clan. He retained his position as a church warrior and also upheld his faith in both gods. Rakko Shinra, the current clan head, had offered her blessings, and the other elders and executives couldn't object.

Tsubaki, Suzaku, and Ryuuta had informed me about this development a few weeks earlier. Unfortunately, I hadn't yet had the chance to meet with Kiyotora after my meeting at home with Hirokazu and Dulio.

Nero finally released Ryuu, who appeared on the verge of nausea, and promptly rushed off to find a restroom. The boisterous male of our group then turned his attention to the last two members of their team: Jessica Lagerkvist and Mirana Shatarova.

Mirana tensed up, while Jessica seemed on the verge of dozing off. Jessica approached me, practically enveloping me in a bear hug, which I didn't mind at all. She gradually drifted off to sleep.

Diethelm chuckled and remarked, "Well, that's one way to resolve the matter."

I wasn't entirely convinced that was the solution, but I decided to go along with it. However, all eyes were now on Mirana, who appeared to be silently panicking.

"U-um..." she began, but Gabriel returned and embraced her from behind, taking her by surprise. "G-Gabriel-sama..."

"Mira-chan has a soft spot for Aaron, so there shouldn't be an issue," Gabriel chimed in.

Mirana's face flushed crimson, and she slumped against Gabriel, leaving the latter equally shocked. She gently shook Mirana a few times, but the younger angel didn't wake up. Gabriel looked at us, her expression filled with concern, as if she wondered whether she had done something wrong.

"That clarifies that, I suppose," Nero concluded sagely, nodding his head. Gabriel remained perplexed, so I quietly explained the situation to her once everything had settled down.

— ○ ● ○ —

Another hour slipped by, and everything continued to run smoothly. During that time, I observed a few female angels approaching Uriel, Raphael, and Michael, which appeared to catch them off guard. Some also attempted to engage Altaria and Layla, but they swiftly declined these advances.

At the moment, we found ourselves in a shelter that seemed to house the souls of departed animals. Everyone with us was currently enjoying the company of these animals, most of which were cats, dogs, and the like. There were also a few more exotic creatures such as sloths, bears, lion cubs, ostriches, and other wild animals.

Dulio, seated in a relaxed manner next to a llama, remarked, "I think I could spend the rest of my life with these two animals." A sloth rested on his shoulder, equally at ease. If someone who didn't know him saw Dulio with these animals, they might mistake him for a carefree hippie. But, if they knew who Dulio truly was, they'd be even more astonished.

However...

Gabriel giggled cutely, exclaiming, "Hehehe, stop~ you can't~" She was surrounded by an army of dogs, cats, and puppies, making it look like they were attempting to overwhelm her.

I estimated that about 30% of the animals had gathered around her, while the rest were dispersed among everyone else. I would have brought out Shin, but he was with Lavinia this evening since she couldn't join us. Shin was quite sociable with everyone, but it seemed he had a stronger bond with the Fated Ones compared to the other girls.

He primarily spent his time with Lavinia, followed by roughly equal attention to Suzaku and Danu, then Rossweisse, Velgrynd, and finally Azathoth. Gabriel was the next most popular with Shin, likely due to the animals' affection for her. The others all received similar levels of attention. With Mom, it was a bit different, but...

...Mooooo~

A cow mooed beside me, and I glanced at it, patting its head. For some inexplicable reason, this cow had been fixated on me since we arrived. I could understand animal language, and to put it mildly, this cow really liked me—almost obsessively.

'Kyaaaaaaa~ he's looking at me! Please look at me more! You're my prince charming~! The second you came, my heart went 'Kyuuuuuuuuuuuun'~! If I were born human, we would have 1,000 babies!!' she exclaimed to herself.

See what I mean? Although I was the only one who knew about it.

"...Do you like animals, Jin-san...?" Jessica asked lazily, holding a cat and approaching me.

I was seated on a bench in the building, and the cow stood by my side. Jessica had been with the other Brave Saints a few moments ago, but it seemed she had come over here. I looked at the cat, and it appeared quite content, with only thoughts of 'Boobs' and 'Soft' running through its mind. It was a rather perverted cat.

How these peculiar animals ended up in Heaven was beyond me. In fact, even some of the animals crowding around Gabriel were questionable, but I had subtly sent them a bit of my aura earlier. If anyone else found out, they'd probably think I was crazy.

"Hmm? I've never had a pet before, but Shin and I get along. The other animals I've been close to were okay, I guess."

[Poor Snuffles. Remember when you were depressed and scared the living daylights out of him? Now he hides from you whenever you pass by his house.]

'...Ugh... I regret that, okay? But that little dog got annoying, and I overreacted at the time,' I replied. Though it didn't really excuse traumatizing the poor thing...

"Do you want to pet him...?" Jessica asked, extending the cat toward me.

"Sure," I replied, taking the cat from her. To my surprise, the cat immediately snuggled into my chest.

'Man-boobs are good too... hard and soft... hehe...'

'<<{[...]}>>'

All five of us were left speechless. This cat wasn't just like this toward women; it was simply a shameless pervert!

"Yeah... he's cute," I said, squeezing the cat's cheeks. It looked at me in terror and began to squirm in my arms. With that, I handed it back to Jessica, who was bewildered by its behavior. "I guess that one doesn't like me."

'Crazy asshole! My cheeks were going to be ripped off!' it hissed at me.

'No, I was just squeezing them because they were soft...' I replied. After that, its face went pale, and it wriggled out of Jessica's arms, running away.

"Ah... it ran away. Oh well, may I take a nap again?" she asked, and I gestured to my lap. She climbed onto the bench and rested her head on my lap.

Jessica Lagerkvist was an American-Swedish woman, born to an American mother and a Swedish father. She and her parents lived in Sweden, and she became involved in the paranormal after joining the church in her late teens.

Although she had joined the group late and wasn't much of a fighter, Jessica possessed impressive defensive techniques and provided invaluable support. Her abilities had been further enhanced after her reincarnation as an angel. She specialized in creating light barriers to shield against attacks and possessed a modest ability for light-based healing.

"…I expected your...lap to be hard and uncomfortable, but... it's surprisingly soft and nice," she mumbled, closing her eyes.

"Thank you?" I responded, taken aback. Compliments about the softness of my lap weren't something I had encountered before. This one was quite unexpected.

Jessica giggled at my reaction, then turned her head to the side, looking up. Her nose twitched, and she remarked, "...You smell funny. Maybe it's just Jin-san's scent?"

Again, I had to deny that. It wasn't uncommon for Kuroka and a few other girls to sniff me from time to time, but usually not in that particular area.

"Probably just sweat," I casually replied. I hadn't been intimate with the girls earlier, so there shouldn't have been any lingering scents.

Suddenly, Jessica grabbed my hand and placed it on her head. Without needing further encouragement, I began to pet her head while discreetly checking if anyone was watching us. Fortunately, no one seemed to have noticed, so I continued and gazed back down at her.

Jessica wore a contented smile as she gradually drifted off to sleep. In the novel, she had been described as 'sleepy,' but Issei or Ichiei Ishibumi hadn't delved much into her character, even when she died during the ExE attack. It had been more like, 'Oh, by the way, these people died.' Some were relevant, some weren't, but Jessica's name had been casually mentioned.

Having lived here and gotten to know these people, I couldn't simply dismiss them as nameless characters anymore. Even the 'side characters' had lives and stories of their own. So, in a way, my actions had saved her and those characters too.

"Jessica fell asleep again?" Mirana inquired, joined by Irina and Dulio.

"Jessica-san is always like that, though," Irina remarked. "That's true. For as long as I've known her, Jessica has always been sleeping, even back when she was just a regular exorcist. I've tried asking her about it, but she says she's just like that. What do you think, Jin-kun?" Dulio asked.

Glancing back at Jessica, I used [Observe] on her again but found no signs of illness or disease; she was simply naturally inclined to sleep a lot.

"Nah, she's just like that; it's not any kind of illness or anything like that. I guess you could say she was born this way," I explained.

"Forever a sleepyhead, huh?" Dulio mused before settling down on another bench, conjuring some food and beginning to eat.

Mirana crouched down and began petting Jessica's head without saying a word. Irina came over to my side and whispered, "They've gotten even closer after joining Dulio-san's team. Mirana-san acts like an older sister to Jessica-san, even though Jessica-san is slightly older."

"Hmm..." I replied, observing their interaction. It did seem that way. Actions often spoke louder than words.

Irina settled down beside me and teasingly asked, "Sooo... when can I have a date, Aaron?"

I stared at her for a moment, and her face slowly turned red. "Let's have one right now; we still have time. Do you want to engage in more intimate activities afterward?"

Mirana stopped petting Jessica and looked at me in stunned silence. Jessica also opened her eyes to gaze at me, and nearby, Dulio was coughing while laughing. If he didn't stop, he might choke to death.

"T-t-t-that's a bit too straightforward…!" Irina stammered but didn't refuse my proposition.

"You haven't given me an answer, Irina," I reminded her, and her face grew even redder.

"U-um... a-a da-date would be fine; w-we can talk about the intimate stuff another time," she squeaked, burying her face on my shoulder.

"Jin-san... you're very lewd," Jessica remarked, staring at me.

"It's all part of the job," I replied, and we shared a chuckle.

'I want to join!' the cow nearby exclaimed, but all it did was moo.

From that point on, and for the rest of the night, coincidentally, Gabriel, Griselda, Jessica, and Mirana joined us on our date. Surprisingly, it turned out to be a lot more enjoyable that way, and in the end, Irina was quite happy about it.

— ○ ● ○ —

Kurousagi's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

At this moment, Aaron-sama was in Heaven attending the 'Angels Date Night,' accompanied by other angels from our group. As for me, Kurousagi, I had returned to my hometown within the Egyptian Pantheon.

When we saw the news about the brackets and our first match-up, I was taken aback. Our initial match was a make-or-break situation; a loss meant immediate elimination, and our opponents were the Shinto team.

Based on our research during the preliminary rounds, [Team Shinto] consisted of four gods, with the remainder drawn from Raiko's special team, the [Yamaūjin]. The Shinto team frequently rotated its members during the preliminaries, making it impossible for us to predict who would be on their roster for our match. Moreover, team members weren't exclusively from the [Yamaūjin]; they could include powerful figures from history and their own realm alone...

Tamamo no Mae-sama was one such addition; she had served as the [Bishop (2)] in one of their preliminary games. At the time, it was widely believed that all the gods and figures of the Shinto pantheon were participating. When they were questioned, they neither confirmed nor denied it, leaving open the possibility that even Amaterasu-sama might join the fray.

Facing a Chief-God was no small feat, but after Aaron-sama's recent visit to the Shinto Pantheon with Raiko, it seemed that positive developments had occurred between them and all the deities there. Perhaps the goddesses, including Raijin-sama, had received a morale boost similar to the Valkyries of [Team Leisure of the Kings].

"What are you doing out here by yourself, Kuro?" I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned to see Vera, her usual cheerful self, who seemed to grasp what was on my mind.

"Jeez, you're overthinking this. We just have to face whoever is on the opposing team head-on, right? That's how we've handled every challenge so far," she said, playfully smacking my back. "Is the [Spear of Ra] getting nervous now~?"

"No, I'm just wondering who will be on the team tomorrow. They always change it up, so making predictions is tough—and no, I'm not scared," I replied, punching her shoulder.

"Ow! I was just trying to lighten the mood! Why'd you hit me so hard!?" she protested, holding her shoulder. "I'm telling Aaron!"

"You won't reach him tonight..."

"Boooo! ...Win or lose, let's just give it our all," she said while rubbing her shoulder.

"I want to win and prove that Aaron-sama transforming us into goddesses wasn't in vain."

"Hmm? He didn't do it because he expects anything from us; if anything, he did it because circumstances forced his hand. In my case, I willingly accepted the offer. Why don't we just ask him?"

"…Maybe, but it feels that way for me. I've spent the last few months trying to learn how to be a 'god.' I hope I've made some progress, but at times, it doesn't feel real. Whenever I have time with him, he spoils me, and—"

"I don't want to hear about your love life!" Vera exclaimed, cutting me off. "Look, Aaron does whatever he pleases whenever he pleases. He saw you struggling against Halzaham, so he helped you by giving you a new body."

"Even though you're in a relationship, the way you're talking makes it sound like you don't know him at all. Let's forget these silly thoughts and focus on winning. And if we lose, so what? We'll show everyone that the two new goddesses can hold their own against seasoned gods!" she declared, clenching her fist.

At moments like these, I truly appreciated Vera's enthusiasm. Thanks to her, I started to laugh, leaving her puzzled. After a few seconds, I wiped a tear from my eye.

"…Yeah, you're right. I may be overthinking things. Let's go out there and aim for victory. Does everyone else on our team agree with that?" I asked, and she gave me an enthusiastic thumbs up.

"Absolutely." A broad smile adorned her face as she leaned in a bit too close for comfort. "And if we lose, we can just ask Aaron for some pampering, right? Ufufufu~"

She was practically drooling as she said this, and I moved away from her. But I hadn't expected Vera to view it in that way. I knew she would give her all, but... I guess she's looking at all the positive aspects of this...

"I-I-I suppose you're right...?"

"Fufufufu~! Uhyuhyuhyhyu~ I'm always right about these things. Now, let's go and get some rest!"

"That's a really eerie laugh. It's reminiscent of Rizevim..."

"Eh?! Don't compare me to that weirdo!"

— ○ ● ○ —

[It's time! The inaugural match of the prestigious Rating Game World Tournament's main stage—the [Avezza Cup]—has arrived! Two transcendent God-class teams are about to clash: [Team Moon Rabbits] and [Team Shinto]!]

[Raijin-sama!]

[Hachiman-sama!]

[Unleash the might of the Japanese Gods!]

The crowd's enthusiasm was palpable. While the Egyptian Pantheon and our humble village lent their support from afar, only a fortunate few could witness this spectacle in the grandeur of the stadium.

The venue, located within the Gremory territory of the Underworld, bore the name [Oppai Dragon Stadium], a tribute to Aaron-sama by the Gremory family. At the stadium's entrance, Aaron-sama stood resplendent in his [Queen] armor, helmet cradled in his arms, pointing it skyward. Accompanying him were Rias in her [Switch Princess] attire and Lavinia in her [Witch Princess] ensemble.

Meanwhile, my team remained in our designated waiting room while the commentators engaged the live audience and viewers at home. Before my thoughts could drift any further, the familiar chime echoed through the air.

"It's time," I declared, rising from my seat. "Let's set our sights on victory, everyone."

"Right!" they chorused in unison.

— ○ ● ○ —

[Emerging from the western entrance are two newly-acclaimed goddesses hailing from the Greek and Egyptian Pantheon! They've left an indelible mark on this tournament, claiming victory in the majority of their matches and showcasing remarkable versatility among their members. Join us in welcoming... [Team Moon Rabbits], led by the incomparable Player and Goddess Kurousagi!]

As we stepped onto the platform in the arena, a wave of applause and cheers washed over us. Even if it was an obligatory display, we cherished the support.

[Next in line—]

The crowd's cheers surged, drowning out the announcer's voice momentarily.

[A perennial fan favorite! Two of their players famously faced Jin-sama during the exhibition match, and they've gone on to secure victories in all their tournament games. With a roster brimming with gods and legendary figures, this team, led by the God of War, Hachiman-sama, needs no introduction! Welcome... [Team Shinto!]]

As [Team Shinto] made their entrance, the arena shook with an even more thunderous ovation, as if the entire stadium quivered in response.

"That's—" one of our teammates gasped in astonishment.

The crowd roared, [Oooooooooooooooh!!! Amaterasu-sama is competing!!!]

Indeed, among their ranks stood the Chief God herself, Amaterasu-sama, who gazed upon the crowd, her smile eliciting an even greater uproar.

"By the heavens...we're truly in for a formidable challenge," Vera remarked, her voice trembling with nerves.

Hachiman-sama approached me, extending his hand for a handshake. "Good luck, Kurousagi. May the superior team prevail, and may fortune favor us as fellow gods."

I nodded, grasping his hand firmly. "Likewise, Hachiman-sama. Please, do not hold back against us."

"Of course not."

"As both Kings exchange their handshakes, let the first match of the main stage...commence!"

After the handshakes and the announcer's proclamation, our respective teams were teleported to the battlefield.

— ○ ● ○ —

Team Shinto

— ○ ● ○ —

King – Hachiman

Queen – Raijin

Bishop (2) – Amaterasu

Rook (2) – Ryūjin

Knight – Miyamoto Musashi

Knight – Yoshitsune Minamoto

Pawn (5) – Oda Nobunaga

Pawn (2) – Benkei Musashibou

Pawn (1) – Yoichi Nasuno

— ○ ● ○ —

Team Moon Rabbits

— ○ ● ○ —

King – Kurousagi

Queen – Vera

Bishop – Tenidil

Bishop – Irre

Rook – Eliora

Rook – Sanura

Knight – Yasek

Knight – Xena

Pawn (5) – Teisetsu

Pawn (3) – Rindo

— ○ ● ○ —

Third Person Point of View

— ○ ● ○ —

The battleground where both teams found themselves transported resembled a dazzling cityscape, reminiscent of New York. Towering skyscrapers loomed in every direction, while a myriad of buildings, cars, and structures sprawled across the landscape. The scene was bathed in the luminescence of a moonlit night, casting its vibrant glow upon the surroundings.

To the east stood [Team Moon Rabbits], while [Team Shinto] held their position to the west. As both teams prepared to make their moves, a colossal attack, manifesting as a purple sword slash, hurtled menacingly towards [Team Moon Rabbits].

"Incoming attack!" Teisetsu's voice rang out in alarm as he shoved his teammates out of harm's way, narrowly evading the deadly assault. In a move that mirrored Aurelia's opening gambit in previous matches, Raijin had chosen to replicate it in this showdown.

[The [Queen] of [Team Shinto] has cleaved the game field! The very land has been split asunder, yet no one has been forced to retire! It appears [Team Moon Rabbits] managed to evade in the nick of time!]

"That's quite the welcome," Yasek, one of the [Knights] from [Team Moon Rabbits], remarked. "Kurousagi, Vera, shall we leave the [King] and [Queen] to your capable hands?"

"That was our intention from the start," responded Kurousagi, her hair taking on a rosy hue. "I'll go meet with Hachiman-sama."

"We still have to contend with Amaterasu-sama and Ryūjin-sama, though!" Sanura, one of their [Rooks], voiced her concerns.

"You'll figure out a way to overcome them!" Yasek encouraged before soaring off. "It's not an impossible task!"

"That's easier said than done!" Sanura exclaimed. Before she could react, an immense purple arrow whizzed dangerously close to her face. "Eh?"

Vera acted swiftly, yanking her teammate out of harm's way, but Sanura had not emerged unscathed.

"Are you alright?" Vera inquired, inspecting her teammate's condition.

"...Damn it," Sanura muttered, clutching what remained of her left arm. "Let's just regroup with them; we can sort out individual matchups later."

"Stay with the plan," Vera advised. "Teisetsu and Rindo will take on Amaterasu-sama and Ryūjin-sama since they can both ascend to Queen. Focus on your adversary." She then touched Sanura's injured arm, conjuring a makeshift replacement. "This should suffice for the game; we'll get your original arm reattached afterward."

"Thank you," Sanura expressed her gratitude before soaring towards the direction from which the arrow had originated.

Vera watched her depart, then started making her way towards Raijin, her designated opponent. She had little insight into what the battle held in store, but she was acutely aware of her disadvantage as a wizard and support specialist pitted against Raijin, a powerhouse known for her combat prowess and technique.

Nevertheless, Vera had dedicated herself to honing her touki and martial arts skills, and she hoped they would prove sufficient against the formidable goddess.

"Aaron... you better keep your promise..." she murmured under her breath, the determination burning in her eyes.

— ○ ● ○ —


CREATORS' THOUGHTS
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Chapter 198: Chapter 12 - Part 2 - Team Shinto vs Team Moon Rabbits

Vera's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

The evening before our pivotal game, Kurousagi and I made our way to Aaron's residence. Despite Kurousagi being one of the inhabitants, her duties as an active goddess often led her to alternate between her three homes, unlike Hephaestus-sama, who was a more permanent resident. On the other hand, I only had two places to shuttle between since I didn't live here.

As usual, we found Aaron engrossed in his office, meticulously sifting through a stack of documents—a task duly reported to us by Grayfia.

"Knock, knock," I chimed in, lightly rapping on his office door.

We could hear his chuckles from within, giving us the green light to enter.

Upon stepping inside, we were greeted by a surprising sight: all the Fated Ones were gathered there, alongside Azathoth and Latia. Velgrynd and Suzaku were locked in a game of chess by the couch and table, while Danu entertained Liadonn, and Lavinia had Shin in her company.

"Welcome back, Kuro, and hello, Vera. How can I assist you two?" Aaron inquired, setting aside his work to focus on us.

I glanced at Aaron, then at the Fated Ones, and back at Kuro, whose expression had shifted to one of utter mortification. "You know," I began, raising my voice slightly, "this might not be the best timing, given the company, but Kuro and I have something to discuss—a personal request or favor, most likely."

"Judging by Kurousagi's crimson hue, it's safe to assume it's of a personal nature," Latia remarked, her eyes locked onto us.

"W-well—" Kuro attempted to clarify, but I swiftly covered her mouth, cutting her off.

Pointing an accusatory finger at Aaron, I declared, "Kuro wants to go to the moon. Although we're not sure if this is something we should bring up in case we win or not."

"The moon, you say?" Aaron repeated, his smile widening. "So, [Team Moon Rabbits] and the two rabbit youkai goddesses wish to journey to the moon? I'm all for it; I've had an inkling to go there myself. Why not establish a supernatural city on the moon first, with the prospect of expanding it to accommodate humans in the future?" he pondered aloud, turning his gaze to Latia.

"Can you even fathom the magnitude of such an undertaking?" she questioned, her disbelief evident.

"Well, the workload wouldn't be too daunting if I were to oversee the initial stages, right?" he replied.

Latia remained unswayed, sighing, "Let me... consider it. By all means, grant their request to visit the moon. But as for the latter proposition, I'll need to consult with my uncle. Give me some time," she said before exiting. She returned briefly, pecked Aaron on the cheek, and left once more.

He smiled warmly at us, asking, "So, what conditions do you two have in mind? Or would you prefer to proceed without any conditions?"

I was about to enthusiastically voice something when Kuro smacked me on the head. By the time I turned toward her, she had already approached Aaron and whispered something in his ear. Her own ears twitched nervously, and he regarded her for a few moments before granting his approval.

"If you can make it happen, Kuro, then consider it done," he affirmed, sealing the agreement with a kiss.

Kuro nodded rapidly before seizing my hand and pulling me out of the room.

"Wait, what!? At least clue me in—"

"I-it'll be to our advantage. Well, mainly for me, but he said he wouldn't mind including you as well..."

"Wouldn't mind? Tell me something, for crying out loud!" I demanded, bringing our impromptu march to a halt.

Kuro's blush intensified as she stammered, "I asked him too..."

— ○ ● ○ —

Third Person Point of View

— ○ ● ○ —

Vera couldn't shake the memory of Kurousagi's candid revelation from the previous night, and a rosy blush crept across her cheeks. She let out a sigh before finally speaking up, "I... I want two children."

"What?" Raijin's voice cut through Vera's thoughts. She had materialized in front of Raijin, who had been eagerly awaiting her next opponent. To Raijin, the fight was all about creating a memorable and enjoyable clash, regardless of who stood across from her.

"I want two children with Aaron!" Vera declared once more, momentarily stunning Raijin before the latter burst into laughter.

"He certainly has a knack for attracting peculiar women... well, I suppose I'm one of them. But why not? Two children, huh? I'd love to have a daughter, someone I can train in the same martial arts, techniques, and power, alongside him," Raijin mused, her voice laced with a sly smirk.

"But he's rejected your advances thus far," Vera pointed out, making Raijin flinch back. "Every time you visit his home, you attempt to seduce him, and it never seems to work. I'm not convinced you've made any progress."

"H-he came back to our pantheon recently, and we had a splendid time together! I won't divulge the details, but he did say he'd consider it!" Raijin blurted out before summoning a sword and appearing right in front of Vera.

[What an unusual conversation between two goddesses! And it revolves around having children with the Middleman!]

[So, would you—]

[We're both men; we can't have children with him!]

The commentators engaged in an equally bizarre conversation, but it was quickly cut short as the audience had no interest in hearing it.

Raijin swung her sword upwards, attempting to strike Vera, but Vera utilized her magic to propel herself backward while simultaneously unleashing a barrage of ice and fire spells toward her fellow goddess.

Raijin wore a confident grin as she thrust her hand toward the oncoming magical onslaught. Her arm became enveloped in purple lightning as she expertly dispelled most of the spells, though not without suffering burns and cuts from the fire and ice magic. Her clothing was slightly scorched, but she remained undeterred, quickly closing the distance between them once again.

With a swift motion, she raised her arm, conjuring swirling tornadoes around Vera while shrouding them in crackling lightning and deafening thunder. She directed the tempestuous onslaught toward Vera, and the formidable forces surged forth. Without hesitation, Vera produced a wand, grasped it firmly with her right hand, pointed it skyward, and spun it in a circle.

Eight tiers of intricate magic circles materialized in the sky, followed by numerous magical orbs, each adorned with multiple elemental rings signifying different forces. These orbs collided with the advancing tornadoes, generating a spectacle of elemental clashes that reverberated throughout the entire area. Winds, flames, lightning, ice, and arcane forces fused within the tempest, culminating in a cataclysmic explosion that obliterated the surrounding environment, leaving nothing but a level, transparent terrain in its wake.

"Raijin-sama, we from Aaron's household witnessed your match against him. Please don't underestimate me and resort to that form," Vera cautioned, her wand trained on Raijin.

Raijin smirked, then chuckled. "Fufu, very well, Vera. Even though you're a new goddess, I'll give you everything I've got."

Her body swiftly became enveloped in a dense, potent sphere of purple lightning, its expansion spreading to cover at least half of the battlefield. Other participants were forced to retreat to avoid being caught in the devastating attack and subsequently forced into retirement.

In the past few months, Raijin had undergone rigorous training. Having lost to Aaron Toole on three separate occasions, she craved another chance at a rematch. Aaron had agreed to a rematch during his visit to the Shinto Pantheon, albeit in a somewhat rushed manner due to his busy schedule that day.

It had taken just a single punch to incapacitate Raijin. When she came to, she was shocked to learn what had transpired, and she realized that Aaron had been holding back even more than she initially believed.

This revelation stirred conflicting emotions within her. She felt a brief surge of anger, but at the same time, she couldn't contain her excitement. She resembled a child who had uncovered a secret candy jar or a prematurely discovered Christmas gift. With Aaron as her new goal, she resolved to give her all, body and soul, to catch up to him.

Like many other gods, Raijin understood that Aaron was an Outer God. While he had spoken of their immense power, she yearned for tangible proof, and on that day, she had received it in the most straightforward manner possible.

Once the lightning sphere erupted, it revealed a transformed Raijin. Behind her loomed a colossal, purple, hand-shaped cloud, her attire now a snug, light purple bodysuit. Behind the seven purple orbs floated two massive hands adorned with twin Musou Isshins.

"Well then, Vera. Shall we commence the next round?" Raijin inquired, grinning confidently at her opponent.

Vera took a deep breath and surrounded herself with touki energy. She raised her wand, causing millions of magic circles to materialize all across the battlefield.

"In victory or defeat, I'll make sure to leave a mark on your teammates, Raijin-sama. This competition thrives on teamwork, and I won't abandon my comrades easily," Vera declared.

"Let's put that determination to the test!"

Raijin materialized behind Vera in a bolt of lightning, but the rabbit youkai had anticipated this move. She had already unleashed a barrage of magical attacks in various directions, not knowing exactly where Raijin would appear but ready for any possibility.

"Hmph!" Raijin commanded her enormous hands to intercept and disperse Vera's attacks. Those she couldn't reach, she targeted with her glowing purple orbs, neutralizing Vera's offensive. "You'll need to do better than that—"

"I already have." Vera appeared behind Raijin as her counterattack unfolded. Her wand glowed brightly, infused with touki, and she launched a point-blank strike at the Goddess of Lightning, Thunder, and Storms!

"Heh."

"Tch." Vera clicked her tongue as Raijin thwarted her attack. The floating orbs and giant hands formed a barrier, blocking and absorbing her assault. She tried to distance herself but was surprised to find Raijin behind her.

"These things aren't glued to me, you know?" Raijin remarked before delivering a swift kick to the back of Vera's head, sending her crashing to the ground.

Vera swiftly rose from her fall, conjuring multiple layers of defensive magic circles as Raijin's lightning attacks rained down relentlessly. Each magic circle crumbled as Raijin's strikes inched closer.

Raijin raised her hands, and her massive hands behind her followed suit. When her hands reached their zenith, the two small Musou Isshin swords combined to form a mighty lightning pillar that pierced the sky. With a grin, Raijin brought her arms down.

Desperately, Vera intensified her magic's power to counter the impending strike. Raijin's slash cut through all the defensive magic circles, resulting in a powerful purple explosion.

[A devastating attack from Raijin-sama obliterates everything in its path!! Has Player Vera survived!? Her retirement announcement hasn't been made yet!]

When the smoke dissipated, all eyes turned to Vera's fate. She had lost an arm but was otherwise mostly intact, and she wore a defiant grin directed at Raijin, who grinned back.

[She's still alive!! Missing an arm, but alive! Player and [Queen] Vera faced that slash as if it were nothing!]

Vera pointed her wand at her missing arm, conjuring a temporary replacement. However, maintaining this technique drained her magic and stamina further, on top of what she was already expending for Sanura.

"Let's keep going, Raijin-sama!"

"Hehe, a cheeky new goddess, indeed. Not many would press on after enduring an attack like that!"

Raijin advanced toward Vera. As she did, an immense surge of energy emanated from Vera and exploded outward, much like Raijin's earlier display. The energy pillar expanded rapidly before vanishing suddenly.

Vera's white hair had turned silver, and her red eyes now bore a deep shade of gold. Raijin was taken aback by the power radiating from Vera.

"...This sensation—it's like... Ryūjin's...a dragon?" Raijin wondered, staring at Vera.

"Well, you could say I have the blessings of two individuals," Vera replied, her grin widening.

[Scorch's Affection] and the [Blessing of the Imak-Rotaerc]. A few hours after Kurousagi had taken Vera away, she returned to the Toole household and asked Aaron if there was a way to enhance her strength for the game.

Initially reluctant, Aaron's conversation with Velgrynd led to the idea of granting Vera a unique blessing, tailored to Aaron's distinct powers, separate from the realms of DxD and the Cardinal World/Central World in her universe.

With both their permissions, Vera received Aaron's blessing, and in addition, Velgrynd bestowed upon her the [Blessing of the Imak-Rotaerc] and [Scorch's Affection].

Aaron's original idea, the [Blessing of the Jinny Jin-Jin] was swiftly vetoed for sounding less than ideal. He ultimately settled on the current name.

Vera and Tobio received different blessings from Aaron. While both provided a power boost when activated, Vera's version granted access to abilities spanning the omniverse, whereas Tobio's blessing amplified his darkness, shadow, and flame-based abilities.

In the blink of an eye, Vera materialized beside Raijin, who took a moment to register her presence. Wrapped in a silver, gold, and orange aura, Vera delivered a palm strike to the Shinto goddess, landing it squarely on her face.

This time, it was Raijin who was sent hurtling backward. But before she could recover, Vera appeared above her, launching an enormous ball of scorching flames. Raijin's floating hands instinctively blocked the attack, but Vera followed up with a continuous stream of magic attacks, overwhelming the defenses.

"I'm not finished! Explosion!" Vera screamed as a colossal mushroom cloud engulfed their battlefield.

[What!? What incredible power! That explosion obliterated half the field!]

Vera had pushed her explosion magic to the limit, obliterating half of the battlefield. Few structures remained, and most vehicle replicas were destroyed. Despite the mighty attack, Vera still had half her magical reserves, ready to continue the fight.

Others caught within the blast radius were shielded by their [Kings]' defensive magic circles or barriers, sparing them from harm. However, it disrupted many ongoing battles.

[Vera! Are you okay?] Irre, one of [Team Moon Rabbits]' [Bishop], called out in panic.

[I'm fine, but... I guess defeating Raijin won't be that easy,] Vera replied.

When the smoke cleared, Raijin stood on the ground, panting, her right arm and a substantial portion of her left thigh and right cheek missing. Nevertheless, she grinned up at Vera.

"I heard you used a similar attack in the Greek Pantheon a few months ago; this was close to that level. But I'm still in the game, heh," she said, regenerating her orbs and hands.

Raijin had survived Vera's assault by shielding herself within the giant floating hands, layered lightning barriers from the orbs, and her own barrier. While Vera's amplified powers still broke through, they were significantly diminished by the time they reached Raijin, leaving her with these injuries.

"Well, I gave it my all this time, but you're still standing," Vera remarked, and silence enveloped the area as the two goddesses locked eyes. After a brief pause, both emitted a dense aura.

"I'm advancing further in the tournament, Goddess Vera!" Raijin declared, leaping toward the rabbit goddess.

"I want my prize!" Vera roared, flying toward Raijin with wand in hand.

— ○ ● ○ —

In the arena of divine confrontation, the two [Pawns] from [Team Moon Rabbits] assumed their positions, confronting the formidable [Bishop] and [Rook] of [Team Shinto]. Here, the stage was set for a duel of extraordinary beings, as Teisetsu and Rindo squared off against two godlike entities—[Bishop] Amaterasu, the Chief God of the Shinto Pantheon, and Ryūjin, the formidable [Rook] of [Team Shinto].

"Rindo," spoke Teisetsu, his voice resonating with determination.

"Very well," replied Rindo, his resolve unwavering. "Ryūjin-sama, may I have the honor of facing you?" he asked, and Ryūjin, in silent acknowledgment, joined him as they left the center stage.

"Amaterasu-sama, I entrust myself to your guidance," declared Teisetsu, his demeanor shifting as he assumed a combat stance, enfolding his form in the potent embrace of touki.

"Of course," responded Amaterasu, her gaze fixated on the enigmatic young youkai. Her tone bore a touch of intrigue as she continued, "[Pawn]-kun, though you appear unconventional."

"...I must confess, I'm not a pure-blooded rabbit youkai; I'm a hybrid," Teisetsu explained, his voice tinged with humility, before launching himself toward Amaterasu. Yet, she stood her ground, her expression a serene smile that belied her incredible power. 'She not moving? Chief Gods must harbor immense confidence and power then...!'

Teisetsu, in the midst of his charge, ascended to the status of [Queen]. As he closed the distance, his attack took the form of a touki-infused uppercut aimed at Amaterasu. With fluid grace, she evaded his strike, stepping back, but Teisetsu pressed on.

He unleashed a flurry of touki-enhanced punches and kicks upon Amaterasu, seamlessly interspersing them with standard blows. However, Amaterasu, with her unwavering smile, effortlessly sidestepped every assault. Teisetsu sensed no mockery in her actions, curiously leaving him neither incensed nor vexed, but rather bemused by her reactions.

"You possess remarkable skill, [Pawn]-kun," Amaterasu commended.

"I appreciate your praise, though my name is Teisetsu," he replied.

"Hehe," she chuckled, her apology carrying a gentle tone. "My apologies, Teisetsu-kun. Shall we continue? Oh, but before that, do you possess a Sacred Gear?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"While I am a hybrid, my human lineage stems from another youkai, not a human," he clarified before launching another assault on Amaterasu. Their intricate dance repeated, yet Teisetsu noticed an inexplicable phenomenon—warm spots appeared across his body each time he delivered a punch or kick toward Amaterasu.

Teisetsu, almost as if by a twist of fate, vanished from view, reappearing behind Amaterasu to land a punch, only to find his blow thwarted by a fiery shield that materialized behind her. A sense of astonishment washed over the young rabbit hybrid, compelling him to retreat while tending to his briefly singed hand, a result of contact with her fiery defense.

Nodding to himself, Teisetsu enshrouded both arms and hands with protective ice guards and gloves. He surged forth once more toward Amaterasu. But just as he neared her, he vanished into thin air. Teisetsu reappeared to Amaterasu's right, throwing a punch at her, yet again, it met a flaming shield, though this time, he emerged unscathed.

Swiftly, he withdrew, once more shifting his strategy. He covered his legs, shins, and feet in an intricate ice armor and charged towards Amaterasu anew. This time, a vivid streak of azure lightning enveloped the battlefield. Before Amaterasu could react, one of her shields came under a relentless assault. She turned to see Teisetsu disappear yet again.

Her smile broadened as Teisetsu multiplied, appearing in rapid succession all around her. Each incarnation delivered punch after punch and kick after kick to her fiery shields, yet none could muster enough force to breach them. Weary but resolute, Teisetsu finally retreated, releasing a tired sigh.

"It seems my current approach won't suffice. Are those shields automatic, Amaterasu-sama?" he inquired, his gaze locked on his slowly melting ice armor.

"They are indeed, though initially, I created them manually. Aaro—Jin was the one who recommended this method, demonstrating one of his [Electa]'s defensive systems to me," she explained, her hand delicately resting on her cheek.

"I see," Teisetsu remarked. He transitioned into another stance, a peculiar ice armor now enshrouding his entire body.

"Hmmm," Amaterasu pondered, clapping her hands together. "I see, you're a part Yukki-Onna, aren't you? The convergence of a rabbit youkai and yuki-onna, a rare union—more so, considering your male lineage."

Teisetsu offered a wry smile and nodded. "As expected of a Japanese god, your keen insight is most impressive. Indeed, I am a miraculous child born of those two species, blessed with innate ice-based abilities in conjunction with my rabbit youkai attributes and touki. I consider myself truly fortunate, and my parents watch over me today..."

In the complex web of power dynamics, Teisetsu was the solitary Satan-class rabbit youkai on their team, a stark contrast to his comrades, who boasted Ultimate-class and High-class standings. The one currently confronting Ryūjin held Ultimate-class status, teetering on the precipice of a breakthrough. The team shared a tacit understanding that their chances of victory hinged on Kurousagi and Vera prevailing in their respective matchups against Hachiman and Raijin.

"I sense it."

"Pardon me?" Teisetsu inquired, his confusion apparent as Amaterasu delivered her unexpected proclamation. "Sense what?"

"You, [Pawn]-kun, embody what Jin refers to as 'Satan-class.' However, forgive me if my confidence appears audacious, but this alone will not suffice to overcome me," Amaterasu declared, her smile unwavering.

"What lends you such confidence in your own abilities?" Teisetsu queried, his brow furrowing in contemplation.

"The power of Chief Gods within various pantheons varies considerably. I must confess that I wasn't always this formidable, and while I might have engaged Ultimate-class opponents competently, encounters with Satan-class and God-class beings often yielded uncertain outcomes," she admitted.

"But perhaps," she added with a subtle shift in her demeanor, "after Jin's most recent visit to our pantheon, things have taken a different turn." With that, she appeared directly in front of Teisetsu, her hand gently touching his chest, as she softly murmured, "Akatsuki (Crimson Moon)."

In an ephemeral flash, the entire game field was cast in a resplendent hue of crimson, a sight that left everyone astounded and agog, their bewilderment magnified by the ensuing announcement.

[1 [Pawn] of [Team Moon Rabbits] retire!]

The words reverberated through the arena, leaving spectators and participants alike utterly confounded.

[What in the world just happened!? Player Teisetsu was defeated before he could even react!] The astonishment in the commentator's voice mirrored the collective shock of the audience.

[Amazing! Amaterasu-sama has unleashed her overwhelming might! A solitary technique, a singular strike, and the formidable Player Teisetsu, known for triumphing over numerous Ultimate-class opponents in the tournament, has been defeated! Is this the indomitable power of the Chief God of the Shinto Pantheon?] The announcer's voice carried a tone of awe, heralding the godly prowess displayed.

Amaterasu, her hand delicately poised before her lips, could not contain her amusement. "I've done it, Aaron, though I must admit I struggled to control the output a few times in the past..."

The technique in question was none other than Akatsuki, known as the Crimson Moon. Aaron had employed this very technique to vanquish Rubicante the previous year, leaving an indelible impression on Amaterasu. As the Goddess of the Sun, she possessed a formidable repertoire of techniques, abilities, and attacks. However, she had approached Aaron with a casual request—a "surefire method" to dispatch her adversaries.

In response, Aaron had introduced her to the Akatsuki, or Crimson Moon, technique. Among the various techniques he had shared, this one held particular appeal for her. Its elegance lay in its simplicity—it demanded nothing more than the user's capacity to unleash an immensely potent fireball at point-blank range, capable of transmuting the surroundings into a vibrant crimson.

With a subtle turn of her gaze toward Ryūjin, Amaterasu murmured softly, "I shall oversee your contest then. Hachiman expressed his desire for me to abstain from intervening in his duel against their fellow [King]. Regardless of today's outcome... let there be no lingering resentment among us."

— ○ ● ○ —

"Seriously!? I knew Amaterasu-sama was powerful, but to dispatch Teisetsu that swiftly...! Damn it!" Rindo's expletive burst forth, his frustration palpable.

"Amaterasu-sama doesn't often engage in combat, but her power is undeniable. She holds the position of our Chief God for good reason," Ryūjin commented with a note of respect in his voice.

Rindo's grin flashed. "I never intended to underestimate her. I just hoped our 'Super Pawn' could put up more of a fight, maybe even emerge victorious."

"That would have been a near-impossible feat. Even I, at my full strength, cannot surpass her anymore."

"Why's that?" Rindo inquired, curiosity etching his features.

"Since Jin's recent visit, Inari, Fūjin, and Amaterasu have seen a substantial increase in their powers. Raijin, however, declined this boost, opting to attain her power through her own efforts," Ryūjin elucidated.

With a sigh, Ryūjin cloaked himself in a divine aura. "Enough pleasantries. Let us begin," he declared, fixing his gaze on Rindo.

"To one hybrid to another, let's do this!" Rindo's voice reverberated as he drew forth a katana, enveloping it in touki.

"Much like Inaie," Amaterasu mused quietly to herself, her divine eyes observing their confrontation from a distance. Rindo, a hybrid of human and rabbit youkai, displayed no signs of possessing a Sacred Gear, but his innate abilities intrigued her.

Without a word more exchanged, Rindo vanished from his initial spot, bringing his katana down upon Ryūjin. The dragon god met his advance with a calm demeanor, intercepting the blade. Yet, a sly grin played on Rindo's lips as multiple slashes seemingly materialized from all directions, targeting Ryūjin.

Ryūjin deftly pushed Rindo aside and countered the attacks unleashed against him.

"Are ya curious?" Rindo inquired, his smile unyielding as he faced Ryūjin.

Ryūjin brushed a shoulder and sighed. "Not particularly."

"You're pretty boring. Oh well," Rindo muttered to himself before launching back at Ryūjin. His katana traced sparks along the ground, touki discharging from it. His speed doubled, and he closed in on Ryūjin, calling out, "Up!" as he swung his sword upwards.

Ryūjin retreated briefly but swiftly returned to block a strike from behind him. He employed his divine aura to counter a subsequent cut. Perplexed by the enigmatic workings of Rindo's powers, Ryūjin opted to observe for the time being.

"Oh, right, I can't play around forever; let's go all out," Rindo murmured to himself before grinning. His body underwent a remarkable transformation.

Black hair gave way to white patches of fur on his hybrid physique, while thicker, denser touki enveloped him. Two additional arms materialized beneath his existing ones, and two more katanas manifested, grasped firmly by the extra hands.

"I was already a bit peculiar as a hybrid, and my rabbit side was somewhat of an anomaly. My father was taken aback by it, but he didn't criticize me. In fact, he trained me in it—while my mother honed my magical abilities," Rindo recounted. "Let's go, Ryūjin-san!"

Harnessing his superior leg strength, Rindo instantaneously appeared above Ryūjin, wielding all three swords as he descended.

"Three Sword Style: Equinox!" Rindo proclaimed. His touki enshrouded all three katanas, propelling them swiftly toward Ryūjin.

Ryūjin caught the blades yet again with impeccable precision. Although a fraction of Rindo's assault found its mark, merely grazing him, it was an accomplishment of significance for the challenger, and he acknowledged it with a smile.

"If you continue your training, you will undoubtedly grow stronger. However, this is as far as you go," Ryūjin declared before thrusting his hand forward, obliterating Rindo's katanas and striking him squarely in the chest. The force sent Rindo hurtling through the air.

Coughing up blood as he soared, Rindo's thoughts turned introspective. 'My best isn't enough, huh? I took pride in being Ultimate-class, believing I could keep pace with Teisetsu. But perhaps we are merely significant figures in a confined arena...'

However, just as Rindo began to contemplate yielding, a resounding voice surged from the crowd.

[Don't give up, Rin!!]

[Rindo, if you give up now, I won't let you hear the end of it about that vacation!!]

He couldn't help but feel a tinge of embarrassment at their words, even as they filled him with renewed determination. Landing back on the ground with a crash, legs trembling, Rindo forced himself upright.

"It might be wise to yield now," Ryūjin advised, taking his position before Rindo.

"Even if the difference in our abilities resembles night and day, I won't give up so easily. I want to appear cool, maybe find a girlfriend!" Rindo exclaimed, a touch of self-deprecating laughter in his tone. "And I have that vacation to look forward to!"

The vacation, a cherished plan conceived months ago, was set to precede the tournament. Rindo had eagerly accepted an invitation to join their team, unaware of the rigorous training and the formidable opponents they would encounter along the way.

Initially, Rindo and his team had been considered dead weight, heavily reliant on the prowess of Kurousagi and Vera. However, with time and rigorous training, they gradually closed the gap, allowing them to keep pace with their formidable comrades and adversaries alike. Victory in individual battles became a regular occurrence.

Among his teammates, latent powers began to stir, rendering them even more formidable opponents. Some demonstrated the capability to take on Ultimate-class adversaries solo and emerged victorious, while others fought to draws or ascended to that very echelon of power. The tournament, a blessing for many, acted as a crucible, forging their strengths even if they didn't secure numerous victories or qualify for the main event. Simply participating, facing stronger foes, and learning from those clashes kindled the flames of their potential.

Aaron had foreseen these transformative effects and planned for them, to a certain extent. He knew that their strength would burgeon, but the exact extent remained uncertain. His aspiration was for most participants to attain High-class or even surpass it during this crucible of a tournament.

Ryūjin regarded the young rabbit youkai before him with a smile. "Boy, state your name once more."

Rindo tightened his grip on his primary katana, positioning it forward, while his two additional katanas formed an 'X' behind the first. He inhaled deeply, releasing a surge of touki and power.

"I am Rindo! The eccentric hybrid who will etch his name in history by challenging you!" he declared, offering a spirited smile to Ryūjin.

Ryūjin chuckled, shaping a colossal blade composed of his divine and draconic aura, a massive blue and white cross-shaped weapon taking form in his hand. "Ryūjin—Dragon (God) of the Seas. I acknowledge your spirit, young youkai. You remind me of my younger self and my daughters," he mused, retracting his immense blade.

Without further exchange, Rindo charged towards Ryūjin, the two extra katanas whirling in his supplementary hands.

Rindo possessed two distinct abilities. The current transformation and a touch of spatial manipulation were inherited from his mother, a practitioner of spatial magic. Her specialization revolved around storing objects in different dimensions and spaces, but with Rindo's birth, it evolved into an innate ability. Hailing from Japan, his name reflected his heritage. His father, another rabbit youkai, exhibited slight anomalies, with a bulkier build and strength surpassing most, albeit weak leg strength. Rindo appeared ordinary at birth but harbored this inherent mutation.

He honed this mutation into a transformation technique, utilizing it as a trump card. With his natural leg strength, additional arms, and innate spatial manipulation, he crafted a unique fighting style. The slashes he'd unleashed upon Ryūjin earlier had been transported to his customized space, ready to emerge through portals. Over time, he had mastered the technique to multiply the stored slashes, granting him a significant advantage against opponents. Through relentless effort and unwavering determination, Rindo had overcome one challenge after another to reach this point.

"Show me your full power!" Rindo cried out, perplexing Ryūjin. He accelerated once more, appearing behind Ryūjin, who swung his blade downward.

Rindo's two extra arms and katanas were cleaved into pieces; his original arms bore several cuts, and his primary katana lay severed. "Damn, you gods are truly something. I stood no chance," he muttered, turning around. "I'd rather take the hit head-on."

"I may not be a swordsman, but I admire your spirit," Ryūjin replied. Dispelling his blade, he conjured an immense spear of water in the sky, infused with his divine and draconic aura. "Well-fought, Rindo."

Bringing down the colossal watery spear upon Rindo, it gave rise to a gargantuan aquatic explosion that swiftly transformed into a vortex. Sharks and other aquatic creatures materialized through his water manipulation, swimming within the vortex before detonating from within.

As the immense watery vortex dissipated, the announcement resounded.

[1 [Pawn] of [Team Moon Rabbits] retire!!]

[The second [Pawn] of [Team Moon Rabbits] has been taken out!! He also put up a fight against one of the gods of the Shinto team but fell short! Right now, [Team Shinto] is unstoppable. Does this mean they'll win this game!?]

[The two people responsible for fighting and delaying the two other gods of [Team Shinto] were knocked out minutes after the game started. What will [Team Moon Rabbits do now?!]

— ○ ● ○ —

"It seems like your two aces are down. It was inevitable if they faced Amaterasu-sama and Ryūjin-sama," remarked Oda Nobunaga.

At present, he was embroiled in combat against both [Knights] of [Team Moon Rabbits], Yasek and Xena. The news of Teisetsu's earlier retirement had already rattled them, but the announcement of Rindo's defeat further fueled their frustration.

"You don't get to decide that, geezer!" Xena's fiery temperament flared. She unleashed a relentless flurry of sword slashes at Nobunaga, who deftly parried each strike.

"In situations like these, maintaining composure is crucial. Turbulent emotions can impede one's performance," Nobunaga advised, retracting his arm before launching his own barrage of aura slashes at Xena and Yasek.

"Fuck!" Xena exclaimed as she sustained multiple cuts while attempting to deflect and counter Nobunaga's onslaught.

Yasek, the more composed of the two, managed to deflect most of the strikes but still bore a few wounds. He sighed deeply.

"Xena, calm down. We won't be able to defeat someone like him if you keep on like this. And he's right," Yasek reasoned.

"Screw you and your philosophy!" Xena's anger continued to blaze as she stomped her foot. Afterward, she charged back at Nobunaga, her frustration apparent.

Xena had always possessed a short fuse, leading to frequent clashes with her peers and older rabbit youkai. She was part of the crowd that Halzaham bullied, but instead of cowering, she embraced a combative spirit, fiercely defending her friends against any form of harassment or bullying.

Even after Halzaham's demise, her new personality persisted. Nevertheless, she retained close friendships because of her unwavering loyalty. She would confront and confront anyone who dared to threaten or mistreat her friends.

Prior to Kurousagi and Aaron's return to their Pantheon, Xena had already harbored intentions of avenging Halzaham, and if she had succeeded, both she and those involved would likely have met their demise, as they were significantly weaker than Halzaham.

"Flow like a river—"

"Fuck you!" Xena screamed again, enveloping herself in touki before manifesting numerous clones and charging at Nobunaga.

The countless clones swarmed Nobunaga, each wielding the same level of power as the original Xena. Anyone insufficiently skilled or prepared would quickly fall before them. However, Oda Nobunaga was no ordinary opponent; in reality, he surpassed Xena and Yasek's combined might.

"What the—?" Xena was taken aback as she witnessed her clones being effortlessly dispatched by Nobunaga. It appeared as if he hadn't moved, yet her clones were vanquished with a single strike.

"He's distracted; I can catch him off guard!" Xena thought, grinning, as she accelerated to reach Nobunaga. She raised her arm, preparing to strike, when Nobunaga abruptly turned and swung his sword in an arc.

"What—?"

Before Xena could react, excruciating pain surged through her abdomen, launching her backward. She also felt intense pain in her sword hand, and upon examination, she discovered her hand was missing, sending her into a panic.

'No, no, no, no, no! What the fuck!?' she screamed inwardly, flipping herself around and halting her descent with both feet planted firmly on the ground.

Yasek rushed to his comrade's side, gripping her shoulder. "You're bleeding; I'll stop it," he said, quickly cauterizing the wound. "I told you, Xena, Oda Nobunaga is an exceptional warrior; you can't approach this half-heartedly. Let's—"

"I won't give you a chance to regroup!" interrupted the older man, suddenly appearing before them and thrusting his sword toward them.

Yasek's pupils gleamed, accompanied by mechanical noises. In an instant, he and Xena disappeared, reappearing a few feet away. To Nobunaga's surprise, Xena's severed arm had been restored.

"Phew, I made it in time," Yasek exhaled in relief.

"Do it sooner, you asshole!" Xena retorted before pushing herself away from Yasek. She moved her restored arm, flexing her fingers with a grin. "You're quite handy; I wouldn't mind having you as a husband."

"Enough with the flattery; focus on Nobunaga, Xena!" Yasek chided.

"What an intriguing ability," remarked Nobunaga as he observed Yasek. "You can...reverse time by a certain interval and repair any injuries inflicted on you. Have you been targeted by any unsavory groups since the tournament began?"

"Fortunately, no, but I appreciate your concern!" Yasek replied before leaping toward the seasoned warrior, who offered a knowing smile. Yasek's eyes emitted a translucent glow, and this time, transparent clones of himself materialized and soared toward Nobunaga.

"An interesting trend, both [Knights] on your team seem fond of employing cloning techniques," Nobunaga mused.

He then swung his sword horizontally, and a colossal aura slash surged forth, slicing through both Xena and Yasek. However, he also snapped his fingers, conjuring thousands of magic circles behind him. Countless magical attacks were launched toward the two [Knights].

"Don't lag behind!" Xena shouted, dashing forward to shield Yasek. He sighed and followed her lead.

Both warriors enveloped their bodies and blades in touki, deflecting and slicing through the magical assaults hurled by Nobunaga. They recognized that confronting the legendary warrior's aura slash would be futile, so they leaped over it, attempting to maintain their momentum. However, Yasek sensed something amiss and halted abruptly. Just as he tried to warn Xena, he fell to his knees.

"What...what's happening? X...Xena, w-wait!" he tried to shout, but in reality, it came out as a whispered plea.

Nobunaga had concealed an illusion atop the slash attack he unleashed, causing it to appear larger both in height and width. This slash possessed an insidious property—it drained the stamina and magic of those it struck by at least 50%. Currently, Yasek had seen his magical reserves and stamina reduced by half, but Xena remained unaffected, as Nobunaga had chosen to spare her from this debilitating effect.

He knew he had to deal with Xena's recklessness first before contending with Yasek, as the latter's ability posed a more significant challenge. Xena thrust her sword toward Nobunaga, but he swiftly evaded her attack. She continued her assault, incorporating feints and aura slashes, but Nobunaga effortlessly discerned her intentions and began to counter.

"What fuels your anger, young one?" he inquired, receiving no response. Instead, Xena unleashed a flurry of wild sword swings. 'One has to wonder how she made it this far in the tournament.'

Nobunaga opted to carefully observe her, drawing his own conclusions, knowing that extracting any meaningful information from Xena was futile. Every thrust, slash, and magical assault she launched was infused with raw emotion, leaving an impression on Nobunaga.

As Xena summoned an elemental sword from the ground in an attempt to strike him, he leaped away, and she followed, executing a mid-air spin before descending with a foot strike. Nobunaga blocked her attack with his sword, allowing himself to be blown away. He landed gracefully on the ground, maintaining his watchful stance.

Xena continued her assault, swinging her sword rapidly and generating a star-shaped aura slash. She added lightning attacks to the mix and stomped the ground, creating a miniature earthwave that disrupted Nobunaga's footing.

To her astonishment, Nobunaga remained rooted to his position, calmly observing her attacks. He aimed his hand at the ground, levitating himself upward, then drew his sword back and, in a single thrust, dispelled the magic attacks Xena had aimed at him.

Next were her star-shaped aura slashes. Nobunaga coated his blade with his own touki, then swung it downward, launching a singular aura slash to counter hers.

"Pfft—hah! Do you seriously think—!" Xena began to retort but was cut short as her aura slashes were obliterated. Before her thoughts and words could catch up with her, Nobunaga appeared in front of her, launching an attack.

"Xena!" Yasek cried out, attempting to move but arriving too late. Xena was struck by Nobunaga's blade. The force of the blow sent her tumbling backward, but Yasek caught her.

Struggling to breathe, she glanced at Yasek and managed a grin. "Well, that was an uncool way to go out, huh? Sorry, stuff happened last night, and it clouded my judgment for today."

"But aren't you always hot-tempered?" Yasek commented, looking at his teammate with a puzzled expression.

Xena sneered in response. "Screw you."

[1 [Knight] from [Team Moon Rabbits] retire!!]

"At least don't curse at me, you idiot," Nobunaga chuckled as he witnessed Xena's departure. Yasek stood up and faced Nobunaga. "I'll be in your care, Nobunaga-sama."

"Hmm. I'm intrigued by your ability. Your friend carries a lot of baggage, but... with you by her side, I believe—no, I know she'll be fine," Nobunaga reassured him, eliciting a blush from Yasek.

"I'm not sure I understand what you mean, but we can discuss it when this is over!" Yasek declared before charging at the former shogun.

To Nobunaga's surprise, it appeared as if Yasek was blinking around, teleporting from place to place. However, he didn't let it perturb him, keeping a close watch on Yasek until he blinked to a specific location and swung his sword downward preemptively, forcing Yasek to block the attack.

"What the—? You're one terrifying old man!" Yasek exclaimed, stunned by Nobunaga's instincts.

"It comes with experience, young man!" Nobunaga shouted before landing at the spot where Yasek had been moments ago. The young rabbit youkai had moved aside, but after Nobunaga landed, a massive crater marked the spot.

'What's with the absurd strength too...!?' Yasek pondered, taking a step back as he surmised that Nobunaga's leg strength exceeded his.

"Are you frightened?" the former shogun inquired. He advanced a step, and Yasek retreated one. "You are, aren't you?"

"N-no, why would I be?" Yasek replied, his unease palpable. He took a deep breath and composed himself, pointing his sword toward Nobunaga. "My body might think so, but my mind and spirit disagree."

Nobunaga smiled at Yasek's words before charging at him and vanishing. Yasek immediately went on high alert, but before he could react, a powerful kick struck him in the back, sending him flying. When he turned around, he saw no one. However, another kick landed on his head from behind, and yet again, there was no assailant to be found.

This sequence repeated several times until Yasek decided to utilize his innate ability, [Rewind], which allowed his body to revert to its state from ten seconds earlier and return to its previous location. However, to his horror, Nobunaga was already there, impaling his shoulder with his sword.

"What—!? How did you...!?" Yasek stammered.

A smile graced Nobunaga's face. "It doesn't take a genius to figure out your ability. The only thing I needed to discover was the cutoff time for your ability to rewind. So I attacked you repeatedly until you were compelled to go back, and I began a small mental timer."

"Ten seconds. That's the maximum duration you can rewind, and my speed surpasses yours. Whether you go back one, two, three, or nine seconds, I can catch up and strike you," he declared with a smile.

"You're truly insane," Yasek muttered as he attempted to activate his [Rewind] ability again. However, his other shoulder was pierced by Nobunaga's blade, causing him to groan in pain.

"I suggest you surrender."

"I refuse."

Yasek tried to remove the blade from his shoulder but failed. Nobunaga twisted it, intensifying the pain. Yasek eventually resorted to using both legs to kick Nobunaga off him, but he missed as Nobunaga leaped away. Yasek made another attempt to [Rewind], but this time, his right leg was severed by Nobunaga's sword.

"Aaargghh!!" Yasek screamed, collapsing. He continued to use his [Rewind] ability, but it was abruptly halted when Nobunaga impaled his torso with his blade.

"This is... checkmate, young man," the former shogun declared.

Yasek's body was gradually consumed by the retirement light, and he sighed. "Damn it, were we outmatched from the start...!?" Yasek exclaimed in frustration.

"You fought valiantly. However, even if you win this match, you'll only face tougher games ahead. The main stage is for well-rounded teams within a certain power range, as unfortunate as that may sound."

Yasek clenched his teeth and fists. He didn't want to admit it, but deep down, he knew what Nobunaga said was true. Their only chance of victory hinged on their [King] winning her match against the opposing [King], Hachiman, in a fair one-on-one duel, free from interference or assistance. That was their only logical path to victory. However, their previous games rarely unfolded as planned. Yes, they won, but more often than not, they relied on their [King], [Queen], and [Pawns] to secure the victory.

"...Maybe we've come this far due to luck?" Yasek mused.

"Your team's skills and abilities are genuine. However, the true challenges await in the main stage. You're meant to grow and evolve during the preliminaries, but if you don't progress sufficiently, you'll be the first to be eliminated from the main stage," Nobunaga explained.

"I see..." Yasek finally faded from the field, feeling frustrated with himself.

[1 [Knight] from [Team Moon Rabbits] retire!!]

"Well done, Oda Nobunaga," Amaterasu commended, landing beside him with Ryūjin.

Nobunaga turned his attention to his Chief God and nodded. "It seems both [Knights] of [Team Moon Rabbits] have their own challenges to face. I'd like to speak with them after this match."

"I see no issue with that. This is a game, and we should not hold grudges afterward. However, it would be wise to consult with Aaron first," Amaterasu advised.

Nobunaga nodded and turned his gaze in a specific direction. "It appears another battle is nearing its conclusion."

"Indeed."

— ○ ● ○ —

Benkei Musashibou was plagued by a persistent case of hiccups, and to make matters worse, she was thoroughly intoxicated. The hiccups had started before the game commenced, and they persisted as the match unfolded. Not only had Benkei begun drinking prior to the game, but she continued to imbibe throughout the contest. Her opponent, Eliora, the [Rook] of [Team Moon Rabbits], seethed with frustration.

"How on earth am I losing to a drunkard with hiccups!?" Eliora erupted.

Typically level-headed and astute, Eliora found it challenging to maintain her composure in the face of Benkei's exceedingly relaxed and nonchalant demeanor. The fact that she was being bested by a drunken, hiccupping warrior only compounded her vexation.

"S-s-s—"

"S…!? S-what!?" Eliora snapped in irritation.

"S-skill issue…ehehehehahahahaha~~!" Benkei cackled, sending Eliora into a further fit of anger.

"What's wrong with this lunatic!?" Eliora demanded, but her question went unanswered.

Eliora had commissioned custom armor for the Rating Games, primarily covering her lower body, including her legs, feet, and thighs. Her inspiration had been Ruruko Nimura's Counter Balance, a technique she had witnessed during the tournament. Eliora had sought to replicate a similar effect to enhance her leg strength and jumping ability.

She propelled herself toward Benkei, unleashing a flurry of kicks, but the intoxicated warrior effortlessly evaded all her strikes, leaving Eliora baffled.

"Do you get stronger the drunker you get!?" Eliora bellowed in frustration.

"Bweeeeeeeh?" Benkei responded in an incomprehensible manner, further infuriating Eliora.

Drawing her right leg back, Eliora unleashed an aura blade from it, sending it hurtling toward Benkei. The drunken warrior, who was shakily standing her ground, finally noticed the incoming attack. Just before it could reach her, she produced her staff and forcefully intercepted the assault.

"What—!? She blocked it!?" Eliora exclaimed.

In her drunken stupor, Benkei applied even more force and shattered the attack. Eliora quickly overcame her shock and charged toward Benkei once more. She had performed admirably in the tournament so far, facing various formidable opponents, including Ultimate-class, Satan-class, and even God-class beings. She had never shied away from a challenge and always gave her best effort, even in defeat. However, today was proving to be an exception.

The woman standing before her was not someone Eliora interacted with regularly. Her teammate, Xena, was another individual Eliora didn't particularly want to associate with, but their team membership required them to collaborate. While Eliora acknowledged Xena's strength and advantages, she struggled to form a personal connection.

During training and meetings, Eliora maintained a friendly facade with Xena, but once they parted ways, she largely kept her distance or refrained from engaging with her. Xena had noticed this behavior and confronted Eliora about it, prompting Eliora to explain her reasons. Though Xena understood, she didn't necessarily like it but ultimately accepted Eliora's choice, thanking her for "tolerating" her.

Benkei, on the other hand, presented an entirely different challenge for Eliora. She was an enigma that Eliora found herself unable to contend with during the match.

Benkei stood still, hiccupping a few times before wobbling her gaze toward Eliora. Then, she abruptly vanished, taking Eliora by surprise. Before the young female rabbit youkai could react, she felt the impact of a staff against her back, sending her sprawling.

Recovering in mid-air, Eliora glanced behind her but saw nothing. However, she was once again struck on the head by Benkei's staff, slamming her to the ground. The drunken warrior swiftly followed, attempting another staff strike, but Eliora rolled out of harm's way.

Eliora couldn't fathom how Benkei's staff inflicted such significant damage despite her wearing armor. It defied logic unless Benkei's staff possessed special qualities they hadn't considered.

Eliora concentrated an intense amount of touki around her arms, forming transparent gauntlets. Similar to her armor, she had borrowed this technique from Genshirou Saji, who she had observed using it in both his Balance Breaker and normal state.

"Here I come, drunkard!" Eliora shouted, utilizing her superior leg strength to propel herself with a single bound toward Benkei.

With a clenched fist, she hurled it toward Benkei, who reacted swiftly, dodging her assault. Yet, Eliora's other arm followed suit, aimed straight at her opponent. Seeing this, Benkei, already evading another punch, used her free hand to graze the translucent gauntlet. She propelled herself out of harm's way, narrowly avoiding both attacks.

"What!? What the hell!?" Benkei exclaimed in disbelief.

"Heheeee~ I'm amazing, riiiiiight?" Eliora taunted with a cocky grin.

Adding salt to the wound, Benkei conjured Shinto-style magic circles and unleashed fireflies, each the size of hand grenades, toward Eliora. Quick on her feet, Eliora activated her gauntlets just in time to block the attacks. However, the ensuing explosion sent her sprawling.

Once they both landed on the ground, they locked eyes. Eliora inspected her arms, relieved to find no injuries but disheartened to see her gauntlets significantly damaged.

"Y-you...hiic...lookin'...f-fiine…si-sister…" mumbled Benkei, before slumping to the ground in a deep sleep.

"Huh?" Eliora stood perplexed, struggling to grasp the situation. "Did she just fall asleep? How does this even work...?"

[It seems like [Pawn] Benkei has fallen asleep! This should be an easy termination for Player Eliora!]

Eliora didn't relish the idea, but she understood it might be the only way to defeat her slumbering foe. She swiftly approached Benkei, enveloping more of her body in a dense touki. She readied her right fist for the decisive blow when she was abruptly forced to leap away from her opponent.

"Tch. I should have been faster…!" Eliora muttered in frustration, landing at a safe distance. A man with gray hair touched down beside Benkei.

"Oi! You okay!?" her teammate Sanura inquired as she joined them.

"Sanura, I'm fine. I was about to retire her when he arrived. But... are YOU okay!?" Eliora asked, eyeing Sanura.

Sanura bore numerous small-sized holes on her body, each oozing blood. She scratched her head, laughing it off. "I lost an arm earlier to him and ended up going head-to-head, only for him to add more holes, hahaha~!"

Sanura, with her short green hair, fur, and red eyes, displayed a robust, athletic build. Eliora, with her long, wavy hair, white fur, and red eyes, possessed a slender frame. Both sported their team's tournament uniform and focused their attention on Yoichi, who was chastising the sleeping Benkei.

"Oi, wake up, you stupid drunk. I'm not covering for both of us," Yoichi grumbled, annoyed.

"Nyhahah, nyuuuu, nyoooo…fuuu…no…I can't drink any more…" Benkei muttered in her slumber.

Yoichi scratched his head in exasperation. "Dammit, she's in THAT kind of sleep, huh? She won't wake up anytime soon." He tapped his transceiver thoughtfully. [She won't wake up; should I do it?]

After a brief conversation on the device, Yoichi nodded and knelt beside Benkei, tapping her forehead. She began to glow.

[1 [Pawn] of [Team Shinto] retire!]

[E-eh!? Did they just forcefully retire Player Benkei!? What a strange turn of events!]

"Well, she'd be practically useless, so why bother keeping her around? She could have at least taken someone out before falling asleep," Yoichi muttered in frustration.

Summoning his bow again, it emitted a purple glow. He fixed his gaze on both women before vanishing and reappearing beneath them, releasing a flurry of arrows. Sanura reacted in time, creating a defensive magic circle that blocked some of the projectiles, but a few pierced through, forcing them to leap away.

"He's fast. He's already been promoted to [Queen], so watch out. Also, think of him as an all-rounder; he can fight with his fists, use touki, and wields a sword. Those arrows can pierce through anything I've used, so assume they'll penetrate your gauntlets and armor," Sanura cautioned.

Yoichi sighed, forming armor around his shoulders, arms, hands, legs, and shoes. A visor materialized around his face as he focused on the two women before him.

"Two... Yoshitsune said Jin-san would give me a new bow if we won this as a gift; I can't afford to lose today," Yoichi muttered to himself. His excitement was palpable. "Operation: VV start."

[Operation VV is a go.]

[Estimated time of charge completion: 1 minute.]

[Current output: 100%.]

A female voice echoed through his visor, accompanied by a lock-on user interface targeting Eliora and Sanura. Yoichi grinned and nodded to himself. "Just one minute, huh? That's fine with me."

Yoichi Nasuno hardly needed this. The [Operation System] he had developed alongside Azazel and Grigori stemmed from his chuunibyou syndrome. The attack he intended to unleash on the two women before him was well within his capabilities without the system. Nevertheless, Yoichi reveled in the theatrics; it made him appear cool, and he was perfectly content with that.

With a grin, he leaped back, drew his bow, and unleashed an even greater volley of arrows than before. Eliora and Sanura dodged, but these arrows possessed tracking capabilities, relentlessly pursuing them.

"His arrows can do different things, so be cautious! Some are more potent than others, while others are merely inconvenient!" Sanura warned.

One of Yoichi's arrows blinked rapidly as it closed in on Eliora, who eyed it warily. However, before Sanura could warn her, it detonated in a blinding burst of white light.

"Dammit! Eliora! Can you hear me!?" Sanura shouted in desperation. "Dammit, she can't! I managed to break free, but can she?"

Within the luminous explosion, Eliora succumbed to an illusion. All around her stood a variety of naked men, each possessing a certain degree of handsomeness. They encircled her, lavishing her with compliments and indulging her with seductive gestures.

"Eh? Eh? Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh?! What the hell is this!?" Eliora screamed, covering her face. "Get away! I don't want men's penises near me yet! You can't do that until marriage!! Eeeeeeeeeeeeeek!"

Eliora attempted to flee but collided with a towering man, his chiseled physique standing at 6'5" tall, and a prominent bulge on display.

"Eeeeek!? Noo!! Get away!"

[Come on, baby~!] the man purred, swaying his hips provocatively.

In the midst of the tumultuous battleground, the haunting echoes of Eliora's desperate scream pierced the chaos as she unleashed a point-blank magical attack upon her adversary, dispelling him like a wisp of smoke. A torrent of emotions welled within her as she realized the potency of her newfound abilities. Her actions became a mesmerizing dance of spellcasting, the force of her gauntlet-enhanced punches, and the grace of her well-aimed kicks. The illusions surrounding her wilted like fragile flowers in a storm, leaving her as the sole figure standing amidst the fading mirages.

But in the aftermath of her victory, a disquieting question lingered, haunting her thoughts like a shadow. "…Why am I not getting out?" she muttered, her voice a fragile echo in the enigmatic void.

Then, an unexpected presence materialized before her, shattering her concentration and casting a veil of surprise upon her. The figure that manifested was one she knew all too well, yet its presence here defied logic and reason. "T-Teisetsu…?" she stammered, her voice trembling with disbelief. "B-but—no, you were eliminated from the game! You have to be an illusion!"

Driven by doubt and confusion, she launched her attack once more upon the illusion of Teisetsu, only to find her strikes effortlessly parried. Her wrist was ensnared by the illusion, and she was forcefully pressed against a wall that materialized out of thin air. The voice of her teammate, or so it seemed, pierced the surreal silence. "I'm the real Teisetsu, Eli. Did you forget?" he inquired, his words a haunting refrain.

Caught in the tangled web of illusion and desire, Eliora's face flushed with crimson, her eyes closing involuntarily as the illusion's visage drew nearer. Inwardly, she battled the turmoil that raged within her, the clash between her rational mind and her aching heart. 'Dammit! What's wrong with me!? Get a grip—' she admonished herself, but her inner turmoil continued to swell.

Just as she was about to launch another attack against the illusion, a sudden, searing pain erupted in her abdomen. Her gaze dropped to her stomach, where an arrow had found its mark. "Arrow…dammit, I was too slow," she whispered, her voice tinged with despair. The illusion surrounding her fragmented, and she crumpled to the ground, clutching her bleeding wound. The ominous aura of retirement enveloped her, its cold light a cruel harbinger of her fate. "Dammit all…" she uttered in her final moments.

Meanwhile, Yoichi, an observer of the unfolding drama, allowed a sardonic smile to grace his lips. 'Seems like she couldn't break out of the illusion on time, although dealing with her teammate took a little bit since she was persistent.'

[1 [Rook] of [Team Moon Rabbits] retires!]

As Eliora's presence faded from the battlefield, her unspoken emotions and unfulfilled desires lingered like an echo in the wind. She had harbored romantic feelings for Teisetsu, her steadfast teammate, but the cold truth was that he harbored no reciprocal interest. Her queries about his sexual orientation had yielded no response, leaving her to wonder if he held any sentiments for her at all.

Yet, unbeknownst to her, Teisetsu had his own secret, one that weighed heavily on his heart. He was already engaged to another rabbit youkai in their town, a bond he had meticulously kept separate from his life on the battlefield. Aware of Eliora's affections, he planned to disclose the truth to her, driven by a sense of responsibility and empathy for her unrequited love.

The battlefield reverberated with shouts and cries, and Sanura, witnessing Eliora's departure, could not contain her frustration. "That's cheap!" she exclaimed, her voice tinged with annoyance at Yoichi's tactics.

Unfazed by her outburst, Yoichi calmly defended his actions, his eyes reflecting the icy determination that fueled his every move. "Illusion magic was not against the rules, so using it was perfectly legal," he retorted, deftly sidestepping her punches and kicks.

In the heat of battle, Yoichi's deflection of one of Sanura's punches was followed by a lightning-fast jab to her throat, an attack that left her reeling. His subsequent kick to her stomach sent her sprawling across the battlefield, where she tumbled and rolled before regaining her footing.

She clutched her throat, feeling the residual pain and impact, but relief washed over her as she realized her injuries were not life-threatening. Nevertheless, her gaze bore into Yoichi with an undeniable sense of irritation. "Aiming for the throat too? Do you actually play fair?" she demanded, her voice laden with disdain.

Yoichi met her accusations with a stark admission, his voice devoid of emotion. "In a real fight like the war, anything goes—complaining about things like that will only get you killed. I only wanted to get you away from me, not kill you. If I really wanted, I could have used more strength, and I could have crushed your throat a few seconds ago," he conceded, his indifference a testament to the ruthless nature of the battlefield. "Well…it doesn't really matter now."

With "Operation VV" successfully executed, Yoichi allowed himself a small smile, a fleeting moment of respite in the midst of the tumultuous battle. "Lock on and begin the countdown," he instructed, his arrow aimed unswervingly at Sanura. Magic circles materialized around him, forming a protective barrier in anticipation of her potential retaliation.

Perplexed by Yoichi's sudden change in strategy, Sanura questioned his motives. "Are you insane? I can easily dodge you! Why do such a simple move now?" she inquired, her confusion evident.

Yoichi remained silent, his steely resolve unwavering. In a swift, decisive motion, Sanura leaped toward him, her leg poised to strike. However, before her attack could land, a multitude of defensive magic circles materialized, forming an impenetrable shield that blocked her assault. To further compound her predicament, a barrage of magic circles enveloped Yoichi, unleashing torrents of raw magic that forced her into a desperate evasive dance.

Despite the odds stacked against her, Sanura refused to yield, drawing upon her unique skills and unwavering determination. As a High-class fighter, she was acutely aware of her limitations in comparison to the formidable opponents and gods that surrounded her. Nevertheless, she pressed forward with an indomitable spirit, embodying the very essence of resilience and courage.

The countdown neared its climax, and Yoichi's countenance remained unshaken as he whispered, "This is my own finishing move: Vericent Victorious Shot!" With these words, a colossal surge of energy surged from his bow, a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant purple and vivid green that enveloped the entire expanse of the battlefield. Sanura's expression contorted into one of pure panic as she desperately attempted to flee the impending cataclysm, her every instinct urging her to escape the inexorable maw of destruction.

The formidable attack hurtled relentlessly toward Sanura, closing the gap between them with frightening speed. Its destructive power was indiscriminate, threatening not only her but everything and everyone within its ominous path. Yoichi, the orchestrator of this relentless attack, spoke with calculated resolve. "You have two options: be hit or keep on running and accidentally take the rest of your team out," he declared coolly. "My team already knows about this attack and knows how to avoid it."

Sanura bristled, on the cusp of retorting, but Yoichi had preempted her, leaving her with an irritated click of her tongue. She weighed her choices carefully, cognizant of the potential consequences of her actions. Dragging her teammates into the path of this devastating attack was not an option she was willing to entertain. Though her [King] and [Queen] were formidable in their own right, she had no desire to burden them further, especially amidst the chaotic frenzy of battle that raged all around.

With a resolute leap forward followed by a swift pivot, Sanura made her decision known. "Fine then! I'll take it head-on!" she proclaimed, her determination radiating from her very core. She summoned her inner strength, enveloping her form in a brilliant pillar of white aura—the manifestation of her touki.

In the midst of this critical moment, memories of her journey in the tournament flickered through her mind, illuminating her resolve. She had faced adversaries of diverse backgrounds and races, forging bonds of friendship that would endure beyond the confines of the battlefield. Regrets were a distant notion to her; every step in this tournament had been a testament to her courage and conviction.

Charging headlong toward the oncoming energy beam, her right leg extended like a lance, she clashed with Yoichi's relentless assault. The clash was a spectacle of raw power and determination, but the disparity in their energies became increasingly evident. Fatigue and exhaustion gripped Sanura, her touki waning rapidly. Meanwhile, Yoichi had not fully tapped into his reservoir of energy, preserving his strength for this crucial showdown.

The force of Yoichi's attack pushed her inexorably backward, drops of sweat beading on her determined visage. Yet, even in the face of this seemingly insurmountable challenge, she refused to yield. With one final, defiant cry, she channeled the last vestiges of her energy and touki, forming a tenuous barrier of resistance.

"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!!" Her voice resonated with determination as she expended the very last of her strength. The touki aura, once radiant, dissipated, leaving her drained but unbroken. Her grin, though tinged with resignation, spoke volumes of her unyielding spirit. "Dammit…"

Yoichi's relentless energy beam cleaved through the sky, cutting through Sanura and tearing a violent path toward the barrier at the edge of the battlefield. The ensuing explosion reverberated through the game field, a testament to the sheer power of the confrontation.

[1 [Rook] of [Team Moon Rabbits] retire!!]

[Down! [Team Moon Rabbits] is down another player!! Only four members of their team remain on the field, while [Team Shinto] only lost one because…s-she was too drunk! Both [Bishops], [Queen], and [King] remain for the rabbit-centered team!!]

Amidst the chaos and aftermath, Yoichi allowed himself another sigh, his smile tinged with satisfaction. "I took two down; now all we need to do is beat the rest. Hachiman-sama can definitely win, right?" His confidence in their remaining team members was unwavering, a beacon of hope amid the tumultuous battlefield.

— ○ ● ○ —

In the fierce battleground, the duo representing [Team Moon Rabbits] faced an unfavorable challenge, squaring off against the formidable duo from [Team Shinto]: the legendary samurais of Japan, Miyamoto Musashi and Yoshitsune Minamoto.

Irre and Tenidil, the valiant combatants from [Team Moon Rabbits], possessed unique strengths that complemented each other's abilities. Although not overwhelmingly powerful individually, their synergy was undeniable.

Tenidil had demonstrated his versatility throughout the tournament, taking on roles ranging from [Pawn] to [Knight]. He was, in essence, the team's adaptable wildcard. Irre, on the other hand, excelled as a support, and they had joined forces for this pivotal battle, hoping to bolster Tenidil's chances. But the last few minutes had proven to be an uphill struggle against the two iconic figures of Japan.

Yoshitsune, swift and graceful as the wind, made a lightning-quick advance toward Tenidil, her katana gleaming with deadly intent. With impeccable timing, the male rabbit youkai blocked her strike using a remarkable shield bestowed upon him by his King, a gift originally passed down from Grigori.

As a child, he had been captivated by a certain American superhero who wielded a shield with unmatched skill, sparking a desire to emulate such heroics. Yet, as a rabbit youkai, his true prowess lay in the use of his legs and associated techniques. Ingeniously, he incorporated this unique style into his newly acquired shield.

Rather than gripping it conventionally, Tenidil's shield adhered to magical binds on the sides of his legs, creating a distinctive signature move exclusive to him. Crafted with the aid of Aaron, it possessed a mystical bond, ensuring that even if wrested from his grasp, it would eventually return to him after a certain passage of time. Tenidil had also developed a repertoire of distinctive attacks and techniques based on the innovative use of his shield, rendering him a formidable adversary.

Intrigued by the shield's durability, Yoshitsune inquired, "That is quite a resilient shield, Tenidil-dono. May I ask from whence it was obtained?"

"Grigori—well, my [King] received it from there, so I assume it was the handiwork of numerous fallen angels and other supernatural beings," Tenidil replied casually before deftly repelling Yoshitsune's assault. The acrobatic warrior executed a mid-air backflip, landing gracefully at a safe distance.

"I see," Yoshitsune acknowledged, her body enveloped in touki. Without uttering another word, she charged once more, her movements now too swift for Tenidil's eyes to follow. Relying on his innate instincts, Tenidil attuned himself to the subtle shifts in the environment. In a fraction of a second, he detected a change and responded by executing a swift kick in that direction, propelling his shield away from him. A shiver coursed through his entire body.

"You possess remarkable instincts and a natural aptitude for combat," Yoshitsune commended from behind him. She swiftly thrust her blade through his chest and then, with a fluid motion, drew it upwards, cleaving through his upper torso and shoulder.

"Tenidil!" Irre's anguished cry pierced the air as she witnessed her fellow Bishop fall to his knees, grievously wounded. With a burst of wind magic, she repelled Miyamoto Musashi and teleported beside Tenidil, immediately initiating the healing process.

"Well, that was quite brutal, Yoshitsune," remarked Musashi as she joined her fellow Knight. "But sending Bishops against us, even if they're versatile, seems rather reckless, don't you think?"

"I simply sought to retire him. It appears that Amaterasu-sama wishes to conclude this contest," Yoshitsune replied resolutely. "I shall carry on."

"Wait what!?" Musashi exclaimed, aghast, as Yoshitsune charged toward the two remaining Moon Rabbits. Tenidil's recovery was far from complete, and Yoshitsune summoned a series of Shinto-style magic circles, unleashing a barrage of fiery magic attacks upon the two rabbit youkai.

Irre's frustration was palpable as she clicked her tongue in irritation. Swiftly, she erected a protective barrier between them, warding off the majority of Yoshitsune's relentless magical onslaught. However, the relentless barrage of spells seemed determined to melt through her defenses. Her [Bishop] position bestowed upon her a potent amplification of her magical abilities, yet the sheer intensity of Yoshitsune's assault threatened to overwhelm her barrier.

With another exasperated click of her tongue, Irre took hold of Tenidil's shoulder and executed a teleportation spell, whisking them away from the perilous spot. As they vanished, her magical barrier shattered, and the area they had just occupied was engulfed in a blaze of fiery magic.

'These two enemies are relentless. How can we possibly keep up...?' Irre pondered.

"I'm alright, Irre," Tenidil reassured her as he rose to his feet. "I can continue the fight. Thanks for patching me up."

Tenidil's shield, once hurled in Yoshitsune's presumed direction, finally returned to him unscathed. He inspected it briefly before turning his attention back to Irre.

"You may be exasperating, but retreating isn't an option. This is our final stand. If we falter, we'll have no choice but to rely on Kurousagi and Vera once more," she declared, taking her place beside him.

"You're right, we can't make that a habit. Besides, the [Kings] and [Queens] they're confronting are formidable gods in their own right. It's anyone's guess who will emerge victorious," Tenidil replied.

"Very well, best of luck," Irre said, subtly nodding toward Musashi, who reciprocated the gesture. With coordinated precision, they leaped away to face each other.

"No offense, Yoshitsune-san, but I'm surprised you didn't just attack us together," Tenidil remarked, his curiosity piqued.

Yoshitsune had observed them in silence after their hasty teleportation. She briefly closed her eyes, reopening them with an unspoken determination. "I may seek a swift victory, but I still cherish my honor as a warrior. Amaterasu-sama and our fellow gods on this team understand that."

With a decisive shake of her head, she leveled her blade at Tenidil, enveloping both her body and weapon in touki. "Enough chatter; let our duels reach their conclusion, Tenidil-dono."

Yoshitsune Minamoto relied solely on her innate attributes—her touki, her magic, her swordsmanship, and her experience. Aaron had offered to grant her additional power during his recent visit to their pantheon, but she had declined. She wished to rely solely on her own abilities, without external influences or assistance.

The others had accepted this choice as something rare and admirable. Although she refused new powers, she embraced the potential for personal growth, pushing herself beyond her limits.

As they readied themselves for their impending clash, Yoshitsune couldn't help but recall a brief exchange between herself and Aaron, a memory that brought a faint smile to her lips.

— ○ ● ○ —

Under the veil of night, within the sacred confines of their pantheon, Yoshitsune Minamoto was entrenched in rigorous training. She knew that a mere day separated them from their final preliminary match, even though their place in the tournament was already secured thanks to their accumulated points. Still, they hungered for one more challenge to cement their dominance.

Tonight was no exception. Yoshitsune found herself in her usual spot near her dwelling, tirelessly honing her skills. Her blade sliced through the air with unwavering determination, sweat streaming down her face and body as she repeated her precise strikes.

A male voice pierced the tranquility of her practice. Yoshitsune's senses instantly sharpened, and she turned to face the source—Aaron Toole.

"Jin-san—or would you prefer Aaron-san?" she inquired, finally lowering her sword to acknowledge his presence.

"Whichever you're comfortable with, Yoshitsune," Aaron replied, rising from his spot and approaching her. He surveyed their surroundings with a contented nod. "Nice home you have here. Do you share it with Yoichi and Benkei?"

"Yes, but they're currently out shopping for groceries. After we met, things just clicked, and we decided to live together right away. It was a bit awkward at first, but within a few days, we all harmonized. Ah, I'll be cooking after this. Would you care to join us?" Yoshitsune offered.

"Nah, I'm good. I simply stepped out for a while. Fūjin has been pestering me all day, and Suzaku, Akeno, and Rias want to prepare dinner for me tonight, so I'll keep my stomach empty," he explained with a warm smile.

"You hold them in high regard, don't you?" Yoshitsune remarked, noting the affection in his words.

"Yep. Sometimes, I feel they pamper me excessively, but I have various individuals within me who advise otherwise. So, I graciously accept their gestures and strive to reciprocate. By the way, are you certain about declining my earlier offer? Most of your team and the gods have accepted," Aaron inquired.

Yoshitsune bowed her head and gently shook it. "I appreciate the offer, but I must decline once more. I wish to confront my opponents in the tournament solely with my own strength."

Aaron nodded and fixed his gaze on her as he prepared to speak. However, another figure arrived, prompting Yoshitsune to bow her head once more.

"Amaterasu-sama, welcome to my humble abode. How may I assist you?" she greeted.

"Fufu, there's no need for formality, Yoshitsune. Raise your head," Amaterasu replied, her hand gently resting on Aaron's arm.

"Hmm? Do you need me for something?" Aaron pointed at himself, slightly bemused.

"Yes, you. I visited the Inn where you were staying—it has gained quite the reputation since its renovation, thanks to your restaurant. So, I've decided to join you for dinner...if that's agreeable with you," Amaterasu stammered, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush.

Yoshitsune silently observed the exchange between the two, a knowing smile playing on her lips. 'Amaterasu-sama, your expression mirrors that of Suzaku-dono and Akeno-dono when they look at Jin-san. It's clear that you hold affection for him, unless you've already confessed...'

"Is that so? I don't mind. Well, one of the girls sent you to fetch me, didn't they?" Aaron inquired, though Amaterasu shook her head.

"No, I... I came to get you on my own. I saw that their meal was nearing completion, so I decided... by myself..." she admitted, her voice wavering slightly.

"I see. Thank you, Amaterasu," Aaron said, patting her head. Amaterasu blushed but accepted the affectionate gesture. Aaron then turned back to Yoshitsune. "How about this, then? I'll enhance your potential."

"My... potential?" Yoshitsune repeated, her curiosity piqued.

Aaron nodded, providing an explanation that spanned from his unique ranking system to the concept of inherent potential at birth. He explained that everyone possessed a predetermined potential that could be surpassed but typically required great effort. He further informed Yoshitsune that she had already reached her limit and that aligning her potential with that of others in [DxD] could unlock even greater strength.

Yoshitsune pondered the proposition, weighing the advantages and drawbacks. Ultimately, she saw more benefits than downsides in accepting the offer. As she was about to consent, her Chief God interjected.

"May I recommend that you accept, Yoshitsune? Earlier, Aaron adjusted our potentials, and we all sensed newfound possibilities, unlike the usual uncertainty that has plagued countless gods over the years. Hachiman, too, embraced this change with enthusiasm; he's now eager to resume training, displaying a childlike excitement akin to receiving a gift," Amaterasu explained.

"Even Hachiman-sama...?" Yoshitsune inquired, and Amaterasu nodded in affirmation.

With conviction, Yoshitsune agreed, saying, "In that case, please alter my potential, Jin-san. I will forever be indebted to you!"

"Great to hear!" Aaron exclaimed, approaching her and placing a hand on her shoulder as Amaterasu kept her hand on him. With a simple touch, he initiated the alterations. "And it's done!"

"...T-that's it? I thought—" Yoshitsune began to speak, but her expression shifted to one of astonishment. She examined her hands and clenched them open and closed. "I... I feel as though I can now grow stronger, and it's not as vague as before. Normally—"

She delved into her thoughts on the matter, describing the perpetual uncertainty she had grappled with. In her early days as a warrior, the sensation of growth had been palpable, evolving day by day, week by week, and month by month. As the years passed, it had dwindled to an annual occurrence, eventually ceasing altogether.

However, Yoshitsune still retained the ability to refine her techniques and master her swordsmanship, providing her with a sense of progression. But even that had plateaued once she ascended to godhood.

"Ah, I apologize for rambling!" she exclaimed, offering a quick bow. "Thank you immensely for this opportunity!"

"Don't mention it. In any case, goodnight and best of luck!" Aaron said, turning away with Amaterasu at his side.

She watched them depart, Amaterasu drawing closer and embracing Aaron's arm. Aaron chuckled and, with his free hand, playfully squeezed Amaterasu's cheek.

"They act like they're already a couple, jeez. I should also—"

"Yoshitsune! We're back!" Benkei's voice resounded through the area.

"Ah, y-yes! I'll be right there!" Yoshitsune called out. She wiped away her sweat, sheathed her sword, and began her journey back to her home. A soft smile graced her lips as she whispered to herself, "Perhaps... some other time..."

— ○ ● ○ —

With a swiftness that left her opponent stunned, Yoshitsune closed the distance to Tenidil, her blade leaving a trail of vicious cuts across his body.

"Ugh?!" he groaned, managing to deflect the more lethal strikes that aimed for his joints and throat.

Since the war, Yoshitsune had embraced more lethal combat techniques, a stark contrast to her previous fighting style that favored prolonged battles when defending her realm and people. However, in the confines of this Rating Game, the need for fatal blows had dissipated, allowing her to ease her intensity.

Without hesitation, Yoshitsune pivoted and unleashed a torrent of thrusting attacks at Tenidil. He responded swiftly, employing his shield to parry her strikes. Yet, to his astonishment, a single thrust punctured his formidable defense.

'W-what?! Weren't these shields designed to withstand God-class attacks? T-then why did—!' His thoughts were abruptly cut short as Yoshitsune sent him tumbling backward with a powerful kick to his shield.

"I simply needed to calibrate my strength to pierce through your defenses," she remarked, watching as the young youkai gazed at his now-inadequate shield in confusion. "Or perhaps he possesses the ability to infuse it with touki, necessitating further adjustments on my part."

Undeterred, Yoshitsune charged once more, sword poised for another assault. Yet, this time, Tenidil grounded himself by planting his right foot firmly, shield positioned at his side.

"Shield Prison!" he bellowed, conjuring five identical shields that surrounded Yoshitsune.

They closed in swiftly, and she attempted to fend them off by swinging her sword in a defensive arc around her. However, much to her surprise, her attacks proved futile. Even her magic was rendered powerless, and her attempts to evade the relentless shields were thwarted as they tracked her every movement, ensnaring her within their barrier.

"Capture...complete. Now, I simply need to keep her confined until Irre defeats the other [Knight]," he muttered, a hint of apprehension creeping in. "If she fails, then I'm in trouble..."

Trapped within the confines of the shield prison, Yoshitsune fervently attempted to break free. However, her attacks were either deflected back at her or absorbed by the unyielding walls. While the prison had expanded enough to allow her some mobility, it remained more akin to a storage closet than a spacious room.

"Hmm. This ability must be tethered to him in some way. There must be drawbacks; it can't be an ability without them," she pondered to herself as she settled into a seated position. "Perhaps it's linked to his stamina or magic. If that's the case, this may take some time. I might need to rely on Miyamoto to aid in my escape."

As she contemplated her predicament, Yoshitsune weighed her options. She could meditate, biding her time and conserving her energy, or brainstorm strategies for escaping this confounding prison.

In the heart of her metallic confinement, Yoshitsune embarked on a journey of the mind. She settled into a meditative state, allowing her thoughts to ebb and flow like a serene river. While meditation was her anchor, her mind's relentless pursuit of solutions remained unabated.

Within this ethereal sanctuary, myriad conversations on diverse subjects echoed through her consciousness. They were like faint whispers from distant realms, snippets of wisdom, and fragments of knowledge, each a potential thread that could weave the fabric of her escape plan. These whispers, like ghosts of forgotten voices, whispered hints of hope.

Time passed in this mental labyrinth, where thoughts and ideas danced in harmony with her unwavering determination. Yoshitsune's mind was a wellspring of creativity, and she sought to harness that creative force to overcome her predicament.

As the echoes of thought reverberated through her mind, a sense of clarity emerged, and she knew it was time to act. Rising from her meditative stance, she cast her gaze upon the metallic walls that held her captive. They were foreboding, seemingly impervious to her desperate plight, but she would not be deterred.

With graceful purpose, Yoshitsune reached out and placed her hand upon the cold, unyielding surface of her prison. Her fingers traced the lines and contours of the metal, seeking any imperfection, any chink in the armor of her confinement. Yet, the walls remained resolute, offering no hint of weakness.

Determination burned in her eyes as she shifted her approach. She would not be defeated by mere walls. She needed to test the limits of this imprisoning shield. Her katana, an extension of her very being, was her instrument of choice.

"I shall test your mettle," she declared to her unseen adversary. Her voice, filled with resolve, was a testament to her unyielding spirit. Gripping her katana tightly, she readied herself for the imminent clash.

Yoshitsune's next action was a testament to her years of discipline and refinement. She summoned her touki, a wellspring of inner strength, and let it envelop her. It was as if the very air around her crackled with energy. But she did not stop there.

Enhancement magic surged through her, further empowering her physical and mental faculties. Her form shimmered with newfound strength, and her senses sharpened to a razor's edge. Every fiber of her being resonated with purpose.

With a flicker of movement, her blade sliced through the air. A singular, swift strike was unleashed upon the metallic walls that held her captive. The katana, an extension of her will, met the barrier with unwavering resolve.

As anticipated, the attack was deflected by the invisible shield, its energy repelled like water against an unyielding dam. But Yoshitsune was not deterred. Her true plan was unfolding, like a meticulously choreographed dance.

A protective circle of touki, a technique born from years of training, manifested around her. It was not a mystical enchantment, but a physical manifestation of her incredible speed and precision. This circle was her sentinel, her warning system against impending danger.

She repeated the process, each strike met with the same resolute defiance from the shield. Attack after attack, the dance continued, her katana cleaving through the air only to be rebuffed by the invisible barrier. But Yoshitsune's resolve did not waver.

Time and again, she sent her strikes towards the shield, like waves crashing against a mighty cliff. Each strike met with the same outcome, but Yoshitsune knew this was a battle of attrition, a test of endurance and limits.

A triumphant smile graced her lips as she beheld the revelation. The walls, initially resistant to her onslaught, began to absorb her attacks. The once impenetrable shield had shown its vulnerability, its finite capacity to withstand her relentless assault.

Eyes aflame with determination, she concluded, "You can only reflect my attacks back at me ten times before absorbing them."

The realization spurred her into action once more. Her excitement was palpable as she unleashed a torrent of slashes in all directions. Her katana danced through the air, an extension of her will, each strike a testament to her indomitable spirit.

With unyielding resolve, Yoshitsune deflected her own attacks repeatedly, forcing the shield to reflect them back before compelling it to absorb the onslaught. The dance continued, a relentless barrage that tested the limits of the shield's endurance.

Inside her metallic prison, Tenidil's panicked voice shattered the stillness. "Hmm? W-what the—!? What is she doing in there?"

But Yoshitsune paid no heed to his confusion. Her focus was unwavering, her determination unshakable. She pushed herself beyond the limits, unleashing attack after attack, relentlessly testing the shield's capacity.

Then, in a burst of brilliance, the shield's resistance crumbled. It could withstand no more. Yoshitsune had pushed it to its breaking point.

"Impossible!" Tenidil exclaimed, his voice tinged with horror.

With the shield shattered, Yoshitsune wasted no time. Like a tempest, she dashed towards her foe. Her katana, an extension of her will, cleaved through the air with devastating precision. Thousands of slashes adorned Tenidil's body, and the telltale light of retirement soon enveloped him.

"Dammit! I shouldn't have relaxed at all!" Tenidil's voice echoed in defeat.

Yoshitsune, victorious but humble, turned to face her fallen adversary. Her bow was a gesture of respect, her smile a sign of admiration. "Your tactics held merit, Tenidil-dono. As you wisely said, one should never relax until victory is certain. I thank you for our battle."

Tenidil, weariness etched upon his features, returned her smile with a sigh. "Yes... and to you as well..."

[Another [Bishop] from [Team Moon Rabbits] retires!]

[The momentum remains firmly with [Team Shinto]! Only one [Bishop] remains, and soon it will be down to the [Queen] and [King] of [Team Moon Rabbits]! This Rating Game has showcased the dominance and prowess of [Team Shinto]!]

Yoshitsune's attention shifted toward Musashi's location, but a powerful shockwave rippled through the game field, compelling her to shift her focus once more.

[Oh my goodness!!! [Queen] and Goddess Vera is doooooooooooown too!!! What in the world is happening!? Is this the end for [Team Moon Rabbits]!?]

— ○ ● ○ —


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