Chapter 9 - Part 2 - Shirone, Elsha and Rating Game* - Winds of Change (DxD)

Underworld

Gremory Territory

Jin Skyward

Lemon Start

I had put a sound plus time dilation barrier around the room.

The sponsored party had ended hours ago, and the girls gave Shirone and I space as well. However, Shirone looked a bit envious… Did she and Kuroka talk about this in advance? I wasn't sure but…

In front of me was a naked Shirone Toujou, I was naked too. We were currently hugging... She was nervous, that much was clear as her body was shaking slightly. I'm not sure if she's ready yet.

But from when I first met her to now… She's changed, though that's thanks to her time in the [Pocket Dimension]. She used to be 4'6 but now she's 5'6. It's quite a drastic change and at the time her classmates kind of freaked out.

Also, since the Gremory group plus myself had grown up in age the first time I took them into the [Pocket Dimension] I feel less weird about this. I'm eighteen and she's seventeen now, but since that time I've prevented that from happening. Should I re-enable?

"Jin-senpai?"

"Sorry, Shirone. I was just wondering if you were really okay and ready for this… You're shaking like a leaf."

"I am… I spoke with Nee-sama and Asia-senpai about it… As well as Akeno-senpai and Reni-san… I want to spend more time with you, connect with you… Please?"

She asked in the cutest way, well… You better not regret this then, Shirone…

"Alright, Shirone."

I lean in and capture her lips; she was a bit surprised but kissed me back.

"Mmmpch… Mmmch… Mmm."

The moments we take to breathe in between kisses were already short but it felt shorter this time around. Is this because of the atmosphere and where this is leading up to?

"Mmpch… Mmmch…. Mmllehhh… Mmmnch."

She sought my tongue with hers. They twisted around each other passionately. Her tail was wagging quite excitedly. The sounds of us attempting to learn each other's tastes echoed around the bedroom.

"Shirone… The way you're moving your tongue right now, is kinda erotic… Were you practicing or something…?"

"...Banana… I wanted to get better… I love senpai kissing me… Chuu… Nn, hafuu… Nhaa…"

We break the kiss, as Shirone had a pretty lewd face on her and she started to squirm in our embrace. I use my right hand to grope her right breast. These also have become bigger… They're a bit larger than when she first entered her [Shirone mode].

If I had to compare…they should be the same size as Irina's so…B87?

"Nya…. Don't… Compare my sizes…"

"...My bad."

I start to squeeze and grope them gently, eliciting cute and erotic moans from Shirone.

"Mmmh! Hah, hah… Mmm, hah… Ah! Hff… Mmmh! Mmm!"

As Shirone closed her eyes and started to breathe heavily, I used my other hand to massage both her breasts. I found them to be the perfect size for me. They fit comfortably in my hands.

"Haaah… Ah, you're really gentle, J-Jin-senpai… Haah…"

Shirone put both her hands on my chest, signaling for me to stop. She was bright red and was looking down… Shirone it's a bit obvious but…

"Jin-senpai, you're really hard now…"

"You're wet too, wanna do it now?"

She silently nods and I gently push her back on the bed— Her head hitting the pillow softly, she looks up at me in anticipation and a bit of worry. Since she was laying down, I could examine all of her… Quite erotic.

"Don't…. Stare too much…"

Even with those words, Shirone spread her legs to receive me. She did this without a single word from me... She was still nervous but not as much as earlier.

"Jin-sen—… Jin. I'm ready… No, I've been ready for a long time now, it probably happened during those five years… But tonight my heart and body both want you."

Well… If you say it like that, then how can I resist? I nod and place my tip where the labia separate and slowly push forward.

"Unnngh…! Hah, ah… Haaaagh…!"

A low, wet sound emerges. Ever so slowly the tip of my member slides into her. I'm barely inside her but I can feel her flesh coiling around every millimeter that's inside.

"Aah… U-Ungh… Aahh, hah, nnngh…!"

"Um… Shirone?

"…I'm fine… Just keep going… Haah, gh…."

Since she's that determined, I continue to push my member further and further until I push past her hymen, a small trickle of blood comes out. Eventually, I buried myself in her.

"Haaaah, haaaah… So that's all of it…. Right? .....Jin, you're too big… I can't take all of it…"

I seriously doubt anyone else has taken all of me— Though I didn't really pay much attention since we were, you know, busy doing it.

"Sorry, but yeah…I'm all the way inside you now."

"…Jin, I love you…"

Shirone closes her eyes and curls her body up to reach my face and kiss me. I guess she's dropping the 'senpai' prefix during this time, huh? It feels nice though.

"Mmmh, nnha… Nhhn, nha… Mmpch…"

This wasn't like the kiss we shared a minute ago. It's slow, deliberate; an expression of love without words. I wind my tongue around hers, exploring every sensation of her body I have yet to feel.

"Mmmmpch…. Mmnnnch…. Nnnmmhh."

"Jin, won't you move? I want to feel you more…"

Shirone briefly breaks our kiss. I nod and start kissing her again and start moving my hips back and forth.

"Mmm… Aaah?! Agh… Ngh, mmmmh! J-Jin…! Jin! Haah… Aahh…!"

I take it slow since it's her first time, but I do change my speed every few thrusts to see how she reacts. Though… Shirone feels particularly tight— Tighter than the other girls, is it because it's still her first time…?

"Nnngh, ah, ah, hhff!! Mmm, hah, aaah… Jin…!"

It looks like she's slowly getting used to it, so I start to increase my pace.

"Jin…! Keep going! Speed much more…! I'm used to it now…!"

The slightly pained expression that Shirone had was starting to leave her, now she had a look of excitement, and she was drooling too. I don't think she even realized it herself. I reach over and place both my hands on her breasts as I increase my pace even further.

"Aaah! Ah, nnnaaaaaghh Aaagh! Yes, that's it! M-My nipples too! Yaaah! Aaah!"

Pah ~ Pah ~

I thrust at different speeds, angles just to see different reactions from Shirone, and they all were erotic. I loved it.

"More! Feel me more, Jin! Let loose and plunge into me!"

Her voice is loud, yet sweet. Her body jumps with every thrust even while her pussy walls clamp down on me for dear life. It seems like the pain is gone now; I begin to stab deep into her with fervor.

"Ooooh?! Gahh!! Aaahh!!! Hhooooohh?!"

I accidentally stabbed the entrance to her womb. She made the strangest face and moaned erotically. Once she was done, she was even redder and looking… A bit scared of me.

"Shirone…"

"W-Wait, Jin— Aah!! Haaah!!! N-No, not there! I don't want to go crazy!"

Pah ~ Pah ~ Thrust ~ Thrust ~

"Hiiih?! W-What is this?! Jin…. Aahh!! You do this Nee-sama…. And everyone else… Regularly?!"

Well yes… Though they get used to it… But shit, I'm getting close, was I that horny? Was I that looking forward to doing it with Shirone—

"?!"

"Guhhh!!!!!~"

I felt Shirone's walls clamp down even tighter as she let out a muffled moan… She just had an orgasm.

"W-Wait… Jin… I just… Please slow do—"

"Shirone… I'm gonna cum…"

Her eyes widen and I feel her wrap her legs around me, her mouth was open, tongue out… Was she asking me to kiss her?

"Inside, kiss me too! …Paint my insides, Jin!"

As I thrust harder and faster, I also lean forward and sloppily kiss Shirone. She let out love-filled moans as I kept fucking her until—

"Ah, aaah…. Aaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"

I felt her tighten around me again— It was great timing since I was practically inside all of her— It also pushed me over the edge…

"Cumming…"

Splurt ~ Splurt ~

"Haaaah?!Ah, hah…! Ah, aaaahh… So much… Jin's… Seed in me…"

Shirone and I stayed still as I kept cumming inside her. Her body which was tense just relaxed completely.

"Fwaaah…. Aaahh… Amazing… You're still cumming…!"

I slowly stop as every last drop was poured inside her. I kind of scared myself there, it felt endless for a second. I feel Shirone wrap her arms around me and hug me tight.

"Um…"

"...You're still hard, Jin.....want to keep going?"

"Yeah… Sorry about this, Shirone."

She smiles at me and shakes her head; she gives me a peck on the lips.

"I'll stay with you the rest of the night…"

Lemon end

…

A few hours later

"…"

Shirone was cuddling up to me with a smile on her face. I had my arms wrapped around her waist.

"Jin-senpai's warm ~"

She was acting all lovey-dovey with me, though it makes sense, we did just go at it for another three hours…that was her limit and she was tired. I'm starting to think there are different stamina levels for regular and sex… If I take into account her rank then she should last longer…

"Are you okay, Shirone? We did just go on for longer after your first time."

"….Mmm ~ I'm fine… You worry too much, Jin-senpai… But I love that about you."

There are only a few more days left till the Rating Game, I haven't been there to see them improve that much but… I'll trust Azazel's word for it, they also refused to show me how much they have— They said they wanted to surprise me on the day.

Well, whatever, it's up to them. I'll see how much they improved along with everyone else. I am also curious how the Sitri group will handle them. Will Sona use the same strategy as in Canon? Ise does not exist here, and I am not participating in it either.

Though Saji may still try sucking the blood out of whoever he attaches his [Absorption Line] onto, Shirone does confront Saji and another member of Sona's peerage during the game along with Ise.

But seeing how much these guys improve… I wonder if anyone will be retired at all. I inwardly sigh; whatever happens can wait.

"Zzzzz…."

I looked back over at Shirone and she had fallen asleep. I guess we had been at it a little too long. Time to sleep then…

…

????

"Huh?"

I look around and.... Where am I? It feels like I am in my soul and not in a dream, yet I am unable to see the two dragons, Rudra or Cúntóir.

"Why was I dragged into this part of my soul? It's a lot different from what I would have imagined..."

Yeah, I was expecting a white void or something, but… This place was just… How do I describe it? Beneath me was water, but I could walk on it— Above me was a vast clear blue sky with clouds.

It was almost like the place where Kaneki Ken from Tokyo Ghouls was during the first opening. Where he sat on a chair. That was it, it felt very freeing.

"Ara? Jin-kun? Why are you here?"

Hearing a familiar voice, I turn around and see...… Elsha, one of the previous Red Dragon Emperors. It was the second time I was meeting her— And beside her was what seemed to be Belzard.

Elsha is a beautiful woman with long wavy blonde hair, which is decorated with a headpiece, and she has light green eyes. She wore a light purple dress. Belzard is a buff, handsome man with green hair and pink eyes. He is fashionably dressed as he wears a black noble uniform which has a red cape attached to it.

"Elsha, and Belzard? Did you guys call me here?"

"Call you? No… I don't think we did, how peculiar."

Elsha tilted her head confused. Belzard stood there with a stoic look to him, but he was intensely gazing at me. I was confused though, when I upgraded my [Boosted Gear] it was supposed to have cleansed it, meaning all previous hosts should have been removed…

No, knowing Cúntóir… She may have left these two for one reason or another, so I'll trust her judgment. As I thought about the reasons why they were still here, Elsha had reached me and put her hand on my chest— Directly above my heart.

She closed her eyes for a few seconds before opening them again. She looks up at me with a content smile and nods.

"Good, while it's still not quite there… You're learning to forgive yourself and love yourself. While slow, progress is progress, Jin. I'm proud of you."

"…Uh, thank you? By the way, why does this part of my soul look like this?"

"We have no influence over that, it's just you."

Me? I was responsible for… This? I took a look around again. The vastness of this place was quite surreal…

"Could it be that it reflects your true nature? Your current name is Jin Skyward. Jin means bright or beautiful, and skyward means 'toward the sky' or 'moving or directed towards the sky'. As you are now, you're surely looking towards a brighter and more beautiful future, aren't you?"

"…"

I never gave much thought to the name I was given by the system— Before she became Cúntóir. Was Azathoth responsible for it? Why did he name me this? Surely I'm close to discovering my past name… It begins with A for my first name and T for my last name.

"Jin, Irene wasn't the only one to witness that dream of yours… Do you want to know a bit more about your last name?"

"You were there?"

When I was forced to remember that cringe-worthy thing my past self did, I blushed. But I nod and she smiles at me.

"Your first name means 'exalted' or 'strong.' It can also be interpreted to mean 'teacher' or 'mountain of strength. Your surname means 'ruler of the people'. Perhaps you were destined to find your way to Azathoth— To us in some way shape or form."

Exalted… Strong… Teacher… Mountain of strength, and ruler of the people…? Sorry, I'm drawing a blank here, but whatever… I'll find out soon.

"You'll be waking up soon, Jin. Time in here is a bit different out there… Well in this part of your soul at least. Belzard, don't you want to say something to him?"

Belzard who had stayed behind Elsha started walking up to us. Elsha who had kept her hand on my chest removed it from there and stepped back. Belzard stood beside her.

"…"

"Grope-Grope suck-suck pafu-pafu."

He makes some hand gestures—

"Click-click zoom-zoom iyaaan."

"...…..."

He said that in the most monotone way possible! Also, didn't he do this with Issei?! When he unlocked his [Illegal Move Triaina]?! But he had a smug look on his face at the end! What the hell?! Also, why the Oppai dragon song?! Aaahh!— They said they could see my dreams, dear god! They saw that too?!

"It's goodbye, for now, Jin. We'll see you soon enough and that—"

"Hell no! I'm not letting either one of you go! I already told Ddraig I'd drag you back with me! I'm breaking one of my rules about reviving people!!!!!!"

I was beginning to fade away. Elsha had a stunned look on her face, and Belzard had a smug smile on his face. He turned to Elsha and—

"You know him, Elsha. Once he sets his mind to it, he's stubborn and won't quit… Accept your fate."

"Haaa… I'll fight back then. We'll see when the time comes, Jin…. But as I said earlier, I like the way you're handling things, Jin. We had more fun watching the active and energetic Jin. Combine that with the current you and you'll probably have the 'complete' you."

Comple—

…

3 days before the Rating Game

Jin Skyward

It's been a few days since I last spoke with Elsha and Belzard. It was strange, I won't lie. Right now, I was in the Underworld, but it was quite different. Why? That's because—

Boom!!!!

"You still lack fluid movement, the both of you! Make your movement more precise! Less strained!

The Gremory peerage was being trained by Scathach. She used the door last night and came by for a quick visit. She got acquainted with more of my friends, as well as Irina and Griselda. They were surprised to see her there.

But she declared herself their teacher after a few minutes of chatting. She liked the room I picked for her… Even though it looked the same as everyone's before they changed it and added their own things to it.

Despite all of them having higher raw power than Scathach, she was doing well. Middle Tier God-class versus two Super Devils at the peak and Dragon Gods at varying ranks. She had to use her runes to heal a few times but she's been controlling the entire fight so far.

"Haaa… To think you would snag the Witch of Dún Scáith just like that, Jin. She even has a ring already…"

Azazel when he found out and met Scathach earlier, decided to start day drinking for the day. He was on his fifth can, and it was already after four in the afternoon. Will he be okay?

"She's not part of it… She's just a teacher and roommate."

"—For now, it's always 'for now', Jin. Actually, you're both Dense and not at the same time, what the hell is up with that?"

Ddraig's mark appears on my hand.

[I have also been meaning to ask you that, Partner.]

"Looks like the Heavenly Dragon and I agree on something."

I have said this time and time again already, but I guess I'll say it again— I feel like a broken record at this point. Valerie who was beside me also listened in.

"Just because I helped or saved you, women in particular. It's not my intention for them to fall in love with me. So, when I help them and they start treating me a bit differently or better the next time I see them…"

"I don't automatically assume they are in love with me or anything like that. I just assume they're just acting strange or are being friendly because I helped them. So many lonely Inc— I mean men out there presume so just because they receive basic kindness and believe the female is interested in them."

"But that's just not the case ninety percent of the time. I've read many cases of it online. Just use your phone right now, and you'll find posts about it all over the internet, no matter how dense I seem. I'm just gauging the situation between us."

Case in point: Hephaestus. I helped her with her eye defect and she started to act differently. I assumed the same thing and left it at that. But she started to text me frequently over the last few weeks and it's clear she likes me. I have acknowledged that and have begun to text the same way.

I'll probably ask her out at some point in the future— Probably when I go to the Greek God's realm again or just visit her there in my free time.

"So, you're trying to see if they like you or just like you as a friend?"

"Right. If you help a woman and get kindness in return… They're just being considerate. They don't want to sleep with you just because of your previous actions. That kind of mindset is just—"

"Involuntary celibates."

Valerie adds to the conversation as Azazel looks at her. She had her phone out and was probably looking up the word.

"Involuntary celibates, or 'Incel'. A member of an online community of young men who consider themselves unable to attract women sexually, typically associated with views that are hostile toward women and men who are sexually active."

"Have you met one yet, Jin?"

"No."

In this world, no? I mean… Akeno told me about the thing that happened last year to her about some guy called Chase? Or whatever his name was. I don't think I would label him an incel, however, he was desperate for her even after being rejected.

But I probably did meet some in my old world. There are many around the globe, whether here or in my past world. It's almost inevitable.

"Hmm, so that's how you play it then? I see, I see. I'll keep that in mind then."

Ddraig also made a grunt before his mark vanished, whatever the case may be. I'm not dense, I just refuse to accept that they fell in love with me without properly knowing me first. Love at first sight is rare and almost never happens.

Dooom!!!!

"Gyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa my skirt!!!!"

Gasper screamed in despair as his skirt was damaged. Azazel turns back to me and taps my shoulder.

"Oh right, Jin. What's with Gasper and that [Bishop] from Sairaorg Bael's peerage?"

"Oh them… Yeah, it's nothing, just love blossoming."

I told him what happened when I went to visit Sairaorg the day after the Youth Gathering. Azazel snorted but was strangely proud of Gasper.

"I knew that cross-dressing shota had it in him."

He's just small and he'll grow… So he won't stay a shota forever, Azazel… if High School DxD EX is anything to go by…

…

????

Diodora Astaroth

Damn him! Damn him! Damn him!!!!!!! What the fuck!?! How dare that disgusting human, that disgusting lizard! Do this to me!

I, Diodora Astaroth, had my power sealed by the Middleman and Red Dragon Emperor, so my plans are a bit challenging now. I need to kidnap Asia Argento… Ahhh… My Asia… I want to break you, add you to my peerage, and r—pe you more!

That's my way of life, after all~ breaking nuns or maidens and making them obey every whim I have, it's the ultimate pleasure!

Asia Argento also has the Sacred Gear [Twilight Healing] and she'll make an excellent piece for my peerage…

However, I haven't been able to use my powers recently! It happened after meeting the Middleman during the Youth Gathering! I didn't do anything to him— Unless the rumors of his harem, Asia being one of them… Tch! So he sealed them?!

"Diodora."

?! I turn around and see… Shalba Beelzebub-sama, one of the original descendants of the Satans. He also hates the current Devil System and wants to change it as a whole... I couldn't care less. However, if they help me achieve my own goals... I don't mind lending a hand.

"Shalba Beelzebub-sama… How can I be of service?"

"I do not feel any power from you, what has happened?"

Tch! He can even feel that? I might die if I don't tell him the truth, but if I do, I might also die… Quite a pickle I've been put in. Either way, I may perish— I shall tell him the truth.

"It's that vermin again… You are still useful. Take this."

He throws something at me and I catch it… It was… A tool of sorts?

"Avezza of the Rogue Fallen Angels has successfully created her first batch of Artificial Sacred Gears. She has put one of the Pseudo-Divine Beasts within that Scared Gear. It's called [Kothoga: Reptilian King of the Swamps]."

"The Kothoga is a chimeric creature combining aspects of fish, reptiles, primates, and insects. Its body is quadrupedal with a sloping back. Its backside is covered in muddy green crocodilian scales and its underbelly has scales that are a pale flesh tone. A row of spines runs down its back and underbelly, on its elbows and heels."

"Its feet and paws possess long sharp claws. It has a dark brown mane on the back of its head and another mane at the base of its thin but muscular tail. The Kothoga's head has two very small glowing white eyes, exposed gums, anglerfish-like teeth, and two pairs of tusks/mandibles (a large one and a smaller one below the larger one) bordered by long coarse whiskers."

Additionally, a [Counter Balance] has already been unlocked. It will help you somewhat. Though seeing how weak you've become. You'll only reach Ultimate-class with its help. It can use water manipulation, increased strength, and defenses."

"As I said, it's one of the earlier batches, so there is no way to reach a state similar to [Juggernaut Drive] or [Breakdown the Beast]."

This! This is enough! With this, I can win! An Artificial Sacred Gear?! That woman! If I didn't have this fetish, I would try adding her to my harem!

"At the very least, try to disrupt as much as you can when the time comes."

When Shalba Beelzebub left, I found myself with this new, powerful tool… How lucky I am. It was in the shape of a large tooth; I felt a giant grin spread across my face.

…

Shalba Beelzebub

After I left the heir of the Astaroth clan, Diodora, I went to a different part of the newly established Khaos Brigade's base. In the past few months, we have received more vials for our organization. I am not sure how or where they came from, but they provided us with a significant increase in power.

Our current leaders of the organization were… Rizevim Livan Lucifer, Jibrail, Mīkhā'īl, and Isrāfīl… But they have eluded that there may be others above them. These four are above and beyond what I am capable of but with them, we can make our dreams come true.

It wouldn't be a stretch to say they are in the top ten strongest on our planet. I say even the God of Destruction Shiva may have some trouble with them. Sacred Gear wielders are useless against Rizevim.

Our factions within our organization have also increased in the last few months. The addition of the Wizards of Oz, Hexennacht, Monkai Association, the Nebiros clan, Seekers of Truth, and the new… Alliance of Hell led by Hades. We are more than ready to change this world.

"Shalba."

"Hmmm?"

I heard my name being called out. I turn to my left and…

"Euclid Lucifuge."

"We must speak."

…

The day of the Rating Game

Underworld

Gremory Territory

Jin Skyward

It was the day of the battle. The Rating Game was upon them. They stood underneath the Gremory home. A special teleportation circle was being used to transport the two peerages to where the fight was going to take place.

Azazel had given them a pep talk earlier. I was the only one left with them… Well Valerie, Grayfia, and Kuroka were with me. I'll need to do the same thing as I did before their match against Riser.

"Alright, you lot! You've been training for this day for the past month! I assume you're ready… Azazel gave you a talk and probably an informal meeting last night. I don't need to say much more but…"

I went to Xenovia first.

"Don't be afraid to use Durandal or [Grand Chariot], alright? But since you're a muscle-brain woman, try to keep your destruction to a minimum."

Xenovia blushes at that and nods.

"I-I have been learning to keep the same destruction on a smaller scale! Lianne-san and Scathach-san have said as much…"

Asia stood next to her. She had a much calmer look on her. The same for everyone else. This was their second Rating game, but… There was still a hint of nervousness in the air.

"Like everyone else, you grew in power and had much more control than the others. The same with Gasper. Do your best to support everyone."

"Yes!"

I moved to Gasper, the guy…. He really changed, huh? Due to me, Valerie and Coriana. I wonder if she'll be cheering for him today? Who am I kidding, she definitely will be, even if they'll be enemies in the future.

"Gya-suke, I don't have much else to say but… Go show them out there how cool and manly you can be!"

"Yes, Jin-senpai!"

"Kib—"

Gyu~

Before I could say anything, he grabbed me and hugged me… I didn't know what to think so I just hugged him back. He finally let me go and smiled at me.

"That's all I need, Jin-senpai."

"…I-Is that so…? A-Alright then, do your best out there, Kiba…"

A bit surprised by his hug, I awkwardly go to the next person.

"Shirone beat 'em up."

"…Yes."

Short and simple, we connected a few days ago and have become closer. She doesn't like long and drawn-out things, so I kept it simple. While we haven't done 'it', we have done lewd things.

I walked over to Akeno as she was standing there all proper like usual. But she had an expectant look…

"Akeno, you are the [Queen], their senior. Guide them and do your best to help. I know your parents and Tobio will be watching."

"Yes."

If the Himejima clan— Suzaku and the others were watching, they would be shocked by how much Akeno has progressed, well Suzaku not so much. But those old geezers would be. Prove them wrong today. This Rating Game is being shown to the supernatural world at large.

"Rias."

"Jin, I know. I'm ready. We planned and trained. I'm confident we'll take the win today… No it's not arrogance— It's just pure confidence. I— We won't be looking down on the Sitri peerage, that would be an insult to Sona."

"We'll fight them at our best while being limited in whatever the rules may be."

"Good answer. Good luck and we'll be cheering on for you guys."

I pat her on the head as she smiles. I leave them and stand beside Valerie. They all answer with a 'Yes' before being teleported away. Now then, let's see how this plays out.

…

Spectators Lounge

"Ah Jin, welcome!"

I had teleported Valerie and Kuroka back to Kuoh as I was the only one permitted to be here, not including Grayfia as she's still employed by the Gremory's. She and everyone else back home will be watching the Rating Game on the living room TV.

As I got there, Sirzechs welcomed me, and I saw numerous Devils there, but Asteri was not there. Seeing this, Sirzechs continued.

"Asteri will be the arbiter for today's match."

"I see."

"Jin-boy! It's been some time!"

It was a one-eyed old man wearing an old-looking hat. He had a white beard that was so long that it seemed to touch the floor. His clothes, rather than being luxurious, also consisted of just a single robe. He held a walking staff, but he didn't have it because he hurt his lower back.

"Odin."

"I've been here with the Devils and the Fallen Angel brat! Come here, or they'll bore me to death! At least Serafall is wearing a magical girl outfit, bwahaha!"

I glance at Serafall as she waves at me. I shake my head.... I can't exactly stop her from wearing something so revealing. I walk over with Sirzechs and sit beside Odin. Serafall also joins me with Grayfia beside her.

Someone else was also with Odin— It was Rossweisse, I glance at her and she waves at me, Odin catches this and snorts.

"Rossweisse go over to your boyfriend, I can handle myself!"

"Wha— Jin isn't… He's!— Kya?!"

Odin grabs Rose's shoulders and yeets her towards me, conveniently placing her on my lap as she lets out another yelp.

"You even have a Valkyrie?!"

"Potentially two, Azazel-boy."

"Two?!"

Azazel was glaring at me. What the hell do you mean by two? All I know is Rossweisse and I are in a good relationship! I mean… Brynhildr— She and I are… On amicable terms at least.

"I-I'm sorry, Jin… I'll get of—"

"Just stay."

She turns redder but doesn't try to leave. I had all eyes on me again. But Odin turns to Sirzechs and speaks.

"I heard about it. Isn't it true, Sirzechs, Serafall, that your family members are fighting? Geez, making your precious younger sisters face each other even though they're close friends. You people are so terrible. You really are devils."

"If she can't break through this much, then her hopes for her future as a devil won't be born."

"It's already decided that my Sona-chan will win ~"

Each Satan believed that their sister would win, after all. Odin then turns to me and grins.

"Jin-boy, can I ask you a question?"

"Hmm? Uh sure, shoot."

"If you were facing Rias as an opponent, who would you definitely remove from the Gremory group?"

"If you asked me this months ago— Then I would say Akeno, she is the [Queen] and has the next highest authority within the group. She's also like a big sister to everyone in it."

"But if we're talking about real-life battles, and as arrogant as this sounds— Me. Though that's next to impossible."

Tension was a factor in battle. It was often the case that the balance would crumble with a single change in that, and one side would quickly lose as a result. The reverse was also possible.

I was an emotional pillar for Rias and the others. The reason for that was already obvious.

In the past, dragons were known to attract others. I wasn't an exception to that either. That was a result of people being attracted to the dragon that was lodged inside me, whether that was Ddraig, Albion, or the Outer Dragon blood within me.

Sirzechs joined his hands together and spoke with a serious look.

"…Sona will aim for that."

He was worried about his younger sister, that much was obvious, I'm not there, so she'll aim for Akeno or Kiba. While Akeno is the official ace, that was Kiba's title before I trained them. But I trust that they're much stronger than that, both physically, emotionally, and mentally.

"Haha! That's one hell of a mouth you got there! But I do agree, take out the 'Key' pillars of that group and they crumble, while it's powerful… It has a very large weakness."

The game finally started…

…

Rias Gremory

Once the circle transported us…we were in a very familiar place— I was inside of some kind of store, it had many tables.

I stepped out of this floor a bit and looked around the interior. There was a vast shopping mall there.

Familiar stores were lined up within the interior, and there was a glass-ceilinged atrium! Light spilled down through the glass. This oblong shopping mall and this glass atrium! They were the ones that I knew well!

"I didn't expect that the department store near Kuoh Academy would serve as the stage."

I say as my family joins me. They were also taking a look around.

[Everyone, I, the [Queen] of the Lucifer group, Asteri, will be carrying the role of arbiter in the 'Rating Game' between the Gremory group and the Sitri group on this occasion.]

E-Eh? Asteri-onee-sama?! Just like during the battle with Riser, there was an announcer, but I didn't expect Asteri Gremory would be the one conducting it!

Her introduction is slightly different from Grayfia… That time Grayfia called herself a servant of the Gremory family, yet this time Asteri-onee-sama clearly stated that she was part of the Lucifer group. Was it because the quality of the game was slightly different from last time…?

[In the name of my King and Husband, Sirzechs Lucifer, I will watch over the battle between these two families. It's a pleasure to be here. To get right to the main topic, the battlefield for today is the department store within the neighborhood of the school 'Kuoh Academy' that Rias-sama and Sona-sama attend, which has been prepared within a separate space as the game field.]

It's a place where we are all familiar, so we have an advantage there. But the same thing can be said for Sona.

This department store which had become our battleground was a two-story building. It wasn't that big in terms of height.

However, it was a long shopping mall across its two floors and the atrium, so it was considerably large horizontally. The rooftop was a parking lot. Besides that, there was also a multistory parking garage elsewhere.

[Both groups have been transported to their respective 'bases'. Rias-sama's 'base' is on the second floor of the east side, while Sona-sama's 'base' is on the first floor of the west side. In order for [Pawns] to promote, please go to your opponent's 'bases'.]

Our base and our enemies' base were at opposite ends of the department store. We were on the most eastern side of the second floor. The opponents were on the westernmost side of the first floor. Around our base, there was a pet shop, an arcade center, a dining floor, a bookshop, and a drugstore. On the first floor beneath our base, there was a branch store of a major second-hand bookshop company, and a sports-supplies shop.

Over on the opponent's side, there was a grocery shop, an electrical appliance store, a junk food shop, and a general goods store.

During the battle, each side would have to respectively head towards the other end of the department. That was simple and clear, but it wouldn't go like that.

[This time, there will be special rules. Documents on this have been sent to each group, so please check them. A single bottle of the healing item 'Phenex Tears' has been provided for each team. Furthermore, the time to strategize before the battle is thirty minutes. Contact with the opponent during this time is forbidden. The game is scheduled to start after thirty minutes. Then, let the strategy time begin.]

After the announcement, everyone quickly gathered together. We couldn't waste even one minute of this time.

"The battlefield is modeled on the department store near Kuoh Academy. So, it's an indoor battle."

I said this while looking at a guide map of the department store's interior that was depicted on the dining floor's wall. In my hands I also had a personal diagram of the place divided into chess squares.

We had encamped ourselves in the dining room and were formulating our strategy. An indoor battle! So, the Rating Game has that kind of battlefield as well.

I thought about how each side had a base on the vast battlefield, and how we would have to run around on this field. It was like that during the House of Phenex battle as well.

Rather, the stage was the department store near our school. This was a place we often came to on our way back from school.

More than ninety percent of the students attending Kuoh Academy knew about the appearance of the store's interior.

Jin, Asia, and I have also come here on our days off. We also looked over the document with the special rule that had been sent to us.

"The rule this time states 'Don't destroy the department store which has become the battlefield'; in other words, we can't do any showy battles."

I narrowed her eyes.

"…I see, so this is what Jin meant by the rules being in heavy favor of Sona and her peerage."

"That really is troublesome. A battle of massive attacks has been mostly sealed."

Akeno put a hand against her cheek with a troubled face. She gave her opinion after letting out a sigh.

"Gasper-kun's eyes will not be as effective. There are too many places to hide in the department store. All the goods and products have also been replicated, so there is an overflowing number of objects to obstruct his vision."

"There is also the possibility of a surprise attack in the dark… It's troubling. This is a disadvantageous battlefield for our special abilities. Because the Gremory group's forte is to battle showily, we're completely sealed."

I believed that we were strong, but everything has completely changed just because of this rule. I shook her head at Akeno's words.

"No, Gasper's eyes couldn't be used from the start. They put in a restriction on it here. 'The use of Gasper Vladi's Sacred Gear is forbidden', it says. The reason is clear and simple. Since he still can't perfectly control it yet. They judged that it would be problematic if the entire game was spoiled by his eyes going out of control."

"It seemed that they've provided him with Sacred Gear-sealing glasses developed by Azazel. 'Since it was made for Gasper's exclusive use, it won't have any particular bad influence on his body'."

"But what they don't know is Gasper has very good control of it now, he's trained with it after all… Though the rest of the devil society doesn't know that."

"It's fine, President. I can fight without it; I can also provide reconnaissance using my bat forms and darkness."

Gasper answered with a determined look on him… I'm so proud of him, he's come a long way in a short time. Jin, Valerie, and Coriana have helped in many ways. I won't need to worry about him that much anymore.

"Yes, we spoke about that last night after Azazel left. We'll leave that up to you, Gasper."

"Yes! President!"

"…The Rating Game isn't something you can win simply by having a lot of power. Depending on the terrain and the rules, the battle situation changes radically. Because this is a ground where even devils that lack strength can depend on wisdom and rise higher, it has become popular in the Underworld and among the other powers."

"The rules this time may be disadvantageous to us. However, if we can't make up for this, we won't be able to win and advance in the games from now on. 'Even a [Pawn] can take down the [King]'.

"—This is not only a basic rule in chess but also a proverb of the Rating Games. In other words, it implies that 'Anyone can win with the proper method'."

Akeno also approved of my words and nodded.

"That's right. There may be indoor battles like this on true battlefields as well from now on. If that were the case, we wouldn't be able to completely display our power like today. This may be a good opportunity for us. Today's battle is most suitable for getting used to indoor team battles."

I look back at the map and nod…

"Let's do this then—"

…

—It was the appointed time. We had gathered in the dining floor and were waiting for the starting time. Then, an announcement streamed through the store.

[It is now time to begin. Furthermore, the time limit for this game will be a blitz-style of three hours. Then without further ado, game start.]

Jin predicted it again, there was a time limit and it was short… A blitz, huh?

[Your instructions are just as we agreed on before. Koneko, Yuuto, and Xenovia will split into two separate groups. Koneko will advance through the store interior by herself.]

[Yuuto and Xenovia will advance forward via the parking garage. Gasper will transform into many bats and do surveillance and reporting inside the store. According to the condition of your progress, me, Akeno and Asia will go by the route of Koneko.]

I had prepared the same transceivers that we used on the Rating Game against Riser. Everyone listened to my instructions.

"Now then, my cute servant devils! This is our second Rating game, we won our first, let's get our second win!"

[Yes!]

…

Shirone Toujou

"Then, Xenovia, let's go."

"Yes, Kiba."

Kiba-senpai and Xenovia-senpai headed out first. They rushed out from the dining floor and headed down the path that connected to the parking garage. According to Kiba-senpai, it was confirmed that there were cars in the parking lot.

However, they seemed to be mere imitations. So, charging using the car was apparently impossible. Now then, I was next to leave after Kiba-senpai and Xenovia-senpai. I left the place behind and headed out. I was going to use my powers to the full without causing needless destruction.

President's reading was this. She predicted that the enemy would read our movements as following. I would burst into the base while avoiding battle as much as possible, but if I came across anyone I would eliminate them.

The quick-witted Kiba-senpai and Xenovia-senpai would move together and go around back through the parking garage to the base. There they would disturb the enemy's formation and attract the attention of the enemy. Everyone would temporarily pull out and then attack once again.

President would also move out at this time. Since we didn't have a [Pawn] this was our strategy. President assumed that President Sona would read us like this, and so did the opposite instead.

I was moving forward just as President Sona would predict. They would also receive an attack. But our true main offense was Kiba-senpai and Xenovia-senpai.

It wasn't a diversion, but a genuine attack. Instead, I would be the feint. Since the opponent would aim at me and send out several assassins, President predicted that the area around the [King] would be short-staffed.

Of course, assassins would also be sent after the parking garage group, but we expected that it wasn't secured that much and would be assaulted by Kiba-senpai and Xenovia-senpai. Meanwhile, we would aim at the [King] and claim checkmate.

…

I had my cat ears and tail out as I read the flow of spirit around my immediate area… Two people were heading towards me. At my pace, I will meet up with them in ten minutes, while we had a time limit… We didn't need to rush and accidentally destroy the place.

….Above!

"Toujou-chan!!!!! We'll be attacking first!"

It was Saji-senpai! He prepared to attack me while positioning himself for a knee kick! Moreover, there was someone on his back!

Dogon!!!

I guarded myself with both arms and the impact didn't hurt— It felt like a leaf slapping them. The both of them were surprised, but quickly recovered themselves.

"Yo, Koneko-chan."

Saji-senpai had appeared. Next to him, the one who had been riding on his back was— A girl. A member of the student council, huh. I think she was a first-year student. She often acted together with Saji-senpai from behind him.

Saji-senpai's right arm— Had a black snake wound around it several times. Its shape was different from before! There had just been a deformed lizard head there before. Did his Sacred Gear change?

…Wait, there was a black snake wound around on my left arm as well, and it was connected to Saji-senpai's Sacred Gear. He must have put it on me when he attacked before!

I felt my power being sucked— But since I was much stronger than him, I barely felt it….? What? Is he… Sucking out my blood? I frown, I focused a large and condensed amount of touki around my hand and chopped it off. Saji-senpai and the other member became dumbfounded.

"H-Huh? E-Ehhhhhhhhhhh?! You can do that?! I trained hard to make it even tougher to cut you know?!"

"Sucking my energy and blood is no good, Senpai."

"Geh! She found out already?!"

Saji-senpai recoiled and confirmed my suspicions, the girl behind him shook her head in disappointment and smacked him on the head.

"You're not meant to confirm it for her, you doofus!"

"Ahh!—"

[Sona Sitri-sama's Two [Bishop] retires!]

The voice of Asteri-sama resounded through the Rating Game field, Saji and the other first-year looked surprised.

"Huh?! W-Wait a minute… Weren't they meant to confront Gasper-kun? Didn't President Sona predict it?! How did they lose to…. Er— No offense, but to Gasper-kun?!"

"Gaspy is a lot stronger… He doesn't need to rely on his Sacred Gear…"

"We were contacted and told that Gasper-kun's Sacred Gear was sealed according to the rules. As such, it was inevitable that he would use his vampire powers instead. 'He will change into bats and observe the situation within the store'. This is what President Sona's thought. So we utilized our base."

Your base? That was the grocery store. Saji continued further.

"First, one of our members moves suspiciously at the Sitri base. Then, Gasper-kun who was doing surveillance would naturally be interested and follow them, you know?"

"Then, when we showed more suspicious behavior, he would call the other bats he had launched and start to observe with several of them. When all the many bats had gathered, that's when it happened.

"If something happens to the bats when all of them are gathered, they revert back to Gasper's body. Near the place where the bats had assembled together was— Garlic, a vampire's greatest dislike. Our base is a grocery store on the first floor of the west side. There were large quantities of garlic left there. It was supposed to be easy to catch Gasper with that, but..."

They didn't predict that Gasper would be as strong as the rest of us? No, they didn't underestimate him— They just didn't see him as powerful as the rest of us, he did perform well during our last Rating game, so why?

"We miscalculated, that's all… Anyway, we have to make up here! Sorry about this, Koneko-chan! Ruruko, back me up!"

I want to help President reach the top of the Rating Game world, she helped me during a tough time in my life, so, even if we're classmates— Even if you're my senpai… I'll be winning this.

Rumble! Rumble!

"W-What's happening now…?! The heck kind of aura is coming from you?!"

Saji-senpai panicked and shot another line towards me— But the aura that I was releasing blocked it and he didn't reach me, seeing this they both jump back far away.

Dwosh! Don! Gan!

"Wha—"

"Argh…!"

I had disappeared and reappeared in front of the other first year, I sent a touki-covered punch into her gut, and once she started to fall— I followed it up with a kick to the face. She crashed to the ground with minimal damage. She then disappears.

[Sona Sitri-sama One [Pawn] retires!]

I was already in my [Nekomata Level 2] since the start of the game, Saji-senpai. I know you and President Sona have dreams— But President Rias also has hers, we will be the ones victorious today.

"Shit!"

He curses and shoots out another line towards me, I swiftly dodge it and closed the gap between us. His eyes widen— A wide variety of emotions present in them

Don! Don! Don!

"Gah!"

I punched him three times with my fists infused in touki, in the middle of his stomach, on his liver, and then on his face. The light in his eyes fades as he lost consciousness…

"Ko…neko-chan…"

Saji-senpai managed to utter before falling to the ground and disappeari—

"Uoooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Saji-senpai got up… He was badly injured but refused to retire… He was shakily standing on his own two feet and had a fearsome smile on him.

"I won't retire that easily… Koneko-chan… I have a dream…. It's also President Sona's dream… I want to see it happen….!!! I—I won't fall yet! I haven't even done anything!!!"

Saji-senpai sent out his [Absorption Line] at me again, I dodged it swiftly and closed the gap between us again—but to my surprise, he was already swinging a hook at me.

Don!

I caught it with one hand and elbowed him on the stomach again…

"Guha!!... Not yet!!!!!!! I won't fall yet, Koneko-chan! I want to look cool too! I want girls to like me too! I want to be like Jin-senpai!"

He was about to fall but stubbornly steadied himself again…blood was coming out of his mouth, but that stupid fearsome smile was still on his face— While tears streamed from his eyes. His Sacred Gear had already disappeared.

"Aaaaaaghhhh!!!"

He 'ran' towards me with his fist held high— Saji-senpai wasn't going down without a fight… I like this determination, Senpai. But… It's just a futile struggle.

Don! Don! Don!

I attack the same spots again, this time— He fell to the ground, completely out cold.

[Sona Sitri-sama One [Pawn] retires!]

"You were really cool, Saji-senpai. I know you'll get stronger in the future… I think Jin-senpai will agree…"

I look forward and nod to myself, I need to keep moving forward, towards our enemy's base…

…

Kiba Yuuto

It had been several minutes since the game had begun.

I, Kiba Yuuto, and Xenovia Quarta entered the multistory parking lot. We advanced forward while cautiously looking through the dimly-lit parking lot.

Because we had both encountered a lot of spies in our missions, moving forward like this was our strong point. I walked in front, and then, after I confirmed that there was no one hiding under cover ahead of us, I called back to Xenovia behind me for her to move forward as well.

We repeated this many times and gradually advanced through the parking lot. The plan was to descend down the car passages on the second floor and go down to the first floor. The elevator was also functioning, but we feared being attacked while we rode it down.

We had no choice but to advance with the most reliable method. We advanced down the passage from the second floor and set foot on the first floor of the parking lot.

—There was a silhouette before us.

Looking closely, it was a glasses-wearing girl with long black hair—

I knew her. President Sona's [Queen], the 'Vice-president of the student council', Shinra Tsubaki-senpai. She held a naginata in her hand.

That's right, I had heard that she was a naginata-user. And she held a considerably high rank with it as well.

"How do you do, Kiba Yuuto-kun, Xenovia-san. I knew that you would come here."

Shinra-senpai spoke indifferently. There were two girls at her side— A girl with a tall figure and a slender girl carrying a Japanese sword.

The tall girl was called Yura-san. A [Rook]. The girl holding the Japanese sword was called Meguri-san. A [Knight]. Yura-san excelled in hand-to-hand combat techniques, while Meguri-san was a member of a clan that made their living on the extermination of evil spirits.

I see, so you stationed three people at the parking lot, President Sona. She read us well. She had secured this place… She predicted that we would be the ones most likely to attack.

Xenovia Summoned Durandal to her side, normally with the special rule we would have avoided using that...but she had been training tirelessly during our break and she wields it much better.

Even during the five years, we spent in the [Pocket Dimension], however, she focused more on its destructive capabilities.

[Sona Sitri-sama's Two [Bishop] retires!]

All the members of the Sitri peerage that were present with us— They were shocked. It looked like they weren't expecting that outcome...

"It seems like we underestimated Gasper-kun… Nevertheless, we shall emerge victorious."

Shinra-senpai said in a calm tone, the other two also composed themselves. I felt pride swell up within me, Gasper-kun and I had been training relentlessly during the five years and as well as over the summer. We won't lose that easily.

Kwosh!

Xenovia and I appeared beside the [Rook] and [Knight] of the Sitri peerage, Yura-san, and Meguri-san. They hadn't caught up to what we did, I summoned a demonic sword and swung it at Yura-san.

Xenovia also swung Durandal at Meguri-san.

Gang! Don!

"Khh!!"

"Hnnnng!!!"

At the last second— No, their bodies moved before their thoughts caught up and barely blocked us! Both Yura-san and Meguri-san were sent away from each other. Shinra-senpai was still standing in place.

I nod at Xenovia— We were going to finish this part and confront Shinra-senpai together. I dash towards Yura-san. She had managed to correct herself and readied herself. I appeared in front of her again— She sent a roundhouse kick to my face!

I easily dodge it by ducking down, using this momentum I sweep her off her feet with my leg, I change the normal demonic sword I had with my [Holy Eraser]. I could her starting to do something but I immediately hit her with my sword again.

Bang!

I wasn't aiming to kill her— But she should have sustained enough damage with that… Once the dust cleared from the small damage within the area—

[Sona Sitri-sama one [Rook], and one [Knight] retires!]

It seems like Xenovia took out Meguri-san too, I quickly made my way back to where Shinra-senpai was at… When I got there Xenovia was already confronting her! The two of them clashed— Xenovia using Durandal and Shinra-senpai with her naginata

Tang! Tang! Clang!

Xenovia… She was matching Shinra-senpai's strength, she didn't want to end it quickly… She wanted to fight her equally? Why?

I tried to move forward— But Xenovia put her left hand out— Telling me not to help or join. This was a Rating Game but… She'll be fine on her own, so I stood back.

[Sona Sitri-sama One [Pawn] retires!]

Koneko-chan! So, she beat one of them, but which one? Was it Saji-kun? Or the other [Pawn] that President has?

Tang!!!

I look back as Xenovia had disarmed Shinra-senpai— Her naginata had been embedded into the wall, Xenovia brought her Durandal up and swung it down onto Shinra-senpai, but she had a smile on her.

"—Sacred Gear, [Mirror of Recollection, Mirror Alice]!"

A huge ornamented mirror appeared in front of Shinra-senpai! Xenovia's slash continued without stopping and crushed the mirror.

Zuooooooooooooooooon!

A wave was released from the broken mirror and attacked Xenovia! Xenovia quickly defended herself with a defensive barrier and blocked the attack.

"Tch."

Shinra-senpai clicked her tongue as Xenovia landed back on the ground. She fixes herself and looks back at us.

"When this mirror is destroyed, the impact on it is doubled and returned to the opponent. —I am a counter-user. Kiba Yuuto-kun, it was a mistake to send the Power-type Xenovia-san against me."

"But I didn't expect her to be able to react on time, you've trained quite hard, haven't you?"

"…Very well, I took you too lightly, forgive me. I will show you what I'm truly capable of."

Wait did she mean?!— Xenovia released more of her aura— It was condensed and didn't go wild, then— She summoned it. Her Sacred Gear [Carnage Incarnate: Grand Chariot].

…

Xenovia Quarta

The aftermath of the events with Kokabiel and Azrael was over… I approached Rias Gremory, she was confused and I asked her to make me a Devil.

"A Devil? Why do you want to become a Devil?"

"Perhaps I wasn't as strong as a believer like Sister Griselda or Irina, but after finding out that God no longer existed…I started to question myself. Though something much more spectacular happened after that…"

Yes, seeing Jin like that was… Strange, the laid back, sarcastic, and aloof Red Dragon Emperor who only wanted a harem. The aura he was releasing at that time was sickening.

"Anyway, please turn me into a Devil. I can be much a lot freer by being one, I can pursue things… I never would have imagined… I also want to apologize to Asia Argento....Also do you not need more pieces for your peerage?"

Rias Gremory falls into thinking for a full minute before looking back at me.

"It is true that I need more pieces for my family— Then I welcome you to it, Xenovia. From this day onward you shall serve me…"

She pulls out a single piece—

"My other [Knight]."

…

I was mesmerized by the sight— The truth as well… Jin was— Some kind of unimaginable God? The place he brought us— The [Pocket Dimension]. It was a place we could train and gain strength while honing our skills even further… A perfect place for me.

"What are you waiting for? Go ahead."

I look at Jin, he had an indifferent expression, much like the time when I asked him to move into his home per the request of my new [King] Rias Gremory. I would have thought he would be against it but….he gave her and I, the okay.

"Oh, no it's nothing…"

I walk away when— I felt someone grip my arm, I look towards it and… It was Asia Argento.

"Xenovia-san, would you like some help?"

…Even after all I said, you still have it in your heart to be kind to me? How far does your kindness reach? Will it ever stop? I smile and nodded as Asia pulled me away. I turn to look at Jin and he gives me a small nod.

I still need to apologize to you… Asia.

…

"Eh, you're giving this to me? W-Why?"

"I think it will fit you, your compatibility with it is quite high."

Jin had approached me during our time in the [Pocket Dimension], he offered to give me a Sacred Gear he created a few months back… He called it [Carnage Incarnate: Grand Chariot].

"I…"

"Take it. I know you can handle it, Xenovia."

He put it on my lap and left… I was just given something unimaginable… Though knowing what and who he really is, then it isn't really that unbelievable, is it?

…

Many things have happened since then, today was my first Rating game with everyone else. I had swiftly bested Meguri-san of the Sitri group, she was a fellow [Knight] piece. I had finished before Kiba Yuuto, so I decided to confront the [Queen] Shinra Tsubaki-senpai by myself.

I had been careless, I was nearly hit by my own attack— However since I had held back, so the attack wasn't as lethal, but it did leave a bad taste in my mouth.

I had heard from Scathach-Shishō that Jin had held back against her in their duel— However, it was at an appropriate level of strength… So I thought I would mimic it here, I didn't want the fight to end too quickly, but we also needed to win.

Dragon God-class? Knowing I have strength like that is still quite hard to accept, but seeing how I was nearly hurt— I decided to use this.

"What is that?"

I had summoned a black short sword, [Carnage Incarnate: Grand Chariot]. I had experimented with the use of this during my time in the [Pocket Dimension], and unlike Jin, I had managed to activate it without needing to stab it into the ground.

I released my wings and float up. I can't destroy the surroundings and I want to show the world this power— The man that I adore made it, after all, I want him to see me use it.

"Carnage Incarnate: Grand Chariot."

Kiba Yuuto answered Shinra-senpai's question, she was confused and looked back and forth between us with a confused expression.

"…"

Kiba Yuuto didn't answer but kept silent. I raised the sword into the sky.

"Grand Chariot!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

A giant blue humanoid-looking type beast appeared from the ground behind me. Azure flames also erupted around the beast and as well as around me, while one of my pupils turned into a shape of a blue star.

The beast then dives forward consuming my entire body. A few moments later the area around me bursts into a large blue light.

When the light disappeared, I was standing there covered in a black, full-body armor with a phantasmagoric defensive film in around my back. I also re-summon Durandal back into my hands.

"This is the new Longinus Jin created a few months back, it's called [Carnage Incarnate: Grand Chariot]! And I'll end our fight, now!"

Fwip! Wosh!

I held Durandal in one hand and forced Shinra-senpai into the air— Alarmed she tried to resist but couldn't do anything.

"Mirror Alice!"

She preemptively summoned her Sacred Gear again— Sorry, but that won't work, Shinra-senpai! I flew forward at greater speeds than before! This shocked the [Queen] of the Sitri peerage. I held Durandal above my head and swung down as I got within proximity of her!

Swing!

"Great Dragon Shock."

Once I was behind Shinra-senpai, the area around us reverberated, and a small yet powerful shockwave occurred— Shinra-senpai looked like she was cut in half, but that was just an illusion. This attack— Attacked from the inside… She started to fall down.

Her Sacred Gear didn't even properly activate— Did it have some kind of threshold in the amount of damage it could reflect back?

I had concluded that that's what her Sacred Gear did. I may or may not be wrong. I shall ask her about it after this game…

Kiba Yuuto stood there and watched the [Queen] of the Sitri peerage plunge until—

[Sona Sitri-sama one [Queen] retires!]

The announcement was made and she disappeared. I land back down and left my Balance Breaker state. I walk up to Kiba Yuuto as he held his hand up and we high five.

"Nice job, we kept the damage to a minimum."

"Yes, you too."

"Though… 'Great Dragon Shock'? Did you name that attack after Jin-senpai?"

"Yes, I love him."

He had a surprised look on him before chuckling and shaking his head.

"I see, let's go then."

…

Shirone Toujou

[Sona Sitri-sama one [Queen] retires!]

"!!"

It seemed like Kiba-senpai and Xenovia-senpai were successful in their battles… That means… Only the [King] was left— It was only President Sona left on the battlefield, meanwhile we still had everyone else with us.

"Koneko-chan!"

I heard a voice behind me and it was Gaspy, he had joined me… We had discussed that if he came across anyone else, he would have to defeat them and then join me. I had gone at a moderate pace so that he could catch up.

[Offense team, can you hear me? We're now advancing towards the enemy base as well.]

President Rias spoke through the communication device she had given us. I see, so President had finally started to move as well. The opening and middle stages were over, and we were heading to the last spurt all at once.

After taking a big breath, I spoke to Gaspy.

"Let's go."

He nodded, and we proceeded towards the final decisive battle.

There was a place that looked like a central plaza in the center of the shopping mall.

Surrounded by a circular bench, there was a clock pillar in the center of it. Shoppers that got tired with shopping frequently sat down there. Once we had advanced that far, I stopped walking.

We weren't the first ones there since Xenovia-senpai and Kiba-senpai had arrived— After that, we waited for Asia-senpai, Akeno-senpai, and President Rias… They arrived soon after.

We were confused since we didn't see President Sona.

"Koneko, can you use your touki to locate Sona's spirit?"

"Yes."

I focused on finding President Sona's life energy, I extended my range to the entirety of the mall and—

"I found her… She's—"

…

Spectators Lounge

Jin Skyward

"This has been…quite one-sided don't you think?"

Odin says while stroking his beard. I could see a few Devils there that I didn't recognize nodding to what he said.

"However, it was still entertaining— They, the Sitri peerage had a well thought out plan but—"

"Rias and her family just smashed it to the ground."

I finished the sentence for one of the devils… They look at me and silently agree… That's the thing— Power reigns all, sometimes it doesn't matter if you have a plan. It can all crumble if your opponent or opponents' power is much larger than yours.

Sona and her peerage ranged from Low to High-class in power, while Rias ranged from Super Devil to Dragon God-class that vary in ranks. That's like ants preparing plans to counter humans— And those humans were about to stomp on them… It really didn't matter…

If they were higher rank then— This would have been a lot more entertaining. Saji managed to even get a chance to show his 'cool' side, and his speech. Even though, Ise didn't exist he still managed to show it, albeit a shorter one.

I look at Serafall as she had a sad look on her, she did want her little sister to win, but I guess the gap between them was far too large at this point. Maybe their rematch in the future will be better…

"Jin-kun."

"Hmm?"

Sirzechs called out for me. I didn't turn to him but kept looking at the screen in front of us.

"You already knew this would happen, didn't you…? You did train Rias and her peerage, yes?"

"Yeah, and I only trained them during our first term in school. I gave them some advice during the summer and they mostly did their own training."

Serafall let out a sigh.

"He did fight So-tan and her peerage before going to meet the Greek Gods ~ so it wasn't all that unfair~ they fought Ddraig-chan after all ~"

"Right… I gave them a taste of what to expect through Ddraig, the only thing left for Sona to do was train desperately and also come up with plans. Though… From the results right now— It wasn't enough."

Dooom!!!!!!!!!!!!

....Looks like it's settled, it's Sona versus the entire Gremory peerage… She doesn't really stand a chance…

…

Rias Gremory

"President Sona is on the roof of the department store."

Koneko answered me and I turn to my peerage, they nodded back at me and we made our way there…

If all goes well then… After confronting Sona, this will be our second win in a Rating Game…even though it was mostly one-sided… Everyone fought well. I think the deciding factor was when Gasper defeated both Sona's [Bishop]'s

It didn't take us long to reach the roof of the department store. The sky outside was white, empty of anything. Because it was within the space of the game. Our remaining four members had gone there.

In front of us was Sona. She turned her gaze towards us and smiled bitterly. I then asked.

"Sona, why on the roof?"

"The [King] must survive until the end. That is the duty of the [King]. If the [King] is taken out, the game would be over, right?"

"…Yes, I didn't question the profoundness of that."

"I did not expect Gasper-kun to win against both my [Bishop]s, that was when I started to doubt my own plans… Perhaps I should have made more plans… Did you know we fought against the [Welsh Dragon] Ddraig?"

Yes, I know of it— Jin told us after he came back from Greece. I nod, and Sona let out another bitter sigh.

The battle between best friends started—

An aura of water gathered around Sona, and gradually formed something. This was no ordinary amount of water. Looking at it, the water seemed to be collected from everywhere within the department store.

As expected of the Sitri family whose specialty is water magic. I had heard that the older sister's specialty was ice, while the younger sister's was water.

In my magic… I carried my own [Power of Destruction]. An attack that destroys the opponent. Without hesitation, I fired magic bullets at my friend Sona Sitri! The number of bullets was endless like that of a machine gun!

The bullets were only about the size of a softball, but I could feel the magic of high purity in each shot. It seemed that the results of my own training were showing. I wasn't attacking showily because of the rules, I had confidence in my control, so I decided to make quick work of this.

Zabun! Zabaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!

Sona manipulated the water and made it into a wall, stopping My attacks. The instant that my magic hit, the water was also annihilated, but because she was gathering it from the entire building, it was unlimited.

"Now then, Rias. I shall thoroughly display my water techniques to you."

President Sona transformed a large amount of water with magic. This turned it into many hawks that flew in the air, serpents that slithered on the ground, valiant lions, wolves that herded together, and several huge dragons as well.

So, she can make this many different things at once! Her magic skill is even greater than before...! She's trained a lot too, huh?!

"Just as I wished for, Sona!"

Smiling fearlessly, I gathered a large amount of [Power of Destruction] and started to condense them into small bullets around and behind me. If you weren't strong enough… You will die if one of these hit you.

Both of us excelled in the quality of our magic, but looking at it like this, I stood out in power while Sona stood out in technique. Both of us stood ready. Then, the two of us— Unleashed our attacks at each other at the same time.

...…

[Resignation confirmed. It's Rias Gremory-sama's victory.]

…

Underworld

Jin Skyward

"Well done, Saji."

I was sitting by Saji's bed in one of the recovery rooms. The Rating game ended not too long ago and an after-party was being held by Sirzechs to celebrate another victory for her sister.

I had left saying I wanted to speak to Saji, while he didn't have that epic showdown with Issei during the canon match… He didn't go down in one hit like his partner in this game. To some, it would have looked like an awful, and pathetic struggle…

But to me, after hearing it from his own voice during the sponsored party a few days ago— It looked pretty cool to me. Even when being beaten up by Shirone, he kept on getting up and struggling— For his dream, for Sona's dream.

I think that's admirable.

"But… I lost, I probably looked so pathetic."

"That's not true, Saji-kun."

From the door was— Sirzechs himself. Saji looked a bit startled as he walks over to us. He stands beside me with a smile. Sirzechs took out something and put it towards Saji.

"U-Umm… This is…?"

Saji was nervously trembling.

"This is something awarded to the person who excelled and fought the most impressively in the Rating Game."

Sirzechs said that while smiling. However—

"I-I… lost to Koneko-chan… T-This isn't a situation where I should be receiving this."

Saji grasped the sheets of his bed in apparent frustration and regret.

"That's true. But, consequently, that battle with Koneko Toujou was quite exciting for the Devils watching— Even Odin, a God from the Norse mythology was impressed by it."

Sirzechs-sama took out a medal from the small box and put it on Saji's chest.

"You shouldn't humble yourself. Even a devil like you can aim for the top. I'm happy that I can see promising young devils of the future. Devote yourself more. I have high expectations of you."

Then, Sirzechs patted Saji's head.

"It's fine no matter how many years or decades it takes. —Continue aiming to be a Rating Game teacher."

At Sirzechs's words, Saji— Cried silently. His tears flowed down endlessly, and his face became disheveled.

"…Saji, you displayed a gallant figure to a lot of people. Because you fought a splendid battle."

With that Sirzechs started to leave the room. I added into the conversation—

"Sona was brimming with a calm sense of pride. Sona is also surely happy that her prided servant had gained such a huge estimation."

Saji fingered the medal on his chest, then wiped away his tears with his hand and nodded strongly.

"If it means anything— You really did look cool out there, man."

"…Yes… Thank you very much!"

…

I had left Saji to himself as he asked for some time. I was headed back to the party. As I entered, Rias and her peers were being praised to hell and back. Many were crowding around them; they were trying their best to answer to some questions being asked.

"They're quite excited, huh, Jin?"

Odin had joined me with Rossweisse behind him, I shrug and keep on watching from a distance, it's their night after all… Let them have fun.

"Will you be visiting us in Asgard again? You know, for the alliance?"

I glance at the old Norse God as he had a grin on him, Rossweisse just shook her head at him.

"Yeah, I will, unless you want to tell me the answer now?"

"Haha! You'll have to wait until you get there my boy! Now, where would the fun in telling you my answer now?"

Smack! Smack!

Odin let out a hearty laugh before smacking me twice on my back.

"There will be more Gods that want to speak with you once you come back for that alliance! But do tell me when since I need to gather them up."

"Sure thing."

He smacks me again on the back before walking away while laughing and saying he'll be groping some female devil's ass and thighs… Haaa… Rossweisse decided to stay and stood beside me, she was blushing so decided to hold her hand— That made her even redder… It hasn't been too long since our date you know…

"Hey Rose, we didn't get to speak much, did we?"

"N-No…"

"How have you been? I'll be back in Asgard sooner or later… As well as meeting with your granny."

"M-Mmm…"

"How about we go back to your hometown? Since I'll be setting up restaurants around the world at some point… I want to branch out to supernatural realms too, that includes Asgard."

"B-But it's in a remote countryside… There really isn't much there… Including jobs…"

"It's fine, I can just bring that with me when I make it big. We can even get a one-hundred-yen shop put there."

"…."

I felt her hand grip my hand tighter— Her emotions were—

"Oi!! Rossweisse come here!"

Even when he said he didn't need her, Odin called for her, running our little moment— Rossweisse composed herself quickly.

"I'll get going, Jin. Goodbye for now."

"Yeah."

This party won't last too long… Right?

…

A few days later

It was nearly the end of summer vacation, I along with the Gremory group were by the train station. The girls back at home called Rias and congratulated her, they said we would have another party at home…

"Well then, Jin-kun. I look forward to the day we can meet again. You may return here at any time without hesitation. Think of the Gremory family as your own family."

Rias's father said that as many servants stood behind him.

"Thank you very much, I'll do just that then."

I was smiling bitterly, but Rias's mother, Venelana also affirmed it.

"Not at all. Jin-kun. Please take care of Rias in the human world. Since my daughter can be so selfish, I worry."

"M-Mother! W-What are you saying!?"

Rias's face turned deep red. Cute.

"Leave it to me, Venelana."

"…Uuu, I'm also being moved to tears. The future of my family is bright…"

Zeoticus was crying and Venelana sighed beside him.

"Wait a minute, dear. Isn't this where the father is supposed to retaliate by saying something like 'I won't give up my daughter yet!'?"

"Even if you say that Jin-kun seems to have surpassed my power already, so isn't it enough already? I think it will be fine even if I settle down soon."

"Please wait until Rias has graduated from high school at least before talking about retirement."

We won't be getting married any time soon you know… Not until we both at least graduate college...

"Rias, send us a letter during your remaining summer holidays."

Sirzechs said that while carrying his son Millicas in his arms. Asteri was standing beside them.

"Yes, Onii-sama. You stay well as well, Millicas."

"Yes, Rias-nee-sama!"

We had boarded the train and were giving our last farewells to Sirzechs and the others from the window. Since we had already done our homework at the start of summer… We could just take it easy.

They'll also be surprised to see Irina and Griselda there since I hadn't mentioned them moving in... I also had Sirzechs keep it a secret since I wanted to surprise them.

…

Japan, Kuoh

Skyward household

"Ehhhh?? Irina?! Oh… No… Griseld—"

Pinch! Squish!

As soon as we stepped into the living room… Xenovia spotted her former exorcist partner and exclaimed loudly, she also spotted Griselda— Who teleported in front of her and started to pinch her cheeks.

Griselda had that 'smile' on her as she looks at Xenovia.

"Hmmm?"

"I-I mean… Sister Griselda…"

Ding!

"Hmm? Who could that be…? I'll get it, Jin-san."

We all heard the doorbell ring and Asia decided to get it—

"Kya!"

We heard Asia scream and I flash stepped back ready to throw some hands.

"Asia Argento…We finally meet."

"U-Umm…"

Asia was bewildered, and my own rage was starting to come through… How the fuck did this degenerate through the barrier?

"Oi."

I came between them. But, the mysterious delicate man questioned Asia with a sincere expression.

"…So, you've forgotten me. We should have met that time."

Diodora suddenly revealed his chest and showed a big scar there. It was a deep scar. Asia's eyes opened wide when she saw that.

"—That wound, could it be…"

Asia, let it go, this fuck was the reason you were exiled and kicked out of the church.

"Yes, my face couldn't be seen back then, but I am the devil from that time."

"..."

Asia became speechless at those words.

"My name is Diodora Astaroth. That time you weren't able to treat it to the point where a scar wouldn't remain, but my life was saved due to your Sacred Gear."

I start to put my hand out to kill him when—

"Diodora? You're Diodora, aren't you?"

Rias appeared and recognized him. She looked a bit weirded out to see him here.

Diodora tenderly took Asia's hand and kis—

Booom!!!!!!!!!!

I stopped that real quick by increasing the gravity around him and made him crash into the ground— His smug aura disappeared completely as he struggles to look up at me with shock. But he continued to speak.

"A-Asia, I came to m-meet you. I apologize that I couldn't greet y-you at that meeting. But, I think the e-encounter b-between you and I was destiny. —I want you to be my wife. I love you."

—He had proposed to Asia right in front of me. The hot summer had come to an end, and the autumn that would likely become long would soon begin.

I slowly prepared to use [Hakai] on him as my anger piqued…

…

=========================

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章 52: Chapter 9 - Part 2 - Shirone, Elsha and Rating Game*

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章 52: Chapter 9 - Part 2 - Shirone, Elsha and Rating Game*

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