Highschool DxD: Adventure Of Black Flash

Chapter 170: Desperate Chase! Bonds Deep As Family

Hi everyone! It has been a while, so I hope all of you are doing well!

Now, this chapter definitely took me a while. I've been busy with certain stuff but was also suffering from one of the worst writer's blocks I've ever had. For nearly two months, I couldn't write much. Frustrated me to no end. Either I am staring at the blank page, or I was scraping whatever I had written. Lots of rewrites in certain parts, more than I could count. But! I've pushed through and was able to complete it! And again, I want to thank all of you for your patience!

I never want to rush out a chapter if I felt it wasn't up to par. All of you deserve better than that.

Now then, I've kept all of you waiting long enough, so without further ado!

Enjoy the latest chapter, Readers!

"Where have you run off to?!" Souring above the starry night sky, a pair of Fallen Angels stalk below at the abandoned mill with their piercing green eyes. A sadistic smirk plaster on their expressions. "Come out! There's no point in hiding from us!"

Cowering by the rusty entrance door inside the mill, a ten-your-old boy has both hands covering his mouth. Cover in sweat and his lungs aching in pain by the nonstop chase he's been on. He desperately sucks in air through his mouth while attempting to remain as quiet as possible. His grey-steel eyes shake frantically from both anxiety and fear.

Hesitant at first, the boy finally uncovers his mouth and holds his breath for a moment. He carefully leans to the side and peeks through the gap of the door to look outside. A gasp almost jumps from his throat when he sees the Fallen Angels land on the ground, not far from the mill's entrance.

Feeling his heartbeat picking up, the boy hides behind the large metal door, clutching his blue satchel close to the chest. Hearing their footsteps getting closer, he begins to frantically look around the darkened room for another area to hide. But, he knows the second he gets to his feet, the Fallen Angels will detect him. "The brat must be hiding in there." Their voice grows closer then, out of fear, the boy hurries to his feet and breaks off in a sprint. "That's him!"

"Ahh!" A scream leaves the boy's mouth when an explosive sound booms from behind. No doubt, the Fallen Angels has forcibly pushed through the steel doors. "There you are, you little shit!" The boy hears a high-pitch cracking sound emits and knows the pair have summoned their light weapons.

Sensing a sound of an object piercing the wind, the boy quickly halts then jumps behind a pillar to narrowly avoid a light lance hurling through the air. When the dangerously sharp weapon hits the ground, he gasps in horror when noticing it's pinned at the exact spot where he just stood on.

"You got nowhere to run, kid!" A sinister voice comes from the right, and the boy feels his blood go cold. He looks over and eats a backhand to the side of the face, sending him spinning around the air before crashing into a collection of crates.

"Huh." The tallest out of the pair snicker at the scene, watching the dust clear to show the boy laying on the broken pile of wood, his frail body trembling in pain. "Capture the brat," he barks at the other men. "The boss patients is running thin already after losing him" "Sure. Still, I don't get why he's so insistent in wanting this brat. His is Sacred Gear even worth getting?" "When he awoke it, he managed to eliminate half of the group that night." "He really killed half of our guys? Damn."

Standing in front of the prone boy, the Fallen Angel leans over and snatch him by the hair with no mercy. "Gahh!" A painful yelp leaves the child's mouth as he is lifted above the ground. "Oh, look at those kicks!" The man tauntingly comments as he watches the boy flailing weak kicks at him in an attempt to retaliate.

"Alright," the tall one holds an exasperated expression, "Enough playing around. Let's head ba-" The Fallen Angel is interrupted by a sudden force exploding from into his side that sends him blasting into the pillar, crashing right through the solid steel object before slamming into the wall.

"What the?!" The other man tosses the boy away and turns around to see a figure standing by the cloud of dust, the moonlight shines over them to create a silhouette image within. "Who the fuck are you?!" The Fallen Angel bellows and summons light lances in both hands, ready to attack.

Shakily opening his eyes, the boy turns his head over to look at the newcomer. His eyelids slightly widen when seeing a teenager in a crimson coat emerging from the cloud of dust. 'No... He's not human.' The boy with jet-black hair stares at those glowing emerald eyes from the individual.

"Wait..." The Fallen Angel lets out a gasp of shock when getting a full look of the person across from him. "Y-You're the Welsh Dragon!" Keeping a firm gaze at the opponent, Issei opens his right hand. Rotation forms into existence above the palm—a sound of a high-pitch vortex boom around the empty building.

Seeing the usual spell has the Fallen Angel sweating a bit as hesitation brew in his green eyes. Yet, pride takes over, and instead, with a battle roar, he kicks off the ground and charges forward with both lances thrust forward. However, the Fallen Angel is taken aback when instead of coming towards him or trying to get away, Issei aims his right arm ahead and shoots the red orb. "It may look like a close-range attack, but it can also become a long-range one."

Momentum high and his reaction sluggish, the Fallen Angel can't do anything and gets hit by the Rotation squarely at the center of his abdomen. "Gaahh!" He howls in pain as the sensation of the orbs rotating in sonic speed, ripping his clothes and flesh into oblivion. Light lances shatter from existence as his concentrate broken by the immense pain surging around his body, the man in a black cloak crash onto the ground.

Issei watches the man suddenly combust into black feathers, no doubt by the Rotation done destroying all of the internal organs. Hearing the sound of a thud from the left, Issei turns over to see the taller man scowling at him while leaning against the wall with one hand. "What the hell is someone like you doing here?!" "On a contract," Issei answers and lift his right hand up, palm pointing right at the Fallen Angel. Those emerald eyes are remaining sharp.

In the mindscape, Ddraig raises a brow at the seriousness displaying by his Partner. 'Can't blame him though... This contract must've gotten under his skin.' Charging up a cannon size magic orb, Issei gazes piercingly at the Fallen Angel. "Why are you after him?" "A Sacred Gear dwells within that child... A powerful one."

Issei's eyes narrow by how loose lip the man is. "Ugh!" Hearing something from above, Issei looks up to see a hail of light lances hurling down. The Fallen Angel smirks, but that quickly breaks when Issei faces him and discharges the Dragon Cannon. With the attack release, Hyoudou returns attention to the lances. Boosted Gear forming around the right arm, he swings it upwards with enough force to create a wind wave that shatters all of the light weapons.

An explosive sound erupts, and Issei turns to see a cloud of smoke and fire circling at the spot where the Fallen Angel once stood. Easing his posture and dispelling the Boosted Gear, Issei notices the man's signature has completely vanished from existence. "Looks like I got him."

With the enemies dealt with, Issei's expression loosens, and he immediately makes way toward the groaning child on the floor. Kneeling in front of the boy, Issei offers a hand but notice pause for a moment when seeing those gray orbs looking at him with caution. "Don't worry," he softly speaks, wearing a friendly smile "I'm not here to hurt you, Reiji" "Y-You know my name?" The boy stutters in shock, his body loosens ever slightly.

Issei lets out his signature grin. "Yeah, your little brother was the one to summon me for help." With Issei's help, Reiji is back on his feet. Hyoudou blinks, however, by the child suddenly going silent. "You ok?" "Ryuji..." Reiji mutters through his quivering lips, his hands clench tightly into fists.

"Hey," Issei place a hand on the boy's shoulder, giving a comforting squeeze. "Don't worry. I'll take you back to him." "... No," Issei is shocked by his hand getting slap away. Reiji hastily rubs off the droplets that are spilling from his eyes. He looks up at Hyoudou with a frown. "I can't go back... I need to get away from Ryuji to keep him safe."

Issei is left shellshock for a moment by those words while Reiji gets back up and walks past him. Shaking his head to snap out of his shock, Issei stands up and turns around to see the child picking up a satchel on the ground. "What are you planning on doing then?" "Getting out of Osaka," Reiji answers and slings the bag over his shoulder.

Turning around to face Issei, Reiji dons a curious but still cautious look. "Are you the same as them?" "No," Issei shakes his head "Those guys were Fallen Angels. I'm a Devil." "Devil... So you are the good guys?" "Not all Devils are good, sadly. But I am one of the good guys. The Fallen Angels that were chasing you are clearly rogue. Meaning they left their territory to go do whatever they wished" "So that's how it goes..."

Examining the child with keen eyes, Issei wears a frown at what he felt. 'Ddraig,' 'Yeah. The kid has a Sacred Gear within him. A strong one at that. Must be the reason why he's targeted.' "Why have you left your younger brother in the orphanage, Reiji?" "How did you even find me?" Reiji completely ignores the question to asks one of his own. Issei sighs at this but nonetheless answers. "I followed the Fallen Angel's sense. Judging, by the way, they were moving, immediately it made me believe they were chasing someone. That's how I find you" "... You wanted to find me." "Of course," Issei assertively state and looks at the jet-black hair boy in the eyes. "Ryuji summoned me and begged me to find you. To bring you back to the orphanage."

Reiji opens his mouth, intending to ask more questions but realizes it isn't essential to him. He needs to keep moving. "Well," Reiji turns around to have his back facing Hyoudou. "As I said, I can't go back." "Ryuji told me both of you just recently became orphans... You really going to leave your brother alone?" "Shut up!" Reiji shuts and glares back at the stun Issei. "You don't know anything! Just leave me alone!"

Issei watches Reiji starts running off, leaving the mill and rushing toward the woods. A conflictive look dons his face. "That was insensitive of me," he admits to himself, rubbing his forehead. Issei remembers the look of grief on Reiji's face when he mentioned to him about Ryuji. Undoubtedly, Reiji still cares deeply for his younger brother.

'Ryuji wasn't able to tell you much about why he and his brother become orphans,' Ddraig says. 'Yeah... We agreed he is probably suffering from amnesia' 'Well, with Fallen Angels chasing after Reiji. It appears a group of them may be the reason why the brothers are parentless. The owner of the orphanage did inform us that the kid's parents were murdered' 'Murdered by Fallen Angels because they were after the Sacred Gear within Reiji's' Issei gathers. 'That seems to be the most plausible reason. You better follow the kid and persuade him to turn away from this path he's walking. No doubt, the group's leader will be on the move with his subordinates not returning' 'Yeah.'

Issei watches Reiji disappear into the woods. "Tonight's going to be a long night..."

Kuoh

"So... What are your thoughts about Nawin Makasha?" Akeno pauses, her eyes widens. She shifts away from the teapot to look at Rias, who is seated behind her desk with a pleasant smile donning her face. "Whatever do you mean?" Akeno swiftly replies before returning to brewing tea for the two of them.

The smile on Gremory's face only widens by the response, her friend clearly shows some nervousness on the topic, a trait that is rare for someone like Akeno, who's very much unfazed with many subjects. "I have noticed you've been keeping eyes on him recently. Ever since he transferred here." "... He's not hard on the eyes." Rias chuckles at the flimsy excuse. "That's true, but that is not enough of a reason to be studying him from far for a month now, Akeno."

Done pouring in hot water, Akeno seals the pot with a cap. She mindlessly gazes at the hot steam hovering in the air for a moment before it dissolves. "He... He interests me." "Then why don't you go talk with him?" Rias curiously asks, watching Himejima pour the green tea into two cups. Setting the pot down, Akeno grabs Rias's cup and brings it over to the desk.

"Thank you." Akeno wears her standard elegant smile and nods. "I'm a bit embarrassed to admit this, but I have tried to communicate with him... I simply end up getting too flustered." Rias's expression shifts to both amuse and shock by this fact. For as long as she has known her, Rias rarely notice Akeno become utterly flustered with meager subjects like this. In truth, Akeno never showed much interest in topics like relationship and love. There have been times when males would try to start something with her friend, and Rias would watch them get flatly rejected by Akeno. Even some that were sincere and kind-hearted still get their affection renounced from Himejima.

Rias can still recollect clearly of Akeno's expression when they both saw Nawin step foot into school on his first day. She remembers that awe and shock look on her friend's enthralled face. Never has she seen such a reaction from Akeno.

"Well," Rias joins her hands together, chin resting on them as she looks Akeno. "Personally, I think you two would look cute together." Akeno blinks at this comment "You should talk with him, Akeno," Rias urge in support. "This is the first time someone really catches your attention" "I'm... Not really good with this whole relationship thing, Rias. I'm worried." "Come now, Akeno. You are kind, smart, and a joy to be around. You got the looks that put many to shame. He'll be lucky to have you" "Hmm."

Finding her eyes going towards one of the windows on their own, Akeno stops in front and looks outside. A silent gasp leaves her mouth when seeing Nawin leaning on a tree not far from the Occult Building. Hidden under the shake, he is eating some simple sandwich for lunch while gazing out at the lively courtyard. As most of the time, he is alone and away from crowds.

Akeno finds herself root on the spot, solely gazing at the handsome and enigmatic Makasha. Then, Nawin's eyes suddenly meet with hers. Akeno feels her heart skip a beat, her cheeks burning slightly. Not really knowing what to properly do, Akeno lifts her right arm up and gives a small wave. Nawin blinks at this but nonetheless returns her wave with his own.

A smile ross on Akeno's lip by Makasha returning her gesture, for a moment, the whole world just turns white and the only ones left is her and Nawin. Her smile widens when she sees the faintest of smiles forming on Makasha's face. This is the first time she ever has seen him smile. And his smile, though faint, captivate her. 'Nawin Makasha...'

'... I'm sorry, Akeno.'

A sharp gasp erupts from Akeno's mouth, her eyes snap open in panic. Rushing to sit, Akeno gulps down air quickly when feeling her lungs scarcely out of breath. Resting a hand on her chest, Himejima can feel her heart beating rapidly. Cold sweat trickles down her forehead and onto the grass.

"N-Nawin-kun," Akeno quaveringly whispers and looks around to see herself still on top of the cliff. "Akeno." A soft voice whispers from the very right that cause Himejima to turn to see Rias next to her. Desperate in hopes of finding Nawin, Akeno entirely misses Gremory's presence. "Rias..." she whispers with concern, noticing the rough state her friend is in.

With one hand resting on the middle of her stomach, where Nawin punched her, Rias breathes heavily while the expression on her face shows evident pain. Pushing herself off the tree, Akeno slides over to sit right in front of Rias. "Move your hand." Doing as told, Gremory watches her friend pull the blouse up enough to show her whole stomach and revealing a painful-looking purple bruise at the center.

Akeno noiselessly grits her teeth at the horrible wound. She hates, loathes at the fact that Nawin did this. Seeing the wound resurface the memory of their encounter with Nawin, everything came rushing back in her mind like a violent current. Pressing both hands on the wound and earning a soft grunt from Rias, Akeno begins the healing process. She watches her hands emit a faint yellow glow. "He did not hold back..." Rias softly asserts, staring at the wound "... Yeah."

Hearing the weak response, Rias looks up and instantly feels her heart ache. Clear droplets trickle down from Akeno's glossy eyes, her lips quivering as she tries her hardest not to breakdown on the spot. The absolute sorrow on Himejima's eyes is enough to make a single droplet fall from Rias's eye. She cannot even begin to understand what Akeno must be feeling right now.

After everything, Akeno has been through, and the time it took for her to recover and be able to stand back on her own two feet. She was prepared to face Nawin again and apologize to him, ready to do whatever it takes to earn forgiveness from him. To have that hope dashed and instead discovering that Nawin is planning to defect, leaving them to join a terrorist faction. No word can justify how shocking all of that is for both of them. It truly feels like a nightmare.

"Akeno," Rias softly calls out to her friend, but it falls on deaf ears. Akeno's eyes are still fixed on the healing wound, but her mind is entirely elsewhere. Tears continue to pour down, landing on Gremory's jeans. "... W-why," Akeno finally speaks, "Why d-did this happened, Rias?" Noticing the wound is finally healed, Rias lift both hands to grab Akeno's. This action makes Himejima finally looks up. "Know this, Akeno. What Nawin had done wasn't entirely out of his own volition."

"W-what do you me-" Akeno pause, and her eyes slowly widen, a memory resurfaces. 'You've let Ophis corrupt you and have lost your way, Nawin.' Those words Rias spoken to Nawin rings in Himejima's mind. She looks at Rias. "Ophis..." Gremory silently nods, her glossy eyes sharpen as anger slowly fuel within them. "That Deity is the cause. There's more I have to tell, but first," Rias pause to stand up, the truck of the tree to assists as her legs still feels holds some numbness.

Grunting in exhaustion, Rias opens her eyes and looks down at her friend. She offers a hand. "We need to quickly gather the others, Akeno. I'll explain everything to all of you." For a moment, Himejima simply stares at the hand with her tear-stained eyes; her mind is still in shambles. '... I'm sorry, Akeno.' Like a ray of hope, Nawin's last words to her comes to life, and Akeno's face lightens. Looking down at the bracelet, she holds it firmly. "He... He said sorry to me, Rias."

"He's still the Nawin we know and love," Akeno looks up to see Rias kneeling in front of her, wearing a smile. "We will save him, Akeno. No matter what." "Yeah..." Akeno nods and wipes away the dry tears. Looking at Rias, Himejima manages to foster a small smile and finally accepts her friend's hand. "We will bring Nawin-kun back."

Pulling her friend to her feet, Rias heaves a deep breath while wiping off the teardrop clinging on her cheek. She takes a moment to compose herself, getting her emotions in check. Looking over to Akeno, she sees her gazing at the cliff's edge, the very spot Nawin was sat at. To does Rias finds herself looking at the spot. A fade image of Nawin comes to life. 'We will save you, Nawin... I will not allow anyone to destroy our family. Not even a Deity such as Ophis.'

"I'll contact Issei and the rest," Rias informs and stops beside Akeno. "Tell them to meet us at the Occult Building." "Alright." Closing her eyes, Rias remove her entire surrounding to only focus on the familiar signatures within Kuoh. A sliver of her mana signature that resides within all of her peerage's members. Feeling multiple connections getting through, Rias begins speaking. 'Everyone, I want all of you to immediately head to the Occult Building. This is urgent.'

Akeno watches Rias reopen her eyes, recognizing some frustration hinting in those turquoise orbs. "What's wrong?" Sighing, Rias looks over. "I couldn't reach Issei... I believe he is out with a contract right now. It must've taken him out of Kuoh." "That's..." Akeno grimaces, "Rias, that's not good. Besides Nawin-kun, Issei is one of our strongest" "I know..." Rias bites her index nail, a habit she'd do when faced in a difficult position. "Before heading to search for you, I returned to his house... I remembered he left his phone in the living room so I can't reach him through that... Ah," a frustrate grunt leaves Gremory's mouth. "There's honestly not much we can do about that," Rias faces Akeno. "We are running on borrowed time. With us aware of his plans, Nawin must be on the move right now." "... How," Akeno softly starts, her eyes droop to the grass while clenching her hands to fists. The hope within her dwindles, "How will we find him? We can't use my bracelet again as he will no doubt have blocked the connection."

Rias tries to keep a strong face. Though inside, she is in shambles on what to do next when everyone is informed of the situation. "We will think of something, Akeno." "... Ok."

Silence falls between the pair for a moment. Slowly, Akeno faces up to see Rias staring towards Kuoh. Those turquoise orbs in deep thought. "Rias?" "Can you head to the Occult Building on your own, Akeno?" Rias swiftly replies and stirs over to face her friend. "S-sure. Where will you be going?" "With Issei absent, we require another strong member in our group. Moreover, with myself not being in the best shape to battle, that fact is more valid."

Rias returns to facing the bright city. "I'll have to go request Riser's help. Him joining us to go find Nawin will give us an advantage." "Rias..." Akeno's eyes return to the ground. She bites her lip for a moment before continuing, "You really think we will have to fight Nawin-kun?" "..." Rias persist in silence before raising her head to look up at the starless sky. A rare sight for Kuoh. "After what transpired... I believe we will have to use force to bring him back, Akeno. That is the reality all of us need to face," Rias firmly asserts.

Without another word to give, Rias spread her wings and takes off to the sky. Facing East, she sets off with haste.

Underworld

"Don't worry. I did not forget you." Giving the last piece of a carrot to the horse, Erza takes a couple of steps back and rest both hands on the sides, looking at the four animals chewing away their treat. A soft chuckle leaves Erza's lip by how fast the horses are devouring the carrots.

Stirring her head to the right, Erza observes Misako, Momo, and Senna sitting around a campfire that they had set up. The three are assigned cooking the fishes that Akame freshly caught in a stream that flows through the ravine.

Three hours the group had traveled uninterrupted through the South on horseback. Nawin was adamant about getting as far away as possible from Vesarima. Though following Senna's constant complaint and Misako silently expressing discomfort that Nawin very much is aware of by seeing it on her face. He eventually decided to take a short break in a desolated ravine that they planned to cut through.

Checking to see both Senna and Misako now in a better state. The two are happily chatting together while carefully turning their fish over to cook them properly. Erza directs attention to the trio not far from the camp. Nawin, Akame, and Jellal surround a boulder with a sizable cloth map laid over it, discussing what's their next step.

"So, what's the plan?" Erza enters the conversation and stops between Jellal and Nawin. "Well..." Her longtime partner swiftly responds then plants his index down to the Hollow Revine. "As you are aware, we are here. There are two ways in the Hollow Revine for us to exit and continue on to the Land Of Ends. The first path out of here will take us to No Man's Land," Jellal traces his finger straight south to reach one of the exits of the ravine, "Or," returning his finger to Hollow Revine, Jellal traces to South then goes up a bit to exhibit another exit "If we go a bit west it'll take us to a great march called Crookbog."

Crossing her arms over her chest, Erza leans forward to inspect the map closer. "Seems like the path to No Man's Land is shorter" "Yes," Nawin speaks up, his eyes focus distinctly on the large grey and empty space in the map that signifies No Man's Land. "Furthermore, No Man's Land is closer to Land Of Ends. However," "It's No Man's Land," Erza insert and gets a nod from her King.

"After Kaliyah slew all the dragons there, it's become a very cursed land. Nothing but bones, ashes, and dead trees," Jellal informs. "I would not be surprised that many nightmarish creatures are presently inhabiting there. Let us not overlook wraiths too. With such a tragic event that befell there, there'll be heaps of angry and unrest souls without a doubt."

"The faster route, though the more dangerous out of the two," Nawin firmly asserts and leans back straight. Momentarily, his eyes shift to the girls around the campfire before returning to the map. "I refuse to allow Misako, Senna, and Momo to travel through such treacherous ground."

Erza and Jellal wordlessly nod to Makasha's words, entirely understanding and agreeing with him. "Then it's best we take Crookbog route," Akame inserts. "Yes," Nawin nods and shift gaze to the marsh. "There will still be some danger there considering it's near the swamps," Jellal warms.

Blinking in confusion by those words, Akame shifts to Fernandes with eyes that silently request him to elaborate. "I'm speaking about Wicker Hags, Swampers, and Poison Eels, those bastards can grow up to fifty meters long." A look of grimace form on Akame's face by that last fact, which gets a short chuckle from Jellal.

"Well, I hope we don't cross path with those things because Misako fear Eels. Coming to face with a fifty-meter long one may give her a heart attack," Nawin asserts. Erza lets out a light laugh and shakes her head, she cracks a broad grin. "Poor girl. Fortunately for her, I believe our chances of encountering them are reasonably low. Only the exceptional ones hold the potential to grow up that size. Many commonly grow to twenty-meters long, and those tend to be more reclusive compare to the big ones. Furthermore, with us traveling as a group, chances of them coming out from the mud or water for us is low."

Folding the map up, Jellal tosses it into a pouch that straps on him. "Best we go eat," Nawin state and gets a nod from the three. "You do know we'll arrive there past midnight by taking the Crookbog route, right?" Jellal clarifies, "Yeah, I'm aware. They'll just have to wait for us," Nawin calmly replies then makes way toward the campfire. "Ophis has been waiting half a year for me to go to her, she can wait a bit more."

"Ah," Senna beams when noticing Nawin making his way over to them "Nawin-kun! Come seat here!" She pets a spot next to her. Smiling faintly at Senna's overly joyful attitude, Makasha wordlessly takes the space between her and Misako.

"Here!" With an adorable grin donning her face, Misako passes over the fish over to Nawin, "I cooked it for you, Nawin-kun!" "Thanks, Misako." Taking the stick into his hand with an appreciated smile on his face, Nawin immediately bites down on the fresh meat. Misako beams as she watches her friend eats away while on the other side, Senna silently pouts before passing the fish she's been cooking to Akame, who accepts with an amused look on her face. She is acutely aware this was meant for Nawin till Misako had beaten Senna to the punch.

"Highly entertaining this is," Erza comments while seating across the campfire, watching the beaming Misako and the gloomy Senna. Momo giggles before passing the two sticks over to Jellal and Erza after seeing the fishes are done. "Here, you two," "Thanks."

"Hey... Nawin-kun?" Makasha opens his eyes and looks over to the right at Senna, "Hmm?" "Everything has been moving fast lately, so I never got the chance to asked you this, but..." Senna looks down and fiddles her thumbs, revealing some hesitation to the question, "What exactly does the Deity Ophis want with you?"

Though there is definitely interest in her question, Nawin also senses concern in them, which brings a faint smile to his face. "Gathering all the conversation I had with her... She is interested in my potential. She comprehends that I can become powerful enough to assist her in achieving her goal." "And what's that goal?" Misako asks, listening carefully as she too shares Senna's concern.

Biting the last piece of meat left on the fish, Nawin tosses the stick into the fire. He calmly watches the flame envelope the thin piece of wood. "There's only one thing a being like Ophis cares about this world," he looks up to face everyone "Ophis wants to reclaim her home. The Dimensional Gap." "Dimensional Gap?" Momo repeats, furrowing her brows. Predictably, the girls are not knowledgeable of such a place except for Erza and Jellal. The pair conferred no surprise, and with what Nawin has stated, they can predict what Ophis desires now.

"From what Azazel told me," Nawin continues, "The Dimensional Gap was where Ophis was born. Ophis was born in the nothingness of an endless void known as Dimensional Gap. For millenniums, she resided there. Either mindlessly scouring around or slumbering, that was all she did for her whole existence. Then, one day she grew jaded, and after spending so much time getting to know her potential, Ophis found a way to open a path to enter other worlds. She visited Earth, Underworld, and even Heaven. For a long time, she simply was an observer. She would watch people in the Human World lived their lives to the fullest. Watched some fail in life while others succeed. In the Supernatural World, she would observe conflicts that brew into wars. No doubt it all fascinated her, and it kept her attention for a long time until too does she grew bored of it all."

"She wanted to return to the Dimension Gap," Senna softly speaks out. Nawin glance over and nods. "Precisely, one day, she chose to return home. However, after remaining away for so long, another being took resident in the Dimension Gap. Great Red, also known as the Apocalypse Dragon. Millenniums of being away from there, Ophis was not aware of another being birthing in the endless void. And that specific being became Great Red." "What happened when Ophis found about Great Red?" Misako asks and leans in closer, the story clearly interests her. "The two did come to blows, but Ophis soon stopped when realizing just even a dozen blows exchanged, they were tearing the Dimensional Gap. According to Azazel, if Ophis and Great Red were to continue, theoretically speaking, the Gap would split apart, creating armageddon for all three worlds. Earth, Underworld, and Heaven. Dimensional Gap exists between the three worlds, so it would be the end of everything if it were to split open."

Simultaneously, Misako, Senna, and Momo nervously gulp at such a probability. The fear in their eyes is evident. "S-so, Ophis stopped and retreat?" Senna inquires, "Correct," Nawin nods. "Causing an armageddon in that magnitude would even destroy the Dimensional Gap, changing it to something else. Aware of this, she left her previous home and began formulating a plan to eliminate Great Red. Khaos Brigade was her answer."

"Then, when the time comes..." Misako pause for a moment and clenches her hands together, keeping them from shaking. She looks up to face Nawin, staring him in the eyes, "You will have to fight Great Red?" "I don't plan to be Ophis's puppet, Misako. And I have no desire to assist her in this goal of hers," firmly stating that Nawin pushes himself to his feet, "I am using her to gain the necessary strength to achieve my own goal. That is all."

Heaving a sigh, Nawin opens his eyes to look at his team. "We've rested long enough. Best we get moving, so finish up your food." Watching Nawin walking toward the horses, Akame throws the now empty stick to the fire and gets up, following him.

"... Hey there, buddy," Nawin smile as he pets the horse he's been riding with since the beginning of their journey. The horse lets out a mild purr and leans close, enjoying Makasha's soft touch. "Nawin-kun," Akame stops by the side. "Yes?" Nawin reply though he keeps his eyes on the animal. "I wanted to ask you about Rias and her group. It's been on my mind a bit, but... Do you think they could be a problem?"

"... They could," Nawin admits and gives a few more pet to the horse before turning to face Akame. His expression firm and display no concern. "When Rias inform the others about my decision to go rogue, they will stop at nothing to try and get me back. However, I can't see a way for them to track me. They don't know our destination is in the Land Of Ends... And even if they somehow did figure it out, they'll still have to travel there." Nawin stirs his head to the South, staring at the gloomy and dense clouds masking most of the distant view, "The most plausible scenario for them to catch us in time would be flying there in full speed, but-" "By the time they arrive there they'll be utterly exhausted," Akame finishes.

Returning to face his Knight, Nawin nods. "Precisely, I believe the chance of them catching to us is extremely low. Although I won't dismiss it until we are in Ophis's realm." "Understood."

"... I hope they don't stand before us, Akame." The Knight is taken aback by the sudden sincere comment. She watches Nawin's expression turns solemn and realize he is opening his true feelings over the situation. His eyes travel past her and toward the campfire. "The last thing I wish for is Misako, Senna, and Momo to be in a battle against their friends. Erza and Jellal too would feel uncomfortable with it. And I... I rather not hurt Rias, Akeno, and the rest anymore more than I already have."

Leading with her heart, Akame lifts her right hand up to softly cup Nawin by his cheek, earning his eyes. "You may have hurt them, but you are also doing this for them, Nawin-kun. You are doing this to protect them and prepare them for the threats in the future. Don't ever forget that." Akame's sincere words work as a gentle smile dons on Makasha's face, he closes his eyes and leans into the soft hand. "Yeah... You are right. For them and for all of you. That's why I'm doing this."

Kuoh

"Rias..." The name slowly leaves Riser's mouth as he stands fixed by the doorway, his wide eyes gawking at the crimson-haired girl before him. "Riser," Rias stoically reply. That intense and firm expression on her face instantly signals Phenex that something is up.

However, Riser cannot help but take notice of his friend's rough appearance. Dark bags beneath her eyes, hair untidy and wild, and even her skin tone is noticeably paler. Discerning all this causes Riser's lip to bend downwards into a frown. "What the hell happened?" "Many things," Rias swiftly replies then looks at her friend in the eyes, "You available?" "Yeah," "Then come with me. I need your help."

"Hold on!" Riser exclaims when Rias turns around, ready to simply leave. "Slow the hell down and tell me what's going on here?! You vanished for days and now abruptly arrived at my doorstep to request for help without even giving me a single detail?!" Rias freeze in place after her friend's outburst. Exhaling a shaky sigh and steeling her nerves, Gremory turns around to face Riser once more. "Nawin has gone rogue. He plans to defect to Khaos Brigade, and I need your help to rescue him."

"... What?" After a long and silent minute pass by, Riser manage to utter a word out of his mouth. His throat tightens, and his heart skips a beat by what Rias said. Immediately, doubts sets in. "What did you just say?" "I did not stutter," Rias firmly reply with a serious expression, showing no such uncertainty in her words.

"T-that can't be... Him?!" Riser swipes his right arm to the side and glares ahead. "We are talking about Nawin! Your friend... My friend! He went awol?!" "Yes..." "B-but..." The glare on Riser's face vanishes, and replacing it is a look of shock and confusion. His wide eyes drop to the ground, staring at the marble stairs. He cannot find words to offer a reply.

The firm expression on Rias's face cracks by how Riser is taking the news. She finds herself looking elsewhere, stopping at the bushes around the front garden, her eyelids lower in saddens. Even speaking those words on Nawin hurts her.

However, Rias knows they can't merely remain standing here feeling hopeless. Tightening her hands into fists, she looks at her friend. "Riser, we can save him, but we have to move quickly. And I will need your help. Will you come with me?" Without a reply, Riser lifts his right hand and snaps his fingers. Flames come to life and envelopes his entire body. When the flames vanish, replacing his night outfit is that familiar suit he'd often wear before enrolling in Kuoh Academy. A burgundy blazer with gold embroidery on the right breast pocket, the long pants match the blazer's color. Underneath the open blazer is a white dress shirt that's not fully buttoned. Below, he dons standard black dress shoes.

Lifting his head up, Riser looks at Rias with determination in those dark-blue eyes. "Let's get a move on." A faintest of smile don on Gremory's face as she nods. Releasing their wings, Rias and Riser shoot up to the sky then dart towards Kuoh Academy.

Traveling at full speed, it does not take long before the two lands in front of the Occult Building. Their short journey here was soundless as both had a lot on their mind.

Retracting her wings, Rias strides toward the front door. Riser follows firmly behind. He blinks and looks ahead to the building. Numbers of familiar mana emits behind the wooden wall. 'Everyone's here... Though,' Riser cocks his head slightly to the right when noticing someone missing. His absence is very prominent to him. 'Where the hell is Hyoudou?'

"Where's Issei?" Riser asks when Rias has her hand on the handle, ready to twist it. That question makes her pause. "He's not here," Rias swiftly reply though Riser catches some guilt in her tone. "I believe he is currently on in a contract" "Guess that's not a surprise. He went out to release some steam... You knew he was having a tough time and still decided to disappear like that?" Riser questions in a criticizing manner. Though he may not show it, he does care for Issei. Seeing him in such a depressed state is just unusual for someone so cheery and optimistic like Issei. In truth, it did bother Riser at some level.

"... I know," Rias softly whisper in response, her shoulders slumps. "But I didn't want to rope him into this mess. You know how much Nawin means to him, and unlike myself, Issei can't keep his emotions in check and his mind straight during specific situations." Riser's eyes narrow "Something happened that made you left to search for Nawin, right?"

With a simple nod as a response, Rias takes a deep breath and exhales. She opens her eyes to look at the door. Her heart is pulsing at a faster rate as anxiety clouds over her head by what's to come next. Rias dreads the fact that she will have to stand there in front of all her friends and reveal to them of Nawin's defection.

Silently gulping, Rias forces herself to twist the lever then push the door open. Taking the first step in, she releases the knob and enters the room. Riser silently follows inside while looking at the back of his friend with apprehensive. He can guess what's going in Rias's mind currently, and he sympathizes. Riser can't imagine the tough burden that's rest on his friend's shoulders right now. To need to stand there and face all her friends and reveal what Nawin did, Riser doesn't think even he can stomach such a task.

Entering the main room, a sound of joyful laughs causes Rias to open her eyes. What she sees brings a small smile on her face. Akeno is kneeled on one knee and hugging the overjoy and beaming Gasper. Koneko, Yuuto, and Xenovia crowd around, smiling warmly at this little reunion of theirs. All happy to have Akeno back. And for once since seeing her out of the Makasha's house, Rias notice that smile worn on Akeno's face is entirely genuine.

Yet, Rias's smile quickly vanishes just as quick as it came. Even though Akeno's return is a significant highlight after the difficult weeks, Nawin's defection overshadowed that. Now, everything feels more like a bad dream following their encounter with Nawin.

"Buchou," Yuuto is the first to notice Rias's entrance. The others turn and look equally surprised as the Knight. All of them were conscious of Rias's disappearance as some had tried reaching her during her time away from Kuoh. All Rias can offer is a weak smile in response. "Hello, everyone."

Walking across the room, Rias pause a moment before turning around to face her group. Riser quietly makes his way next to one of the windows. Leaning next to it, he crosses his arms and simply shifts his head to the side, gazing out at the starless night sky. The other's questionable gaze on him didn't go unnoticed, but he does not bother answering.

"Take a seat, everyone." Giving a soft small to Gasper, Akeno ushers him to follow Koneko to the couch. Xenovia and Yuuto takes a seat across the younger member on the other couch. Akeno takes a spot next to the bookcase on the right, not far from Rias. The smile on her face is gone, replacing it with a stoic expression to hide her anxiety at what's to come next.

An expression of concern dons on Yuuto's face when he notices the rough state Rias is in. Those turquoise eyes display much apprehension and weight that it causes Yuuto's stomach to twist. An ominous feeling begins forming around his heart. And that dark sense reaches the others as well with Gasper, Koneko, and Xenovia feeling tense by the rigid look on their King's face.

"First off," Rias starts, crossing her arms under her breast, "I want to apologize for disappearing during the past number of days... Earlier this week, something was brought to my attention that required me to leave Kuoh." There was much to tell with what she has uncovered, but Rias remembers they are on borrowed time. Every minute that passes by them means Nawin is getting further away. And it does not help that in the back of Rias's head, there is a sense of hopelessness bubbling that their chances in finding him are near impossible.

Tightening her lip for a moment, Rias finally muster up the will to continue. "I have to be blunt and straight with all of you, so please just listen." Rias gets a unison nod from the group. However, she also regards the look of anxiety that's surfacing on all their eyes.

"... For the past four days, I spent tirelessly looking for Nawin." The instant Nawin's name is brought up, the group instantly finds themselves leaning closer. All of them exhibit great concern and hope to learn more about their friend who has been under the radar for weeks. "The tasks proved futile. Nawin was just too skilled in hiding his presence. Those four days were wasted."

"But," Rias throws a glance over to Himejima. "With Akeno's help, both of us managed to track him down using the bracelet that Nawin gifted her." Gasper opens his mouth but quickly stops, remembering what Rias said for them to keep quiet. He shuffles around his seat, hands clench together in anticipation. He badly desires to learn about where his brother figure has been and know if he is well.

"We..." Rias grits her teeth but pushes on. "We found him, and Nawin has changed. Because of the mark on his neck, I believe it has manipulated him." "Wait," Xenovia swiftly breaks the silence and stands up. Her expression shows full worry. "Where is Nawin-senpai now, then?!" "He's..." Rias finds her throat tightening, unable to utter that word when so many of her friend's eyes are staring at her with fear and concern.

"He went awol... Nawin intends to defect to Khaos Brigade," Riser speaks up. Seeing Rias having a hard time, he decided to simply tell the group with his own mouth. Dead silence falls upon the room as all eyes sets on Phenex. Shock and disbelief spread across Xenovia's, Yuuto's, Gasper's, and Koneko's faces.

"B-bullshit," Xenovia stutters, snapping out of the shock. Clenching her hands into fists, the Knight glares furiously at Riser. "Tell us the truth!" "That is the truth," Riser calmly retorts and shifts his gaze back to the window. "Rias!" Xenovia snap towards her King. "Tell us the truth! Where's Senpai?!" She refuses to believe the words that came from Riser's mouth. However, her heart freezes when Rias lowers her head down, unable to keep eye contact.

Biting her lip, Rias finally opens her mouth. "What he said is true, Xenovia. Akeno and I found Nawin, and we tried to stop him but failed... He has gone rogue." "... T-that's," Xenovia stumbles backward until the back of her knees hits the couch, causing her to fall down on it. Her stun eyes stare mindlessly at the glass table in front. No more words leave her mouth as she is left speechless.

"That can't be!" Gasper leaves the couch and runs toward Rias, grabbing onto the edge of the blouse. He looks up with those glossy pink eyes, tears welling on them. "Nii-chan would never do that!" Gasper shouts and weakly shakes Rias by the shirt. "Please tell me that he is ok, Buchou! He is just still away to recuperate!" Droplets roll down the Dhampir's eyes as he finishes uttering those words. His crying face breaks Rias's heart as she can only stare back at him in grief.

A single teardrop falls from Rias's eye as she opens her mouth to reply. "I'm sorry, Gasper." "N-No..." Gasper's grips loosen before his arms fall to the sides like a rock, his wide and tearful eyes is in hysteria as reality sets in and the denial fade. Feeling his legs go weak, Gasper collapses to his knees and begins sobbing.

The only thing Rias can do is kneel in front of the boy and pulls him into an embrace. Lending her shoulder for him to cry on. "Aaaahhhh!" Gasper cries and hugs onto Rias tightly.

Riser clench his arms tightly while remaining facing the windows; he can't bear to watch the scene in front. Akeno clenches her hands tightly in front, eyes fix on the carpet below. Her lips are trembling, but she refuses to allow the tears to spill again. Unable to stomach the sight, Yuuto turns around to look at Koneko and see her frozen on the couch. His eyes sadden when noticing the glinting river of tears dripping down from her eyes hidden behind the front bangs.

Gently stroking the boy's back, Rias takes in a deep breath before exhaling. She knows she needs to take control of the situation and give her friends hope. Even though Gasper's cry makes her weak and the heavy air around the room makes her want to collapse, Rias needs to be strong for them. 'Wake up, Rias,' Nawin's chilling words resurface in her mind.

Snapping her eyes open, Rias slides her arms up to Gasper's shoulders and gently pulls him back. She looks at him in the eyes. "Gasper, we can't remain here and cry... Especially when there's a chance we can save him." Those words spark something for the group. Xenovia finally snaps out of her shock and looks over. Koneko silently sniffs and brings both arms up to wipe the tears, she peeks towards Rias.

Giving him a warm smile and wiping the tears off his cheeks, Rias softly ruffles Gasper's hair before standing up. She focuses on others. "Yes, Nawin is currently on the run to Khaos Brigade. But, I want you all to know that this action is not his own doing. Because you are right, Xenovia," Rias shifts to her Knight, "Nawin would never do such a thing."

"The mark on his neck," Yuuto speaks up, remembering what Rias previously said. "Yes. There's something I have been keeping a secret for Nawin, and it concerns the origin of that mark on his neck. All of you should know who gave it to him." Akeno lifts her head and focuses on Rias, like the rest, she listens closely to her every word.

"Ophis," Rias bluntly asserts, "That Deity is responsible for planting that cursed mark on Nawin's neck." The reaction is immediate as the group either gasps or is left speechless by this revolution. "O-Ophis... You mean the Infinite Dragon God?!" Riser asks for clarification and gets a firm nod from Gremory.

"Why?" Xenovia stirs to Rias, "What would a being like that want with Nawin-senpai?" "That remains unknown... Even Nawin isn't sure of himself to the reason why Ophis branded him with that mark." "... His power," Koneko's soft and low reply, catches everyone's attention. They turn to see her hugging her knees. She moves her dull eyes up to look at Rias. "Nii-chan is the strongest out of all of us... Ophis wants his power."

Seeing her Rook in such a sad state hurts Rias's heart, but she needs to push on. "That could be why," Rias agrees to Koneko's words then turns back to the others. "Let us not forget why Khaos Brigade was formed. Azazel told us all that the objective of Khaos Brigade is to eliminate Great Red," "Wait," Yuuto jerks forward, a look of realization crosses over his face. "Ophis intends to send Nawin-kun on that suicide crusade!"

Akeno freeze as her breath suddenly hitch. Yuuto's words replay in her mind several times, and each time it ends, her heart quickens. Realization dons on her at how true Yuuto's worries are. Nawin's life will inevitably be in peril when it comes time for Ophis to ignite a war with Great Red.

The rest of the group shares Akeno's exact thought as they all carry a look of horror and worry on their faces. Biting her lip, Rias slowly nods. "Yes, Yuuto... I am aware of that likelihood."

"Then," Riser speaks up, leaning off the wall to stand straight, "We should not waste any more time chattering here. Nawin is heading to his death if he joins Khaos Brigade." A look of disgust and anger dons on Phenex's face as he spats the next words, "Ophis intends to use him as a disposable pawn!"

"We have to save him." Everyone turns to see Koneko leaving the couch to stand; she wipes the remaining tears hanging on her cheeks before looking up. "Nii-chan has always been there for all of us. Helped us through our difficult times." Holding tightly to her right wrist, Koneko strives hard to remain composed. Her eyes still feel warm, tears threatening to spill again, yet she pushes them back. "We would not be where we are now if it weren't for him. Now, it's our turn to help and save him."

Koneko's sincere words, spoken right from her heart, bring light to the room. A wave of warmth swarms over the group as they can't hide the smile escaping from their faces. "You are right," Xenovia rests a hand on her hip, a look of fondness dons her face. "If it was not for Nawin-senpai and his kindness, I would not be here right now. I could never repay him enough for all the things he's done for me." Xenovia glances back to Yuuto, who smiles lovingly at her. "I will do whatever it takes to save him."

Though it brings a smile to Rias's face to see her friends now rejuvenated and determine to save Nawin. It promptly drops by the fact she still does not know where to begin looking for Nawin. Since leaving for Riser, she has not stopped thinking of a solution in the back of her head to track down Nawin, yet even now, she continues drawing a blank.

Gasper's next word causes her heart to momentarily freeze. "Buchou, what's our plan!" The boy is full of spirit and determination; his shy exterior is entirely absent as the only thing on his mind is rescuing his brother figure. "We need to move before he is out of reach!"

On the left, Akeno stares at her best friend with sorrowful eyes. The conflict in Rias's eyes speak evident. 'You don't know the next step... How,' Akeno's sight falls on the bracelet 'How can we hope to save Nawin-kun if we can't even find him.' The feeling of hopelessness rears its ugly head and ensnares Himejima's heart. She feels her eyes begin warming up.

Mustering up the strength to reply, Rias stares at all her friends and opens her mouth to tell them the harsh truth. "I'm sorry... B-" Her words are cut abrupt by a silver light exploding near the front doors. Everyone gets blinded by the light and is forced to shut their eyes. Though their visions are taken away for a moment, they can sense two humongous mana signatures appearing in the room.

A sharp gasp leaves the mouth of Rias as she instantly recognizes those two magic signatures. Her heart skips a beat as she unfolds her eyes when the light fades. The group does the same, and they are stun to see both Sirzech and Grayfia standing by the entrance. And for a rare sight, that goofy but kind smile is entirely absent on Sirzech's face. With the cold expression on his face and his eyes full of intense, it is clear this visit is urgent and pressing.

Scouring the room, Sirzech moves through all the young devils' faces until his eyes lands on Rias. He pauses when noticing the weak and rough appearance she is in. 'She's pushed herself.' A frown form on Sirzech's face before he marches forward. Grayfia remains in place, hands held together in front while she looks at Rias, concern hidden behind those silver orbs.

Yuuto and Xenovia make their way behind the couch to make way for Sirzech, watching him stop in front of their King. Rias express nervousness, her eyes darting backward before finally looking ahead to her brother.

"Where's Nawin?" Sirzech bluntly demands, and everyone in the room in the room flinches. The action very much did not go unnoticed by both Lucifer and Lucifuge. "I..." Rias grimace, hesitant to reveal the truth. She worries what Sirzech would say if he learns about Nawin's defection.

"Grayfia," Sirzech calls to his wife, his eyes remain focus on Rias. Lifting her right arm up, Grayfia snaps her fingers to summon a projection at the center of the room. An image begins playing, looking to be a video feed. Sirzech turns sideways to allow Rias to watch. Everyone else has their eyes glued to the screen too.

The video shows a clear and wide image of the South Gate of Vesarima. Guards can be seen patrolling around the gate and above the walls. Merchants and travelers either entering or leaving the Capital. Nothing looks out of the ordinary until the camera suddenly focuses on the far right.

Stabilizing, the image clear, and it shows a trio jumping through rooftops and speeding toward the wall. A sharp gasp leaves the group's mouths when they recognize the trio is Nawin, Misako, and Akame.

"A-Akame," Xenovia mutters her friend's name, surprised to see in the projection. Though in her mind, she is not wholly shocked by this event. Xenovia understand well just how loyal Akame is to Nawin. She'd follow him anywhere, even if it is to Khaos Brigade. "Misako..." Rias whispers with wide eyes, speechless to see the innocent girl there. 'Why would you get her involved in this, Nawin?!'

In silence, Rias and the group watch the trio continue advancing toward the wall. Then, in a flaunt motion, Nawin summons a dagger and spins it around in hand. Looking up at the patrols above the wall, he times it perfectly and throws it over the wall. The weapon skirt right over the guards' field of view, falling on the other side. Bringing their arms forward to grab onto Nawin's shoulders, the trio promptly vanishes in a black flash.

"After being blindsided by Khaos Brigade's invasion," Sirzech starts as the projection shatters from existence, "I requested Azazel's assistance to install surveillance cameras on all the Four Gates, further improving the Capital's security." Sirzech shifts over to face Rias once more. "Ajuka's division handles all the surveillance duty, and Ajuka himself handed this footage to me the moment it came upon his desk."

Biting her lip, Rias drops her gaze to the carpet as she is unable to keep looking at her brother. She realizes now he knows enough to come up with a certain conclusion. "I began suspecting something was amiss when you failed to bring Nawin to me. That footage there solidified my concern. Now," Sirzech narrows his eyes, the stern and sharp tone in his voice does not waver, "Tell me what happened, Rias?"

The group throws a look of concern to Rias. Some wanted to speak up for her though they knew well not to insert themselves between the siblings' discussion. Especially when Sirzech is in such a serious mood.

"I... I managed to find Nawin with Akeno's help," Rias starts and muster the strength to look at her brother in the eyes. "However... He's changed. I noticed the suppression seal you placed on his neck is gone." Grayfia's shoulders go rigid as her eyes slowly widen while Sirzech's expression becomes colder. Both have the exact thought in mind.

'As I feared,' Sirzech inwardly clenches his teeth. A surge of anger courses through his veins. 'Ophis has made a move... She must've seen an opening when Nawin was vulnerable following the breakup.' "What else?" "He..." Rias feels her throat tighten as again, anxiety seizes her mind. She has never been placed in such a position before; therefore, she can't predict what her brother would do when he learns about Nawin's defection. "Rias..." Sirzech speaks to earn Rias's attention. She sees his expression softening, "I can't help him if you don't tell me."

Seeing that look on her brother's face, and his eyes no longer serious but warm and sincere. Rias feels her heart slowly even, and the cloud of anxiety dissipates. "He told Akeno and me that he plans to join with Khaos Brigade. That video you showed must be him heading out to rendezvous with them."

A deep sigh exhales out of Sirzech's mouth as Rias's words legitimize his fears. "So he has defected to Ophis..." "Against his will!" Rias swiftly inserts. A look of confusion dons on Lucifer's face, but Rias continues on, defending her friend. "Onii-sama, you must know that this happened because of that mark. Ophis utilized it to manipulate Nawin when he was at his most vulnerable!"

'Rias...' Grayfia express sadness for her sister-in-law, seeing her so desperately trying to defend Nawin was both comforting and painful to watch. Her heart goes out for the young girl as her husband opens his mouth to speak. "That is not entirely the case, Rias" "W-what?" Rias stutters in shock by her brother's response.

An ominous chill crawls down Akeno's spine as she clenches her hands together to keep it from shaking. Akeno looks at Sirzech. That mournful expression on his face is apparent and speaks volumes that further adds the bad feeling that the group is hosting.

"Grayfia," Sirzech stirs to his wife, "Please go fetch her. I'll need her assistance." Nodding silently, Grayfia summons the teleportation and disappears.

Gathering his thoughts for a moment, Sirzech finally places his sight on the young devils. Watching all those anxious eyes on him. Sirzech is aware that what he is about to say will hurt them. 'But they need to know to understand the situation they are facing with Nawin...'

"Listen, all of you," Sirzech starts with a tense tone and places one hand on the desk, leaning on it. "The mark on Nawin's neck can indeed influence his personality, altering it. All of us here have witnessed it happening right before our eyes. Though," Sirzech lift the index finger, "One thing that it cannot do is manipulate Nawin to such an extent that it renders him Ophis's puppet. That I can undeniably confirm to all of you."

A cold silence falls on the group as they are left speechless by this new fact. The meaning behind Sirzech's words is what hurts and shocks them the most. "S-So," Gasper chokes out, his shaking hands clench tightly onto his shirt, "N-Nii-chan left on his own f-freewill?" "T-that can't b-be," Xenovia weakly shakes her head. She does not buy into Sirzech's words even though, in the back of her mind, a part of her admits that his words are very genuine.

"That can't be right!" Seeing her friends hurting, and Akeno close to breaking by what Sirzech stated, Rias speak up and glare at her brother. Something she rarely ever do. "Nawin would never outright become rogue like this!" "You are right," Sirzech firmly agrees, "It is hard to believe Nawin would choose to become a deserter through his own omission." Again, the group reverts to Sirzech as he continues. "Ophis placed the Draconic Mark on Nawin solely to tempt him with its power. Give truth to her words when she declares that she can bestow Nawin with enough power to aid him in achieving any goal he wishes. Rather than pure and prompt manipulation, Ophis gradually enticed Nawin to come to her for over half a year. And that is even stronger than plain manipulation magic as it makes Nawin genuinely believe that this path he's walking on is the correct choice. Instead of forcing him," Sirzech grits his teeth in anger, even speaking this upsets him greatly, "Ophis has successfully coaxed Nawin to go to her."

"T-that's..." Rias stumbles back while staring at her brother in disbelief, her eyes wide and her mouth agape. "How can such magic exist..." "That fucking deity!" Riser loudly cusses, rage flowing in his voice.

"What..." Sirzech moves his head to the right at Akeno, she looks at him straight in the eyes. Those violet orbs hold waves of emotions that even Lucifer can't decipher it all. "What can we do to stop the Draconic Mark's charm?" "Before we even address that," Sirzech firmly reply then faces the entrance, "We need to find out where Nawin is heading."

A teleportation crest form in front of the entrance and two figures comes to life, glowing so brightly that it blinds the room for a moment. With their eyes still close, the group can clearly hear the thudding footsteps walking through the floor until it suddenly stops.

Familiar with Grayfia's mana, Rias's brows furrow at the foreign mana coming from the newcomer. She opens her eyes and blinks for a moment to rid of the blur. A sharp gasp leaves Rias when she comes eye to eye with Hunter's cold yellow orbs. Those slit pupils remind her so much of a dragon. The group is too left stun by the Archdevil's arrival.

The air in the room becomes hard to breathe by the intense and dense aura exuding from the Archdevil. "So," Hunter shift gaze to Sirzech, "Nawin Makasha chose to go rogue. As I have warned you of, Lord Sirzech."

'What?!' Rias and the group all thought the same by Hunter's shocking word. 'How...' Rias narrow her eyes at the Archdevil 'She warned Onii-sama.' Glancing back to Sirzech, Rias sees that expression of regret on his face. 'How can that be?! How could she have known Nawin would do this?!' Instantly, Rias begins fostering many questions for the Archdevil.

"I acknowledge my fault," Sirzech reply, "I believed my seal could've' prevented this." Hunter stares at the Satan for a moment before breathing a deep sigh, shaking her head. "The boy's fate was sealed the instant Ophis sank her fangs into his neck," she bluntly states.

"Hunter," Sirzech sharply calls out when noticing the Archdevil's words bringing anxiety to the young devils. "Now's not the time to discuss my fault. I need your help in locating Nawin's whereabout." Resting a hand on her expose hip, Hunter still expressive some boredom more than anything else. On the sideline, Akeno silently clenches her hands in anger when seeing this.

"So Ophis is done waiting," Hunter muse before tilting her head, "You know which direction he's heading?" "We managed to catch his exit in the surveillance camera. He left through South Gate."

Everyone watches Hunter close her eyes to think for a moment. Her arms shaking from annoyance by so many questions bubbling in her mind, Rias sends her brother a sharp look for answers, but he orders her to be silent for a moment with a lift of his hand.

"Seems like Ophis is still testing him," Hunter opens her eyes. "If she badly wants him, she'd personally took him straight to Dragath," "Dragath?" Riser repeats," "It's a realm Ophis created. Her temporary home, you could say," Hunter throws a short glance over to Phenex. "It also happens to be where Khaos Brigade resides."

"So, what's your conclusion?" Sirzech presses for an answer. "Land of Ends. A gateway rest there that can teleport him straight to Dragath." "Land of Ends..." Sirzech slowly repeats the name of the familiar place; his eyes widen. Memories of his fierce battle with Rizevim come rushing back like a tidal wave. Their battle there stretched for days and permanently altered the entire land. "A lifeless land filled with nothing but canyons, streams, and craters," Hunter faintly smirk, "A perfect area for a stored gateway. Especially when none dare stepped foot on that land."

"How do you know all of this?" Unable to keep her mouth shut any longer, Rias bluntly demands an answer from the Archdevil, stopping directly in front of the tall woman. With her patience well gone, Rias shows no restraint and glares up at those slit, yellow eyes.

Hunter hums while staring down at Gremory; her expression shows faint amusement by the whole ordeal. "You care for such trivial thing when your dear friend is out there, gaining distance to his destination?" "I'd trade my life to bring him back home." Everyone in the room is taken aback by Rias's swift and strong response. And, judging by her tone and that challenging expression on her face, she meant each of those words.

"But," Rias's glare intensifies, "To see you waltz here and have all the answers on Nawin. Knowing that one day he'd go rogue and head to Ophis. That does not sit right with me at all." Taking one step forward, Rias shows no fear and continues, "So I ask again. How do you know all of this?"

Some in Rias's group silently gulps, fearing for their King's safety. Riser silently smirks in an almost applaud manner. Rarely has he ever seen Rias in such a mood. 'No one can stop her now.'

A faintest of smirk makes way on Hunter's features. "You really are your brother's sister," she states and glances up for a moment to see some proudness in Sirzech's eyes as he gazes at Rias. "Fine," she looks at Rias, "I'll answer your question."

Grayfia's brow rises by Hunter's response; the same goes with Sirzech. Both did not anticipate Hunter would choose to share a sample of her past here. Particularly this one.

Crossing her arm over her breasts, Hunter cock her head to the right to snap a joint. "I'll put it very bluntly here," she calmly starts. "In the distant past, Ophis and I shared a close relationship." "Close?" Rias repeats with skepticism in her eyes, "Ophis was born from nothingness, she feels no emotions" "You aren't entirely mistaken," Hunter agrees.

"However," Hunter points to herself, "I'm a special case as she held some emotions towards me. Actually, she began showing signs of conferring some sentiment shortly after giving birth to me" "W... W-what?!" Rias stammers in a whisper; her eyes gradually widen in shock. "I did not stutter," Hunter asserts with a cool tone that holds no jest. "Ophis is my Mother."

A stun silence befalls on the room as all the young devils' eyes are on the Archdevil. This revelation left all of them speechless, their mind in shambles.

"That is why," Hunter casually continues, her eyes remaining focus on Rias, "I know much about her and what she is capable of. More than anyone else." Finding no lie in Hunter's words, Rias throws a glance at her brother for further confirmation. "What she said is true, Rias," Sirzech backup, "Don't hold any fret though," he gestures to the swordswoman. "Hunter is loyal to me. She is no enemy of us even with her background being what it is."

Feeling a hand drop on her shoulder, Rias looks to the right to see Akeno stopping beside. She stares up at the Archdevil. "If you are Ophis's daughter, then tell me, is it possible to remove or stop the mark's influence on Nawin-kun?" "If I had known of a method, I would've done it long ago," Hunter reply "I've known for a long time now that Nawin Makasha had the Draconic Mark. And I told Sirzech the best way to help the boy is to either permanently seal away his mana or kill him before he could become a threat." "Akeno!" Rias shouts when Himejima blasts forward with a fist aim to the Archdevil's face.

Hunter catches the electric punch without difficulty and stares calmly back at those furious yellow orbs. "Akeno!" Sirzech raise his voice, "Stand down!" "Y-you," Akeno growls in rage. "Ophis tends to get whatever she desires," Hunter state then push Himejima away, letting go of her fist "Your old flame is unfortunate to catch her attention. No one can stop her from getting what she wants. That's reality."

Falling to her feet, Akeno clenches her hands to the sides. Her head hangs low to hide away from others' eyes. Rias looks at her friend with sorrow, knowing Hunter's words hit deep. However, it also fuels something within her.

"That may be true." Hunter turns to Rias and sees those sharp turquoise eyes staring right at her. "But that won't stop us from trying our best to get Nawin back." Akeno looks up; her glossy eyes widen by Gremory's words. Others stare at her, hope slowly forming behind their eyes. "You know nothing of Nawin and how much he means to all of us," Rias states, "So don't try to break our hope and think that's for the best. Giving up before even trying. Nawin has never given up on us, so we won't with him, right?" Rias turns to her friends with a bright grin.

"Yeah!" Gasper cheers and pumps his fist in the air. "We will save Nii-chan! No matter what!" "No matter what," Koneko repeats with a faint smile, nodding, "Nii-chan will return home with us." "He didn't abandon me when I was at my worst," Yuuto states, "So I will not be abandoning him when he's at his worst." "Like I said," Xenovia broadly grin, "Nawin-senpai changed my life, and I will never be able to repay him enough. I'll help him no matter what." "He's helped all of us," Riser grunts, then stirs away from the window to look at the group. "Now it's our turn to help him. Gotta punch some sense into him."

Smiling brighter at her friends' words, Rias lastly turns to Akeno. "We'll save him, Akeno," she softly says and takes one of Himejima's hand. "So don't lose hope" "..." Staring at her friend in silence for a moment, Akeno manage to muster a smile "Yeah," she closes her hand around Rias's "We will save him. Now that we know where he is going. We can do it" "We will."

Hunter stares at the pair in silence, her cold and sharp eyes show faint signs of softening. Sirzech did not miss that is keep his mouth quiet to see what she will do. 'Their words reached you.'

"And how," Hunter speaks to gain the groups' attention, "Are you planning on getting to the Land of Ends in time?" "We will fly," Rias swiftly retort, "Logical answer. However, even with flying, it'll take all of you roughly two hours if you start from Vesarima. Furthermore," Hunter leans forward ever slightly, "By the time you reached there, all of you will be close to exhaustion. Can't battle against a caliber of a fighter like Nawin Makasha in such a state... You might as well gi-" "Then we will fight to our last breath," Akeno insert and steps forward. "All of us will remain standing until our body can't move any longer. That's how much Nawin-kun means to all of us!"

Hunter's eyes widen ever slightly, and she gazes around to see everyone backing with Akeno's words. Those smiles and smirks on their faces are clear as day. "So," Hunter glance back to Sirzech, a small smirk plays on his lip, "Do you have another way to help them, Hunter?" The look on his eyes shows he believes that the Archdevil has a solution.

Sighing loudly and her shoulders lower in almost defeat, Hunter looks at the young devils'. "There is a way to help get all of you there much faster." "Really?!" Rias steps forward. Hunter doesn't reply and instead lifts her right arm to the side.

A black ripple firm into existence, and it stays there for a few seconds before snapping wide to open a passage big enough for a person to go through. Hunter glances at the black void world that rests on the other end of the portal. "This is a pathway. I've set a marker for the Land of Ends in case I ever needed to travel there to scout for Khaos Brigade's activities."

While everyone looks at the pathway with intrigue, Rias is staring at Hunter, shock and awe by her prowess. 'She managed to summon that pathway she created in Land of Ends from here?!' Rias's eyes begin narrow 'Must be the power of a god within her from Ophis's side. Though... It does make me wonder who the Father was...'

"That will take us straight to the Land of Ends?" Xenovia questions as she stops near the pathway, examining it to see nothing but a featureless black world. "Not instantaneous," Hunter correct then points at the pathway, "That's not a teleportation. Think of it like a tube that'll take you to point A to point B without worrying about time. It's what Ophis used to travel to the Supernatural World from the Dimensional Gap." "What you mean about without worrying about time?" Riser inquires, "Time slows down there. An hour in there is ten minutes out here."

"S-seriously?!" Xenovia gasps in shock, a reaction similar to the rest. "So they can traverse through there by running instead of flying," Grayfia insert "Saves them mana for the battle," Hunter adds. Sighing, she turns to the group, "Traveling through the pathway will shorten the destination also, considering there are no hindrances like canyons, mountains, or swamps getting in the way. It's just a straight line, so be prepared when you reach the end."

Rias stares at Hunter for a moment before giving a bow. An act that surprise the Archdevil. "Thank you." Hunter stares at Rias for a moment before sighing. "Lift your head." Rias leans back up and quickly catch a glinting object thrown at her. "What's this for?" she blinks and looks in her hand to see a silver bell tied on a short black string. "A signal," Hunter points at the bell, "Throw that on the ground the moment you subdued Nawin Makasha." Hunter's expression turns serious. "Trust me when I say the moment Ophis sees Nawin Makasha defeated, she will not be pleased. As I said, she must still be testing him, that's why she wants him to travel all the way to the Land of Ends. The possibility of all of you trying to stop Nawin is in her mind, and she wants to see if Nawin can bring himself to battle against you all. His friends." "Bitch!" Riser spat, "It's like a game to her" "When you are in her position," Hunter glance over at Phenex, "Everything is a game to you."

"What happens when I throw this?" Rias asks, "I'll get the signal and open the pathway from there to allow all of you to escape." Looking at the bell, Rias clench her hand over it and looks up at Hunter, nodding. "Thank you."

Sirzech examines Rias for a moment. Once again, he takes notice of her rough appearance. Part of him wanted to order her to not go and instead take time to heal. He clearly sees that she is sleep-deprived. She won't be going into this battle with full strength. Yet, he can't find himself to speak up as he knows right now, Rias is the glue that's holding this group together. Taking her away will destroy their morale.

'If words get out that Nawin has defected to Khaos Brigade,' Sirzech grimace at the thought 'It'll destroy the people's morale in Vesarima. And those Three will no doubt use this as leverage to sully Nawin's name. Mark him as a traitor and put him high on the bounty...' A cold feeling course through Sirzech's veins by the reality that he may not be able to defend Nawin if he successfully goes to Ophis. The hard fact will be that Nawin has defected, and protecting him without clear evidence and practical reason will only damage Sirzech's reputation. An opening Sirzech cannot allow when facing those Old Councils in the room.

Lucifer looks to his sister. 'The best thing I can hope for now is that they succeed in bringing Nawin back before his defection becomes heard. However... If they fail, it is my duty to inform everyone of Nawin's act. I just hope it doesn't come to that.'

"Rias," "Yes?" "Come over here, please." Blinking by her brother's request, Rias does as told and stops in front of him. Smiling warmly down at her, Sirzech opens his mouth. "Lift your right hand for me." Once again, Rias does as told and watches Sirzech rests his own hand above hers.

Crimson aura comes to life and circles around the sibling's hands. Rias watch with fascination by seeing a circle pattern forming in the middle of her palm. A blossom flower insignia is etched right in the center of the circle. "Is this... A spell?" Rias asks, looking up, "Yes. A powerful one," Sirzech corrects then retracts his arms, he stares at the insignia. "When there's an opening, place that palm on Nawin's forehead, Rias. It'll knock him out of consciousness instantly. He'll be out for days."

"A sleeping spell?" Rias mutter in surprise, "None of you want to drag the fight with him. I'm sure it won't be easy to battle with Nawin, but you all have to do it. Hopefully, this," Sirzech points at the spell, "Will shorten that and end the battle before things could go too far."

Akeno stops by the side and looks at the spell for herself. "Will that be enough, Sirzech-sama?" "It will. That's an SS-Rank class spell. Even Nawin can't overcome it." A relief smile wears on Himejima's face as she looks up at the Satan. "Thank you, Lord Sirzech. I don't want us to hurt Nawin-kun more than necessary. With this, we can work on subduing him, then Rias can come in with this." "No problem," Sirzech softly replies with a smile on his own "I'm sure all of you will succeed."

"Come on," Hunter speaks up and ushers at the pathway, "This won't stay open forever." Closing her palm, Rias looks at Akeno, and the two share a smile, nodding. "Let's move," "Let's. No time to waste."

Stopping in front of her group, all of them now station near the pathway. Rias looks at all of them for a moment. Observing the look of eagerness and determination on their faces. Seeing that just gives more confidence for Rias. "Ready, everyone?" "Yeah!" All of them reply in unison.

"Let's get on with it," Riser barge through and march right into the pathway. Rias chuckles at the Phenex's action before turning to her friends. "Let's head in." One by one, the group take turns going into the pathway until only Rias is left.

"Rias," Gremory pause and turn to Grayfia to see her stopping beside. A look on concern is worn on her usually collective face. "Please be careful and don't act with impulse." Rias looks into those silver eyes and see much distress. Though she may not openly show it, Grayfia worries much for Nawin. "Don't worry, Grayfia," Rias wears a confident grin, "We will bring him back."

Watching Rias finally enter through the pathway, Grayfia is able to see her away with a genuine smile on her face. 'They will stop at nothing for you, Nawin-sama.'

Hunter signals the pathway to close and watch the portal shut from existence. She stares at the spot for a moment before swiftly turning around, marching toward the front doors. "Where are you going?" Sirzech asks, which causes Hunter to stop by the door, hand on the handle. "To find that student of mine," Hunter glance back. "No doubt he's moping around somewhere over Nawin Makasha. He should be aware of what is going on" "... You want them to succeed" "Don't confuse yourself, Lord Sirzech," Hunter snorts. "I still think their chance of succession is low. I'm just upping it by getting Issei there." "Why help them so much?" Grayfia questions with narrow eyes.

"Foiling Ophis's plans is always enjoyable for me." With that casual reply, Hunter pushes the door open and exits the building.

Osaka

Remaining high in the sky, above the clouds. With arms crossed on his chest and his wings occasionally fluttering to keep himself float, Issei stares down at Reiji, who just successfully exited a forest and now traversing up a grassy hill.

'He's getting close to exiting Osaka's borders,' Issei notes before softly sighing. 'Though where is he even planning to go? Looking at his eyes earlier already gave me a clue that he has no plan of a destination after leaving Osaka.' A frown forms on Issei's face, 'What is your plan here, Reiji?' 'Issei,' Ddraig calmly inserts, 'You are forgetting that this is a kid. He's just charging on blind with emotions.' 'True...'

Issei jerks when he sees Reiji tripping over a piece of rock, sending him collapsing face-first onto the grass. Seeing sweat littering the kid's body and his breathing hoarse. Issei can recognize that Reiji has reached his limit.

"Guess that's all he-" Issei halt, and his eyes narrow when sensing three mana signature speeding toward Reiji from East. He remains undercover yet ready, waiting for the Fallen Angels to be in his sights. Not even a minute pass by before three figures surround Reiji.

Immediately, Hyoudou can tell the tall man in the middle with a silver trench coat is the leader judging by his mana signature. It is noticeably higher than the other two. Noticing the man was far from a good mood, Issei begins slowly descending the air and readies himself to jump in when time.

"Finally found you, you little shit!" Reiji flinches by the outburst but tries to remain unafraid by those piercing green orbs glaring at him. "Did you kill my men?" the Leader question and takes a loud step forward. Reiji quickly slides back only to be hit by an obstacle. He shakily looks up and gasps by a large man grinning down at him. Those gray orbs contain sickening enjoyment.

"Answer me!" The Leader shouts and brings an arm forward to grab Reiji; however, he gets stop halfway by another hand, snatching him by the wrist. Gritting his teeth in pain by the brutal grip on his wrist, the Fallen Angel snaps over to come to face with Issei. Those emerald eyes are glowing brightly in the night.

"I-It's you," Reiji whisper with some relief. He is shocked that Issei is still here, believing he had left but nonetheless is glad to see him.

"You ar-" the Fallen Angel does not get the chance to even finish his words as Issei charges up a rotation in the other hand and sends it straight at the man's head. Obliterating it from existence. Watching in horror and shock, the two minions stumbles backward by the sight of their Leader disintegrating into black feathers. Reiji looks at Issei with wonder and awe in his eyes.

Seeing their morale's drop significantly, Issei looks into the minions' eyes and see they are not much of a threat. Unlike their leader, they won't come back for Reiji in the act of revenge.

"I'll make myself clear," Issei starts. His tone is cold and serious. "If I see you two even a hundred feet near him," Issei points at Reiji as his glare intensifies, "I'll obliterate the two of you as I did with your leader. Got it?!" "Y-yes!" "Great. Now get out of my sight!"

Not needing to be told again, the Fallen Angels spread their wings and takes off to the sky, getting far away from Hyoudou as quickly as possible.

Exhaling a sigh, Issei blinks once to reveal his eyes have reverted back to brown. He looks over to the right and notices Reiji still on the ground, sitting there and staring at him with uncertainty. "You done wandering around?" Hyoudou's question instantly makes Reiji narrow his eyes then look away, a frown dons his face.

"Like I said," Reiji mutters as he feels Issei taking a seat beside him, "You don't know anything." "You are right," Issei sighs out and brings both arms back on the grass, leaning backward and staring up at the starless sky. "I don't unless you tell me why you are doing this, Reiji" "..." "I'm not going to leave you on your own until you give me a good reason," Issei firmly inserts.

Issei knows that what's the best course of action now is to get Reiji to open. Frankly, this area is something he's not really best at. 'I don't really have a way with words compare to Nawin...'

For a few minutes of silence is share between the two. The cold night breeze blows by, and Reiji contemplates if he wants to talk with Hyoudou about everything in his mind. Unlike before, he is now leaning more to speaking. Exhausted with everything that has happened and seeing that Issei has saved him twice now, Reiji knows he can trust this person beside him, and a part of him wants to share his problems. A part of Reiji wants this suffocating weight of his chest.

"It happened two weeks ago..." Issei perks and glance over, watching Reiji leans his knees back to his chest, hugging it. "I was taking Ryuji out for ice cream not far from our home. Ryuji always craved for some after returning from school." Issei can see a fond smile on Reiji's face when mentioning the name of his younger brother. It is clear Reiji loves him profoundly.

"On our way home, we needed to pass by a crosswalk. We stopped because I saw the light was red. I took my hand away from Ryuji for a moment to tie my shoelaces as I noticed it came undone." Reiji clenches his hands tightly, a look of regret morph on his face. "Just when my knee touched the ground, the light turned green, and immediately Ryuji hops ahead, not noticing a car is speeding towards him in a hurry. I-I screamed for him to come back, but he couldn't hear me because the person behind the wheel was honking his horns. Fearing for the worst, I took off and managed to grab Ryuji and shield him from the car."

Listening to the story, Issei grits his teeth at the careless driver. He remains silent and continues listening. "Then somehow I stopped the car... With my hand reached out to it, I halted the car with my barehand. The entire front of the car was destroyed, and shrapnels were sent flying through the air... But," Reiji brings his right hand near his face, staring at it, "I stopped it and saved Ryuji."

'The will and desperation in wanting to save his brother drove Reiji to awakened his Sacred Gear,' Ddraig notes. "You unlocked a Sacred Gear," "Yeah." Issei is taken aback by Reiji being aware of this knowledge. "You know of it?" "I met my Sacred Gear not long after I awakened it," Reiji reveals and face Issei with a faint smile. "He's a huge armored turtle! He can be grumpy and always sleeps around. Still, he's quite nice to me." "Huh," Issei smirks and chuckles, "Sounds just like mine," Ddraig grumbles a bit in the mindscape, though doesn't interject.

The smile on Reiji's face is shortlived as he returns his eyes forward to gaze at the dark horizon. "After what had happened, I quickly took Ryuji home. He was shocked but also amazed by what I did, which was to be expected. I was too excited to have such powers." "What are your Sacred Gear's abilities?" Issei asks, "It increases my durability and enhances my strength. Dobo said I could be shot by any kind of human weapon and not feel a thing, and I can lift a tank with ease if I wished to." "Wow, that's amazing" "Yeah. After discovering it, I was, of course, recklessly testing it with Ryuji. Away from our parents and everyone else."

"However, I realized now how stupid that was." A look of self-anger and regret dons on Reiji's face. "Using my power so recklessly attracted the attention of those people. A-and," Hearing Reiji choking on his words, Issei turns around to see a single teardrop fall from the boy's eyes. "B-because of my recklessness, I led them to our h-home. A-and, they killed our parents."

"Hey," Issei place a hand on the boy's shoulder in support. "You can't put all that blame on yourself" "But it is my fault!" Slapping Issei's arm away, Reiji glares at him with his glossy eyes. "I led them to our home!" "And back then, you weren't aware of the kind of dangers that lurks in this world," Issei calmly retort "You didn't know of the Fallen Angels, Devils, or Angels. You knew nothing of the Supernatural World. Unlike me, who had people there to help me and educate me about all these things when I unlocked my Sacred Gear... You had no one."

"So," Issei stares sharply at Reiji's stun eyes, "The one at fault for your parent's death isn't you, Reiji. For satan sake, you are still a child. The one at fault is those Fallen Angels for being who they are. Lusting for power. And when they saw your Sacred Gear, they'd do anything to get it."

"I-I..." Reiji couldn't find words to fire back as Issei's words manage to sink in. "I saw that man killed them before my eyes..." Reiji whispers, lowering his head down. Tears trickle down on the grass. "Ryuji and I returned him, and w-we saw that man... That man killed them. I-It's horrible," Reiji sniffs and tries to wipe the tears, but they only continue to pour down. "At first I was so scared that I froze there by the doorway, t-then when one of them threatened t-to hurt Ryuji too... I-I snapped, and then everything went blank. When I came to, I was in the hospital with Ryuji on the next bed, asleep."

"Was that the night you officially met your Sacred Gear?" "Yeah..." Reiji slowly nods, "Dobo informed me that I went berserk and killed some of the Fallen Angels. I felt guilty at first, but he... He helped me through it and told me some stuff about the Supernatural World before I lost connection with him when I woke up."

For a moment, Issei is silent to allow Reiji to recompose. "Tell me, Reiji. Did something happened to Ryuji?" he asks, glancing over. "I've met him, and he seemed to have a tough time recollecting things when I questioned him about that night" "He... That event mentally scarred him. The doctors told me that the shock has caused Ryuji's mind to have snapped and effectively blocked that night's event. He knows our parents were murdered but by how and whom... He has no idea. He doesn't even remember that I possessed these powers. It's like the memories of the past two weeks are gone from him."

"Then tell me, Reiji," Issei faces the boy, looking at him in the eyes, "Why are you here instead of being there with your little brother?" "Because..." Reiji takes a moment to take a breath then faces Issei with a sturdier expression. "Because I'm leaving to protect him... I'm leaving to get stronger so that I can be with him again. Being with Ryuji now... When I am weak like this will only bring danger to him. I... I don't want him to end up like our parents. Never."

Reiji's words slowly sink in Hyoudou, and it hits him hard. Issei stares at the boy in silence, his eyes wide, displaying shock. 'Huh,' Ddraig snort 'With everything this kid has been through, he pushes on and makes difficult decisions. A decision that has him needing to leave his little brother to protect him... Don't you think it's pathetic that you are still moping around here when this kid still continues to push on.'

Ddraig words are harsh but true, and Issei comprehends it. A weak smile appears on his face as he looks ahead. "I can tell you don't have a sibling," Reiji inserts. "You wouldn't understand how I feel... As an older brother, I will do anything to protect my sibling. Even... Even if I have to leave him."

"... You are right," Issei mutters out, eyeing the horizon. "I don't have any siblings. Though... I do have a person I very much look up to. Much like a brother." That has Reiji pausing and looking over, intrigue. "Your words there honestly reminded me of him. He is someone that would do anything to protect his family and friends. Even risking his own life in the process. Countless times I have seen him jump in front of danger without fear to save those he holds dear." "You really admire him," Reiji comments, hearing the sincerity in Issei's words, "Yeah. If not for him. I wouldn't be where I am today."

Issei lets out a hearty chuckle, "It's funny, you know... I always wanted a sibling when I was young. I never really had many friends when I was your age. I was weird and always tended to be the jokester in the classroom. People didn't avoid me, and I did talk to some, but... I never really made any real friends. And when came high school, my supposed two best friends that were there cared more about themselves than me as I always ended up being the one punished over our shenanigans."

Reiji can tell Issei is pouring his heart out with every word that's leaving his mouth. He looks over. "Then, Nawin arrived?" Issei chuckles and nods. "Honestly, when I first met him, he and I did not get along at all. We would always bicker at each other, argued over the simplest things. He'd criticized me whenever I messed up on missions. Yet, as time went by, I recognized behind his harsh words that he was actually looking out for me. He was encouraging me to get better, get stronger. And when I was ever in trouble, he was always there to help me... Even risking his own life over my stupid mistakes." The battle up in the snowy mountain for the Lightning Gemstone spring to Issei's mind.

"The reason why I secretly wanted siblings back then is that I couldn't make any real friends. But," a fond smile grows on Issei's face, "That changed when I met Nawin, and over time, he filled that part of my life that was always missing. He became my best friend and someone I very much look up to as a sort of a brother."

Finally, looking over to Reiji, Issei's smile shows regret and shame. "Hearing how brave you are, Reiji makes me realized how pathetic I've been. You are out here doing everything you can to protect your little brother. While I have been moping around when I know in my heart, Nawin is somewhere in distress. I should be out there doing whatever I can to find him. Be there for him instead of letting doubt stop me."

"... You care dearly for him that you are afraid that you may fail to help him when you see him," Reiji comments with a knowing smile. "I get that. Guess in a way, you can kind of understand me." Issei's smile shows more life as he slowly nods. "Failing someone you love deeply is an awful feeling, but that should not stop you from wanting to be there to help them. If you fail them, then stand back up and try again. Because if you care that much for them, you'll always stand back up and try again... That... That was something my Mom taught me," Reiji shares.

In the mindscape, Ddraig watches and listens to the conversation playing out with one eye. A small smile tugs on his lip.

"Your Mom was a smart woman," Issei asserts and slowly gets off the grass to stand, "And clearly you have inherited her wisdom. You're much wiser and stronger than even I, Reiji." Issei looks over with a grin donning his face. "You've managed to slap that doubt right out of me."

Blinking by the sudden offer of a hand, Reiji smiles and takes it, allowing Issei to pull him to his feet. "Though, Reiji," Issei starts, looking at him, "I believe leaving your brother like this is not the best course of action" "Why..." Reiji's expression tense. "Because he needs you there. Leaving him shortly after both of you lost your parents is just... Too much for him. He lost his Father and Mother; he can't be losing you too." "But, I may bring danger to him!" "If you are reckless like you once were," Issei softly smile. "Don't let fear blind your judgment. This road that you are walking on isn't the only way. There is a way for you to get stronger and still be there for him. You just need to work harder."

Reiji stares at Issei for a moment, not giving a reply. "I need not let fear scare me from finding Nawin and confronting him," Issei softly states, "And you can't let fear have you run away from your brother's side. It may bring him safety but in the end... Both of you will be hurt too much by this decision."

Kneeling in front of the boy and holding his trembling shoulders, Issei wears a warm smile. "You really don't want to be away from him, right, Reiji?" "I-I," Reiji chokes and finally looks up, his eyes overflow with tears. "I never want to leave his side. He must be so s-sad right now" "Then go back and be there with him. He needs you just as much as you need him."

Bringing Reiji in to lend his shoulder to cry on, Issei softly pets the boy's back in comfort. When hearing the sobs retracting, Issei pulls back and smiles. He sees resolution in those grey-steel orbs and the relief in them was not oblivious to him.

"Thank you," Reiji whispers and takes some step back, wiping the tears away from his place before taking a deep breath. "Here," Reiji blinks and catches the object thrown at him. Looking down at it, he sees it is a rolled-up pamphlet. "What's this?" "It's what your brother used to summon me. It heard his wish, and I was summoned. Now," Issei points at the pamphlet, "If you are ever in trouble. Wish hard for me to come, and I'll be there," "You..." Reiji blinks and looks at Issei with a funny smile. "I actually never got your name."

Issei blinks for a second and realizes that he indeed has not given his name to the boy. "Oh wow," Issei rubs his head in stupefy, "I did not..." Reiji giggles at the expression on Hyoudou's face.

Giving his trademark grin, Issei points at himself. "Issei Hyoudou at your service! So, if you ever in need of my help, Reiji. Just think hard on that name, and I'll be there" "Got it! Nice to meet you, Issei-san" "You too, Reiji."

"Now," Issei offers a hand, "Let's take you back to Ryuji." Smiling brightly in excitement, Reiji nods and takes the hand, "Yes!"

Lifting the boy into his arms, Issei releases his wings and lifts off to the sky. Reiji clutches tightly onto the shirt while looking down in amazement by being up in the air. The boy's adorable reaction causes Hyoudou to grin before he focuses on flying back to Osaka.

It did not take long until Issei spot a familiar orphanage in the distance. Reiji's eyes drop from the clouds, and he looks below, a smile tug on his lip when seeing the orphanage. Though he is nervous about facing his brother again after leaving him, the excitement and relief to see him dwarfs over that nervousness.

"T-that," Reiji gasps when noticing a small figure sitting by the orphanage's front stairs. "Ryuji," Issei whisper in surprise as he momentarily stops in the air, just above the building. "He's been waiting for you..." "That dummy," Reiji sniffs. "He should be in bed right now." "Well," Issei looks down with a warm smile, "You should go tell him that then... As his older brother."

Quietly, Issei lands on the pavement and place Reiji on the ground. Taking a few steps back, he watches as Reiji makes way towards his younger brother.

Seeing those bright olive-green eyes make a smile appear on Reiji's face. Unlike him, who adopted their Father's gray eyes, Ryuji got their Mother brilliant green eyes. Seeing them looking so sleepy and sad makes Reiji's heart aches.

"R-Ryuji?" Reiji calls out at the half-asleep boy leaning against the wood. Hearing that unmistakable voice erases all the sleepiness out of Ryuji as his eyes snap wide. He jerks up and gasps by the sight of Reiji, smiling adoringly at him.

Stun in silence, Ryuji rapidly blinks to wonder if the person in front of him is real. Thinking some part of this is a dream. However, when spotting a figure behind Reiji, Ryuji gasps by seeing Issei there. He gives a soft but meaningful nod.

Standing on his feet, Ryuji sniffs as tears begin trickling down his slightly chubby cheeks. "O-Onii-chan," he calls out through quivering lips. Reiji nods as he is unable to contain the tears. "I'm back, Ryuji. Sorry for leaving like that."

Crying openly, Ryuji jumps forward and glomps his brother in a tight hug. This breaks Reiji has he hugs firmly back and weeps in joy. Relief and happy to have his brother in his arms again. Realizing just how big of a mistake to have left him. "I-I'm so sorry!" Reiji cries out, "I'll never leave your side again! I promise."

Crossing his arms over his chest, Issei smile at the emotional reunion. Happy for the siblings. He can feel his mana spiking for a moment to confirm the contract is completed.

Releasing his wings, Issei knows it's best for him to leave the brothers to themselves. Before taking off to the sky, he looks over and sees Ryuji staring at him. Those green eyes show it all, how grateful he is. With a grin, Issei gives a thumbs up before taking off to the sky.

"... Alright," Issei exhales and slaps his cheeks a few times to get himself compose. "Let's start finding you, Nawin!" 'Huh,' Ddraig snorts within the mindscape, 'Finally snapped out of it... Took you long enough.' Issei chuckles. 'Sorry there, Ddraig. I was being stupid' 'Yeah, it was depressing to watch.'

Issei doesn't further comment and instead smiles. He can recognize the grumpy dragon was concerned for him. "Now," Issei's eyes sharpen, "Let's head to the underworld fi-" Issei instantly stops when a familiar magic signature hits his senses. With his eyes widen, he jerks down to see standing there on top of a skyscraper, Hunter is staring right back at him.

"Sensei..." Issei whispers as he lands in front of the tall woman. His shock is apparent by her presence. Hunter raises a brow a moment when examining those brown eyes. 'He's back to himself...' she notes and holds a shred of guilt by what she is about to tell him. Knowing how it'll affect Issei.

"Why are you here? I still have a few more days before we have to leave on that trip," Issei reminds. "I'm not here for that," Hunter firmly declares, resting a hand on her exposed hip. "I've come over to inform you of a situation that recently transpired." "What is it?" Issei crosses his arms, looking a bit impatient. "I kind of have a thing I need to do." Hunter did not need to guess that it involves Nawin.

"My news involves him," "What?" Issei uncrosses his arms, his expression shows more attention. "Nawin Makasha," Hunter continues, "He has defected from Vesarima. He is now on his way to Khaos Brigade."

Issei's entire world comes to a sudden halt. His senses go numb. Hunter's words begin reciting in his mind like a broken record until it wholly sinks in. His heart momentarily freezes, and with his body rigid and his face shocked, Issei opens his quivering lips to utter. "W-what?"

Pathway

"So, that's the plan..." Xenovia mutters as she looks at Rias. Everyone too glances toward Gremory after digesting everything she has stated. Running through the black void world, the journey since entering this place was quiet. While the group is deep in their own thoughts, Rias was formulating countless plans to find the best outcome.

Witnessing Nawin's battles countless times now, Rias is confident of her knowledge regarding his skills. And she is aware their battle against him will be difficult. Perhaps their most challenging battle ever, considering not only is Nawin one of the strongest people they know, but he is also their friend. Rias isn't oblivious to the reality that some will hesitate during certain moments, allowing an opening for Nawin to use. But that's something she can't change; she just has to trust her friends to remain resolute.

Staring ahead at the translucent path they are running on, Rias gives a short nod. "Gasper," she looks over to her Bishop, "Do you think you can do it?" "I-I..." Gasper grimace at the thought of even doing this to Nawin, "I can but will my Sacred Gear be enough to keep Nii-chan frozen for long?" "And one more thing," Riser inserts, "We are dealing with Nawin here. He can be behind us in a blink of an eye. You using Vladi's ability to freeze him will be one of the plausible tactics that he will recognize."

"That's where you, Xenovia, and Yuuto come in," Rias counter and looks over to her childhood friend. "The three of you will go on a full-frontal attack. Koneko, I, and Akeno will be near Gasper incase Nawin makes a move on him. If Gasper takes some time gathering more mana into his Sacred Gear, he should manage to freeze Nawin in time, even if momentarily. After that, I'll rush in and place the seal on his forehead. We can end this battle without dragging and needing to severely hurt Nawin."

The idea of hurting their friend brings an uncomfortable silence to the group, and Rias can understand it completely. "We will have to battle him," Rias affirms and returns to look ahead at the darkness. "It will be tough but remember we are trying to stop him from going to Khaos Brigade. If we need to hurt Nawin to prevent him from reaching Ophis, then it is a pill we have to swallow."

"What about Akame and Misako?" Xenovia softly questions, "What will we do with them?" "... If we can subdue Nawin, then they will likely surrender. Focus on Nawin, and if they attack, then do your best to avoid or restrain them. Out of the two, Akame is the real threat," Rias states.

Staring at the bracelet on her arm for a moment, Akeno bites her bottom lip. With her hands clenched tightly into fists as she faces ahead—a look of purpose dons on her face. 'I won't let Ophis take you, Nawin-kun. After everything that has happened between us, I will not let it end like this!'

Land of Ends

"Wow..." A look of bewilderment wears on Senna's face as she leans over Nawin's shoulder to look at the view before them. Stationed above a cliff on their horses, the group gazes down on the barren ravine. A single long line stream can be seen cutting through the rocky terrains. It starts from the cracks of a mountain and leads straight down a steep cliff.

Plants, animals, creatures, or any signs of life are absent. Only scorch earth, rocks, and craters are what remains in this valley that was previously a battlefield. The feeling of unease and tenseness in the air comes crashing down on the group.

"Damn," Jellal audibly exhales, "This place is depressing" "You said it," Erza adds. She looks up at the sky and sees the dense clouds hovering above them. It surrounds much of the area and blocking lots of the moon's light. Erza's expression grows tense, finding the clouds quite ominous.

"There she is," Nawin speaks up. Everyone follows his gaze to see Kuroka materializing into existence. Sitting comfortably on top of a boulder resting in the middle of the ravine, near the stream. The Nekomata's gold eyes shift to them, and a devious smirk forms on her lip as she offers a small wave.

"Kuroka..." Erza utters the name with some disdain "Know each other?" Momo asks, "Not really. But she has been at the tip of my blade a couple times. Always managed to slip away." "She's an SS-Rank criminal," Jellal informs. "One of the most wanted criminals in the Underworld... Not really a surprised to see someone like her involved with Khaos Brigade."

"Come on," Nawin release the rein then decline from the horse. He helps Senna down to her feet before facing the others. "Let's not waste time. And Erza," he turns to his Knight, "Push aside your feelings for now. Kuroka is not our enemy... Not yet." Sighing for a moment, Erza nods in understanding before exiting off the horse.

When everyone is off the horses, Jellal shoos them away. "Momo, can you come over," Nawin ushers. Blinking by the sudden request, Momo stops beside her King. Before she can say anything, Nawin sweeps her off her feet to carry her in his arms. Instantly, a bright blush appears on Momo's face as she stutters to give a response, but before she could, Nawin speaks over. "Hold tight." Eyes widening in realization, Momo does as told and grips onto Makasha's shirt just before he jumps off the cliff.

"Well, now that's not fair!" Senna shouts before jumping too. "What a casanova," Erza dryly asserts, then jumps high, diving down the cliff. Jellal chuckles and follows. "You gonna be ok?" Akame asks Misako, watching her looking over the edge. "Yeah, I'll be fine!" The Knight smile at her friend's confident response and watch her make the jump. She promptly follows her.

"Eeek!" Momo squeaks the second Nawin touches the ground with a thunderous thud. The sound of the earth cracking booms around the silent valley. "There," with a gentle smile, Nawin place Momo down on the ground. "Considering you haven't really gotten any training, I thought it'd be best to take you down here myself" "Thank y-you," Momo stutters as her face is still slightly red in embarrassment. "W-would I have survived that fall?" she curiously asks. "Well," Nawin calmly hums, "That drop was easily a couple hundred meters, so without durability training done to toughen your body... You wouldn't die, but broken bones will be a thing." "Oh..." Momo winces at the thought and is even more grateful for Nawin's assistance.

Landing next to the pair, Senna slowly extends her legs to stand straight. She grins smugly at the two before hunching over and lets out an unpleasant groan—Nawin sweatdrop at this. "Should've stretched a bit" "Ow," Senna grabs onto her right thigh and winces.

Erza, Jellal, Misako, and Akame comes from above and lands perfectly on their feet. "Haven't done any training for a long time, have you, Senna?" Akame comments when seeing the girl in pain, "I was too busy being normal!" "Ehehehe," Misako giggles at the response while the others chuckle.

The smile on Nawin's face promptly vanishes by the sound of light footsteps coming from behind. He turns around to face Kuroka. "Well, well," Kuroka smirk in amusement as her eyes fall to Erza and Jellal. "Surprised to see some familiar faces among your group, Nawin-kun," Erza's response is a steel glare while Jellal remains monotone.

Lifting his right hand, Nawin gains Kuroka's eyes. "Shouldn't we get going?" "In a hurry, aren't we, nya?" Senna and Misako grow tense when Kuroka leans right in front of Nawin; one of her hand rests firmly on his chest. Makasha's icy gaze bore into the Nekomata's gold eyes, his face entirely stoic. "I can imagine Ophis is low on patience. Best not to keep her waiting." "... Huh," Kuroka knowingly smirks then takes a few steps back, "You aren't wrong, nya."

Watching Kuroka gracefully turn around, Nawin examines her heading back to the boulder she was resting on. He is taken aback when she suddenly takes a bite of her thumb, drawing blood. Setting the bloody hand on the stone, Kuroka begins conjuring her mana.

"Bex Faal Hindro!" Chanting foreign words, Kuroka sharply spread her arms out to open a bright portal into existence. Gradually, the light surrounding the portal begins to subside, and the image within becomes transparent, revealing what's on the other end. Nawin's eyes narrow by the view before him. Sitting there comfortably on her throne, Ophis gazes undeviatingly at him with satisfaction in those silver orbs.

"Is that..." Senna stops beside Nawin. "That's Ophis," Nawin answers then glances over to his team. "I don't have to warn Erza and Jellal this but the rest of you. Do not do anything to risk upsetting her... I cannot protect you from her so please just stay quiet. I'll handle all the talking." Hearing and seeing how serious Nawin is, the girls nod to confirm they understand.

Taking a deep breath, Kuroka wipes the sweat from her forehead before turning to the group. Opening the gateway takes an incredible toll on one's body. "Come now. One at a time."

Leading his group toward the gateway, Nawin steps to the side and faces Kuroka, who raises an eyebrow at this. "You first," "Nya?" She smirks, "Don't trust us?" "Can you blame me?" Snickering lightly, Kuroke walks forward till she is right in Nawin's face. With a sly grin, she hops to the left and sinks into the portal.

Everyone watches Kuroka arriving on the other end; she turns to them and sticks her tongue out. "Alright," Nawin turns to Senna with a reassuring smile, "You ready, Senna?" "Sure..." Taking the offered hand from Nawin, Senna allows him to lead her to the portal. She holds onto his hand a bit tighter in nervousness.

Watching Senna sinking slowly into the portal, Nawin releases her hand and observes her emerging on the other end. One by one, the group enters through the gateway until Akame and Nawin are the last left.

"Now," Nawin smiles at his Knight, "Your turn, Akame." Nodding, Akame walks forward and calmly enters the portal to join the rest. Turning around to face her King, Akame pause when noticing something behind him. Her eyes snap wide along with the rest when they see an image in the sky starts breaking until it completely shatters. Bursting through the world of darkness, Akeno falls from the sky with lightning cracking in her hands.

Instantly, Nawin sense that familiar mana and swiftly turn around to meet eyes with Himejima. He then hears the crackling sound of thunder and peers up to see a lightning strike coming down from the sky. Behind the portal, Akame hurriedly reaches out to grab Nawin but fails to even dig her fingertips into the portal before the thunderbolt connects to the gateway, effectively destroying it.

While Akame and the others stare in shock at the blank space where the gateway used to be. Behind, Ophis lowers her eyelids in displeasure, recollecting that black void world that Akeno emerged from. 'Daughter...'

Stretching his right arm out to blast away the dust, Nawin glances back and silently cuss to see the gateway absent. He stirs ahead and feels his heart sink when Akeno drops to the ground. His hands begin shaking in frustration when Rias joins beside Himejima on the ground, and soon, the rest of the group stands before him.

"N-Nii-chan," Gasper whispers with relief at finally seeing Makasha. However, he flinches by the cold look on Nawin's face. Rias takes a step forward to stand in front of the group. Her sharp eyes penetrate Nawin's red orbs. 'He's alone now,' Rias managed to catch a glimpse of Akame inside the gateway till Akeno destroyed it. 'Will have to worry about her and Misako later. Right now, our objective is to stop Nawin.'

"You all shouldn't have come here," Nawin calmly asserts. "Quit the bullshit!" Riser stops in front of the group and glares. "We came here to knock some sense back to you and take you home!" "Then, you have wasted your time because I'm going to Ophis." "Nii-chan!" Koneko shouts and steps forward to stand beside Rias.

Nawin's stoic expression nearly breaks when those gold eyes stare at him. The sadness and desperation in those orbs pain his heart. "Please don't do this!" Koneko begs. She remained silent throughout the entire journey because all she wants now is to speak to Nawin, desiring to convince him to come back home without needing to battle. "That mark on your neck is making you do all of this! It is enticing you to go to Ophis, Nii-chan! Don't you see?!"

Watching the tears brimming in Koneko's eyes, Nawin closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. Softly exhaling, he reopens his eyes, that stoic manner returns. He looks at Toujou with such coldness that it causes her to recoil. "Like I told Rias and Akeno. Being with you all has made me weak, and with that, I will never achieve my goal. Ophis promised to offer me power if I serve her." A vicious smirk spreads on Makasha's face as the mark on his neck pulse to life. "I'll do whatever I need to in order to get that power!"

"S-Senpai," Xenovia looks on in horror. "He has changed," Yuuto whispers with sadness in his eyes. Planting a hand on Koneko's shoulder, Rias's sights remain firmly on Nawin. "Koneko, we can't reason with him... Not anymore. The best thing we can do now is put him to sleep with the seal Onii-sama gave me."

Wiping the tears away with the sleeve of her shirt, Koneko slowly nods in acceptance. Opening her eyes, they now shine with purpose. "I understand."

"Yuuto, Xenovia," Rias calls out and watches her Knights step forward, stopping next to Riser. "Buy Gasper time, got it?" "Right," both reply then summons their swords. Turning to Akeno, Rias sees her solely focus on Nawin, her shoulders trembling ever faintly. "Akeno," Himejima blinks back to reality and looks over, "Will you be able to fight him if it comes down to it?" "... I'll," Akeno bites the bottom of her lips before settling with a curt nod, "I will. To stop him."

Rias stares at her friend for a moment, still noticing uncertainty in those yellow orbs. She knows there's nothing else she can say to persuade Akeno. Turning to face Nawin, Rias's eyes sharpen as her turquoise orbs shifts to crimson.

'So that's their plan, they will use Gasper's Forbidden Balor View to get the upper hand,' Nawin concludes as he observes the position his friends have taken. Yuuto, Xenovia, and Riser in the front while Akeno, Rias, and Koneko at the back around Gasper. 'So, it has come down to this... I can't afford to lose here.' Black aura comes to life and explodes around Makasha. He knows what he must do to move forward, even if it pains him greatly. 'If I fail now... Akame, Misako, Senna, Momo, Erza, and Jellal, their lives will be at risk to Ophis.'

The group stands firm on the ground as a violent gust of winds blows pass them. The area begins trembling, and the earth beneath their feet starts cracking. All of it occurring by the amount of mana emanating from Nawin.

"You shouldn't have given them false hope, Rias!" Nawin shouts, "You'll only set them for more pain when you fail!" Remaining strong and her expression cool, Rias smile with confidence, "You told me to wake up, did you not, Nawin?" This has Makasha lift a brow. "I've woken up and will correct my mistakes." Crimson aura begins emanating around Gremory's entire body, her mana spiking and shooting through the roof. Akeno glance over in a slight surprise, seeing her friend able to garner so much mana even in a weaker state.

Lifting her right arm towards Nawin, Rias adopts an expression that is fit for a King. "I told you before, haven't I?!" she shouts, "I regard my peerage as my family! And I will not let even a Deity such as Ophis tear apart this family of mine! I and the rest here will do whatever it takes to bring you home, Nawin!" "... I remember those words well," Nawin slowly replies with a faint smile. The smile surprises the group but provides them more hope, believing Rias's words succeeded in reaching Nawin.

'I'm sorry, everyone.'

Opening his right palm, the Twisted Etcher form into existence. Grabbing the handle and resting it forward, the blade pointing straight at the group. That smile on his face fades as Makasha stares at the group with a cold and calculative gaze, "I'll be the one to show all of you just how fragile this family is..."

Next Chapter: Battle in Land of Ends, Broken Hope