168 Life.3 Fist and Sword (Carnival)-2

Akeno-san summoned lightning, and shaped it into the form of a large dragon! They were Holy Lightning Dragons! And there were five of them! The number has increased compared to before, and the density of the holy lighting had also increased! The large dragons of holy lightning eagerly moved towards Strada!

"—Descended from the angel known as the Lightning of God! It truly is beautiful!"

While Strada was praising Akeno-san's attack, Durandal's blade was still wrapped in a holy aura, and then it was swung down in an instant! The wave which was released was clearly more potent than that which was released by Xenovia. The enormous surging wave completely blew the Holy Lightning Dragons away! In addition, this wave showed no signs of weakening, and continued to fly towards us!

"Shield!"

Rossweisse-san took a step forward, and conjured several layers of magic circles of strong defensive magic! Each layer of the strong magical barriers was progressively destroyed by the Durandal's replica, and the approaching wave loomed ahead of us! —However, Rossweisse-san created many layers of barriers once more, and then finally negated Strada's attack! …However, in order to nullify this wave, a significant number of defensive magic circles had been deployed…at the least, Rossweisse-san used twenty layers. Even though she had the trait of the [Rook] to boost defensive power, she still needed so many…! Once again, I was in awe at this old warrior's skill in using Durandal!

"It's not over yet!"

The last person to rush out was the current wielder of Durandal, Xenovia! She wielded Ex-Durandal, using it in a combined mode to slam it down at high speed and with the power of Destruction! The old warrior used his replica to block Xenovia's attack, and it felt as though he was smiling in enjoyment.

"Very good! That's it! That's just right! There's no need for deliberation! Listen up, warrior Xenovia! Even if you assimilate Durandal and Excalibur, the essence of Durandal is — pure power! Which is why you were chosen by it! You should not deny it! Power should not be denied!"

While he was resisting Xenovia's attack, Strada still repeatedly slashed his sword, as if illustrating how a sword should be used, conveying the core essence of a sword. In the midst of the clash between the genuine holy sword with the added power of Destruction and the replica, Strada looked straight at Xenovia and said to her

"—However, there's more than one way to represent power. That sword's form, is that really what you want it to appear as?"

"—Hmm!!"

Hearing that jisan's question, Xenovia made an expression as if she had noticed something. Xenovia jumped back for the time being, and then — she meaningfully stared at Ex-Durandal. Strada began to smile as he saw this…was this something that only a wielder of Durandal would know about…? Then Rias straightened her body! Her entire body was enveloped in a destructive aura, and a huge sphere of magic had formed above her head!

"—Well, how about this?"

—Extinguish Star! Rias's ultimate attack! She concentrated her magic to produce it while I went ahead to fight!

"This will result in death if you don't avoid it!"

After Rias declared that, she released that massive attack! Although the sphere of destruction moved forward slowly, no one could possibly remain unharmed if they came into contact with it. This unparalleled attack was merciless, and even the body of an evil dragon could be destroyed. But Rias deliberately made such a declaration before releasing it. Which also meant — she was letting him escape. Being hit by that would result in inevitable annihilation. But even so, Rias decided to use this move precisely because she was in awe at the opponent. However, the old warrior seemed to have no intention of evading! He simply smiled, and faced Rias's sphere of destruction directly!

"Well well…this thing might be a bit difficult for my old bones — but."

He raised Durandal's replica and pointed it towards the sky — a vast amount of holy aura began to cover the blade. Facing one side as it slowly absorbed the objects around it, the sphere of destruction was approaching — then the replica of Durandal was swung down! The light released was blindingly bright, and we could only close our eyes in the face of such intense light…! When we opened our eyes, the first thing which we saw was — the scene of Rias's Extinguish Star sliced apart!

"—Ah."

Rias was speechless at the sight of this. This was only to be expected. Even against an evil dragon, it was completely defenceless against this technique. Yet an old man, a human, was able to destroy it using the replica of a holy sword. We were also quite shocked by this. Strada's shoulders were heaving as he breathed…after all, it was true that he cut the Extinguish Star. Rias could only smile mirthlessly.

"…After this, I have no choice but to smile bitterly."

As Strada adjusted his breathing, he said

"—Listen well. Durandal is able to cut [Everything]. Even if it's the Bael's power of Destruction, that is no exception."

He said to us, as if giving Durandal an introduction. …So if Durandal is used properly, even that can be cut…! Well, when Xenovia is really able to master Durandal, there won't be anything in this world that she won't be able to cut…! Koneko-chan made a stiff smile.

"…Really, is the Church able to rely solely on this ojisan? I think that…"

…Yes. Relying on this jisan alone, is the Church able to survive? After all, even the highest class of Devils have been defeated at the hands of Church warriors…if such a rare old man was born in this world, indeed even the highest class of Devils could be destroyed.

"—Well, it should be my turn next right?"

After saying this, the person who took a step forward was — Arthur Pendragon who had been quietly watching from the side! He was wearing glasses, a suit, and smiling as usual. However, held in his hand was the legend of legends which was wrapped in a dense and thick aura — The Holy King Sword Collbrande.

"Hoh…I wouldn't have imagined that I'd be able to see that at my age…"

Strada looked at the holy sword in Arthur's hand, and sighed in admiration. Arthur fearlessly replied in response with

"It is quite regrettable that the sword you hold is not genuine — I really wanted to use my body to withstand its power."

Arthur quietly approached Strada, and in response, Strada also began to move forward. They did so until they were within reach of each other's swords, and there was also no need to prepare a stance. Eventually, they reached the point where they were directly in front of each other, and they then stopped. They looked as though they were a jovial young gentleman and old warrior, but the intense pressure which they released from their bodies was unreal. It caused the space between those two to become distorted. Then, both of them finally disappeared from that spot! Clang clang clang, the shrill metallic noise of two clashing swords reverberated in all directions, and we looked up towards the sky! That was because we felt a presence above us! And sure enough, two people had flown up in the air, and their swords fiercely collided as they descended! From when they had jumped all the way until they began to fall, it was only a very short period of time. However, in the time that the two people exchanged blows, it felt as though it was an extremely intense battle. Several techniques flew across from each side, and the two people were vehemently opposing each other. Slashing down from above, slicing from below to above, an occasional thrust, or deflecting attacks aside, both were swinging and slashing ferociously, yet there were also small slashes — the two people were engaging in a high-speed slashing showdown in mid-air — aura was overflowing from both of their swords, and as a result of that aura, all the replica buildings in the surrounding area crumbled and collapsed.

"…Formidable."

"Ah…"

"..."

The swordsmen Irina, Xenovia and Kiba were speechless. They intently watched the intense swordplay battle occurring in the air. No one batted an eyelid as they focused their attention on the battle between the legendary Holy King Sword and the legendary old warrior. For the three people who were watching Arthur and Strada's battle, closing their eyes would be shameful as a swordsman. Arthur and Strada continued to go at each other as they descended, and when they finally landed on the ground, without any time to catch their breath, they ran towards each other with their holy swords clashing again! They ran sideways as they were attacking each other! Between the attacks of these two people, large cracks appeared on the floor, and the ground had also been easily destroyed. Both of their bodies had also changed. Although neither of them had been hit cleanly, Strada's thoroughly trained body had suffered several cuts, and the parts of Arthur's suit which had been shredded were quite conspicuous. Both of them had ecstatic expressions, and it appeared that both of them were happy from the bottom of their hearts about this slashing confrontation— The Holy King Sword gathered a calm aura, and Arthur suddenly thrust it in a strange direction. Then, a hole was pierced in that space, and the blade disappeared into it! Strada seemed to have noticed something, thus he bent his upper body backwards greatly and then horizontally from a spot near where he was, a sword flew out! So that was what it was, Arthur was able to use the Holy King Sword to pierce a hole in space, and then send it towards a position close to his opponent? Speaking of which, Arthur had once used a holy sword to create a tear in space, which he escaped into afterwards. Was this an ability of the Holy King Sword, or one of Arthur's techniques? Although that was unknown, it was certain that Arthur could move between space, and that he could also send his sword directly next to Strada. Next, the irregular old warrior Strada had moved his body, and dodged the attack from an almost certain striking position! Was this real!? He was even able to evade such an unexpected move!? While being attacked normally, Strada still easily dodged even Arthur's space transportation technique which couldn't be detected. …If it was me, I definitely wouldn't be able to detect even a feint, and would certainly receive their attack every time. But that old warrior only changed his stance and sword position! In addition, this was performed while in the midst of an intense sword fight, thus it was easy to understand that there was an attack which I could not recognise with the naked eye. If it was me — there would be no way to evade the Holy King Sword; my body would be continually consumed by that holy aura, and I would eventually fall to the ground. There were many techniques, surprise attacks, and on top of that, the power of holy swords couldn't be underestimated…for me, Arthur was the type that I'd have horrible compatibility against.

"…Arthur hasn't yet used his full power. Of course, Strada also…"

Even Kiba couldn't estimate the true strength of these two swordsmen, and bit his lip with a reluctant look. I'm afraid that he saw that his own strength was incomparable to those two, and at the same time because he understood the strength of those two, he could only grit his teeth. …Me too, my friend. …In this world, why are there such strong guys…. Moreover, he has the body of a human. The Vali team's swordsman Arthur Pendragon, the wielder of the Holy King Sword. He is strong indeed…! The two swordsmen continued their breath-taking battle for a few minutes — but it suddenly came to an end. Both people exchanged a heavy blow with each other, and they jumped backwards before the sparks had disappeared. Both of them readjusted their sword stance…however, Arthur suddenly put his sword down. He adjusted his glasses, and smiled as he said

"…Wonderful — but, let's stop. If this continues, I won't be able to get over the shock."

Arthur said a string of strange words, but Strada seemed to understand, and he also put down his sword for now.

"…Sorry, young swordsman."

The old warrior began to smile wryly, indicating that he understood Arthur's behaviour. Arthur smiled, then turned around to leave. When he came past our side, he only said one thing

"…If we met thirty years earlier, no, twenty years, it would certainly be the best battle. If it continued…it would only invite sadness."

Arthur spoke in a lonesome manner, and then he left. … Was this known as the pride that only a swordsman could understand? Next, we were the ones who were left…but, what could we do? In order to stop this jisan — should we really be serious about it? …I made up my mind, and made wyverns appear from the gems of my armour. As the old warrior saw this, he smiled joyously.

"I have heard of it. The Sekiryuutei even has the ability to modify entire environments — indeed after receiving that attack, even I won't be able to avoid death."

…My Longinus Smasher, does he already know about it? Since I last used it, it's already been more than a month. The charge has already been completed. Kokabiel's words resurfaced in my mind. It was about the previous wielder of Durandal — that is, it was related to this jisan Strada. —The previous wielder's strength was far beyond the scope of common sense! …Strength beyond comprehension, it was so convincing that I was speechless…! For this reason, if I don't use my unique abilities then this old man won't back down! However, the person who inserted herself in front of me was Xenovia. Xenovia took a step forward, and confronted Strada-jisan. She held Ex-Durandal out in front of her body — and then separated it into two swords. From Ex-Durandal, the handle of Excalibur could be separated from Durandal…and what Xenovia just did, was separate another legendary holy sword from Durandal. In other words, she was holding Durandal with her right hand, and Excalibur itself with her left hand. This wasn't just any Excalibur, it wasn't Rapidly, neither was it Destruction, nor was it Mimic, but it was the true Excalibur itself. She made a dual wielding stance using both Durandal and Excalibur. This also meant that she had released Durandal from the suppression of Excalibur. Seeing this, Strada's entire body quivered, as if he was excited about this fight for the first time!

"That's right. That's how it should be! From my perspective as the previous wielder of Durandal, Ex-Durandal is a questionable combination. Durandal itself is a finished product, Excalibur is also a finished product…why is such a combination necessary? The reason is because you're unable to control Durandal, and thus you foolishly used Excalibur as an [auxillary]. You…are a prodigy when it comes to single or dual wielding — don't deny it. As long as you believe in power, power will materialise itself!"

…That's right. Xenovia was unable to control Durandal's aggressive aura, so she supressed it by using Excalibur as a sheath to enclose it. And just as that jisan said, Xenovia preferred a dual wielding fighting style. Excalibur Destruction + Durandal, or Durandal + Ascalon — she had currently returned to her previous style. In one hand was Durandal and in the other was Excalibur. That's right, this was the fighting style that she had when we met her. In an instant — the two separated holy swords each began to radiate a dense holy aura. Their aura continued to increase, without any signs of stopping. The holy aura released was immensely pure and strong, causing the people nearby to tremble; this was something that could not be felt from Xenovia's sword in the past. Strada's eyes became moist.

"…I was finally able to meet you again, Durandal. That's right, this is Durandal's true form. Come, warrior Xenovia. There's no need to consider anything, that's all. Durandal's true essence is only in destruction."

"…Yes!"

Holding their holy swords, the two swordsmen who exemplified power gradually reduced their distance. Their pace was leisurely, but there was a certain strength behind it. Both of them moved until they were within reach of each other's sword, and then they began a battle of swords! Xenovia's two swords and Strada's sword exuded a silver radiance while sparks flew off them as they fiercely and brilliantly collided with each other!

"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrhhhh!"

"Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!"

The shockwaves from the power of destruction alone caused the entire battlefield space to tremor, everything around those two began to collapse! The replicated buildings began to collapse one after the other, and deep fissures also appeared on the surface of the ground! Even the top section of this space began to crack, and a kaleidoscopic pattern could be seen through the dimensional crack! The scene in front of my eyes was the same as when I fought against Sairaorg-san, and even more destructive than that time. Like that time, it was a product of pure destruction and damage. The destructive output which was generated from both Durandal and the replica knocked us to the ground, and sometimes we even felt pain in our bodies…cracks even appeared in Saji's and my armour. Just how much power had to be colliding to produce shockwaves with such an effect! I was afraid that in the world that those two people resided in, only they could understand — that power and strength. This battle couldn't be replicated by people who didn't think in terms of power. It was only possible to communicate through the use of body language here! Xenovia formed a cross with Durandal and Excalibur, and then swung them down simultaneously! Strada used the replica to parry this blow head on! This attack of destruction x destruction truly embodied destruction, but the opponent was also a power monster!

"Gyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!"

The two legendary holy swords were deflected by the replica! —However, the price for that was high. Cracks appeared on the replica's blade, and the old warrior's breathing became heavy. It was clear to see that he was becoming exhausted. Strada kneeled down with one knee on the ground. If this continued, Xenovia would become dominant because of the gap in their physical ability. The previous wielder of Durandal who possessed incredible strength — was an eighty year old man after all, his physical condition couldn't be helped. Xenovia approached Strada who was kneeling on the ground. Just when it was time for the winner to be decided, someone injected themselves into the space between those two — it was the young Cardinal called Teodoro. The youth's face was filled with tears as he stood in front of Xenovia, covering Strada who was behind him. Seeing his behaviour, Xenovia appeared confused. The boy had tears streaming down his face as he said

"…Please forgive His Eminence Strada. The fault is mine."

"Your Eminence Teodoro…please stand down. The decisions were made by this old man."

The boy stopped Strada who wanted to get up.

"Enough already! It's already enough! Already, enough has been done! If even you cease to exist, I…how can I do anything!"

The boy turned around, and showed the pure white wings which were evidence of his existence as a [Miracle Child]. He distraughtly said

"…My…father and mother…were both killed by Devils."

His eyes looked into ours — they were filled with sorrow.

"…I will never forgive Devils! I will never let Devils get away!"

The boy screamed. …In the face of his words, we were speechless. …Both his parents were killed by Devils? He was a [Miracle Child] — the half-breed of a human and an Angel, while his father and mother…were killed by Devils? Strada hugged the boy with a sorrowful expression, and he quietly said

"…An alliance is also nice, as it is a form of peace. But — in that case, some people will not be saved, and some people will be angered. Whether it's His Eminence Teodoro, or the warriors you faced today, they took up their swords after their lives were derailed by Devils."

...

…That's right, this so-called peace won't occur for absolutely everybody. Since we've experienced peace, then there will also be people who have experienced suffering…but, even if that's the case, we also…!

"We—"

Just when I was about to speak, someone spoke over me.

"We!"

—It was Kiba. Kiba said

"…We only want to live peacefully. You have your own sense of justice, and you have your own values. However, my master Rias Gremory, as well as Ise-kun, Akeno-san, Koneko-chan, Asia-san, Xenovia, Gasper-kun, Irina-san, Rossweisse-san, Ravel-san, and the Sitri household, are all my many nakama who live in this town; we've survived life and death situations together and have been through good and bad times."

Kiba seemed as if he had removed a mask, and his expression was more candid than ever before. Xenovia also agreed with Kiba

"It's true. We all support each other, we're nakama who have risked our lives fought together through everything. Even if His Eminence Strada and His Eminence Teodoro don't recognise it, we fight with pride! Even if someone is unsatisfied, we will continue to fight for the people who believe in us!"

Hearing the two swordsmen — what the Gremory [Knights] said, a satisfied smile appeared on Vasco Strada's wrinkled face.

"…I see, their eyes have a powerful expression, and their will was strong. Princess Rias Gremory, you have a pair of good [Knights]."

"Yes, they are also the [Knights] that I am proud of."

Rias was also proud of the two [Knights]. Although Kiba and Xenovia were similar in that they were both from Church facilities, the path that they followed in life was completely different. And now, while serving under the same master, through their mutual experiences, they began to have similar ideas again—. Irina also approached the two brave [Knights], and stood beside them.

"Your Eminence Strada, Your Eminence Teodoro, I also — believe that evil Devils exist. But—"

Irina turned her gaze towards me.

"There are also good Devils. It's the same as humans…even in other mythologies, there are also good and evil Gods."

After listening to this, Strada laughed loudly and satisfyingly.

"Hahahaha! Ah…I see, I see. However, as an Angel, you talked about Pagan Gods[10]… yes, this is the result of an alliance, but this also means the beginning of a new era…"

The old warrior had his hand on his chin as he thought. But, it looked like he was somewhat happy — however, Strada picked his sword up again.

"—However, the things you have discarded have brought you to a very different place. Your Eminence Teodoro, please stand aside. Let me show you this old man Durandal's final moment."

…His willpower still hadn't decreased! His eyes were still burning with a passionate flame! Even if he would die with us, he still insisted on going on until the end! However, his strength did not return. If he continued to fight, with or without any sacrifices, we would still win in the near future…but, was that alright? Was it really alright for this to continue? As I was contemplating this, the young Cardinal cried and tried to stop Strada.

"It's already enough! It's already enough! Your Eminenece Strada! I…that's enough! You and His Eminence Cristaldi, and the warriors who fought for me…that's already enough! …When my feelings and frustration were directly communicated to these people, we could have retreated. …So, I should receive the punishment! I will use my life as payment!"

From his expression, I could feel his strong determination. The boy understood his actions and his words, and he was also prepared for his punishment. Strada revealed a kind smile, and he gently stroked the boy's head.

"…A child complaining about injustice is something that happens in any era. Your complaint was very noble, and very pure. Because of this, I would take up my sword again, and the warriors will follow you. And what I wanted to see the most was — them completely accepting yours and the warriors' beliefs; they didn't exclude us, they actually accepted us, and listened to our beliefs. They…should have already thought deeply about how to stop us. How to accept our beliefs without crushing them — at that time, we had already lost."

"—Uh."

Hearing what the old warrior said, the young Cardinal was speechless, and lowered his head. …From the very beginning, this jisan already had an understanding of our side's situation…even so; he still carried the dissatisfaction of the boy and the warriors, and took up his sword…. Strada said

"In my mind and Cristaldi's mind, we asked for God's forgiveness. His Eminence Teodoro and the warriors are still young. This incident was caused because I fanned the flames[11] — after hearing what was said in this battle, and with my death, they will be able to find a new way of life."

—Ah! This jisan! He intends to shoulder everything!? From the beginning, for the purpose of understanding the dissatisfaction of the warriors, he assumed full responsibility for it— Hearing Strada's confession, the warriors all wailed.

"Your Eminence!"

"Please don't say such things!"

"Your Eminence, if it's my life, I would offer it gladly!"

"We were already prepared to go to Purgatory!"

Everyone shed tears. All of the hardened warriors were trying to stop the old warrior's atonement. Looking at this scene alone, it was evident that the warriors truly admired Strada. In the face of that jisan's beliefs, we — also had troubled expressions, and were unable to decide whether or not to fight. When both sides had become weary of battle —

"How about you allow me to get rid of you all ♪"

Suddenly, a different voice echoed around everywhere! Everyone looked around in every direction, and eventually fixed onto a single point. Standing there was someone dressed in gothic style clothing; a woman holding a parasol — no, a witch, Walburga! This person! Intruding again! Everyone pointed their weapons towards her! The witch made a delightful smile.

"At the final sweet happy ending, I step in ♪ — don't you think that this just adds fuel to the fire?"

As she finished speaking, Walburga tapped her foot on the ground. From that, a countless number of magic circles appeared and began to spread and expand! The light emitted from them at the same time shone brightly, and illuminated us! Emerging from the countless transportation type magic circles was — a huge swarm of mass-produced evil dragons! Ten, twenty, thirty…the number of evil dragons which gradually emerged from the transportation magic circles was almost in the triple digit range! Really, in this situation, this person had to summon these mass-produced evil dragons! Covering a nearby area completely like black paint — all of them were evil dragons! The witch stood before the swarm of evil dragons, and began to laugh.

"Well, let's have all you evil dragons show them your skills ♪ "

Walburga extended her hand out with an extremely innocent, yet extremely evil smile, but just when she was about to issue orders to the evil dragons, Rossweisse-san smiled eloquently.

"—I knew that this would happen."

Rossweisse-san snapped her fingers. After that, the entire space began to emit a silvery light! The sky, replicated buildings, the ground, everything was shining with a brilliant silver light! Suddenly, the evil dragons seemed to lose their strength, and slumped onto the ground! Even their eyes had lost their resolve, and they became motionless!

"—Uh! This is…! What's happening!?"

As a result of the unexpected events, Walburga was surprised. We were also quite surprised! How, what was happening!? Rossweisse-san smiled confidently as she said

"For Qlippoth to infiltrate here, as well as summoning evil dragons, I anticipated this a while ago. This space was designed and constructed with my own barrier technique. If evil dragons are summoned here, their functioning abilities will be sealed."

—Ah! Really! After predicting that these guys would invade, the seal to restrict the movements of these summoned evil dragons was embedded into the space!? But, for them to come here, that was also something predictable. They intended to rely on numbers to overwhelm us. However, during the research into the sealing for Trihexa, Rossweisse-san thought of this barrier technique! Rossweisse-san looked towards Asia.

"Asia previously won over mass-produced evil dragons, and this technique used that as a foundation. With her permission, I investigated her mass-produced evil dragons. When I was creating this barrier, I embedded the technique to stop their movements inside."

How amazing! Using the clues that she gained from the evil dragons that Asia and Fafnir brought over, she was able to produce such a beautiful success! In that case, completing the seal for Trihexa was within reach! She was indeed a talented Nordic woman! Hearing this, Walburga frowned — but, she suddenly began to laugh.

"Waha, that's rather scary. Well, I think I'll retreat now ♪"

She had just arrived, yet as soon as she found it disadvantageous, she wanted to escape! She was truly quite determined to escape! Walburga created a magic circle for transportation below her feet, and intended to retreat — but, the light from the magic circle faded, and it gradually disappeared.

"…It didn't activate? Transportation was sealed?"

Walburga spoke involuntarily with a surprised tone.

"—No, just that all paths have been cut off."

There was another voice! Turning around to look, standing there was [Slash Dog] Ikuse Tobio followed by a black dog! Walburga was shocked to see Ikuse-san there.

"—[Slash Dog]!"

Ikuse-san spoke to her as if she was an old acquaintance

"Yo, long time no see, witch of the purple flames. How is the Holy Cross you inherited? Sorry, I've cut off all the magic transportation escape routes you prepared outside this space."

Hearing what he said, I looked up at the sky — I could only see the tips of countless swords pointing downwards, much like icicles…at the top of this vast space, swords were growing out everywhere…? The twisted blades emitted an ominous glow, and the blades also had spell like patterns engraved on them. Walburga was dismayed when she saw this!

"Y-You've got to be kidding! I used a combination of tens of thousands of random spells for that technique!? In the short period of time after I infiltrated, all of them—"

"That is correct, all of them were severed. After all, I work behind the scenes, so it's my job to do."

"...Uh! Are you really a human..!?"

Walburga was at a loss for words. I didn't know if it was entirely because her technique was destroyed in an instant, but she seemed to be looking at Ikuse-san as is she was looking at a monster. Ikuse-san said to me

"Quickly decide on the final attack, Hyoudou Issei-kun. The dragon of legend should shine on the centre of the stage."

"Ah, yes!"

All right! Thanks to Rossweisse-san and Ikuse-san, the function of all the evil dragons had been stopped, and Walburga had successfully been trapped in here! Although this was somewhat rude to that jisan Strada, but let me get rid of this witch first! All the members of [DxD] had focused their attention onto Walburga. It was because everyone knew that the most dangerous person here was this witch. Walburga could feel the hostility arising from everyone, and laughed quietly, before laughing out loudly.

"Ahahahahahahaha!"

Walburga spread her arms out! A roar came from behind her and then purple flames ignited behind her, forming the shape of a cross!

"Well then, I'll let you experience it! My Balance Breaker!"

Walburga lifted her spirits in one breath, and the purple flames responded by expanding greatly! They gradually changed shape, continued to grow, and eventually formed a certain shape! That was an extremely large cross! And tied onto it was — a large eight-headed dragon! It was massive! Its enormous body was around two hundred metres in length! However, I was familiar with that thing! — It was Yamata no Orochi! No wonder it seemed familiar. Just the other day, I fought against the swordsman who was manipulated by it! Walburga stood in front of Yamata no Orochi which was made of purple flames as she said

"—This is my subspecies Balance Breaker: [Incinerate Antiphon Calvario] ♪"

Strada looked at the evil dragon bound to the cross and then said

"I've heard about the ability of the current user of the Holy Cross; it changes its shape and features depending on the object which is bound to the cross. Yamata no Orochi has been bound currently, isn't that right?"

So her subspecies Balance Breaker actually had this kind of ability! After hearing this, the witch said

"Yaegaki-kun's sword only had half the soul of [Yamata no Orochi] in it, while the remaining half was absorbed by my purple flames. That's because this Longinus's true form is an independent type ♪"

…Of all the things to absorb, it was an evil dragon! Using a holy relic to bind an evil dragon's soul, and then reproducing its power was really quite chaotic! But, although it was an evil dragon, its body was made of the holy relic's flames. Devils would inevitably be annihilated if they touched those flames. However, there was someone who bravely took a step forward — it was Xenovia. She held Excalibur and Durandal in each hand as she moved forward.

"Allow me. Currently, it should be possible."

Her expression was full of confidence, as if it was assurance of her bold actions. In the previous fight against Strada, perhaps Xenovia already mastered the true essence of Durandal's power. But, I'm also going to accompany you! I stood beside Xenovia, and pointed at Walburga as I said

"Now, you're going to be defeated by us!"

After I said that, I ordered my wyverns to fly ahead! Xenovia stood there quietly, and began raising the power of the two holy swords. I was clearly able to see the extremely dense and concentrated holy aura which enveloped the swords!

"You think that two people alone can do something to me!?"

I dodged the storm of spells that Walburga released as well as Yamata no Orochi's breath, and then began to increase that power! The opponent was female. Both dress break and pailingual could be used! But, Azazel-sensei had said that Walburga might use magic to defend against those techniques! Well, all I need to do — is break through her magical defences! I ordered the wyverns to surround Walburga! I allowed them to freely soar through the air! Walburga felt annoyed, and wanted to shoot them down with magic. But simply shooting down one or two of them was insignificant! As long as one of them hit her, then it would satisfy the conditions to activate my technique!

[Reflect!]

The wyverns freely flew around in the air reflecting the witch's spells as they entangled her, searching for an opening. Finally, one of them lightly touched her shoulder! In an instant, the pattern for my technique appeared on Walburga's shoulder! —The time was ripe! I injected energy into my right hand, and then cried out!

"—Penetrate!"

[Penetrate!!]

The voice from my Sacred Gear was emitted loudly! Then, I increased my demonic energy to expand the mysterious space around me!

"—Pailingual!"

The technique — surrounded Walburga! Pailingual successfully worked on the witch! After that, Walburga's oppai began speaking to me about what the witch was thinking.

"After this, I'll use magic to perform elemental attacks, along with [Yamata no Orochi] to pin down the Sekiryuutei. I'll look for opportunities at the same time, where I plan to release purple flames onto the [DxD] members who are waiting at the rear."

—Ah! Although I could understand the plan that Walburga had in mind, the voice of her oppai sounded like a rough, battle-hardened Sengoku warlord[12]!? There were such oppai!? I was dealt a heavy blow! Ah, oh well, it still allowed me to understand what the witch was planning to do! I flew forwards anticipating the witch's actions, as I shot down all of her elemental magic attacks, thus stopping her attack! Walburga was highly surprised when she realised that pailingual had been used on her!

"This can't be real!? I've been hit by that weird technique!? H-How can that be, this is me!"

Also because the situation was unfavourable for her, she was dealt an even greater shock from my pailingual! That ability was quite strange, I'm really sorry! However, as long as I used it together with Penetrate, it has been invincible against all the female opponents so far! I can anticipate all of your actions! Well, that settles this! I evaded the witch's spells of various attributes which were even more potent than Rossweisse-san's, or shot them down with dragon flames, and closed the distance between us in an instant! I hesitantly placed my hand on Walburga; it was a habit!

"Dress Break!"

I coolly shredded Walburga's clothing apart! Mmm! The shape of her oppai was not very good! A small waist as well as a small butt! I finally did it to this witch! My perseverance and dedication for perversion finally bore fruit!

"Mou, you hentai dragon!"

Despite making such a complaint, even in such a situation, Walburga didn't attempt to cover up her naked body, and continued to attack me; admire, admire! —Then, Xenovia made an announcement!

"—I'm coming, Ise. This is it!"

Xenovia said so, and then lifted up the two holy swords — although they were releasing a highly concentrated, and dense aura than they ever did before, they were still very stable! Xenovia said

"Because I was unable to control Durandal's agressive power, I temporarily used Excalibur to control it before. Furthermore, it was also to utilise the various abilities of Excalibur and practice using techniques. However, Durandal's and my nature — was still beating within me. My original fighting style was true — but, in my blind pursuit of power, I deviated from that nature. After a detour, I re-examined myself again, and have again decided to return to my original style."

With the sheer power of Durandal + Excalibur Destruction or Ascalon, she previously used a dual wielding style, but after encountering an enemy who she couldn't defeat with power alone, she also began to use the various techniques and abilities of Excalibur. Although the fighting style she used before me was the same as before; increased power with dual wielding — despite this, the atmosphere surrounding her, and her manner was vastly different to before. Despite having an agressive side, the holy aura was very stable, and didn't feel dangerous at all. Xenovia overlapped the two swords to form a cross, and then shouted!

"Because of the experiences that I've had so far, I've been able to return to my origin! They have become a part of my flesh and blood so that I can successfully control Durandal! Come on Durandal, sharpen! Excalibur as well! Together with Durandal, support me by my side, and guide me so that I can advance further!"

The holy aura of Durandal and Excalibur was released! The radiant light which was released from both blades illuminated the entire space, reaching all the way up to the sky! Xenovia lifted the two holy swords which were both encased in an immense holy aura! However, a tremendous burst of fire erupted from the eight-headed evil dragon made of purple flames, attempting to obstruct Xenovia! A fireball of purple flames! Because it was supplemented by the holy aura of the holy relic, its power against a devil would cause a one-hit kill if a direct hit was taken! However, there were reassuring nakama who dealt with it!

"I won't let you do it!"

"That's right!"

Irina and Koneko-chan respectively used Hauteclere and the power of purification to offset the fireball!

<<How could I let you get away with this!>>

"Well said."

Darkness Gasper and Kiba using a dark holy-demonic sword confidently got rid of the rest of the fireballs from the front! That guy Gasper was becoming more and more like a monster!

"We're also coming!"

"Eh!"

"Destruction is the Gremory's area of expertise."

The group of three onee-sans Akeno-san, Rias, Rossweisse-san each released Holy Lightning Dragons, bullets with the power of destruction, and magic projectiles, which destroyed the heads of the evil dragon one by one! When it came to destruction, we were experts! At the necks where Yamata no Orochi's heads were destroyed, purple flames gathered, and it was about to regenerate the heads which it lost. At that time, several lines which were covered in black flames extended towards it!

"—Nice work."

Saji! The lines which came out from the armour on his hand extended, and tied up the entire body of the evil dragon! The giant body of purple flames was gradually being eroded by the jet-black flames! The curse which could be seen with the naked eye surfaced, and had wrapped around the evil dragon's purple flame body! Vritra's curse was very powerful, as soon as it touched a body, it would not be easy to dispel. As the flames inflicted pain, the opponent's strength and soul would slowly be drained, eventually reducing them to ashes. These lines could strongly attach themselves to the opponent's body, and absorb their strength, thus people would feel awed by such an ability.

"—Xenovia-san, this is my duty as a vice-president candidate to greet and show my support for you as a candidate for the president. After this, it's up to you."

Saji said that to Xenovia as he made a thumbs up pose! Hearing Saji's joke, she courageously smiled and then replied

"Ah, well, I won't hold back then! The three of us are a sharp sword! Good, we'll go together!"

Xenovia formed a cross with the two holy swords which had their holy aura increased, and then released her slicing attack! The torrent of aura could be described as the shape of a large cross, and it boomed forwards! In an instant, everything that lay in its path was divided into two. Finally, the cross sliced apart the gigantic purple flamed [Yamata no Orochi]! It was quite ironic that the Holy Cross, which was a holy relic, was sliced apart by the cross generated from the wave of two holy swords — the wave which cut through the gigantic purple flamed dragon even sliced the artificial space in two, creating a large rift there. Looking into the rift, even the dimensional gap could be seen.

"—Cross Crisis, that will be its name."

Xenovia made her decision as she said that! Although it was only half a soul, to be able to take down the Holy Cross with an evil dragon, that power was quite extraordinary! However, I couldn't let Xenovia take the entire spotlight! Well, I also need to land a winning strike!

"…This can't be real, why have my purple flames been…!"

Walburga was frozen on the spot because of the impact of having her Balance Breaker cut in half by an attack! I relentlessly used the wyverns to increase my power, preparing to fire Crimson Blaster!

"…The evil dragon couldn't entirely be tied to the Holy Cross…? But, the [Chief mourner][13] in my body clearly said before that it was possible…!"

Facing the speechless witch, I finished charging up energy, and launched the attack!

"Crimson Blaaaasteerrr!"

[Fang Blast Booster!!!!]

The massive red aura which was fired out from my cannon enveloped the witch—.