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

Aaron Toole's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Avezza Cup Tournament Main Round Contenders:

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Team Vajra] – [King] – Indra

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

[Team Moon Rabbits] – [King] – Kurousagi

[Team Shinto] – [King] – Hachiman

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Current Existing [Longinus] – Original 13:

— ○ ● ○ —

[True Longinus] – Wielder – Kanami Minagawa

[Zenith Tempest] – Wielder – Dulio Gesualdo

[Annihilation Maker] – Wielder – Leonardo

[Dimension Lost] – Wielder – Georg

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

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

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

[Sephiroth Graal] – Wielder – Vali Tepes

[Incarnate Anthem] – Wielder – Lint Sellzen

[Regulus Nemea] – Wielder – Sairaorg Bael

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

New Classified Longinus – [New Longinus]:

— ○ ● ○ —

[Aeon Balor] – Wielder – Gasper Vladi

[Alphecca Tyrant] – Wielder – Meridith Ordinton

[Unknown Dictator] – Wielder – Magnus Rose

[Nereid Kyrie] – Wielder – Ingvild Leviathan

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

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

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

[Linear Basiliki] – Wielder – Hirokazu Miller

[Demon Armor: Incursio] – Wielder – Jin Skyward

[Abyssal Twilight] – Wielder – Jin Skyward

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Suzaku Himejima's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

The music commenced, and...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Aaron Toole's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Group A:

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Group B:

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Lie.]

{Tell the truth.}

<<Vomit. >>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Sis—"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

"Will this do then?" I inquired.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

"Understood," I replied.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Irina-chan, are you seeing anyone?"

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

"Lint-san, please become my bride."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

{I prefer to remain uninvolved…}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diethelm responded with a thoughtful "Perhaps."

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

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

Everyone present was taken aback by the revelation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

However...

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

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

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

...Mooooo~

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Kurousagi's Soliloquy

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

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

[Raijin-sama!]

[Hachiman-sama!]

[Unleash the might of the Japanese Gods!]

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

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

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

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

"Right!" they chorused in unison.

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

[Next in line—]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Of course not."

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —

Team Shinto

— ○ ● ○ —

King – Hachiman

Queen – Raijin

Bishop (2) – Amaterasu

Rook (2) – Ryūjin

Knight – Miyamoto Musashi

Knight – Yoshitsune Minamoto

Pawn (5) – Oda Nobunaga

Pawn (2) – Benkei Musashibou

Pawn (1) – Yoichi Nasuno

— ○ ● ○ —

Team Moon Rabbits

— ○ ● ○ —

King – Kurousagi

Queen – Vera

Bishop – Tenidil

Bishop – Irre

Rook – Eliora

Rook – Sanura

Knight – Yasek

Knight – Xena

Pawn (5) – Teisetsu

Pawn (3) – Rindo

— ○ ● ○ —

Third Person Point of View

— ○ ● ○ —

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— ○ ● ○ —