Hope you enjoy the chapter, Readers!

Shiva Village

"Ha, ha, ha, ha!" a young feminine voice shouts as sound of punches can be heard through the air, echoing around the quiet grass field, continuously. The petite light-blonde girl speed forward and pull both hands back before thrusting them forward, obliterating the three trees in front to dust by sheer force.

The blonde black flips and snap her green eyes open "Who's there?" she abruptly asks, standing up and glance behind to see a cloak figure standing in the center of the field. Getting only silence, the blonde turns around to face the stranger "I asked... who are you?" she question in harsher tone.

"Doesn't matter who I am" the stranger finally speaks, their voice is soft spoken, clearly a woman in the cloak, judging by the light feminine tone. "Are you Alis Bethan?" she questions the devil "I am" the blonde answers with narrow eyes, which quickly snap in alert when the cloak individual sprint towards her immediately when getting an answer.

By the ungodly speed of the stranger, Alis didn't have enough time to block the incoming backhand to the stomach that send her barreling across the field. Alis is able to regain her balance and flip to her feet, then blocks an incoming kick from the side. Alis look up and her eyes widen in fright when she sees glowing red eyes with slit pupils looking down at her "Wrong move" the stranger state calmly.

Alis let out a painful scream when an intense pain shoots from her left arm, she snaps her sight to it and her eyes widen in horror and shock when she sees the enemy's feet phase through her left arm, cutting it like it was a butter. Alis duck down to dodge the kick that was coming to her waist, but due to the intense pain and shock, she didn't have time to block another kick to the face that sends her sliding back on her behind.

Alis sits up and grabs her heavily bleeding and missing left arm, she looks forward, seeing her dismembered blooded left hand laid on the ground, in front of the stranger. 'W-what was that?' the blonde utters in her mind, gritting her teeth tightly in pain, tears form on her eyes from the excruciating pain she has never experience before 'H-her leg just phased through my arm and when it fully goes through... my hand was severed... t-that's no normal magic'.

"Ends here... for you, young one" Alis gasp when hearing the voice coming from behind and before she could move away, two fingers phase through her head. Alis find herself unable to move her body, but her eyes moves up to see an index and ring finger pointing out from her forehead 'N—', suddenly, blood explode from the forehead and the back of blonde's head, her eyes roll up and her body goes limp.

The stranger slowly pulls her fingers back and when it's fully out of Alis's head, the blonde collapse forward to the ground, dead. The glowing red eyes stare down at the corpse "I'll be taking your place for the tournament".

Gremory Beach House

Melodic and soft breathing rings around the quiet room. The sun wasn't even up yet, the beach still quiet with the exception of a numbers of cleaners picking up the trashes and left overs to get the beach ready for another day. The bathroom door slowly and quietly opens to show Nawin exiting it with a towel wrap around his waist, he makes way to the dresser to get dress.

When finishing putting on a long-sleeve brown button shirt, leaving a few buttons open, a long black slack with his usual black combat boots with red soles. Nawin slowly turn to the sleeping figure in bed, making the breathing noise that he finds soothing to listen to. He makes his way to the bed and see Akeno sleeping soundly there, making him smile. Gently, he pulls some raven hair strands away from her gorgeous face and leans in to give her a short loving kiss "Goodbye... Akeno" he whispers.

Nawin exit the house and turn around to see Akame standing below the steps, waiting for him with a backpack hoisted on her back. The Makasha walk down the stairs, holding the blank expression on his face and when he reaches down, without turning, he taps Akame's forehead with his index and middle finger. He turns to her and smile "Enjoy the past few days?" he asks, retracting his right arm "Yes... it was fun, especially yesterday" Akame reply with a faint smile.

"That's good to hear... it will be a long while until we have another fun vacation like this" Nawin state, turning to face the beach "Sometimes I wish this vacation could continue on forever... but the sad reality is it can't. Let's go" "Understood". Nawin grabs Akeno's shoulder "Leaving already?" a voice stops them. Nawin turns around to see Issei, Kokoro, and Elise standing in front of the door, the three already showered and dressed.

Nawin release Akame's shoulder and turn to fully face them "Yes, the earliest I start, the better" "That's what I like to hear, I had to whacked this lazy-ass out of bed" Kokoro said, indicating to the still half-asleep Issei "Really now?" Nawin ask in amusement "Yeah and complained, even though he asked me to wake him up early today... this guy" Kokoro shakes her head while Elise snigger "Don't be so harsh on him, Kokoro, clearly, Issei isn't a morning person" "Same as you, but you are fully awake now" "True".

Issei yawns and jumps down to land in front of the Makasha "Anyway," he grins, suddenly losing all the sleepiness "This is it, Nawin! We are off to our training" he said with clear excitement ringing in his tone". Nawin slowly nod "Yeah, my advice is to be serious, Issei. This teacher of yours... I have a feeling she will be someone special" "I got the feeling too, I'm excited to meet her! Also, I'm just glad to finally have my own teacher!" Issei admits with a chuckle.

"Indeed, I would have never gotten this far if it wasn't for Azazel, same can be said with Lucy. Now, I got to go, Issei" Nawin state making the Hyoudou nod "Alright" Issei smile and lift his right hand up, catching the others attention "I'll see you at the conference" Nawin smirk and accepts the Hyoudou hand "Yeah... take care, Issei and one thing".

Nawin suddenly pulls Issei in and leans near his ear "Out of everyone in the tournament... the one I want to fight most is you, so don't disappoint me" he whispers as the Hyoudou listen in shock and slowly an ecstatic feeling burst inside him that he couldn't help but smirk and grip the Makasha's hand tight "Oh I won't, I swear in my life and honor of a High-Class Devil".

The two pulls back, smirking at each other, their eyes burning with fire in anticipation. "Good" Nawin release Issei's hand and take a few paces back to Akame "I'll be seeing you later. Bye, Kokoro, Elise" he said the two girls "Yeah, take care, Nawin" "Train strong! Nawin!".

The Makasha holds Akame's shoulder and look back one more time at Issei, who smile and nod "See you, Nawin" he said and watch the two disappear in black flash.

Manoja Village

In a wide empty room build on hard cement, looking like a large training ground, there in the center stood a large man. The man has short blond hair, olive green eyes, pale rough skin, and a define, sturdy facial structure. He is a tall height, six feet and five inches to be exact. The man is heavily build showing all his hard and grinding workout. His's upper body is big and build like a beast with broad shoulders, muscular arms and six-pack shown clear, his lower body is smaller but still full of muscle in the legs, giving him great agility and speed.

The attire the man wear is no shirt, a black sweat short that goes up to his knees and a brown combat boot with a silver plate covering the whole toe cap. The man stands straight, in a calm posture with eyes close and arms down. His body suddenly tense when five black mask individual surrounds him. The man slowly opens his sharp eyes and look intensely at the mask person in front "Gonna stand around all day, boy?" the man asks in unexpectedly high voice coming from his large physique look.

The mask man in front move and stop right in front of the blonde, then, blazingly step to the side and deliver a kick to the stomach. "Urh?!" the mask man pauses when the kick did no effect on the large blonde. "Cute" he comments and effortlessly grab the mask man by the neck and slams him to the ground once before uncaringly tossing him to the others.

The blonde jumps up to dodge the incoming kick from two individuals, he falls back down and stomps right down to the two's back, crushing them to the ground. The blonde kneels to dodge an incoming fist, then he slides behind the man's back and grab tightly onto his waist "Take this, bitch!" he shouts with a large grin and lift the man up to deliver a devastating suplex that buries the mask man's upper body to the ground.

The blonde lets go and swiftly move to the right to dodge a drop kick, the other man was about to get up and jump away, when a hard fist slam him from the right at his face. The blonde man watches the last mask man flying away and crash into the wall before rubbles falls and buries him completely.

The blonde let out a laughter before it slowly turning into a chuckle "Was this a joke? Your Empress!" he shouts, turning to the north and look up at the upper floor. At the metal railing leans over a gorgeous raven-haired woman. Her hair falls in a cascade of curls onto her shapely shoulders. Her face is very pale though shapely structure that adds more to her beauty. Her eyes are cold and sparkling with a blazing violet gaze. She is slightly taller than average woman height with slender and agile figure with generous size rounded breast and thick strong thighs.

The Empress wears black and white, white long-sleeve shirt under a leather black vest, for under she wears a long, tight black pants that have white flowers decorated on the right leg all the way from the up to bottom and to finish it off she wears a special made black metal heels. "Then go do some contracts... picked them on the billboards if you want some challenge," the Empress retorts "But," she suddenly said, her eyes violet shines brightly in warning "Don't do something asinine like getting yourself killed or injured. You are representing Manoja, keep that in mind, Lock".

The blonde smirk in smug "Don't need to worry, Your Empress... I shall be fully ready for the tournament... ain't gonna miss the chance to brutalize that Black Flash" "Do whatever you wish, just no killing" the Empress comment uncaringly and stands up "Lord Falbium, entrusted me with this task and the task is to find a worthy warrior for Manoja. Your records and performance in the preliminary has proven that you are best suited for the role".

Still holding the smug look, Lock turn around and walk toward the only door build in the large room "I don't care about Manoja's reputation... I'm going in there to enjoy myself! Fighting Devils, Angels, Fallen Angels and crushing them into pieces" he stops in front of the door and glance back at the Empress "That's how I've been living my whole life, destroying people and fighting opponents that can provide me some fun" he said, opening the door.

"Also... I'm not cleaning that up" Lock state, turning his head to the right to see a hundred pile of unconscious body laid on the end of the room, all of them wearing the same black mask. The Empress watch the blonde fighter exiting and harshly close the door. "It's all up to him now" she sighs and flick her fingers to get rid of the piles of body, all of them burst into sparkling blue particle and disappear.

The Empress flick her finger one more to summon numbers of paper, she grabs it from the air and hold it in front of her face "Lock Jons, Orphaned, lost his parents in a small village they lived... the village got slaughtered by a group of Ghouls, when they were still alive until all their specious just suddenly disappeared." The Empress turn to another paper "Rough background... never played nice with other kids and got into his fair share of fight... gotten so bad that at aged of twelve, the orphanage kicked him out. Ever since then he's been living by himself, enrolled himself into a soldier school and no surprised, he caused trouble there, trying to pick a fight with other kids and an all-around bully. Though, after some threatened from the principle and promised to kick him out, he behaved and graduated, become one of the best student in his class for the battle field skills at least, he lacked the intelligent side, teachers said he's reckless, though at times shows genius in the battlefield, if he's in the mood"

The Empress turn to the last page "Huh, instead of joining the army or the three-men squad after graduation. He became a lone man team that serves under Manoja, though clearly, he doesn't care about that and just enjoy taking dangerous missions to test his strength and was never fond working with others" she states out and toss the papers away that burst in green flames "As long as he enters the tournament and compete... I don't care what he does".

Varuna Village

"Why am I not surprised you won" Serafall groans, entering the medium size house, build in simple fashion, in stone and wooden roof. She looks at the kitchen and see a slender figure sitting there with their back face towards her. "Yooo! Serafall!" the person slurs, clearly showing signs of beginning drunkenness, they lift a mug of beer up before slamming it down.

Serafall sighs as she closes the wooden door and makes way toward the kitchen. She takes a sit at the other end of the table and face the person at the other end of a dim room which is only light up by candles on the table and walls. Serafall looks forward to the short haired girl. The girl's dark blue hair falls around her sharp structured face, smooth tan skin, a dark violet eyes that glows brightly, shining in the dark room, a single small mole is seen in the right, at the center between her mouth and chin.

The attire the girl wears is a sleeveless black shirt, showing a tattoo of a broken heart on her right arm, the top half of the heart is colored pink while the bottom is black, for under she wears a short denim blue leans that reach down to her knees, a long black boot and there's special made leg brace tighten on the girl's right knee.

"Why did you enter the preliminary?" Serafall slowly ask, worry clearly heard in her tone "You thought I would sit it out?" the girl ask in astonish "I expected you too! After what happened, I advised you to sit it out!" Serafall raise her voice in frustration. Serafall slowly calms down after taking a long deep breath and exhale. She looks up at the girl "This tournament isn't a joke, Lenna, you will be up against opponent that are as strong as Ultimate-Class" she informs "I already know, but," Lenna takes another gulp from the mug.

"What was I supposed to do? The Emperor called m—" "You tricked him to enter" Serafall corrects, blankly "Uh-hum, like I said! The Emperor called me to enter and I of course never turn away from a challenge" Lenna grins widely "And no surprise that I won it! So sorry, Serafall, but I am entering the tournament!" she said with confidents.

Serafall shake her heads "You do realize I am a Satan, right? I can easily just discard you from that winning spot and put the upper up in there" she said. Lenna eyes widen in anxious "Oh come on!" she shouts, slamming the mug down the table "You can't do that! I won fair and square, also, who else is better than me to represent Varuna!" "I won't deny that you are the best fighter in Varuna... nobody can touch you, but you have the habit of going overboard... it's the reason why you have that leg brace on you and it will stay there for a long time, maybe forever"

"I was just protecting the village! What you wanted me to do? Let the wild Cyclops squished and eats all of the men, woman, and children?!" Lenna shout, getting angry "You got the chance to call backup to help you with that! Facing Ten Cyclops by yourself was asinine, your mission was over and you were exhausted! But you blindly and recklessly charged in there! You had the chance to call for reinforcement. Instead you just had to play the hero and do it yourself!" Serafall shoots back, getting up and slam the table, causing the empty mug to fly to the side and crash onto the floor.

Lenna grits her teeth and stay silence "You can't be so brash" Serafall said, calming herself once more "Oh yeah? Then why didn't you taught me that" Lenna said quietly, shocking the Leviathan "Could have taught me that, you could have made me stronger and become a bigger asset to this village! but you decided not to. Now this girl, out of nowhere was gladly allowed to be taken under your wings?! Instead of training me to become stronger and help protect this village, YOUR VILLAGE! You just took this no name girl who isn't even born devil and trained her! For what re--" "SILENCE!" Serafall cuts in, shutting the younger girl up.

"I know you hold a grudge for me never taking you under my wing, but I wasn't capable of teaching anyone back then! It's different compare to now. I was not equipped mentally to have a student back then much less wanted one!" Serafall shouts "Then why her? If you were incapable of training people back then, then why couldn't you have start training me now!" "You don't need it anymore! You've been doing fine by yourself for all these decades! You are the brightest student in this village. Why do you need me? Do you want to tarnish all the respect and credit you've gained? You have become this strong all by yourself instead of being specially trained under a Satan... think carefully, Lenna" Serafall state.

Lenna pause, taking in the Satan's word and there's a lot of truth in it that she can't argue "Fine..." she sighs "You're right... sorry, it's just hearing you have a student, your first and I know your last... it just infuriated me. Is she special?" Lenna ask softly. Serafall nod and smile faintly "It's the reason why I took her in, she... reminds me a lot of myself, when I was young. Hiding behind a mask for the sake for her brother, like I wore a goofy mask, for the sake of protecting my Little Sister.

"You're planning on making her your successor?" Lenna ask in hesitant "Undecided... she will have to choose, either become the next Archdevil or take the Leviathan name and become the next Satan. It's a far way off since I won't be retiring anytime soon, but she will be gifted those choices." "There has always been three Archdevil... finally there's a chance for it to be a complete four" "If she has the strength to past the trial... not many can" Serafall adds.

"I see... I will see what's so special about her at the tournament then" Lenna announce, alerting Serafall "Before you even say it, I will enter the tournament, gift this to me, Serafall... for never training me. I can look past that, if you allow me to enter" Lenna said. Serafall bites her bottom lips before slowly complies "Fine... just, just be careful, understand?".

Lenna smirk and slowly gets up, she walks around the table with surprising ease, though a slight limp can still be seen when she takes a step on the right foot though you really have to focus on it. "See?" Lenna stop beside Serafall "I'm not wearing those long ones, it's only covering my knees. It helps me move my right leg with much ease and less strain. Those cyclops did do some damaged, smashing their clubs and fists, but I quickly come adjust to it" "Still, the opponent seeing that will surely take advantage" "Then I will be more alert about my right knee" Lenna reply calmly.

Lenna turn around and walk toward the front door. When reaching it, she stops and turn her head to the right to glance back at Serafall "Cast your worry to that student of yours. I have no ill feeling toward her because of the position she's in, but I will test her strength and see what she's made off. Train her to the bones, Serafall because I will not be holding back when we step in that arena, face to face".

Lenna opens the door "Would be an embarrassment and a big hit at your reputation if she falls, especially by my hands" she said her last words and leave the house. Serafall stand still for a minute before releasing a long sigh "Was it right for me to take Lucy in?" she utters. Images of the blonde's wide smiling face appear, another one shows the two laughing together, laying down in a large fresh crater "No... it was no mistake. Sorry, Lenna, but Lucy was no mistake... you weren't the right person to be my student and from what you achieved ever since then, it was the right call for me".

Serafall turn her head to the right to see a picture hanging on the wall "Huh... it feels like ages since that was taken" she utters, staring at the picture of a young Lenna, grinning happily and wearing a graduation uniform. Standing beside her was Serafall herself, wearing the same matching grin and had her left-hand place on the shorter girl's head in pride.

Lucifer Castle: Sirzech's Office

"Ah... greetings, Issei" Sirzech place his pan down and turn up to see Issei entering the room and stop in front of his desk "Greetings, Sirzech-sama" Issei reply back sheepishly "What brings you here?" "I came here to ask... where is my teacher? You didn't tell me where we will meet" Issei ask.

Sirzech blinks before letting out a laugh "My apologies that had slipped my mind" he said, scratching the back of his head while Issei sweat drops 'No kidding'. Sirzech quickly regains his composure and smile calmly "She will be waiting for you in an old training ground, called Ground Four. Here's the map to show you the direction in case you get lost, it isn't far from here so you should be fine" Sirzech opens a drawer underneath the desk and pull out a simple looking brown scroll.

Issei catch the scroll and opens it to see a wide map showing a half of Vesarima "Oh, it's in the end of north-west... just at the edge of Vesarima Walls" Issei said, looking closely at the map "Yes. Now, you should start moving, I told her you would arrive there around Six-thirty and it's six-ten now. To give you a fair warning, she hates being kept waiting" Sirzech informs.

Issei close the scroll and nod, regaining his grin "Alright, I'll be there right away. Thanks, Sirzech-sama!" he said and to the surprise of the Satan, Issei runs toward the open windows and jumps out. Sirzech looks outside and see Issei releasing his wings and flies toward the North-west direction "Ahaha, just like, Rias" Sirzech chuckle, before returning to work.

Near Ground Four

"Hmm... I just passed the large museum, so it should be straight forward from here" Issei looks at the map then turn his head forward to see he enter a large and lush forest. Endless of healthy and tall green trees planted on the side of the walls. "Whao... those walls are gigantic! Now that I got the chance to look at it up close" Issei said, staring at the fifty-five-meter-tall walls made of strong concrete. "Huh... there seems to be some other kind of material in there" Issei comment, seeing some small pieces of unknown material in the wall shining in variety of colors courtesy of the sun rays shining down on the walls "It's definitely not only concrete in there".

Issei spot a clear grass field at the center of the forest. A long, deep river runs through the middle of the large field and disappearing into the dense forest from both ends. Issei looks closely and spot a dark figure sitting on a large boulder near the right side of the river "That must be her" he utters and flaps his wing to fly down.

Issei lands on the ground and recedes his wings. He looks up and sees his teacher has her back face toward him. Issei notice the large black cloak she wears, the cloak looks like it's been through battles with few holes and slash damage shown, there's also a hood worn over her head. The Hyoudou feels shivers slither done his spine 'Just looking at her back... the air suddenly feels frightening and my heart is beating out of control' he utters, staring wide-eye at the person, anxiously waiting her to turn around.

Issei notice a long hilt pointing out from the top of the cloak. The hilt's handle has bandage warp around it, the strong pummel is craft in a shape of a heptagon. "Issei Hyoudou" her deep, rough voice suddenly calls out "Y-yes, it's me" Issei answers and mentally slap himself for stuttering and showing his nervousness.

Issei gulps when seeing the woman grab the handle tightly "Now... let's see if you are worth my time" she said and disappears. 'Partner!' Ddraig shouts and Issei since a presence from behind. He turns around to see an abnormally massive sword pointing up to the sky before it rains down on him.

Sirzech's Office

"Are you sure it's wise to have her as Issei-sama's teacher?" Grayfia questions, placing a hot cup of tea down on her husband's desk "I wouldn't do it if I thought it was a bad idea" Sirzech reply, looking through the papers that holds all of the contenders' name and insight on some of their background. "It's been a decade since she has return here... she's been on her own for long enough and Issei might be able to shine some light" "Stuff like those won't heal no matter how long time has passed, Sirzech" Grayfia said in serious tone.

Sirzech pause "I know what you are doing is for her wellbeing, but don't force it down... you'll do more harm than good. If the two does get along then your intention will succeed, but if it doesn't then don't push it and find Issei-sama a proper teacher. If you can't, then I shall train him for the tournament" Grayfia said. "... Alright" Sirzech throw the paper down and turn to the large crystal ball on his desk "Let's see how it turns out".

Ground Four

'Partner, calm down!' Ddraig shouts at the panting Hyoudou, rushing through the dense forest with a terrified expression worn on his face "S-she was gonna kill me!" he shouts, remembering the menacing sword coming down at him and before it could slice him in half, he summons the boosted gear to momentarily stop the blow before the sacred gear itself shattered and send him flying into the forest.

'Breath! You are not focus! She can appear from these trees at any time and strike' Ddraig warns 'Quickly get back to the open field, you can't fight her here' 'F-fight?' 'Yes! Aren't you gonna show her what you are made off? Are you already chickening out?! You think the Makasha was running away like this when he fought against Azazel?!' Ddraig shouts and it seems to work, when Issei stop his movement and stand still.

'Out of everyone in the tournament... the one I want to fight most is you, so don't disappoint me' Nawin's word ring through the Hyoudou's mind. Issei slowly lift his head and his brown eyes now shines in bright emerald with burning determination shine in them. "What was I thinking" he chuckles at himself and clench his hands, slowly, the boosted gear form around his right arm "I'm not giving up!" he shouts, turning around and speed forward.

The woman nickname Kaliyah didn't give chase when the Hyoudou ran off. 'Was that it?' she utters in her mind, standing tall with the hood still covering her whole face. The tall woman holds the massive weapon on her right hand. The oversize sword as tall as her, the sword is made from an unknown material. It is a wide blade, wide enough to be use as a shield against projectiles. The sword doesn't have a cross guard, it's blade is both wider and thicker than the grip, the huge blade was self-sharpened by the owner, even though for its huge size, it looks like it could cut a boulder like butter.

Kaliyah perk up when hearing footstep rushing toward the field, she smirks and tighten her grip on the sword's handle "Grow some balls, have you?" she said and swing her sword forward to the incoming Hyoudou. Issei gasp in shock, without even making contact to the sword, he is blast away from the sheer strength behind the swing that create a powerful wind blast.

Issei lands on his feet and dash to the right "Dragon Shot!" he exclaims, thrusting the boosted gear forward to fire a red magic ball. Kaliyah moves the sword forward and turn the blade's face to block the incoming ball. Issei burst from the smoke and strike the boosted gear forward, but Kaliyah saw it coming and move her blade once again to block the frontal assault.

The air boom from the power of Issei's strike "Predictable" Kaliyah comment and flick the Hyoudou's forehead with her other head. "Gahhh!" Issei is send flying back in immense speed before crashing to the ground. "Uhh" he sits up and clench his head in pain "C-can't see" he utters in his blurry sight. 'Get the hell out of there!' Ddraig warns and Issei, hearing the dragon's warning, roll to the right to dodge the gigantic blade coming down on the spot.

"A-are you trying to kill me?!" Issei shouts, shaking his head and look at the blade bury in the ground "That's the point" Kaliyah said, bringing her sword up and slash down again, but Issei is able to jump back, narrowly dodging the large blade. Issei fires up a rotation and jump forward "Hmm" Kaliyah hums in intrigue when seeing the technique "So that's the rotation I've heard much about" she utters and stab her sword to the ground.

Kaliyah move her body to the right to dodge the attack and shoots her right hand out, precisely grabbing the Hyoudou's wrist "Sloppy" she comment and fires a left uppercut that send Issei high up in air. Kaliyah jumps up and drops a kick to the Hyoudou's stomach, causing him to go crashing down to the ground.

Issei groans loudly in pain, he shakily opens his eyes and move the rubbles away from his stomach and slowly sits up "Is this it? I'm starting to questions Lord Sirzech choice" Kaliyah stop in front of the Hyoudou, her sword still stabbed on the ground behind her.

Issei shoots up, but gets a fist to the face before he could even send his own right arm forward. Kaliyah pause when seeing Issei's form burst into a smoke, showing a large piece of a rock "Not bad" she comments and nonchalantly block an incoming fist from the left, aimed for her head.

Kaliyah crush the boosted gear and release her grip before sending a back hand to Issei's face, sending him barreling across the field. "Those tricks won't work on me" Kaliyah state, walking back to her sword, not even caring she is leaving her back wide open for the Hyoudou to attack.

"Restriction seal release!" Kaliyah hears Issei's voice shout from behind, her body stiff when sensing a presence appear at her right. Kaliyah back step to dodge a kick and bring her right arm forward to block a back hand "Dragon Blast!" Issei shouts, turning right hand back, facing the woman.

Kaliyah eyes widen and quickly she jumps back and grab her sword, moving it forward to narrowly block the red blast. Issei continue holding the attack, the blast splatter away from the blade, destroying the ground and trees behind the Archdevil.

'Don't lose the momentum, partner! GO ALL OUT!' Ddraig yells in encouragement. Issei grits his teeth, his emerald eyes flare in determination "ROTATION!" he shouts, dispelling the dragon blast and dash toward Kaliyah in sound speed. The rotation form on the boosted gear's palm, it starts growing bigger until it covers the whole palm "Take this!" he slips past the blade and thrust the spinning ball right to the Archdevil's stomach.

Issei notice something after a few second past 'Why isn't anything happening? She isn't being sent away or even screaming?!' he thinks in shock and look closely 'What is that?!' he spots a red ray seeping from underneath the cloak, it's a different kind of color compare to his rotation.

"I applaud you for that attempt, that honestly caught me by surprise" Kaliyah commend "W-wait... your left arm" Issei utters, noticing the woman's left arm is missing 'It's inside the cloak, she caught the rotation! But I don't feel a hand around the boosted gear's wrist!'.

"I've seen enough" Kaliyah said and powers up her raw magic. "Gah! Kuh!" Issei coughs out in air and falls to his knees, the boosted gear falls out from the cloak and the rotation is nowhere to be seen. Sweats start forming all around the Hyoudou's shaking body.

Issei looks up and his heart skip a beat when he sees glowing yellow eyes looking down at him, from Kaliyah's shadow face that still hides by the hood. The pupils are slit like a dragon and it is the last thing he saw before the thick, heavy gravity pushes him down even more violently, it was too much for him, causing him to go unconscious, but those menacing yellow slit eyes is etch to his memory before everything turn black.

Kuoh: Makasha's Household

"We're back!" Asia announce cheerfully, entering the house with Akeno beside her, the two hold hands so the blind girl wouldn't trip and hurt herself. "Welcome back, you two" Yao walk out from the living room, dress in casual clothes consist of a sleeve-less white shirt and short black pants that stop down to her knees. "How was the trip?" she asks, stopping in front of the two and hoist Asia up for a hug which the blonde happily returns.

Akeno smiles and answer "It was a delightful trip. Surprisingly, all of us were able to get along perfectly" "Really?" Yao reply in surprise "I expected to be some bumps along the way" "There was, but Onii-chan was able to get everyone along with each other" Asia moves her head up and informs her mother "Oh?". "He helped Sona's peerage with their negative view toward him" Akeno decide to explain "I heard about that from, Lucy. Not such a great first impression he made, but I can see the reason my son took that action" "Same here, that event caused some of the member to have a negative opinion on him, which cause some conflict in the group since, Lucy won't stand for anyone bad mouthing or thinking badly of Nawin-kun" "Understandable. I'm going to take a wild guess and say that Nawin whipped them to their senses?" Yao ask, making the two young girls let out a giggle.

"That perfectly sums it up, they now see him in a new light. Also, one thing that surprised me is that he was able to make friend with Riser" "The arrogant blonde boy from the Phenex clan? How did that happen? If there's one thing Nawin hates, it's arrogant people" "I know, but it's a help from Riser's Queen, Yubelluna, who holds a secret affection towards Riser for a longtime now and Nawin-kun helped her and gave her confidents to finally express her love to Riser. Everything turned out well and Riser owns Nawin-kun deeply for that, also he's learned to be less arrogant which helps".

"Onii-chan is amazing" Asia said, her arms still sling around her mother's neck "He helps everyone! But instead with magic, he used words and kindness. He's the best!". Akeno and Yao laughs at the young blonde's comment though agrees with her "He sure is. You sure look up to him, don't you, Asia?" Yao questions, gently running her hand down the girl's blonde lock "Of course, I want to be like Onii-chan! Strong, determined, never gives up, and he doesn't second thought on helping people" "You have a good person to look up to, though your amazing and bright personality will definitely help you in that dream of helping others in need. You will be like everyone's Guardian Angel" Akeno said.

Yao gets a chuckle out of this "Funny thing to say to a Devil, but being honest, Asia is far from a Devil... it's almost insulting to put her in the category close to Devil" she said, rubbing the blonde's head affectionately "I whole-heartedly agree," Akeno giggle "But it makes her unique compare to other Devils, we will never find another Devil who hold such a kind and golden heart like Asia".

Asia blushes brightly at all the praise, and squeak "You two are embarrassing me!" she shouts, but smile "I'm not that perfect!" "True, you are a klutz" Akeno comment, causing the blonde to pout "That's mean, Akeno-chan!" she said, making the two older girls giggle.

Yao place the blonde down and turn to face Akeno "So, Nawin and Lucy already headed out?" "Yes, I got word from Sona that Lucy left before they were even awake, same goes with Nawin-kun, he wasn't present when I woke up" "Issei-san, also left early... all three of them must be really determine to get stronger to leave early to start training for the tournament. I hope all of them do well" Asia utters "I'm sure they will, those three have lots of untapped potential. It's up to them and their teachers to unlock it" Yao said wisely.

"They have two weeks, so there's enough time to improve." Akeno state "By the way, Yao-san, did you ever thought about what to do with school for Asia? It's starting again tomorrow and she's been missing it for over a month now" the Himejima brings up the rather sore subject with hesitant tone though it shouldn't be ignored any further.

Yao's smile quickly turns to a frown "She can't go back to Kuoh Academy, Akeno... it will raise to many unwanted attentions for her" she said, placing a comforting hand on Asia's head, giving it a soft rub "She was able to attend the observation day because we all hid her well. But when she goes tomorrow, it will get attention and what would be the explanation? For her sudden blindness" "I guess you have a point, but it's not right to keep her in this house for any longer, it doesn't do any good for her" Akeno said, trying to reason the Mother.

Yao let out a long sigh, she chuckles mentally 'Sounds like something Nawin, would say, no doubt he would agree with her' she thinks and notice Asia's uncertain expression 'She really wants to go to school, it's clear in her face, but she's afraid to speak out...'. "... Alright" Yao said, surprising the girls "She can go back to school" she allows, making the two girls beam in delight, though that is cut short "On one condition" Yao said in seriousness "That someone from Rias's peerage must be at her side at all time. Two reasons why I want that, one is to keep her from hurting herself, she can't sense everything around her and two is to keep the suspiciousness low. Asia can use her senses to navigate around better than most of the blind, having a person with her will settle those suspicion"

Akeno nod "That's fine, Koneko is always by Asia-chan's side. She will have no problem being that role" "Mama, I'm not that useless with my current condition" Asia pouts in slight anger, not liking people treating her special because of her blindness "But, you have a good point about the suspicious thing, so I can't complain. Also," she smiles brightly "Thank you for allowing me to go back to school!" "It's alright, it will do you good going back there instead of just sitting around here all day".

Asia hugs her mother in gratitude, Yao smile and return the hugs "By the way," she pulls back and turn to Akeno "What are you guys going to do with Lucy, Issei, and Nawin not attending school in the coming weeks?" "Sona, will handle that, those three will just be absent, sighting some reason that she will come up with. She's pretty much the principle behind the scene. Rias, also have that status, but she doesn't bother with those kinds of matter and just enjoy her school life normally" Akeno answers "I see, sounds like her".

Ichiru's Household

"It's nice to see that sign again!" Misako smile cheerfully when spotting her family's bakery sign in the distance "This was the longest time you ever been away from home, right?" Wendy ask, walking beside her taller friend. 'Hmm' Misako didn't catch the Marvell's questions, she blinks when for the first time she sense something 'Weird... could it be?' she suddenly takes off in a sprint, surprising Wendy "Misako! Where are you going?!" she shouts, but it went to deaf ears.

Misako pants slightly while crossing an empty street, she smiles brightly when getting closer and sprint faster. "Nawin-kun!" she shouts when seeing a figure dress in all black leaning on a light pole. The person turns around and it is indeed Nawin there, smiling when seeing her and waves "Misako" he said softly as the Ichiru stops in front of him, panting lightly.

Nawin expression turn into slight concern "You ok?" he asks, gently placing his hand on the girl's shoulder "Don't push yourself so hard, Misako... last thing I want to happen is seeing that sickness resurface" "Y-yeah, I guess you are right" Misako looks up and smile "I'm just excited to see you again! After all, you left early this morning without telling us" "Yeah... sorry about that" Nawin pulls his hand back "I had some business to take care off with Akame and it required me to leave early. I will be departing soon to start my training trip with, Azazel" he informs.

"Oh, why are you here then?" Misako ask, tilting her head to the side "To say goodbye, of course" Nawin smile "I won't be seeing you for the next two weeks, though it may be even longer since you won't be able to come to the underworld for the tournament" "Yeah," Misako pouts sadly "I was hoping to be there to cheer for you... even though the underworld doesn't sound like the safest and inviting place... I want to be there to cheer for you" she said shyly.

"I know, but there is a second option" Nawin speaks, catching Misako's attention "Azazel already installed a special chip into my house's television, allowing it to get access to the channel that the tournament will be broadcasting, so, all you need is my mother's permission to watch at the house which I'm sure she has no problem with" "Really?! That's great to hear" Misako grins brightly, excited to at least watch the Makasha in action.

"Yeah, just inform your parents and they will arrange it with my mother. You, Wendy and they can watch in the house comfortably and safely. I know you can't cheer me, but the thought of knowing you are cheering for me is well enough" Nawin said "I will cheer for you all the way, Nawin-kun" Misako promise "I know you will".

Misako looks into the Makasha's warm eyes, she opens her mouth, but shuts it and smile softly 'I'll tell him... after the tournament, when he wins' she said to herself. "M-misako!" Wendy stop beside the girl, panting hard with sweat dripping from her forehead "Y-you sure ran fast" she comments, looking up and glare softly at her friend.

"I think you just have shorts legs, Wendy" Nawin state with a smile and playfully tap the young girl's head, causing her to get fluster "M-my legs aren't short!" she complains with a pout "Are you sure?" Misako questions "You two are mean!" Wendy cross her arms and stick her tongue out, which gets a snigger out of the two.

Nawin kneel to Wendy's height and places a hand on her soft long blue lock "I forgot to tell you this, but you did a good job at the beach, Wendy" he smile "You open up, even though if it was a little, you made friends out of some, like Rias, Senna, and Momo. Promise me you will keep opening up when I am away" he said. Wendy looks up at the Makasha, slowly she smiles and nod "A-alright, I-I'll try" "That's all I ask and always remember" Nawin stands back up "You will always have I, Misako, and Akame to ask questions or need help" "Y-yeah... I remember".

Misako smile at the scene and mentally thanks the Makasha for helping her shy friend 'It's hard, but he still continues to help her open up... even I had a hard time at the beginning' Misako let out a quiet giggle, remembering the many attempt she took to try and talk to the shy Marvell when they first met 'Lots of patient is surely needed'.

Nawin take a few steps back and stop in a shadow that the currently close light post provides "I have to go now" he announces, staring back at the two smiling girls. They nod in understanding and waves "Please be careful, Nawin-kun" Misako said "A-and train hard, b-but don't overdo it and hurt yourself" Wendy comment "Yeah," Misako giggle "Please don't be too reckless".

Nawin chuckle and gives a nod "Thanks for the advice girls, I'll surly take it to heart. Take care, you two" he said and disappear in black flash.

Ground Four

"Urghh" a groan release from the Hyoudou's mouth. The first thing that greets him is the sound of a cracking that is no doubt creating from a camp fire, he also feels the welcoming heat emitting around his body. "About time you were awake, thought I had to punch your face" a familiar deep voice said and quickly, Issei sits up and turn to the voice "You! Why am I not dead?!" he shouts in shock, pointing at the woman.

Issei pause in shock, when he finally gets to see the woman's appearance. The black cloak is now gone and is neatly laid on the log that she is currently sited on. The woman has an unexpected violent but beauty appearance. She has flowing shoulder-length black hair, her front bang hair strangely curve toward the right-side of her shapely face and she has a slightly longer-length hair that is plated and tied by small bandage-band that is resting on her right shoulder, there's some red dye in the tied hair that start from the front and stop near the center of the lengthy hair. The black-haired woman has an alluring slit bright yellow eyes that Issei clearly remember seeing before he was knocked out. A beautiful light tan skin is fully shown on her surprisingly soft skin that seems to be taken care of well.

The woman's attire is a very interesting one and something Issei has never seen before. The woman wears a black metal breast place that only covers her chest region and upper back while leaving her tone stomach expose, the armor is clearly crafted by a master craftsman. The black armor with lots of sharp layers falling downwards, covering her sizeable chest and its strap in place by a brown leather straps going over her shoulder and to the armor cover her back, there's a golden buckle that locks the strap in tight to keep the whole armor in place. For bottom, she a plain long brown pants with big pickets though over it she wears a protective silver armor on her footwear as well as an extra armor plate on both her shins. She wears the same kind of black armor style on her chest in a form of an arm protective gauntlet on her right arm, over the black fingerless gloves, for her left arm is a weird case because it's all wrap and bandaged up for some unknown reason.

Just by her appearance alone, Issei can tell just how strong and dangerous this woman is, he knows she could kill him before he gets the chance to move an inch. Kaliyah been staring at the campfire the whole time, her slit pupils would narrow on occasion before widening it back "I caught some fish, grab a bite if you want" she said, not turning to face the Hyoudou, though she points her right index finger at the one cooked fish on a stick.

"O-oh, thanks" Issei is slightly surprise by the offering though gratefully takes the fish "Thanks you, I haven't eaten this morning" he said and quickly start devouring the perfectly cook fish. "U-um, Miss" Issei speak up after eating half of the fish "What?" "You are my teacher, right" "Huh, can't blame you asking me that. I didn't show the most welcoming impression, but yes, I am the one who is supposed to teach you" she said in slight annoy tone.

Issei catch the woman's annoyance and can't help but feel a bit hurt, already knowing his first teacher isn't really looking forward of having him as a student. "Drop that face" Kaliyah comment, not even looking at the Hyoudou "It's nothing against you, boy, but I am not someone who's specialties are in teaching... I'm still puzzled on why, Lord Sirzech decided to pick me to be your teacher" she admits with a groan, clearly showing some frustration on the matter.

"You never had a student before?" Issei ask "No, never thought about it because there's no reason for me to ever have a student. If one of us Archdevil are killed we would be replace by the next one that the Satan chooses. Of course, if they past the trial... it could take a decade to find the next Archdevil if one were to fall".

"I see... why were you attacking me from the start?" Issei ask in slight hesitant, worrying to question the woman's motive which may make her angry. "To see if I should bother wasting my time with you" Kaliyah reply simply and boldly "Trust me, I still have the choice to just kick you out of here and continue on with my journey, but you didn't disappoint and even though I could still do that... I rather not go against Lord Sirzech wishes after everything he has done for me".

Issei watch the woman gets up and grab the oversize sword, swinging it around like its weight a feather and clicks it in a metal and leather handle that is wrap diagonally around her chest and back, the leather strap also holds numbers of sharp throwing knives in front.

Issei can't help but admire his Teachers attire and just how badass she looks 'Ahah! Take that, Teme! My teacher looks way cooler than yours!' Issei chuckle gleefully. Issei quickly snap back "Um, so I did well? You will train me?" he asks, never getting a straight answer from the woman "If you had disappoint I would've left you laid in the field and you would never have seen me again. You've past my test, though barely... I expect the next time we dual for you to put on a better fight".

Issei stands up and grins "I won't disappoint you! tThe next time I won't give up until a land a blow on you!" he announces, which amuse the woman slightly "Don't make such bold claims, I will never go easy on you, but it's good to see you got guts... I like it" she said, grabbing her cloak and wrap it around her shoulders, though she keeps the hood down.

"We shall depart from Vesarima and travel arou—" "Wait, I never got your name, Sensei" Issei cuts in and immediately regrets it when he feels the tall woman eyes looking back at him with clear annoyance, it was frightening and intimidating enough that the Hyoudou unconsciously takes a few steps back and bow "S-sorry for cutting in!" he exclaims.

The swordswoman settles her glare "Don't ever interrupt me again or you'll have to find a new teacher" "S-sorry, I will never do it again" Issei promise, bowing once again. "To answer your question, just call me Hunter" the Kaliyah answers. Issei lift his head up and look at the woman in surprise 'Hunter? That can't be her real name' 'You never know, but she is a mysterious one, so, maybe that just a name she made for herself to hide her true name for whatever the reason' Ddraig adds his opinion in.

"Now, can I continue to brief what we will be doing?" Hunter ask dully, crossing her arms "Y-yes! Please continue and again, sorry" "I got it. Now, we will depart from Vesarima in one hour, so go back home to pack and meet me in the Entrance Gate Two" "Alright, but what do I need to bring along?" "Things you need like clothes, money, useful books, some snacks along the way. We will be on the move constant and won't stay at the same place" "Why do we have to move so much?" Issei can't help but ask "You will see, if you are going to be my student then I expect you to quickly grow accustomed to the ways I teach. Now go and don't be late" Hunter said with the last a warning, which gets a quick nod from the Hyoudou "Understood!" he shouts with a grin as the Gremory's crest form beneath his feet before teleporting him away in crimson sparkles.

Hyoudou's Household

Issei appears in his room and was expecting to be greeted by his girlfriend though that does not seem to be the case when he looks around at the quiet and empty room. "Probably at the Occult Building getting work done" Issei utters "Hmm," he closes his eyes to sense any presence downstairs "They must have gone back to work... well, at least it will make me being away less of a problem. If they do return early I'm sure, Rias-chan can handle it" he said to himself and quickly begin grabbing a backpack from the closet and start packing clothes.

Issei return upstairs after grabbing some snacks and already made sandwich from the fridge. "Alright!" he smiles in accomplish "That's everything" 'You forgot money, Dummy' Ddraig reminds dully "Right!" Issei knock himself in the head and quickly rush toward the drawer next to his bed where his wallet is laid and throws it inside the bag before zipping it close.

Issei grin and sling the backpack around his right shoulder, he is about to turn around and summon the teleportation, but pauses and turn toward his desk. Numbers of Rias's paperwork are neatly stack there, but that wasn't what he is focus on. Issei softly smile and walk toward the desk to pick up a wooden picture frame that is laid on the desk. Issei smile widen in fond and reminisce when looking at the group picture that was taken after the battle against Kokabiel, it was taken at the celebration party to welcome Xenovia in their group.

Sirzech, Grayfia, Serafall, and Sona's group were all there, all of them were smiling brightly except for a certain Makasha, who's have his arm cross and staring at the right while holding a grumpy expression, probably because of Serafall floating from behind and hugging him tightly. "Ahaha" Issei can't help but let out a laughter when seeing this "Rias-chan sure complained about his expression, but we got a good picture taken at the beach. She definitely will want that to be frame and display beside this" he said with excitement as he places the picture back down.

Issei turn around and glance back one last time at the picture, looking at himself, leaning on the Makasha with his right arm resting on the slightly taller boy shoulders, he grins and show a peace sign. Issei turn his head forward then teleports away.

Vesarima: Entrance Gate One

"Sensei! You're late" Lucy shouts at Serafall, appearing in front of the tall open gate in blue sparkles. "Apologies, Lucy" the Satan smile "I've got some business to clear before we depart. I do need to make up for the next two weeks of my absence" Serafall said "I guess you are right" Lucy nods.

"You got everything?" Serafall questions, indicating the large backpack carry on the blonde's back "Yeah, I already packed everything before the trip, so I don't need to head back home and waste time" "Good thinking. You ready? I give you a fair warning, Lucy" Serafall turns serious "This next two weeks, your training will be intense and dangerous. I'm going to push you to your absolute limit and you will be facing death if you aren't prepared" "Just the way I wanted. Don't go easy on me, Sensei" Lucy shoot back, not backing down at all and the determination in her sky-blue eyes shows it clear to the Leviathan.

Serafall smile at her student, then turn to the gate guards to give them a polite nod which they bow respectively back. "Let's go!" Lucy exclaims, taking the first step and exit Vesarima Walls. "Leaving without saying goodbye?" a voice said, causing Lucy to halt and turn around to see Sona standing in front of the two-door gate.

"Ahaha, was in a rush to start training" Lucy scratch her head sheepishly, grinning which cause Sona to shake her head, but smile "Of course, that's just like you wanting to get back to training" she said with annoyance though also admiration in her tone. Serafall smile and watch silently as her little sister walk toward her student, stopping in front of her "We never really get to spend much time together since you've gone off training more and the distance you had with the group after your brother's incident, but I want to tell you that those past days on the beach has been fun and you were a big part of that" Sona's lips form a rare smile, her violet eyes shine in warmth "I want to thank you for that, Lucy, your outgoing, gutsy, and charismatic attitude has been a big breath of fresh air for our group and with everything cleared now with your brother. I hope our group will grow closer just like, Rias's. Honestly," Sona chuckle "I'm a bit envious of her, when looking at her group interacting, it's like looking at one big family and its definitely due part to Nawin-san and Asia-san".

Sona turn to the blonde "I'm not blaming you for the reason our group aren't as close as them. You protected your brother and continue to... I admire and understand that completely and would do the same thing if I were in your position." "Thanks for understanding, Kaichou." Lucy smile "I'm glad that we all can finally get along, it's been fun as hell the past three days at the beach and it will be a memory I will forever cherish. Also, it's a big part thanks to you, Kaichou... if you hadn't saved me from Freed that night, I wouldn't be here at all.".

"I wasn't going to let that nuisance rouge exorcist kill my potential piece" Sona said in light hearted and jest tone which makes Lucy snicker. Sona place a hand on Lucy's shoulder, her eyes turn serious "I'm telling you this because I want you to go out there with an open mind. There's one more thing I want to say, a favor from you, Lucy" she requests and gets a nod from the slightly surprise blonde, at the sudden change of attitude. Sona leans her head in, near the Makasha's ears and whispers "Release the mask".

Lucy's eyes slowly widen in surprise as Sona pulls her head back and retain her calm and collective look "That's all I request" she said, releasing the blonde's shoulder and turn to her Older Sister, who's leaning on the wall, calmly waiting.

"Onee-sama," Sona said in respective tone, stealthy she flicks her finger to create an invisible sound barrier that blocks the sound from going outside when she stops in front of the Satan. "Please don't go overboard on her" Sona comment, glancing back at the blonde, who's in deep thought "She isn't Nawin-san, so don't raise your training to his level" "It is what she wants though" Serafall reply calmly "I expected as much, but she doesn't understand that not everyone can be shot up to that level, he's a prodigy" "That's not going to stop her, she's determined and with that advise you gave her. If that mask really do fall off then she will go to the next level that will need me to push her to the limit... it's honestly up to her, not you nor I" Serafall states.

Serafall smile and place her hand above the young Sitri's head to calm the girl down "Don't worry so much. I'm her teacher, so my duty is to watch over her wellbeing... have some faith in me, So-tan" "Alright," Sona smile "Sorry for having some doubts" "Understandable, she is my first student and this whole teaching thing is still new to me, but this past month I've gain my own style of teaching her. Now," Serafall bring her hand back "We need to head out" "Alright".

Sona release the barrier and take a few steps back. "Goodbye, So-tan!" Serafall said loudly and pet the shorter girl's head. Sona fluster a bit and groan in regret "I wish I never taught you Japanese" "Oh don't say that, I find, So-tan adorable" Serafall giggles, then turn to Lucy "You ready, Lucy-chan?" "Yeah" the blonde slowly replies with a calm smile, clearly still have lots on her mind.

Lucy turns to Sona "Goodbye, Kaichou" "Goodbye, Lucy and take care" Sona reply with a smile. She watches her friend and her older sister walk off. Serafall glance back at Sona to sends her one last smile before facing forward and continue onward with the blonde on her left.

Outside of Kuoh

Nawin steadily walks up the stairs to exit the small town. A small silver backpack hangs around his right shoulder "Won't be back for a while" he utters softly, reaching at the top of the stairs and glance back at the view of Kuoh.

Nawin turns forward and spot Azazel leaning on of a tree, though what the Makasha didn't expect is another person there, currently chatting with his Godfather. The man has an unusual appearance, he has short white hair with purple color ends, his skin is pale, his eyes shine in bright green and holds lots of mystery in them. The person wears a sleeveless white hoodie with an emblem written 'BoS' on the back and for bottom he wears a blue workout short with white sandals.

The two men turn toward the Makasha "Hey, brat" Azazel smile and ushers the boy forward "I see you are ready?" "Yeah, got everything done" Nawin stop in front of the two, he takes a glance at the white-haired man "Who are you?" he asks. The man smiles softly and raise his right hand "Names Michael, pleasure to meet you, Nawin Makasha" 'That name' Nawin utter mentally in distaste as a picture of the Ruler of Heaven appear in his mind.

Michael raise an eyebrow when the Makasha didn't bother shaking hands, making him retract his right hand down "Something wrong?" he asks calmly, not really taking offence at the Makasha not returning the gesture. 'He's dangerous' Nawin blankly stare at the man in front of him 'I didn't sense anything when I first spotted him, but now this close... I can feel his overwhelming mana'.

Azazel sensing his Godson's body getting stiff and in full defense decides to step in "Nawin, Micheal here is an old friend of mine and he will be entering the tournament" he explains, catching the Makasha off-guard with the last part. "He?" Nawin's pupils narrow "Is he a Fallen Angel?" "No, I will be representing Vesarima" Michael answer "Huh, so you're the missing forth member that Sirzech talked about" "Yes, I have met with Lord Satan and got his blessings".

'I can't pinpoint what factions he's from' Nawin eyes the man for a minute before turning back to his Godfather "Are we off? I want to get started" 'Seems like the competition just gotten more interesting' he utters mentally, indicating to the mysterious white-haired.

Azazel sigh and leans out from the tree to stand straight "Alright, you are all healed up and ready, can't blame you for wanting to start straight away" he said, then turns to Michael's "You got what you need?" he asks "Yes, thanks for the lead" the white-haired reply.

Michael turns around "I shall see you in the tournament, Nawin Makasha" he said, glancing back at him and holding an ominous smirk before he teleports away, disappearing in a blinding bright light. Nawin turn forward to the way that leads out of the forest and begins walking "Not going to ask?" Azazel questions, following beside the Makasha "If I wanted to, I would have" "Don't be such a grump! You got to hang out with me for the next two weeks!" Azazel chuckles and sling his arm around the shorter boy's shoulder.

Nawin roll his eyes at his Godfather childish behavior "Sure, just change hanging out to training and I'll be happy" "Yeah, yeah" Azazel waves his other hand dismissively "Like I'm going to have you enter the tournament unprepared. It would hurt my reputation if you were to be defeated so easily" "Exactly, you wouldn't want that, would you?" Nawin said with a mocking smirk which makes Azazel's eyebrow twitches a bit "Just be prepared for the training I'll put you through. I promise you that by the end of the first week, you'd wish I was never your teacher" Azazel said with such an ominous dark smirk that it causes the Makasha to sweat a bit, but he won't back down "Bring it then, Oldman. Because I will not end up second place to nobody".

Entrance Gate Two

Issei wears an overjoy grin the whole way walking toward the massive gate. It got him lots of look and some girls giggle at him, but he didn't notice because of his excitement of finally being properly trained by a teacher 'An awesome teacher!' he utters to himself in glee and looks forward, spotting her leaning on the inside walls, hiding herself in the shade.

"Hunter-sensei!" Issei shouts, running toward the taller woman, who lightly perks up when hearing her name being called. "Good, you arrive" she said boringly, looking at the Hyoudou stopping in front of her "What's with that stupid grin?" she questions, staring at the still grinning Issei.

"Nothing! Just excited to finally have you teach me!" Issei answers which slightly surprise the quiet woman "Huh, I see. Hope you know what you are getting yourself into, boy. The training I'll be giving you will make all of your previous training look like novice shit" she said and is amuse when seeing the Hyoudou's grin widen "Sounds awesome!" 'Either this kid has some screws loss or he is just that excited'.

Hunter slowly stand up straight while Issei take a look at the guards, he notices them shaking in their boots when looking at his teacher 'Wow, does she have some kind of scary reputation? Or are they just really that afraid of her appearance' Issei wonders for a moment. "Boy," the Hyoudou snaps out when hearing Hunter calls him, making him turn to the right and sees her waiting outside the gate "R-right, sorry!" he apologies and quickly sprint forward, stopping beside the woman.

"Don't fall behind because I won't be planning to stop until we reach to the next village" Hunter informs while pulling the hood over her head, making her look more intimidating "Where is this village?" Issei ask "Lockhert, a small lively village that house a Master Blacksmith. It's at far north, so we will have to cross that mountain in the distance" Hunter points at the large mountain a couple dozen miles away and it's big enough to still cover the rising red sun. Issei perks up "Blacksmith! Am I getting my own weapons?!" he asks and not even hiding his excitement "Something like yours!" he said, looking at the massive blade hiding behind Hunter's cloak.

"Don't get ahead of yourself" Hunter reply sternly "You aren't getting a weapon anything like this, let along being able to even wield it. We go there to craft you a weapon that will fit your style, so it might not even be a sword. It could be a mace, spear, whip, hammer, and many more" "O-oh, I see" Issei slowly nod "But I can wield other weapons, right?" "Of course, but there will always be one specific weapon that a person will wield better than others. We are trying to find that for you, then you can move on to other weapons. Got it?" "Yes! Thanks, Hunter-sensei!".

Hunter raise an eyebrow, taking notice of the word 'Sensei' being use "What is this Sensei you keep throwing in after my name?" she asks in slight interest "Oh, it's Japanese for Teacher!" Issei answers. Hunter just nod and turn front "Let's go, I want to get to Lockhert before afternoon arrives" "Alright! Let's move out!" Issei points forward and begin walking beside his teacher in steady pace.

Next Chapter: Brutal Training Begins!