"Stella-san..."
"...I know..."
Across the room stood a young man with black hair and striking violet eyes.
More than anything else... he radiated power enough to defeat even Kokabiel.
'He makes me feel uneasy...'
There was something about him that unsettled Stella, something that made her heart stir in unfamiliar ways. The feeling only deepened each time she looked at him.
"As a hybrid of Angel and Devil… I've been fortunate to inherit and develop both sides equally."
'Equally, huh...'
It was rare to meet someone who embraced both their angelic and demonic lineage. Most leaned heavily toward one side or rejected the other entirely.
'I still don't understand why... but ever since Hajime Sitri arrived, I haven't been able to shake this feeling.'
Meanwhile, Rexa and Leon listened intently to the ongoing debate regarding the peace agreement. Sienna, too, was carefully analyzing every word from the faction leaders. No one could afford to relax.
'This treaty... it really could change everything.'
--Contents of the Peace Treaty :
All direct or indirect hostilities between the three factions are strictly forbidden.
Any form of attack or provocation will be treated as a serious offense.
Each faction's territory, laws, and governing systems will be respected.
In the event of global threats (external invasions, dimensional collapse), all factions must cooperate.
Each faction is responsible for controlling their own extremists. Failure to do so will result in the leader being held accountable.
Ambassadors will be appointed to foster communication, including regulated exchanges of technology, magic, and knowledge.
Hybrids (half-devil, half-angel, or human) will not face discrimination.
Individuals with unique potential may be trained or protected by any faction, with mutual consent.
Neutral zones such as Kuoh Academy will be created for joint research, operations, and supervision.
The treaty was designed to protect the fragile balance between all races. With the world on the brink of collapse, reaching this agreement was no longer optional—it was essential.
'I hope… this treaty leads me closer to finding him…'
"Michael, Sirzechs, and Serafall, what are your thoughts?"
Michael nodded calmly."With the old Devil Kings and the God who sparked the war now gone, I believe this is the right step forward."
"We agree as well," Sirzechs added."This is a chance to nurture the next generation one that's been stifled by conflict for too long."
All three leaders gave their full, unwavering support.
What caught Kamiya's attention most was how the treaty might influence Issei's future.
'Maybe I should request that Ascalon be returned to Issei... No, that might be too much. What should I do to make sure he gets it back…?'
His thoughts swirled so much that he didn't realize the meeting was nearing its end.
"If all factions are in agreement... I'd like to hear from you two—those rumored to hold the power to change the world."
Azazel glanced at Issei, still unsure of what was happening. Vali, predictably unfazed, responded first.
"As long as there are strong opponents out there, I don't really care about the rest."
"Heh, of course. Even in peace, there will be worthy enemies to fight."
"...I hope so," Vali replied casually.
Then, without hesitation, Azazel turned to Issei.
"What about you? What's your view on the treaty?"
Still new to such matters, Issei hadn't fully grasped the magnitude of what was at stake. But if this could reduce racial tension and prevent tragedies like before... it was worth supporting.
"...I just have one question."
"Ask away. I'll answer as best I can within reason."
"...Thanks. Then, with this treaty in place… can you promise that crimes committed by Fallen Angels will stop?"
Azazel fell silent.
He could see the pain in Issei's eyes.
"I'm not blaming your entire race… I just want you to understand how I feel. My family... was torn apart by a Fallen Angel."
Azazel nodded solemnly.
"...I understand."
His usual glint of mischief was gone, replaced by the heavy gaze of someone who had seen far too much.
"Red Dragon Emperor... I know you're not accusing my whole faction, and I respect that."
He stood up, glancing at Michael, Sirzechs, and Serafall before returning his eyes to Issei.
"But I won't lie to you either."
The atmosphere tensed.
"This treaty won't erase the past. Crimes like what happened to your family might still occur. Because evil isn't exclusive to any one race or faction."
Issei bowed his head slightly.
But Azazel continued, his voice firmer now, anchoring the room.
"Still, this treaty is a start. A foundation. And from now on, each of us leaders will be held accountable for any violation of peace."
He pointed to himself.
"If another Fallen Angel dares to kidnap a human child... I'll be the first to face them myself."
Michael and Sirzechs nodded silently. Even Vali looked over, more serious than usual.
Rexa and Sienna watched with deep respect. These were the words of someone prepared to shoulder the burden of a world.
Azazel stepped closer to Issei.
"One thing I can promise you, as leader of the Fallen Angels..."
He placed a hand gently on Issei's shoulder. His voice softened but the steel beneath it remained.
"I'll help you uncover the truth. Who took Kamiya... and why."
Issei stood frozen, fighting back the tide of emotions. His eyes shimmered but no tears fell.
"Thank you… Azazel-sama."
While the discussion continued, Vali leaned back and whispered to Rexa:
"You heard that? Kamiya Hyoudou..."
"Of course. He's the one I told you about," Rexa replied.
"If he's alive and strong, maybe he'll be a worthy opponent."
Rexa only grinned.
And somewhere distant...
Someone smiled.
Hidden between layers of reality and intent, he watched silently. A quiet, knowing smile curved on his lips.
"At last... it's time to act."
With a swift motion, a complex magic circle formed—one powerful enough to seal off the entire Kuoh Academy.
That smile twisted—from gentle to dangerous.
"Wait for me there… Alter."
__________________________________________________________________
Only a few chapters remain until old enemies meet again.
Take care of yourselves. Drink water. Get enough sleep.
<(^v^ゞ
P.S. Good evening!