When the three biblical factions formed an alliance, the entire supernatural world learned a shocking piece of information — the biblical God was dead. Major mythologies began to curse Christianity. All this time, while the other biblical factions were in decline, the invisible presence of God stopped them from attacking, but it turned out that he died in the Great War.
All eyes focused on Christianity. With the unification, they were no longer easy prey, but this did not cancel the deep hatred of the other factions towards them. A new terrorist group, presumably led by Ouroboros, also became known. Many decided to observe the new alliance at first, and soon the tactic paid off.
A couple of weeks later, the Shinto faction declared war on all biblical factions. This news once again stirred up the magical world. The bad, almost hostile, relations between Shinto and demons were no secret. After the scandal with the experiments on the yokai, there was a possibility of war, but it did not happen. And now Amaterasu publicly accused the Biblical alliance of treacherous betrayal. The major mythologies received a letter from the Sun Goddess. She warned them to remain wary and not to trust Christianity if they offered to join the alliance. To prove her words, the goddess attached a recording of her subordinate's last moments, where he initially helped stop the raging Sekiryutei.
The Shinto delegate was invited to hell to discuss the peace treaty, but the "Chaos Brigade" attacked. Kiyoshi Zankoku selflessly rushed to help protect the young heirs and his future allies. After dealing with the criminals, the representative of the Japanese gods was stabbed in the back and died after a short resistance. However, the most outrageous words were the words of the Demon Lord. Sirzechs decided to use the boy's death to his advantage, which he confessed to him before the murder.
From that moment on, any representative of demons, angels, or fallen ones was an enemy of Shinto. When they appeared in Japan, they were mercilessly killed, no matter the reason. Amaterasu gave a clear order to all her subordinates — kill, no mercy.
The Vatican received a letter with a warning. Regular priests and nuns could continue their work in the churches on the island, but any exorcist or stronger representative of the Church on their territory was considered an attack on the faction. In response, the goddess promised to destroy all temples and chapels, as well as the staff, if such a thing happened.
Smart people will easily notice the good preparation of the Shinto gods in this incident. It will not be difficult to guess the real course of events, but this does not change the fact that Sirzechs and Azazel attacked and killed the delegate of Amaterasu. Therefore, mythologies are waiting with interest for further developments and moves of the Biblical faction.
***
Sirzechs sat at the table, sorting through the documents that had piled up since the declaration of war. Since that day, the master had been busy with the problems that had arisen. He had practically no time to sleep. He spent most of his time in his office, where Grayfia constantly brought new reports and dispatches.
— Hello, Sirzechs, — the leader of the Grigori entered the room without knocking. Seeing the stacks of waste paper and the demon's exhausted appearance, Azazel smiled understandingly. — You should rest a little — look at the circles under your eyes.
— I don't have time for small talk, Azazel, — the red-haired man said with a sigh. — So let's get down to business. Why did you come this time?—
— I have several reasons, — the smile disappeared from the man's face. The Fallen placed the sheet with the calculations on the master's table. — The first: our losses after losing access to Japan. Shinto's quick actions suggest that they had been planning this for a long time, — Azazel pulled a flask from his pocket and took a long sip. — All accounts related to our factions were blocked by the Japanese government, and businesses and other assets were faced with lawsuits for various, including far-fetched, reasons.
— If they knew about the trap, then why did they send Zankoku into it? — the demon thought out loud. — Maybe they decided to sacrifice him?
— Or hoped that he would escape. But it doesn't matter anymore — that bastard is dead, — the fallen said with pleasure, taking another sip.
While they were both counting the economic losses suffered by the fallen and the demons, one magical girl was having fun in her mansion. As an accomplice of Kiyoshi, Leviathan knew about the impending problems, so she completely protected herself. All the businesses related to her or the Sitri house were promptly sold to front men of Shinto at reasonable prices. Serafall told everyone else that she decided to play it safe and was right in her choice.
— We decided on that, — Sirzechs said, leaning back in his chair, massaging the bridge of his nose. — What other questions did you have?
— It's about your sister's retinue, — the leader of the Grigori said tiredly. — How is the boy? Has he recovered from the loss of the blonde yet?
— Eh... Hyodo Issei was depressed at first. He blamed himself and his powerlessness, but Rias and her "Knight" were able to shake the boy up. In three weeks, we need to check them, perhaps we will have descendants of the Sekiryutei, — the Lord reported the news with a sly smile.
— Ha-ha! Still managed to put his sister under him.
— Issei has already become a dragon to some extent, and the descendants of a dragon are always strong, especially if it is a heavenly dragon. Let's not talk about that, — the red-haired man changed the topic. — How is the search for Akeno Himejima going?
— Not at all. That fool teleported to Japan and is most likely already dead. At least the subordinates who went on her trail last contacted Kuoh, where they were overtaken by the youkai. You have no idea how much effort it took me to stop Barakiel from acting rashly.
— When I tried to summon her with the evil figure, nothing happened. It was as if even the figure was destroyed, and that's impossible. Unless Akeno was destroyed by a powerful attack similar to my power of destruction, — Sirzechs couldn't take it anymore and slammed his fist on the table. The force of the blow caused cracks to appear on the surface of the furniture. — Bitch! How many problems are these damn Shinto! Amaterasu, the bastard, with his letters and that shitty video. If I had known, he wouldn't have died so easily.
— There's nothing you can do about it. Calm down, Sirzechs, — the fallen one advised.
— How can you calm down? The opposition led by the Phenexes are raising discontent in the council. Our uncoordinated actions have caused a new war with the Shinto. It's good that they've dug in on their territory and aren't trying to attack us. But the thrones are already shaking under us.
— Yes. — It's a shame we can't solve this the old-fashioned way, — the man muttered nostalgically. — If we attack the Shinto faction, then we'll confirm all those accusations Amaterasu made against Christianity. Then nothing good will come of it.
— You said you were going to contact Odin. How did the conversation go? Is he willing to form an alliance with us?
— The old man is willing to meet and discuss this, but don't expect much, — Azazel cooled his comrade's ardor. — Odin is wary of the Khaos Brigade. He wants to form an alliance against the terrorists, but the Allfather is very cunning. We need to be very careful when we meet.
— Okay. We'll discuss this in more detail later. Anything else?
— After the last skirmish with the Khaos Brigade, I had an interesting idea, but I still need to find out a few details before I can tell you.
***
A magic circle appeared in the room, from which a young guy emerged. As soon as he showed himself, one of the people here addressed him.
— So how did it go? — asked a dark-haired guy dressed in a Chinese outfit over a school uniform.
— After the war was declared, their security was strengthened, — the young man said, adjusting his glasses. — Frequent patrols, not counting the senjutsu practitioners responsible for certain areas of the city. Bribery is impossible — they are completely loyal to their leader. In addition, the barrier over Kyoto was changed, — he added irritably.
— Can you get around it? — the leader of the group asked, frowning.
— With my strength, it is possible, but the problem is different, — the guy continued, letting out a small sigh. — Time. It will take a long time. At least five minutes. It all depends on the number of people.
— Why so long? And how many people can you take with you in the minimum amount of time?
— After the unification of the Shinto faction, experts from the five Onmyoji clans worked on the barrier. Any teleportation within the city is impossible due to the blocking of space. As for the number, four, including myself and not counting our target.
— I see, — having received the information, the boy began to plan his further actions. — Then Hercules and Siegfried will go with me. Jeanne and Leonardo will wait outside the city, — he looked at the expressionless boy. — Let your beasts distract attention while we carry out the mission.
— Okay, Cao Cao.
— What about our target, Georg?
— She hangs out in her temple almost 24/7 and don't leave it, — the magician told the bad news. — But with her daughter, everything is much simpler. She often visits the same house. And the security is minimal.
— Who owns the house? — the only girl in the room asked.
— Three nekomata live in it. The family of the deceased Kiyoshi Zankoku.
— Excellent, — the descendant of the hero of the three kingdoms smiled. — Without this half—breed, there should be no problems. So, let's take advantage of this opportunity.
***
For the fourth day, the magical part of Kyoto has been on high alert. Three days ago, unusual beasts began to attack the city. Killing them did not seem difficult, but their number did not allow for relaxation. It was worth killing one group, as a new one appeared in its place. The search for the source of this invasion was unsuccessful. The only thing that was found out was that these creatures were the result of the work of the Creator of Destruction, one of the Longines.
A curfew was imposed in the city, but the residents did not seem worried about the attacks. They all believed in their mistress and the gods, so everyday life continued as usual, with the exception of night time.
A small nine-tailed kitsune could be seen walking along the city street. She decided to visit her little friend and her family. Despite her mother's prohibition, Kuno quietly left the palace. "After all, the enemies cannot get under the barrier through the city's defenders",— the girl thought.
Having reached her destination without any problems, Kuno had a fun time playing the little nekoshou. Unfortunately, she couldn't meet up with another friend of hers, Ophis. The dark-haired girl had gone off somewhere on her own business.
— Thank you for your hospitality, Kuroka-onesan, — the girl thanked, bowing her head.
— No need, Kuno-chan, — the nekoshou answered with a smile. They were both standing in front of the house by the gate. Kuroka went out to see her guest off when Kumiko was exhausted and fell asleep. — Come to us anytime. We're always glad to see you, especially my kitten.
— Okay! — After saying goodbye, the kitsune headed towards the house, but hadn't even taken five steps when hands fell on her shoulders. Kuno was perplexed when she saw a frowning Kuroka, who was peering intently in a certain direction. — Did something happen, Kuroka-onesan?
— Come out! — I sense your evil intent, — without answering the girl's question, the nekomata shouted into the void.
At first, nothing happened, which puzzled the kitsune even more, but after half a minute, cheerful laughter was heard. The air ahead on the street distorted, and four figures appeared in that place.
— Ha-ha-ha! Amazing! You were able to notice us despite Georg's magic, — Cao Cao praised the girl. — Ordinary youkai are not capable of such a thing.
— She is from the nekomata race, which is famous for its skills in senjutsu, — Georg said bitterly. He did not expect that his skills would not be able to hide them from this woman. — Judging by her four tails, she is incredibly talented for her age. Tsk, — the guy clicked his tongue in irritation. — An unpleasant surprise.
— We'll just kill her and that's it, — the tall and muscular guy said with a bloodthirsty grin. — She's not our target, so there's no need to feel sorry for her.
A tall man with small horns landed next to Kuroka and Kuno. He held a metal club with spikes in his hands.
— Kuroka-sama, I will help you, — the youkai pointed his weapon at the heroes. — As the little princess's protector, I cannot allow you to harm Kuno—hime.
— Kuno, — the nekoshou addressed the frightened girl, — go inside and stay with Kumiko. Okay?
— Y-yes! — the kitsune ran into the house. At the entrance, she ran into a white-haired nekomata, who opened the door. Having let the little girl inside, Shirone activated a barrier around the house.
— Another four-tailed one, — Georg carefully examined the girl who appeared. — You don't see something like this very often.
— It doesn't matter. Start your work, — Cao Cao said with a smile, summoning a spear in his hands, — and we'll deal with the opponents in the meantime.
— I'll deal with Oni, — Siegfried, who had been silent until then, drew his sword and rushed at the man.
— Then I'll be the white-haired one. Her gaze irritates me, — Hercules attacked Shirone.
— So you're my opponent, — the leader of the heroes said relaxedly.
Kuroka sensed danger from the guy in front of her. The girl immediately prepared herself for a serious fight, sparing no effort. Her body was enveloped in a dark aura from using Toki, enhancing her physical capabilities.
— Who are you and why do you need Kuno? — the nekoshou asked, stalling for time to prepare for an attack, as well as the arrival of reinforcements.
— We are a faction of heroes from the "Chaos Brigade". Our goal is to prove the strength of humanity and destroy the supernatural races — that's all you need to know.
Cao Cao closed the distance and attacked with his spear. The girl was able to dodge, but the guy had a wealth of combat experience and incredible physical attributes for a human. He continued to press the nekomata, not allowing her to attack. Any mistake could cost the brunette dearly, so Kuroka focused entirely on her opponent. Looking for an opportunity to counterattack, she continued to dodge.
Ichiro, Kuno's trusted guard, swung his club with a cheerful smile just like his opponent, blocking three of his opponent's swords. He wasn't good at youjutsu, but all his skills were aimed at strengthening his own body and weapons, which ultimately made Oni a dangerous enemy. Ichiro traded a few cuts on his body for a crack in Siegfried's left arm.
— You're good! — the silver-haired hero declared. —Then I should fight at full strength. Balance Breaker: Asura-Destroying Chaos Blade.
Siegfried had a subtype of the Sacred Gear, Double Crit, which in his case gives him a third silver hand, and the swordsman's balance breaker summons additional hands. The guy's new limbs rushed under his cloak, taking out new swords. Now in the hands of the hero's descendant are six dangerous swords, ready to take the life of his opponent.
— Ha-ha! — this is becoming dangerous, the youkai squeezed his weapon tighter.
Despite his large size, Hercules had high mobility. He attacked the nekoshou at high speed, trying to strike with his fist, while Shirone avoided his blows. At the beginning of the battle, she took the attack on the block and received severe damage from the resulting explosion, which she instantly healed. It turned out that each blow of the "giant" carries a detonation due to his Gear. Now the cat tried to take the guy's hands away, attacking with her claws in response, but the man's body turned out to be surprisingly strong. The only thing Shirone had achieved was shallow scratches, so she concentrated on the amount of damage. Each time, making Hercules lose more and more blood.
— Get rid of the barrier, it's in my way, — Georg's shout rang out across the battlefield. The mage stood still, concentrating, while mist emanated from his figure, gradually spreading around the area.
— I'll gladly help with that, — Hercules grinned, activating his balance breaker. Small missiles began to appear on his body, and there were two huge warheads on his hands. — Forward!
A projectile flew out from his left hand, hitting the house. However, the barrier withstood the blow without any problems. Shirone knew about the strength of the house's defense, so instead of stopping the attack, she used this time to concentrate her Ki. Flames flared up on the tips of her ears and tails. The girl's hands were covered in white fire, like gloves with sharp claws.
— I won't allow it! — Before the second attack was sent, the white-haired one appeared near Hercules, attacking him.
Now her claws can penetrate deep into the enemy's skin, causing serious damage. The giant, relying on the strength of his own body, took the attack on the chest. The human's flesh was torn, exposing the white bones of the ribs.
— F-u-u-c-ck! — the hero howled in pain, but managed to brush off the next blow. An explosion thundered, throwing the nekomata back several meters. Ki weakened the damage received, but she still took damage, which disappeared in a green glow. Twilight Healing did its job properly.
Hercules roared furiously, pointing his hand towards the house. Shirone rushed towards him, attacking furiously. Her attempt to interrupt the man failed. The man decided to sacrifice his hand, taking the damage, but firing a projectile at the barrier.
— Cao-Cao! — He shouted his leader's name at the top of his lungs. The next moment, the barrier was destroyed by a True Longinus attack, allowing Heracles' missile to hit its target. A powerful explosion hit the house, completely destroying the building.
— Kumiko! — Before rushing off to find her daughter, the nekoshou cast a hateful glance at Cao Cao. The smile on his face faltered slightly from the storm of emotions in Kuroka's eyes, but the boy continued to watch her mockingly. Their battle was not a one-sided affair. The hero's descendant had received several wounds, but he had a huge advantage against girls.
— Kuno-hime! — Ichiro instinctively jerked towards the destroyed house, which his opponent took advantage of. Siegfried found himself behind the youkai. All of his limbs pierced the Oni's body, cutting off his arms, head, and piercing his heart.
At that moment, the barrier Georg had set up at the very beginning collapsed, letting new opponents through. The woman with nine fox tails, not caring about those around her, went to Kuroka to clear away the rubble. Many youkai began to surround the heroes, but did not dare to attack them.
— So you are the reason for the appearance of monsters and you still dare to attack my people, — a voice was heard behind Siegfried. The swordsman turned around in fear, striking at Susano, who had managed to unexpectedly get to him. — Oh, a sword with a dragon slayer element, — said the young brunette with spiky hair, examining the hero's weapon, blocking the blow. — My sister was just looking for one of these. Perhaps I will take it as compensation for killing the youkai.
— Siegfried, dodge! — shouted Cao Cao, recognizing the arrival. — Georg, speed up!
— This god will not allow me to take our target.
— Spit! The main thing is to get out of here ourselves. If I start fighting him, then the rest of the Shinto Pantheon will come running here, — the descendant of the hero bit his lip in frustration. — The plan failed.
Susano did not listen to the squabble of these people. With a swing of his sword, he cut off one of Siegfried's dragon arms. Not allowing him to escape, the god followed the hero, attacking continuously. Siegfried could do nothing to resist his opponent, receiving more and more wounds. Suddenly, Susano grabbed Siegfried's wrist, which contained Gram, and squeezed it. The crack of breaking bones drowned out the cry of pain. The god no longer paid attention to the crippled enemy, examining the blade in his hand. Not even fifteen seconds had passed since the beginning of their battle, and the result was already known.
In another part of the battlefield, Shirone decided the fate of her opponent. At the moment of the destruction of the house, the nekomata did not follow her sister. She decided to take revenge on Hercules, believing in the safety of their beloved kitten. The girl gave free rein to her anger. Throwing herself straight at the man, she threw away her defense, focusing only on the attack. Having approached the enemy, she ignored the oncoming fist, piercing Hercules' stomach with one hand.
— It hurts, bitch! — the guy looked at the hand sticking out of his body and the girl's face burned by the explosion.
Nekomata didn't pay attention to the pain. The wounds were already gradually healing. Her remaining eye was shining brightly, anticipating the reprisal against her enemy. Before the giant could strike again, she plunged her second limb into Hercules' belly. The man's subsequent blow helped to carry out the planned nekoshou. The explosion threw the girl several meters away, but in her hands were the entrails of the hero's descendant. Between the two of them were stretched the intestines, still connected to the body.
Hercules began to realize his situation when Shirone, with a creepy grin, pulled the "rope" towards herself. But she did not stop there. Gouts of Kasya's fire flew at the shocked and immobilized enemy, burning not only the flesh, but also the soul of the man. The burning body disappeared into the fog, as did the three surviving heroes, marking the end of the battle.
By this time, Kuroka and Yasaka had managed to reach their daughters. They were hugging each other tightly, and a meter around them was a barrier of their dark energy of infinity. Ophis' gift easily protected its owner from harm.
After making sure that the girls were okay and that they were not injured in any way except for fear, Yasaka turned to the god standing nearby.
— Thank you, Susano-sama, — the kitsune bowed deeply, and the elder nekoshou bowed next to her. — If it weren't for your help, we would not have been able to overcome the barrier so quickly and deal with the attackers.
— It was just an accident, — the god waved his hand. — My sister was worried about the monsters that appeared and sent me to deal with them.
— Thank you anyway, Susano-sama. — After thanking the god once more and bidding him farewell, Yasaka began to find out all the details of what had happened. When the story became clear, the kitsune was furious.
— Announce a reward for the heads of all the descendants of heroes who are not under the protection of factions, — the woman gave the order to her subordinate. — Especially single out those bastards who attacked us. I will contact the other pantheons about these heroes and the "Chaos Brigade" in particular.