An irresistible heart and will

Chapter 12 - Kill two birds with one stone

"Dialogue"

'Thoughts'

[Ddraig speaking]

{Albion speaking}

<<Past wielders speaking>>

(Flashback Dialogue)

"Powers"

...

Ise P.O.V

As I close my eyes and settle comfortably, a gentle breeze brushes against my skin, carrying the scent of crisp mountain air. The glistening light of the moon softly illuminates the landscape. Majestic peaks surround me as I sit atop a mountain, fully embraced by nature.

The silence is profound, broken only by the faint rustling of leaves. With each breath, I feel a deep connection to the Earth beneath me, as if I am rooted to the very core of the mountain itself.

[Are you ready to delve into the Boosted gear's subconscious partner?] asked my partner and friend.

"Ready as ever I will be Ddraig," I reassured. "I wonder how Tsukuyomi's power will benefit me and what are the effects of using it."

[I am not sure about the Shinto's god power, but there also might be some new potential waiting for you.]

Taken back by Ddraig's statement, I asked him again confoundly.

"New potential?" my eyes widened as my mind crafted a theory. "Is it the divine dividing's gear potential? The past wielder of the Hakuryuukou, his name was Joseph I believe..."

[Not that - I am referring to your power embued by your relentless training and the dragonization process. There are some new powers in store, you have created.] the heavenly dragon retorted.

"I see... I am not surprised; I mean after an entire month of vigorous training - I expected I would achieve some extraordinary powers," I stated with optimism.

[The best part: It came from sheer hard work and commitment rather than poking breasts.]

"Hey! I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't return to that disgraceful path again."

[Yeah - Yeah, quit your napping and focus on your task: Meditate and travel within the boosted gear's unconsciousness.]

"Fine," I scoffed disdainfully.

I returned to the matter in hand and began meditating. My consciousness slipped into a deep trance, and I was enveloped in a bright light. I felt my mind and body transport to a new realm, one that was familiar and foreign - that being a white room with desks, tables and people - no, the past wielders of the boosted gear.

–Their heads held high but hollow inside. They are lost in an abyss where madness resides. Eyes glazed with a vacant stare.

<<So, we meet again, Hyoudou Issei.>>

That voice! I spun around and found myself staring at a man who exuded charisma and mystery. He was well-built and handsome, with forest-green hair and eyes glinted like precious amethysts. He donned a striking black noble uniform with a bold red cape attached to it.

"B-Belzad-san!" I bowed without hesitation. 

–This figure is the strongest Sekiryuutei as he holds the prestigious record for killing the Hakuryootou 2 times!

"For what do I owe the pleasure, Belzad-san?" I uttered tremulously.

<<Haha, there is no need to be formal with me Ise. I wanted to meet the new you, as described by Ddraig - I must admit the change is palpable.>> The charismatic man addressed me while examining me with his sharp amethyst eyes.