Reborn of The Mercenary: [Toji Fushiguro x Highschool DxD]

Chapter 24: The Awakening Part II

Late Night, Issei's Room

Issei collapsed onto his bed, utterly exhausted from the intense training with Michael. His muscles ached, and his mind was a whirlwind of newfound knowledge and techniques. He barely had the energy to pull the covers over himself before his eyes closed and he drifted into a deep sleep.

Suddenly, Issei found himself standing in an unfamiliar, ethereal realm. The sky was a swirling mass of red and black, and the ground beneath him felt solid yet otherworldly. He looked around, bewildered, until a booming voice echoed through the space.

"So, you are the one who wields the Boosted Gear."

Issei spun around to see a colossal red dragon, its scales glinting like molten lava, towering over him. The dragon's eyes were a piercing green, filled with ancient wisdom and power.

"Wh-who are you?" Issei stammered, taking a step back.

The dragon chuckled, a deep, resonant sound that shook the very air. "I am Ddraig, the Welsh Dragon. Also known as the Red Dragon Emperor. And you, Issei Hyoudou, are my current host."

Issei's eyes widened in shock. "Ddraig... I've heard of you. You're one of the Heavenly Dragons, right? But what do you mean, I'm your host?"

Ddraig's gaze softened slightly. "The Boosted Gear you possess is more than just a sacred gear. It is my prison, and through it, my power flows into you. As my host, you can tap into my strength and use it to achieve great things."

Issei felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. "So, you're saying I have the power of a dragon inside me?"

"Indeed," Ddraig replied. "But with great power comes great responsibility. You must learn to control it, to harness it for the right purposes. Otherwise, it can consume you."

Issei nodded, trying to process everything. "I understand. But why are you talking to me now? What's changed?"

Ddraig's eyes seemed to glimmer with amusement. "Your recent training and the blessing you received from Saint George have awakened my consciousness. You have proven yourself worthy of my attention."

Issei felt a surge of pride at Ddraig's words. "Thank you. I won't let you down."

"I certainly hope not," Ddraig said, his tone turning serious. "There are great challenges ahead, Issei. Dark forces are stirring, and you must be prepared to face them. But know this: you are not alone. I will be with you, guiding and aiding you."

Issei felt a sense of reassurance wash over him. "I'll do my best, Ddraig. Together, we'll protect those we care about and fight for what's right."

Ddraig nodded approvingly. "Good. Now, it is time for you to awaken. Remember our conversation and be ready for the trials to come."

Morning, Issei's Room

Issei jolted awake, his heart pounding. The dream – or vision – with Ddraig felt incredibly real. He looked down at his left arm, where the Boosted Gear had materialized. It glowed faintly, a sign of its recent awakening.

As Issei sat up, he noticed a subtle change in the gauntlet. It looked more intricate, with additional runes and patterns etched into its surface. He could feel the power coursing through it, stronger and more vibrant than before.

Without wasting any time, Issei hurried to find Michael. He found him in the garden, surrounded by a serene aura as he meditated.

"Michael!" Issei called out, panting slightly from his rush.

Michael opened his eyes and smiled. "Good morning, Issei. What brings you here so early?"

Issei held up his left arm, showing the evolved Boosted Gear. "I had a... a vision, or a dream. I spoke to Ddraig, the Red Dragon Emperor. He said I've awakened his consciousness."

Michael's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but he quickly composed himself. "That is significant news, Issei. The awakening of Ddraig's consciousness within you means that you have unlocked a deeper level of your sacred gear. This will greatly enhance your abilities."

Issei nodded, still trying to wrap his head around everything. "He said he'd be with me, guiding and aiding me. And that there are great challenges ahead."

Michael placed a reassuring hand on Issei's shoulder. "Ddraig is a powerful ally, and with his guidance, you will grow even stronger. Remember to use his power wisely and for the right purposes. There is indeed a great destiny ahead of you, Issei."

Issei took a deep breath, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thank you, Michael. I'll do my best."

Michael smiled warmly. "I have no doubt that you will. Now, let's continue your training. With Ddraig's power fully awakened, you are ready for the next level."

As they walked back to the training grounds, Issei felt a surge of confidence. He was not alone in his journey. With Ddraig by his side and Michael's guidance, he was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The Red Dragon Emperor had awakened, and Issei Hyoudou was prepared to rise to his destiny.