DxD: 126/129

Chapter 126: House Valefor

"You got rejected."

As she watched Grayfia walk away, Inukimi poked her head out, her tone tinged with teasing.

Lynn looked down at the two twitching ears on his shoulder. The corners of his lips lifted slightly as he instinctively reached out, grabbed them, and began to gently rub.

"He-hey hey hey!"

Inukimi trembled violently, completely stunned.

She was the most noble royal of the Western Lands…

And yet…

She was being treated like a pet?

Inukimi instinctively bared her sharp fangs, ready to bite and remind him just how fearsome the Princess of the Dog Demon Clan truly was.

But…

Lynn suddenly said, "Considering you aren't paying rent, don't you think this is fair?"

Rent?

Inukimi froze. She looked down at where she was curled up on his shoulder.

Okay… fair enough.

Besides, this was the Underworld. She had no choice but to rely on Lynn right now…

Forget it, she thought.

I'll just pretend to be a pet for now…

She consoled herself mentally.

Then she tilted her head, letting Lynn pet her without resistance.

Since she couldn't stop it, she might as well enjoy it…

And to be honest.

His technique wasn't bad.

Inukimi narrowed her golden eyes in comfortable silence.

Lynn chuckled and turned his attention back to more important matters.

Grayfia's rejection hadn't affected him in the slightest.

He was used to things not going smoothly when recruiting Peerage members. Even Natsuki Minamiya, who he met early on, hadn't been brought in yet.

Still…

"The war, huh…"

He had no interest in the civil conflict within the Underworld.

But just then, Lynn flashed forward and reappeared in front of Grayfia, blocking her path.

Her pupils contracted slightly.

That speed…!

She hadn't even reacted before he was already there.

Although surprised, Grayfia's expression remained stoic. She frowned and asked, "Do you need something?"

Was he going to drag her off and force her into marriage?

She couldn't help but wonder, though oddly, she wasn't worried.

From that speed alone, and his overwhelming presence she already knew.

This man was powerful.

But so was she.

Lynn kept his expression calm. "Do you know where House Valefor's territory is?"

"Valefor?"

Grayfia was momentarily surprised, but pointed to the west.

"Thanks."

The moment he finished, Lynn vanished, leaving only a few glowing sparks in his wake.

Just wanted directions?

Grayfia blinked in silence, then stared at the lingering embers.

There was an overwhelming energy hidden in those flames. Even she felt wary.

When did such a being appear in the Underworld?

As a core figure of the Old Maou Faction, she knew of most of the powerful devils.

But Lynn… was a complete unknown.

Someone that strong shouldn't have remained anonymous.

Unless…

He had the power to end this war.

Her heart wavered slightly.

She was tired of endless bloodshed.

If someone could bring peace to this chaos…

Then maybe it was him.

…

On the other side.

Following Grayfia's directions, Lynn arrived at the territory of House Valefor in a flash.

He had come to the Underworld with a clear purpose.

To awaken his innate magic traits.

As a descendant of the 72 Pillars and a noble house of devils, his magic should possess unique characteristics.

But until now, it had yet to manifest.

Now that he was in the Underworld's past, it was the perfect chance to visit House Valefor and unlock it.

Even though Lynn already held the strength of a Satan-class Devil.

Certain innate traits could offer terrifying boosts.

Take Sirzechs, for example. His advancement to Super-Class Devil was largely due to the destructive nature of his magic.

So Lynn saw no reason to delay.

But…

He furrowed his brow at the tense, militarized atmosphere surrounding Valefor's estate. Armies were stationed in formation, clearly on high alert.

"Valefor is part of the Old Maou Faction?"

His expression twitched slightly.

How did the Valefor clan, part of the Old Faction, end up forming a marriage alliance with the Sitri of the Reformists?

Shaking his head, Lynn let the thought go and strode directly toward the Valefor mansion.

His bold movements immediately drew attention from the soldiers stationed outside.

"Who goes there?"

A devil general narrowed his eyes and instinctively reached for the massive blade strapped to his back.

Anyone daring to approach the Demon King's army had to either be suicidal or absurdly confident.

The general remained tense.

Other devils quickly gathered, bloodshot eyes filled with hostility and killing intent.

War had long driven them mad.

And the Old Maou Faction was infamous for its brutality.

Lynn didn't bother to speak. He didn't even glance at them.

He simply walked forward, completely unfazed.

Four High-Class Devils and a swarm of fodder?

They weren't even worth a thought to him.

"You bastard…!"

The general's face twisted in rage.

This guy was way too arrogant!

And if he disturbed Lord Beelzebub while he was inside.

Just imagining the consequences made the general break out in a cold sweat.

"Take him down!"

The demons, already impatient, erupted with eerie screeches.

Bat-like wings spread, and a horde of devils took to the skies and ground, surrounding Lynn.

"Haha! Let's tear this guy's head off and use it as a ball!"

"For the Demon King!"

The chaos was deafening.

Inside the Valefor mansion.

In the conference room.

The Valefor Patriarch frowned and leaned toward his butler.

"What's going on outside?"

"A fool must've wandered in."

The butler whispered cautiously, trying not to disturb their guest.

How blind could that idiot be? Couldn't he see the Maou's army outside?

The Patriarch sighed.

He glanced at the man resting silently across from him.

Beelzebub.

Seeing no reaction, he quietly relaxed.

But the next moment, Beelzebub's eyes snapped open.

His pupils burned like hellfire.

A twisted grin stretched across his face, his voice hoarse and gleeful.

"Heh… something interesting just showed up."

The Valefor Patriarch stiffened. Cold sweat beaded in his palms.

"Think of it as dessert before the main course…"

Beelzebub stood, burst with magic, and shot out like a missile.

…

Meanwhile.

Inukimi, still nestled in Lynn's arms, groaned slightly.

He had flown too fast just now. She was still dizzy.

When she finally came to, she realized they were surrounded.

"!"

Her body tensed.

She could sense at least four High-Class Devils here!

Was the Underworld always this full of monsters?

But…

She quickly relaxed.

She was currently Lynn's… pet.

She turned to glance coldly at the surrounding devils.

Her golden eyes gleamed with disdain.

Demon King's Army: "?"

Did that dog just look down on us?

The devils boiled with rage!

"Kill them!"

"Skin that dog!"

The entire Demon King's Army charged at Lynn.

But Lynn stood calmly, unmoved.

He lifted a hand.

And slashed the air.

A brilliant light burst forth from his palm.

Blessed with holy, light-based attributes, pure nemesis to devils.

His magic exploded instantly.

Buzz—

A blinding wave of light swept outward like a rising sun.

The demons' eyes widened in horror.

It was like facing their natural predator.

Just being touched by it was like bathing in acid. Their bodies began to dissolve.

"AHHHHHHH—!!!"

Agonizing screams echoed across the Underworld.

Every devil was affected.

Even the top general dropped to his knees, trembling and drenched in sweat.

"Did… angels breach the Underworld?"

That was the only explanation he could think of.

Lynn's magic felt like something straight from Heaven.

The entire battlefield shifted in seconds.

Low and Mid-Class Devils were annihilated instantly.

The High-Class Devils were reduced to ruined corpses.

Even the strongest devil present could barely stand, his body eroding like he was cursed.

At this rate.

Death was inevitable.

Lynn's face remained calm, unmoved by the carnage.

These blessed attributes were just too effective.

"Interesting! So interesting!!"

A crazed voice echoed.

Beelzebub arrived at the scene, eyes gleaming with madness as he beheld the devastation.

"A devil… with the power of angels?!"

"What a joke!!"

His expression twisted with desire.

If he could master that kind of power.

He would truly be the Devil King!

Who could possibly oppose him then?

He had to know how this ability worked!

Capture. Restrain. Dissect.

All those thoughts flashed through Beelzebub's mind in an instant.

Unable to contain himself, he lunged toward Lynn like a starving wolf.

Lynn's eyes narrowed.

Four Souls Devil, activate.

Purifying Devil, activate.

Angel Devil (Chaos Mode), activate.

Aries Crown, activate.

…

"Haah…"

With multiple states stacked on top of one another, Lynn felt like he was a universe unto himself.

Even his exhale sparked arcs of lightning through the air.

His blood surged.

He was fired up now…

It was time to draw his blade.

(To be continued.)

Chapter 127: Magic Traits

Underworld, Valefor Territory.

"Lord Beelzebub!!"

The general of the Demon King's Army, who had been barely holding on, froze the moment he saw Beelzebub's figure appear. A chill instantly crept down his spine.

If Lord Beelzebub saw him in such a miserable state, there was no doubt he'd face brutal punishment.

He shivered.

But Beelzebub didn't spare them a glance. His gaze was locked solely on Lynn.

His figure flashed like lightning, and a monstrous surge of magic erupted from his body.

A green mist-like wave of magic spread outward.

"Ughhh…"

Demons caught in the area screamed in agony as their bodies shriveled, drained of life in an instant.

Even so, the remaining soldiers of the Demon King's Army didn't retreat.

They couldn't.

Staying might lead to death, but fleeing guaranteed it.

Inukimi trembled violently.

He's the same level as Lynn… and that woman before!

Sensing the danger, she immediately transformed and vanished into Lynn's arms, her canine face fading away into spiritual energy.

Beelzebub's eyes gleamed as he charged at Lynn, exuding terrifying demonic power.

Lynn grinned. A cold glint flashed in his eyes.

A faint light ignited from his body, and sparks crackled like mischievous fire sprites.

His black hair fluttered in the invisible wind.

Those crimson eyes were deep, like they held an entire universe.

Boom!

A terrifying aura erupted upward like a blade, slicing straight through the underworld's ever-present dark clouds.

The realm, long shrouded in darkness, was bathed in a radiant, sun-like light.

"Haah…"

Lynn exhaled slowly, his breath crackling with arcs of electricity.

Thanks to the [Four Souls Devil], his mind was crystal clear.

Fighting techniques flowed through his muscles as if they had always been there.

Multiple special attack buffs activated.

He raised his eyes and calmly looked toward Beelzebub.

Beelzebub's pupils shrank.

He froze mid-charge.

His magic, which had surged outward with such fury, now recoiled like a frightened rodent under Lynn's pressure.

What the hell is this?!

The sheer pressure Lynn released overwhelmed even his bloodlust.

Sanity quickly returned.

Beelzebub was shocked and confused.

Just a moment ago, they were equal in aura. Now, he was completely outmatched.

That magic earlier—it wasn't even demonic… it was angelic!

He hesitated.

But Lynn wasn't about to give him time to think.

Ever since gaining his strength, Lynn hadn't had the chance to test it in full combat.

Finally, a Maou-level enemy stood before him. It was the perfect time to test his blade.

A glint flashed in Lynn's eyes as he grinned.

In the next instant.

An afterimage streaked past!

Beelzebub's eyes widened in horror as a massive fist filled his vision.

One punch.

Bang!!

It was like a star imploding.

A massive shockwave erupted from the point of impact, sweeping the battlefield like a tsunami.

The once-solid ground was shredded like paper, crumbling away.

Countless boulders were reduced to dust.

The remaining devils bulged their eyes in disbelief as their bodies were distorted and deformed by the aftermath alone.

"AHHHHHHHHH—!!"

Their screams of agony echoed briefly before silence returned.

The Demon King's Army—completely annihilated.

"Urgh—"

Beelzebub took the punch head-on. It felt like crashing headfirst into a falling meteor.

His eyes caved in, his head whipped backward, and his face contorted from the sheer impact.

Then.

Boom!

His body flew back like a broken leaf, slamming into a mountain of crystalsteel.

Crack—

The ultra-dense material couldn't withstand the force. Web-like cracks split across its surface.

Beelzebub coughed heavily among the debris. His nose was crushed, and a fist-shaped imprint was etched into his face.

Lynn's demon-purifying magic still lingered in his body, gnawing at him from the inside out.

His vitality was draining rapidly.

What… what just happened?

One punch?

He was Beelzebub, the Gluttony Maou!

How could one hit do this much damage?

But he wasn't about to give up.

Beelzebub panted heavily.

He was starving.

His innate magic trait—Gluttony—activated.

A cyclone of demonic power formed above him, funneling massive amounts of energy into his body.

Inukimi, who had peeked out to check on the battle, immediately retreated again.

The Underworld is terrifying!

Beelzebub greedily devoured the surrounding magic. The speed at which his vitality drained began to slow.

But—

Damn it!

That light-attribute magic!

With gritted teeth, Beelzebub attempted to use Gluttony to devour the holy magic within his body.

Suddenly—

Pfft!

Blood gushed from his mouth.

His eyes filled with disbelief.

His entire body was swelling unnaturally.

"What… what is this?!"

Even angelic magic could normally be digested bit by bit.

But this.

This wasn't just light-attribute!

At that moment, Lynn appeared.

He watched as Beelzebub tried to consume his power and raised a brow.

"You really tried to swallow all that?"

He was a cruel man.

That was a magic buffed with multiple demon-specialized Blessings. And this guy ate it like candy?

"You… what did you do to me?!"

Beelzebub's voice was hoarse and trembling.

Fear had crept into it.

Lynn smirked and snapped his fingers. A spark leapt from his fingertip, infused with karma fire via [Four Souls Devil]'s soul-linking ability.

Beelzebub definitely had a lot of karmic baggage.

As soon as the flame ignited.

Whoosh!

The karma fire erupted, feeding off Beelzebub's sins like it found dry kindling.

"AAAAAAAGHHHH!!"

Beelzebub howled in pain, feeling his soul being incinerated.

He rolled frantically, trying to extinguish the flames.

But they clung to him, unaffected, devouring him from the inside out.

Desperate, he tried to consume the fire with Gluttony again.

Instead—

The karmic flames reacted like someone had hit fast-forward.

His soul burned away completely.

The Maou of Gluttony, Beelzebub of the Old Maou Faction… was dead.

Lynn shook his head.

"Trying to eat everything… that's what killed you."

Not even ash remained.

He lightly touched his chin and muttered, "Are devils… this weak?"

"No. You're just too strong."

Inukimi cautiously poked her head out from Lynn's arms, still trembling.

She looked around at the devastated terrain.

Twisted demonic corpses were scattered everywhere.

The entire area had changed beyond recognition.

"Haah…"

She exhaled slowly.

Her emotions were complex.

This was her first time witnessing battle at this level.

If she hadn't seen it herself, she wouldn't have believed it only took one punch.

Honestly, that ugly devil from before was terrifying.

The moment she saw him, her instincts screamed in alarm.

Just the residual magic had drained monsters stronger than her.

Especially Beelzebub's final counterattack, it even warped the environment.

Yet…

He couldn't withstand even one of Lynn's punches?

Inukimi's expression became more complicated.

She remembered baring her fangs at him earlier.

Suddenly, she curled up again and became very obedient.

Fear.

After confirming Beelzebub had been completely incinerated, Lynn dispelled all his active buffs.

From this battle, he had gained a better understanding of his own power.

Though they were both devils, Lynn simply had too many trump cards.

Just the stack of Blessings he carried made him a devil-slaying nightmare.

Just in case, he'd even tagged Beelzebub with a mark of hostility.

Then he used [Four Souls Devil]'s soul harmonization to enhance his spark with karmic essence.

With all the karma Beelzebub had built up…

It was a guaranteed ignition.

Different buffs, layered effects.

Beelzebub had no chance.

Now that Lynn had measured his current strength, he nodded in satisfaction.

In the blink of an eye, he appeared at the Valefor estate.

He had purposely controlled the direction of his battle so the Valefors wouldn't be caught in the destruction.

Still…

The mansion's atmosphere was tense.

When the Valefor Patriarch saw Lynn enter, he squeezed out a smile that was worse than crying.

"Y-You're… an angel?"

He could smell the devil's magic on Lynn…

But he dared not say it out loud.

Light magic? From a devil?

Even thinking about Lynn's terrifying strength made the Patriarch tremble.

If he said something wrong and angered him, the Valefors would be wiped out next.

Lynn gave him a flat look.

"I'm a devil."

The Patriarch froze.

It's over.

Seeing his stiff reaction, Lynn said calmly, "You're the head of the house?"

"Yes! I am!"

The Patriarch nodded immediately.

"Then you should know how the Valefor bloodline awakens its magic traits?"

"Magic traits?"

Surprise flashed in the Patriarch's eyes.

But he didn't hesitate and nodded. "Yes. It's recorded in our lineage archives."

"Good."

Lynn nodded, then walked in as if it were his own home and sat at the head seat of the main hall.

The Valefors stood nervously.

This man had just annihilated the Demon King's Army and killed Beelzebub.

Compared to that, their house was nothing.

Still, in the Underworld, power ruled.

They were very aware of the situation.

After a quick order, the records on awakening magical traits were brought to Lynn.

He flipped through them silently.

"I see…"

As he read the devil script, understanding flickered in his eyes.

Valefor magic traits… were transformation and theft?

Lynn kept reading.

"Survival instinct stimulation?"

He hadn't encountered a life-or-death situation in the modern world yet.

Probably wouldn't anytime soon.

So this method was out.

Then he saw another line:

"Family ritual: Moon Theft Offering."

(To be continued.)

Chapter 128: Ophis

The so-called Moon Theft Ritual…

Was essentially just about stealing something?

Lynn looked expressionless. It really was the perfect ceremony to match the awakening of magical characteristics.

But…

Standing at the center of the ritual, looking at the designated target he was supposed to "steal," Lynn's expression turned deadpan.

"…I'm supposed to steal from the Infinite Dragon God?"

Forget it. This magical trait might be better left unawakened.

The moment Lynn saw the theft target, he immediately turned around and walked away without the slightest hesitation.

The others couldn't see Lynn's theft target and looked confused.

Only the head of House Valefor had caught a glimpse of the ritual's manifestation. His eyes lit up with shock and disbelief.

This man… he possesses Valefor blood?

Could it be that House Valefor is about to rise again?

Starting today?

Thinking of Lynn's terrifying strength, the Valefor patriarch's breath quickened. His hands trembled slightly from excitement.

Seeing this, the butler thought he was frightened and cautiously reminded him, "Master, Lord Lynn has left."

"What?"

The Valefor patriarch snapped out of his thoughts and immediately grabbed the butler's arm, speaking with urgency, "Did Lord Lynn leave any instructions?"

The butler shook his head.

The patriarch's face dimmed slightly in disappointment.

But then the butler hesitated before adding, "However…"

The spark of hope ignited again in the patriarch's eyes.

"Before leaving… Lord Lynn took some of the family's collections with him."

The Valefor patriarch froze.

He ran to the vault in a hurry. When he arrived and saw the nearly empty room, he fell into silence.

"…You call this 'some'?"

After a long moment, he finally spoke with a trembling voice, "…Yes. I can confirm now. Lord Lynn is definitely an orthodox Valefor!"

That thieving attribute, what a perfect match!

The patriarch wanted to cry but had no tears.

Unfortunately, the bad news wasn't over yet.

The butler's expression grew serious as he continued, "Master, the Maou Beelzebub and the Demon King's Army were annihilated within our territory. This…"

The Valefor patriarch's expression changed drastically.

It was over.

How would they explain this to the Old Maou Faction?

After a long silence, the patriarch looked up. His eyes were resolute, and his voice was solemn.

"I've long detested the Old Maou Faction's cruel ways."

"From today onward, House Valefor will formally join the Reformist Faction!"

The butler: "...?"

Without another word, the patriarch shouted, "Quick! Pack up everything, we're heading for Reformist territory!"

Run now. If we don't, it'll be too late!

"Oh, right."

The patriarch suddenly turned back. "See if you can find Beelzebub's body. That bastard… take him with us!"

Whether it was the annihilation of the Demon King's Army or Beelzebub's corpse, they were proof of Valefor's "contributions" to the Reformist side!

Even if Lynn was the one who did it… Lynn was Valefor too. That counted!

And besides, it saved them from having to clean up afterward.

Shortly after House Valefor fled…

The news of Beelzebub's death reached the ears of the Old Maou Faction.

Asmodeus spoke in disbelief, "Beelzebub… he's really dead?"

"And the Demon King's Army under him?"

Aside from the hard-to-describe Lucifer, Beelzebub was their strongest Maou.

Now he was dead?

Didn't he just go out to gather troops?

How did he just… die?

Zereikel stayed silent for a moment before responding, "Beelzebub is confirmed dead."

No one below dared to joke about something like that.

"But…"

"The Demon King's Army he took was only a portion. You and I will assume control of what remains."

"…Fine," Asmodeus sighed.

That bastard Lucifer was never reliable. He hadn't even made a move yet.

Now one of their key combat powers was gone.

Seriously…

And to think Valefor, who was supposedly under the Old Maou Faction, was actually aligned with the Reformists?

And even managed to pull this off?

Killing a Maou and most of the Demon King's Army?

Just Valefor?

Something wasn't right.

Back in the Beelzebub household.

Shalba Beelzebub stood in place, stunned upon hearing the news.

After a moment of silence, hatred surged in his eyes.

"Valefor…"

He clenched his teeth. "Just you wait!"

He would train harder than ever before, rise to become the next Beelzebub, and reclaim his clan's honor!

Then he would take revenge on Valefor.

And the Reformists too!

Only the Old Maou Faction represented true devil orthodoxy!

On the front lines.

Grayfia's expression was complicated when she received the report.

"…Valefor?"

Isn't that where that man said he was going?

And as far as she knew, Valefor didn't have anyone that strong…

Which meant…

It was him.

Grayfia was now certain.

A flicker of doubt crossed her heart. "Is he… a Reformist?"

But then why didn't he attack her?

If he could kill Beelzebub, he definitely could've taken her down too.

Grayfia was confused.

As for Beelzebub's death… she wasn't upset at all.

If anything.

"…It feels easier now."

Whether Reformist or Old Maou, as long as one side lost, this endless war could finally end.

She recalled the man who'd proposed to her the first time they met.

"…Stronger than I imagined."

A strange light flickered in her eyes.

Could he be the one to bring an end to it all?

The moment that thought surfaced, Grayfia couldn't stop herself.

She wanted to…

Confirm it.

Her long-numb heart stirred again, filled with urgency and anticipation.

She had fought for far too long.

Now that there was even a sliver of hope, she wanted to reach for it.

…

Reformist Territory.

When House Valefor arrived in a panic, Serafall and Sirzechs were stunned.

Then they heard the news about Beelzebub's death.

What…?

Did the Old Maou Faction send someone to defect?

But…

This was great news!

Serafall and Sirzechs exchanged looks and saw shared excitement in each other's eyes.

A Maou of the Old Maou Faction had been eliminated just like that?

Yes. Yes. Yes!

Beautifully done!

Sirzechs looked solemn as he spoke, "The Reformist Faction will never forget the contributions of House Valefor!"

They had delivered an incredible gift.

A reward was definitely in order.

The Valefor patriarch let out a deep sigh of relief.

The Old Maou Faction was falling. The Reformists were Valefor's only hope now…

Of course, it would be perfect if Lord Lynn would lead them personally.

Maybe then House Valefor could secure a position in the Reformist power structure.

Serafall and Sirzechs offered generous rewards and even proposed a public commendation to recognize Valefor's "heroic act."

Maybe it would inspire other "aspiring devils" like Valefor to switch sides.

At the same time, they learned a name.

"…Lynn?"

Sirzechs and Serafall both fell into thought.

So Beelzebub was killed by this man?

A devil capable of taking down a Maou…

This was no ordinary person.

And…

"Lynn Valefor?"

Valefor actually produced a devil with such power?

Sirzechs and Serafall were surprised. Their expressions gradually turned serious.

House Valefor would need to be handled with caution from now on.

…

Elsewhere.

After leaving Valefor territory, Lynn casually wandered the Underworld.

Along the way, his thoughts returned to the Infinite Dragon God.

Honestly, stealing from her wasn't impossible…

Her personality was supposed to be easygoing.

But…

Lynn wasn't the kind to bet everything on memories from his past life.

This multiverse DxD was already wildly different from canon.

He couldn't rely on impressions.

Besides, she was a Dragon God. He wasn't ready to mess with her yet.

And those bastards from [Khaos Brigade] were another issue entirely.

Unless…

She came to him of her own will?

Then… could that still count as "stealing"?

In his arms.

Inukimi, having left Valefor territory, had remained unusually quiet.

She seemed deep in thought.

Her claws were nervously fidgeting with each other.

Ever since witnessing Lynn's true power, the image of him inviting her to join him kept replaying in her mind.

Should she…?

Her expression twisted in hesitation.

Lynn noticed and raised a brow. "Do you need to pee?"

He'd seen that look before.

Didn't she get scared the last time?

A devil-level battle right after entering the Underworld, it was only natural to panic.

With an understanding nod, Lynn reached over, grabbed the scruff of her neck, and tossed her away.

"Wait!"

Inukimi was startled, hurriedly clinging to Lynn's clothes. "No!"

Back in the safety of his arms, she let out a sigh of relief.

Then looked up at him with slightly flushed cheeks, her white fur tinged pink.

"…?"

Lynn blinked.

Was that… a setting?

Inukimi took a deep breath, seemingly having made a decision. Then…

She rolled over and exposed her belly.

"…??"

Lynn gave her a strange look. "You're…"

"Submission… I surrender!"

Her voice was filled with shame. She turned her head away, clearly uncomfortable.

As royalty of the Dog Demon Clan, she had just exposed her belly to a man.

But what choice did she have?

Back at Valefor, she had understood one thing.

Even in the terrifying Underworld, Lynn stood at the top.

Beelzebub—one of the strongest devils in the realm.

Yet… one punch.

Thinking of that scene made her shiver.

Especially remembering how the Dog Demon Clan had clashed with him before…

If things had gone wrong, their entire bloodline would have been wiped out!

Inukimi sighed deeply.

This world was vast.

Even a monster like her was just a rootless weed in the grand scheme of things.

The battles between the Dog Demons and the Leopard Cats in the Western Land now seemed so trivial.

After seeing the wider world, she had reflected a lot.

So she had made her decision.

For the sake of the Dog Demon bloodline.

To make the Western Dog Demons great again.

This was…

A necessary sacrifice.

Yes.

The responsibility of royalty.

Inukimi drew in a deep breath, looked up with unwavering eyes, and declared.

"Please, allow me to serve you!"

(To be continued.)

Chapter 129: False God?

"Please let me serve you!"

Hearing Inukimi's resolute voice, Lynn didn't look surprised.

From the moment she followed him into the Underworld, it was clear where her heart leaned. After everything she had witnessed there, his overwhelming strength, the scales in her heart had tipped entirely in Lynn's favor.

Still…

Lynn wanted to confirm it once more.

"You've made your decision?"

"Mm!"

Inukimi's eyes burned with conviction.

The Western Lands were nothing more than a remote corner of the world. The Dog Demon clan? A small group at best.

At least, from the perspective of the broader world.

But she wanted more. She wanted to elevate the Dog Demons far beyond what their ancestors had ever achieved.

And with Lynn… maybe it was possible.

Thinking that, Inukimi's gaze grew fiery with determination.

Seeing that, Lynn smiled slightly.

"Then… congratulations on becoming my pet number two."

"…?"

"Why number two?!"

Inukimi puffed her cheeks, clearly dissatisfied.

As a noble royal of the Dog Demon clan, she had always been number one in everything!

Lynn gave her a subtle look.

That's what you're hung up on?

To clarify, he explained the current state of his Peerage.

When he mentioned Midori Fuse, Inukimi snorted. "Another stinky cat!"

Dog Demons and Cat Demons had always been natural enemies.

Lynn smiled wordlessly and reached out, rubbing her exposed belly.

"Uuh…"

Inukimi trembled and her cheeks flushed, but she didn't avoid his touch.

Instead, she turned her head away and bit her lip lightly.

She'd already chosen this path.

While still teaching her a lesson, Lynn explained the reincarnation process, including the part about the Evil Piece system.

"…Bare back?"

Inukimi's dog ears shot up as she stared at him in disbelief.

"Isn't this just Lynn's weird hobby?"

Her golden eyes sparkled with suspicion.

Lynn shrugged. "It's just the back."

…I see.

Wait, no. That's still embarrassing!

Inukimi felt like she'd been tricked into boarding a pirate ship.

She then hesitated again. "If I get reincarnated, will I still have my Dog Demon bloodline?"

She'd learned a lot about devils and reincarnation during her time in the Underworld.

She didn't mind becoming a reincarnated devil, but…

Her Dog Demon heritage mattered.

"Don't worry."

Lynn's palm rested against her fur as he replied calmly, "Reincarnated devils only purge negative states. Bloodlines that are advantageous will coexist with the devil's blood."

Just like how Akeno Himejima, a reincarnated devil, still retained her Fallen Angel bloodline.

After all…

Reincarnated devils from other races were essentially hybrid devils.

"…That's good."

Inukimi breathed a sigh of relief, then continued listening to Lynn's explanation. Her eyes grew brighter and her heart raced with excitement.

Special-Class Devil. Blessing System.

She took a deep breath.

Lynn may be a devil, but… he's practically a god wearing devil's skin, isn't he?

His system enhanced development potential, boosted stats, elevated levels…

An arsenal of divine abilities!

He was the key to reaching heights no one in her clan had ever dreamed of!

"Haa…"

Inukimi's breathing grew ragged.

She'd made the right bet!

With Lord Lynn's blessing, she could definitely lead the Dog Demons to greater heights!

So…

"Lord Lynn, please grant me your blessing!"

Lynn rubbed his chin. "You sure you want to do it here?"

Inukimi blinked, looked around, and quickly shook her head.

She had no idea when a devil might pop up in this place.

She didn't want her body to be seen by anyone other than Lord Lynn. Meidō Stone and poured magic into it.

"Let's leave first."

Buzz—

A dark radiance shimmered from the stone.

A crack large enough for one person to pass through split open in space.

On the other side was a lush, verdant world.

A path connecting the Underworld to the present world had opened.

Without delay, Lynn took Inukimi and stepped through.

Musashi Province, Kaede Village.

"…Where is this?"

Inukimi blinked curiously.

"It's the Peerage's temporary base," Lynn replied casually.

He had changed the coordinates when opening the gate, returning them directly to Kaede Village.

Boom! Boom!

As the two chatted, the land beneath Kaede Village suddenly shook.

Midori flew back using her wings and shouted toward the village, "Everyone! I've lured a big guy!"

Behind her, a giant creature like a mountain thundered across the land with heavy, earth-shaking steps.

"You wretched woman! How dare you humiliate me like this!!"

The monster roared in fury, its voice trembling the very air.

Its muscular body bulged with pulsing veins, and its six massive arms flailed wildly.

Two horns sprouted from its head, and its face was that of a furious oni.

However…

"Pfft—"

Utaha couldn't help but laugh.

The Earth Spider's ears twitched, and his rage exploded!

That cursed woman!

That hateful woman!

She shaved off his beautiful hair!!

"Wretched woman!!"

The faster he stomped, the more the ground shook.

The villagers in Maple Village looked up in surprise but didn't panic.

"Wow, he's huge."

"Just his steps feel like earthquakes."

Despite the commotion, no one stopped working.

A shimmering barrier glowed faintly above Maple Village.

With Kikyo and Midori Fuse reinforcing it, the barrier was now solid as steel.

This mere Earth Spider couldn't break through.

In fact, the villagers even began taking bets.

"How long do you think he'll last?"

"Maybe fifteen minutes?"

"Isn't he a Great Youkai? He should last a while."

"But…"

"The witches are terrifying!"

Life had become lively and strange ever since the arrival of Lynn's Peerage.

Inukimi nestled in Lynn's arms, her dog eyes wide in disbelief.

"That's… the Earth Spider!"

A well-known monster.

Even the Western Dog Demons avoided provoking him.

"They seem to be working well together."

Lynn watched Saeko and the others and nodded.

"Are they all members of Lord Lynn's Peerage?"

Having learned a bit about the Blessing System, Inukimi's eyes sparkled.

Were they using the Earth Spider to increase their stats?

They were using a Great Youkai as a whetstone?

Inukimi stared in shock before glancing over at Midori.

That woman gave her an extremely dangerous vibe.

Still, with her here, there was no need to worry.

And speaking of appearances…

Lord Lynn's Peerage really was full of beauties.

Was he also… the God of Lust?

"I finally get to kill something interesting."

Saeko licked her lips, eyes gleaming red as she dashed forward.

"Tch. You're also an enemy!"

Kisara refused to be outdone, charging toward the Earth Spider like a blur.

The Earth Spider sneered at the small figures approaching him.

But soon, his expression changed.

Slash—

Flesh split open and blood sprayed across the field, instantly corroding the grass.

The Earth Spider clutched his chest in shock. A massive gash had torn him open!

He howled in pain. "I'll crush you all!"

His six arms slammed into the ground, causing cracks to spider across the shrine near the village entrance.

In response, Midori Fuse threw three talismans behind her.

"Binding!"

Golden chains materialized and coiled around the Earth Spider's legs!

"GRAAAGHH!"

"Utaha."

"Got it!"

Utaha flipped through the Devil Tome. "Thunder Strike!"

CRACK!

A massive bolt of lightning descended from the sky, charring him on impact!

Just as he coughed up black smoke, another arrow shot toward him.

Whoosh!

"Demon-Breaking Arrow!"

It struck him in the knee with a loud snap, forcing him to one knee!

"GRAAAHH!"

The purifying power surged through his body, sending waves of pain!

The roar was like a trigger.

Mahiru spread her celestial wings and swooped in with a light-and-dark flash.

The others followed, attacking in unison.

With Midori leading the coordination, the Earth Spider didn't last long before crashing to the ground—dead.

Clap, clap!

Lynn applauded, drawing the attention of the Peerage.

"Very nice. You're all getting stronger and stronger."

Inukimi was stunned!

That legendary Great Youkai had been taken down so easily?

Her eyes swept across the Peerage members and her body tensed instinctively.

Lynn's Peerage was terrifying!

She'd made the right decision.

"Master!"

Utaha and the others ran toward Lynn, spotting Inukimi nestled in his arms.

They glanced at her curiously.

"Who's this… your new pet?"

As Utaha reached out to touch her, Inukimi bared her fangs with a growl.

Only Lynn could touch her!

"…Tsk. So fierce."

Utaha pulled her hand back with a pout.

Inukimi huffed and turned her head proudly.

Lynn just smiled and ruffled her head, making her squirm in embarrassment.

"Prepare a quiet room."

Kikyo glanced at Inukimi, her expression briefly flashing with interest.

A new Peerage member?

"I understand, Lord Lynn."

Kaede stared at the small white dog in Lynn's arms, itching to touch it.

Before she could, Kikyo tugged her away.

Outside the hut, Kaede looked up at her sister.

"Was that my brother-in-law's pet? So cute!"

Brother-in-law.

Kikyo's cheeks turned a light pink, but she didn't refute it. Instead, she patted Kaede's head lovingly.

Still… a flicker of concern crossed her face.

She didn't know…

Was Kaede qualified to become a member of Lord Lynn's peerage?

---

Inside the hut.

Inukimi muttered, "That was too simple."

Lynn rubbed her head. "Don't be picky."

Hearing that, Inukimi hesitated, then her body glowed with silver moonlight.

A noble, elegant woman stood in her place.

White hair trailing on the floor. A light purple kimono. Golden eyes, cool and composed, though her cheeks were flushed.

She glanced at Lynn with a complicated expression, then quickly lowered her gaze.

Lynn had explained the reincarnation ritual earlier. She was mentally prepared.

Still…

It was embarrassing.

Her heart pounded nervously.

But she had made her choice.

She slowly unfastened her kimono and turned around, exposing her flawless back.

Half-naked, her shoulders tinged pink, she spoke in a trembling voice.

"Lord Lynn… please grant me your blessing."

Without hesitation, Lynn summoned an Evil Piece and pressed it against her back.

"Uuh…"

Inukimi's breathing quickened.

Something strange surged within her.

Her demon blood boiled.

Her golden eyes turned red.

The reincarnation ritual activated the Dog Demon bloodline in her.

And then…

It was done.

The Evil Piece embedded into her body without resistance.

The demon blood fused seamlessly with her own.

The system notification echoed in Lynn's mind.

[Ding! You have obtained Inukimi of the Demon Dog Clan!]

[Ding! Your Peerage member Inukimi has been reincarnated as a Special-Class Devil…]

Buzz—

The window appeared.
Name: Inukimi
Rank: Ultimate-Class Devil
Class: Castle
Race: Devil
Master: Lynn Valefor

Stats:
Strength: i0
Agility: i0
Durability: i0
Magic: i0

Class Skill:
Body of Nature

Inherent Skills:
• Princess of Clouds – Natural deterrent to canines, applies racial pressure
• Dog Demon Blood – Enters a berserk state, increases all stats by 60%
• Royal Blood Protection – Upon receiving fatal damage, automatically banished to the Underworld for 3 seconds. Restores 30% max HP upon return
• Accelerated Agility Growth
• Accelerated Strength Growth
• Nether Moon Seal – Summons Dogs, Waning Moon Slash, Moonlight Form

Moon Eclipse Devil:
• Under moonlight, increases all stats by 80%
• Demon race special attack
• Lunar Eclipse Barrier – Lowers enemy agility rank by 1
• Devil Transformation – Gains False God power under a new moon. Enters weakened state for 12 hours after

Development Abilities:
• Boiling Demon Blood: A
• Nether Resistance: S

As expected, an ultimate-class devil.

But…

Lynn's gaze paused on one skill.

Moon Eclipse Demon.

Especially the line about "Devil Transformation."

"The power of God…"

"False, huh?"

Lynn's expression turned a little strange.

So she's already touched on divine power?

He opened his own panel and looked at the empty "Authority" slot.

…Well.

If it has 'false' in the name, then yeah, not quite worthy yet.

(To be continued.)