Chapter 14: Sparring Final

"Alright, Let's move on to the last member, Issei."

"Yes," exclaimed Issei nervously.

"Begin."

Shinjiro simply walked towards Issei, his towering figure becoming even more massive in Issei's eyes. Being relatively new, Issei didn't have much experience, especially since he just had his Sacred Gear appear, supposedly the Twice Critical, although he didn't think it was impressive, seeing as Rias didn't react strongly to it.

Issei started with a boost and backed away from Shinjiro.

Shinjiro quickened his pace, arriving before Issei as his second boost activated. Scared, Issei launched a punch towards Shinjiro, which felt like hitting a steel wall, hurting himself.

Shinjiro merely stared at Issei's futile attempts before grabbing his arm. As he did so, a dark aura surrounded him and spread towards Issei's gauntlet. Before he knew it, he was in some sort of mindscape.

In front of him was a large crimson dragon with large wings and huge claws resting.

Walking towards the dragon, Shinjiro confirmed his suspicion of what he felt when he helped Issei with teleporting with the group.

The dragon opened his eyes, glowing green, staring at Shinjiro.

"You're not my host. Who are you?"

"Shinjiro Hanma. I just wanted to satiate my curiosity. Your host is currently pitiful; however, I am going to help him start a strong foundation. After all, you have your fated fight with Albion."

"You sound like you know him," the dragon rumbled, narrowing its eyes.

"I know him and his host, Vali Lucifer, quite well," Shinjiro replied, crossing his arms casually. "Vali and I are adopted nephews of Azazel, and I've had a few chances to cross arms. He's an Ultimate-Class Devil, considered a true prodigy and talented fighter. He's also a well-known battle junkie."

The dragon's eyes glowed slightly. "And you believe you can help my host enough to face Albion?"

"With the right training and guidance, I can start him off with a strong foundation. From there, it'll be up to him to grow and become a formidable opponent."

The dragon let out a low growl that sounded almost like a chuckle. "Very well, Shinjiro Hanma. I will hold you to your word. But remember, the Boosted Gear is not just a tool for power. It requires a strong will and a resilient spirit."

Shinjiro's smirk widened. "Don't worry. I'll find out what makes him tick and ensure he's got plenty of both by the time we're done."

"We will see, then. I will return to my rest. I do hope you can help my host get stronger. I, Ddraig, will be thankful," replied Ddraig. "When I deem him fit, I will appear to him myself. Until then, the burden of his training falls on you." With that, Ddraig returned to his slumber.

Shinjiro returned to his senses, still holding Issei's gauntlet as he saw Issei faint.

"Issei!" exclaimed Rias as she rushed towards him.

"Don't worry, he's fine. You've got a good piece, Rias."

"What do you mean by that?" asked Rias.

"He is the wielder of the Boosted Gear, one of thirteen Longinus housing the Welsh Dragon himself."

"What?" exclaimed Rias, looking at Issei in surprise.

"Although weak, I will make sure he will have the chance to grow and give a fight to the host of the Divine Dividing," said Shinjiro.

"I knew I had a good feeling about him," replied Rias.

"Oh, is love budding?" quipped Akeno.

"No, he is more like a cute little brother," said Rias before glancing at Shinjiro, which didn't go unnoticed by Shinjiro, Akeno, nor Penemue.

"Okay, we will eat first before I am going to have one-on-one sessions discussing your weaknesses more in depth and what training you will go through."

After that, everyone got changed and headed to the dining hall of the mansion where they were greeted by a feast of various delicious dishes, including roasted meats, fresh fruits, salads, and an assortment of desserts.

After a little while, everyone ate, filling their stomachs. Issei followed shortly after waking up and eating as well.

Finishing up, Shinjiro held one-on-one sessions with each member in a private room.