DxD: The Dragon Oppai {Chapter 184: So, thats why! ] (Patreon)

"The girl went nuts and power-hungry in her obsession to beat more and more noteworthy challengers. She killed everyone from devils, angels, youkai, to even other dragons. She defeated the dragon king Yu-Long pretty badly one time too. He's actually kind of nice, but she didn't care. For a while, she had everything she wanted, and everyone was afraid of her."

"She got a little boyfriend and a team of friends that helped her out. The girl thought she was invincible and didn't care enough to be cautious or pick her fights and allies wisely. I told her multiple times that even I got beaten and that she should be more aware of her limitations."

"Well she ignored me as usual and eventually bit off more than she could chew. After purging China of enemies, she decided she would go to India to do the same. Her warpath was stopped by a dragon named Pakhangba. He sought to protect various dragons around India that she was hunting down."

"Well she killed him…despite me telling her that Pakhangba was not an evil dragon. This pissed off a lot of people including his most powerful friend…the god Vishnu. Well needless to say, she tried to fight Vishnu and that ended very poorly. Jia just couldn't match him with the boosted gear. Even at my full power, I don't know if I could beat Vishnu, but she was determined to win. She pushed herself beyond Juggernaut Drive and it killed her."

The story left Ingvild feeling a mix of sadness and awe. "Wow... so that's why you urged Issei to keep his identity concealed?" she mused.

Ddraig's voice carried a tinge of regret as he replied, "When Issei first manifested the Boosted Gear, I convinced him that we should steer clear of political entanglements and maintain our anonymity. I hoped that by keeping a low profile, he would develop wisdom through isolation. Too many of my previous hosts have made foolish decisions that reflected poorly on me. Some became subordinates to angels, devils, or other entities. I simply wanted Issei to perceive things from my perspective and learn from both my mistakes and those of his predecessors. It's disheartening that, despite our best efforts, we seem destined for a life embroiled in futile battles and unnecessary drama. Nonetheless, Issei has always valued my advice, unlike most of my other hosts, and for that, I am grateful."

Ingvild nodded in understanding. "That rationale makes sense to me. Based on the historical accounts I've studied, Sekiryuuteis are often power-hungry conquerors. Learning about Issei's grounded nature was truly remarkable. I believe you made the right choice. I apologize if I've been a burden to you both, and I'm sorry that you've had to endure such circumstances, Ddraig-sama."

Ddraig's tone softened as he responded, "It's not your fault, nor is it Issei's. It's simply a stroke of bad luck or perhaps even fate. Maybe it's a curse from the foolish Bible God. Regardless, Issei has become my favorite wielder thus far. He comprehends the essence of being a True Dragon more than any of the others, and he heeds my wisdom and guidance. To him, I am not just a tool but a friend. He is one of the few individuals in this world whom I consider a friend. Additionally, through Issei, I have gained a deeper understanding of Great Red. The time we spent with him has been refreshing and enlightening. Great Red embodies the true nature of a dragon, and I am delighted to accompany Issei on this path towards greatness. If we must confront arrogant fools along the way, then I am wholeheartedly committed to doing so this time."

Ingvild shifted the conversation, asking, "So, Ddraig-sama, you and Issei thought those individuals at the café were giants?"

Ddraig contemplated for a moment before responding, "It was mere speculation on my part. The man mentioned that his mother hailed from Iceland, and his surname sounded reminiscent of giants. I am not well-versed in the lore of northern deities, so I couldn't confirm anything definitively. Nevertheless, I anticipate that we will encounter them again, as well as many others from all walks of life. They are in for a humbling experience when Issei and I unleash our full power."

Issei chuckled and interjected, "Are you actually looking forward to it now, Ddraig?"

Issei pondered for a moment, his brow furrowing. "We'll figure out the specifics once we're there. While I teach Saji about dragon-related matters, I want you to push the limits of your Longinus. Afterward, Ddraig and I will focus on activating Nightmare Mode."

Curiosity gleamed in Ingvild's eyes as she inquired, "What exactly is Nightmare Mode?"

Issei briefly averted his gaze, a flicker of introspection crossing his features. "It's... hard to explain. You'll witness its true nature firsthand when we train later. Successfully combining it with the Boosted Gear is my primary objective in my personal training."

The half-devil's wonderment deepened, and she ventured, "So, is it like a power that warps reality?"

"In a way... you'll comprehend it when you witness it," Issei replied, his tone carrying a hint of mystery.

"Well, we've already spent enough time deliberating. Let's go and find Saji-san. Do you want me to accompany you?" Ingvild asked, her voice tinged with anxiety.

"Yeah, let's not waste any more time," Issei affirmed, opening a portal with determination.

Ingvild's gaze shifted towards their motorcycles and she suggested, "Don't you want to take your bikes?"

"Not for this... we need to slip in and out discreetly. Besides, I'd be too tempted to take it for a joyride," Issei explained, shaking his head.

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Kuoh Academy

After traversing through the portal and arriving at the school, Issei quickly detected Saji's scent. The distinct aroma of Vritra, recently imbued into the Sitri pawn, was detectable only by Issei himself. As he and Ingvild traversed the school's hallways, he realized that Saji was currently in the Student Council Room, much to his annoyance.

"He's with the others right now... damn it," Issei sighed in frustration.