The Bifrost surged with a kaleidoscope of radiant colors, a dazzling bridge of light that connected realms. Kuroka's sharp golden eyes sparkled with curiosity and wonder as she stepped onto the shimmering surface for the first time. The energy hummed beneath her feet, a tangible sensation that made her fur flick slightly in response.

"This is… different, nya," she murmured, her usual playful tone laced with genuine awe.

Shin glanced at her with a faint smirk, his crimson eyes glinting under the vibrant glow of the Bifrost. "Get used to it. You'll be seeing a lot of this from now on."

Before she could respond, the light intensified, wrapping around them both. In a heartbeat, they were whisked away, traveling through the fabric of realms before emerging at their destination. The brilliance of Asgard unfolded before them—a land of golden spires, shimmering rivers, and skies painted in hues of eternal dawn.

As the two stepped off the Bifrost, they were greeted by Heimdall, his tall, imposing figure clad in radiant Asgardian armor. His all-seeing eyes, glowing faintly with divine light, focused on the pair as they approached.

"Welcome back, Shin Hyoudou," Heimdall greeted, his deep voice resonating with authority. His gaze shifted to Kuroka, lingering for a moment as if assessing her worth. "And who might this be?"

Shin stepped forward with casual confidence, gesturing toward the feline youkai at his side. "This is Kuroka," he said, his tone calm but firm. "She's my newest peerage member and will be living in Asgard from now on."

Kuroka's ears perked up as she caught the slight shift in Heimdall's expression—a flicker of approval mixed with curiosity. She tilted her head, her usual smirk returning as she gave the guardian a playful bow. "Nice to meet you, nya. I'll try not to cause too much trouble."

Heimdall's lips quirked into what might have been a smile—subtle but present. "A wise choice, Shin," he said, his voice carrying an edge of formality. "The realms are watching. Every addition to your peerage strengthens Asgard's standing."

"Strength has little to do with it," Shin replied, his gaze steady. "She's here because she has something to offer—not just to me, but to Asgard."

Kuroka raised an eyebrow at his words, her tail flicking with interest. "You know how to make a girl feel important, nya."

With a nod of acknowledgment, Heimdall stepped aside, allowing them passage. As they entered the heart of Asgard, Kuroka's demeanor shifted. Her teasing smirk gave way to an expression of awe as she took in the grandeur around her. The sheer scale of the architecture, the vibrant energy of the city, and the divine aura that seemed to permeate the air—it was unlike anything she had ever experienced.

"So," she began, her voice quieter than usual, "this is Asgard, huh? Gotta admit, it's more… majestic than I expected."

Shin glanced at her, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Get used to it. This is home now. And if you're going to live here, you'll need to learn your way around. That's why we took the Bifrost instead of teleporting directly to the house. Walking through the city will help you get familiar with it."

Kuroka hummed thoughtfully, her golden eyes darting from one impressive structure to the next. "Home, nya?" she echoed, a hint of surprise in her tone.

"Home," Shin confirmed, his voice steady. "You're not just part of my peerage—you're part of Asgard now. People need to see you here with me, to understand you're one of us. Your presence matters, and so does how you carry yourself."

Kuroka smirked, her playful nature returning as she leaned closer to him, her voice dipping into a teasing purr. "So, this is my debut, huh? Better make it a memorable one, nya."

Shin chuckled softly, his crimson eyes glinting with amusement. "Oh, I don't think anyone's going to forget you anytime soon."

The streets of Asgard were lined with elegant buildings and a calm energy that mirrored the divine nature of the realm. Shin led Kuroka down the cobblestone roads, their path transitioning into a private walkway surrounded by a carefully maintained garden.

As they walked, Kuroka's eyes roamed the surroundings. "Not bad, nya," she said with a hint of approval.

"It does the job," Shin replied simply, his pace steady.

When the house came into view, Kuroka stopped abruptly. She blinked, her ears twitching slightly as her tail froze mid-sway. "Shin," she said, pointing at the structure, "you told me you had a modest house on a hill. Are you delusional, nya? That's not a house—it's a mansion. A mansion!"

Shin turned back with a shrug, glancing briefly at the towering home. "In the world of the Supernatural, this is pretty tame. Have you seen the Gremory mansion? That place is basically an entire city."

Kuroka's expression shifted between disbelief and amusement as she followed him again. "Tame, huh? You're lucky I'm flexible, Shin. But next time, try not to undersell it so much, nya."

Shin paused, turning to look at Kuroka with a playful glint in his crimson eyes. His lips curved into a smirk as he leaned slightly toward her. "Flexible, huh?" he teased, his voice low and dripping with mischief. "Just how flexible are we talking?"

Kuroka's golden eyes gleamed with equal parts amusement and challenge. Her smirk widened as her tails began to sway lazily behind her, each movement deliberate and smooth. "Oh, Shin," she purred, her tone sultry, "you'd have to find out for yourself, nya."

Her teasing response only deepened Shin's smirk. "Careful," he replied, his voice dropping an octave, "I might just take you up on that."

Kuroka stepped closer, her tails brushing lightly against his arm as she looked up at him, her expression bold and unapologetic. "Who says I'm not counting on it, nya?" she shot back, her voice velvety and flirtatious.

For a moment, the air between them seemed to crackle with unspoken tension, their exchange toeing the line between playful banter and something more dangerous. Then Shin chuckled, shaking his head as he motioned for her to follow.

Shin's smirk softened as he glanced at Kuroka, his tone shifting to something more serious. "You've got one role here, Kuroka," he said, his crimson eyes locking with hers. "From this day forward, you're a teacher."

Kuroka blinked, clearly caught off guard. Her tails froze mid-swish before flicking sharply. "A teacher?" she echoed, her voice laced with disbelief. "Why me, nya? Of all the things you could've recruited me for?"

Shin stopped walking and turned fully to face her. His expression was calm but firm, the weight of his words unmistakable. "Because you're one of the best magic users I've ever seen," he said plainly. "Your mastery of Senjutsu and Youjutsu—it's not something just anyone can achieve. Nekoshou aren't exactly known to be a powerful race, and yet you…" He paused, his gaze steady. "You were ranked an SS stray devil. That wasn't handed to you. You earned it."

Kuroka's ears twitched as she stared at him, processing his words. For once, her usual playful demeanor was absent, replaced by something quieter, more thoughtful. "You really think that highly of me, nya?" she asked softly, a note of uncertainty creeping into her tone.

Shin nodded. "I do. You've proven yourself time and again. That's why you're here. I want you to take that knowledge and pass it on. Asgard has plenty of raw talent, but what they lack is someone like you—someone who can turn potential into power."

For a moment, Kuroka said nothing, her golden eyes searching his face as if looking for any hint of insincerity. Finding none, she smirked, though it was softer than her usual playful grin. "Well, Shin," she said, her voice regaining its teasing edge, "I guess if I'm going to be stuck here, I might as well make myself useful. But don't expect me to wear some boring old professor's robe, nya."

Shin chuckled, shaking his head as they resumed their walk. "Something tells me you'd make even that look good."

Kuroka's smirk returned, her playful nature bubbling to the surface as her golden eyes gleamed with mischief. "And here I thought you only recruited me because of my looks, nya," she teased, her tone dripping with mock offense as her tails swayed behind her.

Shin let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "Give me some credit," he replied, his voice laced with amusement. "I'm not that shallow." He paused, his crimson eyes flicking to her with a faint glint of humor. "Although… I won't lie. Your looks are definitely appreciated."

Kuroka purred softly, her smirk widening as she leaned slightly closer, her tone turning sultry. "Mmm, good answer, nya," she said, her tails brushing lightly against his arm. "Flattery will get you everywhere."

Shin chuckled again, his steps resuming as he motioned for her to follow. "Come on, teacher," he teased. "Let's get you settled in."

As they made their way up the hill, the sounds of laughter drifted down toward them. In the front yard of the mansion, Asia and Kari were playing together, their laughter light and carefree against the serene backdrop of Asgard. Asia knelt in the grass, holding a small basket of flowers, while Kari darted around her, weaving through an impromptu game of tag.

When Kari's wide blue eyes spotted Shin, her entire face lit up with excitement. "Shin!" she yelled, her voice carrying pure joy as she abandoned the game and sprinted toward him.

Shin stopped walking, a warm smile spreading across his face as he opened his arms just in time for her to leap into them. He caught her effortlessly, lifting her as she wrapped her small arms tightly around his neck.

"I missed you!" Kari said, her voice muffled slightly as she buried her face against him.

Shin's arms tightened protectively around her, his voice soft but full of warmth. "I missed you too, Kari. It's good to be home."

Kuroka stood back, watching the scene unfold with a curious expression. Her tails flicked lazily, and for a moment, her usual teasing demeanor softened. "Cute, nya," she murmured, more to herself than anyone else.

Asia walked up with a bright smile, her green eyes shimmering as she greeted Shin and Kuroka. "Welcome back, Shin! And you must be Kuroka," she said warmly, her voice kind and welcoming.

Kuroka gave a slight nod, her smirk returning. "That's me," she said playfully. "I see you've been keeping things lively around here."

Asia chuckled softly, glancing at Kari still clinging to Shin like a koala. "We try."

Shin shifted Kari slightly in his arms, looking down at her with a grin. "Alright, kiddo," he said gently. "Think you can let go so I can actually introduce Kuroka properly?"

Kari pulled back just enough to look at Kuroka, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Is she your friend?" she asked innocently.

Shin chuckled. "Something like that."

Shin shifted Kari slightly in his arms, his smile softening. "Kari, I've got some news for you," he began, his tone calm but firm. "From today onward, Kuroka is going to be your magic teacher."

Kari's face scrunched up in protest as she glanced at Kuroka, her blue eyes narrowing slightly. "But I don't want her to teach me!" she exclaimed, her tone indignant. "I want you to teach me magic, not some cat with huge boobs!"

Kuroka blinked before bursting into laughter, her golden eyes sparkling with amusement. "Huge boobs, huh? Well, I suppose I can't argue with the observation, nya," she said, her voice dripping with teasing delight as she folded her arms. Her tails swished behind her, clearly enjoying the moment.

Shin, on the other hand, chuckled and ruffled Kari's hair gently. "As much as I'd love to teach you, kiddo, I can't," he said honestly, his crimson eyes meeting hers.

Kari's frown deepened. "Why not? You're really strong! You know all kinds of cool stuff!"

"That's true," Shin admitted with a smirk, "but the thing is… I don't actually know how to use magic. At least, not in the way most people do."

Kari blinked, confused. "What do you mean?"

Shin set her down gently, crouching so they were at eye level. "I was born with a Sacred Gear," he explained. "It gave me perfect control over my magic from the start. For me, using magic is second nature—it's like breathing. I don't have to think about it. But it's not like that for most people. Magic has rules, techniques, and principles that need to be learned and mastered. And because I've never had to learn those things, I can't teach them to you."

Kari looked at him, her expression a mixture of surprise and understanding, though she still seemed hesitant.

"That's where Kuroka comes in," Shin continued, gesturing toward the Nekoshou. "She's one of the best magic users I've ever met. Her mastery over Senjutsu and Youjutsu is something you won't find anywhere else. She knows how to teach magic because she had to work for it, every step of the way. She can help you learn in ways I never could."

Kuroka's smirk softened as she stepped closer, her golden eyes meeting Kari's with a rare warmth. "He's right, nya," she said, her tone still playful but gentler. "I've been through it all—learning, struggling, and growing. I know what it's like to start from scratch, and I can help you get stronger."

Kari glanced between Shin and Kuroka, her lips pressing together in a pout. After a moment, she sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "Fine," she muttered. "But I still think you'd be cooler, Shin."

Shin chuckled, ruffling her hair again. "Trust me, you'll see just how cool Kuroka can be. Give her a chance, okay?"

Kuroka grinned, her playful edge returning. "That's right, nya. I'll make you the best student Asgard has ever seen. And don't worry," she added with a wink, "you'll be thanking me soon enough."

Kari huffed but nodded, though her pout remained. "Okay… but only because Shin says so."

Shin's gaze shifted toward Asia as she approached with a warm, radiant smile. Her golden-blonde hair caught the sunlight, and her emerald-green eyes shimmered with happiness at seeing him again. Without hesitation, Shin opened his arms, and Asia stepped into them, wrapping her own arms around his waist as he pulled her into a gentle embrace.

"I missed you," Shin said softly, his voice carrying the sincerity of his words. "It's good to be back."

Asia looked up at him, her expression soft at first before her lips curved into a slight pout. "Did you?" she asked, her tone light but tinged with a familiar playfulness.

Shin raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "Still upset about Freya?" he guessed, his voice teasing yet understanding.

Asia's pout deepened, her cheeks puffing slightly as she huffed. "Yes!" she declared, crossing her arms without stepping out of his hold. "And if you have a problem with that, you can take me up to our bedroom and do something about it!"

Shin chuckled, shaking his head as he leaned slightly closer. "Asia," he said with a patient smile, "we've talked about this. Your time will come, but now isn't that time."

Asia's cheeks flushed, but her pout didn't waver. "I know," she admitted with a dramatic sigh. "But that doesn't mean I'm not going to be jealous."

Shin's expression softened, his crimson eyes meeting hers. "I don't expect you not to be," he said honestly, his voice calm and reassuring. "You're allowed to be jealous. It's normal."

Asia glanced up at him, her pout easing slightly as his words sank in. "Really?" she asked, her voice quieter now, almost uncertain.

"Really," Shin replied with a warm smile. "It just means you care. And that's okay."

Asia sighed again, though this time it sounded less dramatic and more resigned. "Alright," she muttered, resting her forehead briefly against his chest. "But you owe me, Shin Hyoudou. Big time."

Shin laughed, placing a light kiss on the top of her head. "Fair enough," he said with a smirk. "I'll make it up to you."

Asia's lips curved into a small smile as she finally looked back up at him, her playful pout lingering but her eyes brighter now. "You better."

As Shin began to step away, he caught the faint sound of Kuroka's whisper drifting behind him. "So, what's that all about, nya?" she asked Kari, her tone low but laced with curiosity.

Kari leaned closer to Kuroka, her voice a conspiratorial whisper. "Miss Asia is upset because Shin got another girl pregnant, but he won't get her pregnant too."

Shin stopped mid-step, sighing as he turned back to face them. "Alright, that's enough gossip," he said, his tone a mix of exasperation and amusement. His crimson eyes narrowed playfully as he motioned for them to follow. "Come on, it's about time for dinner."

Kuroka grinned, clearly unbothered by his interruption. "Hmm, interesting, nya," she teased, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief. "But if you say so, boss."

Kari nodded quickly, her cheeks turning pink as she realized Shin had heard them. "Okay!" she squeaked.

Kari zipped past Shin with the boundless energy of a child, her silver hair bouncing as she darted through the doorway, her laughter trailing behind her. "Race you to the table!" she called back, her voice brimming with excitement.

Shin chuckled softly, shaking his head as he watched her go. "That kid never runs out of energy," he muttered.

Before he could take another step, Kuroka caught up to him, her movements fluid and deliberate. She leaned in close, her golden eyes gleaming with mischief as her ample chest pressed firmly against his arm. Her voice dropped into a sultry whisper as her lips brushed near his ear. "You know, Shin, if getting knocked up by you is on the table," she purred, "I'd like to put my name in the hat too, nya."

Shin stopped, his head tilting slightly as he let out a soft sigh, though his smirk betrayed his amusement. Without missing a beat, he glanced at her, his crimson eyes glinting with dry humor. "Get in line, Kuroka," he said evenly. "The waiting list is long."

Kuroka's laugh was low and melodic as she pulled back just enough to meet his gaze, her smirk as bold as ever. "Mmm, I don't mind waiting," she teased, her tail flicking behind her. "Just make sure you don't forget about me, nya."

Shin shook his head, his smirk growing as he resumed walking. "You're impossible."

"Isn't that why you like me, nya?" Kuroka shot back, her tone as playful as her expression.

"Let's go, troublemaker," Shin replied, his voice carrying a trace of amusement as they made their way inside.

As Kuroka sauntered past him into the house, her tails swaying lazily behind her, Shin's easygoing smirk faded. That feeling returned—the unmistakable sensation of eyes on him, sharp and deliberate, like a predator studying its prey.

His body tensed instinctively, and his crimson eyes darted toward the horizon. But just as before, the sensation vanished the instant he turned to look. The calm Asgardian landscape stretched out before him, serene and unassuming, as if mocking his unease.

Shin's brows furrowed as he stood there for a moment longer, his instincts gnawing at him. This wasn't the first time. Once could be a coincidence—something he could dismiss as a trick of his imagination. But two times? No, this wasn't his mind playing games.

Someone was definitely watching him.

Shin let out a slow breath, rolling his shoulders as he forced himself to relax. "Alright," he muttered under his breath, his voice low and edged with determination. "Let's see how long you want to play this game."

With one last glance over his shoulder, he stepped inside, his mind already calculating his next moves. Whoever it was, they wouldn't stay hidden for long.

(Scene Break)

Shin stood in the open expanse of his training grounds, the faint hum of Asgardian energy mingling with the crackling red sparks of his Sacred Gear. The air was sharp and cool, grounding him as he focused on his movements. Each strike, each surge of power, served as more than just practice. It was his way of venting the stress that had been building over the weeks.

His life had taken a turn that even he hadn't anticipated. Once, he'd been alone most of the time, content with the quiet and solitude. But now? He found himself surrounded by a house full of women, all of whom seemed to have one thing on their minds—jumping his bones.

He paused mid-strike, his smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. That part of his new life he didn't mind one bit. Hell, he indulged in it every chance he got, and he wasn't about to complain about the endless attention. Freya had set the tone for his nights, and let's just say the goddess of love lived up to her name.

But then there was the other thing.

Each and every one of them wanted his babies. Not just affection, not just moments of passion—they all seemed determined to rope him into fatherhood. The irony wasn't lost on him that the one person who hadn't brought it up—Freya—was already carrying his child.

Shin let out a low chuckle, shaking his head as he sent another blast of crimson energy into a nearby boulder, shattering it into dust. "Life's funny like that," he muttered to himself.

It wasn't that he didn't want kids—eventually. One was already on the way, and that alone had turned his world upside down. But signing up for an entire brood of them right now? Hard pass. As much as he adored the women in his life, he wasn't about to let them turn his house into a nursery anytime soon.

Shin rolled his shoulders, letting the tension melt away as he prepared for another round of training. The energy around him crackled to life, and with a sharp motion, he unleashed a wave of power that split the earth in front of him.

"Let's get through one kid first," he said to himself with a smirk, the thought of Freya's growing belly flashing through his mind.

His focus returned to the present, his movements fluid and precise as he pushed himself further. Whatever challenges awaited him—on the battlefield or in his increasingly complicated personal life—he'd be ready. For now, though, this training was his refuge, a place where he could breathe and remind himself of who he was.

And if the women in his house had their way? Well, he'd need all the energy he could muster to keep up.

Shin halted mid-strike, the energy crackling around his hand dissipating as he turned toward the edge of the training grounds. A familiar, booming laugh echoed through the air, followed by the unmistakable presence of divine energy that could only belong to one man.

"Thor," Shin said, a grin spreading across his face as the towering figure of the Thunder God strode into view.

Thor's laughter rolled like thunder, his broad shoulders shaking as he approached, his red cape billowing slightly in the breeze. "Shin Hyoudou!" he boomed, his deep voice carrying a warmth that matched his jovial demeanor. "I could feel you training all the way from the castle! You shake the ground as if you mean to challenge the gods themselves!"

Shin chuckled, wiping sweat from his brow as he stepped forward to greet his brother in arms. "What can I say? I've got to keep sharp. Can't let you have all the glory, now can I?"

Thor grinned, clapping Shin on the shoulder with a force that would have staggered most men. "That's the spirit! Though, if you're going to challenge me, you'll need to hit harder than that." He gestured to the cracked earth and shattered boulders around them. "Impressive, yes, but you're holding back, aren't you?"

Shin smirked, his crimson eyes gleaming. "Maybe. Or maybe I'm just saving my best for the right opponent."

Thor laughed again, clearly delighted by the banter. "Well, if you ever need that opponent, you know where to find me!" He stepped further onto the training field, his presence larger than life as he looked around. "Still, it's good to see you putting in the work. The Protector of Asgard has a reputation to uphold, after all."

Shin nodded, his expression softening slightly. "That's the plan."

Thor studied him for a moment, his jovial demeanor giving way to a more thoughtful expression. "You've been carrying a lot lately, haven't you, brother?" he said, his tone quieter but still firm. "It's written all over your face."

Shin shrugged, his smirk returning. "That obvious, huh?"

Thor chuckled, crossing his arms. "Only to those who know you well. So, what's weighing on you? Or should I start guessing?"

Shin let out a dry laugh, shaking his head as he glanced at Thor. "We both know what it is," he said, his voice carrying a mix of humor and resignation. "Fatherhood."

Thor's eyebrows shot up, a grin tugging at his lips. "Ah, so it's true then," he said, crossing his arms. "The mighty Shin Hyoudou, destined for greatness, brought low by a goddess and a child on the way. I never thought I'd see the day!"

Shin chuckled, though the sound was laced with a hint of nervous energy. "Yeah, it's coming. A damn near impossible accident, but here we are. And I'd be lying if I said it wasn't nerve-wracking."

Thor's expression softened as he listened, his jovial demeanor giving way to genuine understanding.

"I've never really had to worry about much more than myself," Shin continued, his tone quieter now. "My life's always been about pushing forward, growing stronger, and fighting the battles that came my way. But now?" He paused, glancing down at his hands as if searching for answers in the faint glow of energy still clinging to his fingertips. "Now, I've got so much I care for. So much I need to protect."

Thor nodded, his blue eyes steady. "And that weighs on you."

Shin exhaled slowly, his crimson gaze meeting Thor's. "It does. I guess you could say I'm struggling with the duality of love. It's… amazing. It's great. I've never been happier, honestly. But with love comes fear. Now I've got something to lose, and that's terrifying."

Thor placed a hand on Shin's shoulder, his grip firm but comforting. "You're not wrong to feel that way," he said, his voice filled with a rare seriousness. "Loving something—someone—makes you vulnerable. It's the price we pay. But it's also what makes us stronger."

Shin tilted his head slightly, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "Stronger?"

Thor grinned, his usual warmth returning. "Of course. When you care about something, you fight harder, stand taller, and face the impossible. It's not just about you anymore—it's about them. And that, my friend, is what separates the gods from the mortals."

Shin smirked faintly, Thor's words settling over him like a heavy but reassuring weight. "You sound like you've been through this before."

Thor laughed heartily, his hand dropping away as he straightened. "Oh, don't let me fool you—I have no children. But I've seen enough fathers, warriors, and leaders to know this much: the fear doesn't go away. But neither does the strength it gives you."

Shin smiled faintly, the weight on his shoulders easing just a little. "Thanks for the comfort, Thor. I'm glad I've got you as a brother. It means more than I let on."

Thor grinned and clapped Shin on the shoulder again. "Always, brother. That's what we're here for."

But as the moment passed, Shin noticed something. Thor's usual boisterous demeanor didn't linger. His grin faltered, and his expression turned uncharacteristically serious. The Thunder God's gaze shifted skyward, as if searching for answers in the heavens above.

Shin raised an eyebrow, his sharp instincts catching the subtle change. "Alright, Thor," he said, folding his arms, his crimson eyes narrowing. "How about you tell me why you're really here? This isn't just a casual visit, is it?"

Thor hesitated for a beat, his jaw tightening as if weighing how much to say. Finally, he let out a heavy sigh, his face becoming grave. "No, it's not," he admitted, his deep voice quieter now. "I've heard something troubling through Asgard's information network of spies. Something we can't ignore."

Shin's smirk faded, replaced by a focused intensity. "That bad?"

Thor nodded, though the motion was slow and reluctant. "Yeah," he said, his tone edged with unease. "And if it's true, it could change everything."

Shin straightened, his posture tense. "Alright, out with it. What are we dealing with?"

Thor's piercing blue eyes locked onto Shin's, his voice dropping low with gravity. "Tell me, Shin," he began. "Have you ever heard of a god named Shiva?"

The name hung in the air, heavy and foreboding.

Shin's brows furrowed, his mind racing as he repeated it. "Shiva? Yeah, I've heard the name. Hindu god. They call him the Destroyer, right? Why bring him up?"

Shin tilted his head, his crimson eyes narrowing slightly as he regarded Thor. "Why are you bringing up Shiva?" he asked, his tone steady but edged with curiosity.

Thor's expression darkened further as he met Shin's gaze. "Because Shiva knows who you are, Shin," he said, his voice heavy with meaning.

Shin shrugged, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "So?" he replied nonchalantly. "What does that matter?"

Thor sighed deeply, his shoulders sagging slightly as he rubbed a hand over his face. "You don't understand, Shin," he said, his voice tinged with frustration. "You don't know who Shiva really is. Let's just say the Destroyer is a fitting nickname for him. He's not just some god with a cool title—he's destruction incarnate. And worse than that, he's arrogant and prideful to a fault."

Shin's smirk faded, replaced by a more serious expression as he listened.

Thor continued, his tone grave. "If Shiva knows who you are, it's because he has his eye on you. Your strength has been growing at an unprecedented rate, Shin, faster than anyone else. And if you continue on this path, Shiva might see you as a threat."

Shin folded his arms, his crimson gaze sharpening. "And if he does?"

Thor's eyes narrowed slightly, his jaw tightening. "If he does, he won't sit idly by. He'll act. And trust me, brother, when Shiva acts, there's no going back."

The weight of Thor's words settled heavily between them, the gravity of the situation unmistakable.

Shin's brows furrowed as he processed Thor's words. "Prideful? Arrogant?" he repeated, his tone skeptical. "That doesn't sound like the Shiva I've heard about. The stories paint him as calm, disciplined, and wise. Guess that's yet another unexpected change in this world."

Thor shrugged, his expression still serious. "Stories have a way of leaving out the messy details. Don't let his reputation fool you. He's every bit as dangerous as they say—and a whole lot more prideful than most would think. If he has his eye on you, it's not something to take lightly."

Shin let out a slow breath, his crimson eyes flicking toward the horizon. "Thanks for the heads-up, Thor," he said, his voice steady. "But there's not much I can do about it. If Shiva decides to see me as a threat, then so be it. I'm not going to stop growing stronger just because some Hindu God doesn't like it."

Thor smirked faintly, though his eyes remained sharp. "I figured you'd say that. It's what I'd expect from you." He paused, his voice lowering as he added, "But watch your back, Shin. Luckily, Shiva isn't the type to go after those you care about. If he decides to take action, it'll be against you and you alone."

Shin nodded, a faint grin tugging at his lips. "Good. Saves me the trouble of having to worry about anyone else. If Shiva wants to come after me, I'll be ready."

Thor chuckled softly, though his expression held a note of caution. "You'd better be. Facing Shiva isn't like facing anyone else. Keep pushing forward, but don't get reckless, brother."

With that, Thor turned his gaze to the horizon, the tension between the two fading slightly, though the weight of their conversation lingered.

(Scene Break)

The sun cast a fiery glow over the vast, barren training field in the Underworld, painting the rocky terrain in shades of crimson and gold. The air was thick with tension, punctuated by the sound of sharp breaths and the steady rhythm of boots striking the ground. Shin and Sirzechs stood opposite each other, their stances low and balanced, their eyes locked in mutual focus.

Neither man wielded magic. This was pure, unfiltered combat—flesh, muscle, and technique.

Sirzechs, clad in simple training clothes that clung to his athletic frame, stepped forward first. His movements were precise, almost deceptively relaxed as he tested Shin's defenses with a quick jab toward his midsection.

Shin deflected it with ease, his forearm catching Sirzechs' strike and redirecting it smoothly. He countered with a low kick aimed at Sirzechs' shin, but the Devil King pivoted effortlessly, avoiding the attack with a smirk.

"Not bad," Sirzechs said, his crimson hair catching the light as he stepped back into a defensive stance. "You're getting faster."

"You sound surprised," Shin quipped, his own smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

Sirzechs' eyes gleamed with amusement. "Not surprised—just impressed."

Without another word, the spar resumed. Sirzechs feinted left, then lunged forward with a swift roundhouse kick. Shin ducked under it, his movements fluid and controlled, and retaliated with an upward palm strike aimed at Sirzechs' chest.

The Devil King twisted his torso just in time, the force of Shin's strike brushing past him as he countered with an elbow aimed at Shin's side. Shin blocked it with his forearm, the impact sending a shockwave through his arm, but he didn't falter.

The sparring continued, the two warriors moving like dancers in a deadly rhythm. Each strike was calculated, every block and counter a testament to their skill and discipline. Sweat glistened on their brows, but neither showed signs of slowing down.

"Gotta say," Shin grunted as he deflected a particularly aggressive flurry of punches, "I didn't peg you for the martial arts type. You seemed more like the 'obliterate things with overwhelming power' kind of guy."

Sirzechs laughed, a genuine, hearty sound that echoed across the field. "Oh, I enjoy overwhelming power," he admitted, stepping in with a sharp uppercut that Shin narrowly dodged. "But there's something… cathartic about fighting like this. No magic. No tricks. Just skill against skill."

Shin nodded, his crimson eyes gleaming with agreement. "Can't argue with that."

Taking advantage of Sirzechs' momentary pause, Shin surged forward, feinting with a jab before pivoting on his heel to deliver a spinning kick. The attack connected, landing squarely on Sirzechs' side and forcing the Devil King to stumble back a few steps.

Sirzechs winced but grinned, shaking it off as he straightened. "Nice one," he said, rolling his shoulders. "But don't think I'm going to let that slide."

"Bring it," Shin challenged, his smirk widening.

Sirzechs darted forward with renewed intensity, his strikes faster and more aggressive. Shin met him blow for blow, their movements a blur of speed and precision. Dust kicked up around them as their sparring reached its peak, the ground beneath their feet cracking under the force of their impacts.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity of exchanging blows, Sirzechs raised a hand, signaling a pause. Both men stepped back, their breaths heavy but controlled.

"You've come a long way," Sirzechs said, his tone filled with genuine respect. "When we first started sparring, I could've taken you down in seconds. Now? I actually have to try."

Shin chuckled, brushing a hand through his damp hair. "Glad I can keep you on your toes. Can't have you getting too comfortable, Devil King."

As they caught their breaths after the sparring session, Shin's grin faded slightly, replaced by a more contemplative look. He rested his hands on his hips, his crimson eyes glancing toward Sirzechs with a hint of unease.

"Actually, I've got a problem," Shin said, his tone quieter but still carrying its usual confidence. "One I wanted to run by you."

Sirzechs arched an eyebrow, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow. "Go ahead," he said, his tone curious but calm.

Shin hesitated for a moment, then exhaled deeply. "I've found out that Shiva has his eye on me. And from what I've been told… that's not good."

The casual atmosphere shifted instantly. Sirzechs froze, his expression neutral at first, but the flicker of tension in his crimson eyes gave everything away. His usual calm, controlled demeanor faltered for just a second, but it was enough.

Shin sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Shit," he muttered, shaking his head. "So it really is bad, isn't it?"

Sirzechs let out a long, slow breath, the weight of the question settling over him. "Yes," he admitted, his voice steady but edged with a quiet seriousness. "But also… no."

Shin raised an eyebrow. "That's a hell of a contradiction," he said dryly.

Sirzechs nodded, crossing his arms as he took a step closer. "If you've heard that Shiva has his eye on you, it's because he wants you to know. For the moment, it means nothing. But think of it as a mark."

"A mark?" Shin repeated, his brows furrowing.

"Yes," Sirzechs explained, his tone measured. "He's marked you as a future threat to his position of power. Shiva's strength isn't just physical or magical—it's his presence, his dominance. If he's aware of you, it's because he's acknowledged your potential. But for now, that's all it is—a warning. A declaration that, should you continue to grow, he will act."

Shin frowned, his thoughts racing. "And until then?"

"Until then, you're safe," Sirzechs said, his voice firm. "Shiva isn't one to move impulsively. He's prideful, yes, but calculated. He won't waste time or energy on someone he doesn't see as an immediate threat. For now, you're just… under observation."

Shin sighed, rubbing his temples. "Great. Something to look forward to."

Sirzechs' gaze softened slightly, and after a moment, he added, "You're not the first to be marked, Shin. I was, once."

That caught Shin's attention. He looked up, his crimson eyes narrowing. "You? Shiva marked you?"

Sirzechs nodded, a faint, humorless smile tugging at his lips. "Long ago. When I first rose to power as Lucifer. It's a rite of passage, in a way. For those of us who rise too quickly, who disrupt the balance of power. Shiva watches, waits, and when the time comes…" His voice trailed off, but the unspoken conclusion was clear.

Shin folded his arms, his expression unreadable. "And yet, here you are," he said after a moment.

"Yes," Sirzechs said, his tone calm but firm. "Because I was ready when the time came. And you will be, too."

Shin's brows furrowed as he leaned slightly toward Sirzechs, his voice steady but tinged with curiosity. "What exactly am I supposed to be preparing for?"

Sirzechs sighed, his expression growing heavier. "A fight," he said simply, his crimson gaze meeting Shin's. "And there are three possible outcomes."

Shin crossed his arms, waiting for the explanation.

"The first," Sirzechs began, "is that Shiva fights you and decides your potential is greater than his own. In that case, he will kill you. No hesitation, no mercy."

Shin nodded slowly, his expression hardening. "Makes sense," he said. "He'd see me as a threat to his position and act accordingly."

Sirzechs nodded grimly. "The second," he continued, "is that Shiva fights you and determines that your potential isn't worth worrying about. If that happens, he'll let you live. Though you'll likely be left with scars that never fully heal, physical or otherwise."

Shin exhaled, his arms still folded as he processed the information. "Alright," he said, his voice measured. "What's the third?"

Sirzechs' lips twitched into a faint, almost amused smile. "The third outcome is impossible," he said, shaking his head lightly. "But for entertainment's sake, I'll humor you."

Shin raised an eyebrow. "Go on."

Sirzechs chuckled softly, though there was little humor in it. "The third outcome is that you fight Shiva… and beat him." He paused, giving Shin a knowing look. "But that's not possible. Unless you're Ophis or Great Red, there's no chance of defeating Shiva. Not even God was strong enough to bring him down."

Shin smirked faintly, though his crimson eyes gleamed with a sharper edge. "Never been one to back down from the impossible, you know."

Sirzechs gave him a pointed look, his tone growing more serious. "This isn't just impossible, Shin. This is Shiva. He's on a completely different level from anyone you've faced. Even I wouldn't stand a chance in a direct fight. The best you can do is prepare yourself and hope you're strong enough to make him hesitate."

Shin tilted his head slightly, his crimson eyes narrowing in thought. "You said there are three outcomes, but really, there's a fourth," he pointed out, his tone measured. "I could just stop growing. Couldn't I?"

Sirzechs clicked his tongue sharply, shaking his head. "Not exactly," he replied, his voice heavy with experience. "It's like I said—you're marked. And only those who've faced Shiva, like myself, know the truth about what that really means."

Shin raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. "Go on."

Sirzechs sighed, his crimson gaze locking with Shin's. "Shiva isn't just the Destroyer in name. He's a battle maniac. He marks people under the guise of them being a threat to his power, sure. But most of the time, it's because he likes challenging fights. He lives for the thrill of combat."

Shin's eyes narrowed further as he processed the words.

"If he's marked you, it's not just about your potential," Sirzechs continued. "It's about the promise of a fight that gets his blood pumping. If you stop growing, you don't become less of a target—you disappoint him. And disappointing Shiva?" Sirzechs' tone grew sharper, darker. "That's a death sentence in its own right. He may just kill you out of spite for failing to live up to his expectations."

Shin let out a dry laugh, the sound lacking any real humor. "That's great," he said, shaking his head. "So my options are to keep growing strong enough to survive a fight with Shiva, but if I grow too strong, he'll kill me anyway. Which means I have to somehow land somewhere in between."

Sirzechs smirked faintly, though his expression remained serious. "It's a tightrope, I won't lie," he admitted. "Shiva's interest is a double-edged sword. Grow too slow, and you risk disappointing him. Grow too fast, and you risk threatening him. But hit that sweet spot, and you might just have a chance."

Shin sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Sweet spot, huh? Sounds like threading a needle in a hurricane. No pressure or anything."

Sirzechs chuckled softly, though the weight of the conversation lingered. "No pressure," he echoed. "But knowing you, Shin, if anyone can figure it out, it's you."

Shin smirked faintly, his crimson eyes glinting with determination. "Guess I'd better start practicing my balance."

Sirzechs chuckled softly, his lips curving into a faint smile. "Yeah, but don't get too worked up over it. That's a long way off. I was marked for three decades before I finally had my fight with him."

Shin raised an eyebrow, his crimson eyes narrowing in curiosity. "Oh yeah?" he asked, crossing his arms. "And how did that go?"

Sirzechs winced visibly, the humor in his expression fading. "I was the second outcome," he admitted, his voice lower now. "Shiva fought me, decided my potential wasn't worth worrying about, and let me live. But it wasn't without consequence."

Shin tilted his head, his interest piqued. "How bad was it?"

Sirzechs let out a long breath, his gaze drifting briefly to the ground before meeting Shin's eyes again. "Bad," he said simply. "He beat me down so thoroughly that it took me four decades to recover my strength. Every bone in my body was broken. My tendons were torn. I couldn't walk for a year, and I was eating through a tube for three months."

Shin blinked, his jaw tightening slightly. "And that was with superdevil healing?"

Sirzechs nodded grimly. "With superdevil healing," he confirmed. "I've fought countless battles in my life, Shin. None of them came close to that. Shiva isn't just strong—he's relentless. Fighting him is like trying to stop a storm with your bare hands. You survive if he allows it. And even then, it's a survival that comes with scars you carry forever."

Shin let out a low whistle, his arms dropping to his sides as he processed the gravity of Sirzechs' words. "Sounds like one hell of a time," he said dryly, though there was a sharp edge of determination beneath his tone.

Sirzechs smirked faintly, though his crimson eyes remained serious. "It was. And when you do end up facing him one day, I hope your story turns out better than mine."

Shin's lips curved into a small, determined smirk. "Guess I'll just have to make sure it does."


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