"Koneko-chan, stop holding yourself back. If there's something you want—just go for it."
Tenra leaned close, whispering encouragement into her ear. Then he stepped back, snapped his fingers, and the golden bracers binding Kuroka shattered into nothing.
"Ni, Li, we're leaving."
"Uu… so touching, nya! Tenra-sama, it's just so moving, nya…"
Tenra had done all he could. From here on, it was up to the sisters to choose their path. With two tearful catgirls in tow, he slipped out of the room, leaving them alone.
Kuroka flexed her wrists and ankles, muttering a string of silent curses for Tenra and his ancestors. But when she looked up and saw Koneko just staring at her, silent and tear-streaked, a sharp pain stabbed through her chest.
"Shirone, you… you don't actually believe all that, do you? I was just lying to that guy."
"Your big sister's a bad woman. I'd never do something like that. I just—"
Even if Shirone ended up hating her, Kuroka would rather bear that than let her sister blame herself. She forced herself to sound cold, to say the cruel words. But before she could finish, Koneko threw herself into her arms, clutching her tight.
"Liar! Liar! You're such a liar, sis!"
Koneko's voice was raw, her scream ragged with tears.
She'd never imagined her sister had done everything for her—willing to sink into darkness, to shoulder a lifetime of guilt, all so Koneko could be safe. And all this time, she'd hated and misunderstood her. The realization crushed her, guilt threatening to suffocate.
Seeing Koneko's agony, Kuroka's composure finally broke. She trembled, then wrapped her arms around her sister, holding her close.
"I'm sorry, Shirone…"
Just four simple words, but they were the key. Years of pain and resentment burst free, and the two sisters sobbed in each other's arms.
In the main hall, Tenra and the rest of the girls waited in silence.
After hearing the truth about Kuroka from Tenra, no one had spoken for a long time.
The truth is always so unexpected…
It had to be painful. It had to bring guilt. Everyone worried about Koneko, but at the same time, they were happy for her.
Knowing her sister had never betrayed her—that she'd always been loved—that was what mattered most.
Time passed. At last, a shimmer of light appeared, and Koneko and Kuroka emerged from the Sacred Devil Hall.
"Hey, everyone! Good to see you all."
Kuroka greeted the room with practiced ease, while Koneko clung to her side, as if afraid to let go.
"Koneko-chan, you're finally back!"
"Are you okay, Koneko-chan? We were all so worried."
"Koneko-chan…"
The room filled with voices as everyone gathered around, concern and relief in their words. Rias stepped forward and pulled Koneko into a tight embrace.
"Thank goodness, Koneko. Really… thank goodness."
She nuzzled Koneko's cheek, unable to hide her relief.
"President Rias, everyone… I'm sorry for worrying you."
Her voice was hoarse, her eyes red and swollen—but everyone could see it: Koneko was lighter than she'd ever been.
She's finally found peace…
After a round of hugs and laughter, Koneko walked over to Tenra.
"Tenra-senpai, thank you."
She bowed deeply, gratitude shining in her eyes.
If not for Tenra-senpai, she might never have learned the truth, never have found her way back to her sister.
The pain and guilt of those truths still lingered—but none of that mattered anymore.
Now, she had the courage to face anything.
"Silly girl. If you really want to thank me, then live bravely and happily from now on."
Tenra tapped her forehead, smiling.
"Mm!"
Warmth bloomed in her heart. Koneko nodded with all her might.
She wouldn't hesitate anymore. She wouldn't run away. She'd live bravely and happily—because that was Tenra-senpai's wish for her.
"Tenra-senpai, President Rias… I have one more request."
She drew a deep breath, a new resolve in her eyes.
"Go ahead, Koneko."
Rias gently stroked her forehead. It was rare for Koneko to ask for anything.
"I… I want you to let my sister stay. I know it's asking a lot. It might cause trouble for you, for President Rias… but…"
"I don't want my sister to go back to her old life. I don't want to be separated from her ever again. I'll make sure she never causes trouble…"
"So please…"
Her voice trembled with hope and fear. Kuroka just watched her little sister, smiling softly, saying nothing.
"This is Koneko-chan's request. I have no objections. What about you, Rias?"
Tenra smiled, turning to Rias.
"Koneko, is this really what you want?"
"Yes."
"And you, Kuroka? Anything to say?"
Rias's gaze was sharp, weighing every word.
She'd been moved by what Tenra told her about Kuroka's sacrifice, but she couldn't ignore the risk. If Kuroka ever became a threat to her or her family, Rias wouldn't hesitate.
"No one's separating me from Shirone ever again. Whether I stay or go doesn't matter, nya. If I have to, I'll take Shirone and leave."
"Dream on. Koneko may be your sister, but she's my precious servant and family. No one's taking her from me."
Kuroka shrugged, feigning indifference. Rias's smile was cold as ice.
The room tensed. Koneko tugged at Kuroka's sleeve, her eyes pleading. Kuroka's heart softened.
"Fine. If you'll have me, I'll do whatever it takes. I swear I won't betray you."
"And… I'm sorry for hurting you before. If you're still angry, you can hit me back. I won't fight it."
If Shirone wanted her to stay, then she'd stay. For her, Kuroka would swallow her pride.
Such a proud woman—willing to go this far for her sister. Tenra smiled. Rias and the others were quietly moved.
Rias studied Kuroka for a long moment, then nodded.
"Kuroka, from this moment on, you're one of us—a companion and family. But remember your promise. If you betray us, or betray Koneko, I won't forgive you."
"Yeah, yeah, I get it. What a pain you are, princess."
"That's wonderful, sis."
At last, the tension in the room melted into laughter and relief. No one held a grudge. Kuroka was welcomed with open arms.
Watching her sister's radiant smile, Kuroka felt a strange warmth—nostalgic, bittersweet.
Maybe… just maybe… this wasn't so bad after all.
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