Prologue

London England, August 19th, 2024...

Okisato clenched his fist as he stared at a large pool of blood and guts. For the first time in a long time, grief overtook him as he surmised he was staring at the remains of one of his clubmates. "... Dammit! I thought I had plenty of time to take care of business with Xiao Lin, but that damn reaper... I never knew he was this powerful." 

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Yuzuha's screaming. Sensing she might be nearby, he ran in the direction he heard the scream as fast as he could. There, he found Yuzuha, covered in blood and guts, running away in terror as Red Reaper slowly marched after her. 

"You run fast for a non-soldier covered in blood and guts, fräulein. But it ends here. The DESPER does have a range, though I think like with your friend, I'll fight you on the ground. And this time, no one will show up to save you," Red Reaper glared as he prepared to activate his DESPER.

Okisato charged for him. If he could launch himself in front of Red Reaper before his DESPER activated, he'd be the one that'd be challenged. And it looked like he was going to make it, until suddenly he found himself staring directly at a masked figure.

"Thou shan't interfere in the reaping of souls," Phantom stated as he appeared to activate his DESPER. 

A blinding flash of light erupted, causing both Okisato and Red Reper to shield their eyes. 

However, Red Reaper could still see somewhat well and triumphantly walked past walked past Okisato. "You got too overconfident, herr oni-tiger. Now, another one of your friends shall become my quarry," he sneered as he activated his DESPER. 

Okisato gritted his teeth in frustration as the light faded and Red Reaper and Yuzuha were nowhere to be seen. "Shit! There's no way she'll beat or draw against that monster. I'm the only one here capable of both!"

"You seem troubled. But worrying about others before yourself, will lead to doom," Phantom growled.

Okisato turned to notice that a chessboard had appeared before him. He stared at Phantom for a bit before glaring and heading towards the board.

"Okisato Tanabe, I've had my eye on you for a while. Now show me your full capabilities," Phantom ordered.