The Discovery of the True Balance
The moment the Dragon God accepts his burden to hold the world in balance.
The Discovery of the True Balance refers to the pivotal narrative revelation in Highschool DxD regarding Issei Hyoudou's ultimate destiny. It marks the transition where the protagonist accepts his role not merely as a Devil, but as a Dragon God, tasked with maintaining equilibrium between Heaven, Hell, and the Dragon Gods. This revelation occurs in Volume 12, after Great Red is killed by Regalzeva in Volume 11, and Issei becomes a Dragon God by absorbing Great Red's power.
- Timeline
- Mid-to-Late Series (after Great Red's death)
Lore & Background
The revelation culminates in understanding that the traditional conflict between Angels and Devils is unsustainable without a neutral arbiter. By becoming a Dragon God through absorbing Great Red's power, Issei ensures that neither Heaven nor Hell can dominate the other unchecked. This shift transforms him from a reincarnated Devil participant in the factional wars into the guardian of the status quo, honoring his friends across all races while securing a future where Dragons are no longer hunted but respected.
In Their Own Story
The air hummed with static as Issei stood atop the ruins of the old world order. He felt the weight of Ddraig's soul merging with his own, not as a parasite, but as a partner in a greater design. The Great Red's voice echoed without sound, telling him that peace was not found in victory over enemies, but in holding the scales steady. Issei closed his eyes, feeling the pulse of every faction below—the Angels' light, the Devils' ambition—and realized he was no longer just fighting for love. He was the anchor.
Reader's Guide
The narrative arc begins when Issei confronts the limitations of his current power and the endless cycle of conflict between supernatural factions. He learns from ancient Dragon sources that a new ruler is needed to prevent total destruction. Key figures include the Great Red, who reveals the plan, and Ddraig, whose true purpose is unlocked to support this transition. Issei must overcome his desire for simple glory to accept the burden of neutrality. The impact reshapes the entire world order. Devils, Angels, and Fallen Angels are forced to acknowledge a new authority that transcends their hierarchy. This leads to a more stable peace where Issei's peerage protects humanity from behind the scenes.
Did You Know?
- Issei is a reincarnated Devil, not a human, and wields both the Boosted Gear and the power of a Dragon God, which he gains by absorbing Great Red's power in Volume 12.
- Great Red's interactions with Issei are minimal, and there is no canonical statement that he chose Issei for valuing life above factional loyalty.
- This revelation changes the classification of Dragons from enemies to potential allies in the new world order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Discovery of the True Balance?
It describes the pivotal revelation in the final saga where Issei Hyoudou accepts his destiny as the Great Red's successor. This moment redefines his goal from becoming a Devil King to maintaining equilibrium across all supernatural factions.
Who is involved in The Discovery of the True Balance?
Issei Hyoudou serves as the central figure, utilizing the Boosted Gear while affiliated with the Gremory Peerage. His key ally throughout this ascension process is the Great Red himself.
What powers does The Discovery of the True Balance grant?
Issei achieves an ascended status that allows him to mediate between Heaven, Hell, and the Dragon Gods. This authority enables him to uphold global balance without being bound by a single faction's laws.
When does The Discovery of the True Balance occur?
This storyline unfolds during the Final Saga in the late stages of the series. It represents the climax of Issei's development before his ultimate transformation is complete.
Why is The Discovery of the True Balance significant?
It marks the transition where the protagonist accepts his burden to hold the world in balance permanently. This revelation solidifies his role as a guardian rather than just a participant in factional wars.
More in Story Arcs & Timeline
Elsewhere in the Highschool DxD universe
Spotted an error? Know more?
This is a living reference — every entry is fact-audited, and reader corrections feed straight into our audit queue. Suggest an edit · See this site's audit record