The episode picks up with the battle against Kokabiel, who has stolen several Excalibur fragments to start a new war between Heaven, Hell, and Fallen Angels.

: The original licensor and producer of the English dub.

Kokabiel reveals Akeno’s heritage as the daughter of the Fallen Angel leader Baraqiel, adding depth to her character's internal struggles. Where to Watch

To buy time for Issei to boost his power via his Sacred Gear, Kiba, Xenovia, and Koneko engage Kokabiel directly. Issei eventually transfers his boosted power to Rias, though it still proves insufficient to take down the Fallen Angel.

This episode concludes his primary revenge arc against the "Holy Sword Project" as he finally manages to "smash" the Holy Swords, coming to terms with his past.

The episode marks a major introduction for Vali, setting him up as a primary rival for Issei's "Red Dragon Emperor".