The bright moon and countless stars shone upon the sky.
That should be the case - but as of this night, the sky of Kuoh was overflowing with black wings. Countless figures with black wings and lethal weapons were flying in the skies as if going to war. Their appearance could be compared to humans, but only more seductive and menacing... they are the fallen angels.
Of course, for those who are unaware of the existence of magic, they would only see bats or crows when they look upon the sky.
Even though they were fallen that wanted to start another war, they want to fight existences like angels and devils. Although they have no qualms of fighting humans, they did not want to waste energy in slaughtering those who could not even see them. Something like that would be like an adult crushing ants beneath them.
Those were the thoughts of the fallen angels in the sky.
Creatures that had experience war long ago. They were existences that craved to continue the fight where they should have won. To avenge fallen comrades, to get in God's good graces again, to simply fight and kill... all of them had their reasons for wanting another war.
Now, they were gathering in this place for the end of a millennium war...
"It's like an invasion is going to happen..."
Staring at the hundreds of figures in the sky, an oriental youth let out a troubled voice. If any normal person saw what he was seeing, they would either despair or panic. However, this youth only showed coolness that no normal person of his age should have in this situation.
Naturally, to show this kind of countenance, he was a person who was accustomed in observing supernatural existences. He had fought things even more despairing than a legion of fallen angels.
He was the seventh god-slayer hailing from another world, Kusanagi Godou. A self-proclaimed pacifist that had murdered a god of victory and chased off a great demon king. The newest and youngest out of the seven.
He might look like an ordinary youth, but he was someone who was called 'King' back in his home. Rakhasha King, Devil King, God-slaying King, King of Magi... all of those titles belonged to him and his six other peers.
"What on earth is happening here..."
Looking at the figures in the sky, he muttered with concern. Back in his world, should a being possess these kind of traits, a Campione might be needed to act, However, in this new world it seems like they were quite the norm.
"Are they angels? I remember Zamparini-san saying that one of our peers became a king after he slew a fallen angel..."
The one that he was referring to was the Black Prince, Alexandre Gascoigne. Hailing from England, the fourth god-slayer slew his first heretic deity by the age of 16... he was someone who was considered to be the fastest man alive.
Fallen angels... that might be the fittest thing to call them...
But of course, these beings in the skies did not have the power to be compared to the existences called Heretic Gods... not even close.
The tenth incarnation of the Persian Warlord authority was the Warrior. It gave Godou the instincts and insight of Verethragna. Additionally, if used, it also gave him knowledge of anything supernatural in nature making him capable of using the sword of severing.
Right now, this favorite authority was telling him that none of fallen angels were capable of killing him. It was also telling him that it is possible for him to eliminate all of them should he wish to.
Godou pondered in which action he should take. Clearly, their very appearance in this place was a threat to humans, but he could not simply act rashly and put them down. Perhaps he should talk to them and try to settle this in a peaceful manner?
Just as he was deep in thought, a pair of arms wrapped around his shoulders, pulling him close.
"Hey Godoh, what should we do? If it's this kind of opponents, I won't get satisfied at all..."
Naturally, the one who spoke was his companion from their original world, Lucinda Salvatore. She was his peer in power and status, a human that had slew a deity and usurped their power.
She was also his girlfriend... a woman who had fallen for him in mid battle and had been with him ever since. She was a person who would never miss a chance to shower him with affection and proclaim her love for him.
Back then, she had promised to make him fall for her... Although Godou was not sure of his feelings as of now. He certainly likes her a lot, considering he had taken the trouble to forsake his morals and control a lot of people so that her life wouldn't be so hard in this world. Certainly there is great attraction but... a final push was needed for him to ascertain.
The two of them had been stuck in this world for a month, living comfortably despite that heavy secret.
"Well, at this moment we still know nothing."
The fallen angels had suddenly appeared from a single location. If Godou had to guess, they must be using some kind of massive transportation spell in order to travel here. Even now he could feel the point where more of these fallen angels are coming...
"Let's go to the place where these people are coming... we'll stop more of them from arriving here."
They must stop more from coming in this place. In order to do that, the most logical thing to do is to cut whatever was transporting them here. That was what Godou thought. So far, he had seen none of them attack anyone. The people also do not seem to know that they are here so that means that they did not wish to be found by normal humans.
"If that's what you want~"
In response to his battle plan, Lucinda simply shrugged. As of now, she had no interest in dealing with the small fries. Godou knew that she could cut their numbers in half with a single swing of her sword, despite that, she showed no interest in them.
The four swords around Lucinda simply hovered silently. Ever since the two of them planned to left, the Excalibur fragments has followed her by floating behind as if a dog following its owner while on a walk.
He also noticed how the four sword would surround Lucinda like shields whenever the two of them stopped. Now that she was hugging him from behind, the sword formed a line behind the two of them.
Just how domesticated are these swords? Godou sighed. Lucinda wants them so he'll have to do his best to get used to their presence.
"Well, then... let's go."
Around them, the wind began to pick up as if the start of an autumn breeze.
Immediately it started to become stronger, from blowing winds to a cyclone, and then it became bone-chilling strong winds, finally becoming a gale that heralds a storm.
This was the first incarnation of the Persian Warlord authority, the Gale. Its primary use was a mode of transportation for Godou... but with enough mastery, he could use it as a weapon. Of course that kind of power was still beyond him... for now.
Activating this kind of power while carrying people was easy... but with another god-slayer whose body was very resistant to magic, that's where it became tricky. In order to transport Lucinda along with him, she needed to allow him to do so - or else the cost of this power would double of triple.
Fortunately, their closeness was enough for Lucinda to do so without being asked to. It was her show of trust on him. Godou found himself flattered by that.
The raging winds enveloped them in seconds before vanishing along with them as if they were never there in the first place.
God-slayers in New Lands
Chapter 4
The awaited reunion
The Gale had transported them in an isolated park.
There were several barriers used in order to prevent people from entering, magical or not. These barriers were strong enough to hold two dozen middle class angels and devils for some precious minutes.
Of course Godou had no idea about that.
The Gale completely ignored these barriers like they weren't even there in the first place. It would take a ridiculously powerful barrier in order to prevent the Gale authority from reaching in. Only those who have entered the dominion of gods could make them; for those fallen angel who had created this barrier, it was something they would never achieve in this life time.
Godou, Lucinda and the Excaliburs landed as the violent winds subsided.
Immediately after, Godou felt several stared being directed towards them. Naturally, the gazes belonged to the dozen fallen angels that were controlling the twenty meter magic circle behind them.
"Intruders!" "How!?" "The barriers are still up, how did they get in?" "No holy or demonic presence, they're humans!" "How could that be!?" "Halt the portal! Let's eliminate them!"
As the four winged fallen angels prepared for battle, Godou raised his hands in a placating fashion and stood before them.
"Wait! Can we talk first? Why are you gathering in this place!?"
In response to him, the fallen angels produced light from their hands, fashioning it after a spear, they threw it towards Godou with powerful force. Surely, this would've work if they were fighting other opponents.
The dozen spear of lights vanished as soon as they got close to Godou.
A god-slayer's body changes the moment they have killed their first god. Their muscles toughened, bones hardened akin to the hardest steel in existence, any prior injuries would be healed. In addition, their magical resistance would rose to impossible heights that only god-like magic could affect them. Even then, it would be reduced by more than a fourth of the original power.
Truly, their bodies were made to combat gods.
That's why it was no surprise when the spears of lights did not even registered as a threat in Godou's mind. They were no different from the passing wind... even if they continue to rains such attacks all day, the result would be no different.
On a side note, the four Excalibur fragments formed a defensive formation around Lucinda. What considerate fellows.
"I would really appreciate it if we could talk..."
Despite being attacked, Godou did not feel the need to respond as he was not harmed in anyway. The desire to talk calmly was still raging on inside him. However -
"No effect?" "How could that be!?" "He must have the the Sacred Gear, Light Nullify!" "In that case, let's do elemental attacks!" "Ignore the woman, focus on him!"
In response to his attempts of pacifism, the fallen angels changed tactics. Creating magic circles varying in color, they rain down elemental powers on him. Fire, Lightning, Water... these kind of attacks were heading towards him.
Even so, Godou did not try to defend himself. His instincts did not warn him of danger despite seeing a barrage of attacks coming towards him.
Just like the earlier attack, the barrage vanished like smoke.
Then suddenly, a flash!
Fast! Godou's eyes could barely track the cutting air that had come from behind him, which was a feat considering how sharp his eye sight was. The only person that can do that kind of attack was...
"Even though those would never hurt those like us, I still feel annoyed that you attacked my beloved even after he said he wanted to talk..."
Saying those words with ice - something that he was hearing for the first time - was Lucinda who was holding Excalibur Rapidly on her hand. She had an annoyed expression on her face, uncaring eyes boring down on the attackers.
This was the first time Godou was seeing this side of Lucinda.
Despite not using her authority of Nuadha, just swinging a sword had produced waves of air that cut down her enemies. Truly, her mastery of the sword is beyond human comprehension.
The twelve fallen angels were now down on the ground, bleeding from the wounds were they were cut. As expected, they were not simple cuts, having forced their bodies to collapse after just a strike...
"Fufu - you can now talk to them without being interrupted~"
So said Lucinda to him while wearing a bright smile. Godou felt a drop of sweat from his forehead... certainly she did not kill them - but the Lucinda just earlier was... a little scary.
Did she get worried of me all of a sudden?
Godou scratched his head, he did not know of what to think of what happened. Certainly they attacked him, but he was not harmed.
"Erm, Lucinda... couldn't you have disabled them without cutting them?"
In response, Lucinda frowned as she stared at the downed form of the fallen angels. Her mouth thinning to a line.
"They attacked you. Twice. I would not bestow mercy to those who dare to harm my beloved."
Despite being easy-going and cheerful she had this side of her huh? Godou felt rather pleased of her protectiveness of him. He imagined what he would do if what happened to him happened to Lucinda.
Squelch...
Not good, I might have destroyed their bodies if I used any of my authorites... Despite being able to control his powers, he did not think he is able to use them masterfully without killing opponents like them. Even the weakest kick from the Camel incarnation would crush their bodies...
He really needed to master his powers...
"Well... thanks."
Godou expressed his gratefulness to her while feeling a little shy. Completely forgetting the bleeding bodies of his attackers, he averted his eyes away from her.
"Fuu~ this side of Godou is so cuuute! Is this the so called tsundere?"
Lucinda's expression brightened. As if feeling her emotions, the four Excalibur fragments rotated to express their delight.
Godou coughed in embarrassment and focused at the task in hand. He approached the fallen that was struggling to stand. She had a horizontal cut on her stomach, it looks like she was suppressing the bleeding by applying healing magic. Had Lucinda, used the Rippling Silver Arm, healing would be almost impossible. He felt relieved.
"What are you guys doing in this city?"
The female fallen stared at him with hatred and fear in her eyes. Godou was accustomed at being stared with fear back in their world. But being stared at with hatred was a new experience to him.
"..."
She did not answer in defiance. Godou felt that she was too stubborn to abandon her pride. He sighed and looked at the other fallen. They did not look like they were able to communicate. He really needed the information though...
Just as he was pondering on what to do, an idea struck his mind. Maybe it was time to see what the Youth incarnation can do...
Godou released the restraint on the authority. Normally he was restraining this power to avoid people flocking towards him. But sometimes, it still leaked out, making him the target of people's attention.
Now, it was being used in a fourth of its power.
"Listen, I really need to know what you guys are doing here. Can you tell me your name?"
He had no idea what this power did to people aside from what he knew from when it was used by Verethragna. The first time Godou had met the Persian Warlord, he felt the need to chat him up and learn about him. He had considered him a friend during their first meeting.
So, how would this power affect this woman?
Godou did not want to use the hypnotising spell for this woman. He used the bare minumun he can for humans, but he had no idea how much power it would require for fallen angels. If he used too much, he might just break her mind.
The fallen angel stared at him in a daze and blinked her eyes several times. Godou was not sure if the Youth had worked... did she see him as a friend now or something?
"I-I am Reciel... I- we are here because our leader, Kokabiel had ordered us to go to war-"
"War!?"
That answer was not something that Godou had expected. Is this woman saying that all of those fallen angels were going to start a war in this place?
"Yes. Our leader said that he would attack the devil heiresses in this city and provoke the Devil Kings into going in another war. Do you still have more questions for me?"
The fallen woman smiled cheerfully at him as if they had known each other for all their lives. The hatred from earlier was completely replaced by something... Godou had no idea what to make of her words.
"Kokabiel, heiresses, Devil Kings... I need you to tell me about them but make it quick."
In response to his questions, the fallen angel woman shyly smiled while staring at him with stars in her eyes. She ignored the sharp stare that Lucinda was making. Of course Godou was completely oblivious to this.
o.O.o
"To think this world would be vastly different..."
Godou exclaimed in a daze... the information from Reciel had truly enlightened him to how different this new world was compared to his old one.
Although the same historic events had happened, the events in this world were influenced by the magical side. Deities and other creatures were freely living alongside mankind while maintaining temporary peace... this was truly different from where they came from.
Different creatures roamed the land. The church had exorcists and organizations controlled the magical community. Something that was considered myth in his world was genuine here. King Arthur, Siegfried, Hercules... those people had existed in this world as true heroes and not Heretical Gods...
Reciel had told them about the current status quo. The three factions were in a fragile truce and the other mythologies continue their movements now that they were considerably weakened. Humans have weapons named Sacred Gears, given to them by the Biblical God. The devils were recruiting them in what was called Evil Piece system.
But what gave him the most shock was that god-slayers did not exist here.
The only humans who have the ability to defeat gods were those people who have mastered the power of their Sacred Gear belonging to the Longinus class... they were humanities protectors in a way.
And as of now, that madman, Kokabiel was trying to spark another great war.
Godou could not possibly allow that to happen.
His hopes of finding a lead back to their world was now blown away by the revelations. Godou understood that but forced down the frustrations that he felt. There's something more important to be addressed right now.
"Ufu, is there something else you would like me to do, master?"
The fallen angel, Reciel, asked with a lovestruck tone as she stared towards Godou.
Not good, the Youth had totally messed up her mind! Godou had spent the last ten minutes grilling her for answers and he did not tuned down the power of the authority he was using. He suppressed the effect of his power and watched in horror as it did nothing to revert Reciel back to her earlier state.
"You look stressed master~ if you want, maybe I could relieve it for you."
Despite, having a wounded body, Reciel winked at Godou with lascivious intent. Clearly the effects of Youth was different from a normal hypnotise spell. He thought with shock as he stared at the woman.
What should I do? I'm the one that made her like that... he thought in panic.
His question was answered when a sharp karate chop from Lucinda took away Reciel's consciousness. Lucinda had taken matters in her own hands. Reciel slumped on the ground, no longer bleeding but still in a bad shape.
"Are we done here yet Godoh? This woman is annoying me~"
Although said casually, Lucinda's expression was rather terrifying. Did Reciel did something to upset her or was she still annoyed at the fallen for attacking him? The swords floating around her were releasing ominous light.
Godou dusted his pants and nodded. They have gained a lot of information from her. It was concerning, but at the least he did not need to cling into useless plan of actions for the future.
"She said that Kokabiel will try to kill one of the devil heiresses to incite the wrath of a Maou and spark a war... we will stop him from doing so."
He would put him down if needed to be. He could not allow a war to happen, regardless if this wasn't world. According to Reciel, the last war had almost drove each side to extinction. As of now, the three actions were preventing the other mythologies from going overboard. If they disappear, who knows what will happen to the balance of the world.
"Hm~ what about the ones in the sky?"
Although they have not attacked the humans below, they could not be let to roam around like they own this place.
"If they prove to be hostile, we'll also take them down. How's that?"
Lucinda merely nodded but she did not look enthused about striking them down. Maybe because she did not like fighting those who can't prove to be a challenge to her. It can't be helped, finding someone who can fight her toe to toe was hard.
The two of them had left the park and were about to head to the location of Kuoh Academy. Godou was planning to use the Gale again to shorten the time needed for traveling. Just when he was about to activate the authority, he noticed Lucinda and the Excaliburs stop.
"What's the matter?"
The swords around his partner started to release waves of lights just like fireworks. Godou had the feeling that they were excited.
"Another fragment is near... they say it's coming near us."
Lucinda shrugged as she answered. Do we have the time for this. Godou thought in his mind as he started to use Gale to sense the area for people that was approaching them. His control was not that great as a great wind blew over a large area... with a little practice maybe he could improve this...
There!
He sensed the presence of someone nearing them. That was it. He still needs more practice to discern things.
Godou looked towards the empty road and patiently waited for that someone to come. There was no doubt that the person knew where they were, if not obvious from the light that was being released by the fragments.
Now, what could this person want from them... could it be that this person was one of the two exorcists that he had seen earlier? Have they tracked the sword at this location? What would happen now?
Soon enough, the footsteps were now heard by them.
The first thing he noticed was that there were two people. One male and female, both of them had blonde hair. The male with the glasses looked like he was older by Godou by some years, while the girl looked to be younger than his little sister, Shizuka. Both of them carried an air of nobility around them.
"Greetings, chosen one of Excalibur."
The male spoke with a youthful tone. His Japanese was rather fluent for a foreigner. Did he also have a spell for learning several languages?
"Ah, greetings to you too, stranger. I shall, introduce ourselves. I am Arthur and this is my little sister, Le Fay... we are both descendant of the Pendragon line."
What!? Godou's eyes widened at the revelation. These two people were related to such famous person? Never mind that... didnt Arthur exist very long ago? To think his bloodline survived up until now.
"H-hi..."
The young girl waved her hand nervously towards him. He smiled politely in return and greeted back. The girl turned red and shyly averted her gaze.
"Well, I'm Kusanagi Godou. This person is Lucinda Salvatore."
In response to his introduction Arthur looked at Lucinda with sharp eyes. Godou did not know whether he was angry at her for being chosen by the Excalibur fragments, considering that he was the rightful heir. He would understand if Arthur feels that the legacy of his ancestor was being stolen.
Meanwhile, Lucinda only looked curious.
"I must admit. When Excalibur Ruler told me to return it to the rightful king, I have thought you to be a male Lady Lucinda... I never expected you to be a beautiful flower."
Arthur's words were like roses. Godou felt annoyed for some reason, was this guy hitting on his girlfriend? Still, that kind of behavior towards girls added with his looks. He would not be surprised if Arthur was constantly surrounded by girls.
"So, we're kinda in a hurry, can you give me the sword and let us pass?"
Those blunt words spoken without tact came from the smiling Lucinda. Despite being used to her attitude, Godou couldn't help but sigh in her manners.
Arthur blinked in response to her words. He looked at the sword on his hip wrapped in white cloth and held it in his hands. The sword covered by cloth started to sing that moment and the four swords around Lucinda seem to cheer.
"Before I do that, may I request three things in exchange? It is fine if you refuse to acknowledge them... but please hear them at the least."
What could he want for exchange of the sword? Godou thought him to be a reasonable person. Maybe a peaceful resolution could be achieved? Just when he thought of that, he felt Lucinda tugging at his hand. Huh?
"Godoh, what do I do? This guy's annoying~"
Why the heck was she acting like a child at a time like this? Godou wondered but squeezed her hand in return.
"Well, he said that you don't need to acknowledge them. Just hear his requests okay?"
Actually, he did not know what this person wanted. Still, he kept alert should things go south. This is Lucinda who is involved after all.
"Very well, as the first request... are you interested in eloping with me?"
"What!?"
Godou could not help but exclaim at the unreasonable request. If this was the first one, then what kind of requests are next to follow?
"Ah, I seem to have fallen in love the moment I saw your visage."
Not only Godou, but also Arthur's little sister was shocked at his declaration. The area under his eye twitched. Godou had half the mind to use Camel and kick this guy's butt. Maybe that's the best course of action after all. Lucinda then leaned on his right ear.
"Fufu, are you jealous, Godoh?"
He gritted his teeth as he forced down the urge to kick both of them in the ass. He took a calming breath and directed a glare at Arthur... who was being kicked by his little sister behind his knees.
Finally, Lucinda's answer was heard.
"No way~ the man of my destiny is standing right beside me. Also, you're way too creepy~ can you stay away out of my sight?"
Arthur recoiled at the harsh rejection. Meanwhile, his little sister continued to kick him spouting 'Stupid big brother, you already have a lover waiting on you! How dare you cheat on her!'
So he's a womanizer... Godou's opinion of the man sank.
"Really now Le Fay, I was merely jesting. I would never cheat on Elaine. Ah, apologies Lady Lucinda and Sir Godou. I simply wanted to lighten the mood."
The man bowed in a polite manner. Godou wasn't sure if he still would believe this man. The little sister sighed in annoyance while Lucinda looked bored.
"Now unto serious matters. For the second request, can I ask why Excalibur has chosen you as its king when I am descended from King Arthur?"
Ah, so it's like that. Arthur had no idea of the circumstances behind that. The truth was the fragments merely mistook Lucinda as the king of the faeries because of her usurping the power of the fairy king Nuadha...
"Dunno~"
Still Lucinda did not seem interested in having a conversation with Arthur. The latter closed his eyes and nodded at the frivolous answer.
"I see. I shall not waste more time. For the third request, may I have a duel of swords with you, Lady Lucinda?"
Godou felt the change of air from Arthur. The first two requests were asked with the permission to refuse them, but this request seem to be serious. It felt like he would not allow her to refuse.
Lucinda groaned. It almost looked like she was about to refuse but Godou held his stare at her. This request was important to Arthur... despite his immediate dislike to the man, this should be accepted at the very least.
"Fine~ watch me Godoh, I'll definitely win!"
Lucinda took her stance, while the four swords positioned their selves at unnatural places around her. As Lucinda was master of the formless stance, she did not adhere to the norms of sword stances but merely waited until she would unleash her technique that was able to behead a god.
"Please wait. I would like to give this sword before our duel."
Arthur removed the white cloth covering the fragment and tossed the sword towards Lucinda. The latter did not bother to move as the sword shone and took position beside its sibling fragments.
"Hm? The ability to control other beings...?"
Lucinda said with a voice of wonderment. Godou adopted a troubled expression at that. Ability to control others...? This could only end in trouble.
"Indeed. Excalibur Ruler can bend the will of other people or creatures. But remember that you must defeat their will with your own. It is the strongest fragment out of the seven. I pray that it serves you well."
Arthur explained. Now that he had given the sword, what would he use? Just as Godou wondered, Arthur stretched his arms as several magical circles appeared. Is he summoning his sword? Arthur started to chant.
Meanwhile, Lucinda grabbed Excalibur Ruler and started to feed it with her divinity. The sword shone like the sun. What was she doing?
"By the power of Excalibur; Godoh, treat me like a queen!"
The light from Excalibur Ruler flew towards Godou, and the seventh god-slayer found himself being assaulted by the command. Normally, the attack should have been dispelled by his natural resistance towards magic, but seeing how Excalibur was supplied by a large amount of divinity, it became an attack that could bypass his defenses!
Godou immediately invoked the Warrior and raised his magical defenses! The mind attack was deflected with some effort!
Arthur and Le Fay looked at the scene with great shock.
"To use it just like that... even more powerful than I. No, to actually resist it, just who is the bigger monster here?"
"T-that kind of power... is she really human?"
The siblings muttered. However, Godou did not paid them attention. Instead, glaring at Lucinda who wore a disappointed expression, as if she failed a prank.
"What are you doing, you idiot king?!"
The sixth god-slayer merely wore a sheepish expression, bright eyes dancing with mirth.
"Fu~ I just wanted Godoh to treat me like a queen~ you've been nagging a lot lately.~"
Th-this woman...
"You're already being treated like a queen! I'm the one doing work while you shut yourself all day and play games in bed!"
Lucinda merely chuckled while saying 'my bad' and focused her attention to Arthur, who had summoned a magnificent looking sword in his hands. It radiated outstanding power, definitely stronger than the fragments.
"What an arrogant sword... so it has never been defeated huh?"
Lucinda muttered and tilted her head. Meanwhile Arthur showed a surprised expression.
"You could understand it...? Yes, Caliburn had been wanting to fight. Unfortunately, the lack of worthy opponents has made it a little obssessed. I hope that you can satisfy our hunger..."
Saying that, Arthur lunged with Caliburn!
CLANG!
Lucinda deflected the strike with a wave of Excalibur Transparency. Arthur planned to follow the attack but was forced to dodge as Transparency almost stabbed his heart. He then rolled on the pavement as Lucinda's other hand, now wielding Nightmare slashed at where he was moments ago.
Arthur jumped back and widened his eyes when he saw Lucinda already in front of him in the middle of stabbing Transparency at him. He deflected with Caliburn but was sent away flying when Nightmare struck the side of his head with its flat side. He rolled in the ground and seem to be in a daze from the attack.
Lucinda released her hold over the swords and took a stance as if she was about to swim in the Olympics. Naturally, the swords responded by hovering around her. Arthur barely dodged as Excalibur Blessing destroyed the pavement with its sharp blade. He held Caliburn with both hands and attacked Lucinda on the side, the sound of steel meeting steel resounded on the empty place.
Lucinda twirled Blessing and redirected the force of her enemy, before stabbing, burying the blade of Blessing on Arthur's left shoulder. The man released a pained grunt and withdrew, blood escaping from his wounds.
However, before he could even regroup Lucinda appeared in front of him, Excalibur Rapidly striking at his right shoulder. Arthur desperately parried the attack, only for Ruler to stab him on his left thigh. Unable to escape, he was caught in Lucinda's attack - one, two, three, four, five slashes found their way to his body making him collapse on his knees with wide eyes.
His expression seem to say that he could not believe what had just transpired.
It was Lucinda's overwhelming victory...
Lucinda walked towards Godou, making sure to stretch her arms while doing so. From what Godou saw, Arthur was an excellent swordsman. However, Lucinda was leagues above him in terms of skill and experience. In addition, she had not even used her the ability of the fragments or her ace, the Rippling Silver Arm authority which would have sliced him and Caliburn during the first clash.
"He's approaching Paolo Blandelli's level... but he's not quite there yet."
He have heard of the man named Paolo. He was one of the two sword users that Lucinda had actually bothered to remember the names of. He was the leader of the Copper Black Cross organization that Lucinda led. On a side note, the other person was none other than her master, Raffaello.
Godou looked at Arthur's defeated form, being healed by his concerned sister. He was staring at the ground with shock written on his face.
"That kind of skill is unbelievable... to think someone better than me and Sieg exists... she was not even serious. T-this is the chosen of Excalibur...?"
As if in agreement, the sword Caliburn shone with faint light. Crap, did Lucinda broke his spirit? That overwhelming defeat must have affected him.
Just then, Arthur stared at Lucinda, his eyes full of determination.
"Lady Lucinda, I accept this defeat. However, I will not stop striving for the top. One day, I will challenge you and take away the title as the strongest swordsman from you. I swear it by my name!"
Towards his decree, Lucinda shrugged.
"Sure, why not. Godoh, I was cool wasn't I? I was extra motivated since you were watching~"
Lucinda clung to him and rubbed her cheeks to his. The five Excalibur fragments danced behind her, as if cheering for her magnificent victory. He shook his head and wrapped an arm around her waist. She did not even got excited in fighting that guy...
Arthur was not weak, far from it. But his opponent was someone who was hailed as the 'Queen of Swords'
Having fought her himself, Godou knew that the description of genius was completely insufficient. Being inexperienced with the way of the sword, he could not tell or imagine how much hardship Lucinda had endured to reach this level. Nevertheless, he knew that it was the result of effort accumulated day after day, immersed in a domain of crazed obsession.
Obsessively ignoring sleep and food, avoiding all mundane tasks, focusing entirely on honing a single art. No everyday life, no ordinary happiness. Only thoughts focused on upgrading one's skill, repeating everyday by trial and error without end.
Never indulging oneself, never compromising, always pushing the mind and body to the absolute limit, striving towards a particular direction with foolish obsession.
What she did would break men on the deepest level of insanity. But Lucinda merely took it in a stride and pushed herself even more. Eventually achieving the level where she had beheaded a deity. Ever since then, her skills only improved, facing ridiculous opponents.
Now, she was on the level where only by fighting gods and god-slayers repeatedly could she train her sword. Against other humans, it was completely worthless.
Despite not meeting the other five, Godou felt that Lucinda was the scariest of them all.
o.O.o
"Hey Godoh, aren't we supposed to do something before that dude showed up?"
Minutes after her victory against Arthur, Lucinda muttered those words with a thoughtful expression, the five Excaliburs behind her dancing with one another.
Godou paused and was lost in thought.
Originally, he was about to use the Gale in order to have a shortcut towards Kuoh Academy. Having chosen to study at a private school somehwere in this city, he had no idea where it was located. But the appearance of Arthur had made him forget about their goals!
Right! How could I forget about Kokabiel and his mad plan?
Godou bit his lip in anger. He had almost forgotten about that, transfixed in Lucinda's form while fighting, he had let it slip him mind.
By now, maybe twenty minutes had passed since Arthur approached them. Who knows what could have happened by now.
He looked upon the skies and did not see any fallen angels. They must have already arrived at their destination!
"We need to go to that place immediately!"
The ten winged fallen angel was recorded in the bible. Reciel had told him that he was also one of the leaders of Grigori... if it was him, he could definitely start a war left on his own. Godou would not allow that.
"E-excuse me..."
The one who spoke was Le Fay, the girl that had been healing Arthur's wounds until now. She meekly approached them and stopped only by a meter.
"A-are you perhaps going to that place, the school?"
Did she know where it was located at? Godou nodded at Le Fay's words.
"I-if you want, I could take you there. J-just let me cast a transportation magic..."
The little girl said something nice. It could be an act of revenge for her brother but Godou felt that she was a pure hearted kid. She really wanted to help them. But there was a slight problem.
"It's fine, just tell me where its located at. I can get the two of us there."
"B-but..."
Even if she was a talented prodigy in magic, there exists a problem. A god-slayer's natural resistance towards magic would simply cancel out whatever she casts. Even friendly magic would wuld get negated by their bodies.
"I have a feeling that you're very talented at your art. However, Lucinda and I can not travel using the method you are thinking of. Don't take it as offense, Le Fay-san."
The little girl beamed at his praise but still remained hesitant. Godou found this cute and let out a smile that he would give his little sister whenever she was acting adorable. Le Fay turned red at this and looked at the ground.
"If-if Godou-sama says so... that place should be located north umm, exactly 730 meters away..."
The girl said while looking at her feet. Did she do that using magic? Godou was impressed by her accurate estimation He chuckled and placed a hand on the girl's head. Le Fay jumped in surprise at the sudden contact.
"Thanks Le Fay-san, you're a lifesaver."
"N-no such thing! I'm no help to Godou-sama at all!"
Godou-sama? He thought a little strangely, this girl sure was overtly polite. Did she somehow got misled when learning about the customs of this country? Oh well, he was still grateful regardless.
He noticed Arthur approaching them with unsteady steps. Le Fay immediately went to his side to support him. He nodded at him silently which he returned before turning his gaze to Lucinda who was making the Excalibur fragments spell his name by bending their bodies...
Just of much of a kid was she!?
"I wish you good fortune. Meeting the two of you has made me realize just how much I need to improve. I now have a solid goal in mind. My thanks, Lady Lucinda, Sir Godou..."
Godou expressed curiosity at that.
"I understand that you learned a lot from Lucinda, but how did meeting me do anything?"
He did not remember doing anything noteworhy to earn this man's respect. Or was he being merely polite?
"Nonsense, Sir Godou. You resisted Excalibur Ruler with a little effort. In the hands of Lady Lucinda I do not think I could have done that... you are also a great warrior, no?"
Oh that... Godou remembered how Lucinda had cast Excalibur Ruler on him after she fed it with her power. If it had been any other, they would be treating her like a queen right now.
He just realize how much trouble this would bring. Surely, Lucinda had just gotten a scary weapon on her hands.
"Fufu - Godou is my peer in power. You should have seen him when we fought at full power! It was marvelous!"
Full power... Godou noticed Arthur mutter it with a shiver. The way she fought him did not require an ounce of her authority. Truly, in his perspective it was scary.
"Alright, we need to go."
Godou took distanced himself by several meters, Lucinda following along with her swords. As he activated the Gale, violent winds surrounded them. Increasing their power in the seconds that followed, before it vanished alongside with them.
Le Fay stared in amazement at what she saw.
"Those... those people really are something."
Arthur stared at his little sister with curiosity. Le Fay was excited just by seeing that trick. Now that was extremely rare. Being a prodigy in magic, despite her polite nature, Le Fay rarely got interested in magic used by other people.
"There was no magic circle. When a magician like us alters the phenomenon of this world, we are required to compute just how much of reality will be shifted in order to cast magic. Even the grandmasters require them... doing it without them would cause our spells to explode in our face... but Godou-sama, he ignored all the steps and rejected reality by simply manifesting variables without catalyst or formula... truly amazing!"
Entering her research mode, Le Fay stated the basic rules of magic. Despite learning a few tricks of his own, Arthur never really understood magic on the same level as her. Seeing the excited gleam on her eyes, he smiled.
"Godou-sama, is it? By chance, did my little sister develop a crush on sir Godou?"
"N-no way!"
"Ho, so it is indeed true. Worry not, Le Fay, it is normal towards young girls such as you to have those feelings."
"I-uuh! I'm telling big sister Elaine of what you said to Lucinda-sama!"
"L-Le Fay? There is no need to do such thing right? It was merely a jest, nothing to be taken seriously."
"..."
"It was done to lighten the mood! Come now little sister! Certainly this matter need not to reach dear Elaine's ears. Don't you have any mercy for your older brother?!"
The wounded swordsman followed the little sister who was stomping her feet, pleading like a man who was caught by his wife with another woman.
o.O.o
The violent winds signalled their arrival.
Godou released the Gale authority and stared at the sky full of fallen angels. Standing in the presence of numerous opponents, he unconsciously made a bitter smile at the sight. Beside him, Lucinda hummed a merry song as her eyes darted in the ground, specifically, where two people were locking blades.
He did not need a god-slayer's instincts to see that the girl was losing. His eyes widened in recognition at the sight of the blue haired girl. She was one of the two exorcists from earlier.
"Hm that guy... he has the two other fragments."
He heard Lucinda mutter. The person she was referring to was a white haired male swinging around two swords with a manic grin. Even from here, Godou immediately dislike him. That guy reeked of such an stenchful aura.
His eyes scanned the fallen angels in the skies, it seems like none had noticed their arrival yet. They were too focused on the events in the ground.
Eventually, his eyes landed on a ten winged fallen.
His instincts flared. That was the person he was searching for. Compared to the fallen angels around, his power was the strongest in the vicinity.
So that's Kokabiel...
"Lucinda, why don't you retrieve the remaining fragments, I'll go talk to-"
Godou did not get to finish his sentence as Lucinda had already jumped from the second floor and into the battlefield, Excaliburs floating around her. She had an excited expression on her face, as if she had found a new game to buy.
That can't be good.
"Be mine!"
Excalibur Ruler shone brightly as it released its power. The surprised sound from the three headed dog reached his ears.
Damnit Lucinda...
o.O.o
Tha battle wasn't going well.
Issei Hyoudou panted to catch his breath.
The school was surrounded by fallen angels. All of them were mocking the devils as they toyed with them. Even in the beginning they were already outnumbered by the black wings. Yet they did not fall to despair.
He would be damned if he allowed that bastard Kokabiel to hurt his master!
[Boost! Boost! Boost!]
Issei roared as he charged another dragon shot at the bastards in the sky. In this kind of situation when a lot of them were gathering around the school, he did not need to aim to hit them.
Cries of pain reached his ears as they fell.
Still, it was not enough. There were hundreds of them while the devils in the school did not even reach the number of twenty. They had been fighting since earlier, buying time for the reinforcement of the Maou to arrive.
Issei was struck by a spear of light in his thigh!
It hurts! The sensation of his insides burning was felt all over his body. Just touching it caused him to be burned... he suppresed tears as he pulled out the spear embedded on him.
"Ise-san!"
Asia immediately went to his side. She was panting with some bruises on her body. She used Twilight Healing to close the wound on his thigh. She had been healing them ever since earlier was now just tired as him, if not more.
"This is bad... if this continues we won't hold out for any longer."
The voice of his master reached his ears. Rias Gremory was covered in sweat, panting as she also provided support. He hated to admit it but she was right. As of now, some members were transported in the infirmary to rest, protected by several barriers.
Right now the only ones fighting were him, Rias, Yuuto, Xenovia, Sona, Akeno, Tsubaki and Momo. The others were now too wounded to fight. Irina was also in a bad state when Kokabiel threw her body to them.
Damnit! Wasn't he supposed to be the current Sekiryuutei? Why was he so weak! If only he could go to balance breaker... Ddraig! Isn't there any way to give me power?
[There is... but if you use it, you will also hurt your comrades... possibly killing them too.]
In response to his query, the ancient dragon replied. Issei grimaced as he guessed what the dragon was implying. He was talking about the forbidden power.
But if this continues... we will all die.
"Ise-kun, dodge!"
Kiba yelled as he landed on the other side of the courtyard. Following his orders, Issei barely dodged one of the two Cerberus that Kokabiel had released earlier to play with them that landed where he was moments ago.
The one of the two three headed dogs growled madly as it chased Kiba. Issei wanted to help him. He truly did, but he was out of stamina from using his Sacred Gear so many times. Right now he was as useless as a rock.
"Gihihi! Is that all Durandal can do?!"
Meanwhile, engaged in combat in another place, Freed battled Xenovia wielding the two Excalibur fragments that was stolen from the two exorcists. In the first place, Xenovia was already battered from fighting the assassins Valper Galilei sicked on her, without any rest, she was barely keeping up with him.
On another side of the battlefield, the rest were busy of eliminating the brainwashed assassins that attacked alongside Freed.
The fallen angels were just floating around, jeering at them with disdain. No matter how anyone looked, they were being played at. Just like those gladiators in ancient Rome, trapped in a Colosseum and fighting for their lives while spectators watched.
Truly, everything was looking bleak.
"When will the Maou arrive? I'm quite bored here."
The one who spoke was the man responsible for their current predicament. Sitting on one of the roofs, Kokabiel watched dispassionately the the devils and lone exorcist fought the pair of dogs he had unleashed.
He had arrived here proclaiming that he wants to start another war.
The madman certainly had the power and influence to do it. All he need to do was kill Rias and Sona and earn the wrath of the current Lucifer and Leviathan. He thought of playing with them first and then killing them as soon as the reinforcements from the Underworld arrives.
They were still alive now because he would be bored if they die so fast.
Such arrogance can only come from someone who had experienced innumerable battles. Even if they fought him when they are in full power they would lose for sure.
Just what can they do in this situation?
"Be mine!"
Issei blinked as a woman fell from the sky, holding out a sword while shouting with glee. The surrounding area was then covered by bright lights and he was forced to cover his eyes lest he be blinded.
Every combatant in the courtyard stopped what they were doing to stare at the scene.
"Fufufu - I've always wanted a dog... I think I'll call you Toto~"
"Wan!" (x3)
Towards the words of the newly arrived woman, the Cerberus - who had been attacking Kiba since the fight started - barked like a puppy and wagged its snake-like tail excitedly, three head paying rapt attention to the woman.
Eh?
Issei blinked his eyes and stared at the woman. She was a Caucasian beauty with blonde hair and blue eyes. Dressed in a light gray fur coat with skinny pants and black boots, it showed off her great figure. A friendly expression was on her face as she cooed the three headed dog.
"Who's a good boy? Yes you are! Now, go defeat that other mutt~"
The blonde woman pointed at the second Cerberus which looked scared of her for some reason. The Cerberus 'Toto' roared with three heads as it attacked its former ally... wait, it's faster than before!?
"What a lucky day, I got five swords and a pet dog too~"
The woman exclaimed as if it was the norm for her. Issei then finally noticed the sword that was floating around her and could not help but feel chills on his spine. The holy aura from them could not be mistaken... they were the Excalibur fragments!
Is she that woman that defeated that shitty priest!? Issei remembered Xenovia saying that the Excalibur fragments had chosen its rightful wielder... was it this woman?
"YOUUUU!? YOU'RE THE BITCH THAT STOLE MY SWORDS!"
Freed arrived with an enraged face. Issei saw Xenovia panting and down on her knees, the exiled must have ignored her in favor of the newly arrived woman.
In response to his arrival, the woman simply tilted her head in confusion.
"Hm, do I know you?"
"You stole the fragments from me earlier!"
"Oh? Sorry, I can only remember the faces of people I've met fives times... so, have I met you before?"
The woman did not seem to be taking Freed seriously as she gave him stupid answers. She was focused where the two dogs were having a battle.
Toto stepped on his (?) enemy while declaring a roar of victory, The mysterious woman clapped in delight.
"Chiii! How dare you ignore me?!"
Freed charged with both Excalibur fragments on his hands. The five swords around the woman acted and blocked his swings! Even without the woman commanding them, the five fragments fought Freed!
Issei released a breathe that he didn't realize that he was holding, just what was happening? He stared upon the skies, full of fallen angels.
... and dark clouds?
o.O.o
"So you're Kokabiel..."
Arriving where the ten winged fallen angel was, Godou's body that was enveloped by the Gale appeared before the madman.
That same moment, several fallen angels assigned on guard duty landed in front of Kokabiel and threw spears of light towards him. Naturally, the light constructs vanished before it could even reach him.
Finally taking notice, the dark-haired fallen angel stared at Godou with disdain.
"What is a human doing here?"
The fallen waved for his guards to stop the useless attacks and faced him. Against this kind of opponent recorded in legends and stories, Godou's body stirred as if rousing from a nap.
"My partner and I are going to stop you from starting a war."
Those bold claims escaped his mouth, earning him the glare of every fallen who have heard him. Godou did not pay attention to them, instead, staring Kokabiel straight in the eyes.
Kokabiel rose from his seat staring down at him.
"This is what I despise about humans, your arrogance knows no bounds. Stop me? You're nothing but specks of dust beneath my fingernails! You who have never experienced war dare to challenge me? I who have lived for eons?"
"That's the idea."
"You and what army boy? If you could not see, I have fifteen hundred of my troops awaiting my command for war."
Indeed, the whole school was filled by fallen angels. Should Kokabiel order them to attack this city, it would be indeed troublesome.
However, if he could buy enough time, it would not come to that.
"The two of us are enough. Your light attacks are useless against me, while my partner down there is the rightful wielder of Excalibur..."
The other man on the roof gasped for air as he stopped whatever spell he was doing to stare at the happenings below. He was an old man wearing priest garments. The old man raised his voice at what he saw.
"K-Kokabiel! It is her! She has the five other fragments with her!"
The fallen angel glanced at the old man and sneered.
"There you go again with your obsession, Galilei. Whatever, you're now useless. Whether you live or die, I do not care."
Kokabiel raised a finger and -
Without any time to react, the old man named Galilei was impaled by several spear of lights from the fallen angel guards. The man struggled, filling the ground his blood.
Godou's expression darkened and he glared intensely at Kokabiel.
"Do you feel pity for him? Do not. This man killed a lot of people to see Excalibur rebuilt. Ironic how he's going die just when his dream was about to be fulfilled..."
The old man coughed blood and weakly crawled. It was quite a pitiful sight. Godou clenched his hands and endured... his authority was not ready yet.
"I-I can't die here... my dream is so close... I need to see it!"
Galilei crawled towards the edge of the rooftop with a crazed expression on his face. Without any warning, the man fell from the four storey building. There was a moment of silence before the faint sound of something hitting the ground reached his ears.
Kokabiel chuckled.
"Humans are so pathetic... even back when the great war happened, your race did nothing but die in our hands. They say that all the three faction lost a lot of their members, but they did not mention how many human lives were lost... about a hundred fifty million according to Azazel... history did not even deign them improtant enough to mention. Funny thing about history is... it tend to repeat itself."
Godou's voice was full of wrath.
"Is that how you view us?"
The fallen angel smirked and answered.
"What are humans to us anyway? For us they are nothing but entertainment... breeding stock. Aside from the Sacred Gears they possess they are completely useless. They tend to destroy themselves even without good reason. Just a whisper from any of us and they submit... they are playthings of all the supernatural."
The mocking voice grated at Godou's nerves. He stared at the dark sky and released a breath. It was ready...
"Kokabiel... I'm going to end you."
"Brave words human, but what could you possib-
A bolt of lightning escaped from Godou's left hand and struck Kokabiel squarely on the chest. Various magic circles activated on the sky and rained down on Godou...
The seventh did nothing but stand on the receiving end of their attacks, glaring with hardened eyes.
Kokabiel recovered from the attack and his face contorted in rage. Ten wings spread behind him - with a great voice he shouted.
At the same time, Godou chanted.
"My army! The waiting stops now! Our time of glory has arrived! KILL THEM ALL!"
The legion of fallen angels cheered - but the roar of the raging lightning in the skies dwarfed all of their voices.
o.O.o
"Oh, is this another authority of Godoh?"
Lucinda stared at the dark sky past the countless figures of fallen angels and towards the dark clouds that had gathered to envelop whole Kuoh. Not just the school, but the whole city.
Based from the report to her back when she was still in Napoli, Godou had obtained several authorities in the form of one when he slew the Persian Warlord, Verethragna. So far, she had seen him use the Bull, Raptor, Warrior, Ram and recently, the Stallion.
This was the first time she was seeing this authority.
She could sense the power from her beloved feeding the gigantic gathering of clouds that covered the city.
Godou had taken advantage of the fallen angels that were obscuring the sky from sight in order to gather enough clouds and spread his power. None of them noticed the sudden change from here, but the people outside of the school area had been alerted that a massive typhoon would descend,
Truly he can be cunning when he wanted to.
"Fufu, time to do my part too~"
Lucinda stared at the male that had tried to attack her from behind. The five Excalibur fragments were attacking him to defend her. They were so cute, displaying protectiveness towards her when no one in this city but Godou could harm her.
She waved her hand and all seven fragments came towards her. She ignored the pained shout of the small fry as Mimic and Destruction burned him in contact.
"Thou dispassionate queen of steel-"
This chant was for her spell of summoning a sword. As of now, she had no swords in her arsenal as the limit was only two, despite her being a Campione. She sure sucked at magic.
Still, she felt that reciting this spell was enough... for some reason.
The seven fragments surrounded her and were covered in light, their power abandoning the inferior form and creating a new one under her guidance. Lucinda closed her eyes and imagined the image that she had desired...
Soon, the whole of Kuoh Academy was bathed in golden light.
"Come to my hands, Excalibur!"
A star was born...
Hi guys.
So, yeah this chapter is the longest one yet. I don't know why but I somehow finished it just like that... probably because of your kind reviews and the fact that I've nothing better to do... well at least it didn't take two weeks like I planned!
But I promise, the next chapter will take some time... or not... cuz I'm indecisive like that.
So, the seven fragments are reunited. Godou is abusing the Gale authority and now summoned a large gathering of clouds because he felt like it. Lucinda got a new sword and another pet. Arthur and Le Fay also appeared and Vali is still missing. Oh, Galilei also fall off from a building too. But no one cares about him.
Yeah... good times.
Anyway let's go to another matter.
Those who have read the first edition of this story knew that in the third chapter, I made Godou and Vali meet for the first time. Back then, Vali was made to be a female like Lucinda. Now though, I'm kinda troubled. So, I'm going to set up a poll in my profile so that you can vote. I have already made a decision but am unsure, may be your opinion in the poll could guide me.
Also, another review pointed out the Excalibur was made by the Biblical God, so I checked the wiki and yes... the guest reviewer was right.. umm, oops?