Broken Rules

by Arrixam

So God won some war and is now purging all supernatural monsters across the globe. Okay. And my best friend is the Devil who turned Kuoh into some refugee camp for them. Fine. But why do I have to be in the middle of their fight! I was just a regular guy minding my own business. It all started the day I finally got a girlfriend...

4. Chapter 4

AN: This chapter features multiple POV changes. I always start each shift with a "I, (name), blah blah blah" so it's easy to follow. If the scene changes and there's no introduction like mentioned above then it means it's still under the same character.

The multiple POV per each chapter was something of a personal challenge. Mostly to see if I could get into each character's... well, character. This will be a frequent thing. I'll even be narrating characters not seen often. Like Vali or even Serafall.

I believe this concludes the Asia arc. I might do a follow up depending on my impressions. But I'll be taking a break from this anyways to work on Seventh finally. Probably. Eh, you all know how I am by this point. I never keep my promises.

Speaking as such, on a last note, if you sent a request for me to read and review your story, I'm still working on that. Going through a list. I am busy with work most of the time. I type my stories there and half the time the internet is shotty so I can't load anything. I will be getting to those stories eventually. I'm sorry for the low progress.

Looking at you Composcreator.

Thank you everyone thus far for reading this story! I really appreciate this!

Now, ON WITH THE SHOW!

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Chapter 4

United we Stand,

Together we Triumph!

I, Hyoudou Issei, have never been this terrified before in my life.

This man had an aura around him. He was a good looking guy— the kind I would feel threatened about. He was better looking than any of the five Bishounen of our school. But I'm not threatened by his looks. I'm threatened by his presence itself.

I would like to compare him to a lion. A beautiful creature to look at but deadly to be around. That's the feeling I was getting from him. There was about five meters of space but even at ten I felt it wouldn't have made a difference.

I was shivering. Asia, who was clutching my arm, was shivering just as bad.

"Kokabiel…" she whispered.

She knew him? They must know each other. He came out of nowhere and wanted to take Asia away. That smile of his… you're not fooling anyone. That smile was charming but it was giving a sinister vibe instead.

"W-What… What do you want with Asia?" I asked. Crap. My voice cracked. I sounded so uncool right now.

Forget how uncool I was. I nearly shat a brick when Kokabiel looked at me. He looked surprised for an instant, as if he didn't notice I was here the whole time, and then that look became bored.

"Oh. You. I know you from somewhere… Hmph. No matter. I have no business with you."

Saying something like that, dismissing me like I'm some bug on the side of the street… Okay, that's kind of accurate but it still hurts you know!

"We're not going to let Asia go with you," said Saji. He came to stand beside Asia.

Way to go Saji! Acting all cool just now! I almost didn't hear your voice crack like mine.

Kokabiel looked then at Saji. His bored expression shifted to one of annoyance.

Something changed in the air. There was nothing visibly different. But we could all feel it. This predator before us changed his attitude from calm to hostile. His mind decided he was going to kill us.

[Boost!]

I called out my Sacred Gear. Saji did as well. It was a reaction to the hostile intent. Damn his aura was so powerful I couldn't stop shivering. Saji and I moved in front of Asia. The pressure increased tremendously when we were only a single step closer to Kokabiel.

"Hoh…?" Kokabiel eyed our Sacred Gears. His killing intent was still strong but he was also amused. "A fragment of Vritra? That looks like… Absorption Line? And that… That's not a Twice Critical. Interesting. Perhaps I'll have you both come with me as well?"

The air shifted again. He wasn't going to kill us. But the pressure was still dense. This guy could still do us some serious harm without a doubt. We didn't need to be dead to get dragged away from him.

"Do not worry," Azu-oneesama said. Ah, Onee-sama! You've been quiet these last few days I've almost forgotten you're here! "How mean. I am always with you, Ise. And I shall protect you from this Fallen. But you must flee. You are no match for him."

Fallen? You mean this guy is a Fallen Angel? Ah, I suppose that makes sense. So far every Fallen Angel I've run into was some good looking person. That Ojou-sama Philips-san killed had killer tits.

"Ise, Saji, please don't fight," pleaded Asia behind us. "I… I will go with him willingly. I won't forgive myself if you both got hurt because of me."

Saji turned his head to look at her. I don't think he could understand her but he seemed to get the gist of her words. He offered a cool smile like a shonen protagonist. "Don't worry, Asia. We'll protect you. I don't care how tough this guy is."

Kokabiel tilted his head back and laughed, "What bravado! Very well, I shall humor you. Both of you come at me together. I shall permit you to land a single blow each. But be prepared for my retaliation."

"What folly," Azu said behind me. "Hold my hand, Ise. I shall assist you in this one."

"You heard him," said Saji. He smiled but the fear was still written on his face. "Eh, Ise-kun, let's show him the combo we made."

"Yes, that will do nicely," added Azu. "Stand where you are. Instead of charging him only throw a punch forward. I shall do the rest."

She instructed as she took my other hand. Her hand was so soft and warm. I felt something course through it and entering my skin.

"…What's this?" Kokabiel's brows furrowed. "That is not the power of a Sacred Gear. That is… holy radiance?!"

"Saji! Go!" I shouted before our enemy could change his mind.

"Stretch my line!" Saji shouted as he fired his Sacred Gear. Since training he had managed to increase the fire rate and the speed of the trajectory to noticeable lengths. And his accuracy had gone up a lot too since then. It only took half a second for his silky thread to land on Kokabiel's arm. It was to keep him pinned down.

That was our strategy whenever we had those mock battles against Philips-san. Saji would use his Sacred Gear to keep him in place while I charged in and swung my fists around. Philips always said we should practice this combo until we could both perfect our timing. And he said in the future Saji and I would reach a level where we could do amazing things such as follow-ups and varieties.

Normally I would rush in and bring my fist around to Kokabiel's face. But I trusted Azu-oneesama.

"Eat this!" I shouted and brought my fist forward.

"Ise, what are you—" Saji bellowed in outrage when I didn't charge. But what came out instead shut him up.

It also knocked all three of us off our feet.

[Dragon Shot!]

A beam of red and gold energy fired out of my fist. The force sent me tumbling back, crashing onto Asia. It also sent Saji tumbling to the side but the only thing keeping him upright was the line he had attached to Kokabiel.

I got to see that son of a bitch's eyes widen. He brought his hands up in defense. Wah! He snapped Saji's line as if it were nothing!

The dual-colored beam struck at his hand. The area lit up with a bright light as the ground below us shook. Glass from the nearby shops blew in. My bones rattled and my ears were ringing.

D-Did I do that?!

"N-No…" I heard Azu shriek. That… That's not a good sign. "Why?! Father, why have you cut me off from Heaven?!"

"What a dirty trick, boy."

Before I could ask what she meant, the voice of Kokabiel brought me back to reality. A very unforgiving reality.

My attack had created a great cloud of dust. But, by a fierce wind, that all washed away. Kokabiel stood unharmed. Other than a few tears in his clothes there wasn't anything wrong with him. His hand was smoking but it didn't look burnt or wounded. It was as though my attack did nothing to him!

The thing that blew away the wind… were his wings. There were ten of them, all as black as the night.

Kokabiel flexed his hand open and closed as he examined it. "I see now why that nun clings to you. You are a saint, aren't you? No, you seem surprised by your own power. Then… are you a prophet? Is there an Angel who protects you? It doesn't matter. If that was the best you could pull you cannot defeat me. It's best I kill you before you become a nuisance."

Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit! Those eyes! His eyes started to glow as soon as they narrowed. He was going to kill me. That killing intent I felt before was nothing compared to this. Before he was going to kill me but with half-assed drive. Now he was going to send everything at me. I was a threat to him and now he was going to treat me accordingly.

"Run," I said suddenly. My voice was shaking. But I stood quickly, never taking my eyes off of Kokabiel. "Saji, grab Asia and run."

"Yeah," Saji got up to his knees. He couldn't stand. His body was shaking too much. He had a scary look on his face with furrowed brows and gritting teeth. "I'll do that… I'll grab Asia and run… Ise, don't you dare die on me. I'll get help. Don't you dare die!"

He shouted that last part. It was his battle cry as he jumped to his feet and reached for Asia.

The space between Kokabiel and Saji warped. I saw a flash of light with something fiercely hot flying right by me. Kokabiel, who had been standing still, was suddenly poised as though having thrown something—

I heard Asia scream. My heart dropped to my stomach.

Saji was sprawled on the sidewalk, lying face down on the floor. The back of his shirt was torn at waist. And there was blood pooling under him.

He was breathing. But he was also coughing up blood.

Asia was at his side, kneeling down and using her Twilight Healing to heal him. She was crying too.

"You bastard!" I shouted.

"Issei, don't!" Azu shouted and tried to stop me.

I was only seeing red now. This bastard hurt Saji. And why?! We didn't do anything wrong! We just wanted to show Asia a good time.

"Ise, stop!" cried Asia.

I was angry. So very angry. I charged at Kokabiel with my fist pulled back. He looked at me with a bored expression. Allow me to wipe that off your face!

I swung.

He caught my fist at the last second. His hand had moved so fast I didn't see it. The impact hurt me more than him. Even at twice my strength and the coating of my gauntlet it felt like I was smacking solid concrete.

Asia screamed again.

For two reasons. The first, Kokabiel kicked me in the stomach hard enough to send me back to where Asia and Saji were. There was also blood coming out of my mouth. But the second reason…

Kokabiel was still holding on to my hand. My arm had been severed from my body. The Boosted Gear turned to dust, only leaving my paly flesh in Kokabiel's grip.

Ah. There was so much blood coming out of my shoulder. Way too much. More than that time Raynare stabbed me. For sure I'll be dead in a few seconds.

Azu knelt down and pressed her hands against my bleeding stump. There was a glow to her hands. The bleeding stopped and the pain became bearable. I wasn't just seeing white anymore and could see what was going on around me.

"Please! That's enough!" cried Asia. She stood in front of both of Saji and I with her arms spread. There were heavy tears running down her face, falling down to the floor. "I will go with you! Please don't hurt them!"

"A-Asia…" I croaked and tried to get back up. But Azu put her hand down on my chest. She looked down at me with a sad face. Onee-sama, please do something. Please save Asia. Forget about me. Just get her out of here!

"I can't do that, Ise," she said in a somber tone. "My protection only extends to you. Asia… she is in Zaraquiel's hands."

That's right! Asia had her own guardian angel! Then… where was he? Why wasn't he doing anything to protect her? Isn't that his job?

Azu didn't answer me. Her grimace increased at my questions.

"It's alright, Ise," Asia said to me. She smiled. Asia-chan, please don't smile like that with those tears. It's not right. It's not fair! "I had a lot of fun. But this is where we say goodbye…"

She turned back to Kokabiel, who was watching us closely. Rather, he was watching me. Could he see Azu-oneesama as well?

"Before I go… please let me heal them," Asia pleaded.

Kokabiel stared at her for a moment. Wordlessly, he nodded and tossed my bleeding arm her way. Asia fumbled in its catch but held onto it carefully.

"Asia… you can't…" I tried to argue.

Asia knelt down and began to connect my arm back to my shoulder. The tears kept falling down her face. And still she smiled for me. "Thank you, Ise. For everything. I'm sorry you got hurt because of me…"

She bowed her head, hiding her eyes beneath her bangs. Asia, please look at me. Don't look away at this moment. Dammit!

She got up and went back to Saji, whom she hadn't finished healing. He tried to argue with her as well and she only returned her thanks. All the while crying.

"That's enough," said Kokabiel. He looked down at me next. "I remember who you are. You are the ward of that magician. Then I shall make a deal with you. Bring him to me and I will release the keeper of Twilight Healing in your care. Fail… well, not even that Angel on your shoulder can protect you."

His eyes moved over to my left, where Azu-oneesama was still kneeling down. As I thought, he could see her. Or at least could tell where she was just like everyone else. Azu was still invisible to everyone else but most of the powerful people like the teachers of the academy could feel her presence.

"You have until sunset," Kokabiel finished. "Come along, little girl."

Asia nodded. Again, she couldn't look at me in the eye. She looked my way but couldn't bear to look at my face. She turned and approached the Fallen Angel.

The ground beneath them began to glow. There was a magic circle under their feet, similar to the one Leviathan-sensei used but this one had a bright white glow instead of red. It only lasted a few seconds until they were both gone.

"…Dammit," I cursed.

There was nothing I could have done. Kokabiel wrecked us both without breaking a sweat. Even with Azu's support we couldn't do anything to him.

Dammit! He took Asia and I couldn't do anything!

"Ise-kun…" Saji flopped over to his back and sat up while struggling. Kokabiel didn't allow Asia to heal him completely by the looks of things. Saji was pale and sweating. "What was he talking about? What are we going to do about Asia?"

I sat up as well, wincing in pain. Azu-oneesama helped me up and put a hand to my stomach. Whatever healing she was using helped a lot. Kokabiel hit me pretty hard and the wound was still pretty tender.

"We… We need to find Philips-san…"

*Scene*

Azu had always protested about me being anywhere near Philips. She told me he was the Satan who claimed himself Godking. But was that guy really the devil? On one hand he was an empathetic ass who tossed Saji and I into danger without warning. But on the other he was always there to help. He didn't seem to be a bad person.

Without a doubt Philips was strong. Least I would like to believe so. He was an amazing magician who could do all these cool things with his magic. And he was able to teach Saji and I on how to use our Sacred Gears. But after meeting someone like Kokabiel… I'm not too sure.

But he was our only option. Neither Saji nor I wanted to abandon Asia. Asia… she is my dearest friend. She trusted me to protect her and I let her down. It's my responsibility to see she's returned safely!

"Ise," Azu chastised me as we hurried to the academy. "Kokabiel is a Fallen Angel recorded in the Bible. Someone like Artemis will be more than enough to deal with him but… you can't trust him. He is Satan and Asia is a woman of the cloth. He has no reason to save her. And if he does… it would be under ulterior motives."

"I really don't care," I growled back.

"What, Ise?" asked Saji.

"Nothing," I shook my head. "Just trying to stay focused."

I had to help Saji along the way. I should have left him on a bench or something but he was determined to come save Asia as well. Yeah, if it were me I'd be the same way. So I carried Saji who had one arm over my shoulder. We must have made a sight because when we crossed over to where people had been they were looking at us. However, no one came to help us. Most of them pretended they didn't see us.

I never noticed how unfriendly this town was until now. What a bunch of jerks.

It took us almost an hour to cross from the business district to get to the academy. Hopefully there was some clue here that will lead us to Philips. It was a Sunday and no one was really at the school. But the gates were open. If we claimed it was for an emergency will one of the teachers help us find his personal information?

"Alright, I'm fine right here," Saji said as he stood up straight. He winced and grabbed his ribs. It was where the spear of light had pierced through from his back. I tried to help him but he shook his head. "I'm fine. It just hurts. Let's split up. I'm going to check with the Student Council first. I'll call you if I find anything."

"…Yeah, okay," I nodded. "Then I'm going to try for the clubroom and the faculty lounge. Saji-kun, don't push yourself too hard."

"I'm fine, Ise-kun. This is nothing," he gave me a smile but that bead of sweat falling from his brow didn't help the picture. "Come on. We have to hurry or Asia…"

"Yeah. I'm off then."

We split up. I, who was in better shape thanks to Azu, took off running towards the main entrance. Even in the case of an emergency I still stopped to change my shoes. Don't judge me. This has been drilled into me since I was a small child.

The first place I checked was the clubroom. I was praying Philips-san was there. Unfortunately he wasn't.

But Leviathan-sensei was. She was sitting quietly at the table drinking canned tea and reading… was that a gossip magazine?

She looked up with her large blue eyes. "Oh. Hyoudou-san. What are you doing here?"

"L-Leviathan-sensei," I gasped for air. "Do you know where Philips-san is?"

She blinked and eyes shifted. Her cute personality changed to a more serious one. Could I be read like that so easily for her to understand what's going on? "Hyoudou-san, tell me what's wrong. Why do you need Philips-kun?"

Huh. I don't know how to read her with how she used that honorific. Usually she calls him 'Arty-tan' but she wouldn't call him by that nickname in this case, would she?

I also wondered if I should tell her the truth. Well, she did reveal to me she was one of the four Princes of Darkness, the Leviathan. She was one of the Kings of Devils so maybe there was something she could do.

"A Fallen Angel just took my friend," I blurted out. "He said to bring Philips-san to him or Asia…"

I couldn't even finish the sentence. I didn't want to think what that Fallen would do to Asia.

Leviathan-sensei had a worrisome look on her face. "Do you know the name of the Fallen who took this friend of yours?"

"Asia called him Kokabiel."

Her face grew even more worrisome. "Not good. Not good at all."

"W-What's not good?"

She stood and circled around the table. "Hyoudou-san, Kokabiel is one of the Cadre of the Grigori. He is one of their leaders. And Asia was still recognized as a member of the Church. This puts me in a difficult position…"

I approached her. "What does that mean?"

She frowned. "Legally… I can't get involved. I may be the Leviathan but I am only a leader of the Devils. The Fallen govern their own. We may all live here in shared territory but we cannot interfere with another unless someone steps on someone else's toes. I'm sorry."

"I… No, fine," I shook my head. My anger was getting the best of me. I wanted to yell at her for not helping me. But that's wrong. That's just me lashing out at nothing. "I only need you to help me find Philips-san."

She took in a deep breath. "Philips-kun is a wonderful magician, but he's only human. Kokabiel is a Fallen Angel who had survived against the Great War. He fought against both Devils and Angels and survived. That's thousands of years of combat experience under his belt. If you drag him into this then you are condemning him to die. And you, for that matter. You are my student and I will not allow you to throw your life away for this. I'm sorry, Hyoudou-san, but it's best you give up on that girl."

No. Don't you say those things to me, Leviathan-sensei. Aren't you an adult? Shouldn't you try to help me even a little? Are you saying I should abandon Asia and let Kokabiel do whatever he wants to her? No! I can't accept that!

"…I can call Azazel," she added. "Maybe there's something he can do if—"

"No," I shot back. "Azazel-sensei… he tried to have us killed."

She was taken aback by my statement. "What? Azazel is a fellow teacher. Hyoudou-san, that's a very serious accusation. Why do you think this?"

Here it was now. I should have kept my mouth shut. It was possible she was assisting Azazel in keeping Philips' secret safe. She was one of the leaders of the supernatural just like Azazel. If I told her what I know would she have me killed? I'm all alone with only Azu to help me. But even if I survive that will reveal Azu's existence.

"Because I know Philips-san is really Satan," I answered.

I couldn't read Leviathan's face afterwards. Her eyes sharpened but remained emotionless. I had thought she would deny my words or act indifferent. But she only stood there staring at me. Not once blinking. It felt like she was reading me like a book.

Her voice was low. Just as, if not greater than, deadly as Kokabiel's. "I won't ask why you know this, Hyoudou Issei. At least not now. You will be answering to me in due time. Have you told this to anyone else?"

…No. But I did tell Asia Philips is related to Satan somehow. Does that count?

I chose to not answer.

Leviathan closed her eyes for a moment. When she opened them again, she had a different look of seriousness. She was no longer ready to kill me on the spot. However, she had the same presence around her as when she introduced herself as a Devil. Regal, high in power, like a queen sitting on a tall throne. A queen who had gained her crown not by lineage but by bloodshed.

"Then I understand why Azazel would try to have you removed. I heard about it from Philips-kun," she went on. Oh, so she knew about the incident all along? "Let me make this clear, then. Philips-kun is a special existence to this city. It's one thing to have him running around dealing with Exorcists and Strays but another to challenge someone as high ranking and powerful as Kokabiel.

"People will start to question how and why he dealt with Kokabiel. A magician interfering with the affairs of a Grigori leader is scandalous. We won't be able to punish him. More questions will be asked."

"Is it really that bad?" I asked. "To have the people here believing Satan is real? Wouldn't that give them hope?"

She bowed her head slightly, but her eyes were still locked on mine. "You asking me tells me you don't know the full truth. Which means someone who knows didn't tell you but you stumbled on this information some other way. I guess that's not important right now. We can have a full chat later.

"Hyoudou-san, how far are you willing to go for this friend of yours?"

What a strange question. As if I need to think about the answer! "I'm willing to risk my life to save her. Even if it means I have to face Kokabiel myself. I'm not going to abandon Asia."

Leviathan tilted her head but kept her stare leveled. "Risk your life? That's romantic of you, Hyoudou-san. But someone at your level will only die in vain. Guessing by the blood staining your clothes you've already fought and lost against Kokabiel. What will you do if I keep you from leaving? Do you think you'd be able to fight me and then Kokabiel?"

[Boost!]

My Sacred Gear formed on my arm. Why? Because there was a massive surge of killing intent coming out of Serafall Leviathan. She was on a completely different level from Kokabiel! I'm talking about if she and he were to fight then I know for sure she would outright destroy him. It wasn't an exaggeration either. Even someone as weak as me could tell the difference in levels between her and Kokabiel.

She was the leader of the Devils for a reason.

"I'm going to save Asia even if it costs me my life. Even if you have to kill me, Leviathan-sensei."

My answer was straightforward and honest. It was also the only thing I could do. And if I didn't do anything then something terrible will happen to Asia. She was a member of the church and the Fallen would have no problems killing or torturing her. Also… Asia is very pretty. I didn't want to think about it but I can't ignore that someone like Kokabiel might do that to her.

I would rather die than have any of those things done to her. Asia is my dearest friend. I won't be able to live with myself if anything happened to her.

"…You're lucky Arty-tan really likes you, Hyoudou-san," said Leviathan-sensei with her cheeks puffing.

…Huh?

She crossed her arms under her impressive breasts. They made them lift up and press tight against her suit. Ah, the top two buttons looked ready to burst— No! Focus! There are other things to worry about!

"I'll help you but I can't get involved," she declared. "You're going to do whatever you want so I might as well do damage control. Go take the bus straight to the shopping district. Arty-tan will meet you as soon as you get off. I'll deal with the rest and the cleanup afterwards."

"…That's it?" I blinked in surprise.

She nodded. "That's it. But don't think this is over. You and I are going to have a chat when this is all over."

"Thank you, Leviathan-sensei," I bowed my head in deep gratitude.

She patted my head.

"Just… one more thing."

"Hmm? What is it, Hyoudou-san?"

"Why are you here in the club exactly?"

She looked away with a timid smile. "Eh… they shut off the air conditioning. I forgot to pay the bill and it won't be back on until Tuesday…"

…What a lame reason to be here. But very convenient for me.

"Now go!" she turned back my way and pushed me towards the door. "Go save your friend! Make sure to get that kiss when you succeed!"

But Asia and I aren't like that… Plus she's a nun. Oh well; it's something for me to cry about later.

I hurried down the hall and dialed Saji's number. He picked up after two rings and told him what Leviathan told me. It turns out Saji was delayed by the Student Council. Souna-Kaichou was giving him one hell of a tongue lashing but at the same time was taking the time to heal his wounds better.

It wouldn't be another half an hour until we arrived at the shopping district as instructed.

*Scene*

I, Rossweisse, was having a wonderful time.

By Odin's great beard, not because I was simulating a date with Artemis, no. He is a wonderful boy but that's all he is: a boy. Besides, he and I are teacher and student. It is indecent to be in any such relationship. I've never once thought of him as a potential boyfriend either. And I'm sure he thinks the same way about me.

I was having fun because I was able to purchase all of my essentials plus a few extras all with a single paycheck! And the day wasn't done yet. We have been working on this plan since the beginning of our obscure relationship. I've known Artemis since before the school year started and it was only by chance did we find out about each other's financial issues. There was an understanding between us that we shall always strive to assist the other whenever news of a sale was around.

Today, we were on a tight schedule. We were running around the markets to get to flash sales and promotions. And then we would swap places to cover the other. What's more, we even changed our appearances and reentered the shops under new identities to obtain the one-per-person criteria.

I was able to buy an entire month's worth of food plus a few goodies I haven't been able to afford since coming to this city. Mostly discount goods but goods nonetheless. And I couldn't wait for later in the day. Over by one of the cafes they were having a two-for-one deal for couples. Artemis and I were going to pretend to be one in order to attend a dessert buffet.

I haven't had cake in ages it feels like! I was so excited!

But then Artemis received a phone call. He put the phone to his ear but didn't say a word. He only listened. All the while, his face grew more and more drastic. I knew things were about to change as soon as it was done.

"…I'm sorry Rossweisse," he said to me in a somber tone. "There's something I need to take care of. I will make this up to you, I swear."

He knew how much today meant. He had been looking forward to this just as much as I had. And to be called away from it all…

"I understand," I said. "You wouldn't leave unless it was truly important. Can I at least know what it is?"

Perhaps it's just me being a prude. But I felt like I needed to know this. Today was a special day that only came when the planets aligned. I was frustrated.

He didn't say anything at first. He tapped the edge of his phone a few times. "I suppose that's fair. Issei and Asia got into some trouble with a Fallen Angel. I'm being told to deal with it."

…That's it?

"Wait a minute. Shouldn't someone else be dealing with it instead? What about the Leviathan? Surely if it's her then—"

"Serafall was the one who called me," he groaned and rubbed his brow. "It's… complicated. Issei really stepped in some heavy shit."

He didn't share anything further. He was keeping something from me. That's fine. It wasn't any of my business to know. However…

"Then I shall come along," I said.

"…No," he argued.

"Absolutely," I countered and pointed a finger at him. "This isn't up for argument, Artemis. Regardless of your status you are still a student of mine. I cannot just leave you by yourself to deal with the likes of the Fallen alone."

"And your grudge against them has nothing to do with it?" he sassed back.

I frowned. I could feel a light blush on my cheeks. "Perhaps. I would like to have a word with those Fallen I met in the park."

Again he became quiet. Thinking. I stood at his front patiently. Regardless of what he would say next I would follow him.

"We might have to fight a Cadre-level Fallen," he stated. "Are you sure you can handle something like that?"

"I should be asking you the same thing," I countered. "It's all the more reason why I should come. You didn't really plan on fighting something like that alone, did you?"

He didn't answer. Instead he gestured for me to follow him. We walked down a few blocks, backtracking all the way to our starting point: the bus station.

We stood there in silence— Artemis had used his magic to send our purchases to our respective homes. A few buses came and went. After the third Artemis began to grow impatient. I wanted to question what we were doing here but I knew my place. As a support for Lord Odin I was his shadow. It wasn't my place to ask questions but to do as I was told without hesitation. Being with Artemis like this made me feel nostalgic about the old days…

By the time the fourth bus arrived, Hyoudou Issei arrived. And with him was Genshirou Saji.

"She didn't tell me Saji would be here," Artemis opened.

"Leviathan-sensei only thought it was me," replied Issei. "That's not important right now! Asia—"

"I know," Artemis put up a hand. "Serafall told me everything. Kid, let me repeat that. She told me everything."

…Oh my. I've never seen him with such a fierce look. I grew worried for Issei's sake. I honestly thought Artemis would strike him down right there. Issei believed the same thing as he shirked back, almost slipping off the sidewalk and falling into the street hadn't Saji been there.

"We'll talk about that later," Artemis muttered in a dark voice. "Normally, I would be going on my own to deal with this. But Serafall thinks it's a good idea to bring you along. Why should I?"

…What? Lady Leviathan, what did you recommend? Surely you wouldn't be thinking of allowing these two to come along on something so dangerous!

Artemis. I understand if you are following commands from Lady Leviathan. But must you truly go along with them?

"Because I can't sit back and do nothing!" argued Issei.

"Yeah, that douche took Asia!" added Saji. "There's no way we can just leave her with things like that!"

Artemis scowled. "Do neither of you remember that Stray Devil? You both won because the odds were stacked in your favor and because of a fluke. Kokabiel is on the opposite end of that totem pole. He was once an Archangel. He could destroy this entire city in a single instant and you want to confront something like that?"

"Hey," barked Issei. "I don't care how powerful he is. I get it. He beat the shit out of us when he took Asia. But Asia is my responsibility! I came looking for your help because Kokabiel wanted you. But even without you I would have gone by myself."

"I would have as well," quipped Saji. "That dick made Asia cry. There's no way I can forgive someone like that."

"Oh my God," groaned Artemis. He had his hand pressed against his brow. "You two are bigger idiots than I thought. Look, I will deal with this. I will bring Asia back. Just go back to the school or go home and wait for me to return. You're only going to get in the way."

I couldn't agree more. I heard these two were undergoing guidance by both Leviathan and Artemis on how to use their Sacred Gears. But they are still normal high school students. They couldn't have anything more than a week or two of experience. Kokabiel transcended them by eons. Even I would be wary of facing him.

"No way," Issei stepped forward. "We're coming! Neither Saji nor I plan on fighting that monster again. We only want to bring Asia back. That's it."

"Yeah…" Saji admitted with a downcast look. "Someone like that existing is totally unfair. We decided as soon as we get Asia we're booking it out of there. We're not even going to try to fight someone like him again. Least not until we're better."

Artemis didn't say anything. His brows were knitted in annoyance as he continued to scratch them. He reached for his back pocket and started to pull something out. But then his eyes flashed my way and he retracted his hand. I noticed this habit of his whenever he was stressed about something. And he always stopped himself whenever he looked my way.

"…You will do everything I say without question, is that clear?"

"Artemis!" I shouted. "No! You cannot bring them along!"

He didn't look my way. He continued to stare at the two. "When I say run, you turn around and 'book it'. When I tell you to duck, you hit the floor. When I tell you abandon Asia, you leave or die. Do you understand?"

They had a grim face.

It was Issei who asked, "You're not really going to abandon Asia, are you?"

"Only if there's no way to bring her back," Artemis answered in an equally grim tone. "This isn't a movie or one of your anime. Expect Asia to already be dead. Don't hope for miracles. And if you try to do anything against my orders I will knock you unconscious and drag you out of there myself. Are we clear?"

"Artemis!" I hissed and grabbed his arm. "What are you doing?! You can't bring them along! They're just children!"

His brow shot up as he looked at me. "Are you in any position to be saying the same thing? You couldn't even handle a trio of peons."

"That was that and this is this," I argued. "I at least have experience in battle. I have been through war. I can handle myself. But Hyoudou and Genshirou have no such insight. While I am sure you are more than capable of protecting them, as am I, but will you go so far as to expose them to this cruel side of the world? What if what you say is true? About Asia?"

What if this girl was dead when they arrived? How badly would it cripple their psyche? They were giving their all in the name of saving them. What if they arrived at their destination only to find out their goal had always been out of their reach?

"I was their age when I was shoved into a similar world," he answered calmly. Too calmly. His voice was cold and distant. "I watched my neighbors go at another's throat, quite literally. I even killed my childhood friend in the most brutal public display. I'm far from healthy because of it. But this is the world these two agreed to go through. It's what they want. Rossweisse, what did you have to give up to learn how to protect?"

…Their age? That shouldn't be possible. Artemis, you are human. What are you talking about?

Never mind. This is something I can return to later.

He asked me an unfair question. What did I give up? I gave up my happiness. I am a Valkyrie. It is my destiny to bring heroes to Valhalla after their death. I guard the shores of Norway and the people who worshipped us. I was chosen out of everyone to be Lord Odin's bodyguard. I surrendered my happiness to be in that position.

I performed unforgivable acts under Odin's command. His enemies needed to be removed and I was his sword. Sometimes I killed my fellow Valkyrie. But I did it with my head held high. I took pride in my work. Because I was once the best. Because I used my talents to protect my country.

…And then God of the Bible arrived.

Lord Odin… I couldn't protect anyone in the end…

I looked over at Issei and Saji. They looked convicted to their cause. But their eyes were still innocent and naïve. They may have been introduced into a few bloody things but they've barely touched the surface of the blood-stained world. However… I have no right to refuse them. Warriors of my homeland would pick up the sword as early as they could walk. Soldiers went to war before they could even reach puberty. Some did it for glory. Others did it to protect their mothers, sisters, and lovers.

…I pray these two haven't fallen for Asia Argento. For both their sakes.

"I will trust in your judgment, Artemis," I relinquished. "Please do not let them down."

"I won't make that promise," he said. "That's not how it works."

I whispered below my breath, just loud enough for only he to hear. "They don't need to know that."

He looked at me for a moment. He followed along, "I will take good care of them. That's the best I can offer."

I suppose it was better than the harsh truth. I still felt terrible about allowing these two to come along. Perhaps if they had more time to condition their minds and bodies I would have felt more at ease. But then I recalled our enemy would be a Cadre— and all my worries returned tenfold. We might be a match against him if it's Artemis and I. But can we deal with something like Kokabiel while protecting these two?

We're going to have to make it work. We have to.

I am still a teacher, after all.

*Scene*

I, Genshirou Saji, am really just following the flow of things.

It took us nearly an hour to reach our destination. To be honest, when that guy Kokabiel told us to bring some magician (who turned out to be Artemis apparently) we hadn't been told where to bring him. Luckily Artemis already knew where to go. He mentioned he had been keeping track of Kokabiel's movements for the past few weeks. I think that's the reason why Kokabiel wanted him. There was more to this picture but that damn ikeman didn't spill the beans.

I'm also relieved to have someone like Rossweisse-sensei with us. Issei told me about the time when they were against three other Fallen Angels and Rossweisse held her own against all of them before Artemis showed up. I was impressed!

We arrived to the furthest outskirts of the city, even way past the abandoned warehouse where we fought the Stray Devil. According to Artemis, this was the edge of the city where the protections of the citadel ended. Going anywhere beyond that will have us step foot on Heaven's territory.

Our location was an abandoned church of some sort. It looked like an old monastery or cathedral based on the size and architecture. Also rather modern considering the shape, materials used in its craft, and the appliance of lighting technology.

…I also know some stuff about architecture. Yeah.

"Stay together," Artemis suddenly said. There was an edge in his voice. That dull look he always had was gone and replaced with someone intensely focused. His eyes kept shifting between our flanks.

Now that I notice it, Rossweisse-sensei had the same look. And she too was looking around with small glimpses, never fully turning her head.

Issei and I noticed their actions and looked around.

There, in the shadows, were several pairs of glowing orbs. Eyes. There were so many of them! Were all of these Fallen Angels? They were hiding in the shadows so I couldn't see how many there really are or what they looked like. But with so many right off the bat… will we really be able to get out of this alive?

Artemis led the group with Rossweisse falling back to be between Issei and I. They directed us into the building…

What a dump it was.

The interior was as spacious as our gymnasium and could hold up a few hundred people. There were once beautiful stainless windows lining against the walls but they looked purposely smashed. And there were a long row of pews in five sets— nearly all of them had been crushed. Shredded pages from the bible and choir notes littered the floor. It was easy to slip on one of them.

As soon as we entered, Artemis waved his hand in a casual gesture. The bible pages and debris of glass and wood split, giving us space to walk down the center aisle. We were surrounded once again as Fallen Angels came out of seemingly nowhere. They were popping out of the shadows I swear! They watched us from behind the pillars, on the windowsills, or on the next viewing floor. Their stares hurt. Their wicked smiles hurt almost as much.

"Finally you arrive."

That voice came before he appeared. Kokabiel hadn't been in the room. But he heard of our arrival somehow and decided to make an appearance.

At the far front, where there was once an altar for worship, now sat a throne. In a quick flash and a few black feathers fluttering in the air, Kokabiel manifested on its seat. He leaned back, crossed his legs, and rested his elbow on the armrest and knuckles below his chin. His smile was amused.

"Where's Asia?!" shouted Issei.

Oi! Ise-kun I want Asia as much as you do but I want to live as well!

"Yes, yes, we had a deal, didn't we?" mused Kokabiel. His smile increased. With his offhand he snapped a finger.

A magic circle appeared at his side. A second afterwards Asia appeared. She was sitting on her knees with her shoulders slumped and head down. She was breathing… or at least I think she was. She also wasn't wearing her nun attire and was instead veiled in a see-through white gown.

My anger spiked. These bastards. What did they do to her?!

"Tch," Rossweisse spat. Her lips curled into a snarl.

Why did you do that, sensei? What does that mean? Do you know something we don't?

"Asia!" Issei shouted again and started to head towards her.

Artemis put a hand on his shoulder and stopped him from going.

"Philips-san, what are you doing?" Issei demanded.

"…Ise…?" Asia called out in such a low voice it hurt my heart. She sounded so weak. Her head lifted only slightly with her eyes peering at us through her bangs. But… I don't think she could really see us. There was something wrong with her. She looked so… frail. Like the slightest disturbance will have her crumbling apart.

…I'm starting to understand. God damn it all. Don't you dare fucking say it you damn ikeman.

"Kid, he already killed her."

There was laughter. At first it was just a small chuckle from Kokabiel. And then the rest of the Fallen around us began to snicker following his lead. They took delight in seeing us like this. Both Rossweisse and Artemis had heavy looks on them. Issei… he looked like he had been slapped across the face and hadn't come to realize what just happened yet.

Me? I felt tears running down my cheeks. Fucking hell. I was so pissed off that someone like Asia…

"I never said in what condition I would return her in," cackled Kokabiel. "But since you came all this way and fulfilled your end of the bargain, here."

From his throne he gripped a large wad of her dress and…

And just chucked her across the air. She twirled a few times in the air with her limbs spread against her control.

I was horrified by his actions.

"Asia!" Issei and I both shouted and began running towards her. If neither of us got to her then she would crash hard on the floor.

I fell on my knees and slid across the floor. I reached Asia first right before she would have hit the floor. She was a small girl, but the impact still knocked the air out of me. But I was relieved. I managed to make it.

She felt cold in my arms. Cold and light. I mean, yeah, Asia is shorter than me and pretty thin but there's no way a human being should weight this little. Her skin was glistening with sweat and her complexion was ghastly pale. The color on her cheeks and lips were gone.

"…Saji?" she questioned. Not in the way someone would ask for an identity. But from someone slipping out of a dream, barely coming back to reality.

…Or someone who was slipping into a forever dream. Someone dying.

"Asia…" Issei knelt and put a hand on my shoulder and another on her hand.

She smiled. Or at least tried to. The warmth was in her eyes but the best she could pull off was slightly thinning her lips. It was more of a twitch than a smile.

All the while, Kokabiel and his minions continued to laugh. Their laughter moved from light chuckling to outright roars of delight. Like this was the funniest shit they've ever seen. Throwing a human body? And watching her die? How the fuck is any of this funny?

"Saji, Issei, you got what you came for. You should leave," said Artemis.

…Yeah. He's right. We have Asia now. I want to break a few skulls for what they did but… Kokabiel is there. And there are so many of these monsters around. My Sacred Gear is a support type and I probably wouldn't be able to take even one out. We should leave while we still can.

I looked at Issei. He looked so frustrated. He was glaring at Kokabiel with so much hatred I thought he was going to charge him again. But… he must have recalled the last time that happened. He bowed his head and nodded.

I picked up Asia in my arms and made my way back towards the exit.

…Only, a new group of Fallen were blocking our path.

"So that's how it is…" muttered Artemis loud enough for everyone to hear.

"There was nothing in our deal that would allow you to leave," Kokabiel said with his damn smile. "You've wandered into our territory. It's within my full rights to deal with you however I deem fit. I've not been ignorant of your workings, magician. You've cost me a number of men."

Artemis blew out a puff of hot air. "You were targeting the kid and the girl since she got here. You even sent Fallen near the Hyoudou residence. Here I thought it was Raynare the whole time but the real brass was you all along."

"…What?" asked Issei.

"Indeed," Kokabiel changed his posture in his seat. He leaned forward with his elbows resting on his knees. "Even my best couldn't get around your detections. Which is why instead of throwing away my men to the fire I went out personally. I was disappointed you weren't with them. But you are here now. And you've brought them with you too. Perhaps if I gave the Absorption Line and the Boosted Gear to Azazel he will turn a blind eye to my recent exploits."

There's no doubt he knew what my Sacred Gear was all along. But at the start of the day he didn't know what Issei's was. I'm guessing he must have figured it out.

"You mean your recent affairs of human trafficking?" pondered Artemis. His tone suggested Kokabiel didn't need to answer. It was more of an accusation than a question.

Kokabiel's answer was an even more twisted smile.

Artemis sighed and reached for his back pocket. It made the Fallen create weapons made out of pure light in their hands. Swords, spears, axes, and even bows and arrows. But a gesture from Kokabiel told them to hold their fire. Artemis pulled out a cartridge from his back pocket and put it up to his lips.

He slipped a cigarette between his lips and put the cartridge down. But not before gesturing the box towards Kokabiel, as though asking the guy about to kill us if he would like one. Kokabiel politely shook his head like a good host.

"…You smoke?" asked Rossweisse with an edge in her tone.

Really sensei? Is that what you should be asking at a time like this?

"I'm also a mean drunk," he returned in his usual dry tone before lighting the bud. He snapped his fingers at the tip and they instantly caught alight. He took a small drag before pulling the smoke from his lips. He returned to the conversation. "Ever since God ransacked the Grigori Institute the treasure of Sacred Gears and their users have been depleted from the Fallen side. Your trump against the Angels was removed all in an instant. A few thousand years of gathering resources gone in a single night.

"Kokabiel. In order to regain the self-proclaimed glory you went out of your way to retrieve some of those Sacred Gears. I've heard you succeeded in some missions but failed in most others. You lost a lot of your original legion. When you came here to the special zone you never intended to use it to hide from Heaven. You wanted our protection for your own dirty work.

"Any Sacred Gear user born in this city or who wander through our borders are quickly abducted and either removed or have their Sacred Gear extracted. I hear you even lure some from the outside world to be within your reach. Asia Argento was one such person, wasn't she?"

"…What of it?" Kokabiel asked. He kept his smile. "It is fully acknowledged the bearers of Sacred Gears will side with Heaven and the Church in due time. They will eventually become our enemies. What I am doing isn't illegal. The silly laws Azazel and the others built declare me innocent."

Artemis took another drag. "Yeah. The special zone is unique. The first of its kind in all of history. And it's still pretty young. Its foundation is strong but its judicial efficiency is lacking. However, that innocence doesn't extend towards the natural denizens of the city. That includes humans or any such other creature living before the formation of the special zone. One of yours assaulted the kid here. And you personally assaulted two of them."

Artemis… it's cool of you to be finding all these loopholes to defend us on some supernatural legality. But don't you understand the situation we're in? We're in the Big Bad's base of operations. I very highly doubt accusing him of anything illegal will change anything.

"Hoh? If I recall it was they who struck first," returned Kokabiel. "If anything they are the ones who should be arrested for assaulting a leader of the Grigori."

Fucking seriously?! You're pulling that one on us?!

"We're just going in circles at this point," said Artemis. "Rossweisse, cover my back. You two, when I say when you haul the girl out of here. Don't look back. Just keep on running."

Kokabiel's smile increased. "Planning a dastardly escape right in front of me? What trick could you possibly pull out of your sleeve, magician?"

"Something ironic," Artemis shrugged and brought the cigarette out of his mouth again. "On the first day he said 'Let there be light'…"

He flicked the lit bud forward. It flew pretty far with just a flick of the wrist. It reached as far as Kokabiel. But the Fallen swatted it away with the back of his hand. Nothing happened.

"And there was light," finished Artemis.

There was an explosion. A blast of fire and light that came from the cigarette bud. It was strong enough to blast a large hole out of the corner of the building Kokabiel swatted it towards. It was strong enough to sweep flames along the side and scorch the Fallen nearby— their screams could be heard. It was strong enough to knock Kokabiel off his throne!

The flames reached us. But an invisible layer kept us from being consumed. Rossweisse was already moving. Magic circles appeared at her hands and around her body. Bolts of lightning and cannons of ice fired out of their center. She aimed at the Fallen blocking our exit. The eruption from Artemis' attack dropped their guard and Rossweisse's attack finished them off. Their bodies either burnt to a crisp from her lightning or were blown to bits from the ice.

It made a gruesome sight. I nearly gagged.

"Get moving! Now!" shouted Artemis.

"What a dirty trick, mage!" roared Kokabiel.

The flames washed away with the beating of his ten wings. His clothes were scorched and the tips of his hair were singed. But there was no other damage.

What a monster. He survived something that made a third of the building collapse?!

There was another concussion. A flash of light struck that invisible layer protecting us. Artemis jerked back with his feet sliding against the floor. He put his hands up and put a little more strength into his magic.

More blasts of light struck the invisible barrier. Each one made the floor under us quake. Cracks were appearing on the surface and I could now see the barrier Artemis had made.

"Rose! Get them out of here!" he bellowed.

Rossweisse looked conflicted. But that hesitation only lasted for an instant. With a heavy look on her face she turned and pulled us back down the aisle. The Fallen who were starting to gather their ranks were dealt with by her passing by. Shots of fire, lightning, air, and ice came from a spree of magic circles popping in and out around her.

I held on to Asia close as we rushed out of there.

"What about Philips-san?" asked Issei.

None of us could answer his question. Yeah, even I knew what this meant. Artemis was going to stay back to deal with Kokabiel. Or at least hold him off until we could escape.

He was probably going to die.

Hey, Artemis, now isn't a good time. But since this is probably going to be the last time we see you, then I take back everything I said about you. You're really a good guy, aren't you?

Behind us was light and heat. I didn't look back. The sound of glass shattering reached us by the time we reached the exit and slammed the door shut. The last thing I saw was Artemis looking back at us with a stone gaze. His barrier was crumbling down as the Fallen began to swarm him.

*Scene*

I, Hyoudou Issei, kept running.

Weren't there, like, a ton of Fallen out here before? I think some of them entered the building after us to block us from escaping but what about the rest? Hmm. Now that I look around I can see a few marks that weren't there before. Some trees and pillars look to be splintered. The garden entrance also had some dirt sprawled about and some of the tiles were chipped. There was also some blood here and there. Was there a battle while we were in there?

Rossweisse-sensei stopped only for a moment to turn back towards the double doors. She raised her hand and a magic circle spun at her hand. A matching circle appeared at the door, glowed brightly, and then etched itself against the door.

"That'll hold them off for a short while. But we still need to hurry and get to the city," she urged us on.

We kept running after that. Saji held on to Asia. Asia… she was beginning to look worse and worse as we kept moving. Her eyes were closed and her breathing was becoming haggard. Her brows were knitted as though in pain. We needed to get her somewhere safe. Preferably a hospital. Although, I don't know if they would be able to help her. I don't know what those Fallen did to her.

Philips-san said Kokabiel already killed her. I don't want to know what that means.

In the distant, I could hear Kokabiel's shouting of outrage. There was smoke in the air. Philips-san… to be able to hold off a monster like that for so long… Saji and I couldn't even touch him.

"Ise," Azu whispered to my side. She kept pace with us— rather, she was gliding across the floor at our speed. "This is far enough. If you don't stop… you won't be able to say your last words."

I looked to her in confusion. While I kept running. Not seeing where I was going made me trip on the ground. Everyone stopped because of me.

I was panting and sweating. I've never ran so hard before. I needed a moment to catch my breath.

Azu said with a sad voice, "Asia is dying. You won't be able to save her no matter what you try. You won't make it to the bottom of the hill. It's best you say your goodbyes now…"

"Asia… is not… going to die!" I growled and got back up to my feet.

Saji and Rossweisse were looking at me. Saji had the same determined look as I did. We were going to get Asia treatment. But Rossweisse… she had a look as though she knew something.

"Rossweisse-sensei," I ended up asking. "Please tell me… is Asia…?"

"Oi, Ise-kun, what are you saying?!" Saji yelled at me. "Don't be thinking like that! Of course we're going to fix Asia! We just need to keep moving."

But I kept staring at Rossweisse, expecting an answer. Eventually… she averted her eyes.

…That was my answer.

Shit. You mean despite everything Asia is still going to die? Just what did they do to her?

Hey, Onee-sama, wasn't Asia supposed to be protected by a guardian Angel? Where the hell was he?

"…That's not how our protection works," said Azu. "Asia… she went along willingly. If Kokabiel had tried to harm her or bring her by force then Zaraquiel would have intervened."

"Didn't you say she was in your hands?" I growled out of anger.

I said it out loud. Saji looked like I had just punched him. He looked angry but… dejected. Guilty even. As if my words to Azu struck a chord with him.

"Asia was on a pilgrimage," continued Azu. "Zaraquiel protected her. But, her being captured by a Fallen… it would mean she failed. Zaraquiel left her presence. I no longer sense him in this plane. I'm sorry Issei. But this is the way Heaven works."

"But… Asia… she believed in God," I argued. I was staring at Azu this time. I was too angry to hide her existence. "She always prayed when we sat for dinner! She came here by herself, terrified! She knew everyone would hate her but she came anyways! Because she believed in God! Why would He abandon her just like that?!"

Something tugged against my sleeve. I blinked and looked down.

Asia had reached over from where Saji held her and clutched my sleeve. Her eyes were sad.

"Ise… it's alright…" she said in a weak voice.

"Asia, don't talk," I ushered her while grabbing her hand. I held it tight. "You shouldn't talk."

Her fingers flexed. I think she was trying to hold my hand too. But her strength was so weak.

"…I know why," she said. "Ko…kabiel. He told me… something…"

That strength of her weakened. A sigh escaped her lips. A single tear fell down her eye.

We gathered close to listen. This… this felt like her last words.

"God… has been… dead, hasn't he…? Princess…?"

God… dead? What? The hell does that mean? No, Kokabiel should have made something up like that to mess with Asia. He was a sick fuck like that. He laughed at our misery. I wouldn't be surprised if—

"Yes," answered Azu. "The War killed the God of the First Testament and the original Satan. The Lord Incarnate was killed by the coming of my father. This world is now under the rule of the God of the Third Text. The original God has been dead for quite some time."

No. Seriously? So the God Asia prayed to wasn't even the real God? But someone else who took His place? What the hell? Wait, what does that even mean? Does that mean Asia never even had a chance in the first place?

Azu didn't answer me this time. I see…

Asia still needed an answer though. I turned back to her and held her hand close to my face. "She says he's real. He still loves you and is sad things will be like this. But… you'll be… in a better place…"

I wonder if this was the right thing to say. I was openly accepting Asia's death. I shouldn't be. I want to save her no matter what. But Azu says otherwise. And I think Asia knows she's going to die too.

Just and fair? God, why did you save me and not her? I prayed to you once. Asia dedicated her whole life to you. How is this fair?!

Asia kept looking at me. She smiled. A smile so small I could barely make it out. "Ise… thank you… But… you're… a terrible… liar…"

Ah. Shit. I am, aren't I? I'm sorry Asia. I wanted to say something nice. I wanted you to be at peace. But I made things worse, didn't I?

"Ise? Saji? Can we… be friends…?" she asked.

My mouth hung open. That question. Asia, what did you think I was this whole time?

"Ise, what did she say?" asked Saji.

I looked back down at Asia. "We were always friends… all three of us."

It was her turn to be surprised. Her eyes widened slightly as her smile fell.

And then it returned. For this last moment she looked radiant. Tears fell down her eyes.

Her hand went limp after that. Her head bobbled to the side.

She died with that smile.

"H-Hey… A-Asia-chan…" Saji became frazzled. He shook her gently in her arms. "C-Come on now. Stay with us. We… We were supposed to… go to the movies. Come on. Wake up. This… This isn't… it's not…"

Dammit. Dammit. Dammit! DAMMIT!

Asia was dead. There was nothing we could have done about it.

Rossweisse's head snapped up. She stepped around us and pushed us back. Magic circles appeared around her. For real? There was an enemy out there? Can't we have time to grieve, dammit?!

We weren't exactly out of the woods. We were almost to the bottom of the hill when we stopped. That meant we were still in enemy territory. Of course they would be able to find us with us standing around and talking.

"Oh? I didn't expect you to be here, Ise-kun~"

N-No. Her? Why is she here?!

Stepping out of the trees was my ex-girlfriend, Amano Yuuma. No, I really can't call her that. Our date was never real to begin with. She had been hired to date me. And in the end she stabbed me to death.

Her name was Raynare. And she was a Fallen Angel like the ones we encountered before. It shouldn't be a surprise to find her here.

She flicked her hair behind her ear and gave me a smile. It was a lovely smile. Something I always wanted a girl to look at me with. But there wasn't any warmth in her eyes. That smile was totally fake now that I know better. It was the same smile you gave me on that day, wasn't it? Those things you said to me before I died… you didn't even mean them, did you?

"You wouldn't happen to know where that silver-haired Devil went, would you?"

She asked such a strange question. A silver-haired Devil? As far as I know only Gremory-sempai and Shitori-sempai were Devils. And no one in their group had silver hair. Well, there's Koneko-chan. But I'd rather say her hair is white.

She frowned. Immediately her beautiful face warped into something ugly. "Figures. He came in out of nowhere and made a mess of things. Looks like I'm the only one left. Kokabiel-sama is going to be furious. Whatever. At least I'll be able to bring him back the head of the stragglers."

Ah, so this mystery Devil was a dude. That also explains why there weren't other Fallen after us and why there were markings of a battle. Still, we were only in the cathedral for a few minutes. Just how fast did this guy work?

"Take another step and you're going to be a smear all over the floor," Rossweisse threatened. Whoa. What a very dark thing to say and with such a fierce look on her face. She was really going to do it.

Raynare frowned. "Oh. If it isn't the Valkyrie Who Failed. I don't know what you're doing here but this doesn't concern you. Walk away and I won't have to scar your pretty little face."

"Why… Why are you here?" I asked. My throat was dry. "Will you not just leave us alone? You people have already done enough."

She looked my way. Her smile returned. It was beautiful. She smiled cutely, even giggling. "Of course not, sweetie. Kokabiel-sama was interested in your Sacred Gear. He'd be very upset if I didn't bring your corpse back to him."

She said with such a cute voice and face as if she were still my girlfriend.

Rossweisse acted. One of her magic circles fired off a blast of wind that blew up dirt. The shot struck Raynare square on the chest and sent her flying back. But she stretched her wings and caught herself. She snarled and put her hand to her chest.

Something green glowed on her hand. A sparkle of silver under the sunlight. I recognized it immediately for what it was.

"That…" so too did Saji. "That's Asia's Sacred Gear!"

Yeah. It wasn't just another Twilight Healing. It was Asia's Sacred Gear. This feeling… I could feel Asia's warmth on those pair of rings. And Raynare was using it to heal herself.

"Do you like it?" Raynare cackled. She brought her hands forward with her knuckles facing us. She was displaying the rings of Twilight Healing for us to see. "Kokabiel-sama gave them to me after we ripped them out of that nun girl. There aren't very many Sacred Gears who work on supernatural creatures like us. But after we learned Twilight Healing could heal the likes of Devils we knew it was one of those glitches Heaven missed. Those fools excommunicated her instead of having God fix the problem. And now this power is mine!"

So that's what they did to Asia. They stole her Sacred Gear…

I was angry. Pissed! These Fallen Angels… their hatred for those who have Sacred Gears is too much.

"You… bitch!" snarled Saji. Asia was still in his arms. He gripped her tighter. "Asia was a good girl. She didn't deserve any of this! And you killed her just because she had a Sacred Gear?!"

"I don't expect a bunch of virgin brats to understand the hardships of those shunned by Heaven," Raynare clicked her tongue. "You were born with a Sacred Gear. Had you lived anywhere else but this city you would have been glorified. People would have flocked to you and worshipped the ground you walked on. You losers would be popular without having a clue as to why. And when you fully mature and have your Sacred Gear awakened, Heaven will enlist you to hunt us down. You're one of the reasons why we had to crawl into this dump of a city."

"Fuck off!" I shouted. My fists were shaking with rage. "I don't give two shits about any of that! You went too far! No one would have been against you if you didn't pull shit like this! Did you think that maybe because it's people like you why everyone else thinks of you as monsters?!"

[Boost!]

My Sacred Gear appeared on my arm. But right away I could tell something was different about it. The power that was surging through it was… thicker. Like there was a hotter flame burning within. And it was ready to burst free.

Saji put Asia down by a nearby tree. He had the same look as I did. He wanted to beat the shit out of Raynare. His Sacred Gear was out as well. But… it might have been my imagination… I think his right eye was changing shape.

"Why Ise-kun, you wouldn't dare hit your girlfriend, would you?" Raynare laughed in mockery. "Or have you already forgotten about me? Honestly, how dreadful. You can't mean to say that nun was your rebound girl."

"Shut up," I growled.

She laughed harder. "No way! Really?! Ah, I knew you weren't popular with the ladies but to think you'd fall so low as someone like her?! I'm almost offended after you dated me."

"Shut up!"

"Hyoudou-san, you need to keep calm," Rossweisse instructed.

But Raynare continued to pick on me. "And you came all this way only to find out there was nothing you could have done. That's just sooooo disappointing. Your girlfriend must have been disappointed to that her prince charming couldn't save her. What were her last words when she died?"

"Hey!" Saji stepped forward. "We said to shut the fuck up!"

A dam broke from within me.

[Dragon Booster!] cried my Sacred Gear. It began to change shape. Spikes ran down its arm as the plating shifted around. It became sleeker, fitting onto my arm better as scaled plating instead of a hunk of metal just packed together. It became more like a glove fit just for me than the bulky gauntlet it once had been. And then…

Boost!

My power doubled again. But the energy was… purer. More potent. It didn't just give me physical strength. I felt revitalized. Energized. My spirits was soaring. Though I was still pissed off, my anger could be focused. My mind was becoming clear.

Raynare snarled. My eyes could pick up every ugly feature on her porcelain face. "Shit. Your Sacred Gear fully awakened. But it doesn't matter. No matter how many times you multiply your power you're still a zero! Zero times two is still zero!"

She moved, fluttering her wings and summoning a spear of light. Rossweisse fired off shots of wind and ice next. But Raynare swerved through the air to dodge them. Before, I couldn't see Fallen Angels when they were flying. They had been nothing but black blurs. But now, because all of my features had doubled this second time, I could follow her actions.

So could Saji.

He raised his arm and pointed his Sacred Gear. "Stop moving so we can hit you, damn rat with wings!"

His right eye shot wide open. The eye itself began to glow. From this angle I could see the changes clearly. His iris grew large, almost taking up most of the white, and changed to a bright red hue. And the pupil became diamond-shaped.

He fired a strand of thread from his Sacred Gear. At first, I wasn't sure what he was aiming at. He fired almost randomly through a sea of trees. Raynare was nowhere near his shot.

The silk latched onto a tree. But it didn't just stick to the surface. It continued to travel, wrapping itself around the next tree over.

Raynare flew right into it. The single strand caught her above her torso. It flexed against her speed and weight but held strong. Her eyes widened by the collision and spit flew out of her mouth. Her own momentum knocked the air out of her lungs.

Saji was able to see her entire flight pattern and plan according to where she would be next? That's awesome!

Saji pulled on the strand connected to his Sacred Gear. It snapped free from the tree, latched itself around Raynare's leg next, and dragged her across the floor as his Absorption Line retracted back into the metallic lizard's mouth.

"Like hell!" she cursed and brought her spear of light down on the line at her leg. But the silky material flexed despite its sharp edge. It wouldn't be cut.

Rossweisse had a clear shot. And she took it. A barrage of wind and ice struck down on Raynare while she was dragged across the floor. She was crushed, sliced, and impaled by the two elements.

Raynare stretched her wings and took flight. But Saji's line held strong and she could only get a few feet off the air. He tugged against the line and kept her from going away any further. His feet were digging into the dirt. Still, he managed to keep her in place. And Raynare struggled to break free while using Twilight Healing to undo the damage Rossweisse brought.

"Saji, can you bring her down?" I asked.

Boost!

My power increased again. I felt my body vibrate as power unlike any other coursed through my veins. It felt like there was fire surging at my core. It hurt. But it also felt great.

"I think I can manage that," said Rossweisse. She brought her hands together and formed a singular magic circle to both her hands. Squiggly lines and new shapes began to sprout, expanding the circle into a series of circles ringing around it.

Some dark purple glow enveloped Raynare. She gasped as she was suddenly slammed to the ground. She tried to get back up, but some unseen force was keeping her locked in place.

"Damn you, Valkyrie! Why are you helping them?!" Raynare snarled.

"Because Artemis has faith in them!" Rossweisse answered. "If he does, then so too shall I!"

"That filthy magician?!" she swore. "You stupid bitch. He's probably a pincushion by now. Once Kokabiel-sama is done with him he'll hunt you down. He'll be twice as angry once he learns what you've done to me."

Rossweisse grimaced. "Are you suggesting I let you live? That Kokabiel will be merciful if so?"

Raynare cackled, "At least your deaths would be quick and painless. But if you strike me down, one of his mistresses, then you'll be in a world of pain."

"…There's no way Philips-san would lose to a loser like that," I said. "Fuck Kokabiel. Let him come at us. He made it personal when he went after Asia. I'm not afraid of him any longer. But before he kills me, I'll be sure to flip the bastard off and punch his face in!"

Boost!

"That power isn't yours, Raynare!" I shouted. "It belongs to Asia! How dare you take it away from her! Asia didn't care about the war between Heaven and Hell. Asia cared about everyone! That's why Twilight Healing has the power to heal anyone's wounds! Because Asia loved everyone equally! And you damn Fallen took it away from her! I'm not going to forgive you for that!"

"Ise! Now!" Saji said. He tugged against his cord once again.

At the same time, Rossweisse released her spell. The force keeping Raynare on her knees came undone. The Fallen Angel didn't see it coming and was sent flying at the sudden pull as the cord retracted. I charged forward. The amplifications from my Boosted Gear had me running faster and harder than I could possibly dream. Time was slowing down as my heart was beating faster. There was no way I could miss this chance.

Raynare was within my reach. Our eyes met. Hers widened in horror. And almost, if not for a fragment of time, I almost saw the girl I thought was my girlfriend. I thought I saw the cute and lovely Yuuma-chan. But it passed. All I saw was the Fallen Angel Raynare.

My fist met her face. There was a satisfying crunch as her neck bent at an odd angle. The power of my swing had created a dent into her skull.

Her body didn't go flying back like I had imagined it would. Things like that only happen in anime. Because Saji was pulling on her by her thigh and my fist collided with her face, Raynare's body flipped around. The back of her head slammed against the floor. It bounced, springing her body to its side. She continued to roll around until Saji cut the line and she slid for a few more meters.

Blood was pooling around her head. Her body twitched. She wasn't moving. There was a disgusting smell coming from her.

[Reset!] said my Boosted Gear.

It felt like I had run a marathon and a half. My knees were shaking. My whole body was shaking. Nerves and the depletion of adrenaline. Also…

…I killed her. I killed Raynare. I broke her skull open and I killed her. Twilight Healing can't fix that if she doesn't have the brain function to use it herself.

"Hyoudou!" called Rossweisse.

I fell to my knees. The rush of anger was gone. The power from my Sacred Gear was washed away. I felt so tired. Physically and mentally. I wanted to puke. I wanted to cry. I wanted to shout and scream. I wanted to hit something. I wanted to tell my parents I love them. I wanted to crawl into bed and pretend today never happened.

…I really wanted to wake up with Asia again. To hold her. To tell her she's a good friend and I would take good care of her. Maybe if I wake up tomorrow morning all of this will be a dream.

Ah, Rossweisse was holding me and I didn't even notice. Damn. Her breasts are firm. Not as big as I would like but they're still nice.

Azu-oneesama was sitting across from me, hugging her knees. Onee-sama, if you do that I can see your pants. Pure white and with frills? No, you don't need to show me. It's more alluring if you pretend to not notice me staring. Yeah, something like that. Eheheh.

Shit. I was crying. Why am I crying? Isn't this what I wanted? To avenge Asia? No. It wasn't. I wanted to save her and couldn't do it. My failing made me want to just hit something.

"Raynare failed, did she?"

No. No! Are you serious?!

Rossweisse jumped to her feet. Her hands were up with a magic circle forming. But she wasn't quick enough.

Kokabiel was before her. He brought the back of his hand around and slapped her across the face. The clash echoed across the forest. Rossweisse was sent spiraling around. She broke through a solid tree from her flight and began to roll down the hill!

Kokabiel was here. Kokabiel was here and not in the cathedral. Then… that means… Philips-san lost?

The Fallen leader grabbed me by my collar and flung me around. There was nothing I could do. My back hit a tree. The wood cracked on the impact but I didn't go through it like Rossweisse did. Something like that would have killed a fragile human like me. No, Kokabiel wanted me alive. Still, the air was knocked out of me and my whole body felt numb. I fell to the floor and couldn't move as a tingling sensation swept through my whole body.

Saji shot his thread at Kokabiel. The Fallen dodged it at the last instant, caught it, and pulled. Saji was flung off his feet and into Kokabiel's waiting grip. He raised him off his feet by the neck. Saji tried to kick himself free but nothing was working.

Kokabiel did not come out of that fight unscathed. His clothes were shredded and there were burn marks all over his ivory skin. His right eye was clamped shut and there was dried blood over his face. Philips may have lost, but he sure went down with one hell of a fight.

"You pests caused me more trouble than you were worth," he said with haggard breath. He twisted his wrist to turn Saji to get a better look at his eye. "How interesting. You don't just possess the Absorption Line but also another piece of Vritra. I'll be sure to not harm your head after I detach it from your body."

He began to squeeze a little harder. Someone like Kokabiel could break it in half if he really wanted to.

Boost!

I gritted my teeth as I willed myself back up. The sound of my Sacred Gear distracted Kokabiel just enough to lax his grip a little bit. Saji gasped for air but couldn't break free still. Kokabiel looked over his shoulder to peer down at me.

"Red Dragon Emperor, do you wish to challenge me a second time?" he asked without a smile this time. His eyes were glowering with killing intent.

I smiled. A crazed smile. It was probably going to be my last but I just didn't give a fuck at this point. "Yeah. I made a promise. Before you kill me I'm going to flip you off and break your face in."

I'm not going to lie. I'm terrified shitless of this guy. He wrecked Saji and I last time. And he did it again just now. Not even Philips-san could beat him but he managed to hold him up long enough. We could have escaped if we didn't have to deal with Raynare.

This was it. I was going to die.

Azu grabbed my hand and held it tight.

"I will be here until the very end," she said. There was a smile on her face. A knowing smile. "Why don't you show him what you're made of? I promise you things will be different."

Huh. You said you would protect me but a lot of shit has happened within the past week. And didn't you say you were cut off from Heaven? So your miracle powers is limited? If our strongest attack didn't work the first time then—

"Just do it," she snapped.

…I'm sorry Onee-sama.

"That holy radiance again?" quipped Kokabiel. He threw his head back and laughed. "It's even weaker than before! Are you looking down at me because I'm like this or has your guardian lost their grace?"

He was a Fallen Angel. He used to be a regular Angel from Heaven. Of course he would be able to see Azu-oneesama transferring her power into mine. She was the Princess of Heaven… of a third generation. I still don't understand how that works…

"Just take it to the face already," I snapped back.

Boost!

My power doubled again. No, wait! The blessing Azu gave me right now inside my body doubled as well! I felt something golden flow through me. My skin began to glow! My insides were being rejuvenated and the pain was completely gone.

Kokabiel noticed this as well. He flung Saji aside and turned to fully face me.

Saji was out of harm's way. Probably. He'll probably be caught up again in the blast like last time. Especially when he's so close to Kokabiel.

I'm sorry Saji. I'll make it up to you somehow!

I put my foot forward and swung my fist around.

[Explosion!]

The green orb at the back of my hand lit up with a bright light. I could feel all the power I've accumulated from both my Sacred Gear and from Azu run down my arm and gather at my knuckles. When I brought my fist to a full swing, a similar blast of crimson and gold energy fired out. I was knocked back, but this time I slammed into the tree that broke my fall from Kokabiel's toss.

Kokabiel snarled and brought his hand up to defend himself. Just like last time.

I saw the faintest of resistance. The beam crashing against his palm. It was just as powerful as the last one Azu and I used. But I saw something that made my heart leap.

Kokabiel was knocked off his feet! The beam pushed against his hand and blew him back! Although… the blast pressed me against the tree and sent rocks and dirt flying everywhere. Saji kept his head down with his arms over it. Most of the damage flew over him.

Kokabiel flipped in the air and landed on his feet. He looked enraged. I would be too if I were him. His arm was scorched black all the way up to the bicep. His sleeve had been entirely incinerated and his shirt hung loosely against his torso.

[Reset] called my Sacred Gear. I felt drained again as I was brought back to my regular levels. No, I felt even more tired than before. Sweat was dripping down off my chin and it was hard for me to breathe. Hell, it was hard for me to stand. Forget running a marathon. It felt like I ran halfway across the world.

Azu held me up. She had a smirk on her face. A mishievious look I've never seen her have. Well, why not. We got the son of a bitch pretty good.

"What… What was that…?" he asked more out of shock than pain. He looked at his damaged hand. "Impossible. That attack was so weak I should have overcome it. What was that, Red Dragon Emperor? What is the name of your guardian Angel?!"

"…Her name…" I gasped for air. I gave him a smile. Here's my 'fuck you' like I promised. "Is Asia Argento."

He did not look amused. The look on his face was worth it.

His eyes widened as he looked behind me.

A series of whistles flew past me. I only saw for an instant a series of reds and blues before they collided against Kokabiel. The Fallen spread his wings and took flight but he deflected what attacks he couldn't. It had been bouts of fire, ice, and lightning.

"You're weakened, Kokabiel!" came Rossweisse. She appeared at my side. The side of her face he smacked was bleeding but she was fine. "You lack the strength to kill me and you were wounded by such a low-tier attack from Hyoudou-san. Even I can manage to harm you now!"

More magic circles appeared around her. A lot more. More than I've seen her before. I saw her sweating though. This must have been a heavy strain on her. But she wasn't going to fool around this time. Rossweisse was serious about her attack.

Kokabiel's eyes widened. He realized his problem too. Her attacks just now had managed to cut his skin. They were shallow, but they were making him bleed.

Holy shit. Did we seriously have a chance against him? Could we hurt him now?

Was his power-level so low even someone at Krillin level could hurt him?!

Kokabiel flexed his wings and let out a roar of outrage. His voice shook the air and made me cover my ears. Rossweisse struggled to keep her footing and focus on her magic circles. "Do you know who I am?! I am Kokabiel, a lord of the Grigori! I am the Star of God! I will not be defeated by the likes of creatures who crawl in the mud—"

A splatter of silver substance covered his mouth, shutting him the hell up. I looked and saw Saji grinning. He had used his Absorption Line and fired with amazing accuracy.

Kokabiel tried to pry it off. But like the Stray Devil before, it didn't work. He even got his hand to stick.

Rossweisse let out a battle cry as she flung both her hands at his direction. A massive wave of elemental attacks was launched at Kokabiel. There were so many of them he couldn't avoid. He put his arms up in a cross to shield himself from the worst of it. But it was too much. He fell clear out of the sky and crashed onto the floor.

Rossweisse was panting by the time she finished. But she gathered herself and kept magic circles spinning.

Saji got up to his knees. He was gripping onto his line with both hands. The silk was glowing and I could see little blots of orbs swimming across it. Absorption Line had the power to steal the powers of anything it touches. Was Saji bleeding Kokabiel dry?

"Enough!" Kokabiel roared.

There was a flash of light. Something struck the ground before us and erupted dirt everywhere. I put my arms across my face to shield my eyes as rocks pelted against me.

"Get down!" shouted Rossweisse.

I listened without hesitation. And it was a good thing I did. Because right where I had been came an arrow of light. It tore the tree I had been against in half. I risked myself and looked up. I saw several streaks of light fly around. The ones that would have struck near us were thwarted by Rossweiss' defense magic circles. She had fallen to her knees to make her as small as a target as possible while she had her arms spread out to protect us.

Saji had rushed over to Asia's body and threw himself over it. He was using himself as a shield to protect her.

"Ise, don't do it!" Azu shouted. "Even weakened I can't protect you fully from his strikes!"

"Then I won't get hit!" I shouted. Seeing Saji protect Asia's body made me snap. Kokabiel was chucking spears and arrows of light without a care. He only wanted to cut us down. He didn't care about Asia's being one bit.

Boost!

I got up and started to run. I brought my gauntlet up to use as a shield if I fucked up. I was going in blindly. I doubt I would be able to manage to dodge any of Kokabiel's attacks if he targeted me.

He saw me coming at him. He snarled, created a much denser spear of light than any other. It was more of a javelin than a spear. He flipped it around in his grip and pulled his arm back to launch it at me.

"Down!" Rossweisse shouted. And I fell to my knees.

Another barrage of elemental attacks flew over my head. Kokabiel snarled in outrage and used his javelin to swat away most of the attacks. But he was much slower than he had been before. Some of them were landing a hit, causing his body to jerk around and make him stumble. Deflections were missed and that ended up landing more blows on him.

"Stretch my line!" came Saji next.

Multiple threads of silk came. They wrapped around his arms, his legs, his torso, and around his neck. Kokabiel roared and flung his limbs around. Saji struggled to hold him in place and was beginning to fail. So he shot even more thread out of his Sacred Gear. I didn't even know he could do that.

Multiple strands attached to multiple limbs. Kokabiel's movements were becoming rigid and stiff. He pried at them with his teeth, doing nothing more than stretching the thread. He created small daggers of light between his fingers and— gradually— cut each line one at a time.

"Ise! Hurry up and go! I can't hold him forever!"

Boost!

I ran again. Azu was there with me. She held on to my right hand as we ran together. I could feel her power flowing through me. But… it was weaker. It wasn't as bright and warm as it had been before. It doesn't matter. I'll take what I can.

Kokabiel tore apart the threads on his arm. He created another javelin of light and prepared to meet me. A few elemental blasts arched over my head and around my body. But he swatted them away. Saji tried to seal his arm once again with more thread. But, again, Kokabiel scorched them with his weapon.

But I could see it. He was tiring. Saji continued to drink his energy and Rossweisse had wailed on him pretty hard. No doubt Philips did something to him too otherwise there was no way we would be able to fight someone like Kokabiel.

"For Asia…" I reached him. He brought his javelin around. I wasn't even going to try to defend myself. I brought my fist around and aimed for my head while he aimed his weapon at my torso. "FUCK YOU!"

Boost!

[Explosion!]

My fist made first contact. I was just a millisecond faster than the tip of his weapon. It was all I needed.

A beam of crimson and gold fired out of my fist. The force knocked me back but I didn't lose my footing this time. It wasn't as strong as it had been before. But, hey, I did it. I punched the guy in the face with everything I had. And I blew my load on his face at point blank!

…That totally didn't sound right.

But… oh.

I didn't win. All that amounted to nothing.

All I did was manage to piss him off further.

His hand came up to my face and gripped me tight. He hefted me up to the air and then slammed me back down to the ground. I felt something within me break. Something painful came out of my throat but his palm kept me from releasing it. I began to gag on something metallic tasting. Ah. It was blood.

"I'll commend you for making it this far," Kokabiel said as he lifted me off my feet again. It hurt so much to be dangling by my neck. It felt like my head was about to be torn off. "But it's over."

My last attack didn't do much to him. I peeled back some of his skin and burnt a few spots on his cheeks. I didn't do any real damage. He was still standing and I was depleted of energy completely this time. I doubt I could use my Sacred Gear one more time. The world was starting to go dark anyways.

"Ise!" shouted Saji.

"Let him go!" cried Rossweisse.

Azu-oneesama had her hands clasped in prayer. She was on her knees. Was… was she sweating? Do Angels sweat? Wait. Onee-sama said she wasn't an Angel. Well, she did say she was cut off from Heaven and her support was growing weaker and weaker after each use. She was probably just as tired as I was.

Azu was looking up at me with an apologetic look.

Don't worry, Onee-sama. Kokabiel was just too unreal of a character. Kinda like a secret boss. You know, not the actual boss but the kind you fight that's ten times harder after the credits.

"Any last words?" Kokabiel said as he began to squeeze my head. He was going to pop it like a fruit.

I couldn't say anything. Oh, now I get why he said that. His hand was still clasped over my mouth. Well, I could still find something to say.

I lifted my hand and brought the bird up.

See. I told you I would do it.

Once again, he did not look amused. Worth it.

"You humans are all the same. Very well. Goodbye, Red Dragon Emperor."

But the pressure didn't increase. I felt myself falling and landing on my back. But… Kokabiel still had his hand on my skull. And… why was he screaming in agony?

Oh. Because his arm was cut off. You know, I kinda find this ironic.

"No! That's impossible!" he yelled as he took several steps back while clutching his arm. "Vali, why are you here?! And you… Filthy mage I killed you! I tore your heart out of your chest!"

"Hey kid," a voice I could have gone a good month without hearing came up to me. He knelt down and pulled Kokabiel's hand off of me. He then began to twirl his hands over my body, using his magic to heal me. I could already feel everything getting better. "Good job. I'm proud of you."

It was strange. But it felt like he meant it.

Philips-san was okay! Actually… it looked like he was untouched. As if he went home to shower and change his clothes while we were fighting for our lives from a monster he was supposed to deal with.

And standing a few paces back was a silver-haired guy about our age. Maybe a year older. He had blue eyes and was dressed in the Kuoh Academy uniform. He gave me a smirk… an expression I couldn't read really.

Philips patted my chest and stood up. He had a cold gaze locked on Kokabiel.

Rossweisse took it as a que to come to my aid. She knelt beside me and dragged me back by my armpits. She kept me close. I got to lean against her chest while I watched the show. Ah~

Kokabiel was grinding his teeth in pure hatred. "What dirty trick did you pull this time, magician? I was sure to have killed you in our battle. How are you still standing?"

"He's not very bright, is he?" Philips asked the guy behind him. I think his name was Vali.

Vali shrugged. "He's a respected researcher but it's known that he lacks common sense. If he hasn't figured it out by now then he won't unless you tell him. Should you or should I, Your Majesty?"

There was a playful smile on his lips. It made Philips frown.

"That's not funny," he said but turned back to Kokabiel. "You did kill me. As you said, you tore my heart out of my chest. But that spell I used before I died. It was a curse of the Carnage family. A family that dedicates their research in the wonders of self-destructive magic."

Kokabiel's eyes widened. "Then… the reason why they could harm me… was because of you?!"

"Kokabiel, let's get one thing straight," Philips continued. He spoke in a regal tone. A strong and formidable tone. There was a presence around him that rivaled Leviathan's. It made Kokabiel's eyes widen further and take a step back. "I could have killed you whenever I wanted. But if I got serious, so would you. Our battle would have destroyed half the city before I could deal with you. I chose to do this to minimize the damage. The Carnage spell would have weakened you to the point where I could have dealt with you by mundane methods. A simple human handgun could have killed you after thirty minutes of exposure."

He gestured a hand towards us. "But I figured they would be enough. I brought you down to their level and continued to drag you down. You feel it, don't you? My spell continues to work. Right now you're weaker than a human. In the next few minutes you'll be weaker than an insect."

Kokabiel gritted his teeth. He flexed his remaining hand and tried to call a weapon of light. Rossweisse put a barrier spell between us but there wasn't a need. A few sparks lit up in his hand but nothing formed. He tried again and again but nothing happened.

"Still," Philips went on. "You have experience in battle. Even at your state you could have defeated Issei and Saji. Which is why I hung back and watched the whole thing. I'm proud of them. They made it further than I expected."

Kokabiel sank to his knees and slammed a fist to the ground. "That's it, then? If Vali is here then this means Azazel is to be rid of me? Is that how things are going to be? Azazel is to sell me out to be in the good graces of Sacred Gear users?! Too soft. Too soft! Azazel! You are a weakling who doesn't understand what has been robbed of us!"

Vali shrugged again, "It's more like we're getting rid of the uglies. You know, we all have those relatives we don't like. Azazel apparently has a number of them. He says you're drawing too much attention with your Sacred Gear plan. Just look, you even got the King involved."

"Stop that," demanded Philips.

"Certainly, Your Majesty," Vali snickered and crossed his arms. There was a challenging tone in his voice. As if he wanted Philips to make him. As if he were looking for a fight.

Philips didn't give it to him.

"You can't do this!" argued Kokabiel. "I have broken no law! What does it matter if I've taken Sacred Gears! It's either them or us and we're the ones losing! We are the ones being massacred! I am trying to save us! And you would stop me?! Why?!"

"You're right," Philips said with a tired sigh. But that tiredness quickly vanished. "Which is why we're adding a few things to your records. Let's say we found a few things in your base of operations. Some mangled corpses. Some illegal instruments."

"Azazel and Leviathan are already working on manufacturing the evidence," grinned Vali. "Even if you are clean, Kokabiel, we just don't like you enough to let you keep doing this."

…What that what Leviathan-sensei meant when she said she would take care of everything else? So… We're really going to just walk away from this with Kokabiel being the bad guy? I mean, yeah, he is a bad guy but wasn't there a lot of red tape keeping him safe?

Leviathan-sensei, are you sure to be fit to be a leader? Making false evidence and all that?

And why are you working with Azazel after I told you what he tried to pull with us?

"Your sentence is death," declared Philips. "All of those under your banner have been dealt with. The Twenty-Third Heavenly Legion is no more. You are the last member. Do you have any words before we conduct your execution?"

"Damn you…" Kokabiel growled. "Damn you all to hell! You will rue this day! You know not what you have done!"

A sword appeared in Philips' hand. It was a long sword with a blade ridiculously long and thin. From the pummel to the tip of the blade it was just as tall as he was. And he was tall. But the sword was immaculate. And running across the spine of the metal was a single streak of gold. It was glowing with life. It felt like the warmth from the sun directly and I could feel it sooth my body.

He used the blade to swipe off Kokabiel's head. It had been a clean stroke with no resistance. It had been nothing more than a flick of his wrist and Kokabiel's head rolled off his shoulders.

*Scene*

"There's a graveyard around here," he said as we all huddled together. He was smoking but he used his magic to filter the smoke so it couldn't get anywhere near us.

Saji and I sat near Asia's body. She looked so peaceful with her hands clasped together and leaning against the tree. And her smile was still there. She looked like she was napping instead of… you know…

Rossweisse was standing near Philips. She had a crossed look on her face about him smoking. It looked like she wanted to pluck that cigarette out of his mouth. And Vali was with us too. He stood in the far back with his arms crossed. Not too close to act like he was a part of our group but not far enough to not hear our conversations.

I sighed. I knew it was a shot in the dark but I had to ask. "Philips-san… is there… anyway…"

"She's dead," he said with a heavy voice. He fiddled with the Twilight Healing rings he pried off of Raynare. "I think it would be best if we bury her."

"But… with your magic…" I tried again.

He looked annoyed next. "Kid, there are some things you don't want to mess with. Yes, I can bring her back but not in the storybook way you would like. She would be something like a ghoul— something that will devour the souls of everyone around her without discrimination. The other option is to bring her back but it won't be Asia. It'll be a hollow shell without a soul. No memories. No personality. Just a doll for you to dress up."

"Artemis, that's enough," Rossweisse snapped as she nudged him.

He looked her way but agreed. He blew out some smoke while scratching his scalp. "I'm sorry. Let me… explain things differently then. Asia had her Sacred Gear removed. A Sacred Gear is directly connected to her Quantum Identity— to her soul. Think of it as a big ball of yarn. Remove a vital thread and the whole thing unravels. You would need something to anchor the thing—"

He suddenly stopped talking. Not because Rossweisse told him to. He turned away, puffed on some smoke, and began to walk away.

"Hey wait!" Saji stood up and called him out. "What was that? What does she need?"

"Forget it, kid," Philips said with anger in his tone. "It's better off if she's dead. Option three is an absolute no."

"…It can't be any worse than Asia being some vampiric monster," Saji retorted.

"Philips-san… what would it be?" I asked.

He was quiet. Vali had turned his head to look at him. As though sensing this, Philips returned the gaze. Vali nudged his head in our direction, silently telling him to tell us. It made Philips frown further.

Azu answered for me. "He means to make her his servant."

"…What?" I asked. Out loud. It made heads turn my way.

"What, what?" asked Saji.

"N-No. Nothing. Just me thinking out loud—"

"I've had enough of this," said Philips as he quickly approached us. He crushed his cigarette in his fist and spread the ashes across the air. They dissolved into nothing. He looked more annoyed than ever before. Like I had done something wrong and he was about to knock me senseless over it.

He even brought his hand around as though about to smack me. I flinched but nothing happened. There was a sound of fabric tearing.

"What the?!" came Saji first.

Rossweisse screamed next. A horrified blood-curdling scream as though she had seen her worst nightmare. Even Vali was on edge as he stood up straight with his legs and arms spread apart. He looked ready to battle.

In Philips grip was… well, I'm not sure how to describe it. It was a fabric-like material that was also a window. It displayed the image of the tree I was leaning against and even my left elbow.

"…Hello, P'Zuzu," said Philips in a cold voice. His eyes were sharp. Murderous even.

"Hello, Dalang," returned Azu with an equally cold voice.

His brows narrowed further.

W-What just happened? Onee-sama, did he just tear down your miracle that kept you invisible?! Does that mean anyone can see you?!

"T-T-T-T-The Princess of Heaven?!" cried Rossweisse. She looked terrified. She was shaking so much she was becoming one great humanly blur. Her knees were clattering together. "W-Why is she here? L-L-Lord Odin, please, I can't deal with this… W-Wait. A-A-Artemis. What… What did she just call you…?"

She was looking at him with large incredulous eyes. At first I didn't understand, but then I remembered Rossweisse once called Satan Godking Dalang. Azu just called him Dalang. There shouldn't be that many Dalangs in the world to put the pieces together.

He didn't answer him. He never took his eyes off of Azu. "What did you tell him?"

Azu stood up slowly. She looked up at Philips with challenging eyes. She wasn't afraid of him just as he wasn't of her. "In order to resurrect Asia, you mean to make her your servant, Satan?"

By this point, Rossweisse was looking between Azu and Philips. And her eyes were growing wider and wider. I was afraid they might fall out of her sockets.

"I am not turning her into a Devil," he snarled.

"P-Philips-san," Saji spoke up. He raised his hand to gain his attention. Philips didn't look away from Azu, not willing to at the least, but gestured for Saji to speak up. "I don't know what's going on… but if there's a way to bring Asia back—"

"No," Philips rejected the idea. "I am being no one's master. I am not going to subject someone like her to this despicable society. Asia was an acolyte of God. She has already moved on to Heaven."

Azu flinched. Her stare retracted.

"…You didn't," Philips' eyes narrowed further.

Didn't what? What did or didn't happen?!

"A-Artemis… no…" Rossweisse whispered. "You… You're not a Devil. You're human. You swear the Lord's name and you've used exorcisms. Your strength comes from the sunlight. You… There's… You can't be the Godking… Can you…?"

His lips pressed into a thin line.

"Looks like the secret's out," said Vali, confirming everyone's questions. "So, how will we deal with this, Your Majesty? She's pretty high and mighty right now but the Princess here is obviously weaker than the last time we saw her. If we deal with her now…"

"Wait!" I stood up and put myself between Philips and Azu. "Philips-san wait! Azu-oneesama saved my life! She brought me back when Raynare killed me! We would have all been dead if she didn't help us fight Kokabiel! Please!"

"…Onee-sama?"

Please don't give me such a judgmental look.

"Why are you here, Azu?" he demanded.

Azu circled around to stand beside me. She put a hand on my chest and pushed me back slightly. "I have been sent here to watch over this one. I have been assigned to be his guardian—"

"Oh. You seriously fucked up this time," he said suddenly. "You haven't screwed up this bad since you were sent to stick around Tony and Luc."

Tony and Luc… I've heard those names before. Wait. Weren't those Philips' friends from America? Then the ones Azu went to school with were those two?! That doesn't make sense! The story doesn't make sense!

Azu blushed, "That's confidential."

"Artemis, please tell me what's going on!" pleaded Rossweisse. She looked ready to cry.

Philips looked even more frustrated. He pulled out his carton of cigarettes and was debating whether to light up another one or not. He decided against it and put it away.

"Hey, Philips-san," I spoke up. "Is Asia becoming a Devil really so bad? She'll be alive and—"

"Are you really asking me that question?" he asked with a sharp edge. His stare made me flinch back.

I'm sorry Onee-sama but I need to use you as a shield!

He continued, "They call me Satan. Apparently I am the one true Devil. Are you really asking me something like that? Do you know what it means to be a Devil? Your soul is damned forever. When you die, you're gone forever. There's no afterlife. And it's not even your life anymore. You become someone else's slave. Did you know it's legal for the master to rape any of his servants? To kill any of them without any reason? And did you know a Devil can force anyone into servitude? Consent isn't a term the Devils acknowledge.

"Asia is an acolyte of God. If I turn her into a Devil do you know what that will mean to her? She will be stripped of her immortal soul and damned forever. The God she loves so much will condemn her. She will be forbidden from entering churches, cannot so much as gaze at anything religious, and cannot say her evening prayers. As far as I've seen, this whole religion was her entire life. Kid, this isn't something like asking you to give up sex forever. It's more like leaving you stranded on an island with only yourself as company. There is nothing there to love you.

"Asia is better off dead. Don't ask me again."

"…I'm asking you," I begged. It made his eyes light up. "I'm asking you! Asia was a good girl! She deserves a better life than the church! Better than any of this! She deserves to live a life however she chooses! Philips-san, no, Satan, please! I'd give up my life if it means Asia can live!"

I started to get on my hands and knees to prostrate myself. I was serious about this. But Philips grabbed me by my collar and lifted me up.

"And how do you think Asia will take it?!" he was pissed now. "'Hey, Asia, the man you love traded his soul for your life.' Issei, you feel like shit because Asia is dead. She's going to feel the same way! Are you really going to trade your soul to me just so she can live?!"

"I'm the one who should be dead!" I cried out. "Asia believed in God! I don't! And yet God chose to save me! How is that fair?! Why does someone as nice as Asia have to die while someone as worthless as me gets to live! I will gladly give my life if it means Asia can live again!"

He had enough. He let go of me and turned away. While I fell to the floor, Azu knelt down and rubbed her hand against my back. Philips paced away, rubbing his face with his hand.

"One," he began to count. But each count made his voice echo. "Two… Three…"

He brought his fist around to a nearby tree. It cracked apart and sent splinters flying. He did it again. And again. And again. He brought both his fists around and began to pummel against the tree with an animalistic look on his face. He was consumed with rage at this point and needlessly bashing against the tree.

The tree eventually gave in and split in half by his last punch. It leaned back and quickly fell.

Philips was panting. Not from his actions but from sheer uncontrollable rage. His knuckles were bleeding but I doubt he could feel it.

No one moved. No one said anything. We all just watched him carefully. I was terrified he would do to me what he did to that tree.

"Kid…" he eventually grounded out. He took a deep breath and flicked his hands around. The wounds were healed. "I hope you understand what you're asking. Because once you do this, there is nothing you can do to undo it. And if Asia hates you, that's something you will have to live with for the rest of eternity. Devils live for eons."

"Ise," Azu whispered in both horror and desperation. "Please don't do this."

I got to my knees and bowed my head. I put my hands flat against the grown and put my head inches above the ground. "Please. Save Asia."

"Fuck, kid…" Philips groaned. "Lift your head."

I did so. But I remained on my knees.

His word was in his hands again. Was… Was he going to kill me? I guess that's fine. My life for Asia's. I was set with this.

But he didn't do that. Instead, he placed the tip on my right shoulder. Then my left. And then my right again.

"Hyoudou Issei, I, Artemis James Philips, second holder of the title Godking Dalang, the Lord of the Djinn and a King of Ilyvander, do hereby induct you into my servitude. Your body, your mind, and your soul all now belong to me. You are my voice and my hands. You do as I command. Now stand."

I did so. I stood. Azu-oneesama… she looked like I had betrayed her. She looked so angry at me. And… she was shedding a tear for me. I'm sorry Onee-sama. But I did what I had to.

Philips looked dejected. But he pulled his end of the deal. He waved his hand around in the air, twirling his wrist until something gathered in his palm. It was… a chess piece? A bishop piece at that. But, really? What are you going to do with that?

"You… Wha… Devils… No… Satan… Bishop?!"

…Incidentally, I think Rossweisse is broken.

Philips approached Asia's still form. He knelt down, whispered her name to the chess piece…

And then inserted it into her chest through her fabrics. He pulled his hand back, stood, and gave her enough room.

Immediately I could see the changes. Her color was returning. She took in a deep breath of air and soon her breathing pattern picked up. Her eyes fluttered and slowly opened as though waking up from a dream. She squinted her eyes as the setting sun was hitting her directly.

"I… Ise…? Saji…?" she looked around and spotted us first.

Probably because we were pressing our cheeks against another with how close we were to her. But, it really worked. Philips brought her back! Asia is alive!

"Asia-chan~" sobbed Saji. "I don't understand what's going on but I'm so glad you're back!"

Her eyes widened. "Ah! S-Saji! I understood what you just said!"

Eh? Y-Yeah. Actually now that I realize it Azu wasn't using her miracle of translation. Asia was speaking genuine Japanese. Did becoming a Devil give her that ability?

"Wait…" Asia said as she began to pat herself down. "I… I'm alive…? But… was it just a dream?"

I began to sob. I embraced Asia. She squealed but I didn't care. I was so happy! "A-Asia! Yeah, you're alive! We're still friends, right?!"

"I-I-Ise…" she began to squirm in my arms. But she stopped struggling. Soon, she returned my embrace. She wrapped her arms around me and rested her head against my shoulder. "It wasn't a dream, was it? But I'm alive… I'm so happy. I get to be with Ise a little longer. A-Ah, and you too Saji. I-If you're okay being my friend… I mean… I don't want to intrude…"

"Yeah, I'll be your friend Asia-chaaaaaaaaan~" sobbed Saji harder.

Asia rested her head against my shoulder again. She sighed softly. "Oh Lord, thank you for— aaaaauuuuuu!"

She flinched. I let go of her and gave her some space. She was clutching her head with her eyes squinting hard. As though something had struck her.

"Thus it begins…" sighed Azu. She stood and began to pace away from the group.

"Eh, Onee-sama! Where are you going?" I called out.

"Onee-sama…?" Asia perked up. She turned and looked at Azu. "A-Ah, P-Princess of Heaven! Ohhhhhh you're so beautiful… and bright. It's hard to see you. Was it you who brought me back?"

Huh? Hard to see? I can see Azu perfectly fine as if she were a normal human being. Or… was it a Devil thing? Did Asia have difficulty seeing holy people like Azu-oneesama?

Azu turned around and shook her head. She had a peeved look. "I am not. It is best if you direct your questions to the Godking. Ise… I'm happy for your sacrifice, truly I am, but I am disappointed in the outcome. I must return to Heaven to report this. I can no longer be your guardian."

"W-Wha…?" I asked. But Philips put a hand on my shoulder and stopped me from following her.

When I turned back around to say something else to Azu, she was already gone.

"So we're going to just let her go like that?" sighed Vali. "Weakened or not, I was looking forward to fighting the Princess. But I guess it's your call. If you don't mind, I'm out of here. I need to tell this to Azazel. The one Heaven calls Satan has finally gotten his first servant. Two of them. Hyoudou Issei… bearer of the Boosted Gear, I look forward to the future and what you bring."

That smile he sent my way… it sent chills down my spine.

"Vali-sempai!" Saji called out as Vali began to walk down the hill. "Kaichou says to come to school!"

Vali only waved a hand. He heard the words, acknowledged them even, but said nothing else. He kept walking.

"Ise…" Asia tugged on my sleeve. She looked up at me with her large doll-like eyes. "What was the Princess talking about? The Godking…? W-Wah! The Godking is here?! T-Then I can finish my pilgrimage?!"

Immediately I felt my skin grow cold and my heart sank to my stomach.

"…Ise? What's wrong?"

"Asia," spoke up Philips. "There's something we need to tell you. First, I am Godking Dalang."

Asia's eyes widened. She bowed her head. "Y-Yes! Hello! My name is Asia Argento… You already know my name. Of course. I'm sorry. P-Please, I would like to have an audience with you!"

"…The second thing…" Philips said through a strained voice. "Your pilgrimage is over."

She lifted her head. She had such hope filled eyes. Her eyes were full of wonder and bliss. At his words, she probably thought she succeeded and would be accepted back into the Church.

"You are now my Bishop. That is, you have been reincarnated as a Devil."

Asia's beautiful smile dropped. It was like watching her die all over again.