Disclaimer: I do not own High School DxD.

Warning, this story contains religious and mythological elements. The author does not mean any disrespect to the mentioned religious views.

Thanks to Wrathie Winsre for the cover image!

I'll be replying to Guests Reviewers here since they can't be PM'd.

dragon rider: ...wonder how he can 'feel the power' as you put it.


Chapter 3

I Will Save My Friend!


I know not how long I stood in this place.

One of the Devils, Sitri questioned my presence here, ordering me to attend the lesson instead of standing here.

On the rooftop of Kuoh Academy.

But I refused. I could not do that. I had stated to Hyoudou Issei that I would be here should he need me. And here I would wait.

"Asia Argento…" I held no ill will towards her. Even if she was no longer a good human, all I felt was pity.

Pity that she had to cling to the Fallen to keep on living. Pity that she abandoned her faith for her survival.

Then I heard footsteps. Unexpected.

It was nighttime, I doubted any student remained in this Academy. I sensed Sitri and Gremory in their bases, the Student Council and Occult Research Club. So it was not either of them.

[Boost!]

As the door leading to the rooftop was blown away, I knew who it was.

"Hyoudou-san, it is already late, should you not be sleeping?"

"Help me, Kamael."

...I was a bit taken aback by how he called me. "Help you, Hyoudou-san? I am afraid you need to be more precise."

"Help me save Asia."

...I suppose I should have expected it. Hyoudou Issei seemed to be attached to her.

"I am afraid I cannot do that. To assist someone who turned her back to Hea-"

My words were stopped by Hyoudou Issei's fist. But I did not react, there was no need to react. Though humanity had potential, Hyoudou Issei's strength was below my own.

"...how dare you…"

I met his gaze, a gaze filled with anger.

"How dare you say that! Asia! She kept on praying! She kept on believing in God! Even when you, even when God abandoned her! She still kept on believing that it is all a trial! That all her suffering is her own fault! She blamed herself! She said that God gave her those trials because she isn't good enough! How dare you insult her faith!"

I opened my mouth but Hyoudou Issei's fist stopped me once again.

"Where were you?! Where were you when she suffered?! Where were you when the people around her abandoned her?! Where were you when she was led astray by the Fallen Angels?! Where the fuck is your God when she cried?! You said you love humans! You said that your God love humans! Well that is a fucking lie!"

My eyes narrowed, "Hyoudou-san," I grabbed his fist as he was about to punch me, "I would advise you not to doubt my feelings, the Lord's feelings for humanity. We have sacrificed much for you."

"Well then it's not fucking enough! If you abandoned a girl who believes in you with her whole heart and instead saved a no good human like me, then it's not even close to enough! Why did you save me instead of her?! What makes me special? What makes her not special? She… Asia… she is a good girl..."

I… had no reply for him. My words died in my throat as I saw his tears. His sadness, his pain.

"...please…" Hyoudou Issei fell in front of me as I released his hand. "Please… save her…" He knelt, he pleaded, he begged. "If you think Asia is a sinner, then I will shoulder it… I'll take her sins. If she must be punished, then I'll take the punishment for her… But please… save my friend..."

Those words. I had heard words similar to his before.

From a man who was not a man. From a God who was not a God. From a being who died for the world. I had not wept for him. For he was not a human. I even thought him as arrogant. For someone to declare that he would represent humanity, even though he was not even one of them.

And yet, now… a human stood before me. Uttering the same words as him. And he did it, for the sake of a friend. It was breathtaking. It was fascinating. To see such purity, to see such humanity...

I grabbed his shoulders and raised him.

"I do not know if the Lord will allow it. I do not know if Heaven will accept it. However, Hyoudou Issei. If you, if a human such as you, ask me to save Asia Argento, then I will do so. Without a shred of doubt or hesitation, I will stand with you, against anyone, against anything."

Hyoudou Issei seemed surprised by my words, but he nodded firmly.

"Please save my friend. Save Asia Argento."

In the end, that was all I need. Words, wishes from a human.

Ever since the Lord created Adam and Lilith, creating His own humanity like other Gods, I fell in love.

They were pure, they were innocent, they were foolish. Yet they seemed to live in happiness, unlike my brother and I. I would ask the Lord many things about them. About what they were, what they would become, what should I consider them to be.

The Lord and I would rejoice, as humanity grew. Just like how parents would be happy when babies uttered their first words, walked their first steps.

When Lilith refused to be placed lower than Adam, I sang praises for her deep within my heart. For to me, humanity is equal. Equally beautiful, equally fascinating. When Eve was created, I was outraged, for the Lord created her 'of' Adam, not 'with' Adam. Yet, I saw light, not unlike Lilith's within her, thus, I said nothing.

When my brother, the Poison of God, lured Eve and tempted her to break the Law of the Lord, I was both outraged and exhilarated. Because I wanted to see, I wanted to know what humanity could become.

Both Adam and Eve at the Fruit of Knowledge, they were banished from Eden, and I was sent to comfort them. When I saw them, I saw something that I did not expect. They had lost their home, yet they gained something more. Something that caused their souls to glow even brighter than before.

I met them, talked with them for the first time. I told them of the other humans, those created by the Vedic Gods, those created by the Sumerian Gods, and those who evolved naturally. They were fascinated, but so was I as I saw them still holding to their faith in the Lord, even when He had exiled them.

When Cain killed Abel, I was there with the Lord. I questioned the Lord why He refused Cain's offerings. Cain might not kill Abel had the Lord received his offerings instead of rejecting it. The Lord asked me if I questioned His Will. I replied to Him, a reply that caused my brothers and sisters to be outraged, and the Lord to laugh.

When Azazel and the Watchers fell, I accepted it. For I felt that there could be no better reason to Fall. Azazel and the Watchers fell because of humanity, and I would never reject them for that. When they taught humanity knowledge, my heart leapt with joy. With those knowledge, humanity would grow even further.

When Nephilim rose and we were commanded to slay them, I did so. I consider it a pity that the union of Angels and humans would result in such abomination. Perhaps it was because Azazel and the others were Fallen Angels, yet, it was still a minor pity that I had to slay descendants of humanity, no matter how vile they were.

When the Lord brought Enoch up to Heaven and transformed him into Metatron, I was there. When the Lord declared him to be the greatest of all angels, when the Lord commanded us to bow to the Lesser YHVH, I did so gladly. I felt vindicated, for humanity had proven itself to be capable of rising beyond us.

When Noah built his Ark and lived through through Deluge, along with other humans created by other Gods, I was relieved. As the Lord and other Gods promised not to do such thing again. It was painful to see many humans dying as the rain washed them away.

When I saw Abraham, when I saw Moses, when I saw Solomon, when I saw Elijah, when I saw the brightest stars among humanity, heroes, kings, saints, martyrs, I would be enthralled. I would pray as they suffered, I would rejoice as they triumphed and I would mourn as they died.

Even during the Great War, even during the war against Devils and Fallen Angels, I took up my Flaming Sword for the sake of humanity and nothing else. The Great War was terrible and the Lord's death was a great loss, and yet, I considered it as a Pyrrhic victory.

For Angels, Devils, and Fallen Angels had suffered too much to keep their holds on humanity. For other pantheons, other Gods, had been overwhelmed by us before the War. For the first time after the conception of Gods, humanity was free.

And now, a human, one with potential to be the brightest I have ever seen, had asked me to fight. To take up my sword once more.

Thus I remembered, the words of the Son of Man. The words of a man who was not a man, of a God who was not a God.

"Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened to you."


"Hyoudou Issei, this will be your first real battle, are you prepared?"

I nodded firmly as Kamael and I ran through the city, "I will definitely save Asia."

"You are still inexperienced. You lack strength. Yet, you will still continue on? Even though you might face death?"

"Yes."

I was just a high school boy. A few days ago, my life was simple. Get up in the morning, go to school, do idiotic things with Matsuda and Motohama, laugh as we played around…

But then, I met her, Amano Yuuma. I was happy, I thought I found someone who I could love, who could accept me.

She tried to kill me. Her feelings were nothing more than lies.

I was saved by him, Potestas Kamael. He introduced me to a world I never knew existed. I was excited. Learning that I was special made me happy. Learning that I could live in a supernatural world filled with adventures made me burn with anticipation.

I thought I was special. And I was happy because of that.

But then, I met her, Asia Argento. At that time, I thought that she was just someone from the world I just stepped into. Just a person I would never see again.

I was wrong. We met once more, and in our short time together, I felt a connection with her. When she told me her past, I was filled with complex emotions.

I loathed myself, for thinking that the new world was fun. I loathed myself, for not being able to comfort her. I loathed myself, for being saved instead of her.

I thought it was not too late. I thought I could help her. So I became friends with her.

Maybe I befriended her to make me feel better? Because, if I do, at least I can say that I did something for her. I don't know. All I know is that I don't want to see her sad. Hearing my words, she smiled. She seemed happy.

Yet, her happiness did not last. Amano Yuuma, Raynare, appeared before us.

I promised Asia, I would protect her. But...

...I failed to keep my promise and Asia had to protect me instead.

I, Hyoudou Issei am pathetic. I was too naive. I was too childish. I thought I could protect Asia, even though I'm so weak.

That's why I pleaded to the Angel. To the same God I denounced for leaving Asia. It was pitiful. That I would clung back to the same person I condemned.

Yet, Kamael accepted my plea. Even though I haven't apologized to him. Even though I insulted him and the God he served.

What did Asia feel? When she heard me declare that I would protect her. Did she hear that as a fool making promises he wouldn't be able to keep?

I don't know.

What did Kamael feel? When I ran back to him, begging for his help. Did he thought I was pitiful? Selfish?

I don't know.

I swear I will apologize to them. But I can't do that now. It is impossible to do that now.

Because right now, I don't care how deplorable I am, how hideous I might seem. As long as I can save her and protect her smile, I will do anything.

Without a hesitation I pulled my hand.

[Boost!]

And punched the church's door.


The jewel glowed. I thought as Hyoudou Issei and I entered the church.

It happened for just an instant, yet, I was sure that the jewel on Hyoudou Issei's Sacred Gear glowed. It was different from the glew that shone whenever it used its ability.

Is it awakening? Could it be that the Red Drag-

My thoughts were cut short by the voice from the altar.

"Huuh? Seriously? That bitch was telling the truth? A shitty angel and an idiot are actually attacking us?"

...I recognize him. Freed Sellzen, a filth that pollutes humanity simply by existing.

He was an Exorcist, yet, he had no faith in the Lord. He joined the warriors of the Church, not out of duty, but because he wishes to kill. He would slay the guilty, the innocent, without any hesitation in pursuit of his joy. When Vatican learned of his actions, he was declared as a criminal and was hunted.

It seemed that he joined the Fallen Angels after escaping Vatican.

...It would appear that I will eliminate more than Fallen Angels tonight…

"Where's Asia?!"

It would appear that Hyoudou Issei is in quite a rush. That is not good, losing your composure will only lead to an early grave.

"What's with that? That's the first question that you asked me? That's rude, you know?! What about asking who I am? Why did you ask for that shitty nun instead?"

"I don't give a fuck who you are! I'm asking you, where is Asia?!"

"Calm down, Hyoudou Issei."

Freed Sellzen shrugged, "Oh well, it's not like I care if a stupid kid knows me or not. That bitch took her to the ritual spot through the hidden stairs under the altar," He stated as he nonchalantly pointed at the main altar.

Ritual, is it? It would appear that Azazel's words were true. That Fallen, Raynare, is trying to steal the Twilight Healing. I would eliminate her but…

If Azazel was telling the truth about her objective, then the information he gave me should be accurate.

"Hyoudou Issei, there should be more than one Fallen Angels around. I will lure as many of them here."

After receiving a nod from him, I took out my weapon, the Blazer Shining Aura Darkness Blade (Prototype). It was a weapon capable of creating a Light or Darkness blade. Azazel once claimed that the Blazer Shining Aura Darkness Blade embodies the hidden Darkness within Angels, and the concealed Light within Devils.

"So the shitty Angel will be my enemy? Bring it on!" The fallen priest seemed to wish for a battle.

I wordlessly activated the Darkness energy within the blade and swung it, sending a wave of black energy towards Freed Sellzen.

The stray exorcist avoided the wave, yet my goal was accomplished as the energy cut through the main altar and exploded as it reached the wall.

That should catch the attention of the Fallens. I turned my head and saw Hyoudou Issei already moving towards the hidden stairs beneath the altar.

How fortunate, I thought as I heard wings flapping and three Fallen Angels appeared before me. A male and two female.

"Freed, what are you doing?!" One of them, a blue haired woman questioned Freed Sellzen.

"Ah, fuck. You guys are going to steal my prey, aren't you?" The trash wearing a human face asked as he glared at the three Fallen Angels.

Foolish... I deactivated the Blazer Shining Aura Darkness Blade (Prototype).

"...prey?" I had to wonder if he was blind. "Are you quite sure, Freed Sellzen, that 'prey' is the word you wish to use?"

A sword appeared in my hand. Seeing it, the male Fallen's eyes widened. It seemed that he recognized the blade.

Of course he would, there was no other like it. It was a blade that was as black as the abyss, Unlike others, it was not created that way, it was not colored that way. The blade was black because it was charred beyond recognition. Every time I wield it, the blade was scorched by the Flames of Gevurah.

"...the Flaming Sword…" The man muttered fearfully.

"So He drove the man out; and at the east of the Garden of Eden He stationed the Cherubim, and the Flaming Sword which turned every direction to guard the way to the Tree of Life," With those words I recited, the Flames of Gevurah covered the blade.

"Perish."

And the Flaming Sword was swung.


As I ran through the passage with all that I had, the light bulbs flickered ominously but I pushed down my fear to run even faster. The power I felt from Twice Critical's Boost had dissipated moments ago.

When, I reached the end of the passage, there was a big door.

I tensed, I had no idea what lies beyond this door but…

[Boost!]

I had no time to think, to consider my options. My mind was filled with thoughts of saving Asia.

I kicked the door down.

"...so you came after all," Raynare spoke as she turned towards me. Behind her stood priests surrounding a strange cross, Asia should be hidden among the priests.

"Asia!" I shouted, though it was too far for me to distinguish her among the priests. "Don't worry, I'll save you soon."

Hearing my words, Raynare burst out laughing.

"You? A mere human like you? What can you do? The only reason you're alive now is because that damned Power protected you! You can't even touch me!" Then she grinned, "Where is he, anyway? Where's that red-haired Power?"

"He's upstairs," I answered her as I clenched my fist. "He'll be here once he beat that priest."

The grin on the Fallen Angel's face seemed maniacal as she shook her head, "Poor poor Issei. Don't you know that there are three of my companions above? Even if he's a Power, that angel won't be able to win against the three of them. He might be dead already by now!"

I was a bit worried about Kamael, could he win against three Fallen Angels? I nodded to myself, he could.

"He won't lose," I firmly declared.

Raynare sighed as if disappointed, "You really are stupid, aren't you? Issei-kun?" As she said my name, her voice changed, transforming into Yuuma's voice.

I rushed towards her, fist raised.

"Do you actually think you can reach me, Ise-kun?" Raynare created a light spear and threw it towards me.

I leapt to the side and avoided it, then I continued my dash.

"Hmph, so you can learn, after all," Raynare formed two light spears, one on each of her hands, "Well, let's see you dance, shall we?"

I jumped, rolled, ducked, I did everything I could to avoid those spears that almost killed me multiple times in the past three days.

I gradually grew closer to Raynare, she was vulnerable, she had no light spears, so I pulled my fist and-

"Stupid Ise-kun~"

With a sadistic smile she avoided my fist and kicked my stomach. It might be a normal kick to her but when done to a human like me, it was as if a sledgehammer slammed my body.

I screamed as I was blown away back to where I started, next to the broken door. Blood flowed out of my mouth, and my whole body ached with pain, but I wasn't done yet. From the corner of my eyes, I saw Raynare disappearing.

I tried to stand but Raynare flew above me and slammed her feet on my back, sending me crashing back to the ground.

"Kneel, Ise-kun. That's all you humans are good for. Kneel and worship your betters," She said to me as she added more pressure on my back. "Then again, can you even kneel with me holding you down? You're just like a dog, you can't even kneel without me letting you."

I tried to raise my body but she was stronger than me. "I won't… lose…"

"Are you seriously still saying that Ise-kun? Your Sacred Gear is useless, twice of a human's power can never reach my level. It's like you're a sheep trying to fight back against a wolf, you know?"

I turned my head and glared as I continued to struggle, "Don't… worry… I'll reach you soon enough…"

I swear I would. I won't fail, I'll definitely save Asia. There's no way I'm letting her to beat me like this…

Raynare's smile disappeared, "Filthy human!" She raised her leg and slammed it down on my back once again. I screamed as I felt my bones cracking under the pressure.

"Ise-san!" I heard Asia's voice. Even though it was painful, I ignored the pain and turned towards the voice.

She was trying to reach me. But the priests stopped her.

"Asia…"

"Ohh! Look at that! The princess is trying to save the hero! What a pathetic hero he is! He can't even do his job right!" Raynare taunted with a grin.

I…

"He can't even fight back! He's letting me walk all over him, literally and figuratively, of course. Maybe he's actually enjoying this? Hey, Ise-kun, are you actually a masochist? Maybe that's why you're trying to save Asia? Oh, wait, could it be that you like Asia because of that? Because she can play with you and heal you with that Sacred Gear of hers?"

Anger filled me, but I couldn't do anything. I'm too weak. I'm pathetic… I thought as I laid on the ground.

"You know, Asia? Why don't I take this chance to teach you some things you can do to please a man? Ise-kun here is a virgin after all, I'm sure he wouldn't mind being used as a toy before dyi-"

"Shut up!"

It was not me who screamed, but Asia.

"Ise-san is not like that! Ise-san is my friend! Even though I'm useless, even though I'm pathetic, Ise-san accepted me! Ise-san is kind! Ise-san is… Ise-san is… Ise-san is greater than you!"

Raynare blinked hearing Asia's words. "Greater than me?" Her expression became ugly. "This worthless human?! Are you even listening to your own words, bitch?! Who do you think picked you up?! Who gave you a shelter when you had nowhere to go?! Who gave you food to eat everyday?!"

"You did," Asia answered without hesitation, "But the Lord has allowed me to meet Ise-san, and I'm satisfied with that."

Raynare glared at my friend, "Hey you," She pointed to one of the priest, "Knock her out. I had enough of her nonsense."

The priest moved closer towards Asia.

I struggled even harder. "Don't you dare hurt Asia!" I shouted, ignoring how Raynare added more strength to her leg. "Don't you da-"

"Ise-san, today was fun," Asia said to me as one of the priest grabbed her hands, "I'm really glad that we met," She confessed before the Priest rendered her unconscious by hitting her at the side of her neck.

"Asia!"

"Asia, Asia, you're like a broken record. Shut up, will you?" Raynare said to me as she formed a light spear. "I'm going to kill you now, Ise-kun. Don't worry though, Asia will join you soon."

Asia… will join me?

"What do you mean?" Dread filled me as I heard those words.

That smile returned, that hateful smile of hers, "You mean you don't know? That's rich! Why are you even risking your life if you don't know about it, Ise-kun?"

"Answer me! What do you mean by that?!"

"Well…" Raynare giggled, "If you want to know so much… We're going to do a ritual here to take [Twilight Healing] from Asia."

"...ritual?" A ritual to take Asia's Sacred Gear from her?

"Yeah, and this ritual has a tiny bit of a side-effect, see? It won't be a great loss though, it'll just kill a useless nun."

Asia… will be killed?

Asia… that kind girl… that pure girl…

My friend.

Never. I will never allow that. Asia is, she is my friend!

She is my treasure! I won't let them take her away!

Raynare swung her spear down, in that instant, I saw Red.

I saw a Red Dragon, fighting against a shadow. That Dragon was losing, it lacked enough strength to wrestle against the shadow.

But then, that Dragon glowed, it might seem that nothing else happened, but I knew.

That Dragon's strength was doubled. It rose to greater height.

Its power surpassed the shadow and it turned the situation around with its boosted power.

The Dragon had slain its foe, and its eyes and mine met.

I knew that Dragon. I had no idea how, but that Dragon and I were connected.

It glowed once more, and it disappeared. No, it did not disappear. It was sealed into my hand.

My left hand, my Sacred Gear.

[Dragon Booster!]

"Wha-" Raynare froze as she saw my Sacred Gear transforming.

"Uwoohh!" There's no way, I'll lose like this! I haven't saved her yet! I haven't fulfilled my promise yet!

[Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost!]

I raised my left fist and punched the spear of light she was about to use to stab me.

My fist met the tip of the spear and it cracked. The spear was destroyed into pieces as I felt the bones in my knuckle being torn apart for being forced to reach its physical limit.

"I will save my friend!" I shouted as I pulled my other hand, my right hand.

[Explosion!]

I didn't know how, but I know that this can only be done once. After I strike her with this, my power will go back to zero, I doubt I could do it again anytime soon. But still...

I punched the Fallen Angel in the face with all my might, sending her flying through the wall of the basement.

Even then, I knew that she was not dead. She would not die that easily.

But still…

"See…? I told you I will reach you…"

"...a human…" Her voice came from behind the destroyed walls, but the dust from the rubble obscured my vision, "My face… being dirtied… by a human like you…?" It was filled with anger and fury.

"You will pay for this, human! Your pain shall be legendary!" A spear of light shot towards me from behind the clouds of dust.

It felt to me as if the spear moved in a slow motion. The boost I received from my Sacred Gear had empowered my body, pushing it to its limits. I avoided the spear, as I knew that if I tried to deflect it, my right hand would meet the same fate as my left.

There was a moment of silence before she appeared. From the rubble, Raynare flew towards me so fast i could barely see her. When she stood in front of me, I let out a satisfied laugh for her nose was broken and bloodied.

"Don't you dare laugh at me! A human like you… A trash like you…"

She was filled with anger as she grew closer to me, with a light spear raised. I could not avoid it, even with my body reaching the limit of my human strength, I could not match a Fallen Angel.

But I was not afraid. Because I knew that he was here.

"Didn't I tell you? The moment you meet me once again, your life is forfeit, Fallen."

A wave of light collided with Raynare, blowing her away from me.

"You seem to have grown, Hyoudou Issei," Kamael spoke to me as he stepped out of the passage. "I must say, I do not know how to describe my feelings. Your Sacred Gear has fully awakened, yet, you broke your arm somehow. I suppose it is partially my fault for being late."

I let out a grin, "Then you'll just have to help me save Asia. I'm sure she can heal me."

He chuckled, "Yes, I suppose so. Do you know what your Sacred Gear is called?"

Yeah, I think. A name appeared in my mind.

"[Boosted Gear], right?"

"Correct, it is one of the [Lon-"

Our conversation was cut short by an explosion as Raynare rose from the rubble.

"You…" Unlike that night, she seemed to be filled with anger when she saw Kamael. "This is all your fault, you damn Power!"

Kamael shook his head, "You seem to be mistaken. The reason why I fought you that day, was Hyoudou Issei. The reason I am standing here, before you, is Hyoudou Issei. Do carve it into your soul as you are eradicated, Fallen. The one who killed you is Hyoudou Issei."

...wait, while it sounded cool and all, Kamael basically pushed all the responsibilities to me, right? Well, he isn't wrong though…

It seemed that being smacked to the wall again had calmed her down somewhat as Raynare just glared instead of rushing at us. "What did you do to Kalawarner? To Dohnaseek and Mittelt?"

Kamael smiled, but it definitely wasn't a good smile, it was chilling, actually.

"Are you speaking about your fellow Fallens? They are dead. Burned to ashes."

"Impossible!" Raynare shouted in defiance, but I could see fear in her as she attempted to deny Kamael's words, "You're just a single Power! There's no way you can defeat the three of them!"

Kamael sighed, "Truly, you spend a few thousand years protecting a single Tree, and nobody remembers you anymore. Perhaps I should have done more in the Great War." The Angel took out a black sword.

"Does this answer your question, Fallen?" The moment Kamael asked that, flames covered the sword. Even from where I was standing, a few feet away from him, I could feel the heat from the burning sword.

"The Flaming Sword…"

The words Raynare uttered doesn't ring a bell to me. In fact, it seemed like she was saying the obvious. I mean, the sword in Kamael's hand is a flaming sword.

"Why is the Chief of Powers here?" Raynare asked as she took a step back.

I recalled what Kamael told me about Angels, and I guessed the source of her fear.

Powers are the warrior Angels, and the Chief of Powers would be their leader. ...unexpectedly, it seems that Kamael is a high-ranked Angel. I had to wonder why he has enough free time to stick around with me, but he did say that they are jobless right now.

...wait, so I'm being protected by an out-of-job Angel? The Perverted Human and the Unemployed Angel… sounds like a good title for a comedy show.

"Hyoudou Issei, whatever thoughts you have right now, I'll advise you to stop and focus on eliminating our enemies first."

The priests who we ignored up until now seemed to flinch as we turned our attention towards them.

"I will handle the Fallen, can you handle the heretics?"

I nodded, and the jewel on the Boosted Gear glowed.

[Boost!]

For some reason, Kamael's eyes went to my hand as I feel power welling up inside me.

"Your left arm is… it is not fully human anymore…" I was about to ask him to elaborate when he shook his head, "We will speak of this later."

Kamael swung the flaming sword and torrent of flames erupted towards Raynare.

I rushed towards the group of priests and uppercutted one of them, launching him to the air. I was surprised by how far he flew but since there are still more priests, I didn't get a chance to appreciate the Boosted Gear's ability.

I willed myself for a Boost but nothing happened. Surprised by my Sacred Gear's inactivity, I barely evaded one of the priest's light sword. I was thankful that the Boosted Gear also boosted my speed, as it has allowed me to keep myself unharmed as they tried to hit me with their weapons.

...wait, you guys are priests, right? Why are you using a lightsaber as if you guys are those characters from Star Wars?

By the way, I thought as I kicked a priest who tried to attack me. Those guys seem like they are quite powerful. But the speed boost that the Boosted Gear gave me allowed me to move faster than their attacks and since my strength was doubled, a single punch or kick was all it took to knock them out.

Oh, damn… They surrounded me. The group of priests managed to form a circle with me in the center. If they all attacked together, I doubt I can dodge, even with my doubled power.

I tried to will my Sacred Gear to boost me again. Maybe another Boost can help me break through them. It failed last time, but there's no reason not to try.

[Boost!]

This time, it worked. I dashed, punching one of the priest away and breaking free from their encirclement.

What a rush! The Boosted Gear doubled my already doubled power! That means I'm four times stronger than my normal power, right? Maybe I can take a job as a fighter or something?

I grinned as I avoided their attacks and kept on knocking them away. I think I can go for a Perfect Victory like thi-

"Die!"

I turned my head and saw a priest swinging his sword down behind me. I tried to Boost again but again, it failed. I attempted to evade the attack but the priest managed to cut one of my leg pretty badly. The cut won't kill me, but it does hinder my movements.

"...damn it!" I cursed. It was because I was too cocky and let my guard down. Another priest leaped at me, his sword poised to strike. I leaned my body to the side, barely avoiding the priest who stabbed his sword to where I was moments ago.

The priest attempted to continue his momentum to attack me again but before he could, I swung my right arm towards his face with all I have!

[Boost!]

My fist met the priest's face and the impact blew him away. I sighed in relief as I supported my body with my unharmed left feet. But I knew that it wasn't over yet.

"...how many of you guys are there?" I questioned them. I counted at least ten of them surrounding me.


"What are you doing?" I questioned the Fallen as she backed away from me.

"Are you trying to escape, Fallen? Do you fear for your life?"

She did not answer. Instead she desperately threw light spears towards me.

The spears were vaporized before it could reach me. I could see her hope and confidence being whittled away with each spear's destruction.

"Your kind kept on clinging to the Light, even when you have betrayed the Lord. If you believed, even for one second, that you can harm me with the Light, you must be insane."

I walked towards her, my five pair of wings opened themselves as I raised my blade. Her back met the walls, and with it, despair filled her.

"I am the instrument of His Judgment. I am Severity. I am Strength. I am the Flame that burns away all impurities. And you, Fallen, is an impurity I must cleanse from this world."

Spears of light flew towards me yet again. My Flames reacted and burned them away before they reached me. Was it out of desperation? Was it simply a futile attempt of prolonging the inevitable?

"Fallen Angel, Raynare. Answer me, do you fear the Lord?"

She trembled as she nodded her head.

"That is a lie. You do not fear the Lord. You fear death."

I brought my blade down and flames rained upon her body. She screamed as she was burned by the flames. She attempted to put out the fire but it was futile, as the Flames of Gevurah would remain as long as the sinner lives.

I walked towards her writhing body, she waved her arms, trying to create light spears to prevent me from reaching her. Most of the spears failed to reach me and the few attempts that succeeded were vaporized before reaching me.

Wordlessly, I slammed my fist down on her head, planting her face to the ground and the flames dissipated as she fell unconscious.

"I would kill you, but I believe Hyoudou Issei should be given a chance to judge you for the wrongs you have done to him."

I grabbed the Fallen's unconscious body and dragged it as I walked towards the place where Hyoudou Issei and the priests were fighting. The flames behind me dissipated as I willed it to disappear.

In that moment, I saw Hyoudou Issei's fist impacting with one of the priest's head. My eyes narrowed, assuming that he has Boosted himself multiple times so far, that kind of punch would…

As he was surrounded by the remaining priests, I prepared myself to intervene.

"Kiba, Koneko, knock them out."

…it would appear that Gremory has noticed the commotion…


I was about to fight against the priests surrounding me when a blond boy and a white-haired girl suddenly appeared and beat the priests up.

"What just happened?" I asked in both confusion and surprise.

I recognize the blond, Yuuto Kiba, the so-called Prince of Kuoh Academy. It is said that with a single smile, he managed to capture the hearts of many girls of our school.

But why is he standing here swinging a black sword around?

And the other one, the white-haired girl wearing Kuoh Academy's school uniform. I recognize her, Toujou Koneko, a first year student who is rather popular among 'certain kind' of students. They said that she is very expressionless, and looking at her punching the priests without a slight change on her expression, I agree with that.

Then that voice ordering them…

I turned my head to the entrance of the basement and my shock grew even more.

There stood a beauty with long crimson hair and clear blue eyes and beside her was another girl with equally captivating face and figure, but the other girl had ponytailed black hair and violet eyes.

These people were Gremory Rias-senpai and Himejima Akeno-senpai. The two Great Onee-sama of Kuoh Academy!

What are they doing here? Who exactly are they?

My first thought was that they were Angels, but I don't get the same feeling from them that I get from Kamael.

Fallen Angels? No, they are fighting against the priests working with Raynare.

Kamael's words came to me.

"This town, especially this school, Kuoh Academy falls within Devil's' territory."

"Devils…" I muttered in realization.

Gremory-senpai was said to be the daughter of the Administrator of Kuoh Academy. If Kuoh Academy was owned by a Devil, that means Gremory-senpai is a devil too!

"Oh, you know of us?" That guy, Yuuto, asked me with a polite smile. But that smile felt fake, and I have a feeling that if I answered the question wrong, my head will roll. So I didn't answer him, instead I hoped that Kamael would be here.

But those words he said, does that mean he's a Devil too?

"Gremory," Kamael nodded to Gremory-senpai as he walked towards us, my eyes went wide as I saw him dragging Raynare as he made his way. No wait, if Raynare is defeated then…

"Asia!" I limped towards the strange cross that was surrounded by the priests when I entered this place. If it wasn't for the cut one of the priest gave me, I would be running right now.

And there she was, still unconscious. I sighed in relief when I saw her chest moving, as that meant she is alive. I was worried that the priests might have attacked her when I fought against them. I sat near her and relaxed, I saved her...

"So that's the one you mentioned," I heard Gremory-senpai say as she and Kamael walked towards me. "The boy with [Boosted Gear], Hyoudou Issei, right?" Gremory-senpai asked as she examined me.

I nodded. I was nervous. Gremory-senpai is idolized and worshiped by students of Kuoh Academy and she uhh…

...her breasts are huge.

"Good evening to you, Hyoudou-kun. I am Rias Gremory, the Devil overseeing this city."

I nodded, not trusting my mouth to speak. I figured out that she is a Devil, and Kamael mentioned that this city is part of Devil's territory but hearing them confirmed is…

"Let's be honest to each other, shall we? Hyoudou-kun, I am quite interested in you. Would you like to become a Devil?"

I paled. I remembered the time when Kamael spoke about Devils and their ability to reincarnate humans into one of them.

Flames danced around Kamael's sword as he closed his eyes. It looks like that Kamael is trying hard to remain calm.

"Umm… no, thank you," I rejected Gremory-senpai's offer.

Gremory-senpai looked a bit disappointed when she heard that but then she noticed Kamael's behavior.

"Oh, could it be that you refused my offer because you don't want to offend him?" Gremory-senpai questioned me. She then winked, "You don't have to worry about him, you know. It's not like he's your father."

I shook my head, "No, that's not it. I just think that… well… I don't really have any reason to be a Devil. And…"

My eyes went to Asia.

"...becoming a Devil when healing one caused my friend to be excommunicated doesn't sound right to me."

Kamael relaxed and the flames around the sword disappeared while Gremory-senpai seemed to be surprised but amazed.

"That's a surprise, Hyoudou-kun. I heard from the rumors that you are a pervert, but it is clear that you are a good man."

I blushed, being praised by a Gremory-senpai would be something that most students in Kuoh Academy would consider a great honor.

"But, Hyoudou-kun. Keep my offer in mind, at the very least, I ask you to come visit the Occult Research Club on Monday after school. Let's introduce ourselves to each other and be good friends, okay?"

I didn't see a reason to refuse, so I nodded. When he saw me nod, Kamael let out a sigh.

"You are too kind, Hyoudou Issei."

...now that I think about it…

"Kamael, why do you keep calling me with my full name?" Usually he would be calling me 'Hyoudou-san'.

"You…" Kamael seemed to be struggling to say it, looking at Gremory-senpai as if willing her to go away. "...you dislike me, don't you? Because of what I failed Asia Argento. I thought I should not be acting too familiar with you.."

...ah. I didn't expect that at all. I thought Kamael was apathetic to my words. But could it be that he is actually bad at socializing with people. Not that I'm an expert but…

"I… umm… well, I don't dislike you. We're still friends, Kamael. Just… promise me you won't abandon Asia and people who believe in your God like her again, okay? I'm sorry too, for saying those words to you."

Kamael nodded, relief could be seen in his eyes, though he attempted to hide it. "I do not mind, your words are true, I cannot deny it nor can I ask you to apologize for saying it. And yes, I promise not to abandon them, Hyoudou-san. No, may I call you Issei?"

Uhh… somehow, Gremory-senpai seemed excited as her eyes moved between Kamael and I. Does this look fun to you, senpai? Because I'm really embarrassed!

Still, I nodded.

Kamael smiled, but then his face became expressionless again.

"Issei, may I have a moment?"

Huh?

"First of all, your arm and leg, they seem to be injured, I advise you to ask Asia Argento to heal you."

...oh, yeah. My left arm broke when I punched Raynare's light spear, while my right leg got slashed by one of the priest. Now that I remember, the pain comes back!

"Second, it appears that you have awoken the [Boosted Gear]. Congratulations," Kamael told me with a small smile.

I examined the Sacred Gear since I didn't get a chance to do that while in battle. ...it looked cooler than before! But…

"Kamael, you said that the [Boosted Gear] can double my power until I reach my limit, right? But when I used it before, sometimes I failed to Boost."

"The [Boosted Gear], one of the [Longinus], can double your power every 10 seconds. Perhaps you attempted to Boost before the 10 seconds interval ended." It was Gremory-senpai who answered me.

"...yeah, I think I did," I didn't get a chance to count in that battle, but I think so. "What do you mean by [Longinus], Gremory-senpai?"

Kamael answered this time, "Longinus refers to the Holy Lance, perhaps better known as the Lancea Longini, the weapon that pierced the Son of Man's body to confirm his death. However, among the Sacred Gears, [Longinus] is a term referring to the thirteen strongest Sacred Gears with the capability to kill Gods. [Boosted Gear] being one of them."

...kill Gods… that sounded really amazing and scary at the same time.

"Regardless, it would appear that your left arm has… mutated, so to speak. I would assume that this is caused by the [Boosted Gear]."

Mutated? I looked at my broken arm but didn't notice anything different. It was a normal human left hand.

Kamael shook his head, "You cannot see it, as it seems that the influence is still weak. However, your left arm is no longer fully human, it contains the properties of a Dragon arm."

That… sounds cool actually.

"Issei, whatever it is that you did, it has caused the Sacred Gear to influence your body. I want you to avoid doing such thing again. You should not throw away your humanity for power, it is not worth it.."

I nodded. Well… putting how cool being a Dragon aside, I would be troubled if I suddenly grow tail and wings and become huge…

"But I wonder why that happened," Gremory-senpai joined in our conversation, "I have heard about past Sekiryuutei becoming more dragonic as they use Boosted Gear powers, but I never heard of it occurring this quickly."

Sekiryuutei? Red Dragon Emperor?

Kamael nodded, "Issei, perhaps you can tell us what happened during the [Boosted Gear]'s awakening?"

I nodded, I was curious about what senpai meant with Sekiryuutei, but I guess I should tell them what happened first. I told them that I was angry at Raynare who planned to sacrifice Asia. About how I, for some reason, instinctively called her my treasure. About the 'dream' I had with the Red Dragon and a shadow and how the Dragon entered my left arm.

By the end of my story, both Kamael and Gremory-senpai seemed to be lost in thought.

"It seems that the [Boosted Gear] was awakened by your drive, Issei," Kamael spoke as his eyes moved towards my Sacred Gear.

"Drive?" As in motivation or desire?

"Correct. I believe I have mentioned it already, but a Dragon usually recognize two kind of desires. It can be the desire to dominate or the desire to protect their treasures. It appears that your desire to protect Asia can be considered as the latter."

"...but I'm a human, right? And..." My mind flashed back to when I declared Asia as my treasure. Why did I call her a treasure? That sounded wrong, yet, right to me.

Gremory-senpai smiled, "You are a human. But you have been spending your whole life next to a Dragon. After such a long time together, of course some aspects of that Dragon would rub off on you."

...spending my life with a Dragon? "Are you talking about the [Boosted Gear]?"

"Indeed," Gremory-senpai smiled, "Inside your Sacred Gear lies a soul of a Dragon. The Welsh Dragon, Ddraig."

The Welsh Dragon… Ddraig.

"Ddraig, also known as the Red Dragon Emperor was a powerful Dragon. He and the White Dragon Emperor, Albion often fought each other in the past," Kamael frowned as he spoke, "During one of their battles, they fought near where we, Angels, Fallen Angels and Devils fought and challenged us as we attempted to drive them away."

...that sounded awesome. Two Dragons challenging three feuding armies… But since this Welsh Dragon is in the Boosted Gear now, that means...

"After a difficult battle, we defeated them and the Lord sealed their souls within two Sacred Gears. [Boosted Gear] contains the soul of Ddraig, while [Divine Dividing] contains the soul of Albion. Being in close proximity with such a powerful soul, it is inevitable that you would be influenced by it. In fact, I am surprised that you managed to stay so human."

"Most of the previous wielders of Boosted Gear, or as we call them, the Red Dragon Emperor, would often act as if they were Dragons instead of humans," The Angel added.

Hearing that I was worried, "Will that happen to me too?"

"That is why I ask you to avoid doing something like this again. Though, we still don't know what caused your left arm to transform, so all I can ask is for you to be careful."

I nodded, taking those words to heart.

"And lastly…" Kamael stabbed his sword through Raynare's right palm. She screamed in pain as she regained consciousness.

I winced, that must have hurt.

"Issei, I brought her to you to ask you this. Will you kill her? Will you kill this Fallen Angel?"

I…

What should I do?

I recalled the time when I first saw her, the moment she introduced herself as Amano Yuuma.

Our date… No matter how fake it was, I think I genuinely enjoyed it.

She said it was boring, and she did that just to kill me but…

I can't really erase the feeling of happiness I had when we went to our date.

I turned my eyes to her. She was scared, her life depended on my decision.

"I-Ise-kun…" Raynare, no, Amano Yuuma called my name. "Please don't kill me…"

That was just an attempt to deceive me. Another lie. But I…

I shook my head.

The expression on her face made me wants to vomit. It was triumph, an expression of victory. Not an expression of relief or gratitude.

"I see," Kamael's expression did not change at all. "You have made your choice, Issei. Tonight has been quite an ordeal for you, I advise you to go home and rest. I will handle her."

I agreed, but… "What about Asia?"

"Bring her with you," Kamael answered without any hesitation. Seeing my expression, which was full of shock, he continued, "The place I am staying at is not owned by me, but by my superior, it would trouble him if I bring her with me. I would rather not leave her with Devils."

...that only leaves me.

"Wait, what am I supposed to say to my parents?"

He shook his head hearing my words, "You don't have to say anything. Wake Asia Argento up and allow her to explain herself to your parents. It should be more effective than your attempt to explain why you are bringing a girl home at night. In addition, it is necessary to wake her so she can heal you, correct? Unless you wish to go home with broken arm and leg."

...well… that's true… I went to Asia.

"Asia, wake up, it's me, Issei," I gently shook her.

Gradually, Asia opened her eyes. When she saw me, she blinked, as if not understanding. Then her green eyes widened in surprise.

"I-Ise-san?"

"Yeah, I managed to save you…" I said to her with smile, "Well… Kamael and I did."

"Kamael?" She was puzzled, I wonder wh-

...of course. Kamael introduced himself as Potestas when we met each other.

"Good evening, Asia Argento. I am Kamael Potestas. An Angel of the Powers Choir."

Asia's expression was filled with shock hearing Kamael's introduction.

"...an Angel?" Asia asked, her voice shook a bit. Is she scared?

Kamael nodded, then he bowed his head, "...on behalf of the Lord and His Servants, I apologize to you. You have suffered because of our negligence."

Asia seemed troubled by Kamael's words. Seems like she had no idea how to answer Kamael. Of course, Asia respected God so much, hearing one of God's Angel apologizing and bowing his head to her would be strange to her.

"Kamael, let's talk about this tomorrow. Asia needs to rest, right?"

Kamael nodded, "Then, Asia Argento, I would like to ask you to heal Issei."

...I kinda feel that he wasn't asking. But Asia gasped when she saw my injuries. ...other than my left knuckle and right leg, most are just scratches though…

"Umm… Asia," I called out to her as she healed my arm.

Asia's hands were warm, I thought as she placed my left hand among them.

"Yes, Ise-san?"

"I'm sorry, I wasn't able to save you back in the park…"

Asia smiled, "Ise-san, you're here, aren't you? You saved me."

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak. At that time, I felt as if I understand why the [Twilight Healing] is called The Smile of the Holy Mother.


"Are they gone?" Gremory questioned me.

I nodded. Both Asia Argento and Issei had left the area around the Church.

"So, what should we do with them?" Gremory and I turned our attention to the priests and the Fallen Angel, Raynare.

"Before that, what did you find?" I questioned her. I noticed that her… Peerage were examining the priests as we talked with Issei before.

"Most of them had broken bones, some worse than others. And one of the priest…"

I sighed, "...one of the priest died, correct?"

It was the one that was struck in the head, no doubt. I assume that Hyoudou Issei did not realize it. The Boosted Gear power allowed him to reach power he had never imagined. As this was his first battle, he would not be able to control his strength.

Gremory nodded, it is clear that she is troubled. She is the overseer of this city and she possess the right to eliminate intruders on her land, Yet, if the intruders are humans, there is an unspoken agreement to hand them to the 'authorities' of their factions.

Hand the stray exorcists to the Church. Hand the stray onmyojis to Association of Shinto Shrines. It is a norm.

However, Hyoudou Issei had accidentally killed one of them.

"I'll tak-"

"No."

I knew what she was about to say. She would take the blame of this matter. Perhaps it was simply out of pride or responsibility. Because she felt that the Fallen Angels managing to cause a trouble in her territory was her fault. But I would not allow that.

Because it would place Issei and I in her debt. And because the fault lies with me.

I should have incapacitated the Fallen faster. Instead I took the time to break her pride and allowed such thing to happen.

"I will do it."

Flames covered my sword as I walked towards them. Most of the priests were unconscious, but the ones that were awake tried to run away.

The Fallen screamed, saying that Issei had spared her. What a fool, does she actually believe that I would allow someone who has harmed a pure human such as Issei to live?

Lightning and swords blocked their escape routes, from the corner of my eye, I saw the Queen and Knight of Gremory's Peerages standing with silent satisfaction.

"Sinners, you have feasted on humanity, not unlike Belshazzar. You have tainted this place, the House of Worship with your heresy."

The Flames that has burned down sinners since the Genesis glowed brightly as it covered my blade.

The moment I kill the sinners, I would be breaking the unspoken rule between Heaven and the Church. But I could not care less. Judging the sinners is my duty, if I can protect Issei while doing so, then there is no problem.

"And now, just like Belshazzar, you have been weighed on the scales and found deficient."

The Flames of Gevurah roared as I swung my sword.


Today, I would sleep on the floor of my bedroom as Asia was asleep on my bed. She attempted to sleep on the floor but I wouldn't allow her to. She offered for us to share the bed but I refused. Not only that my bed won't be able to hold two people, I feel that I would lose something important as a human if I accidentally acted like a pervert in front of Asia.

As I looked at the ceiling of my room, I thought back on what happened today.

I befriended Asia, I would like to think that I can be a good friend to her. No, I thought firmly, I will be a good friend for her, I promise.

I reconciled with Kamael, I'm really glad that I managed to do that. Kamael is a good… 'person', Even if he is strange, he has helped me so much. I hope that he can tone down his eccentrics a bit though...

Together with Kamael, I saved Asia from Raynare.

And we met Gremory-senpai and her groups after that. She invited us to Occult Research Club after school on Monday. I wonder how that will turn out…

But my mind went back to her.

...Raynare… I spared her, but is that really alright? I mean, she could hurt other people, Kamael said he would throw her into a prison for Angels, so I guess I shouldn't be too worried.

...I… should be happy, right? Raynare was captured and she would be punished. I won't see her again.

...I guess… I should say it, huh?

"Goodbye… Yuuma-chan."


End of 'Saving a Friend' Arc.

In this chapter, there are two terms 'assigned' to Kamael that might be unfamiliar to readers.


The Flaming Sword

In Genesis 3:24, it is said that after banishing Adam and Eve from Eden, the Biblical God placed a Cherubim with/and a Flaming Sword to guard the path to the Tree of Life. While most consider them as a 'single' Angel (A Cherubim with Flaming Sword), because I found conflicting names for the Angel (Jophiel, Uriel and Kamael being the common ones.), I chose to depict them as two Angels, Jophiel and Kamael. Jophiel being the Chief of Cherubim while Kamael is the Flaming Sword.


Flames of Gevurah

For those who study the Sephirot, Gevurah should be familiar to you all. It is one of the Sephira, representing Severity or Might of God. Gevurah is associated with a certain 'class' of Angels and its Archangel is Kamael. Flames of Gevurah is Kamael's ability, just like how Rias' power is Power of Destruction.

...not the same Flames as the Fires of Sinai by the way. That's Metatron's, because Biblical God uses it to announce His presence, and assuming that it was Metatron who talked for Biblical God at Mount Sinai, then it should be Metatron's Flames.


Next chapter begins a new (short) Arc, 'The Sun Skipped School' Arc, which happens during the Phoenix of the Battle School Building Arc (AKA Riser Arc) of the Light Novel. My reasoning is, Riser's arc probably won't happen at that time. Since Rias should be aware that fighting against Riser with her current Peerage is suicide.