Disclaimer: I do not own HighSchool DxD.
Beta'd by: duked
Chapter XXV – Friends Or Foes
In the Occult Research Clubroom, Rias and her peerage were waiting for Sona and her own to discuss the situation between themselves and how were they going to handle the situation they were in.
The Gremory heiress was sipping on some tea made by Akeno. 'Another Fallen Angels in threatening Kuoh...and this time, he's from the Leader Class. Even if Sona and I combine forces...I doubt we could pull this off...'
In another time and place, Rias would probably say that she and her household would be more than enough to stop the threat.
Well...if that was the case now, she would definitely be biting off more than she could chew.
Thinking about it rationally, Rias understood that even if she was a high ranking Devil, even if she was more powerful than she currently was...she could not defeat a Cadre Class Fallen Angel even with the help of her peerage.
Her new way of thinking was thanks to the shakedown her family had given her recently. Rias sighed, looking back, she really did mess up when she decided to not send a report to them about the incident a few months ago up the chain.
Though her intentions were good (at least to her), she now understood that decisions that big were not to be taken likely...there will always be consequences...she understands that now.
But still...there was one thing on her mind...their minds that they could not help but ponder on.
Kyuren Kaizer Avynzen.
Rias, Akeno, Koneko, Kiba, and Issei were all still stunned by what he did in the Underworld. They knew he was indeed powerful...but it never crossed their minds that he was more than capable of bringing one of the most powerful beings in existence to his knees...in one swift attack no less!
Compared to him, they were like ants. They were hopelessly...hilariously outmatched and that bothered them.
It bothered them that Kyuren was far more powerful than them. It bothered them that he was a (claimed to be, at least) human and yet he was more powerful than all of them combined!
All of them felt a little insulted at that. They were supposed to be Devils and yet...they were outclassed by a race that was supposed to be inferior in every damn way.
But among them, the current wielder of the Boosted Gear felt the most animosity.
Issei clenched his fists tight. Kyuren...the very mention of that name was enough to make his blood boil and ruin his day.
'That bastard...first he let Asia die, then he almost made Rias lose her brother. And if that wasn't enough HE made her family turn against her!' The Hyoudou boy promised himself that he would never let Rias or anyone else close to him cry...but thanks to Kyuren, he failed.
He would've charged right up to that fucking asshole had he not remembered just who he was charging at.
It frustrated Issei that Kyuren was stronger but then, his stupid gear just had to rub it into his face!
*Flashback*
"Dammit!" Issei punched the wall and immediately regretted it as pain rushed up his arm. "Argh! Son of a bitch!"
Issei had failed again...he failed his friends again because he was too damn weak! He thought that he could save Rias from that fried chicken of a prick and he would've won that fight!
But then...that Kyuren just had to show up and steal his chance. And to top it all off, Kyuren almost killed Rias' own brother!
"That ruthless heartless bastard." He growled in rage. How dare he try and kill his King's brother like that! He really has no heart. "When I get the chance, I'll kick his ass so hard he's gonna wish he hadn't-"
"Ha! You can stop with your idiotic ramblings, boy. You and I both know you have no chance against him."
Issei jumped in surprise but then scowled at his right arm. "I don't need you to say anything so why don't you just shut up."
Draig had dealt with more than his fair share of very hardheaded and temperamental hosts before in one way or another, and he always made them heel.
"I'd be careful if I were you. You maybe my current host, but I can chose whether or not to help you in battle. Remember that."
"Then what do you want you stupid dragon?!"
The dragon let out an annoyed growl but decided to ignore his idiot host's slight...for now. "Out of all the hosts I've had over the years, you are by far the least impressive. Rather than hone your strength, you chase around women. And you wonder how you're mot getting stronger."
"Don't insult my passion!" Issei snarled in anger.
"I'll insult you whenever I like!" Draig snapped back. "Compared to my previous host, you are nothing more than an idiot pretending to be tough. You wield me, one of the two Heavenly Dragons, and yet you make almost no effort to harness my power! You have made a mockery of my title when you tried to save that red haired princess you call king! If given the chance, I'd have picked the human instead of you to be my host!"
That stunned Issei much more. His own gear wanted Kyuren instead of him? His shock quickly turned to anger as he bowed his head, a shadow casting over his eyes. "But I am training..."
"You are an even bigger idiot than I thought. Mere push ups and sit ups won't make you stronger and you can't even do fifteen of them. Your magic is shit and your fighting skills are even shittier. I can't believe I got you for a host."
Issei had had enough. "JUST SHUT THE FUCK UP!"
"It angers you, doesn't it? To see someone far superior to you when you should've been the one superior. Deep down, you envy his strength."
"Shut UP!"
"Fine, but know this, boy. You didn't earn any of what you have now, they were given to you on a fucking silver platter. If you don't curb that habit of yours and start taking this seriously...you will regret it."
Draig cut the connection and sighed. He meant everything he said about the boy. Until he can prove himself to be worthy in the Dragon's eyes, he will never let Issei call himself the Red Dragon Emperor.
He just couldn't understand why the hell he winds up with this boy. All he does is chase after women and leer at their bosoms. And when he is knocked down, he complains and whines about not being strong enough.
"Well, you might get stronger if you actually put an effort into it." The Welsh Dragon growled in annoyance.
If the boy wanted to becomes stronger, then he should get off his damn ass and do something about it. If not...sooner or later, someone is going to kill him.
*Present*
Issei gritted his teeth in frustration, he didn't like that his Sacred Gear said those things to him. What the hell does that thing know anyway? He was doing everything he can to get stronger but it just wasn't working!
'Who cares what that bastard says...I'll become stronger with or without his help...and I'll kick Kyuren's ass.'
While the so called Red Dragon Emperor seethed, another was thinking about something else.
Kiba had a far away look in his eyes. While it is true that he was also troubled - disturbed even - by the frightening display of strength and speed of Kyuren when he took out Sirzechs, recent developments however demanded his attention.
'How could I have forgotten...my whole reason for living..?' He asked himself. How could he have forgotten the things he went through...the things his comrades went through?
This reminded him of all the pain he went through...it reminded him of his one true purpose in living - vengeance.
The far away look was soon replaced with cold sharp eyes that craved for one thing Kiba wanted most, revenge against those that did him wrong.
When he had heard of the Holy Sword Project, everything came rushing back to him. All the horrors those monsters put him through...and for what...just so they can find out if they can make artificial Holy Sword Wielders.
All of the test subjects died...except for him. Kiba didn't know if it was just a sick joke or anything, but his comrades sacrificed themselves for him to live. He swore right then and there that he would avenge them, and now...
Avenge them he shall. No matter the cost.
KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!
They were cut from their musings by the knockings from the door.
Rias knew that it could only be Sona so she immediately consented their entry. "Come in." No sooner had she said that, the Sitri heiress came in with her own peerage.
"Thank you for having us here, Rias." Sona sent a single nod towards her longtime friend. "We have much to discuss."
"Indeed we have." Rias sighed with a nod. "Please, take a seat. Akeno, would you please get some tea for our guests."
Akeno bowed with a small smile. "Of course, Rias." She said before going on her way.
After a few minutes of silence, Sona looked at her friend, worry clear in her eyes. Rias looked extremely stressed out as she looked exhausted. "Is everything all right, Rias?"
"To tell you the truth, Sona...I don't think everything's all right." The Gremory heiress said warily. "We've made mistakes and we're paying for them." Sona could only nod at that. "But we have more pressing matters."
"Yes, the inevitable attack of Kokabiel against us." Everyone instantly became serious. "Thanks to Kyuren, we know that he's coming so that gives us time to plan and prepare."
"The Devil Kings already know about this and are preparing their forces, the Fallen Angels have tipped us off and we assume that they will get involved any further, but we don't know if - or rather when - will the church will come and investigate." Tsubaki continued for her king.
All those present thought about it.
Akeno hummed and decided to say her piece. "It has been a few days since then and the Angels have probably figured it out by now."
"And we can only assume that Kokabiel has left a trail leading back here when he stole the Holy Swords." Rias said and the others nodded. She then saw that her knight tensed at the mention of those swords.
She looked at him in sympathy. Worried of how Kiba was handling all of this given his brutal past with the Holy Sword Project.
"So what are we going to do?" Issei asked, ready to spring into action.
"As of now, nothing." Sona said but before she could say anything further, Issei interrupted her.
"Why not?!"
The Sitri heiress gave him a cold glare that made him flinch and back down. Rias massaged her temples, getting quite annoyed with her pawn's impulsiveness. "As I was saying, we cannot take action now because it risks tipping off Kokabiel of our plans. It is better to make him believe that we are oblivious for now so we can take him by surprise when the time comes but we will still need to be careful. There is no telling what his agents will do."
At that, everyone nodded in agreement. "So I guess the plan is for us to be the bait and hold out long enough for reinforcements to come." Rias surmised.
Sona nodded. "Pretty much."
"All right, but what about those that come from the church. We'll have to expect that they're less than friendly towards us."
"We'll plan accordingly, but for now, I think we have nothing more to talk about."
"Right." Rias nodded and bid her friend farewell and they left the ORC room. Once they were out, Rias released a weary sigh. "What a mess..."
Akeno smiled a little in sympathy. "Don't worry, Rias, we'll get through this. Now, why don't you get some rest."
"I suppose you're right."
Kiba stood up. "I'm sorry, Rias, but I have to go." The Knight said neutrally and turned towards the door.
"Kiba, wait!" She called out, but he was already out of the door. The Gremory heiress feared that this would happen and sighed.
*A Few Days Later*
Dulio was right, he really should have stayed back in Brazil. The Joker of the Archangel Michael let out of tired and frustrated sigh as he led his two...companions.
Who were the ones following him? Why, they were Xenovia Quarta and Irina Shidou. Dulio had the illustrious privilege to lead them in their first mission for the church. Ha! Yeah right.
The Joker was about ready to pull his damn hair and ears out. Ever since he met these two, they done almost nothing but stare at him with awe...subtly at times, obvious most.
Dulio knew he was practically a celebrity in the church. He was respected for his strength, fighting ability, and is widely regarded as Heaven's Trump Card...and with good reason.
While it was certainly flattering and he appreciated the praise all the same, Dulio would rather just go about his own carefree lifestyle than be put into the spotlight. Being the hero is such a drag anyway.
But these two...they tried to hide it well, but he knew that they were practically squealing inside.
That's why he always prefers to work alone.
'Well, no point in complaining about it now. We're here and we got a job to do.' Dulio sighed to himself as they, in fact, were now in Japan. More specifically, Kuoh.
"So...this is the territory of the enemy." Xenovia said with a hint of disdain in her voice. "These poor people that live here...they don't know what lurks among them."
"Oh, you're right Xenovia!" Irina spoke in her usual chipper tone. "But don't worry. In the name of our Lord, we'll be sure to save them from their unwitting prison."
"I pray we do before it is too late for their souls."
And that was another reason why he didn't like these two that much. While they were definitely skilled with their Holy Swords, they were still practically new to the...business.
These two, especially Xenovia, saw the workings of the world as black and white. They think that all devils were this evil dark and cruel entities that must be hunted down in the name of God. Literature and arts has certainly given them that light.
Most of them were actually very pleasant company.
Well...he couldn't really blame them for that kind of mindset. After all, he was also like that when he was young.
They'll grow out of it, Dulio was sure, but right now, he just hoped that they could keep the insults down. He didn't need these two annoying the sisters of the Devil Kings out of spite.
They were here to warn them about Kokabiel and possibly work together in stopping him and get the swords back. Not piss them off.
"Remember you two, we're not here to fight the Devils. Like I said a thousand times, they're not the enemy...for once." Dulio said as they continued their trek towards the Academy.
"Yes, Lord Dulio." Irina and Xenovia said at the same time.
"But I still do not trust them." The Wielder of Excalibur Destruction said. "We may come in the name of peace, but they are still the enemies of the church. We cannot trust them."
"Noted." The Joker sighed. 'I swear, I'll get those two back for this.' He grumbled, thinking about how was he going to get some payback from Uriel and Raphael.
"Hey, isn't that the place?" Irina pointed in front of them.
Dulio nodded. "Yeah, that's it. Kuoh Academy. Let's pick up the pace."
"Of course, Lord Dulio."
'Good, because people are starting to stare at us.' The Joker muttered to himself. Indeed, people were beginning to look strangely at them...or more specifically, the two girls he was with.
From experience, Dulio knew that his church clothes could attract him some unwanted attention from people while walking around town. So he wore casual stuff while in public. But Irina and Xenovia did not seem to get the message.
They wore cloaks over their...um...skin tight battle suits. Calling him 'lord' was bad enough, but if people saw those two in those outfits and were following him...
They might get a few bright ideas. And Dulio sure as hell didn't want that.
Sona and Tsubaki were making their rounds around the school when they felt something that they knew all too well. Tsubaki turned and her eyes widened in surprise. "Sona, look."
The Sitri heiress looked to where her queen was and she was extremely surprised to see that Dulio Gesualdo, the Ace of Heaven, was here.
She had expected some exorcists or angels to be sent here, but she didn't expect him of all people to he sent here. "This is surprising. We might as well go and find out what they want." She said and her queen nodded.
Dulio motioned for his companions to stop as they saw the sister of Serafall Leviathan was coming towards them. "Okay, you two. Just keep quiet and let me do the talking."
It looked like Xenovia wanted to protest but stilled her tongue and gave a simple nod. But just in case, her sword was at the ready of these Devils tried anything funny. Irina also nodded.
The Joker sighed in relief before facing the two approaching Devils. "Hello there. You must be Sona Sitri and you must be her queen." He gave a friendly smile to each of them. "I'm Dulio and these two are Xenovia Quarta and Irina Shidou."
Sona and Tsubaki nodded. They expected that the church would be a little hostile towards them, but they weren't complaining in the slightest. "A pleasure. Is there something the church wants from us?" She asked, playing the oblivious card.
At that, Dulio's cheerful expression turned serious,It would appear that they didn't know yet. "We need to talk about something very important. When and where can we meet?"
The two Devils glanced at each other before turning back to the Joker. "After the school day is finished. I'll arrange for the meeting with Rias and myself. It will take place in the Student Council Room."
Satisfied with the arrangements, Dulio nodded his head. "Until then." With that, he and his companions turned to leave.
As the agents of the church left, Sona and Tsubaki turned back towards the school. "Assemble everyone for this, as well as Kyuren. He also needs to hear this. I'll inform Rias about this myself."
"At once, Sona."
It was the end of the school day and Rias and Sona were waiting for their guests to arrive along with their peerage. They needed to hear what the agents of the Angels had to say and what they actually knew.
The Gremory heiress tapped her fingers on her lap, feeling a little sad. 'Kiba...I hope you're okay...' She whispered to herself. Lately, her knight had been acting distracted. Especially when they faced off against a stray.
He wasn't focused and Koneko was slightly injured. After she berated him for not being focused, Rias asked what was the matter with him.
Kiba only apologized and left.
Her knight has yet to make an appearance and Rias was beginning to worry about him.
"They're here." Koneko announced and everyone stopped their own musings. A few seconds later, there was a knock on the door.
"You may enter." Sona announced (since this was the SC room) and came in their esteemed guests.
Everyone was on edge when the three entered, but they managed to control themselves.
"Well, this is one nice pad. Love what you've done to the place." Dulio smiled in greeting at their hosts as Xenovia just kept a stoic expression while Irina greeted them warmly.
"Oh, this is so wonderful. Hello there, Devils. Normally, we'd have killed you all but - Oh my god, is that you Issei?!" Irina shouted in surprise, pointing at the boy who was equally surprised.
"Uhhh...do I know you?" Issei asked awkwardly. Don't get him wrong, this chick was banging hot and he wouldn't mind getting in a little peek. But who was she and why did she know him?
"You don't remember me? We used to play together when we were kids!" Irina smiled brightly. "You know, we were best friends!"
Issei was still confused but he will have to think about it later when Sona spoke. "We'll have to cut your reunion short. For now, we have more important matters to discuss."
Dulio nodded while also thinking that they may actually leave here without any conflict. That's good because the sooner this gets done, the sooner he can go back to his food quests.
"Right, but let us introduce ourselves first. My name is Dulio Gesualdo, Joker of Lord Michael." He said before turning to Xenovia. "And this is Xenovia Quarta..." The aforementioned girl gave a curt nod. "And you already know Irina."
"Hi!"
Rias let out a small smile. "Well, it's a pleasure to meet you all. But I'm curious, what business does the church have here?"
"We came here to warn you." Dulio said seriously. "Five days ago, a group of Fallen Angels came to the Vatican and managed to steal all but three of the Excalibur swords." Sona and Rias nodded, motioning for the Joker to continue. "We found out who was behind all of this and he's Kokabiel, a real piece of work and Valper Galilei, the former head of the Holy Sword Project."
"And what would they be after?"
"We don't know for sure, but I think he wants to start another war. That's something nobody wants and my superiors have ordered me here to warn you guys."
Rias and Sona looked at each other, having a silent conversation. "I see...it's a bit strange that the Angels would help us like this."
Dulio shrugged. "Yeah, but this guy's gunning for us to kill each other again. I think that's reason enough for us to make a temporary truce."
"Fair points." Rias nodded. "We'll be sure to take this up the chain. But I don't think you're here for just that reason."
Before Dulio could say anything, Xenovia beat him to it. "Yes, we were also ordered to search and retrieve the stolen swords. And for that, we kindly request that you Devils stay out of our way or we will be forced to use lethal force."
The Devils narrowed their eyes at the not-so-subtle threat as Dulio face palmed. "Xenovia, would you please put a cork in it." He grumbled before turning to Rias and Sona with a sheepish expression. "Sorry for that, these two are new to the trade."
"Hmph, you don't say." Everyone turned to the door and saw that the Mighty Kyuren himself has arrived.
Rias didn't know what to think about Kyuren after what he did to her brother. She should be angry with him but she had time to think and realized that her brother was in the wrong...they were in the wrong.
She may not like it, but she could not in good conscience fault him for that. She was just thankful her brother was still breathing. But it doesn't mean Rias doesn't feel a bit of resentment towards him.
He almost killed her brother, that was pretty damn good way to make someone dislike you.
Issei glared at Kyuren. He wanted to pound his face in but knew better. He knew that he was still too damn weak to do anything against Kyuren.
The raven haired teen was just too strong!
Dulio looked at the newcomer in curiosity. Who was this guy? Better yet, why was he here in the first place? What business does he have here of all places?
Xenovia and Irina were also looking at the newcomer with curiosity...well, suspicion in Xenovia's case.
Kyuren walked into the room and cast a brief glance at the three new faces. 'Hmm...so these are the ones the church sends...either they're really good or they're short on who to send.' He thought to himself.
The two girls in cloaks look like they've seen some action, but he doubted they got into any serious scraps. The other looks like a full fledged warrior - this must be the leader of the bunch.
Well, at the very least, that was his initial assessment.
"I'm sorry, but who are you?" Dulio asked as he watched the human go over to the Devils' side. 'This guy could be another devil? But...I don't feel any kind of magic from him.'
"His name is Kyuren. He's an...associate of ours." Sona said and turned to her partner. "Kyuren, this is Dulio Gesualdo, Xenovia Quarta, and Irina Shidou. They're the ones that the church has sent."
The raven haired teen gave a curt nod. "A pleasure."
"Hi, nice to meet you." Irina greeted him cheerfully before turning towards Sona. "Is he one of your servants?" She asked that got the human to scoff in amusement.
Sona shook her head. "No, he is an associate of mine. And before you ask, he is not a Devil nor is he a Supernatural. He is human."
Dulio was surprised at that. How can a human be friendly with the sisters of two Devil Kings (technically, one of them is). He looked at Kyuren and began to sense if he truly was human...he was. There was something going on here, but what?
Unfortunately, his two companions didn't see it that way and weren't exactly thrilled to hear it.
"So you have corrupted another of God's children." Xenovia muttered and turned to Kyuren. "You have made a terrible sin in associating yourself with the enemies of God."
'...What?'
"Your soul has already been tainted by the wickedness. As such, it would only be mercy to end your suffering."
'Wow, this is really happening.'
"But there is still hope for you to repent your sins. Come with us and we shall cleanse your soul of the darkness that lurks within. I am sure God will forgive you if you do."
'Hmm...I don't know whether to knock her lights out or laugh...probably both.'
Kyuren stared at the blue haired girl for a second before chuckling. "Hehe, thank you for the offer, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to decline." His courteous reply. Although it would be very amusing to watch this devout servant of God preach, there was no point in it. Kyuren just wanted this to end as soon as possible and go home.
Xenovia bowed her head but before she could say anything that will definitely get them into a whole new world of hurt, Dulio stopped her.
"That is enough. We are not here to make enemies so control yourselves." To add to the effect, the Joker gave them two of them a stern glare that made the two back off. "Again, I'm sorry for their behavior."
Kyuren just waved him off. "No problem. All right, have you told them yet?" He asked Sona who shook her head.
"No, we wanted to know what they know before we show them."
Now Dulio, Xenovia, and Irina were intrigued. "What are you talking about?" Irina asked.
Tsubaki pulled put the information that was given to them by Kyuren. "This." She handed the folder to the Heavenly trio and they began sifting through it.
A few minutes of reading later, the three can honestly say that they were surprised. It looked like the leaders of the Fallen Angels themselves wanted Kokabiel gone if they gave this kind of information to the Devils.
"So...we came all this way for nothing, huh?" Dulio chuckled. "Now I really wished I should've stayed home." He almost whined out.
Kyuren internally smirked. 'You and me both, brother.'
"Not necessarily." Sona said that made Dulio, Xenovia, and Irina to look at her. "We both don't want Kokabiel to succeed and you want the stolen Holy Swords back. Our interests are aligned."
Dulio thought about it. The Sitri heiress was practically suggesting that they work together against a common enemy. Well, it had been done before when the two Heavenly Dragons ran rampant that forced the Three Great Powers to make a truce to stop them.
Why can't it happen now? Besides, it's a win-win situation in his book anyway. They get rid of Kokabiel - and Valper if that snake doesn't slither his way out - and they get the Holy Swords back.
"Very well. I accept the arrangement." Dulio agreed. "But...I have to ask...how did you get this information in the first place?"
All eyes turned to Kyuren who sighed. "I was given the information by Raynare and-"
"THAT BITCH?!" Everyone turned to Issei who was absolutely seething. "You got this from that bitch and you bought whatever sob story she coughed up?!" He was about to say more when a withering glares from Kyuren, Rias, and Sona made him shut up.
"As I was saying, a Fallen Angel by the name of Raynare gave me the information. Without it, we would've woefully ill prepared."
Dulio nodded. "And what happened that got him all worked up about her?" He nodded his head towards Issei.
Rias was about to answer when Issei beat her too it. "That fucking bitch killed Asia to get her Sacred Gear. Because of her, one of my friends is dead!" He growled in absolute rage.
For some reason, Kyuren felt ticked off when Issei called Raynare a bitch and had a sudden urge to pummel him to a literal pulp. As tempting as that was, he squashed down that urge...for now.
Xenovia felt that name was somehow familiar to her. "Asia? Do you mean Asia Argento? Is she the one you're referring to?"
"Yeah! I could've saved her..."
"Hm...I am glad you weren't able to." At her blunt statement, Issei and pretty much everyone turned to her in surprise. "Asia Argento was branded a witch and a heretic because she could heal not only human and Angels, but also Devils and Fallen Angels as well. Such things are unacceptable."
Issei couldn't believe what he was hearing. These guys were supposed to be from the church, how could they say such things?! "How...how could you say something like that?! Don't you feel anything?!"
"I have never met Asia directly, but I have heard of her." Xenovia then bowed her head. "It is a shame that she was branded a heretic. She possessed a pure heart, willing to help anyone in need. One could not be better suited as a saint. But she betrayed the church so she deserves death."
Issei couldn't take it anymore and snapped. "NO ONE TALKS ABOUT ASIA LIKE THAT!" He roared and was about to pounce the blue haired girl when he was levitated off the ground by Rias. "LET ME GO! I'M GONNA TEACH THIS BITCH A FUCKING LESSON!"
"Calm down, Issei!" Rias commanded, but her pawn would not listen.
Dulio shook his head in disapproval. He knows everyone is entitled to their opinions, but for God sakes, that was taking it too far. "Xenovia, that was not a very nice thing to say."
"I am only stating the fact, Lord Dulio."
Kyuren sighed. 'Hypocrisy...such a wonderful thing.'
"You think you can just talk crap like that and not get away with?!" Issei pointed a finger at Xenovia. "Let's see how good you are when I'm pounding your skull in!"
"Is that a challenge?" The blue haired swordswoman asked, getting quite annoyed by this buffoon's ravings.
"Perfect. I was about to ask you the same thing." Everyone turned to the door and were surprised to see Kiba there. None more so than his own peerage.
Xenovia raised a brow at the other newcomer. "And whom might you be?"
"Your superior. Nice to meet you."
Seeing this new development, Dulio face palmed. "Just great. Are there anymore guys gonna pop up outta nowhere?"
(We all know how that shit goes down so I won't be including it)
Well, it was certainly a hard fought battle but...oh who was going to believe that, Issei and Kiba were totally floored by the two Holy Sword Users.
Kiba put up quite the fight, but was ultimately defeated by Xenovia. As well as Issei because of his anger and his abysmal strength.
Kyuren just shook his head. This was such a waste of precious time...and why was he here anyway? It wasn't like he was needed here.
And to top it all off, Issei's perversion hit an all time high when he saw him blow away Momo and Ruruka's clothes off when he made a go for Irina.
Needless to say, all he got was a mean left hook from a very pissed off Saji.
Dulio came forward. "All right, all right, you two had your fun, now let's get the hell out of here. I'm really tired now." To reinforce his claim, the Joker let out a loud yawn.
"Not yet, Lord Dulio." Xenovia said. "I wish to test him..." She pointed her sword, Excalibur Destruction, at Kyuren. "In combat." (Poor girl doesn't know what she's getting into)
This surprised everyone as they weren't expecting this, Kyuren however, just raised a brow in interest. Sona was about to retort when Kyuren made himself known.
"And why would you want to fight me?"
"Because I am curious. The sisters of the Devil Kings would not just let any human within their ranks without proper cause. And this way, I may deliver you to God for repentance."
Sona stiffened at that. 'She's basically going to try and kill him.' No, she couldn't let this happen. She will not let her partner do this just so some crazy person gets 'God to forgive him'. "The agreement was that you could fight Issei and Kiba. You've already won." She said but it fell on deaf ears as Xenovia waited for his answer.
Kyuren just sighed. He really wasn't in the mood for any of this and just wanted to go home, get some dinner, and sleep. "Nah, I think I'll pass."
"Hmph, very well then." The blue haired swordswoman shouldered her sword. "As I expected from someone who sold their souls to the Devils. You're nothing but a weak minded fool."
Everyone stiffened at what Xenovia just said. Oh, she had just said something she shouldn't have. They all looked warily at Kyuren who had adopted a look of neutrality.
Though he may not like it when someone calls him weak, this was different in a way. This girl had implied that either Sona or Rias was controlling him - sold his soul to them if you will.
Let it be known that no one can command him but himself. Anyone who tries to will taste the bite of his wrath. And this one needs to be taught a very clear lesson to NOT underestimate him.
Kyuren took off his overcoat and scarf before handing it to Sona. "Hold onto these for me." Sona wordlessly took it and he nodded at her before turning back to his challenger.
"You want to fight?" Kyuren cracked his neck. "Well, you got it." He said before walking towards his opponent.
Dulio wanted to stop this, he really did. But something was telling him to just sit and watch. He may have sensed no trace of magic within Kyuren...but he sensed something else...something powerful.
Hell, he could see it in his eyes. An underlying power and the scary part was, he could sense no limit to it. And besides, when Xenovia made the challenge, he saw the Devils stiffen.
There was really something peculiar here. No Devil would be this wary of anyone, much less a human. Not unless they have a very good reason.
So for now...he would observe.
"Do yo think Xenovia will win this?" Irina asked curiously.
"Normally, yes. But...we'll just have to watch."
Xenovia was staring down Kyuren, trying to get a measure of her opponent. But she was a bit confused as his relaxed posture. There were so many openings that she could exploit right now so why doesn't he get serious?
"Are you not going to defend yourself?" She asked him.
Kyuren just gave a nonchalant shrug. "Are you just going to stand there? C'mon, Miss Stick-Up-Her-Ass, show me what you got."
Xenovia narrowed her eyes at that comment. "Very well then. May you find peace in God's embrace!" With that, she charged at Kyuren with her sword ready to cleave him in half.
Kyuren just stood there with a smug smirk as he watched Xenovia charge at him, amused. She swung her sword aimed at his neck as time seemed to slow down for both of them.
'Oh Lord, please grant this wayward soul forgiveness for his sins.' She prayed.
SHING!
'Amen.' It was over, victory was hers.
But...why hasn't she heard of a body falling and a head rolling?
Turning back, she was shocked to find him still standing with his back to her. 'H-How is this possible?!' There should be no way for him to be alive! Not after a strike like that!
Just then, his form began to fade into nothing that took Xenovia, Dulio, and Irina by surprise. "What trickery is this?" The blue haired swordswoman asked until she heard someone clearing his throat.
"A killing blow already. You really want me dead, huh?"
Xenovia instantly turned towards the sound and her eyes widened in surprise to see Kyuren standing there unharmed. But she managed to shake off her surprise and glared at him. "I do not know what you did, but it will not save you!" She once again charged at him. "Raaaah!" She swiped her sword at him but he merely leaned back and she followed it up with a spinning kick that he ducked under.
Seeing her chance, Xenovia went for an upward slash. It connected. It was all over...until his image faded again.
"Not bad at all, Quarta." Kyuren said from behind her and she turned around to see him looking at her with bored eyes. "But you're going to have to do better than that."
Xenovia hissed, her anger growing. He was mocking her. "Don't worry. I have yet to get started."
'He made afterimages...if so, he's fast...very fast.' Dulio said to himself, looking over this battle. Sona said that he was human yet he was capable of this kind of speed? That should be impossible... Could he possess a Sacred Gear?
The raven haired teen will admit that the girl was indeed skilled. Alas, it will never be enough to defeat him. He might as well end this now...but he might as well milk this for whatever it was worth.
"If you want to kill me, then come and get me." Kyuren held out his hand and made a 'just bring it' gesture that made Xenovia grit her teeth.
Xenovia jumped high into the air and brought her sword down onto where Kyuren was who managed to jump away as the ground caved in around her. Using this as her chance. the blue haired swordswoman began a relentless assault against her opponent.
She was hacking and slashing away, trying to land a solid blow and end this, but it was like he knew every move she was making. Like water, he was weaving in and out of her strike. It was getting quite annoying.
As this was going on, the spectators were having their own little display. For the Devils, this was nothing new to them because Kyuren had already proven how powerful he is. But for the other two, it was surprising.
Irina had her mouth wide open as she saw her friend was having trouble landing even one hit on this guy. How was that possible, Xenovia was the better one at swordplay than her?!
Dulio just scowled. Something was really not right here. Kyuren possessed incredible speed and skill as he dodged every attack Xenovia was throwing at him.
"Haaah!" She made another swing at him, but the raven haired teen just flipped away. She was breathing heavily while it looked like this one was still as fresh as ever. This has gone on long enough! "Stand and fight me!"
The raven haired teen raised a brow before shrugging. This just further irritates her and she once again charged at him. But then, she felt something was terribly off that made her jump back.
"She...She backed off?" Irina muttered.
"She did." Dulio nodded.
'W-What was that? He was wide open, but why did I back off like that. It's as if my instincts were screaming at me to back off or else.' Xenovia thought to herself.
Kyuren was amused. "You're wondering why you backed off like that, aren't you?" He asked that them her look at him. "Well, maybe it's because I thought about attacking that time and you might've been killed. Good instincts."
Xenovia could feel her heart pounding in her chest as sweat began to form. This exertion was now taking its toll on her. She can't keep this up for long.
"That may be. But it won't stop me." With that, she again charged at him.
Kyuren gave a dark smirk. "Oh, but it will."
Xenovia went for a stab but the raven haired teen side stepped out of the way. Seeing his own opportunity, he thrust his fingers to her shoulder area – the deltoid.
She felt a sting where the hit struck, but nothing she could not handle, and made swung her sword in retaliation. Kyuren ducked under it and hit her back the back, making her stumble.
Despite it all, Xenovia couldn't help but smirk. "Was that supposed to hurt?" But her smirk was gone when her sword clamored to the ground.
Kyuren let out a smirk of his own. "There was a nerve bundle in your deltoid. It might not have hurt, but you won't be moving that arm for a while."
Xenovia paled and looked at her right arm – it was hanging limply at her side. She tried to move it, but she couldn't even feel it.
"Maybe you should just give up."
In response, the blue haired beauty grabbed her sword with her remaining arm and glared at him. "Never! RAAAH!"
"Suit yourself."
The raven haired teen had finally enough of this little game and decided it was time to end it. When she came close and swung her sword, Kyuren made a grab for her arm and applied pressure to it.
Xenovia grunted in pain as her sword was forced from her grip but before she could do anything, Kyuren proceeded to place her in a modified cross-arm breaker that made her scream in agony.
"AARRGH!" Xenovia Struggled with what remained of her strength but she couldn't break free. The raven haired teen applied more pressure to her joint that pushed it to the very limit. Having no choice, Xenovia yielded or risk having her arm broken. "I yield! I yield!"
No sooner did she say that, Kyuren released her arm as Xenovia rolled away.
Irina was instantly on her friend, tending to her as Dulio scowled at Kyuren. 'Fast enough to create afterimages and skilled enough to toy with a Holy Sword User. Not only that, but it appears Sona and Rias…hell, every one of them are wary of him to some degree. The heads should hear this.'
"You might want to get her arm checked. I think I felt something crack." Well, it's no surprise really. With his strength…
Irina looked at him before nodding. "We will. Thank you for not hurting her anymore."
"Hmm, now. Is there anything else?" He asked, specifically looking at Dulio.
The Joker wanted to ask who the hell this human was but Xenovia needed to heal first. "No, we will be taking our leave. Thanks for the time to speak with us." As Dulio and Irina helped the beaten Xenovia to her feet he couldn't help but feel that this was just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to that guy.
But unknown to them, somewhere in the shadows, a certain white haired half-devil was looking at Kyuren with interest.
"It's a shame my arch rival is such a disappointment, isn't it, Albion?"
"Yes, I can't believe I'm saying this, but I pity the Red One for his misfortune."
"Indeed, but that one seems strong and skilled." He chuckled. "Things are finally getting interesting in this boring world."
With that, he vanished into the dark.
The raven haired teen sighed, glad that it was over. He turned to Sona as she handed him his coat and scarf back. "Thanks for holding onto this for me." He gave her a small smile.
Sona returned it briefly before it was gone. "You do realize you've revealed yourself to the Angels, right?"
"I know…but it's going to happen anyway now." Her partner gave her a haphazard shrug. "Why bother now?"
Sona sighed. "I suppose you're right." Just then, she saw Kiba was leaving. "Where do you think you're going, Kiba?"
"What I should've done a long time ago. I'm going to find Excalibur…and destroy them." He replied with conviction. The defeat he suffered would not stop him. He will get his revenge even if it kills him.
Rias scowled. "If you think I'm just going to let you go that easily, you're sadly mistaken. You are a member of my household." She said sternly before her expression softened. "Kiba, I know you want retribution for what happened to you, but you don't have to leave."
Kiba bowed his head. He owed Rias his life for saving his life. But...he had to do this. "I'm sorry, Rias. But I'm afraid I have to." He was about to leave when he was stopped by Kyuren.
"You're not leaving here, Kiba." The raven haired teen declared. "I won't allow it." They all looked at him in surprise for that.
While he understood that the blonde boy was angry, he was thinking irrationally. Kyuren could not allow him to leave because it would jeapordize the plan. Kiba was an asset in this and they can ill afford to lose one. And besides, there's a chance that Kiba would slip up and inadvertantly tip the enemy off.
If so, he would become a loose end...and loose ends need to be tied up. But Kyuren would like to avoid that if he can help it. He wasn't looking forward to all the damn drama if he has to kill Kiba.
"And who's going to stop me?" Kiba challenged, turning to Kyuren with his sword in hand. "You?"
The raven haired teen crossed his arms over his chest and raised an eyebrow at the Gremory Knight. "Really? Put that sword down before you do something you will regret."
Kiba glared at him for a few seconds, briefly entertaining the thought of attacking him. But (wisely) decided against it and dispelled his sword. He was no match for Kyuren's might.
"You don't understand why I have to do this. You have no idea what they did to us." Kiba said. "Do you know what it feels like to believe that you were doing something that matters and then you find out you're nothing more than a disposable guinea pig? And when the project failed, those monsters decided that we were useless…and had us all put to death by gas. The only reason why I'm alive is through the sacrifice of my fallen comrades. They gave me the chance to live…I swore that I would avenge their death. And I will no matter the cost."
At the end of his speech, almost everyone was looking at him in sympathy. They couldn't image what he was feeling right now, but there was a problem. Almost everyone.
Kyuren had a neutral expression as he listened to Kiba's tale. Quite frankly, he was unimpressed. "They used you." Everyone looked at him as he walked towards Kiba. "Brainwashed you. Experimented on you. Took away everything you ever loved and left you broken." He got into his face. "Cry me a river."
Everyone was taken aback by his word. Didn't he just hear what Kiba had went through?
The Gremory Knight glared at the mighty human but before he could say his words, Kyuren cut him off. "I know you want revenge, I get that. But there is a time and a place for it, this is not one of them."
"And what do you want me to do?" Kiba growled. "Just get over it and move one?"
"No." Kiba looked at him in surprise. "I understand your need for revenge but this is not the way. You will get the vengeance you want, I promise you that, but you must be patient." Kyuren took a step back. "Let them come to you, on your terms instead of theirs so you have a better chance of succeeding."
Kiba soaked in his words. Even though every fiber of his being was screaming at him to go and hunt down the bastards that took everything from him, but after hearing Kyuren's words…he was thinking at this differently. While he was fully prepared to die to get what he wants, he very much prefers to live to tell about it.
And the idea of letting them come on his terms when he is prepared and ready…it was a sweet thought.
"All right." Kiba had made his decision. "I will stay. Thank you for making me see reason."
"Yeah, you better head back to your king. You've got a lot of things to say." With that, he turned around and began to take his long overdue leave.
DING!
Kyuren sighed as he exited the elevator to his suite. Today has been a very long between school, those three exorcists or whatever and the drama of Kiba, he just wanted to get to bed and sleep it all away.
The raven haired teen opened door and began taking off his shoes. He briefly wondered if he should bring up to his parents about moving to a more practical location instead of a penthouse suite.
Don't get him wrong, he really likes it here, but he always has to go to the goddamn top floor to reach his pad. And not to mention the parking.
'Maybe I'll call them tonight. I've been looking up some houses and I got a few in mind.' He said to himself as he entered his home.
"Pip, I home." He announced to his beloved cat but he didn't hear her usual reply. "Pip, are you sleeping again? If you are, you won't get dinner."
"Oh, don't worry about your cat." Kyuren froze when he heard someone speak and whirled around to find as swirling mass of black feathers in the living room that made him cover his eyes.
When he uncovered them, he was met with…
"I am Azazel. The leader of the Fallen Angels. It's nice to finally meet the human who nearly killed Sirzechs Lucifer.
Omake:
There were not a lot of things that can bother Kyuren. But this particular especially bothered him so. The raven haired teen was staring intensly on the thing that bothered, worried, and annoyed him to no fucking end.
An empty fridge.
"Når var siste gang jeg gikk dagligvare shopping?" ("When was the last time I went grocery shopping?")He wondered outloud. Oh…it was about three weeks ago…
He was cut from his musing when he felt Pip trying to get his attention. "Meew! Meew!" Apparently, she was also bothered by the lack of food in the fridge.
"I know, I know. Tis a sad day to be us." He uttered solemnly before slamming the door shut.
AN:
Here's the newest chapter, lads and lasses. I hope you liked it. What do you think about the fight with Xenovia and Kyuren? Or this chapter in general?
Also if you have some suggestions, feel free to say it. I'll be happy to hear it.