Chapter 25. Days before the Meeting

It was the next day after I visit Sona and ask about the meeting. When I going home the Church contact me and said that they had made their decision and they also wish to meet me as soon as possible

So in next morning, right now, I agree to meet them. I already ask permission from Sona and she allow it. So here I am now, finishing some food I make to welcome the Church

"Ah! Issei-kun! Your food smell good as always!" Dulio said happily as he take seat and grinning at me while I place set of cookies in front of him

I only give him strained smile, as much I love people praise my food but the way Dulio express it was bordering to creepy. Still, this guy had travel from far away just to eat at my place so I have to be polite at least

"I bake more for you actually Dulio-san so you could pack it home. So feel free to eat." I replied as I remove my apron and take seat as well

Dulio hearing that grinned and give me look that filled with joy "Ah! You really kind man Issei-kun! Please call me Dulio! You had done so much thing for me!"

"I only making you food." I said dryly and he nodded

"Yes you are!" Dulio replied, his tone was stern and his face also slight serious as if I just save his life. Apparently he didn't notice my sarcasm or try to ignore it, and if you ask me I think it was the latter. He take bite to the cookie then let out pleasant sound, then he give me smile, a handsome and charming smile and would make woman melt

It make me want to puke

"Issei-kun, I love you with all of my heart. Let's get marr-"

THWACK!

Whatever he going to say was turned to yelp as Griselda smacked his head with irritated expression, apparently she found his antic annoying enough much to my appreciation

"Ignore him Hyoudou-san." Griselda said to me while shooting glare to Dulio who rubbing the lump on his head painfully "We appreciate the food you serve and give to us, but as you see we in hurry, the Church apparently call us for emergency meeting. And they decide to agree with your demand." She stated as she pull out something from her then place it in table for me

I spare glance to it, it was a cross. It color was blue mixed with silver metalic, making it looks like an glass of blue ice. In middle of it was emerald green colored jewel that seems shine in dark, this cross was crafted so beautiful even I found it was forged with very good

And coming from me who had very good Structural Grasp and EMIYA memories, that was mean something

"This cross is not ordinary." Griselda said, obviously you could tell just by looking at it "It was given only to few members of Church, Dulio here has one." I turned to Dulio who pull the same cross from his pocket and show it to me, then I turn back to Griselda "That was a symbol, a special badge that given to people of Church that could travel free in our area. If you show it to our people they will notice it, ask to them that you wish to talk with the one who lead in charge and tell your name to them. The Church will recognize it in instant

"That would answer the second demand you wish, you will have your own freedom when you hunting and when you crossed path with us, we will give you chance to speak and negotiated to us instead jumping to conclusion."

I stare at the cross in table, I didn't need to ask how it would work and what about if this fake. This cross was made by something that Church only possess, it also couldn't be touched by dark creature due to it nature as holy artifact

"And the last, about the money. We could transfer it to your bank account but I doubt you have it so..." Griselda then pull one luggage then place it on table and make gesture for me to open it

I cast Structural Grasp on it first, ensuring does there trap or such thing in there and I found none. In fact what I found was something surprised. This was enhanced bag, a luggage that nearly bottomless and filled with money, very, very much money. Fresh nine billion US Dollar was inside this luggage

But still, I can't have them know that I knew this luggage with single glance. So I decide to humor her and open the luggage and see the fresh money

"I give my word as someone who devoted to God that this money was not fake and clean nine billion USA dollar." Griselda swear as she look into me with serious eyes

"I believe in you." I responded, my tone was sincere and I see Griselda smiled at that

"And this..." She pull out some parchment and give it to me "Is the Geis Scroll we prepared, since you already name your terms surely you won't mind if it us who made the Geis?"

I stare at the parchment, truthfully I did not mind. In fact it save me from problem making it. I read the term and make sure there nothing would made my position threatened, this one even have to be signed with blood. Heh, what could you say? To think Church would able made something that so pagan like this

I bite tips of my thumb, drawing blood by doing that and began to sign the contract. After that I hand it back to her and she took it

"Well, since you already give my demand then I will give yours." I said as I pull three long luggage that I placed behind sofa before the meeting and put it in table "Excalibur Nightmare, Excalibur Blessing and Excalibur Transparency. Check it first if you found flaw on it."

She did, she pull out the sword, eyeing every part of it like it some kind of doll and also try few swings to ensure the sword was real. After a moment she seems satisfied with it as she place it back into the sealed luggage and smiled at me

"Well, I guess we done then Hyoudou-san." Griselda said to me while smiling beautifully

"Yes, we done. Thank you, it was nice to make business with you." I replied with small smile too and I see Griselda smile dimmed slightly

"I really want to say 'same with us' but we know the truth wasn't." She stated dryly and I snorted, it seems the second demand actually give her quite headache "Anyway, since we done we will take our leave. There urgent matter in our base, Dulio and I was called for it."

Urgent matter huh? For some reason I sure it must be connected with the meeting that planned to be held. Does the Church already give their answer?

"I see... Well, take care then and I hope you have safe journey." I smiled politely to them "Oh, here the extra cookies. You could bring it back Dulio-san." I said as I hand him three box full of cookies, I made it last night quite much for him seeing he eat almost like Koneko and that was mean something seeing Dulio is Human

"Ah! Thank you Issei-kun!" Dulio chirped happily as he take the box while smiling like there no tomorrow "You really good guy! Hey, why don't you come with us? I sure everyone will-"

"We were in hurry Dulio." Griselda cut him and he pouted a bit at that. God, these two really something aren't they? "Hyoudou-san please take care your companion well okay? Especially the tomboy one." She said softly to me

I give her genuine smile. Since Xenovia and Asia not returning with them, it mean they would be labeled as 'Stray'. Even now they already are, that's the reason why they not here. Technically they supposed to be already leave and after Griselda went back there no doubt there will be hunter party assembled for them seeing Xenovia is the wielder of Durandal, something that rare

Griselda trying to protect them, giving them much time so they could prepared. This woman really one of kind isn't she?

"I will... I swear with my life." I replied and her smile become genuine as well

"Thank you..." She utter softly before she glanced at Dulio and give gesture to him

"Bye bye Issei-kun! I may be going to visit you later though sometime to get more food!" He said while wiggling his eyebrow and grinning to me

"Just make sure you not come in bad situation Dulio-san." I chuckled to him and he also let out small laugh

"Farewell... We will take our leave, see you next time Hyoudou-san." Griselda said as she walk to the door, followed by Dulio

I decide to walk them to the exist door, then watched as both of them leave. Well, that sealed my business with Church for now I guess, though I better prepared to meet one of them soon seeing they will come here to check whereabouts Xenovia and Asia flee

[Do you have anything to do after this Brat?]

Ddraig? Err, no I guess... Why?

[... Good, since you had nothing to do then we better start talking. I have something to show to you... Go to your room and take a look to mirror...]

I narrowed my eyes inwardly but follow it, closing the door I went to my room in here and stand in front of mirror like he told

[Summon your Boosted Gear...]

I did

However to my shock and surprise, the familiar red draconic gauntlet not appear on my right hand. My hand still there, bare and like normal! What happen?! Where it go?!

[... Open your shirt...]

Seeing right now I still confused, I decide to follow his order and ask question later. I lift up my shirt and stare at the reflection of me in mirror and-

"What the hell?!" I blurted out in shock

Scale... There scale on my body... A fricking scale! The one that you see in reptile kind! On both of shoulders, both sides of neck, they stretched to my upper arm! The scale color was slight red, almost like Boosted Gear gauntlet color

And in middle of my chest there gem, a fucking gem! A green emerald gem that usually latched to Boosted Gear

[So it really succeed huh?] Ddraig sounds amused and proud from my mind

What did you do?!

[Well... As you can see, your fighting stance actually not proficient with gauntlet. So I decide to give small... Alteration...]

Small alteration?

[Instead giving you gauntlet, I give you scale. I give you something that useful for your fighting style. It hard to alter it but yeah... It seems success.]

I stare at the scale that cover few parts of my body with astonishment. Rising my fingers I rub it and to my surprise, it not hard but it was like normal skin

[It not as strong as Balance Breaker, but bullet and normal flame won't even stung you. Heck! A lesser sword will break when hit you!] Ddraig remarked proudly [And you get minor regeneration as well even if you not active the Gear, not instant heal but at least you heal faster than normal, maybe... Four times faster than normal.]

Scale body that able to withstand flame and bullet, then followed by regeneration... Wow... Just... Wow... Ddraig, how you did this?! I mean, this is amazing!

[Well... Sacred Gear actually something that connected to your soul. The moment you born, it was latched to yours. However your Class-card, split them. The card slip itself between those two and formed a... Let just say something like bridge. It connected to Sacred Gear and soul at same time, that's why you see me in your Reality Marble and have that red colored grass fields and green sun.

[The truth I was already on your place before that Man there, I was trying to figure out maybe I could alter Boosted Gear into sub-species rather than have gauntlet form for you. You remember your fight with him? When you use Balance Breaker.]

I recall the fight with Hyoudou few days ago. For moment I didn't get it what Ddraig trying to said but I finally get it as I remember there something amiss with it, it was when I use Balance Breaker

[Exactly, your Balance Breaker should make you able to [Boost] yourself without waiting ten seconds, and yet it does. However that was failure experiment.] Ddraig sighed in my mind and he seems disappointed [Fortunately, right now I already fix it. While true you still need wait ten seconds to use [Boost] but that only if you strengthen yourself, you not need to wait ten seconds to transfer [Boost] to your weapons.]

That was... Bad and good at same time... While its true in this state I get full defense but when entering Balance Breaker I need to buy time to strengthen myself. And while I actually not fans of using [Boost] but it could be necessary sometime

[Yes, you would need it. If we meet host of White One he will destroy you.] Ddraig told me grimly [He could divide your power continuously while you need ten seconds to [Boost] yourself.]

White One... Ah, Albion huh?

To be honest I never think about host of Hakuryūkou until now. And now I think about it, when we meet what we should do? I mean, I don't think I want to fight him if not necessary.

[WE will fight him!] Ddraig barked suddenly, make me winced at the sudden booming voice [I don't care about other thing, that white scaled alligator has mock me long enough! It was because of him I got sealed in first place!]

I narrowed my eyes at sudden shift personality in Ddraig, to be honest I admit it surprise me. I never thought Ddraig would hate Albion so much, and for reason I also feel slight dislike when thinking about the white Dragon

This bore investigation, but I could think it later. Now I have something else to think

Ddraig, can you change Boosted Gear to original form?

[I could... But it will take a day to do that. Why? You don't want this form?]

No... I just asking, for now I will settle in this form. It just, the prize was too much. Like you said, who know I may need multiple [Boost] in short time?

[Hmmm... I will look into it further, perhaps I could made the armor more thin so you could have multiple [Boost] ability back.]

Please do, I mean this state was good and all but the drawback I guess was too much. For now just reset the setting to normal gauntlet, currently I'm still fine fighting with it

I heard Ddraig grumble 'Yes' before went back to my deep of my consciousness. Seeing our conversation done I de-summon Boosted Gear and turned my skin back to normal, after that I stare at the clock and find it still morning

I don't have anything to do for now, Mittelt, Asia and Xenovia went training so they could prepare themselves in case if something happen soon due to planned meeting between Three Faction

Perhaps I also need to train, I still not use the bracelet that Azazel give to me. Yeah, maybe now is good time. Nodded to myself I began to change my outfit and prepare to go to train with the girls

Same day, Kuoh Academy, 09:30PM

"Let me make this clear, you seal a fourteen years old Dhampir, isolating him in small place, provide him nothing but only technology, and only visit him once a while?"

At my blunt, deadpan and mixed with disbelief tone Rias had decency to grimaced and also blushed, no doubt because embarrassment and shame

I held back growl, actually I don't know what I should do. On one hand I really tempted to summon Tora Shinai and start to beat her up until she turned to sobbing girl but on other hand she is girl, a girl. Despite how she appear she only teenager, not a mature person, not to mention she spoiled to the rot by her family. Unlike me who have watch the entire of EMIYA live and facing hardcore, this girl already have everything she wish for

So I can't just openly blame her seeing what she did, she like a girl that given gift that shouldn't she have in first place.

Right now, we were in underground. Who know there secret basement under Kuoh Academy? I, myself actually surprise to found one hidden below in Old House where Rias group usually gather. At first this Gasper kid actually sealed in abandoned building that surrounded by the woods in Kuoh Academy but it moved away for some reason -and thanks for that this Gasper kid not blown away when I destroy the whole academy during my battle with Kokabiel-

But still... To seal a kid in dark ground and isolated him... It was good thing Rias actually willing to change, it seems facing Kokabiel truly open her eyes, same could be occur to Sona as well. She no longer focused to school fully, she more often spend time train her peerage and study about magic, Serafall told me about this personally when she message me

"I know what I did wrong! But I truly can't control his power and it endanger everyone!" Rias tried to defend herself as she mumbling in low tone

"Does it ever occur to you that you could ask your brother?" I asked while narrowing my eyes "I mean your brother are Maou, the Lucifer himself! What use of him if you not ask help from him?"

Rias stare at me with strange expression, she bit her lip that quiver a little and seems wish to say something to me but she didn't. Instead, she turned around and began to walking while lowering her head

I only could stare at her with frown seeing this but not made any attempt to press further. Sighing, I shook my head slightly. I actually knew why she didn't, why she not ask help from Sirzechs

The Lucifer himself has told me about it, Rias was prideful. Too prideful for her own good, she doesn't wish to become her brother shadow and depend on him. Add the fact she also don't wish someone else to cuddling her peerage...

I briefly spare glance to Sona who only stare at Rias, I sure she see I glance at her but she refuse to meet mine. It because she also same like Rias, she doesn't wish to become Serafall shadow, she also have her pride that won't allow her to ask help from her

Between Rias and Sona, the latter was more prideful while the first more greedy. The fact that Sona said she willing to let Rias recruit me first due to knowing she have problem was proof of that.

Despite those two actually only a girl, at same time they also creature of sin. They have their dark personality that surpass normal line and could be even said bordering to insane.

Sona who keep very, very strict personality to the point even teacher bow to her, showing that she the one who in control for school. Rias who cruel enough to condemn Gasper to be sealed rather than give him to her brother to properly trained. Those two was example that no matter how humane they look and behave but they not

"A Lion maybe tamed, but the food it eat still meat, it still creature that eat Human and make no mistake, no matter how tame it look, no matter how soft it look, it still a Beast that going to eat you. Not all creature deserve second chance after all."

It was at that time Hyoudou words suddenly echoed in my mind and I feel my whole body freeze, even I could heard my heart beat louder for a second and I stopped from walking as I remember those words

"Issei?" Sona called me, no doubt surprised seeing I stopped out of blue

"Nothing, I just remember something." I said quickly before resuming my pace. While doing this I glanced at Rias and Sona for moment before focused back to the tunnel we walk in

Both of them spare each other glance before resuming their walk as well, they must be curious what happen but decide to let it go. I slowed a bit in my pace to allow them walk first and guide me. As I stare at their backs, my mind can't pull away from what Hyoudou said to me

Lion will never change... Is it possible what he mean is...

No... There many dark creature out there, Mittelt was included. I can't just make decision from that, there chance as well Hyoudou warn me to be wary to future enemy, not them.

I just hope I won't have to fight these two in future, as much I hate to admit it but I already think Rias as someone who I care despite our bad start, sh often ask me advice to help lately and I think she began to look me as her friend

"We here..."

Rias voice broke me from my mind and I see we finally arrive in front of wood door, I noted there many rune carved around the door, they all placed on each sides of doors like snake that slithered, there even talisman in middle of it.

The seal in front of me even enough to held attack that capable to blown building into nothing, it enough to cage even Ultimate class Devil inside here and make sure they won't be able to leave

And inside this door, it not those creature, it not a thing that capable to cause massacre or gruesome one but it was a child. A fourteen years old child inside here

"It may take a while to release the seal, please wait for-"

Whatever Rias going to said was cut off as I take step forward. A certain zig-zag shaped purple dagger was on my hand and without warning I plunge it to the talisman that written 'Seal'. I don't wish to wait anymore, the child that sealed in this room has waiting long enough

In instant, sounds that similar like glass shattering under blunt force appear. There no crack or any resistance, the moment this dagger touch the rune and seal of the Boundary Field, they instantly crumble like giant stomp the floor

This is dagger that marked for betrayal and also capable to shatter any Boundary Field, dagger that belong to Witch of Betrayal

"Did you just shatter Boundary Field that capable to cage Ultimate-class Devil and creature that dozens times stronger than us with a dagger?" Rias asked in bewilderment as she gaping at me

"Not ordinary dagger of course." I replied as I dismiss Rule Breaker and staring at the wooden door that slowly creak open. I mentally brace myself for what will come, even I knew the one that sealed was fourteen years old child but there reason he sealed

"That was very rude way to open Boundary Field." Sona remarked while blinking in surprise "And also-"

Whatever Sona going said was paused as I feel fishy sensation wash to my whole body, it as if... Something appear and bind my body, and not just body but whole. Every muscle, every tendon, every small part of my cell even! It as if something bind them strong enough to stop me

In fast, I Reinforce my whole body and breakthrough the bind. Whatever that bind was strong, but I able to get through of it.

My battle instinct already appear, the moment I free myself there five swords hovering above me, poised in threatening manner and I have Kanshou and Bakuya ready on my arms.

And at that moment too, I feel my jaw dropped

The first thing I see was red. A deep red, bordering to crimson eyes that glowing menacingly in middle of room. Those eyes was clearly not normal and something that to be feared, seeing it I even could taste the power inside those eyes.

Sadly, while the eyes was menacing and fit enough for Dark Lord or Overlord, it can't be said same to the one who possess it nor the room

Pink...

Bright pink was the color of the room, pink the one that scream girly and feminine of young girl. And there also stars, I repeat there STARS! Yellow stars that parent use to adorn children room! Not just end there, I even see there doll! A DOLL OF GIANT HAMSTER! For God sake!

And lastly, there a girl in middle of the room, she short, same height as Koneko maybe and have blonde hair, she was beauty without doubt. Not to the point of inhumane but she still beauty in her own, and she wearing pink dress while hiding behind giant teddy bear, her whole body shivering like just saw something from her nightmare.

Seeing the sight, I instantly try my best to regain my composure -and thank Lord it succeed-. Dismissing all the weapons I create, I feel slight hurt for make this girl afraid like that so I immediately softened my demeanor and let my body relaxed

"Hello there, are you Gasper Vladi?" I asked gently

"Y-Yeah!" She was all but calm, I could see she was very nervous "I-I-I'm s-sorry! I-I didn't mean to-!" She trailed off as she staring over my shoulder before hide herself behind teddy bear again

I turned back to Rias and Sona direction, want to see what she just saw behind me. And I stopped when I notice they freezed. And I really mean freezed, not just they stop talking or what but they literally freeze

Their mouth hang open, their hands and eyes was also unmoving. Their eyes still open like just before the door opened, not once they blink and I not even could hear their breath or see movement from their chest, they really, really froze.

It as if they encased in throne of ice that suddenly appear, but no, there no ice, the temperature in here even quite hot! We were on underground after all

"Sona? Rias?" I called in surprise as I stare at their freezing form. I slowly reaching them, my hand touch Sona who crossing her arm and check her pulse

I found none

I about to turn to Gasper and demand what happen but it seems the... Girl already knew what I about to do and she speak first

"I-I-I freeze them! I-I'm sorry!" She squeaked out with nervous "W-When the seal broke roughly I-I think there intruder! S-So!"

Ah... I see, it seems I also at blame as well seeing I just plunge Rule Breaker and break the Boundary Field like that

"Freeze them?" I asked

"M-My eyes!" She stuttered as she lower her head "I-It able to stop time!"

I held my breath at that in instant. Stop time? Time Manipulation?! Her eyes have power to manipulate and controlling time?! Bloody hell! This girl without doubt was...

"That amazing Gasper." I praised her softly "But could you turn them back? I mean we can't have them freezed right?"

"N-No." Gasper shook her head timidly "I-I can't turn them back! I-It was automatic!"

Oh... Right, that's why she sealed, she can't control her power. Way to go Issei, you could be idiot sometime!

[Finally admitting your idiotic eh brat?]

Oi! Shut up you overgrown Lizard!

Ddraig snorted at my reply in back of my mind, damn that dragon [Her freezing ability was quite good I admit. She need some control though.]

I agree with that. I mean, she could freeze High-class Devils like Rias and Sona was mean something. No wonder she got caged, she freeze everyone who she see. I turned to Gasper and held back sigh "How long they will remain like this?" I asked as I gestured to frozen form of Rias and Sona

"I-I don't know!" Gasper squeaked again, she even still hiding behind her giant teddy bear doll while staring at me as if I'm some kind of Cerberus that going to eat him "U-Usually it only take five or ten minutes!"

Five or ten minutes huh? That was quite long actually, this power of her. No wonder Rias can't control him, this even could freeze Ultimate-class Devil, the seal not exaggerated, I could held myself because there Ddraig inside too. Had I not, I will need more effort to break free

Okay, so there nothing I could do huh? Surely there must be something but my knowledge about Magecraft was basically zero so I don't think I could help. Now, it better if I focused to Gasper first.

"Well, let's leave them then!" I said flippantly "Gasper, my name Hyoudou Issei! Nice to meet you!" I introduced myself as I walk approach her

She began to whimpering and hide further to her teddy bear, her eyes even flashed like traffic light and it make me paused on my step. Perhaps I'm bit too forceful?

I stopped and began to look around the room. Girly, this room was hundred percent feminine! It almost like room of six years old little girl! Really! Perhaps got isolated too long give her brain damage? If she did then I blame Rias for that

Then my eyes fell to pair of computer and laptop on corner of the room that currently turned on, I briefly caught game that I recognize not far from their position

"You play Counter Strike?" I asked as I stare at the game

Hearing that Gasper seems relaxed, she turned to me and offer me timid grin "Y-Yeah!"

"Good!" I grinned slightly "Why don't we play now?"

Gasper beamed face was enough to lighten my mood

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!

TERRORIST WIN!

I let my jaw dropped as I stare at the scene in my pc with bewildered expression. This already happen for five times, had it only twice or three I would accept it as lucky but FIVE?! How in name of Root this could happen?!

Behind me, I heard unlady snort from Sona and giggle from Rias who watching us. It was clear they amused at the sight I see as well

"Wohooo! Oh yeah baby! Headshot Noob!" Gasper cackled on my side as he grinning like maniac. And yes! Its HE not SHE, despite how fit and cute he in that girly outfit but it not change he actually have PENIS!

And yes again, he cackling! He practically throw his head back and laughed! Where the hell the shy boy that I just meet ten minutes ago?!

Five minutes ago, just when Rias and Sona back to their consciousness they see Gasper and I playing. After small introduction and talk, we agree that I will help Gasper control his power later after we have small game

I offer to play because seriously, Gasper is a boy who isolated for long time. He need company! He need someone who stay at his side! And I won't let child abandoned like this. Thankfully Rias seems agree to me, she said for now we could play and spend time together, it seems she really care for Gasper

Sona meanwhile actually wish to leave, but she said she could use small break by watching us and seeing the situation now I sure as hell she not regret her decision

"I could understand if you use Magnum or use Krieg to headshot me. Hell! I still will accept it even if you use other assault weapon or SMG." I said while have my left eye twitching "But what make me wonder is, how in name of Satan or any evil Deity that you could headshot me with SHOTGUN from that DISTANCE!" I yelled with disbelief in my voice

"Simple." Gasper said as he turned to me, his face rarely solemn "I'm more skilled than you."

Rias and Sona practically explode to laugh hearing that, the Dhampir also following them and I had decency to blush slightly. Is this bullying? Am I being bullied?

Inwardly I crying in tears, what could I do in this situation? To whom I should report this? Waaaa! Mom, Dad, I being bullied by two girls and one crossdressing fourteen years old boy in game! Yes, a game! A game you see in PC and else

Yeah, like that would happen. I already could imagine Mom and Dad incredulous stare before they drag me to mental hospital for checking my brain. And if Mittelt and the other find out as well... Gugh! I already could see that Fallen Angel burst to laugh as well and have Asia comfort me while Xenovia swearing to avenge me only to fail and fell to depression which make Mittelt laugh more and Asia have to comfort her too

Fortunately there one thing I could do in this situation

"I going to enjoy my time grinding you to dirt tomorrow in our training Gasper." I said with sick sweet tone and smile

The squeak and horrifying look I get from him was enough to lighten my mood

"Issei-san!" Rias chided instantly "How could you! You bullying Gasper here!"

"I'm what?" I asked in bewildered face

"Threatening fourteen years old teenager, really Hyoudou?" Sona furrowed her eyebrow at me "I thought you better than that."

"W-What?! Now see here-"

"Hush you! Aaww poor Gasper, sorry for making this bad man threatened you."

"Buchou!"

"Shame on you Hyoudou!"

I only could gawked seeing Gasper who now being hugged by Rias like child that seek comfort to his parent. Rias and Sona meanwhile look into me like I'm some kind of filth beneath them

Seeing I can't do anything, I sit back on my seat and grumbled darkly under my breath. Bloody women. In any argument between a guy and a girl, the girl always insisted that she was right and did so even if they obviously wrong. Worse, sometime they turn the falsehood to reality until the guy become really wrong

Bloody women... I will never understand them... Bloody women and their affection

And I will never wish to... I still want to live with my dignity intact after all

"Anyway, I almost forgot." Sona spoke as she broke me from my sulking "My sister give this to you Hyoudou."

I watched as a small light gather on her hand before they materialized into leaflet on her palm. She then extend it to me and I took it

"This is..." I muttered as I read the paper with narrowed eyes

An invitation... Invitation to Meeting of Three Faction that would be held in next two weeks at cliff near this city, close to church were

"So they really going to held it." I hold my breath for moment as I stare at the invitation in front of me. I can't believe they really going to held it! This is...

[Interesting...] Ddraig remarked in my mind

Interesting?! Thousands of people possibly will die if this meeting gone wrong Ddraig! And we knew the chance it goes wrong was bigger than goes right! There chance this city would be obliterated!

[Indeed it is... But you should knew well, this meeting clearly not normal. Read there, the purpose of the meeting is to discuss Kokabiel act right?]

Yeah... But there more... I knew there more, even if Azazel close to Kokabiel he won't do something so risky like this. To contacting Sirzechs and Michael directly like this was... Stupid... And Azazel is anything but that

[That old crow have plan, this meeting only cover story. He must be wish to said something in formal manner and make declaration through this meeting.]

That... Was possible actually, but what possibly he want to talk about? And why it so important that it needed to talk formally like this? Anyway, that could be discussed later. For now, what it connection with innocent in this city?

[Anything you moron! If this talk is interesting then whatever the result of this meeting will change this faction completely!]

... You right, and like what people often said "Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future."

[Exactly... If this will take thousand innocence life then so be it, this was inevitable after all brat and the only thing you could do is lessen the damage.]

Well... If you put it that way... I guess you right... But what they wish to discuss anyway?

"Does you two got invited as well?"

"No..." Sona shook her head make me blinked "Rias brother and my sister quite adamant that we can't go."

Ahh... Well, that was quite make sense. There no way Sirzechs and Levi-tan going to let them went in this meeting, for God sake there will be hundred or possibly thousand of Angel and Fallen Angel. Even if they stay with their siblings the chance they still going to be assassinated was very big

But still, does these two accept it just like that?

"And we agree..." Rias added as she glance at me while playing with Gasper face who whining "Though had we not face Kokabiel before we... Probably going to be more persistent..." She admitted sheepishly while grimace a bit

Hmm, it seems battle against Kokabiel give quite impact to them. Sirzechs and Serafall not exaggerated about Sona and Rias start to change. They now knew their limit and willing to stand back if something was beyond them

And this was good thing

"So you two going to go back to Hell for moment until the meeting finish?" I asked

"That's correct." Sona nodded "But we probably will leave in next three or four days. It because there would be Fallen Angel, and other people come here soon and we don't want risk our lives."

"We still want to live, thank you very much!" Rias added in cheerful tone, it seems she really in good mood seeing Gasper happy again

"Well... That would be trouble, how did I going to train Gasper then?" I asked as I eyeing Gasper who already calm again and smiling at me happily

"Umm..." Gasper instantly put troubled look at that. I could tell he seems torn between happy and disappointed, it seems he wish to spend time more with me. Of course he is, seeing he almost had no friends due to his power

Rias put thoughtful face hearing my question, after a moment she answered "Then let Gasper stay with you until the meeting. You could train him for a week and I will take him two days before the meeting." She offered and Gasper practically beamed at that

"Really Buchou? I could?" He asked giddily

"Yes Gasper." Rias smiled genuinely to him

"Well, I won't have problem with that." I stated while nodding toward Gasper. I could use some entertainment and small stress relief, add the fact that I also not often socialize with boy

"Then it settled! I leave Gasper to you, Issei-san!" Rias said with grateful tone

I only spare her small smile and nodded while turning to Gasper who packing his stuff happily. I sure Asia will like Gasper company

Play Kodoku na Junrei - Kawai Kenji

Few days later

"Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered here today to commit Misaki Akamatsu, our beloved daughter, sisters, friends and Mother. We therefore commit his body to the ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. May her soul found peace in other side."

It was raining... Rain actually quite rare in this time seeing now we near Summer season

Perhaps, it raining due to sky wept for the person who will be buried now

I only could stare at the coffin that lowered as the priest reading the verse from Bible. On my side was Shizune, the girl appearance already back like normal thanks to Asia healing, not even scar or scratch remain, her face back to beauty and cute like usual. I already edit the memories and data of people in hospital about her, I put data that Shizune only get light injuries

Said the girl now was sobbing on my chest, her tears wetting my black shirt that I wear as sign of mourning. Seeing her condition it really break my heart, I still remember when she awake and being told the news about Misaki death

Denial was the first thing she did, even I also did that. Misaki leave was too sudden even for me, no, not just me but everyone who know her. My mind drifted back to her blank and void emotion when she stare at Misaki dead body, how she cried, how she yell, scream for her to get up. I even remember she promise to be good girl and won't play as Magical Girl anymore as long Misaki awake

But it useless... The corpse still not move, not even inches of her body move

And when I see Shizune despair and broken face, it tore my heart so much to the point I couldn't hold my tears. This girl always cheerful and happy, she had went through so much in early age and now she lost her adoptive mother too

After that, she lock herself in her own room. I ask her to come to stay with Asia or me but she refused, stating that she wish to stay in Misaki place. And for whole few days she live like robot, only come to eat, take bath and then back to her room

I knew it wasn't good things, but she need time to be alone. I can't just come to her and drag her like a doll, she living being! So I decide to give her small privacy

At least until today, after this funeral I won't let her brooding alone in her room anymore, it wasn't good if I let it keep happen *sigh*. I can't imagine how she handle it... I could give her comfort and pray she won't go insane or need to sent to mental hospital

I spare glance to my surrounding, noting that the numbers of people that attend this funeral. Misaki was an orphan, she originally come from Kanto and start small business in here, that's also one of reason why she adopt Shizune, she knew how hurt it was living without parent

But she not friendless, there many, the numbers reaching a hundred if I guess or probably more. That included my parent, Asia, Mittelt, Xenovia and Aika

I briefly spare glance to Aika, she also crying, there no mischievousness that usually gleam on her eyes, she crying like normal girl that lost her best friend... Or more... A big sister figure perhaps

Misaki also like big sister to me

And I fail to protect her...

I feel tug on my chest and look down, Shizune clench my shirt harder while try to maintain her breath in her sob state

"Shizune... You need to calm down..." I whispered softly "I knew you sad, everyone here sad but control your breath okay? We can't have you fell suddenly in middle of this." I asked with concern

She didn't response to me, but her breath began to stable slowly, indicating she listening much to my relief. She bury half of her face to my chest and I can't do anything but rub her back while hoping her feeling will get better

Even I feel tears fell down to my face, she not supposed to be like. This expression and face not suit her, she not supposed to cry like this!

"Is there anyone who wish to said something about Akamatsu-san?" The priest asked to us

"Misaki-san was gentle woman." I said instantly, gaining everyone attention "I remember when she goes to work, sometime she come back late since she wish to help her friends that working. She ask me to watch for Shizune-chan here so she not spend so much time watching anime and do her homework." I chuckled dryly at the memories and I even feel Shizune tighten her grip on my shirt

"She loved Mochi..." Aika offered next "Oh she love it so much. I remember when Issei here baked her one few weeks ago, she practically eat one box full! Heck she even almost eat that soft and slimy sweets like daily food!" She also let out dry laugh as she stare at me who flash her bitter smile

And one by one people began to give their last words. I heard some man confess that he loved Misaki and ask her to date but got rejected since she not interested in dating due to taking care of Shizune, some woman who speak how Misaki help her when she sick and replacing her shift, another who had prank Misaki and how funny her face was

After a moment nobody spoke anymore, so the priest continue with next and final event. One by one people began to drop flowers into the grave. Each of them had a purpose as they were dropped in, meanings behind them.

A pink carnation, which meant "I'll never forget you," was one of the most popular ones in funerals, at least Magical ones. These were followed by many others: Cattail for peace and prosperity in the next life. Chrysanthemum for "You're a Wonderful Friend; Cheerfulness and rest.". Cyclamen for resignation and a goodbye. Daises for innocence and purity in the next life. Purple heather for admiration, and white heather for the protection he hadn't had in life. Purple hyacinth meant sorrow; white hyacinth stood for loveliness. Iris for friendship, faith, hope, and wisdom, as well as valour.

As many flowers dropped one by one, Aika, I and Shizune hold ours. Our flowers was same, we agree to pick same flowers, it was quite rare in this city actually but for me it wasn't hard to get it

A blue beautiful flower with yellow core, Forget-me-not. A flower that symbolized True Loves; Memories.

Aika was the one who drop it first, she was in tears while doing that. Even I also have my eyes quite red and my face quite puffy due to dry tears. As I held high the blue flower, I slowly drop it

The flower fell actually not long, it was less than one second... But for me, it was so long

To me, the flower fall in slow motion. Everything around me was dark save for the flower that fell in slow manner

"Honestly Issei-kun, you not need to be that protective. Shizune and I was fine by ourselves. There not much crimes after you brawling with the last gang."

"Issei Hyoudou! You turn off that TV right now! You corrupt Shizune mind further! God know she already bad enough with her glowing stick!"

"Shizune! Stop wearing that outfit! It improper! Issei-kun! You really brute! If you keep doing this I won't let you meet with Shizune anymore!"

Memories... They flashed in my mind as I look to the flower that floating down to the earth that bury the woman I think as big sister. How she smile, how she angry, and how she always yelling at me

"Issei-kun, I will be back quite late tonight so please take care of Shizune for me okay?"

... I'm sorry Misaki-san... I couldn't protect you...

When the flower finally touch the earth, time seems resuming back to me. I was back on cemetery again while standing on Shizune side

I briefly spare glance to Shizune who tremble while holding her flower. She was the last one who still not drop her flower, among everyone here I sure she also the one who longest with Misaki

Her hands was shaking as she grip the flower, tears stream down from her face. The flower on her hand look so precious to her that she not wish to drop it, as if it was life of Misaki that latched to her hand

I grasp her hand gently, elicited gasp from her as she stare at me with wide eyes

"Let it go..." I utter softly, my voice was also filled with sadness "You knew you have to..."

Shizune bit her lower lip that trembling. She close her eyes tightly as if monster was in front of her while still have tears fell from it. And slowly she let the flower descend down to the earth

After that, the ceremony pretty much was over. Few partings words and one by one people began to leave, few even crying while kissing the grave stone before leaving. Only I, Shizune and Asia that still left behind. My parent, Aika, Mittelt and Xenovia decide to give us time alone for now, Asia wish to stay because she want to say private prayer for Misaki

Shizune who hugging me, one of her eyes locked to the graveyard of her adoptive Mother while the other hided by my body. Tears still streaming down freshly from her puffy red eyes

"Why...?" She croaked out, her voice that sounds childish and melodic now was dry and sounds husky

Why? That was good question... Why good people like Misaki have to die this soon? Even I also questioned it in my mind... For her, to die like this and leaving Shizune was... It... Like I said before... It was too sudden...

"So you could live..."

Shizune and I turned to Asia who still staring at the coffin that buried now. She have tears fell down from her eyes and she looks sad as well, but her tone was soft and gentle

"When one person dies… She disappears… Along with her past, current lifestyle, and her future. They die easily and in surprisingly simple ways. Those who die have goals and dreams. But everyone has something as important as those. Parents, siblings, friends, lovers… People who are important to them.

"Those people are their legacies, those people are proof that the one who dead exist, they carry the images of people who sacrifice themselves for them. So when people see the saved one they not just see them, but they see those people as well

"Their bodies maybe buried under the earth, it maybe aged to the point it become nothing but ugly shell of their face, it maybe fused with the planet and back becoming earth,... But their heart, their reputation, their images will always be there with you."

Asia finished while smiling beautifully to us, her eyes locked to Shizune with tears streaming down to her face and bitter smile adorn her gentle face

Wow... I must say I'm slight impressed by that speech... It touch part of my heart to be honest, does Asia Class-card have Charisma on it? I look down to Shizune and found her eyes widen as well, her face scrunched to one that show shock and surprise at the words Asia just said

"So live Shizune-chan... Live with happy..." Asia muttered softly as she wipe the tears that stream down to Shizune face "Because that was what Misaki-san want for you, live with happy so she keep alive inside you."

Shizune only could stare at her, for moment I was sure she about to say something but she decide not to. Instead, she slowly only turned away and press her face to me, burying herself further while have her grip on my cloth tightened

However I could tell she truly moved with Asia words, what Asia said clearly touch her feeling and I sure soon she will show change on her behavior. Good or bad I don't know but I sure whichever it is, it would be better than the current one

I give gratitude look to Asia who only nodded in response before turned around, it seems she decide to give me and Shizune small time with Misaki graveyard

There silence among us, I'm not sure how long, a five or ten minutes perhaps before I decide to act. I pull Shizune on deep hug with one hand, gaining her attention as she stare up to me, there no more tears on her eyes but her eyes was puffy and red, her face also adorned with dry tears

"Onii-chan?" She called huskily

"You will live with happy." I muttered to her as I embrace her more tight, as if I fear she will gone if I didn't hold her "I swear Shizune, whoever hurt you they will have small chat with me." I sweared, and by small chat I mean have hundred of swords aimed to that person face and give him/her less than minute to explain why he/she dare to hurt her

Shizune stare at me with her brown honey eyes widened a bit before she hug me back with tight "I love you Onii-chan... Thank you..." She muttered softly

I give her gentle and soft smile when hear the innocent and sincere words "I love you too Shizune... I love you too..." I whispered as I close my eyes, embrace her further and try my best to enjoy her presence and make the girl feels better

And also try to reassure the dread feeling inside me... Because I will be damned if I lose her too...

I'm sorry I couldn't protect you Misaki-san, but I sure as hell will protect Shizune with my live...

Not on my watch Shizune... Not when I close as well... I won't allow any harm come to you. You will be safe and happy, I swear as Hero and my status as Sekiryūtei

Music Off

It was when I going back after the funeral

I ask Asia and the other to leave me alone and take Shizune home because it not just her, I, also need time alone. True I will visit Shizune soon but for now I need to clear my mind too. Add the fact after the funeral moment ago Shizune was agree to stay in my house with my parent -thanks to Asia for that-, it make me more relief. Mom will able to comfort her and there Dad too if something happen

There so many things I need to think right now and fortunately I didn't meet Aika, it seems she also need to take her time and knew that I need privacy -something that Mom and Dad also shared with-

I plan to leave this city, it was absolute and I will did it. I plan to leave soon, originally I supposed to leave after meeting with Sirzechs but due to this... Accident... And there meeting of three faction as well soon

Even if I plan to leave after the meeting there one problem

Shizune...

I plan to leave, but when I see her my heart really broke to pieces. It not like I don't want to leave but I can't... I can't leave her alone, not in this state, not now...

I maybe ready to part away with my parent, they live in healthy manner and had no problem. They will sad I leave, yes and I sure there will be argument but they will be fine when I leave. It will take time but they will come to accept it, add the fact I probably going to visit once per one or two week

But Shizune is something else...

It was wrong to leave her, in her current condition I will drift her into further despair and darkness if I leave. She need me now, and I can't just leave! She's sister to me in all but blood!

Hyoudou... If it Hyoudou, he going to leave... EMIYA also going to leave. But I'm not, I'm not them and not like them. I'm my own man, I have my own mind and feeling

I still have my morality intact, unlike Hyoudou who lost it. I'm not distorted like EMIYA who have abnormal view to the World

I'm normal person, despite I have Justice-complex and high moral sense I still could be categorized as normal man. And leaving Shizune was probably out of option for someone like me. Heck! I even sure Asia going to shot me nasty look if I did

However there another problem, the longer I stay here the more enemies will come here and endanger everyone I knew. It also give them more time to gain more information about me

I already stay in here quite long, I need to leave but at same time I can't...

This is really give me headache... Live as Hero always filled with hard way, eh?

BA-DUMP!

Rage...

I don't know what happen but for some reason I become... Upset...

I feel anger...

I paused suddenly, stopped in middle of my walk as I feel something gnawing inside me, something that I only feel when I see innocent died in front of me

Anger... And Hatred...

I clench my eyes shut instantly, my fist also tightened and I try my best to calm myself. Whatever happen to me was not normal and yet

It make me more angry seeing why the hell I suddenly upset like this

BA-DUMP!

It was getting stronger, I could feel anger now flowing in my vein and my blood boiling further. Ddraig! What happen to me?!

However instead responding to me, I heard Ddraig saying something else. The tone he use was like someone who just get something that he wait for so long

[He's here...]

Huh?

[He's here... He's here.]

He's here? What you mean by that?

[He's here... He's here...]

Okay stupid Dragon, please speak in English and tell me what you mean!

[He's here... He's HERE! HE'S HEREEE!]

Ddraig was all but calm, he roared and this is the first time I heard he sounds like this. The way he roar was like a Dragon that have it hoard raided by thief

The fuck you saying damn lizard?! Speak clearly asshole!

And It wasn't helping seeing I also currently in anger and pissed state

"I see you have small problem controlling it."

A new and familiar voice echoed and I waste no time. My body snapped to the voice direction, my eyes was filled with anger and it take everything I have to not snarl like rabid animal

I found my target

It was a man, he appear to be at same age like me. One year older or younger perhaps. He have pale skin that almost looks like someone who staying in home too much, dark silver hair that looks like color of silver steel sword, icy cerulean blue eyes and handsome face.

He clad in dark green V-neck shirt with a high-collared black leather jacket like a biker over it. He also wears burgundy jeans with a silver chain drooping down over them and black leather chaps with three bands encircling his right calf, and wears black shoes with black buckles.

[HE'S HERE! IT'S HIM! IT'S HIM! KILL HIM! KILL HIM!]

Ddraig voice was filled with malice and pure hatred, like a mad beast rather than sentient Dragon. It as if the man who stand in front of him is someone who he hate for long time.

"It not just you, I also have hard time controlling it now. The hatred of the Heavenly Dragon really strong huh?" He asked while flash me predatory smirk as he take steps forward and stop about thirteen feets away from me

The moment he said that I feel myself freeze

Anger was there, followed by hatred and other dark emotion but I still able to control my mind. I didn't succumb to it madness and hatred that gnawing in my mind

"Hakuryūkou..." I called grimly through gritted teeth as I forced the urge to attack this man in instant. My body was stiff and my muscle tense, ready for fight anytime. I even could feel Ddraig eagerness to fight with his mortal archenemy

"Sekiryūtei..." He responded, opposite of me. His tone was filled with amusement and even there small hint of glee in his smirk "The name's Vali, Hyoudou Issei. We meet at least, my Rival..."

Hello all! How do you all do?! Hahahaha!

Sorry for late update, I'm kinda busy and have exam now so I have to study. My grade lately get down and I got yelled by my Mother for that, and that was not pleasant mind you

In this chapter we found Issei finally finishing his deal with the Church and also meet with Gasper! Huuuray! I hope everyone who fans of Gasper found the meeting entertaining! XD

There his new state of Boosted Gear too! He have scale now rather than gauntlet, but of course there drawback for that!

And the Meeting of Bible Faction was near! You guys practically could taste it now! We finally get close to the climax of this arc! And I will do my best to not disappoint you all!

And Issei trouble about leaving, I hope you all understand this. Many of you feel Issei was too slow and spend too much time in Kuoh City, but you all must know his reason was very good and logical enough. He can't just abandon Shizune like that after what happen to her, he, himself explain it in this chapter

And how about Misaki funeral?! I even shed one lone tears when writing it while listening to the music! I hope you all found the funeral memorable! Rest in Peace Misaki Akamatsu! T.T

And Vali has make appearance! He finally approaching Issei! Ddraig and Albion hatred to each other began to showed up! Oh yeaaah! This looks like trouble for both of them! What Issei going to do?! Will fight explode between Two Heavenly Dragons?!

Find it out further in Kill or be Kille- err sorry, wrong fanfic. Find it out further in Representation of Humanity! And for few of you who PM me and sent email to me, sorry for not replying. Like I said, I was pretty busy lately so I did not open email that focused for Fanfiction, since I going to sleep now due to not sleeping for writing this, you all could expect my reply would be in eight or ten hours ;P

This is it for now, I hope you love this chapter! Please Favorite, Follow, and Review

Ja Ne! XD