Hey everyone! I finally back with a new chapter and a (very late) Merry Christmas from me also Happy new year! I tried to make this chapter special by making it the longest chapter that I ever write. Since I usually write about 3k-4k words per chapter so then please enjoy!
Koneko POV
Flashback
Ryuji Ishikawa... he's the person that been attacked by fallen angel at the same time as the pervert. The difference is... he's actually survived that. At that time I don't really care about him since that doesn't means anything for me... but, it started to change when Rias-senpai orders me to observe as well to make sure he comes to our club room by her order.
That's... when I sense something different from him... something familiar.
"Is there something wrong, Toujou-san?" He said.
I instantly widen my eyes since I never thought that he can sense that I'm currently watching him. "Are you... n-no, it's nothing." I said while trying to eat my chocolate bar and avoid his gaze.
"Oookay?"
After that, he just continues walking to our club but I know there's something different from him. 'H-How can I smell youkai scent on him? And to think his smell really familiar just like mine... or her, did he really... N-No, it can't be... there's no way...' I ended up my thoughts before sadly eating the chocolate.
A few days later.
If I can tell my past self and convince myself that I was wrong then I will gladly do it.
Today, Tsubaki Shinra the queen piece of the student council peerage is challenging him in a spar. Looks like Rias-senpai decides to watch the fight after Sitri-senpai told her about it. We about to go to the place where the spar is but the truth is... I'm unsure if I want to watch it or not. 'What if he actually a Youkai? And... the same as me? What should I do if that happens? What if he knows something about me... or her? Will he... blame me...?'
"Ara, is there something wrong, Koneko-chan?" Looks like Akeno-senpai noticed that I'm spaced out and decide to talk to me.
"N-No it's nothing, Akeno-senpai."
"Are you sure? You can just stay here if you're not feeling well."
"It's okay... I'm fine." I said before finally decide to watch the spar.
...
The fight is kind of surprising since I can see that he using a spear that's not his usual weapon, based on what I heard from Rias-senpai talk with Sitri-senpai. 'But, I can't smell the same scent from him. Right now he has a different scent... but I'm not sure what is that.' I ended my thought when I suddenly smell the Youkai scent again.
I instantly look towards him and I can see that he using metal gloves for the fight. But there's something else that made me surprised it's not only the scent but... I can sense some faint of life energy on his gloves. 'S-Senjutsu!?' At that moment I was scared. Somehow my memory suddenly flashed before my very eyes. Especially the moment when... she kills everyone...
"...I need to calm down..."
After regaining my composure I decided to watch the fight again and see that right now he manage to push Tsubaki-senpai with an unknown force on his hand. But, I know that he using senjutsu or maybe his youkai trait as well. 'Why he using that... didn't he knew it was dangerous...' I then see that he about to shoot Tsubaki-senpai on the ground and I also see that Sitri-senpai try to stop him only for him to shoot the gun.
*Bang!*
I closed my eyes... that's the only thing I can do... just like that time. When I try to open my eyes again to my surprise Tsubaki-senpai is still alive. The bullet didn't hit her and Ryuji Ishikawa are giving her something and make her drink it. I can't hear anything from his talk with Sitri-senpai since I can't focus because what he does earlier and when I'm about to find out he already leaves the area leaving us dumbfounded by his actions.
'I will get some explanation from him. Not only to make sure that he's a youkai... or maybe... maybe he also related to her.'
Later that evening.
That's the reason why I'm following him right now but someone else is walking beside him. A girl with blonde hair and based on their interaction they already close with each other. I'm pretty sure that I hid my presence really well just like always but he seems aware with his surrounding... did he already knows that I've been following him?
'Did he using Senjutsu again?' I ended my thought when I see them reached their destination. 'An apartment... I remember Rias-senpai told me about this... This is the place he lives.'
But then he went out again and this time he going alone. After a bit of following him, I noticed that I'm in a park and he decided to sit on a swing before looking at the sky. 'What's he planning to do?'
"It's a beautiful night, isn't it? And I really appreciate it if you can just come out and shows yourself since stalking someone is rude."
I flinched at that sentence since he caught me off guard with it. I then gathered my courage before I decide to confront him.
"What do you need from me... the rook from Gremory peerage Koneko Toujo?"
"..."
"I'm waiting."
"...you. How can you use that?"
"What do you mean by that?"
"How... how can you use Senjutsu!? Answer me!"
Ryuji POV
'...analyze.'
Name: Koneko Toujo
Race: Devil/Youkai
Status: Rook Piece
Level: 30
HP: 480/480
SP: 170/170
Strength: 28(+15)
Magic: 12
Endurance: 30(+15)
Agility: 14
Luck: 18
'That explains why she knows about Senjutsu but, the system didn't show her CP just like when I analyze Kiri-san. What should I do now? I can't tell her the real reason since I'm not trusting her yet. Alright, time to put my acting skill again.'
"So... how did you know that I'm using Senjutsu? Your question alone is suspicious you know?" I tried to bait her by some tricky question and I got the best reaction from it.
"T-That's..." She surprised and backed away a little. She also starts looking at random direction showing that she didn't know how to answer my question.
"If you a great magic user, a bishop or a queen then maybe you can detect it easily just based on that alone. But, you're a rook... someone who excels in terms of strength and durability. So how did you know that I'm using Senjutsu?"
"...because I knew that feeling... Senjutsu, life energy... and Youkai scent." She said before looking serious to me.
'Scent? So she a youkai who use their nose, huh? Is she same like Kiri-san or maybe even the same as my transformation or something else?' "So I guess that makes you a youkai, right?" I said before standing up from the swing.
"...aren't you the same like me?"
"Maybe. But, first what kind of Youkai are you? There's a lot of different Youkai out there and you can be anything."
"I won't say it... unless you tell me about yourself first."
"*sigh* Is this an order from your king again?"
"No... It's my own decision."
'Hmm... what kind of Youkai she is? Wait, maybe the clue is too obvious for me to see... White hair? Nah, it doesn't mean anything. Cat hairpin? Maybe just her liking... then how about her name? Koneko Toujo... Koneko... Neko? There's no way right? This might be stupid but...' I then facepalm before processing my thoughts and sighed before looking at her. "So are you... a cat Youkai?"
Koneko didn't say anything but I can see that she start to tense a little meaning that my guess is correct. But, now she also begins shaking like she was scared or something. "S-So... did you know? ...about the incident?"
'Eh? That's the right answer!? But what incident she implied here?' I was taken aback by this but instantly recovered and try to calm Koneko since she just continues shaking. "Look, Toujo-san... I don't know anything about that but please calm yourself."
"...you also same just like me. That's why... I'm scared if you'll blame me for that..."
"So you already knew huh? *sigh* Fine, I'm also a cat youkai. But my condition is rather... special. But, yes I'm technically same just like you. How about telling me about this incident first?"
"That incident... is related to the extinction of our race... and 'she' is the one who responsible for it." She said while clenched both of her fists.
'Could it be... This incident is the same like Kiri-san told me that day? And Koneko know who the main culprit is? Let's hear the details then.' I took a deep breath before looking serious at her before asking a question. "Who is this 'she'?"
"...my sister."
"What!? B-But why?"
"She losing control and kill everyone on her sight. Our master is a high ranking devil... that's why when they knew about this they were furious at us and decide to lash it out to our race. The main reason for that is life energy... you also use that when fighting Tsubaki-senpai so please don't use that again."
"...so she was corrupted? Did your sister really bad with it? The life energy I mean."
"She's not... but, she was so powerful and that's might be the reason why she kills everyone... she was drunk with her own power and now she an SS-Class stray devil."
'She's that powerful but still gets corrupted? But Koneko said that her sister doesn't get corrupted. That's... weird. I mean that's doesn't add up why she just losing control and kill everyone.' "So what are you going to do now? Since I'm not planning to stop using Senjutsu anytime soon." I said before crossing my arms.
"Are you stupid? Stop using it... our species nearly extinct and I don't need you to make it faster."
"...maybe you're the stupid one since Senjutsu is not fully dangerous."
"Why you-!?" Koneko is about to say something else (probably to insult me) but was cut off by something and I can see her shocked face.
Curious by what is it I decide to ask her. "What's wrong? Something comes up?"
"...fallens."
"Wha-!?" I instantly check it using my senjutsu and minimap to see seven red dots on it. The bad news is all of them are coming from the direction of my apartment. "Crap! Look, we can continue this later. I need to go." I said before running towards them with using Sukukaja and Senjutsu.
"Hey wait!" Yelled Koneko but I decide to ignore it and continue running.
...
When I arrived at the place which is in a secluded area outside of my apartment building I can see five exorcists and two fallen angels in front of me. I sighed in relief since they haven't go there so I instantly conceal my presence and try to find any information from them.
"Hey, why are we waiting here?" Said one of the exorcists.
"They said we need to capture the boy since he going somewhere right now." Replied another exorcist.
"So... I assume he's strong since we gathered quite a number here. Not to mention almost all of our superior is here. Didn't you think three fallen angels with us five exorcists are overkill for just one boy?"
"I'm sure they had a reason so just stay quiet or we're going to get scolded."
After that conversation, both of them just stop talking and just patrolling the area. I decided to slowly approach the fallen angel to gain more information from them.
'But, three? Don't tell me one of them already inside the apartment!? Tch, stay cool Ryuji. I can't just rush in with a situation like this.' After keeping my composure I finally have a good look at the fallen angels in front of me. One of them is a little blonde girl wearing some gothic lolita outfit and a black bow on her head. While the other one is a middle-aged looking man wearing a trench coat and a fedora. 'They both Raynare friends isn't it? What was their name... oh right, Mittlelt and Dohnaseek was it? Then who's the last one who goes to my apartment?' I ended my thoughts when I hear them start talking.
"Why Raynare-oneesama taking so much time to abduct that nun? Why can we just cut both of her arm and leg then just take her with us?" Said Mittlelt.
"Maybe she wants to lure the boy out and using her as a hostage. He might be strong if he manages to force Kalawarner for using 'that'." Replied Dohnaseek while fixing his fedora.
"Oh yeah...'that'. Can I also use it too when we found the boy? I want to test it on him to teach him for hindering Raynare-oneesama plan."
"Heh, just do as you like."
"I can't wait to hear him scream, hahaha."
After receiving the information I then retreat to a safe distance and try think for a plan. "Raynare is the one who goes inside, huh? So what should I do now? If she using Asia as a hostage then I can't do much to turn the situation to my advantage not to mention I'm still at disadvantage in number... I need to save Asia first and then run away. They might chase us but at least I can find a good place to fight them." I sighed before casting some buff and prepared my plan.
"Alright... time to break this chain of fate!"
...
Ryuji Apartment, Night.
3rd POV
"Hyah!"
"Ohh? You still trying to fight back?"
In the apartment, Asia is currently fighting the fallen angel Raynare using her water magic. Asia was shocked when the fallen suddenly appeared with breaking the window glass and try to grab her. Fortunately, she managed to attack Raynare off guard since she didn't know that she can use water magic. Asia made a rather big water ball and attack Raynare with it making her pushed back and wet in the result.
However, after that attack Raynare just easily dodge the rest of Asia magic and manage to approach her. Raynare then starts lifting her off the ground by choking her. Of course, Asia tries to fight back but Raynare is too strong for someone like her.
"To think someone like you can have some guts for doing that to me. You foolish little girl."
"Ugh..."
"I never thought that you live with that boy instead of going to our base. But, with this, it'll become more easier to extract your and that boy sacred gear tomorrow." She ended it with a smirk on her face.
She then sprouted the black wings on her back and about to take Asia outside but then...
"Leaving so soon?" Another voice suddenly appeared and when Raynare try to look for the source she already too late.
"Wha-!?" Is only thing she can say before got kicked on the face by the newcomer.
She lost her grip on Asia and got pushed back because of it. When Raynare finally recovered from the attack she noticed something on her stomach and that makes her widen her eyes when she realized what is it.
"Hello." Said the newcomer to be revealed as Ryuji and he currently pointing his shotgun at Raynare. He then smiled before decide to pull the trigger. "...and goodbye."
*Bang!*
The force from the shotgun is more than enough to push Raynare out from the apartment and breaking the window in the process. In a swift motion, Ryuji then picked up Asia and carrying her bridal style before running outside.
"R-Ryuji!?"
"Sorry that I'm late. For now, just stay calm and try to listen."
"O-Okay."
Kuoh Riverbank, Night.
Ryuji POV
'I'm glad that I can still use fast travel since I'm still not spotted by any of them at that time. Now I just need to defend myself until Momo came and I hope Asia can use her magic as I told her earlier and cover me as I do the attacking.'
Just like I thought before, they really chase us and manage to ambush us when we finally reach the place. They corner us with the river on our back and I stood in front of Asia while scanning our surrounding. Five exorcists surrounded us leaving no room for escape while the fallen angels are floating above them and Raynare looking very pissed right now. But that's not the only thing I noticed from her... because right now she and rest of fallen angel had some black aura around their body just like Kalawarner at that time.
The exorcist is at level 30 and has like 880 HP on all of them while the fallen angels are rather shocking. Raynare is level 40, Dohnaseek is level 38 and Mittelt is level 37. 'Since they boss type character I can't see their HP but is this also because of that black aura?'
'At that time Kalawarner is also gain some levels instantly when that black aura appears and let's not forget the Awakening status.' I then shake my head and preparing myself for the fight. 'Stay focus and don't panic. Now then, time for some action!' I then cast my buffs and not forgetting to play some music to spice this situation.
Now playing: Persona Q Ost. Light the fire up in the night P3 Version.
"How dare you humiliate me like that. I'll make you pay! Attack them!"
The exorcist instantly charged at us with a sword on their hand. Fortunately, I finished casting all my buffs and begin charge at them as well. With this Asia can gain some distance from the enemy since I'm acting as a vanguard.
I ducked one of their slashes and instantly punch the exorcist's stomach and make him launched away before rolling out from another attack that the rest of them aimed at me.
Deal 228 physical damage to the enemy!
You've gained +21 SP from Spiritsteal!
-4 CP for using Ki!
I then kick one of them before doing a jump and turn around to kick another one behind me. 'Just like in Yakuza game.'
Deal 182 physical damage to the enemy!
Deal 179 physical damage to the enemy!
You've gained +21 SP from Spiritsteal!
-9 CP for using Ki!
When I'm landed there's another exorcist try to attack me but then a water whip suddenly appears and attack the exorcist away from me. When I looked back Asia just sighs in relief before smiling after I gave her a thumb up before focusing back to the fight. 'She still needs time to cast it but at least she finally did it.' I thought before rushing to the group of exorcist with Asia water whip behind my back.
...
A few minutes earlier.
I currently carrying Asia while running away from our pursuer. I manage to calm her down and now I was trying to tell her my plan to fight the exorcist and fallen angel.
"Using magic to control the water from a river?" Ask Asia.
"Yes. Instead of using your magic to create the water itself you only need to give a little amount of magic to control the already existing water."
"I-I don't know... that's sound hard."
"You don't need to control all the river. Just imagine something small... like a whip that you can control. It's a good weapon since it fast and has a wide range of attack."
"O-Okay! I'll do my best!"
"That's good. Try to stay calm and focus your magic I believe you can do it. Also, drink this potion to replenish your magic." I said before making a potion appear in front of Asia that she catch.
"Thank you, Ryuji. I promise that I'll help you as much as I can!"
"Let's do our best then Asia."
"Yeah!"
...
'Rush Fire!'
*Bang! Bang! Bang!*
I run to the group of exorcist before shooting a numerous amount of bullets from my shotgun in a short amount of time. Three of them finally killed while the two who still standing are trying to run away but Asia manages to strike them both giving me a chance to finish them off.
*Bang! Bang!*
Critical hit! Deal 451 physical damage to the enemy!
Critical hit! Deal 470 physical damage to the enemy!
"Finally..." After taking a few deep breaths I then summon one health potion since the exorcist still manage to hit me.
Using Small Healing Potion! HP is recovered by 31!
After I finished drinking the potion I instantly dodge a light spear that was aimed at me but someone manages to sneak past me and attack me from behind.
"Gah!"
You have been attacked! -127 HP!
It was Dohnaseek who attacked me and when he about to do another attack but Asia manages to stop it on his track by holding his hand with the water whip. Unfortunately, Mittelt didn't waste any single time to come and do a follow-up attack. Since I got attacked earlier I still haven't fully recovered and just trying to defend myself from another attack.
"Kyaa!"
But that attack never came instead someone else is standing in front of me and when I finally regain my footing I can see that Koneko just punch Mittelt away from me.
I then punch Dohnaseek who trying to break free from Asia water whip only for him to block it but the force still manages to make him slide away from us since I enhance it with life energy.
-5 CP for using Ki!
"Why are you here, Toujo-san?" I ask her.
"I'm not letting you die..." She said without looking back at me.
"Thanks, I guess."
After that short talk, I instantly charge toward Dohnaseek and try to attack him. He manages to block it while trying to counter-attack only for me to dodge it or block it as well. In the middle of our fight, I manage to see that Koneko now is attacking Mittelt while Asia is casting her magic again.
'Why Raynare is so quiet? What is she planning?' I thought before trading more blow with Dohnaseek but he manages to push me back and scratch me using his light spear.
You've been attacked! -38 HP!
-8 CP for using Ki!
'Even when I tried to use my life energy to block it that damn thing is still hurt! Wait, what is this energy?' I try to look for the source only to be shocked since that was Raynare who now holding a twice size of her original light spear before throwing it to Asia who's still cast her magic. 'Sh*t! Sukukaja!' "Asia, watch out!" I yelled while running towards her.
"Huh!?" She just froze in her place after seeing the light spear that coming to her.
I then quickly look at my stats in the middle of running to making sure how much HP did I have left.
HP: 139/311
SP: 188/261
CP: 46/110
'I can't dodge it when I reach Asia... If only my Agility was higher than this! I hope my HP and Endurance is enough or else!' I instantly summon my last two medium healing potions and drink it before grabbing Asia and protect her from the massive light spear with my own body. 'This gonna be hurt!'
Using 2 medium healing potions! HP recovered by 155!
*Boom!*
"Ishikawa!" Yelled Koneko after she sees me jumping straight the light spear to protect Asia. After the explosion died down she instantly rushed towards me and see that I'm hugging Asia before falling to the ground.
...
You've been attacked! - 285 HP!
-42 CP for using Ki!
Warning! Your HP is on critical condition!
'So instead piercing my body that light spear just exploded? I never thought that I can survive the blast. Ugh... my whole body is hurt and the bad news is Raynare is about to do the same thing again.' I tried to get up only to fail in the process.
Asia then tries desperately to heal me while Koneko is now in front of me trying to protect both of us.
"Foolish human, this is what you get for defying us. Its shame that you must die here and I won't have a chance to extract your sacred gear. But, oh well... this power is more than enough." She about to finished creating the same light spear again but suddenly a magic ball hit her hand from nowhere and interrupted her.
"Sorry, I'm late!" Said someone before a numerous magic ball is coming towards the rest of fallen angels and made them retreated to the sky. The figure then ran towards us to be revealed as Momo and now is stand side by side with Koneko. "Never thought I'll see you here, Toujo-san."
"...save that for later." Koneko said calmly before preparing her stance.
"So Ryuji, I want to scold you for doing something stupid but I think I can forgive you for that one. For now, did you have any plan to fight them?" Momo ask me.
"Ugh... Just protect me while I got healed by Asia. Momo, attack the black haired one and try to interrupt her as much as you can... Toujo-san keeps the rest of them away from us while I think what should we do next."
"Fine." Said Koneko before she charges at the fallen angel who now just descend to the ground except Raynare.
Momo instantly uses her magic to attack Raynare when she starts casting that ridiculous spell while occasionally helping Koneko fighting Mittelt and Dohnaseek.
"I'm sorry Ryuji. If it's not because of me..." Said Asia.
"Stop that. It's not your fault... we in disadvantage situation after all." I said.
"B-But, what should we do now?"
"*cough* Let me think..." 'If only I can switch my gun to AK47 then I can provide some status ailment with Elemental Bullet. Shotgun is a no since I can't chase them if they fly away from me. Dammit what should I do!?' I then open up my skill tab to look for anything useful. Elemental magic is the only thing I can use to attack them from afar but with the distance and my current Magic stats, I doubt it will even make a scratch on them. 'I need to rely on someone else with a high magic stat... Momo is busy so I can't ask her which means...' "Asia can you create a smaller version of your water ball?"
"Huh? Y-Yes I can but that magic is really slow even when I make it smaller."
"That's good enough. Don't worry I have a plan."
"A-Alright."
...
3rd POV
Koneko and Momo are currently struggling to fight against the three fallen angels. Not only because of their numbers but also because of they much stronger than them. The fallen angels are really agile so Koneko can only attack them when they charge at her or if they want to attack her backline. While Momo is slowly exhausted because she was spamming her magic since she arrived here. Not only that she also must dodge if a light spear either from Mittelt or Dohnaseek coming towards her. The situation becomes worse each time has passed since the fallen angels are gaining more strength mysteriously while they become weaker because of exhaustion.
"How many time I need to do this!" Yelled Momo before throwing another magic ball that deflected easily by Dohnaseek.
"You need to do better than that, devil." Said Dohnaseek before throwing another light spear which Momo dodged.
"Tch. Stop moving around." Said Koneko who still trying to hit Mittelt with no success.
"Hahaha! You're too slow!" Mittelt is about to fly away from Koneko punch but suddenly something hits her wings several times and that makes her cry in pain while also losing her balance. "Ahh! What is that!?" She about to land only to see that Koneko is about to punch her.
"Got you." Koneko said before punching her right on the face. The force from Koneko punch made Mittelt fly away to the river and making a huge splash in the process. "Who did that?" She asks and sees that Asia is creating some small water ball around her with Ryuji who stand in front of her.
After Asia finished making the water balls she then launched it toward Dohnaseek. True what she said the water ball is moving rather slow but that suddenly changed after Ryuji do something to it. Some green aura suddenly appears and engulfing the ball before it moved like a bullet.
Dohnaseek who got caught off guard after seeing Mittelt got punched can't react on time when he finally noticed the water bullet is coming and in the result, he got hit on the arm twice, leg and on of his wing. Momo instantly uses this chance to blast him away using her magic and make him hit the bridge near Raynare.
"You will pay for that!" Said Raynare before she decides to rain down the group using a smaller version of the light spear. Everyone instantly panicked and try to evade as much as they can but because there are too many light spears that still manage to graze them.
"Everyone! Come to me!" Yelled Momo before the rest of them approach her and she makes a small barrier to protect them. "Luckily, she didn't focusing her light spears here. The bad news is I only have a small amount of magic left. So if we don't do anything to beat her then it's all over."
Ryuji then starts thinking about a plan and fortunately, he instantly get one. "I have a plan, it's kinda risky though."
"Let's hear it." Said Koneko.
"She's right. It's better than being a sitting duck and didn't do anything." Momo said.
"Alright. First, Asia try to annoy her using your water magic again. Momo, can you hold your barrier a little longer and tell us when that fallen angel recharging her barrage?"
"I can do that but at very best I can only hold this for five more minutes."
"Lastly, Toujo-san. We going to approaching her but since I know that you're not agile enough I will carry you until we reach the ideal position. No offense though."
Koneko is frowning at that but decided to stay calm and let Ryuji finish the talk. "...then what?"
"I'll put you down and when that happens please throw me to the fallen angel. I'll try to attack her as hard as I can and let's hope that enough to stop this fight."
"But, Ryuji that's dangerous! What if she attacks you before you can even reach her!" Said Asia.
"Well... It's better than waiting for her to break Momo barrier and die without fighting back." Ryuji said before his body suddenly glowing for a short time since he just cast various buff on himself. "Ready?"
"O-Okay!/Sure./...fine."
...
Ryuji POV
After the short confirmation Asia instantly makes several water ball that slightly bigger than before and throw it to Raynare. I instantly cast Garu on each of it and push the water balls to Raynare direction. Instead of dodging Raynare just use her light spears to destroy it one by one. I grinned at this since this is what I want for her to do and raising the success rate of my plan.
"I didn't know you can use magic, Ryuji." Said Momo.
"I'm glad I can do it though." I said while continue to cast Garu everytime Asia create another water ball.
After another set of water balls Raynare becomes slower at throwing the light spears at us and it finally the time she needs to recharge. "She's charging her light spear!" Yelled Momo and I instantly cast Sukukaja before grabbing Koneko and run straight toward Raynare.
"You ready, Toujo-san?" I ask her and only got her nod as the response.
Raynare finished recharge her light spears and try to shoot me down with it. Fortunately, with Asia and Momo magic, her attention at me is divided and that made me easier to dodge incoming light spear. I finally reach the ideal spot for Koneko and I drop her down which she instantly grab my hand and throw me to Raynare.
'Charge and... here is it! Dragon Uppercut!'
I cast my new skills before reaching her which resulted with my right hand coated with fire.
"You brat!" Raynare instantly create another light spear before grab it and planned to stab me with it.
"Hah!" I manage to punch her on the face but Raynare also stabs me on my stomach. "Agh!"
-31 HP for using Dragon Uppercut!
Critical hit! Deal 778 Fire Damage to the Enemy!
-22 CP for using Ki!
You've gained +274 HP +149 SP from Lifesteal/Spiritsteal!
You've been attacked by critical hit! -299 HP!
Warning! Your HP is on critical condition!
The force from my punch made Raynare hit another part of the bridge and destroying some of the foundations while I was sent to another direction which Koneko catch me before I reach the ground.
"Thanks for that one..." I said before coughing some blood.
"Stay still." She said while holding me so Asia can heal me.
"Nice one Ryuji. So is it ended?" Momo asks only for some sudden explosion occurred and revealed the fallen angels who engulfed with black aura floating above us but the most shocking is Raynare suddenly have another pair of wings making it four in total. "I guess not."
"Never thought some brats manage to make me use this much power. Nevertheless, everything you do is useless. Tomorrow I will begin my assault to you devils and just you wait for me to take your sacred gear as well. Now then enjoy your last living day as much as possible." Said Raynare who now had a deeper voice before taking off with the rest of fallen angels and leaving us alone.
"Well... *cough* I guess she already planned the climax."
"W-What should we do?" Ask Asia
"Let's back to our apartment and... have some curry first." I said with a smile only to get smacked on the head by Momo.
You've been attacked! -11 HP!
"Geez, can you please read the mood first? You are injured for Lucifer sake!" Said Momo.
"Sorry, sorry. I just want to lighten it up a little."
Ryuji Apartment, Night.
*Ping!*
Level Up! You reached level 34! Your stat increased by Str +2 End +3 Mag +4!
'I wonder if I can gain more level if I manage to beat them completely? *sigh* It's not like I can do that though.'
After we reached the apartment Asia continue healing me despite I said that I already fine while Momo is cooking the curry that Asia (surprisingly survived) made and Koneko just staring at me. After Asia finished she then helping Momo with the curry leaving me alone with Koneko.
"So... is there something you want to say to me, Toujo-san?"
"...I don't understand."
"What is it?"
"Why you still use Senjutsu despite it being dangerous? Ask her
"Because it just saves our lives. Another one is... Senjutsu is not that dangerous as long you know how to use it." I said.
"...how can you be so sure?"
"As long I train it everyday and learning to master it I'm pretty sure I'll be fine. Besides, I got myself a teacher so there's nothing to be worried about."
"You're weird..." Koneko is about to say something else but was interrupted by Momo who walking toward us.
"Dinner is ready. Get up from that sofa and let's eat it before it cold. Oh, and Ryuji I fix that window for you considering that you just saved our lives." Said Momo.
"I'm the one who drags us all though."
"Yeah, that's why stop talking and let's eat." She said before walking to the table.
"You hear her so-" I'm about to stand and walk toward the dining table but Koneko suddenly stands in front of me.
"I want you to explain more about that. So... I'll talk to you again later."
*Crack!*
I am thou, thou art I...
Thou has acquired a new bond,
Thy bond shall become thou strength,
And brings thee closer to the truth...
With the birth of Hanged Man arcana,
Thou shalt be granted the blessing that shall change the fate of the world...
All passive on ? now has 75% effectiveness when not transforming!
After the sudden event, Koneko then walks away to join Momo and Asia.
'Wow... never thought I'll get another one from her. But now I'm wondering why I didn't get an arcana with Issei?'
"Hey, Ryuji! Stop daydreaming and come eat with us!" Yelled Momo.
"I'm coming... mom number two."
"H-Hey!"
'I like that Momo and Asia have the same reaction when I called them that.' I ended my thoughts before finally join them to eat.
...
After we were done eating the curry, Koneko and Momo decide to go back and report everything that just happened to their king. I already told them that I and Asia will be going to hide tomorrow since that's the best option we got for now. Though I'm still curious with the black aura that fallen angels has so maybe... I'll try to find out what the reason they have it in the first place. When I'm about to go to my bedroom Asia suddenly called out my name.
"Ryuji, can I have a moment?"
"Sure, what is it?"
"Umm... I found this book before I got attacked and it has your name on it so... here you go." She said before giving me the book. "Don't worry I'm not read any of it since that would be rude. Goodnight then, Ryuji."
"Goodnight for you too, Asia." After saying each other goodnight I then prepare to sleep only to curious with the book that Asia gave to me. 'I never writing any book since I reincarnated to this world so that only means... the original Ryuji who wrote this.'
Controlled by curiosity I decided to prepare myself before start opening the book and begin reading it.
Day one.
I finally arrived at Kuoh. To be honest I'm still worried about leaving Kyoto without telling her first. Maybe its because I'm scared... or confused...
It's fine... It's better this way... I'm not even worth to become her friend in the first place. It's my fate to be alone... forever.
Day six.
I become accustomed to living here. However, with my current condition right now... I'm afraid I can't enjoy my school life here before it even started.
Why god giving me this curse!? Why me!? Why!?
...sometimes I questioned God decision about life. Why I can't be happy and live like others? I just want to have a family... I just want to have some friends... And the most important... I just want to live.
Day ...
...I can feel this is the last day I can live in this world... Its shame that I can't write this book longer as much like my first book. I hope she can found my first book... since I leave it near the shrine that we used to play together.
I'm sorry that I must leave like this... There are so much regrets that I have since the beginning of my life. But I think the biggest regret I had is... to leave without telling my very first friend like this. I'm sorry-
"The writing ends... so the original Ryuji is died because of an incurable disease? But if he died while writing this book then how come I didn't find this when I first reincarnated here?" I then put away the book to my inventory before laying on the bed. "...to be honest I pity him since he can't even live his life the way he likes. But then... who's this his very first friend? *sigh* Looks like I need to visit his old town if I want to reveal everything. But first, I need to deal with Raynare and her friends." With that, I finally decide to sleep.
...
-?-
"Just when I thought I'm going to have a nice sleep looks like fate has another thing stored for me."
When I opened my eyes I realized that I'm back to the place where I met with the goddess. I instantly stand up before trying to clear my vision before start walking to the gazebo. The goddess, Aella, is already waiting for me there and she smiled when she sees me approaching her. I then sit on the chair in front of her before drinking the tea that already poured on my cup.
"You have done a splendid job to stay alive against the stronger opponents. But, I never thought they have that kind of power." Aella said before she also drinking her tea.
"Oh yeah, did you know what is that? I don't think that power shouldn't be there in the first place."
"Unfortunately, I don't. I can feel the disturbance in my realm but I never seen the reason for that. Until some moments ago."
"...so if I can found some explanation about that power then I also can find some clue for saving your realm."
"Yes... but that also means you will endanger yourself more than you already have. I already asking too much from you so maybe you don't need to do this one."
"Don't worry about that since I'll do it anyway." I said calmly which made Aella-san surprised. "It's too late for me to back away now and if this can help you then that will really worth my life."
"I see... then I shall thank you once more. I will give you another blessing so you can fight them easier. I hope for your safety Ryuji." Aella said.
*Ping!*
Fool Arcana increased to rank 3!
Now you can change your main weapon anytime!
"Did you just lift a restriction from the system?" I said.
Aella-san just smiled gently before start talking. "Yes. I tried to figure out the game system to make it easier for you. Though it was complicated so I need a long time to make a single change on it."
"That's amazing! With this, I can be more versatile when I fight since I can use different weapons and skills."
"I'm glad you like it. So is there something else you need?"
"...I have one. About the real owner of this body... did you hide his textbook from me? If so then I want to ask why."
"That because he asked me to do that. That boy... didn't want to burden you with his problem. So he asks me to hide his last dying wish to prevent you from finding out who's he really is."
"I see..."
"I assume you want to go to Kyoto then?"
"Of course. I can't just let it end like this. His friend is waiting for him and if she knew that the real Ryuji is dead then I'm sure she going to blame herself. I can't let her do that..."
"You're too kind, Ryuji."
"Thank you. But what happened to the real me?"
"Don't worry I sent him to a better place where he can live happily without worrying about anything. That... at the very least I can do for him. A poor soul that live harshly in my realm."
"So glad that he's okay. Now, I can fight the fallen angels again without worrying about it. See you later then, Aella-san." I said before my vision slowly become bright.
"I hope you succeed my child."
...
The next day.
Shrine of the White Fox, Morning.
After done doing our morning routine me and Asia instantly went to Kiri-san and Yuzu-san place to hide us from the fallen angel for today. I already told them everything that just happened yesterday and gladly they let us hide here.
Since Asia work here she then changed her clothes to a shrine maiden and begin sweeping the fallen leaf around the shrine. Yuzu-san is keeping an eye on her in case if someone try to do anything funny like kidnapping her.
Kiri-san is back brewing for more potions as well creating a new one but not before selling me some of it since I asked her that. I need to restocking mine after the fight last night. I'm also giving her a bonus for my investment so she can continue repairing this shrine and also creating more potions for me.
After that, since everyone is busy with their own thing I decide to just go to where I train and clear my head for everything that just happened. I then open up my skill tab since I hadn't gotten a chance to see my new skills recently. Well... except Elemental Bullet of course.
Charge: Multiply user next Physical or Gun attack damage by 2.5. (Cost: 15 SP)
Sonic Spear: Imbued user spear with wind magic that increased the damage and penetration rate. Need Spear type weapon upon activation. (Cost: 10% HP)
Dragon Uppercut: Imbued user gauntlets with fire magic that increased the damage and slight chance to burn the enemy. Need Gauntlets type weapon upon activation. (Cost: 10% HP)
Rush Fire: Using Shotgun to close the distance with the enemy while constantly shooting in a short amount of time. Increasing the damage and fire rate but lowering the accuracy of the weapon. Need Shotgun type weapon upon activation. (Cost: 22 SP)
"I need to create more skills especially with sword, pistol and rifle exclusive skill since I still don't have any. I need to be more creative with it so I can make it more powerful." I'm about to put away my phone only for it to be ringing since someone decides to call me. When I looked at it there's an unknown number who called me and since I had some free time now I decide to answer it. "Hello?"
"Greetings, dear customer. It's me Lavenza. I calling you right now since I had a new request for you."
"Lavenza? ...what kind of request do you have?" I ask her nervously.
"I'm sure that you aware about the mysterious power that suddenly appears when you fight the fallen angels right?"
"...yes. So, what do you want me to do?"
"I want you to take the source to me. Before you ask, yes that's possible. I observe that aura when you fight and I found out that aura was produced by something else. Not from their natural power. So I assume the one that produced the aura... is placed deep inside their body."
"How can I acquire it then?"
"I believe that Arsene can get the job done."
'Oh yeah... his unique skill.'
"So what do you say? You can come to my place if you accept and I can give you more details about it. Well then, I'll be waiting." She said before ended the call.
"..." 'I know this will be more or less a suicide mission. Considering their level is way higher than me and not to mention that Raynare gained a new power as well. But, I need to do this... not only for my sake but for Asia and Aella-san as well.' I then stand up and transform into Arsene before preparing myself to teleport to Lavenza shop. "It's been a while since I transformed to Arsene again. Well it's time to-"
"Kill yourself?"
"!?" I look the source of the voice only to see Kiri-san who look angry to me. "Kiri-san..."
"What do you think you're about to do now?"
"...you hear it, right?"
"And I won't let you do something stupid like that. Ryuji, they almost killed you and then you want to fight them again even when that's impossible!?"
'I never hear her yelled before. Looks like she really angry with this.' "But, Kiri-san this is something I need to do."
"Don't be stupid and just let the devils deal with this problem! There's a limit that one person can do and you must know this one is too much for you!"
"...even so I need to do this, Kiri-san. So please just let me fight them."
"If you really want to do it... fine." She said before her fox ears and tail suddenly appears. She also summons her blue fireballs around her and looking at me seriously. "I'll make sure that you can't even move for the next few days. Don't worry I'm sure that Asia-chan can heal you so there's no reason for me to holding back!"
Kiri-san instantly shooting her blue fireballs at me which caught me off guard. I can only prepared myself to block it but then it suddenly explodes before it can even reach me. 'I'm pretty sure that's not a firework. So what just happened?'
When the smoke finally cleared out I can see that Yuzu-san is the one who blocks the fireball for me. She also had some blue fireballs around her and also some blue aura that I never seen before.
"Just what do you think you're doing, Kiri?"
"Tch, don't stop me Yuzu."
"...Ryuji is different so even you try to stop him did you really think he going to stop?" She said and surprisingly I can hear her voice without choosing Unicorn as my main Persona. Kiri-san also starts shaking and I know that she becomes less determinate from before. "Stop holding him back and let him unleash his potential!"
"!" Kiri-san instantly stops her movement and falling to her knees. I'm about to help her only to be stopped by Yuzu-san.
"I will take care of her. You just go, Ryuji. I'm sure you can handle this problem, right?" Said Yuzu-san.
"Okay, I understand... I'll be going then Yuzu-san... Kiri-san." I said before teleporting myself to Lavenza shop.
...
"*sigh* I know you're worried but to think you almost hurt him in the process..." Said Yuzu before she makes her blue fireballs disappear.
"...I'm ashamed of myself."
"Listen Kiri, everything that happened back then is not your fault. I know that Ryuji is really similar like him but you should know that he's a completely different person."
"...how can you be so sure... that he'll be fine even when his enemy is on a completely different level? He might die after this... and if that's happen..."
"Just believe in him. Also..." Yuzu said before walking toward Kiri. "Just like in your younger days back then... 'There's no way he able do it.' I thought. But, he doesn't care and just keep on training... and little by little he just keeps getting stronger. He doesn't look like it but... He's as stubborn as you are and stronger than anyone else."
M2R: Yup! I just need to plan when exactly she going to approach Ryuji. Maybe it will happen even faster than the anime? Let's just wait and see...
Lq840i: He will have those later. I'm sure Lavenza will get some new stock when he visits her shop later.
Doortolight47: Yes, Ryuji using life energy is possible because the game system and Nekomata form allow it for him. Of course, don't forget about training as well since that's the best foundation in every aspect of life.
fafnir1404: I feel you. Looks like I need to buy a new phone to play it so I'm going to stick to GBF until that happens.
Guest-Questioner: Alright, I understand! Sorry for using that emote without telling you first, hehe.
Dxhologram: Especially when he has a Persona that considered a divine being or a hero in the future. Since that also can affect his idealism and judgment as well.
Gen2324: Fortunately, Ryuji able to change those fates while also gaining a new arcana from Koneko. Let's just see how will this goes later...
Journey to the End: Since Ryuji got a new arcana from Koneko that only means he also will help her while also progressing her confidant rank. So that'll be a win-win situation for both of them.
yogaratw607: I haven't played it but maybe I'll look at the YouTube first.
kurokitsune028: That's because I was get inspired from there when I create the skill.
Kensei-1085: Maybe in the future? Or he even will do Hadoken as well? Haha, let's just see his progress and of course he will also creating a barrier on his house after he was done dealing with the fallen angel.
Shinsuke: Yup, that was the best anime ever. I'm glad that I can watch it and I'll try to make Ryuji just like him.
Morn: He senses it, though only to make him know about dragon aura inside Ryuji and nothing else. And of course, she will get that development too if she joins the harem since she just got a social link with Ryuji.
Naomi: I hope this fight scene is enough to satisfy you since Asia using her water magic frequently and not just healing her team members.
Shen: Let's hope he can touch Tsubaki, Kiba, Vali, etc. sacred gear and got a new skill from it.
Guest: He needs a lot of new skills. Since he can use every weapon categories at his disposal.
Guest: Thanks!
look2019: Thank you!
Ultima88: You're welcome. Sure, I will make sure to remember it when he about to train his Strength stats.
Shinta: The more he helps Aella to save her realm the more he learn about that. Especially since he just discovered the unknown power that he needs to fight in order to save Aella realm.
MasterBlade47: Kiri has a special connection with Yuzu so she able hear everything from her since Ryuji first meeting.
fruitspunchsamurai-987: Hmm... that's a good skill. However he need someone who teach him that either it was a martial artist master or maybe he will gain Okita Souji persona? Let's see...
Kaori: I hope the Koneko POV in this chapter is good enough for you. So what do you think?
Hajime: Don't worry about that. It's fine to give me spoilers since I didn't plan to watch the anime anytime soon. The more information I got is better right? I will make sure to get King Arthur or Lady of the lake persona when that chapter started.
Nio: Bow is good since there's a lot of skills can be made by using that weapon. For the shield, well maybe it's not just giant shield rather it's sword and shield just in like old school RPG.
Van: Yup. But I need to edit it a little since the original element resistance in Persona series are kinda OP when you have all of it.
Lamia: If you diligent enough even a small things can make a lot of difference if you do it properly. Luckily Ryuji do that so he can gain some advantage in a fight.
Meek: Yeah! There's so many new cool things in P5 Royal. I really want to play it now.
Shen: So it's just like... Blink dagger in Dota then? I also read some manga that use that kind of spell so I think I can already visualize it.
Dei: A loli? A Milf? Or even both?
jcheriscar: Thank you. I will continue updating this story though my writing speed is slow so I'm sorry for that, haha.
Kerry: That's why I used Persona concept in this story. I love how they made the series teach you about every problem that you might face in life and how you solve it. It's really good.
Imperial Guard 1337: Sure, I'll try to look at it and maybe I can make a new skill for Ryuji from that scenes.
Naomi: Don't worry he will do that. Since he always use that chance to buff himself and also debuff to the enemy. There's no doubt that he also punch them in the middle of their speech.
Springer: Or maybe a mace, a katana or even a scyhte? I agree that he need to find a proper teacher or persona for him just like you said.
Guest: Hopefully Ryuji didn't have to punch them to make them realize. Well... for now.
Ark: One at a time. And let's hope that he can change his gun in the middle of a fight as well so he can do a lot of combo using his gun alone.
Guest: Yes. After he finished with the fallen angel I try to introduce it to him.
Guren: Noted. Thanks for the information I will save it for later when I can use it. Ddraig will be aware of the dragon but he didn't know anything else about it.
Guest: So what do you think with Asia fight on this chapter? And yes Ryuji manage to prevent the kidnapping so that also change the story.
Urek: I'll try to do that on the future chapter. No promises though since I often forgot about something like that, haha.
Sera: Yes he will be the neutral party since he don't want anyone tied him with rule and restrictions. Since that what he wished for, freedom.
Regis: He probably insult them as well if they tried to force him to do that. And yeah it won't end peacefully not to mention if he getting stronger as well.
Shiroyasha Rises: Thank you for the information you write for me and hopefully Ryuji can change Rias behavior and made her more mature. And thank you as well for the harem recommendation.
Geller: That's like Persona 4 the animation when Yu is about to fight Izanami by breaking the illusion world that she make and decide to fight her. Even when he need to face the truth about leaving his friends since he got transferred again to another school.
Gladios: Haha, well I haven't watch it so I can only guess that based from all the reviews. But yes, I made Ryuji train hard since that's what I'm doing when I playing RPG games. By training and grinding everyday.
Ignis: Not to mention that he can't just save and load his progress so he need to choose his action very carefully.
Middernacht: Like this? Or maybe I still lack of something else.
nahariyanash: Don't worry since the event has been changed by Ryuji itself and that makes Asia safe from the fallen angels. I will try and search it later about this Monster Strike and thank you for your recommendation about the harem I really appreciate it.
Lu: Noted. I'll make sure to change Xenovia event after the fight with Kokabiel and make a proper story for her. Also you're right about his team since they're the one who not bound by anything they makes a perfect teammates for Ryuji.
Meito: Just like Yu Narukami. Even when he parts away from his friends he never be truly alone. Because they're always be with him in his heart.
Gina: The story, the action, the effect and also the comedy is really good. Can't wait for the movie! (Or the OVA)
Sengoku: Yes more or less. Though maybe he will change his appearance in one of his social link event. I still not planned it though.
Waver: Don't worry. I'll make sure that I won't do something like that.
Lonewolf767: Alright, let's see what I can do.
Aeherium21: Yes you're right about that. But! If an introvert were teased, bullied or suddenly was forced to 'come out from his/her shell' (which is solitude) he or she may develop social anxiety.
Blaze: It also giving him a harder difficulty to predict the future event since Ryuji only had limited knowledge. So he need to fix his flaws as soon as possible or he going to be in a lot of trouble later.
belamy20: You're welcome.
Alright that's all for this chapter and a new beginning for this year! I hope you all will have a great year and as for me I just hope I can stop slacking around when I'm not busy and update more chapters faster. Well, see you all later! Ciao~