Komui knocked, waiting for the invitation to enter. Being Chief of the European Branch, Komui had said he would approach the Director personally, and begin their long-awaited plan. Three months in the waiting and everyone was eager to begin. Hearing Lvellie give the okay to come in, Komui took one more deep breath before pushing the door open.
'Everyone's in place. We're ready,' he told himself, hoping he looked more serious than as nervous as he felt. While the man was confident in their operation, there was always room for error. The trick was being ready for any hiccups and acknowledging that plans can go differently than planned.
The door pushed open with ease, and Komui stepped into Lvellie's temporary office. Keeping even stride, the man greeted Lvellie. Stopping in front of the desk, the Director relinquished his focus on his document, giving Komui his attention. Without surprise, he wore his smug expression.
"What can I do for you Chief Komui?" Lvellie clasped his hands together atop his desk. Komui wasn't detoured. "Have a seat."
"I assure you I won't need to sit sir. I'm here to ask something of you, and I hope it won't require too much of your time," Komui stated firmly. 'And our time. But he won't make it that easy or we wouldn't have waited this long to do something,' Komui frustratedly thought. Lvellie prompted Komui to go on, "By all means, ask your question." Without hesitating, and well-rehearsed, Komui asked:
"As the Chief of the European Branch of the Black Order, and in place of the European and Asian Branch, we members have concluded that your manner in which the Order is run is not adequate and in favor for the people and it's cause. In their place, I'm asking you to stand down and formally resign."
Lvellie laughed, almost catching Komui off guard. "And who would take my place, dare I ask, Chief Komui?" Lvellie said, emphasizing chief, his tone mocking. Komui met his eyes dead-on, and boldly answered:
"After great debate who would be fit to fill such a role as Director of the Black Order, I, Komui Lee, was decided upon." Komui's stern determination stayed strong, and Lvellie's face flashed with realization. His smile was gone as fast as it came.
"You're serious." The Director said, disbelief dripping from his tone. Komui nodded, confirming the statement. He replied, "That is correct Sir."
"What do you take me for, an idiot?" Lvellie wasn't pleased, and he did little to hide that fact. "Such a request is only made by someone who does not understand the order of things. I have power and position to back me up. You have nothing."
Komui allowed himself a small smile, "That's where you're wrong Lvellie. I have much more." He takes a step closer. "I have an army of people who care about each other at the end of the day and have resolved to see this decision to the end. Now. I'll ask once more." Komui read the man's expression, already knowing the answer. "Will you resign as Director of the Black Order peacefully?" Lvellie scowled, standing abruptly. Seething angrily, the man responded,
"Did you think you would walk in here and ask me such a ridiculous notion as that, and get your way? If so, you're even more of a lunatic than I first thought."
Komui only sighed, "No, I did not expect anything regarding you to be easy. You acted exactly as we expected. I was merely humoring formalities on the off chance you might comply." The door opened quickly, Kanda and Link hurrying in. Lvellie made a quick movement to the underside of the desk, his features giving his fear of defeat away. Link, drawing a gun from his waist, locked his aim immediately onto the Director.
"I recommend rethinking that idea," the blonde inspector ordered. Lvellie, hearing the click of the gun as Link readied the first bullet. He froze.
Komui chimed in, "Both hands, up and open-palmed. We're not taking any chances." Kanda, releasing his grip on Mugen, grabbed the handcuffs from Links free hand, moving with caution to Lvellie. Coming up behind Lvellie, Kanda readied the cuffs,
"If you move even an inch, I won't hesitate to draw Mugen, and I don't need it activated to hurt you. Link won't hesitate to shoot either." Lvellie muttered something, no doubt something in anger at being bested.
"Bring your hands together, slowly, behind your back." The man seemed to hesitate for a brief moment but deemed it best to cooperate. Three against one, one CROW and Exorcist no doubt, was beyond his fighting capability.
"I'm sure you're aware that I have almost two hundred CROWs in the building as we speak," the Director boasted. "Are you still so sure about your victory?" Link's gun remained trained on his target, and Komui gave the Kanda the go-ahead, nodding his direction. Kanda made quick work in destroying Lvellie's golem.
Komui took a breath of relief, "We can talk freely now. Without that golem sending any red flags. And to answer your question, yes. We're very sure about our victory." Lvellie's taunts weren't a threat, and Komui could see the man's irritation at his own calm and collected attitude. "Because what you aren't taking into account is the Generals and exorcist's abilities and the masterminds of both the Asian and European Branch's science department."
Lvellie turned his glare to Link now. "I suspected you might be doubting my orders for some time now," he admitted. "Since the moment you asked to be transferred to the European Branch. I'm extending you one last chance Inspector. Pick the right side of this war and I'll spare you." Link, getting closer, returned the look with a smug smile,
"I am on the right side. And you're the one who made this war. Let's review a few facts, shall we?" His face stern now, he continued. "Being your right-hand man, I've had plenty of time and access to restricted documents. It's your name, Lvellie Malcolm, that authorized the Second and Third Exorcist Program. Alma Karma's fate was decided by you. And let's not forget the newest additions to the list." Link was angry, and Lvellie had never seen the inspector so livid.
"You've killed the third exorcists by putting the damn idea into motion. My friends are now at the Earl's mercy. You've taken children from their families without a thought, only seeing their use to you. Accommodators are still people."
Lvellie chuckled, "Innocence has but one purpose, and that is to defeat dark matter. You're all fighting a needless war. It almost seems like you're making things harder for yourselves."
Komui decided to interject, "Things have to get worse before they get better sometimes. And honestly, this job is far from easy, so we're more than capable of handling bumps along the way." Komui turned to Kanda and Link. "They should be here soon, so be ready."
They nodded their understanding. Lvellie doubted they were speaking of the CROWs as they didn't look worried. Back up was on the way.
(Line Break)
The white tiles disappeared behind him, their light illuminating the dark cell completely for a brief moment.
"You look more alive than the last time we saw each other," the redhead joked.
"I feel more alive," Allen returned, the two once more in darkness. The Ark had faded. Lavi had already stood, not wasting a moment in reaching the person he had longed to see for much too long. Lavi pulled Allen into a tight embrace.
"You're okay," Lavi whispered, afraid to jinx himself. Releasing his embrace, Lavi leaned into Allen, feeling him do the same. He closed his eyes, leaning forward, letting their foreheads touch. Lavi listened to the other's breathing. It was real and right in front of him.
"I knew you were okay, but I still doubted everything would work out. I wasn't sure if I would actually see you in person again." Allen clasped Lavi's hands, squeezing them reassuringly.
"I'm here now." The exorcist intertwined his fingers with Lavi's, finding their mouth and kissing him. "We're together. And that's how I intend to keep it." The cell door announced its opening with an unpleasant creak. A petite figure was outlined in the doorway, courtesy of the torch ablaze on the wall behind them.
"I have your uniform Allen," the girl's soft voice cut into the quiet of the room. Allen hadn't realized what a mistake he'd made, having taken for granted being able to hear everyone's voices before. It was music to his ears. Lenalee approached them, and despite the lack of light, her joyful expression was evident.
"I'm sorry it's taken this long, but we're all back together again," she said, offering the clothing to Allen. He took it, saying, "And that's all the matters. Lenalee gave them a second alone, letting the boy change. Discarding the Asian Branch clothing he had come in, the white-haired exorcist dressed quickly.
"Johnny's amazing. Without fail, it fits like a glove," Allen thought out loud. Finishing the buttons, he turned to Lavi. "Let's go kick some CROW butt."
Lavi grinned, "I'd say it's long overdue." Together, they left with Lenalee to meet up with the others. "So we head to Lvellie's office first?" Lenalee, keeping pace with the other two, answered her friend: "That's the plan. We're meeting up with my brother and then to our posts as planned." Keeping watch for any CROWs, they made it quickly to the office door without much trouble.
Lenalee knocked, using a particular pattern in doing so. They had agreed on it as a way of conveying it wasn't an unwanted guest. Watching Lenalee get ready to open the door and announce their arrival, Allen realized he wasn't ready.
"I think it might be better if I wait out here," Allen spoke up, attempting to hide his unease. Lavi, telling Lenalee to wait for a second, turned to Allen, reading his expression on the spot.
"This is our chance to show Lvellie he was wrong. We'll be with you the whole time," Lavi confirmed, hoping to boost the other's confidence. "Lvellie is currently being detained by both Link and Kanda." He leaned in, whispering to only be heard by Allen, "He can't hurt you anymore. I won't let him."
Lenalee, with a smile brimming with the confidence of her own, added, "We'll all be there with you. That man won't touch anyone again." Reading the sincerity in both Exorcists eyes, and despite being unsure still, Allen wouldn't shy away from the man responsible for everyone's troubles.
"Lead the way," Allen's smile conveyed his fortitude. Lenalee opened the door, her expression turned serious again, clearly feeling the same as the other two. Grabbing Allen's hand, Lavi held on tightly. He was dreading Lvellie himself, choosing to put on a brave face until now. The exorcists walked into the room together. Komui's face lit up immediately.
"You're here! And right on time," Komui, not sparing a second, rushed to greet them. Crossing the room, he hugged his sister. The girl chuckled, "I wasn't gone that long." He turned to Allen and Lavi. His face was content, and brimming with joy, "It's been too long. Words can't express how relieved I am to see you," the man's smile faltered a little. "If I'm being honest, there were a few times I wasn't sure if everything would turn out right." Allen could read Komui's want to hug him, and considering how long it had been since he had been back at headquarters, it felt wrong not to indulge his superior. Pulling Komui close, Allen let his face convey his emotions with a small, sincere smile. Lavi released his hold, letting Allen have both hands to embrace Komui.
"I'm happy to be home. We're going to put an end to all this, and then everything will be normal again. Whatever normal is for us," Allen added, wanting to make the other smile. Across the room, Kanda and Link kept a careful eye on Lvellie. Lvellie watched the others from where he sat on the ground.
A grin crept over Lvellie's mouth, "Allen Walker. Or should I address you as the 14th?" Kanda, already standing near their hostage, swiftly drew Mugen from its sheath. Mugen's hilt met Lvellie's face in seconds. The sound of the man's nose meeting the sword was rewarding, but not nearly as much as the blood that began to pour from his nose. Kanda smirked, relishing in the man's discomfort. Outing Mugen back, he used his coat to remove any blood on the handle.
"It's Allen. But you can stay quiet if you know what's good for you," Kanda chided. "I'm happy to break more than just your nose." Link also enjoying his old superior's miserable expression as they held their nose tenderly. Lavi released his hand from his innocence, keeping it where it sat on his waist. His eyes wandered back to Allen, seeing the boy's expression softened somewhat. They still looked uneasy. Unfortunately, it was understandable. Komui turned to Link, confidant Lavi would take care of Allen's doubts.
"Link. It's time. Kanda can handle Lvellie," Komui said. Lavi had taken Allen's hands in his own, grabbing his attention, "Lvellie is nothing but a big ego and a big head. You aren't anybody but yourself. You know that." He tried to smile reassuringly. Allen tried to return the same gesture, "I know." Lavi could read the wavering doubt from a mile away.
"Nothing could make me stop loving you. Not even a stupid Noah. Remember, you're stuck with me," Lavi grinned bigger now, his eyes sparkling with truth and wander again. Link handed his gun off to Komui and approached Allen.
"I knew you couldn't be killed that easily. It's nice to have you back, Walker." Allen managed a small laugh, replying, "Honestly Link, you can call me Allen. You aren't in charge of me anymore."
Link smirked, "Old habits die hard. I'll work on it. Now let's go." Link and Allen headed out, making their way to their post. Lavi and Lenalee making their way to their destination as well. Lvellie, still unsure if he should open his mouth, decided to test the waters.
"You really believe you have the ability to defeat CROWs. You will regret this." Komui and Kanda's eyes met their determination, not in the slightest deterred.
"Honestly," Komui started, "failure is the last thing we're worried about. No fight was ever won without putting up a fight first. We're ready and armed. Bring your worst."
(Line Break)
"It's safe to assume that the CROWs have been ordered to not trust me," Link explained. Allen and Link headed towards their destination, an educated guess where the CROWs would be. "Between us, the other exorcists, and the Generals, we should be well-armed. I'm sure you remember, but it's better to be safe than sorry. CROWs are trained mostly in close combat, so be prepared for their spells and incantations."
Allen was aware of what the CROWs were capable of. They had been able to restrict Crown Clown using such spells. He headed thought much of the paper strips before the incident. Kanda had shared his own experience briefly while he was still being subjected to the second exorcist program. Everybody was well aware despite having personal experience with Lvellie's goonies or not, that this fight was higher stakes than they'd had in a long time.
Treaded carefully, slowing before taking their last corner. "As we all agreed," Link, his tone demanding attention, signaling Allen that this was where everything began. "Only kill if you must. The objective is to subdue them if possible. However, if it is necessary, do not hesitate to take a life."
Allen confirmed his understanding. He hadn't liked the idea of killing anyone, but what they sought was no small victory. And no war was ever won without loss. Link prepared his spell strips, his hands ready at his sides. Allen activated Crown Clown, the clown attire materializing. Edge End was ready, and he follows Link keeping pace as the turned the corner, now in the same hall as their potential enemies. Link spoke first,
"I'm asking you all to stand down and hear me out. There is no reason we can't reach a compromise. The Director is safe and unharmed." A figure cloaked in a large red robe, their face was hidden behind a white mask, stepped forward. They responded, even-toned,
"We have been instructed to not trust CROW Howard Link since his placement at the European Branch. Director Lvellie has ordered such, therefore, we ask both you and Allen Walker to surrender reasonably." Link's hand moved on its own, quickly releasing two blades, and hitting their targets behind the leader.
In seconds, the Ark was open and gone, Allen not giving the CROWs time to react. He stepped out again, on the opposite end of the spacious hallway. Their targets were now surrounded. Both Allen and Link met the hooded figures head-on.
(Line Break)
Iron Hammer, breaking the concrete beneath its round head, conjuring Lavi's infamous snake made of fire. The circle beneath the hammer, glowed an even brighter red, resembling the color of fire itself. The serpent writhed through the swarm of CROWs, capturing the unfortunate ones in its mouth. Lenalee, holding off five or so that weren't busy dealing with Lavi's attack, dodged a talisman, stepping to her right. Ducking, she knew another CROW was behind her. Before they could make a move, she brought Dark Boots under the hood Figures footing, tripping them. She used the opportunity to push herself off the ground and gain some distance vertically. Activating Waltz: Mist Wind, a tornado materialized and gained quickly in velocity.
She landed, her feet touching solid ground again. Lenalee, still observing the CROWs that weren't preoccupied with Lavi's snake, found Lavi in the crowd.
He was swinging Iron Hanmer to ward off an attack. Even from where she stood, the Exorcist knew that the spell strip tagged to the hammer's head wasn't a good thing. Electricity started to bubble, growing in power. Lavi's face fell. In mere seconds, the electricity crackled and moved up the extended handle.
"Lavi!" Lenalee called, watching her friend freeze as the attack reached him. He fell to his knee, his grip loosening on his innocence.
"You shouldn't look away from your enemy, Exorcist." She turned her head, nearly meeting a CROWs fist face first.
'Lavi can handle this. He's okay.' She thought, making herself focus on the threat in front of her. Lenalee returned the gesture, bringing her leg up and landing her boot into the CROWs stomach. They didn't block, seeming to let her make her mark. While they were winded, and breathing more rugged, she didn't like it. Something wasn't right. Lenalee withdrew her leg, it suddenly flaring up in intense, sharp pain.
Stumbling away from the attacker, she spared a glance at her ankle: a strip of paper attached, and small flames licked her boot. The flames felt as if they were going through Dark Boots, and yet they weren't physically marring the boots.
'I think it's attacking my innocence. I wasn't the target initially. Please, Lavi. You have to be okay.' Lenalee manganese to peel the spell strip up a bit before she had to stop because of the heat from the flames. The good figure laughed.
"You are more ignorant than I thought if you think you can remove our spell strips with bare fingers. It's not impossible, but you will regret it." She ignored the warning and pulled quicker. It hurt more than she wanted to admit, making what was said the truth. But Dark Boots being put out of commission was not an option. It gave way, instant relief flooded her leg. Her leg still throbbed, but more so her hand which had taken direct contact with the flames.
"I guess it's not all that you thought," Lenalee stood, unsteady for a second, not hesitating to make the next attack. Lavi had stood slowly, steadying himself with Iron hammer. 'I'm a sitting target, I have to move,' Lavi muttered, still feeling the effect of the CROWs attack. From the corner of his eye, movement caught his attention. Turning quickly, using the hammer's handle, Lavi deflected the incoming weapon. It clattered to the ground, Lavi getting a better look at it now. It was long and slender, ending in a sharp point: The CROWs infamous needles.
'I hope Allen and Link are doing okay,' he let himself think.
(Line Break)
The science department was a nervous wreck. Anyone who did not possess innocence, or confident skill to protect themselves were ordered to stay tucked away from the war zone. The science department had defenses armed and ready to stand between CROWs and themselves.
"Are you okay Timothy?" Amelia asked softly. She'd finished speaking to Reeves and had come back to comfort an upset looking Timothy, still huddled against the wall where she left him. She sat beside him. He nodded.
"I'm worried. What I've been told about the CROWs makes them seem pretty strong. Do you believe we can defeat the Director?" His voice wavered in the little confidence he already had. His sister smiled, somberly.
"I do. You know Kanda is strong. Lavi and Lenalee are both smart. And Allen is too. The Generals are super strong too." Wrapping her arm around him, Amelia held him tight, squeezing him reassuringly: "I do believe in them. Have faith, and we will win this. Just you wait and see, okay?" The boy looked at her, seeing that she did believe her own words.
"I can do that," Timothy said, wanting to be strong as well. "We can't do a lot for them, but we can have faith in them."
"That's right," she smiled small and proud. "We're going to see this through, and welcome them all home."
(Line Break)
Lenalee deflected an incoming swarm of spell strips, using Dark Boots to propel herself out of dodge in time. From her vantage point above the battlefield, the exorcist estimated the number of foes left.
'About 60 left here. Let's hope the others are doing better than we are.' Landing back on solid ground, Lenalee ignored the CROW's body she stepped over to deliver a swift blow from Dark Boots.
The unfortunate soul who made contact with her was not getting up anytime soon. Their groan of protest spoke for itself. What seems sudden, the girl felt a presence behind her. Assuming it to be a CROW, she turned on her heel, greeted by a falling body, or hitting the floor with a sharp thud. Their face was permanently an expression of shock- no, fear was a more accurate description. Hearing Lavi further away, out of sight, she looked around for who had helped her. A sweet, laid back voice ended the search.
"That was a close one. They almost got you. I guess it's a good thing I was here then, huh?" The girl was shorter, and before getting a closer look, the stranger was gone.
(Line Break)
Crown Belt pulled its target off balance, keeping the captive CROW from advancing. Allen invoked his left hand and used Edge End to finish the CROW. Releasing Crown Belt, the ribbon retracted, returning to his white cape invading his body. Sparing a second to check on Link, Allen could tell by the looks that they were both in need of a chance to recollect themselves. From what he had heard, Allen could only guess that the generals had managed to finish the CROWs they had been fighting, based solely on the fact that it had quieted a bit, and the lack of walls collapsing. Having gotten a second to check how badly he had been hurt, he spared a glance.
The slender metal was several inches deep at least, embedded into his stomach. The last attack he hadn't been able to block completely. Gripping the end, the boy pulled it out, fast and what he was hoping was less painful. He was wrong about that much. It was one of the ceremonial needles. Allen could already feel it affects.
'This isn't looking good for me. I can already feel it.' While not much was known about these particular weapons, Kanda had explained the needles main function; restricting movement, and the pain was merely a bonus for the CROWs it seemed. Kanda had been well acquainted with them unfortunately during his time at the Asian Branch some time ago. Allen's attention, though divided due to the growing numbing sensation only spreading, the approaching CROWs didn't go unnoticed. Now surrounded, they spoke, ordering,
"Stand down Allen Walker, and Director Lvellie may spare your life." Allen found the wording funny, letting himself laugh, though it didn't do much to hide the obvious pain.
'Crown Belt. Like before. You know what to do,' the exorcist thought, hoping Crown Clown understood. Like once before, the white ribbon tightly wound itself around his limbs and torso, taking care to wrap the gaping wound in its users lower stomach. 'Thank you, you're amazing Crown Clown,' Allen praised his innocence. Unable to move with his own strength, Allen let Crown Clown have control, moving his body for him.
"I'm not betting my life on an empty offer. Lvellie wants nothing more than to see us dead, and I plan to disappoint him. The CROWs weren't detoured, showing no signs of backing off. Even if the chances of getting out of the unlikely scenario were more than slim, Allen had no intention of submitting. They repeated the order:
"We have orders to kill you should you resist arrest. Is that your final answer?"
"You heard him." The voice echoed, the speaker's voice seemed to be coming from above them. Allen turned his attention upwards, spotting the familiar umbrella-topped with the talking pumpkin. A girl sat atop it, dangling her legs leisurely. Despite not being able to see Road's expression, Allen did not doubt that she wore a smirk playfully as ever. With the CROW's attention redirected, for the time being, the exorcist allowed himself to notice his surroundings more closely. The pointed candles that were possibly more dangerous than actual weapons, now incircled the Noah, pointed and ready for use. Road picked up where she left off:
"He's not bowing to you, or that man you work for. So, here's what you're going to do." The CROWs didn't let her finish,
"You bare the stigmata across your forehead. Are we right in assuming you to be a member of the Noah clan?" Road giggled, carefree as usual.
"Do I need to state the obvious? You know what I am, and I know what you are. We're the same: the enemy, with different ideas about who's the good guy. However," she cheerfully added, "you answered my question wrong. You interrupted me. So I'm going to give you your prize." Not waiting for the hooded figures to make the first move, the candles found their intended purpose. Allen could only watch as Road stopped the CROWs in their tracks as if it was the easiest thing imaginable.
With an unknown force, Road's toys were embedded in the fallen bodies of Lvellie's men. The ones left alive were unfortunate. Allen knee what it felt like being impaled by these particular 'playthings' the girl seemed to favor as her method to kill. Making himself focus on Road who descended to be eye level with Allen, he ignored as best he could the mutilated bodies that formed a circle around them.
"Road," Allen's voice wavered, his fear getting the better of him. If she wanted to attack him too, even with his innocence helping him move his body, he wouldn't stand a chance against her. Her smile, even bigger if that was possible, brightened upon addressing Allen up close and personal, by name. "Allen," she beamed.
"What are you doing here?" he asked, the question being the only thing coming to mind. He was still baffled by her appearance. Road happily answered the question, taking no offense to the boy's tone, and his hint of fear.
"I was bored. That should be reason enough. Besides, they were giving you trouble. I can't have some lowly vermin killing you. I wouldn't like that one bit. And neither would the Earl."
"You're-" Allen formed his words sluggishly, his wound pulsating pain despite the paralyzing effect, "you're here to help me?" She laughed at his question.
"Of course. And I won't be in trouble either. Tyki was just saying what a nuisance these CROWs are. So really I'm doing the family a favor by killing some. And as a bonus, I get to keep you alive. I'm already having fun." The exorcist did his best to refrain from looking as confused and surprised as he was feeling, not wanting to push Roads buttons wrong. He managed a smile.
"Thank you Road, I appreciate it," he thanked her. Allen then proposed a plan. "You like games Road. Whoever takes out the most CROWs wins. I think you'll enjoy yourself too." Her amber eyes opened wide, pleasure filing them.
"I'll play your game, Allen. But I'm counting down the ones already dead I'll have you know," she chuckled, jumping off Lero, and running amidst the remaining enemy.
'I hope I don't regret this,' Allen thought before going in the antics he started. 'Let's finish this Crown Clown,' and although he did not receive a verbal response, Allen knew that his words were received and understood.
(Line Break)
Link was keeping pace with Allen's slower speed. Though they needed to hurry, the man understood that Allen was lucky to be moving at all. If it wasn't for Crown Clown, it would have been a different story completely. Glancing up, Road was still a good distance behind them. Link spoke quietly still, not wanting to tempt fate.
"The next time you accept help from the enemy, please let me know beforehand," he scolded. Allen apologized.
"Honestly, there wasn't a lot of time. You were kinda busy yourself." Even Link had to agree with Allen on the thought. Link hadn't expected the CROWs to drop like flies the way they had. It truly resembled a battlefield. The girl, who he learned was called Road, wore a grin as she barely touched the enemy, killing them so easily. Her candles did most of the work as she put it. If he had to describe what he'd seen, Link would call it a dance. Road moved gracefully and carefully, killing Lvellie's men as if they were mere humans with no skill in combat. Her once white dress, was a deep red by the end of her 'routine,' or game, she had insisted it was.
"And you're sure we can trust her. This girl is of the Noah clan," Link asked, still minding his volume.
"I'm confused," Road thought out loud. "You're unsure if you can trust me, and yet you've been fighting alongside a Noah all this time." Link stiffened, weary he had set the temperamental girl off, angering her. She didn't seem mad, so much as curious.
"You aren't wrong," the man started, "However, you miscalculated. We've seen that we can trust Allen. You, however, have no morals regarding murder. So I fail to see how you're confused." Mentally, Allen thanked Link, appreciating his words more than he could express at the moment.
"I like you. You're not afraid to speak against an enemy stronger than you," Road complimented in her unique way. Or as Link would call it, an underlying threat.
(Line Break)
Lavi and Lenalee we're back to back, by some miracle still holding their own against the swarm of CROWs around them. Retracting Iron Hammer, Lavi wasn't sure how much longer either himself or Lenalee would last. She was feeling the same, but she pushed away the idea, as any distraction meant probable death now. There was no room for mistakes.
Screams erupted from the outskirts of the mob. It wasn't long before it was clear why. Both Lavi and Lenalee recognized the Noah immediately.
"Road?" Lenalee said, unsure if she could believe what she saw. Road perched on Lero again, this time standing, balancing where most would say was impossible. Road returned the question with one of her own,
"Are you playing too? This just got more fun," she quipped. Road continued with her havoc and never seemed to run out of her wax ammo either. From somewhere in the swarm of bodies, Allen shouted,
"Trust her, keep going!" Both exorcists knew his voice and chose to question the notion of 'trust' later. Mirroring the results of last time, the CROWs numbers had decreased quicker than either Lenalee or Lavi had thought possible. Link, like all the others, scanned for remaining CROWs. They had time before more arrived. Lenalee, taking care not to tread on any bodies, approached Allen, catching her breath still.
"What's going on?" Allen could only guess that his friend meant, 'why is a Noah fighting with us?' and 'can we trust her?' It was a reasonable thing to question. He explained, starting with a reassuring, "I promise I know what I'm doing." She and Lavi seemed more at ease just hearing those few words. Allen went on:
"Road can be trusted. I know it might seem hard to believe right now, but all she's done is help us. She's taken out more CROWs single-handedly than Link and I alone. So please, just trust her a little longer. That's all we need. The generals should be done with their share soon if I know Master Cross," he tried to add a lighter note. "Lenalee, you should head to the science department and make sure everything's okay. Miranda might need a hand."
"Are you sure you don't think I should stay here?" The girl asked, worried about leaving them. Lavi understood Allen's concern.
"We'll be fine here. Besides, with Road, we have more than enough help for whatever they throw at us," Lavi confirmed. Lenalee nodded, feeling confident that she could go and check on the others if both were sure of the decision. Using Dark Boots, she didn't waste any time in hurrying to the others.
Allen felt his legs start to give out. Leaning into Lavi, he made sure he wouldn't fall completely on his face. Lavi caught him, helping him to the ground slowly.
"Do you have anything that I can wrap my stomach with, maybe your coat, or scarf?" Allen breathed his words, almost a soft mutter. "I can't wrap it myself. I don't think Crown Clown can stop the bleeding anymore." Lavi found the wound and wasn't expecting blood-stained bandages. The ribbon unwound itself, exposing the source of the bleeding.
"Okay, I got this. You're going to be fine," the redhead frantically removed his scarf, knowing it would be better for applying pressure to stop the bleeding, and easier to tie off then the coats thicker material.
"Thanks Lavi, this should be enough until we're finished," Allen winced, his face scrunching in pain as Lavi tied the scarf off.
"Sorry," Lavi hated being the cause for anything that warranted even a little pain when it came to his family. Allen managed a small smile.
"I'm okay." Allen looked his freshly wrapped stomach over. "That should work for a while. Thanks Lavi." Crown Clown, knowing it was okay to move it's user again, slowly pulled Allen to his feet, his movements slow, steady. A sound erupted from a nearby corridor.
"Looks like they came to play some more." Road's announcement had their attention. "Round three is it? Are you ready Exorcists? Allen?" Lavi, still wary of Road, pulled his innocence from his belt, extending its length. He stayed close to Allen and Link.
"The generals should be regrouping by now. If everything's gone according to plan, we should all be regrouping soon," Link explained. With Roads ammunition ready, innocence activated and Link's CROW techniques set, they waited for the CROWs to make their appearance.
(Line Break)
Lenalee has passed Kanda on the way to the Science Department. Komui had told him he'd be of more use assisting the others, and that he had Lvellie under wraps. Hearing this, she still worried. Knowing the man's tactics and lack of morals, Lenalee didn't trust her brother's safety. She wished Kanda luck, and while passing the office, Lenalee decided to make sure everything was still okay. While she trusted Komui, the same could not be said for their hostage.
The exorcist knocked the same pattern as before and was welcomed in. Opening the door, the girl stopped in her tracks.
"Close the door. Now." Lvellie ordered. The man sat on his desk, the gun Komui once had now held firmly in Lvellie's hand. The barrel was pointed towards Komui's head. She found her brother's eyes, see his words without needing to hear them spoken. Lenalee knee better than to disobey. She let the door close, and she waited to move, not wanting to endanger Komui's life any further.
(Line Break)
It didn't take Kanda long to find Lavi and the others. The Generals had caught up as well, and the remaining CROWs were already attacking. Kanda had taken notice of Road's presence, knowing he would have to wait to question her allegiance. She seemed to be attacking the CROWs only. A handful of Lvellie's men had been taken alive, and the fighting seemed to be over. This did not mean that anyone's guard was down, however. Road sighed, floating down to be more level with the others.
"Is that it? I guess I should be going then," the Noah started. She slid off Lero, landing perfectly on her feet. With Lero towing behind her, Road skipped over to where Allen sat perched against the least destroyed part of the wall. Road squatted, leaning in close to the boy's face, kissing his cheek. Allen's cheeks heated, the pink hue giving him away.
"What was that for?" He asked, baffled by the kiss. The girl grinned playfully, and yet this time it had something sincere in it.
"I decided my prize for killing more CROWs was a kiss," the Noah explained. "I'd kiss you properly, but I believe someone already does that for you." Kanda, hearing Roads comment, interjected with his own:
"She's not wrong," Kanda jested, his face giving away just how much he wanted to rest. Road stood, beckoning Lero to get ready to leave.
"The next time we see each other, I won't play so nice," Road waved Allen's way, disappearing out the broken window.
"After we've all been checked out, you will be explaining everything," Kanda said, kneeling to sit by Allen. He checked the boy's stomach, and the scarf was no longer its original color, but a darker red. Allen deactivated Crown Clown, finally able to move his hands somewhat after almost two hours. "The head nurse is going to have her hands full," Allen laughed. "You go help the others. I'm sure there are others worse off than myself." Kanda didn't believe Allen was in okay shape to leave alone, but he listened, telling the boy he would be back.
(Line Break)
"Come here," Lvellie said. Lenalee wanted nothing more than to stay as far away as possible. She stepped slowly, not wanting to anger the man holding a gun against her brother's head. "Based on what I've heard, the CROWs are mostly defeated. But I still have one card up my sleeve. You're precious Chief. Your brother." Finding the courage to speak up, Lenalee asked, "What do you want in exchange for Komui's safety?" Lvellie was surprised. He hadn't planned on the exorcist caving so quickly. Her eyes had no fight.
His reply was instant, "I want you to call your friends off. If even one of them steps in this room, I will pull this trigger." Komui's face fell.
"Lenalee, don't listen to him. We can still-" The doors opened suddenly, and Lvellie readied the trigger, applying pressure. A cloaked CROW stood, waiting patiently. Lvellie released the trigger. Komui threw himself into Lvellie, taking advantage of the man's focus being directed elsewhere. Lvellie's balance being off, he pulled the trigger nonetheless. The shot filled the room, and Komui fell to the floor with the Director. The gun had fallen from Lvellie's hand, and Lenalee hurried to grab it.
Seeing the CROW still standing still, she pointed the guns focus on them. The good fell, revealing Kanda. She sighed in relief, turning back to Lvellie.
"Move to the wall, now. Hands where we can see them." As much as she hated not tending to her brother, the shot had hit his leg, and Kanda was already moving to him. The leg was a better option than others, less lethal. Lvellie did as he was told, making it clear he was unhappy about it.
"You won't shoot," he stated. Lenalee, her expression empty, pointed the gun lower than Lvellie's head, pulling the trigger.
"I'd think twice before shooting someone I care about Lvellie. Or next time it won't be your leg. Karma has a funny way of coming back." The man, kneeling, attempted to keep his weight off the injured leg. Lvellie muttered something under his breath. Kanda, still tending to Komui's leg, looked up from his work. Lvellie was holding his face. Lenalee looked angry, and Kanda knew better than to stand between her and Lvellie.
"Your CROWs are defeated and we have you cornered. I'll keep it simple, so you can understand," Lenalee's tone sharp, she explained carefully. "You will state clearly, that you are resigning as Director. Timcanpy will record as valid evidence. The choice is yours. You can cooperate, or I can practice my aim some more." Lvellie replies, his confidence starting to wain, the pain flaring in his leg.
"Be reasonable, Lenalee. If you kill me, more trouble will come of it than good."
"Correct me if I'm wrong," Lenalee didn't care anymore if she stayed calm. "You consider the second and third Exorcist Programs necessary. You believe that imprisoning one of our own was necessary. And let's not forget that you took me from my brother without a second thought. Was all that for the 'greater good?' Was it necessary?" Lvellie listened to the girl's words, intently, before answering, his voice full of contempt; "I do." She aimed again and squeezed the trigger. Lvellie kept from voicing the pain, grasping his shoulder.
"One more wrong answer," the exorcist continued, "and I promise the next bullet will end your life." Timcanpy entered the office then. "You are going to do as I've already said."
"I believe you are the naive one. There were two bullets remaining. You have no bullets left," Lvellie retorted. Lenalee, not in the slightest detoured, cocked the gun one last time,
"Are you sure?" She asked point-blank. Lvellie, his once cocky tone, and the smirk were dissipating. Lenalee started to pull the trigger.
"I'll give you to the count of three. 1..2..-"
"Stop! I'll - I'll say it. You don't have to shoot," Lvellie's eyes were wide and full of fear, something that was a rare sight. Lenalee allotted herself a smug smile, relishing in the man's discomfort.
"So you are afraid of dying," The girl noted. "The great Lvellie isn't everything he claims to be then. We exorcists face the idea of dying every time we leave to hunt Akuma. Maybe you're arrogant, enlarged ego is capable of understanding what you send so many to do. We fight for another day. Now," Lenalee nodded to Timcanpy. "Repeat after me, every word, clearly, and make sure you look Tim in the face. You wouldn't want to have to restart."
Lenalee recited, her voice strong, and full of conviction:
"I, Malcolm Lvellie, officially resign my position as Director of the Black Order and appoint Komui Lee, current Chief of the European Branch, to replace my absence. The Branches may each work together to appoint a new system in which the Order will be run. Current members under suspicion of treason will be allowed a fair trial and a chance to argue their case. All CROWs will be handled fairly, given their own trial, in which the results will determine what is to happen to each individual. I, Lvellie Malcolm, end my resignation."
Timcanpy began its recording. Lvellie reluctantly followed orders, repeating Lenalee's order of words. Upon finishing, he glared her direction. He glowered, "Is that all, or is there anything else you want?" The golem had ended it's recording before his remark.
"Just this." Her fingers reflex pulling the trigger again.