Chapter 9 Kicking Out Your Demons
The sun started to set on the majesty cloud horizon. The mighty grand tree stood over the clouds as two moons began to rise in the distance. Issei had sat by Angron and Konrad sat near Issei all of them were waiting for Logar to finish setting up the ritual. Issei's eyes were drawn to the moons as an Alien feeling settled with him, what supernatural realm had to moons. A rogue thought entered his mind. Was he even on earth? Issei shook it off, of course, he wasn't in space. Issei remembers all those weird phrases in terms the matriarch said. Maybe he was far from home, farther than he thought.
"Who cursed you." Konrad inquired about Issei.
"I tell you when Logar comes back, you both deserve to hear the truth." Issei said.
Konrad knew Issei was hiding something from them.
"I knew you were hiding something from us, but I didn't think it had anything to do with our Marooning here." Konrad commanded. "The truth of the matter is you hid your pain didn't you."
Issei changed his gaze at the fire with an Intense stare, as he filled around with his hands. The fire was on a dirt pile but had much tinder to keep it bright though out the night. This tree was so big that it would take more than fire to bring it down. The other two needed to know the truth about him, what he used to be.
"Hey, I did what I could." Issei said in a defeated tone. Angron gave Konrad a hard stare. Konrad Curze could see Angron's stare and challenged it with her own.
"Is something the matter, Angron?" Konrad Mockingly said. Angron kept herself calm and steady. To Angron, all insults didn't matter; she was above them. Konrad noticed Angron's calm attitude, which wasn't in her character at all, at least the Angron she knew. "Something different about you Angron, like there is less froth coming from your mouth and you're not Angrily frowning at everything." Angron calmly gazed at her.
"I'm not the Angron you knew, I'm different. The Butcher's nails have been removed and I am now fully mindful of my brain," Angron said in a tranquil tone of voice. "And heart."
"Well, how was it removed? I would gladly want to know, did you somehow beat your head against a rock so hard that it fell out." Konrad mocked. She wanted to see if it was True, then if it was she could take Issei away from Angron and bring him back to the camp.
Angron smirked at Konrad and glanced at Issei who watches the fire still.
"Issei cured me." Konrad's eyes widened in surprise at this, Angron was freed from the butcher nails, not even the Emperor could do such a feat. Issei watched as Konrad started at him with disbelief.
"Is he a-" Konrad tried to ask only for her to be cut off by Angron
"No, Issei is not a psyker he is something else, but he is still human and a bit of a dork." Angron smiled jabbing at Issei.
Issei turned away from the fire and looked at Angron, with a chuckle.
"Well, at least I don't snore." Issei joked towards Angron.
"I do not snore, you must be hearing this." Angron said back though she did have to fight back a smile.
"Yay hearing you snore, may you be so loud no wonder you stayed up most of the nights when we camped together." The two could only laugh at one another, Konrad watched enviously as Angron and Issei were so familiar with each other. Konrad wished that she could have that familiarity.
"What of the beating she gave you, have you not forgotten what she did?" Konrad barked in anger reminded of the horrible memory. Issei looked at Konrad with wide eyes while Angron Shamley looked away.
"Konrad it's okay, I know she wasn't in her right mind at the time it's fine, I'm truly all right." Issei reasoned with Konrad.
The night was not satisfied by the answer. Konrad was angered by Angron's action, and she got no consequence. Konrad, in a fit of rage, stood from where she sat. Her power claws extended ready for battle. Angron calmly sat on the ground
"You don't walk away free of the consequences, justice will be served." Konrad yelled.
Issei got in her way as he held his arms out to defend Angron. Konrad looked down at Issei with angered eyes.
"Konrad it's fine, please fighting is not going to solve anything." Issei testified. "Please I'm fine, look at me, I'm healed and Angron was sick please understand."
"She still needs to pay for what she did!" Konrad barked back. The sound of footsteps rushed towards them as Logar, gazed at the both of them.
"Please let us not fight now." Logar yelled at Konrad. Logar would not risk this cleansing anymore; the safety of Issei was their top priority. Konrad still took a fighting stance trying to bait Angron into a fight.
Issei in the heat of the moment, jumped high enough to try and grab Konrad's hand, only for the Night hunter to easily pull it back before he could even touch it. Issei fell to the ground amazed at how Konrad could anticipate his movement.
Konrad snickers at the action. Respecting the effort.
"Issei Angron shall be punished for what she did." Issei was about to protest, Angron's voice cut through the air like butter. Gaining everyone's attention.
"Konrad." All eyes were on her. Angron shamefully held her head down.
"I will accept your challenge after the cleansing ritual is finished." Angron said calmly, with no hint of deceit in her voice. Konrad listened to her words, taking the offer with keen interest. Issei and Logar were both against this very conversation at all.
"Will you two stop being Idiots!" Both Logar and Issei shouted. They both hardly turn to each other, surprised that they both had the same words in mind.
"You see even Issei thinks this is stupid." Logar protested. Konrad then growled at both of them. Though Issei wasn't even afraid of the night hunter. "It is too late, Angron has accepted her punishment for assault on Issei and will be felt After the ritual."
Angron then laid her gentle hand on Issei's shoulder.
"It is alright Issei please let me take care of this." Angron jested. "It's at least some from justice that I'm okay with."
Issei sat back down on the ground before Giving Konrad a cold gaze. Konrad didn't like this either but it was justice fair and simple. That is what she told herself. Logar shook her head at the two of them.
"Is it prepared?" Angron asked.
Logar nodded at Angron's answer, Konrad needs Issei alive, for he was the only thing to save the future. Konrad's ways of perceiving her future, if Issei alive was at stake she had to do something. The only vision she would get we're one of her winning battles with Eldar and being with Issei on romantic dates. It was such a breath of fresh air for her. Though every time they happen she would always get flutter at the Visions.
Angron could feel Konrad's worry for Issei, it was bizarre of people for Konrad to love Issei. Angron thought would Issei mind having a romantic relationship with her? Though past experience has shown Issei wouldn't mind at all.
Perhaps a ceremonial confession would be in order. Issei deserves only the best, after suffering from incompetent hands. Though worry also began to sink in.
"Logar, are you sure this Ritual of yours will work?" Angron raised a question.
Logar had wanted to ensure that it. Logar looked into the fire.
"Angron if this doesn't work or any harm is done to the boy I will take full responsibility." Logar admitted.
"I appreciate it, Logar." Angron smiled and gave a calm nod. Konrad Would gladly take Logar her words. If anything happens to Issei then It would be her head on the line. Logar at Issei with hope in her eyes. The boy was from a different time, so many questions she had could be answered by him. Though the cleansing was the most important thing and she needed to know if there were any details about the curse. Logar knew for sure something was wrong with him, there was always a cloud and it would just appear without Warning.
"Issei would tell us of your curse." Issei calmly nodded. Issei told himself that it was alright he wasn't alone.
"Before I talk about my curse, you should know what I was, my name is Issei Hyoudou and I was a devil." Issei knew this was going to be a long night so he strapped himself in.
The large building started to look more like an armed stone fortress, the wooden pillars now supported by smooth stone, while many corners were reinforced by precious metals. The upper building became a Gothic castle. With wall guards that connected to watch towers.
Outside the front of the building in the open wilderness stood a grand round wooden table, the size of the table was ginormous. Many matriarchs gathered around the table. Vulcan, Fulgrim, Ferrus, Rogal, and Horus, stood to the right of the table. While Sanguinius, Guilliman, and four other Matriarchs did the same.
To Guilliman's right was a nine-foot-tall matriarch whose armor was that of the knights of old as a night black was the color of her armor. Gold trimmings outlined the armor, while the top of her power pack was sticking above her shoulder, on her chest plate was a symbol of a golden sword sticking out from its side were red bird wings. On her right shoulder plate a head of a golden lion roaring mighty
decorated her armor. She wore a till cloak that draped over her left side, while the cloak material laid on top of her armor. By her right side hung a great sword sheathed. While the handle of the blade had a shell with wings decorated on the bottom of the handle.
She wore a hood that kept her face in shade. Her hair was long, colored dirty blonde, with creamy white skin and her face was slender, while her piercing green emerald eyes roamed over the other matriarchs judging them with a strong stare. Her strong presence even rivaled Rogal Dorn. While her calm gave away to a Beautiful composure.
Her name was Lion El' Johnso. The matriarch of the first Legion, known as the dark angels.
Next to her was a matriarch who stood approximately a lofty ten feet. Her Armor was more technologically advanced compared to the others. Her armor was sillier but was dirtied by years of war and scratches. Many strange gadgets were smoothly decorated all over her armor, her armor had a very Roman theme to it. With many bronze divots on her arm and legs, and many tubes connected from metal to metal. Her only real clothing was a red sash tied around her waist.
Her armor formed a square metal hood over her head. Her hair eyes were shaved and replaced with metal piercings, her black hair was cut short to an Almost shaved point. Her eyes were a brilliant Amethyst color and she had a calm studying look.
This was the matriarch of the fourth Legion, known as the efficient Iron hands. Her name was Perturabo. A brilliant tactician and siege master.
Next to her was a fifteen-foot giant. Her clothing covered most of her body, and her thighs and arms were in the open. Her style resembled an Egyptian theme. She wore a white tinted white sheath gown that covered most of her upper, that warped around her fit body and big chest. While around her waist was a golden belt that had a grand smooth purple jewel dawned in the middle, wrapped around her white gown that led down her legs, clothing her space between her legs. The Coller she wore was aquamarine outlined by gold trimmings. She wore Golden sandals that had buckles that reached up her shins. Her armbands were aquamarine as well, though A big purple gem was placed on both of them. On the upper part of her armored shoulder plates were two horns that stuck out upward. While a Crown of aquamarine outlined in gold wrapped around her forehead and branched out to the side of her head keeping her hair from falling in her face.
Her hair is a dark Crimson, while it is incredibly long, it brushes back into a smooth straight. She only had one eye that was a Beautiful purple color. She held a Long golden scimitar, while red The bed was spindle around the long handle. While ancient strands of paper change off the blade.
Though her most defining feature was her bright red skin, not if she was sunburned, but her skin was red like the color itself. Her Beauty was mystifying and alluring to the touch
This was the matriarch of the fifteenth legion, the thousand sons. Known for their use of extreme magic, her name is Magnus the Red. As the red giant had a calm composure.
"Should we even have let Leman handle this Delicate situation?" Everyone looked at Magnus, and some disagreed. Leman has had many experiences dealing with Matriarchs, but few disagreed, thinking Leman was too Barbaric and would risk the safety of this human.
"I agree, not to mention that Logar and Konrad's absence is also worrying." Lion El' Johnson said, looking at Magnus agreeing with what she said. "Leman is a savage brute, there is no possible way she could rescue the boy."
"Please my sisters have faith in Leman, I know she'll be able to succeed." Horus spoke gaining most of the other's attention. "I'm sure Logar and Konrad went for their own reasons, when they come back we will have words with them."
Most of the matriarchs could see the logic in her words, while one sulked at Horus's words. The matriarch that stood at the of the table by Mangus. Her armor was a midnight black, with silver trimmings on the edges of the armor, and her metal gauntlets had sharp fingertips. The symbol on her breastplate was a bird skull pointed down, while silver wings were laid on each side of the skull. Her leg and shoulder armor were covered in metal feathers. Her power pack had closed thin silver metal wings, they had a sharp look.
While two turbines sat on her back. On her gauntlets were sharp silver four-point claws. On her whip was a whip that was bundled to her side.
The Matriarch's hair length reached over her ears, her skin was pale almost like Konrads, and her eyes were completely pitch black, like the eye of a raven. The face of the Matriarch was smooth. Though her black eye gazed at Horus in Matriarch of the seventeenth Legion known as the Raven Guard, Corvus Corax, a master of stealth. Started as Horus with angry at the words she was using.
"We should have been all looking for Angron." Corvus said as her voice was patchy and rough. Ferrus agreed with Corax all this waiting around could have been avoided if all of them went.
Horus had been trying to calmly negotiate with all of them, and though there was no appointed leader among them Horus had filled the role. Sanguineous also did the same. Magnus had disappointment on her face. Sanguineous gave Corax a understand look.
"Corax we are trapped here, but Magnus is our alone way to communicate with others, if they pass by the planet, her psyker power must be watched though. Corax understood they had to protect Magnus during her long mediations. The Lion had gained a confused look.
"If we are here to protect Magnus, why not just leave her alone, like she needs any protection at all." The lion stated her commanding voice sweeping over the table.
"We are still new to this planet and we don't know what's here." Vulkan answered as she worriedly, though the Lion looked only at her.
"I do say I'm surprised you didn't go with the hunting party, Vulkan and human casualties are frowned upon in your legion." The Lion could help but ask. Many of the others turn their heads, Vulkan was known for her compassion to help those in need, well human that is. Vulkan gripped her fist firmly.
"I know I am needed here to lend my aid to the fortress." Vulkan said in a downcast voice. Magnus gave her sympathy to her sister. The thought of this Issei being tortured by Angron twisted Vulkan's emotions. The Lion could only shake her head.
"See it's Leman's fault that this person suffers at Angron's hands." Magnus nodded at the Lion.
"Yes, I agree if it weren't for Leman's reckless chasing. Angron wouldn't have been running off wild and wouldn't have run into Rogal's camp." The Lion let out a frustrated sigh. "This is all Leman's fault."
"Leman had a good point to chase her down, what were we supposed to do, let her run around and do whatever," Ferrus said angrily at the lion's choice of words. Fulgrim snickered as well.
"And so we just sent him a matriarch that reeks of death and a silent maniac, recklessly endangering this Issei, who may I see may be in danger by KONRAD, who might have an Unhealthy obsession over this." Fulgrim ranted while gaining glares from around the table.
Guilliman had put both her hands on the table thinking deeply. "Leman did act recklessly but pointing fingers will solve nothing." Guilliman said, trying to calm the table before things got out of hand. Vulkan herself had taken a decompressing breath deflating any stress that was in her. Her hair which was Brightly flame turned into a calm white.
"There is one we can reprimand for this Situation getting out of hand." Perturabo said, pointing an accusing finger at Rogal Dorn herself. Most of the matriarchs had gaped eyes at the very declaration of Perturabo's words. Horus was Furious at the words that were spoken to Rogal.
"That is a-"
"She is right, the blame is on me." Royal said in a begrudging tone. The Matriarchs I've never seen or heard an answer like that come from Rogal Dron.
It is rare to even see her do anything wrong, she would. The other even knew that Rogal wasn't capable of lying, so any word she declared was what she truly meant. Horus had a surprised gape on her face.
"Rogal it's not your fault." Horus said, trying to reason with Rogal.
"I knew Angron was out there, I left Issei alone, I was upset that he helped and found Konrad. I said to him I didn't trust him while he put himself out there for us." Rogal's hand constricted into a fist of self-anger.
"dammit this boy was met with terror itself and he was still willing to aid us." Rogal said. "So let us say this if the others come back to us empty-handed then all of us shall corner Angron and beat her until she gives us what we need." The frustration in Rogal's voice made the other Quiet. Sanguinius even had to steady herself.
"It won't come to that, have faith in others." Sanguinius reassured. Rogal only looked Disappointed and released her fist into a calm hand.
"We will get Issei back, Rogal, I promise." Sanguinius said. The mention of his name brought ease to Rogal. Then a slow sarcastic clamping could be heard in the back. A matriarch leaned on a tree, the wood bent but did not break.
"Wow, that has to be the first time I have ever seen you like that, Rogal, quite a sight to behold."
All eyes were on the one who said those words, all looked within the shadows of the woods. An eight feet Matriarch armored in sinister and baroque reptilian-styled Artificer Armour whose stature left no doubts in the mind of onlookers that sneaky arua flawed around her. As she walked out of the darkness, to show her teal blue colors, with a helmet that covered her head as the lens glowed bright green with a large fin on top of her head. In her right hand was an alien-looking double-headed spear. This was the Matriarch of the twentieth Legion of the Alpha legion. Known as Alpharius.
"Hold your tongue Alpharius." The Lion said, offended that such words insulted a noble warrior such as Rogal.
Royal slowly walked away from the table as she showed only a calm expression. Horus stopped her as she laid her hand on Rogal's shoulder.
"Where are you going?" Horus asked. Rogal only looked at the building ahead of her.
"I'm going to build a room for Issei, for when they return him, I will gladly converse with him the age that he wants to live is now gone, while the future he met, beat the shit out of him. When he comes back, I will give him something to look forward to." Rogal said in a strong tone of voice. Perturabo only scoffed at Rogal's actions. While Vulkan called out to her.
"The blame is not yours Rogal, it's just a string of misfortunate events that aligned, it is none of our faults." Vulkan said, trying to bring the group some Clarity. Magnus only sadly sighed which gained everyone's attention. Even Rogal stopped and turned around.
"What is it, Magnus?" asked sanguineous.
"I'm starting to think that marooning is more than just a coincidence and not to mention a person from the 20th century is somehow here with us, there is more at play than we are letting on. For every answer, we get two more questions to take its place." everyone cannot disagree with her, silence has taken over. All going into a deep caution, was this just somebody's agenda to have them all away from their legions and Emperor? The Lion pointed an accusing finger at Magnus.
"Perhaps you and warp sorcery had something to do with this!" The Lion yelled.
"How dare you accuse me of such a thing. I would never cast a spell this ridiculous." Magnus yelled back. Fulgrim then snobbishly, fling an arrogant look at Rogal.
"It still faults you left him alone, For building such an incompetent base." Fulgrim said. Rogal only glared at her.
"I know it is my fault, but pushing it further will do nothing but harm." Rogal said. "Were you only hiding in the shadows, terribly coward?"
The Matrix all around started to fall on and argue with each other insults were flung across the table. The more they turned on each other the more arguments we were so close to turning into petty confrontations.
Horus calmly sighed as sanguineous flared her wings, which snapped the wind like a whip. A large gust of wind washed over all of them. Even the surrounding trees were moved by it. All of them turned towards Sanguineous. her face unpleased by all of their actions, her elegance replaced with an impatient displeased frown.
"Sister we are better than this, are we not." all of them looked away from each other seeing her point.
"We must have faith in Russ for we know she'll come through in the end. We mustn't lose hope because so many count on us and Vulkan is right, this is no one's fault." sanguineous said as she turned her head toward Rogal.
"It is not your fault, but if you feel like you need some form of redemption then go ahead and build your projects, but we all might prosper from it."
Rogal then stiffly nodded. All of them knew Sanguineous had a point to her words, they were trapped here for such a long time, but they couldn't give up now.
"Let's end this meeting now, I think we all can agree on that." Horus said, trying to break the Tension between the groups.
All of them left to do their task but only Horus, Sangunineous, and Vulkan stayed. They only waited. As she raised her head up to the dark horizon ahead.
"We are almost at each other throats, how long do you think will be able to stand each other." Horus said.
"When Russ returns with the boy, the truth shall hopefully shine." Sanguineous said. While the Vulkan put a hand on her shoulder.
"Hopefully alive." Vulkan said. The Angel could only smile at her kind sister. She gave a curt nod to Vulkan. While her wings relaxed, gently relaxed around her.
"Yes hopefully." Looking at the sky with hope in her eyes. They must have hope for it may be the only thing they have at this very moment. Issei was that hope.
"That's how I end up cursed." Issei said giving them this Entire story of how they became a devil and how he lost it. For Issei, it was easy this time telling it to people who wanted to know.
Konrad and Logar both looked at Issei with widened eyes. Konrad reacted to his story with rage building up inside of her. Issei's tragic fall to become a demon. Issei even explained how he had to kill Raynare. Konrad was not satisfied with her death. She got out the easy way. She deserved a fate worse than death. How could such injustice happen? And what was worse were these devils Rias, Aisa, Konkeo, and Akeneo. These so-called friends pushed him to obsess over power with this accursed devil culture. While his Trauma after his death scarred him and how could you bring someone from death like that how sick could one be? The Anger in Konrad only boiled, whatever your friends pray to make sure they wish for a painless death because I will only give them excruciating punishments. Konrad couldn't help but feel a kinship with Issei.
"No wonder he tried to look out for me, your kind heart didn't want any other to suffer pain like yours, you have nothing to worry about now Issei, for the night hunter has declared its protection for you, nothing shall hurt you, no longer." Konrad thought.
Logar also listened to the tragic tale of Issei, but an over amount of joy and awe flew through her. Issei had expressed Angels, Demons, and gods. The truth was here, she had actual proof. Issei from a lost age when gods walked over humanity. A disturbing thought came to her mind all these beings of grand power should have been great rulers, but they all hid away from modern man. It upset her to a degree. The way they had their system didn't sound holy or grand but just silly. They didn't even reach outside of their planet. Their viewpoint on creation was so self-centered, and the fact that there were so many of them, only made her angry more. What was the point of worshiping a god like this when all of it didn't even matter? No grand plan. Logar still loved to learn all the lost history that Issei knew. Though Issei's odyssey made Logar want to almost bow to him out of respect. He saved Angron from herself and she had never seen Konrad so protective. This Issei was some sort of living miracle.
"Thank you, Issei for what you have done for us. You are without a doubt the kindest human I've ever had the pleasure to meet. I must save you from this cruse. I won't let you fall away to the obscurity of time." Logar thought as she would save Issei to bring forth a new age of knowledge of how better they were gods, and how humanity conquers the stars.
But both of them couldn't help but wonder that Issei wield such a powerful weapon. The Red dragon gauntlet what a weapon, but if he didn't have it now, what was Issei wielding? Logar thought it was Issei will power. Konrad thought it was the darkness itself saving Issei. Who knows. Angron could feel the urge to save Issei in the two as she read their auras. It oddly brought a smile to her face. Glad they were all here for a common cause to save Issei's life.
Issei looked at the two after telling his life story of course he may have left some of the perverted parts out.
"So yay that's me, Did you get all the information you needed Logar." Issei asked. Logar only smiled at Issei.
"Yes this is perfect I will get the circle ready, but I need only more thing from you." Logar said as she pointed at his armor. Issei only blushed at her words.
"What!" Issei yapped.
"The cleansing needs you to be nude." She said flatly. Logar left the two to get ready for the ritual. Angron gave Logar a respectful nod. Which logar kindly accept. Angron and Konrad both looked at a fluttered Issei.
"Well, you heard what she said, clothes off." Konrad order. Issei still a bit dumbstruck by the news felt his hand shake a little out of fear.
Angron only gave a serious look at Issei. "Cloths off now."
"Okay but no peeping." Issei said as he pulled off his new armor, Issei started with his chest plate and the second he removed it.
It turned into dust. Issei looked down to see his red shirt was there, but with a couple of new holes in the stomach part. Issei calmly took a slow breath as he tore the Armor of his new hand to see, look at it in shock at his new hand. It was normal and he had it again. Tears began to leak from his eyes.
Konrad and Angron both panicked at the site.
"Issei what is wrong!" both of them yelled at the same time. Issei only gave an apologetic look to their worried expression. "I'm sorry it's just, I never thought I would get this back." Issei jesters to his new arm.
"Sorry I didn't mean to worry you guys." Issei said happy to get his army back.
"It is fine Issei, to rejoice to regain what you lost." Angron said.
"Yes I'm happy you have it back, perhaps you can finally walk correctly now." Konrad poked fun at Issei's pass fumbles.
Issei softly chuckled, at the jab. "It was only one time."
Konrad only shyly smiled at the laugh. Angron could feel it in Konrad that bubbling love in her sister. How in the world did Konrad Cuzre feel in love? She tortured, murdered, and beat people to death in front of other to install fear in them. It was like fate had played a twisted hand. Angron then gazed at her sister with a hard glare. Konrad picked up on the look.
"What!" She asked annoyed she even had to ask the question. Angron turn back to Issei who was taking off his shoulder plates.
"Issei I'm going to have a few words with Konrad, will be back." Angron said. Issei could only struggle to pull off his armor as he fell to the ground. "You guys are good!" He yelled in frustration. Konrad had reluctantly moved away from Issei ears.
"What is it, I swear I won't hurt Issei!" Konrad growled. Only Angron faced her sister with calm eyes. Konrad matched it with a deranged smile. "What? a scolding or perhaps an attempted beat down, oh do your worse."
Angron spoke a few words that clenched Konrad's hearts.
"You're in love with Issei aren't you."
In a feat of extraordinary speed. Konrad reacted faster than a bolter round, as the power claw is inches away from Angron's throat, as their eyes only showed anger at what Angron had said. She didn't question Konrad but stated a fact.
"You will speak nothing to the boy do you hear me." Konrad whispered in a slow angered voice that was like a knife darting across her skin. Angron only stood calm, she was still like an undisturbed pond. Angron is unfazed by Konrad's reaction. Gently put her finger on the tip of Konrad's blade and gently pushed it away. Konrad had a stiff smirk.
"Without those damn nails, you're pretty relaxed." Konrad said. Angron only smiled at her words.
"Yes I have to agree, Issei also loves it too, while we did have to bath, eat, sleep together and protect each other," Angron stated. This made Konrad grit her teeth in anger, jealous and what was worse is that Issei had no choice. She then gave Angron a dirty glare.
"Mark my words when this is over I'll punish you." Konrad said.
Angron couldn't help but poke the bear some more, it was so fun and a little payback. Angron then pointed at the human skin cloth that she wore.
"Oh is that thief or suicide victim, I'm sure both are in style this time of year." Konrad only smirked at her words.
"I'm sorry I couldn't hear you over there, I think you're too busy kill millions, of innocent people." Angron gave her a mad glare.
"Mock all you want but I am destiny to be with him, while you'll be alone-" Konrad they stood in her places like a statute as they widen with no sign of emotion. Angron only looked dumbfounded to realize that Konrad had a vision, a thought then popped into her mind.
"I wonder what you're looking at?" Angron then smirked. "Well, Logar did want me to practice my powers so I guess this wouldn't hurt."
Angron didn't know what she was going to see, but guessed it was going to be a twisted world that only held pain and stuffing for others? Angron knew she could handle it she was so desensitized to it all. Her vision was greeted by Issei who laid on his back, taking shade in a big tree. The surroundings were white but it didn't matter.
The marching of steps came from behind Issei as he looked to see who was on their way. Angron's eyes widen in surprise as she witnessed herself in the vision. Angron walked towards Issei in beauty purple dress, sitting by his side. They were happy and simply enjoyed being there. Before their lips could touch in a passionate kiss, another roaring of footsteps skipped from behind. Konrad Curze, had a giant smile on her face as she walked over to Issei and sat on the other side of him.
Konrad and Angron both gave a respectful nod before looking at Issei. What happened next was amazing as the three only talked about each other. Konrad and Angron laughed at their jokes. The teen undertaken by both their beauty shyly rubbed his arms.
"I love you guys to death, but please don't take me it easy on me today." Issei said with a happy defeated tone of voice. Both smiled and gave Issei a coy smirk.
"You know the rules Issei." Angron stated.
"No mercy." Konrad told as they both got on each side of Issei, and gave a gentle kiss to Issei's cheeks, which blushed red. A white wave washed over them as Angron and Konrad had awoken.
Both of them snapped back to reality taking deep breaths, as they both stared at each other with flabbergasted faces, that held in so much shock, that their mouths could catch flies. While Blush that would put Magnus's skin color to shame.
Both of them pointed at each other wanting to know the truth.
"What did you do?" They yelled the same thing. "Me?" Only for them to be in sync again. Konrad broke the sync first.
"Wait you saw my visions, you invaded my mind you bitch." Konrad growled but stopped when she realized that she wasn't alone in her vision. "You saw my vision."
Angron held herself steady but still had uneasy about what she saw. Angron slowly steads herald straight.
"Yes Konrad I did and I have to say the future is more um interesting than I thought." Angron said awkwardly to what she saw. Konrad then tried to find the words to say an argument against what Angron said. Perhaps a lie would be able to trick, but no Angron could see right through her tricks.
Angron realized way Konrad had taken a liking to Issei she changed her literal future. Konrad Without thinking nervously pulled out the piece of clothing given to her by Issei, she held it tightly for her own comfort.
"Dammit why does he change everything, why does he make everything better." Konrad said to herself in a bush whisper. Angron was very surprised by Konrad's action. Though she put all the pieces together, Konrad's crazed behavior with her vision, no wonder she went mad and would always tell of these horrible futures. She was sick, like her. Angron felt an Immense wave of guilt rush over her. Konrad then felt Angron's hand on her shoulder, and she was met with a strong gaze.
"Because he is truly a kinda person." Konrad snapped back at Angron's words. "You wonder why he can do these things because he is cable of what the Emperor could not give us. Hope that gives us life and kindness, that inflames our souls with joy. "
Angron then pulled out a white piece of Cloth, that Issei had given her. Konrad's eyes widen at the realization of Angron's words, Konrad had a strong belief in her vision, thinking that they were inevitable. So was this one unavoidable as well? She would share the man she was destined to love with another.
"Konrad, do you really care Issei?" Angron asked, only for Konrad to snicker at her question.
"Your the person who can read minds." Konrad said in a sad chuckle. Angron then put away the treasured cloth away. While Konrad did the same. "I could but the truth is that I want you to say it."
"Why?" Konrad asked, Angron's eyes glowed yellow, and Konrad flushed with a feeling of kindness and worth for herself. Konrad mockingly laughed at Angron's self-righteous attempt of trying to comfort her.
"Sister is this it, are you trying to sway me with your kindness? Do you think sharing your feelings will make me feel better? I laugh at your pitiful attempt but I know that it's nothing, what a sad attempt to make me care for life, that I must meet my demise by an assassin, not live with you and Issei, but I will not say the words you want to waste them on another."
Angron only smirked at her words, Konrad picked on it did she know something that she didn't? What was Angron hiding?
"Konrad, these are not my feelings I'm projecting, these are his." Angron said, smiling at the victory she knew she won.
Konrad's heart's stopped, as any doubt for the future washed away from her mind as she related that this human's strong feelings for her were enough to bring the Mighty warrior to her very knees. Issei, a young kind man, did all this. Beautiful.
"I will not deny you this feeling, but you must not deny it any longer, Konrad. Now say it." Angron calmly said how a teacher taught a student. Konrad for the first time in her life was happy to be wrong.
"I love Issei, it's crazy. I only met him a couple of days ago but I can not deny these feelings no longer, but if this future is true then I will not rush, I will wait." Konrad lowered her head happily and sighed. Angron then lends her hand to hoist Konrad back to her feet. The night hunter gazes at the hand and for once takes it. Being pulled off the ground by another was nice. Both of them exchanged kind smiles.
Konrad then looks at Angron with a big smile. Angron did the same as she felt a familiar feeling of bonding in her.
"So this is what family felt like. It's nice." Angron thought. Konrad did the same as their sisterly bond was being too bloomed.
"I still have to punish you, sorry." Konrad said nonchalantly as Angron had a befuddled expression.
"What!?." Konrad then shrugged her shoulders.
"Sorry I don't make the rule I just follow justice, but nothing painful, it will be fast and swift." Konrad said.
"You literally the judge, jury, and executioner at this point so yes." Angron said.
"Well someone should've thought about that before they punched out some of his teeth on the ground." Konrad argued back, making a good point.
Angron mentally slapped her forehead at the set and realized that Konrad might just be a big tad crazy. Angron, not seeing a way out of this, accepted the terms.
"Alright you win, let's just get back to Issei." Angron said.
Konrad nodded at her sister.
"Yes, going back to Issei who is currently taking off his clothes." Konrad weirdly phrased it. Angron then nodded as well.
"Yes, Issei who has a slim yet firm physique being stripped of clothes, right over there." Angron said as well.
A silence stood between both of them. As both run back to at least catch some action of Issei taking off some clothing. Oddly entices them both. Though as soon as they moved to the tree they were both faced with disappointment. As Issei stood in his normal attire, with Logar sitting next to him with a joyful smile.
"Oh, there you two are." Issei said. "Logar had some cool news, apparently I don't have to strip."
Logar opens her book to the two of them. She pointed to one of the pages.
"You see clothes are optional, so let's get on with this spiritual cleansing." Logar happily said.
Both of them had utter disappointment on their faces like the universe was laughing in their face, in some cruel changing way. Logar then felt the grip of Konrad and Angron as they both gave Logar frightful stairs.
"READ THAT DAMN BOOK AGAIN!" They both yelled at Logar, terrified by both of their reactions she screamed, as Issei hid behind cover.
"AAAAAAAAAAA PLEASE IT'S JUST WHAT THE BOOK SAYS." Logar screamed.
After that, all three of them stood in their positions, for the cleansing. Issei lay on the ground with many strange symbols carved into the wooden ground around him. Angron held his head between her hands, both her chain axes hanging by her side. Konrad held the Burning incest spreading it around slowly and Logar Reading yourself to read the passage of the pages for the ceremony.
Issei Felt a burning concern in him, and maybe wanted to know the origins of this ritual.
"Hey, Logar." Issei asked, trying to get her attention. She looked at him with curious eyes. "Not that I'm being a Debbie downer or anything, it's how you come across this thing."
"Oh you need not worry, one of my trusted sons found this. His name is Erebus, a real honorary word barrier in my opinion, but I did make a little adjustment to this one, the other one sound so cruel and horrible." Logar said.
"Oh god, good old Erebus, he sounds like a cool guy yep Erebus." Issei nervously said as he fidget with his hand. Angron began to rumble his temples slowly making Issei relax.
"It is alright Issei relax, we're all here for you." Angron said gently, Issei comforted by her words to a deep breath. Issei happily relaxed at Angron's touch, for some with muscular hands had a very feminist touch, and being gently held made him happy.
"Are you using your powers on me." Issei asked wondering if Anrgron was making him relax.
"No." Angron said.
"Good." Issei said. "I think I want to stay to feeling, without your aid, Okay?"
Angron could only calmly nod at Issei's wish. All eyes were on Logar, as she opened the book. Logar then gave Angron a serious gaze.
"Angron you must push out anything that doesn't belong there. Your full concentration is needed, the work you do here will be given or take from mankind." Angron silence spoke for her as she touched her forehead to Issei, in a kind embrace.
"I will free you." She whispered. Making Issei shiver at her words. She nodded at Logar.
"Let us begin." Angron said. Konrad sparked many of the herbs around them, drawing the area in many different frequencies that rushed into Issei's nose. The light from the burning herbs started to burn bright. Logar began reading from her personal book.
"Cleanse the wounds, give him strength, push out things, that whisper death, burn the rot, find the path, let him be reborn in light." Logar would repeatedly chant these words through the cleansing. Issei's eyes began to look at the stars above, and he felt the world around him melt away. He could see the stars were moving fast, as the sky was being overtaken by flashlights. The truth was that herbs made Issei hallucinate. Issei tried to look at something else while panic raised in his chest, Angron felt the and gave a little help to Issei.
All Issei could see were two bright yellows that looked at him, he gladly locked his attention on them, as he slowly fell into a deep sleep. Only thinking of the gentle eyes that watched him. He knew those eyes belonged to Angron and he couldn't have asked for any other at this moment. Issei passed out. Angron watched as he fell asleep. Logar stopped her chanting.
"It's all up to you Angron, just keep calm and focus on Issei." Logar said.
Angron let her power flow through her veins but it was controlled. The World eater's eyes glowed a bright yellow. Konrad watched it play out and could only hope for the best.
"I shouldn't think of the worse, the future burns bright. Our future is unavoidable and that brings me so much joy."
"I won't lose you." Angron said. In the heat of the moment, Angron whispered something so quiet not even the other super hearing could pick it up.
"I won't fail you, my love."
Issei woke in a familiar void, from past night terrors. He could feel the dark stick ground. He stood on his own two feet, the world he was now in was empty. The same place where the dragon would always come and kill him. Issei knew who that Dragon, it was his dear friend. This damn curse was driving him insane and hated every bit of it. What was he supposed to do, was he supposed to fight the curse or do something?
"Oh man, I'm glad we can finally clean the house." A voice said out from behind Issei spooking him. Issei turned around to see Que standing behind him with a big smile on his face, with a new Hawaii Button up shirt. It had a repetition of the disco balls.
Issei held his chest due to his Startled heart.
"Oh god! don't do that to me man." Issei yelled at Que who held in a laugh, at Issei's reaction. "Come on man that shit is pretty fun alright."
Issei balled his fist only for him Que to raise an eyebrow at Issei.
"So what do you think?" Que asked. Issei then looked at his new arm. "So it was you, your the one who gave this arm." Issei said.
Que then laughed playfully and punched Issei's shoulder, like how a father does when they're proud of their son. Issei then uncomfortably moved his arm. "Yay it's nice but what's the catch?"
"Catch?" Que said almost not expecting the question at all. Que then pitched his nose in a stressed expression. "Hey no catch, I don't play like that fucking dragon man, hey listen I don't stab people in the back, mostly in the front, in fact, you're the one who got your arm back. After you used a bit of my power."
The response made Issei raise his eyebrow in surprise.
"Okay, what are you? A sacred gear, did god put you in here, In my body?" Issei asked wanting to no more of the situation he got himself into. Que then laughed at the question.
"No, I'm not a sacred gear, also that god. Is a chump change to me, Yay I kind of do live in you, I've been always with you sense the beginning. ever sense you were born." Que said, Issei's eyes widen in shock at the news. Before Issei could ask anything, Que snapped at him. The voice Que used was checking his bones while his teeth chitter.
"I know you have a billion questions, but right they can wait, let's kick out a squatter Issei, and I'm here to help." Issei utterly could talk back to his logic, it made sense.
"Fine, I'll keep waiting, but I warn you ill kick your ass here from the moon if you pull something over me." Issei quipped pointing his new finger at Que. The truth was that both were a bit new at this. Issei could never get a vibe of Que at all. While Que was always expecting a childish outburst, only for Issei to keep calm.
"Okay so what do we do, now how do I get rid of Loki's cruse? Hell, how do we even find it?" Issei asked walking around the dark space. Que then sat down on the ground. "Well here let me explain, care to take a set."
Que patted the ground next to him. Issei had to take Que's words, after how the power he gave to him to save Angron. Issei sat down in the void with Que it's cold temperature freezing Issei's butt.
"Okay first to find us, second when it does ill kick it out. Right, you being here open a door and that door needs to be open for me to get it out." Que then gently put his hand on Issei's shoulder. "But after it's out, you got to kill it or it kills you."
Issei took in Que words. Nodding to what Que said. Everyone out there better be prepared. I don't think anyone is gonna be ready for this fight.
"You got it?" Issei then held his fist tight, while shadow started to warp around him and harden into solid black diamonds.
"Yay I got it, this curse is gonna pay for what it did." Issei said as grimly looked ahead at the void. Que didn't care for Issei's anger and wanted to change that. After a few minutes passed the two sat in complete silence. Issei determined to kill the curse while Que looked concerned. Que awkwardly stretched and clicked his tongue.
"Alright we got some time to kill, I'll let you ask one question to pass the time." Que said, trying to get Issei to think. Issei had a puzzled look on his face.
"Really?"
Que then held his arms out gesturing to Issei to come at him. Issei then thought deeply about what to ask. He could have asked, who? What? Where? Anything. Issei stopped and reminded himself of a comment that Que said early.
"Okay, why are you in me and how did you get to me." Issei asked.
Que then looked around the room and smirked, out of all the things he could ask one's own Origin is the most important thing to yourself, he smiled at the question and thought what a human thing to ask.
"Okay let me start at the beginning, you see Issei I have a brother. Me and him would forge, make, and craft. The most beautiful things you could ever imagine. Now I am not a God, but I should make them jealous. You see A while back me and my brother got into an argument. He said some things I said some things. But I never really got over it, so I act it out and start destroying his things. He didn't really like that and the next thing led to another, we fought. I lost and I was imprisoned. Do you want to know where I was in prison Issei? Que asked Issei nodded slowly. For once Que's smile faded away into a somber frown. " You see my brother was kind of one for theatrics, and he decided that maybe I would be imprisoned in a beautiful fountain, where no one would dare break it. Do you want to know where this fountain was, you should know you die by it."
Issei's eyes widened at the news, he was there, he saw it all happen.
"Yay I saw what that bitch did to you, I can say I was not a fan of her but that's not where I met you, you see a while back. A Young couple walks through a park, the same one I'm at. While I'm sitting there in my eternal prison. I noticed something about the woman who is seven months pregnant. You know I didn't think much of it at the time, but then I could feel that child dying inside her. If you were brown without my help, I think you would've been stillborn. So I saw two things, one a chance to save a life, and two I could save somebody. While also escaping my prison, so I put a piece of my soul into you." Que then had his eyes on Issei's face whose jaw hit the ground in shock.
"And that's how I Met your mother, though your dad can go die in a hole for all I care, but you're probably wondering why I didn't show up or help you in your dire moments. The answer is quite simple because dragons are greedy fucking assholes. That Red dragon emperor refuses to share the body. He'll, he may have been asleep but I also knew he had a kill switch on you, I knew it was going to push it anytime I got near you."
Issei didn't know what to say, by his Definitions this man saved his life or whatever he was. And he could understand why Draghi wouldn't share that Dragons do have pride in themselves. Que then looked at the speechless Issei.
"So yay any other bombs you want me to drop today." Que then smiled at Issei. Issei only looked at Que with shaking eyes.
"Who are you?" Issei asked.
"Yep sorry you already used your question, let's just wait for the Squatter OKAY!" Que said. As Issei felt an uncomfortable feeling rise in his chest. He Scooched a little bit away from Que. Issei then could feel Que's eyes watching.
"Okay, what is it now?" Issei said.
"I want to ask you one question too, seems fair wouldn't you agree?" Que said.
"Fine alright, ask your questions." Issei said in defeat. He rubbed his face to try and relieve stress.
"Okay, why do you still care about Rias and all that demon bullshit." Que asked if there was a subtle hint of frustration that lay between his words.
Issei stood up in anger. He did not take the question lightly and how dare he take Rias-sama name like that.
"What the hell kinda question is that, of course, I still care, she saved me, they're nice and kind to me. I would never betray my friends. They gave me so much to live for. They took my loser life and made it a hundred times better, OK! She made me live again for her sake! So that's why I still care for them. there my family got it!" Issei yelled, but something felt off like there was something inside him that made his words feel like they had no weight. Que only calmly listened to Issei's words.
"Okay. Why are you here then?" Que asked.
Issei could only sit in silence; he went into a depressing state of mind, as he crawled into the fetal position. He gave over his arms to find Que's arm slung over his shoulder. There was no malice in his action, only comfort. "Hey Issei I know you don't have any reason to like me or trust me, but could I give you some advice?"
"Sometimes we have to let go of a sharp stone, yay it protects you, but at the end of the day, it's hurting you, and holding on to it for too long gets you nowhere. Sometimes you find a new thing to hold onto, what it is you're holding is up to you." Que said gently. Issei couldn't help but chuckle at his words. He understood them better than when Azazel gave a haiku.
"Hey you're laughing, that's a good sign, hey do what you want I'm just an old man, who's seen way too much." He admitted but gently patted Issei's back. Issei then strongly nodded at Que, as a small smile appeared on his lips.
"I'm not really being a man right now," Issei said. Only for Que to give him a Stern strong look.
"Hey toxic masculinity is dead, being yourself is better so remember that." Que said. Making Issei think about his words.
"I don't think anyone ever told me that." Issei said. "Thank you."
"It's what I'm here for." Que said. The two sat in peaceful darkness. "This is nice."
"Yay it is." Issei agreed with Que, the void did give them a calm nice. Que then smiled at his surroundings.
"You know I made Darkness." Que said.
"Aw, It's so sweet that I'm gonna be sick." The curse mockingly pointed out Both stood up and held up their guard to the sound of Raynare's voice. A purple-glowing circle of strangers' runes lit up the skies. She crawled out of the light. To reveal her slim figure, her skin is soft and white. She wore black leather straps all over her body, covering most of her nipples and sensitive parts, but showing much skin. Her black hair was like raven feathers. Her purple eyes and mischievous smile.
"Oh God, it's your ex." Que said.
Issei could feel all those terrible memories start flooding, only for a calm hand to snap him out of it. Que held his shoulder and gave Issei a stern look. Snapping Issei out of his daze.
"Issei you'll be fine it's time to kick this chick to the crib." Que then readies himself for a fight. The curse looked at Que with interest in its eyes, wondering who could this be.
"Well, who do we have here, an old man who can't even get outside." The Cursed said, mockingly laughing at him. " I can manipulate The most powerful secret gears, what's an old man like you supposed to do."
Cue only smiled more at The cursed. There was something about Que's smile that made The cursed even feel more nervous about his presence. So it Switched its attention to Issei's smile.
"Oh look at this, what are you even trying to do, face your fears, well news flash you're going to learn the hard way that you will never escape what you truly are, a giant pathetic loser. Who will never find love, you'll always be alone gutter rat." Issei stood his ground But hated the words she said. The cursed wanted to tear into him more so she smiled devilish. "You know what's a fun trick of mine, I can copy all the powers I've seen in your name, but I think this one has to be my absolute favorite." The cursed slowly extended her right arm out.
"Come for the red dragon emperor copy." Issei's eyes widen In horror, as the Gauntlet of his beloved friend was worn by his sworn enemy. The cursed marveled at it the beautiful Green jewel, the sharp red armor that made her all smile. She then gazed back at Issei. "Shall I kill you now or torture you slowly? since your girlfriend isn't here to protect you"
"Alright I think we've all had enough of you, so I'm sorry to say this sweetie, you're evicted." Que said as he walked in front of him in a protective manner. The cursed laughed at Que's words. Issei was also taken back by Que's action; maybe he Wasn't such a bad guy. "Oh I'm not going to do anything to you." well let Issei's girlfriend take care of it."
"She not my girlfriend were companions, okay nothing else." Issei said blushing at the idea of Angron and Issei. Both Que and cursed had nonchalant looks. Que slowly walked over to Issei and slapped him very hard.
"Ow what the-."
"Listen I'm not playing any more of this game you like, you are in love with her and she is in love with you so skip the foreplay and just get with each other." Que yelled, annoyed by his actions. "Got it."
"Yes sir." Issei rubbed his sore cheek. The curse then laughed.
"Okay I think the time for talking is over. Allow me to end your pathetic lives." The cursed laughed. Issei got in the way and Felt the unknown take him over as his shadow armor was already upon him. Que then oddly pointed up which made the cursed curious.
"What now, old man." It asked. Only for her to be Answered by a bright glowing yellow light above. A yellow vortex started to drag The cursed and Issei out. Issei Panic looked around only to be hugged by Que.
"Listen kid I know you are scared but remember what you hold and you won't lose." As Que said that he let go of Issei, throwing him into the vortex. Issei's last moment with Que as he was Being whisked away, was when Que gave him a thumbs up.
"You can do it kid, darkness is always your friend, it will never betray you." Que words whispered in his mind.
Issei felt hope within as he flew off into the void.
Wake up! The voice of Angron said as it rushed through his mind, the feeling of her voice was amazing.
"Wake up!" Angron said again only this time Issei couldn't have agreed more. As a light surrounded him.
Issei's eyes are welcomed to see the Concerned faces of his new friends, while his head is gently held by Angron while Konrad gently holds his arm.
"Hey, I think it out." Issei said.
Angron then held Issei close to her arms, while Logar was relieved by the success of the ritual. She had saved someone's life, she had saved history. A sense of pride and joy flowed in her. Issei then set himself up and held his head as he could no longer feel that pain. Issei then looked deep into Angron's eyes. Gosh, that color of yellow would never get old.
"Hey, you kept your promise, thank you." Issei said.
"Yes your free Issei, I could glimpse this new you now right." Angron said. Issei couldn't have agreed more, No more holding back. No mine was standing in his way. He was free. Free to make any choice you want. No more of this business of waiting that was only gonna hurt him more. Chaining him down. He would want to go back home but at least he wasn't alone. Issei's heart started to beat out of his chest the more he looked at her. everything about her was perfect and why should he stop here, why should he Control his feelings? He just needed them to be free like him. Issei with Mighty red brush gazed longingly into Angrons.
"Angron I-" Issei was cut off by the sound of clapping as all the matriarchs gave their attention to who made the noise. On the other side of the circle stood The cursed with a smile, sarcastically clapping at the scene.
"Well I'm glad you got your happy ending, I'm just so happy I can start my new Ragnarok destroying everything and letting everything die." The cursed looked at Issei with a mad grin.
She made the red dragon gauntlet appear on her right arm. Even the Matriarch's were smart enough to know what she held. They all ready their weapons for battle, While the shadows engulfed Issei, making a new armor for him that was much sharp than the original one.
"Balance breaker!" she yelled as a flash of red light flared around her.
That is Chapter 9, some heads up chapter 10 will be a little later the usual, but it will be worth it. Will they be able to the cursed or Will Ragnarok come to past? so big fight coming up. So if don't know who Ques is a little hint, his name translates to dark. Also will Issei go home? I mean I know but I'm not gonna tell you yet. Also this next month there is a new story I'm working on. though this is my main one. A big fight coming up can't wait. Also tell me if Rias should be apart of the harem again.
So please follow, favorite and leave a review. thank you all beautiful people and have a nice day.
