Gan315: Thank you :D I sent a full reply to your comments but will answer questions here. In regards to Dorian's uncontrolled Breakdown it doesn't have a specific inspiration other than what can happen if you overfeed a plant. It grows wildly and out of control. I mentioned he had a new armor beneath...but it was lost in the growth. He'll have to control that to tap into the power he can manage, the reason he was so powerful was he absorbed the energy of the Ley Lines. As for Rossweisse and Thrud sharing, that topic will be coming up to the forefront in the upcoming arc, it means a lot you enjoyed it and I hope you are doing great as well :D
The Black Kraven: Thank you :D It had a lot happeneing at once lol.
plums: Heracles' allies were doing the same as in canon, letting him fight on his own. Jeanne didn't step in until they realized "oh wait, he stands no chance." In canon and my story they mentioned they all wanted 1v1 matches, none stepped to help Cao Cao against Issei either. If it helps, the aging is not for angst but to have a legitimate cost to great power he must overcome. I am not a fan of characters being moody or depressed just because. Dorian wouldn't let something like that get him down easily. I am not sure what you mean by no gain/loss considering the aging of Dorian, death of characters and revelations of Thrud's feelings just to name a few.
TorrhenWintry: I know what you mean, that is both what I wanted the aging and death of Heracles to showcase. Dorian CAN access greater power now that the Breakdown has been unleashed, but not only does it take a heavy toll but also can kill when he doesn't mean to. He has to find a balance before he can use it again.
TheLycan2026: Hahaha, nothing wrong with some excited spinning XD I am glad my story was able to make you feel like that. Thank you for your kind words, I hope you like the calmer finale to the Kyoto arc.
theLawbringer: Cao Cao: Who could have seen this coming? XD XD He really did come across that way always talking about supernatural beings being dangerous...yet admits more than once he wants to test his power against them. Canon just sort of left out the detrimental effects of summoning GR which made him seem even more selfish. Oh...Cao Cao wasn't planning to use his spear on Great Red if it had come through... ;)
Natalie Jarrett: Holy crap indeed :)
deltanz: Thank you, I am glad you liked Heracles' earned comeuppance.
J0ker981: He will certainly have to now face the concept. He loves Rossweisse, but never considered more than one woman considering him as a romantic interest. You have such a way with words describing each one lol. I don't know what to say, that truly means a lot that you like reading my story after all this time. I know what you mean, there is nothing inherently wrong with that formula, but can get a bit predictable after reading enough of them. And exactly, the canon plots will intersect but are not the focus. My next one for example...
Cchang3: Well, a hero faction member died XD But none of the good guys, though you are right a lot has to be considered. I hope you enjoy it.
ahsoei: Azazel is certainly gunning for him to do that, a harem of different mythology ladies XD Though Dorian has to consider what it would mean...
autor godz: Thank you! :)
runelt99: Like in canon, they each wanted to face an opponent on their own. So the others did not step in until they were certain Heracles stood no chance. True, he didn't harm the real Kyoto AND he was using the power to protect Rossweisse...protecting others was one of the stipulations to using the energy. So techinically he stuck to their requirements lol.
OBSERVER01: Don't worry, I wasn't a fan of too much angst. He will have to reflect on killing his first human...but he won't let it destroy him. I am so glad you liked my scenes with Thrud and Kuroka :D
fanficcyberman: One of my favorite doctor who sayings "Demons run when a good man goes to war." Precisely, a combination of Dorian's anger and Iggy's panic attack caused the breakdown. You can't use that much power without consequences. I am doing very well :D I hope the same is true for you!
reality deviant: He's still Dorian, but now they see that he's as human as the rest. And yes, Heracles is gone. He'll head to an afterlife depending on his actions...but he isn't among the living anymore lol.
HalfMartian: Well, it's a complicated deal to get him young again. Someone being aged forcefully due to losing energy in their body isn't a common occurrence in DxD so they have a plan A with backups if it doesn't fully work. That being said, I don't plan it to turn Dorian into an angsty character. It was intended to show the cost of using such power.
Jumping Shark: Thank you for such an in-depth review :D I sent a full reply to you on it via PM. I can reveal that, yes when fully controlled he will be able to fly ;) Lovecraft was a big inspiration for my story, the twisted form of Dorian and Kassaegtha in particular. In regards to Issei, you are absolutely right, admittedly I was not a fan of the sauna scene and Rias' sorrow over Issei not calling her her true name considering SHE ordered him not to and in never rescinded the order lol. A good point in that regard, they do have the 3 women and Connla under arrest, not the leadership...but it's something.
Hollowreaper 93: XD XD I am glad you approved, he done goofed when he chose her as his opponent.
WinterRuneWolf: Both, good decision XD I sent a full reply to you via PM but I am sorry it was not as enjoyed as past arc final battles. I hope not to disappoint on future arcs as I move forward with the plots and relationships :)
And with that…ONTO THE SHOW!
A final view of Kyoto Tower off in the in distance brought out a sense of melancholy over the exhausted second-year students of Kuoh Academy. Just as it had been there to welcome their arrival, it would be one of the last sights before their trip back.
"The shops had a lot, didn't they?" A group of girls commented as they counted their souvenirs. They only had a few hours in the morning for a final perusing of the shops near the station before their train home came in. Everyone had made use of that time well, that is…almost everyone. "We even got you a few things Dorian!"
Dorian was leaning against a wall looking ragged and out of breath. To the others he was the same way he had always been, however those from the battle knew that he was far from recovered. With the drain of using his Breakdown, he had been aged to the point he would have been almost unrecognizable to them. Thankfully, Kuroka was kind enough to lend some of her illusion magic to give him the appearance of his youthful self. For the moment, it would have to do. As far as the other students were aware, he simply suffered from an upset stomach from the foreign food.
"You didn't have to," he insisted as a bag full of knick knacks were handed to him. It felt much heavier than it should have, the groaning in his bones almost audible. He could not wait to get back home and rest hoping the vaguely estimated time to recovery was not as bleak as the first-generation Sun Wukong had implied. It irked him he hadn't any time to hit up the 100-yen shops for Rossweisse.
"Wow, that must be our cute guide's mom or REALLY attractive sister," Aika observed as a tall shapely woman with golden hair stood bidding everyone farewell. She thought for sure the perverted duo's eyes and tongues were about to fall out of their heads. "Oh no, onboard," she pushed them through the doors. "Don't think you'll embarrass our class at the last minute! Though she is pretty smoking…" Aika found her wrists seized, even she being pulled aboard by the other students before she could ponder her next move.
"Everyone," Yasaka stood proudly at the tracks. "You came here for relaxation from your school lives and ended up saving not only my life but perhaps that of the entire city. For that you have our eternal gratitude and will always be welcome regardless of affiliation."
"Sir Dorian, will you be coming back sometime?" Kunou looked up at him with her large eyes that screamed the answer she wanted even as she remained composed. She wore the pin her mother had given proudly in her hair now immaculately styled as was proper.
"Anytime I can," he held up his right hand to remind that his Roads allowed such travel quite easily. "And you don't have to call me sir, just Dorian is fine."
"Are you feeling better?" She looked concerned well aware of his condition. Even now he was leaning a bit on Rossweisse, the age in his bones persisting through the illusion.
"The joint pain is new," he tried to play it off with a chuckle. "Don't worry, next time we meet I'm sure I'll be right as rain."
"I'll have even better tofu for you then!" She promised with a renewed smile as she delivered a final hug farewell. "You won't be able to get enough of it!"
"You have my contact information," Azazel remarked to the powerful youkai woman along with Suzaku who stood beside her. "Once I get back and report what happened we can start coordinating details for your people's inclusion in the alliance. Nothing too painful, mostly trade issues at first or a few of our ways of ferreting out those Khaos Brigade spies you might still have."
"You are the one who brought the children here?" She asked while looking him up and down. "And whose strong arms held me last night? Then we are in your debt, I look forward to our negotiations together."
Much to the surprise of those around them, Kunou most of all, Yasaka laid a soft peck on Azazel's cheek. The experienced fallen angel blinked flatly as even his mind took a moment to register what had just happened.
"Are they…?" Irina whispered to Xenovia as subtly as she could. Her partner could only ponder with her chin in her hands, the image having never been considered until that moment.
"And don't worry," Suzaku spoke up next. "The Himejima Clan will gladly be part of your alliance, even of your Crossroads. Once the other four clan heads arrive, they WILL see reason, trust me on that."
"The gods would allow it?"
"As you learned," she smiled slyly. "Our gods are very hands-off when it comes to how we handle the day to day. Even if they do not directly support it, so long as they do not deny it, we will be there nonetheless. Considering their lack of retaliation for you actions last night, I'd surmise your overriding desire to protect Rossweisse fell within acceptable uses of the Ley Lines energy. You did not damage the true Kyoto after all."
"I'd be in your debt," Dorian smiled. "I may have a way to make it up to you perhaps. Can you keep your schedule open for the next day or so?" Suzaku furrowed her brow in confusion at his words but agreed all the same.
"Is there any way I can repay each of you?" Yasaka looked to the students in turn. "Dorian, despite the savagery of your attack, you drove off the Hero Faction at great cost. Your teams all fought valiantly and you, Red Dragon Emperor, brought me back to my senses. I owe each of you."
"Well," Issei's bad habits reared their head as he glanced her up and down clear where his mind currently was. "I was hoping you'd let me get a look at your…"
Before he could finish, Asia tightened her hand around Issei's. Snapping him out of his previous plan as a calm settled over him that reminded him of the night the two had sat together in his room.
"Don't mention it," Issei finally replied. He looked carefree and sincere except for the twinkle of a tear in his eyes passing up the question that had rested since first seeing a portrait of the kyuubi woman. "We swore to help rescue you and we did."
"Then a small gesture." Moving forward she planted a gentle kiss on his forehead. "And for you, fighting me with such ferocity to keep me from harming others," she kissed Saji's cheek next, the young Pawn looking very nervous as the others of his team watched judgmentally. "And you, Crossroads Commander," she smiled at Dorian, giving his kiss last. "I must visit your tower someday and know that a youkai representative to your force will be coming, there is no doubt of that."
"Thank you, my lady," he bowed with a bit of help from Rossweisse. "They will be most welcome; things can only improve from here with such cooperation."
"Excellent, and in addition, I will use all the research at my disposal to help you get back to your proper age should this Sage Arts regimen not take."
"You can bet on that on both accounts," Serafall agreed. She and the first Sun Wukong stood beside them in various attires to disguise their status from the others on the station, the monkey-youkai turned god especially seeming to stand out a tad, but no one call them on it. "Shinto and youkai working together, our coalition will be quite busy in the months ahead. We'll make sure they think twice before coming back here again!"
The last of the class shuffled onto the train, doors finally closing with a whish of air. Even then and as the transport started to move, Kunou chased after waving enthusiastically to everyone as long as she could. Dorian stood at the window waving her farewell until she was no longer visible. The second-year class trip to Kyoto had finally ended with the assembled students heading back to Kuoh Town…back home.
"Don't worry," Yasaka assured as Kunou returned smiling but clearly saddened they had to go so soon. "We will find plenty of reasons to visit them and for they to visit us. Did you find that big brother you always wanted?"
"MOTHER!" She cried out as Yasaka giggled at her daughter's expense. The others all shared a quick stifled laugh, the scene was far too wholesome to do otherwise.
"But back to our business," Yasaka turned to Serafall. "We must finalize as much as we can to move faster than the Brigade. I am sure Hell and Heaven will be no issue, but as to the Grigori…what kind of man is their Governor-General?"
"Huh?" The Leviathan's mouth flopped open at the question, the glare of barely restrained interest in the youkai matriarch's eyes betraying the deceptive simplicity of her question.
On the train…
"I am pooped," Motohama sighed as he slumped into his chair. "So many pictures so little time."
"And how many of those will we need to confiscate upon our return?" The coy voice of Aika Kiryuu drew his attention and glare. "I can only imagine how many illicit shots you got of the class while my attention was diverted."
"More than you think," his glasses shimmered as he pressed a button on his phone. Aika's own buzzed to warn her an incoming text message had been received. "Oh come on," she groaned while reaching for it. "If you are sending out pics already…"
She paused as the photo received was not what she expected. Knowing the man and his comrades, she had fully expected him to have gotten a shot or two of the girls leaving the bath and would be on his way to trying to profit from it. Instead, he had sent her a picture from their time at the viewing deck of Kiyomizu-Dera, a photo of herself. She was not in any sexy pose or revealing situation, rather she was looking out over the railing towards the city beyond with the sun dramatically shining behind her. Oddly enough, she looked deeper in thought than she'd expected, even less so that he would take a photo of that particular moment.
"I saw you looking and wondered what you were thinking about," he admitted before adjusting his glasses. "I doubt any angle could make you really stand out, but it came close. I wouldn't get anything if I tried to sell it anyway, so you should have it."
His words were his, but Aika couldn't help but notice they had no weight behind them as if he were saying them purely out of a sense of propriety. A normal girl would have let him keep his secrets, Aika was not most girls.
"Oho? Is that why you saved it to your background?"
"How did you know that?" His face flashed pure embarrassment as his glasses steamed up, obscuring his eyes.
"Because you told me, just now," she sneered as her trap closed. She had read him like a book. All the same, the two spent the remainder of the trip in mostly silence, the second pervert Matsuda sleeping nearby unaware of the odd development that Aika chose to sit near them the remaining ride back to Kuoh.
In another train car…
"Hmmm, I guess I am more skilled than I was before," Xenovia mused as she used her seat window as a makeshift mirror. She was in the process of working her hands through her blue locks. Ever since spotting Kiba's reveal of his interest in longer hair she had considered letting it grow out as she had done years earlier. "Perhaps it will not be such a burden, Rossweisse's hair is far longer than mine and she makes do."
"You did look very pretty," Irina was forced to agree, remembering their younger days together. "But I understood your reason for doing it. You nearly died back then."
"We all nearly did yesterday," Xenovia suddenly looked serious. "Despite all our training and powers…we lost. Irina, will you help me to get stronger? It is our duty to keep everyone safe."
"Of course!" Irina nodded, clasping her partner's hand before glancing over to Hecuba who was once more entranced with the speeding train. Despite their loss the previous day, hers especially at the hands of Cao Cao, their hearts were in a more innocent place for as long as they could. "It would be nice to see you with the longer hair again even if it is dangerous sometimes."
"But it gets her man's heart racing?" Kuroka pointed out with a cheeky grin. "We all compromise for those we want to…spend quality time with." She was forced to reword her statement, realizing that the other students were turning to listen in. Remaining on good behavior was part of her cover as a newly hired nurse to the academy. "That Gremory heiress has pretty long hair, you can ask her for advice or our own Rossweisse."
Rias and the others had departed back home through the teleportation circles they had come from. As much as they would have cherished the chance to remain together longer, it would have been quite suspicious if the other students had suddenly appeared in Kyoto. They would need to wait for their return home. Her own glances to Issei and his in return were fully noticed, each having felt that moment of warmth amid the battle emanating from the other's feelings.
President, Issei muttered internally as he leaned back in his seat. That was you without a doubt. I saw you in my head and you were there, but I felt it in my heart. Does that mean you are always with me? He had much to ponder for the trip home and how he would handle the weeks ahead.
"Now watch your head, Lord Wukong said your bones will be very fragile for the first few days. Nothing strenuous, maybe we have a cane somewhere you can…"
"You don't have to fuss over me Rose," he tried to placate the look of worry on her face as she fluffed the pillows behind his seat before leaning back herself to rest. As much as he adored Rossweisse's attention, he didn't want her bending over backwards for him looking so concerned. Asia had completely healed her injuries, all the same his instinct over her health was in full force after how badly she'd been beaten the night before. "I'm fine, you heard them. I just need Sage Art ministrations for a while."
"A long while," Thrud's words before she had returned with the others echoed in his mind. She sounded different, her tone almost the same as when they first met in Asgard. "Kuroka and I will need to rotate tending to you each night. I should have tried tutoring you or the others in its use long ago, it would make this simpler. Each night will ease you back to your original age, but this has never happened before. We have no idea if you will be this way for days, weeks or…"
She loves me too, she said that, it was no dream. How long has this been? What does Rossweisse think? What will we even say to her when we return? I should ask her, but where will that lead?
Dorian tried to focus on the myriad of questions swirling in his head, being forced to give up as he became unsteady. He needed rest, his body and life force itself was sapped being quite fragile in that moment. His sudden weakness irked him to no end. The young man had worked so hard and spent such time improving since Thrud and Rossweisse had become his instructors those many months past. For the fruits of his labors to suddenly be ripped from him caused frustration the likes of which he had not felt before.
I'll move past this, get stronger. The Hero Faction and Khaos Brigade are still out there. I won't be caught unaware next time. I am done being stabbed in the back.
Azazel had explained this new state, his Breakdown the Beast, as being the equivalent to the Juggernaut Drive which was unique to the Heavenly Dragons only. The form was a release of all the power within his Gear, something they had assumed he already had, being unaware of a seal being placed on Iggy that was now broken. It was incredible, reinforcing his body to the extent he absorbed so much energy becoming nigh unstoppable. All the same, it had sapped his life force as payment nearly killing him had Thrud's heartfelt words not gotten through. Until he learned to shunt the immense drain to a source other than his life, he could not use that form again lest it kill him instantly. The one thing he had walked away with aside from the knowledge of his growth was the rapier of Jeanne d'arc. Having been left behind in his chest it had been presented to him to keep and joined the others in the Roads.
In that form, I was so angry, felt so helpless that I…I… He could not finish his sentence, the dead empty eyes of Heracles still staring up at him. He had killed him, there was no doubt of that. His first life taken. He didn't go to Elysium; I am certain of that. Now that he had some time, a more important task was needed. Iggy, are you there?
Dorian, Iggy's voice returned at his words. After their defeat, her attack had ended, but she remained silent, having hidden within his mind without coming forth. I'm sorry, part of what drove you to such lengths was my turmoil. I…I'm so sorry.
It was both of us Iggy, he tried to soothe her sensing the guilt at her outburst after the magics of the Shinto gods had brought out something within her. But, what did you mean about not being able to save anyone? I know you saw my parents die but you had nothing to do with…
Not your parents, before that. She sounded truly scared, clearly not wishing to discuss it but at the same time no longer wanting to lie to herself or Dorian. Despoina was right about the meaning of your dreams, your nightmares are not just that and far more than we thought. They aren't even yours…they are mine, sights I saw before we merged. I might have known that all along, I refused to go near them, I didn't like the feeling that they gave me.
What feeling was that?
That it all happened before, I could not do anything. I couldn't move, was I just born or yet to be? I don't know! I don't want to know, I want things back like they were, the memories with you growing up, a safe place with someone I…
Iggy! Dorian projected a mental image within his mind, appearing before the young woman cowering in a corner. Without hesitation he knelt down, grasping her hand securely in his own until she finally had the wherewithal to look up into his eyes. I'm here, I'm with you, I always have been. You don't have to fear those nightmares, memories, whatever they are. I'll walk them with you, Despoina too. You aren't alone, I am sorry you were for so long.
Dorian…she sniffed as she wiped away the tears with her sleeve. You promise?
I do, you fought Loki alone to help wake me up. He smiled back at her as serenely as he could. How can I do anything different? The daughter of Yggdrasil threw herself into him, wrapping arms around him tighter than any branches.
I saw things, she clung closer, terrible things. That monster…that THING on the shield you carved back in Asgard…it killed everything. Not just everyone…everything there was. It happened, it hasn't yet, but it will.
No, it won't. We are here, aren't we? Once we find out exactly where or how these memories came from, we can work to stop them. I swear. So…you're from the future? An alternate timeline? Both?
I must be, I do not know how or why I am here. If everything is still alive, then it hasn't happened yet. But when does it happen? I don't know.
I can help discover that, Despoina glided into view from the side having stayed a respectable distance as the two had their moment. I think I've gotten proficient at accessing those memories of yours. Just ask me whenever you want to delve deeper and I can show you.
Thank you Despoina, perhaps another time. We have all been through enough the last few days.
Of course, Dorian. After what you two have been through you deserve rest. That school festival is coming up soon, correct? Take your mind from the battle and Heracles.
Heracles…
Dorian's mind became troubled at the utterance of the former Olympian's name. Fading back to the real world he leaned upon the glass looking out, Rossweisse having already nodded off leaning on his shoulder. As wonderful as the feeling was, he was restless, unable to think of anything but those cold dead eyes staring upwards…his first kill.
What does that make me?
Back Home…
The group slumped back into the front door of the Hyoudou residence utterly exhausted with the events of the previous days both good and ill catching up with them. Their spirits were quickly lifted as the unmistakable smell of sweets wafted towards them accompanied by the arrival of Mrs. Hyoudou in an apron.
"Oh, you got home JUST in time everyone!" She called out in a cheery voice. "Asia dear, I would love your opinion on these before I give them out. Everyone else be sure to relax, you must be tired after your long trip."
"Thanks mom," Issei smiled as his mom looked to make sure everyone was present, a sizable number between them all. He unexpectedly approached her, giving a soft hug. "For everything."
"Well," she giggled a little, confused at the sudden affection. "This must have been some trip. You all relax, and I'll have these done soon for you and our guests."
"Guests?" He turned to realize the others were not there as he expected. "Where is everyone?"
"He arrived a little before you did, Mr. Himejima is waiting in your dorm next door with everyone else. I just sent him some tea."
"Mr. Himejima?" Dorian asked with a head turn. "You mean Baraqiel?"
"Oh yes, a wonderful man," she glowed. "Coming all this way to check on his little girl, does he know about the lucky young man? I am sure he could impart some wisdom to him, they are such an adorable couple."
Crossroad's Tower…
"You were not the only ones attacked," the imposing Fallen Angel informed as the others settled within the lobby of the tower. "Nor just Gremory territory, the very headquarters of the Grigori was ransacked."
He continued while taking the occasional bite of Mrs. Hyoudou's cookies, detailing how as the others fought, the home of the Grigori was assaulted by powerful devils none of whom were below high class with ultimates among their ranks. Herja, Brynda and Misty had been escorting several of their members when it happened. To their true relief none were seriously injured though all three were still nursing wounds. They had been pinned down for so long that the assailants escaped with what they sought.
"All the data we had accumulated on artificial Sacred Gears," he sighed much to Azazel's horror. We still have backups, but everything we knew…so do they now. If Zepar, the Gremorys and Tobio's team had not arrived to open a second flank, our casualties would have been much higher. It was a coordinated assault; I fear we were the true targets of this strike."
"Tobio?" Dorian asked not recognizing the name.
"One of our best," Azazel explained briefly. "If he'd been at Kyoto the brigade wouldn't have gotten nearly as far. A good man, you'd like him. I'll introduce you two someday. How many did we lose?"
"Too many," Baraqiel clenched his fist, a passionate rage flowing through him stemmed only by the reminder that his daughter was in the room. "Thank you Zepar, for arriving when you did."
"I wish I had done so sooner, if Herja and the others had not been over their check-in time I would never have thought anything was amiss. The Brigade's jamming techniques must be advanced to prevent any SOS from getting out."
"But you made it back," Akeno leaned in to embrace him, squeezing tightly despite her father's eyes. "That is what matters most." She quickly pulled back as he winced, reapplying some minor healing magic to the wound on his face still black and blue.
"And they were busy enough with that Moloch. Someone strong enough to battle BOTH the Gremory heads and Sirzechs' wife, he must be more than he was letting on. Someone that strong can't possibly exist with no records."
"They have an idea about him, I'll let you know how it pans out," Azazel promised. "The one silver lining is we have had that research for some time. Unless they have someone smarter than Ajuka or myself, it will take a while to even translate half the stuff."
The room was silent at his hope for a minor jest. After what they had all been through, no one wanted to wholly assume that they didn't have the means to do true damage yet with the information. Just the fact they knew it existed implied a sinister possibility. Azazel did not want to worry them more than they already were, he'd never admit the thought had crossed his mind as well.
While he had been describing the situation, Rossweisse sat beside Dorian helping him sit up straight. Uneasily, Thrud was not far but hadn't said a word since they returned. The atmosphere between them was awkward to say the least, each side worried to say the first words. He almost spoke up before his name was suddenly called.
"Oh Dorian, speaking of Ajuka and to pick up the somber tone of this room, the old goat had a message for you. "He's made a breakthrough on the nekoshou piece system. He said be ready for a call as he may be ready for trial runs any day now."
"So soon!?" Kuroka was the one to answer unable to hide her excitement. "How would this work? I am a Bishop after all."
"Lord Beelzebub seems confident he can manipulate your piece similar to what he did for Issei. If done right, it will allow you to take on the traits of a King, or I suppose in your case, a Queen? Pharaoh? We can decide specifics later. Like when other pieces eventually break away to form their own peerages.
"Pharaoh Kuroka," She leaned back with her arms behind her head enjoying the ring of the name far more than she should. "Whatever will I do with myself when that time comes?"
"You'll have more friends too, the Phenex house's daughter will be enrolling to Kuoh just in time for the Cultural Festival."
"Ravel is coming here?"
"You betcha," he threw a wink to Issei. "Apparently she was inspired by Rias' love of Japanese society among…other things. She'll be starting in the same class as Koneko, though she tried to make it into the second year."
"Huh, I wonder why she wanted to transfer," Issei said aloud, most of those around staring at him hesitantly uncertain if he was serious. He was.
"Well, now that the heavy information is out of the way," Azazel snapped back to the scene. "You must all be exhausted, take a load off, get some relaxation. You earned it! I hear they even expanded the amenities in both the house and tower…"
Hyoudou Residence, not long after…
"Thank you for allowing me to partake," the muscular fallen angel sunk alongside the other men surrounding him on their side of the enormous baths. With all work completed for the day, they were ready to ease back into their everyday life. Fortunately, Baraqiel was not needed back for some hours and was able to rest alongside them.
"Anytime," Issei replied still finding it odd that his house was so popular. "Take a load off, everyone can use it."
"Gonna try to catch a glimpse?" Azazel asked from his own position near his fellow fallen. "You must know all the secret peeping spots of this room by now."
"Azazel…" Dorian glared at the pair as he rinsed himself in preparation for joining them, a custom in Japan he had gotten used to. "You just can't turn it off, can you?"
"Nothing wrong with a healthy interest, just putting it out there," he leaned back with a satisfying sigh. "Part of his powers come from that, right?"
"Akeno is over there as well," Zepar's own glare had settled on the pair eliciting a smirk of pride from her father. "If you should get a glimpse of her…" Issei decided it was best not to tempt fate.
"You two took a big step in power last night," Azazel finally changed the topic. "That triple move you used Issei, promoting yourself to each of the forms other than Queen and changing your Scale Mail to match, it's like what Dorian did against you. Not even sure if it'd be legal to perform in Rating Games."
"I didn't make it for Rating Games. I needed all the forms to beat him, but I can't access them all at once yet."
"Three moves, Triania," the Grigori leader muttered. "Like the three-pronged trident of Poseidon. Illegal Move Triaina, you gotta admit it has a nice ring to it."
"You've been spending too much time in touch with the Greek Pantheon perhaps," Baraqiel pointed out at the inspiration for the name.
"Call it improving my palette. It's a good start Issei, you want your own peerage harem, right?" The young Dragon nodded enthusiastically though with a bit more control than past conversations. "Then stay to this path, one of royalty over tyranny that Vali chose. He wants to control everyone around him or seems to be aiming that way. If you try to follow that route, you'll never catch up. Ruling without taking full control, that feels more your style to me."
"Ruling without being a tyrant," Issei sunk beneath the waves until only his eyes and nose were still above, blowing bubbles as he pondered the meaning behind becoming a king. He would become one someday, but the idea that he'd need to leave Rias' side to do so soured the dream.
"Of course, he'll be a king," the voice of Rias Gremory rose over the divider between them. "I chose him as my pawn after all, as if he would be capable of any less. Right Issei?"
"R-right!" He shouted back; his spirits raised at the words of the woman who had saved him from death. He couldn't see her, but that wasn't truly needed. "I'll become the strongest pawn, make you the undefeated Rating Game champion before I rise up myself!"
"Feeling any better?" Azazel glanced over at the Einherjar who was gritting his teeth, clearly still pained by his condition.
"A bit," Dorian flexed his muscles with a groan. "That Breakdown was so powerful, but at this cost…"
"It did a number on you that's for sure. I hope your Sage Art ladies can put you back together again, Lord Wukong was uncertain if you could get back to how you were. You channeled the power of a city and didn't explode, that says volumes about this form's potential if you can use it safely."
"You were so angry," Gasper muttered, recalling seeing video from the reports. "Because they hurt Ms. Rossweisse?"
"When I saw her, I thought…" He shook his head to drive even echoes of his state of mind away. "Are Juggernaut Drives and Breakdowns all powered like that?"
"Not all, but many," Azazel tried to explain. "Your power exploded but it wasn't enough for your little lady. She sucked the area and Yasaka dry, in that moment I don't know if anyone there could have defeated you other than Lord Wukong and only by beating you to death. We can go over that later, this is a time for celebration, not dwelling on that."
"I do have some good news," Akeno shouted over the wall. "The Oppai Dragon Show started airing in all ally realms while you were away. The youkai have even allowed it to broadcast in their territory.
"What?" Issei and Dorian simultaneously asked, both having thought it'd be longer before that day came. "People have…watched it?"
"And the ratings are quite good," Azazel laughed. Issei's cry for breasts and Dorian's nobility in the face of such odds are drawing in crowds. The kids love you two, even older demographics are giving it a watch. I hope you are ready to be even more famous. Of course, you have access to all the first of each piece of merchandise."
"Dibs on one of every mug!" Bennia's voice called out from the women's side. "Oh, and the t-shirts! Do they have action figures yet?"
"At the next long weekend, you two will be shooting some more episodes and live performances to follow. They've already got the scripts made; I'll have them sent to your rooms. The Oppai Dragon will use ALL his accumulated energy of poking breasts to end the reign of the High King."
Live performances, Dorian tried to control the twitching in his left eye. To his surprise, he found himself more excited than nervous despite the context of the show. This is really happening, on television across realms! I assume I'll lose to the show's hero, but maybe that won't be the end. Perhaps I can start small around here, Xenovia keeps insisting I start a DeviTube channel. First things first though…
"What about Iggy? Now that she can manifest could she perhaps…?"
"Dorian," the soaking men turned, most quickly ducking beneath the waves deeper upon realizing that none other than Thrud was standing at the entrance to their room. She wore a towel covering all her features, but it was still evident there was absolutely nothing beneath, her figure framed and shapely. "I will need to heal you while bathing, come with me, there is a more…private section."
"S-sure Thrud," he reached for a nearby towel to cover up as he emerged from the waves, the young goddess' eyes drifting south for a moment before snapping back to his. Turning with a frustrated spin, she beckoned him to another door near the entrance, the pair disappearing from sight.
"Good luck Einherjar," Azazel muttered under his breath heard only by Ratatoskr floating nearby. "You're going to need it; how many would be envious to be in your place?"
"I could massage your muscles." Xenovia called out to Kiba as she washed herself, the two sitting directly on opposite sides of the wall preventing either from seeing the other. "Siegfried was intent on killing you, he nearly succeeded. It will make you feel better"
"I am alright," he insisted with a weak defense, the soreness already being mostly gone thanks to Asia's powers. All the same he took note of her offer. "I am uncertain why he was so bent on fighting me, we have certainly never met, not even at the Holy Sword Experiments. And also…nothing, never mind."
Catherine, he hid is worry persisting even after the battle. What had you so fearful to use your weapon's power in the face of death?
"Maybe he was jealous of your smell," the squirrel of Yggdrasil theorized as he dove beneath the waves, emerging in a dramatic fashion throwing his hair about. "There was something familiar about his, but it reeked to high Heaven, maybe the cloning process twisted the original Siegfried's scent a bit."
"You knew him?"
"Taught him all he knows," he boasted to which Kiba did not fully believe. "Nice guy, a bit thick to the ways of magic but no one killed a dragon better! That was back when I found little ways to your world as an astral projection, didn't stay long though, home is where the heart is after all. If you want, I can tell you a thing or two about him…"
The pair continued speaking of olden days from Norse myth with tales of war, song, and sorrow surrounding the life of the original hero Siegfried. Xenovia listened in, more than a little perturbed at the attention being taken having hoped to practice flirting with Kiba. Between Kuroka's actions and Rossweisse's time around Dorian, she felt she was becoming proficient at the art and gave her an advantage over Tsubaki and other rivals. Conversations sparked across both sides of the divider as the men and women let the worries of the past few days melt away.
"I'm telling you Shirone," Kuroka huddled close to Koneko. "You would look breathtaking; I even beat a Balance Breaker with it. You've used nature ki before, right?"
"A bit," she answered back surprised how more comfortable and normal spending time with her sister was becoming.
"You'll love it," she moved close to her ear before whispering to ensure no one else heard. "It feels like when mom was still around." Koneko turned, eyes growing wide wondering what she meant that Kuroka would be sure to explain in detail later. "That and it actually filled me out MORE. Just imagine what it would do for you!" The last part was delivered bombastically ensuring everyone around heard her as she groped herself for emphasis. Her little sister sunk down into the waves to hide from the eyes locking onto her.
"Cat! Come on in, the water is sublime!" Rias called out while beckoning the pink-haired knight over. "Your skin will never feel better."
"I…I would rather not," she sheepishly replied from the nearby seating area while still adorned in her robe she had not discarded. "I can enjoy the heat from here. If you order it then I…"
"No orders here, like towels," she teased. Her face grew a bit more concerned as she realized Catherine was not sharing the jest. "It's because of HIM isn't it?"
"Yes," she nodded solemnly. "Bath times were…not peaceful with him watching us. Back then we saw it as such a blessing…"
Diodora…what a bastard.
"Then we shall make them peaceful in your eyes once again."
"What?"
"This is a place of peace and safety," the Gremory heiress stood tall out of the water so all the women could see her. "I told you that being a servant of the Gremory family would be nothing like you were used to and I meant that fully. I only ask that you not retain any of the fears he instilled in you. Let this be a new beginning, you are a knight, my knight. If you truly do not wish to join us, I will not force you. But if you do, it is always open for you to do so."
Catherine was about to politely refuse before seeing Asia pressed against the wall chatting with Issei on the other side as Xenovia did for Kiba. She knew how the former nun had been slain by the fallen angels and brought back as a devil Bishop in Rias' service. The comparison hit her like a wave, she had lost everything but now was smiling so honestly…something Catherine hoped to regain herself.
"Lady Gr…Rias," she smiled thinly, closing the mystery novel she had been reading. "I…suppose the water would do my body good after the fight. With an inhalation of breath, she dropped her robe to the ground but keeping the towel beneath wrapped tight around her. Without the clothes, her shape was more obvious, her curves seen by the other women which she had kept hidden before. Tentatively, the reborn devil waded into the water to sit beside Akeno. Catherine was controlling her breathing and kept the towel tied tight despite her King's previous mention of forbidding them. It was a first step, a solid first.
"Welcome to the fun," the fallen angel Queen handed her a cup of tea. "Do you have a particular flavor? I can have some made for later."
"Well," she fumbled for her words, overjoyed at being surrounded by happiness again despite thinking of her other peerage sisters. She resolved to visit them soon, if she could find such a place, so could they. "I've always had a fondness for mint."
On the other side of the wall…
"Easy, just a bit more…there."
Thrud eased Dorian's aching body into the soothing water. Under Lord Wukong's instructions, any soaking or cleaning of the body was to be accompanied by further Sage Art ministrations, Thrud taking up the task however remained uncharacteristically stoic. A third segment of the baths had been made for them the other residents of the tower and Hyoudou home split between men and women on the other sides. She was naked, of course, which hadn't been an issue in the past with the two even having a brawl in such a state back in Olympus. All the same, the atmosphere between them was nothing like it once was.
"Thank you," he replied as he eased back into her arms, the warmth of her healing seeming to be amplified by the presence of the water. He hadn't experienced her Sage Arts often, but he'd never forget the cave on the slopes of the mountain at his first hunt. That memory only exacerbated the itch at the back of his mind that she seemed far less vibrant than she had been there, the turmoil of the past night still lingering. "Thrud, we have to talk," he started, her strong arms seeming a little less sure of themselves with his words. "What you said…"
"Was what had to be said, but you needn't dwell on it," she sounded solemn. "You are with Rossweisse and I would never take that from her. To Hel with it, if things had gone the way I wanted I would just never have said a thing."
"But you did," Dorian turned, ignoring her ample breasts and glistening body open for the world to see. "You can't just push it away if it's true. Didn't you tell me that you could be open with me more than anyone before I came to Asgard."
"I'll be returning there…"
"What?"
"I shouldn't have left," she tightened her hold on him a bit more. "When you are well again, I will return to Asgard and resume my position there. It will be better for everyone if…"
"No."
"What?" Thrud was not used to the word being used so forcefully around her. "You can't just…"
"Thrud, you are the first person I saw when I woke up here," his tone became solid and determined despite his frail body. "You and Rose, you have been closer to me than anyone since I became an Einherjar. I want to see you happy, we both do. Don't just run away, we can talk through this with enough time. Running from this doesn't seem like you."
"So, you know me that well, do you?" She chuckled softly, something Dorian considered a resounding victory despite all else. "That is the reason I think, why I can be this way with you. You're like Rossweisse, I feel anything I tell you will remain between us if I wish it. I trust you despite how fragile that can be."
"Trust is like glass," he repeated what he had told Zepar the night before.
"Dorian…"
"Dorian! Thrud!" The familiar voice of Rossweisse drew them to the entrance to their private segment. The silver-haired Valkyrie entered with a towel in hand but was utterly naked before both. Without hesitation, she waded closer eyes full of concern uncaring at their state of dress. "Has there been any improvement?"
"I feel better," he insisted while scratching the back of his head in hopes of allaying worry.
"The Hel you are!" Thrud conked the back of his head. "You were able to beat me in a fight before, now you'd be lucky to last against the squirrel!"
"Hey!" The insulted voice of Ratatoskr rang out overhead from the men's side to show their words carried more than they thought. "Don't make me come in there…but if you could make me come in, I'd be MOST grateful!"
"Thrud," Rossweisse looked into her friend's eyes. "Thank you, for being there. If you hadn't been able to break him out of that, I…I don't know what we'd have done."
"Even with what I said?" The silence settled between but Rossweisse's expression only softened, surprising the daughter of Thor even after all the time she knew her.
"I saw the way you looked at him sometimes. I didn't know, but I will admit I am not surprised. We have been through so much together. This won't ruin the bond we have," she reached out to take Thrud's hand, the other gripping Dorian's. "We can work through this; it is new for all of us. Just be here with us, please." She moved forward, Dorian now between the two beauties, their bodies pressing into his.
"Someone is going somewhere?" The chipper voice of Bennia poked her head around the divider from the women's side. Thankfully she had a towel on though Dorian still spun around all the same only then realizing he'd be facing Thrud as a result. Thrud's arms twitched as if she instinctively was going to cover up only to stop, their eyes locking once more.
It wasn't this awkward back in Olympus. Things were different then; I didn't see her this way, did she see me like this?
"No," Thrud answered her, her face slowly shifting to the smiling visage of her true self they had become used to since settling in at the tower. "No one is going anywhere, you might want to head back, we have a man in here."
"I'm not worried," she backstroked into the new pool. "The day Dorian peeps is the day the world ends. Besides I missed you guys!"
"And we hardly get to see everyone with our schedule!" Herja burst through behind her followed by Misty and Brynda, the Valkyrie trio similarly garbed with their hair let down. The entire scene brought back memories of Dorian's accidental stumbling into the locker room of Asgard from Ratatoskr's jest. Thankfully, it seems the three no longer held such reservations. "We all had to fight for our lives but made it back alive!"
"And we always will!" Irina entered next as the women's side seemed to empty into the previously private pool. Xenovia, Hecuba and Seekvaira following, even Kuroka slipped inside subtly drifting closer to the trio's position. Zepar peeked his head in to join his team, realizing the situation he removed his glasses to severely hamper his vision. "After what happened…are you alright Dorian?"
I'm fine Irina, you were the one beaten unconscious. The Einherjar flexed his hands as renewed vigor returned to them, whether it was from Thrud's continued healing or the situation he found himself in, he wouldn't know. With a confident inhalation he turned despite knowing the vision of half-naked beauties he would now face. If they were comfortable around him, why should he be any different?
"I'm fine," he finally said out loud to her and the others. "Iggy just…learned a few things we didn't want to know."
"About what?" Rossweisse leaned closer, eyes widening to beg him to tell. Dorian hesitated as the entire room was clearly listening.
Are you sure?
If this…dead future you is true, they need to know. Everyone needs to know.
If you think it will help, okay.
And so, he told them, Dorian explained everything that he and Iggy had pieced together. These visions of blasted landscapes that had once been places everyone knew from Heaven to Asgard. He left out the visage upon the shield he had carved months earlier, wanting to know more of what this creature was. Everyone was silent as he concluded, worried glances darting between one another clearly questioning if this was possible. Dorian understood, the concept of an entire world so widespread as theirs between the normal and supernatural just being wiped out was hard to swallow.
"But…we can stop this, right?" Bennia was the first to pipe up from the silence. "I mean, if you know about it we can keep it from happening, right?"
"The problem is we don't know WHEN this is supposed to happen," Dorian crossed his arms noticing Thrud's embrace had tightened through his story. "There wasn't exactly a calendar available. Perhaps when we tell Azazel he can help."
"Then it does not matter, for now." It was Hecuba whose words drew the attention of everyone towards her, still washing her tanned body. "We need to hone our skills, be strong enough to best the Khaos Brigade who may very well have a part to play in this vision. That is what you intend for the Crossroads, correct?" Her calm was contagious, confidence reverberating to all around her. "To face any threat and come out better for it?"
Hecuba, what would we do without you?
"It was!" He shouted with a thump of his chest for emphasis as fire filled his heart and voice. "We made it out of this, but the Khaos Brigade is still out there. I know we haven't been together that long, and we still have a way to grow to be what the Crossroads should, but if you are all in on this, I know we can fight against anything, even this future."
"Here here!" Hecuba shouted that the others shared traveling through the team like a wave.
"You are still okay with me being here?" The meek voice of Iggy revealed she too had taken physical form and was soaking with the others looking sheepishly as she glanced to each one. "What if I am the cause of this?"
"And what if you are the only hope of stopping it?" Dorian answered quickly, drawing a smile to her lips. "You have been with me my entire life and are a part of this group as much as anyone."
"Without you, half my clothes would be covered in patches," Bennia sweat-dropped nervously as she laid a comforting hand on her shoulder.
"You have been a good friend ever since we could see you," Irina smiled cheerily. "Talking with you is so calming, like everything will be alright."
"And you saved Dorian," Rossweisse muttered low. "More than once."
The daughter of Yggdrasil looked as if she was on the verge of tears. For so long she had hidden within Dorian afraid for any to see her, now seeing just how wonderful having those close to her could feel. She threw a smile Dorian's way; only then did he realize that she had no towel whatsoever covering herself. She was a vision of loveliness to rival any of the women there. Having been so shy all the time he knew her that her boldness stunned Dorian for a moment. She trusted him to see her most of all, but in that moment didn't mind the gathered Crossroad roster.
"We'll train, we'll get stronger," he continued while looking towards the others once more. "I may not be in fit shape yet, but I WILL be, the Khaos Brigade won't find us an easy target, especially not the Hero Faction. This wouldn't be possible without you…"
"Or you," Seekvaira suddenly became quite vocal, standing taller in the baths. "I speak for most if not all here that we would not be in this unique position were it not for you. You…showed your character," she gripped her side gently, remembering the moment of weakness Dorian witnessed at their Rating Game exhibition. She had heard no rumors nor word of her showing such a state, as far as she could tell, he had kept his vow of secrecy. "We agree on your position as commander and would have it no other way come the Brigade, wars or this dark future."
"Then I won't make you regret that, ever," Dorian could barely recognize his own voice as he shot to his feet out of Thrud's arms. "We are still small, but we'll grow. If I can use these magics together as one, just imagine what we will be capable of doing the same."
He nearly stumbled with his frail body as the room exploded in cheer, the assorted women breaking up to talk amongst each other. Kuroka tried to slowly drift closer but an arm from Irina stopped her, the nekoshou forced to hear of her recent report to Michael on her time among the Crossroads. With the focus off himself, Dorian eased back down as Thrud reclaimed an arm on his, resuming her efforts.
"You can barely stand but still have energy for that?" She let out a huff of a smile. "I suppose I can't go anywhere, not while you need me with this dark future you see. Just relax, if my estimates are right you need at least an hour of this for us to have any progress."
"I have nothing planned for the evening," Rossweisse leaned into his other arm on the opposite side. "Take as long as is required to help."
As long as it takes, Dorian sighed as he leaned back against the wall with Rossweisse and Thrud cradling him on either side. He tried his best to hide the smile of contentment with both holding him in such a place but failed miserably. He was happy, despite all that had occurred and what he had done, in that moment he was happy. That sense of calm suddenly brought a flash of his time in the Shinto shrine to mind.
"Thrud, can you give me a little extra energy for the night? There is something I have to do before I turn in for the evening…"
Not long after…
"That was divine," Akeno sighed as she finally donned her priestess robes after the bath. There were a few duties remaining at the shrine she wanted to take care of before it got too dark. "My skin is so…oh my."
As she cleared the women's changing room, she nearly ran into Zepar waiting for her. The Gremory Queen had to restrain her first instinct to flirt as her father Baraqiel was right beside him standing around looking more than a little confused.
"What are you two still doing here?"
"I wish I knew," her father admitted. "Mr. Held asked us to await you before leaving but wouldn't say why."
"How odd, he usually isn't one for secrets."
"This is an exception," Dorian rounded the corner with a wave. "There was a place I wanted to take the three of you."
"And where is that?" Zepar glanced around taking note of the only ones he had insisted remain.
"It is better if I show you," he turned with a wave of his hand to summon the azure portal to the Road Between Realms. "It was surprisingly close to our realm, even walking it'll only be a few minutes."
"There is much to do," Baraqiel looked uncomfortable. "I must be getting back to the Grigori, unless this is a matter of UTMOST…"
"Father," Akeno laid a hand on his shoulder having seen the look in Dorian's eyes. She could see his hope that they would follow him though not why it meant so much. "He said it would not be long, we can talk as we travel to this place. Zepar too, are you not curious how things have been going between us?"
"I…very well," he relaxed utterly defeated. "Lead on Mr. Held."
"Remember this path if you can," Dorian advised as he stepped through first. "I have a feeling you may want to come this way again someday."
Elsewhere…
"That damned Red Dragon Emperor," Cao Cao muttered as he sat within the chair being attended to by Georg. The pain was excruciating as he worked to mend his ruined eye, but the Hero Faction leader had experienced worse. "And damn that Einherjar. How much longer?"
"A few minutes," the young mage muttered under his breath as he finished a new incantation. "But it will take weeks to acclimate to your body. We are fortunate Perseus acquired this for you, we had nothing else that would be suitable."
"He was always a loyal soldier; I wish he were here."
"There," the wielder of Dimension Lost took a step back. "I've placed a seal on it, so you don't inadvertently petrify anything. How do you feel."
"Like a hot knife is going through my skull, but it will pass." Cao Cao groaned, even he unable to fully mask the pain as he looked in a nearby mirror. "This will do, they will pay for Heracles' death, he will not have fallen in vain."
"But you didn't get Great Red out, did you?"
Cao Cao stiffened a bit as a small girl appeared at the edge of the chamber, her small silhouette casting an oddly large shadow that seemed to swirl and shift with her true form hidden beneath. Ophis, leader of the Khaos Brigade.
"No, that Einherjar from Asgard absorbed all the energy we'd collected. There was none left to summon the dragon through."
"A pity," she sighed. "I thought you might actually do it, but no matter. You are to cease all actions against those children."
The silence was encompassing, Cao Cao staring at their benefactor with a blank stare.
"What?"
"Those young ones showed a strange growth in their powers, particularly that little Red Dragon and the blonde sapling. I want to observe them for a time, once I am finished, we may continue our efforts."
"They won't allow that!" He blurted out, the emotion behind his voice starting to show. "We were THIS close, and they took it all from us, if we leave them be, they won't give us another chance."
"There will always be more chances even if you don't see them," she answered calmly, her voice never breaking from the monotone it had been since they first met. "This is final, rest for now and come when I summon. With her lurking around, we can't know what the future may bring. The Brigade will have need of you yet."
Cao Cao held his composure as the infinite dragon turned and skipped out of the room, disappearing into the air as she left. Only once he was certain she was not lingering did he spin, smashing the nearby table in half with a powerful emotionally fueled fist.
"That…that…" He did not know what insult to refer to her first. "All we have done, those we lost, and she just calls off our efforts?!"
"What are your orders sir?" George walked up to him without hesitation. "She may rule the Brigade, but YOU rule this faction. We will go where you lead."
"Your loyalty, that is a strength greater than anything they can match," he smiled at the determination in the young man's eyes. "For now, we will rest, but once we are back up to full strength, we will make a move…with or without her leave."
"What of Heracles' position? He was one of our best but was beaten so easily."
"The Einherjar's strength was tied to the ley lines, he will not be so indomitable far from Kyoto. Bring the recruits," Cao Cao turned, wiping at his new eye that itched to a maddening degree. Looking down, he eyed the Olympian rune in his palm he hadn't used during the battle. "We have plenty of prospective men and women. I know one of them will suffice. We have more than one benefactor, if she will not give us what we desire, we shall defer to another."
The Roads…
"Just this way at the end of the path," Dorian motioned for the others to follow him. "Only a few more minutes, I promise."
"So mysterious," Suzaku smiled warmly. The group had stopped by a path leading to Kyoto to pick up the Shinto Clan Head who had awaited Dorian's call as requested. With her in tow, they had pressed forward towards this mysterious destination. "It is good to see you again Baraqiel."
"Suzaku," he nodded cordially, the two not having had a chance to talk in many years. After Shuri's death, it had been her who years later had approached him in apology. With her hatred for him at the time and the Himejima Clan's persecution of a half-fallen angel child, neither could keep her safe. Being found by Rias had turned out better than either could have hoped for. "You are looking well."
"You are looking better walking beside your daughter," she glanced back at Zepar and Akeno who had fallen back to have their own conversations. "She is smiling much more, that aide of yours too."
"He is my aide no longer; he works with the Crossroads now."
"Closely with Akeno," she smiled innocently while hiding her meaning behind it which not even he could miss. "She deserves to find a good man all her own, I hope he is prepared for it."
"I have given my blessing, but will continue to watch him," the Grigori subtly looked back as Akeno suddenly giggled, leaning on Zepar's arm for support. "I never imagined when I tasked him to watch over her that he would take the task so…far."
"The future has a funny way of working out. Now that the Clan is being reorganized and she has forgiven you, we can give her a real home to go to."
"She has a home," he sighed fully knowing despite wishing it was something he could give her. "Rias Gremory, that girl gave her one and I don't see us ever changing that. All the same, we can still show her both our worlds now, she need not fear them for the crimes of our past."
"You have grown some since we last spoke," she teased. "Maybe all these other realms have had a good effect on you. I'll have to check on a suitable candidate to join this Crossroad." She mused while eyeing Dorian leading the way ahead. "There is more to him than is clear, who knows…maybe I will be the one to…"
"Here it is!" Dorian stopped to flag them down with a grin. Opening a portal, he motioned them towards it before disappearing within. "Come on through, everybody out."
"Now will you tell us?" Baraqiel blurted out in a fit of frustration as he followed. "It is high time we…what is this?"
The portal led to a wide expanse of fields of flowers as far as the eye could see. A white light bathed them as they entered, while Baraqiel and Zepar remained confused, Suzaku and Akeno's eyes widened fully realizing where they stood.
"T-Takamagahara?" Suzaku's composure shuddered for a moment. "Th-this is impossible, the realm of our gods is meant for only those most faithful after they pass! I shouldn't be here, why did you…?"
"Calm your mind, they are aware of your presence and have permitted it for this occasion. You have grown so much Suzaku."
"Th-that's…!" Akeno's voice was soft, barely perceptible as she gasped in disbelief, bringing her hands to her face as if it would help slow the tears welling up within them. "Is that you?"
The white-clothed Shuri Himejima emerged from over the hill like the rising sun. Her light had dimmed both so she could see her family and they her. She maintained a respectable distance, remaining near the shrine to the gods, they would have to approach her the rest of the way.
"Take your time," Dorian assured them, barely able to keep his own eyes dry at the reactions of the three; Akeno and Baraqiel in particular. "Iggy has a new wardrobe to show me, so I'll be in the roads for quite some time. Don't feel any need to…"
He didn't finish his words as Akeno threw herself into his arms wrapping her own about him so tightly he feared she may crush him in his weakened state. Tears of joy stained his shirt, not even Baraqiel minded his daughter acting so towards him, she held that state for several moments before finally trusting herself to speak without breaking down.
"Thank you, thank you," she repeated. "How did you do this?"
"The Roads lead everywhere in this world," he tried to sound as if he fully understood it even after so long being able to access them. "It's just about knowing the way. Here is one more you can walk when in need; happiness isn't as fickle as it seems. There is always another door to pick, you can cherish each happy moment without treating it as if it will be your last."
"I will follow you for as long as you live," Zepar swore with a bow. "For this…this gift, surely a means of traversing the afterlives of so many has never been seen before."
"We will speak later Mr. Held," Baraqiel did not even look back to him as he spoke, eyes perpetually locked on his late wife's. "I owe you a debt from which can never be repaid but I will strive to do so. To allow us to see…to see her again."
"You really don't have to, but all I ask is use the time. I was told they will allow a single visit, anymore are uncertain but they gave no time limit. Stay as long as you need, I mean that."
Dorian Held stepped back as Akeno finally released him, her hand letting go at last as she raced across the fields. Her hair fluttered in the wind causing it to become quite unruly and disheveled, but she didn't care. The carefree smile she had not truly worn since her days as a child returned, her arms reaching out towards those of her mother that she remembered from so long ago. At last, the Einherjar turned towards the portal to step back within.
"Kiddo!" Ratatoskr called out from within while flipping the tiny feathered hat on his head before the portal closed. "You GOTTA see this! Our little lady has a hat rack! Dibs on the one with feathers!"
"MOM!" Akeno cried again as she flew into Shuri's embrace, Baraqiel and Suzaku not far with Zepar trailing. "I…I don't know what to say! I missed you so much. I'm sorry what happened, sorry that…!"
"It was not your fault, nor your father's," she patted her head while trying to maintain her own composure and failing miserably. "I wanted to see you again so much, was prepared to wait until you joined me here, if you did at all…to see you still so young is a blessing. Why do you hold back?" She looked up to her husband who just stood straight as a board, his body shaking so subtly it was barely noticeable.
"I should have been there," he fidgeted with the wedding band still on his finger. "I should have been there to protect you, tear them apart and…"
"It is the past," she assured, reaching past the take her husband's hand as Akeno still held her. "We have so much to discuss, so much I have missed and wish to hear. Is this the boy?"
Zepar noticed a sizable increase in his temperature as Shuri's eyes fell upon him. Bowing politely, he adjusted his glasses to ensure they were perfectly centered.
"M-M-Mrs. Himejima, it is truly an honor to…"
Before he could say another word, he too was pulled into the embrace now including Akeno and Baraqiel, Suzaku unable to resist a giggle at his overwhelmed expression at the situation. Already Akeno's heart had lightened and their time with the reunited family had only just begun, resolving to look at the world anew no longer afraid of what tomorrow may bring. She could become more like the mask she wore around those of her peerage…the big sister to help them.
"Now, I want to know EVERYTHING," Shuri started as she led them to a nearby picnic table she had set up ahead of time. "Tell me all that you have been through both good and bad, Zepar, how did you meet my daughter? I must know if you share any of her father's…interests."
Asgard…
"But Lady Freyja," the young Einherjar standing beside her bed tried to implore. "You just visited; if you leave again your schedule will fall into disarray. Why, the blessing ceremonies alone will…"
"Isn't that why you are my aide Birger?" She retorted. He was the latest of her Einherjar retainers, she had lost count how many had come and go since Dorian left. Even now he stood before her holding a collection of papers and documents she had yet to get to. He tried, she could not deny that, but all the same his skills were woefully inadequate. "Rearrange everything, I could be gone a while."
"It is not often birds that leave the nest require aid from the parents," the elder voice of Odin drew their attention to the door. Sure enough, the Allfather himself stood filling the doorway with a sly smirk from ear to ear. "Young lad, do you intend to stand there as I seek my wife's company in her private chamber?"
"Why I…no I…EXCUSE ME!" He practically dropped everything he was holding as the warrior fled the room before he could say anything that would embarrass him. He missed Odin's chuckle of satisfaction.
"Another one gone," Freyja sighed as she shoved more clothes into a nearby suitcase. "I doubt he'll return; good help is so hard to find nowadays."
"He was not wrong," he remarked upon closing the door. "If you leave so soon, people will be talking."
"Let them talk! You heard what happened to…to Dorian. His entire life energy has been upended; he could pass for his own father right now. I should go to him; I can help and even give him something." Odin noticed her tuck something small and golden into her robes, he knew full well her intention unmistakably.
"Those are meant only for gods," he gently reminded. "To offer one to an Einherjar would set a dangerous precedent. He immediately raised his hands in a calming fashion as her eyes threatened to bore holes in his. "I know how you feel for the boy, I'll admit having another young one running around made me nostalgic for the days of yore we were first wed, but except for gods, no others can be given them so freely."
"For what he did for Baldur, he can have one of mine. I can spare to gain a few grey hairs, perhaps you and I would match then."
It put a bit of a smile on her face as Odin let out a raucous laughter at her words. Where some would take insult, he only saw the positives and knew her well after their many years. That part of him never failed to make her laugh, for all his other faults there was that.
"You are not wrong," Odin stepped closer, laying a hand gently on her shoulder. "But we need not rush things, there are more ways we can help him…ways that we have put off for far too long."
"You…you mean?" Freyja's eyes lit up at the prospect of what he was implying. An act she long considered since first looking on Dorian as if he was one of her own. She had wished it but had been certain such an event was impossible.
"I do but let them rest for the moment. When they have caught their breath, we can send out an…invitation I am sure they will not refuse. I'll make sure everything is in order and you need not sacrifice this lovely color," he stroked one of her purple locks affectionately. He had been acting that way a bit more often despite retaining his less than savory habits.
"Thank you," she smiled as she held him close. Things had been going so well in the months since Dorian departed to lead the Crossroads. He'd taken the knowledge and skills they helped foster and used them towards a goal she had long since dreamed of. In truth, if given the choice between his current post or returning home to be her retainer by her side as before she would be hard pressed to decide. Hearing of the detrimental effects of tapping into the next stage of his Sacred Gear had sent her into worry more than even she expected. Knowing Odin felt similarly, even in a more restrained fashion, made her feel more at ease. "We can wait a bit; they will be having a break soon and we can…"
The Goddess of the Norse pantheon paused as a familiar feeling started to spread across her posterior. In her moment of contemplation, her husband's wandering hands had worked their way down with one having gripped through her dress quite securely. All the while, his face had hardly changed save a slight cheeky grin that now made sense. Where before she may have slapped him or chastised such behavior, in that moment between them it didn't seem so bad.
"Well," she sighed as she cupped Odin's face tenderly. "I suppose we have some spare time."
In the Tower…
"Things are going to be different…aren't they," Dorian laid back on the bed utterly exhausted since returning with Akeno and the others. They had spent so long with her mother, longer than he planned but he could never hold it against them. The look on her face upon their return made any pain or lost time completely worth it. "Going forward."
"No doubt about that," it was Thrud who answered. The daughter of Thor who had been with him since awakening was now lying to his left gripping an arm securely yet with a tenderness he seldom expected from her. Sleep was the best time for his body to recuperate, prompting a Sage Art expert to be nearby to facilitate the flow. He initially feared Kuroka would have died trying to claim the first night. Instead, the pair had worked out a schedule as a single person doing it would become unfeasible in the days ahead. "Try not to move too much, the less energy you use, the more I can focus on healing."
"Can I help?" Rossweisse asked holding him in an identical fashion but on Dorian's right side. The two tugged simultaneously in a subtle fashion, the minor jealousy inescapable. "I cannot perform Sage Arts, but…"
"Just being here is enough," Thrud smiled to her childhood friend showing that despite the awkwardness settling between them that she held no ill will. "I can use some of your energy to help stabilize his. Just sleep as you would, I'll do everything else. I have already moved my amenities into your room, it is no trouble."
That was all hers? Dorian had thought the bathroom looked a little smaller with the collected items including a few toiletries that weren't his or Rossweisse's. I'm going to need to have it expanded.
Dorian paused his musings as Thrud pulled his arm tighter, pressing it between her breasts. He knew only the basics of Sage Arts but knew fully that only basic contact was needed. This extra closeness…it was all Thrud.
"Don't talk, either of you. I'm sorry for what I said in the baths, I'm not going anywhere. I didn't want to ruin anything for you Rossweisse, you two grew so close over these months. Even so, I can't lie or ignore this anymore. I've never felt this way about anyone.
"Thrud," Rossweisse spoke up with her voice full of confidence. "You can always talk to me; didn't we swear that to each other when we were little? I never had any friends in class and the others were afraid to get to know you. This is a unique situation," she snuggled closer to Dorian, "but I want you to be as happy as I am. I knew you thought more of Dorian, but if you also loved him, you can't just keep it bottled up."
"She's right," Dorian chimed in from his prison between the two. "I care about you…both of you."
"But Rossweisse is the one you love."
"I do, of course I do damnit," he tried to articulate his meaning. "Before going to Olympus and Kuoh I never imagined loving more than one person, much less you!" Her eyes dimmed in disappointment until he clarified further. "You're a goddess, Rossweisse the smartest Valkyrie in the Nine Realms, I'm just an Einherjar. How could I ever think you could care about me like that?"
"Because you are you," Thrud answered simply. It was the only answer she needed to give. "And you are straining yourself too much. Go to sleep or I'll knock you out myself!"
"That may be problematic," he admitted at the fact both Rossweisse and Thrud were in their sleeping attire causing his heart to race. Rossweisse wore the nightie she had modeled for him earlier and what he had slipped to the floor that night in Kyoto. Thrud, on the other hand, wore only a large baggy jersey he was certain had nothing underneath but was not about to make any move to confirm his suspicions.
"Just think what eased you to sleep the other night," Rossweisse kissed him on the cheek as she laid her head on his shoulder. To his shock, Thrud mimicked the gesture on the other cheek as they pulled the covers over the three leaving Dorian nestled soundly between them.
Wait a minute, Thrud realized as Dorian finally closed his eyes. They had different rooms in Kyoto, how does SHE know what eased him to sleep?
Seekvaira's Room…
"Training as ever I see?" Seekvaira pointed out to Sairaorg as he appeared as a hologram within her room. She could almost swear he looked even more muscular than last she had seen him as he continued doing pushups through their entire conversation. He never let up or took anything easy, it was part of why she admired him, that drive of eternal improvement. "How have you been?"
"Excited," he admitted. "Rias and her peerage have improved so much from what I've heard, I look forward to facing them in the match ahead. But that is not why I called. Has Mr. Held recovered from his battle?"
"For the most part. He is still nowhere near peak condition, but his life is no longer in danger. I fear he would not be in any condition to fight you aga…"
"Not my intention, yet," he ended with a grin. "But I heard of how the Red Dragon Emperor linked minds with the lady Yasaka along with Mr. Held's supposed resistance to time-based magic. Those two are unique individuals I am proud to know. I would like to arrange a meeting with him, I have already spoken with Rias about her pawn."
"Once things are more stable, I will speak to him. What is it you wish to discuss?"
"A miracle, he grunted as he switched to a single arm for the final reps. "I am happy to see you recovered as well. How is your wing?"
"Better, thanks to Rossweisse," the Agares heiress smiled with pride at the creations that supplemented her maimed wings. She had taken Rossweisse's advice to even out the two and she couldn't have been happier, never admitting the silver lining that they now somewhat resembled the mechas she so enjoyed. "They have a few features I need to test, but all has been well. Thank you. Good luck in your Rating Game, the Satans are favoring her apparently, no doubt due to Mr. Hyoudou's presence."
"Excellent," the Bael heir grinned even as sweat dripped onto the floor beneath him. "There is no better victory than one grasped back from the certain clutches of defeat…"
The school trip to Kyoto has come and gone, a pair of ally mythologies set to join the ranks of the Crossroads and their struggle against the Khaos Brigade. The young Queen Akeno has reunited with her mother, her heart healing once more for the second time in years. Meanwhile, Dorian nurses his wounds with the help of Thrud, the Valkyrie-Goddess' feelings for him known to all as she and her childhood friend ponder what this will mean for the future.
Whew, 75 chapters and well on the way to the story of the Trihexa. I want to truly thank everyone who has been reading and enjoying my story. Even if you haven't been reviewing or vocal, the fact you have been liking my work means more than I can say. As always, I will be taking time off to rest, recuperate and plan ahead but do not worry as the story will continue!
In addition, I would like to ask fan interest in addition to the original middle arcs I will make, if there are any canon OVA/side stories you'd like to see a Roots of Hope variant of. Also, how you feel about the current love status for Dorian. I haven't brought this up since Olympus and going forward romance will be a more central part as the romance pairings become set in stone. Until next time, I hope everyone stays safe for the holidays, Reads and Reviews…but most of all Enjoys! :D
