Alright, let me start with a message/reminder for the Author's Note. After much thought, I've thrown the pairing right back into the air for Issei. I've got some fun ideas again, and it might change some things. Of course, it works out in my mind, but it might not for some other people. Remember, I never said that the Reboot would do the same thing as the original story, even though that wouldn't be a bad thing, since I know that many liked it. On the other hand, I never said it would be completely different, either. The reason for this reboot is to just flesh things out and slow the plot down, after all. In fact, depending on the coming weeks, this could be an improved version of the original story, minus all the filler and more development for the characters and their relationships while still keeping all of the story events that you liked.
The reason why I'm saying this, is because I have come up with a compromise with you all. I've created two branches of plot that I'm willing to work on, depending upon your choice. However, please don't ask me to change pairings when those times start coming around. I get that you guys and gals like your ships. I do too. However, we can't always have what we want. What the question really points to, is the kind of events that're gonna happen down the road, depending on the votes.
Anyways, I seriously want everyone who reads this story, who has read the original one as well, to answer this question: "Who liked the romantic triangles in the original story and who didn't? Who will be fine with the triangles' possible return?" Trying not to give everything away for the newer readers, while also trying to make sure that you know what I'm talking about. I'm not very good at being subtle or explanatory, I know. I'm just gambling on the small chance that I'm being confusing enough to keep things from getting predicted and introducing hate or bias.
For the people who've read the original, you know what I'm talking about. There was a lot of conflict there. However, I want to keep the new readers from feeling biased. That's also why I'm not gonna update the original version of the story until the poll is over and the new version has gained enough updates.
If there's too much confusion, then I might end up redoing the poll with a better-phrased question. I know that you guys have given me a lot of suggestions over the years and it seemed like I was ignoring them. However, now is the time, where, even to the smallest degree, I can reach a compromise with you all and realize some of what you wanted, while keeping control over the plot and allowing the story to feel like it's still my own and I'm not just writing a story for someone else.
So, in a nutshell, you point in a direction and I'll take care of building everything else.
This question WILL influence the future of the story's events for quite some time and the way they're handled. Please be completely honest. If I'm gonna be honest, though, I really enjoyed and loved the arc where Issei was in the Underworld. It was the absolute most fun I've ever had writing, considering how wacky HC (Heroic Calamity) Issei was. So, to make this easier, kind of, I've created a 2nd poll. You can find it on my profile page. The cut-off date for the poll will be May 5th, 2019. So, if you know anyone who likes reading this story and likes my work, please notify them. I want to get everyone's votes and see how they felt.
Chapter 8: Divergence
Everyone in the Lucifer Clan had gathered at Grigori, eagerly awaiting for news on Issei's condition. After awakening some of Bahamut's power, he had been stuck in a state between life and death. As Gabriel said, it was as if he were very close to death.
Vali was sitting in a lobby outside Issei's room, nervously twiddling her thumbs. Ezagyra saw this and gently put a hand on her shoulder.
"Hey, Azazel's a genius. He'll make sure that Issei's okay." She smiled at her granddaughter.
Vali nodded, but remained silent. She wasn't exactly feeling the optimism. She sighed. She partially blamed herself. She should've stayed behind with him. Perhaps that would've changed things for him. If it weren't for her position as the Lucifer Princess and King of a peerage, she'd have been able to do what she wanted. She'd actually be there for her friends.
Not only that, but she had failed completely in what she wanted to do. She had wanted for Issei to continue living more of a normal life, well, as normal as it could possibly be. Now, she was left plagued with worry. It was like she was being stabbed with pins and needles because of all the anxiety.
All of this was making her reflect on her connection with Issei. He was a dear friend without a doubt. She could even say she was overly fond of him. However, that was where it stopped. At least, that's where she believed it stopped.
Everyone turned to the door of the ER and saw Azazel walk out.
"How's he doing?" Rizevim asked.
"He's stabilized. However, he'll need to remain in our care until he's ready to be released. Right now, his body got put through the wringer. His bones are fractured and his muscles are torn mesh. He's going to have to use a wheelchair for a short bit until we get our next supply of medicine. By my estimates, he'll be unconscious for the next two days." Azazel read off his papers.
"Is there anything else? Has he said anything or done anything?"
Azazel was silent. He gave Rizevim and Ezagyra a look.
'We'll talk in private.' Was what his eyes said.
"No." Azazel flatly said.
"For now, you all should get home and get some rest. It's been a long day and I don't think we need to stress ourselves out anymore than we already have."
"He's right. After your checkups, head home. Your grandmother and I won't likely be done with work until tomorrow." Rizevim turned to Vali before following after Azazel.
"They've got a point." Kuroka said.
"Well, I'm all patched up already, so I'm gonna head out first." Bikou stood up.
"What're you gonna do, Vali?" Kuroka asked.
"I'll get my check-up real quick and then I'll come home. You all go on first." Vali said.
With agreeing nods, her peerage returned to their home in the Underworld. The mansion in Kuoh was merely rubble now since Katerea felt the need to go overboard and razed it.
Vali stood up and walked up to the Medical Department's counter and checked in for a quick examination. The hospital was flooding with patients since many of the wounded were brought in for care. Vali was in better shape than most, so she felt that she could wait.
When she was done, she walked down the hallway and, in the process,, walked by Azazel's office. She found it odd that he had an office in the Medical Department of Grigori, but he probably had one in each field of the organization. He was the leader, after all.
"So, what's going on with him?" Rizevim's muffled voice reached her.
Vali heard the quiet whisper. Standing by the door, she listened as best as she could.
(Seirei no Moribito OST - Hoshi Yomi no Tou. Play Song.)
"After some tests, I've found that Issei's body is undergoing a very intense change. I figured it's for his benefit, but the long-term effects are unknown." Azazel answered.
"Is he at risk?" Ezagyra asked.
"I don't know at all. We've barely interacted with Bahamut's hosts in the past. I've never gotten the chance to study their physiology. For now, we've determined that his body is improving, in a different sense. His bone density is increasing. His body functions are speeding up, with his metabolism increasing and his nervous system is sending signals to the rest of the body faster than a normal human's would. His muscles are also increasing in capability. Not only that, but some of his organs are doing some things that we can't exactly explain. It's like his body is changing itself to adapt to his awakened powers. Of course, certain Sacred Gears harm their users as time goes on, but with this one, I'm finding that it's actively trying to improve his survival chances. Although, I could be wrong." Azazel said.
Vali wasn't too in-depth with science but she figured that Issei's Sacred Gear was changing his physiology to be stronger and more durable.
"Of course, I think the Sacred Gear is doing this because of the damage that Issei's body sustained. When we first scanned his injuries, his organs were damaged from the sheer amount of force exerted on him. His bones were nearly yanked apart from the power of his attacks and speed. Humans are considerably more fragile than most creatures in our world, so it's only natural that the amount of force that we're comfortable with, can be fatal for them. So, I'm theorizing that his Sacred Gear is evolutionary, or at least, sentient in a way and it's probably Bahamut's subconscious doing. After all, Bahamut's soul can be endangered if something were to happen to his host." Azazel sighed.
"Have you figured out the ways in which Bahamut can be released?" Rizevim asked, his tone more grim.
"I haven't. I'd rather not try. You remember what happened, Rizevim. We didn't part on good terms. The last time we saw him, he was being put in a Sacred Gear and split across the globe. I don't think he'd be thrilled to see anybody from the old world. I don't even know if he's even sane anymore." Azazel shook his head.
"Well, let's try and learn what would release Bahamut and make sure not to do those things." Ezagyra groaned.
"For starters, rage has been an issue for Bahamut, as is natural. It triggered the Calamity. So, pissing Issei off isn't something we should do. Second of all, so long as nothing too ancient comes around, Bahamut might not get uppity over it. I figure that since Fafnir, you, Rizevim, Kokabiel, Michael, Gabriel, and I were in one area, it might've gotten a rise out of him. Might've triggered some memories. So, we'd best not do any fighting if we can." Azazel mused.
"I guess Kokabiel knew that too." Rizevim groaned.
"Well, we were there when the first galaxy got obliterated. It's a sore spot for most of us."
Vali froze, disturbed. The first galaxy? What did that mean? And Bahamut destroyed it? Now, that thing was inside Issei?
"Other than what I've told you, there's not much else that I know. Without further observation and tests, I can't prove much. So, with that being said, I'm gonna get going now. It hasn't been a nice night for me, either." Azazel's footsteps drew closer to the door.
Vali turned and sped away, not wanting to be seen.
(Seirei no Moribito OST - Hoshi Yomi no Tou. End Song.)
Returning home, Vali was still thinking about what her grandparents and Azazel said. What was the first galaxy? What caused it? What was the whole story behind all this? Vali snapped out of her thoughts when she noticed that she'd almost smacked into the gates of her estate.
"Oh, oops." Vali mumbled.
Looking ahead, there was a white palace with black roofs and red doors. Altogether, there were at least 10 floors, with countless windows. The grounds were massive too. There gardens stretched several yards from the gates to the front door, being filled with countless flowers and plants that were unique to the Underworld. Several butlers and maids were attending to the gardens, doing their best to keep them beautiful. Vali smiled. She'd missed them, since they were the ones who made sure she didn't have a lonely childhood. She could even name every single one of them. That was just how fond of them she was.
Entering the house, she was greeted by several servants and faculty.
"Welcome home, Lady Vali. We've kept your bedroom tidy and as you'd left it. Dinner has also been completed. Please wash up for supper. Your Peerage is already in the Dining Room." A butler bowed.
He had dark brown hair, but grey hair was starting to streak through to reflect his age. Unlike many others, he ignored the option to mask his age with magic. He had brown eyes with slightly pointy ears and a butler's suit and a thick mustache.
"Thanks, Rorak." Vali smiled before giving him a hug.
Rorak returned the warm embrace.
"It's been about 7 years since I've seen you, I believe. I must say, you've grown extremely beautiful since I last saw you, child. I remember when you were just a wee youngling running around the mansion." Rorak chuckled.
"It's good to see you, Rorak." Vali laughed.
She was elated to see many of the staff from her home. It had been a long while since she'd been here. Some of them had gone with her grandmother on long trips of business and then there was the fact that she'd done some traveling with her grandfather. Now that she was home, she could barely contain her joy.
Making her way through the red-carpeted halls, Vali went to the Dining Room and sat down.
"So, are Ezagyra and Rizevim gonna be home?" Bikou asked.
"No idea. Still, let's be patient and have dinner. You all did wonderful tonight. Take the next few days off and recover. I'll make sure you all get a bonus in your accounts." Vali smiled.
She was so proud of her Peerage. They had fought valiantly in that chaotic zone and made sure to watch each other's backs. She couldn't have asked for more from them, even if she tried.
"Do you think Issei will be alright?" Arthur asked.
Vali went silent.
"I'm honestly not sure. I trust Azazel, but even he isn't sure of everything. For now, we can only wait. Still, let's just hope for the best." She gave a hopeful smile.
The next day, Vali and her peerage decided to go visit Issei after hearing that he'd regained consciousness. Rizevim and Ezagyra had walked in on him as he was waking up.
"Hey." Issei smiled and waved as everyone entered. He was sitting in a bed, with a robe on and some tubes inserted into his arm. He was still human, so he required specific meds. Good thing Azazel had been adamant on supplying Grigori with all sorts of medicine and equipment from all over the place.
Vali only smiled in return as she dropped a gift basket on his bedside.
"How you holding up?" She tenderly asked.
"I've got some tubes in me but other than that, I'm as right as rain." Issei smiled reassuringly.
"Got any good service from the nurses? I know a lot of them would love this situation. I mean, they're fallen angels." Rizevim chuckled.
Ezagyra immediately grabbed hold of Rizevim's side and started pinching.
"Ow! Owowowowowow! Please!" Rizevim winced.
"You just had to go and kill the mood, didn't you?" Ezagyra growled.
"I'm sorry, my lovely wife. I just wanted to lighten things up." Rizevim pleaded.
"And this is why, people are calling you a crazy coot now. If Vali ships us off to a senior home, then I'm blaming you." Ezagyra released him, leaving her husband to rub his side.
"Grandma! I'd never do that!" Vali cried out.
"We're just kidding, dear."
"Now, who's messing with the mood?" Rizevim groaned but was silenced by another glare from Ezagyra.
"Okay, guys, uh…kind of dying right now, so please fight outside." Issei pointed at the door.
"WHAT?!" Vali screamed.
"DYING?!" Bikou and Lefay gasped, well…yelled, actually.
"Okay, I'm not dying. It wasn't meant that way. I'm just recovering." Issei held up his hands, gesturing to calm down.
Vali glared at Issei and her grandparents. Things were starting to get pleasant and then they screwed up the atmosphere.
"So, think you're gonna be out soon?" Vali sighed, sitting down.
"I'm gonna be in a wheelchair for a few days, but I'll be right as rain soon. So, no worries." Issei chuckled.
"Shall I use senjutsu to help you?" Kuroka offered.
"Actually, I'd advise against that. Azazel has stated that things are too uncertain to try anything." Rizevim shook his head.
"Oh yeah." Issei suddenly remembered what Rizevim and Ezgyra were telling him.
"You forgot something detrimental to your health?" Vali rubbed her forehead in exasperation.
"Why?" Kuroka looked confused.
"My body's changing. We don't have much of an idea, but it looks like my body's evolving to be able to withstand my Sacred Gear. Kind of weird. Still, I guess it's a welcome change. My bones and muscles are getting tougher. My metabolism and body functions are improving too, so that's a plus." Issei shrugged.
"You're surprisingly calm. Aren't you afraid that this will endanger your humanity?" Arthur asked.
That was a serious question, since Issei seemed adamant on maintaining who he was, before.
"Well, I can't help it. It's my body doing its own thing. I can't change it right now. If it does prove to be more malevolent than I thought, then I will end up doing something about it. Till then, I can only wait and see. Can't exactly predict or rush any of this. It would suck if I had to go through puberty from square one again, though." Issei answered.
"So, with all that said, I guess it's time I stop beating around the bush too." Rizevim sat down.
"What have you learned from that night? Did anyone tell you anything? Have you heard anything? Dreamed of anything?" Ezagyra asked.
Issei knew where they were getting at. Did he know of Bahamut?
"Yeah. I know quite a lot now." He nodded.
"What can you tell us on your end?" Rizevim asked.
Issei took a deep breath, collecting himself. He recalled all that he could. He remembered how he'd been impaled, beaten, and injected with several things. Katerea Leviathan was more than happy to have tortured him, since he was an 'insignificant neophyte that wasn't worth anything'. He recalled all of the words they whispered into his ears and all of the magic they'd applied to him. Through all of that, he kept hearing them talk about Bahamut.
"I remember them talking about Bahamut. Apparently, he was some mega dragon that blew up the galaxy. They said if he was under their control, they'd win everything." Issei said.
"That's pretty much it in a nutshell. Now, what I'm about to tell you is going to be greatly disturbing and you might not even sleep well after this. You might even start feeling that everything's taking a turn for the worst for your life. Think you can handle that after I tell you? The story I've got isn't something that many would find enthralling." Rizevim inquired.
From a more mature standpoint, it was a scary story to know, especially for Issei. He was playing host to the greatest calamity of all time. No ordinary human would be comfortable with that, well, the mature ones wouldn't be, anyways.
"Just tell me. I've spent the past many months trying to find out about what's been going on with me. I want the truth no matter what. No secrets. Nothing withheld." Issei demanded.
Rizevim nodded. The intensity and earnestness in his eyes had made it clear
(Shin Godzilla OST – Persecution of the Masses. Play Song.)
"So, everything you know about this world, the dawn of man, the creation of the universe, is real. What's in your history and myth books is 88% real. However, this isn't the first Milky Way. That's the hidden secret. It's a secret meant to hide the horrible fate of our original galay."
Everyone aside from the elders in the room was perplexed. That was kind of crazy. Then again, Issei saw a lot of things he didn't expect to be real, so what was the point of calling this crazy? A cold wave of silence washed over the room.
"The current galaxy that we live in right now is only the second one. A pale imitation compared to the one from before. Around the time of the Great War between the Three Factions, things spun out of control. It turned into a war between Pantheons, which we call the Last Schism. The Pantheons had started fighting amongst themselves and it led to humanity being dragged in. Before we knew it, too many tragedies had occurred, the death toll was in the quadrillions and everything that was beautiful about the world was nearly ruined. When the first Ancient Wyrm, Bahamut, saw this, he went mad with rage. The world that he'd entrusted to us, the world that he placed so much hope in and loved, was ravaged by war. All because of pride and greed. That caused the largest extinction event in all of existence, that we call the Calamity Persecution. He snapped and wiped out the entire Milky Way. There were no survivors and not a single speck of the original Milky Way was left. However, through some miracle, we were all revived by some kind of…higher power or unseen force. That was when Bahamut was defeated by something and sealed away inside several Sacred Gears by God of the Bible. Those pieces were kept apart, for if all of them united, then Bahamut might be reawakened and we would have another Calamity Persecution on our hands." Rizevim explained.
"That's why you were being targeted, Issei. You play host to one of the most powerful but hate-filled entities in creation. The Khaos Brigade want you in their control, so that they can use you." Ezagyra added.
Issei was silent, but after a short pause, he spoke.
"So, what happened after that?"
"The Milky Way was reformed and we found ourselves brought back to life. After that, the world started over, but we changed many things. All of the events that led up until the Last Schism didn't transpire in this second Milky Way, but we made it so that humanity learned it through story-telling and text. We were hoping that another galactic extinction-event never happened again. We also hoped that it would deter the future generation from making our mistakes. It's kind of sad that it took the destruction of our former home in order for us to learn our lessons." Rizevim derisively chuckled.
(Shin Godzilla OST – Persecution of the Masses. End Song.)
"So, let me get this straight…" Bikou was waving his hands in the air as he gathered his thoughts.
"The galaxy that we live in now, is only a copy of the first, original Milky Way, which was destroyed by the first Wyrm, Bahamut. After seeing the largest War in creation, he snapped and went crazy and blew everything up, but somehow, got defeated just like that and got split into several Sacred Gears around the planet. And then, everybody was brought back to life by some unknown force without any explanation?" Issei finished with a raised brow.
"Yep. Any more questions?" Rizevim smirked.
"Yeah, has anyone ever found those Sacred Gears?" Issei asked.
"It's rare, but I've learned that there has indeed been people who've tried to look for the other pieces of Bahamut. There's a total of six Sacred Gears. However, Michael won't share the rest of the info with me, so you might want to go talk to him if you want more." Rizevim shrugged.
"Why not?"
"Because, a lot of the elder beings in this world, don't want others to know that they got wiped out. Gods and goddesses would never allow mortals to know that they could be harmed. However, some truth came out in some myths and books. Still, Michael doesn't want any of the wrong people learning about Bahamut. I don't blame him. I want those secrets to stay buried and gone too. Imagine just how much crazier it would be if people openly knew about all this." Rizevim shook his head.
Issei nodded. Listening to all of this, it was seriously a lot to take in. He'd never expected such a dangerous being to be slumbering within his soul.
"Can you tell which ones I have?" Issei asked.
"Well, I personally can't tell you all of it, since my knowledge of Bahamut's Sacred Gears is limited."
"But mine's isn't." A new but familiar voice spoke up.
Turning to the doorway, Azazel had walked into the room before closing the door.
"I take it that Rizevim just gave you the rundown on Bahamut?" He asked.
Issei only nodded.
"I see. Well, so far, it's guaranteed that the host of Bahamut will always have one of the Sacred Gears automatically, which is the Calamity Core. It resides within the soul of the host to Bahamut. It contains the dragon's own soul and it has a multitude of functions. Firstly, the entire set of the Bahamut Sacred Gears are called the Calamity Catalyst. However, the Core has the power to produce abundant supplies of mana and power at a constant but controlled rate. It's like the world's most powerful generator that never breaks down. Still, it can run low on energy, depending on the endurance of the host. It also allows the host to obtain and absorb the other Sacred Gears of Bahamut to complete the set. It's the key piece of the Sacred Gear set." Azazel took out a diagram, drawing pictures to illustrate his points to Issei.
"So, we've established that you have the Calamity Core, which produces power and helps you assimilate the other pieces of Bahamut. However, what's incredibly bizarre, is the fact that you have another piece along with you, which might've come with you at birth." Azazel mused.
Issei looked at his right arm.
"Yep. Your right arm. It houses the Abyssal Fury. It enhances all of your physical limits to ridiculous levels as well as your reflexes. You'll be able to fight like a martial arts master while hitting like a jet if you train hard enough. While devils, angels, gods, and monsters are all strong, by most standards, the strength given to you with that gauntlet is stronger than what an average supernatural entity has. So, don't let it go to your head. To a standard fallen angel, who'd be like a skinny 18-year-old, you're like a truck-throwing body-builder. However, for the actual warriors amongst the supernatural realm, that's a different story." Azazel warned.
"Do you know about the others?" Issei asked.
"Why so curious? Eager for more power?" Azazel smirked.
"Honestly…I don't know. The question just keeps popping up in my head." Issei shook his head.
"You should be careful when thinking. It might disturb him." Azazel advised him.
"So, what happens now?" Issei looked around, trying to change that topic.
"We've placed your parents under protection for a while now, so they'll continue to be in our care. As for you…it's really up to you. I can't say this'll be over until the Khaos Brigade is dead, but if you want to try going back to your old life, then you can. If not, you can continue living like how you've been for the past few months. You're more than welcome to stay with us as long as you like." Ezagyra warmly offered.
Issei gave her a grateful smile
"Thank you." He nodded.
"Now that the story's been told, we'll be taking our leave now and give you some time to talk." Ezagyra and the other adults left the room.
As the door closed, Issei took a deep breath as he laid back on his bed.
"Wow…that's seriously heavy."
Issei stared at the ceiling as he felt his head spinning from all these revelations. It was seriously scary. So, those initial flashes weren't hallucinations or dreams. It was all from memories. All those things he saw before in his mind, they were all recollections of Bahamut. Sleeping inside his soul, was the most terrifying thing to exist. How was he going to deal with this?
"Are you okay?" Vali asked.
"Yep." Issei nodded, but he looked out of it.
"A lot to take in." Kuroka noted.
"I think I need some fresh air." Issei looked at his wheelchair.
"Come on, let's go." Vali stood up.
Arthur and Bikou helped him into it as Vali pushed.
"Now that I think about it, this is your first time here. Well, welcome to the Underworld." Vali smiled.
"A green sky for daytime and purple for night…interesting. I much prefer blue, though." Issei chuckled.
"I agree. Blue's more pleasant to look at." Vali nodded.
"So, think you've got an idea of what to do?" Lefay asked.
"Honestly…no. So, until I figure out where I'm gonna go with my life…is it alright if I stick around?" Issei asked.
Vali was stunned. She expected him to want to leave and go back home. She expected him to be afraid. She even expected him to have all those stories of power go to his head. Yet, here, he seemed worried, uncertain.
"You can stay with us for as long as you want." Vali tenderly put a hand on his shoulder.
"We'll be here for you, no matter what." Arthur put a hand on the opposite side, giving a sincere but rare smile.
"Thanks. If it weren't for you all, I'd have no idea where I'd be." Issei gratefully choked up.
He was terrified. That nightmare of a recollection had stricken him with so much intense fear that he had no idea what to think or feel. He just knew he didn't want a repeat of that. All of that catastrophe captured within several minutes of each other. So much death and agony had taken place that it made Issei despise the thought of something like that happening again. Perhaps it was his sense of empathy, which had grown during his time with Vali. Not only that, but he had very rare occasions where he had someone to rely on when he needed emotional support.
(Kingdom Hearts 3 OST – You Have a Friend In Me. Play Song.)
After going through the gardens outside the hospital, Issei was wheeled back inside.
"So, you think we're gonna have to go back to school? I like the people, but hate the routine." Bikou groaned.
"Your meeting with Kiryuu was a meeting that should've been stopped by fate." Issei growled.
"Gramps said that we don't have to go back if we don't want to. Honestly, it doesn't matter to me. Also, he's taking this chance to install some better and stronger buildings since people like to blow Kuoh up. So, school's gonna be out for a few months." Vali said.
"YES!" Issei yelled in victory.
Unfortunately…he also pushed against Vali's very gifted bosom, touching her left breast. Vali blushed as her pupils seemed to turn into swirls. She could feel his fist pushing up against her bust, causing her mind to fry itself for a few moments at this audacious move.
"HOW DOES THAT EVEN MAKE SENSE?!" She cried out as she kicked him away.
She gave him a dirty look before gasping as she realized that she'd pushed him away too strongly.
"ISSEI!" She reached out.
"WHOAAAAAAAHHHH!" Issei screamed.
With her great strength, Vali had pushed his wheelchair away and into the very long flight of stairs ahead.
"Goddamnit!" Issei echoed.
He'd struggled to hold onto the support rail by the steps but he was too heavy and weak to stop himself from meeting his fate. His wheelchair tipped over the edge as he was flung out of his chair and rolled onto the steps.
"Ow! Damn it! Agh! Shit!" Issei rolled and yelped as he tumbled down the flight.
His shoulder bent in several directions that they weren't supposed to. His chin hit the ledge of one step. His hip also got twisted quite a bit. Not to mention, he flew a few feet before going into another painful series of rolls. He was pretty sure he got stepped on by some people too. One of them stepped on his pelvis.
"He looks like a ragdoll rolling down that way." Kuroka laughed.
"He's injured! Why're you laughing?!" Vali scolded her.
"Why aren't you saving me?!" Issei screamed at them as he continued falling.
"What's going on?!" Azazel demanded.
Having heard the commotion, he walked over. When he saw poor Issei rolling down the flight, he nodded in understanding.
"Ugh…Alright, Shemhazai, mark this one down too. This is the 345th case of someone rolling down the 10th floor's stairs. This is the 35th patient to do it. Get the lawyers." He groaned.
"MY EYE!" Issei yelped.
When Issei was retrieved, he was bruised in even more places than before. Not to mention he had a patch over his left eye. Issei sat in his hospital bed, staring out the window, his left arm in a cast and his right leg propped up to keep it safe from further injury.
"I'm…" Vali whimpered as she looked like she was about to cry.
"Fun fact: Vali can be a serious crybaby. If you push her too much, she'll really start sobbing." Kuroka whispered.
"It's okay. I deserved it for that violation of her privacy. For one moment, I channeled the power of a harem protagonist by accident." Issei said.
"Seriously, how do those boob grabs even work? I don't understand those writers." Arthur shook his head very disapprovingly.
"So, how'd they feel? I bet they're ridiculously great to grab. They're even bigger than mine." Kuroka teasingly smirked.
"Stop saying all that out loud!" Vali protested.
Issei chuckled. He may have gotten messed up, but when he thought about it, he loved these fun and happy days with this gang. It was like having siblings or very dear friends. That was something that he'd always wanted ever since he was a child.
"So, I heard that some old friends are coming to see you soon." Kuroka said casually.
"Huh?" Vali looked at her.
"Shirone said that Rias and Sona are dropping by. Oh, and Sairaorg's on his way too." Kuroka chuckled as she looked at her messages. Human phones really were convenient.
"Really?!" Vali's eyes lit up.
"Mhm." Kuroka only nodded.
"The gang will be back together again!" She smiled.
Issei knew he had no relation so he merely sat by the side and watched. Sairaorg? Gang?
"You'll love them. I actually think Sairaorg and you will be like brothers." Vali smiled confidently.
"Maybe. Sairaorg can be a bit of a brawns-for-brains, at select times, but he's an awesome guy. I guess someone chill like Issei will get along with him." Bikou nodded in agreement.
"Says the monkey-brain." Kuroka snarked.
"Says, the desperate one." Bikou fired back.
"Desperate?" Kuroka growled.
"Just take a look at how you dress." Bikou spread his arms as if declaring something to the world. Then he pointed both of his fingers back at his chest, mirroring Kuroka's exposed cleavage.
Issei could've sworn electricity was sparking between the two. Well, this was normal now, anyways.
After three extra days, Issei could finally be discharged from the hospital. Vali accidentally causing him a broken arm and leg with an eye injury didn't help him.
"Alright, so, we've got plans later tonight, courtesy of Grandpa, so make sure to meet back up in a few hours." Vali turned to her peerage.
Everyone split up, except for Vali, who decided to stay with Issei and guide him around. After a few hours, the two decided to rest, since Issei wasn't back to 100% just yet.
"Come on, let's go sit down." Vali gently led him over to a bench.
"Ah, thank you, young lady. So generous to help such an old man." Issei wheezed jokingly.
"Okay, Grandpa, don't keel over now."
The two sat down as Issei took in the scenery. It was like a human city, honestly, but with more town-like features, so it didn't look too industrialized. The shops were real interesting, offering magical items that he'd never seen before, like a store that sold teas that could make your breath smell like different things.
"So, tell me, how strong would I compare to most people here? I'd rather run in any situation, but, in case things go down…" Issei sighed.
"I'd say…you're above the average citizen, but not quite close to a High-Class devil. I mean, if you used Bahamut's power like against Kokabiel, it's a very different story, but as you are, you'd be around Middle-Class. We have been training in combat for the past few months too. Not to mention, you've gotten much more in-shape." Vali patted his back.
He looked dismayed, so she tried to tell him the truth while avoiding being blunt.
"Here."
A gift bag was held next to him. Turning around, Lefay was the one holding it, smiling like an angel. Quite honestly, she was becoming the little sister he never had.
'Protect.' Issei immediately said.
"A gift for you. Welcome to our home." Lefay giggled.
Issei smiled widely as he took the bag. Taking out its contents, he saw that it was a box containing several vials of different colors.
"The blue one will get rid of fatigue. The green helps you heal wounds faster. The red one helps gives you more energy. Lastly, the purple one helps you sleep." Lefay pointed out.
"Thank you, Lefay." Issei sincerely said.
"Mhm!" Lefay nodded happily.
"Hey, Lefay!" A voice called out.
"Oh, I almost forgot, I'm going out today! I'll see you later." Lefay looked at the clock.
Issei was honestly surprised. The shy and polite Lefay was going out with friends. He smacked himself for looking down on her like that, albeit unintentionally, but it felt kind of out-of-character for her.
"She's been taking our advice and getting much more social. She was never crazy shy, but she wasn't exactly outgoing, either. Arthur's been rather protective of her, though." Vali smiled.
"Excellent for her, a nightmare for Arthur." Issei pursed his lips as he saw Arthur glare at Lefay's friends with a distrusting gaze.
"Think he's gonna follow?" Issei wondered.
"Don't think so. He trusts Lefay enough to look after herself, but…yeah, I think he might. He's been rather suspicious the past few times." Vali said.
The bunch of them looked rather familiar. Actually, when he thought about it, he could feel vibes from them that reminded him of gyarus.
"When did the Underworld have gyarus?" Issei was quite surprised.
"As soon as it got trendy in Japan. Some girls got reincarnated and started spreading gyaru culture." Vali shrugged.
While Issei didn't feel anything bad from them, he did worry for Lefay's innocence. Even so, her gyaru friends didn't seem bad at all, except for one person amongst them. A boy.
Vali face-palmed. She knew that look on Issei's face right now. It was "Dad-Mode". That intense glare and frown? Check. Clenched teeth? Check. Calculating and dark look? Check. Yep. Dad-Mode.
"I worry for your future children." Vali facepalmed.
"Come on, it'll be fun. We'll take this shortcut, trust me." The boy in the group gave a confident smile.
'Yep. He's trying to get in their pants.' Issei concluded.
He stood up.
"Issei, don't worry. I've got it covered." Vali smiled smugly.
Holding a piece of paper, she spoke into it as it started glowing.
"What was that all about?"
"I've got guards tailing them. Nobody touches my family." Vali chuckled sweetly with the smile of a devious demon. It didn't help that a large shadow was over her eyes.
"Okay…" Issei trailed off as he slowly sat back down.
(Kingdom Hearts 3 OST – You Have a Friend In Me. End Song.)
Before long, it was time for everyone to gather up again that evening. Stepping into a restaurant, Issei found out that Rizevim had reserved the place for a party. The Lucifer Household, Rias, Sona, and their peerages were all present. Even the Four Satans and their peerages were here. Adding to that, Issei noticed a tall and very muscly man in the room, with what seemed to be his own peerage.
"Alright, everyone's here." Rizevim stood up.
"Family and friends, I want to say thank you for coming. I know it's been a few wacky weeks. The Khaos Brigade attacked the meeting and messed the place up, but in the end, the Peace Treaty has been signed. I'm sure your families have been going nuts, so tonight, is a night for the Underworld to unwind and relax, as we can rejoice over the fact that we won't be fighting angels and demons anymore. If you've got a Romeo and Juliet thing going on, then don't worry. I'm taking Tybalt out and you don't have to be kept apart. So, in celebration for the devils, let's party, eat, chat, and drink the night away." Rizevim raised his glass.
"He's a lot…less dignified when he's with friends and family, isn't he? I think he's a little tipsy too." Issei was stunned.
"Yep. When he's with us family and friends, he gets really casual and just throws formalities out the window. Still, he knows when it's time to be formal and serious. Although, Grandma did say that he used to be something of a party animal." Vali laughed.
"…Yeah that makes sense." Issei nodded after a long pause for thought.
"So, how come it's like this, if he says its for the devils?" He followed up.
He pointed around the restaurant and the tight-knit group. Not that he minded, of course.
"Well, he doesn't want to deal with bloodsucking nobles, so the real party is here. The formal one is being held in a few weeks because that's when everyone's free. That's the 'everybody dresses up' ball. Tonight, though? It's for real friends and real family to just have a good time." Vali smiled happily.
There it was again. That beautiful smile that made every single light in the room look dim and weak. Issei had to admit, he'd better not look at her too much or he'd lose sight.
"Hey, Vali, how ya been?"
Issei looked up and saw that familiar young man from when he entered.
"I've been great!" Vali smiled before turning to Issei.
"Issei, this is Sairaorg Bael, the next heir to the Bael Clan and a childhood friend. Sairaorg, this is Issei, a very dear friend from the Human Realm."
"It's an honor." Issei stood up and sincerely shook his hand.
Sairaorg only smiled warmly and respectfully as he returned the shake in unison.
"Likewise. I'm happy to see that Vali's made a friend from the Human Realm."
"Well now, it's been forever since all four of us have been together, hasn't it?" Rias walked over.
"Let's take the next few weeks to enjoy this. I'll admit, we do need to spend some time together again. It has been at least 7 years since we've seen each other." Sona smiled, though it was small. It was kind of fitting for someone calculating like her.
"Count on it. These next few weeks will be great. I just know it." Vali nodded.
Issei smiled as he noticed just how happy Vali looked with her group of friends. At that moment, he decided on something. Vali was a very dear friend for him. Rather, she was a true friend. She wasn't just somebody he knew from school. He'd actually spent time with her and gotten to know her well. Thus, he decided that whatever else was coming, whatever trouble, he'd fight to help her and the entire Lucifer Household. It wasn't just to her that he was making this oath. He wanted to be of help to the entire family that took him in. He swore on it because now, he considered them family.
Alright, that's gonna have to be the end point for this chapter. The only reason why this is so, is because of what I said at the start of the chapter in the beginning Author's Note. So, until the poll is done, I will not release another chapter of this story.
So, again, the poll for the question is on my Profile Page. Please go there and put your vote in without extreme bias. For Guest readers, you may…boy, this is gonna be kind of hard. I want to include you all in the poll too, but to prevent bias, I don't exactly want to allow guest readers to vote too. The reason behind this, is because one person could end up putting their vote in and they'll do it several times by using a different Username every time. So, I'm sorry, but I don't believe I'll be counting any votes from the Guest Readers. I hope you can forgive me. I just want to keep it much more balanced and true as I can. And hey, creating an account on here is free. All you need is a social media account or a Gmail.
I know the question doesn't exactly hide anything and I'm not giving everything plain and simple, but I don't want to give everything away, either.
Aside from that, I hope you all had fun, and I hope to see what you all think. I also hope to see any of the old readers from the original story too. Not sure if any of you old-timers are reading the reboot.
