Happy Labor Day, everyone. I hope you're all having or had a fun and safe holiday and are being responsible.
Don't really have any opening words other than that, so enjoy the chapter.
Chapter 21: Preparing for Change
Issei lied down on his bed, staring at the ceiling. It had been a few days since everyone had come back from Kunlun. What a massive crisscrossing fiasco that was. Issei sighed in relaxation as he wondered what was next for him. Suddenly, a knock came at the door. He opened it to reveal Vali.
"Hey, what's up?" He asked.
"I think it's time we talked, privately." Vali said.
Inviting her in, the two sat across from each other at the desk. Issei wasn't sure of the reason, but Vali seemed to be a bit tense. Heck, she even looked guilty.
"Is something wrong, Vali?" Issei asked.
"Issei, do you resent me?" She asked.
(Fate Stay Night OST – Pride of the Warrior King. Play Song.)
"Resent you?" That caught Issei completely off-guard.
"I infused my Evil Pieces into you and made you a servant of the Lucifer House. I know you said you wanted to stay with us until you'd figured out what you wanted but I guess I derailed all that." Vali said sadly.
Issei shook his head.
"Of course not. True, I said I wanted to stay until I figured out what I wanted to do. However, one of the things that I want to do is help my friends. Who knows? Maybe joining a peerage will be what I want to do in the future. As long as I can help you folks out, then it's all good." Issei reassured her.
"But, that means your freedom will get tied down to the same level as the peerage." Vali informed him.
"Well, we kind of meddle around already, so that doesn't mean much." Issei laughed.
Still, Vali looked concerned. She kept staring at his arms and his eyes.
"I get the feeling that's not the only thing bothering you." Issei decided to press that button.
"How are you feeling?" She asked.
Issei knew what she was getting at. She wasn't asking a simple question. It was deeper. She wanted to know if he felt that something was seriously wrong with himself. She wanted to know if he was hiding something from her.
"Fine, really. I haven't had any fits of pain, no surges of unrelated emotions, and no dreams. I just feel normal now." Issei recounted.
"You looked like you were in so much pain that night. You even started fighting almost at the same time as when you woke up. How're you fine?" Vali asked.
"It's an ability of mine. Apparently, Bahamut's signature ability was the power to regenerate."
"And how do you know all this?" Vali asked.
That was the tricky part. Issei had the feeling she'd worry about him if he said too much or didn't word himself properly. It was probably better to lie.
"I had dreams and recollections from the past. I did some research too, so I'm mainly guessing right now. Besides, I was able to regenerate the entire time I was fighting that Avitur, at least, when I had the chance."
That seemed to satisfy Vali, maybe. She stood up and gripped his shoulders.
"Okay, but if there's every anything wrong, you have to tell me. No secrets and no lies, you got that?"
Issei nodded.
"Now, let's go downstairs for breakfast. After that, we'll get you started on how things roll for our daily lives in the Underworld." Vali urged for him to follow.
Issei was greeted with a sight that he'd grown accustomed to. It was mainly Bikou being fawned over by Kuroka and Lianshi. At first, he expected them to bicker, but he tried to keep his nose to himself this time. Maybe they'd already figured things out on their own.
"I-I can eat my own food, thank you." Bikou retreated.
"Is something wrong with my food?" Lianshi asked.
Both she and Kuroka were holding up food to his mouth, but he kept moving backwards. Issei wondered how this managed to work out, but chose not to question it now. He wanted to just eat and get out of the mushy area. Even Arthur and Elaine were a bit unsettled by the rosy atmosphere. Lefay was just blushing, the entire time since she was so unused to such intimate things. Issei frowned. It had better stay that way. Dad Mode was ready to go at any time.
"So, since you're a member of the Peerage now, there are certain things you need to do. First and foremost, you have an obligation to make contracts. It's like the summoning thing you seen in movies, only, we don't take souls anymore and we don't really do that dark stuff either. It's like working odd-jobs or magical jobs." Vali explained as they sat down.
"And what do contracts do?" Issei asked.
"We use contracts to build ourselves up. It's one of 3 ways to boost your status. A successful contract is made when you accomplish the task set for you and receive adequate payment in exchange. By racking up successful contracts, you can achieve a higher status in society."
"Okay, then what're the other ways to advance?" Issei asked.
"You perform exceptionally in war times and contribute to the protection and progress of the Underworld. It's the fastest but most dangerous way to advance your position. Lastly, is the Rating Games. It's like a sport in the Underworld where Peerages compete against one another. Each Rating Game will be different in activity, however, its core is combat, where Peerages fight one another with different rules. It's the middle-ground in progress and danger and is the most pursued method of class advancement." Vali explained.
"I see."
"That's why, today is the day where I'll be accompanying you on your first job." Vali smiled.
"What?! So suddenly?!"
"Lianshi's still being introduced into our society, so I figured I'd teach you first since you've already become familiar." Vali chuckled.
Issei now realized that not even Vali was immune from trolling him with surprises.
"Alright, let's go." He sighed.
(Fate Stay Night OST – Pride of the Warrior King. End Song.)
"Welcome to my home, nyo. My name is Mil-tan."
Issei was currently staring at a 7-foot body-builder wearing a twin-tailed wig and a magical girl outfit…How?
'How?' He wondered.
"Hello, this is Hyoudou Issei, one of my Peerage members. My name is Vali Lucifer and we've answered your call." Vali explained.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mil-tan. Tell me, how can I help you?" Issei asked.
"Well, my wish is sort of complicated."
"I understand, I'll do my best." Issei nodded.
"I've loved mahou-shoujo shows since I was a kid. Sailor Moon and so many other shows just inspire me so much. When I watch them, I get so excited that my body just moves along with them." Mil-tan declared.
To prove his point, he did the traditional wand-waving and winking that Issei had seen before on TV. He had the position, timing, and speed down to a T. It was kind of hard to make jokes or say something at this point.
"Then, what is your wish, if I might ask?" Issei asked, ready to do whatever he could.
"I want to become a magical girl."
'That's impossible. Not even magic can undo those muscles.' Issei outright said in his mind. Those biceps were large and dense enough to shame boulders.
"Uh…" Issei cleared his throat.
Well, it looked like his first contract would be unsuccessful. Then, he had an idea. Azazel was always making weird gadgets and trinkets. He was also a great scientist, so…if anyone could do it, then it was probably Azazel.
Mil-tan saw the hesitation and immediately knew what he was going to say. He sighed and sat down in front of his TV.
"Figures. I had a feeling that it was too far-fetched. I'll change my request. Would you watch the program with me?" Mil-tan sadly said as he started watching the mahou shoujo program. The look on his face was completely disappointed and forlorn.
Issei immediately froze. He swallowed the lump in his throat as his bleeding heart told him to do something helpful.
'Ah, I feel so terrible. He sounds so sad and dejected. I've gotta think of something.'
"Actually, I can't do it personally, but I know a guy that probably could." Issei sheepishly said as he put a comforting hand on the bodybuilder's shoulder.
'I just wonder if Azazel will kill me.' He wondered.
Thanks to Vali, who knew Azazel well, they managed to get the Fallen Angel Governor over.
"So, tell me what you wanted again?" Azazel looked completely suspicious.
"Don't you have a laser gun that swaps gender? Apparently, Rias and her Peerage got hit with it when you left it laying around." Issei said.
"Yeah, but it doesn't last long. In the first place, what do you even want with it?" Azazel sighed.
Issei opened the door to reveal Mil-tan. The moment Azazel laid eyes on him, he saw a twinge of shock before an amused grin spread across his lips. It was the look of a mad scientist who'd just had an idea.
"I see. So, big guy, what's got you troubled?" Azazel asked.
"I summoned these two because I wanted to become a magical girl." Mil-tan explained.
"I see, and that's why they called me over." Azazel chuckled.
"Think you can do something?" Vali asked.
"Sure thing, but I need you to come with me. I've got just the thing that'll make your wish come true." Azazel said.
"Oh? Really? You mean it?" Mil-tan tearfully asked with hope, clasping his hands together.
"Yep. As it turns out, I've been working on something that'll make your wish come true. Sadly, I didn't have any test-subjects until now." Azazel smirked.
"Name your price, I'll pay it!" Mil-tan immediately looked at Issei.
"Just be safe." Issei smiled.
He'd hate for something to go wrong. There was just something off about Azazel's smile, so he wasn't sure if he was supportive of this idea anymore. If something went wrong, he didn't want to get sued.
'May the powers that be forgive me if something goes haywire.' Issei prayed.
"Then, for your suggestion, here. I actually work at the gym at the beach resort. You can use that pass to get discounts on all tickets and reservations." Mil-tan gratefully smiled at him.
"Thank you very much." Issei nodded.
With that done, Mil-tan left with Azazel just as Issei and Vali took their leave. After his contract was registered, Issei got his payment from the government. That was another perk of the Underworld society. With every successful contract, he'd be paid for it, with Sates, which was the currency that devils used. He could even convert it into any other currency in the Human Realm.
"So, not bad for your first contract. Still, I'm a little worried that Azazel will get careless." Vali nervously chuckled.
"Same. So, what's up for the rest of the day? More contracts?" Issei asked.
"No, I had it so that you'd only have one contract per day until you're ready for more. I just wanted you to have first-hand experience with the routine. Besides, grandfather said he wanted to talk to you." Vali replied.
When they returned home, Rizevim sat Issei down, with a rather positive attitude.
"So, as you requested, I've made an appointment for you in Heaven. Michael has managed to find all that he can about Bahamut in their records and has prepared them for you. You can meet him tomorrow." Rizevim said.
"Thank you." Issei gratefully said.
When he arrived at Heaven, it was almost like how he imagined. Standing on a flight of endless white stairs, he faced the gates of Heaven, which were like to massive walls of gold. Peering inside, he saw a massive white and gold city in the clouds. The sky shimmered blue, with the navy of space not being far off. There wasn't a need for a sun, since Heaven was lit like it was day.
The gates opened, revealing Michael, who'd come to personally guide him.
"Welcome, Issei Hyoudou, to Heaven." Michael gestured for him to enter.
Stepping onto the white stone path, Issei was amazed by what he saw next. Breaching into the sky, were 6 other magic circles that housed other cities that looked unique from each other. At the top of it, was a shining beacon that radiated over all of Heaven.
"Thank you for allowing me in here." Issei said.
"It's no problem at all. I've heard of what you and the others have done for the Alliance. You stopped the Hero Faction in England and even defeated an Avitur in Kunlun while securing another ally. That alone, is worthy of utmost praise."
"That's actually what I wanted to talk to you about." Issei awkwardly started.
"Yes, Rizevim told me that you wanted to know more about the Calamity Catalyst. Follow me, I have what you requested." Michael nodded.
"You're just going to let me have it?" Issei asked.
"Normally, I wouldn't have allowed it at all. However, you've made contributions to this war of your own accord and at great personal risk. You didn't have to take part in this war with the Khaos Brigade, but you still did. You could've walked away or stayed protected. Instead, you marched out there and chose to help at great risk to your life. You're not like others who've held great power. A lot of them become arrogant and come to expect things to be handed to them. You, on the other hand, work for it, and even when things were just handed to you, you didn't take it with pride or arrogance. You took it because you had no other choice, in both cases, it was life-or-death and you always tried to use that power to save others. As long as you remain this way, I won't feel inclined to intervene." Michael smiled.
Issei was touched that Michael thought that positively of him. Honestly, he didn't think he deserved much praise. He was just doing what any decent guy would do for those he cared about.
"I must say, it was amusing to see you throw Azazel under the bus." Michael chuckled.
"How'd you know that?"
"Azazel complained about it after that candidate for his machine broke his invention. Still, it worked out fine, he said." Michael grinned.
"That's good." Issei laughed.
As the two passed through the levels of Heaven, Issei tried to burn the sight into his mind, but that was a fail. Michael instantly brought him to 6th Heaven, where the Archangels resided. It really wasn't that different from 1st Heaven, externally. Michael's quarters were like a penthouse suite.
'I guess even Angels have the desire to taste luxury.' Issei noted.
There was a large couch, a large table, a kitchen, stairs that led to a bedroom, and a large Study. Did he mention that a lot of his stuff was made of gold and white marble?
"This is a compiling of all that I could find in our records about Bahamut. I hope it proves to be useful." Michael handed Issei a small navy book.
It had silver lining with a dragon designed on the back and cover. The cover was made of hard navy and the pages were glistening like sheets of silver. Issei opened it and was impressed that glowing blue letters would appear when he turned the pages. Even better, it was all readable for him. He thought it'd be written in angelic characters but it was all in Japanese.
"I made it easy for you so that you could understand it. It also contains many of my father's notes and recordings. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to ask you a few questions." Michael said.
"Of course, please do." Issei nodded.
"Why do you want so much information on Bahamut? I'm sure you already know the risks of undertaking this task." Michael said.
Issei did understand. Before, he didn't have much of an answer that felt thought-out. This time, after getting to think about it all, Issei could respond. It helped that so much had happened since then.
"I want to know the truth. Ever since I awakened my powers, I'd felt…incomplete. It was like I'd grown and was missing a piece of myself. Over the past many months, I'd learned so many things but the more I learned, the more I craved knowledge. It was scary at first, because I felt things that I never had before in certain situations. I want to know the story of Bahamut, how the Calamity happened, and what I'm supposed to do with these powers. I believe that I have these powers for a reason but even now, I don't know what to do with myself. That's why, I'm hoping all of this can help me get to that conclusion. For me, I think Bahamut holds the key to that desire. I think that the more I know of him, the better I can determine where I want to go in life." Issei said.
Michael thought on this, staring at Issei like a surgeon trying to diagnose a patient.
"I understand. So, you're trying to find a purpose for yourself and your powers?"
"For now, yes. I also want to protect the people that're close to me. They've done so much for me, that when it matters, I want to protect them. In England, it was made abundantly clear to me that I was insufficient. I barely helped deal with the problem and wasn't relevant until I'd had something handed to me on a silver platter. I can't stand that. I want to help them just as much as they've helped me. However, I feel that that's not the end of it. There's more to it, I'm sure. I just don't know the exact details." Issei nodded.
"If that is the case, then I'll be hoping for your success as long as you stay true to those words. However, I'd encourage you to share these things with your friends. We can't go through life alone, nor should we do it in secrecy. Those people that live with you care about you. I think it's only right that you tell them of important things when the time comes. That's what friends and family are for, after all." Michael smiled.
"I understand, thank you." Issei replied.
"Now, unfortunately, I need to be leaving. I have a meeting with my siblings. Please, feel free to explore Heaven for as long as you like. However, I must warn you not to enter 2nd, 5th, and 7th Heaven. Those are strictly for people who have duties there."
Issei knew better than to ask about the forbidden places, so he only nodded, gave his parting words, and left.
The transportation was easy enough, it was like taking a teleporting elevator through Heaven. He considered exploring Heaven but decided against it. He had finally gotten his hands on what he'd been after for the longest time. He was eager to read the book and fill in more pieces of the puzzle.
When he got home, he immediately went to his room to open the book and find out all that he could. The first page shimmered to life as words began to appear before his eyes. Yet, as he read, the book began turning its pages on its own as if done so by his eyes or some unseen force.
(Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward OST – Dragonsong. Play Song.)
In the beginning, there was nothing. Then, upon coincidence, 6 powers came to be: life, death, time, the Darkness, the Light, and the Abyss. Life, death, and time became automatic forces that exist across all time and space. In contrast, the Darkness and the Light began creation and existence. From these two forces, all life was made. The Light created souls and the Darkness created physical form, vessels. From them, creation expanded across all dimensions and worlds. However, the Abyss was a separate force that rarely interacted with creation. Eldest of the 3 powers that be, the Abyss has only spawned one creation: Bahamut. His exact origins remain unknown, with all clues possibly being lost to the original cosmos. However, his role was indeed made common knowledge to those that still remember it.
Bahamut, one of the first brood of dragons, served to watch over the Earth. As gods and all manner of creatures swept across the world, Bahamut was to police and regulate them. To prevent tyranny, arrogance, and war, he would intervene in all manners of affairs. However, one day, the start of the world's fall began. Pantheons waged war against each other. For eons, they bickered over their irregular count of followers. Soon enough, humanity's overall waning faith in the gods began taking a toll. Fear and withheld resentment became hatred and arrogance. War tore at the world and in its wake, came Bahamut's rage. Having disappeared from the world for years, he returned to see that his home was ravaged by war. Lost in grief at the lost of innocents and twisted by rage, he lashed out and destroyed all in sight, intent on retributing immortals and mortals alike.
The entire cosmos was destroyed and with it, everything else that lived within. None know of how he was defeated, but from all recollections of the past, Bahamut was slain by a singular entity of unknown origin. Even after being defeated…he was still spared the judgement of having his soul be destroyed. Bahamut could not be allowed to remain as he was, for fear of his regeneration restoring him. Thus, with the destruction of his physical form, his soul was sealed into Sacred Gears as an alternative. His pieces were scattered to the winds and his soul would reincarnate with one of them. It is a rare union, a bond of two souls within one body with the minds of past users ingrained into the arsenal to keep the sleeping dragon at bay. In his slumber, life was restored by the 3 Powers and as time has passed, only gods and the oldest of creatures can recall the past.
However, the seal isn't all-powerful. If a powerful will connects with Bahamut and draws strength from him, in turn, giving him a connection to reality, the wyrm can be freed. On that day, should his rage be undampened and ever-growing, all will fall to his retribution.
Issei had to take a break from reading all that. He was left contemplating to himself in silence. That was a lot to take in. So, Bahamut was a fallen guardian? An entity charged with regulating the way the world spun, was he? Now, it made complete sense as to why so many people were scared of him. He killed everyone in the original cosmos. This was its second shot. Issei was a bit hesitant to continue, but decided that he had to keep going. He touched the book again, allowing more words to appear. This time, he read about what would awaken Bahamut and the pieces of the Calamity Catalyst.
The power of Bahamut is great, but bonded to a human host, it is limited. A human soul, body, and mind can only tolerate so much. Thus, not all of his power is permitted to a human host. Along with his power, his emotions bleed onto the host, influencing their emotions at times. Should wickedness be in the presence of Bahamut's host, the wyrm's primal instincts will trigger and affect his host, creating the same feelings that the wyrm's soul feels. In the end, it must be remembered that extreme emotions will rouse Bahamut more easily and strongly.
The more of his arsenal is completed, the more likely Bahamut is to awaken. There exists 5 pieces. The Abyssal Core, is the soul of Bahamut and allows the host to regenerate any part of their body, no matter the damage, but its power will dwindle with the strength of its user. The Right Gauntlet, the Abyssal Fury, affords the Host with great strength to the body and develops their martial skill. The Left Gauntlet, the Abyssal Arsenal, can create weapons from the metal of the Calamity Catalyst. So long as the Host can imagine a weapon or item, the Arsenal will forge it so long as it is not a mythical relic. The Greaves, the Abyssal Echoes, can create pulses and explosions of energy from any point of the body and is a key ability of the ancient wyrm. The last piece, the Wings called the Abyssal Omen, grants flight and the power to absorb mana and their trajectory. In the presence of each piece, the Host will be able to sense and attract the lingering power trapped within each piece. Bahamut will desire his completion and it will be by the will of the Host, that their use is determined. With these pieces mastered, the Host of Bahamut can rival even the Heavenly Dragons. Thankfully, Bahamut's full power can never be reached due to the limits of their body. However, the future is never certain and fate always has a way to overturn expectations.
So, that settled what he needed to look for and just what he could do, but the only issue he had now was finding the last piece. The only real clue he had, was to go around and 'feel' for it. Like that was going to help.
Suddenly, a knock came at the door, spooking Issei, who slammed the book into his drawer for now.
"Come in." He said.
Opening the door, Vali entered.
"Hey, you're gonna want to come down here. Grandpa has something to say to everybody."
Was it a good or bad thing?
When Issei sat in the living room, Rizevim had a neutral look on his face.
"Is something wrong?" Issei asked.
"Not yet, sadly. It's just that I have a job for you guys." Rizevim folded his arms.
Rizevim's briefing was simple. Everyone was gathered in the Living Room, with a map on the coffee table.
"Last night, we received word that the Khaos Brigade is making another big move. Our spies have reported that they're going to prepare for a summoning ritual. We don't know what they're summoning, but we know where they're going to do it. There's going to be an attack on a kingdom in the North, the home of the Dragon Slayers."
"Dragon Slayers?" Lianshi asked.
"A kingdom that formed when monsters and dragons still roamed the Mortal Realm openly. They specialize in hunting and destroying massive creatures and are renowned for their strength and magical equipment. Their kingdom is the prime target of the Khaos Brigade and it has been decided that you will be going there to provide aid. Out of the entire Alliance, this peerage has had the most encounters with the more obscure and higher-ranked members of the Khaos Brigade. The others, we know, but it seems that you all have crossed paths several times with the Hero Faction. That's why I want you all to go. Of course, you'll be joined by others as well."
Rizevim shook his head.
"This time, if an Avitur emerges, I want you all to run, immediately. No fighting, just run. None of you are ready for such an opponent yet. I also forbid the use of Juggernaut Drive." Rizevim looked at Vali and Issei.
"Are we supposed to just let it run loose, then?" Issei asked.
"No, Sirzechs and others will be on standby for any Avitur alerts. They're best suited for fighting them. I just want you all to focus on making sure that the Khaos Brigade doesn't succeed. Also, watch each other's backs and be careful. If things get bad, then there's no fault or shame in withdrawing. Now, I've secured safe passage for you and Odin has also pulled some strings to keep the Dragon Slayers from doing anything to you, if we even need to worry about that."
"Wouldn't they be resentful if we just showed up out of nowhere and started doing things?" Kuroka asked.
"They were. They just chose not to argue when we showed them the damage that the Khaos Brigade could do." Ezagyra cracked her knuckles.
"This isn't the time to be paranoid fools. The Khaos Brigade is a very real threat that we've tried to keep from the private eye. We'd like to keep it that way. Open war isn't something anybody should want." Rizevim smirked at his wife's aggressive negotiations.
"Alright, when do we leave?" Vali asked.
"Should be tomorrow. I still need to secure safe passage with the King and make sure nothing sketchy happens. For now, be on standby. I want you all to finish resting up and I want you to relax before you start working again." Rizevim smiled.
"Joy…more fighting." Kuroka scoffed.
"Well, it's better than watching and listening to you all being all lovey-dovey!" Rizevim pointed an accusational finger at her, Bikou, and Lianshi.
"At least Arthur and Elaine can keep their voices down." Issei coughed, immediately earning a slap upside the head from the Knight.
"And so, go be free, frolic, waste money, get in trouble, date, do whatever youth tells you to do until I have to bail you out of jail…Again." Rizevim waved at them all.
"IT HAPPENED ONCE! ONCE!" Bikou declared.
'Well, I'm gonna skedaddle before things get heated again.' Issei snuck out the door.
He'd already made plans to go to the Human Realm for the day. It'd been way too long since he'd been to his real home. He'd also gotten strong enough to take care of himself, so what was a stroll through Kuoh going to cost him?
"Where're you going?" The door opened and closed behind him.
"Home. I think I'm getting a bit homesick." Issei explained.
"Mind if I tag along? I kind of miss seeing Kuoh too." Vali requested.
"Sure, if you don't mind getting dragged wherever the road takes me." Issei chuckled.
"I've come to expect that from you." Vali shook her head.
When Issei got back to Kuoh, he took a deep breath of the fresh mortal air. He stretched as if trying to absorb the essence of the world into his pores. It'd been so long since he'd come back to his birthplace. Looking at the sky, it was around noon.
"Ah, it feels great to be back." Issei exhaled in satisfaction.
He and Vali immediately took off for his home. Thanks to Rizevim and the Alliance, his house was put back together and reinforced with protection in case he ever moved back. He decided that it would be a good idea to visit it at least once. To be honest, Issei now considered moving back here since he was proficient with teleportation now. He didn't like the idea of freeloading off his friends any longer.
"Mind if I drop by my house first?" Issei asked.
"Not at all. I'm sure you miss it." Vali nodded.
"Yeah, I do. I'm also kind of worried if my parents come back home and find a rickety, dusty, rusty, and musky shack." Issei nodded.
Contrary to his expectations, his house was in prime condition. The floor was freshly lacquered, dusted, scrubbed, and decorated. It was if he hadn't left.
"How, wow…" Issei said to himself.
"We took the liberty of maintaining the house for you, just in case your parents came back." Vali explained.
Issei gratefully smiled at her.
"Thank you, Vali. I really can't thank you and everyone else enough for taking care of me so much."
"Hey, it's what best friends do, right?" Vali nodded.
"Best friends?" Issei asked.
That was when Vali looked a bit embarrassed. However, for a sliver of a second, Issei saw some worry in her eyes. Did he say the wrong thing?
"Well, I mean, you were my best friend when I came here. You looked out for me and showed me so many things in the Human Realm. You didn't even get scared and run away when you found out what and who I was. Also, I was able to trust you with a lot of things too. So, calling you my best friend sounds about right."
"Well then, best friend, let's get to making some food, then." Issei opened the door.
"When were you a master chef?"
"When I hit 13 and learned how to stop my house from burning." Issei answered.
About 15 minutes later, Issei and Vali went to the grocery store to get some ingredients.
"What do you think? Pickled ginger or pickled radish?" Vali held up 2 jars.
"Ginger, I know you want it. It's your favorite pickled veg." Issei said.
"And I know you like radish. Let's get both." Vali put both into the cart.
"Think we should get carrots?" Issei asked.
"I checked your fridge, the maids restocked on that."
"Then let's get some pork."
For a while, the two talked back and forth, with Vali showing some ingredients and Issei giving his opinion.
"Oh, look at those two. It's like a newlywed couple trying to pick dinner for each other." An old married pair chuckled.
"Remember when we'd go back and forth about what to have for dinner?" The old lady chuckled.
Issei felt a small twinge of pink creep across his cheeks.
"Well, let's get the sauce for the beef bourguignon." He cleared his throat.
The entire time the two were at the store, others did make note of how they seemed to others. Mostly, it was about being like newlyweds. Issei tried not to let it affect him. Those kinds of suggestions tended to stir up one's mind. To him, Vali was indeed his best friend, despite him never saying it. They used to always spend time together, especially on the roof of the school. They had told each other things about themselves, so naturally, it would create a bond.
When they got back to Issei's house and made lunch, there was a surprise at his door. Issei was about to go and open it, but he saw that the door handle was already turning on its own. He narrowed his eyes as his mind immediately assumed it was an intruder. He got ready to defend himself.
Crossing through the threshold, were the two people that Issei hadn't seen in forever. It was his parents.
"Ah, he's still here." Issei's father smiled.
(Fullmetal Alchemist OST – Brothers – Instrumental Version. Play Song.)
Both his parents dropped their luggage and walked over to give Issei a family hug. It was exhilarating. It was probably no less than half a year since he'd seen his parents. Contrary to what others would expect, Issei felt as if there wasn't any distance between him and his family. Sure, they were away for extreme periods of time, but it was for the sake of their family's survival. That's why he never resented them because they were trying to make sure that he and perhaps future siblings never tasted poverty and grief.
"We're so sorry we were away longer than we'd promised, Honey." Mrs. Hyoudou embraced her son.
"It's alright."
Issei then froze when he realized where his mother and father were looking at, rather, who.
"He brought home a girl." Mrs. Hyoudou noted, amused.
"Hello, my name is Validia Lucifeln. I apologize for my intrusion." Vali bowed politely.
"Oh, she's so well-mannered too." Mrs. Hyoudou squealed.
'I really hope they don't get too overbearing?' Issei wondered.
"Is she your girlfriend?" Mr. Hyoudou asked.
"No, no, no, no." Issei shook his head.
"The grocers were telling us about how you two looked like a young couple, ufufufu." Mrs. Hyoudou chuckled as she held up a bag of groceries as proof.
"We're merely best friends, Ma'am." Vali shook her head.
Issei couldn't help but notice that Vali was utterly calm in cutting that suggestion down. No blushing, no flustering, and no blubbering. That was certainly a way to stamp flags out. It was a bit disappointing in general. Did he lack that much appeal?
"Oh, don't call me Ma'am. You can just call me Auntie."
"Alright, let's stop being crazy and scaring her. Let's eat lunch." Issei said.
Over the next half-hour, the four talked and ate. Issei's parents shared stories about their son and their travels while asking Vali about herself.
"So, has our son done anything foolish lately? I know he can be a quiet and helpful guy at first, but deep down, he's as nosy as a gossiper and gets wrapped up in a lot of stuff." Mrs. Hyoudou asked.
Vali giggled.
"No, he hasn't. He's actually a real life-saver. I'd gotten into trouble a few times before and he helped bail me and our other schoolfriends out of overwork. If it weren't for him, I'd have been in serious trouble several times." Vali smiled at him.
Issei cleared his throat, his ears going red from embarrassment.
"It was my pleasure." He simply said.
"Still, we can't thank you enough for being there for him. It's our fault that our son has to live such a lonely life. Always working so far from home and contacting so rarely." Mrs. Hyoudou gave Vali a grateful smile.
"Thank you for being there for our son, it means more than we could say." Mr. Hyoudou said.
"It's my honor to be his friend."
Issei smiled. He'd wondered how his parents would react to Vali, but was gladdened to see that they were perfectly getting along. Of course, he did see her get a tad bit surprised with all of the questions his mom threw at her. Namely, what her type was, what she liked, and what her future plans were. It was like being in a marriage interview.
(Fullmetal Alchemist OST – Brothers – Instrumental Version. End Song.)
"Alright, I should go. I'll see you later, Issei." Vali got up after looking at the clock.
"I'll see you out."
Walking outside with her, the two talked.
"So…that complicates things. Sorry about all the annoying and personal questions." Issei sheepishly chuckled.
"It's alright. Maybe with this, you can get back to your normal life. Besides, I'll call if something's up. You should stay here with your parents and catch up." Vali reassured him.
Issei nodded before watching as Vali disappeared through a magic circle.
"So, how long can you be home?" Issei asked his parents when he sat back at the dining table.
"Well, we've got to do some work for two weeks in Tokyo, so we came by to drop off some luggage and see you. Once we're done, we'll, we'll be home-free for an entire month." Mr. Hyoudou smiled.
Issei looked forward to that.
"We've actually got some more stuff to tell you." Mrs. Hyoudou beamed.
"What?"
"Your father and I have put in our transfers and starting 3 months from now, we'll be able to work from Kuoh. So, no more spending holidays and birthdays alone. We'll be able to see each other every day and you'll be able to come to us for anything." Mrs. Hyoudou excitedly said.
"That's great!" Issei laughed.
Then, he froze as he realized that he couldn't exactly explain that he was a part of the Supernatural Realm now. What was he to say, anyways?
'Hey, so, I'm host to the freakiest calamity in existence and I might end up blowing the galaxy apart for the 2nd time. I might also disappear from time-to-time to fight monsters too, but don't worry, all my friends are fighters and can help me take care of it.'
He could imagine the worry and panic that his parents would feel if he told them the truth. He had to lie, and quick.
"But…there's also something I've gotta tell you." Issei said.
"What's wrong?" His parents already looked worried.
"I took up a job at a company for experience. They train and also pay me, however, I've gotta do a lot of traveling. The pay's incredible and I learn a lot of things, but the time I'm away fluctuates, depending on the job." Issei started.
"But why? Your mother and I are already more than able to pay for food, housing, and your future tuition." His father reasoned.
"It's because I learned that I knew so little. I wanted to experience more and learn more. I'm not going to stay here forever. I need to get out there now and learn more so that I'll be ready for the future." Issei explained.
His parents looked dismayed at the fact that he said nothing to them.
"I see…but isn't it too much? What about school?" His mother asked.
"There was a terrorist attack at Kuoh a few months ago. I took the chance and got my graduation done early after they decided to suspend classes." Issei produced the diploma from a shelf in the Living Room.
He had taken his graduation exams early, thanks to Rizevim's string-pulling. He'd spent months studying and cramming to get that out of the way to pass the real exams. He really didn't want to worry about school if he was going to be in a peerage.
"I'm also staying in a dorm provided by the company during my trips too, so I'm not home all the time, either." Issei added.
"Son…why didn't you tell us anything?" Mr. Hyoudou asked.
"Because, just like you two, I want to work hard to be able to provide for myself and my future family. I want to be strong and able to care for people too. To be honest, I knew that if I second-guessed…I'd probably never do anything. I took a deep breath and jumped. Honestly, I don't regret a thing."
Mrs. Hyoudou sighed. She wasn't approving of Issei's secrets and late surprises, but she knew her son. Whatever it was that he was doing, he was doing it for a good cause. He wasn't a fool who half-assed his work and he wouldn't allow himself to get swept in with a bad crowd. She had faith in her son. She didn't want to come back home to him with her husband, only for an argument to damage the faith they had in each other.
"Alright, if that's your reasoning…then I'll support it. Just make sure to take care of yourself and be careful. If something's ever wrong, then make sure to talk to us. Don't go off on your own again." His mother made him promise.
Issei solemnly nodded.
"I swear."
As Issei lied down on his bed, he thought about the day and what he wanted to do from this point onward. Should he come back home now that his parents were here? Should he stay with Vali and the others? If he came back here, he could be with his family and make up for lost time. However, he'd be exposing them to danger if he did that. Who knew what kind of dangers would follow him home? On the other hand, he had a duty to the Lucifer Clan for taking care of him and his family. Not only that, but his friends were in the direct line of enemy fire. He had to be there to help and protect them.
'Ugh, so many situations, so many cons.' Issei sighed to himself.
The next day, he woke up to have breakfast with his parents. Rizevim had contacted him earlier, requiring him to prepare for the mission.
"Morning." His mother greeted him as she set down his breakfast.
"So, I needed to tell you that I'm going in for work today. I might be gone for a short while." Issei said.
"We understand. Just make sure you call when you get there and keep us updated. Your father and I also need to leave for Tokyo later today." Mrs. Hyoudou sadly nodded.
She hated parting with her family, although it was necessary.
(Doctor Who OST – Martha's Theme. Play Song.)
"So, that girl from yesterday…she interests you?" Mr. Hyoudou asked, sipping his coffee.
"No, not really. She's just my best friend."
"Before we go, son, let me give you some advice, man-to-man." His father leaned forward.
"When you meet that special lady, you might not know it at first. Knowing you, you probably don't know yet. However, your face is gonna heat up, you're going to think about her a lot, you're going to want to spend all of your time with her, and your heart will either keep beating nonstop or it's going to skip for a long time. When all of that happens, you've found the one."
"How come you and Mom keep wanting me to get with someone?" Issei curtly asked.
"It's because having someone by your side keeps you together, stable. If I hadn't had your mother and you, I'd have probably been sent over the edge. You're alone a lot, son, and you put burdens on your shoulders only. Soon or later, you're going to crash and we're afraid that you might burn alone if nobody saves you." Mr. Hyoudou gently warned him.
Issei internalized that advice for future reference. If his father was so adamant about it, then it was worth remembering.
It was going to be two weeks before they saw each other again. Still, he had a month of vacation to look forward to, for starters, after that.
"Alright, here's food or the road, I made all of your favorites. Also, are you sure you don't want us to drop you off?" His mother asked.
"I'll be fine, Mom. You and Dad just make sure to be careful. I'll see you when you get back." Issei promised.
His mother and father each gave him a hug before they went their separate ways. While his parents drove away into the distance with their car, Issei locked up the house before teleporting to the Lucifer Mansion.
(Doctor Who OST – Martha's Theme. End Song.)
When he arrived, Vali immediately reached out to him.
"I want to talk to you in private." She said.
"Sure."
Walking to a private room, Vali sat across from Issei in a chair. She opened a bar of dark chocolate and took a bite with some eagerness.
"How'd it go with your parents?" She asked.
"It went fine. They left for Tokyo this morning and will be gone for a week or two. They actually told me that once they're done with this job, they plan to transfer back to Kuoh so they won't be so far away anymore." Issei chuckled.
Vali looked happy, but she seemed a bit down.
"I see, congratulations. That's actually what I wanted to talk to you about. After this job…do you want to leave the Peerage and go back home?" Vali asked.
That blindsided Issei. Was she letting him go? He felt his stomach sink as the color started to disappear from his face.
"You got thrown into this crazy world without choice and was left with no choice but to continue. Since your parents are back, it might be your chance to get your normal life back. You don't have to worry about fighting anymore and you can live happily. You're my best friend and I don't want to lose you to war." Vali explained.
"Vali…what's wrong?" Issei asked.
"What?"
"I can see it in your eyes. You're worried about something. Also, when you eat dark chocolate, it means you're worried or upset." Issei pointed at the empty wrapper in her hands.
Vali sighed.
(Naruto Shippuden OST – Shirohae. Play Song.)
"Issei, have I ever told you of how I came to be raised by my grandparents?" Vali asked.
Issei shook his head.
"Well, it's time I told you, then. My father was the descendant of the original Lucifer and my mother was a human. They met in the Human Realm while my father was exploring. They met and eventually married. They were happy for a long while, even when she found out what he was. After they had me, we seemed complete. However, one day, while my father was out suppressing a monster attack in the Underworld, something happened. Nobody knew what it was, since he was the only survivor. When he came back to my mother and I, he was completely different. As time went by, he became incredibly abusive. He would beat me and train me to fight. He'd set me loose on monsters and anyone near the house. If I didn't, I'd be punished." Vali said as she closed her eyes.
She clenched her trembling fists as she spoke.
"At first, my mother tried to care for me but eventually, when she was severely punished over and over, she stopped. She stopped trying to tend to my wounds and barely fed me. She just started shutting down as my father tormented me and tried to make me a weapon. I think she just gave up. Soon enough, my grandparents found out. At first, they were going to imprison him, but my grandfather was forced to execute him with his own hands, eventually. After that, they took me in and raised me."
Issei waited, assuming that there was more to this story.
"After my father was done with his sessions, I was left to do whatever I wanted. It was kind of weird. One moment, he'd torture me and force me to learn how to fight, then he'd let me be a kid. It confused me. Anyways, I'd always run down to the playground to hang out. I knew a human boy, who'd always include me in games and fun…but…" Vali's hands shook a bit more.
"One day, he got hit by a stray truck when we were playing. The reason was because…he found out what I was. That day, I'd had enough of my father's abuse. When he asked me about why I was beaten up, I-I just…let it slip. I told him I was a half-devil and my father was the grandson of Lucifer. Naturally…he ran away. In exchange for a small moment of relief and weakness, I caused the death of my only friend at the time."
Now it all made sense to Issei. No wonder everyone was so happy that Vali had made a human friend. It was because the first one she had, ran away and was killed by the revelation. Most of all, it was out of fear and prejudice.
"That's why, I don't want to lose the first real friend who knew nothing about who or what I was beforehand." Vali said tenderly.
Issei understood where she was coming from, but that's not who he was. He wasn't going to abandon this fight just to preserve himself. He shook his head.
"Vali, I understand how you feel, but I'm not doing that. I'm not going to abandon this fight because I want to live. I'm going to fight so that I can help get rid of the problem. I'm going to help because I want to make this world a better place and because I want everyone to not have to watch their backs when they go home. While I'm sitting safe and sound, the thought of my friends risking their lives and possibly dying isn't something I would ever want. So, can you have some faith in me? I promise you, I'll survive." Issei smiled at her reassuringly.
Vali looked hesitant. That night they fought the Avitur, she'd been scared tremendously. She'd genuinely thought all her friends were going to be killed. Nothing they did was enough to even give them a fighting chance. It had been a moment of crushing realism for her that she needed to be stronger and that the threats to her friends and family were increasing.
However, she decided that she would believe in Issei. He had a habit of turning their darker situations around. She wasn't sure if it was Bahamut's power or Issei's strength of will, but she knew that things would be alright if he said so. At least, that was what she hoped.
"Okay, I'll trust you." Vali nodded.
Still, she couldn't shake it. That feeling in her gut was telling her that something huge was coming and she didn't know if she or anyone else could do something about it.
(Naruto Shippuden OST – Shirohae. End Song.)
Later, everyone gathered in the courtyard in order to leave. Issei was surprised to see Sairaorg there with his peerage, however, Rizevim did mention that there'd be help.
"Hey, Issei."
"Hey, man. Are you the reinforcements?" Issei asked.
"Yes, we are. If it's fighting dragons, then the more the merrier. Rizevim asked us to come along since we don't know if there'll be more surprises for you this time." Sairaorg explained.
"I see that you're all gathered. Well, then, know that safe passage has been guaranteed. You'll be departing for your mission immediately, so make sure you have everything you need." Rizevim warned.
As expected, everyone was wearing clothes for cold weather. The Kingdom of the Dragon Slayers was up North, where snow and ice was plentiful but not hostile. It didn't matter to Issei, though. He wanted to get this over with quickly so that he could sort himself out. He had to prepare for change.
Alright, and that's the end of this chapter. I hope you're all having/had a fun holiday and are safe. Thanks for reading as always and I'll see you next time.
