After some thinking and keeping in-line with the character's personalities, I've decided to keep the length of certain events the way they'll be in this chapter. I've already made the mistake of milking things in the past and I wanna try and avoid it again.
Now, onto the replies to certain questions in the reviews. I figured some of you might be thinking of the same question(s).
Question 1:
Are you still working on "The Dragonic Will" and "The Grim Herald"?
Answer 1:
Yes, I am still continuing "The Grim Herald" and "The Dragonic Will". I know I left those two stories alone for a long time, but it was to focus on this reboot. I've also been thinking about how to handle "The Dragonic Will" since I cringe whenever I go back and read it.
Question 2:
Will Katarea be back?
Answer 2:
No, Katarea will not return. She was officially killed off in Chapter 7 and she has no planned role for the future of the story.
Question 3:
What formats of Yugioh did you play? What sort of Yugioh decks did you play?
Answer 3:
The answer to this question will be a rant, but I'll answer it since I find it a fun question. For formats, I started with the Kozmo & Monarch Format back in 2016. I played all the way until the Thunder Dragon & Sky Striker Format in 2018 when the "Dangers!" came out. I've just recently come back since the format got a huge reset and we're about to get Master Rule 3.5/5.
As for decks, I've played a ton whenever they were cheap. I used to play a Yusei/Stardust-style deck(2014-2016) as my first real deck. Then the decks that followed were Blue-Eyes Chaos Max (2016), ABC (2016-2019), Monarchs(2016), Kozmo(2016), Cubics(2016), True Dracos(2017-2020), Zombiesworn(2017), Galaxy-Eyes (2018), Lightsworn(2018), Lair of Darkness(2018), Majespecter Odd-Eyes(2018), Pendulum Magicians (2018), Shaddolls(2019), Shaddoll Invoked(2020), Mermail Atlanteans(2020), Crusadia ABC(2019), Metaphys Gren Maju(2018), Heroes (2020), and True King/Shaddoll Dinos(2017-2020).
I was a loyal True Draco player until the most recent list, so I'm kind of leaning toward Dinos now. As for playing competitive, I played full meta when True Dracos first came out along with True King Dinos when they were at full power. After those 2 decks died down, I stopped playing competitive and went back to kinda casual with friends. I stopped playing YGOPRO though, since players on there were just way too toxic at the time I played. I also avoid getting stupidly-expensive cards like Evil Hero Dusted Gold and Evil Hero Malicious Bane. $100+ cards are not cards that I will use my money on.
Alright, enough ranting. Enjoy the chapter.
Chapter 40: Resolution
Issei's Lifespan: 15 Months
Day 17
The entire night, Issei was beating himself up. He'd lost control of himself, his emotions having flared for no reason, other than Bahamut's random surge of anger.
"It's just like before. Bahamut's emotions managed to bleed onto you again. It's not your fault since it was random. The fight earlier also made it easier for it to happen. For now, you should try and make peace with her. This is Vali, after all. She'll probably forgive you in a heartbeat." Rexis said.
Issei rubbed his forehead in irritation.
"Every time something goes right, something else goes wrong." He groaned.
Issei was now thinking of how to approach this issue. He knew Vali was going to be stunned for a while. However, he knew that she was reasonable. If he'd explained things to her, then she'd understand.
He waited for the next morning, catching Vali in the elevator. Yet, when she became aware that he was close by, she'd hurry somewhere else. That didn't surprise him too much. The way he spoke to her was extremely hurtful, after all.
"Hey, Vali!" He called over to her at the hotel buffet.
Vali took her food and walked away, not even looking at him. Throughout the morning, Issei tried to establish contact with her, but every attempt was met with failure.
Yet, this had helped Issei in a way that he'd never expected. Vali was going to Sairaorg even more now, spending more time with him. It worked in his favor, but Issei didn't want to end things on a sour note when he left.
Issei sat at the pier, staring at the sky and contemplating.
"What's got you looking so down?"
(Assassin's Creed II OST – Ezio's Family. Play Song.)
He turned around to see Ezagyra walking over, taking a seat at the table.
"Nothing, just thinking to myself." Issei sipped his water.
"Normally, I'd believe you, but that doesn't seem to be the case. The vibes you're giving off are troubled. I also know you well-enough to understand that you're lying right now. You and Vali haven't said a word to each other since last night. When I mention you, she frowns and leaves the conversation. I also saw you two earlier this morning. She walked away the moment you entered the are and wouldn't even acknowledge you." Ezagyra swirled her drink in her hands.
Issei didn't respond.
"For all your nosiness, you're rather secretive. Did something happen to you two and you can't say anything?" Ezagyra prodded.
Again, Issei didn't say a thing.
"Issei, you should know just how important it is to say things, to talk. You can't shoulder everything alone, you know." Ezagyra said.
Issei sighed. She wasn't going to go away until he said something.
"It was a small issue but it clearly had a huge impact." Issei started.
"Go on."
"Vali wanted to know why I just up and left the club last night. I didn't say a thing to anyone and just left. I came back here after my clothes got messy and when I was heading back out, Vali found me. She did the usual and wanted me to let her know where I was. At that moment, something in me ignited. A part of Bahamut stirred and I just got angry. I told her that I had no reason to tell her about my life and secrets."
That was a bit shocking to Ezagyra. Issei never reacted like that before and seemed out-of-character for him.
"The way I said it was what caused the issue. When I spoke to her, it was with the intention of hurting her. I didn't mean to do it, but it just happened. I wanted to explain things to her, but she won't talk to me. I thought I had Bahamut's emotions under control, but I guess that isn't the case."' Issei said.
Ezagyra set her drink down.
"I see. That would be an issue for Vali. Has she ever told you about that incident she had as a kid? The one where her human friend found out about her being a devil?" She asked.
Issei nodded.
"Yeah. Well, this was similar to that. I went with Vali that day to watch over her. The way the boy spoke, was cold, and hurtful too. The intentions and words probably reminded her of it, opening old wounds. I'll admit, both of you have a hand in this. Your failure to control your emotions and words hurt her, but Vali should also know not to internalize it and take it personally. Still, things have been a bit awkward between you two sometimes. It's an on-and-off thing recently." Ezagyra said.
"I'd just like to keep some things private to myself." Issei sighed.
"I understand how you feel, but you need to understand that Vali grew up being an honest person. She doesn't like lying if she can help it. It scares her, Issei, when people keep secrets. It makes things hard to predict and it endangers parts of her life. Vali can be very territorial about things that she cherishes, but she hides it. Vali doesn't handle loss well, so she tries to take measures to prevent it."
It made more sense now, but Issei already knew all this to begin with.
"Vali only constantly demands that you keep her updated because you've become very important to her, Issei. You're a part of this family now. You can trust us." Ezagyra pleaded calmly.
"I know and I do. But, it's just that there are some things that a person should be entitled to keep secret. I know I was in the wrong, but, I can't do anything if she won't give me a chance." Issei said,
"Well, why won't you tell Vali?" Ezagyra asked.
"It's exactly because she gets worried that I don't want to tell her certain things." Issei swirled the ice cubes in his drink.
"But that's the point of caring about others. You're supposed to get worried." Ezagyra chuckled.
"I know, but I don't want anyone frowning on my behalf. I'd rather just have everyone smile and be happy."
"You can't shoulder everything, Issei. Trust me, I was in a war and tried it and failed. You can't do everything alone and you can't solve everything." Ezagyra advised.
'That doesn't mean I won't try.' Issei responded in his head.
"Tell me, what do you think of Vali?" Ezagyra asked.
It was about time she got to the bottom of things. Issei has been acting weird and Vali has been slow to forgive him. Vali was always able to forgive within just a few hours of someone crossing her.
She sat in patient silence, waiting for Issei to answer.
"Why do you ask?" Issei finally asked.
"Because, I'm her grandmother. I'm also the head matriarch of the Lucifer House and I don't like it if something's troubling my family."
Issei finally gave up and spoke more.
"I think she's very strong, beautiful, kind, and patient- "
"No, none of that. I mean, what do you feel for her."
Issei knew what she was up to. He wasn't playing her game.
"It's exactly as we've said over and over. She's my best friend, almost like a sister to me, in fact." Issei lied, putting up as much of a convincing front as he could.
"Oh? That's all?" Ezagyra asked, suspiciously.
"There's nothing else to dig at." Issei shrugged.
"Are you sure?" Ezagyra set her drink down.
"Yes. I know that you might think otherwise, but I don't see Vali like that. The reason why I'm so secretive is because I don't want to worry everyone. My secrets aren't even big, mostly growing boy stuff. Bottom line, I just want everyone to be happy and to smile. True, nobody can smile forever, but that doesn't mean that those temporary moments are meaningless. That's all there is to it." Issei simply said.
Ezagyra stared at him, calculating and breaking down his words.
"I see. Well, when you finally decide to tell us the truth, I'll be waiting. I'm sure you've got your reasons and I hope they aren't nefarious. However, I'm not your real grandparent nor your mother, so I'll respect boundaries. For now, I'm satisfied." She nodded before leaving.
Not wanting to stay there anymore, Issei decided to get a move on. He wanted to take some more time to think about what he'd say to Vali. Forgoing trying to talk to her at any chance, Issei simply watched from the sidelines.
At the beach, Vali and Sairaorg were chasing each other, splashing water at each other. One-on-one, they frolicked, laughed, and shared precious time together.
"Not fair!" Vali laughed as Sairaorg splashed her with water.
When Issei looked at her smile, he understood just how happy she was inside. It just kept hammering in that she'd be okay without him, even if he wanted to stay.
The guys and gals laughed and screamed as they splashed water at each otherEven the old people, like Ezagyra and Rizevim were messing around at the beach. . Yet, once again, Issei was the odd-one-out.
It hurt horribly. Every time he looked at the others, it kept nailing in the fact that he wasn't going to be here in a few more months. Most likely, he'd be 6-feet under soon. Sometimes, he wanted to cry, other times, he wanted to yell in outrage. But, for the sake of appearances and to keep his facade going, he forced his smile when things concerned himself. He wasn't okay. He wasn't care-free. He was sad and lonely.
(Assassin's Creed II OST – Ezio's Family. End Song.)
Reminding himself that time was a-wasting, Issei decided to go kill time until he could catch Vali alone.
Issei was walked around aimlessly. For once, he wasn't thinking or brooding. He was just losing himself in the atmosphere of the town. He sighed.
"Why the long face, young man?" Someone asked.
Issei turned to the side and saw an elderly woman watering her flowers.
"Excuse me?" Issei asked obliviously.
"That's the same look my husband used to make before we started dating. It's the look of a man with relationship troubles." The Old Lady chuckled.
Issei glanced at where he'd stopped. It was a bustling café with a sign that said 'Since 1959'.
"I'm not actually dating anyone." Issei chuckled.
"Oh? Well, how about I get you a drink and we chat? Free-of-charge." The Old Lady chuckled.
"N-No, it's fine." Issei stuttered but it was too late.
The Old Lady had gone inside the café and brought out a tray of pastries and tea.
"My family has been running this café for nearly 50 years. I daresay we're the most successful café around."
True to her word, the café was very well-kept. The business was nuts with tons of customers and everyone was having an evident jolly time.
"I don't wish to intrude on your work." Issei politely said.
"Nonsense. I'm retired, so I've got all the time in the world." The Old Lady laughed.
"Dragging in more people, Dear?" An Old Man came out of the café.
He walked over and gave the Old Lady a peck on the cheek before sitting down.
(Final Fantasy 7: Crisis Core OST – Under the Apple Tree. Play Song.)
"Sorry. My wife sees someone in trouble and she just can't help herself but try and talk to them. She's nosy but I guarantee that her advice always helps. My name's Tobi and my wife's name is Hana." Tobi sipped some tea.
Issei graciously sipped his tea, surprised by how good it tasted.
"Good, right?" Tobi smiled.
"Very." Issei treated himself to a delicious buttery scone.
"Now, dear, tell this old couple what's bothering you." Hana asked.
Issei went silent for a moment.
"Come now, I take it you're one of the tourists that came to visit the resort. Don't worry, we live miles away from the mainland and we're both old. Our lips are sealed." Hana smile encouragingly.
Issei nodded. She had a point. The reason why he wasn't honest or detailed in his responses to Ezagyra was because of how close she was, in many ways.
Issei went on to explain what happened between him and Vali, keeping the supernatural elements out of the story.
"I see. You lost control of yourself and now you're getting the silent treatment." Hana nodded, sipping her tea.
Tobi set his cup down and leaned forward.
"Son, you've gotta take the initiative here. You already know you did wrong. You've gotta own up to it and make things right. I know it's hard. Our pride gets in the way and we won't admit it sometimes, but we've gotta take those views away and be honest. From what it sounds like, you hurt that young lady a lot. Looking at you and you looking at her probably hurts her because it reminds her of bad things. I think you should try to stop her from running and come clean all at once and try to fix things best as you can." Tobi suggested.
"I'm sure she'll forgive you. Now that enough time has passed, I think you two have cooled down enough to let things go. You can't let these petty things get in the way of your life. Most of all, if you love her, then this is something you've gotta get past." Hana smirked.
"I didn't say I loved her." Issei raised a brow.
"Child, I'm old. I'm 87 and I've seen a lot. I know the look of a boy who's in love. My old man here used to give me the look." Hana held Tobi's hand.
"You shouldn't let this chance slip by. It sounds like you're agonizing over your feelings for the young lady. You should come out with it before it's too late." Tobi urged.
Issei shook his head.
"I can't. She likes someone else."
"Oh…" Tobi and Hana looked disappointed.
"The one she likes is a very good friend of mine and I won't ruin what's developing between them. Still, you're right…Time to stop beating around the bush." Issei nodded.
"Attaboy. But still…what'll you do?" Tobi asked.
"I've been helping them get along." Issei admitted.
"What?!" Tobi and Hana were gobsmacked.
"You're playing matchmaker?" Hana asked.
"Yes." Issei nodded again.
"Why?" Tobi asked.
"Because I want them to be happy. I'm going away soon and I want everyone in my life to be as happy as possible before I go away. A new chapter of my life will start in a short while, so I want no ends left untied." Issei confessed.
Why was he pouring out his plan to these strangers? He didn't really know, to be honest. Was it because he was just filling up to the brim with these pent-up emotions? Was he at his breaking point? Was he finally accepting of his fate? Or was he so close to succumbing to despair that he needed to vent to just about anyone in order to remain sane?
"That's too painful, son." Tobi said.
Issei only nodded once more.
Hana chose her words carefully, wanting to avoid hammering the nail even more.
"Have you ever thought of what makes you happy?" Hana asked.
For such a simple question, it had a profound effect on Issei. It rocked him to his core. His hands shook as he internalized the question. Issei closed his eyes, thinking. In his mind…all he saw was Vali. Her radiant smile that brightened his life with one attempt. The strength that she gave him. Then, he thought about the rest of his 'family'. How he wanted them to prosper and look forward to each new day.
"I have. I just want the people in my life to be happy." Issei smiled.
"We understand." Tobi nodded.
"Young man, I think you should give yourself one final review with yourself. What do you truly want? What are you prepared to do? Most of all, will you be satisfied with what you've done and will do? We wish you the best of luck." Hana gently squeezed his hand.
Issei gave her a grateful smile.
Getting up to leave, Hana had one last gift for him before he could depart.
"Here." She gave him some of her roses from the front.
"Just right for the right lady. It's not in the gift that'll help. It's what you mean for the gift to symbolize." Hana smiled.
"Thank you, both of you." Issei said.
"Nonsense. We're happy to help advise anybody who wants it. When you live as long as we have, that wish grows on you." Hana chuckled.
Issei bowed before leaving as he waved goodbye to the elderly couple.
It was a real shame. Issei would've liked to grow old like them, married and content.
Issei looked at the red roses in his hands, smiling at their blessed fragrance.
"Just right for the right lady." Issei chuckled as he crossed into an alleyway shortcut.
(Final Fantasy 7: Crisis Core OST – Under the Apple Tree. End Song.)
He then froze.
"No." He said as he felt a familiar sensation.
"Hey!" Vali smirked as Sairaorg splashed water at her.
"Get her!" Kuroka held her still as Sairaorg kept splashing water at her.
Filled with competitive spirit, everyone followed suit, splashing each other with water. A while later, everyone was drying off on the sand.
"Hey…where's Issei?" Bikou asked.
That was when everyone realized that Issei wasn't around.
"I saw him early this morning but he kind of just went off on his own." Ezagyra explained, adjusting her purple two-piece bikini.
"He's probably just off being Issei." Rizevim chuckled.
Vali merely frowned while looking away.
'Still feeling bitter?' Albion asked.
'About what?' Vali asked coyly.
'This isn't like you, Vali. Even if someone were to slap you in the face, you'd forgive them a few moments later if they explained themselves. Yet, Issei's getting the silent treatment.'
Vali didn't respond.
'I know he made the first wrong move, but you won't even give him a chance to say anything. Don't you think he deserves a shot? He has done right by the others, after all.' Albion reasoned.
Issei was indeed at fault, but Vali was keeping things from being patched up. That concerned Albion a bit.
'I…I know, but…when he said that to me in that way…it hurt so much. I don't know why.' Vali confessed.
'I know, I could sense it too. I had half a mind to chew him up for saying that to you. But, you need to remember that Bahamut is an absurdly powerful entity. The seal on him isn't perfect and like Issei said, Bahamut's emotions and thoughts bleed onto him from time-to-time. Not only that, but Issei isn't an aggressive person by nature. I'm sure it was just an accident.' Albion explained.
'I know, I know…It's just…I'm not ready to see him yet.' Vali bit her lip.
'I know you've endured a lot. You've faced so much prejudice from others for being a devil. Even other devils discriminated against you for being a half-breed. To boot, people have looked down on you for your family's lowered status. We've faced many dangers and suffering together. However, it's caused you to develop this habit where you stagnate until you feel ready to act. I don't think this is one of those times where that's acceptable.' Albion said.
Vali relented. Albion had a point.
'It's just…I don't know why, but when I look at him now, I want to cry. It hurts so much to be near him now that I don't know why. It's a different sort of hurt than when I'm with Sairaorg. I just get so sad, but I can't understand why.' Vali said.
'Then you need to confront him about it. Issei isn't someone who'll judge you superficially. I'm sure he'll be accepting of anything you tell him. However, the way things are now, you two will sour your bond if you keep this up. I've witnessed countless lives, Vali, and I can say without any extra proof that prolonged distance will dissolve any bond. I see how you two are and a bond like yours isn't something that I want to see end.' Albion admitted.
That was kind of rare, since Albion wasn't one for sentimentality.
'You're right.' Vali stood up.
Cleaning herself off, she returned to the hotel and showered before heading into town. She needed to resolve this. While what Issei said to her hurt her more than she could've ever expected, it wasn't as bad as this distance between her and Issei. It hurt her in the way that it scared her the same way that her worst fears did: to lose someone.
She didn't want to lose any of her bonds and Issei was especially important to her, like how Sairaorg was important to her, and Ezagyra, and Rizevim.
Issei fell to his knees.
"Ge-heh! Grrrgggh!" He tried to cover his mouth.
In failure, blood dripped into his hand from his mouth. He gagged in pain as the acid and blood burned his throat. His muscles contracted as he cramped up all over as his body locked up. He restrained his groans of agony as another attack happened. He panted, trying to control his breathing to fight the pain.
He clutched at his heart as it began to beat rapidly, thumping against his ribcage as his lungs seemed to shrink every time he gasped for air. He gurgled on blood as his head was overwhelmed by migraines while sweat rivered down his body.
'Hang in there, Issei!' Rexis exclaimed.
The attacks had lessened in frequency but were more severe now. It was ironic and sadistic. Despite the lower bouts of pain, they were worse every time. After 15 minutes, Issei's body relaxed as the pain started to go away.
Issei looked at the roses and groaned in disappointment. The roses that he'd hoped would help him patch things up, were stained darker with the redness of his blood.
He cleaned himself off before he got on the move again. The last thing he waned was for people to notice the blood on him.
"Issei!"
He jumped as he turned around. Vali caught up to him, panting.
"Found you."
"What's up?" Issei casually asked.
Vali looked at him, brows furrowed in a nervous expression. Issei decided to drop his façade.
"Let's talk somewhere private." He decided.
They decided to go back to the Hotel to talk in Issei's room.
"Let me start." Issei said.
Vali nodded for him to continue.
"I know this'll sound like an excuse, but I'm being honest when I say that what I said that night wasn't intentional. It wasn't what I was really thinking. It just came out because a part of me flared up and I lost control. I don't know if it's pent-up emotions or if it's all Bahamut, but I just got angry when I said all that to you. It was my fault for failing to control myself and Bahamut. I'm sorry. I knew about your past and all that you went through, but I still said words that would hurt you. I took your care and worry for granted and lashed out selfishly. The whole day has made me realize that I don't like this distance between us. I hope you can forgive me." Issei bowed his head.
He wanted to say so much more. For a small second, his mask was about to break. He wanted to tell her everything, from how he felt to the whole truth behind this plot. Yet, if he did, it'd render everything moot. The people around him could die if the Aviturs were left unchecked. Not only that, but he refused to subject the others from seeing him die in front of them.
A quick pause passed between them before Vali spoke.
"I forgive you, Issei. I also hope you'll forgive me. I know I've been cold to you since last night and I apologize for that. It was the result of me losing my grip on things. You aren't like the people who ostracized me and I know things weren't fully in your control. It's just that…I was frustrated. I was getting so tired of all the secrets because I was always afraid that one of those secrets would take you or someone else away. I know it's selfish and I understand that now. That's why, I want to bury the hatchet. Will you forgive me too?" Vali asked.
The two locked gazes for a while. The silence grew as silent emotions and words were exchanged between them. Suddenly, the two snorted before laughing. The answer was obvious already. Did they really have to say more to each other?
"I guess it's a 'yes' for the both of us." Vali giggled.
It was a nice breath of fresh air for the two. Even though it was surprisingly quick with the resolution, neither of them were going to mince words. Neither of them were eager to keep things going. Neither was petty. Neither of them wanted things to get in the way of reconciliation.
"So, we lost a lot of time, how about we go do something?" Vali asked.
"What did you have in mind?" Issei followed.
Looking out at the sun, which had begun to go down, she had an idea.
(Train – Angel in Blue Jeans ~ Instrumental. Play Song.)
"Let's go to the Ferris Wheel. We've only got one more day before we go home and no one's been there yet." Vali suggested.
"Cool. I'll call the others and see if anyone wants to go." Issei nodded.
Surprisingly, everyone wanted to go. Each compartment could only hold up to four people, though.
When it was Issei's turn, Vali walked up to him.
"How about we go next?" She suggested.
"Sure." Issei nodded.
He looked behind him and found that Arthur, Elaine, and Sairaorg were left. He figured that Arthur and Elaine wanted some alone time, so that meant Sairaorg was the odd-man out regardless.
'Hm…I would like to spend some time with Vali, but…don't want Sairaorg feeling left out and third wheeling…'
Deciding to make the sacrifice, he got up to his regular hijinks.
He gripped his stomach before hunching over.
"On second thought, I'm not feeling so good. I'm gonna have to pass. I'll just wait here till things subside." Issei wretched.
Vali looked at him and realized what he was up to. Issei kept making eye-contact with her before looking at Sairaorg.
'Go with him.' He said with his eyes.
Vali blushed. Only a few hours into their reconciliation and he was already back to being wacky Issei. He turned around and walked away to a bench. Taking the initiative, Sairaorg made his decision.
"Why don't you come with us, then?" Elaine suggested before anything could happen.
"Sure." Sairaorg nodded.
When Vali and Sairaorg walked into the Ferris Wheel and sat down, they found that things were going quite slow. Yet, it was enjoyable. The city was beautiful with all the diverse colors and lights shimmering against the dark navy sky. It was truly a spectacle for denizens who saw a swirling purple sky at night. It was like looking at a dark ocean that was speckled with shinning glitter in a pale moon.
"So, have things calmed down between you two?" Sairaorg asked.
"Huh?" Vali looked at him in surprise.
"You two were kinda tense this morning." He noted.
"Oh, you saw that…" Vali nervously chuckled.
"Are you two okay?" Sairaorg asked again.
"Yeah, we're fine now." Vali nodded.
Sairaorg breathed a sigh of relief.
"You seem worried." Vali noted.
'Stupid.' She scolded herself for stating the obvious.
"Yeah, I was. I was worried about you." Sairaorg nodded.
"Nice and smooth." Issei approvingly said from the magical ear mic.
Vali's face turned red when he said that.
"So, who was that girl you were dancing with at the club?" Vali asked.
Sairaorg stammered.
"W-Well, she was just someone interested in a quick score. I told her I wasn't interested."
"That's great!" Vali smiled.
"The excitement." Issei spoke to her through their magic mic.
'I'm going to slap him upside the head. This is so embarrassing.' Vali groaned.
"What about that guy?" Sairaorg asked.
"Oh, he was a random guy. He was hands-off at first but he got too close for comfort. I shooed him away." Vali's face soured.
"I guess we both met the wrong people at that club." Sairaorg chuckled.
"Sure did. I guess it's best that we just dance with people we know, the people we care about." Vali said.
"Yeah." Sairaorg awkwardly said.
"Say, just what kind of person are you interested in?" Sairaorg asked.
"Eh?!" Vali yelped.
That came out of the blue. Issei smirked at the progression as he listened from below. Vali was at a loss for words.
'So many flags, what do I do?!' Vali panicked.
"1. I like the buff type. 2. I like the confident ones. 3. I like the big-brother types." Issei chortled, laughing to himself.
'YOU'RE NOT HELPING!' Vali continued to panic.
"W-Well…" Vali cutely trailed off, curling bits of her hair with her finger.
"I like men who're strong for the people they care about but I want him to also be kind and gentle. I want a man who's caring for the people around them and can trust others as well as allow me to trust him." Vali answered.
"I see." Sairaorg nodded, blushing a bit at the revelation.
"What about you?" Vali asked.
Issei gasped.
'Are they really gonna do it? Is all of my work gonna finally pay off?!'
"I like women who're strong too. I want a woman who's patient, willing to fight for what she believes in, and still care about others. I'm looking for a woman who's devoted and determined and has strong morals." Sairaorg replied.
'This might be the greatest moment of my life.' Issei thought to himself.
With how things were going, it sounded like things were about to hit the critical phase. Vali and Sairaorg stared into each other's eyes. Their hearts were bounding in their ears, the blood rushing through their veins. Their faces heated up as they grew nervous.
"Come on. Say. It." Issei urged through grit teeth.
The suspense was killing him.
"That sounds wonderful, let me know if you find that person." Vali said.
"That sounds wonderful, let me know if you find that person." Sairaorg said.
As if satisfied with that response, both parties calmed down. On Issei's end, however…
"WHAT THE FUCK!" He roared so loud that everyone on the Ferris Wheel heard him. His roar even echoed into the night sky.
Down on the ground, Issei was banging his head on a wall and trees in outrage.
"Why?!" Smack.
"Why?!" Smack.
"Why?!" Smack.
"Must!" Smack.
"Teens!" Smack.
"Be!" Smack.
"So!" Smack.
"Blind!" Smack.
"Why can't people see the signs?!" He wailed. With each word, he banged his head on a tree.
"Mommy, why's that man screaming and smacking his head into the tree?"
"Don't look at him, honey." A mother passing by turned her child away.
"There he goes again." Arthur rubbed his temples in exasperation as he heard Issei's rage from all the way in the Ferris Wheel.
"Sir, could we have you step to the side for a moment?" Two police came over to Issei, who was still banging his head against a tree.
"Issei, what happened?!" Sairaorg asked as everyone got off the Ferris Wheel.
"Read the signs! READ THE SIGNS!" Issei yelled as two police escorted him away.
"Eh, he'll be fine. At worst, he'll get a verbal warning for public disturbance from the cops. They're cool here." Rizevim shrugged.
(Train – Angel in Blue Jeans ~ Instrumental. End Song.)
Since Issei was taken away by the police, everyone knew he would be alright. If anything, Rizevim would just do a memory wipe on them if push came to shove.
After the cops gave Issei a light scolding for making a scene, they let him off since it was a minor thing and the cops were sensible. Azazel even threw him a bone and wiped the memories of the public for the scene he'd caused. In Azazel's words, Issei's outbursts were hilarious.
"THAT'S IT! DESPERATE TIMES CALL FOR DESPERATE MEASURES!" Issei growled to himself.
The only person that would do something for him and not ask questions was Lefay. It was only 9pm, so he knew she was still awake. He marched up to her room, knocking on the door before entering.
"Lefay, I need your help…."
The moment Issei opened the door, he felt the desire to bleach his eyes and brain.
Lefay and Embern looked at him, wide-eyed like him. Lefay's already flushed face turned completely ruby as Embern stammered and froze. Their silent moment was eventually broken as Issei let out the most primal, horrified scream to ever ring across space and time.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" Issei shrieked.
"W-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-W-Wait!" Lefay screamed.
Issei slammed the door behind him as he dropped onto his knees, shuddering in shock in the hallway.
"Issei, what happened?!" Sairaorg came rushing out of his room.
"AH! AH! AHA! AH!" Issei repeatedly pointed at the door to Lefay's room, his mouth still agape as he made noises like a Tusken Raider crossed with a Cave Man.
"YOU WERE THE GOOD ONE!" Issei wailed.
Vali rushed inside. Sairaorg froze as complete silence crept over the area. Vali came walking out like a robot. Her face, on the other hand, was a different story. It was ruby-red with steam hissing from her head. Vali's lips were pursed in shock as she creakily closed the door behind her.
"D-Don't go inside. Everything's fine." She said as everyone gathered outside.
Realization dawned on the adults' faces.
"Oh!" They all made a noise of revelations as they walked away, snickering.
The next morning, Issei had overcome the shock…that was the hope anyway.
"With how he acts, you'd have thought he was the one who birthed Lefay." Kuroka chuckled.
"Well, he's never had anything like a younger sibling. Lefay fulfills that roll so he worries over her." Ezagyra shrugged.
"And he never stops being amusing." Azazel chuckled.
"Shame that today's the last day. I'd have loved for more hilarity from him." Sirzechs smirked.
"Hey, leave him alone." Vali put her hands on her hips, scolding the others.
Issei was currently talking to Lefay at a table.
"Now, while I am very shocked and surprised at your conduct, I realize that you're old enough to make your own conscious decisions. I cannot stop you, but only warn you of the consequences." Issei held himself together, almost tripping over his words numerous times, while using his dad voice.
Lefay and Embern were completely mortified that others had walked in on their activities. They couldn't look anybody in the eye after last night.
"I realize that passion often happens on these sorts of trips. I was confronted by the police for my own passions. However, you should realize that there's an order to things." Issei held up a finger.
And for an hour, he lectured the young couple.
"Issei, are you sure you don't have children?" Ileana asked.
"You sound like a father who walked in on his daughter who-" Rintilr was cut off as Ileana covered his mouth with her hand.
"Let's just forget that this ever happened." Issei said, having calmed down.
"They grow up so fast." Rizevim said.
"They're smiling like children one moment and acting like adults the next." Ezagyra balked.
"Man, Issei's seriously gone cuckoo ever since he got his Balance Breaker." Rias whispered to Vali.
"Really? I guess so, but…I think he's awesome the way he is, no matter what." Vali smiled.
"He'd be suspended a dozen times over for all the racket he's made if he was still at school." Sona adjusted her glasses.
"Yeah, but that's the Issei we all know and love. Wacky and spontaneous but sincere and loving on the inside." Vali shrugged.
Since it was the final day, Issei wanted one final status report on things before they all went home.
"So, how do you think things are coming along?" Issei asked Sairaorg.
The two sat at the pier, staring into the horizon.
"I think things are going great for me. I know what Vali's looking for in a man and I think I know how I feel now. I just want some last confirmation before I make the final move." Sairaorg nodded.
"That's good." Issei took a reassured sip of his drink.
It was killing him to congratulate Sairaorg, as it meant that one chapter of agony was going to be followed by another chapter of suffering. Even so, he'd wear this mask as long as he could till he went to his grave.
"Thank you for everything, Issei." Sairaorg said.
"It's my honor."
After that, Issei went to go see Vali, who was walking at the boardwalk. Sneaking up behind her, he roared.
"BLAGH!"
"AH!" Vali shrieked.
"Ahahahahaha!" Issei laughed.
That earned him a chop in the head.
"Sorry." Issei said, flat-toned.
"I have half a mind to scold you to death." Vali huffed, red-faced from embarrassment.
"Ahem, so how goes things with Sairaorg?" Issei asked.
He still had much more planned for the two. Since it was clear that Sairaorg no longer needed him, Issei was going to focus on Vali. Goodness, he seriously had his work cut out for him.
"Smooth. I know what kind of woman he wants in his life now, but…" Vali fumbled with the locks of her hair, coiling some with her finger.
"I'm not sure of what to do just yet…I feel kind of…lost." Vali admitted nervously.
"Well, don't worry Big Brother Issei is here to help. So, once we get back, we'll get to work. We didn't fulfill the goal of figuring things out by the end of vacation but that's okay. So long as we get things done within the next 2 weeks, we're gold." Issei said.
"Why 2 weeks?" Vali asked.
"Because if we take too long, he'll get suspicious." Issei said as he walked ahead.
"Say, Issei…" Vali called out.
"Hm?"
"What sort of woman are you looking to marry?" Vali asked.
(Rurouni Kenshin OST – Departure. Play Song.)
Issei chuckled. A part of him knew she would be curious forever if he didn't give her a sufficient answer. Once again, he had to lie. It was so normal for him now, that he often wondered what he was turning himself into.
"That's a secret. I've met her in the past but I knew it wouldn't work out, so I let her go. She was a student at Kuoh before it got blown up a the Peace Talks. Honestly, I don't know where she is anymore."
"Just like that? No muss, no fuss? You just gave her up?" Vali asked.
"Yep. I thought about it when I realized that we weren't going to be a thing. It was when I thought back to our days at Kuoh, that I realized the groundwork would be doomed from the start." Issei shrugged.
"Why?"
"She was from a different world. She had siblings, a stable happy life, plenty of admirers, and was too perfect of a woman for me. Most of all, I had to leave anyways. You know, Kokabiel and all that stuff. I wasn't going to endanger her for my satisfaction or happiness." Issei made a sad smile.
"And was she single?" Vali asked.
"Yeah, surprisingly, but there was someone who liked her. I wasn't going to screw the guy over. They were talking long before I'd even met her." Issei shook his head.
"Did you know him?" Vali asked.
"Not the most, but he was a great guy. You'd love him." Issei looked at her confidently.
"And yet, you count yourself short. Why not go to her and make your feelings clear?" Vali asked.
"No. In another life, maybe I will confess if we ever meet again. But, in this life, I'll stay a bachelor. I can't say I'm suited for romance and love." Issei vehemently denied the idea.
"Sounds to me like she lost an opportunity of a lifetime." Vali said.
"Maybe not. I mean, think about it."
Issei turned around.
"Vali, how would you feel if the man you loved was with you for half a year or a full year and then just disappeared? What if people said he was dead?"
That was the question that he was terrified of asking but he wanted to confirm everything.
Vali froze as she imagined how her life would be and how she'd react.
"How close is he to me, in this scenario?" Vali asked.
"Closer to you than how me and Sairaorg are now." Issei replied.
Vali's eyes widened as she tried to imagine it all. She fell silent before giving a quiet answer.
"It'd destroy me…If I were to love that person as much as you depict it…I don't think I'd make it." Vali said.
"Exactly. That's why I chose not to pursue her. When you think about our life, it's already impossible. You don't know when you'll die or when your life will be turned upside down. That's why it was for the best that I let her go. I couldn't do that to her." Issei shook his head.
"What was her name?" Vali asked.
Issei lied on the spot. He made up the name and story, trying to make it as real as possible without screwing himself over.
"Claira Beaufort. She was a transfer student who's family was from France."
Vali didn't have the list of names of the student body committed to memory, but she figured that when Issei told stories like this, he wasn't lying. The whole tale about his parents had been true, after all.
"If I ever died, then I don't want to imagine what would happen to her. That's why I restrained myself and kept myself away. I wanted to spare her the suffering of losing me."
"But how come you didn't interact with her? I never met her at school." Vali asked.
"That's because soon after I met you, the Fallen Angels attacked. I immediately cut off all connection with her and before all that happened, we didn't interact as heavily. Whenever we weren't near each other, I was trying to be with her."
Lie upon lie, they just kept building. Issei didn't care, however. It wasn't going to matter soon.
Vali fell silent as she digested all Issei said. She then walked forward and held his hand.
"Then no matter what, I promise I'll help you with whichever woman snatches your heart when you find her." Vali decreed.
Issei smiled gratefully.
'You can't help me if you already snatched my heart.' He retorted in his mind.
"Thank you, Vali. If that chance ever arises, I'll tell you." Issei nodded.
"Good. It's not a happy ending if you don't get to be happy either." Vali smiled cheerfully.
'That girl may have lost her chance to be with a wonderful man like you, but I'll definitely help you find the right one. If anyone deserves a happy ending, it's gotta be you.' Vali swore.
It had been risky. Issei decided to satisfy Vali's suspicion with a story that was so close to the truth, that he was terrified of destroying everything. He wondered why he came so close to telling the truth. Why didn't he make a more obscure story? Why was it so similar to their own circumstance? Was his resolve cracking? Was all this pain and stress finally breaking away the mask he'd made?
Even with all that knowledge, he knew that one slip-up was enough to cause a landslide of that he'd built up could've been lost with one tiny revelation. If Vali ever found out he loved her, he knew that everything would change between them in a much more extreme way than normal. After all, Issei knew a truth that he prayed Vali would never know.
It was a truth he had known for a long time now. Ever since the dreams of Bahamut and the past came to him, he slowly learned of it. The day Vali used her songs to calm him, he understood why things were the way they were. Vali's story went as far back as his and it helped him understand how they came to know each other in this life. It was all a part of the sick game known as fate.
What was that truth?
Issei and Vali were star-crossed lovers.
(Rurouni Kenshin OST – Departure. End Song.)
How was the later part of the chapter? I hope it hurt, since that was the aim of it. If it's the feels, I'll milk it till tears come out.
But that aside, I want to make it known that this arc isn't done, not for a while longer. I did some thinking and came up with some more ideas that I think are necessary. That, I'll be doing call-backs and call-forwards too, so keep an eye out.
Now, I'll stop myself before I give away too much. I've also gotta get to planning out how to handle my FFXV story too. When I found out about the Novel that Square Enix made to conclude FFXV, I was honestly in trouble. That was because the ending I was thinking of, was released, so…yeah… But, made up a new ending but still working it out.
Also arguing with myself about what to do with the shipping for my Fire Emblem Awakening story too.
Anyways, time stop my rambling.
I hope you enjoyed the chapter and felt many feels and I'll see you next time.
