I decided to save my response to CasualReader775 for this chapter.

To be honest, I don't think I'm much of a person for giving advice, but I'll give the best I can. I'm not a great writer, but I don't think I'm terrible, either. As I've matured on this site and improved my writing, these were some things I'd learned.

1. You should never assume that your writing and plot is unpredictable or be. You can always try your best to make things unpredictable within reason, but that's all you can do. Never believe others can't predict what's going to happen next because that sort of mindset will start to lead to a bigger ego, even if you aren't aware of it. You'll also pigeon-hole yourself by putting in an "unexpected" twist but lock yourself into it when you need to make something that makes more sense happen later in the story. At the end of the day, just do your best. Also, be humble about yourself and towards others. Own up to the things that you did. Nobody likes an egotistical jerk. Especially ones who pretend or think that they know more than others. It's alright if you know more, but trying to prove and act like it just proves you're a douche. Don't be like that.

2. To find flaws in your writing is a simple process, as is my case. Simply go back and read old parts of your story or old stories. Keep these things in mind: What makes you cringe? What parts did you not like? What parts of the story did you feel didn't make sense? What parts were unnecessary? What parts give you a feeling that makes you think that "this part wasn't good" or "I don't like this part" and "Why did I write this part?" Those thoughts will help you realize some things that you did wrong. It's a trick I use when I go back and read my stories to find flaws. I can't tell you how many times it's happened to me. Sometimes I'd like to go back and ask myself what I was thinking.

After you do that, think along the line of opposites. What makes more sense? Does it seem more natural and less force if I do this? How can I improve this so that I don't feel so negative about this part?

3. Listen to what other people say in the reviews, no matter good or bad. If someone says something is bad and gives no examples or details as to why they said it, then ignore it. There ARE people out there who do that just to make you feel bad about yourself. Haters are gonna hate so they can feel better and pretend on their high horse.

However, if someone points out flaws and explains why, even if it's harsh and aggressive, then you NEED to pay attention. It doesn't matter if they're tone is aggressive and strong or harsh if the feedback they give you actually makes sense and they actually refer to a part in your story. It can hurt and put you down, but that's what'll help you grow, even though it may not be done the way you want them to. You can find a ton of other content creators and storytellers and they'll say the same thing. Your supporters will keep you motivated. Your detailed critics will help you grow.

4. Know where you want to go and what you want. You want to know how far your vision goes and how things'll end for your story. It'll keep you from losing your way and it'll stop you from getting distracted with adding new story events and all that stuff. Once you've done that, stay focused. If you get distracted by something else, you simply lose your enthusiasm and energy for your story and the creativity and "improved" writing that can touch reader's hearts and minds.

It's great to experiment and try new ideas but don't do it if it's completely far and away from your story's plot. For example, don't put Pokemon or other anime/game/manga characters in a High School DxD story out of the blue unless you're writing a parody story or you have actual story background.

One story that does it beautifully is a Highschool DxD story called "A Devil Among Devils". Sure, the story is basically "The Devil is a Part-Timer" that mixes and matches details and character origins, but the quality and the way the background of the story is set up makes it a very fun story. So, if you're just gonna do something similar for the heck of it because you got carried away, then I seriously recommend not doing it. Freedom is great but too much leads to disaster/chaos.

5. Try to put yourself in a generalized mindset and perspective of an anonymous reader. It'll help with trying to set up the emotion of a scene or the type of feeling a character or plot point can bring. It can also help you get away from a biased view. Your worst enemy, at the end of the day, is yourself in however many ways that can happen. This sort of thing has helped me scrap a lot of trash ideas.

6. Ask yourself a lot of questions. I often ask myself "what'll make the readers feel for the characters?", "what can I do within reason that'll really make this scene feel the way I want it to feel?", "What sort of dialogue and events can I call back to or plan that'll really make this scene maximize the emotions felt and connect the dots?" "What words can I use to really characterize how this scene or character feels?"

Your characters are the key to EVERYTHING! They move your plot along. They compel your readers. They serve as your voice from the story that will speak to your readers. Treat them with care and effort and they will reward you with a compelling story if done properly. Even if it's just one or two characters, it makes a big difference.

So, that's my general advice to aspiring writers on this site. I don't think I can measure up to any real writers and authors out there, but I at least have some things that I can share from my experiences.

And yeah, this chapter is REALLY long but it just didn't feel right splitting it apart.


Chapter 50: Don't Forget

Issei's Lifespan: 8 months

It was now September 17th 20XX. As of this time, Issei was hunting the Wind Avitur. It had been the most recent to show any signs of activity. The search wasn't going well, with reports, articles, and information being non-helpful to him. He had to speed things up with some mystical help.

Returning to England, Issei paid a visit to Merlin inside his crystal cave.

"So, what is the purpose of this visit?" Merlin asked as he poured Issei tea.

"You know why." Issei sipped it.

Still as bittersweet as it used to be.

"I take it your hunt is going well?" Merlin asked.

"Kind of. I've already terminated 3 of them. I have 4 left before I run out of time." Issei said.

"Aren't you going to look for a cure to your situation?" Merlin asked.

"Time isn't on my side. If I go looking for a remedy, I risk wasting the time I've got left and the other Aviturs will remain. I need to catch them off-guard or kill them before they have time to recover all their strength. Just one day is going to make a difference." Issei shook his head.

"You know, you could live happily for a long while if you did go looking for that remedy." Merlin pointed out.

"It won't work. If there was a cure for my condition and a way to make everything work out, I wouldn't have died and reincarnated so many times already." Issei said.

"True. But what about your friends? Surely they'll notice." Merlin said.

"I always knew they'd notice. I would've been surprised if they didn't. They're not dumb. They'd have realized eventually if they haven't already. I wanted them to gain something and I wanted to do something for them. I wanted to do something worthwhile in this life." Issei quietly said.

"What about all the lies you've told them? About returning for visits." Merlin inquired.

"Tell me, when you make up a lie and put on a whole scheme, what do you do to keep it all going?" Issei asked.

"You lie." Merlin nodded, answering for him.

(Fate/Prototype OST – Knight of Sky Silver ~ Strings Version. Play Song.)

(A/N: WE WERE ROBBED OF A REALLY COOL ANIME! No hate towards Ilya's stuff but COME ON!)

"Indeed. It's a bit jarring but turns out I've become quite a consummate liar. I had a plan that I didn't want falling apart before it could complete itself. I wanted them to be able to resolve their life issues. I wanted them to smile and gain some closure and happiness in their lives. Even if they'd have eventually done it, I wanted to ensure it. Some of them needed that push. I lied because I didn't want them to suspect anything too soon. If anything, I'd rather be dead and gone after I've dealt with all the Aviturs before they find anything out. That's the desired outcome. They won't be blind to what I've done forever, but before they do, I want my plan to be finished." Issei said.

"It'll tear them apart when they find out." Merlin said.

"But they'll be alive. They'll move on, Merlin. That's the thing about modern people in this day and age. They feel guilty for moving on. Or, they feel pressured by others. To Hell with those people, the people who like to get on moral high-horses but don't have the tenacity to back up what they say themselves. Life is about experiencing things and moving on after learning. You and I both know that. When we both disappeared, or died in my case, people moved on. The pain went away and they emerged either stronger, or accepted what happened and still managed to make something of their lives. They're still young and have years ahead of themselves. They'll be fine without me." Issei said as he stared out at the big blue sky, a sky that he hoped would never be dyed red with blood and flames ever again.

"Do you really believe that?" Merlin asked.

"Yes. I've checked up on people that once knew me. They're all doing fine. The Jade Emperor and Empress are doing fine. Sun Wukong is doing fine. At the time, I didn't realize it, but they were important to me when I was Jian Long. Even you, included. The fact that you can smile again says a lot." Issei chuckled lightly.

"It wasn't easy but…when I look around and see that people can indeed change…it gives me hope again." Merlin guiltily said.

"And that's just fine. That's why I'm fighting. One day, there'll come a time when I won't need to be around anymore. I won't have to reincarnate and fight anymore. That'll be the day gods, demons, beasts, humans, and the people on this world will be able to cast aside their pride, arrogance, greed, ignorance, and fear and just live. To be able to enjoy life and see the wonders that it offers, not just the grief, is something I want others to see." Issei said.

"But what about Vali?" Merlin asked.

"What about her?" Issei asked.

"Don't play coy with me, Issei. I have FarSight and know what a lot of others don't. Vali is Aria, isn't she?" Merlin asked.

Issei sighed.

"Yes, Vali is Aria. She's the 2500th incarnation." Issei admitted.

"Wait…2,500th?" Merlin paused.

"I've died a lot more than she has. That's why our numbers don't match up." Issei said.

Merlin understood that pain all too well.

"I don't want her to love me out of some forsaken duty or by dictation commanded by fate. I wanted her to love by her own volition. I didn't want her love to come from a self-imposed memory that should've expired with the past. For her to love me because of it coming from the past feels hollow if it isn't love that was born and nurtured in this life." Issei added.

"So, you want her to fall in love with you for you and as her own current self?" Merlin asked.

"Yes." Issei nodded.

"I understand. And have you ever fallen in love with each other in a past life aside from your first ones?" Merlin asked.

"Not once. A crush, maybe, but never complete love. I always died before that." Issei said.

Merlin could only keep his silence. That pain must've been excruciating to remember over and over for 7,500 lifetimes.

"And no spouses?" Merlin asked.

"Only one…but it wasn't meant to be." Issei set his cup down as Merlin refilled it.

"I see."

"What about you? When'll you leave this cave?" Issei asked.

"Quite soon, really. Thanks to mishaps with magic and the powers that be, I'm stuck like this. I can't age and can't die, so…I guess I didn't want to experience the same thing you have. I still failed though." Merlin sighed.

"I guess neither of us can catch a break." Issei smirked.

"Issei, you really should reconsider things." Merlin said.

"There's nothing to reconsider. I've made my bed; it's time to sleep in it. If there had been a way, I'd have done it. Yet, here I am again. Over and over, I'll be doing this." Issei said.

"I know of a special fruit." Merlin shook his head.

"A fruit?" Issei raised a skeptical brow.

"Yes. It's a healing fruit. It can probably save your life." Merlin said.

He didn't want for Issei's input. Rolling out a map, he pointed at one spot.

"This is where you'll be able to find it. I won't send you on a goose chase, so I'll provide you with the key to get there. All you gotta do is beat the challenges and the fruit is yours." Merlin said.

"Merlin-" Issei sighed.

"Please, Galahad, no, Issei…I don't want another friend to die needlessly all over again. I've lost Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, Guinevere, and Nimue won't even talk to me anymore. For once, I'd like it if one of us found a happy ending." Merlin pushed the map into Issei's hands.

Issei was silent, staring at the map.

"Thanks." He conceded.

Merlin made a content sigh.

"So, how's the Once and Future King?" He asked.

"Still got a soft spot for the kid you found?" Issei chuckled.

"Well, I'd never raised a person before him, so I guess."

"Arthur's doing well. He's engaged now. Any day now, I'm sure he's going to announce that he and his fiancée are expecting." Issei said.

"Good. It's funny, isn't it? Reincarnation." Merlin said.

"I'm not exactly a fan of it." Issei said.

"But it's so important. It's also a way to make it so that things don't repeat and so they can end up better than before. I mean, take a look at Mordred and Guinevere. The original Mordred was hateful, envious, and petty. The original Guinevere was unreasonable with how she treated Arthur. But now, I'd say they'll be better than their originals could ever be." Merlin said before looking at Issei.

"Issei, you shouldn't let fate keep dictating you." Merlin said.

"I'm not. This is something I've chosen. If I'd wanted, I could've sought out methods of immortality. Yet, those methods won't work or time worked against me. Life hasn't dealt me the best of hands, but I'll play it out the way I want it to. People seem to think that fate is something that you can fight, but they're wrong." Issei said before giving a determined look.

"You can only persuade fate. At the end of the day, everything will still go according to fate's plan. All you do is change the path and reroute yourself to another road that fate has pre-planned for you. If you've studied multi-verse theory, then that much is obvious." Issei said.

"Issei, are you scared of hope?" Merlin asked.

"I'm not scared of hope. I always have hope. I'm just trying to make sure I do the best with what I've got, as we all do. I'm in no mood to waste time on something that might not work when I can be spending that time doing something else." Issei replied.

After a long time, Merlin relented.

"Fine…fine…You'll be able to find the Wind Avitur in Africa." Merlin said.

"Thank you." Issei immediately stood up, preparing to leave.

"Take this with you." Merlin handed him a rolled-up map.

"What's this?" Issei asked.

"It's a map that'll guide you to the fruit that could save you, if you choose to go after it." Merlin explained.

Issei thanked him before leaving, perhaps having seen Merlin for the last time in this life.

(Fate/Prototype OST – Knight of Sky Silver ~ Strings Version. End Song.)


When Issei arrived in the Africa, he'd detected unnatural wind speeds happening, though they were dropping by the hour. Sandstorms were happening left and right as towns were decimated and damages climbed. He was left to flying around and looking for the largest concentrations.

"Think it's him?" Rexis wondered.

"I know it is. It's not time of year for these kinds of storms and the speed of those winds are too high to be natural. It's the Wind Avitur." Issei said.

"We should hurry, then. Closest location of clues is a nearby city."

Issei set his course before he noticed that a terrible smell was reaching his ship from the distance. A few sniffs and he recognized the smell to be smoke.

Setting down in the outskirts of the city, Issei was stunned. The city had been heavily damaged by the winds of the Wind Avitur. Buildings were crudely ripped apart, debris was everywhere, and flames were fanned into small blazes. The waters used by the citizens weren't enough to fight the hungry flames as the residual gusts kept spreading the inferno.

Using some Abyssal Energy, Issei cast a rain spell over the city, extinguishing the fires with a strong but gentle downpour.

When everything died down, he extinguished the spell, entering the city. Nobody seemed to care nor notice him, as they were trying to fix up the damages done to this place.

'So, how're we gonna get clues?' Issei wondered.

His mind focused on trying to find out where the Avitur had gone or what to do, and yet…Issei couldn't ignore what was happening around him. It reminded him so much of the Calamity Persecution, where the First Galaxy ended and the events that led up to it. People running around trying to find ways to escape with destroyed homes and flames and blood were common in those days. It unsettled him and brought back numerous painful memories that he'd tried to bury.

"Help!"

It was distant, but Issei heard it. It was almost silent, like the sound of a dropping pebble.

"Help me!" The small echo went again.

Issei rushed off. He pushed his way past rubble, jumped over piles, and slid through the crowd before reaching the source of the sound. A collapsed house with a completely caved ground floor.

"Somebody help us!"

Issei swiped the rubble on top away as he lifted and pushed off debris. With subtle shows of strength, Issei managed to clear everything away solo. When he looked at the hole in the ground, he found two young children, a boy and a girl. The older one, the girl held her little brother protectively as Issei brushed away the crumbled rock.

"Just stay still, alright. I'm gonna get you out." He hollered down.

Crafting a cable from his gauntlets before unequipping them again, Issei fed the rope down.

"Okay, both of you, grab on and don't let go." Issei directed them.

The two siblings held onto the cable and each other as Issei pulled them back up. When they were back on the ground, he made sure the two were okay. Thankfully, they only had slight bruises and nothing worse. He dusted them off and took out some bandages from his enchanted bag. He wrapped them around their bruises and cuts before speaking.

"Where're your mommy and daddy?" Issei asked in perfect African thanks to his memory from a past life.

"We don't know. Our mommy and daddy hid us under the house, but they never came down." The older sister, who looked no older than 10, responded.

"What do they look like?" Issei asked as he turned to look for pictures.

"That's them." The little boy, who looked around 8, pointed at a picture.

The mother wore a green dress but her hazel eyes were significantly noticeable. It would be a bit of a struggle to find them, but Issei wasn't going to deter. The father wore a blue shirt and grey pants and had brown eyes with short black hair.

"What're their names?" Issei asked.

"My mama's name is Afua and my papa's name is Uday." The little girl answered.

She and her brother looked like they were on the brink of tears. Issei's heart went out to them. They were barely at the start of beginning to grow up and this tragedy happened. Issei wouldn't stand for this. He didn't want more lonely people in the world.

"Come on. Let's go find your mama and papa." Issei gently held their hands.

Normally, any child would not just go along with a stranger. However, these two children were terrified, vulnerable. Issei reckoned their main instinct was to find their parents.

They spent an hour calling out for the two parents. They slowly braved through the crowds that were rushing back and forth in an attempt to find their own loved ones.

"Papa!"

"Mama!"

The two children called out for the two lost people. As time went on, Issei could sense the despair and panic setting in their little hearts. It hurt to see them like this. They were only children. They shouldn't have to go through this.

"Akua! Taavi!" Two voices came calling.

The two children went running forward, hearing the call of their parents.

"Mama! Papa!" They sped up, causing Issei to let them go as they ran to their parents.

The two people from the photo lunged for their children, wrapping them in tight embraces.

"Oh, thank god, you two are okay." The mother gasped as she held her son close.

"Thank you…thank you…" The father breathed a sigh of relief.

Issei took a breath of relief as he watched. Quietly, he turned around and blended into the crowd. He had more people to help.

"Where did you go? How did you get out?" The childrens' father, Uday, asked.

"A man showed up. He pushed all the rocks away and pulled us out." The little girl, Akua said.

"He took us to go looking for you." The little boy, Taavi added.

"Was it that man that walked away? The Asian one?" Uday asked.

"Yeah. He asked us what your names were and what you looked like." Akua nodded.

"Thank you…thank you for sending him." Afua looked to the sky.

Issei ran faster into the crowd, listening for any cries of distress.


(Doctor Who OST – 11th Doctor Theme/I Am The Doctor. Play Song.)

"We need help! It's sinking!" Someone yelled.

Issei dashed over to a car that was about to teeter off into a river.

"Please, there's a baby in there!" Someone gasped.

Issei rushed to help a crowd of help gathered at the river.

"Hold on! You all pull while I push!" Issei said.

Lifting the bottom of the sinking car, he pushed the car as passersby pulled. When it was far enough out of the water, Issei ripped the door open, revealing a woman with a crying infant. Gently lifting the infant out of the car and to a nearby stranger, he helped the mother out.

"Thank you!" She said as Issei took off.

All of this danger was pushing it further into his mind that this sort of thing was happening all over the place.

Issei ran across the city, trying to help anyone he came across. As he ran through the area, Issei noticed that a fire was devouring a building. It was likely caused by a gas explosion.

"We need more water!" Someone called out.

Issei grabbed a blanket and soaked it in water as he rushed into the building. He could hear screams of desperation and panic from inside as he removed burning rubble. Helping a stranded person get out from under a beam, Issei directed them out before running up the stairs. He peered into every room, looking for anyone who was left behind.

Suddenly, Issei's blood went cold as he heard the crying screams of an infant. He ran even faster, following the source of the sound. He punched his way past a crumbled door and found a child screaming and crying as the fires grew closer.

"My god!" Issei gasped.

He grabbed the baby and wrapped her in the cool blanket he had. He knew the infant had inhaled smoke already, so using magic, he cast a healing spell to help the baby survive. With such chaos, no one would notice his use of magic. Rushing out the door, he gently handed the baby to a fire fighter before rushing back in.

"Is anyone still in here?!" Issei yelled at the top of his lungs.

"Help me! I'm on the second floor!"

Issei ran back inside.

Issei blasted water magic wherever he could, quenching the blazing inferno when no one saw. Inside a collapsing room was a woman with a fallen beam pinning her legs and arms. Lifting them off, Issei carried the elderly woman out of the building, subtly healing her wounds while doing so with discreet magic.

Again and again, Issei dove back into the blazes. He would use water magic to extinguish whatever he could without risking his identity while carrying people out. Finally, after working himself to the bone, he got everyone out as the building teetered toward collapse.

"Thank you." One fire fighter nodded at him before Issei ran off.

"Hey, wait!" Someone said, but Issei didn't stop.

He kept running into burning buildings, got people out. Helped tip cars back over. Helped give medical attention. Helped remove rubble and debris. Helped find missing friends and family. Issei did all this without pause nor did he wait for any thanks. Honestly, Issei wasn't even sure if he was thinking. His body just did as his heart told him to. It told him to help people.

(Doctor Who OST – 11th Doctor Theme/I Am The Doctor. End Song.)


When everything was said and done and Issei did all that he could, night had fallen. After one final sweep, Issei concluded that many deaths had been avoided. However, that didn't prevent the sight in front of him.

Countless people were in tears. They'd lost their homes. Some had lost friends and family. Others were still in shock at the unbelievable destruction that had occurred. Others had no idea what to feel.

It bothered Issei gravely to see all of this. It struck at his sympathy. None of these people had asked for any of this. All this death and destruction…And for what? What reason was there for all this chaos?

Parents lost children, children lost parents…all because some rabid beasts desired to rampage.

"I warned them that this would one day happen. This city and its greed would incur the wrath of the winds." Someone said.

Issei paused.

That sounded far to real to be superstition. Issei turned to see an elderly man walking with a cane.

"Excuse me, Sir, but what did you mean by that?" Issei asked, walking closer.

He didn't look impoverished, but he certainly looked far from wealthy.

"This city, full of greed and apathy was doomed when it was built. When greed and apathy grow too much, the winds from the divine come and punish us." The Old Man said.

When Issei thought about it, this elderly man had a story that was connected to the Aviturs. He had to.

"Sir, is there a story behind this? Legends, traditions, more that you can tell me?" Issei asked.

The Old Man looked at him. He must've thought Issei was pulling his leg or was suspicious, but he relented. The Old Man nodded.

"This way."


The Old Man led Issei down a long road that was significantly a ways away from the city. This old man must've had a very good reason for coming to this city if he traveled this far. Eventually, they arrived at a small village. It looked quite damaged, with similar destruction that had been done to the city.

"What happened here?" Issei asked.

"When the winds of punishment come, we also pay the price. This village has existed long before that city. We tried to adhere to being selfless and tried to cast away greed so that we would be spared. But…it was for naught. Yesterday, many of our villagers were killed by the storms that came. Even my son, the village chief is dying from his wounds. As Elder, I went to the city to look for medicine but when I arrived, they too were in ruins. I could not get anything. I fear my son and many of our people will die." The Village Elder said.

"Can you tell me more about the Winds of Punishment?" Issei asked.

"Why?" The Elder turned towards him.

"I may have a way to ensure that this doesn't happen again." Issei said seriously.

"Every few years, we don't know when exactly, but a strong storm of wind comes. It comes like a hurricane and tears our lands apart when our greed and the darkness in our hearts grows too strong. And then, just as quickly as it arrived, the storm goes away and we are reduced in numbers and resources. Thus, we try to live as well as possible and try to be of good heart so that these winds do not come here and take away what little we have." The Elder said.

"I see."

"Babu! Father is getting worse!" A small child came running over.

The Elder wasted not time to rush to where the child came from. Issei decided to follow. Watching from afar, Issei saw numerous villagers gathering around the bed of a young man. Issei saw that he was wrapped in bandages, with herbs and medicine applied to his bloody wounds. He was riddled with bruises and lacerations, some of them looking infected.

'Can you sense it?' Rexis asked, mentally.

'Yeah. That man's wounds have been cursed with the Void. Think we can heal him?' Issei asked.

'Perhaps, but the chances are slim. That man has been cursed with your predicament. His body is trying to heal but the Void's energies are siphoning his life force as well as deteriorating his body. I'll be he's not the only one.' Rexis sighed.

Issei cursed. There had to be a way to deal with this.

"Papa!" Some of the children cried, desperately holding onto the hand of their dying father.

'That man won't live for much longer. Even if his wounds were to recover…he'd only have a few days from the stress of it all. A human body is fragile, even worse if they're ordinary.'

'What the hell should I do?' Issei asked himself.

Just then, someone entered the room. It was a young woman, a doctor with tanned skin and auburn hair. She had the traditional white coat but that wasn't what stood out to him. She was pregnant and clearly, she was going to deliver soon, considering the size of her belly.

At that point, it was no longer a question of what he should do. Now, it was a question of what he needed to find and where to go and how long he had. He connected the dots.

He saw the dying young man who was the village chief, a pregnant wife who was also the village doctor, and several children crying for their father. No way in hell was he letting this end on a sad note.

"My daughter, can you save him? You're the only doctor here. Please!" The Elder begged.

The doctor who was the daughter-in-law of the Elder, only tearfully shook her head.

"I can't save him. I can't save the others either. Not even with more equipment and medicine…I don't know what to do. I'm so sorry." The doctor quietly said.

All at once, gasps and sounds of despair and sorrow spread across the village.

The Doctor immediately walked out the house for some solitude. Issei followed her, wanting to know more.

This was bothering Issei now. He couldn't let this slide. Perhaps it was just that nosy part of himself, but Issei didn't want this to happen. Even if these people were strangers, that part of himself that cherished life and the remaining sanity of Bahamut hated this. To be unable to help people when they truly needed it. To stand on the sidelines and have the power to influence one's own fate while others couldn't…it was just wrong.

It left a sharp pain in Issei's sympathy and empathy to know all this and do nothing.

"Excuse me…" He quietly said.

"Let me guess, a tourist? Reporter?" The Doctor scoffed.

"No, I'm just a traveler. I want to help, so I wanted to ask you questions." Issei stated.

"That's what a lot of people say before they exploit you for money." The Doctor turned away.

"I swear I'm not like that. I just want to know more about what happened so I can help." Issei tried to face her.

"Look, I know you don't trust me, and you don't have to like me, but I mean it when I say I just want to help. You're a doctor in Africa, where there's not much influence and money to gain. Might it occur to you that there're other people who just want to help just like you do?" Issei asked.

He expected the Doctor to get mad at him, but instead, she stayed silent. Finally, she sighed and nodded.

"Fine. What do you want to know?" She asked.

"What's your husband's condition?"

"He has multiple fractures, contusions, and lacerations across his body. His white blood cell count keeps creeping up and is showing signs of going into Evans Syndrome. There's a foreign agent in his body and his white blood cells are attacking it but they end up attacking his body instead, doing more harm than good. His blood cell count is also dropping and he's failing to produce more blood, despite IV aid. He's just shutting down and his body's tearing itself apart." The Doctor summarized.

She flinched whenever she explained every injury. It was a given since that man was her husband.

"I see. How long can you keep him going?" Issei asked.

"With some more equipment and blood packets, I can keep him going for another day or two… My husband won't die so easily." The Doctor said.

When he heard that, Issei walked away to the outskirts of the village, remote piloting the Vestige to him as he discreetly brought medicine, bandages, and other medical equipment to the village. Despite it all being meant for his recovery after each fight with the Aviturs, Issei decide that these people needed it more than he did.

"Got it. Try to do what you can. I have enough equipment and medicine to help. While I go looking for the cure to your husband and the other villagers, I'll entrust you to use this as best as you can." Issei said before he immediately turned to leave.

"Wait! You don't even know us! How come you're just giving all this away? How'd you even get it?!" The Doctor tried to follow.

"It's exactly as I said. I'm just a guy who wants to help. I see that you have people to help you, so I'll leave you to it." Issei then rushed off.

"What's your name?" The Doctor asked.

"Issei Hyoudou." He answered.

"I see. I'm Doctor Hannah Multigan."


Time was once again his worst enemy. That man and several others only had a day or two before they died. He had to hurry. If Merlin was correct, then the fruit that he wanted Issei to find had the power to save these people. Unlike him, the villagers weren't being hit fully with the power of a Primordial Force. Not only that, but even if he saved his own lifespan, he'd end up tearing it apart again somehow, someway.

Heading out to where the map directed him, Issei headed for the ruins of Camelot.

It was a bit nostalgic for him, as if he were going home. Venturing into a forest that was blanketed with concealing magic, Issei went into the lands that once belonged to Camelot.

The Forest was abundant with magic energy, reaching an incredible level. Even after all these centuries, the magic that veiled Camelot's lands were still up to par.

He walked inside and found that fog was blocking his eyesight, leaving him unable to see into the distance. True to his suspicions, there were no signs of life. No animals, insects, or spirits remained here. The magic that once made this a happy place was long gone, replaced by a haunting desolation. The fog would've gotten anyone lost but thanks to the map that Merlin gave him, Issei was able to safely navigate his way around the forest. Even so, Issei almost felt like he didn't need it. It was like walking up the steps to your house for Issei. He could tell where the road he was on went and where to turn. Not even war and the end of Camelot could've changed that.

Finally, he found himself standing in front of a ruined castle.

It was utterly massive. White marble stone walls with multiple levels within, were broken down and shattered.

He walked through the broken gateway and traveled up the abandoned stone roads. The remains of old homes were still standing, though they had been ravaged by time.


Entering the castle that stood at the highest point of the land, he pushed the once-pristine doors open and ventured deeper inside. Old flags, skeletons, and destroyed weapons were scattered across the ground.

Entering the Throne Room of the Castle, Issei was amazed. What was still standing here after all this time, despite the Battle of Camlann and the fall of King Arthur, was the Round Table. Issei walked around it, tracing it with his finger.

How long had it been since he'd last been in the presence of this table? How long had it been since he'd sat here? It was kind of sad to be here and not the others, of course, that would've been impossible.

Still, the Knights of the Round Table had reincarnated in this day and age, so at least there was something to take solace in. Issei then retreated his hand when the table began glowing. As if reacting to his presence, the table shimmered with bright magic. Particles materialized into the air as 16 knights in unique armors.

They floated in mid-air. They looked solid and tangible, almost as if they were real living people. However, Issei knew that they were merely projections or ghosts.

"Galahad?" The Knight at the center with gold and sapphire armor asked. It was King Arthur.

"Yeah, his reincarnation. I'm from the East in this lifetime." Issei explained.

"You certainly…have the same presence as Galahad." Lancelot, the white knight said.

"What is your purpose here?" Gawain, the teal knight asked.

"I need the Fruit." Issei explained.

"So, Merlin told you about it?" The green knight, Percival said.

"Yeah. How much do you all know?" Issei asked.

"We're fully aware that we're nothing more than projections. It was a spell that we'd enacted after you died and before Mordred turned on all of us. We recorded our likenesses into the Round Table to protect a treasure most coveted. It was a treasure that Morgana desired dearly." Tristan, the purple knight said.

"And that's why I'm here. There are people out there who need that Fruit. They're dying, wounded by a creature from an old struggle. The fruit that you're guarding can restore their lifespans and save them. It could give them the time they need to be with their families. Please, I need you to let me take it." Issei pleaded.

The Knights of the Round Table fell silent.

"What you ask for, is not some simple cure. For power in this life and reality, there is always a price. The Fruit that you desire is known as the Fruit of Life. It fell from the Heavens from the Tree of Life and through its power, it graced Adam and Eve with long life until the Creator stripped away those benefits when they were cast out of Eden. Naturally, you know what would happen if the wrong hands obtained it, don't you?" King Arthur asked.

"I do." Issei said.

"Then let us begin the trials." King Arthur crossed his arms.

"No! No trials! I don't have time for spirits, sages, gods, demons, and beasts to impose trials on me. The lives of innocent people are at stake and you want me to waste more time? No! I will only accept one trial and it's a trial that'll prove to you how sincere I am!" Issei threw a gauntlet at the feet of the knights.

"Which one of you will take up my challenge? By the Knights Code, you're obliged to accept my terms once you pick it up. One way or another, I'll get that fruit." Issei glared fiercely.

Issei's patience was running thin with all these tests and shenanigans. Force was starting to become an appealing approach for him.

"Very well, then. You will face me in single combat." King Arthur picked up the gauntlet.

"Ready thyself as I test your might. Let us see if your skills have dwindled, Galahad." King Arthur stepped forward in his silver and blue armor

All at once, the Knights of the Round Table surrounded the two, creating a barrier around them with their weapons. Escape was no longer an option.

"Steel yourself!"

(Fate/Stay Night: Heaven's Feel ~ Lost Butterfly OST – Saber Alter vs Berserker. Play Song.)

King Arthur drew Excalibur in all its true and original glory. A bright golden light shimmered from the blade as its aura pulsated.

Issei crafted a sword from his Sacred Gear and charged.

Swinging and parrying, Issei ducked under one stroke as he swung at Arthur's head, only for the King of Knights to parry. The two swung back and forth as Issei's body slowly started to memorize and remember the sword skills that Sir Galahad had in life.

Issei flipped, slashing his sword upwards along with him. King Arthur guarded with his left arm before swinging down on Issei. Sliding to the side, Issei tried to attack from the side, only for King Arthur to plant his sword into the ground, blasting him back into the wall with a burst of energy from his sword.

Guarding another swing of his sword, Issei swung at King Arthur's legs. The King blocked his strike before bringing his sword down on Issei. Issei formed a shield before trying to uppercut him. King Arthur guarded with his arm before hitting Issei with the butt of his sword.

Issei was knocked back several feet but kept himself focused as King Arthur kept up his attack. Locking blades, Issei struggled to push King Arthur back, only for him to knock Issei's sword out of his hand. Issei jumped up and came spinning down like a buzz saw.

King Arthur whirled his sword in a circle, forming a barrier. Issei rebounded, landing on his feet as he blocked a thrust from King Arthur. He elbowed Arthur in the face before whirling around with an overhead slash.

King Arthur blocked before thrusting upwards, knocking Issei into an invisible ceiling. As he was falling, Issei put more strength into his sword, clashing with King Arthur. Their two auras erupted upon contact, causing a shockwave to rock the ruins of Camelot.

"You underestimate me. You're not going all out. If that is the limit of your convictions, then you do not deserve the fruit." King Arthur scoffed.

"[Mirror Law]"

Issei's attack rebounded, slashing into him as he sprawled onto the ground from a roll.

"If you wish to save those people, then nothing must hold you back." King Arthur brandished Excalibur, waiting for Issei to get up.

Even with Issei vulnerable, King Arthur adhered to honor, not striking an enemy while they were down.

Issei agreed with King Arthur. He wanted to try and save those people, but he wanted to keep his time in check. Yet…he knew it was selfish. Those people couldn't lift a finger to help themselves, but he could. That alone was enough for him to not waste or hold anything back. He had months, they had days.

"You're right…I was foolish." Issei nodded.

He took a deep breath.

"Balance Break! Calamity Catalyst – Slayer!"

Issei's Balance Breaker wrapped around him before becoming more angular and sleeker, but not to the slim extent that Blitzer was.

In all truth, Issei considered his Slayer Mode to be even stronger than Onslaught Mode. While Onslaught Mode had the most balance and destructive abilities, Slayer Mode had higher parameters in all stats, only lacking in destructive potential.

"I will use all my strength to prove my determination to you." Issei declared.

"That's the Galahad that I know." Arthur chuckled.

The two charged at each other, Issei swung a sword at Arthur, who deflected with his sword. Meanwhile, Issei swung from the other side with another sword. When King Arthur tried to whirl around, Issei slapped his hand onto the ground. Swords, spears, and javelins came rushing out of the magic circle.

King Arthur whirled around to create a transparent magic circle.

"[Mirror Law]"

Issei clapped his hands together.

"[Blade Cloud]"

The dozens of weapons that he made came rushing at King Arthur from all sides. The King responded with plunging his sword into the ground, creating a sphere of destruction that destroyed all his fabricated weapons.

Issei made a zweihander in an instant, bearing down on King Arthur. This time, King Arthur's feet sank into the ground, cracking the floor. Detonating his sword, King Arthur was thrown back as Issei spun around, brandishing an axe.

"[Royal Charge]"

Instantly, King Arthur was in front of Issei, as if his speed had increased dramatically.

Defending, Issei and King Arthur swung away at each other. Every time their weapons hit, Issei's would shatter, only for him to instantly create a new one within 2 seconds. Sparks, mana, and shrapnel flew everywhere as the barrier that kept the two contained was beginning to fall apart from shockwaves.

King Arthur, in mid-motion, activated Excalibur, swinging upward as he and Issei clashed again.

Issei was nearly thrown back from the power of Excalibur but rather than do that, for one instant, Issei switched forms, going into [Fortress Maker].

"[Echo Gale]"

Absorbing the attack, he sent it right back at King Arthur, obliterating the barrier around them.

While it wasn't naturally powerful as Vali's [Reflect] ability, where she could amplify the power of the reflected attack, Issei and Bahamut's higher mana capacity and raw strength made up for it.

After a lengthy fight, Issei was forced to disengage his Balance Breaker before things got too dangerous for him, nearly dropping to his knees. His Slayer Mode was still rather fresh and had yet to be perfected.

"Let us settle this." King Arthur said.

Issei gathered all of his mana into his sword, causing it to glow violently in parallel to King Arthur.

"[King's Judgement]" King Arthur said.

Issei knew this was the real end now. [King's Judgement] was an attack that King Arthur used to wipe out armies with a wave from his sword. The True Excalibur could reflect attacks, unleash waves of massive destruction, apply random effects to itself, and increase the power of its holder for starters. It truly deserved to be the strongest Holy Sword ever forged. If only the world remembered the real tales of its power.

The two unleashed their attacks simultaneously, clashing beams as the entire area was engulfed in blue and gold light.

(Fate/Stay Night: Heaven's Feel ~ Lost Butterfly OST – Saber Alter vs Berserker. End Song.)

"Impressive."

King Arthur's spirit levitated back into the air while Issei was panting on his knees.

(Fate/Prototype OST – Knight of Sky Silver ~ Strings Version. Play Song.)

"Yes, I believe that display will do. Perhaps with that strength, you can kill all of the beasts. Regardless, you've proved your mettle to us. The Fruit is yours." King Arthur held out the Fruit from the Tree of Life.

It was shaped like an apple but was quite transparent, like a slightly murky glass of water. Inside of it, was a glowing blue core that was round like a ball.

"The Fruit must not go to just one person. That is too much magic for one alone. It must be shared, so that its burden will not curse one person to long suffering. If diluted and distributed, it will do as you intended, but nothing more." King Arthur said.

"I understand." Issei nodded.

"Well, looks like things are all finished." A voice called over.

Issei turned around to find Merlin standing there.

"What're you…" Issei paused.

Was Merlin about to show his true colors?

"Relax. I may be old and it may have been a long time, but I'm not evil. I'm just here to pick up the table."

He walked over and put a hand on it.

"Thank you for your long service. You may go now." Merlin said gratefully.

The way he looked at the recorded personalities of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, it was like watching an old veteran reunite with old war buddies that he hadn't seen in ages.

"Farewell, Merlin. Now that we are gone…perhaps you can move on. It's alright. This isn't farewell, Merlin. One day, you'll meet the friends that can stay with you. Until we next meet, my dear old friend." King Arthur said as his recording faded away.

"Now that their purpose is over with, the spell that recorded their personalities and minds will dissipate. Their batteries were running out, so I decided to just come and end it. Besides, it'll let me do this old trick." Merlin gathered the particles of King Arthur and the Knights before placing them within Issei.

"What're you doing now?" Issei demanded.

"It's an ability that I think you'll need. Within you rests the memories and skills of Sir Galahad. I've added to it with an ability that will let you harness the power of King Arthur himself and the Knights of the Round Table. It might not be in the way anticipated, however." Merlin explained.

"And what about you? What'll you do now?" Issei asked.

"I don't know. Watching you, maybe I'll take to adventuring too. I was gonna swing by Nimue's place and beg for forgiveness. She might join me." Merlin smirked.

Issei only chuckled. He knew there was an elephant in the room.

"I miss them too." He decided to speak up.

Merlin didn't show it, but he missed the old days terribly. He missed messing around with Arthur, giving sage advice to the townspeople, flirting with Nimue. Playing pranks alongside the Knights. The adventures and shenanigans that happened. The good times. The bad times…Merlin missed them all.

"I guess…in my own selfish way, I just wanted to see something akin to the old days just one last time before I moved on." Merlin stared up at the sky.

"I don't blame you. Although we reincarnate…we still can't help but want the old days to come back." Issei nodded.

Dusting himself off, he turned to the old wizard.

"Think you'll be okay?" Issei asked.

"Yeah. I'll be fine. It's time to move on." Merlin nodded.

"Take care, Merlin. If we don't meet again, know that I'll be back. Who knows, maybe I'll need your help in my next lifetime." Issei chuckled.

"Just make sure you remember me by then. I'll always be ready to help. For a fact, I know Nimue will be overjoyed to know that you've remembered."

The two shared one last handshake before Issei ran off.

"May God have mercy on you and protect you, Galahad, Issei. May countless lifetimes of happiness follow you after this." Merlin prayed.

(Fate/Prototype OST – Knight of Sky Silver ~ Strings Version. End Song.)


When Issei returned to Africa, he got to synthesizing the cure. Honestly, Issei had no idea what to do until Rexis gave him access to medical and scientific knowledge from several past lives.

After melting down the Fruit, Issei diluted it with other agents before it was ready after hours of brewing and simmering. To add to the mix, Issei imbued some Abyssal Energy into the elixir pot, increasing the power of the cure as well as to counter the Void infection.

"Do you have assistants?" Issei asked Dr. Multigan.

"I do." She ushered in 8 people who she'd taught medicine to.

"Take these to all the villagers. Every single person and animal is to drink this. Only one bowl, though. They don't need more than that." Issei explained.

He then took some and sprayed it around the area, helping the plant-life and insects recuperate from the Void Energy that cursed the area. When it was all said and done, all of the villagers were on the road to recover.

'They'll be fine. They'll be fully healed and back to normal within 3 days.' Rexis confirmed.

'Good.' Issei took a sigh of relief.

Issei then took a bowl out to Dr. Multigan.

"Here, just in case the problem is contagious." Issei said.

"Thanks. How'd you get the cure? How'd you make it?" She asked.

"Bunch of ingredients that are impossible to find. I knew someone and they helped get it for me. But, it's a secret and most of all, it's not something that can be made normally. That's why it needs to be a secret." Issei said.

There was no way he'd tell a regular mortal about the superpowered Fruit from the Tree of Life.

"I see. Thank you for this; all of this. So many people would've died if you hadn't come along. I'm sorry for doubting you." Dr. Multigan apologized.

"No, you were right for doubting me and you had a solid reason. There are documentaries that make money off the stories and suffering of others and do nothing about it. Still, I'm glad that I managed to help." Issei said.

"Do you have family?" Dr. Multigan asked.

"Nope. I'm the last living person of my line." Issei shook his head.

"I see. Given how you had that look on your face, I thought you had family. It's the look of a man who wants to protect his family." Dr. Multigan rubbed her round belly.

"So, how'd you come to be here, if you don't mind my asking." Issei asked.

(Fate/Stay Night OST – Kishi Ou no Hokori/Pride of the King of Knights. Play Song.)

"I came here a long while ago. I'd finished my doctorate and was ready to establish my own clinic. I naively decided to come to this village since the people here needed help. The reason why I became a doctor was because I wanted to help people like these Villagers. They lacked medical equipment and doctors. All of the doctors were in the city next to this place and charged more than anyone here could afford. I set up shop and then I met my husband, who was newly chosen as the next Village Chief. We fell in love and got married and ever since then, I've been acting as the Village Doctor while training others to help too." Dr. Multigan said.

"How come there wasn't any medical aid sent to you?" Issei asked.

There had been a distinct lack of meds and up-to-date equipment.

"That's a long annoying story. We got aid at first but over time, the lawmakers and medical companies got tired of it. We weren't making enough to fill their pockets so they decided that it was pointless. They told us that this village was getting sick too often and that there wasn't enough money to pay for new equipment and meds. So, they reduced my clinic's capacity to the point that it was practically blacklisted because we weren't 'important' enough. I make do with what I can get and with whatever herbs the Village can grow. But…it's just not enough. It's never enough."

Dr. Multigan's hands trembled. Her fear, frustration, and grief spoke volumes through her body language.

"Reality's cruel. We try to do our best. We try to help others because of our own naivete and altruism. Then, reality comes and shows us that it's not like how we'd imagined. But, that's where the magic and strength is. When we defy all those odds and prove that ideals and altruism is worth it. Don't give up. Life is too short to just be beaten down by fate and greed. I, myself, have been dealt a bad hand, but here I am, trying to make the best of it. If I can do it, so can you. That's why, please don't give up. The world needs more people like you at the helm." Issei vehemently said.

Dr. Multigan nodded before turning aside. Issei couldn't see it, but he knew his words had gotten to her. He could see the tears drop onto the ground and hear her sniffles.

"Thank you. I swear I'll keep that promise." Dr. Multigan cleared her throat, trying to get it to sound normal.

(Fate/Stay Night OST – Kishi Ou no Hokori/Pride of the King of Knights. End Song.)

While he snuck onto his ship, Issei got to work. He made new medical equipment out of the metal of his gauntlets. He packed up all the equipment he'd bought and loaded all his meds into bags and hauled it back to the Village the next morning.

"What's all this?!" Dr. Multigan asked as she saw him enter.

"New and fresh medical equipment and meds. Should last you about a year. I've also got these for you." Issei handed her business cards.

"Temptative Enterprises?" She gasped.

"I want you to call that number. Give them my name and ask for them to give you the Annual Medical Package. They'll hook you up for as long as you want and it'll be free of charge." Issei smiled.

"But they're a multi-national quadrillion-dollar corporation! Why would they give a poor little village like us this kind of deal?!" Dr. Multigan skeptically asked.

"Because I'm a former employee. Backdoors help but keep it a secret. You don't want people to find out about this. I promise, you've got nothing to lose from this. Just call and ask to talk to a guy named Mizvier. Tell them that Issei Hyoudou wants an Annual Medical Package for your village in need." Issei promised.

"You sure you're not pulling my leg?" Dr. Multigan asked again.

"I swear I'm not. Everything will be okay after this." Issei swore.

"Okay…thank you." Dr. Multigan nodded.

"On behalf of this Village, as Elder, father, and grandfather, I thank you. You've saved so many lives." The Village Elder held and shook both Issei's hands.

"It's my honor, Sir. I only wanted to help." Issei smiled back.

"You're welcome. Now, I've gotta go. Take care and like I said…don't ever give up. Life's not worth giving up on." Issei walked away as he waved at the grateful villagers.

"God must have sent one of his servants down to help us…" One villager said.

Dr. Multigan took her phone and called the number on the card.

(Doctor Who OST – Infinite Potential. Play Song.)

"Hello, this is Temptative Enterprises, my name is Allen, how may I help you?" A spokesperson answered.

"Hello, my name is Karen Multigan. I would like to talk to Mr. Mizvier please."

"Ah, yes, may I ask why and how?" Allen asked.

"Someone named Issei Hyoudou referred me to him. He told me that I should ask for Mizvier." Dr. Multigan explained.

"Ah, I see. I will immediately transfer you over."

After a few seconds, a deeper voice answered.

"Hi, this is Mizvier, how can I help?"

"Hello, Mr. Mizvier, this is Karen Multigan. I'm a doctor based out in Africa and I was told by someone named Issei Hyoudou to ask for an Annual Medical Package."

Karen's breath wanted to hitch in her throat. She didn't want to expect or what would happen. She expected him to ask her how much she could pay right off the bat.

"Ah, I see. Can you tell me where, exactly? I'll have the Medical Package delivered immediately. We'll also do a literal lifetime supple for you as well."

After Karen gave him the address and specific requirements, she had her question ready.

"And how much will all this cost, Sir?"

Karen didn't want to ask, she wanted to pretend that was it and just wait, but she couldn't.

"What do you mean?" Mizvier asked.

"I mean, how much is the initial payment and continuous payments after?" Karen calmly yet nervously asked. Her heart would drop if it was in the thousands.

"Oh, my dear, you don't have to worry about that. It's all free. The Annual Medical Package is completely free for a lifetime and will be adjusted to the amounts that you request if you're a place in need. Also, if it's Issei Hyoudou that requested it, then I also want to talk business with you. We do provide increasements in base of operations and staff training too. For people in need, we give complete medical services for free."

Karen dropped to her knees. She couldn't believe this was real. She thought this was some sort of sick joke.

"Yes, I'd like to do that very much." She struggled to keep her sobs of relief in.

"Splendid! I'll call you at a later time at your discretion so we can talk." Mizvier chuckled.

"Thank you. Goodbye for now." Karen nodded.

When Mizvier hung up, Karen broke down into full tears and happy sobs.

"Father-in-law, that man, Issei Hyoudou, really was sent by God to help us. Good people do exist in this world." She cried in relief.

In her heart, after this very moment, she felt that dimming spark of hope reignite. Fate had truly brought the winds of good fortune by their door.

(Doctor Who OST – Infinite Potential. End Song.)


When Issei returned to his ship, he set his bag down on his table. That was when he heard a loud thump. That was odd. He'd emptied out with all the supplies he'd given away. He searched it and took out a small vial. Attached to it was a note.

I know I was skeptical of you. However, thanks to you, my husband will be alive for so much longer. Thanks to you, he'll be alive to watch our kids grow up. The same can be said for the other villagers who'll have years to be with their families and live on. I know it's not much and I'm sure it's trivial, but please take some of the cure as gratitude. We nearly used up all of it for the village but I managed to save some for you. Thanks to you, I got some of my hope back. When I got to this village, I grew more and more cynical thanks to how cruel fate was. But, you've proven that fate can be kind too. Thank you for everything. Truly, thank you, you angel.

Issei smiled. Though these words probably didn't mean much to the average person, it pierced his heart with warmth and happiness.

"Think it'll help me?" Issei asked as he looked at the vial.

"Quite a bit. It should add a few more months onto your lifespan."

Issei downed the whole vial.

"Right now, you're at 12 months." Rexis reported.

"That's a relief." Issei chuckled.

In the long run, it probably wouldn't help much, but regardless, Issei knew it would still have an impact.

"You know, Rexis…I was stupid for a while." Issei said.

"Why'd you think that?"

"I got so caught up with trying to keep track of time that I'd forgotten what was important. The happiness and smiles of others. I'd almost forgotten the whole reason why I was fighting and hunting in the first place. I guess everyone gets stupid after a while." Issei laughed.

"And you've reminded yourself once again. I'll be honest, I was worried about you. I was worried that your mission would overtake you and you'd grow to lose all care for everything and everyone else. When you made that cure, you gave it all away, not even stopping to think about yourself. You could've eaten the Fruit and just walked away, but you didn't. You put the lives of others before your own. For that, it's my honor to be your partner." Rexis declared.

"Thanks, Rexis." Issei nodded in gratitude.

As they passed by a town, Issei jumped.

Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!

Issei was at a total of 11 bell tolls now. That meant he had 5 left.

Suddenly, a blaring beep echoed throughout his ship. He ran over to check and saw that a big blinking red dot was appearing on his radar.

"What luck." Issei said.

"Don't let it get away!" Rexis said.

Issei jetted toward the red dot, which showed the detection of an Avitur. Despite the Avitur appearing in his sights, he was too far. He had to catch up or slow it down.

Taking hold of the Vestige's railguns, he charged it with his energy, firing at it. The Wind Avitur seemed to sense him, narrowly avoiding his shots.

The Wind Avitur, Otebel reared around. It was a massive green creature with six spiky wings. Sharp spikes protruded from them as the spikes on its body glistened like metal. It had two legs with hooked claws on its feet and a long sharp snot full of fangs and golden eyes. Its tails were like metal ribbons, flowing in the wind freely, numbering in six.

Flapping its wings, a hail of metal spikes struck at his ship.

Issei couldn't let the Vestige go down, as it was his prime mode of transportation and place of recovery. Setting it to Auto-Pilot, Issei jumped out the ship.

"Balance Break! Calamity Catalyst – Onslaught!" Issei entered his default mode.

(Shadow of the Colossus OST – A Messenger From Behind. Play Song.)

Issei, after many reviews with the previous fights against the Aviturs, decided to use a newer approach. Otebel relied heavily on its powers over wind. There was also the fact that it was fast, almost faster than the Lightning Avitur.

It wailed at him before flapping all 6 of its wings, sending a literal miniature cyclone of shrapnel and razor-sharp winds at him.

"[Blitzer!]"

Briefly engaging in his speed form, Issei burst out of the way before going back into Onslaught Mode.

"[Vacuum Burst]"

Absorbing mana in the air and pooling some of his own power and Abyssal Energy into his attack, he fired dozens of beams from his wings.

Otebel flapped its wings, creating two swirls in the air that diffused the attack.

"Calamity Catalyst – Slayer"

Issei decided that he'd try to kill the Wind Avitur as quickly as possible.

Forging hundreds of swords from the shrapnel of his armor, Issei controlled all of them at will, launching them.

Otebel flapped all of its wings alternately, producing a gale.

"Damn it." Issei growled.

"Otebel is definitively annoying. Its winds are not only able to produce immense cutting power, but it can diffuse attacks with its winds. Your only option is to overpower its defenses." Rexis said.

That only meant one thing then, Issei had to kill this thing in one shot. He didn't have the lifeforce to spare and he wouldn't be able to keep going for very long with all the form shifts.

"Got it." Issei said.

Crafting a spear from the particles of his armor, Issei charged it with as much mana as he could. It gained a brilliant navy light as swirling particles twisted the spears tip into a lance. Electricity and particles howled off it as Issei refined its form and piercing ability to its limits. Aiming, Issei charged. Detaching his wings, the [Satellites] that served as the feathers and mentally controlled cannons fired away at Otebel's shield.

Otebel spun in the sky, causing Issei to be swept away by the gale.

While disoriented in the sky, Otebel used its control over the wind to ensnare Issei into a gale. With a twister of sharp winds and Void energy to suppress, Issei was stuck. He flared his navy aura, trying to tear his way out, but the unstable wind paths kept smacking him around. As a result, Issei's armor began to crumble and get sliced apart.

Manifesting the [Abyssal Aura], Issei broke out, blasting and slicing his way out of the vacuum with the giant ghost of Bahamut. Quickly dispersing his aura, Issei dove in, stabbing Otebel in the torso with his spear. Accelerating with boosts of mana from his wings, Issei tried to skewer the enemy but it wasn't enough.

Otebel howled before it bit down on his right shoulder.

"Agh!" Issei cried out in pain as its sharp fangs sank into his armor.

Aiming one of his wing cannons in its face, he shot it in the eyes. Otebel threw him into the air with its teeth like a dog with a frisbee. Thrown with so much force, Issei was unable to break his flight.

Otebel opened its maw and spread its wings, firing a literal cyclone at him. Issei braced himself.

"Calamity Catalyst – Fortress Maker!"

The winds ensnared him as his armor was rent apart, being ripped of by gales and razor-sharp winds. Just then, Issei noticed something. It was getting harder to breath.

"It can make vacuums." Issei remembered.

This thing had to die here and now. Issei jolted and writhed in pain as his body realized what was happening to it. The intense winds were trying to pull his limbs apart with invisible vectors.

Issei could feel every fiber of his being tremble. It was if each molecule in his body was threatening to break apart. Otebel was trying to cut him apart at the atomic level. Issei could tell. His [Battle-born] regeneration ability was healing him just as quickly as he was being wounded. This couldn't keep up. The stress of this kind of healing and damage ricocheting in his body would only cut down on his lifespan.

"Calamity Catalyst – Slayer!"

Creating a katana, Issei focused all his mana into the attack, pouring all of his strength into the attack. A transparent blade of navy mana elongated over his weapon. The air vibrated, as if bending it to its will. The air crackled and Issei's armor began to crack from the force of the attack, already being compromised. Issei felt a new burning sensation flowing throughout his being.

Otebel sensed his imminent attack and attempted to maneuver out of the way, but in one split moment, Issei thought he saw something. As he swung his weapon down, a mirage of 16 blades came down alongside his, like how one blade of a turbine moved with the others imitating it.

(Shadow of the Colossus OST – A Messenger From Behind. End Song.)

The attack cleaved through Otebel, splitting it clean in half. But, just before it could die, it spread its wings and turned Issei into a pincushion. Issei managed to defend against most, but several got past his blocks and armor. Dozens of shrapnel and spikes tore through Issei's armor and into his flesh.

Issei couldn't help but gurgle out blood from his mouth as pain shot through his body. He began falling, losing focus as he watched Otebel's corpse dissipate. With remote controls, Issei brought the Vestige to him. Opening its hatch, Issei crashed onto the ship's deck. His blood splattered onto the floor as his armor disengaged.

Issei choked and coughed as air finally started coming back into his lungs. Only now, he was fighting for air as the throes of pain settled in. He had overtaxed his bodies by using all of his power to kill Otebel in one direct strike in a rushed moment of desperation. Even his cells had been touched by Void Energy which was like an anti-agent for him, much like how dragon-slaying magic was deadly to dragons.

Issei tried to stagger up but collapsed back onto the ground. Adding to it, the agony of overusing his powers now kicked in as well.

Even so, Issei had to get the shrapnel out of his body. It was only serving to make things worse. With tweezers and his own regeneration, Issei had to dig into his body and rip out every single piece of foreign agent.

He stifled his screams of pain as not even anesthetics, ibuprofen, sedatives, and magic remedies were doing enough. Even so, he had to endure it, no matter how agonizing it was. No matter what, Issei had to endure.

Just then, a call came for him. He made sure to answer with voice only, avoiding anyone from seeing his current state. Issei forced his pain down, trying to sound as normal as possible.

"Hey, Rizevim." Issei said.

"Hey, Issei. Are you doing alright?"

Issei looked at the gigantic blade sticking out of his stomach.

"Just fine." He lied.

"So, someone named Karen Multigan called me about the Annual Medical Package from our philanthropy department." Rizevim said.

"Yep. I told her about it. She's in Africa and runs a run-down clinic that basically got black-listed for not having enough funds to keep up with medical payments and supplies. I told her to call you to help out." Issei explained.

"Got it. I just wanted confirmation. So, what about you now? Just going around helping people?" Rizevim asked.

"Yep. Since I'm traveling around the world, you know I can't just act like I don't see these things. I've gotta help." Issei said.

"I understand. So, when's the next time you're coming to visit?" Rizevim asked.

"No idea. I'll come by when I come by." Issei chuckled, forcingly.

"Well, don't take too long. Arthur and Elaine are gonna get married soon." Rizevime sighed.

"Well, as much as I hate to say it…I don't know how likely I am to attend. You see…after coming out here and seeing all these people that need help…I can't just abandon them. A day of fun for me is another day of grief for them." Issei said.

"I understand. I know Arthur and Elaine will as well." Rizevim said, but he sounded disappointed.

"Give everyone my best regards." Issei choked out as pain shot through all of his nerves from the blade stuck in his stomach.

"I will. Be careful, Issei, and take care." Rizevim said cheerfully.

As soon as the call closed, Issei prepared himself. He took several deep breaths to calm himself. Gritting his teeth, he used a scalpel to cut into his flesh and widen the way for the blade to be removed. With one mighty and rapid movement, he tore the blade out. Issei screamed in agony as his hands immediately went to the gaping wound in his torso, blood spewing from injuries. Issei choked out blood as he began trembling as he went into shock. After the pain became too great and too much blood had been lost, Issei lost consciousness, his face splatting onto the pool of blood that he'd left under him.

Rexis tried to make his [Battle-born] regeneration operate in overtime as Issei was unconscious. Just a few inches and Issei would've disemboweled himself.

The fight had been brief, but it had been intense. Issei had pushed himself as far as he could for a quick and decisive end and came out of it even more wounded than he ever had before. It was a miracle to Rexis that Issei hadn't died yet. Normally, other Hosts of Bahamut would've died by the second Avitur already.

Perhaps it was just Issei's perseverance…or maybe…fate wanted Issei to live.

Rexis didn't know what was going to happen anymore.


Honestly was gonna split the chapter but I decided that it made more sense to keep it as one chapter.

Anyways, onto Chapter 3 of the 6-Chapter update.