So, after much debate with myself, I've decided to change rating on this story to Rated M for safety. I wanted the story to remain open for everyone, but for the sake of making a much more compelling plot, I won't hold back on the adult themes when they're necessary.
Still, I'm going to avoid getting too dark (?). I mean Grim Herald dark as far as standards go.
And how were your feels after the last 6-chapter package? Hurt? A bit numb? Good, because the onion-slicing ninjas work for me. Haha! But in all seriousness, if the story touched you, then that makes me proud. I want you folks to enjoy my story so I try to milk the emotions for all they're worth. I have been accused of being a sadist and I do admit to it to an extent. Suffering and emotional turmoil, drama, conflict, etc, help your characters grow and keep things compelling. It also helps the story and characters connect to you, which is the mark of something being done right.
Not everything can be sugar and rainbows, despite our wishes for that to be true, sadly.
Most of all, I want my readers to feel and think about deeper things and not just settle for the simple things. That's why I encourage people to watch shows like the Gundam franchise, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Rurouni Kenshin, and Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade. It's because they touch on philosophy and real-world problems and have more depth than some other shows.
It's alright for you to like things and ignore the people who get mad at you for not liking what they like. However, I do encourage people to think deeper about things because in my honest opinion, it's the deeper things in life that help you mature.
Chapter 55: Who We Are
"So, you live alone?" Issei asked.
"Yeah. My parents in this life died while I was young. I was raised by my Aunt and Uncle but…they passed away too." Adelaide sadly said.
"So how is it that you're living so comfortably?" Issei asked.
"My parents left a ton of money behind and I also do work writing books. The name's Aria Crestenbrook. Sound familiar?" Adelaide winked.
Issei looked at her blankly, shaking his head.
"Took some of my memories and made books out of them. Star-Crossed Chains, Through the Ghost Wall, Soul Ocean, Navy Depths, and Ivory Longing. I wrote them all. I can retire now, actually. In fact, that trip to the Heaven's Drop Resort was my treat to myself." Adelaide sighed.
That brought up a thought that Issei had been meaning to get to.
"That reminds me…how did you remember? About us?" Issei asked.
"After I met you in Japan at that resort for the second time. I was drawn to you for a reason. I couldn't understand at first since I never flirt with strangers. Then, the memories started to come back. I put them off as dreams. Then, one day, my hair turned white and all the memories started to fit together. I then realized what had happened and connected the dots. That's when I did some searching. I even found that ship of yours parked right outside Akita Prefecture. That was when I really understood everything. So, when you…" Adelaide turned away.
Still, Issei saw how violently her hands were shaking. Adelaide always did that when she was extremely frustrated.
"When I sensed you were in danger, I decided to come get you. I wanted to try and save you. But every time I got close, you left. It kept happening. Every time I was almost there, you were somewhere else." Adelaide said.
"How did you know where I was?" Issei asked.
"I could sense you. I'm the Songstress of Serenity, remember? I can tell when you're close by because you're the Host of Bahamut. It's my job to calm you and be there for you, after all." Adelaide leaned closer, placing her head on his chest.
"Then you're doing a good job." Issei chuckled.
"Good. I never want you going back out to fight again. We've been apart for too long and you've died too many times for it to be okay." Adelaide muttered.
"You don't need to worry about that part. I'm not going to leave you ever again." Issei smiled warmly.
"Good. Now, let's go eat. I made breakfast." Adelaide smiled as she led Issei to the Dining Room of her house.
"Uh…you weren't exactly a good cook…" Issei paused.
"How rude! I'll have you know that just like you, I still remember most of my past lives. I learned how to cook in many of them!" Adelaide huffed as she pinched his cheeks.
"Yes, Ma'am…I'm sorry." Issei teared up as she pulled his cheeks.
"Good boy." She led him to sit down to a wonderful spread.
"So where is this, exactly?" Issei asked.
"My home in Boston, Massachussets." Adelaide said.
"Aaaahhhh…" She held up a fork for him.
"Uh, I-I can eat by myself." Issei sheepishly said.
"Oh? Embarrassed?" Adelaide asked.
"W-Well, kinda." Issei cleared his throat.
"But even though you've seen so much of me already…" Adelaide playfully smirked as she leaned in closer.
"That was a past life." Issei cleared his throat again.
"Aw…" Adelaide pouted but still kept her fork in the air.
"You're not going to put it down till I eat it, are you?" Issei guessed.
"You guess correctly." Adelaide smiled sweetly.
Issei's heart just couldn't stop acting up when he was close to her. His heart wanted to stop when his eyes fell upon her, so transfixed on her smile was he that he was ready to die again in satisfaction. At the same time, his heart wouldn't sit still from all the excitement. After eons of being kept apart and fulfilling their love again, Ardjis and Aria could be together again.
"So, what're you gonna do now?" Issei asked.
"Like I said, I've got all the time in the world to be with you. With all the money I've saved up and the new books that I'm selling, along with the money my family left me, we don't have to worry. I think it's alright, since you've suffered enough. You've gone out there and died for the sake of the world and they didn't even try to learn more about your sacrifices. That's why, I'll do anything and everything to make up for it. If the world won't love you for all you've done, then I'll pile it onto my love. There's nothing I love more than you." Adelaide wholeheartedly said.
She put a hand to Issei's face, looking him lovingly in the eyes.
"You know…for a long time, I wondered just where things would go. I knew I was going to die." Issei said.
Adelaide flinched when he said that.
"I didn't know that I was going to come back to life. I thought I'd just be another persona stored into the Sacred Gear as my new self reincarnated. But…now I think I'll take it easy. I've been fighting for so long that I've never seriously thought about what I would do or who I was outside of this conflict. Even when I did, it always tied into the fact that I was the Host of Bahamut and Ardjis. This time, I think it's time to re-evaluate who Issei Hyoudou is. And I think the center for that, the drive, the goal…is you. I want to find out who I am for you." Issei smiled warmly at her.
Adelaide only returned his expression, bringing herself closer as they locked lips. It was the most satisfying feeling that Issei had ever felt. It was like finally getting your hands on a prize that you'd earned but could never get a hold of.
"Do you have any idea how long I've waited for this?" Adelaide rhetorically asked, her tears overflowing.
"I know all too well." Issei brought her in for another kiss.
Adelaide moaned into the kiss as she lost herself. Issei pulled her into a tight embrace as he absorbed the moment.
"So…can I just call you Adelaide?" Issei asked.
"You can call me whatever you want, Issei." Adelaide huskily said as she continued to kiss him.
Of course, Issei decided to stop things before it got too hectic. He couldn't explain it, but a part of him was telling him not to continue. It was too early.
"So, what do we do?" Issei asked.
"Let's just take things one step at a time. Where we are, no one will bother us." Adelaide said.
"Doesn't sound so bad." Issei contently said.
"I was hoping you'd say that. I actually wanted to go into town today and buy fresh ingredients. I wanted to make your favorite foods tonight." Adelaide got up.
"Great, let's go." Issei got up.
"I don't think so. You need to continue resting. You might be doing a lot better but that doesn't mean I'll just let you walk around in the open yet. You're going to stay in bed and rest. Watch movies, eat, drink, bathe, anything. Just no extended walking. The last thing I want is for anything else to happen to you." Adelaide shook her head.
"Fine." Issei sighed.
"Good boy. Now, I'll be gone for an hour or two, so just enjoy yourself." Adelaide said as she left.
Issei sat down, looking around.
Now that he thought about it, the house was ideal for one that he'd like to live in. Not huge like a mansion but not too small either. It was just right for raising a family. Then again, that was probably the point since Adelaide's family used to live here.
Issei got up and walked around the house. What really caught his interest were the family photos. He plucked one off the fireplace and analyzed it. It was a young Adelaide, smiling happily at the camera as a toddler. Next to it, was Adelaide as a middle-schooler, carrying several books that were Christmas gifts. Then, there was Adelaide who looked 17 like she was now. She was wearing a navy gown with golden tassels, golden sash, and everything. She was probably valedictorian. Issei smirked as he realized that she most likely got to live the normal life that he hadn't until very recently. It made him glad since she had been far away from the life that made him miserable.
Yet, what stood out most to him was the fact that in every photo, Adelaide had fewer and fewer people in them. At first, from toddlerhood to middle school, she had her obvious parents, who shared her white hair and ice-blue eyes. With them were two people that Issei assumed were her aunt in uncle. Her next picture among several on the fireplace was of her with her aunt and uncle, who didn't seem to share much resemblance to her. Her final photo was of her alone, graduating without anyone by her side. She put on a smile in each one, but her eyes were a different story. There was less and less light and happiness in her eyes for each photo.
It was sad to Issei. As years went by, Adelaide had grown more and more alone. Now, she was totally alone.
He walked around the house and noticed that all the other rooms lacked any personal items. Just simple drawers, desks, bedside tables, and beds. That was when a thought struck him.
He returned to the room that Adelaide had him sleep in. He opened the closet and found several dresses and clothing in there.
"Yep…I was sleeping in her room, in her bed." Issei nodded.
The implications were already clear. Adelaide had no intentions of having him sleep anywhere but with her. Of course, that didn't bother him. He'd already bedded her in their first life, so that initial innocence wasn't there. Well, it was there now but not really. It was complicated.
He sat down on the bed. He saw the TV in front of him but noticed that there was no remote. He opened the bedside drawer and found a book in there, specifically a diary. It was white with navy swirls painted across it.
"So, this is her diary…I wonder if I should open it." Issei said to himself.
It was a severe trespassing of privacy but he couldn't help it. A part of him was asking questions that just persisted. Issei sighed. That nosy part of himself just wouldn't ever go away.
He opened the diary and began to slowly peer across its pages. It was clear that this wasn't the first of her diaries, but it was certainly jampacked with details.
(Tracey Chattaway – Night Sky. Play Song.)
January 1st, 20XX,
Well, it's my first New Years without my parents and I'm 13-years-old now. My Aunt Monica and Uncle Joel are going to take care of me from now on. After my parents and grandparents died at the hospital, they got custody of me. I'm really glad, to be honest. My Aunt and Uncle always treated me like their own daughter and I'm genuinely happy when around them. Still, it doesn't change the fact that I still miss my parents. I still can't understand why what happened had to happen. It bothers me very day. I can't stand it. It just hurts so much to recall that time I got the call that set everything off. I don't know how I'll adjust.
Issei sadly brushed his hand along the page in front of him. He continued reading until he hit another notable entry.
September 6th, 20XX,
Tomorrow's the first day of High School for me. I managed to get in early, so I'll get to graduate early. Even though Auntie said not to worry, I want to hurry and graduate so I can help out. My parents left tons of money for me to live off of in case anything happened. The amount was daunting. At first…I have to be honest; I was resentful to a degree. They were never home, and they didn't always make it to anything I did. I kept reminding myself of why they did it, though. They loved me a lot and just wanted me to have a comfortable life. Back then, I didn't care. I just wanted to be with my family. How stupid I was. How I wish I could go back and tell them how much I really appreciated them.
That was such a parallel to Issei's own childhood. A quiet youth with the absence of his parents. He turned the page.
April 16th, 20XX,
So, I got asked out to Prom today. I've got no idea what to say. It was a Senior guy and I'm still a Junior. The guy who asked me seemed nice and we've known each other for a bit. To be fair, he's smart and can be nice but he's a bit impulsive, but I can't shake that feeling. It's the same feeling that's stuck around me ever since I started…developing. A part of me wants to experience that sort of thing but another part of me, my heart, keeps telling me that I shouldn't go through with it. A part of me wants me to stay put for him, for that knight in shining armor. Okay, that was cheesy, but it's true. I keep getting the feeling that that guy will come someday. The guy who'll swoop me off my feet and whisk me away with him. I think I'm going to have to say no.
Issei chuckled. He hadn't expected Adelaide to have that sort of childishness to herself. He moved onto the next entry.
April 17th, 20XX,
I rejected that Senior. He didn't seem too broken up about it, which makes me glad. I felt terrible for saying no, but I just couldn't help myself. I'm being told that I'm passing up a huge opportunity, but I can't help it. I feel like I'm betraying that special someone if I agree to go. What am I going to do with myself?
The following was something that Issei couldn't believe either.
March 1, 20XX
I'm a Senior now, despite skipping a grade. I got asked out to Prom this year too. I'll admit, I had a feeling that I needed to accept but that part of myself stopped me again. It's starting to irk me. My heart keeps telling me that just dating and accepting other people isn't allowed. What? Am I just waiting for my knight in shining armor? Sometimes, I feel like I'm letting my life waste itself away. Other times, I feel like it'll be alright, like my life will come full circle. I just wonder when.
May 15th, 20XX
So, my Aunt and Uncle passed away last month. I haven't had the motivation to write anything down since. It's still too painful to think about things for long. I know I need to move on. Everyone keeps telling me that I need everything will be okay, but I just don't know. My relatives keep telling me that I can rely on them, but I feel like it's all hollow words. They don't mean it. At the same time, I'm kind of scared. I'm so tired of the people around me dying. I'm so scared of developing new relationships. I've lost my parents, my grandparents, and now my aunt and uncle. My world's dwindling. Pretty soon, I'll be completely alone after my friends graduate and move away. It's so harrowing. Should I even try anymore? I wish I had people to talk to but I just can't bring myself to do it. I'm so scared.
May 20th, 20XX
Today was graduation. Of course, can't say it was particularly exciting. As expected, all of my friends moved away to colleges out-of-state. Not gonna lie, it's pretty lonely now. My family's pretty small too, most of them live in other states. Every day, I come home to a cold and empty house. It's starting to really eat at me. I keep thinking back and wishing that I could go back in time and save my family. I wish I could spend more time with my loved ones and close friends. I wish I was brave enough to make new friends and grow close to others again. Yet, I can't do it. Even after moving on, I'm still so scared. I'm terrified and I can't find a way to deal with it. Every night, I have nightmares about that lonely darkness swallowing me. I wish someone could save me. Someone. Anyone. I just don't want to be alone anymore but I don't want to lose anyone anymore. Won't someone save me from this Hell? I'm not strong enough.
Issei's heart quivered at the page this was written on. There were wrinkles and ripples on the paper where tears had clearly fallen.
All this time, Adelaide had been suffering like him, actually, she'd had it even worse. Issei hadn't suffered as many heartbreaks as she had when it came to losing loved ones. He'd lost his parents to Shalba Beelzebub, but he hadn't tasted as much familial loss as she had. He felt sorry for her. From what it sounded like; Adelaide hadn't lost her parents and grandparents to illness. There was a much more sinister reason behind it. Her Aunt and Uncle had been the last real pillar of support for her before they were also taken by circumstance. Issei's heart bled for her, trying to think of ways to help her out.
Issei turned to the final entry and read it.
August 17th, 20XX
After I started selling books full-time as an author, I've managed to make some time for myself. It's my 2nd month living in Japan to promote and sell my books here. I came here to try and get away from all those nasty memories in America and start somewhere fresh that'll keep me busy. I decided I'd go try out the Heaven's Drop Resort for some vacay. There was so much there. The food was amazing, the shops had tons of stuff, and the views were amazing. The people kept to themselves kind often, but I met a lovely couple named Tobi and Hana. They had so much advice to give and they really know how to put you at ease. Their words really helped me gain some new perspective. Then there's that guy I met. I have no idea why, but I just reached out to him. I've never flirted before and I don't know what got into me, but I just felt the desire to do it. Ugh! I'm so ashamed! I must've looked so desperate! I even tried to invite him for a tour of the island! I can't believe how stupid I was! I don't even live there! What's going on with me?! Just being around him makes me act so silly and pushy! It's not like I know him. Sure, being around him made me content, happy, and warm. It was like I was being healed by just staying near him, but I don't understand why. Maybe it's because he's the first person I've had a lengthy conversation with in a long time. I guess that goes to show how kooky I've become. As time has gone on, I think it's better to go back to America. I feel like this place isn't for me, after all. I miss being home.
Issei grew alarmed as he saw what happened to the most recent entry in Adelaide's diary. It was crumpled, some of it was ripped and there were pencil holes in the pages. The writing was frantic, almost as if Adelaide had been in a frenzy of panic when she wrote.
September 1st, 20XX
I've finally come to understand everything. The reason why I can't seem to get my mind of Issei Hyoudou. The reason for my feelings of safety and warmth whenever I'm near him. My desire to be with him and to stay close. All of my thoughts and persistent longing for him. It happened a week ago. Memories from my past lives came flying into my head. My appearance has changed too. My hair turned from blonde to white and my ability to sing has been made clear. My heart has been wavering and confused but not with this. This event was strong and firm. There was no hesitation nor doubt when I digested all those memories. My original life was named Aria, Princess of the fallen Numenla Kingdom, Songstress of Serenity, and Issei is the reincarnation of Ardjis, Knight of Numenla, and Host to Bahamut. The reason why I've been so fixated on him was because my heart was waiting for him. In the past, we were past lovers and it's been made clear to me that ever since our first lives, we were kept apart. The whole story makes sense to me and everything has been relayed to me. This time, I won't let fate keep us apart. I've regained my powers and skills and memories. This time, I'll save Issei from his fate.
Issei was surprised to see that she had known for this long. She'd tried to find him for an entire month as well.
It was probably difficult since Adelaide had to try and hunt down Issei but he was never in one place for long. It probably drove her insane.
"I'm home." Adelaide's voice called out.
Issei put the diary back inside the tableside but Adelaide had walked into the room before he was done. She looked at him and then the small book in his hands.
"You know, it's rude to pry through people's things." She sighed, arms on her hips.
Issei didn't reply. Instead, he walked and brought her into a warm and tight embrace.
"I'm so sorry about what happened." Issei gently said.
"You read it? All of it?" Adelaide asked despite already knowing from his reaction.
"Yeah. About your orphaning, your fears, all of that book. I know it was wrong, but I just want you to understand that I'm here now. I won't let us be separated ever again. You're not alone anymore. I'm here. I'll always be here." Issei said.
Adelaide smiled, resting her head on his shoulder.
"Thank you, Issei."
Despite her best attempts, Adelaide's shaking hands and hidden face conveyed volumes to him. She didn't need to cry and sob hysterically to show him how much she was hurt. Perhaps that was the worst part. She had been hurt so much that she couldn't cry anymore. She was so used to the numbness that there wasn't much left.
(Tracey Chattaway – Night Sky. End Song.)
"Let's talk more after dinner." Issei led her away into the kitchen.
Putting on aprons, Issei started washing and preparing ingredients while Adelaide got to the actual cooking.
Issei fell silent, trying to think of how to properly approach things. He didn't want to press any trauma buttons but he wasn't content with letting things stay as they were. He wanted to genuinely support her, Adelaide Motoié. To do that, he needed to know more.
"You know, despite us being reincarnated lovers, I want to do things properly. I want to know Adelaide Motoie, not just Aria." Issei said.
"Alright. Let's play 21 Questions. You start." Adelaide giggled.
Adelaide appreciated what Issei was trying to do. Their feelings as Ardjis and Aria had crossed all across time but who were they as Issei and Adelaide? She agreed with that idea. She wanted to know even more about Issei Hyoudou. Yes, she was madly in love with Ardjis, but she also wanted to know about who he currently was. It felt wrong not to learn more.
Issei learned that grey was Adelaide's favorite color. She liked reading, singing, and even a bit of dancing. Her favorite food was a classic double-cheeseburger. She disliked tragedies like the old Greek tales and had a fear of scary stories, mainly involving possession. She volunteered with helping out orphanages and spreading word about supporting them. She donated frequently and was avid supporter of eliminating discrimination.
"Alright, now that the Tikka Masala's cooking, how about dessert?" Adelaide asked.
"Linzer Torte?" Issei looked at the ingredients.
"It was the one thing I could make as Aria that you'd actually enjoyed eating." Adelaide smirked.
While helping Adelaide cook, Issei decided to mess around and indulge in his mischievous side.
He took some whipped cream and held it up to her.
"Ah." She went for a bite, only for Issei to wipe some on her cheek.
"Eheheheh." Issei chuckled as Adelaide took some powdered sugar and dusted some on him.
"Oh?" Issei felt his competitiveness ignite.
He took a bit and threw some at Adelaide. She coughed as she took a bit of cream and playfully wiped some across his face. Issei couldn't help but laugh at the foolery they were in. After so long, he could just cut back and be whatever and not worry.
Issei, getting too excited, slipped on some sugar and cream, falling on top of Adelaide.
"Uwah!"
"Ah!"
With a thud, the two were on the floor, Issei's face mere inches away from hers. Both of their faces went flushed as their baser instincts told them what to do. Even so, Issei restrained himself. If he was going to do anything, he'd rather do it properly.
"Sorry. I got too carried away there." Issei cleared his throat.
"It's okay." Adelaide brushed the mess out of her face and hair.
Before long, the two were sitting on the couch, cuddling as the TV played in front of them after dinner. Issei held her close as she rested against his muscled chest.
Things were comfortable but Issei felt like there was an elephant in the room.
"So…do you want to talk about deeper things?" Issei asked.
Adelaide was quiet before nodding.
"I guess you learned a lot since we were Aria and Ardjis." Adelaide said.
"I don't want you to bottle up those feelings." Issei gently kissed her forehead.
"You always did have good intuition when something was wrong." Adelaide blissfully said.
After some silence, Adelaide began.
"What did you want to hear?"
"How about your parents?" Issei asked.
(Torchwood OST – I Can Run Forever. Play Song.)
"I was born in this life as Adelaide Motoié. My mom was American, and my dad was French. They were both doctors who worked at a hospital here in Massachusetts. My childhood was happy, kind of. As you know, they weren't home very often. They often had to work since they were doctors, so you know how that life rolls." Adelaide intertwined her fingers with Issei's.
Issei stayed silent as Adelaide continued.
"I still loved them, though. They did their best to get me the best education and provided anything I could want, even though what I wanted was to spend time with them. I understood why, but that part of me resented their work a bit, since I was usually alone except for when I was with friends. Anyways, I learned to mature and accept all that. As I got older, they took to staying home more often. We were growing normal again. Then, one day…" Adelaide trailed off.
Her eyes stared off into the distance as memories replayed in her head.
"Something terrible happened. My parents and grandparents were at the hospital. My mother had gone into labor with my unborn sibling and I was on my way from school to get to the hospital. The thing that no one expected had happened when they pulled up to the front of the hospital. A pickup truck slammed into my parents' car, killing them, my grandparents, and my unborn baby brother." Adelaide gripped the blanket covering her tightly.
"It was an evil thing. The person who rammed their car into my parents' car was the husband of a former patient of my father. My father was in charge of taking care of a female patient who was injured in an accident. Despite his best attempts to save her in the surgery, she had too many injuries to survive. So, when she died, her husband vowed revenge. He screamed that my father didn't do his best. He cursed everyone, saying that the medical industry didn't do enough and that they just wanted money. Eventually, he found out who my dad was and when the opportunity presented himself, he killed him after months of planning. The thing was, my mom and the others were with him at the time. He ended up killing himself and everyone close to me except for my aunt and uncle. And it all happened right in front of me." Adelaide said.
She took a deep breath as she continued the story.
"My aunt and uncle picked me up from school and rushed me over and when we caught up, we saw it happen right in front of us as we got out of the car. After that, my aunt and uncle got custody of me when the rest of my family didn't want me. They said that something was off about me behind my back. But, my aunt and uncle took me in without a second thought. They always treated me like their daughter because they were both infertile and sterile. They helped me grow up and get over what happened to my parents. Then one day, they also died. They were both sick because my Uncle was a chemist and my Aunt was a nuclear technician. They met on the job and often dealt with dangerous things like chemicals and elements. It was only a matter of time, they said. After they died, all of the life insurance of my parents, grandparents, and aunt and uncle went to me since I was the prime beneficiary. They were always scared that I'd be left alone so they left it behind. I was confused as to why someone like me was picked but I found out that the rest of my relatives were pretty money hungry. Even so, my parents, grandparents, and uncle and aunt decided to entrust things to me as the last option so that the money wouldn't be squandered." Adelaide sighed.
"I'd give all of that money away just to get them back." She said.
(Torchwood OST – I Can Run Forever. End Song.)
Issei held her close, his arms around her waist.
"I'm sorry. It must've been so hard for you. To slowly lose more and more people as time went by, with relatives that were untrustworthy and to have no one to talk to."
Adelaide reclined back onto him, kissing his cheek.
"I had it easy compared to you. You died over and over, fighting the Aviturs, sacrificing yourself for the greater good and for people that never even knew you existed. I can't imagine how much it hurt. Now, enough about me. I want to hear about you, Issei." Adelaide turned to look at him.
Issei sighed.
(Andy Lau – Wu/Enlightenment. Play Song.)
"Well, I was kinda similar to you. My parents were homeless for a while, barely alive inside a makeshift shack on hill for some of their life. My dad made toys and contraptions from scraps to sell on street corners while my mother was pregnant with me. She was slowly growing sicker and it was becoming clear that things weren't going to end well. Thankfully, one day, my dad met the right people and landed a job at a company. He got my mom and him out of the homeless slums and managed to get a stable place to live before my mom gave birth to me. Any sooner in those terrible conditions and both me and my mom would've died from the poor conditions and lack of nutrition. But, that kind of traumatized my parents a bit. They didn't want me to taste suffering like they did, where they had no idea when they'd get another lick of food. They wanted me to grow up safe and healthy. They worked themselves to the bone after I was old enough to understand things and take care of myself. My mom also took up a job and they climbed the business ladder, sending me money after they taught me how to care for myself. At the same time, they taught me life lessons in case anything happened to them." Issei said.
Adelaide held onto his hand, knowing that this wasn't easy for him.
"They were terrified that I might end up facing the same kind of crisis that they did and tried their best to make sure it never happened again. Despite their lack of presence at home, I loved them no matter what because they wanted me to live in house without fear of survival and lack of food. Whenever they could, they'd see me and try to make up for lost time. That's why I never blamed them. True, they left me alone to take care of myself, but it was because they wanted me to have a future that they did all that. Despite that, I grew up alone. I'd go places alone and I was alone in everything I did, whether it was going on trips, going to the store, or coming home. It was always dark and quiet," Issei recounted his parents' pasts and his own childhood.
"What happened to them?" Adelaide asked.
"They died several months ago. After I awakened as the Host of Bahamut, the Khaos Brigade, a group of fanatical followers of the Old Satan Faction that believed in racial dominance, attacked me. They tried to force me into being a weapon twice but failed both times. The second time, my parents were captured and during the battle to rescue them, they were killed. It left me as the only person of my bloodline left since I don't have a single living relative left." Issei said.
Adelaide bit her lip as she looked at him guiltily.
"I'm sorry. I thought I had it bad with my family, but…" She trailed off.
"It's okay. That's just how the dice rolled." Issei shook his head.
"Then…I swear it won't remain that way forever. If we're both lonely, then we'll each make up for each other. We won't be alone ever again as long as we're together." Adelaide said.
"You've got a point. But, I'll have you know that it won't be easy being with me." Issei smiled.
"Oh, I'm sure. I'm in love with the guy who refuses to stay still." Adelaide hugged him.
This was something that Issei didn't know he needed. He thought he could just soldier on and keep wearing that strong mask on his face. However, when he was around Adelaide, he found no need for it. He felt at peace with unveiling all of his pain and insecurities. It just felt so right.
Issei proceeded to tell her everything about himself. However, due to his inability to remember Vali and the others, his story shifted, skipping over them entirely. It was as if his mind was trying to compensate for the shortcomings of his memory loss. Unknown to him, the process that brought him back to life and evolved his body had repercussions on his mind. Vali, her Peerage, the Lucifer House, none of them were in his mind, lost because of misfortune and chance.
(Andy Lau – Wu/Enlightenment. End Song.)
Issei decided it was best to move on to new subjects.
"So, now that we're up to speed about each other, what're we gonna do now? Just live like this forever?" Issei asked.
"Maybe. We can go anywhere. We can do anything. We've got the rest of time." Adelaide asked.
"Wait, but…with this process…I feel like I'm not human anymore." Issei trailed off.
"And?" Adelaide looked at him.
"I'll live for a very long time. The last thing I remember is that this process will give me a lifespan like an immortal. But what about you?" Issei asked.
"As it turns out, being the Songstress of Serenity has its perks. The thing is, unlike the Hosts of Bahamut, I don't have the same amount of tax placed on my body. Not only that, but the transformation process for our bodies were different. Because of Bahamut's rage and all the thrashing its soul did, it had to be sealed quickly before it could escape or fade away. As for me, my soul was optimized for the demand of my powers because there was less chaos to contain. So, whenever I was reincarnated, my body wasn't like a regular human's. The downside was that I had to awaken those powers first in order for my body to evolve. That's why my hair turned white after I regained my memories. My body had to keep up with you in case you ever lived long or in case you reincarnated early. That way, I'd still be around." Adelaide fiddled with her hair.
"But that wasn't ever the case. You'd always die before I did, or we never met." She rested her head against his chest.
"It's just who I am." Issei sheepishly chuckled.
Adelaide sighed as she got up.
"Well, I'm going to bed now. You gonna stay up?" She asked.
"So, which guest room am I taking?" Issei asked.
"I thought you were bolder in this lifetime. You're gonna sleep with me, of course." Adelaide flirtatiously smiled at him.
Issei rubbed his head in embarrassment. What happened to all of his initiative? Maybe it was because he didn't have to go into overdrive anymore. He could slow down at go at whatever pace he wanted. His eternal partner was with him, after all.
Issei changed into a simple shirt and shorts and got into bed. It was kind of strange to him. He hadn't ever been in anyone's bed before, much less being with another person. In past lives, he had, but as Issei Hyoudou, it was new. Issei liked to treat each first experience in this lifetime as a new experience. The surprise and shock still came before he remembered that he'd experienced whatever it was that caused it before.
It was a good sign for him. It reminded him that he was still Issei Hyoudou.
Issei got comfy under the blankets before he opened his eyes at the sound of the bathroom door opening. What he saw in front of him was a sight he'd never forget. Adelaide had walked into the room wearing a short black silk nightgown. It wasn't as extreme as lingerie, but it might as well have been. If it had been any shorter, Issei would've seen her rear with the smallest breeze. The spaghetti straps looked like they were trapped between stretched to the point of wanting to snap or being loose and falling off her shoulders. The reason was simply because of her bountiful endowments. Issei was pretty sure that one wrong move and they'd pop out.
Adelaide smirked at him, giving him the sexiest smile.
'I know you're turned on.' She seemed to convey.
Issei narrowed his eyes. She had wanted to see what aroused him and without fail, her first guess was the right one.
He smiled back as she turned off the lights and got under the sheets with him. Immediately, he turned around. He knew she was trying to tease and arouse him. So, he denied her satisfaction by turning around and going to sleep.
'Even though I was so nervous getting in this outfit, you go and ignore me.' Adelaide pouted.
She wrapped her arms around him from behind, pressing her breasts onto his back.
"Meanie." She whispered into his ears.
"Sorry." Issei turned around to embrace her.
However, he was surprised when Adelaide gently held his face to her bosom.
"Soft?" She asked.
"Very." Issei chuckled.
"They're yours, so enjoy."
Rather than this feeling sexual, Issei felt that this was different in intention. It was comforting and healing. Issei could feel the gentle pulse of Adelaide's heart and the warmth of her love as she gently smoothed her hand over his head.
Even so, Issei was having issues falling asleep. In his first conscious attempt to rest since his resurrection, Issei had failed to do it peacefully with intention. This time, his instincts told him to keep an eye open. He had to stay alert for any reason, as if anything could attack him at any moment.
"You've fought for too long. It's time to rest now. I swear you'll never be alone again." Adelaide whispered to him as she lulled him to sleep in her arms.
Issei only smirked. It was a wonderful feeling; not having to worry about being attacked in his sleep by some unknown creature or waking up to go fight. He could have a nice long relaxing rest.
Far away, Vali and the others were all over the place. Vali had been trying to get all her contacts to look for Issei, with a massive wall enchanted in front of her.
"It doesn't make sense. No matter where, no one can find him. It's as if he's gone missing. Jeanne can't predict him, the gods can't find him with their sight, and not even the sharpest noses can sniff him out." Vali said.
When news got out that Issei, the Host of Bahamut, was abducted, the Alliance went into high alert. Even so, no one could track him down. No one understood how such a power could hide Issei. The first idea was that it was an Avitur, but if that were the case, then they'd have surely started begun moving. Then, some people began to theorize that it wasn't the Aviturs but other powers at work.
It was just one thing after another.
Vali had tried to focus on the appearance of the person who'd abducted Issei. The sad part was that it was completely dark when she entered his room. The lights must've been switched off by the kidnapper.
Vali knew that it was a woman who took him with light-colored hair, judging by the moonlight shining down on her hair. She was slim but well-endowed with an alluring figure. Most notable of all were her glowing ice-blue eyes. It was like looking into shining ice. Cool and soothing, yet piercing and strong.
When she was in her presence, Vali felt a sense of familiarity. It felt like she was looking in the mirror, but the mirror changed some parts of her. Still, that was the least of her worries. What did this woman want with Issei? Why did she take him? Was she the missing Avitur? Was she a completely new person who seized her moment? The questions just wouldn't stop.
(Cecilia Cheung – Star Wish. Play Song.)
Vali wanted to get rid of that raging blaze in her heart. Issei had come back to her and yet, he was taken away from her once again. Why was fate such a bastard? Vali snapped at herself. Now wasn't the time to get sad and cry. She had to keep working. She had no time to rest. She had to find Issei. She had to make sure he was safe and she had to get answers.
Odin entered the room she was in. He had no traces of his usual jovial behavior. He walked in with a grim and no-nonsense attitude.
"I figured you were in the map room. I had Heimdall look everywhere across the realms and there's no sign of Issei. I don't even know if anyone can find him if he can be hidden from immortals. Hermes, Agni, Artemis, Rundas, and other messenger and hunting gods have tried to find him but he's nowhere to be found. I believe he's being hidden by a power that is more ancient or greater than the pantheons. If that is the case, Vali, then I'm afraid you can only wait." Odin said.
He didn't want to admit it, but this was wasted time that he knew Vali could use for other purposes. Sometimes, things couldn't happen until fate allowed them to. It was one of the things that he'd learned upon discovering the prophecy of Ragnarok and when he sacrificed his eye for wisdom.
"No, that's not good enough. I need to keep looking." Vali quietly said.
"I understand that you're scared out of your mind, child, but you need to understand that nothing is all-powerful like how it seems. Whoever took Issei knew that gods, angels, demons, beasts, and spirits would look for him and prepared beforehand. It's a given with who he is and his relations to all of us. There's no guarantee that we haven't come across his location but there's no guarantee that we will find him. You should take this time to reflect. Who knows, that might lead you to better answers rather than trying to act like a machine and use logic. Your strength was usually in following your heart, as I recall." Odin said.
Vali sighed as she sat down. A long time ago, she'd gone to Odin for training, learning from the Valkyries as a special favor that Odin hadn't cashed in on yet. During that time, she had gotten to know many, with Odin becoming something of a mentor to her.
"I admire that boy's tenacity and mindset." Odin said out of the blue.
"Why is that?" Vali asked.
"In many respects, he's a bit like us Norse folk. When the prophecy of Ragnarok came, we were at first against it but we all then accepted it for life to continue. He learned of his fate and rather than run away from it, he decided to meet it head-on on his terms. He chose to have fate give him the best path that he could choose from and went onward. He didn't fuss around or try to fight it because he knew that things could've been worse if he did. That is not the kind of resolve you'd find in many gods like Zeus or humans. The reality is that fate is not in your control. You merely move the blocks that fate has set down for you to begin branching out one of the many paths that destiny has planned for you. That's why you should stop moping and crying about failing to see what he did. You should focus all your energies on trying to find out where he is using your heart and judgement. And also, be mindful because things aren't what they always seem. This will be one of the most tumultuous parts of your life so make your decisions carefully because you could lose much." Odin said.
"Did my grandfather ask for you to come talk to me?" Vali asked.
"No. I thought I'd come and see you. I felt that you needed a fresh perspective for new input. You're getting older and it'll be time for you to step up as a leader one day soon. These things will happen again, and you need to be strong enough to decide. Sometimes, you will be faced with a dilemma that will force you to go past the point of no return, but at that point, turning back will do no good as well. I know that this isn't a situation you've confronted yet, so I want you to be aware." Odin shook his head as he tapped his eyepatch.
"I don't know what to do, anymore." Vali sighed.
"Like I said, take a moment to step back and reflect. Things will clear up for you and you will begin to see things you hadn't noticed before because you were too high-strung to notice. The best decisions are made with a calm mind when we can afford it." Odin said as he left.
(Cecilia Cheung – Star Wish. End Song.)
Vali was left to sit with her thoughts, mulling on what to do next.
After quite some time, she decided to try out Odin's advice.
She, as the Songstress of Serenity and as such, she was linked to Bahamut. That meant she could try and tap into that connection to find him. The problem was that she had no idea how. She decided to take some inspiration from Issei and act on impulse, combining it with Odin's suggestion to stop trying to logic her way around. She had to put her heart and soul into this.
She walked to the rooftop of the mansion and began to sing.
What do your tired eyes see?
Where has your heart gone in the dark deep?
Why do those tears flood the land?
Please, release your pain and tears and return to me.
Come with me and return to bliss that felt so tall and steep.
In a time that has no sand
Be safe and warm in my tight embrace.
Come back to me and reclaim your heart and peace
Come back, my heart, my soul
Nothing. Vali didn't get a single thing, other than some distant applause from the staff of the mansion. She sighed in disappointment. She had poured her heart and soul into the song. Even her aura had manifested in reaction to her conviction and wishes. All she got out of this was a weird feeling in her chest…wait…this was new.
Vali looked around rapidly. It was as if a compass was turning her head in a certain direction. She would turn one way and her heart and body would tell her to look the other way before that feeling settled into her intuition.
Was this what Odin was getting at?
Odin, who was walking out of the mansion turned around, looking directly at her. He smirked and tapped his eyepatch. Yep, he knew this was going to happen.
Vali looked at where her heart was telling her to go. Looking dead at the horizon where the sun would set, Vali knew she had more to do but at the very least, she knew how to find her way to Issei now. Even so, Vali knew she needed to train this ability if she was going to really find him. Even so, there was hope.
And onwards to Chapter 2 of the double-chapter update.
Also, I wanted to say something.
Earlier, in the previous chapter, someone in the reviews did something that I have to speak out on. I won't name them or any involved parties out of respect. But, that someone called out another person who reviews this story.
I don't appreciate people calling each other out in my reviews. The reviews are not a battleground. It's where you give your own response to the AUTHOR of the story. That person had a point in their review, but if you're gonna review someone's story, then review their story and that's it. Don't try and start something as well.
If you've got a problem with someone, you Private Message them, not leave a message to call them out and have someone else have to take responsibility for it. I don't appreciate being the catalyst of fights or being used as an excuse. I don't like being put in the middle ground so that immature people can hash it out and my face gets plastered on it.
If you're old enough to make an account and email and review and all that, then you're old enough to understand that you don't start trouble like this. You should be mature enough to be socially responsible and act like an adult or someone who understands that there're lines you don't cross just because you think you can. You got a problem with someone, you go to them and resolve it like reasonable people and not like animals. You don't use someone else to proxy as a medium for you. Even more important is that if you've got nothing to do and just go around trolling and starting stuff, then go somewhere else. I don't have the patience nor tolerance for people who like to start fights because that's what they like. The internet is full of immature idiots already, don't add yourself onto the list.
It is very rare for me to be this annoyed, but it's time I said this.
