Chapter 28
Secrets of the Light
Author's Note: I apologize for the lack of chapters these last few weeks. I caught a cold and it's been keeping me out of commission but I'm almost recovered so I managed to finish this chapter. I have these coming two months completely free until I start college again so hopefully I'll be able to reach up to the elves arc. We'll see. Also, this is the official story art and Raiden's portrait done by EggyTrash. Feel free to hit him up on discord if you want any art done. EggyTrash#5045
In an unknown location, an angel with a rose on its right shoulder stood in front of a stone statue of a bearded man. The room itself was decorated like the inside of a church, with marble benches everywhere, candles illuminating the room, stained glass windows that seemingly weren't allowing any light to go through them, and on the ceiling, a painting of many angels flying towards a castle in the clouds.
"Apollyon." The eyes of the statue began shining in blue, prompting the angel in question to drop to one knee immediately. The voice itself belong to a man, although it seemed as if it was altered by some kind of voice manipulator and had an echo to it. Apollyon was aware that all angels had odd voices since his own was altered whenever he became an angel."Be not afraid, child."
"Lord Michael." Apollyon greeted respectfully."I thank you for gracing me with your presence. I was under the impression that Lord Metatron was the one who was going to meet up with me."
"That was the original idea. But being His right hand keeps him rather busy nowadays." Michael calmly explained."I trust that your mission is going smoothly?"
"Well, sir, we've successfully infiltrated their ranks and enlisted in their forces. We've managed to join five of the squads, leaving the others blank for now due to obvious reasons. So far, no one has found any leads that can make us suspect that someone is hiding a devil. However, I've been keeping close tabs on the others squads, and they haven't shown any indication of the presence of devils. On the side, I've been recollecting intel around the kingdom and I've learned that several families have been experimenting with forbidden magic, particularly devil's magic. The most notable one is the Fause family. However, all of them have been eradicated, leaving no survivors."
"It saddens me how foolish humans can be, believing they can tame devils and stray from the path God made for them, becoming filth. No leads, I presume?"
"None. But it proves that the Clover Kingdom is without a doubt affiliated with devils, perhaps even more so than the naked eye can see. My best guess is that they keep top-secret information in the libraries that the Magic Parliament controls. It's highly guarded and only nobles and royals can access it. I can't even establish a secure path there because of the lack of dirt around it. Even if by some miracle we're allowed to work there, it'll take years and arduous work to gain their trust, and we certainly don't have the time for that. Progress is slow, but we believe that the devil will eventually show itself."
"That's the thing though, isn't it? You're going based on assumptions." The archangel's icy voice sent shivers down his spine."What if the devil doesn't show up? Then this whole mission would have been for nothing. All the preparations and training would have been for nothing. And I need not remind you what's at stake. Time is a luxury we simply do not have. Every day the mission goes on it's another day your home is left vulnerable. If those devils attack again, one angel is not going to be enough to protect it. The devil's goal is to roam this earth and conquer it one day. I don't need to remind you of what would happen. Take what happened five years ago, for instance, but make it on a global scale. There will be nothing that we could do since they'll most likely attack this kingdom first and sever the connection to Heaven. It is imperative that you find a devil host and bring it soon, Warriors of Light, so we can build a proper bridge between earth and Heaven and make the Millenium Kingdom. Once your wishes have been granted, we'll make sure all devil can are eradicated, including the ones who are birthed in the Qlipoth Tree."
"Understood, Lord Michael. I'll tell Captain Azazel and Acting Captain Raphael to make changes to our approach accordingly."
Michael seemed to take interest in his choice of words, humming to himself."Acting Captain Raphael?"
"Yes, sir. Captain Azazel's current situation doesn't allow him to go around making major moves, so he tasked Raphael with handling our group and handling decisions and strategies. Of course, major decisions ultimately have to go to the Captain, but his input is greatly respected."
"The Boy Miracle? Wonderful choice. As I recall, he was the commoner who fought his way up and took the Vanguard Angel against all odds. He's Metatron's favorite. I believe that this will be fine practice if he wishes to achieve a greater rank than the one he currently has."
"Indeed."
"Well, is there anything else you'd like to inform me?"
"Yes. There is a terrorist group currently in cahoots with the Clover Kingdom called the Eye of the Midnight Sun. Their ultimate goal is unknown, but we do know they have to gather Magic Stones. We're leaving them unchecked because this could help us lure the devil out easier. If either side is hiding a devil, they will reveal it in due time to assure their victory. Also, it will severely weaken the kingdom's defenses, so they'll be easy pickings if they decide not to collaborate."
"That seems acceptable. We cannot allow anyone to reject His grace and glory. We'll conquer their land and expand our territories before He comes. For the sake of a pure, clean world of peace, we must do anything we can to accomplish it. Now, is there anything else you'd like to inform me?"
Apollyon's gaze landed on the feet of the statue, his expression stoic under his armor."No, sir. That would be all."
"Very well. Do inform your Commander before you depart. May we meet against and let His grace fill your day with peace."
With that, the statue's eyes went back to normal, indicating that the archangel had left, leaving the Savior by himself.
"Hold on, what did you just say?" Raiden tried wrestling his hands off the girl's grip, but he was unable to and found her strength completely overwhelming."Number one fan...fan of what?"
"Oh." Kahono released his arms, backing away completely flustered."Sorry...I went a little too hard there. Forget what I said! Especially the soul mate part too!"
"Sure..." Raiden chuckled nervously, playing with his hair.
Noelle rolled her eyes at his behavior, deciding to retake the conversation."I'm confused though, what do you mean fan? Are you some sort of celebrity or something?"
"Not yet! But I aspire to be one!" Her cheeks flushed, her eyes sparkling with delight."That's why I was doing vocal training right now. I want to be a dancing, singing, magic-using idol!"
"What's an idol?"
Raiden blinked a few times, staring at his comrades in a perplexed manner."You guys serious? How do you not know what an idol is?"
"You know what an idol is?" Asta asked him, receiving a shrug in response.
"Well, yeah. Johan loves them. You ever heard of Victoria Hanzel?"
"Victoria!" Kahono beamed."I'm hoping to meet her one day! She's my inspiration!"
"I still don't know what an idol is." Noelle tapped her foot impatiently."Care to elaborate?"
"Okay, listen. Idols are mostly girls, though there are a few guys that become idols. They're singers that use magic and can dance well. They appeal to the masses, primarily the youth. From what I know, Victoria used to be a peasant before she rose in popularity with her singing skills. Now she's living the life."
"She is! I'm going to become an idol too and get super rich!"
"So it's money you're after?" Noelle seemed unimpressed."What's so great about money anyway?"
Raiden furrowed his brow, perhaps more intense than he had intended because he had Noelle to flinch.
Asta noticed his reaction and quickly chimed in to avoid any unnecessary trouble."Money is very important for people like us, Noelle. Not everyone is loaded like you. Try to be more sensible."
"Fine." Noelle sighed, closing her eyes."I apologize to you both. I didn't mean to insult you."
"Okay, now you're freaking me out. You're apologizing?"
"Yeah, really."
"Woah." Noelle planted her hands firm on her hips."This is the last time I try to be nice to either of you!"
"Whatever." The hazel-eyed teen scoffed, turning back to Kahono."Unlike Noelle, I think it's great if you want to become famous just for the money. Sometimes you don't have a choice, you know? Besides, money is good. With money, you can eat, buy things you like, and support your family."
"You do get it!" Kahono's cheeks flushed, grabbing his hands once again."Maybe you could join me on my quest! You look like you could be an idol too. And I'm sure you can sing well, right?"
"A duet?" Raiden shivered at the implication."Sorry, I'm not a good singer. Plus, I'm a Magic Knight. I don't have time for stuff like that."
"You should think about it, Raiden." Noelle gave him a devious look."You need more hobbies. You either stay in your room writing things in that little notebook of yours or you're out on missions. You need to unwind and this is the best thing you can do."
"Huh?!" Raiden nearly jumped after hearing her words."What do you mean? I train!"
"When was the last time you trained?"
"..."
Kahono patted Raiden's shoulder in good nature in a small attempt to cheer him up."Wait a minute..."
The Black Bulls watched in curiosity as the red-haired female eyed Asta and Raiden."Just as I thought. I could feel it when I touched your shoulder, Raiden, but upon closer inspection, I can tell your and Asta's bodies are weakened. Your muscles are fatigued."
"Now that you mention it, I feel pretty stiff when I move." Asta said, moving his arms around."Wait, how did you know? Are you some sort of medical expert?"
"No, nothing like that. I assure you. It's a talent of mine." She pulled out her Grimoire, splaying her arms around."Don't worry you two, I'll have you fixed up in a second. Song Recovery Magic: Healing Lullaby."
Bubbles surrounded the swordsmen as Kahono sang, showcasing her control over her magic and pinpointing the exact spots where their muscles were fatigued.
'I can't believe it...such precision..." Noelle was left speechless at how easily it looked like Kahono was doing that.
Once the spell stopped, the boys exchanged looks, seizing each other up.
"Well, I don't feel any different." Raiden confessed, flexing his arms."Caroline healed me to the best of her ability. But I guess my back aches less."
"I feel awesome!" Asta was more vocal than Raiden."I don't feel hurt anymore! I feel so light all of a sudden! You're awesome, Kahono!"
"Aw, do you mean that?" She giggled before putting her hand out."If you do, that will be 100 yuls per session!"
"Wait, what?! You're charging us?!" Asta gasped, realizing he hadn't brought a single yul with him to train."I left all my money in my bag..."
"How can you even charge us for healing us yourself?" Raiden pointed at her accusingly."You never mentioned any of that. We're not paying a single dime to you, you scammer."
"S-scammer?!" Kahono placed a hand on her chest."That's not my intention at all! Y-you said money is important, right? So you must understand!"
Raiden sighed, rubbing his temples. He hated to admit she got him there, so he silently began browsing through his pockets, finding the right amount of yul he needed. He had intended to use that money to buy some drinks on his way back to their lodging, but it wouldn't be the case after all.
"Here."
"Ah..." Kahono shyly accepted the payment, feeling slightly ashamed that he probably thought ill of her."Thank you..."
"Raiden, you didn't have to do that." Asta frowned, giving his comrade a sympathetic look."Paying for me, I mean."
"It's fine." Raiden shrugged."We're squadmates, right? We got each other's backs."
Asta rose his head, his eyes wide in shock upon hearing his words.'Raiden? Did he really just say that? He's not insulting me or belittling me?'
"If money is an issue then here." Noelle walked up to Raiden, grabbing his much larger hand and putting some yul on it."Take it. It's spare change for me. Besides, you need to start spending your money for yourself. Treat yourself to something."
Speechless, he accepted the gesture, taken back by her actions."Why? I tho-"
"You're trying your best to change. I can see that." Noelle cut him off by raising her hand."So I'll try my best too. I owe you that much."
"Noelle..." Raiden muttered, running a hand through his hair."Thank you...I'll do my best too. For the both of you. I'm sorry for being such an asshole before. It was unbecoming and I hurt you guys. Asta, I owe this apology, especially to you. Truth is, I was just...jealous, I guess. That you're always so optimistic and you never give up despite how dire things look. And despite having no magic, you always continue to strive forward and stay loyal to your beliefs. The exact opposite of me. As soon as shit gets difficult, I fold like a card table. And when things become bleak...I get desperate. Yet I thought we were the same. Because I had dreams and aspirations that were robbed from me. Because I couldn't understand why you were so naive and thought there was always good, no matter what. You give people second chances, even if they hurt you. Like back in Nean, you were willing to forgive that snow kid. Like I said, I was jealous. But Johan helped me realize that we're not the same."
Raiden took slow steps towards Asta, stopping a few inches away from him and looking down due to the height difference."We both were raised in different circumstances. I have parents but I don't consider them parents while you don't. But like you, I wasn't alone. I had people that were there for me and still are. People I protect. And I'll do anything for them. But I'm getting off-topic. I guess what I'm trying to say is...I'm sorry. For everything. ANd...I hope we can be friends."
"Are you serious? Do you even have to ask?" Asta grabbed his hand into a handshake."Of course, I forgive you. You didn't do anything wrong. Sure, I was a little sad that we started on the wrong foot, and when we fought in the Black Market I admit I was upset. Because you said I knew no struggle or suffering. But at the same time, I didn't know what kind of stuff you went through. So it seemed wrong for me to judge you as well. That's why I decided to get stronger, so I can become just as strong as you and you can see me as an equal."
"Asta...I don't-"
"You're strong, Raiden. Hell, you might be the strongest in our squad. But that's awesome, you know? Because you got there with hard work and determination, like me. So don't go around saying you're not determined. Because in my opinion, you're the most determined person I've ever met. Inside that tough exterior, I know you're a nice guy. That's why I want to be your friend too. We can help each other out and get stronger together. As you like you said, we're similar in some aspects, right? So we should be able to understand each other. I'd love to get to know you more."
Raiden was left speechless, unable to move a muscle or think rationally. He was forgiving him? Of course, he'd expected that from Asta. But it was still mindboggling that people were so accepting of him after giving them a hard time. Even Noelle had said she was willing to be friends with him. He hadn't done anything exceptional to deserve their forgiveness. Just an apology was enough and that was confusing him beyond words. He felt someone give him a light push from behind. It was Kahono, who had a tender smile on her face, encouraging him.
He looked over to Noelle, who was smiling but upon being seen doing that opted to turn away with a blush on her cheeks. His gaze finally landed on Asta, the magicless mage who he once had thought to be inferior to him. A person who, despite being less blessed than him in some aspects, continues forward for his one and true dream. They were not the same, far from it. But Raiden could understand what made them similar. Both have dreams and desires. Desires so strong that burn with passion, wanting to fight for those they hold dear. Said desire is what gave them something greater than any magic could hope to do.
"You said you look up to me, but I guess I can say the same about you. You're not half bad. I'm looking forward to getting to know you better as well." Raiden returned the gesture, squeezing his hand and shaking it with respect.
"Aw, this is so cute!" Kahono giggled, clapping her hands."I'm so moved by your friendship! Why don't you join in, Noelle! Let's make it a group hug!"
"Uh, no. There's no need to-"
Suddenly, Asta and Raiden grabbed Noelle's arms and pulled her into a hug. The royal girl flushed in embarrassment as she noticed just how close to Asta she was and felt his arms around her. Raiden snickered, resting his chin on their heads and taking advantage of their height."Groups hugs are nice."
"Yeah, especially if they're really good friends, right, Noelle?"
Noelle eventually gave up, reluctantly accepting the hug and trying her best to hide her bashful face."S-sure..."
"I just noticed how much taller you are than both of them, Raiden." Kahono stood close to them, standing on her tippytoes and still not reaching Raiden's height."How old are you guys?"
"15."
"15"
"17."
Noelle, Asta, and Raiden answered respectively.
"I'm 15 too! So that means Raiden is older than us by two years. No wonder he looks so mature in comparison to you, Asta."
"It's just 2 years." Raiden put his hands in his pockets."Age isn't everything. But you didn't hear that from me."
"I see, I see." Kahono nodded, analyzing the trio of mages in front of her."How about we all become friends?"
"Sure, count me in." Asta gave her a friendly smile."You're pretty funny."
Raiden shrugged, turning to Noelle who huffed in response."If you insist, I guess I don't mind."
"That's great!" She beamed, clearly happy."I'm so happy! So, what brings my wonderful friends to Raquey? You said you were Magic Knights earlier, so could you be taking a vacation?"
"Nah, nothing like that." Asta waved his hand dismissively."We're actually on a very important mission to get to the Under-"
"ASTA!" Both Noelle and Raiden slammed their hands against the magicless boy's mouth."Shut up!"
Kahono hummed to herself before shrugging."I get it. Secret mission, right? So you can't reveal any details. I understand. What were you guys up to at this hour, though. That seems like a "not-so-secret mission" kind of thing." She wiggled her eyebrows, clasping her hands."But...Noelle, two of them? I wasn't expecting that from you. If you don't mind sharing, I'll be more than happy to take one off your hands."
"W-w-what?! No! It's nothing like that! They were helping me train my magic!"
"Oh. Magic training?" Kahono's enthusiasm took a nosedive, her voice lowering.
"Right. It's complicated, but I need to control my magic within the next week before the next full moon."
"Noelle...that's a little too specific," Raiden whispered to her, prompting her facepalm.
"I see!" Kahono jumped off the rock she was sitting on, cupping her chin and scanning Noelle up and down."Okay. Noelle, mind showing me your magic?"
"Uh...sure." Noelle walked a few meters away from the group to avoid any unnecessary incidents in case her magic got out of control.
"Not only does she have a control problem, but she also has a stamina problem as well." Raiden informed Kahono as they watched Noelle encase herself in a huge dome of water."We were doing some exercises to increase her stamina and then we'd see what we can do about her controlling it."
"That's not a bad approach. How did that go?"
"Not so great. We're making this place look like the moon with all the craters we're leaving behind."
"I see. Well, there is something that I noticed she's doing wrong."
Raiden and Asta perked up at that, exchanging glances. They followed the red hair down to where Noelle was, panting after she had failed to control her magic once more.
"What did she do wrong?" Raiden asked, causing Kahono to smile in response.
"She's trying to hold in her mana way too much when trying to control her magic." She rose her index finger."Think about it like this: You can't properly use your magic, especially concentrate, if you're stressing out too much."
"I get it!" Asta exclaimed in realization."Well, I think. So if she can somehow calm her nerves, she'd be able to control her magic?"
"Makes sense. I guess not all of us can handle stress that well."
"It's not my fault!" Noelle cried out, flustered."Captain Yami suddenly put all this responsibility on me! Of course, I'd stress out!"
"My advice can help you but it all depends on you. What I do to calm myself is listen to the sound of the waves. By doing that, I can use my magic exactly how I want to. I think it's important to do that before you try increasing your stamina and whatnot. True concentration comes from a calm heart. It all depends on the person."
"I guess you certainly have to think about a specific goal or reason." Raiden nodded, folding his arms."Why don't you give it a try, Noelle? What makes you calm?"
"Think of your kindest memory." Kahono helpfully supplied."Perhaps your family?"
"My family..." Noelle's face contorted to a frown."I...don't exactly have any good memories with them. I thank you for the advice nonetheless, Kahono. I'll keep practicing a bit more tomorrow. I...I think I'll call it a night here."
"Uh...Well, I'm glad I could help! If you need more help, I'll be around here every night. Of course, you can pay me later!"
Kahono waved goodbye to the group, leaving the Black Bulls by themselves on the beach.
"Noelle-"
"It's fine, Asta." Noelle cut him off."I'm not bothered by it. I'll keep trying tomorrow with Kahono's advice. As the Captain would say, I have to break past my limits, don't I?"
"Noelle!" Asta beamed, glad to see her in good spirits."Of course! We'll do our best!"
"You guys can go. I'll catch up with you later." Raiden said, his back turned to them as he stared at the moon.
"Don't stay out too late." Noelle hollered as she began making her way back with Asta. She noticed the sound of footsteps beside her stop, prompting her to halt."Asta?"
"Noelle, you go back. I want to talk to Raiden about something."
"Really? Why?"
"Doesn't it seem like there's something on his mind?" Asta shifted his gaze over to where they had come from."I think talking to a friend can do him some good."
"Are you sure?" Noelle quirked a brow."I mean, he could just want some alone time to think. You know how he is. This is normal."
"True, but this time is different. He accepted us as his friends. Besides, this could be a great chance to get to know him better, right? And if I can make him feel better along the way, then that's all I can ask."
"Asta..." Noelle smiled at her squadmate's kindness."Okay. I'll leave him to you then. I think that if anyone can reach him besides Gauche and Grey, it's you. Let me know how it goes."
"Sure thing." Asta nodded, waving her goodbye and running back to where Raiden was, sitting on the sand.
The raven-haired teen didn't bother looking back, already knowing who was the one approaching him."Something the matter, Asta?"
"Nope. Just wanted to spend some time with you, man." Asta said, sitting down beside him."It's a beautiful night, huh? And the moon isn't even full yet. I bet the sight is even better."
"Hmmm. Could be." Raiden trailed off, shaking his head."Sorry. I was just in deep thought. I'm a little groggy."
"I should be the one that apologizes." Asta held a hand up."I...I could leave if you want."
"No. This is fine. I was just thinking about my home, that's all."
"Right. You're from Suke village, right?"
"And you're from Hage. We live on the opposite side of each other. Funny how things work, huh. They must be proud of you. Your people, I mean."
Asta's smile widened at that."I write them letters every day. Sister Lily always counted on me and never doubted me. It's because of her and the kids that I found the strength I needed to keep going, despite how things looked. I mean, now that I think about it, I guess a Magic Knight with no magic sounded pretty hard to believe. But I somehow made it work, all thanks to my Anti Magic. Before it seemed impossible."
"What, becoming a Magic Knight or becoming the Wizard King?"
"Both I guess. But I never lost hope. I trained and trained every day, hoping to one day I could develop magic of my own. I never gave up no matter what people said to me. Now I'm halfway through that goal."
"How ironic. You trained to get magic, but you ended up with the exact opposite. Anti-Magic." Raiden noted, chuckling."But it suits you, I suppose. Honestly, I can't see you with any other type of magic. Besides, it's actually pretty cool if you think about it. An unbreakable will breaks through any type of magic."
"Hahaha, well when you put it that way~." Asta rubbed the back of his head sheepishly."Your magic suits you too. I never even heard of Inferno Magic before. I've seen fire magic but not this kind."
"It is odd, right? Black flames." Raiden grabbed a handful of sand, playing with it in his hand."From what I know, my father has it too."
"Your dad? You never mentioned your parents before, I think. You said you had a grandmother."
Raiden grimaced, his hands now touching the sand."I have parents. My dad walked out on me the moment I was born and my mom wasn't up to the task of raising a kid, so she left me with my dad's parents, my grandparents. My granddad was a carpenter back in our village. That's how he made a living and kept a roof over our heads. But despite how much he worked, there were times when food was scarce. They would sometimes skip a meal or two to keep me fed. There was also the fact that we lived with my mom's sister and her kid. Despite our economic situation being so damn bad, we were happy together."
"I guess that's one of the things that we have in common as you said. My orphanage also struggled financially. In fact, we had so little money that all we could eat were potatoes. Every day. But despite that, we never complained, at least not too much. We came to love our lives because we loved each other. And now that Yuno and I have the opportunity to earn more money for our home, we are ensuring that they get to live a good life."
"I knew it." Raiden grinned, his eyes closing."I thought you'd say that. You have their best interest always present, just like I care about my family. I originally didn't want to become a Magic Knight. I guess it's more appropriate to say I had no drive. I didn't know what I wanted to do with myself. I only started training because...I needed to become a Magic Knight to afford to help my family back home. I trained every single day any time. Funny enough, I was the worse among my peers."
"What?! No way! You?! But you're-"
"Strong? Maybe, but I'm just a lowly peasant with no special blood or genes in my veins. I had to work to get to where I am, like you. Turns out my magic is only good in close quarters. I can't throw my fire like Magna. I can only use it in very specific areas. Anyway, eventually, I was strong enough to become a Magic Knight. But I only did it for the benefits."
"Okay, so what do you want to do?"
"As I said, I have no idea." Raiden sighed, leaning down on the floor, head resting on his hands."I guess something calm and peaceful. Maybe like a library or something. Just away from the crude world that we live in."
"Well, you are really good at fixing our reports." Asta pointed out, following his example and laying down on the sand."Maybe like an editor or a writer."
"Maybe a secretary or an office worker. Maybe just have a tea shop or something like that."
"I don't see you working at a tea shop, honestly."
"You got that right. I'm terrible at making tea."
"You can't cook either?"
Raiden blew raspberries, shaking his head."I'm terrible. I do try to learn though."
"I'm not the worst at it. Sister Lily taught me the basics but I wouldn't trust myself with preparing a meal for a lot of people.:"
Both boys remained silent for a while, enjoying each other's company as they simply stared at the seemingly endless sky.
"Hey, Asta. Why do you want to be the Wizard King so badly? Do you seek recognition? Or do you want to be the strongest?"
"None of that." Asta's face was full of determination and conviction."I want to show everyone that we can all achieve anything we want if we try hard enough. That even a peasant with no magic can become the Wizard King and anyone can do it. You don't have to be born blessed in a royal family to have prestige. I also want to end the discrimination towards us commoners. Sure, we're at the bottom of the ladder, but that doesn't mean we're less important. You can't put a price on human life. In front of the eyes of God, we're all equal, or so Sister Lily says. And when I become the Wizard King, I'll do my best to make sure that happens and that everyone is treated equally."
"That...sounds like a fantastic goal, Asta. So noble." Raiden couldn't help but see him with newfound admiration. Being a commoner himself, Raiden realized just what Asta meant."In that case, I'll be rooting for you. Maybe...you can make this world a better place. Like you said, you're halfway there, right? What's another half?"
"It's too soon to say. But the Wizard King told me that all that matters is giving results. So I at least know I'm on the right path. What about you, though? I know you want to provide for your family and all, but don't you want something else? I mean, since you're a Magic Knight now and everything, is there anything you wish to change or do?"
"Actually, there is." Raiden confessed, sighing."I want to purge all evil from this world. I think you heard me say that before. I want to make this world a better place and that can only be done by eradicating all evil from it. That's why I went ballistic back in the Black Market and also in Nean. The world is shit enough as it is with normal people but add evil to the mix and you have a huge mess."
"What happened?" Asta inquired."Something must have made you think that way, right? You said before that I didn't know what suffering was, so that leads me to believe something happened in your life. I know I'm being nosy but I feel like-"
"I owe you answers?"
"W-what? No, of course not! I was going to say that-"
"It's fine." Raiden cut him off again."We've known each other for a while now, right? I guess it's time I open up a bit about my life. I won't say much, but yeah, something did happen. I watched a lot of people die in front of my eyes at the hands of monsters who wanted nothing more but to satiate their greed. They had no mercy...they slaughtered all those innocent people like it was an everyday thing to them. They are the reason why my friend is so sick. My master, my friend's father, sacrificed himself to protect me and her. I didn't want to run...but I was just too weak." Raiden closed his eyes, biting his lower lip to the point where he drew blood.
"I ran and ran with her in my arms...I..." He took a deep breath, attempting to calm his nerves."Ever since that day, I did all I could to make sure I could become a Magic Knight. To be chosen...to be something that can help me get to where I want to be. To save my friend and to save the world from those retched monsters." He stood up, his gaze falling on his friend.
"I want to make this world where people like us can have a shot at living a good life. For people to live in peace and achieve their dreams. For no one to have to suffer anymore. Wouldn't that be an ideal world? A world where you'd like to live in?" Raiden offered a hand with a genuine smile.
"Yeah..." Asta nodded as he accepted the hand and was pulled up by the amber-eyed boy."It would be great if everyone could be happy."
Raiden's smile softened, his head moving to the side and staring at the moon."I'll go back home one day when I have no regrets. No matter what."
"If you want I can go with you whenever you're up to it." Asta offered."Only if you agree to come over to our orphanage. I'm sure you'll love it. Sister Lily will make you feel right at home."
"Do you really mean that?"
"Of course. In fact, I'll even help you beat those monsters you mentioned. We'll get stronger together and we'll take them down. I promise."
Raiden couldn't help but chuckle at how resolute he sounded, but he admired that trait about him."It's a promise. Let's do our best. Anyway, we should probably head back. The others are waiting for us."
"Right. I hope they didn't finish all the food, I'm starving."
"Alright everyone, gather around!"
The Black Bulls were currently sitting in the living room of their small hotel room in a circle with a bottle in the middle of them.
"What's this?" Abel asked, cautiously picking up the bottle, only for Vanessa to snatch it away.
"This, my dear Abel, is part of the bonding game we'll be playing tonight. And we all have to play, right Gauche?"
"You're in luck. It's Marie's bedtime so I had to end my call with her." Gauche grumbled, slowly walking to the group."What is this game even about? I hope you're not thinking of any kissing games or anything like that."
"Goodness, no." Vanessa shook her head."With only 3 girls and the rest guys it certainly doesn't sound fun to us. To you, yes."
"What? Like hell!" Magna sneered."Who would ever want to go out with you?! Charmy is a non-factor and we don't know what Grey even looks like."
"Wait, why is Charmy a non-factor?" Asked Finral.
"I guess because she looks like someone's little sister." Abel suggested."I mean, I know she's older than me, but I think of her as one. Is that weird?"
"It's not weird at all, sweetie. You're just nice. Unlike some people." Vanessa shot Magna a devious look before resuming her explanation."We're playing truth or dare. Whoever this bottle points to when it stops spinning is it. Pretty simple."
"Alright, let me go first!" Luck grabbed the bottle, immediately spinning it and ignoring Magna's protests."You better get ready, Magna. You have no idea what I'll make you do."
"Keep wishing, you little shit!"
Everyone watched intently as the bottled slowly came to a stop in front of Gauche."You got to be kidding me..."
"Okay, Gauche. Truth or dare?"
"Dare."
"Alright. I'll make it nice and easy for you. Here, drink this without question." Luck handed him a bottle of unknown content. The mirror-magic braced himself, deciding that he was already too deep to back down now. Without hesitation, Gauche drank from the bottle and immediately started choking.
"Ahahaha!" Luck laughed at how red his face had turned."I can't believe he actually did it!"
"What was in that?" Finral handed Gauche a cup of water, nearly getting his hand snatched away with the cup."H-hey, take it easy, Gauche."
"I think that was...the hot sauce Charmy used earlier..." Grey, who was disguised as Finral, couldn't stifle her giggles. This was enough to send the whole squad into a fit of laughter, much to their squadmate's chagrin.
"This isn't funny, damn it!" Gauche growled, grabbing the bottle and spinning it."You better hope I don't get you, you asshole."
"Bring it on. I wanted to get Magna but I've been pranking him a lot lately so I figured he could use a break."
"Jeez, thanks." Magna clicked his tongue, eyeing the bottle as it stopped in front of Grey.
"M-m-me?!" Grey gasped in horror as she received sinister grins from every guy in the room.
"I think you know what we want." Gauche pointed at her."It's time to pay up for all the times you bathed with us even though you're a girl. Truth or dare."
"T-t-truth!"
"Fine." Gauche was hoping she would slip up but was okay with the result."Why are you hiding your true form? Are you ugly or something?"
"That's so rude, Gauche." Charmy chided him."You can't say that to a maiden."
"Like hell. She deserves it for everything she put us through. All the humiliation...she's seen us naked, for crying out loud!"
"I didn't mean to!" She wailed, covering her eyes."I-"
"Just kidding." Gauche closed his eyes."I was messing with you. You don't have to answer."
"R-really?"
"Yeah. I'll give my turn to Magna instead."
"Why the sudden change of heart?" Abel asked what was probably in everyone's minds.
"None of your business, pipsqueak. Now get on with the game, Magna."
Albeit confused, Magna wasn't going to give up this golden opportunity. Spinning the bottle, the group watched in the most agonizing few seconds before the bottle stopped in front of Vanessa."Good. I was hoping for this bastard Luck, but this will work. Truth or dare, Vanessa."
"Oh, my. I'll pick truth since I don't want to give you too much power over a woman like me." She teased, causing him to grit his teeth.
"Stop acting all high and mighty!" Magna sneered, clenching his fists."I'm not holding back. So get ready!"
The group suddenly went quiet, waiting in anticipation of what Magna was going to ask. Vanessa tilted her head, patiently waiting and seemingly not concerned. Whether she was confident or just bluffing, nobody could say.
"Vanessa...have you ever, you know..."
"Hmmm? What?"
"You know...the thing. Have you done it?"
"What the hell is he talking about?" Gauche hissed, already losing his patience."Just spit it out, Magna."
"Yeah, why are you being so bashful about it? It's unlike you." Finral commented with Abel nodding along.
"It's not something I can just say aloud!" Magna snapped at them."I'm getting to it, alright?"
"Just say you wanted to know her body count." Luck bluntly spat the beans, causing Magna to groan."What? I thought you'd want to get it over with. You needed an extra push and I gave you one."
"Luck, you asshole!"
"You're all being too loud. Tune it down a bit!" Yami, who was laying down on a makeshift bed on the floor with a bottle of booze next to him, yelled.
"Yes, Mr. Yami!" Magna saluted his Captain only to return to the odd stares he was receiving.
"Seriously, Magna?" Charmy shook her head."That's weird."
"You don't ask that to a lady. Never." Finral said.
"Huh? But Vanessa hasn't killed anyone, has she?" Abel cocked his head, puzzled."What's this about a body count?"
"Oh, Abel. Don't listen to any of this." Charmy jumped on his shoulders, covering his ears.
Vanessa's chuckle reached their ears, surprising them with her reaction."Seriously? That's it? You made it seem like such a big deal. But no, I haven't been with anyone."
"Ha! So you're a virgin too!" Magna triumphantly cheered.
"Too? Did you just admit you're a virgin?" Vanessa reversed the situation in a flash."And a delinquent. A virgin delinquent."
"Who are you calling a delinquent?!"
"Well, that took long enough. It's my turn next." Vanessa spun the bottle, still chuckled in amusement at Magna's reaction. Once the bottle stop, it pointed directly at Abel."My, my. Abel, lucky you. Truth or dare."
"Truth!"
"Okay. I know something is going on between you and that assassin girl from the Diamond Kingdom. I didn't think you were into the dark, mysterious type. So I want to ask, what caused this love at first sight?"
"Oh..." Abel covered his flushing face."Well, you see..."
"Come on, Vanessa, everyone who was there knows the answer to that. She's stacking."
The group turned to the newcomers, Asta, Noelle, and Raiden, who walked in through the door."Sorry we took so long."
"That's fine. We were just unwinding a bit." Vanessa gave them a warm smile."Hope you had fun."
"Wait, what do you mean stacking?" Magna shifted his gaze to the other fire user."Like, how big are we talking about?"
Raiden snickered, guiding his hands up to his chest and circling them around."This big. She's about his age too. Almost as big as Vanessa."
"Seriously?!" Charmy gasped in shock, nearly scaring Grey to death by how loud she was.
"Raiden, you pervert!" Noelle smacked him in the head."How can you talk about a girl's chest like that?!"
"I got carried away..." Raiden apologized, rubbing his head."But his reaction is golden. But he's not denying it either."
"T-t-t-that's not it at all, Raiden!" Abel was wishing to bury his head in the sand."I'm not attracted to her only because of her physical appearance. She's a really nice and caring person inside, but she's putting up a tough act because she thinks she has to due to her status as an assassin! Besides...I thought you didn't approve of this."
"Well, I don't like the idea of one of my friends dating a murderer...but honestly, it's your decision in the end. If you think you can reach her heart and be happy, then I'll be rooting for you."
"Really? You mean it?"
"So about her chest-"
"Nope, I already answered!" Abel covered his face with his shirt.
"You guys want to play too?" Charmy asked, patting a spot next to her which Asta gladly took. Noelle sat in between Luck and Magna, and Raiden with Gauche and Vanessa.
"I didn't know you were such a tease," Vanessa whispered to him.
"I learned from the best." Raiden chuckled, crossing his legs and watching the bottle spin. He shifted his gaze over to Gauche, who had a small smile on his face as well.
"Oh? Speak of the devil." Vanessa poked Raiden's shoulder."Seems like you're up."
Raiden looked down at the bottle pointing at him, causing him to sigh."It seems so. Okay, Abel, shoot."
"Sure. Truth or dare?"
"Truth."
"What is your most embarrassing memory?"
"This ought to be good." Gauche leaned forward as did Grey, eager to know.
The amber-eyed teen rolled his eyes at their reaction, choosing to rest his chin on his palm."Right. Well, this happened when I was still in school. One day, I was in recess and one of the teachers yelled "Raiden, come on down!" so I went. Apparently, I had received a package that day which was very surprising for me. It wasn't my birthday or anything like that. So I grabbed the package and took it back to my classroom where everyone in my class was surrounding me, wanting to know what I could have gotten. I opened the package and..." Before he could finish the story, Raiden's face turned crimson with embarrassment, scratching his cheek."I...there were girls' clothes in there. A tutu to be exact."
"Wait...you do ballet?!" Magna burst into laughter."Oh, man! Now that's rich!"
"No, you idiot! It turns out there was a girl in my class with my name and it was hers!"
"Wait, why didn't she say anything before then?" Noelle inquired."And why didn't you make the connection sooner?"
"I didn't know her name at the time." Raiden supplied."She was really shy and it was during our first days. From what I know, she was part of the dance club, and her mom had sent her her tutu during class."
"A girl named Raiden, though?" Asta scratched his hair."Isn't that a bit weird? I thought Raiden was a guy's name?"
"I guess it's nonbinary." Raiden gave a half shrug."Anyway, I was a laughing stock for a while. It was a pain. Well, should we keep going? It's my turn to spin."
The squad continued playing, enjoying each other's company and antics. Raiden eventually opted out of the game, merely observing from his bed as they chatted along for the rest of the night. For once in a long time, he felt genuinely happy. He was still worried about what the future awaited him, but nothing could overcome what he was feeling for living in the moment. He would have to thank Johan later for helping him lift a weight off his shoulders. For helping him realize that these people were friends unconditionally and cared for him. It was strange to say the least, given his life experiences with people. His only friends could be counted with one hand, but now he had a whole bunch. People who accepted him and would never judge him.
Suddenly, a memory flashed in his mind. A group of adults in front of him with him raising his hand high in the air.
Raiden grabbed his head, clenching his eyes shut and trying to forget about said memory. But it was too late. His heart was still in turmoil.
Somewhere in the Clover Kingdom, in the middle of the night, Apollyon, Scout Angel of the Saviors, was sitting on a rock, patiently waiting for something or someone.
His wait ended sooner than he had anticipated as a gust of wind from above indicated that the second angel had finally made it. Like him, he had white armor covering his body but looked thinner than his own. He had two spikes coming off his shoulders circling up, and his mask covered his whole head, only allowing his azure-colored eyes with hexagrams engraved in them and two horns to come out of it.
"Acting Captain Raphael. I'm glad you could make it." Apollyon gave the other angel a nod."Had trouble keeping anyone from following you?"
"Not all of us can travel through the earth." Raphael scoffed, folding his arms under his chest."I got your message so I came. I take it you talked to the brass?"
"I did. I talked with the Commander but before that, I talked with Lord Michael."
"Michael? Not Metatron? Well, I suppose being God's right-hand man is keeping him. So, what did Michael say?"
"The angels are impatient. They want the connection between this world and theirs to be built already so they can come down here. As you know, angels can't come into the human world without a host. Even then, high-ranking angels are too much for a human to hold. They're expecting results soon, and Michael emphasized the point of our kingdom being invaded again while we're not there. Also, there's a good chance that the devils will create a channel that will permit them to come over before the angels can. If that happens, there will be no hope for humanity or angel kind."
"Shit. But we can't rush this. If we make the wrong move, the devil will go back into hiding. What did he say about the ANtichrist and the Order of the First? If we can figure out whether they have a devil with them or not it will benefit us immensely."
"He said they're not sure." Apollyon lied through his teeth."Antichrist is a loose term that supposedly doesn't mean a single entity. Regardless, you said they're something else other than human or devil. FOr now, it's best if we focus our attention on something else. Listen to Captain Azazel's orders and let them do whatever they want."
"It doesn't sit well with me to let them go around killing innocent people. But if even the angels have no idea what's going on, we have to gather more information on our own. Alright, back to the topic at hand. We have to find a way to smoke out the devil host. Are we even sure there's a devil host here?"
"The Council detected devil presence here. There's at least one devil in this kingdom for sure. According to my research, multiple families used to make connections with devils. It wouldn't be out of the question for one to be here still. It's either this or storm the Spade Kingdom. And you know how what would go right now."
"We're not ready." Raphael muttered in frustration."So that means we have to do this here and now. We still have time before the deadline so we'll wait for a bit. If the devil host doesn't show up in a month, we'll have to make plans to cause a scene and force the devil to come out of hiding. But like I said, we can't be too forceful because we might lose our only lead."
"Given your situation, you don't want to wait longer than necessary."
"Worst-case scenario we'll just have to invade the SPade Kingdom and hope for the best. It's the last thing we can do, but at that point, it's all or nothing." Raphael took firm steps forward, walking to the open and staring at the moon."One way or another we'll make this world a better place and bring the Millenial Kingdom into reality. For the sake of humanity, we cannot fail. We will save the world from evil."
