Alright, back on track! Finally got through the start of the "Ragnarök arc" on my main story, Red Dragon Of Golden Light and holy shit was it fucking ridiculous! True chaos! That was the hardest thing I've ever written and it's only gonna get harder. Now I can work on the other stories. Especially this one, which I am feeling very inspired to write for suddenly, for some reason. So yeah, I'm fuckin in it.
This chapter is getting into the [Raynare arc], which, I've gotta warn you guys, is going to be quite short. Lol. To be fair, the arc is pretty short in canon, in hindsight. But, more of that has to do with Issei having just become a Devil and struggling with being a weakling. This Issei, however, is no weakling. Of course, I'm not saying this arc is gonna end in like 10,000 words or anything absurdly short like that. I just mean that the conflict of the arc itself will be solved a bit quicker than it was in canon. This Issei is very much not like canon Issei after all.
Let's just see how his interactions with current characters, and new characters are about to go down, shall we?
SCENE
…
…
《HYOUDOU ISSEI》
(—?!)
—Issei eyes shot open at the sound of a deep bellow that reverberated through the walls of his mind. —No, not his mind. Rather, the sound bounced off of the walls of the place he suddenly appeared inside of.
An unfamiliar place. The space was wide and open, but also dark and confined. It resembled the insides of a cavern or cave. The ceiling was tall and every part of it resembled rock. But this rock was red. As if it was an entire cavern made of red rock from mars. Otherwise, it was inexplicable.
However, what was more apparent than the visual itself, were the sounds. The sounds of terrible suffering.
{AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH! AAAAAAAAAH!}
The only sounds that filled Issei's ears were the collective sounds of possibly hundreds of screams. Unrecognizable wails of pure terror and pain. And yet, for some reason, they did not feel unfamiliar to him.
But most of all, he realized that the sounds were being released from the ground under him.
….It was then that he realized, they were beneath him. He was the one above them.
{AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! AAAAAAAAH! AAAAAAAAAAH!}
—It only took one glance down for Issei to realize what he was sitting on. It was a rough, tall, pillar of red rock. In fact, the only semblance of "ground" or "foundation" that there was in this place, was the pillar beneath him, and another similar looking pillar across from him.
But, besides that, there was no ground. None. Instead, upon looking downwards, he realized that the only thing below him was a pit.
A pit of blood infested with writhing, screaming, living corpses.
[—?!]
Upon realizing it, Issei recognized that there was a striking similarity between this place, and another. A place that he dreamt of. A place he had nightmares of very often, over the span of years.
—The so-called "Belly of the Beast".
《Hyoudou Issei.》
Issei lifted his head again after hearing his name being called out. It was a young and familiar voice. In fact, he recognized all too well.
That's because— it was his own.
《So you've returned.》
The one who was sitting on the pillar across from him, was himself. Or rather, his childhood self.
《It's been a long time, hasn't it? Since you've been here, at least.》
"..?!"
Despite the speech that his younger "visage" was giving him, Issei felt like he had never encountered a scenario like this before. He was on his knees with his hands chained to the pillar's edges, as if being imprisoned. He had been in the "Belly of the Beast" before, but not sitting on a pillar, in chains. He was usually drowning along with the corpses below him.
Though, even more than that, he had never encountered a vision of his younger self speaking to him directly.
Let alone the exact version of himself from "that day", all the way down to the clothes he was wearing.
《Do you see them? All of those guys down there. They're not just corpses. They're your corpses. They're the "damned". They're all the poor guys that you killed. Humans. Some Devils. Nonhumans. There's even a couple down there who look just like me, in appearance, if you know what I mean.》
The younger visage— the "boy", said that while holding his gaze over the edge of his pillar, looking down upon the pit of "damned" ones. Not too far behind his form, there was a large, tall mirror with no frame.
The boy shifted his gaze back to Issei across from him.
《Today is the day that you will speak with the Devils. What do you plan to do?》
Despite being so far away, the eyes of the boy portrayed a creepy image to Issei that he could see clearly. Maybe because he was looking at it with "his own eyes".
—It was a vision filled with blood.
《Will you kill them?》
(—!)
Issei felt his eye twitch in response to the question. He wanted to answer it in some way, but he realized he couldn't. Because there was something over his mouth. It was a mask. —No, it was more accurate to compare it to a muzzle. And one that resembled a dragon's snout, no less.
《You don't need to answer it. It's not like your answer isn't obvious. You're practically growling like a mad dog in that muzzle as it is. Don't bother denying it. Even if you don't show it, that's just what I'm seeing on the inside anyway. And who would know better than me, or rather, yourself. Right?》
To the boy's cryptic phrasing, Issei could only raise a suspicious brow.
《That's all you are, right? You're just a wolf in sheep's clothing. More like, a "Dire wolf", I guess. You're the monster of the story. You can never be the "good guy", or the "hero". You know it well enough, don't you? You've said it yourself. You're not "cut out for it". You're only meant to ruin things. That's all you're good for. —Destruction. Devastation. Domination. It's what you're destined for. It's all you can do. In the end, whatever you touch comes to die. You bring ruin to what you influence. That's all you can do. That's all you're good for. That's why you came home, right? You came back to die?》
That's what the boy said to him. At this point, Issei could only assume that this was a reflection of himself. Ironic, considering the large mirror behind the boy.
Even so, Issei felt the need to respond. Even if he couldn't speak, or think of what to say, he felt compelled to respond. Maybe just with: "Shut up."
—The boy then looked straight through Issei with apparently red eyes.
《If that wasn't true, then why does it keep happening?》
[—!]
To that, Issei had no response, even if he could speak. He could only lower his head in shame, the damned souls below him being easily visible over the edge of his pillar.
《That's right. You can't argue with me. It wouldn't make sense, right? Since I'm just you anyway. Or a version of you, I guess. The one who doesn't run from reality, that is. Meanwhile, you waste a lot of your time just looking down at that cross and constantly seeing things that aren't there as a result. Or, more like, seeing "someone" specifically.》
Issei then looked down to his otherwise naked body and noticed something resting on his chest. It was the very same cross the boy referred to, hanging from his neck, like always.
Even in this horrific place, it was like a symbol of comfort to him.
《You couldn't save her. In fact— You "killed" her.》
[—!]
Issei's head immediately whipped back up, as if on some sort of subconscious reflex.
《Struck a nerve, did I? Well, it was always the truth that you wanted to keep running from. That's why your eye twitches like that, right? Whenever you're caught thinking about something that touches your heart, or disturbs your mind, whether good or bad, that little tick of yours becomes apparent because of it. And with the way you live, that's almost always happening. It's closed more than it's open. —But regardless of all of that, it means you recognize the truth. The truth that it was because of you, that she died in the first place.》
"..."
《If it wasn't for you, that wouldn't have happened, would it? You know about the "curse of the Sekiryuutei", don't you? Ddraig has told you. Many things happen to the possessors of the Heavenly Dragons. Many things that can hardly be called coincidence. Maybe if you have never even existed, she would still be alive today. Maybe it would even been the same with your parents. —Maybe if we were never born, if they had a different son, they wouldn't have to have died like that.》
Upon listening to the entire speech, Issei had not a single word for a response. He could only remain silent, with his head lowering more every sentence. In the end, his vision landed back onto the cross on his chest…
《The kids killed by "Zealous". The Nightwalker. Those people killed by Genesis. Those people killed by stray Devils in your prefecture. All of those you killed yourself. Marie. And even Mum and Dad. —Maybe, if you had never existed, they would all still be alive today… Or, at least, that's what we think…. That's what YOU think…. Isn't it?》
Again, Issei had not even a breath of response. He only held his head down.
The boy stood up from his spot and turned back. He made his way towards the large mirror that was centered on his pillar.
《That meeting that you are going to have with the Devils, do you remember what it was about? They said they wanted to "clear things up". So that it may possible for all of you to "coexist peacefully".》
The boy stood in front of the mirror and placed his hand upon glass. He looked back to Issei. Issei, feeling the boy's gaze, lifted his head.
—When Issei lifted his gaze, he could see something in the reflection of the boy in the mirror.
《"Coexistence"? "Save"? Liar. Don't be ridiculous.》
In the reflection— there was nothing but a monster. A black beast donning a grotesque looking armor, sharp claws, the jaws of a monster, and a form covered in eyes that were all staring right back at him.
《You aren't capable of such things.》
BREAK!
At that moment, the base of the pillar that Issei was chained to, broke apart. It was broken by the countless damned below trying to reach him.
The support of the pillar broke, and he fell into the pit below. And as he fell, slowly, he could hear the last words of the boy being communicated to him directly.
《You can't accomplish such things. It's simply not in your nature. In the end, it will end up the same with them as it ends up with everyone else. They will just end up dead by your hand. That's how it always ends. Because—that's just what's in your nature.》
Then, finally, Issei splashed into the pit of blood, surrounded by the souls of the damned, and his world went entirely black.
SPLASH!
…
…
Everything was dark. All except for one, noticeable light in the distance. The direction Issei was looking in, was "up".
High up above him, Issei could see a beam of light. An "exit". It only took him a quick second to realize where he had ended up at.
It was the "well". He had been to this place before. A well of darkness. Cold, damp, lonely. —It was indeed a place familiar to him.
He also remembers the "figure". The figure of a certain person would always stand "up there", "out there", just waiting for him beyond the exit. Just one person. She was always waiting for him to come up.
And the longer and longer she stood there, waiting, the more that the distance between Issei and exit decreased. As if the whole place slowly began to shrink over time. And one day, perhaps that person would reach her hand down to him, and he could bring himself out of the darkness.
—But now, that person was gone. There was not a single soul waiting for him beyond that exit. He was alone. And more than that, the distance between him and the exit was now far beyond anything it had ever been before, as if he had fallen even further.
Though, now, there was something different. Despite Issei not being able to see anything apart from the exit, he felt an odd "weight" on his "back". As if something was now holding him down from the exit, even when he was this far away. Something was sitting on him, laying on him, pinning him down. Something heavy.
"...Ah."
Issei quickly realized what it was that was holding him down. It was something that didn't need to be made clear with vision, yet he could still see the image in his mind.
《In the end...》
—Stacked on top of Issei's back—
《...You cannot "save" or "protect" anything...》
—was a pile of endless bodies, reaching the top, and eclipsing the light.
《HYOUDOU ISSEI》
"AAAH!"
Issei's upper body shot up, and his eyes snapped open, revealing that he was back in the room of his childhood again.
[Partner. Are you alright? Was it another night terror?]
Ddraig asked that while Issei rubbed over his right eye in an almost exhausted manner. He responded with a heavy sigh.
"...Haah… Yeah…. Same as always, I guess…"
[Is that so? Judging by your emotional state, it felt as if it was worse than usual. Not to mention that I could not interfere or witness it myself, which is most usually an indication that it is related to something deep within your subconscious.]
"Heh…. That so?….."
Meow~
Issei heard a small noise. Looking towards the edge of his bed, he noticed that a small black cat had jumped onto his legs.
"Ah, it's you… Forgot you were here…"
The cat came up to Issei's side and rubbed up against him. Issei pet the cat's head softly, but his face was formed into a scowl.
"...Tch…. "Coexist"... As if I ever wanted to do that in first place…"
….
Even though Issei said that, his expression held a tinge of sadness in it..
Part 2
"Ha— aah~"
Issei let out a yawn with his usually stoic attitude. By this time, he had just arrived to the courtyard of his academy. As Issei walked further into his school, other students began to notice him and greeted him.
In only the total of 3 days that Issei has been attending this new school, he has already made a few of what he would call "friends". For reasons practically unknown to him, people seem to greet him often and talk to him at different times during the day. At first, he thought that everyone hated or feared him, due to the apparently "intimidating" attitude he seems to exude.
But, to his surprise, there isn't really a shortage of students who interact with him.
"Ah, if it isn't Hyoudou Issei-kun. Good morning."
"Hm?"
Speaking of which, Issei turned his head to his right after hearing the voice of a young girl. It was a braided brunette with glasses and a naturally mischievous face.
"You…. You're Aika Kiryuu, right?"
"Oya, you remembered my name? I'm surprised. I wouldn't have expected the famous "Silent Emperor" of Kuoh to recall my name."
Issei raised a brow after hearing the nickname.
"The what?"
"Ara, didn't you know? You've become quite popular in your short time here, Issei-kun. Can I call you "Issei-kun"?"
"Huh? Ah, yeah, it's fine."
"Great! Okay, Issei-kun. As I was saying, you've become quite popular. Some of the academy populace have taken a liking to you. As a result, you've achieved nickname status, just like Kiba Yuuto-kun, the "Kuoh Prince" before you."
Issei couldn't help but make a confused expression at Aika Kiryuu's explanation.
"Popularity? For what reason? I haven't done anything noteworthy. Aside from maybe that incident from the past. But that was my childhood."
Kiryuu waved her finger back and forth in a supposedly informative manner.
"No, no, no, Issei-kun. You see, high school students like us are not so simple. You don't necessarily have to do anything spectacular to earn the popularity here. All you have to do is be an interesting character, usually because of attractiveness. Or at least, that's how it's been up until this point. I think you're one of the only popular students that has earned his popularity through his past reputation and intriguing personality rather than from his initial looks. Everyone else has just been insanely pretty."
In response to Kiryuu's exposition dump, Issei gave an exasperated scoff.
"Huh! —In that case, it's a worthless popularity. What shallow "recognition". Receiving attention for having done nothing is worth that very same amount. Nothing."
Kiryuu smiled at his response.
"Aha, but you see, Issei-kun. That response of yours is exactly the type of thing that seems to resonate with the students. Apparently, many students find your "no nonsense" attitude quite endearing, as it is a great departure from what they're used to. Not to mention that your "character" is quite interesting as well. The fact that you give off such a scary atmosphere, but then turn out to be a nice guy is something that people latch on to. The dichotomy is like a piece of art. Many girls would say that you are kind of like a "gentle giant". A scary, silent character, with a sense of authority, but also very kind to others. Hence, the nickname "Silent Emperor" of Kuoh."
"Huh…. Who even came up with the nickname anyway?"
"I did, of course!"
Kiryuu responded with a prideful smirk. Issei only rolled his eyes and sighed.
"Haah… Of course you did…"
Though, he did find one detail interesting.
"..."Gentle giant", huh?... Not sure where people keep gettin' this impression that I'm some sort of "nice guy"..."
Kiryuu snickered amusingly with a hand over her mouth. She was giving him quite a sly smile.
"Ohohoho~ But you see, Issei-kun… You yourself are the one that has created the impression. Due to your various interactions with other students…"
"Interactions?"
"Oh, yes, yes~ Don't you remember yesterday?"
The day before:
It was currently a study hall period due to the teacher of Issei's class needing to go over some paperwork in the main office. As a result, many students were casually chatting with each other and wasting time.
Issei himself was studying classroom material, as he was instructed to, though he didn't necessarily need to.
Meanwhile, there were a few students gathered around the neighbouring desks, having conversations about their daily lives. That is until, a specific group of four girls next to him changed the subject to something more "interesting".
"Psst. Hey, so that's the new kid, right?"
The girls whispered to each other in a huddle, as to not alert Issei in the desk beside them.
"Yup, that's him alright. From what I've heard, he was kind of a well known "celebrity" when he was younger. Whaddya think?"
"He's got nice looking features, but also kind of a scary looking face at the same time, ya know?"
"Yeah, I get what you mean. He's got a pretty serious attitude. Honestly, he's kind of intimidating. I wonder if he would glare at us if we tried talking to him?"
"There's a couple scars on his face. Look at the mean one over his right eye… How do you think he got that one? In a knife fight, maybe?"
"Hey, Naomi! Why don't you go talk to him?"
"Huh? No way. You do it."
"Hey, hey, I've got a better idea! Naomi, why don't you try testing his patience? He might not be the type of guy to lose his cool if you talk to him, but you can always tell what a person is really like when you're trying to annoy them! Try saying something weird to him!"
"Huh?! I don't wanna do that! What if I get killed?!"
"Oh, come on! I don't think he'd go that far!... Maybe…. But, anyway! Let's make a deal! If you do it, I'll go ahead and ask my brother to take you out on a date! How about that?"
"Eh? Kintarou-kun?! T-That's..! Mm…. O-Okay, what should I do?.."
"Atta girl! Alright! Now, all you have to do is mess with him in some way…. Aha, I've got it! You've gotta tickle him!"
"Huh?!"
"Yeah, that's it! You see, if you tickle him, we'll be able to make an assessment of his personality based on his reaction. If he laughs, then maybe he's more of a lighthearted guy than he makes himself look. If he tries to kill you…. Well, then it was nice knowing you.."
"D-Don't joke like that! It's not funny..!"
"Just hurry up and do it already!"
"Okay, fine, fine! I'll do it!"
"Nice! Good luck, Naomi!"
"Shut up!"
With that discussion between the four girls settled, one of the girls, Naomi, stepped away from the desk the girls were huddled at, and discreetly snuck behind Issei's desk. Naomi took a crouching position as she quietly approached the back of Issei's desk. She extended her arms outward and opened her hands. With an overly cautious attitude, she reached out to Issei's sides.
—And the moment her fingers made contact Issei's stomach, Naomi sporadically moved her fingers around, attempting to tickle him. She tickled him for approximately 4 full seconds with her eyes closed, hoping that she would not receive a hostile reaction, before swiftly pulling her hands away in fear of possibly being hurt.
It was quiet for a moment before she opened her eyes and looked up at Issei, hesitantly.
"Hm?"
Issei lifted his arm to see the girl crouched behind his seat. He then looked down to his stomach, seemingly confused as to what she did. When he saw that she did nothing, he switched his curious gaze back to her. To which she quickly waved her hands around in a frantic manner.
"E-Eh?! N-No, I'm sorry! I was j-just..! I was just messing around?..."
A small bout of silence was left hanging in the air after her uneasy response. She couldn't help but preemptively flinch, anticipating some sort of outward reaction or shouting from Issei.
However…
"Oh.."
When she hesitantly opened her eyes again, she was left with her mouth slightly agape and her eyes fully widened.
—Issei was giving her a smile full of kindness.
"I'm sorry. Unfortunately, I'm not very ticklish..."
KYUN~!
An imaginary arrow shot straight through Naomi's chest. In one moment, she was completely heart-stricken.
….
Naomi silently stood from her place and walked back to her group.
"Ah, goodbye then…"
Issei returned to his work after not receiving a response. When Naomi returned to her group, the girls huddled up again, completely in shock at the events that transpired.
"D-Did you guys see that?! He smiled! He seriously smiled at Naomi!"
"N-No way! It can't be! That smile was way too calm and pure for someone scary like that! Right?! That was like a smile almost comparable to Yuuto-kun's!?"
"M-Maybe it just feels that way because we didn't expect it!? It could've just been whatever, ya know! T-There's no way someone who looks so intimidating can actually be so gentle on the inside! R-Right…?"
The other three girls looked towards Naomi beside them, who had been silently holding her head down up to this point.
"...Kiyomi-chan?"
"Y-Yeah, Naomi?..."
"...You can go ahead and cancel that "date" deal with your brother…. I think I'm okay..."
"Naomi?!"
Issei's flashback ended with him scratching his head in irritation, while Kiryuu simply snickered beside him.
"Ah, it was that…"
"Mhmm. That's right~ It looks like that smile of yours is capable of capturing hearts, a bit like Kiba Yuuto-kun's. Though, probably not as effective. Or maybe so? Who knows, there are some people who would say it's more effective because it can be considered a "super surprise sneak attack!", or something like that. Point is, everyone basically heard about that story, and other examples like it throughout the day, and as a result, you have the reputation you do now."
"Other examples?… I don't recall having that many positive interactions within just two days…"
"What about that girl who you helped after she dropped her stuff?"
"Ah, well, I'm not sure how that would count as "positive". I'm sure someone else would've just done it if I didn't."
"What about that guy who forgot his textbook, so you shared your own with him?"
"Isn't that just a classroom courtesy?"
"What about that girl who didn't know where the teacher's office was, so you took the big boxes she was carrying and delivered them on her behalf?"
"It was easier than giving her directions."
Kiryuu fixed her glasses while looking up at Issei curiously.
"You really make up a lot of excuses for doing good things, Issei-kun. Even though you do them so often. It's only been two days, you know? Why can't you just accept the idea that you're a good person?"
The moment that caught Issei's ear, he almost burst out into a fit of laughter.
"Haha! Yeah, right. And the Devil is a saint…. "Good person", as if… A good person doesn't need to think about the good things they do, they just do 'em because it's in their nature…"
"Hmmm. You didn't really seem like you needed to think about those things when you were doing them."
"Yeah, well, don't assume. You never really know what's goin' on through somebody's head..."
"Yeah, you're right. But you can usually tell by the actions they take. Or at least, the ones they're willing to put effort into doing consistently. Truth is, you could've just gone on not doing any of those things, since you don't gain anything. But you still did them, ya know?"
Issei's expression became a little sullen after hearing that. There was once a woman who said similar things to him…
"That being said, Issei-kun, I wanted to ask you, but: why didn't you get mad at that girl who tickled you yesterday anyway?"
At Kiryuu's somewhat perplexing question, Issei raised a brow.
"Hm? What do you mean? She wasn't trying to humiliate, ridicule, hurt, or do anything else bad to me. She was just trying to have fun. So, why would I get mad?"
Issei answered as if it was obvious. He couldn't help but remember little Maki during childhood. If he were to have gotten angry with her every time she did something mischievous, then what kind of 'Nii-Nii' would he be? Perhaps it is because he has a possibly high tolerance, but he doesn't understand that mentality.
—But in truth, the reason Issei thought this way was because of all of the life-threatening and dangerous situations he's been in. In comparison to those traumatic events and those sick people, someone trying to tickle him doesn't bother Issei at all. If anything, it only further incentivizes Issei to respond with kindness, since he usually just takes their actions as a sign of innocence.
While Issei was perplexed by this, Kiryuu smiled and nodded her head firmly.
"Mm, I see. Yes, yes, I see. That confirms it for me. Alright. I'll make sure to let people know that you're actually approachable."
"Oi, you better not be sayin' that you're gonna start sending people to me for favors or somethin'. I'm a busy guy too, ya know."
"Haha! So you're saying that you'd do it if you had time? Wow, Issei-kun. You really aren't helping the case that you aren't a good guy at all, hehe."
Issei grimaced at Kiryuu's remarks, not being able to respond to her verbally. Kiryuu just nodded her head again.
"You know what, Issei-kun? I think I like you. You mind if we become friends?"
"Hm? Not really, I guess."
"Thanks. Ah, being open to having new friends is usually a sign of being a nice guy too, by the way."
"Erk…"
Then, the school's bells rang throughout the academy, signaling the beginning of the school day. Kiryuu quickly ran past Issei, towards the main school building.
"Oh, that's our cue! C'mon, Issei-kun! If you don't keep up, you'll be la~te!"
Issei rolled his eyes again, but it wouldn't be a lie to say that he had to stifle a laugh. Though Issei increased his pace slightly, as to catch up with Kiryuu, he was still walking at a relatively casual pace.
But, right before entering the main building, Issei's eye caught one last glance at a certain building in the distance. The old school building…
Part 3
DING-DONG~ DONG~
The school bell rang throughout the academy grounds, this time, signaling that the school day was officially over. Many students began making their way home, or around the school to their respective clubs.
—Finally, it was time for Issei to meet them again. The Devils.
Knock, knock.
A knocking sound was made from the outside of the double door entrance to a certain room in the old school building. The doors to the Occult Research Club room. It was not a harsh knocking, but rather a firm one. It presented a lack of hostility, but no lack of authority.
Inside the room, the entire group of Devils known as the "ORC" were gathered. They were all not so eagerly awaiting the arrival of their so-called "guest". The host of the Welsh Dragon Emperor himself, Hyoudou Issei.
And upon hearing that knocking, it was made clear that the guest had finally arrived.
"Come in."
Rias Gremory, the leader of the Devil group, announced her permission for entry from where she sat on a couch. The moment she did so, one of the doors promptly opened.
Dakun.
The one who entered through the door was none other than the current Sekiryuutei, Hyoudou Issei, their anticipated guest.
"So you've come."
When Issei entered the room, he immediately took notice of each Devil's placement in the room. Rias Gremory was sitting in the middle of one of the couches, the one to the right. Meanwhile, her 3 Devil friends were all standing behind her sofa, as if to silently observe.
Issei said nothing in response to Rias, but there was a resting scowl on his face. Rias motioned to the empty sofa across from her.
"Welcome back, Hyoudou Issei-san. Please, sit."
While maintaining his scowl, Issei lumbered over to the empty sofa across from Rias and sat on it. His sitting posture resembled that of a delinquent, with his right shoe being placed against the side of the coffee table in front of him, making it quite obvious that, not only did he not enjoy being here, but he also held no respect for the Devils present.
Once he found his position, Issei asked Rias Gremory outright.
"Explain why I am here, Devil."
He said it with no reservation and no lack of disinterest. Rias could only force herself to become accustomed to his current attitude towards them, as it was the only way to move forward with the prospect of forming a positive relationship. It also didn't seem like his attitude would be changing anytime soon anyway, so they may as well get used to it.
"Yes, well— first of all, welcome."
Rias once again welcomed Issei in a formal and fairly polite manner. While this was happening, Rias's best friend, Akeno Himejima, poured a cup of tea for the two of them.
Akeno hesitated when she made it to Issei and he suddenly switched his glare to her. But after a few seconds, his glare softened into a deadpan, and he returned his gaze to Rias. Akeno then poured some tea for him, which he did not drink.
"Now, I assume you would like to know what exactly we are here to discuss today, Issei-san."
Rias says that while crossing her legs and taking a sip of her tea. Issei merely scoffed at her.
"Huh… Well, apparently Devils do have ears then. Not so much for a brain if they need someone to repeat themselves to understand something so simple."
Rias placed her tea cup back down while showing no obvious reaction to his remarks.
"Yes, we do possess most of the same traits as humans, fortunately. It allows us to blend in with human society much easier. If not for our similarities, my servants and I would not be leading such pleasant lives here."
Rias responded as formally as she could manage, ignoring any sort of offense she could have taken from Issei's insults. Her pride wasn't worth the lives of her 'servants', after all.
"Oh? And how long exactly have you and your "servants" been living in the human world?"
"Mm, not very long. It's only been a few short years."
"Hoho…. So you've enjoyed your time flyin' around my homeland?"
"Mm, quite."
Issei was left curling his lip downward in an unamused manner towards Rias's seemingly unbothered and refined attitude. It looks like Rias was now taking a more confident approach than last time, without flaunting her devilish pride. Possibly because she seeks to confirm her suspicion that Issei is truly "not evil".
"So, Hyoudou Issei-san. As I said the day of our first meeting, I have asked you to come here so that we may have a discussion."
"What sort of discussion?"
"The same type that I was asking for in the first place. Nothing more than friendly conversation with each other as to clear up any possible misunderstandings that could come up in the future. As well as hopefully building upon a new, positive relationship with each other."
Issei raised a brow after Rias finished her explanation.
"Positive relationship?"
"Of course. As I said a couple days prior, in order to properly coexist with each other, we must develop a relationship that is built on understanding. We are all considered "supernatural beings", and we do want to continue to live in this place peacefully, after all. So, of course, the best course of action would be to have some peaceful discussions with each other. So that we come to look at each other as "allies", or at the very least, co-inhabitants."
Issei fell silent and stared at Rias, his right eye beginning to twitch incessantly. Rias's words echoed through his head to an almost irritating degree, gradually getting louder, and repeating over and over.
'Coexist…. Coexist… Coexist— Coexist—Coexist Coexist Coexist—'
Issei smacked the side of his head twice, as if removing water from his ears. The noises came to silence after that.
Issei lowered his head and whispered under his breath.
"...Coexist, huh…."
He was left recalling the image of his younger self with dead eyes.
(《You aren't capable of such things.》)
"...Tch…."
Issei clicked his tongue in a self frustrated state and lifted his head again.
"So, then…. What sort of "friendly" discussion does that exactly entail? Are you going to start interrogating me now? A "positive relationship" based on how much you know about me, in order to keep me in control, Devil?"
Despite Issei's suspicious questioning, Rias shook her head easily.
"Quite the opposite, in fact. While I would like to come to know more about you, that does not mean I intend to "interrogate" you. Rather, I'd like for it to be more of an 'exchange'."
"...An exchange?"
"Indeed. I will ask you a question, and I hope for you to answer it— then, you ask me a question in return, and I shall answer it truthfully. It's as simple as that really."
"Hoh? So you're looking for an equal exchange of information, as a means of "educating" ourselves on each other."
"Correct. —Though, I can't help but feel that you seem to be looking into our intentions a bit too deeply, Issei-san. I assure you that I don't have some malicious, ulterior motives. I simply want to build a positive connection between you and our group, and hopefully even remove your bias towards us. Perhaps we could even call ourselves friends, one day."
To that, Issei almost let out a mad cackle.
"HAHA! —Hmph! That shit sure is rich comin' from a Devil. Especially one with "servants". I betcha you're just lookin' to 'use' me, same as them, huh?"
"Of course not, Issei-san. Again, I have no such insidious intentions as you assume I do. Moreover, your impression with my servants seems to be influenced by your bias against Devils as well. Tell me something, Issei-san. Do you know of how the system which servants are chosen works, exactly?"
Issei was left silent with Rias's question.
Issei remembers Ddraig once explaining that his last host before Issei came to learn about Devils now having a new "servant" or "slave" hierarchy that they didn't have in Ddraig's time. That past host never got to learn how the system works, only that it existed. And Issei did encounter "Zealous", who was apparently a 'rogue servant', or in other words, a "Stray Devil". However, he came to learn nothing about Zealous's servitude, only that he killed his "master".
So, to answer Rias's question, Issei does not know how the system works.
"...You're asking me that question… So I suppose the "exchange" has started then?"
"Well, if you want that to count, then by all means: Yes, please. Answer my question and I shall answer one of yours."
Issei hesitated a moment before answering frankly.
"...No, I don't know."
"Ah, is that so? I see."
Rias picked up her tea and took a sip from it, saying nothing more than that. Rias had suddenly gone quiet and the conversation was stopped dead in its tracks. Issei raised his brow at the change.
"What, is that it? You aren't going to explain it then?"
Rias placed her tea cup back down.
"Ah, would you like to know more about it? In that case, I'll take that as your first question."
"..Wha—"
Rias said it in an almost playfully smug manner, leaving Issei to growl to himself.
[Ah, it has been a while since I've seen you 'played' by a woman, partner.]
'Quiet, Ddraig…'
Rias then snapped her fingers, and in response, Akeno brought a chessboard from behind Rias's desk. Akeno then handed Rias a small bag, and from out of the bag, Rias started to place chess pieces on the chessboard. But they were no regular chess pieces. They were red, and their glassy interiors seemed to have something moving within them. Something that resembled a red liquid. —No, Issei could tell that it was more than that. It was most certainly 'power'.
With all of the chess pieces set up on the board, which didn't seem to be a full set, Rias then began to explain the Devil's system of "servants" to Issei.
"To put it simply, I'm afraid that I will have to diverge into the topic of the current state of the Underworld and the Devil's population."
Issei cut Rias off at that.
"—Don't. I have no interest in the worthless affairs of the Devil race. As far as I'm concerned, you can all go extinct."
Rias furrowed her brows at Issei's dismissive attitude towards the subject.
"Excuse me, Issei-san… But, I'm afraid that it's quite necessary to explain in order to understand this topic. If you want to understand the Devil's reincarnation system, then it seems quite imperative that you know what compelled such a system to exist."
Issei clicked his tongue again.
'Ddraig. Should I let her go on with her explanation?'
[Well, partner, that is certainly up to you. However, I myself would like to know more about the current state of the world as it concerns your journey. That information may come to serve us well in the future.]
'Grr…'
Though he was hesitant about it, Issei could not deny that Ddraig was right. That information could prove vital to accomplishing any possible goals he may have in the future. He may want to die, but he'd rather not cause an unnecessary amount of trouble while doing it.
"...Continue."
"Right. —Well, first of all, I'd like to explain what led us to this point: the 'Great war' between the three powers. As I'm sure you know, Angels Devils, and Fallen-Angels do not get along very well. From the start, we never got along. —We, the Devils, have been at war with the Fallen-Angels since ancient times. We have been fighting over the possession of the Underworld, which is also known as "Hell" in the human world. The Underworld is split into two areas, one for Devils and one for Fallen-Angels. The Devils form pacts with humans and receive their sacrifices and increase their strength. The Fallen-Angels, on the other hand, control humans to eliminate Devils. At this point, the Angels come in to destroy these two races on God's orders, which creates the three forces. This has been going on since ancient times."
"Hmph, interesting shit. Too bad I don't give a fuck. Get to the point."
"Right…. Essentially, this war was a long and dreadful one. Extreme losses were suffered by every side of the 'Three powers'. Angels, Fallen-Angels, and Devils all suffered devastating casualties. To the point in which we Devils lost all four of the original great [Maou] leading us and almost went extinct. As a result of these losses, an armistice between the three sides was struck, in order to avoid the outcome of destroying each other completely. —However, the losses suffered by the Devils were much too substantial. A great majority of the Pure-blood Devils were extinguished, and around half of the [72 pillars] went extinct. Our race was in jeopardy. This is what leads us to the creation of the [Evil Piece system]."
Right before Rias could continue, Issei asked her a question.
"Hoh? So you're saying that this system you're about to explain is the reason behind why the shitty Devil race didn't go extinct?"
"Correct. Some would say it single-handedly saved our race; It prevented our extinction."
"Hahaha!"
Issei gave Rias a darkly amused smirk.
"Heh. Well, in that case, I already fuckin' hate it."
Rias sighed lightly, but continued her explanation nonetheless.
"Yes, well, as I was saying…. That is what led to the creation of the 'Evil Piece system'."
Rias picked up one of the chess pieces sitting on top of the chess board. A pawn piece.
"The Evil Piece system is the Devil reincarnation system which allows Devils to reincarnate humans, and other beings, into becoming Devils, thereby expanding the population of our race. By placing these a certain item infused with power into the body and performing a ritual, it is possible to then reincarnate that being into a Devil. That then makes the Devil who reincarnated them their 'master', and the newly reincarnated Devil becomes the Devil's 'servant'. —These chess pieces are the Evil pieces that the system is based off of. Every High-Class Devil is rewarded with these Evil pieces as a means of starting their own 'peerage'. This is the system which allowed us to avoid extinction."
[—?!]
Issei was left in shock after realizing the information that was revealed to him. Zealous— No, all of the stray Devils that he has killed up to this point— they were all former humans. Humans reincarnated into Devils by the new system they created to prevent their extinction.
To this effect, Issei realized, his kill count for 'humans' may be even higher than he could have ever thought before.
But more than that, there was a detail that replaced his confusion…with anger.
"...Reincarnation…. Are you saying that those who become "servants"...they are those who are killed?"
"Hm? Oh, well, there are those who were caught in unfortunate circumstances and met untimely ends. I suppose the number of them compared to those reincarnated conventionally wouldn't be high, but as it pertains to my group specifically, only one of our members has been revived. That person being Kiba Yuuto, the [Knight] of my peerage."
Soon after Rias finished saying that, the room felt like it had gone completely silent. The atmosphere became heavy. The light from the candles placed around the room seemed to dim, and it became a bit harder to breathe, as if the room itself was having the oxygen sucked from it.
This atmosphere of oppression— it was the one that was most usually felt when the aura of the Sekiryuutei was being released.
"Hooooh…"
In fact, that dark red aura was being seeped off from Issei's body and traveled around the floor of the room, touching the feet of anyone who had them grounded.
"...So what you mean to say is that it is a common practice for Devil scum to kill people and force them into servitude, right?..."
[—!]
Due to the oppressive atmosphere that overcame the room, Rias was hesitant to answer, feeling sweat run down her forehead. But she answered nonetheless, trying her best to keep her calm and collected demeanor.
"...It…. N-No, I would have to say that it is not a common practice… In fact, it would be looked down on to do such a thing, as it is an immoral practice…. I was more referring to when a prospect would meet an untimely demise and a Devil would then revive them so that they may serve another purpose again…"
"...Hoho… "Serve another purpose", huh? That's a pretty way of justifying reviving a dead person into servitude without their consent... Since they're just dead anyway, it's alright to assume that you have the right to give them a new life entirely devoted to servitude with you, right?…. As if any of you Devils don't have the foresight to indirectly affect the lives of those who you seek to attain, thereby having them "coincidentally" fall under your servitude under the pretense of being a "savior"... The greed of Devils makes all of you too easy to read. And let me warn you, Rias Gremory. The more that you exhibit those common traits of any scumbag Devil, the more you convince me that I shouldn't be seeking "coexistence", but rather "domination"... I'll have an enjoyable time putting Devils in their place..."
Rias felt a choke in her throat before gulping some saliva.
"...I-I can assure you that no such thing has taken place as it relates to myself…. Every one of my servants had the choice to become a servant of mine…. Even Yuuto, who was near death, was given the choice… We were simply fortunate enough to find each other before he could pass, but he was the one who agreed to become a servant for the purpose of survival….. We, the Gremory family, would not condone the practice of forcing others into servitude. We are a family that likes to pride itself on the fact that we treat our servants kindly. And I do not plan to break that tradition…"
Though Rias tried her best to clear her name, it took a great deal of time for the oppressive aura and atmosphere to clear enough for her fear to dissipate.
The thing that saved Rias was none other than a memory in Issei's mind, sparked by her words.
The memory of the Fallen-Angel from the past, Bal, when referring to the Gremory.
("Well, Devil or no Devil, even I have to admit that girl's in good hands…. Most Devils are shit. I'm sure you know that. But, I guess there's always one or two that happen to not be irredeemable shitbags, ya know?")
"..."
Issei silently relieved the area of his aura, allowing the atmosphere to lighten up.
"Hmph… So then… This "piece" system is what was able to "turn" your little friends here into Devil servants of yours? So they were human once before?"
"Mm, well, yes…. For the most part."
Issei narrowed his eyes when she whispered to herself, but carried on.
"I see. I guess that explains your crow friend bein' a Devil now, huh."
Issei finished that by lifting his finger towards Akeno, standing behind Rias's couch with the rest of the servants. But upon hearing what he said, Akeno glared at Issei.
"Please do not refer to me as such a thing. I am a Devil servant of Gremory. Rias Gremory's [Queen]. —Nothing else."
"Akeno..!"
Akeno was reprimanded by Rias's quick whisper and stern expression. Issei somehow found it slightly amusing and smirked. Compared to Issei's burning hatred, the one Akeno expressed through her reaction was like that of a child with a grudge. Perhaps her hatred did run deep under the surface, but from what Issei knows: if her hatred really was as bad his own, then she would have no hope of controlling it so well. So rather than finding it relatable, he found it more "cute" than anything.
"Huh. Is that so, woman? Well, as far as I was concerned, you were just a child when I met you. Nothing more. And now, you are just a Devil….. Though, I would've hoped you were more than that, at least."
Akeno averted her gaze from Issei's and spoke in a low tone, causing Issei to smirk in return.
"...You do not know me…"
"Heh. Sure, I don't. Maybe it's better that way. If I don't like what I find out, the thought of killing you may just become easier. Just like with the rest of your group."
Despite it not necessarily being a threat, the entire group of Devils was left silent with that. In fact, the more nonchalant or roundabout attitude that Issei held towards saying such a thing was what was most concerning.
Rias decided to cut the tension with a clearing of her throat.
"Ahem. Anyway, Issei-san. —Ah, speaking of which, may I call you "Ise"?"
"Pssh. Trying to become familiar with me, huh, Devil?"
"Well, part of accepting each other as allies is to become familiar with one another—"
"—I never said I would become allies with you, Devil."
Rias sighed after Issei's swift interruption.
"...Right. Well, part of becoming 'co-inhabitants', I suppose. At least to have a relationship that is not "enemies". Besides, I would much rather refer to you by your name instead of "Hyoudou Issei"— And I would also rather have you calling me Rias, as well, instead of "Rias Gremory". It's more of a formality than anything."
"I will call you what I please, Devil. What you call me does not concern me, I do not plan to associate with you anymore than necessary."
"...You aren't making this very easy, Ise…"
"Did I say that I would, Devil?"
Once again, Rias was left sighing deeply.
"Haaah…. Very well…. I understand. You've made your stance very clear. I won't bother with those formalities…. But, at least know that I won't consider you an enemy. Nor will I consider you a "threat", from any point here on out, so long as you do nothing to endanger this town or my servants. Perhaps you won't ever see us as allies, but that is fine. So long as we are not enemies, that is what matters most."
Finally relaxing her nerves, Rias took one more sip of her tea.
"...So then, if I may, I would like to ask you some things as well, Ise. You're free to answer any of them you wish. If not, then it's fine. You can simply remain silent. Since there's nothing I can do about it anyway."
Issei rolled his eyes and frowned, but agreed nonetheless.
"Hpmh… Ask what you want, Devil."
"Thank you. In that case, I'd like to start with this question for one."
Rias asked while placing her finally empty tea cup down.
"When exactly did you begin your life as the Sekiryuutei?"
Issei smirked and gave her an overly sarcastic response.
"When I was born."
Rias frowned in disappointment.
"...Right. I suppose I can blame no one besides myself for that. Let me rephrase it then. 'When exactly did you first discover or unlock your Boosted Gear', is what I'd like to ask."
After Rias asked him that, Issei's expression gradually shifted. His right eye tightly shut and he averted his gaze elsewhere. His expression had become dark.
"...When I was six years old…"
Rias, and even the rest of her group, displayed expressions of shock at that information.
"Only six years old..! To unlock such a high level gear at such a young age— A Longinus Class..! It must have taken some heavy circumstances for that to occur…"
Issei's frown became a scowl and his expression darkened further. Yet he remained silent.
"Alright then. My next question is: Have you ever unlocked Balance Breaker?"
[—!]
Issei's mind was suddenly rampaged with the flash of traumatic images related to both times he unlocked his Balance Breaker, perfect and imperfect. At this point, his expression had become so dark that it looked like shadows were overtaking his face. His throat even began to let out a low growl.
—To Rias, it seemed like Issei refrained from answering through his silence, so she asked another question.
"...Very well. Another question then. To me it would be considered the most important one."
Rias looked straight at Issei and asked him frankly.
"Ise, why do you hate Devils so much?"
—Issei's mind came to a halt upon hearing that question.
It felt as if his entire life flashed before his eyes, at an unreasonable speed. But this time, it was silent, and the invasive images passed like a fleeting shadow. The silent barrage of trauma was ended with one last memory.
The memory of "that day".
….
….
….
The deafening silence in the clubroom was broken when Issei fixed his sitting position on the couch and leaned forward a bit. He held his head down with an unnatural shadow cast over the top half of body, and placed his hands together.
Issei's voice came out in a low, eerie tone.
"...Rias Gremory. Ten years ago, the town of Kuoh suffered a catastrophic earthquake which ended with a large amount of casualties. —This was a lie. There never was such an earthquake. The truth is that Kuoh was attacked. Attacked by an inexplicable amount of "monsters" known as 'magical beasts' that wreaked havoc throughout the town. The "earthquake" that had supposedly taken place was actually nothing more than a cover-up story fabricated by the Devils who were responsible for it."
[—?!]
The group of Devils, most especially Rias, went wide eyed when realizing the subject.
"So you know about that..! But how..!"
Before Rias could question it any further, Issei continued, as if not hearing her at all.
"—After the event took place, the Devils who had arrived on scene that day, they erased the memories of all of those directly involved with the incident…. All except for one boy. One boy who did not get caught..."
Once again, the air grew thick, and the candle lights began to dim as the flames on them shrunk. Rias's eyes grew even wider as she began to realize the truth behind Issei's story.
"The Devils who had arrived were many, and some were obscenely powerful. Those four Devils that appeared in the sky together, they were the most powerful. And amongst those four, there was one Devil who stood out. One who's flowing, crimson hair shimmered in the moonlight. —The one who was said to have been the "target" of this "possibly coordinated attack". The one who happened to hold a certainly notable name amongst Devils. The one who was related to that young Devil girl in the forest that 'the boy' encountered. —They, who held the name [Gremory], were the targets behind this attack, an attack on what they considered their territory..."
Just as the atmosphere became darker and heavier than ever before, Issei slowly lifted his head up to look at the Devils…
—And within the darkness of his expression was a set of red glowing eyes, and a deranged smile filled with hatred.
"..THAT, ABOVE ALL ELSE, IS WHY I LOATHE YOU, DEVIL OF GREMORY..."
And just like that, the light from the candle flames was swiftly snuffed out.
Foo!
The room was left in almost pitch black darkness. The only light that graced the room, was the light that peered in through the crack between curtains covering the window, behind Issei's couch. The dim, orange light from that sunset cast itself on Issei's back, turning his form into nothing but a dark, eerie silhouette.
Everything in the club room was left silent and unmoving.
…
…
…
…
Creak..
Rias almost flinched when she saw the silhouette grow in size due to Issei suddenly standing up. The sound of a creak broke the silence, followed by a few stepping sounds. Then, finally the clacking sound of a door being opened, and shut.
Dakun!
Before they even knew it, Hyoudou Issei, the Sekiryuutei, was gone.
…
"Haah…"
Rias let out a sigh of relief in the silence, and placed her head in her hands.
"...I remember thinking that it may have been possible to convince him to join my peerage….. How foolish I was…."
Part 4
It was the next day, after school. Yet another school day passed Issei without consequence. Issei was making his way home after purchasing some cat food for his new "apparently" pet.
"Hmm…. The cat from back home at Nagoya is a fat white cat. This one is a little black cat. What next? A fucking bird?"
"Huaa..!"
Thud!
Issei's self-speaking session was interrupted when he heard a sudden voice and the sound of something harshly landing against the floor. When he turned around, the first thing he saw was white.
—Scratch that. What he really saw was the body of a young girl who had clumsily fallen face first into the floor, her robes flipped over her head, revealing her white panties.
"...A Sister?"
Issei easily recognized the attire of the young girl. It was certainly the dress of someone related to the church. A Sister's clothing.
—But Issei was more focused on the odd feeling he was receiving. For some reason, despite the fact that this girl was dressed in attire related to the catholic church, something that Issei has come to feel only contempt and disgust for… Issei was not receiving such a feeling this time. Instead, he was receiving an oddly familiar feeling.
A feeling that reminded him of someone precious to him…
"Ah.."
Issei snapped himself out of it with a shake of his head. He approached the body and offered a hand to her, after swiftly pulling her dress back down to cover her bottom.
"Are you alright?"
The girl took Issei's hand and stood up slowly. She spoke in a foreign language.
"Aau.. Perché continuo a inciampare... Oh, mi dispiace. Grazie mille.."
'Hm? Italian? So she's a foreigner.'
Issei recognized it right away due to it being one of the many languages that he studied with Marie in his past.
Then, a gust of wind blew by.
Foosh!
"Huaa!"
The Sister's veil was blown off due to the gust of wind, but Issei caught it in his right hand immediately. When he brought it back to hand the veil to her, the Sister's appearance was revealed.
—Her blonde hair, which was hidden underneath, falls down onto her shoulders. Her straight blonde hair sparkles with the soft light of the sunshine above them.
Then, Issei's eyes moved down towards her face.
"—."
—In what had felt like possibly one of the first times in his life, Issei was left awestruck and unable to speak.
The Sister possessed the most beautiful emerald-green eyes. Eyes as clear as water, but with a color that matched a calm grassy plain, and with all of the same serenity. Their color reminded him of the jewel on his Boosted Gear, but with a strikingly different impression.
Instead of receiving the feeling of a mysterious temptation, filled with power and hunger, like with the Boosted Gear…. This feeling he received was nothing more than what was being portrayed within the clear vision of those irises.
—Purity and innocence. An ignorance stemming from kindness. A gentleness birthed from charity. A feeling of comfort. A feeling of familiarity.
….
When was the last time he looked into someone's eyes and felt such a thing? When was the last time he ever met someone who didn't immediately have those looks in their eyes? Looks of fear or contempt or unease?
It was almost enough to bring a tear to his eye….
"A-Ano…"
The Sister darted her eyes back and forth in an embarrassed manner. Issei had yet to release the hand he picked her up from.
"Ah..!"
Realizing his lateness, Issei released the Sister's hand. He was still left a bit lost.
"Ah… Um, ah."
He then realized he was holding her veil and handed it back to her.
"Ah, sorry. Here."
Issei handed the veil back to her while speaking in Italian. The Sister's eyes widened after receiving the veil.
"Ah, thank yo… Eh?! Y-You can understand me?!"
"Ah, of course. I am speaking Italian after all."
"I-I see! Thank goodness! I was having trouble since I got here because I do not speak Japanese very well… And I was lost, but since people don't understand what I'm saying..."
She held her hands together and said that in a sadly disheartened manner. Issei noticed the traveling bag she was carrying with her.
"Traveling?"
Issei asked the girl curiously, but she shook her head.
"No, that's not it. I was appointed to the Church in this town… You must be a resident of this town. It's a pleasure to meet you… Um.."
"My name is Hyoudou Issei. Nice to meet you."
"Y-Yes! Nice to meet you, Issei-san! My name is Asia Argento!"
Issei couldn't help but smile lightly. It was an odd feeling, the feeling that he could smile and it would be alright. How rarely did he feel like he wanted to smile like this?
"Asia, huh? That's a beautiful name. Though I may be a little biased, living in this country and all."
"E-Ehehehe, really?"
Issei was joking around with a smirk. Above all, when was even the last time that he joked around so freely? Even with his friends back home, most of his jokes were usually based on some sort of sarcasm or pessimism. But he hasn't made lighthearted small-talk esque jokes in a while.
"Ah, but you said that you're trying to get to the church?"
"Y-Yes, that's right. But I can't seem to find it…"
"I know where it is. I'll take you there."
The girl— Asia Argento's face sparkled like glitter after hearing that.
"R-Really?! T-Thank you~! I'm so grateful! This must be the divine intervention of God!"
Issei lost his smile and caught himself looking down to the rosario crosses on both of their chests. Especially his own.
"God?..."
Asia's vision was also caught by Issei's uniquely designed cross hanging from his neck. She brightened up when noticing it, and clasped her hands together happily.
"Ah! Could it be that Issei-san is also a believer like meee~!? T-This is too good to be true! This is surely because of the Lord's judgement! Uwah, I'm so happy~!"
As much as Issei may have wanted to deny it with disgust, Asia's purity prevented him from doing so. Instead, he just smiled sadly and held the cross in his hand.
"...Ah, no, I'm not… Sorry…. This belonged to someone else before… I just came to possess it later…"
Asia lost her smile, but it was replaced with a curious look instead.
"Oh… Was it possibly a gift?"
—Issei suddenly felt the sensation of the moment when Marie's cold hand placed the cross in his palm.
"...No."
Issei's lip almost quivered, but he avoided it by frowning sadly.
"...It is a memento…. An 'unfortunate gift'…"
Asia seemed to understand it with his response. She closed her eyes, took hold of her rosario, and lowered her head.
"May they rest in peace."
Asia bowed her head and gave a silent prayer. The simple gesture touched Issei's heart deeply.
Issei hated the church. In his eyes, they inspired a culture of wrongdoings and blind devotion, under the justification that it was for 'the Lord'. It was this mentality that even led to cults like Genesis being formed. And yet, they still saw it fit to fault committed followers like Marie just because of their cowardice.
He hated them. He despised them. He loathed them. —But, just like that little girl back in Nagoya who paid her respects to the Genesis victims' grave— And just like Marie, it was proven to him that there was also some good amongst those in the church.
Asia's kind gesture did leave him wondering something which made him appreciate it all the more though.
—That was: Was there ever anyone who prayed for Marie when she was gone?
…..
That thought alone was enough to fill Issei with an uncontrollable conflict of emotions. So much so that he could feel the desire to scream out in anguish and rage.
—But, as with all other emotions, it would have changed nothing. And for that reason, it was pushed aside.
"...So the church, right? Follow me.."
"Eh? A-Ah, yes! P-Please lead the way..!"
With that, Issei began leading Asia towards the only church in Kuoh. While walking, the two engaged in some casual small talk.
"Say, Asia. I find it a bit odd. There's only one church in this town, and that one is abandoned. Are you sure this is the place you've been appointed to?"
Asia answered with a slightly nervous tone.
"Eh? A-Ah, yes…. It's that one…"
Issei raised a brow at her attitude, but still detected no deceit in her words. Rather, he felt a little sadness from her when saying it.
"Is that so? Well, I'll believe you if you say so."
"T-Thank you…"
The two continued their walk silently. Ddraig took the opportunity to communicate with Issei.
[Partner. This person has a Sacred Gear.]
(—?!)
'Really..!'
[Yes, it seems so. Not a powerful one, but it does not seem to be an inconsequential either.]
'I see..! I must have been too distracted to realize it before, but I definitely notice it now…'
"Uwaaaaaah!"
Issei's thought process was halted by the sound of a child's yelp. Looking around, the sound originated from the park that Issei and Asia were passing. There was a boy who had fallen and held onto his knee in pain.
Despite what many would believe about him, Issei's actual first instinct was to help. That's why he stepped forward, heading towards the park.
But suddenly, Asia, who was behind him, swiftly passed him and walked towards the boy in the park.
"Hey."
Asia went towards the boy who was sitting down and crying and knelt beside him. Issei followed closely after.
"Are you okay? Boys shouldn't cry with a minor injury like this."
Asia patted the boy's head gently to comfort him, but the boy didn't understand what she was saying. Asia just maintained a very kind expression. She then put her palm over the boy's knee, where he had injured himself.
In the next moment, a green light orb appeared from Asia's palm and flashed onto the boy's knee. And within a few short seconds, the wound suddenly disappeared as if it was never there.
—Sacred Gear.
A special ability possessed by certain people. Special weapons, abilities, and even spirits. This was most certainly the effect of that. Those two little 'rings' that appeared on Asia's delicate fingers, those were her Sacred Gear.
Issei was left in amazement.
'This is also the power of a Sacred Gear…. So there's even ones that heal to this effect?... There are so many different types of it.'
[Indeed. As I explained to you in the past, there are all manner of Sacred Gear that exist in this world. Those that heal, those that destroy, those that find, those that repair, and many more. This happens to be one that heals. And a very good one, it seems.]
The boy's wounds disappeared and he stood up with surprise.
"Here, your wounds are healed. The pain should be gone now."
Asia pats the boy's head and looks back at Issei.
"I'm sorry. But I had to."
Asia giggles while sticking her tongue out at Issei. It was a gesture that Issei couldn't help but find cute. The boy, who was shocked before, ran off with a happy smile.
"Thank you, onee-chan!"
The boy ran off while expressing his words of gratitude. Issei translated for Asia, who was left unable to understand it.
"He said: Thank you, onee-chan."
Asia smiled happily in return. When Asia stood back up, Issei pointed down towards her hands.
"…That power…"
"Yes, it's the power to heal. It's a wonderful power that God gave me."
Even though she was smiling, Asia's expression held some sadness. It was much too easy for Issei to tell that there was some sorrow connected to the subject of the Sacred Gear. Most likely related to a dark past of some kind. For that, Issei had sympathy.
"Y'know, Asia, I actually have one of those too. An ability like yours. It's called a Sacred Gear."
Issei admitted that outright while pointing at his left arm.
[Partner. Are you sure it is wise to reveal such a thing to this person?]
'Yes, Ddraig. I trust her.'
[I would not have expected you to trust this girl so easily.]
'You are welcome to present an example as to why I should not.'
Asia covered her mouth in astonishment to Issei's announcement.
"I-Issei-san has a power similar to mine?! I-I-I have never gotten the chance to meet someone like me! T-This is an honor! I'm really truly happy! This is it! This most certainly must be the divine intervention the Lord!"
Asia began praying again in almost comical manner. Issei laughed at her cute mannerisms.
"Ahahaha. Really? You've never encountered another Sacred Gear user at the church? Maybe a warrior of some sort?"
Asia's shook her head to Issei's question.
"No. Because of my power, I was seen as a very important figure like a saint. So I didn't have the opportunity to meet many types of people. I was usually kept away and didn't have any friends. The church deemed those sorts of things unnecessary, since my purpose was only to heal those in need. Having a life outside of that was unnecessary."
Issei very quickly lost his smile after Asia finished her explanation. Soon, his previously lighthearted expression was replaced with a darker one.
"..But it's okay. I was happy to serve the Lord, if even just for a bit.."
Issei scowled, but changed his expression for Asia's sake. He asked her with a serious face.
"Asia."
"Yes?"
"You've...never had a friend.."
Asia smiled weakly and twiddled with her fingers, as if a bit shy to admit it.
"..N-No, I have not, ehehe…"
At her confirmation, Issei made his decision without hesitation.
"I see… In that case."
Issei held his hand out to her.
"..Asia. Would you let me be your first friend?"
"...?!"
Asia's eyes widened and her expression made it very clear how shocked she was to hear such a question. But, after a few seconds, she smiled and nodded with teary eyes.
"..Y-Yes! That would make me very happy!"
Seeing her reaction, Issei smiled softly.
"Good. Now, let's get you to that church."
"Yes..!"
Now with a newly formed friendship, Issei and Asia made their way to the church together. They continued their small talk, walking for only a few minutes before reaching the church. Upon reaching it, Asia matched the location up with the one that was on her map, confirming the location.
"Yes, this is it!"
Issei smiled at Asia's joyful reaction. But, the moment they stopped before the entrance to the church, his expression suddenly shifted.
[Partner.]
Even without Ddraig's warning, Issei's menacing expression made it obvious that he had realized it.
—In this "abandoned" church which seemed to be lit from the inside, there were Fallen-Angels gathered together.
"Yay! We've reached it, Issei-san! Oh, would you like to come in for some tea—"
When Asia turned her gaze towards Issei, her body froze in place. Looking up, she could no longer see the body of her new friend, "Issei-san".
Instead, she only noticed a dark, tall figure with the glowing red eyes of a predator.
Slip!
Just as Asia was about to stumble and fall back from fear, Issei caught her by the wrist.
"Asia…"
He was smiling as if nothing had happened.
"I would love to."
Inside of the church, there were two women sitting in the main area, down the aisle. They both stood in different places away from each other, as if waiting for someone to appear.
One woman was a tall, busty vixen with long, blue colored hair. The other woman had a seemingly younger appearance, similar to that of a young girl's, with sharp blue eyes and blonde hair done into twintails.
Both woman appeared to be waiting patiently for something, or rather, someone. Little did they know, that person had just arrived outside. And she was, unfortunately for them, not alone.
Dakun…
The doors to the church entrance opened, catching the attention of the two women. They stood upright, realizing that the person they were waiting for had appeared at the door.
"Raynaaare! She's here!"
The blonde haired woman called out towards a doorway, signaling for one of her allies to meet with them. The Fallen-Angel Raynare appeared from out of that hallway, entering the main gathering area of the church.
"Ah, finally."
Raynare frowned with annoyance as she took in the appearance of the woman who stood at the entrance, her figure being revealed by the slowly opening doors.
"Now all that's left is for Donasheek to return. Tch, honestly. Took this damn witch long en—"
But, her mind screeched to an instantaneous halt as the doors opened further with a loud creak, revealing another menacing figure.
CREAK…
The figure of a true demon.
[—?!]
—In one moment, Raynare's mind had already processed the image of her own death and the death of her allies.
"A-Ano, I have arrived! Please excuse me for my tardiness!"
Asia bowed at the entrance before taking a step in. Issei followed closely behind her with an expression that held malicious intentions, only shifting it back to a smile whenever Asia would glance at him.
"Huh? Who's this?"
The blonde haired woman asked while she and her vixen ally approached the two guests. Meanwhile, Raynare could only stand frozen still in the background. Asia introduced her friend to the Fallen-Angel women.
"Oh, this is my friend, Issei-san! I met him when I was lost and he helped me find my way here! That's why, as thanks, I invited him in for some tea!"
Asia announced Issei excitedly, leaving the Fallen-Angel women to raise a brow at the other human. For some reason unknown to them, his seemingly "blank" expression looked quite unsettling in a way...
Thinking nothing of it, the blonde haired woman shook her head and gave a fake smile.
"I see! Well, welcome! It's nice to meet you! And also, considering that this is technically our first time meeting in person, it's nice to meet you as well, uh."
"I am Asia Argento!"
"Right! Asia-chan! I'm Mitlet! And this big breasted lady here is Kalawarner! We'll be taking care of you from now on, so let's get along!"
The newly introduced Fallen-Angels, Mitlet and Kalawarner, gave them fake smiles. Asia, not realizing it, only smiled in return.
"Come sit down, Issei-san. I will bring you some tea shortly."
"Sure."
Asia led Issei into one of the many aisles of the church to sit in, the one at the very front. Raynare was standing not too far away from them. Asia quickly left into another room to prepare Issei's tea.
The moment Asia passed the doorway, Issei's smile vanished without a trace. And his bone-chilling gaze was set straight through Raynare's soul.
"Hii..!"
Raynare let out a quiet shriek of fear as Issei suddenly stood up. Without warning, he began to approach the trembling Raynare.
"Woah, hey there, little boy. Where are you—"
Mitlet stepped out with her arm to halt Issei, but then he switched his gaze down to her.
[—?!]
Within a seconds time, and without even realizing it, Mitlet had already jumped away by over three meters on instinct.
"Wha..?! Mitlet, what are you doing?!"
Kalawarner berated her ally with confusion before stepping forward.
ZIN!
But she was then suddenly locked in place by Issei's gaze which switched to her, as if her body refused to respond to her.
Finally leaving him uninterrupted, Issei walked and stood in front of the fear stricken Raynare.
"Haa… ah.."
Raynare was frozen with fear, her only movements being the quivering of her legs and the twitching of her fingers. Issei's form towered over her silently, and with an overbearing presence, just like once before. He made no obvious movements and simply didn't remove his gaze from her horrified one.
The only sound he made— was the cracking of his fingers.
Crack..
—And in one moment, Raynare's entire throat was ripped from her neck.
SPLIT!
[—?!]
"HAA..!"
—No. Raynare caught her throat with a terrified gasp. It was nothing but another brutal vision of her own death.
"You…."
Issei spoke to Raynare in a dangerously low tone.
"...What are you planning to do with her, little crow?..."
"...I…"
Raynare was left at a loss for words, not even being able to properly formulate thoughts in her mind. Kalawarner and Mitlet were left standing in their respective spots, not being able to move from not only Issei's intervention, but also from the shock of realizing that their leader Raynare was practically wetting herself in the presence of a "mere human". They still had yet to understand why their survival instincts were on such high alert.
"...Answer me, Fallen-Angel Raynare… What do you plan to do?"
Before Raynare could even think to answer Issei's demanding question, Asia had returned with a tray holding their tea.
"Ehehe, I ended up making tea for all of us…"
She came in with an awkward smile, but was confused when she opened her eyes.
"Hm?"
For some reason, all of the women were standing in random positions separated from each other, completely still. Meanwhile, Issei was sitting where Asia left him, a smile still sitting on his face.
"Ah, Asia. Looks like you really can't help yourself, huh. As I thought, you're a truly kind hearted person."
Asia approached Issei with a shy smile.
"N-No, not that much, ehehe…"
Issei stood up from his place and thanked Asia with a sad smile.
"Unfortunately, I think I have to go. I just received a call that says I have to return home now."
Asia gained an expression of sadness at his abrupt announcement.
"...Oh, is that so… But I just brought the tea.."
"I know. I'm sorry. I really wish I could stay longer, but I can't. There are some things I have to do. But look on the bright side, we'll meet again in the future, right?"
Asia smiled brightly and nodded.
"Yes, Issei-san! I will definitely come and see you!"
"Great. Ah, by the way, call me "Ise". That's what my friends call me."
"Yes, Ise-san!"
Issei nodded and stepped past Asia, walking towards Raynare again. The moment he reached her, he leaned into her ear and whispered deeply.
"...Asia and I will meet again… Your lives depend on it."
—With that, Issei made his way out of the church, waving goodbye to Asia as he left.
He was silent on his walk home.
"..."
[Partner, what do you plan to do about those Fallen-Angels? They surely have something planned for that girl.]
"...Hmph…"
Issei lip curled down into a vicious snarl.
'That much is obvious…. I will meet with Asia again, of course… I will ask her exactly what her role in that group is, and depending on her answer...'
—Issei's right eye gave a quick flash of an eerie red light.
'I may end up picking black feathers out of my teeth..'
"...No… No, no.."
In a separate room of the abandoned church, three Fallen-Angels were gathered together shortly after Hyoudou Issei's departure.
"Raynare. Who was that? What is going on?.."
Mitlet and Kalawarner stood together before their leader, Raynare, hoping for an answer to their question. But Raynare was sitting with her head in between her hands, whispering to herself and still trembling from before.
"...No… I have to do it as quickly as possible, and then disappear immediately after… I can't hesitate anymore… I..."
She held her trembling hands together, ceasing their shaking.
"..I have to move…"
END
BOOM! Okay! Now we're in it! Next chapter is where shit is going down, and it's going down different! This Issei does not take no shit, mark my fucking words on that.
Next chapter will be some sick shit. I know there are those of you who are wondering what Issei were to do if he were to actually "let loose" and went crazy, since everything has just been threats up to this point and it's been a while (years) since we've seen it. That comes next chapter. Hoho, if you're wondering whether there's a little psycho somewhere in Issei, trust me, you'll get your answer… Other than that, I don't want to spoil it. Just know that it ain't exactly going down the way it does in canon.
I'll try to get the next chapter out quickly, hopefully a double feature for Christmas. If not, Merry Christmas! Hanukkah is over so too bad jews, lol. Nah, but happy holidays. I hope your guys holidays are better than mine. My year old cat "Pooka" passed away a few days ago, that kind of being the reason this was delayed, so my Christmas is fucked haha. But don't worry, it shouldn't affect my writing now.
Tell me what you guys think is gonna happen next, since this is unpredictable Issei.
What did you think about the meeting with the Devils? What do you think this means for their relations? Will Issei ever not hate the Devils? What do you believe Issei thinks of Asia? What do you think Issei will do when he finds out what the Fallen-Angels have planned for Asia? What do you think will happen to her? Will they succeed, or will something come in between them and their goal? And if so, what happens if they fail?...
Read, Rate, Review go crazy.
Stay frozen, it's Christmas!
