Hello, and welcome to the next chapter!

hellspam; I just thought that it might spice things up a little bit, and I believe that it did. He is yeah, he won't let anyone speak to her like that, even if it means he has to become an argumentative person, he wants to keep her safe, and won't allow anyone to speak to her like that. Well, he'll be at least very pissed off, and beyond that as well. Hmmm, it could be that, or it could be something else entirely.

Blue Eyes Pendulum Dragon; He doesn't know, and he'll get pissed off if someone speaks like that, especially towards Asia, and how Xenovia did it, let's say Makoto is pissed off. He is getting used to his new life yeah, he's had time to process it, and is going through it as much as he could do. Well, it will end...I can't say just yet. And thanks! Erm, he might bring it up in the future which is.

gundam 09; Yeah, that's a good question, we'll find out in the near future. Eh, right now, it is gender neutral, Makoto occasionally calls it a males voice, but even he doesn't know, it could be either male or female.

Vizard Issei; It will be answered, eventually.

DocSlendy; Yeah, he surely is kicking some ass. Yeah, she was quite the douche when it was first brought up.

Nivek Beldo; Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Yeah, it would, but Yumi's head is all over the place at the moment. I thought that it would make sense, to ask Millicas since he is the closest to her (in terms of High Class Devils at Kuoh) about it, and she shared what she knew about it as well. Yeah, Kalawarner dropped that name, and has been seeing Azazel, and he...well, he has some fun with Kalawarner's forced last name due to being drunk and such. Eeh, gender neutral at the moment, male or female, though Makoto occasionally refers to it as male, since it sounds a little more like that, though he doesn't truly know. Aah, poor Irina, she found out her childhood friend is now the important Queen of the Maou, and couldn't take it. Xenovia really knows how to push peoples buttons. Whether it be for comical, or serious reasons as well. Aah, don't insult Asia in front of Makoto, he's gonna kick your ass if you do. Eeh, maybe, or it could be something completely different. Well, not right now, since Ise isn't fighting, but in the future, it could happen.

ShadowUzumaki55; Yup, they have the lines of communications, and are speaking about important matters. I suppose they could be compared like that yeah. They do care for one another, even if she's an Exorcist, and he's a Devil's Queen, it still doesn't diminish the feelings they have for one another. It could be, or it could be something else entirely~ Ehehe, yeah they wouldn't be happy about that. I thought it was anyway, Rias was like trying to involve herself, but Xenovia...yeah, she didn't listen to Rias at all. Ooh no they don't, and even if it isn't shown now...well, it could happen in the future.

Justin D; Everything's getting crazy around here. He wouldn't let anyone bad mouth her like that, it isn't in him to watch people try that with Asia, even if they were a God, he'd still stand up to them for her. Yeah, we'll be getting more of that as we go into the future of the chapters, and such.

dragonsayianblue; It was very intense. I thought it would be fun to add, for even later on as well. He was triggered, very much so. He could do yeah. Poor Irina, she surely is going through many things. Ooh we'll be seeing his strengths as we go through the chapters.

Yoga Pratama; Well, he doesn't have that blade right now, he has Excalibur Nightmare, but that's it in the Holy Sword department. Yeah, it was quite intense, huh. I would only do that if it served any purpose to the plot, not to just boost up a harem a little bit, each of them serve purposes, not just because they are there. I'm not really planning on making an arc for Ise right now.

Guest 1; Eeh, I'd have to watch that other series before I even think of doing something like that. I haven't watched it, so I can't say yes or no right now.

UsagiAngelRabbit; Thanks, it was all those things huh. He was yeah, no one hurts Asia, and gets away with it. Princess would've butchered Xenovia if she was there. Yeah, we'll find that out in the future!

Harem Master123; Thanks very much! Yeah, they have quite an interesting relationship, don't they? It could be, or it could be something else entirely. It could be yeah, just imagine Asia's reaction. I thought that was funny, it did make for a little amusing bit. Well, let's see who they end up fighting, and what could happen.

Skull Flame; It could be, or it could be something else entirely. Yeah, he really was getting angry, wasn't he? No one messes with Asia in his presence and gets away with it. I thought it could be a funny thing to say every now and again, Makoto and the others don't know their last names, yet. Hehe, yeah you're right there huh~? I think most people would at that point. And thanks!

Cf96; They really are huh. And thanks!

Allan Von'Skoon; Not a problem, at all. Yeah, no one messes with Asia with Makoto around, he'll make sure of it. I know, it was like she wanted to say it for the sake of saying it. And thanks, I'll try my best!

Dragon emperor 12; Well, I have been thinking about making a Digimon story eventually, and that seems good. Devimon has an evolution line so I could just pick from that, there are a few that can be used. Kari could be cool, I always liked her from the series, and yeah, it would cause conflict, more in the second season than the first, but yeah, I don't see why not. It seems like a cool idea for me to do, thanks for the suggestion! And yeah, I will do in the future.

Guest 2; Yeah that seems rather interesting to me. I could potentially do a fic like that in the future.

yoga pratama; Eeh, I only do OC centric fics, so I wouldn't be doing a story like that, sorry.

ClyxicRyse; As of right now, no, due to personal tragic circumstances, which won't allow me the time to write as much as I normally would do.

Anime PJ; Yeah, she's feeling a little, something, something huh. Hehe, I just thought it would be a shock to her system, the boy that was her childhood friend/crush, suddenly is this important figure in the Devils world, opposite of her own faith, yet still holds something, for him, and then she couldn't handle it, fainting on the spot. I thought, why the hell not? It also brings up a little funny scene I have for later. Hey, maybe that could be worked in somewhere, nice thought~ I know, he's grown from the shy guy he was, to readily threatening someone that threatens Asia. And thanks, I always try and do character development in all of my stories.

Absolute Mirage; Aah, thanks very much! Yeah, they had some fun interactions huh. Nah, it really won't end well for her huh. She is, and in this, no, sorry, in future stories, I don't see why not. And thanks, I'll try my best!

Tohka123; They are, aren't they? They have, but now are at odds with one another. He is, and he feels sad for her, wanting to do more for her than he can right now. They did indeed, don't mess with Asia, or you're going to be burned to death, or in Makoto's case, frozen to death. And thanks, I'll try my best.

Neonlight01; She is yeah, though mostly it is played up for jokes. Aah, Rias will forgive and forget, sort of, especially if it is for Durandal, I am sure Rias would be pleased to have that on her peerage regardless. He's not gonna reveal it just yet anyway. I'll try my best, right now, things are keeping me from them, personal things.

Guest 3; I've never watched that, is it any good?

Makoto; Aah, no worries~ He does indeed have quite a life huh. I couldn't even calculate it. Makoto isn't gonna reach Balance Breaker yet, I can't say when, but it is going to be quite, emotional when he does. Well, he's not keeping the sword indefinitely. And yeah, that souns quite like a good idea to me, thanks for the suggestion! Aah, I can't tell you about Chelia just yet, and what she's gonna be.

Well, with those reviews out of the way, it's time for the chapter!


Fight those Holy Swords!

Makoto honestly didn't know how it ended up like this…

No, he did.

He knew exactly how it went down, and he didn't like it at all.

The thought that he would have to fight Irina, didn't make sense.

Fighting Irina, he didn't want to do that, but here he was, doing what he swore he wouldn't do, and that was fight with Irina…

But it was for Asia, and her honour, and her safety, and to make them see sense. To make Irina see that she is wrong about Asia, and the others, and that they aren't bad people, especially due to the fact of what she said, it really did irritate Makoto to no ends, he didn't expect Irina to be like that.

They were standing at the place where they were practicing for the ball tournament. Yumi was standing a bit away from Makoto. And Irina and Xenovia were standing in front of them. Enveloping them and our surroundings was a barrier made from red aura. The other members were looking at us from outside the barrier.

In the end, it seemed like Makoto ended up fighting Irina, and Xenovia was going to fight Yumi. Honestly, he'd rather fight Xenovia than Irina, because she said more personal things, than Irina said, though Irina also said things that Makoto didn't like either.

Asia stood off to the side, and Makoto glanced towards her, seeing that she was clutching her hands very tightly in worry.

"Don't worry Asia-chan, I don't intend to lose easily."

He said confidently, wanting to relive her of her stress, and worry as well.

"Makoto-san…please don't get hurt."

Makoto smiled towards her, he didn't intend to get hurt.

"No worries Asia-chan, I don't intend to get hurt either, I am going to be okay. Leave this one to me. I'll make sure that she doesn't do anything like call you a Witch ever again."

Asia nodded, putting her trust in Makoto this time.

She believed in him, and this time she knew that he was going to be okay.

It was a feeling that she had, and the feeling was going to carry her as well.

"Then let's start."

Irina and Xenovia took their white robe off and were wearing black battle purpose clothes. You could see the curves of their bodies. The outfit basically looked like bondage gear, Makoto's eyes opening wide at seeing Irina's way of dressing, while Ise's eyes blazed with intensity at the pair of them.

"Erm…why are you dressed like that?"

Makoto asked sheepishly, trying to avoid looking directly at her.

"Erm, what's wrong Ma-chan? Don't you like the way that I am currently dressed? Does it look bad?"

Makoto averted his gaze while blushing.

"I-It's just very revealing is all…and not at the same time…"

"This is a warriors outfit from the Church." Xenovia pressed the issue screamingly. "This is meant to symbolize movement, and our bodies have been given to God. Can't you see that young boy that looks small."

Makoto bit his bottom lip, ready to kill her sometimes.

"So, you've given your bodies to God…in bondage?"

Irina turned her eyes away, blushing madly, while Xenovia looked clueless.

"I do not know what bondage is, but I can only presume it is some kind of desert."

"Why would it be a desert when that's not got anything to do with anything going on right now? Please inform me because I haven't a clue at all."

The clueless looking Elmen said, clearly knowing what bondage was.

"Because I state that it so, and God gives me that power, thank you Lord for blessing me in this journey."

Because she made a mini prayer, the others winced at the sight.

"So…did a man design those outfits?"

Kalawarner demanded, getting more and more ideas on how she was going to use this to her advantage later on.

"Your point being?"

Xenovia demanded harshly from the similarly blue haired woman.

"Oh, nothing I suppose. Just because you're…haha, you're really such a freak sometimes Xenovia, was it?" Xenovia tightened her eyes. "Can't you see that the suit really is quite, revealing, and it isn't something you should readily accept so easily."

"No, I don't like that line of conversation you're giving right now, I am not someone that you can say that too. My outfit is from God, and as his herald, I shall be using what I can to become a better asset to God, and if I wear this, then I will be able to achieve an inner happiness that a Fallen Angel could never feel, because you are evil."

"Well, you're a crazy blue haired butch, so take that."

Xenovia's bottom lip quivered.

"I am not a butch…if that means something bad."

"God sake…do you know what a slut is?"

Xenovia gave suspicious eyes.

"No."

"Then you're a slut."

Xenovia tipped her head, Irina face palming, knowing what one was.

Kalawarner sweatdropped as she glanced at Elmen.

"At least when I insult you, we rebound back and forth and I get enjoyment out of it. This bitch doesn't even know what she's getting herself into. Even when I just called her a slut, I didn't get the same rush as when I call you that, it sucks Elmen, it really does. Is she high?"

"If she was, this fight would be more interesting." Makoto glanced sadly at Elmen. "Gooo Makoto-kun! I know you can do it!"

He wasn't sure why, but it didn't sound like she was fully invested in him right now. Either way, he wasn't going to back down now, and he was going to fight Irina, even if it was going to be a very painful experience.

Xenovia took the cloth off her weapon and revealed her Excalibur. The Excalibur that Shidou Irina had also turned into the shape of a katana. Makoto sensed between the two, Xenovia's one would be more dangerous. But, Excalibur Mimic wasn't something to laugh at either.

The barrier around them was the creation of Akeno, and Millicas, along with Ravel preparing the barriers itself, and made sure that no damage would get outside of the barrier. Honestly, Makoto was surprised that Rias actually was allowing this, since Rias was always, so calm yet right now, she looked like she was going to be fighting with such intensity.

"Even if it's just a match, be cautious of the Holy Swords Makoto-san! Please be careful!"

Millicas warned Makoto, who nodded strongly.

"Don't worry about me Millicas-san, I've got tricks that I can use to end this fight."

"She's right Makoto! Don't lose! Beat the woman!"

Ise shouted from the side, wanting to see his little brother kicking some ass.

Makoto smiled at the words, and quickly glanced towards Yumi…

But she was so angry right now, he didn't know how he was going to get through to her. The very sight of her was a worrying thing to him, and how she was right now. Makoto didn't like it, he didn't like seeing her like that, and he knew that he would have to do something, anything to make the look on her face disappear once again.

Personally, he wished to fight Xenovia, more than Irina since he didn't want to fight Irina, but Yumi wouldn't let it go, and wanted to fight Xenovia, believing that she was an enemy that she could kill.

"Don't worry Onii-chan, I've got this. I've not been training for nothing Onii-chan, leave this person to me now."

Ise nodded his head.

"Make sure you do! Remember what she said to Asia, use that to fuel your anger for her!"

Makoto could remember that, and he didn't like it.

He didn't like what Irina said, but he didn't want to hurt her exactly either, he couldn't do something like that, it would've been like Makoto hating something that he cared about more than anything, and at one point in his life, he did care very much about Irina, and he even now, that hadn't disappeared at all.

"I got it Onii-chan, leave her to me!"

He said with a peppy smile on, though full of seriousness.

Yumi on the other hand had activated her Sacred gear and there were several Demonic Swords around her, and she made a laugh "Hehehe…" that sent chills down Makoto's back, he didn't like it at all.

"…Are you laughing Yumi-senpai?"

Yumi was laughing so much that it looked weird. A smile that made the atmosphere cold. There wasn't any trace of the refreshing smile she usually has. Honestly, this wasn't Yumi that he knew her as, and that was more terrifying than anything.

"Yeah. The thing I wanted to defeat and destroy appeared right in front of me. I'm happy. Fufufu, I had even heard that by being close to a Devil and a Dragon, "powers" would gather. But for me to encounter it this early."

Xenovia's eyes glossed over the very fact that Yumi had such a Sacred Gear, and once again, she thought that she would be able to speak like she wanted, and speak like she didn't even have a clue at all.

"…Sword Birth, huh. The possessor can create any Demonic Sword they imagine in their head. It's unique among the Demonic Sword related Sacred Gears… I heard that there was a "subject" that avoided from being disposed by the "Holy Sword Project"… Is that you?"

Yumi didn't answer Xenovia's question. She just directed her killing intent towards Xenovia.

"Yumi-senpai, please remember that killing isn't allowed during the fights."

He knew that he had to remind her, as right now, she didn't seem like she was going to calm down.

Yumi didn't answer, clutching the sword that was in her hands very tightly. She couldn't stand it that it was before her, and even with Makoto's warning, she didn't back down with the intent to kill, it was so ferocious that even the more battle hungry people that were in the groups didn't like this either.

"Ma-chan!"

Irina called Makoto's pet name, so he obviously turned towards her.

"Y-Yeah?"

He didn't know why, but he felt, unsure of what she was going to say.

"When I met the boy that I haven't seen for so long, and he turned into a Devil… I was shocked."

She seemed really depressed. Even Makoto could tell that, and wished that she wasn't depressed like that. But he did enjoy his time as a Devil, he didn't like how it ended up though. As right now, his life was very complicated.

"Irina-chan, the thing is, I really don't wanna fight you. I know that you insulted Asia-chan and all, but the thought of attacking you seems wrong to me. Why did you even do this in the first place? I don't get it at all. Why would you do that?"

Irina cast her eyes down briefly.

"Ma-chan, the thing is…"

"If you're just gonna tell me something like God said it or something then, save it. I can't see God saying such things. I don't know him personally, but if God is like how I imagined, then he would want Harmony, not breaking apart like this. And saying Asia-chan was a Witch was bang out of order, it can't happen like that."

"Ooh Ma-chan…you're a kind boy, even when becoming a Devil-"

"Don't apologize Irina!" Xenovia snapped. "She is a Witch, and she does deserve punishment by-"

At that moment, a blast of demonic power went by Xenovia's face, giving her a small cut, Xenovia grasping her cheek in slight pain. Makoto looked on, his hand falling down, showing that he was the one who shot the demonic power, Ise's eyes lighting up with pride for his younger brother.

"One more word about that, and I'll not miss, one warning Xenovia-san. Call her a Witch again, I dare you."

The words dripped from his lips like venom. Though he didn't like saying it, he had to speak like this to get his point across to the hard headed Xenovia. She wasn't the type to easily get through to, and now, she was just being plain stubborn, as that's what he thought so anyway.

Xenovia looked on with disdain for the young boy.

"Do that to me again, and you'll be on the business end of the Holy Sword Excalibur."

Though it was a threat, Makoto didn't back down, and shot shooting glares towards her.

"I'm not afraid of you, Xenovia-san, and threatening Asia-chan once more shall get your entire body frozen. Not even your soul shall remain warm once I'm done with you, understand me?"

The threat was very real, and very terrifying especially coming from Makoto's face.

Because he had what people would consider 'cute' his facial expressions were very terrifying when he was being quite the angry type of person.

Xenovia continued to glare for a few moments, then decided to back down.

Irina on the other hand, couldn't take it, and put her hands together with tears escaping her eyes.

"What trick has destiny played on us! I went to England because I found out that I can use Holy Swords, and I thought that I could be a representative of God! Aaah, this also must be a trial that God has given me! The land that I haven't been back in for so long! A harsh destiny where my childhood friend has turned into a Devil! The way time moves is harsh! But by moving forward, I will turn into someone with the true belief towards God! Now Ma-chan, I shall have to come at you with a very heavy handed type of fighting style!"

Even though Irina was shedding tears, she seemed really eager to do it and pointed her sword at Makoto. Even though she wanted to not fight him, she suddenly did a flip, and now wants to fight against him, it was an odd feeling for him honestly, and he wasn't sure how he was supposed to handle things like this.

"Erm, okay. Whatever. Sacred Gear!"

Makoto activated his Sacred Gear, and the bird like creature flew into the sky. Without even saying anything, Makoto watched the bird go from the bird form into the sword form, and got into his hand, pointing the blade at Irina.

"My, I had heard the Queen of Serafall-sama had a Sacred Gear as well, and I also have heard that he is the Otouto of the Sekiryuutei, yet I find it suspicious that something's like this are going to be happening in this era…"

Irina raised her eyebrows at Xenovia's suspicious look.

"You will hurt yourself if your attention is on Makoto-kun!"

CLASH!

Yumi went on slashing towards Xenovia.

The Holy Sword and Demonic Sword made sparks. Makoto couldn't help but notice the lack of Yumi's usual fighting style. She was the type to use her powers to fight with her speed. But this…it wasn't the type to fight with speed. This was just an attack that had many different ways to counter, and he remembered how Yumi taught him the ways of the sword, she wasn't following, or respecting that either.

Xenovia smirked after blocking Yumi's strike.

"Sacred Gear Sword Birth and Queen of Serafall-sama's Sacred Gear, along with the fabled Boosted Gear from Hyoudou Issei. And also, the Twilight Healing that Asia Argento has. All of them are Sacred Gear that are said to be a heresy to us. Maybe it was natural for you to turn into a Devil."

Yimi didn't like that, and looked like she was going to murder, especially when she mentioned something about Makoto's Sacred Gear, she seemed to be quite protective as well.

"My power is also the power made by my comrades' hatred, who were killed while filled with regret! I will beat those with Excalibur with this power, and I will destroy that Excalibur!"

It made sense that Yumi would swear revenge. Makoto didn't think that it was the best way to go about it though, it just didn't make sense to him to have it like this. Yumi, was a person that wasn't like this. But, she was so wrapped up in revenge that she couldn't see what she did have in her life. Makoto didn't want her to forget her past, but he didn't want her to do this alone, and lose the things that she has now.

"Here I come Ma-chan!"

Irina didn't waste time, and came slashing with her Holy Sword. Makoto responded with his own Sacred Gear, bringing out his blade, and blocked the sword with his ice blade made from the Sacred Gear, Irina being surprised.

"You seem shocked Irina-chan."

Makoto guessed by the way that she looked.

"Because Ma-chan is showing a side of swordsmanship. When we were younger, I didn't expect Ma-chan to be able to wield a blade so skilfully. There's not even a single wasted effort, is there Ma-chan? You've got a pretty good movement going down here~ But, I still can't lose to Ma-chan! I have to win, amen!"

Irina swung her sword at Makoto's, but he matched her blow for blow. While his technique was less refined than hers was, he was able to block each of her Holy Sword slashes with his own Sacred Gear's slashes.

"Irina-chan, don't make me take it up a notch, I don't want to do that."

Irina looked confident as she held her sword out in front of her.

"That's a good claim to have, I think I am quite happy Ma-chan, you've become strong. But, I still can't lose!"

She said with a large look that was meant to induce fear, but all it came off as Irina trying to be scary and ended up being adorable.

Irina went to slash again, but Makoto stabbed the ground, and from said ground, ice spread around him. It spread all the way to Irina's area, and from the ground, a spire of ice erupted upwards, shocking Irina.

"Iyaaaa!"

Irina let out a gasp as she backflipped away from the spire. But Makoto didn't stop, and uprooted some more spires from the ground. He didn't go for vital areas of course, only places where he knew she wouldn't be seriously injured.

Irina jumped backwards a few times, avoiding the growing number of spires, and slashing through the ones that came close, but that was no easy feat. It was hard, the ice was very sturdy, and she could feel the power of the Holy Sword being tested again and again.

As they fought, Irina couldn't help but notice Ise's face…

The way that he looked at them…

No, the way that he was looking at Xenovia, and Irina's forms, his face truly did disturb her.

"…What a lecherous face. What are you thinking?"

Irina asked seriously once noticing Ise.

Ise didn't say anything, wiping the drool away from his mouth.

Koneko made a disgusted face.

"…You're very lucky to fight the least perverted Hyoudou. Ise-senpai has the power to blow away the clothes of women he touches."

"Koneko-chan!? Why are you revealing my move to the enemy!? I'm not even fighting right now!"

Koneko said it while looking at Ise with rebellious eyes.

"…Enemy of all women. You are the worst. I hate you when you're like this."

Ise face faulted as Irina made a disgusted face all together.

"Aaah! Those are harsh words Koneko-chan!"

"She's right though…"

Elmen commented, Ravel having to agree.

"I'm sorry Hyoudou-sama, but…you know, there's perversion and then there's…there's, erm how to put this delicately without hurting my future King's Onii-sama…e-eh, I mean never mind! I won't speak anymore!"

Millicas cocked her head towards Ravel who looked down at the ground, and wouldn't stop either. Ravel couldn't take it, and looked away with a sorrowful look on her face, not wanting to reveal what she was thinking right about now.

"What a lowly technique! Aaah God. Please forgive this sinful pervert!"

Irina made a sad expression while praying.

"Don't look at me with those pitiful eyes!"

"…You are the worst."

Koneko spat out hatefully towards Ise, who shed some tears.

Mittelt looked between them as Makoto looked awkwardly between the two of them.

"Geez Ise, if you're that fucking hard, just come onto me. Oh wait, I'm a Loli so it doesn't matter about my feelings, or breasts either. Screw it then, never mind, you don't have to worry about me Ise, it's not like I have any feelings!"

Ise slapped himself in the head.

"H-Hey! W-Why are you saying that now!?"

"Because I am! That's why!"

STOMP!

"Yeoooow! It hurts Loli-sama!"

Mittelt made a defiant look appear on her face like she was truly annoyed.

"I see. The mass of sexual desire. I think it's a fitting action for a Devil that has such strong greed."

Xenovia said it while making a sigh. But she was looking at him with scornful eyes.

"I'm sorry."

Yumi couldn't help but apologize and Makoto bowed towards Irina as well.

"I'm sorry as well, Onii-chan has become quite, like this since the time you remembered him."

Irina made a complex face.

"That's bad Ma-chan, couldn't you contain it?"

"He met an old man that 'showed' him the way to oppai…it was unfortunate, but Onii-chan is still Onii-chan at this point."

Ise didn't know how to feel about that, he was caught between things that he didn't want to be caught between.

"That's not right! Don't say it like that Makoto! I'm still me! Even with my love for oppai!"

"Onii-chan, I didn't mean it in a bad way of course, you're very important to me Onii-chan, don't worry. Even with your love of oppai, I still care very much about you, you don't have to worry about something like that Onii-chan, you're still my Onii-chan after all."

Ise gained teary eyes at Makoto's proclamation, he really did care for his big brother after all.

Yumi created a Demonic Sword where he stood and held it. She now had two swords and went towards Xenovia as Makoto and Irina trade blades with one another, clashing again and again in a violent looking fight that they had, and could have due to their level of skill.

"Now back to where we were! Burn! And freeze! "Flare Brand" and "Freeze Mist"!"

One of the Demonic Swords created a whirl of flames while the other one made a cold air and silver frost. Though Makoto knew Yumi was more capable than this, she wasn't using her best efforts at all, and was driving her pure anger right for the opponent.

Xenovia was evading Yumi's attack, which came from all directions, with the minimum movements.

"The "Knights" swift move. And flame and ice demonic swords. But you are too naïve!"

A single swing of Xenovia's blade turned Yumi's two Demonic Swords to dust.

"…!"

Yumi became speechless because her Demonic Swords were destroyed with a single swing. Makoto glanced on as he avoided a slash from Irina's blade, and shook his head, sending a stab right for Irina who blocked it from getting her as Makoto suspected.

"My sword is a mass of destruction. There's nothing it can't destroy."

Xenovia swirled around her sword. She then pointed it upwards then thrust it into the ground.

DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOON!

Suddenly the place where Makoto was standing shook and the ground was rumbling. Though the shaking was harsh, Makoto never lost his footing. Ise however outside did, and so did Mittelt. The reason why Asia didn't go over was because Elmen held her up, making sure that she didn't fall over, which Makoto was grateful for. Even dust rose up from the place that was exploded by the sword she held, Makoto grimacing at the sight.

When the dust cloud disappeared, the area became, cleared, and what they saw was quite, shocking to some, though more to Ise than anyone else.

The ground had been blown apart, and left a crater.

"This is my Excalibur. It can destroy anything that comes its way. It's not called "Excalibur" for nothing."

"That's not bad, is it?"

Makoto looked over to Irina who was on stood firm. Though she had dirt covering her.

"Ehe, Xenovia doesn't know the meaning of restraint sometimes."

"That's not good Irina-chan, she needs to learn a little more about it."

Irina giggled nervously, as did Makoto.

Yumi made a bitter expression when she saw Xenovia giving a provoking smile.

"…Such a destructive power when it isn't a real Excalibur. So destroying all 7 swords will be a difficult path."

Her eyes hadn't lost the colour of hatred yet. She was gonna break seven of them. Makoto wondered if it was going to be possible, and he also had one of the pieces for himself. He could give it to Yumi to break, but right now, he knew that it might come in handy, so he was gonna keep it for himself, since he could apparently use Holy Swords to their full effect, at least that's what he got anyway.

"Geez! I'm all covered in dirt because you destroyed the ground, Xenovia!" Irina wiped the dirt off her clothes while complaining. "But. It's about time to settle this now!

She pointed her sword at Makoto and dashed towards Makoto who got his sword at the ready.

"It really is Irina-chan, I'm sorry but I have to stop you now."

Makoto concentrated on the blade that came closer, and then he swung for the blade. Clashing against one another, Irina just expected that it was going to be another struggle, but that wasn't the case at all.

"W-What is going on!?"

She saw that Makoto's sword was getting brighter and brighter, and the blade Irina was holding, slowly began to freeze like it was nothing. Irina pulled away, changing the sword into a spear to rid itself of the ice, but Makoto didn't stop.

"Haaaah!"

Makoto appeared before her, and spun while swinging, building up speed, and strength. Irina spung her own spear to intercept the attack, only for Makoto to make a feint, embedding his fist into her stomach area.

"Gwaaah!"

He didn't hit her with his full power, and since she was a normal human it might've seriously injured her. Though this type of attack blew her off her feet, hitting a nearby tree with a groaning sound, where Makoto waved his sword around, creating a good level of mist.

"Try this!"

Makoto sent the attack towards Irina who rushed right into it, recovering from the punch and turned the blade into a sword. She slashed and hacked her way through the cloud of mist, but it seeped into her skin, and went into her spirit, and mind, freezing it, making her feel tired, and sluggish as well, the girl groaning.

"Ma-chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan!"

Irina jumped from the mist, and swung her blade downwards from the sky in a chopping motion.

Makoto jumped backwards from the blade, but Irina didn't stop the attack, turning the sword into a whip, swinging it at Makoto.

"C-Crap!"

He wasn't expecting it, so he didn't see it coming till the last few seconds. Fortunately, he was the Queen, and had the Knight's speed, so bringing up the sword to block gave him the best advantage, using his weapon to block the whip from touching him.

At the same time, he activated his Sacred Gear's freezing ability to freeze the whip. Irina gasped, pulling away and cracked the floor as she swung it downwards, breaking off the ice. Makoto landed on the ground as Irina returned her katana into its sword form.

"This! Try this!"

Makoto swung the blade, releasing shards of ice towards her, along with mist spheres as well that would slow the mind and spirit with its freezing power.

"Ku…Ma-chan is releasing scary movements right now."

Irina used her expert sword skills to cut through the shards of ice.

But the mist spheres exploded upon impact, going into her mind and spirit, freezing it. Though it was slower than the games, because he had to fight at the same time, Makoto saw that Irina slowly was getting slightly sluggish.

"A-Ah Ma-chan, what kind of technique is this…"

Irina didn't know, she was confused, and felt slightly disoriented at the same time.

She pointed her sword at Makoto, but her eyes felt slightly heavier.

Seeing this, Makoto dashed forward with his speedy Knight powers, appearing before the stunned Irina.

"Here!"

Makoto swung for her body, and she blocked the strike, but her footing became less than it was before. She stumbled backwards, almost falling over. Though she steeled herself, she couldn't stop the blade going for her once again, and the sword hit her own sword, lifting his blade upwards, and caused the sword to go up into the air.

Irina watched as her blade went into the sky, and Makoto crossed the distance, crossing the blade at her throat, her breath hitching within her throat, she felt like any sudden movements were going to end her life.

"Hehe…Ma-chan, you're not going to kill me, are you?"

"Do you give up?"

He didn't answer her question and sent one right back towards her.

Irina giggled nervously, nodding her head.

"Y-Yes."

Makoto dropped his serious persona, and then dropped the blade from her neck.

"R-Right, then that's the end of it. Sorry Irina-chan, but I couldn't hold back. I am the Queen of Serafall-sama after all, if I didn't show at least this level of skill then I would be deemed a bad Queen in others eyes."

Makoto smiled as Irina went to retrieve her Excalibur.

"Fufu, what a thing. Mako-kun won the fight by using his mind, now that's what I call a good fighter, and a good tactician after all. Using your skills and showing a braver side is also a good thing Mako-kun~ You're becoming more and more of the man that I have grown to admire greatly~"

Akeno thought it while blushing.

Seeing Makoto's manly side did make her feel tingly between her breasts, and especially the way that Makoto was handling himself as well, that alone made Akeno feel good inside, and that she could, rely on this person.

"Haaaaaaaaaa!"

Yumi raised her spirit up and tried to make something in his hand. It turned into the shape of a sword, but Makoto saw a lot of things wrong with that kind of blade as he glanced over towards her, the blade wasn't, a blade Yumi would be capable of using quite like this.

"The destructive power of that Holy Sword or the destructive power of my Demonic Sword! We will see which one is stronger!"

What appeared in Yumi's hand was a gigantic sword. Yumi held it with both hands while releasing an ominous aura. It's big. It's way longer than Yumi's height. It definitely was more than two meters. Makoto shook his head, knowing it wasn't going to be enough, and gripped his blade as tightly as he could do.

"Yumi-senpai, please reconsider using that kind of weapon, it isn't a weapon that would work well with your type of movements."

"You should listen to him."

Xenovia warned, but Yumi didn't stop anyway.

"No, I'm sorry Makoto-kun, but I have to show my strength like this."

Yumi then swung it with force. The slash reached Xenovia, but she made a sigh as if she was really disappointed.

"It's a shame. You made the wrong decision."

A violent sound of metal.

A large fragment of the sword went up in the air.

It was Yumi's sword that broke. Xenovia's Excalibur easily destroyed Yumi's Demonic Sword.

"Your weapon is the variety of the sword you can create and your speed. You would need a lot of strength to swing a gigantic sword like that, and you will lose the speed that you are proud of. Are you seeking a destructive power? From your fighting style, it's something unnecessary. Don't you even know that?"

The girl went to embed her pommel into Yumi's stomach, but Makoto got in the way, having already predicted that, and blocked the attack with his own sword. Though a small crack appeared, Makoto fixed it by challenging more power into his blade, standing between them.

"I think the match is over with now, don't you agree Xenovia-san?"

Xenovia looked between Makoto, and Yumi, seeing that she was panting.

"It seems like you have a brave head on your shoulders."

"I won't let you touch my Senpai. Try it, and I'll have to defeat you."

Xenovia couldn't deny the strong words he used right now, she found them quite powerful, and enjoyed it at the same time.

"I see, then I shall take my leave for the moment. It best do well that our arrangement is still in action, yes?"

"As long as you don't attack my Senpai again, fine."

Xenovia glared at Yumi once, and turned around, Rias looking livid.

"H-Hey, Xenovia. Aren't you going to speak to me as well? I run this town after all. Would you like an agreement with me?"

Xenovia turned towards Rias, with a curious expression.

"Who are you?"

Rias slapped a hand over her mouth, tears dancing between her eyes.

"That's it!"

Rias went to charge, but most of the people that didn't fight, including Ise, held back Rias, but it was difficult, she was gunning for Xenovia now.

"N-No!"

Yumi reached her hands towards her, but everyone here knew that the match was over. Akeno unsealed the barrier with the others. The red aura that covered the area disappeared. The battle was over.

"Senpai, I suggest you fight with coolness the next time we fight. Rias Gremory, you should train your servants a bit more. There's a limit for polishing their battling style."

"Ooh now you talk to me. I exist now, do I?"

Xenovia showed a clueless face.

"Who said that?"

Rias was livid, blasting a tree with her demonic power, and destroyed it, getting out her anger quickly.

"…Sure, whatever you say. I'm going to butcher you..."

Now she talked to Rias, and Rias didn't like that for even a second, it was haunting to say the least.

Yumi glared at Xenovia with hatred.

Xenovia then looked at Ise.

"I will tell you one thing. Vanishing Dragon has already awakened. You will meet her eventually, but in your current state you can never win."

Xenovia just said that and left after picking her stuff.

"Wait for me Xenovia. Then it's like that Ma-chan, you won our fight! Ma-chan is stronger than the last time we met. But that's to be expected because we were children back then as well so…thanks for the fight Ma-chan, you did quite well!"

Irina held her cross and winked at Makoto. She then left the scene. Buchou closed her eyes. I'm sure that she didn't feel good. Yumi was defeated, but Makoto won his fight. That must've been a blow to her pride, as well as anything else.

Yumi looked between them, and then began walking away as Makoto desummoned his Sacred Gear.

"Hold on! Yumi!" Rias growled out, trying to stop her from leaving. "I won't forgive you if you leave me! You are the Knight of the Gremory group. I will also be troubled if you turn into an "exiled". Wait this instant!"

Yumi paused her body, and glanced back towards her.

"…I was able to run away from there, thanks to my comrades. That's why I have to put their regrets into my Demonic Swords…"

After saying that Yumi disappeared.

"Not even my own Knight listens to me anymore."

"I don't even listen to you either."

Kalawarner retorted, giving Rias a hard time in collecting herself.

But Makoto couldn't allow it. He couldn't just let her go off like that, he needed to go and do something, anything. He needed to at least see her again and speak with her about, what just happened, and why she didn't do what she was going to be able to do and what she didn't even be able to do.

He chased after her, and went into the woods.


When he saw her, he saw that she was walking, and got closer.

He did it while calling, so she would stop.

"Yumi-senpai, why are you trying to leave everyone behind like this?"

Yumi paused her body, allowing Makoto chance to catch up to her.

"Don't interfere with me anymore."

She spat out, Makoto feeling quite shocked that she said that.

"I'm interfering because I care about you Senpai, why can't you see that? You didn't even fight like you. You always said to me that fighting precisely is what a Knight aims to achieve, yet you recklessly abandoned that, and just went for it anyway. Yumi-senpai, this isn't you. I don't know what's gone on in your past, but you're not my Yumi-senpai. You're pushing everyone away from you, and you're moving away from me. I'm trying to help you…and you're like this with me now Senpai, I don't want you to be like this Senpai, I care so much about you."

Yumi paused her body, and leaned against a tree.

"You're right, you don't know me, and I don't want you to interfere with me either. I don't need you telling me what I am, and what I can be. You won your match-"

"Because of the things you taught me how to do Senpai! You're the one who taught me how to fight with a sword, I used my skills I learned directly from you to win against Irina-chan! I just wanted to save you Yumi-senpai, I wanted to protect you just as much as everyone else! A-And I just want to make sure you're safe! This isn't you…I don't know who you are right now."

Makoto rasped out, and tears ragged at his eyes.

He truly didn't like this person. Someone so vengeful, and unwilling to ask for help. This wasn't the Yumi he had grown to care for, this person wasn't the person that he truly cared for. Yet, he knew she was within Yumi, the person he had admired from the beginning.

Though he poured his heart, Yumi just gave a glare.

That glare, wasn't something Makoto was used to seeing from Yumi. She wasn't like this, even with the

"Well, maybe you should just forget about me then. Go back to your life, and let me lead my own kind of life."

"If I didn't love you so damn much, then maybe I would!"

Yumi paused…

Did Makoto just confess to loving her?

She…wasn't expecting that.

Even in the heat of an argument, he confessed to loving her…

Something that she had been waiting to hear from him, and wished she could say it back right now.

"Makoto-kun I…"

She was lost for words.

She didn't know what to say. Even the thought of Makoto just saying that, caused her heart to beat rapidly.

"You can tell me to leave, you can tell me to never speak to you again. Hell, you could wish me gone from your life and to never return either. But I'm not going anywhere, I'm not going to abandon you. Even if I have to destroy these blasted swords myself, I'm bringing my Yumi-senpai back. No matter what, you're coming back to me because I care too much to ever let you go. Hear me Yumi-senpai?!"

The determination between his eyes wasn't something she had witnessed before, and she felt her heart beating even faster. So fast that she couldn't believe that it was her own heart that was moving at this fast pace.

Yumi walked closer to Makoto, and then smiled gently yet it was a confusing one as well, she didn't even know what to think, what to say, she just couldn't believe that someone would do this for her, someone would go this far for her, it just didn't seem plausible to her.

"Why would you care so much about me?"

"Because you cared so much about me. You came to me when I was alone, frightened, scared. I have grown to feel things that, I wasn't sure were possible, but now, I can see it Yumi-senpai, you're the person who I am supposed to be beside. I am supposed to be with you, and you're supposed to be with me, right? Don't you want that?"

Yumi felt her heart going mad inside of her chest, and then she pressed her lips against Makoto's own.

Makoto kissed her right back, and their love blended together into a fiery passion. Yumi pressed Makoto against a tree, deepening the kiss. Tears came from her eyes, so Makoto wiped them away as they kissed.

Makoto knew that she needed it.

In one way or another, she needed to know that someone was there for her, even if it seemed nonsensical, she needed someone, and he wanted to be that someone, he was going to be that someone, no matter what.

When she broke the kiss, Yumi pulled away from Makoto, looking at the ground.

"I'm sorry Makoto-kun, I just didn't expect to say that you cared so much about me…no one has ever said so much kind things before. Even when with Buchou, she said some kind things, but it's different with Makoto-kun."

"Senpai, please just let me help you. You can rely on me, you can. You don't have to run away from me. I'm not Buchou, I'm not going to just abandon you like this, don't you even know that Senpai? I'm here for you, I want to help you Senpai, you know that, right? My feelings for Senpai, are something that I can't help, and I can't help but help you Senpai. Please, don't make me feel sad and not be able to help you."

He pleaded, but she looked to the other side of the area, the woods. She looked like she was mapping out the area that she was in, and she wasn't going to give it up either.

"Sorry, got to go. I'm sorry Makoto-kun, please don't come looking for me."

"Senpai-"

She didn't stop, and rushed away.

Makoto tried to give chase, but she simply was faster than he was.

She rushed in ways Makoto hadn't even begun yet.


By the time that he realized it, he was half way across the town, and he had lost sight of her. Looking around, he saw that the place was pretty empty, he couldn't even sense Yumi being around, and that was more devastating than anything else, he didn't like this at all, and the very fact that he was doing this wasn't something he felt comfortable with.

"Yumi-senpai…"

He sighed, and turned around, beginning to walk away.

Many thoughts danced within his mind.

Thoughts that he couldn't even comprehend, thoughts that he didn't want to think about.

He was too worried for Yumi to even think right.

Yumi was someone that he cared about, and now, she was running away, causing him to worry even more. He didn't want to worry anymore, he wanted to make sure that she was safe, that she would just come back to him and make him feel good again.

However, he stopped when he saw someone that he didn't want to see again.

It was the person that had attacked him the other day.

Gren.

He kept cropping up, and he didn't like it, and he didn't want to fight.

Honestly, Makoto didn't know if he could even fight this person, it just seemed too difficult. Makoto, just had to do it if Gren was looking for a fight. He always had the Holy Sword if he so desired, and that was going to be the ace in the hole if he needed to bring it out.

"Hello again Prince, you've been quite elusive, that's quite bad for you, isn't it?"

Makoto glared at the man, he didn't like this person.

"Look, I don't know what your obsession with me is, but you best stay away from me. I'm not having it anymore. I am not going to be attacked by you, and if you attack me, then I will have to retaliate against you, understand me?"

Gren allowed a smirk to creep onto his lips.

"That's right, keep saying stuff like that, it makes me feel all tingly."

Makoto made a disgusted face.

"You're sick, and I don't know what you want me to do either. But, I won't let you do whatever it is that you want to do to me, you best remember that or I am gonna have to fight against you…speaking of, why do you want me anyway? What could you want with me?"

A smirk appeared on Gren's lips, a deranged looking one at that.

"Don't worry about that Prince, you shall soon be returned to us, and stand beside us, don't worry."

Makoto didn't even understand that, why would he want that?

"I am not sure what you're talking about. Why do you want me anyway?"

"That's, something I am regretful to even acknowledge. You don't even remember such things, that's making me feel sick honestly. To see you in such a condition, I can't stand it, I really can't stand it, you make me feel disgusted, staring at you like this. But it is all thanks to that Chelia that we're like this."

"Chelia…"

Makoto had heard that name only once before, he believed.

The person in the woods said that name, but it didn't make sense, why did they say it?

What purpose was it for Makoto to hear that?

It didn't make sense to Makoto, at all.

"Who's Chelia-san?"

Makoto demanded strongly, wanting to know more and more.

But Gren didn't answer, a dangerous smirk gracing his lips.

"For now though, you're gonna have to be crippled. Don't worry though, we have the best doctors, they'll make sure you can walk again. But, don't mistake this either, and I'll make sure that you bleed and are in a lot of pain!"

Gren wasted no time in attacking Makoto who put up his defences.

When he thought Gren was going to strike…

A hand stopped him.

Inches from Makoto's face, an armoured covered hand stopped Gren's hand from touching Makoto's face.

Makoto gasped, taking a few steps back, and looked to what had saved him from getting punched…

What he saw, was the very same armour he saw when he was with Rossweisse, and the others.

It was the brilliant white armour that had saved him during that time and once again had come to save him.

Gren's lips turned very undelightful, and he hated the very thought that it was her.

"Tch, Hakuryuukou. What a surprise, come to protect the boy again have you?"

He sounded like he had a bitter feeling within his own, and Makoto noticed the disdain within his words as well.

The Hakuryuukou's yellow like eyes turned narrower, and slapped Gren away, smashing him against a building. Makoto was surprised at how easy she managed to do that, when Makoto couldn't even see the attack that was being made.

"Hakuryuukou-san…"

The Hakuryuukou turned her eyes towards Makoto, and though he couldn't see it, a smile appeared on her face.

"Do not worry, he won't touch you, I'll protect you."

Those words, Makoto believed them.

He believed them wholeheartedly, he was going to believe them.

"Why would you do that for me…?"

Makoto didn't understand.

No, he really didn't get it at all. Why was she protecting him right now? Why like this? It didn't make sense to Makoto at all, that she was defending him like this.

She didn't answer, and looked as Gren came out of the wall, relatively unharmed.

"Nice slap girl, you're strong."

Gren held a sadistic look on his face, like he was going to do something.

However the armoured girl didn't even bat an eyelid, and held herself in a strong manner.

"Next time, it will be a killing shot. Didn't I say that this boy wasn't on your fight list?"

Gren bowed his head.

"You see, I thought that I could test him and see where he was at strength level. Clearly, you aren't happy. I should've known better than to mess with the Hakuryuukou's personal possession, next time I won't bother trying to help you."

"He's not my possession." The woman informed, but her eyes then narrowed. "However, if any harm comes to him from you, then you'll suffer like no other. Just because Azazel finds you fascinating, I won't share his thoughts, and I shall have to kill you if you try and touch this boy again."

Though the tone was very threatening, even Makoto could feel it, Gren didn't even seem to care all that much, and just chuckled.

"Got it~ Shota leaving alone confirmed~ Don't worry, I won't touch the Shota~"

Makoto pursed his lips in aggravation at the sight and sounds he heard.

He then watched Gren activate a circle beneath his feet.

"Don't worry Shota-kun, I won't be fighting you this time. Thank your Dragon girl there for it. She's quite strong, I haven't had the chance to test my powers on her right away, so I think I'll bow out of this fight. Even I know when I'm beat."

Makoto quickly glanced at the Hakuryuukou, and saw that she wasn't even looking.

Then his eyes went back to Gren who disappeared in a flurry of lights.

However, Makoto couldn't help but note the fact that Gren's eyes were on Makoto's form, and not in a good way.

He felt cold inside from the sight, and that was hard to do since Makoto's whole thing was coldness, and this just wasn't something that Makoto liked honestly. He hated it, and he didn't like it at all, he wasn't going to take it though, and if the man wanted, then Makoto was prepared to fight for what he believed in.

Once he was gone, the Hakuryuukou's wings of light spread out, meaning that she was going to take flight.

"W-Wait, please!"

Makoto begged, latching onto the hand of the woman, pulling her backwards.

She stopped her wings, turning her eyes towards Makoto's gratitude filled face.

"Is, something wrong? Did he hurt you?"

Just the concern alone, Makoto had to know who this woman was. The way she spoke, sounded familiar to him though. He couldn't deny it. But still, he didn't know what he was going to do, and he didn't know who she was…but he was going to find out as well.

Makoto shook his head.

"He didn't hurt me, please don't be worried."

The Hakuryuukou's eyes ran over Makoto's form, before a relieved sigh came from her mouth.

"Good, I am, pleased that you aren't harmed."

She said seriously, and sounded quite grateful as well.

"You saved me again, I'm grateful…but, why are you saving me? The Hakuryuukou-san, I've heard rumours that you are very strong, but only heard a few, and I don't know much about you. Why are you defending me? Not that I'm ungrateful or anything, I just am trying to understand why you're doing this for me, I just don't understand at all, please…can't you tell me why you're doing this for me?"

Makoto just couldn't understand it.

Why did she do this?

Why was she protecting Makoto?

It just didn't make sense to him at all.

The Hakuryuukou turned fully towards the young boy, and then placed a hand on top of his head.

"Because I care what happens to you, I don't want you to be hurt."

"But why…"

The Hakuryuukou bent down to his level, she didn't have to go far though, and came face to mask with him.

"Because I just do. Is there a reason needed?"

"…I'd like to understand is all."

Makoto admitted, so the Hakuryuukou gave a slight chuckle.

"The reason I do is because, you've done much for me, I'm just giving you protection from people that shouldn't be trying to attack you. Makoto, you need to keep yourself safe, because for a few days, I'm not going to be around, okay?"

The Hakuryuukou's armour covered finger went over Makoto's face. He could've sworn he felt heat from it, though the armour felt cold.

"Hakuryuukou-san…you've protected me before, I mean before from other things, haven't you? Not just Gren." The Hakuryuukou didn't say, but Makoto understood. "You don't wanna talk about it, I understand. But, could I see your face please? I wanna see my protectors face. Can I please see? I know you're a woman, I can tell by your voice. But, I wanna put a face to a voice, and protector, please?"

The Hakuryuukou unfortunately shook her head, dashing his hopes of seeing her face again.

"Next time, maybe. This time, no. I'm not ready to reveal myself just yet. But, remember, I will protect you from him, or anything. Though as I said, I am going to be away for a few days, I've unfortunately got some things to do, so I can't watch over you."

Makoto put up his hands in a fake punching manner, but the girl just thought that it was adorable that he showed an action like that, he couldn't deny something like that, Makoto liked it anyway, and from the small breaths she gave, it sounded like she was satisfied.

"I'm the Queen of Serafall-sama, I'm tough~"

The Hakuryuukou chuckled as a response.

"Perhaps you are very tough indeed. But remember, you have to keep yourself safe now, that's what you have to do. I'm sure that if you do it Makoto, you can do it. Don't put yourself into dangerous situations, at least until I've come back."

"How do I know when you're going to be back?"

He asked a very valid question.

The Hakuryuukou's hand became uncovered, just her hand. The slender fingers weren't portrayed very well in the armour which was bulky. But this, clearly a feminine hand could be seen. Makoto then felt the woman's hand go to his face, delicately stroking his cheek.

Makoto could've sank into the warmth right there and then, and he almost was tempted as well.

He could feel himself sinking, and the woman stroked even softer, like a feather. Over his lips, he felt her hand brushing. Over his soft face, he felt her brushing, and over his neck, and down his body, he felt her brushing.

Then her hand slid around his waist, and went down his back. Like a hunter for its prey, she found where she wanted, and squeezed slightly hard, but not enough to cause pain.

"Iyaaaa!" Makoto screeched as the girl squeezed once more. "H-Hey, that's my butt! D-Don't squeeze so hard!"

The woman's hand rubbed slightly, then removed her hand from his backside.

"I couldn't resist, it's the best one I've seen before. Maybe it sounds weird saying that, but it is a very…good thing to touch."

Makoto's face turned a mixture of shy, unsure, yet he was flushing a deep crimson.

"…A girl I used to know did that to me a lot, and always said weird things while doing it, though she usually had a stoic face when doing it."

"Did you enjoy it?"

She asked with a genuine curiosity within her voice, something that Makoto couldn't help but wonder if he had heard it before.

"She certainly did…I don't know, she was happy when she did it, so I just went along with it. I didn't mind either way. Though she did use to do weird things like that, and spoke weirdly, but I really liked her, she was…very important to me."

Hearing that, the Hakuryuukou pulled away from him.

"I see. Don't worry, you've definitely got a nice ass…et."

Hearing the pause, Makoto pursed his lips even more.

"Mouu, are you being mean right now?"

"Not at all."

"Are you sure?"

The Hakuryuukou patted Makoto's head.

"I'm sure."

"Good, then…you'll come to see me when you're back?"

"Definitely."

Hearing that, Makoto gained a bashful face.

"You're really kind with a nice voice…but, I still have to help my Senpai with Excalibur, so I don't know if I can agree to not stay out of danger. It seems like I have to involve myself, so I can defend the person that I care about very much."

The Hakuryuukou didn't want to hear that at all.

"No, you don't have to do anything that endangers yourself."

"I do though, I don't want my Senpai to disappear. Don't you have anyone like that? Someone you'd do anything for?"

The Hakuryuukou's eyes ran over Makoto's form secretly, he couldn't tell due to the armour not giving the best sight for the eyes.

"I do yes."

"Then you understand, I have to protect this person and do whatever I can, even if it is endangering. I wish that I didn't have to do it, but I have to because I care much about my Senpai, and I have to do this for my Senpai as well. She's in a bad place right now, and I need to be here for her, like she was for me, I have to do things to help her."

Makoto said it from the heart, he couldn't do it any other way. That's how he was going to do that.

"I see…seems like you care for this girl."

Makoto thought that he detected a slight jealous touch to her tone.

"I-I do yes. Very much."

Upon hearing that, Makoto bowed his head closer to her, and patted his head slowly, running her fingers through his hair.

"Then, don't be so in danger, and don't put yourself into too many dangerous things. I know I can't stop you, but at least heed my words, and try to not be in so much danger. Do you understand me?"

Makoto allowed a small chuckle to escape his throat.

"I understand Hakuryuukou-san, I'll try my best!"

The Hakuryuukou nodded, and then her wings of light took to the sky.

Makoto watched until she was gone.

He didn't know why, but she felt familiar to him. But, he wasn't sure why that was either. Something about her was…it wasn't something that he was expecting, she was, something different alright, and he wasn't going to stop until he met her again. He needed to know more about her, in anyway that he possibly could know.


When Makoto returned home, he went into his room, sighing heavily at what was going on.

When he did return to his room, what he saw was, Asia sitting patiently within his room, or rather, their shared room.

Naturally, she had a very worrying look on her face, even Makoto couldn't deny that.

"H-Hey Asia-chan, I'm back."

Asia's eyes dragged themselves off the floor, and met with his own eyes.

Immediately, she became more cheerier, and showed a wide smile on her face.

"Makoto-sans back, I am relieved."

Makoto walked over to the bed, and smiled gently.

"Sorry for worrying you Asia-chan, I didn't mean to worry you."

He sat on the bed as Asia clung to his arm.

"When Makoto-san disappeared before after Kiba-senpai, I was very worried."

Makoto got that. If situations were reversed, then he would quite like be the same, and he couldn't have Asia like that. He wouldn't be able to handle it.

"I'm sorry for worrying you, I didn't mean to. I was just trying to find where Yumi-senpai went…but, she disappeared anyway. She ran off, and I couldn't find her in the end, I don't even know where she could be right now, I don't have a clue."

That was a regret.

Though he had spent sometime looking for her, she couldn't be found.

Makoto had looked to places he thought she'd be, he even went to the abandoned Church in hopes to find her, but no…

She wasn't there at all.

She couldn't be found, and it was irritating him that he couldn't find her.

"Makoto-san, I'm so sorry that Kiba-senpai's not letting you close…but, I have to thank you Makoto-san."

Asia got his attention, so he turned his head.

"What for Asia-chan?"

"For…" She bit her bottom lip, and showed a dazzling smile. "Because Makoto-san defended me from Xenovia-san and Irina-san when they called me a Witch. Though they said that, Makoto-san was so willing to defend me, it made my heart jump in my chest. I, haven't ever had someone say such beautiful words to me. Even when I was in the Church."

To hear that from Asia made Makoto feel sad. Asia deserved much more than she received in the Church, he just wished Irina and Xenovia realized that, since they all are apart or were apart of the Church in the case of Asia.

"They didn't understand the circumstances, and couldn't either. They wouldn't accept what was going on. They, shouldn't of called you that Asia-chan, it wasn't right. You're not a Witch, you're not a bad person, and you certainly don't deserve to be killed for being turned into a Devil, that's the last thing you deserve if at all."

"Makoto-sans always here for me when I feel sad. Even when others say things to me, Makoto-san always defends me. Even today, he defended me, and protected me when Xenovia-san was going to do something…"

Makoto gently touched her hand, gaining her attention.

"Of course I would be Asia-chan, I'm always here for Asia-chan."

Asia looked at Makoto's face, and then she kissed him on the cheek, hugging him tightly.

Makoto didn't say anything else, and hugged her tightly, the pair of them needing this, needing one another right now, and needing the very comfort that each of them brought.

It was a warmth that couldn't be described.

It was a unspoken affection between the two of them.

Asia continued to look at Makoto, and knew that he was having an internal conflict right now.

The very fact that he was like this, Asia couldn't take it, and held onto his body tightly.

"Makoto-san is a kind person after all. But, Makoto-san is also troubled right now, with Kiba-senpai, yes?"

"She's…gone to a place I need to reach, somehow. But, I don't know what to do. The only thing that I can think of is, maybe working with…people that Sera-tan might not approve of. My heart is saying that it would be better, that we'd be able to double our efforts, but I don't want to get Sera-tan in trouble because of me…yet, I don't want Yumi-senpai to suffer either. I'm so conflicted right now."

Trying to ease his pain, Asia held onto Makoto's hand gently with her own hand, the pairs hands locking together.

"Don't worry Makoto-san, Makoto-san will also find a way. Even if it is a thing that Makoto-san might feel worried about, Makoto-san is very intelligent, and will be able to figure out what to do. Whatever Makoto-san thinks is the right thing, then it probably is."

"Sounds like you've got a lot of confidence in me Asia-chan."

That alone was quite comforting in a way, yet to hear it at the same time, Makoto didn't know what to say, he felt torn on the matter all together.

However, Asia continued to smile towards Makoto.

"Makoto-san, you came for me when it was against the wishes of the higher ups. Even when Buchou-san and Kaichou-san said it was wrong, Makoto-san came to my side, and protected me, and stayed with me until the end."

"That's different to this."

"Why?"

That single question…was powerful.

That single question alone, caused Makoto to swell his heart, and he could feel his palms tingiling.

Why was it different?

Asia was exiled from the Church, but during that time, Makoto just saw her as someone that needed help, even if he had to defy orders from Devils higher up than he is. Even if he had to do it, he still did it for Asia, his Asia.

And now Yumi was in danger.

Because of what happened in her past.

It, wasn't so different.

He didn't know Asia's past, and he doesn't know Yumi's past either.

He doesn't know either of their pasts, but here he was, he now knew Asia's, but only had some idea on Yumi's.

The situations might seem different, but to Makoto, they also seemed similar.

While he failed to protect Asia, he wasn't going to fail protecting Yumi, even if he had to defy orders from his superiors.

Like with Asia, Yumi also was important to him, and he wasn't going to let her down.

"You're right Asia-chan…you're very right Asia-chan. Yes, that's right, it isn't different…"

"Makoto-san, can understand such things. Makoto-san will be able to do anything that he sets his mind too, and I'll also be helping Makoto-san in anyway I can. Even if it means I wait and heal Makoto-sans wounds when he is done fighting. I am also Serafall-sama's Bishop, and Makoto-sans future Bishop. To support my Queen, and my future King is also my duty, in anyway that I can do it, Makoto-san."

Makoto beamed at Asia, she truly was his rock sometimes.

Just small things that she did, pep talks, just standing beside him gave him courage.

"Asia-chan, you're truly the best type of person. Irina-chan and Xenovia-san didn't know what they were talking about. They say Witch, I say Angel. Asia-chan might not be a true Angel, but ever since I met Asia-chan, she has lightened up my life, and gave me the strength to carry on."

Asia's eyes became teary, and then she hugged onto Makoto's form. He embraced her right back, cuddling her tightly. Makoto stroked her back, as she leaned against his shoulder, snuggling against to him.

"Whatever Makoto-san does, please come back to me."

Makoto allowed a small smile to appear on his face.

"Sure, I shall do it Asia-chan. I'll make sure that I come back to Asia-chan."

Asia knew what he was going to do.

At least she had a very good idea on what he was going to do.

So she was going to support him in anyway that she could do.

"Makoto-san, please be careful."

Asia's voice dripped with a loving tone. Makoto wished that he had known Asia since back when he was a kid, she was just exactly what he needed in his life, and Asia felt the same, they truly did mesh well together.

"I will be as careful as I can, don't worry Asia-chan. This is something that…"

"Makoto-san has to do, I understand." Asia did understand, and lifted her head from Makoto's shoulder, staring into Makoto's eyes with her serene smile. "Makoto-san, I really do enjoy Makoto-san very much. And Makoto-san is very heroic. He nearly died when he came for me, Makoto-san showed that even when he didn't really understand, and didn't even know me either. But he still came. So, Kiba-senpai would also receive the same experience as Makoto-san. But, whatever Makoto-san does, please don't do it alone."

Makoto nodded his head.

"I've got an idea, yeah. I know just the person who I am going to ask for assistance."

Asia tilted her head, so Makoto chuckled.


Meanwhile, inside of Ise's room, Rias, and Ise sat together, and talked about trivial matters.

However, Ise suddenly felt a surge come over him.

"Achoo!"

He sneezed, and wiped under his nose, causing Rias to look up from her spot.

"Something wrong Ise?"

She said with a calm and delightful smile.

Ise rubbed the back of his head calmly.

"Ehe, no Buchou. I just had a weird feeling someone was talking about me."

"Hmmm, that's strange, who would be doing that? Mittelt maybe?"

Ise shrugged his shoulders but he did have to wonder, who or what was talking about him.


Elsewhere, at a darker place than what Makoto would be used to, Gren knelt down in front of a cloaked man, black water surrounding his hand. Globs of water came from his hands, floating into the sky.

Gren looked on as it touched the ceiling, and dissolved it. Gren flinched, not wanting that to happen to him, he couldn't have it happening to him. But right now, he knew that if he made a false move, he would end up being dissolved out of existence, and he couldn't have that either.

"Gren, I said that we would bide our time, and wait, and you…what do you go and do? Not only do you try and kill Prince, you also piss off the Hakuryuukou? Am I speaking in an unknown language or something to you?"

Gren flinched at the tone.

It wasn't dangerous sounding…no, that was a lie.

It sounded calm yet full of malicious intent. Gren knew that he was treading on eggshells right now, if he messed with him, then he wouldn't be able to deal with it.

"W-Well, I was only trying to test the Prince. He's not his former strength, I didn't think that he wouldn't be as strong as he was-"

"We, were you moron." The cloaked man silenced him. "Don't you realize it? now that the White Dragon is suspicious of your motives, it's going to be more dangerous? Haven't you realized this before? You're ruining everything for some stupid desire that I don't understand! Why are you doing this you moron!? I didn't spend all this time, searching for him, for you to screw it up now! Look, I'm gonna have to rethink everything because your brain is the size of a pea. Now that that bitch that works for Azazel is onto you, you're gonna have to stop now, I needed to get him soon and now, I'm gonna have to rework everything because you're a fucking moron! Don't you ever think of anything by yourself!? Wait no, sorry, you can't think of anything yourself, you're just a piece of useless shit, aren't you?"

Hearing the beating of verbal assaults he received, Gren did feel like shit.

He didn't want to cause problems, but he knew that he had, and if their plan didn't go to plan because of him, he knew that he would be hated and even killed if they were so inclined to actually do something like that.

"I didn't think that she would be there." Gren reasoned the best he could. "I didn't suspect that she would be there, and now that she was…I can't even think of it right, this isn't something that…I'm sorry, okay? I didn't think, and now I've ruined everything. I just didn't think."

"Well, you are bred from a maniac, it can't be helped. You didn't inherit brains or anything of the likes. Seems like you've just gained the idiotic tendencies. Sometimes, I feel like just leaving you off to the wayside."

Gren felt the beat once again to him personally. He didn't feel it physically, but now feeling it mentally, he couldn't stand it.

"Please don't! Please, I'm sorry! Don't abandon me! I can't, please! I need you, and I need you as well, you can't do this either! Please don't do that to me, you can't leave me alone like this! You can't, I'm sorry for being like this! I'm sorry for being a shit, I will do everything to make our plans go ahead again! I'm very sorry!"

In the end, Gren begged.

Of course it wasn't like him to do this…

But he couldn't control it in the end, he didn't have the ability to control himself.

Though the cloak wearer, and the others just looked on from where they were.

"Seems like you want to repent."

The cloaked man sniggered out, Gren's eyes pleadingly going towards him.

"Yes, I do, please. I want to repent."

The cloaked boy walked closer, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Gren looked on, worried on what the cloak was actually going to do to him.

"Don't look so worried Gren, you're not going to be killed, don't you even know that? You still have uses, even if you're a useless shit sometimes, I still have my uses for you. But I am going to have to punish you, Gren."

Gren's eyes feverishly opened, frightened of what was going to happen to him. He was in pure terror right now, he couldn't stand it at all, he could literally feel his heart slamming against his stomach, he couldn't even think straight.

"N-No, please! You don't have to punish me!"

His hand tightened on Gren's shoulder, causing Gren to wince.

"Please don't sound so desperate, I don't like it at all."

Gren looked up at the cloaked figure, seeing those cold piercing eyes.

He only saw them when he was going to be in a desperate situation, and that situation wasn't always the best.

"I'm sorry…"

"What did I say about being a person like this? Begging for your existence, and apologizing like that, aren't you? That's not a good thing, I don't like it, and I don't like you either. So, why don't you just stop now, okay?"

Gren felt his body shuddering.

To see someone like him suddenly be down like that.

It was worrying. It only made the boss of Gren seem truly ruthless.

"Now, Gren. For this insubordination, how shall I punish you? Should I remove your arms? Legs? Perhaps blind you?"

Saying it casually, the mans hands bubbled up with the black water, causing Gren to shed some tears.

"Please…don't, I'll do anything, even remedial work for as long as you want. Just don't hurt me, please. Please don't do anything to me, I'll do anything, I can't handle it. I won't be able to work with this anymore, I can't. I am sorry…please don't do this, I don't want to die."

"Awww, I won't be able to kill you? That's not good…wait, I am the leader here, I shall decide your fate."

Gren looked down, awaiting judgement.

He didn't have a hope in Hell now. He didn't have a chance in Hell at all.

"Gren, while I do value you as a person…I can't let this go unpunished. And now, with the way you've put our entire plan in a jeopardy, I simply can't let you get away with it. if we were at full strength, then that Hakuryuukou wouldn't be a problem, but you've made it a difficult move for us to get to the Prince now. That damn woman hid him quite well. And now, we won't be able to get to him so easily…I'm not pleased with you. So, here's my punishment."

Gren's heart smashed against his chest as the hand moved closer to him.

Like the world was going to reject him.

Like the earth had stopped spinning, Gren felt like his life was going to be extinguished at this point, he couldn't handle it.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

…Screams, is all that filled the hallow halls.


End chapter!

So, Makoto vs Irina, and Yumi vs Xenovia went down, and Makoto won his fight with as little damage as he could give her, as Irina right now is a normal human, though she is a very dangerous opponent with her sword, and the reason why Makoto didn't fight Xenovia is, for something that's gonna pop up later on. Makoto admitted that he loved Yumi, even if it just came out. Makoto met up with the Hakuryuukou/Vali, and each showed, some hidden sides to one another. Asia and Makoto had a moment together, and showed how supporting they are, and now, Makoto's made a decision! Gren made a reappearance, and then he got…punished. What happened to him, shall be revealed in the future.

Oh for those wondering why Makoto didn't fight Xenovia here...well, that's because I have something else planned for that a little later down the road, and there wouldn't be a point reading two fight scenes with the two of them, so that's the reason why, their little 'rivalry' I suppose the word is shall continue on during the arc, Makoto hasn't forgiven Xenovia for what she's said.

Issei; Rias, Yura, Aika, Bennia, Jeanne, Walburga, Xenovia, Mittelt, Reya, Mira, Katase, Murayama. (WIP)

Makoto; Serafall, Yumi, Millicas (fem), Irina, Gabriel, Asia, Koneko, Kuroka, Rossweisse, Kalawarner, Ravel, Kunou, Tiamat, Akeno, Vali (fem), Sona, Le Fay, Elmenhilde. (WIP)