Chapter 12. Project Bible. Part III
Issei struggle, he feel his breath become unstable, he feel his lungs constricted tightly like a snake that wrapped their victim, he feel his body was so heavy as if he was drowned under the bottom of the sea
"Father, are you fine?"
"I am... Fine."
His words was calm and composed as usual but his expression is not. He spoke through teeth that gritted and sweats pouring over down to his face
"Please don't push yourself too far Father, you can awaken the other another time, we're more than enough to assist you."
Issei lone visible gold eye tilted, staring at the figure before him
Beautiful would be the best word to describe woman before him, and Issei will proudly said so without hesitation. Her skin that pale milky, healthy and smooth, blue eyes that glittering like color of jewel itself, body figure that slim, slender but also healthy, and brown hair that look a bit unkempt -yet it make her look more appealing in eyes- and reach over her shoulder
She garbed in sleeveless white tunic dress that look thin and pure, making her truly look like being of innocent. A golden halo hovering above her head, followed by twelve white snow wings that extended from her back almost like a crown
"I'm fine Lucifina." Issei grunted, his voice remain neutral "I can still go on."
Lucifina beautiful face turned to concern "But Father-"
"Lucifina." A male voice cut her from speaking any further "That enough, stop bothering Father."
Lucifina turned around, she bit her lower lip and stare at the man before her
He is covered in armor from top to bottom, even his face is not visible stand tall, height almost equal to Imperius. The armor main color is steel gray with gold ornaments over it, the gauntlet, the pauldron, the helmet and the knee armor though is blue. Twelve pale ice blue colored wings sprout out from his back and spread proudly, like an eagle that fly above the clouds
"Brother Gavreel..." She said uncertainly
"I know you are worried, but you shouldn't push your will to Father like that." Gavreel replied, voice firm but there's no heat in there "He is our Father, have faith in him."
Hearing that words Lucifina feel ashamed, her brother is right, she shouldn't impose Father like this. She should believe in Him rather than enforce her will
"You're right..." Lucifina admitted as she look down "I'm sorry Father."
Issei did not reply, more like he is too busy, there's still many that need to be awaken, especially the leader of each faction
"Stop bothering him you two, really." Another feminine voice cut them, sounded slight annoyed "Just let Father did his job."
The two Archangels turned and glared at their company who not far from them. There's two people, one is female while the other is male
The woman is just like the Angel and other Issei that has create, beautiful beyond words, perfection given form, surpassing even in few eyes. Smooth white hair that long and even reach her rear, golden eyes that looks like her creator, and red flower that framing left side of her hair, black outfit that cover only her ample chest and hands, it was safe to say that any men would kill to touch her
However she is not look like human fully
For one her skin is blue purple, her bottom body instead of legs it was tail, a long serpent-like tail. There is also pair of horn from the back of her head that curved on top of her hair, making them look like hat
The man that close to her meanwhile is big, equal to the armored Archangels, having unkempt black hair that wild. Just like the woman, he have inhumane features as well. For one instead of nails he possess sharp claw, there also a pair of yellow ridged horns that curve outwards from beneath his hair along the sides of his head, and large furry goat-like legs ending in thick hooves.
He clad in dark jacket with a gold trim around the seams, the bottom partially opened to reveal his waist. He wears short black pants the same color as his top, the former of which are tucked into a pair of large dark boots that cover his animal-like calves and feet. Over his clothing he wears a high-collared cape in the same colors as his jacket, fastened in the front with a thin golden chain, and held in place by large shoulder-pads bearing a small resemblance to his horns.
"Alipheese, Satan." Gavreel glared at the Demon, his armored form briefly glowing with holy light "Don't you two have jobs to do?"
"You not need to worry Archangel of Abstinence, I already cast spells that allow me to connected to each Demon that ascended." Alipheese said simply "Right now they already start to gather and form a groups."
"After they wrecking havoc and spewing magics in sky." Gavreel replied with slight distaste. Didn't they know how irrelevant and disturbing that act is? Father need all the focus he have, the noise and the earthquake already bother enough!
"We're Demon, do you expect us to be quite?" Alipheese asked in voice that spoke "really?" to him
"I expect you to know some sense of discipline at least." Gavreel answered "Control your subordinate."
"That is what we do right now."
"Oh quite your blabber Gavreel." Satan chimed in, voice slight mocking "You tell your sister to be quite but you, yourself also making noise right now."
Gavreel bristled at the insulting tone, however he realize that the Demon has a point, he turned to Issei who concentrating in his throne and bowed
"Forgive me Father."
"Hn."
Issei doesn't give a damn to be honest
It hard to believe that the man who currently stand in front of her now is her childhood friend, he hardly resemble his younger self after all
Time has change his appearance so much... She did not even know that it was him had his parent didn't told her about his sudden illness that took a lot from him
His chocolate brown hair and stand up now turned to shade of grey, losing their healthy color and also fell down. His eyes... Or eye, also changed... The eye that remind her of oak tree now turned to pale gold...
His skin that healthy and slight tan turned to white. The color now resembling sick people or one that losing too much blood that she usually seen in her job
However his face... The frame of his face, the facial feature, the eyes shape, the lips, the cheeks ... They still familiar to her, even it has been years ever since she saw him but she will never forget him...
It hard to forget boy who give you drawing of Eldritch horror as a gift after all...
"Issei-kun..." She called again as she took another step toward him
The man did not do anything but stare at her. His lone visible golden eye widened, lip slightly open, a sign of pure surprise at seeing her
That surprise though suddenly gone as if never there. His lip closed and face set to blank expression, something that greatly bother her for some reason. His lone visible eye though still slight wide and it dilating toward her whole figure as if trying to see she's real or not
"Iri...chan..." His voice was uncertain, unsure. Even if his posture didn't show it but she can tell her childhood friend is troubled by her presence
"Yup!" She nodded brightly while flash him grin and pointing to herself "This is your best pal! Irina!"
He stared at her. Lone golden meet pair of violet.
Then small, soft and gentle smile crossed to his face "It's really you." He uttered softly
...
What kind of response is that?! That! That was so dull! So! So laaame! She can't have that now right? Granted it has been very long since they see each other but Issei is her friend, and she don't like it when her friend act so... Awkward
Seriously, it almost like greeting of lover instead of friend! Very awkward!
Now, now, she can't have that! No friend of hers look so gloomy! Especially childhood one!
So she take his hand and shook it vigorously
Unfortunately she underestimated her own strength as the moment she shook her friend hand he lose his balance and fall to the ground
"W-Wha?! Issei-kun!"
Irina let out small yelp as she got pulled down but unlike him, she able to stand on her feet, she immediately help Issei who fall
"Sorry, I fall." Issei apologized as he got on his feet
"Wha? No, no, no, that was my fault!" Irina apologized profusely "I don't know my own strength! Sorry!" She said sheepishly
She heard her friends amused response -Xenovia who coughed to hide her snicker especially- and refrain to shoot them glare, seriously
"How are you doing? I heard you got sick out of sudden." Irina asked, her eyes filled with slight concern
"I'm... Fine." He answered with small pause, the small smile that barely exist moment ago was gone, replaced by curiosity "How are you? What make you come back to Japan?"
"I'm on tour with my friends here!" She answered back as she gestured to her friends, a cover story that has been prepared if someone asked them. They can't just tell people they looking for holy sword aren't they?
Issei turned to them and tilt his head
"I'm Xenovia Quarta." Xenovia introduced herself with polite nod
"Jeanne d'Maillart." Jeanne said kindly with smile "Nice to meet you, Issei-kun, you don't mind if I call you that don't you?"
"Siegfried Brynt. You can call me Sieg though." Sieg introduce himself too, like Xenovia, he only give polite bow to Issei
"Issei Hyoudou." Issei responsed in stoic tone while bowing to them "Pleasure to meet you all." He give look to her and Irina notice he seems uncomfortable, awkward, doesn't know what to says
'Well, at least he's still social awkward like when he was.' Irina thought with smile
Then Issei turned back to the group and give another bow "I hope Iri-chan here not cause too much problem. What with her always easy to beguiled."
What the?! "Hey! Hey! What are you? My parent?!" Irina asked indignantly. She was a bit surprised internally, where's that snark come from?!
"Oh, you not need to worry much Issei-kun, Irina-chan behave very properly around us." Jeanne answered, her eyes twinkled with mirth
"Jean-onee!"
"Indeed." Xenovia nodded as well "She can be handful sometime, but nothing can't be handled with small beating." She said sharply
"Xenovia!"
After glaring at the bluenette, Irina glanced at Issei who cracked small smile, the chestnut haired girl huffed her cheeks and pinch his arm
Issei twitched once and his smile gone, he pull his arm from Irina's grip and shoot her stoic look "Ouch." He intoned blankly
In response Irina only blew raspberry to him
That seems amuse Issei judging by smile that crossed to his face
As they conversation grow more, Narberal who hiding smiled and shed a tears at the sight of the duo that chat. She knew this moment won't last. She knew this is perhaps the only time she would see Issei smile and behave like truly alive. She knew that this is nothing but an illusion, a moment that come from memory and yet...
And yet it bring so much joy...
Because she can see her Issei once again...
One Hour later
He tapped his fingers against the edge of throne-chair like that he currently sit upon
For once there's no blank emotion marred his face but a deep thoughtful expression
He never expect that Irina Shidou, his childhood friend to come here, to be the one who got sent to retrieve Excalibur Fragments
True the idea of having someone with Excalibur Fragments to battle against the thief who stole the same swords is crossed to his mind but he never thought his childhood friend will be picked
It because what happened between Irina's father, Touji Shidou is one of the exorcists that had problem with the supervisor of Kuoh before Rias come here two years ago.
He was one of people that caused the death of the supervisor along with his friend and because of that he immediately left to England along with his entire family so they not get blamed or involved too deep in politic
And the supervisor is not from ordinary family, no, she was Cleira Bellial, family of Diehauser Bellial the current Emperor of Underworld, the one who hold number one position in Rating Game.
He is also one of Devil that expected to be the next Satan candidate
It was good thing Touji Shidou decide to run away since if he choose to stay his family would be in great danger. True the death of Cleira Bellial is also something that agreed by the Devil in order to maintain status quo but the only few handful people that know the truth why Cleira was killed, along with her lover, the exorcist and Touji Shidou's friend
However at same time his decision also doomed the entire city to be open to Stray Devil since Kuoh City had no supervisor and problem due to Cleira complicated sudden death
Dooming him to the hand of Blake Abaddon
He feel something unpleasant crawl in his stomach just by thinking of her. The thought of that Devil soured his mood in instant, however he know that now is not time for brooding, he have things to think about after all
Irina Shidou presence in this city surprising because logically there's no way Touji would allow his only daughter to lurking around this city, place that technically ruled by Royalty of Devil. This city bring dark memory to him after all so surely he won't allow Irina to come here
And yet she still come here...
...
This is no longer small problem... There must be reason why Touji Shidou allow Irina to come here. Granted he can't do anything technically since Irina and her father work for the church but giving Touji position he clearly have some right to say about Irina's mission
Or there chance that Touji already make peace with his past and have no problem with Irina coming here. Or it could be because Irina insist to go so she can visit her hometown
Regardless whichever it is doesn't matter, things already happen, there's no use to think about "How could it be' but rather 'What to do now' and find the solution
He admit Narberal move is good, not to the point very good but it still good nonetheless. She aware just how important Irina Shidou existence to him, as expected from creature that has spend her time with him the longest, she know him pretty well
No matter what... Irina Shidou is someone who still have bond with him. No matter how Issei Hyoudou wish he to cut his tie with the World it will never happen, impossible things and he knew it. All is because Irina Shidou existence and bond to him
Irina Shidou is someone from this World who he hold dearly in his heart.
Make it the only person...
But make no mistake her existence is far from enough to make him stop. No matter what, there's no way he will cancel Project Bible. Not when he already this close, it already too late to stop now
And he perfectly aware that Narberal know this so why? Why she still try to stop this project? What she...
Ah...
So that's it...
Now he begin to see her plan from bigger picture...
It quite risky... No, it very risky... It's more like gamble than plan... But the result will be worthy for her...
'Putting Irina Shidou aside, those three Exorcist that come with her...'
Siegfried the descendant of the real Siegfried and Slayer of Dragon King Fafnir, Jeanne the inheritor of Joan d'Arc spirit, Xenovia Quarta the wielder of Excalibur Destruction.
Those three not as affected as they should be from compulsion charm of the house. While Irina Shidou given immunity and left unaffected but the same can't be said to her companion. However the three of them seems fine and not show any sign that he wish for
He can understand about the first two, Siegfried possibly resistant to it because his bloodline that he get from his ancestor while Jeanne probably protected from the soul of Joan d'Arc but what about Xenovia Quarta?
How can she show quite resistance when Sona and Rias whose High-class Devils fall to it? Granted they need to be charmed few times to ensure the spell take effect completely but they are High-class Devils, creature of Magic so it just make sense. Just like Siegfried and Jeanne whose special
But Xenovia Quarta?
'She also wielder of Durandal, the choosen one as matter of fact.' That information actually secret and hided, more than death of God surprisingly. Perhaps it because the demise of God already quite common in higher, those that stand in above position was being told so they can understand why sometime the church must act very brutal
But in Durandal case it was a weapon, it was different matter. So perhaps the way it covered also different
Could it be the Sword of Roland is the one who responsible for protecting her? Well that is the only explanation he could come with actually so...
'They are more problematic than I thought.' Forget about sleeping tonight, just meeting with Irina already scramble part of his brain. The strange feeling keep digging his stomach and won't left him. So he decide to go back to his 'lab' and continue to do his work
Make no mistake, he's not without limit. He aware that his stamina have it peak, and right now he exhausted. He want to sleep and be done with it, however he can't afford to do that without make his mind troubled further
So he decide to distract himself
He grip the edge of his throne and brace himself as dozens wires that not unlike tentacles sprung out from the seat, then they plunge themselves toward him, arms, chest, neck, and head, trickle of bloods come out from there but Issei not flinched or show any sign of being in bothered despite having countless holes bore to his body
He already accustomed to pain so this is nothing. He close his eyes and take few deep breath before start concentrating as image after images flashed before his mind
The throne where he sat upon is not ordinary one, it connected to his whole lab. It was the brain, the main computer, the switch. The Core of the 'System' he build, it was the "device" that allow him connected to everything he build
He take another deep breath, once, twice, then he about to start his work when suddenly something alert him. His lone eye snapped open and darted to the front door immediately
His thoughtful face turned to small scowl at the sight of the girl in front of her that came out of nowhere
"I told you I'm busy. Meet me tomorrow." He said in blank voice but there small hint of irritation in there
The girl in front of him in response only stare back with equal blank face at him "I, come to look around." The person spoke in voice that just like him "Want to see, how it goes."
Issei only give blank gaze at her
She stare back with equal look
Then she turned away, walking around the lab, staring at the multiple monitors that show various image of the lab and everything
"You, make big progress." She spoke in monotone "More than anyone."
"Don't compare me to them." Issei replied in same monotone "They are pathetic creature. Their goal is clouded with their emotions and act based on their pride." He let out small sniff of disgust "I'm insulted."
And he did, he really feel insulted to be compared to them. Despite his voice is blank but there hint of anger in there, one that hard to see but nonetheless still exist
The girl seems not even bothered by his anger and only nodded "When they will ready?"
"Five days at least or a week at max." Issei answered "The power source already prepared and can be reap anytime. I just need to recheck everything."
And to recheck army that more than million is clearly not easy thing, and it not short as well
"You, finished early, proved to be a good slave."
Issei give no indication he offended by the way he addressed and only remain gaze blankly at her
"I, will give you, second gift." She nodded in approval before extend her hand and something come out from it. It color is dark, almost like a shadow and it writhing under her grip as if it was alive, it extend and slowly take shape like a serpent creature "Here." She push the shapeless, ominous looking creature to him like a children give their friends her candy
"Store it for later." Issei refused in blank voice "I do not need it for now." He then tilt his head "How about the project I asked?"
She pull back her hand and then stuff the serpent creature inside her pant nonchalantly "The vessel, is ready. And I, found Dimension Lost." She answered
Issei perked up hearing that, his blank face show slight interest "You found it?"
"He, is one of my slaves too."
He? Wasn't Kokabiel said 'her' when he ask him? It seems the Fallen Angel indeed still hiding some information, just like he expected
The young man suddenly found the girl in front of him, sitting in his lap with reverse position where her legs wrapped around his waist as matter of fact, intruding his privacy. His crimson and golden eyes meet with pair of blank gray that look bottomless
"Don't worry, you, are better slave." She said with appraising gaze and nod "I, like you better."
She emphasized it by tapping his cheek softly with her small palm, caressing him in gentle manner
In response Issei rise his hand and pinch her cheek
The girl stop tapping and begin to pinch his cheek back, then she stretch it. Painfully.
Issei let her go
She still pinching. As matter of fact she use two hands and stretch his cheek like he was made of rubber
In reply Issei push her away, hard enough to repulse the girl
But instead fall the girl hovering in air like a cloud, still in sitting position, she slowly spun and face him again
Then Issei raise his hand to the air, and there light come out from the space as his hand pierce through it, like a stone that dropped to the sea. And when he pull it out, there's doughnut in there "Here."
She took the treat and eat it "Doughnut. I, like it."
"Obviously." Issei dully commented
"You, need System for them." She said while munching her food, eyes briefly shifted to the monitor that showing his army, then back to Issei who is connected to his throne by what look like a cables "Without System, they will fall apart, in two weeks."
"The Prototype has been made." Issei replied "Already tested. Far from complete, but enough to occupy them for two months."
"Two months." She nodded "The vessel will be ready." She said "Then, we, can kill Great Red?"
"Not yet." Issei shook his head, making the 'tentacle' that connected to his head waving slightly "Great Red is too strong for my army. Not yet. Give me a six months or year and I may found method to banish him."
For the first time since conversation, Ophis, the Infinite, the Dragon God frowned
And when the one who frown is someone who considered as the Strongest Existence, then it clearly not a good sign
"Too long."
"You have your army made preparation for almost decade. Yet, they not show any good result." Issei retorted simply, seems unfazed by Ophis displeasure "Look at mine. Less than dozen, not even their half. But I can overrule them."
Ophis stared at Issei, hard. The blank grey eyes seems now become purely void. Empty. Filled with nothingness and pressure that so heavy. Issei himself feel for moment there something, something surrounding him. Despite there is nothing around him but he feel it. The unseen and invisible pressure. Constricting him. Wrapping around him like a snake that ready to crush their prey under their body.
And he knew what they are
The Ouroboros can kill him in less than second if she wish to
"You, show good result, and you, also finish earlier." She spoke in her usual monotone "Alright, I, approve your proposal." She declared "One year."
"Please noted that I MAY find the method." Issei said, reminding the Dragon God "Great Red is strong, like you. A being that feared by the World and can bring apocalypse anytime." He tilt his head "I can't make promise I will be able to kill him, as matter of fact I doubt anyone in this World can find method to bring down Great Red in spawn of one year."
The petite black haired beauty simply silent at that statement, she keep munching her doughnut without showing any emotion. Her eyes though, they spoke differently, there is clearly dissatisfaction in there, a glint that ominous and disapproving
Most creature would be grovelling to this being the moment they saw this, because they knew if they did not appease her it mean there chance that everything they have will be obliterated, literally
Issei though appear to be as uncaring and nonchalant like the Infinite that sitting before him. He simply tap his fingers to his throne and show calculating look
"You, have solution." The representation of Nothingness stated
"Indeed, I have." Issei replied with nod "Killing Great Red for me is impossible. But you killing him? That was not impossible."
The Dragon God and the Dragon of Apocalypse is known to be tie and matched in term of power, but despite of that Ophis did not dare to attack Great Red directly, there is reason for that
If they fight, simply to put, the World will be destroyed. Olympus, Asgard, Realm of Dead, Underworld, Heaven, and all Pantheons mystical place will not be safe from the backlash of their battle and while Ophis doesn't care about those place, she care about Dimensional Gap is her home
If those places destroyed in short time or simultaneously there will be chaos in Dimensional Gap and it will collapse, the backlash of that could annihilate the whole universe, something that Ophis doesn't want to happen, Dimensional Gap is her home after all
"It not clear solution." Issei continued "But I might be able to find way to weakening Great Red." He leaned forward slightly, peering to the Infinite in eyes "Enough so you can kill him without destroying the whole World."
Despite there no twitch or change in her emotion but the glint that entered her eyes certainly quite visible to be seen
"How long?" She asked, for the first time ever since they talk, her voice carry a slight interest
"The duration he weakened or when I can find the way to weaken him?"
"Both."
"The answer is unknown unfortunately." Issei said, there small disappointment in his voice "It not like I can't do it or such thing. No, what affecting it is, there is too many factor that need to be counted. Too many possibility that can't be predicted so the result is still mysterious."
The answer while is reasonable but it also clearly left the Dragon God unsatisfied "What if, I, conquer a pantheon for you?"
"... Which pantheon?"
"Egypt, they are weakened from YHWH curse."
Ah, the infamous Ten Curse. The God of Bible is benevolent and kind deity, so much to the point other pantheon thought of him as a weak God. Well, whoever thought of that they will think thrice after seeing God of Bible interfere personally and bring down the entire Egypt pantheon for daring to enslave his "Children" for a four century
"... There is no point to conquer them, it will only going to bring unnecessary attention." Khaos Brigade is faction that their existence still mysterious. Despite the World know about it but right none of the major faction care about them or even trying to make a move against them directly
While it's true that all pantheon know Khaos Brigade must be led by powerful figure since they capable to unite those who supposed to oppose each other under one banner but truthfully there is many powerful being that capable to achieve similar feat
So their existence is still counted to "annoyance but doesn't matter, the World is still large and not need to worry about them" level.
But if Ophis decide to conquer a whole pantheon -despite weakened already- then the World will be in uproar. She is one of the most feared existence after all, if she just suddenly wipe out a faction like that... Then what stop her from conquering other?
And when they found out that she is also leader of Khaos Brigade?
Oh yeah... The result will be bad. Ophis can't be omnipresent and omnipotent at same time. She can't face a whole army of Gods with full power while she also facing another army of Gods
She will win in his calculation but in the end there won't be anyone left that can be recruited to facing Great Red.
Well, he can create one for her, but the potency won't be good since many data and material would be destroyed from the war. And Issei himself also doubt that he can survive that war without any harm
"Then what should I do?"
"For now let focusing to finish what I currently do, and after that we can start the project to bring down Great Red."
"That was exactly what other said as well."
Issei lips curled to thin line, a hint of irritation enter his eyes "Don't compare me to them. What they promise you is a empty words." He replied "There is still few projects that need to be completed before I can start Protocol Red Fall."
"Protocol Red Fall?"
"Like it name, it is protocol to bring down Great Red."
Ophis floating in front of him and stare directly to his heterochromatic eyes "I want to see it."
"The protocol still rough and incomplete due to lack of material." Issei said before he raise his hand and extend it to his left, then his limb sunk as if the space is a pool, and when he pull it out a folder is in his hand "But here, you can read the big picture and summary that already formed."
Ophis take the folder, stripping the content and read what written in there. After a moment her eyes narrowed back to Issei "It might work."
"Of course it did. But that if we manage to complete it." Issei replied in monotone "I still need materials and data to create things that necessary."
"... I can active them now. Your army."
Issei quirked his eyebrow "You would do that?"
Ophis was never trying to help him fully, she treat him like other that work under her. She gave them power and blessing then she left them to fend themselves and tell them to not bother her. After that she would return to demand result if it meet her satisfaction then she will give more blessing but if not...
Well, may Great Red or Shiva have mercy upon their poor souls
"Six years ago, you, said that you will make army." Ophis said "Army that strong enough to fight against a pantheon. You, will fight for my goal. And unlike all other, you don't have ally or support. You, start everything from nothing but you give the most satisfying result." She wave her hand to her surrounding as a gesture "You're worthy object."
"Of course I am." He is better than those who follow her. They're nothing but deluded fools who simply can't accept that they're simply a worm
Still... The fact that Ophis now offer to help him directly like this... This is clearly major improvement, something that will greatly help him. With her here, there's no doubt that Project Bible is as good as done, and also he can finish it anytime now, there is no need to...
"Issei-kun! How about we go to the park tomorrow? Just like the old days!"
The white haired boy mind suddenly replaying the words that his childhood friend just said few hours ago, pausing any further plan he about to make
"... There's no need to activate Project Bible this soon." Issei said "I will keep going according to the schedule."
"... Why? The faster the better."
"It is, but soul is fickle thing." Issei answered "You can't rush them, they need to be harvested carefully." Very true, if he rush the project using raw power then the result won't be as effective as he intent to
"When the project launched?"
"In next five days."
"I, see." Ophis nodded in affirmation "That is acceptable duration."
"If you want to help then can you divert attention of other pantheon from me when I launch Project Bible." Issei suggested
"You, still want to hide?"
"No, it is time to reveal my existence but I don't need that much attention, not yet."
"I see. Diversion. Easy." Ophis nodded "I, will go kill Sirzechs Lucifer and Ajuka Beelzebub."
"No, not that kind of attention." Issei instantly said. While he doesn't care about them but it will be disaster for him as well if they both die, they're pretty much already included to his plan after all "Create chaos but do not let it known that Khaos Brigade is the one who responsible."
"Hmm, annoying."
"It is for the good cause, remember our main goal." Issei simply said "And leave Bible faction alone."
Ophis narrow her head slightly "They, will come to you. You, are in their place."
"They will." Issei confirmed, he leaned slightly in his seat, allowing his blood red and amber gold eyes to be seen as they seems glinting with eerie light "And that, is what I expecting for."
Let the moth come to the flame, let them burn by their own desire. Issei will not stop the Devil from coming for him, he will welcome them with open hands
It can be considered as small payback for Sona who dare to use magic to one of his possession when she investigate about him
"Ah, the Grail." Ophis suddenly spoke, breaking Issei from his inner thought "It will be ready soon."
The boy single golden eye blinked once "Already?"
"Yes, as matter of fact, it can be used now."
Issei's fist that shaking slightly is the only sign that he is excited, however he push the positive feeling in instant it appear, something in Ophis's word doesn't feels right
"What is needed for it can be used now?" He asked
"My power."
... As he expected... It still not ready... For it to need Ophis's power... It still premature
"No, your power have risk." Issei denied "The vessel cannot be harmed by any mean, I need her body when it mature enough so I can create the better replica." But still... He did not expect the Grail to show such maturity so soon "Who is the one that taking care of the vessel?"
"One of my men." Ophis answered plainly "He, have his own agenda, and he, also show promise in building army, like you."
Competition? Now this is new, while Issei did not truly so arrogant to the point he believe he is the only one that succeed but what surprising is that Ophis told him about this
How... Troubling...
"Did you tell him about me too?" Issei asked
"No."
He blinked again at the answer, taken back and surprised. He really get so many surprise today, from Irina's arrival and her
"Why?"
"He, have his own agenda."
"So do I."
"You, like me."
That make Issei confused, he did not expect the Infinite to make such remark about him
Ophis sense the confusion from him decide to elaborate "You, want nothing with this World, just like me."
"Ah..."
So that's it... That... That actually make sense...
"You, plan to build your own World. Left alone by others. Safe and in peace. Just like me. I, want silence and peace."
... She is right. That is her goal isn't it? She want to kill Great Red because he is annoying and noisy, always roaring and flying around with style. She want peace, want to be alone and not bothered by others
Just like him...
"I, will make sure your World become Reality." Ophis declared to the man before her "And you, will make mine into one as well."
"Of course." Issei replied "Don't expect any less from me."
Ophis nodded, then she float over to Issei, inched away only from him, then she rose slightly and plant small kiss to his forehead
The young man quirked his eyebrow at the affectionate gesture, appear to be not bothered slightly by the act "What was that for?" He asked plainly
"It mark that you're mine." Ophis declared "You're Subject that worth than others, you, one of my biggest assets to reclaim the Silence." She stated as she leaned back "You, will have a lot of enemies, after this, and I, will not let them take you away."
Issei merely stare at that. He knew there is no affection or compassion in Ophis, what she did before, it just a display since she take form of Human. If she is in her real form then the gesture would be something else, probably licking. Like a mother that patting her children, something that natural
"I, will prepare the land, and keep on eye to the Grail." Ophis said as she hovering away from Issei "I, will see you later."
Without giving Issei chance to reply the small girl body started to become transparent, then her whole figure gone, it as if she was never there in first place
Issei merely stare at where Ophis moment ago, then she let out small sigh and shook his head. Truthfully Ouboros is one of beings that he can't predict. So many mystery about her, even in other factions how she born is unknown, save for she birth in Dimensional Gap. And because her origin that mysterious and unknown, predicting her act also become hard
But one thing that sure... Ophis will no longer shrug him off... After all, he got her attention right now, and has accomplish more than any of her subordinate
'If I check everything tonight, I won't be able to go to school later. Oh, well, it doesn't matter anyway.' He thought as he close his eyes and began to concentrate
His army won't check themselves after all
"You look so happy Irina-chan." Jeanne remarked as she pour herself a glass of water
"Of course I am." Irina replied cheerfully as she hummed "I got to meet Issei-kun again after very long time!"
"Hmph, I fail to see what so endearing about that boy." Xenovia commented stoically as she rummage over the fridge
The group from the Church currently living in one of apartment that they rent for a week. The place itself is quite big actually, enough to fit four people, having one large bedroom with two small one. Obviously one of them going to share with each other in large bedroom -Xenovia and Irina is the one who did of course giving their state as partner for quite time- while the other sleep in private one
"You're so stiff Xenovia." Irina chided her partner with admonishing face "Too closed like that, that is why people think you're Power Idiot."
The bluenette turned and glared at her friend "At least I'm not idiot enough to use all of our money just to buy a fake statue!"
"It is not fake!" Irinaa replied indignantly "It's really statue of Saint Peter! Don't you see the resemblance?!"
"I don't know, I never see his picture or things that resemble him, but obviously Saint Peter don't have hair that long." Xenovia deadpanned
"How could you know that?! You said you never see it!"
"Because I don't think at that era one of Christ's student will have that style of hair."
"There's no proof of that! It could-"
"Okay, you two enough of that!" Jeanne interrupted, her voice is lecturing but her face show she is amused by the banter, obviously enjoy the interaction between them "Seriously, it just simple things."
"Sempai, there's nothing simple with her." Xenovia pointed to Irina with dull face "That kind of thing, it already happened twice, where she got tricked to buy fake stuff, and thanks to that we lack of fund in our mission!" She turned and glare at Irina "We have to eat simple bread for few days or even become beggar in the street!"
"Oh my." Jeanne let out small gasp, she then turned to Irina as well who blushed "Irina-chan..."
"I can't help it!" Irina blurted out quickly "I-I mean! They! They do look like the real one!"
Xenovia merely scoffed while Jeanne give her reprimanding look, making the girl flushed further and look down
"Issei-kun is certainly right, you're so easy to be tricked." Jeanne commented exasperatedly
"Hey! I'm not that bad!" Irina huffed, she then murmured "Damn you Issei-kun."
"Aww, does Irina-chan have certain feeling to her childhood friend?" Jeanne asked
"W-Wha?" Irina face flushed "No! No, I'm not! Issei-kun is my friend!"
"Really?" Jeanne teased with knowing grin
"I am!" Irina complained "Issei-kun is only a friend! A good friend! That's it and..." The boy image flashed to her mind, his pale skin and fragile appearance, it make her face soured
"Irina-chan?" Jeanne called, noticing the girl sudden change
"I don't know he was sick..." She muttered "Issei-kun was quite lively in past, he was a bit odd but he always smile and grinning to other..." Her eyes flashed in bitter light "But he was antisocial, always alone, and..." And his illness clearly affecting him. He already awkward to other and now he have this... It kinda sad actually
She care for him obviously, he is her friend, they were best friend, still until now if she have anything to said about it
Truthfully it shouldn't be matter, childhood friend... People often forget about them, it just realistic and matter of fact, many those who close in their childhood become stranger to each other when they growth
But for Irina? It is not...
Issei... Issei is one of her special people. Not because she love him or what but what he represent...
Becoming Exorcist is not small and easy things... What they have done... What the true nature of their job... And what they have to face
And above that their living style also slight restricted. They can't have many friends outside of their own inner circle because things can goes bad for them, what if some Monster or enemy tried to use it against them?
Exorcist job is to hunt, unlike Priest that usually seen as figure, they both might be live under the same World and banner, but they both live in different style and field
It was very rare for her to meet someone who she save during her job once again, and it kind of burdened her. She knew she did a good and right thing by pledge herself to God and slaying dark creatures that threatened Humanity but... It is rare for her to see the result of her job through eyes directly...
However when she talk with Hyoudou family and meet Issei once again... It allow her to see that it was real, what she tried to protect from abomination and monster that feed on Humanity, it was real. A happy family that enjoying their days together, and friend that will welcome her anytime she want...
"I'm just worried about him." Irina said after moment of silence "He is my friend." Possibly her only friend that not involved in Moonlit World
"I see..." Jeanne replied, voice soft and gentle
"We can always ask for healer." Xenovia chimed in suddenly
"Healer?" Irina blinked
"Your friend." She grunted "He is sick, we can ask for healer, if I recall there some Holy Maiden that rescued right? And she capable to heal." She tilt her head and put thoughtful face "What was her name again? As... Asean? Asia?"
"Asia Argento." Jeanne corrected "She just got rescued by Ewald-sama from Fallen Angel."
"Ah yes, her." Xenovia nodded "We can contact her, call her to come here and heal your friend."
"Unfortunately we can't, she is still on probationary after out from manipulation of Devil." Jeanne said with sigh as she recall about it. She don't know the details since she was already with Irina and Xenovia when that news come to search for missing Excalibur. She glanced at Siegfried who on the terrace, staring at the dark sky outside. He is the only one who know about it more since he arrive as reinforcement two days ago
"Then ask for another healer, a potion or something like that, surely we have it." Xenovia pointed easily. In World where Magic is real and all supernatural creatures walk among men, things like that is not uncommon
"That might be possible." Jeanne hummed "I will ask the higher after we done with our mission."
"Thank you Jean-onee." Irina replied happily "Thank you too Xenovia!"
"Your welcome Irina-chan." Jeanne says kindly
"Don't mention it." Xenovia said with shrug "But I think it still will be fine in the end, your friend's mother did said that his condition is improving."
"Xenovia is right." Siegfried said as he enter the room "While I do sympathize with what happened to your friend Irina, but I think it better to leave him around." He stated "We're already on thin ice by coming here, the higher of Devils knew our real status, our existence is not secret after all."
The descendant of Sigurd, Hero who slay Fafnir one of Dragon Kings, man who slay beast that even make Pagan Gods think twice before fighting it. Aand inheritor of the spirit of Joan of Arc, the Saint that led France to victory with nothing but her own charisma and words. He and Jeanne is famous and have reputation of their own, both of them has their own experience in facing Ultimate-class Devil and come out as the winner
"You promise to spend time with him tomorrow." Siegfried stated as he looking at Irina "Feel free to do that, but come back before five afternoon, we will start our investigation at that time." He ordered and she nodded in understanding "Now rest, we will asking permission to the Devils tomorrow in morning."
""Yes, sir."" Xenovia and Irina replied at same time before they stood and went to their room
Siegfried merely stare at them before he went to the fridge, opening it and take a can of cola
"You sounds so stiff Sieg-kun." Jeanne said kindly "What bothering you?"
The white haired swordsman briefly glanced at her and chuckled as he open his drink "Am I that obvious?"
"To me? Yes."
Siegfried smiled before he drink his cola, taking few gulps, he stopped and let out small sigh "It's about that Hyoudou boy."
Jeanne blinked, surprised at the mention of Irina's friend "Why?"
"Something is wrong in that house." Siegfried said grimly "Like, really wrong."
"Wrong?" Jeanne put concerned face "Sieg-kun, what do you mean?"
Siegfried only silence, he remember when he enter that house for the first time, his instinct screaming and demand him to get the hell out from there for some reason, it as if he is entering belly of monster. There is something very wrong with that place, even when he chat and talk with Mr and Mrs Hyoudou he feel right he was watched by unseen figures
"Keep an eye on that boy Jeanne." Siegfried said "When Irina with him tomorrow, follow them, he is not what he looks like." He whispered
"That is why you let Irina-chan go." Jeanne replied with equal low voice "You want to find out more about that boy." She was slight surprised that Siegfried allow Irina to spend time with Issei Hyoudou, it not like Siegfried is that strict or killjoy but right now their situation is a bit dire
The Excalibur has been stolen for quite some time and the higher started to get impatient while demanding result, and not to mention right now they are in territory that controlled by sisters of two Satans
"Do you think he is involved?" Jeanne asked sharply
"No, I don't think so." Siegfried answered "However, that boy perhaps aware of Moonlit World, he is not normal Human if you ask me." He stated "Just keep an eye on him, we might find something that can be report to higher when we go back."
Jeanne nodded in understanding "Should we tell Irina-chan?"
"No, let it be." Siegfried shook her head "That girl deserve some break, no need to make her uncomfortable or suspicious, let her have her peace with her friend for a moment, she is still young."
"You talk like old man Sieg-kun." Jeanne giggled "Was that white hair unnatural? Are you started to forgetting something?"
"For your information, I'm twenty three years old." Siegfried said dryly "And you are year older than me. If I'm become grandfather then what are you?"
"Sieg-kun!" Jeanne let out dramatic gasp "How could you?! You shouldn't speak to a women about their age!"
"But it is fine if you speak about men age?"
"Of course!"
"Sexism."
"Hey!"
Siegfried let out chuckle as the blonde shoot him pout, he finished his drink before throw the can to trash bin "Go to sleep Jeanne, we will need a lot of energy for tomorrow." He said as he goes back to his own room
"You just said that because you want to sleep early, you lazy grandpa."
"Be quite grandma."
"Sieg-kun!"
With that the duo goes to each of their own room, leaving the living room empty. Then suddenly the shadow of one of the tables started to twitch, it wriggled like a snake and began to slither on the ground. Without making any sounds, it crawling out from the apartment through the door, intent to return to it creator
Hello everyone! It's been a while for this story isn't it? Sorry about that, I don't have any excuse other than Writer Block. Like really, this chapter already in the middle to done few months ago when the inspiration suddenly fly out from my head
I hate it when that happened, it felt like... You expecting good thrill when you ride one of amusement park game, but then you become self aware to around the game and busy observing instead enjoying the rush!
Ehem, anyway, that was done, let's talk about this chapter
And so, we finally meet the leaders of Angel and Demon from Issei's faction. Yeah, they all taking appearance of other anime character, I will make the list at the bottom of this note
We also see how Issei interact with Irina and how his reaction to his return, troubled obviously but it not enough to make him waver in his goal. Like I said in many times, this story while not fully realistic but there will be small factor of it
And we found Issei real boss, Ophis. Yes, that Ophis. The Infinite Dragon that feared by all factions in the World, being that equal to Trihexa or even superior than that beast
How they meet it will be explained later when we see what happened to Issei in past after his outbreak from Blake Abaddon
I also already give very big clue of what is Issei's other project, if the Grail word not enough then I don't know what else I should say other than spoiling everything
We also see what Irina thought for a moment. Oh Irina you poor girl, if only you knew what your friend went through...
Ehem, I guess this is it for now, I hope you love this chapter! Next one will be more interaction! We only two chapter before enter climax of this arc! Stay tune and keep reading if you curious about it! And don't forget to give this story Favorite, Follow, and Review
Ja Ne! XD
Leaders of Angel and Demon :
Archangel of Valor - Imperius (Appearance exactly like Imperius from Diablo)
Archangel of Wisdom - Ilias (Appearance exactly like Goddess Ilias from Monster Girl Quest, except she have twelve golden wings)
Archangel of Abstinence - Gavreel (Appearance exactly like Seraphimon from Digimon, except the wing is blue and twelve)
Archangel of Faith - Lucifina (Appearance exactly lke Lucifina from Monster Girl Quest, except she have twelve snow white wings)
Demon of Terror - Diablo (Diablo in her Prime Evil form from Diablo)
Demon of Despair - Ulquiorra (Ulquiorra Cifer from Bleach)
Demon of Vainglory - Alipheese (Alice from Monster Girl Quest)
Demon of Carnage - Satan (Sadao Maou Demonic Form from Hataraku no Maou Sama)