Holy shit. It's already been 5 months since chapter 4. That's crazy.
Like I said in the previous chapter, I went back to chapter 3 and changed some details I didn't like. In addition, I also went back to all the other chapters and cleaned them up. Some of the mistakes, especially in A Dragon's Wrath…
-shudders-
…were no bueno.
Revisions for the previous chapter and any for this chapter will be published later today. My reason is the last line of this chapter
Anyways, that's all the news I have.
Enjoy!
{Albion Talking}
{Albion Talking To Vali}
Chapter 5: Rising Tensions
Repetitive.
That's the word Azazel would use to describe his life.
Having lived for thousands of years, the leader of the Fallen Angels had seen it all. He was kicked out of Heaven, becoming the first Fallen Angel and establishing the Grigori. He had seen people rise and fall from glory. Lastly, perhaps the most repetitive of all is the countless battles and wars Azazel took part in. Some were bigger than others, but they always ended in the same few ways every time. After some point, everything in life just became so redundant to him.
Even the Great War became a chore after going on for so long, especially when word of two Dragons fighting a reckless battle circled around. The Grigori's losses were not worth whatever reward awaited the winner at the end. They were the smallest of the Three Factions at the time by a large margin. Azazel didn't need them all dying before his faction could get off the ground. So, he pulled the Fallen Angels out of the war, fearing more unnecessary blood would be shed.
His intuition served him right.
When their battle was interrupted in the Realm of the Dead, The Heavenly Dragons attacked the Three Factions. They were so powerful that the Great War was stopped and the Three Factions had to band together to defeat them. The original Four Great Satans were killed and God had to sacrifice himself to seal away the Dragons into Sacred Gears.
It was a war where nobody won.
By this point, Azazel had enough of war, becoming a die-hard pacifist, trying to avoid fighting when he could. With the war ending, the fighting turned into a stalemate with small skirmishes being the only thing to worry about. With all this free time in his hands, Azazel started working on something that interested him.
Artificial Sacred Gears.
At last, Azazel found something that filled a void in his dull life. He spent countless hours researching, creating, and tinkering with Sacred Gears. Just the thought of Sacred Gears excited him. They weren't as powerful as the real deal, but Azazel was content with his creations. Both the successes and failures
When Azazel caught wind of the Devil Civil War, he told the Fallen Angels to not get involved in any way, shape, or form. He did not need or want to clean up the mess his subordinates would inevitably make if they interfered. This was the Devil's problem, and Fallen Angel interference would only complicate the matter. Besides that, Azazel was so engrossed in Sacred Gears that he honestly couldn't care less about the civil war.
All he cared about was his research.
When the civil war was over, Azazel begrudgingly visited Lilith, the new Devil capital, to meet the new leaders of the Underworld along with his second in command Shemhazai.
The four new Satans exchanged pleasantries with the Governor, but the latter felt somewhat disconnected from them. While certainly not young, none of the new Satans were even a millennium old when they took their respective titles.
To Azazel, they were still children.
Once the meeting had concluded, Azazel once again absorbed himself into his research of Sacred Gears. He had made so much progress in making a Sacred Gear that could be useful to him. He was so close.
But everything changed once Azazel found a young boy beaten nearly to death.
He wasn't sure why the boy was there or why he was beaten so badly, but he knew he couldn't just leave him there. So, he took the boy back to the Grigori to fix him up.
While patching him up, Azazel asked what had happened to him. While initially hesitant, the boy, who revealed himself to be named Vali, spoke while Azazel listened. Vali talked about how he was abused by his father, Razevan, who would beat him nearly every day. How his mother would do his best to take care of him when his father wasn't around only for her to be abused too.
And one day when his father was beating him once again. Vali finally asked him.
Why?
Why did his father beat him all the time? Why did he make his son's life a living hell? The closest thing Vali got as a response was his father mumbling something about a "Longinus" under his breath all the while he continued to assault his son. Vali was sick of it. He couldn't take it anymore.
So he ran away.
After hearing this, Azazel couldn't fathom what this child had just revealed. A part of him wanted to deny it. There was no way someone would do this to a child, much less their own son.
Taking another look at the boy in front of him, Azazel came to terms with the situation he found himself in. This boy came from a toxic environment and needed someone to be there.
He needed… a father.
Making up his mind, Azazel slowly extended his hand toward the boy sitting in front of him. Reflexively, Vali curled up into a ball, begging Azazel not to hurt him.
Seeing this response, made Azazel's heart hurt even more.
Vali's eyes were sealed shut as tears streamed down his face, he didn't want to get hurt again. If he did, it would be as if he never left his home in the first place. But there was nothing he could do, as far as he knew, he was trapped here and didn't know where the exit was. This was it, he was going to be beaten again and taken back to his-
Vali's negative thoughts were suddenly interrupted when he felt something rubbing the top of his head. He would chalk this up to more abuse but to his surprise, it didn't hurt. Rather, it felt soothing and eased his mind ever so slightly. Curious as to what was causing it, Vali opened his eyes, and what he saw made him freeze.
Azazel was patting his head and gave Vali a loving smile. He didn't know how to react, he sat there frozen as Azazel continued rubbing his head. After what felt like forever, Azazel said something that moved Vali to his core.
"I can't leave you to fend for yourself now can I? I'll take you in and raise you as my own; be the father that you never had. I will help you learn all there is to know about this world and the Longinus that dwells inside you. You can stay here with me. That is, of course, if you want to, I won't force you. But I promise to make you the strong Longinus user this world has ever seen."
To say that the silverette was shocked would be an understatement. He never thought in a million years that he would hear that from someone other than his mother. While the thought of having a father figure excited the boy, he couldn't help but be worried.
What would happen to his mother?
Would she be ok?
What would his father do her now that he was gone?
These questions swarmed his mind, but he also thought about the other side of the coin. If he stayed with Azazel, he would learn about how to properly use his power and learn about his Longinus. His father never gave him any training, so Vali was completely clueless about what he could do. Not to mention, if he learned how to use his powers, Vali would be strong enough to face his father. He could save his mother.
The answer was clear as day to Vali.
With a small, almost undetectable nod, Vali wished to stay with Azazel and the latter couldn't be happier for the chance to raise a child.
As the years passed, Vali grew to be a fearsome warrior with a strong desire to fight stronger opponents. It was revealed that his Longinus was the fabled Divine Dividing, much to Azazel's surprise. Considering that Azazel had taken a special interest in Dragons, what were the chances that his son was the host of the Vanishing Dragon?
Despite being the one who raised him, Azazel didn't know much about Vali's life before he adopted him. He did however find out that his grandfather was Rizevim Lucifer, son of one of the Four Greats Satans. Azazel knew that this was most likely Vali's most profound and darkest secret, so he kept the information to himself. He also learned that Rizevim had killed his Razevan shortly after Vali ran. The Fallen Angel was shocked, to say the least.
Nevertheless, Azazel was grateful for the chance to raise him, considering having a kid of his own would be next to impossible.
When Vali turned eighteen, Azazel enlisted him as an agent of Grigori and as his personal bodyguard. While most people would think that Vali may be a bit young to start that kind of work, Azazel thought differently.
Vali was more than ready. With his immense demonic powers combined with Albion's power, he was a force to be reckoned with.
The time Azazel had spent raising and watching Vali grow was Azazel was grateful to have. Being able to be the father that he always wanted to be. Azazel never thought he would get that kind of experience again.
But fate has something different in store for him.
It came to his attention that in a small town in Japan, the heiress to the Gremory household had her peerage stationed there. That was mildly interesting to the Fallen Angel, but what piqued his interest was the rumor of a human she recently reincarnated was the host of the Red Dragon Emperor, Ddraig.
This excited Azazel, the chance of being able to meet not one, but both Heavenly Dragons was all Azazel needed to scout this newly turned Devil out.
Upon first inspection, Azazel had to admit that he was underwhelmed when he observed the boy training with his peerage. While it was true that he was indeed the Red Dragon Emperor, it was only in title. The boy, Issei Hyoudou, could only summon the gauntlet of his Sacred Gear, being able to only boost a few times before reaching his limit. He hadn't even achieved Balance Breaker yet.
Azazel knew that if Issei and Vali were to face each other in their current states, Issei would lose. There was no chance of him winning. Vali would hand his ass to him on a silver platter.
Azazel turned around, readying himself to teleport away, however, something made him stop. Similar to Vali, Azazel felt the inclination to help Issei out. It wasn't as strong as when he met Vali but he felt something parental towards Issei.
So, he approached Issei to give him some advice. Issei, who didn't who this person was initially treated Azazel with hostility, which the Fallen Angel had expected. Nevertheless, Azazel gave him some pointers before leaving.
When Azazel saw Issei again at the peace treaty conference, he looked a little stronger than last time. Not strong enough to summon his Balance Breaker on his own, but definitely stronger.
When the Khaos Brigade attacked, Azazel gave Issei a bracelet to help him call upon his Balance Breaker, believing it would be needed for the upcoming fight.
His intuition once again served him right.
After decimating Katerea, a member of the Old Satan Faction and a descendant of Leviathan, Vali revealed himself to be the one who leaked the location of the conference to the Khaos Brigade. Azazel wasn't upset at Vali's betrayal, rather he was amused, almost as if he knew something like this would happen. He knew Vali desired to fight strong opponents and the Khaos Brigade was the perfect outlet to let him do that. Regardless, he was the enemy right now and Azazel wasn't exactly in the best condition to fight. But he didn't need to.
Issei stepped up in his place.
Donning his Balance Breaker with the help of the bracelet, Issei could go toe to toe with Vali, even if it was for a short time. Issei was even able to steal Vali's Divine Dividing and use it in conjunction with the Boosted Gear.
Azazel wasn't just surprised, he was impressed. Never had he seen one of the Heavenly Dragons steal the power of the other. Not to mention Azazel had never seen a Red Dragon Emperor get so upset about a girl's assets getting smaller, they're able to boost dozens upon dozens of times.
Just like Vali, Azazel knew Issei was special, and with Vali indirectly quitting being an agent, Azazel suddenly had a lot of time to train Issei to become stronger.
The others in his peerage interested Azazel as well, but Issei interested him the most. While Issei was around Vali's age, he still had a long way to go if he ever wanted to be Vali's equal someday.
With Azazel's guidance, Issei became exponentially stronger and accomplished so much since then. He was closer to Vali now more than ever. If Issei and Vali were to fight now, Azazel genuinely wasn't sure who would win. Azazel felt nothing but pride and was proud of both Issei and Vali's accomplishments.
However, an issue arose. An issue Azazel didn't expect.
The interactions between Issei and his friends were off. Azazel couldn't explain it, but after Issei had defeated Rizevim, everyone around him abruptly changed. The Fallen Angel first became aware of this when Issei confided in him about the matter. Every time Issei tried to talk to Rias, Akeno, or anyone else, they all tried to get away from him as soon as possible. Every time anyone passed by Issei they would either give a half-hearted response or ignore him entirely. After a couple of days of back and forth, Issei suddenly stopped talking to Azazel which raised the Fallen Angel's suspicions.
Something was fishy, and Azazel was determined to find out what was causing it.
He racked his brain for hours, trying to find any sort of reason why they would all stop talking with Issei. And why all at the same time? He could see one, maybe two of them turning a blind eye due to Issei's insensitivity at times, but everyone at the same time? No, this was something else.
Normally Azazel wouldn't get so involved with something that looked like a simple problem on the surface level. But Azazel couldn't shake this off.
Something was definitely wrong.
He wanted to ask Vali if he knew anything, but the Vanishing Dragon went to Asgard to be taught magic by Odin and Azazel didn't know when he'd be back.
So he decided to take matters into his own hands.
Azazel decided to make his way to the Gremory Estate to see if he could get some insight into the issue by talking to Rias herself. However, when the Fallen Angel landed at the gates of the estate, the first red flags already started to show.
"Halt!" One of the two guards shouted, moving his spear to block the gate. "Lord Sirzechs ordered none are to be allowed into the estate without his expressed permission."
"What?" Azazel questioned, "When did that become a rule? I need to speak with Rias, it's important."
"No passage shall be allowed witho-"
"I heard you the first time," Azazel deadpanned, "I'm telling you that I need to talk to Rias. It's about Issei."
Azazel immediately regretted mentioning Issei as the two guards doubled down on not letting the Governor inside.
"And we're telling you that no passage will be granted without Sirzech's approval. If you wish to enter, talk to him. Any attempt to do so without it will be seen as trespassing."
The Fallen Angel exhaled heavily through his nose. 'Not like you actually could stop me if I really wanted to.'
Azazel was starting to get annoyed. Since when was this a thing? Upon request, he was always allowed into the Gremory Estate after the peace treaty was signed. This only convinced Azazel even more that something wasn't right. He wanted to barge into the estate and question Rias but couldn't. As the leader of the Fallen Angels, doing so would bring negative consequences to the entire race. Even more so considering this was a Maou's home. Azazel wasn't ready to go that far.
Yet.
Azazel sighed, "Fine… just tell me where I can find Sirzechs and I'll be on my way."
The guards stood there in silence, seemingly unwilling to even tell Azazel about Sirzech's whereabouts.
Azazel had enough.
"You know what? Don't even bother. I'll figure out where he is on my own and get his 'approval'".
Turning to leave, Azazel looked glanced back at the two one last time. "Once I return, the gates better be wide open."
For a brief moment, the eyes of the Fallen Angel glowed an ominous purple, sending dread down the guards' spine.
Turning his head back around, Azazel thought about where the former Gremory could be and one place automatically came to mind.
"Lilith…"
While the defeat of Rizevim was momentous, Azazel knew that the Maou had to deal with the aftermath of the battle, and considering that he wasn't at the Gremory Estate, the capital was the only other logical place he could be.
Azazel considered teleporting straight there as he felt an unusual sense of urgency. Ultimately, he decided to fly there instead. Lilith wasn't too far from the Gremory Estate and Azazel needed some time to think about what he would say.
Unraveling his wings, Azazel took to the skies, making a beeline toward the capital. Thoughts raced through his mind as he got more and more worried.
'Why is this happening? This is supposed to be a time of celebration damn it! Something isn't right and if my guess is right… it has to do with Issei.'
Azazel flew faster as he saw the shadow of the capital on the horizon. The retreating sun started to slip underneath it, blanketing the entire Underworld in darkness.
'Don't worry Issei. Once we iron this out, we'll play games at my place… I'll make sure of it."
Steeling his determination, Azazel sped across the sky, arriving in the capital in no time. Landing not too far away from his destination, Azazel started making his way to the citadel at the center of the city that housed all government-related operations and hopefully Sirzechs.
As Azazel walked down the street, he noticed that there were barely any people out and about. Azazel could understand if this was a backwater village or town in the countryside, but this was the capital! It should be bustling with people crowding the streets.
Only there wasn't.
The people present were minimal and not at all like how the capital typically was, even more so at the heart of the capital where some of the best shops and restaurants were located.
After noticing that initial abnormality, Azazel started picking up on other things.
While there was barely anyone out, the ones that were acted strange. Most had a sulking and uncomfortable look on their face, walking at a faster pace than what was considered normal.
As Azazel pondered this, he accidentally bumped into a woman, causing her to fall to the ground.
"Sorry about that," Azazel reacted, "I didn't see you there."
Extending his hand, Azazel tried to help the woman up but she didn't accept it. She abruptly stood up and shuffled past Azazel, not making so much as a peep.
"Hey! Wait!"
Azazel attempted to get the woman's attention but failed. She shuffled past the Fallen Angel and quickly turned the next corner.
Now Azazel was more confused than ever. That was some random woman. She had nothing to do with Issei at all. Why was she acting so suspiciously? The fact that Azazel didn't know the answers only added to his confusion. He's a genius. An insane genius, but a genius nonetheless. He could solve anything thrown his way. But this? He couldn't figure out a plausible solution.
It frustrated the Fallen Angel to no end.
He wasn't even sure if suspiciously was the right word to describe her. Everyone else was acting the same way. As much as the irrational side of Azazel wanted to believe they were all in on something, his rational side told him no. The chances of all these people in on whatever is happening is statically impossible.
That made Azazel feel ever so slightly better.
'If they aren't directly involved with what's happening with Issei, then this may be a byproduct of what happened to him.'
Azazel looked toward the citadel that towered over everything else, touching the sky.
'There's only one way to find out.'
Focusing back on his original goal, Azazel made his way to the citadel, ready to unload all the questions he had for the Maou.
Approaching the gate to the citadel he saw that one again, it was sealed shut. Azazel continued forward, speaking curtly to the guard that was stationed in front of it.
"I'm here to see Sirzechs."
Thinking this would be a repeat of what happened at the Gremory Estate, Azazel prepared himself. However, to his surprise, the exact opposite happened.
"Very well."
Accepting his request, the guard turned around. Putting his hand up, the guard undid the seal on the gate. As the seal faded away, the guard pushed the gate open and turned back around to face Azazel.
"You may proceed."
The guard moved back to his original position as Azazel thought about what just happened. He had expected some form of resistance but instead, he was being let in.
It was skeptical, to say the least.
Walking past the guard and through the gate, Azazel walked across the courtyard, going through the massive front doors of the citadel. Looking around, Azazel saw that was no one there either. Not a single person was present in the lobby, serving to put the Fallen Angel more on edge.
Except for one.
Across the lobby, sitting at a desk, was a woman in a suit. She had brown hair wrapped in a tight bun and glasses on her face that Azazel knew were just for show. Lastly, she had a stack of papers piled next to her on the desk that she is working on, grabbing the next piece of paper from the top of the stack.
Azazel concluded that she was the receptionist.
Walking over to her, the Fallen Angel opened his mouth to speak but the receptionist beat him to it.
"Good afternoon Azazel." The woman spoke, "Sirzechs is waiting for you in his office. Please take the elevator to the 50th floor."
Pointing toward the elevator behind her, the woman promptly returned to her paperwork.
Puzzled by her tone, Azazel raised his eyebrow in confusion. Her greeting was certainly uncalled for. It wasn't unnecessarily a rude greeting but it sure wasn't a pleasant one either. Pushing the thought aside for now, Azazel found it odd that she already knew why he was there.
Looking up and reading his puzzled look, the woman spoke once again.
"The guard stationed at the gate informed me you were coming if that's what you're wondering. Now if that is all, please leave me be. I have much work to do."
"Wait."
Before the woman could resume her work she was interrupted by Azazel. She looked up once again to the Fallen Angel, waiting for him to continue.
"What's happening out in the capital? There's barely anyone out on the street."
The woman gave the Fallen Angel a confused look.
"I'm sorry Azazel, I'm not sure I understand what you mean."
"Rizevim has just been defeated," Azazel elaborated, "This should be a time of celebration, not seclusion. "
The woman looked into the Fallen Angel's eyes, thinking about her response. After a moment, she spoke.
"It's as you said Azazel, Rizevim has been defeated. While there's certainly some celebration in order, it won't happen now. Victory has been achieved, but not without losses. People's homes are destroyed, families have been torn apart, and everyone is unsure of what's going to happen next. When looking from that perspective, it's clear why people are acting the way they are."
"I understand that," Azazel assured, "But what I saw out it is different, something's off. As I walked the streets, I felt the most unsettling and uneasy tension I've had in a long time. Something is going on in the shadows."
The woman let out an exasperated sigh as she grabbed her pen.
"You're overthinking this, Azazel. Everyone is still shaken up about the recent events. I'm sure in due time, we will gain some sense of normalcy. Now please, make your way to Sirzechs, Azazel. I'm sure he will have more answers than I can offer."
"I have more one question to ask you. It's about Issei."
The woman's eye sharpened as she looked into the Fallen Angel's eyes as she ever so slightly tensed up.
"The Red Dragon Emperor? What about him?"
Azazel noticed this and withheld his tongue briefly. He remembered how the guards acted when he talked about Issei and didn't want to get the same reaction. Thinking carefully about his wording, he spoke.
"Issei has been having… certain issues as of late. He has been confiding in me about and I've been helping him the best I can. However, he suddenly went radio silent. I've been trying to reach him for the past few days and I've gotten no response. I know you don't know Issei personally but I'm running out of options. Do you know anything that has happened to or around Issei?"
The woman stayed silent.
"Anything at all?"
The silence continued to follow until the woman gave her answer.
"I'm sorry Azazel. I don't have anything that could be of use to you. I must get back to my work now. Please make your way to Sirzechs."
Quickly answering his question, the woman brought her down to face her paperwork and continued her work.
If he was being honest with himself, Azazel didn't expect much of anything when he asked his question. What piqued his interest, however, was the way the receptionist spoke.
She sounded as though she was rushing.
He debated on pushing her for more information but ultimately decided not to. He didn't need to start something unnecessary with her and besides, Sirzechs would have more information than she ever could.
"In that case, I'll make my way to him. Thank you for your help."
The receptionist remained silent as Azazel went around the large desk and made his way to the elevator. As the doors to the elevator opened, Azazel walked in and scanned the choice of buttons.
"His office is on the top floor, go figure…"
As the elevator doors closed, Azazel heard a noise coming from the lobby. Quickly looking through the smaller and smaller space between the doors, he saw what it was.
The receptionist let out a sigh.
"What…"
Before Azazel could ponder further, the elevator shut and started its ascension to Sirzech's office.
'That sigh wasn't burdened with work sigh. That sigh was one people make when they get away with a lie.'
As Azazel waited, he continued to think about what he just saw.
'Now that I think about it, she did act strange during our conversation, I figured maybe something else was bothering her but it's clear now that isn't the case. Did she lie about what she knew about Issei? If she did lie why would she? Better yet, what does she gain from lying? From what I know so far, she stands to gain nothing from lying. Everyone is acting peculiar. First that woman on the street and now this? Both events happened at the same time yet they can't be connected, at least not by Issei. One has nothing to do with the other. There's something I'm missing. What is it?'
Azazel affirmed what he knew deep down to be already true.
'This can't be a coincidence, something is not right…'
Azazel looked up and saw he was already on the 50th floor.
'... And I'm about to find out."
Stepping out of the elevator, Azazel bared witness to a lavish hall leading to Sirzechs' office, filled with expensive furniture and paintings. The walls and roof were painted in a deep red with intricate designs scattered across them while the floor was made out of dark brown marble with red accents.
The sound of Azazel's shoes echoed as he walked down the hall toward a set of double doors. Azazel stopped just in front of them to collect his final thoughts.
'This is it…'
Taking a deep breath, Azazel pushed the doors opened and walked into the office.
The office was incredibly furbished, filled with the most expensive items money can afford. Beautiful paintings and ornaments covered the walls. The backside of the office had a giant window that overlooked the entire capital.
'Like everything else in this citadel, decorated with most outrageously expensive things money can buy.'
Shaking his head, Azazel disapproved of Sirzechs' more than luxurious office. Sure he had some nice things back in his office back at the Grigori, but it didn't hold a candle to how much was crammed in this office.
'Well I shouldn't be surprised,' Azazel muses, 'Devils in general like to convey the status and power they possess. It makes them feel superior to others and bolsters their pride. Sirzechs is the embodiment of that tenfold so I shouldn't be shocked. Speaking of Sirzechs…'
Looking towards the massive desk, placed in the middle of the room, Azazel saw a red leather chair and in it, Sirzechs.
"Welcome Azazel," Sirzechs warmly stated, "My receptionist told me you came here to speak with me. Please come and take a seat."
Gesturing at the seat on the other side of the desk, Sirzechs clasped his hands and rested them on top of his desk as he waited for Azazel.
The Fallen Angel had all his walls up now. The greeting felt eerily normal and rattled his nerves. He expected a more curt greeting from the Maou, especially considering that Azazel was almost sure Sirzechs knew why he was there.
"No thanks, Sirzechs," Azazel declined as he walked over and stood in front of the desk, "I'd rather stand."
Sirzechs shrugged his shoulders.
"If you insist. Now, what is it you wanted to talk to me about?"
Before Azazel could even bring up Issei, instinctually his eyes scanned Sirzech's desk which was littered with papers. A lot more papers than Azazel was expecting.
"What are these documents, Sirzechs? They can't all be from the battle with Rizevim. What's on them?"
"Oh, these? Pay them no mind"
Sirzechs smiled as he moved the papers off his desk and into a drawer away from view.
"Just some new ideas the other Maous and I have been working on."
Azazel couldn't help but notice Sirzechs' suspicious behavior. A part of him wanted to see what details those documents held, but he disregarded the idea. He couldn't forget the reason he was here.
"Never mind," Azazel disregarded, "I came here to talk to you about Issei and the attitude your sister's peerage has toward him."
Azazel decided to not beat around the bush and directly asks the Moau about the situation. There was no point in dancing around the problem.
Sirzechs raised an eyebrow.
"What do you mean by that Azazel," Sirzechs questioned, "from what I've seen, Rias hasn't been acting unusual."
A frown began to form on the Fallen Angel's face as he listened to the Maou.
"Surely you can't be oblivious to what I'm talking about? A couple of days ago Issei began to share how Rias' peerage abruptly began treating him differently a few days after Rizevim's defeat. It wasn't a subtle change either. Issei shared how he was neglected and flat-out ignored by his fellow peerage members."
Sirzechs stayed quiet with his eyes looking up to the Fallen Angel. The latter didn't know if he wasn't saying anything because he was unsure of what to say or if he waiting for him to finish. Regardless, Azazel took the opportunity to continue.
"And that's not all. I went to your estate about an hour ago to check up on Issei myself and the guards denied my entry, saying I had to 'gain permission' from you. Since when was that required?"
Sirzechs responded immediately, bringing his hands up below his nose.
"Tensions are still high despite Rizevim being gone, Azazel. I'm sure they were just being diligent to ensure the safety of my family and staff that reside in my home. I can also assure you that Issei is fine. He's just tired after the fight; the fatigue had caught up to him."
Azazel wasn't buying it.
"If he's 'fine' then why am I not allowed to see him," Azazel retorted. "Moreover, it doesn't explain why he went silent so suddenly or why his friends are treating him like they are."
Azazel leaned forward, placing his hands on the Maou's desk.
"I demand to see him."
Sirzechs' face contorted slightly as he listened to the Fallen Angel.
"I understand you want to see him, Azazel, but don't speak to me like that. I'm not one of your Fallen Angels that you can order around. You're making this bigger deal than it needs to be, I'm telling you that Issei is fine and I'll tell him to contact you when he wakes up."
Azazel finally had enough. He stepped away from the desk and crossed his arms.
"Why the hell are you acting like this?"
Sirzechs was about to once again comment on Azazel's harsh tone but the latter continued to speak.
"You and everyone and everything that surrounds you have been acting suspiciously. First, it was the guards at your estate, then upon my arrival the capital is dead. No one is walking about and the ones that act skittish and afraid. Your secretary is acting strange and now you? All I wanted to do is see Issei but apparently, the process to do that is equivalent to fighting Great Red. Answer me Sirzechs…"
Azazel's eyes bored into the Maou's as his own glowed an ominous purple.
"...What is going on?!"
Sirzechs rose from his seat, meeting the Fallen Angel face to face.
"Who do you think you're talking to Azazel? You might be able to do that with those that work under you but that isn't going to work with me. If you wish to talk to me, do it with respect."
Azazel threw his hands in the air as he let out an irritated sigh. He thought he was prepared for what Sirzechs could say, but the Fallen Angel underestimated just how arrogant the Maou could be.
"What do you want me to say? 'I'm sorry'? Don't get your panties in a twist and grow up."
The Maou exhaled heavily through his nose.
"That's rich coming from you. You were such a playboy a couple of thousand years ago. You couldn't keep your hands off women even if you wanted to. I, on the other hand, have a little more dignity than that. I represent one of the Three Factions. I am Moau!
"For once Sirzechs… For once don't let your ego and pride get in the way. Pull the stick out of your ass and be a reasonable person."
"Look who's talking," Sirzechs sneered, "You barge in here with little to no notice and talk to me in this pretentious tone. If I wanted to, I could send you away right now."
"I won't be," Azazel curtly stated, "Not until you let me see Issei."
Azazel started to unconsciously flare his aura. He didn't mean to unleash it, but the Moau had gotten under his skin enough.
Seeing this, Sirzechs did the same. A dark red cloud consumed the Moau as he stared into the eyes of the leader of the Grigori.
"Think very carefully about what you do next, Azazel," Sirzechs warned, "or you might just wake up back at the Grigori with no clue of how you got there…"
While only a few seconds passed in reality, it felt like an eternal standoff between the Devil and Fallen Angel. The two stayed silent as they continued to stand in place. The office started to shake, struggling to withstand the combined pressure of the two leaders. Both waited for the other to speak. One misinterpretation. One misunderstanding could lead to hell.
Literally.
Before things could escalate any further, a light knock was heard at the door before it was opened and a small group walked in.
Ajuka and Serafall came walking in with Beelzebub in the forefront.
"Good afternoon Sirzechs, we came just like you aske-."
Ajuka cut himself off as he saw the situation in front of him. Sirzechs shifted his attention to his fellow Moau along with Azazel.
"What's happening here?" The Maou questioned as he stepped forward, "Were you two about to fight?"
Azazel, already annoyed from his altercation with the Crimson Satan, harshly answered Ajuka's query.
"We were in the middle of something Ajuka… How did you not feel our auras through the wall?"
"The walls in the citadel block the pressure that auras give off. It was made to withstand the forces of all Three Factions combined."
Ajuka shook his head, realizing he was getting sidetracked.
"That's besides that point. Why are you here Azazel? Better yet why were you about to attack a Moau? You do realize what repercussions that entails correct? We just finished our battle with Rizevim, we don't need you starting another war."
Azazel balled his fists before relaxing them repeatedly. He honestly didn't expect this situation to happen. For the first time in a long time, he was pissed. Still, the Fallen Angel kept his cool as responded to the Green Satan.
"I'm not going to start another war over this. That's something a Dragon would do but damn it, I'm at my wit's end here."
Sirzechs said nothing as his aura continued to spin around him looking toward the Fallen Angel.
Puzzled, Ajuka spoke.
"Wit's end? What do you mean Azazel?"
Before Ajuka could say anything else, Serafall stole his spotlight as she hopped in front of her fellow Moau.
"Yeah, why are you upset Azzy? I know Sirzy can be a little cruel sometimes but he's a good person why would you wanna fight him?"
The Fallen Angel's head pounded as a migraine formed in his head. Listening to these fools was giving him a headache.
'I swear… Their wording and phrasing may be different, but they all spew the same exact lines. It's as if they're the same!'
Azazel took a deep breath, deciding to ignore what he could only describe as Serafall's attempt at mockery.
"If you must know, I'll give you a quick summary. Issei has been having issues and talking to me about them. Just yesterday he went radio silent. After waiting until today I went to Sirzech's estate to visit but was denied entry. I've come here to get said permission but Sirzechs will not let me see Issei. Every time I ask him why I can't, he just waves me off. All of his excuses amount to him dodging and evading the question. So, if you guys would help me get Sirzechs to open his eyes and bring him back to reality, I'd greatly appreciate it.
Ajuka and Serafall looked at each other before giving their response. Ajuka decided to speak for both of them because Serafall sometimes didn't think about what she said before saying it.
"I'm sorry Azazel, but we don't have the means to help you here. If Sirzechs doesn't want you entering his home, that is his decision to make. You don't have any reason to distrust him."
"I have EVERY reason to distrust him right now," Azazel retorted.
Ajuka sighed as his gaze briefly went to the floor before looking back up at the Fallen Angel.
"I'm not sure what else to you Azazel, Sirzechs has the final say on what you can and can't do when it comes to his home."
A golden sigil appeared on the ground before Azazel could respond. A golden light engulfed the room for a brief moment before it died down. Everyone looked back where the sigil had appeared to see Micheal standing there. A soft smile was present on his face before it abruptly turned to a soft frown upon seeing the situation. Noticing the auras Sirzechs and Azazel were producing, he directed his attention toward them.
"Are you two okay? What's going on here? I can assure you that whatever's happening is simply a misunderstanding.
Seeing Micheal here only served to annoy the Fallen Angel even further.
'Just my luck… God really must've held disdain for me when he kicked me out of Heaven. I don't see how this could've happened otherwise.'
Not bothering to explain the situation for a third time, Azazel turned his attention back to the person he originally came here to speak to.
Sirzechs.
"So? Are you going to let me see Issei or not?"
Azazel spoke in a deadpan tone, he was so tired of the bullshit the Moaus and Seraph were spewing. He honestly just wanted it to end.
"Absolutely not," Sirzechs responded, "After that act you just displayed, I think it would do you some good to have some time to yourself. To sort out your thoughts."
Sirzechs extended two fingers forward and swipe a wave of magic at the door, causing it to open.
"Once you can talk in a civilized manner, we can revisit this discussion. You may see yourself out."
Azazel looked at Sirzechs before looking behind him to view the other Moau and Micheal. He sighed, knowing that he couldn't press on with this, not with the others here. If things got out of hand, they would surely gang up on him for acting crazy even though it was Sirzechs who was acting like he just killed somebody. The Fallen Angel was at least satisfied to know that it wasn't just the Sirzechs, the other leaders as well were acting strange. It wasn't time yet which was fine by the Azazel, he could bide his time.
He would get his answers, one way or another.
Azazel didn't say a word. He turned around, passing the other Moau and Micheal. Slamming the door behind him, Azazel called the elevator before descending back to the ground floor.
After he was sure Azazel had left, Ajuka turned to face the Crimson Satan.
"You really shouldn't have let him rile you up like that, Sirzechs," Ajuka lectured, "He may or may not be aware of what's to come."
Sirzechs let out an exasperated sigh as he responded to his fellow Moau.
"I'm aware Ajuka, however, I don't regret saying what I said. He challenged me and my authority, I had a responsibility to defend it."
Micheal sat on one of the sofas in the room before speaking himself.
"Azazel is too attached to Issei for his good. It would've been nigh impossible to persuade him into helping us"
The Moau nodded as they listened to the Seraph's words.
"Speaking of which," Ajuka began, turning his head back to Sirzechs, "Is it time, Sirzechs?"
The Crimson Satan closed his eyes before quickly inhaling and exhaling through his nose. Opening his eyes, he answered Ajuka's question.
"Yes, it's time to make the final adjustments and enact our plan."
Serafall crossed her arms, being serious for once.
"Have you informed your sister of the plan?"
Sirzechs turned his back to his fellow leaders. Looking out the window, Sirzechs spoke.
"Partially," Sirzechs replied, "While she knows the end goal, she doesn't know the details. Meanwhile her peerage, still has no one idea, assuming she hasn't told them anything."
He turned back around with his eyes glowing a sinister red.
"But that's about to change. I told her that today we would discuss the plan and bring her peerage along with her."
Sirzechs looked across the room at the Moau and Seraph before speaking once again.
"Are you ready to inform them and prepare?"
The other leaders all took a glance at one another before all nodding their heads.
Seeing this Sirzechs nodded as well.
"Very well," Sirzechs, stated, "Plans for Operation Dragonslayer have commenced. Once Rias and her peerage arrived, we will go into more detail…"
Azazel walked past the secretary and stormed out the gates of the citadel. The situation as a whole rubbed him the wrong way. Not to mention that he left no answers and more questions.
"Damn it, that didn't go the way I intended at all. Why did the other have to show up at the worst time possible?"
Azazel continued to talk to himself as he walked down the dead streets of Lilith.
"If Sirzechs won't let me see Issei on his own, then I'll do it myself. I don't trust Sirzechs' word that Issei is alright, especially after… that."
The Fallen Angel started to think about how he was going to break in to see the Red Dragon Emperor.
"In regards to slipping in unnoticed. I believe I still have that device that helps mask one's presence. That combined with my own magic should be more than enough to keep me from being detected. I probably could've gotten away with doing it today, but I'm certain after that discussion, Sirzechs is going to be on high alert for a bit. I'll give it a few days to let things die down. Once I find Issei, I'll bring him back to the Grigori. After that altercation, I don't trust leaving him in Sirzechs' care."
Azazel stopped walking, looking up to the purple sky of the Underworld.
"Issei, I'm coming. Just hold out a little bit longer."
Bringing forth a magic circle Azazel transported himself back to the Grigori, set on his plan to save Issei.
Unfortunately for him, he would be too late to save his second son…
It had been a few days since Azazel visited Lilith to confront Sirzechs about Issei. He locked himself in the Grigori determined to get Issei out of the estate. He had found the device he needed and was making last-minute preparations to infiltrate the Gremory estate that night.
Unbeknownst to him, his chance would never come.
While carrying his masking device, Azazel felt a surge of energy that consumed his entire being. It shocked him so much that he proceeded to drop the device onto the floor, causing it to shatter.
"What… What was that?"
A dreadful feeling arose within Azazel as a lump swelled his throat.
"It can't be…"
Azazel whiplashed his head to face the window as he swiftly focused on the energy he felt.
His worst fears came true.
"ISSEI!"
Wasting no time, Azazel unraveled his wings before bursting through the windows of his lab. The shockwave destroyed just about everything but Azazel couldn't care less all he cared about was who viewed as a son.
Issei.
Azazel flew faster than he ever thought it could. He flew so fast that he was nothing more than a black speck soaring through the sky to those who could see him.
If anyone could see him at all.
Azazel tried his best not to panic as he flew faster and faster to where he felt the energy originate.
"Issei… No, they wouldn't do that. Right? Even this is too much for them."
A million thoughts swirled around in the Fallen Angel's mind as he got closer and closer to his destination.
Nearing the site, for a spilt second Azazel saw what looked to be a Devil perched on a nearby cliff. He also saw him bring his hand up to his ear as if he was about to communicate with someone.
Azazel knew without a doubt that he was contacting the Maou.
Azazel didn't stop for him, he didn't have time. He sped forward, approaching the place where he felt Issei's aura.
Felt…
Azazel dawned on a haunting realization.
"Issei's aura… Why don't I feel his presence?!"
A tear ran down Azazel's face as he connected the dots.
Looking down, Azazel saw not only the leaders but Rias and her peerage as well.
Azazel divebombed straight toward the ground. As he landed, he gazed coldly at the group, ready to attack at a moment's notice. The sadness that was present seconds prior was now replaced with overwhelming rage.
Azazel walked slowly to the group. All the Devils and Angels looked toward him as he slowly made his way closer to them.
The Fallen Angel kept his eyes trained on Sirzechs, not letting his eyes waver. Right before reaching the group, Gabriel, Irina, Rias, and her peerage teleported away, leaving only the Maou and Micheal.
A small part of Azazel was puzzled by Gabriel's presence, but a bigger part of him didn't care. He only cared about the pathetic excuse of life that stood before him. Completely ignoring the fact that they were all bloodied and bruised, Azazel monotonously spoke.
"So… this was your end goal."
It took all of Azazel's willpower to not beat Sirzechs to a pulp in that instant. He waited with no patience to spare as Sirzechs spoke.
"Azazel," Sirzechs began, "Let me explain the situation before you-"
Azazel snapped before Sirzechs could finish, punching the Moau across the face, causing him to fall to his ground.
"What the fuck is there to explain?! The situation is as clear as day! Not only did you attack Issei completely unprovoked you also killed him!"
The other leaders stepped forward ready to subdue the Fallen Angel if need be, but not before trying to convince them of their story.
"You have it wrong Azazel," Ajuka explained, "We didn't attack Issei. It was him who attacked us! We tried to talk to him but everything we said fell on deaf ears."
"Bullshit! Issei would never attack you guys, even if your dumbasses provoked him. He isn't that type of person!"
"It wasn't him," Serafall exclaimed, "Ddraig appeared to have taken over Issei's or the very least filled his head with outlandish ideas. He talked about how he was bored and wanted to go back to the days he fought all the time and all those around him feared him!"
Azazel turned to face Leviathan, still boiling in anger.
"Not that I would believe something so obviously made up. But if that was the case, why didn't you just subdue Issei? He didn't die!"
Micheal spoke up next.
"Need I remind you this is the Red Dragon Emperor we're talking about? Subduing isn't an option when we're talking about a being that rivals the Three Factions combined."
Azazel stayed quiet as he absorbed this information. Some parts made sense, but his emotions refused to believe this was the truth.
"Even if that's the case, you didn't consult me about it! Surely you must've seen the signs. Especially you Sirzechs, considering he was locked up in your estate like a damn prisoner!"
"We would've told you," Sirzechs elaborated, "But all of this happened all at once and we didn't have time to inform you. We were just coincidentally together when Issei spontaneously attacked us.
Even with all their 'evidence' laid out on the table, Azazel wasn't buying it.
"No. No. That isn't what happened. You attacked Issei for no apparent reason other than you felt like it. Now you bury the evidence and contort the story to make it something it's not."
More of Azazel's aura came forth he was preparing to take them on.
"Let's see if you tell the same story after I rip your arms off your bodies."
Acting quickly, Sirzechs used his last resort to dissuade Azazel from attacking.
"You don't want to do this Azazel. If you attack us unprovoked, all of our allies will turn against you and the Fallen Angels. Your entire race would be wiped out over something that could've been completely avoided."
Azazel's eyes widen slightly as he listened to the Moau.
Seeing this, Sirzechs double down on the point to dissuade Azazel even further.
"Is that what you want for your people Azazel? For them to be killed over nothing? I think deep down you know that isn't what you want. So please, if not for your allies, do it for your kin."
Sirzechs' point had reached Azazel, but for the wrong reason. The Fallen Angel was so focused and absorbed in freeing Issei that he neglected to set up any safety measures for his people. If he attacked now, all Fallen Angels would be killed by the end of the month.
He had but one choice to make.
Remaining silent, Azazel summoned a magic circle and teleported away, leaving the Moau and Seraphs on their lonesome.
The group stayed silent for a couple of seconds until one spoke.
"It worked."
Sirzechs looked toward the sky as he howled in laughter.
"It worked!"
He turns around to face everyone while wearing his trademark condescending smirk.
"Azazel bought it."
Ajuka got the attention of Sirzechs to remind them that they weren't done.
"Yes. He bought it for now," Ajuka admitted, "But there are still some things that need to get done before we can say we're finished."
Agreeing with Ajuka, Sirzechs wiped the smirk off his face and became serious once again.
"You're right Ajuka, there's still some odds and ends to take care of. Stand close to me, we're going to my estate. We'll discuss our next course of action there."
Huddling around the Crimson Satan, Sirzechs transported them to the estate where they would discuss the next stage of their plan.
Azazel transported himself back to his ruined lab with his gaze down toward the floor.
"ARRRRRRRGGGGHHHH!"
The Fallen Angel let out a pain-filled scream as he slammed his hand on his desk, splitting the mostly intact desk into two.
"Why… WHY DID THIS HAVE TO HAPPEN!?"
Azazel sat down on the only remaining intact chair in his lab. Cradling his face in his hands, Azazel started to shake uncontrollably as quiet sobs echoed and filled the room. Azazel wanted nothing more than to march to Liltih and rip Sirzech's heart out. But what pained him was that Sirzechs was right, by attacking the Devils he would endanger the lives of his Fallen Angels, regardless of whether or not they fought.
Azazel was out of options.
He didn't know what to do.
Issei had become such an integral part of his life and to have abruptly taken away traumatized the Fallen Angel. What remained was a shell of the former Azazel. The spunky, quick-witted, and sometimes perverted Fallen Angel was now replaced with a depressed, gloomy, and lamenting father.
Azazel slumped his chair as he recalled the memories he and Issei had made together.
It'd been a little over a month since Issei's death and Azazel had made any attempts whatsoever to move on. He kept himself locked in his lab not uttering a peep to anyone. By this point, the word of Issei's death had made its rounds, circling the Underworld several times over. Despite this, Azazel was fairly certain that Vali didn't know yet considering he had been in Asgard.
On one hand, Azazel wanted to be the one to tell Vali about his rival's death, but at the same didn't want Vali to know. He knew more than anyone how much Issei meant to the Vanishing Dragon and if he found out he'd be devastated. Alas, Azazel knew he couldn't keep the truth hidden from him forever. It'd only be a matter of time before Vali found out about Issei.
The door to Azazel's lab opened, disrupting the Fallen Angel's train of thought. Lazily looking toward the door, his bloodshot eyes widen as he saw who it was.
"Hey old man. I'm back from training. Why's your lab a mess and why do you look like shit?"
Vali crossed his arms as he stared at Azazel with concern and worry."
"Well? I'm waiting."
Azazel sighed, he knew couldn't wait any longer. If he didn't tell him, someone else would. Preparing himself, Azazel told Vali about everything that happened over the last month. How the Moaus and Seraphs acted suspiciously, how Lilith looked deserted, and how died at the hands of those who he thought were his family.
As he finished, Azazel looked up at Vali, waiting for his reaction.
The Vanishing Dragon said nothing at first, his hair casting a shadow over his eyes. He could tell that Azazel was being serious. Desperately, Vali tried to feel for Ddriag's aura in an attempt to locate Issei but came up with nothing. He started to shake as his visage turned into a deep frown.
Albion, who also listened, felt the emotions of his host and tried to calm him down.
{"Vali, listen to me. You need to calm down."}
Albion's plea fell on deaf ears as he looked at Azazel.
"So… you mean to tell me thatIssei has been dead. For over a month…"
Vali looked up, with anger filling in his eyes.
"...And you have just been sitting here on your ass not to avenge his death?! Or at the very least prove that he was killed by those pathetic excuses of leaders?! What the hell have you been doing last month?!"
Azazel tried to respond.
"I-"
"Stop it. Just stop it! I don't want to hear whatever excuse you're about to give me!"
Vali was livid. Not only did he discover that his brother was dead. He found out that the man he saw as a father figure for most of his life, hasn't been anything to avenge Issei's death.
{"Vali! Your emotions are spiraling out of control! Get a hold of yourself!"}
Vali wasn't having it.
"The last thing I need right now is a lecture! Aren't you upset that Issei and Ddraig are dead?! Aren't you angry?! ANSWER ME!"
{"I'm enraged as well, but acting recklessly won't do us any favors."}
Albion tried to be the voice of reason that Vali desperately needed but it wasn't much good as Vali seemed to have his goals set.
"I think it's time we pay Sirzechs a visit at his estate. I got some new tricks I would love to show him."
Hearing this, Azazel began to beg Vali not to go.
"No Vali, you can't. If you attack, all of our 'allies' will hunt the Fallen Angels down, We'll be killed or worst. I wanted to assure that they would be safe before I attacked but I couldn't find something that could work!"
Vali scoffed, as listened to the Fallen Angel.
"They would be in danger regardless of assured them 'safety' or not! Besides, from what you describe, the Moau have become corrupt and lost their power. The only way the masses are going to see this is if WE show them. We're going.'
"Vali!"
{"Vali"}
Both Azazel and Albion tried to change Vali's mind but it was too late. Summoning a magic circle, Vali sent both himself and Azazel to the gates of the Gremory estate. The guards stationed were caught by surprise when both the White Dragon Emperor and the leader of the Grigori appeared before them.
"What?!"
They both didn't have any time to react Vali blasted them away with his magic, blowing the gates off the hinges in the process. Vali practically dragged Azazel along as they got closer to the front doors of the mansion.
Hearing the commotion, the Moau and Seraphs who were inside, ran out to see a pissed-off Dragon and a broken Fallen Angel.
"Vali," Sirzechs called out, "What in Lucifer's name are you doing-"
"Shut the hell up Sirzechs," Vali snarled, "You know EXACTLY why I'm here."
Sirzechs could see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice. Vali knew the truth, the real truth.
"So you know," Sirzechs admitted, "But so what? No one will believe you. It'll just bolster the claims I've made. I had to take down one rogue Dragon don't make me make it two."
"I don't give a damn no one believes me. I know what I'm doing is right!"
"{Vanishing Dragon Balance Breaker!}"
"Vali! STOP!" It's not time yet!"
Azazel screamed out to the White Dragon Emperor, but it failed to reach him.
Forcefully activating his Balance Breaker, Vali sprawled his wings, flying in a spiral formation into the air before beelining towards the group of Devils and Angels.
"I'll show you… I'll show you what happens when you kill my RIVAL!"
Sirzechs looked up to Vali who was barreling towards with disinterest as a scoff escaped his mouth.
"I'll put you in your place, almighty White Dragon Emperor, just like Issei…"
As the two collided, a powerful shockwave of energy was felt throughout the Underworld and parts of the Earth, as another war was about to ensue.
"What the hell was that?"
Meanwhile, in a different part of the Underworld, a man garbed in a worn-out cloak was in the process of making his way to Earth. While he may be considered a man by some those who were of the supernatural knew otherwise. This being is a Dragon, a powerful one at that, even if his partner was gone.
Being startled by the burst of energy he felt, the man dropped an item that he was carrying that was covered in white cloth. Feeling uneasy for a moment, the man froze before quickly calming down.
"Something just happened in the Underworld, I can feel it."
The man, Issei Hyoudou, continued to stand still, staring at the wrapped-up item.
"Whatever I felt just now, it's going to change the supernatural", Issei monologued, "Regardless, I will not interfere."
Issei bent down, picking up his sole possession as a portal opened up in front of him.
"This is their problem now…"
Issei walked through the portal, completely unaware of the horror that was soon to come and how the supernatural would change for the worse.
Well, this chapter certainly had a build-up before the main event. By the time I realized it, I kind of just decided to roll with it.
But with all that out of the way, we can finally move on and get back to Issei. Chapter 6 is already underway and a good chunk of it is done. In addition, the rough ideas for Chapter 7 are in progress as well. So the wait shouldn't be as long.
Thanks again for sticking around and see you guys in the next chapter!
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to bed. It's 3 AM…
Next Chapter: Life in the Mountains