"Issei."= When characters are talking to each other.
'Tosca'= When characters are thinking to themselves or when Issei, Marcus, and Vali are talking to their partners through their mental link.
[Ddraig]= When a dragon or spirits speaks out.
{Ddraig}= When a dragon or spirits speaks to their host through their mental link.
Chapter Four:
"Only get better, huh?", Xenovia questioned as she finished her bath as she was drying herself off. "Yeah right! That idiot, Irina, then went and spent the last of our money on that stupid painting leaving us without a place to stay!"
"Well we could always go and join her at that Hyoudou guy's place.", Jeane said as she finished getting dressed. "It beats staying here."
"I will not be staying in his home or any home of a devil!", Xenovia said. "There's just something about him I don't trust. And if I didn't know any better, I'd think that Irina wasted our money just so we wouldn't have a choice but to stay with that guy just so she could be close to him."
"Well, seeing as we're still up, why not go do a little searching for a while.", Jeane suggested as she looked at her watch. "It's only 6:22 P.M. We can go search around for about a a couple of hours, get a little bite to eat with some of the money we do have left, and come back here for some sleep."
"Very well.", Xenovia said as she got dressed.
About ten minutes later, both girls were out searching for any traces the Excalibur blades and the ones who were behind their theft. Meanwhile, Asia and Tosca were out for a walk, with Terra, who wanted to get some fresh air. Along with some sweets from the local bakery Shirone showed her a while ago.
"You know, a girl can get used to great sweet rolls, like these.", Terra said as she paid for her order.
"They do make the best baked goods in Kuoh.", Tosca said.
"I like their cinnamon rolls.", Asia said as they were heading for the exit.
As they walked out of the bakery, Asia noticed two girls staring through the window, at the baked goods on display. As she got a good look at the girls, she not only recognized the church robes they were wearing, but she also recognized one of them right away!
"J-Jeane?!", Asia called out getting one of the girl's attention.
"A-Asia?!", Jean questioned surprised to see Asia in Kuoh.
Both girls ran up to each other and embraced one another happy to see each other after so long.
"I was so worried about you after hearing what the leaders of your church did to you.", Jeane said as they continued to hug each other. "It's good to see you again!"
"I'm happy to see you as well.", Asia said as they ended their embrace.
"I take it that you two know each other.", Terra said with a smile happy that Asia was reunited with an old friend.
"Yes! This is Jeane Arcadia.", Asia said. "She's an exorcist from England who was part of a group that was escorting me around Italy at one time."
"We became fast friends and kept in contact with each other.", Jeane said. "But then I got the news about you being excommunicated from the church and why it happened.", she said sadly. "Once I found that out, I went to Touji Shidu who is a well known exorcist and told him about what had happened. And boy was he pissed! He tried his best, but the higher ups let the excommunication stick. I'm so sorry this happened to you, Asia."
"It's okay, Jeane.", Asia sad with a smile. "It did hurt at first, and I've been through some things, but in the end, I now have a place to call home with very kind people, who I am happy to call my friends."
"I'm glad.", Jeane said when suddenly her stomach began to growl causing her to blush.
"Something tells me that you're hungry.", Terra said when Xenovia's stomach growled as well causing her to blush too.
"And she's not the only one.", Tosca said.
"This is my teammate Xenovia Quarta.", Jeane introduced.
"Greetings.", Xenovia said.
"Are you two on a mission for the church?", Asia asked.
"Yes.", Xenovia said. "One that is of the utmost importance."
"This wouldn't be about the stolen Excalibur blades would it?", Terra asked surprising the two exorcist.
"How do you know about that?!", Jeane questioned.
"My husband and I have a friend in the church that told us about it.", Terra said. "How about you come over to our place for dinner and we can compare notes on the matter."
"Dinner sounds nice.", Jeane said as she and Xenovia agreed to going.
"By the way, did you happen to speak with the local devils on the matter of the blades?", Tosca asked as they made their way to their home.
"Indeed.", Xenovia said. "One of them, in particular, was very... interested about the matter."
"I was afraid of that.", Tosca said with a sigh knowing that things just got complicated.
Once at the house, Terra finished fixing dinner for everyone while the others introduced themselves. And boy were Jeane anb Xenovia surprised and amazed by Asia and her new friends! I mean you have Asia, Tosca, Terra and Allen who are Human living with two Nekomata, a Half-Fallen, and a Dragon-Kin! Jeane and Xenovia never seen anything like this! But as they were eating with them all, they could tell that everyone got along pretty well. Like a family.
"So, from what you've told us, this Freed Sellzen is working with Valper Galilei.", Allen said as they were eating dinner. "The same Valper Galilei who ran the Holy Sword Project."
"Yes.", Jeane said. "We think he's working for somebody but we don't know who."
"You don't think it's... him do you?", Akeno questioned.
"Maybe.", Allen said. "But it doesn't make sense. Why would he want the blades with all the power he has?"
"Who are you talking about?", Xenovia asked.
"Kokabiel.", Marcus said. "One of the Cadre of the Grigori.", he said causing Jeane and Xenovia to drop their forks in surprise.
"Please tell me you're joking!", Jeane said.
"Sorry, but from all that's happened, it makes sense.", Terra said. "First, there's what happened with Asia when it comes to when she was brought here to Kuoh."
"Freed was working with those involved there as well.", Kuroka said.
"And the fact that Raynare, Kalawarna, and Dohnaseek got their orders from Kokabiel.", Mittelt added.
"But why would Kokabiel want the Excalibur blades with all the power he has?", Akeno questioned. "With his powers, he could easily wipe out Kuoh with very little effort."
"The real question is, why come to Kuoh at all?", Tosca questioned.
"Gremory and Sitri.", Kuroka said.
"Kill them, start another war.", Marcus said. "And with three exorcist here..."
"That's all three factions going at it!", Jeane concluded. "This is bad! Real bad!"
"We have to tell Irina, when we see her tomorrow.", Xenovia said.
"By the way, where are you two staying?", Allen asked.
"We were staying at a hotel, but Irina went and spent our funds on a painting.", Jeane said. "So now Xenovia and I are staying at the old abandoned church while Irina is staying over that Issei Hyoudou's house."
"I see. Well, you two can stay here, if you'd like.", Allen offered. "We have the room. Plus, I think Asia would like to spend time with Jeane."
"Please say yes!", Asia pleaded with Jeane.
"It does beat sleeping in a cold drafty building.", Jeane said to which Xenovia nodded in agreement. "We thank you for your hospitality."
"I can go with one of you to the old church to get your belongings.", Marcus offered. "It'll give me a chance to walk off the meal."
"I will go with you.", Xenovia said as they got ready to leave.
"Be careful, you two.", Allen said. "No telling who or what might be lurking out there."
"We will.", Marcus said as he and Xenovia headed out.
"Now let's get the guest room set up for you and Xenovia.", Terra said.
"I'll help!", Asia said as she went with Terra upstairs.
"Allow me to help as well.", Jeane said as she went with them as well.
"I was so hoping this wouldn't happen.", Allen said. "Kokabiel of all beings. Marcus may have to call his parents, while you may have to call your father, Akeno."
"I know.", Akeno said. "I wish to see him and mother, but not under these circumstances."
"I know.", Allen said. "But if push comes to shove, we're going to need all the help we can get."
No words were said as Akeno, Kuroka, Shirone, and Tosca all agreed with Allen on what needed to be done if the need arrived. Now about a half an hour later, Marcus and Xenovia had arrived at the old church to get Jeane and Xenovia's belongings, which they had in two small suitcases. They were about to head back when...
"That's not good.", Marcus said as he felt the auras coming towards them.
"What is it?", Xenovia asked.
"We've got company.", Marcus said as they walked out of the church only to come face to face with a group of mages along with Freed who had his sword and gun out and ready to fight.
"Freed!", Xenovia said as she glared at Freed who smirked at her and Marcus.
"Well, well, well! Look at what we have here!", Freed said with a smirk. "Looks like it was a wise move to come here, when I sensed that powerful aura. I was hoping that it was that black haired kitty of yours, but you'll do, Dragon-Kin!", he said as he readied his blade.
"So much for a quick trip.", Xenovia said as she got ready to fight. "You'll pay for your crimes, Freed Sellzen!"
"Oh yeah! It's party time!", Freed said with a sinister smirk. "I'm going to enjoy cutting you two up!"
"That's enough, Freed!", a voice said stopping Freed.
"Aw crap!", Freed said as a guy in his late teens stepped out from among the mages. "What are you doing here, Dulocke?!"
The man had green eyes and long brown hair that went down a little past his shoulers and was tied up in a ponytail. He was dressed in pair of black dress pants and matching shoes, along with a white dress shirt and a purple suit jacket and a gold chain that had a red gem encased in a gold frame hanging from his neck.
"Stopping you from using my mages for your personal gain.", Dulocke said. "Return back to our hideout, now!", he said to the mages who said nothing as they teleported away.
"Screw you, Dulocke!", Freed said as he used a flash bomb to get away.
"Well that went along quite easily.", Dulocke said with a smirk befe turning his attention to Marcsu and Xenovia. "Now as for you, Dragon-Kin, when next yo see Le Fay, tell her that if she wants her curse to be removed, then she knows what she'll have to do.", he said before teleporting away.
"When he say Le Fay, did he mean Le Fay Pendragon?", Xenovia asked.
"Yeah. You heard of them, huh?", Marcus asked.
"Actually, she came to England, with her brother Arthur who train some of us exorcist, that used swords.", Xenovia explained. "He was quite the instructor. During his time there, Jeane, Irina, and myself met Le Fay as well. She is a nice girl, but I didn't know she was cursed."
"It's a sad story that is hers to tell", Marcus said. "Right now, we need to get back before the others get worried."
"Right.", Xenovia said as they headed back.
'And I need to make a phone call.', Marcus thought to himself. 'I just hope he can help.'
Once they returned to the house, Marcus and Xenovia told everyone about their encounter with Freed and Dulocke. Glad that they were alright, Terra and Allen told them and everyone else to be extra careful, not knowing who or what would strike. The next day, after school, Marcsu and Mittelt headed to a certain address to speak with a certain someone. Before he went to bed, Marcus made his phone call and was glad that the one he needed to speak to was there and would be happy to answer any questions he may have. Within reason that is. Once at the place, in question, Mittelt was nervous about seeing this person. And for good reason. He is Azazel after all.
"Glad you two could make it.", a man in his early to mid-twenties said as she answered the door. "Come on in."
"Thank you, Lord Azazel.", Mittelt said with a nervous smile as she and Marcus walked inside the house.
"Its just Azazel, Mittelt.", Azazel said with a grin as they walked into the living room. "So how can I help you two?"
"Well are Raynare and the others alive?", Mittlet asked.
"Yes. They are.", Azazel said. "It was a bit touch and go, but we were able to save them. Granted, they're not the same as they used to be, but they're alive."
"I'm glad.", Mitelt said.
"And before you ask, no. I do not want their old light spears back.", Azazel said. "I gave them to you, for I know that you have the potental to do great things if given the chance. So see this as your chance."
"Thank you, sir!", Mittelt said.
"Now what else can I help you with?", Azazel asked.
It was then that Marcus told him everything, which made for an interesting story.
"I see.", Azazel said. "Looks like I'm going to have to make a call or two. Until then, try to lay low. No telling what Kokabiel is up to."
"That's not a problem for us.", Mittelt said. "But there's someone in the Gremory Peerage that might be a problem."
"Not to mention the three exorcist, that are in town.", Marcus said. "Two of which are staying with us."
"Explain.", Azazel said to which Mittelt and Marcus explained everything when it came to Kiba and the three exorcist. "I see. Who'd of thought that one of the two survivers was in the Gremory Peerage? This does changes things. The best I can tell you is to be careful out there. If I know Kokabiel, he'll have more than a bunch of mages and rouge Fallen working for him."
"He may have some Dragon-Kin working for him as well.", Marcus figured. "That thought has come to mind. Which means that I may have to call my folks for help."
"Call them.", Azazel said. "And have Akeno call her parents as well. With Kokabiel, you take no chances."
"Any idea why he's doing all of this?", Marcus asked. "I mean, he has enough power to level this town, already. Why go after the blades?"
"We have a theory that he wants to start another great war, but could it be more than that?", Mittelt questioned.
"I have a theory or two, myself, but I have to check into few things first.", Azazel said as he was rubbing his chin. "Once I figure things out, I'll get back to you kids. But for now, head home and get some rest. Something tells me you two are going to need it."
"I do believe that you are right.", Marcus said before he and Mittelt left.
"Are you really working for "them", Kokabiel?", Azazel asked himself before sipping some wine. "And if you are, who is powerful enough for you to take orders from them?", he pondered.
As for Marcus and Mittelt, they were now walking back home when Marcus sensed Tosca, Asia, Jeane, and Xenovia close by. But they weren't the only ones he sensed.
"That's not good.", Marcus said as he sensed who else was with the four girls.
"No it's not.", Mittelt said as she sensed the same thing as they headed to them hoping nothing major would break out.
Now as for said girls, they were walking around town hoping to find any clues to where Kokabiel, Dulocke, or Freed were hiding. So far they've come up with nothing.
"You would think that we would run into at least one of the mages, that's with this Dulocke guy.", Jeane said as they took a break from their search.
"Perhaps they have decided to lay low for a while seeing as we now know about them being here.", Xenovia figured.
"You may be right, Xenovia.", Jeane said as she took out her cell phone. "Let me call Irina and see if she and her group have found anything."
"Hey Jeane! Xenovia!"
Both girls, along with Tosca and Asia, turned to see Irina walking up to them. But she was not alone. For with her were Katase, Akia, Motohama, and Matsuda. Seeing this, Asia put up her holy aura to keep them at a distance.
"Well look at what we got here.", Matsuda said with a smirk. "It looks like your friends ran into little Tosca and Asia, Irina. Now I wonder how that happened?"
"Wouldn't you like to know.", Tosca said with narrowed eyes.
"It's obvious we're all searching for the Excalibur blades.", Akia said. "So let's cut the crap ans get down to business, shall we?"
"Fair enough.", Jeane said. "Have you found anything?"
"Nope.", Irina said with a sigh. "Not a single trace. What about you two?"
"Nothing so far.", Jeane said.
"But Marcus and I did run into some mages last night.", Xenovia said.
"Who's Marcus?", Irina asked.
"A Dragon-Kin who Xenovia and I are staying with.", Jeane said. "Along with an old friend of mine.", she replied with a smile as she was about to introduce Asia. "This is Asia Argento. She was saved by Marcus, Tosca, and a few others a while ago."
"A while ago, you say?", Motohama questioned as he pushed his glasses up. "This wouldn't happen to be from some Fallen would it?"
"And if it was?", Tosca questioned.
"Then you should have informed us about it!", Katase said. "Kuoh is under the protection of the Gremory and Sitri Peerages!"
"And you all didn't show up to the church until after the fighting was done and over with."
Everyone looked to see Marcus and Mittelt walking up to the group.
"What are you doing here, Doragon?!", Matsuda questioned with a glare.
"I sensed my friends and then you lot approaching them.", Marcus said. "So I just had to come and see what was up. And for the record, the Sitri and Gremory Peerages aren't the only groups protecting Kuoh.", he said when he spotted Irina. "And you must be Irina. The one who went and blew all the money on a painting.", he said with a grin causing Irina to pout with a blush.
"But it was a painting of a saint!", Irina whined. "I couldn't just let it sit there!"
"Okay then.", Marcus said. "As fun as this all is, I suggest that we go our separate ways."
"Don't have to tell me twice!", Katase said.
"Hold on!", Tosca said before turning her attention to Marcus. "Against my better judgement, I think we should all work together.", she said surprising everyone there.
"You sure?", Marcus asked knowing how she felt about being around Kiba, aka Isaiah.
"Yeah.", Tosca said. "The sooner the blades are found, the better.", she said thinking of Isaiah and his issues with Excalibur.
"Okay then.", Marcus said before turning his attention towards Akia. "Call your King and set up a meeting with her and Sitri."
"And why should we do that?", Akia asked.
"Because we may be dealing with more than just a few Fallen, mages, and rouge exorcist.", Jeane said. "We might be dealing with a Cadre."
Surprised by what Jeane said, Akia took out her cell phone and called Rias to inform her on the situation. A few phone calls later, everyone was in the ORC. Well... almost everyone. The whole ORC was there along with Sona, Tsubaki, and Saji. Jeane, Xenovia, and Irina were also there along with Allen Vansing, Marcus, Akeno, Tosca, and Mittelt.
"Now that we all are here, mind telling us why you think Kokabiel is here in Kuoh?", Sona asked Allen.
"Well from all that I've been told it all adds up, Miss Sitri.", Allen said. "First there's what happened with Asia and the Fallen a while ago."
"Yes. Akia informed me about that matter.", Rias said as she looked over at Marcus, Akeno, and Tosca. "Mind telling us why you didn't tell us about that?"
"Because we knew what you would try and do with Asia if you got your hands on her.", Tosca said as she glared at Rias.
"Calm down, Tosca.", Allen said as he placed a calming hand on her shoulder. "We're here for a reason."
Taking a deep breath, Tosca calmed down.
"Question. If Asia is a former nun, then what are you?", Murayama asked Mittelt.
"I am a Fallen tasked with helping keep Asia said.", Mittelt confessed.
"Give us one reason why we shouldn't cut you down?!", Murayama asked as she narrowed her eyes at Mittelt as she and Katase summoned their swords.
"Stand down, you two.", Issei said. "If she wanted to cause trouble, she would have done so a while ago."
"Besides, we've got bigger fish to fry.", Sona said. "You were saying, Mr. Vansing."
"Thank you, Miss Sitri.", Allen said. "Now as I was saying, thanks to Mittelt and the info she gave, we learned that Kokabiel set the things in motion when it came to what happened to Asia. And seeing as Freed was there at the time, it's safe to say that Kokabiel is involved with the theft of the Excalibur blades."
"That and Kokabiel is a total warmonger, who would love for another war to happen.", Akeno said.
"Sounds like the mighty Azazel needs to keep his people in line.", Issei said with a smirk.
"Azazel can't be everywhere!", Mittelt said. "He along with the other Grigori leaders have to deal with all kinds of problems! Kokabiel knew this and set his plans in motion."
"What I'd like to know is, why did the church send only three exorcist?", Marcus questioned. "I mean you would think they would have sent a lot more exorcist to get the blades back."
"You would think that.", Jeane said with a sigh. "But our forces are spread pretty thin."
"That and the exorcist that could come were very powerful.", Irina said. "So powerful, that if they were to of came here..."
"We would have seen it as an invasion.", Sona said. "So you three were the only ones they could send without freaking us out."
"So where do we go from here?", Tsubaki asked. "I mean can we all work together against Kokbiel?"
"I'm willing to do it to protect Kuoh.", Marcus said.
"As am I.", Tosca said not looking at Kiba.
"Are we all in agreement to work together?", Rias asked getting nods from everyone.
"So long as no one from the Gremory and Sitri Peerage try to talk or force the rest of us into joining said peerages.", Akeno said with a smile.
"Fair enough.", Sona said. "But for now, I suggest that we all go to our homes and get some rest. I have a feeling we're going to need it."
"May I suggest we all meet up here after school.", Rias said. "It'll make it easier for us to plan our search parties."
"Agreed.", Allen said.
"So where are you two staying tonight?", Issei asked Xenovia and Jeane. "The offer still stands for you two to stay over my place, with Irina."
"Thanks, but we have a place to stay.", Jeane said. "Mr. Vansing and his wife are allowing us to stay in their home."
"You're welcome to come over as well, if you'd like.", Allen offered to Irina.
"Thank you, but I am perfectly find staying over Issei's.", Irina said politely.
"It would be for the best if we were to be staying together.", Xenovia said. "You, Jeane, and I are a team. We need to stick together and be ready to mobilize together as soon as possible."
"She right and you know this, Irina.", Jeane said. "I know that you miss seeing your childhood friend, but we are on a mission that we need to stay focused on."
"Fine.", Irina said giving in. "But at least let me stay over Issei's tonight!"
"Very well.", Xenovia said as Allen wrote down the address to their home and handed it to Irina.
"You can bring your things over tomorrow.", Allen said. "Until tomorrow, everyone.", he said as Akeno teleported away with Allen, Marcus, Tosca, Mittelt, Jeane, and Xenovia.
"Later, guys.", Issei said as he teleported away with Irina.
"Never thought this would be happening.", Sona said. "Us working with the church. Along with a Fallen and Doragon's group."
"Wonders never cease.", Rias said.
"So are we really not going to try and talk any of them into joining our peerages?", Murayama asked.
"Of course we are.", Rias said. "We'll just have to be more clever about it.", she said with smirk.
Later that evening, after dinner, Marcus was about to head out for one of his patrols around Kuoh. He was dressed in a pair of black sweatpants, tank-top, and sandals. He was waiting for Akeno and Tosca to join him when Xenovia, who was dressed in a pair of brown shorts and a blue tank-top, came into the living room.
"Where are you going?", Xenovia asked.
"Every other night, I along with one or two of the girls, do a patrol around Kuoh for any strays, vamps, goblins, and other supernatural threats to Kuoh.", Marcus explained.
"But I thought the Gremory and Sitri Peerages handled that.", Xenovia said.
"They do, but they can't catch them all.", Marcus said just as Tosca and Akeno came walking up to them.
Tosca was dressed in a pair of black sweatpants, t-shirt, boots, and fingerless gloves while Akeno was dressed in her shrine maiden outfit.
"Ready to go, ladies?", Marcus asked.
"Yep!", Tosca said. "I need to clear my head and this is a way to do it."
"I have to admit, going on these patrols does help release stress.", Akeno said with a smile.
"Then let's hit it!", Marcus said as Akeno was about to teleport the three of them to the forest outside of Kuoh when...
"Wait a minute, Akeno!", Tosca said stopping Akeno. "Do you want to come with us, Xenovia? It'll give you a chance to stretch your legs a little."
"I does sound interesting.", Xenovia said. "Plus, I've been curious about how Dragon-Kin fight. Okay. Yes. I will come along with you. Just let me go change.", she said as she headed upstairs.
"Wonder what she wears in battle.", Tosca said.
"We'll find out soon enough.", Marcus said.
Ten minutes later, Xenovia came downstairs dressed in her battle outfit. Which was basically a black leotard with black boots and fingerless gloves. Strapped to her back was Excalibur Destruction as she was ready to go.
"Wow!", Marcus said. "I did not expect to see that kind of outfit."
"Me neither.", Tosca said. "I'm impressed.", she said with a smirk.
"This is what all female exorcist where into battle.", Xenovia said as if it was nothing.
"Whatever works.", Marcus said as Xenovia stood with them. "Hit it, Akeno!"
"Here we go, everyone!", Akeno said as she teleported away with the group in tow.
Moments later, they appeared in the forest that was on the outskirts of town. Once their, Marcus formed a magic circle and reached inside it and pulled out two open faced motorcycle helmets and gave them to Toscca and Xenovia to put on.
"Why do we need these?", Xenovia asked as Tosca put her helmet on.
"You're about to find out.", Tosca said as Marcus stepped away from them.
It was then that Marcus focused his aura and channeled his power. As he did this, he began to grow in height and mass as he shoulders began go to grow more broad. As this was happening, Xenovia saw how Marcus' skin began to turn red in some areas while other parts started to turn a shade of white. Mainly in the chest. Now as he was changing, Xenovia saw how a magic circle began to form under Marcus. It was then that she saw his outfit change while he was transforming. Once he was done, Marcus was a tall Humanoid dragon hybrid type of creature. He was a good ten feet tall with reptilian like eyes. The right eye was blue while his left eye was green. His scales were mostly red except for his chest where his scales were white. He also had large red wings that were red with shades of white at the top and bottom of the wings while his long tail was mostly red with white blotches. As for clothes, he was only dressed in a pair of black pants with silver bracers around his wrist and a brown leather battle harness. To say that he was intimidating was putting it mildly.
"Aw man! It feels good to be able to go dragon every once in a while.", Marcus said as he stretched his limbs, wings, and tail a bit.
"I never get tired of seeing that.", Akeno said with a grin while her Fallen wings sprouted from her back.
"You okay, Xenovia?", Tosca asked.
"I've heard of how some Dragon-Kin can transform, but I never thought I'd see it.", Xenovia said as she walked up to Marcus. "It's truly amazing!", she said with a smile.
"Thank you.", Marcus said as he turned his back to her. "Now let's get going."
"Huh?", Xenovia questioned.
"Hop on, Tosca.", Marcus said as he stretched his wings while kneeling down.
"We're going to fly?!", Xenovia questioned as she put her helmet on.
"Yep.", Tosca said as she was ready to go as she jumped on Marcus' back. "It's the best way to get a view of Kuoh."
"So let's get going!", Marcus said as he stood up and turned towards Xenovia who wasn't ready for what was about to happen as Marcus scoppd her up in his arms bridal style. "You ready?", he asked a blushing Xenovia.
"Y-Y-Yes!", Xenovia said as she wrapped her arms around Marcus' next.
"Then to the sky we goooooooooooo!", Marcus said as to took to the sky with Akeno right beside him.
"Yeeeeeeeeeeah!", Tosca cheered enjoying the ride.
"Aaaaaaaaaaaaah!", Xenovia cried as they took off.
"Relax and have a look, Xenovia!", Marcus said as they were soaring through the sky. "The view is great!"
Taking a chance Xenovia opened her eyes slowly and saw the town of Kuoh at night, and was amazed at what she saw. The lights from the town made the city look beautiful as the lights sparkled and twinkled in the night. Soon her fear was slowly leaving her as she began to enjoy the flight.
"Feeling better?", Marcus asked with a smile that Xenovia returned with a nod. "Good. Now we can begin our patrol.", he said as he flew around Kuoh with Akeno next to him.
Now in another part of Kuoh, a couple is walking through the park after a lovely date together. But their night is about to take a turn for the worse, as a stray is about to attack them. Well... It would have, had they not been noticed by Marcus as he landed a few feet behind the stray and set Xenovia down while Tosca got off his back while Akeno hovered in the air. As for the stray, Marcus grabbed them by their shirt and yanked him back before they got the jump on the couple. Marcus then threw the stray further into the forest that was next to the park. Once he landed hard, the stray got to his feet quickly, angry that they were denied their prey.
"Who dares attack me?!", the stray questioned only to see Marcus, Akeno, Tosca, and Xenovia who had Excalibur Destruction out and eady to fight while Tosca had her own sword out and ready as well.
"You know how this ends right?", Marcus questioned with a glare. "A stray going after innocents means you just punched your ticket!"
"Well if I'm going down, then I'll take one of you with me!", the stray snapped as he jumped toward Tosca only to be hit by a bolt of lightning from Akeno followed by Tosca who dashed at him and cut his right arm off. "Ahhhhhhh! You little brat! You cut off my arm!?", he cried just as Xenovia dashed at him and sliced at his belly cutting him in half.
"Nice move.", Marcus said before he formed a orb of purple energy and... "Dragon Shot!", he called out ad he fired his attack at stray destroying him. "Well that was easy."
"Think we'll run into anymore?", Xenovia asked.
"Maybe.", Tosca said as she sheathed her sword. "We hardly run into strays. We mostly have to deal with goblins, trolls, and rarely a vamp."
"Don't forget about the few naughty Yokia.", Akeno said with a grin as she landed next to Marcus.
"And then there are times we run into a member of the Sitri or Gremory Peerage.", Marcus said looking up to see Issei landing in front of them while holding Irina in his arms.
Now like Xenovia, Irina was dressed in her battle outfit while Issei was dressed in a pair of black track pants and white tank-top and sneakes with his wings out.
"I guess the stray is dust, huh?", Issei questioned as he looked at the spot where Marcus finished the stray off.
"Yep.", Marcus said. "Got him before he was about to attack a couple."
"Good to hear.", Issei said as Irina ran up to Matcus to get a better look at him.
"Wow! I've heard about Dragon-Kin and how some can transform, but I never thought I'd get to see it up close!", Irina said as her eyes sparkled while looking up at Marcus in amazement. "How does it feel?! How long does it take to change?! When did you first change?! Can you breath fire?! How fast can you fly?!"
"Okay, chill!", Marcus said stopping Irina's questioning. "I'll answer your questions tomorrow. Right now we have a patrol to finish before we have to head home." he said as Tosca got back on his back. "We'll see you all tomorrow." he said as he scooped Xenovia in his arms and took to the sky with Akeno right behind him.
"Aaaaaaaaw! I had so many questions!", Irina whined as a chuckling Issei walked up to her.
"You'll get you answers later, Irina.", Issei as he scooped her up in his arms. "Right now, I have to finish my patrol of Kuoh as well.", he said as he took to the sky with Irina.
About a good hour and a half of flying around and searching the forest, Marcus and his group headed home to take their showers and get ready for bed. Of course, Marcus let the girls go first giving him time to think over some things. Namely, the alliance they have with the Gremory and Sitri Peerages.
(Marcus' POV)
Can we really trust them? I mean, sure we want Kokabiel out of Kuoh, but can we trust them to fight by our side when they can simply leave us hanging in battle to save their own hide. There's also the chance of them trying to make any of us a part of one of their peerages. All they have to do is let one of us get badly hurt and away from Asia to get us to agree to being a part of a peerage to live. Let's hope they keep their word and not try anything. I think the girls are finished showering.
(Normal POV)
Thinking the girls were finish taking their showers before bed, Marcus headed to the bathroom to take his shower. Now moments earlier, in said bathroom, we have Xenovia who is taking her shower as the warm water runs down her body relaxing her muscles after going on patrol with Marcus, Tosca, and Akeno. A blush grows on her face as she recalls being held by Marcus as he was flying over the city. It was a feeling that she wasn't used to yet enjoyed as she smiles a bit hoping to go on another patrol with Marcus before her mission is over with. Soon Xenovia finishes her shower and steps out from it only for the bathroom door to open and her to see Marcus walking in and stopping once he sees her in her birthday suit frozen in place as her face turns a shade of red. Saying nothing, Marcus jumps back and closes the bathroom door leaving a blushing Xenovia who can't believe that a guy saw her naked! As for Marcus, he heads to his bedroom and waits for Xenovia to get finished before he goes to take his shower. As he waits, he wonders if Xenovia is angry about what just happened. Sure it's only been a day since they first met, but he'd be lying if he said he didn't find her and Jeane attractive. But after what just happened, she may not trust him. Or want anything to do with him.
"I so messed up.", he sighed as he laid back on his bed.
As for Xenovia, after gathering herself, she dried off and got dressed in a pair of blue sleeping shorts and a white mid-drift tank-top. As she was about to leave the bathroom, she took a look at herself in the mirror and sighed as her shoulders slumped before she began to brush his teeth. For you see, when it comes to attracting guys, she wasn't good at it. I mean sure, a guy would talk to her at first, but then they soon lose interest and leave her alone. Not unlike with Irina and Jeane who could get a guy without even trying. And those two aren't even trying to find a boyfriend! She's not either, mind you. She just wishes she was as good with attracting guys as her two friends were. She thought that Marcus liked her with how things went earlier with the patrol as he held her when he was flying, but then his reaction after walking in on her after her shower has her thinking different as she looks a herself in the mirror. Wanting to get some sleep, Xenovia exited the bathroom and was about to head to the guest room she was staying in when she looked over at Marcus' bedroom door and decided to let him know that he could use the bathrrom. As for Marcus, he was just in his bedroom listening to some music on his phone when a knock came at his door.
"Come in.", Marcus said as he stopped the music.
The door opened and there stood Xenovia.
'Crap!', Marcus thought to himself thinking he was in trouble.
"Ummmmmm... Hey.", Xenoivia said.
"Hey.", Marcus said with a small smile. "Sorry about walking in on you like that. I thought you and the other girls were finished taking your showers. So when I turned the knob, and saw that it was unlocked, I figured the bathroom was free."
"I-I-It's okay.", Xenovia said nervously. "I forgot that I wasn't back at the exorcist headquarters where we have separate bathrooms."
"Don't sweat it.", Marcus said as he checked his clock. "Well I better go take my shower so I can get some sleep. So... goodnight."
"Goodnight.", Xenovia said as she turned to leave yet stopped and turned back around. "Can I... Can I ask you something?"
"Sure.", Marcus said.
"Do you... Do you think I'm good looking?", Xenovia asked as she took her right hand and rubbed her left arm.
"Come again?", Marcus questioned looking at Xenovia and saw how nervous she was.
"Never mind. It's not important.", Xenovia said as she was about to leave when Marcus got up from his bed and walked up to her.
"Is everything alright, Xenovia?", Marcus asked as he gently grabbed her right hand. "Whatever it is, you can talk to me about it."
Letting out a sigh, Xenovia tried to face Marcus, but couldn't as she had her head held down.
"I'm... I'm not good at attracting guys like Irina and Jeane are.", Xenovia explained. "I mostly stay at the exorcist headquarters training while Irina and Jeane are out with some of the other exorcist, having a good time. When I do go out with them, some guys start to talk to me only to lose interest and leave me alone."
"I see.", Marcus said. "Well to answer your question, I think you're very attractive.", he said with a smile causing Xenovia to blush a bit as a small smile began to grow on her face.
"You don't have to say that to make me happy.", Xenovia said.
"But it's the truth.", Marcus said causing Xenovia to look him in the face to see that he was telling the truth. "I don't know why guys have trouble talking to you, but that's their problem. Maybe they have trouble getting interested in whatever it is you're talking about."
"Maybe.", Xenovia said.
"How about this?", Marcus asked. "You and me go on a date.", he suggested getting Xenovia's attention.
"R-R-Really?!", Xenovia asked in surprise.
"Yeah!", Marcus said. "We go on a date, have a good time, and get to know each other a bit more."
"I'd like that.", Xenovia said with a smile. "This will be my first date ever."
"Seriously?!", Marcus asked getting a nod from Xenovia. "Then we so got to do this! How does this Friday around 5:00 P.M. sound?"
"O-O-Okay!" Xenovia said.
"Then until, this Friday then.", Marcus said with a smile that Xenovia returned with a nervous grin as she backed away from Marcus only to bump into the door causing her to let out another nervous grin as she reached for the door knob and open the door and leave the room and head for the guest room with a smile on her face thinking about her first date.
"Well that was interesting.", Marcus said as he grabbed his sleeping clothes and headed for the bathroom.
As for Xenovia, she was in her guest room where there were Jeane was already in her bed sleeping. Seeing this, Xenovia got in her bed and said her prayers before she let sleep overcome her as she was thinking about her first date with Marcus. Now as for Marcus, once he was finished his shower, he dried off and got dressed for bed wearing a pair of white sleeping pants that had black dots on them. After brushing his teeth, he used his mouthwash and headed for his bedroom only to find Akeno laying in his bed comfortably dressed in a red thin strapped night gown. Letting out a chuckle, Marcus got in bed and laid back allowing Akeno to cuddle up to him with a smile as she had her eyes closed letting out a happy hum as she got comfortable with Marcus.
"Goodnight, Marcus.", Akeno said.
"Goodnight, Akeno.", Marcus said as he held Akeno close.
Soon morning came, and Marcus woke up to a sleeping Akeno who was still cuddled up to him happily. Seeing her smiling made him smile as well as he held her close enjoying the moment. Yet as he was doing this, Akeno woke up to see Marcus and smiled.
"Hmmmmmmm... Good morning.", Akeno said with a smile as she moved up some and gave him a kiss that Marcus returned as he gently rubbed her rear earning a happy hum. "Ooooooooh! You naughty dragon, you!"
"I can give you naughty, if you really want it.", Marcus said with a smirk.
"Maybe later tonight.", Akeno said. "Right now, I just want to enjoy the calm before we have to get ready for school.", she said with a yawn.
"I can do that.", Marcus said with a smile before they shared a kiss.
Now over at Issei's house we have Issei who had just woke up with Irina sleeping next to him cuddled up to him with a smile on her face after the night they had. Granted, they've been going at it the first night she stayed there happy to be with Issei again. Something Murayama wasn't to happy about it. But it really didn't bother Issei as he holds Irina close glad to be with her again. For she is his first love. And nothing will change that.
"Mmmmmmm...", Irina hums as she wake up. "Good morning, Issei.", she said with a smile before they share a kiss.
"Good morning, Irina.", Issei said. "Sleep well?"
"After what we did, last night, I'm amazed we got any sleep at all.", Irina said with a giggle getting a chuckle out of Issei. "I just wish I could stay here longer.", she said with a pout.
"Well your teammates want you all to be together as a team.", Issei said. "That and they don't want to see you get corrupted by a member of the Gremory Peerage and get you to leave the church for me.", he joked.
"But you wouldn't do that, Issei!", Irina said defending him.
"No.", Issei said. "But if the church told you that you had to cut any and all communications with me or be excommunicated, what would you do?"
"Please don't ask me that, Issei.", Irina pleaded as she sat up while covering her chest with the bed sheet. "I don't think I can answer that."
"There may come a day when you might have to make that choice, Irina.", Issei said as he sat up in the bed. "I don't mean to upset you. I'm just thining of whta might happen when you mission is over with. These next few days could be our last time together.", he said getting a look of surprise from Irina that soon turned to a look of fear as her eyes began to water at the fear of not seeing Issei again once her mission was over with.
Seeing this, Issei pulled her into a hug as she began to sob a bit.
"No matter what happens, we'll be in each others lives, Irina.", Issei said as he rubbed her back in comfort as he held a sobbing Irina close.
'And no one will stand in my way.', Issei thought to himself.
{Now that's how a dragon should think, partner!}, Ddriag said to Issei through their mental link. {Fight for your top mate and make her happy!}
'Thanks, Ddriag.', Issei replied as he continued to give Irina comfort.
Now later that day, while they were in school along with the others, Irina had came over with her things and placed them in the guest room where Xenovia and Jeane were staying in. Only now it was going to be Xenovia and Irina while Jeane would be staying in Asia's bedroom with her. Once that was taken care of, the three exorcist headed out to see if they could find any clues to where Freed was hiding. After about three and a half hours of searching, they decided to take a break and get something to eat with the money Allen gave them to use. It was during this time that Irina decided to do a little Q&A.
"So, Xenovia, how did your patrol with Marcus go?", Irina asked with a sly smirk.
"Patrol?", Jeane questioned. "Oh! You mean the patrol Marcus and the girls do every other night. So you went with them on their patrol last night, Xenovia?"
"Yes." Xenovia said before taking a bite of of food.", Xenovia said. "It was very interesting to see how they protect Kuoh."
"Well, they're not the only ones who protect Kuoh.", Irina said. "I was with Issei helping him with his patrol. We took care of a few troubling goblings as if they weren't that big a deal."
"I still can't believe that we're working with them to complete our mission.", Jeane said. "Why couldn't the church send more powerful exorcist to aid us? All they had to do was inform Gremory and Sitri about the situation and everything would have been alright."
"It'll be okay, Jeane.", Irina said with a smile. "We'll find the Excalibur blades and take them back to the church."
"It's easier said than done, Irina.", Xenovia said. "We have to not only find the blades, but get past who knows how many enemies to get them."
"Xenovia's right.", Jeane said. "Finding them is the first step. So let's focus on that, before we do anything else."
"Actually, I need the both of you to help me with something.", Xenovia said with a slight blush as she was looking down at her drink.
"What do you need help with?", Jeane asked. "Some training?"
"No.", Xenovia said. "I need help finding an outfit for a... date.", she said earning looks of surprise from Irina and Jeane.
"WHAT?!", both girls questioned in surprise.
End Chapter Four
A/N: Go Xenovia! Her first date! How will it go? Will her two friends try and talk her out of it? Will they find Freed before hand? Find out in future chapters! Also, as for what Marcus' dragon form looks like, think something like Onaga from Mortal Kombat: Deception, only not so menecing looking and with a slightly longer tail.
Please review.