Holy cow, three chapters updated so quickly I've been on a roll with this arc. Unfortunately, it will come to an end and some downtime will come.
Optimus470: I'm glad you enjoyed that moment.
Prototype: He may or he may be more useful aiding Rias and Akeno against Kokabiel
Alpha Mallus: The idea for Ares doing it is better, no idea why Kokabiel was the one to do it. I'm glad Henrietta kicking ass was no disappointing to you.
Barricade: Vali may be strong but if you recall even he couldn't face Loki alone. Then again Loki did have a small army at his command.
Vulcan: I'm glad you are enjoying it.
Lorenzo Macchiavelli: Interesting idea but I already have a plan in place for her and to be perfectly honest that was done already by The Roots of Hope author.
merendinoemiliano: Thanks
Now let's get back to the battle!
"Vandil!" Shouted Thor, "What are you doing here!?"
Limping through the barrier came a seven-foot-tall man clad in medieval Viking armor, a large knife on his belt, and a broad smile on his face. All stared at the new arrival, all confused save for Azreal, Henrietta, and Thor who were beaming with joy.
The Jotun smiled, "What does it look like we're doing we're here to help, what about you?"
"We?" Thor asked and looked behind him and felt his heart sore. Standing behind the giant were his friends from Asgard. There was Sigrun, tall and smiling with excitement for battle, her emerald armor shining with polish. Flanking her was a face he never thought to see again, Andreas, the first Einherjar he ever met, a native of Greece, and a good friend he desired to share tales with. And lastly was the woman who he saw when first awakening in Asgard, the woman who he dubbed the Silver Genius.
"Rossweisse." He said her name and she smiled. His friends had come! They had come to help stop Kokabiel!
"We are the advance guard of Asgard, buddy!" Andreas said shifting his weight to better carry his spear and shield, "I just came back with Sigrun and we were told to come straight to here with Rossweisse and Vandil to aid in the battle before the main force arrives."
"And who is the main force?"
The Greek Einherjar shrugged, "Heimdall didn't say now enough chit-chat we've got some traitors to put down." Andreas' eyes flashed as he glared at Ares and his daughters. First Heracles and Eris, now Ares and the Amazons, Zeus was not gonna like this news.
In a flash the Valkyries, Jotun, and Einherjar lept into action; Vandil, albeit slowed by his still recovering wounds, charged the Amazon's ranks plowing through them like a bulldozer as he grabbed his hammer, freeing his best friend in the process, and on into the horde surrounding the Exorcists, the sound of his hammer breaking bones was like music to his ears, when he reached Konkeo and the Exorcists he scooped them into one arm startling them at the strength displayed by him. Once secured the young man started to change in size growing to eleven feet, the sudden change in size left the Rook and Church warriors out of reach from the Amazon clones and allowed the Giant to carry them to safety while swinging his hammer casually at each warrior that attacked him.
"Hello there, I'm Vandill, pleased to meet you."
"H-hi there!" Irina squeaky scared the giant would crush it, "it's a pleasure - wait!" She paused doing a headcount of everyone, Nero, Commodus, herself, Gremory's Rook… "Where is Xenovia!?"
Nearby
Issei watched the emerald armored woman slice her wave through the Amazon copies, the speed and skill she showed were similar if not greater, to Kiba, her violet hair was like a curtain as it wiped back and forth with each opponent she fought and cut down. When the last clone fell she flicked the blood from her blade and turned to face him, the grin sending a chill down his spine.
"H-hey…I'm Issei Hyoudou."
"Hey there Issei Hyoudou, need some help?" The Valkyrie asked with a playful grin.
"Y-eah." He said, eyeing her up and down, Asia pouting behind him.
"Issei don't stare at her! She saved our lives!" The blonde nun scolded.
"I read about your file. You're a pervert like the Allfather. However, you are a horny teenager wanting to experience the pleasure of sex so…I'll let it slide." Sigrun said with a teasing wink and a toss of her hair, "Oh look there goes, Rose!"
High above Saul and Malak weaved through the air as an array of different spells came flying towards cast by Rossweisse. The Fallen Angel pair threw up defense barrier after defense barrier, neither able to withstand the tide of slaughter that fell upon them from the Valkyrie and Devils. Both Cadres retreated out of spell range to figure out a counterattack giving pause to the sky battle.
"She's incredible!" Havarti said, being noticed by Sigrun at last.
"Oh, a Dwarf is with you. Sigrun, at your service."
"Havarti, at your service. Call me Havi for short."
With the God of Thunder
"Lord Thor!"
The God of Thunder hacked off another clone's head as the Greek Einherjar called his name, the arrival of his friends caused a surge of renewed strength within the Aesir, and continued fighting. After another kill he saw a spear run through a warrior's throat, Andreas finally reached him fighting back-to-back with the God of Thunder, spear, and axe slaying Amazon after Amazon real and illusion.
"Welcome back old friend!" Thor yelled embracing the Greek Einherjar once the pair met after carving a path through the Amazon clones, "You came just in time! I feared we would be overwhelmed."
"You? Overwhelmed!? This is nothing like on Olympus! Let's deal with these traitors then return to our friends!"
Andreas deflected a punch with his shield and sent three powerful thrusts into the last Amazon two to the heart and one to the throat, the Greek sighed in relief seeing it was a real Amazon instead of a copy. That took care of this group now they could aid the others but by the looks of things everyone had been gathered around Asia and Havarti, the latter revealing the use of healing magic. The Dwarf would make a great asset to his team and a good partner to Rossweisse. Speaking of the Valkyrie he smiled at the teamwork she showed with Rias and Akeno as the three pushed Saul and Malak back towards their master. He couldn't hear what they were saying but by the look on Akeno's face they clearly started off on good terms.
A few feet away from them
The reinforcements from Asgard and their easy dispatching of the clones left Freed fuming with rage. Deciding to finish the Knight and Einherjar he prepared once more to finish them but again was denied the chance as Xenovia Quarta stood before him, Durandal in hand ready to cut him down.
"You do not deserve to wield that blade, traitor. I'm going to cut you down and destroy the swords if it comes to that."
"WE will defeat him."
Xenovia couldn't stop the smirk from forming as Kiba stood beside her, Sword of the Betrayer ready for its first battle.
"I thought you'd stop Valper?"
"First we deal with Freed and get the Excalibur's back. Thor is right; my vengeance is towards Valper, not the Holy Swords. They belong to the Church."
A true smile flashed across the bluenette face, "Thank you for saying that. Ready?"
"Ready!"
The duo attacked, each strike coordinated with pristine skill it looked more like a dance to onlookers. When one blocked the other countered neither wishing to give Freed the advantage. Fear filled the red-eyed warrior as he tried to come up with a counter plan, the Nightmare clones were being disposed of easily, Destruction wasn't working against either sword, Rapidly may help, and… he cursed himself for being so stupid!
"Transparent!"
Freed vanished before their very eyes, the power of invisible forgotten until now by the rogue Exorcist. He grinned triumphantly at being unseen, now all he had to do was sneak up on them and-
Xenovia swung to the left, Durandal hitting solid air or rather the invisible Excalibur. Before Freed could utter any sort of surprise Kiba lunged forward delivering a mighty swing that, combined with Xenovia's previous attack, caused a large crack to form on the fused Excalibur.
"How!?" He gasped.
"I sense the holy energy." She answered as Kiba moved in to attack once more.
With each strike Kiba sent chipped away at the weapon until finally with a mighty stroke he destroyed the Excalibur, its shards flying everywhere as Freed looked on in stunned horror at the broken sword, without its power destroyed the illusions created by Nightmare faded revealing just three Amazons remaining. The Knight's blade continued towards the white-haired rogue priest and cut deeply across his chest. Blood flowed out of him as he stumbled back in shock at the loss of the ultimate sword and the dual.
"Fucking cunt!" He yelled, red eyes burning with hatred for the boy. "I'm gonna fuck you up you stupid bitch!"
Raising his left hand and out of the sleeve came his holy gun, he aimed for Kiba intent on blasting a hole in his head! Before the trigger could be pulled there was a flash of green and Freed howled in pain as he stumbled backward, staring in horror and clutching at what formally was his left hand. His eyes shot towards Henrietta, although still hurt she stood definitely before him, a cold fury was in her eyes and her weapon dripped with blood, his blood. The mad priest had been so occupied with the church hoe and pretty boy he forgot about her.
"That's for Kiba." She said before sending a roundhouse kick to the priest's face and following up with a slash to the chest. "That's for your foul mouth!" She punched him across the face. "For his fallen comrades!" She punched him again, sending Freed spinning backward. "And this is for the hero Siegfried!"
All eyes were on Freed as he staggered back a few steps, his face showing a horrified expression, eyes wide and mouth open, blood spewing from his open maw and bruised face. Henrietta grabbed a handful of hair and held on to it tightly as Freed's body began to fall.
Asia gasped.
Issei felt his stomach churn.
Even Xenovia felt her mouth fall open.
Everyone watched the headless body of Freed Sellzen crash to the floor. A river of blood flowing from his neck.
The Einherjar turned to Kokabiel, anger showing on her beautiful face. "Hey, bird brain, I think this belongs to you!" Then she threw the head at Fallen Angel and it landed in his lap. Turning away from the angry Fallen Angel. His blue eyes locked on Kiba as he turned his attention to Valper who was slowly backing away.
"H-how!? How is this possible!? It shouldn't be!? Holy and demonic shouldn't be able to fuse together!? There's no way it-"
The short man yelled as Kiba zipped towards him like a speeding bullet, his sword poised to stab the man that took everything from him. Valper was about to scream once more before a powerful defense barrier formed between the Knight and researcher, stopping the Knight's attack easily. Forgotten by all, Eris stood beside Valapr, staff raised in the use of the spell.
"Lady Eris!" Valper gasped with relief at being saved.
"I'm sorry." Eris said, speaking for the first time, "but you cannot harm him."
Magic erupted from the staff sending the Knight skidding away.
"Well done, cousin. I was beginning to wonder if you would ever step in." Clapped Ares.
Feeling safe the researcher began to ponder the mystery as to how and why holy and demonic power fused together, couldn't be unless…his eyes widened as if realizing something which prompted him to start laughing.
"Hahaha…I see now! Hahaha! It all makes sense! No wonder they were able to fuse! I finally realize now! Hahaha! The Great War didn't just take the lives of the original Satans…..they weren't the only ones to die!"
The insane laugh of the priest had all eyes on him, Rias growing confused at the words he said. What was he talking about? Who else has died in the war? Spotting movement from the corner of her eye Rias saw Kokabiel lazily raising a hand and aiming it at Valper. If he was going to kill him the act was stopped by Ares grabbing his shoulder and glaring at the Cadre as if daring him to use the spell and possibly harm his cousin. Slowly, reluctantly, Kokabiel lowered his hand, his maniacal grin never fading.
"What are you talking about!?" Xenovia demanded.
It was not Valper that answered but Eris, "Your all-powerful God in Heaven is dead!"
A feeling of shock, disbelief, and numbness fell over the allies at the truth. This couldn't be true. God… the almighty, the Lord in Heaven… was dead!?
"G-God is dead?" Xenovia muttered feeling her legs wobble.
"No… no, it can't be!" Irina screamed, tears filling her eyes, she was shaking with horror at such a revelation.
"It's true!" Exclaimed Saul, "Our lord knew about it and shared with us the truth! The Four Great Satans and God of the Bible are dead. Why do you think prayers aren't received by Heaven? It's not God who commands the Angels anymore but his right-hand man — Michael."
"God is dead…" Commodus whispered, face white as a ghost, all his dedication he gave to Heaven and they backstabbed him! Lied to him! What else was the Church and Heaven hiding from him!?
"Asia!"
The former nun had collapsed and was caught by Issei. The poor girl wasn't strong enough to bear the horrendous truth that the one she prayed to was dead.
"That can't be! God can't die!" Xenovia protested.
"Fools!" Eris shouted pointing her staff at Thor, "If your all-powerful God in Heaven can die so can others! Like Thor! In fact, that is not the real God of Thunder! The real Thor died centuries ago! This is not the real God of Thunder but the inheritor of his spirit that was discovered by the Church and tested as a weapon to use against their enemies!"
Rias stared at the back of Thor, so that's what Thunderbolt Project was about! They wanted a Pagan God's power because they lost the power of God! Or did this Erikson guy Valper mention have no knowledge about God's death and simply wanted to have a Norse God as an asset for the Church? More importantly, how can a God's spirit be inherited by someone if they are celestial beings? Weren't Heros the only ones able to do that?
"How interesting. Two Gods die and one under mysterious reasons returns from the dead…" Valper mused aloud.
Thor stared at Eris, the death of God from the Bible caught him by surprise but the feeling of betrayal soon washed over it at having the secret revealed. Now everyone within the barrier knew Rias, Akeno, Asia, Issei, Koneko, Ares, and the Cadre's. They all knew he wasn't the real God of Thunder but a failed weapon created by the Church.
"So what!?"
His blue eyes looked up at the question asked by Rossweisse, she had floated before them all a fire that was never seen before smoldered within her beautiful eyes.
"So what if Lord Thor hails from the Church or if God of the Bible is dead!? Both Asgard and the Christians pushed forward, the latter may have not known of their God's death but they still thrived and spread their religion around the world and they still do! We of Asgard lost our greatest champion, our prince to the throne, and we mourned for him! But did we give in to despair? Did the Allfather let Asgard crumble after the loss of his son!? He did not! We weathered the storm after Surtr's Invasion and we rebuilt and we stood tall remembering our beloved Lord of Thunder! Now, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, he stands before us all reborn ready to take the task of unifying all the Factions into one coalition to promote peace! But first…" Magic seals appeared around her hands as she stared down the God of War and Fallen Angels, "We are going to stop your plans for war!"
Thor looked up at the silver-haired beauty, not expecting to hear her say such a rousing speech. She was right, both Asgard and the Church, although Heaven kept it secret, still thrived even with these tragedies befalling them. All around he saw his friend's fear replaced by determination!
"...Rossweisse…"
"Stop my plans for war!?" Kokabiel howled with laughter, "What an impressive speech you gave Valkyrie of Asgard! A pity it will not help you win." He rose from his throne casting aside the elegant robes in the process, "I'll enjoy taking all your heads starting with yours!"
Thor's eyes flashed, over my dead body you son of a bitch!
"Saul! Malak! Leave Rias Gremory to me! The rest are yours!" Kokabiel was eager to know what the Sister of Lucifer could do against him.
"Eris…why don't you help them," Ares added.
"You are not going to join?" Kokabiel questioned.
"I am the God of War. I will not aid you until I am certain your war will officially begin."
Ares' remaining Amazons charged into the fray and Eris provided defense and strength magic to them, Vandil, Andreas, and Kiba met the last three Amazons head-on, each giving it their all to win the battle. Saul's goal to attack Akeno and Rossweisse was stopped by Sigrun and Azrael engaging him in melee. Malak launched a hail of light spears upon which was met by an enormous barrier erected by Havarti to protect the Exorcists, Henrietta, and the still unconscious Asia from harm.
"Akeno! President!" Issei yelled flying straight to Rias and Akeno clapping his gauntleted arm upon their shoulders, a green aura surrounded the Devils as they felt their powers get increased by the Red Dragon.
"Give that last transfer to the Allfather's son, Issei!" Rias commanded, charging up her demonic power, the green glow of the Red Dragon Emperor glowed brighter around her as Rias raised her hands high above and began to form a ball of pure destruction, it grew bigger and bigger until it dwarfed her in size and it was aimed right at Kokabiel.
"Incredible! I think you've reached the level of Ultimate class but it won't be enough to stop me!" Kokabiel cackled.
The Power of Destruction within Rias hands charged to max and unleashed upon Kokabiel like a pack of wolves hunting their prey! The black and red mass soared through the air toward its target.
Everyone waited with bated breath for the outcome, the pure energy shook the earth as it came hurtling towards Kokabiel. The Fallen Angel leader raised his hands coated in holy light and caught it, albeit he was struggling against the power he nevertheless laughed with joy.
"Hahahaha! Yes! With the Red Dragon Emperor's power, you have gained much-needed strength! You would have even surpassed your brother someday!"
Rias watched her own attack start to destabilize, lose shape and push further away from its target before finally collapsing. Fringes of the power licked at Kokabiel, shredding the edges of his coat yet he ignored it in the heat of the moment. His hands were burned and blackened, yet they were surface injuries only while Rias' breath had become ragged and quick.
No…I gave it all and it just burned his hands!? Am I truly that weak!?
Transfer
The booming voice of Ddraig followed by the crack of thunder caught her attention. Issei had sent his third and final transfer to Thor, both he and Akeno stated down Kokabiel while Rossweisse was left to deal with Malak alone, which she was doing excellent at.
"Akeno… keep him distracted." Said Thor and he began tracing something upon the axe head.
Confused but acknowledging his request she summoned an enormous yellow seal formed above her as and launched a huge thunderbolt straight at Kokabiel. Instead of reaching the former leader, Saul flew between the attack casting layered defense seals and, like his master, struggled against the power before he felt his own strength suddenly increase. The Goddess of Chaos was empowering him with her magic. Boosted by the Goddess his defenses became strong enough to withstand the Queen, the Valkyrie had ceased her attack to keep her allies out of harm's way, a foolish decision. As the thunder maiden's attack began to cease Saul could sense a familiar power coming from the thunder, from Gremory Queen.
"You…" Saul said to Akeno as he gave her a hard stare, "Your power…I recognize it…you have Baraqiel's power! That means…you are his daughter!? You're a Fallen Angel like Azazel's son!?"
"Don't you ever call me that again!?" Akeno snapped as she struggled to break through the barrier, "Don't put me in the same category as those men!"
Saul grinned evilly, "Ok…then how about freak!"
Faster than she could react, Akeno found Saul appearing before her with his hand tightly gripping her throat. Before the Cadre could do further harm the Priestess, still boosted in power, brought down another huge thunderbolt upon herself and Saul both screaming at the pain flowing through them. The power of the attack was so great it send the two tumbling out of the sky forcing the battle above to give pause. They hit the ground hard, Saul bounced twice before landing on his face. Akeno felt air return to her lungs as she struggled to get to her feet, her affinity to thunder gave her some immunity but it was worth a gamble and paid off sorta.
"What did you say, Saul?" Kokabiel called down to his aide.
"Master…" Saul said slowly rising to his feet, one wing was broken and two were singed, "She's Baraqiel's daughter! He gave birth to a freak!"
"Akeno's part Fallen Angel?" Cried Issei, surprised by the revelation.
"Two freaks!? One a Devil the other living as a human! It's amazing how low our people have fallen to rely on humans just like Devils!" Kokabiel said dramatically.
Akeno looked away, today had revealed many secrets and her's was just another added to the list. The others probably hated her for being part of the race trying to destroy the city. Suddenly a shadow fell upon her, Akeno looked up and felt her breath caught as the Goddess of Chaos floated before her pity etched on the girl's face.
"You are just like me…" she whispered.
"W-what do you mean?" She was answered as four black feathers erupted from her back,
"You…you…" Akeno couldn't finish her sentence, she was shaking at seeing the Goddess's four wings. So that's what Valapr meant by her unique powers, her holy powers had been used to augment the Excalibur fragment's abilities.
She must have grown in power, Thor thought, remembering she had a single pair on Olympus. Looking back at Akeno he began to see the resemblance to Baraqiel; the eyes, the nose, her affinity to thunder, she really is his daughter and, like Eris, hates her father, her reasons, however, were unknown.
"I too am a Fallen Angel hybrid. A Fallen mother and Zeus as my foolish father who kept this secret from me. You are like me, Akeno Himejima, you have fallen blood within you and you hate your father. Just like me."
Akeno couldn't utter a single word at the Goddess's words nor move her body. She couldn't believe another yet another like her, like Azreal, existed but as a Goddess.
"I'd offer you to join us…but you want nothing to do with us so I will leave you to your fate." She floated away returning to guard Valper.
Saul, though wounded, dragged himself to his feet and reached Akeno, his face a mix of triumph and disgust, "You know if you want my personal opinion; having freaks like you sickens me. We were a proud race cast out of Heaven but our very leaders mingled with human women in a vain attempt to repopulate our people. It's worse than becoming a Devil! Well, at least I can rid you of this world and then Azazel's son too! Don't worry, I'll be sure to send your head back to your daddy! Oh and speaking of Baraqiel, you should have used his power to stop me!"
Akeno looked up into the Cadre's face as he bent over her like a dark loud. He raised his spear to kill. Then suddenly he cried out and his stroke when wide, from behind unseen by all came Havarti! The Dwarf had been watching the scene unfold and, not wishing to see his friend die, rushed to save her. Drawing a knife from a summoning spell he plunged it deep into Saul's back.
"Akeno! Akeno!" Cried the Dwarf, stumbling backward from his mad dash across the field. His surprise attack sent Saul to his knees, paralyzed and wide open for attack.
Akeno rose to her feet, her pretty face wrapped in anger unlike any had seen before. So, she should have used her father's power huh!? Well so be it! Pointing her finger at the Fallen Angel, Akeno concentrated all her power into the spell, thunder and lighting grew brighter and brighter, the last of the transfer power would be used in this attack. She screamed as she unleashed the holy lighting her father was famous for, the crack of thunder drowning out Saul's dying yell and leaving nothing to remain.
Sweat poured down the Queen's face as her breathing slowed, that last attack officially put her out of the battle. She couldn't use any more magic spells, offensive, defense, or even healing. Nevertheless, she was happy to be rid of that horrible man, the things he said were unforgivable and now he was no more and it was thanks to Havarti. She felt her legs give way and would have hit the ground if a pair of tiny but strong hands hadn't caught her. Violet eyes starred up into green.
"You saved me..." She whispered remembering Havarti stabbing Saul in the back.
"I wasn't about to lose my best friend. Even if you are half Fallen Angel."
Akeno's cheek turned red, "Havi."
Suddenly the Dwarf threw himself and Akeno to the dirt just as a spell came zooming overhead, glaring over his shoulder he saw Eris' staff pointed at them. Determining the distance between them and their friends he concluded they would not make it without getting hurt, still, if it meant getting Akeno to safety it was worth it. As another spell was sent forward a shower of pure energy intercepted the ball followed by an assault on Eris herself, which she countered with a barrier spell. Rossweisse was giving them a chance to try and escape. Havarti tried to help Akeno to her feet but the young Devil didn't have the strength to stand let alone even run they were pinned with no hope of escape unless a miracle occurred. Suddenly the earth suddenly quaked beneath Havarti and Akeno before an enormous shadow fell on them, the Giant had come for them. Gently Vandill picked them up like the Exorcists from before and started a mad dash to the others. Amazons were still fighting but Koneko had jumped in to replace Vandil while he went to rescue the Dwarf and former Fallen Angel hybrid.
"Once we get back to the others Havi can -agh!" Vandil stumbled and crashed to the floor in a roll, Havarti and Akeno falling out of his hand.
Looking to see what happened they found a large spear of light in Vandill's back. The attacker they saw was Eris, staff still erecting the barrier but her free was open with a magic seal aimed at them, her face had a look of annoyance on her face.
"Kokabiel! I grow tired of you toying with these children! My cousin and I joined forces with you to see a war start not to toy around with some kids. If you will not take this seriously then I will!"
From her hand, hundreds upon hundreds of miniature spears of light and feather from her wings were sent straight at Akeno and Havarti. Battered, tired, and low on energy either could cast a spell to protect against the attack coming their way. Akeno looked at the Dwarf, he was crawling towards her, arm outstretched to hold her hand. She smiled softly, if he was to die holding her hand she would allow it. Fighting through the pain she scooted herself closer to be in arms reach of Havi, taking his little hand in her own and waited for death.
If there is another life after this…I hope you are waiting for me mother…
"NOOOO!"
Akneo's eyes snapped open when once again the enormous form of Vandill, spear still lodged in his back, put himself in front of the two acting as a human shield. Death would not come for her yet. Both she and Havi watched in horror as the spears and feathers slammed into the Jotun's back, blood poured like a fountain out of him as each spear and feather hit him. When it was finished Vandill Aurvandillson stood before them like a freshly made statue with hundred of spears and feathers sticking out of him making him look like a pincushion.
"Vandill!" Thor screamed towards the Jotun, unable to comprehend what just happened. Vandill coughed, swayed, and with a heavy intake of air crashed forwards onto his face unmoving.
Kiba kneeled, his left thigh stabbed by the sword his Amazon opponent used against him before managing to slay her. The handicap, unfortunately, made him unable to save Akeno leaving the task to Vandill which he was doing great at until the Goddess of Chaos brought him down. He had grown fond of the Giant and hoped to spar with him someday but it seemed now that chance would never come.
"You bitch!" Snarled Thor, he was ready to rip the Goddess to pieces for killing his friend but Rias' hand on his shoulder put a stop to it. Although exhausted she gave a sympathetic smile to him..
"Your friend Vandill saved Akeno, even putting himself in harm's way to do so. I think he deserves a second chance to live but it will require a sacrifice."
Thor understood what she meant but did not care, he watched his friend come close to death back in Jotunheim, he did not want to see it a second time nor be the bearer of bad news to his father Aurvandill. Without a second thought, he nodded to the heiress and she floated to the fallen warrior to make him her newest servant. Her travel has been unhampered with Azrael joining in the magic attack with Rossweisse, those two seem to have an endless supply of magical reserves within or they were using it wisely.
"Vandill will be alright," Issei reassured, testing the foreigner's name on his tongue to remember it once he awoke as a Devil.
"I know. If Rias can let him see his father and friends I'm sure he'll accept his new life." Said Thor feeling comforted to know Vandill will live before turning his attention to Kokabiel. With Akeno having been occupied by the low-tire Cadre Thor knew he would not get the distraction he needed, he would have to face the insane man alone.
"Issei give me that transfer now."
"Right!
Transfer!
The moment he felt Issei touch his shoulder the God of Thunder felt his power increase ten fol, it made him feel like a true God.
"Allfather give me strength…" He whispered channeling magic into the axe, he hurled it with all his strength at Kokabiel. Instead of catching it like he had with Rias' attack Cadre moved to the side letting the weapon sore past him to slam into the throne, enormous cracks appeared in the chair before shattering to pieces.
"Really?" He asked his tone saying he was unimpressed at the attempt, "I was expecting more from-" He was cut short when the sound of thunder was heard from behind. Spinning around he was face to face with Thor.
How did he move so fast!? Looking past the boy's head he saw the axe head glowing with a magic seal on it. Of course, while he had been observing the fight between Saul and Baraqiel's daughter, Odin's son must have traced a teleportation spell on the axe head to allow him to teleport to wherever it is.
Clever boy
"I'm not about to let you destroy my town or stop MY dream from being achieved! I still need to touch President's boobs and get laid AND become a harem king!"
"What?" Was all Kokabiel could say before snapping his head back around to see the Red Dragon Emperor come flying at him and a red gauntlet slam into his face.
"Why to go Issei!" Rias shouted, sending a smile at Thor, his plan had worked. She wished she could have helped them but she had a Jotun to revive. From what she saw of his skills she knew exactly which piece he would take.
"I learned from a genius." Said Thor sparing a quick glave at Rossweisse who fired a relentless barrage of spells upon Eris to protect Akeno and Havarti. They could do this, they could hold out long enough for Sirzechs to arrive. Grabbing Jarnbjorn he brought it down upon Kokabiel.
"That's quite an impressive punch, Red Dragon Emperor but I expected more from you!"
His hand shot up to catch Issei by the throat to hold him in place while using his other hand to block Jarnbjorn with a sword of light, the force behind the blow had caused a miniature shockwave to spread around the school.
No! No! No! No! Thor screamed in his head as he tried to breach Kokabiel's defense but each attack was met with another block by the sword and an occasional wing. This couldn't be happening! The plan should have worked! After his twelfth attack, Thor was knocked away by the Cadre.
"Watch closely, Sister of Lucifer! The first one I kill will be the Red Dragon Emperor!" The sword of light was raised to kill Issei but then he stopped, "On second thought…I think your woman will be more suitable…" spreading his wings wide he sent a volley of feathers at Rossweisse's unprotected back.
Thor's warning came too late for the Valkyrie to hear as he helplessly watched the silver-haired beauty's back arch as the feathers stabbed into her like arrows before sending her falling to the earth. Casting all thoughts of battle aside the Prince of Asgard flew as fast as his magic could take him to catch the girl just before she hit the floor. His eyes were wide with fear as he exclaimed the wounds, were they fatal or nonfatal? His mind couldn't process correctly which answer it was.
"Rossweisse…Rossweisse!"
Aqua eyes weakly opened, slowly words came from her voice but barely above a whisper, "L-Lord Thor…"
"Hold on Rose! You'll be ok! Do you hear me! You'll live! You…you are a Goddess! Some stupid feathers can't hurt you!" He desperately looked around spotting Vandill sitting up with Rias' aid, his new life as a Devil had begun, Xenovia finishing the last Amazon, and finally seeing Asia awaken. "ASIA! HELP ROSE!"
As he looked back to the wounded Valkyrie he saw a spot of red on her cheek, then another and another, and soon realized it was blood, her blood, and it was raining down upon them.
"It looks like your woman won't survive, Son of Odin! I expected more from a Valkyrie of Asgard! They obviously don't live up to their reputation!" Kokabile laughed before turning his attention back to Issei, "Now… it's your turn to die Red Dragon Em-"
"DIVIDE!"
At that very moment, something smashed through the barrier at lightning speed and collide with Kokabiel, the force of the impact sending the Cadre spinning out of control and losing his grip on Issei who was gasping for air and flailing as he fell to the ground. A pair of strong but gentle arms wrapped around Issei and he found himself carried bridle style by Henrietta, the Einherjar had recovered enough strength to stand.
"W-wow, your strong." He meekly said, blushing at being so close to the beautiful blonde's chest.
"Now, now. Mr. Hyoudou, you shouldn't be trying to hit on a teacher." She scolded lightly with a teasing smile.
"R-right…I…I feel so weak." And he wasn't faking it to stay in the woman's arms, that attack that 'Divide' if he remembered it being called sapped half his power away.
"It's him!"
Issei looked at the gauntlet, "Who?"
"My rival!" Snarled Ddraig.
"Master!" Malak yelled, breaking off his duel with Sigrun and Azreall to aid Kokabiel.
All eyes, save Thor, looked upwards to the new arrival. Floating high above them was what appeared to be a being clad in white armor encrusted with blue orbs around it. Who was this stranger that came out of nowhere?
"It's about time you showed up!" Everyone turned to Azrael, his blue eyes had a look of disappointment in them, "Were you off ignoring my father's orders again!?
It then clicked in everyone's head that this was the agent Azazel had sent to stop Kokabiel. Why indeed did it take him so long to show up?
"You can stop your whining." The Grigori agent answered, the voice indicating it was a male behind the mask, his focus solely on Kokabiel.
"So… the Vanishing Dragon has come." Ares said, a look of excitement spreading across his face, "I had a hunch that with the red one here you would come too."
"That's the White Dragon Emperor!?" Exclaimed Sigrun, she heard the stories of the heavenly dragon but never in her life would she ever see it, or him, in person.
"If you think you can stop me, Vanishing Dragon then-"
"My name is Albion!" The wielder of the White Dragon announced to all, then he raised his hand from his voice boomed, "Divide!"
The enormous spear Kokabiel prepared immediately vanished as if it was a magic trick, as did another portion of power. Even with his aide's assistance none of the spears of light reached Albion, they simply vanished out of existence with each shout of 'Divide' by him.
"Damn you!" Malak cursed.
Again they tried to attack Albion with spears of light and even swords, but like before it was useless. Albion swung his arm to the side and vaporized them. While Kokabiel was having a hard time fighting, his powers were getting halved.
"Finally!" Havarti exclaimed throwing his hands up in relief, "We can rest! Thor we-" His voice died in his throat, the God of Thunder had plucked the last feather from Rossweisse. The energy given to him was still glowing, in fact, the glow started to change from green to yellow…sparks danced around his clenched hands. "Oh no…"
"One more Divide and you'll be at middle-level. How boring… maybe I'll just keep you at this power to test my strength!" Albion said as he lazily blocked another attack by Malak.
Murder burned within the red eyes of Kokabiel, "Don't mock me, boy! I-"
He never finished his sentence as a fist impacted against the side of his face sending him flying into the school. The sudden attack startled Malak making him turn to be face to face with the God of Thunder, a very, very, angry God of Thunder. His blue eyes showed what his intention was.
Kill.
Malak has no time to react as he felt himself get backhanded, the attack sending him flying toward Eris. The impact shattered her barrier and accidentally redirected her counterspell towards Valapr causing the stout man to dive for cover knowing the attack would surely have obliterated him.
Asia paused in her hurried jog to aid Rossweisse to see the horrific end to Valapr and Lord Thor's sudden attack on the Fallen Angels.
"Come on, Asia, we have to save her!" Akeno said to the nun tugging her along to keep running to the downed Valkyrie. She was grateful Asia healed first to help with mending wounds. She had seen the look in Thor's eyes as he cradled the silver-haired beauty in his arms, he was scared to lose her. She and Asia would make sure that would not happen!
"I'LL KILL YOU KOKABIEL!" Thor's voice was like thunder as he screamed it to the heavens before taking off into the school barrelling through each spell Kokabiel threw at him.
Xenovia watched in awe and fear at the power Thor displayed, flashes of thunder could be seen within the school, indicating where the two were before a portion of the roof was obliterated by an enormous blast of thunder mixed with lighting, out of the splinters and concrete flailing about like a ragdoll came Kokabiel. Like any who knew about the Son of Odin, Thor was known for his incredible power and burst of anger now she, and everyone else was bearing witness to it, and, being honest with herself, she was scared, scared to see that power be turned upon them if he wasn't blind with rage. She saw Thor grabbing both upper wings of the ten-winged Fallen Angel and beginning to pull hard erecting a scream of agony that echoed around the barrier as blood and feathers went flying everyone.
"Was…was this what Erikson wanted to unlock and use against the Devils?" Irina asked Commodus, shaking with fear as she watched Kokabiel get a double axe handle attack that she was certain had cracked his skull.
"I think so.." Said Commodus, he only knew Project Thunderbolt had been to use Thor as a weapon. Now seeing it on display he started to think it was a good idea the project was destroyed.
Thor grabbed Kokabiel by the wings more once and began to spin him around, faster and faster until it looked as if a miniature lightning tornado was about to be formed until he released him sending the bloodied Fallen flying into the magic seal drawn into the ground. Nobody had asked what exactly that seal was but it mustn't be good.
"YOU HURT ROSWEISSE! I'LL MAKE YOU FEEL THAT PAIN A THOUSAND TIMES MORE!"
Kokabiel slowly raised his head up, eyes widening upon realizing he was laying atop the spell, the same spell he, Ares, and Eris had created as a last resort to blow up the town. Struggling to raise his right hand with what strength he had left he tried to call upon his magic to activate the spell only to see the hand get chopped off, his horrified expression reflecting off the axe head. His scream was muffled as his head was stomped upon and buried into the earth. His severed hand went limp and he was unmoving.
Thor's eyes fell upon Valpar, the man who had ruined Kiba's life staring back at him sweating like a pig, shaking in uncontrollable fear.
"..This… is what Erikson has wanted!" He gasped out, "He wanted…the berserk fury of the God of Thunder!" His eyes rolled into the back of his head and with a tiny whimper collapsed to the ground unconscious beneath the pressure Thor unleashed.
"Partner…" Whispered a voice inside Albion's head.
"I know… I wasn't expecting the Son of Odin to interrupt my plan but it's of no concern. Kokabiel is defeated and I have gained myself a new target to test my strength against."
"He…he beat him…" Rossweisse managed to breathe out, the wounds upon her back closing from the combined healing of Asia and Akeno.
"He did indeed." Akeno sighed, glad the bastard was finally beaten but that didn't mean the battle was over… there was still the God of War and Goddess of Chaos, the former she saw was standing from his throne, his eyes wide with excitement.
"Yes!" Ares cried, "That's what I've been waiting for! Thor Odinson, you have given me what I have been waiting to see in centuries! The bloodlust! The carnage! You truly are the God of Thunder!"
"Uh oh!" Gasped Irina stepping back a pace as the God of Thunder glared at the God of War, "Are we about to bear witness to a battle of Gods?"
Her fears were correct as Thor rushed the God of War, his axe left behind in the process. Blinded by anger Thor couldn't think properly. All he wanted to do was fight and seek revenge on those who hurt his Valkyrie maiden.
And who wouldn't feel that way for someone you love?
Thor's eyes burned with unyielding rage as he zoomed towards Ares, this man, this traitor of Olympus talked about joining Kokabiel to start a war yet all he did was sit around while his daughters and cousin do all the heavy lifting. If he wanted this war so badly he should have started it by himself well… now he was going to get it for not helping. Closer and closer Thor drew and then he threw his fist forward to knock Ares out. Suddenly he saw the golden energy around his arm, the power of a god, start to slip away and before he could stop his attack or even back away he found his fist caught in the God of War's grip. The excitement Ares had faded into disappointment at how easily he caught the punch.
"It seems…you've used all that power on Kokabiel. What a shame I had hoped to have a good battle." He reached down to his hip and slowly draw his sword, flames running along the blade as it was unsheathed, "All my life I hoped to face the God of Thunder but now that he's dead you are here to replace him and you unfortunately are not the real God of Thunder but a downgrade. I will make it quick and painless for you and your friends."
"Thor!"
"Thor!"
"Lord Thor!"
The shouts of his friend's reached Thor's ears, the loudest being Rossweisse, her shrieks growing louder and louder. Turning back he saw her speeding as fast as she could towards him, spells ready to be cast against the God of War. He had seen her nearly die…now she was about to see him die. Were are Sirzechs and Asgard!? Why hadn't they shown up yet!? It should have been an hour by now!
Before Ares could thrust the sword forward a massive rainbow beam of energy came smashing through the barrier, the size, and power behind the unknown energy shattered the barrier to pieces. Sona and her peerage were startled at how easily their barrier was destroyed. Rias was the closest to the beam but to her surprise, she was unharmed by it but could feel great power emitting from it. The more she looked at it the more her mind started to click at what this was and who had finally come to their aide.
The whining of a horse was heard within the Bifrost followed by two blurs shooting out to take up flanking position on Ares; they soon were revealed as men, men who brought joy to Rossweisse's face.
"Lord Baldur! Lord Vidar!"
The Sons of Odin did not greet the Valkyrie nor acknowledge her, the God of Light and God of Vengence's attention focused on the God of War. On Vidar's feet, Rossweisse saw the legendary boots he used to defeat Fenrir. Now there was a chance of winning for sure.
Rias looked to the Bifrost and felt her breath hitch, as it vanished a large white stallion stood before them, this stallion, however, had eight legs and there was only one horse like that in the Supernatural world.
"Sleipnir!" She gasped her eyes traveling upwards to see its rider, a bearded man dawned in elegant golden armor, two ravens perched on each shoulder, a might spear was held in his right hand and his only blue eye stared up at Ares with an unrighteous fury.
"Allfather…" Ares whispered gazing in awe to see the king of Asgard himself come to the battlefield. How unfortunate for Kokabiel and Valpar to be unconscious at this time, to see so many Gods in one area was a sight to behold. It certainly was for these kids, all of these were looking in awe and hope at these powerful warriors.
Odin motioned Sleipnir forward and the legendary horse obeyed his master's command, first stepping forward past the children then into the sky as if he was ascending a flight of stairs. Up and up the horse took Odin until he was level with Ares, Rossweisse following close beside roll as the bodyguard enacted.
Thor slowly reached for Odin, tears welling within his eyes like not having seen their parent in years.
"Release my son." Said Odin, his tone commanding, his eye burning with a fire not seen since the Aesir-Vanir War, "Release my son and you and your cousin will go in peace!"
"Father!" Protested Baldur.
"Enough blood has been shed today, Baldur!" Odin fired backed watching, waiting for Ares would comply.
"God of War." Vidar said taking a slight step forward, his golden eyes flashing menacingly, "If you hurt him. If you remove even a SINGLE strand of hair from my baby brother you will learn why I am called the God of Vengence."
Everyone waited to see what Ares would do. If he complied he would leave if not…not even he could stand against three Gods, the White Dragon Emperor, and a Satan who should be arriving at any minute. Looking at Thor one last time he pushed the boy towards Odin sheathing his sword in the process. Rossweisse leaped forward caught Thor with her arms and held him close refusing to lessen her hold on the God of Thunder.
"Thor Odinson, grow stronger. Make your name known to the Supernatural world and then I will face you once more." Ares declared before vanishing in a column of fire.
On the ground Eris grabbed hold of Malak, the low-tire Cadre knocked out cold. Her gaze shifted to Akeno, who stared at her, violet and red eyes meeting for a moment before Eris also vanished in a flutter of feathers.
Silence fell upon the school, only the subtle rustle of the leaves in the wind was heard. The Devils and Asgardians looked between one another relief washing over them at last. They had won… despite the odds stacked against them and all the enemy threw at them they had won.
"Father…" Thor whispered…looking at Odin between Rossweisse's arms. He had not expected the Allfather -no- his father and brothers to be the reinforcements Vandill spoke of. Vandill… he was no longer a citizen of Asgard or a Jotun but a Devil in servitude to Rias Gremory as a means to save his life, the sacrifice to save him was great but it was a debt he could never repay Rias for.
Odin laid a hand upon Thor's head as he smiled down at him, "I'm proud of you, son."
Thor smiled weakly, son…this was the second time he was called son by Odin…and his first time calling him father. As his vision began to fade he saw a red glow from down below meaning Sirzechs had finally arrived, he wanted to be there to join in the celebration but he was too tired and too hurt, to do anything. All he wanted was to keep being held in the arms of the woman he loved.
And so ends the Excalibur arc with the truth of God and Thor being revealed and more changes from cannon if any have spotted them. Next time is a downtime chapter before moving on to the peace summit. See you all next time!