Greetings everyone! The next chapter is here. I saw nobody understood those Norse words they meant axe time, sword time. So the previous translated to axe time, sword time, in the devil's den. Also, starting Tuesday I will begin my new job so any future chapters will be delayed, I hope you all can be patient. Now on to replies
Dunedan: That is true Dunedane, Thor, and Gasper are very different lol. I'm also glad you enjoyed the fight, showing Kiba growing in skill is something I love writing.
Lorenzo Macchiavelli: thanks Lorenzo
Terror: I hope so too
Alcatraz: He will but if he wants unity he'll need to control that anger.
Optimus470: Thor's victory allows him one step closer to reaching true godhood and be strong enough to face Eris and Ares.
Valtazar: Just so you know Rias is a woman, and yes she needs to improve and not rely on Issei like canon did. She was such a great character in the beginning and was thrown under the bus after vol 12.
Lindor: And you shall see that meeting in this chapter.
Thor x Rose: That's right, the Norms and Moria both are related to fate. Since humans believe in gods, I chose to have the gods believe in the fates.
Rain poured from the sky as thunder roared and lightning flashed, the wind howled like wolves signaling an attack while waves as big as houses slammed down into the ocean. Despite this, Thor refused to yield. His feet were spread apart with one slammed deep into the ship's hull as pulled with his great strength a massive rope from the stormy sea.
"Stop! Please! Stop!"
The voice was ignored by the red-haired God, his might focused only on his catch. Today was the day he would finally catch and kill that wretched thing! There was another crack of thunder followed by the splintering of wood, sparing back a quick glance over his shoulder he saw the sail catch alight with fire and go crashing into the hull spreading the flames.
"For your father's sake, Thor, please stop this!"
The other occupant, the owner of the ship, screamed again as he tried to douse the fire but again Thor ignored him. His eyes were full of focus and determination to win, to kill. He felt the rope give a tug and he would have fallen overboard had he not had one foot stuck in the floorboard. Then he saw what he was looking for, an enormous shape could be seen beneath the waves with two large glowing yellow eyes. Thor grit his teeth as he drew his mighty hammer Mjolnir waiting for the right moment to strike and slay his prey.
At his catch breached the surface and with a battle cry louder than the thunder brought Mjolnir down upon it!
"TTTTTTHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRR!"
Thor sat up gasping for air, sweat covering his body and soaking the sheets. Another dream…no another memory flash. He was out in a thunderstorm fishing with someone fishing for something, something big, something he wanted to kill but what was it? He tried recalling what his prey was but couldn't visualize it but the image was too fuzzy to recall yet…it felt familiar in some way. Sighing, he rolled out of bed and began to get dressed, today he'd be attending a meeting with his mother and Issei at Akeno's home. This meeting had to be important if the God of Thunder, the Queen of Asgard, and the Red Dragon Emperor, must attend. There was a knock on the door and Freya came in wearing the Brísingamen, today she chose an ornate grey feather cloak over a green gown with gold trimmings. The more Thor stared at the cloak the more he began to recall what that thing he was fishing for was. He remembered the color of the beast, grey with yellow eyes but what was it exactly? A sea monster?
"Are you alright?" The Goddess asked taking notice of his expression.
"I'm fine, mother." He lied, he did not want her to worry about him when they had a meeting to attend.
"Then if you are ready, let us go."
Elsewhere in the building
Sigrun watched the queen and her son stroll along the grass to Akeno's home. She and the others had been informed about the meeting leaving the Valkyries free for the day which suited the Emerald Valkyrie just fine. Spinning on her heels she walked through the building until finding who she was looking for. To say Asia was surprised to see the warrior maiden call her was an understatement.
"Oh! Lady Sig-"
"Please, Asia. There's no need for titles. I'm just plain old Sigrun."
"O-ok. Sigrun. Well…how is your stay in Kuoh?"
"Very exciting if I say so myself. This is quite a cute town to live in. The shopping district has been a blast exploring. Rossweisse saw so many discount stores I literally had to drag her away before she could buy anything. How is your little Dhampir?"
The Valkyrie was led to a window where Asia pointed out Vandill, Kiba, and Koneko all standing in front of a trembling box.
"Gasper come on man! Don't hide in your box again!"
"B-but Koneko is being mean!"
"She's just trying to help you grow stronger."
"Uhm…how is waving garlic in front of his face suppose to help him?"
Asia smiled sheepishly at the commotion occurring outside, "He still needs help. Issei was able to get him to come out of the box sometimes but he has a long way to go."
"With opening up to people and controlling his powers. Hmm…if it helps he needs I know the perfect person for that solution."
On the edge of town
If there was one word to describe Issei Hyoudou it was a pervert. In fact, the second-year student was so perverted it was a miracle he wasn't arrested for all the things he shouts about wanting to do in school. Of course, having said school owned by supernatural forces meant he was lucky unlike that old man he met when he was seven. He was also lucky to be in the Supernatural now, being surrounded by so many beautiful women with huge breasts and sleeping naked with him was a fantasy any pervert dreamed of having and he would eventually achieve his greatest dream; a harem king with so many women. The one he desired the most was obviously Rias Gremory, she was perfect in every way; confident, red hair, kind, and most importantly sporting a large chest he loved having his face buried into. Of course, Akneo outsized Rias in that category.
His lecherous smile faltered when recalling Akeno being called a hybrid. He didn't know Akeno was a Fallen Angel and it surprised him more to see another Fallen Angel hybrid, that Goddess with the sexy legs. How could a woman so sexy be so evil? Evil…the very thought brought forth a face he wanted to forget.
Will you die for me?
"Welcome, Issei-kun."
Issei blinked when hearing his name called. Their Akeno stood on the steps in front of him dressed in her priestess attire. Gosh she sure was sexy in traditional Shinto robes..
"It seems Lord Thor and Lady Freya are late."
The mention of Thor made the pervert frown, of course, thunder boy had to be here to ruin alone time with Akeno, at least his mother was going to be here too. Two sexy ladies and one was daring enough to expose her enormous cleavage. Oh, how he wished he could be smothered by those.
"Oh, there they are!"
Sure enough, God and his mother came strolling towards them in elegant robes of the Norse world. Thor was in a simple violet tunic with gold trimmings and black pants while his mother had a gown so form-fitting it showed every curve on her figure and, unlike her blue gown, covered most of her cleavage. What a shame, no breasts to look at…
"Welcome, Lord Thor. Lady Freya." Akeno bowed, "I hope you won't mind our host for the meeting."
"Who are they exactly?"
"A representative of Heaven." Akeno said slowly, wincing when Thor stood up a little straighter with wide eyes. She knew he would react this way but it was best to tell him the truth rather than keep it a surprise as Rias intended.
"Heaven." Growled the God of Thunder.
"Thor," Freya warned and the young man slowly composed himself. She understood he was still getting over his grudge but he needed to keep his cool for this meeting.
"So you live here then?" Issei spoke up to ease the tension while Akeno led them up the stairs to her home.
"I do, the last priest passed away before I was born. It was condemned until Rias acquired it. Considering my…family status, she felt it was a good place for me when not in her service."
A status you refuse to acknowledge…
"Ah, Red Dragon Emperor, God of Thunder, and of course the Queen of the Valkyries, it is a pleasure to meet you all."
Someone new emerged from the shrine; he appeared to be a young man with platinum blonde hair even brighter than Henrietta's or Kiba's. He was wrapped in a white robe with ornate metal pauldrons adorning each shoulder as if he were part priest and warrior. Issei had to shield his eyes slightly at the light emanating from his matching six pairs of wings. They were identical in shape to those of a fallen angel; only these were shining gold as bright as the sun reminding Thor of Alfheim. The halo hovering over his head made his identity all the more obvious as he approached to shake their hands cordially.
"Michael," Thor growled under his breath, his temper steadily rising, "Heaven's new leader."
Michael's smile softened, "Lord Odinson…it's an honor to finally meet you. The stories of your deeds are known to Heaven. As are your, Red Dragon Emperor. I can still sense Ddraig's presence. I remember well the power he displayed when we attempted to seal him away. Come, let us sit. I'm sure you all have many questions."
"Regin that temper in, young man, or there will be consequences," Freya whispered to her son before following the Archangel into the shrine.
Ten minutes later they were gathered around a table and served tea, Micheal and Freya sat opposite of one another the slightest hint of tension hung in the air. On Akeno's right sat Issei looking nervous and trying not to stare at the Goddess while on her left…Thor was glaring daggers at Micheal with pursed lips trying his utmost best not to burst with frustration. She understood his anger, the God of Thunder waited for years to finally obtain an answer and now he may get it.
"So," Said Freya, breaking the silence after sipping her tea, "You mentioned hearing about the deeds my son performed? Olympus? Jotunheim? Kuoh?"
"All of it. Azazel and Sirzechs passed along the information from your husband to me. I am quite impressed at what he has done and pleased to see his determination to see peace achieved between all the Factions"
"Good. Then perhaps you can answer my questions about-"
"Why are you now deciding to stop isolating yourself!?" The God of Thunder snapped, startling Issei and Akeno at his outburst, Do you know what kind of shit has been happening while you stayed in your fluffy clouds!? Do you know how many people were treated like trash by the humans who suck your cock!? Kiba, Asia…myself. Did you watch us suffer? When I was in your precious institution I prayed for one of you to save me but you didn't! So why didn't you help me or Kiba or Asia!? I've been having memory flashes of a life I never lived! I fought a psychotic priest who looked exactly like Siegfried! What are you trying to do with our hero!?"
"Thor Odinson, I told you-"
"Peace, Lady Freya. Your son has every right to be angry." Micheal said waving Freya down, "After losing so many Angels and our Father, Heaven was thrown into chaos. We shut our gates to rebuild, reorganize, and try to figure out what to do next. I assure you none of us had any knowledge of what the Church was doing until now. The Holy Sword and Thunderbolt Projects were done under our nose and mark my words, Thor Odinson, had I known about what the Church was doing I'd have stopped them sooner. I regret not knowing until they already happened."
Thor continued to glare at the blonde even as he bowed his head in apology but the more he thought about Micheals's words the more he began to understand Heaven's reason, God was the creator of Heaven and the Sacred Gears so his death would have a heavy impact on the Angels. At least Micheal was honest to him, unlike the Exorcists. Inhaling a deep breath Thor counted to ten in his head before letting it out, the anger swelling inside fading away like a morning mist when the sun rises.
"I'm sorry…" He muttered looking down apologetically, "I-"
"Please don't apologize. I understand you are upset and wanted answers. However, I think we should talk more about these matters at the summit where it is more appropriate. You and your mother are here as a neutral party for this meeting and bear witness to what occurs." Micheal turned his gaze towards Issei, "I requested your presence as there was something I wanted to give you."
As soon as he said that they all felt a great energy forming before the Archangel, the source was revealed to be an ornate European sword with a red and gold hilt and a handguard designed like four golden claws reaching up the blade, there was no doubt it was a holy blade on par with Durandal.
"Micheal…you're giving him Saint George's sword? The Praetorian Guard for Roman Emperor Diocletian" Freya asked in surprise.
"I do." Was all he said before announcing to Issei, "I gift to you the Dragon Slaying Holy Sword, Ascalon. This sword was wielded by one of the greatest dragon slayers of the Church, Saint George."
"Wow..uhmm thanks. But…why me?" Issei stepped forward, watching the sword tentatively. It was still a holy sword and he was a devil. If he even touched it, the power could be fatal.
"Many dragons perished by this blade, so as a special courtesy I am gifting this to you…a devil that holds the strength of the dragons."
"But why?" Issei asked again.
"The reason we are so set on Asgard attending is to expand the purpose of this meeting," he motioned towards Freya. "Heaven and Hell both lost their leaders while the fallen angels lost so many of their numbers that their future is in question without outside aid. Do not worry; I am aware you know God is dead as well as the original four Satans. We know that Azazel is vehemently against another war and I have no desire as well. With our Asgardian relations on the mend, it is the Underworld we wish to show the sincerity of our desire. If we continued to fight, even in small skirmishes, no side will be able to recover and face annihilation either from the slow decay of time or from invasion of another power. Fortunately, thanks to the union of Olympus and Asgard, we need not fear that front. Don't feel awkward, I have presented gifts to the other powers as well. Your side even gave us several Holy Demonic swords to study so we are grateful. Once Heaven and Hell made peace to stop the dragon you now possess and his rival. If you wield this sword that can be a symbol showing such cooperation is needed once again. It will make an excellent weapon to support your Sacred Gear."
"Can I even touch it?" Issei asked, apparently resolved to become stronger so such statements could not be made. "Considering it is both a holy AND dragon slaying sword…"
"We performed a combined purification ritual with Ms. Himejima's assistance at this shrine. From today forward, even a dragon-devil may touch it." Akeno nodded to confirm his words.
Issei stretched out his hand, claiming the sword with a wince expecting the pain from the holy weapon. He gasped a sigh of relief as it became obvious there was none; the holy aura shined brightly yet bypassed his devil attribute leaving him unharmed. Issei seemed deeply focused on the sword, after a moment his Sacred Gear burst to life, the weapon dispersing into holy light that disappeared within. In a sudden lurch which caused both men to jump, the blade of Ascalon burst from his gear almost like a sword-length punching dagger.
"Ha!" Issei let out in victory. "I did it!"
Thor whistled, "Very impressive, Issei. Looks like you'll need to learn from Kiba how to properly use a sword."
"Now I must go. Tomorrow I shall answer the rest of your questions. Farewell." With that, the Archangel disappeared in a burst of blinding light.
"I too much depart. Rossweisse will need help finalizing the plans for the meeting." Said Freya rising to her feet, "Thor, even though Micheal answered your questions I am still disappointed in you for lashing out like that. You could have caused serious trouble for the meeting. Possibly make Heaven back out of the talks."
Free of all his anger Thor bowed his head in shame, "I'm sorry mother. I've been so frustrated with the lack of answers I've gotten since encountering the Exorcist. I had hoped Micheal would have known something about me and if so have the answer I seek."
Freya's demeanor softened, "Thor, I know you want answers but asking them like that was not the correct way to do it. You told us you didn't fight the Exorcist when you first met them."
"But I still hit Commodus and yelled at him…" Thor muttered.
"He called you the Church's property man! Of course, you'd wanna punch him!"
Thor shot a glare at Issei, "How do you know that?"
"Kiba told us. He explained everything while you were recovering after the battle." Answered Akeno, "Nobody deserves to be called property, Thor. Nobody."
"Your friends are correct. Although you also could have ignored him. You can stay with your friends until Ms. Gremory arrives. I will see you later." She kissed his cheek and departed in a fashion similar to the Fallen Angels via the powers of her cloak leaving the young teens alone to contemplate tomorrow.
Not long after…
"Another?"
"Please," Issei accepted a new cup of tea from Akeno. After the delegation had departed she felt it was only polite to offer some tea and food until Rias arrived to depart with Issei and Thor home.
"So, were you the one who helped purify the sword?" He asked, eyeing Ascalon jutting from the boosted gear on his arm curiously."
"Yes," she replied softly. "At least in the portion requiring equal parts devil and fallen angel input, there were still instruments in this shrine that could serve both purposes. We were at it all morning."
"This is a great gift. A holy sword of my own. But I've never been much of a sword-guy myself, that's more Kiba's thing."
"It's like Thor said, Kiba can show you the ropes if you ask. If there is time perhaps Sigrun could even help."
"Speaking of thunder boy…" Issei's eyes shifted to the God of Thunder, the redhead had been sipping his tea saying nothing after Freya left. What had the Aesir so deep in thought to not say a word?
"Thor, are you alright?" Asked Akeno gently.
"I don't know…" Thor muttered, looking at the tea in his cup. He seemed to be distracted for another reason which became apparent as he looked up. "We need to talk about your heritage."
Akeno's expression darkened but dread filled her heart, she was expecting this conversation to happen eventually. She wanted to know what Issei and Thor thought and now was the time to do so.
"Uhm, is this about her being related to a Fallen Angel leader?" Issei asked.
"It is." Akeno whispered while getting to her feet, "You know my father is a Fallen Angel but what you don't know is that my mother was a human, therefore… I'm a hybrid."
Issei gasped but Thor remained composed as mismatched wings appeared from Akeno's back, one Devil and one Fallen Angel.
"She was a priestess at a shrine just like this one; I was born from their meeting after he collapsed outside its borders from injuries sustained in battle and she tended to him. Eventually, they fell in love and had me."
"She must have been very beautiful if you inherited her looks. All I see from Baraqiel is your eyes and his powers."
A ghost of a smile flashed across Akeno's face at the compliment Thor gave but her sadness did not waver, "I have such ugly wings. I hoped Rias would make them go away by becoming a Devil but I still have them. Fallen angels killed Issei, Asia too, you were here when they tried to destroy the city. They…"
"Had a schism leading to more Fallen Angels being killed by Asgard as agreement to our alliances with Grigori." Thor cut in rising to his own feet, "I have my share of Fallen Angel blood on my hands and I have met many good and bad ones. You saw first hand I came here with another Fallen Angel hybrid who just so happened to be Azazel's son to stop Kokabiel. That should show you they're not evil. And you most certainly are not like Kokabiel; he was a maniac who needed to be put down. Just because you are Baraqiel's daughter doesn't mean I hate you."
"I do hate fallen angels," Issei finally found his words. "But you're different, Akeno-San! I like you for who you are!" Her face softened somewhat at the combined assurances of two who were far from friends, yet agreed on this point, however…
"You shouldn't be sorry, I have the blood of a fallen angel in me. Thor, you know the man I call father. You've seen him. Neither of you should be forgiving me…"
"You did NOTHING wrong," Thor stated, anger bubbling in his stomach at how stubborn Akeno was at hating herself, "Something happened to make you hate your father and it has something to do with your mother."
Grief turned to shock then to anger, "What did you say?"
"I overheard Baraqiel and Azazel talking about their children and mentioned your mother. It's obvious your mother died and you hate Baraqiel for whatever caused it. You are just like Eris! She was the daughter of a God and Fallen Angel and she, like you, hates her father. Zeus kept her heritage as a Fallen Angel secret and she never knew her real mother who died in the Great War! You hate your father for losing your mother! You've already followed in Eris's footsteps by hating your father! I watched one father lose a daughter. I can't bear to see it again! Your father loves you, Akeno! Don't become like Eris! Don't let the death of your mother destroy the bond between you and your father. Don't…Don't follow in Eris's footsteps…I can't watch it happen again."
Unable to hold his emotions in anymore, tears rolled down the God's cheeks as he buried his face into trembling hands while Akeno looked on in stunned silence. She heard about the Battle of Olympus from Rossweisse and Sigrun but neither explained why Eris betrayed them, until now. So that was why she hated Zeus; he kept her Fallen Angel side a secret and never told her who her real mother was, no wonder she hated her father…
"It was Kokabiel who told her…" Thor continued through sniffles, "He…he found her…broke the seal keeping her Holy Powers at bay. Told her who her mother was and…and she joined the Khaos Brigade. She blames Zeus for Celine being killed in the Great War…she…"
"Thor? What's going on?"
Behind the God was Rias Gremory and someone nobody was expecting to see since the Holy Sword Crisis, Havarti Birgerson. Both Devil and Dwarf were looking between the trio in confusion. Noticing Akeno's mismatched wings meant she told the God and Pawn about her past but what confused Rias was the tear stains and red cheeks on Thor's face prompting her brow to furrow as she turned her gaze upon her servants.
"Akeno, Issei, what happened? Why-"
"It wasn't their fault, Rias. I…I've just been having an emotional day…" Thor managed to choke out between sobs, "I'll take my leave now."
Rias watched the Aesir hastily leave the shrine and disappear down the stairs. Just what in name of the Four Satan's caused Thor to get so emotional?
Rias watched the Son of Odin quickly depart, her gaze shifting turning back to Akeno who she realized had both Devil and Fallen Angel wing out,
When the silence got uncomfortable Rias said, "Akeno, Havarti came to pay you a visit. He was hoping to surprise you but it seems we walked in on something… personally."
"It's alright," Akeno said quickly returning to her normal self once Thor left and sending a smile towards the Dwarf, "I appreciate the company."
"Excellent. Issei lets-"
"Wait a minute, Rias." Said Akeno, she would only use her best friend's name unless the matter was serious, "Please… will you all stay? Just for a moment?"
"What happened, Akeno? Why was Thor crying?" Havarti asked urgently but gently.
"We had a fight…after showing him what I am…"
It was then the Dwarf noticed her mismatched wings, "Oh! You have a Devil and Fallen Angel wing! Yes, I remember now. You are the daughter of a Fallen Angel!"
"Yes…I'm related to a Fallen Angel…"
"But you became a Devil and now have different wings. That is so cool!"
His reaction had taken Akeno completely off guard but it brought a hint of comfort to see yet another person close to her didn't hate her, "Havi-kun, you don't hate me for being a Fallen Angel?"
"Hate you!? Are you kidding!? I knew you were an amazing woman when I first met you but knowing you are part Fallen Angel makes you cooler! To possess both Devil and Fallen Angel wings is something I find truly fascinating. You're one of a kind, Akeno Himejima, and I would never hate you. You are my friend! Ever since I met you you've been such a wonderful person to be around. All our contracts together have been so fun! Why while on my way here I was thinking we could- uhmm… A-Akeno?"
The Dwarf's rambling was silenced as the shrine maiden approached and pulled him into a gentle embrace, his face buried into her breasts which Issei looked on with jealousy.
"Havi-kun, Issei-kun. Thank you. All of you. I thought you'd all hate me for what I was. I was wrong." The Priestess's cheeks reddened at the Dwarf's words, since learning Eris was just like her Akneo had worried everyone would hate her but she was wrong. Thor, Issei, Vandill, Havarti. Everyone didn't judge her heritage as a Fallen Angel. They cared about her, they saw her as a friend and she was truly grateful for them. Still hearing about Eris' history shook her, she wanted to deny it all but Thor was right…they were similar. The biggest difference was she would never betray the ones she loved.
Rias stepped forward joining the Dwarf to hug Akeno, "Of course, you are wrong, Akeno. How could any of us hate you? Just because you are the daughter of Baraqiel doesn't mean we hate you. Have you forgotten my family accepted you for who you are? You wanted to be a Devil to get rid of your Fallen Angel side but it's still a part of you and still, my family never judged you. And even now nobody still hates you, Vandill, Issei, Thor, and now Havarti accepts you for who you are."
"Rias…" Started Akeno but Rias wasn't finished.
"It's time you stop this self-hatred and accept yourself for who you are as well as allow your father to come back into your life. I know your relationship with your father is complicated and as much as I would like to help we need to focus on the summit. This is your story to tell, however, if it remains an issue then I will breach our confidence to finish it if it means helping you overcome your past."
"Rias!" Akeno gasped, surprised to hear Rias would tell everyone about her past.
"Akeno Himejima, you listen to me. You are my Queen and sister in all but blood. You and Vandill are right, as your King, it is my duty to help my servants. I couldn't help Kiba but I will help you."
Akeno held Rias and Havarti tighter as fresh tears formed in her shut eyes. Everyone cares for me so much but can they truly understand my pain?
Meanwhile
"So…what's this all about?" Henrietta Berg asked as she walked the halls of the new school building with Sigrun and Asia. The buxom Einehrjar had been helping Rossweisse organize the timetable for the meeting when her best friend and Rias' Bishop came looking for her.
"It's Gasper," Sigrun said, "We were hoping you could help him build his confidence. You are a teacher after all."
One blonde eyebrow rose slowly, "Is that so? Shouldn't it be Ms. Gremory doing that instead? She is his master after all."
"But you have experience dealing with students, Ms. Berg, and President Rias is always busy. She's the heir of the Gremory family and leader of her own Peerage. She cannot always be there to help us, Ms. Berg. We came to you to ask for your aid in doing what Rias can't at the moment."
Henrietta nodded, "You make a good point, Ms. Argento. I may not be a teacher at Kuoh but Mr. Vladi is still a student and it's my responsibility to make sure he gets the help he needs. Lead the way you two."
The Einherjar followed the Valkyrie and former nun out of the academy and through the forest to the old school building. There she saw Vandill, Kiba, and Koneko still standing where Sigrun saw them earlier, at their feet trembled a box that had the first year.
Good grief, they clearly didn't know how to handle a scared child. I guess it is up to me to help the boy.
"Ah, Ms. Berg, how lovely to see you again!" Boomed Vandill.
"Yes. Yes. Good to see you as well, Mr. Aurvandillson. Please step aside and give me some space." Henrietta crouched to one knee and gently tapped on the cardboard box making the trembling increase.
"Who's that!? V-Vandill doesn't do that to the box!"
"This isn't Vandill, Gasper. It's me, Henrietta." The teacher said in a soothing tone, "I hear you've been having some trouble with your friends?"
"Koneko keeps chasing me with garlic! I don't like garlic and Vandill is very scary! I think I'd prefer to stay here."
"In a box where no one can see you but your friends won't be able to see you." The tone of surprise was fake but Gasper didn't need to know that, "Gasper, you would make Rias and Issei proud of you for leaving your box again and talking with your friends."
"But I might-"
"Freeze them? No, you won't. You were given an incredible gift and can use that gift to protect the ones you love. You've obviously been practicing from what I hear from Rias and Lady Freya which means the more practice the better control you'll have of it. Think of your training like homework, an assignment you want to pass with an A plus. Wouldn't you like to make us, especially Issei and Rias proud? I know you will. I know you'll control your powers and overcome your anxiety."
The box shuffled before the top opened revealing pink eyes peaking out above the rim. Gasper looked Henrietta in the eye, the first year was trying his best not to lose control of his powers and freeze her. Issei and the others were trying to help him control his powers and now this beautiful woman was encouraging him to conquer his fear and become a man. She was right; he wanted to make his friends proud of him and break free of the fear surrounding his heart. He watched Henrietta outstretch a hand for him to take which he did after a second of hesitation and was helped out of the box.
"That's right, Gasper. The first step to overcoming your anxiety is coming out of your comfort zone and opening up to us."
Gasper blinked, "I have anxiety?"
"In simple terms yes. The problem you have is called agoraphobia which is a fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or that help wouldn't be available if things go wrong. Something in your past must have caused you to form agoraphobia but you do not have to tell us yet or not at all. You can share about your past when you feel comfortable. For now, we can start small by helping you find your courage. We are here for you, Gasper Vladi." It was brief but she saw it, the glimmer of determination flash in Gasper's eyes.
"I…I want to protect my friends. I wanna be a man!"
"That's the spirit, Gasper!" Vandill whooped.
"She sure has a way with words," Kiba whispered to Sigrun.
"Well, she is a teacher after all."
"That's what I like to hear. Keep that attitude up and you will gain your courage in no time. Now don't get scared, Gasper. We're happy that you want to protect us." The boy's fear slowly started returning from all the excitement everyone was showing.
"I… I'll try!"
"And that's all we ask, Gasper," Asia said, if Rias was here she'd be so proud of Gasper.
"Say, Gasper? You said Issei is helping you. Did he tell you anything encouraging?" Sigrun asked kindly. One of the most important tests to helping someone overcome fear was to inspire them with courage.
"Well….he said I have a cool power and…" Gasper's face flustered, "If I control my powers I could-"
"-he could freeze women to be ogled and groped by Issei." Vandill cut in knowing the young boy would be embarrassed talking about that.
"Did he now…" Henrietta's eyes narrowed slightly, of all the perverts she encountered in her life as a human and Einherjar, be it a teenager or adult, Issei Hyoudou was without a doubt the worst pervert she ever met. Telling a child to use his powers to freeze women for him to fondle was disgusting. The Allfather was a pervert but at least he had the sense to keep it under control. She was certain if Issei was in Valhalla he would be expelled and possibly even locked away as punishment for his behavior.
"Don't be like him, Gaspy. He's disgusting. You are fine the way you are." Said Koneko, despite the monotone voice she meant her encouragement, however, if her fellow first-year followed in Issei's footsteps she would never forgive him.
In the heart of Kuoh
Thor walked the streets of downtown Kuoh, night had fallen onto the town but the streets were bustling with people leaving work or gathering with friends for events. His red hair and blue eyes drew the human's attention, a foreigner in a foreign land was always given strange looks but Thor didn't pay any heed to it. His emotional outburst towards Akeno was long gone but now replaced by brooding.
How could she be so hateful about herself because of her mother's death? She obviously didn't share her whole back story, only saying she was the product of a Fallen Angel and human who must have been affiliated with the Shinto Faction hence Akeno's priestess attire and home. Looking back on what she said he realized the Rias' Queen was being a hypocrite; didn't the Gremory family treat their servants as a family meaning Akeno was a daughter to them and a sister to Rias, Koneko, and Kiba? So she had plenty of people accepting her long before meeting him and Issei, speaking of the Red Dragon Emperor, although he was surprised at first and hated Fallen Angels, the Pawn still accepted Akeno and Thor was sure Asia would do the same.
If her friends would accept her then she had to accept herself, the question was could Akeno do such a task, and what about her father? The thought of seeing another like Eris; a daughter hating a father for losing her mother, stung Thor's heart and he desired to see them reconcile but could they truly reform that lost bond? The Cadre didn't say anything about his wife and daughter to Thor but would he do it now that the truth was out? If Thor explained his reason to help Akeno, Baraqiel may share his relationship with Akeno and what caused his wife's death.
Yeah…I think I'll do that! Once this summit is over I'll contact Baraqieul and- Oof!
Thor felt himself bump into someone and stumble backward from the impact. Quickly regaining his balance he found himself looking at a boy with dark silver and blue eyes that glared at him. He wore a dark green V-neck shirt over that was a high-collared black leather jacket along with burgundy jeans that held a silver chain drooping down over them and black leather chaps with three bands encircling his right calf, and black shoes with black buckles.
Great…just what I needed some punk to steal my lunch money.
"You split my ramen." The punk said, motioning to the broken bowl and noodles lying between the boys.
Thor grimaced, "Sorry about that. I'll buy you a new one. I insist."
"I'd like that." The boy said, leading him to the Raman shop, "I heard this shop sells the best ramen in the whole town. I hope they are true to what they say."
"I'm sure they will. What did you order?"
"Large chicken ramen with extra noodles." The order was made along with a soda for Thor, while the ramen was being made Thor glanced at the stranger, whoever this punk was he too was a foreigner like him but had a big love for ramen. Once the fresh ramen was served the boys left the shop, Thor topping off his drink before following the stranger.
"So, what caused your love for ramen?" Asked Thor after sipping his drink, he was answered by a spur of noddles and a glare from the stranger. Thor's brow furrowed, if didn't want to chat he'd be on his way. He turned his back on the ramen-loving foreigner and tried to look for a sign leading back to the academy, he sure was lucky to be a God otherwise he wouldn't be able to read Japanese.
"You're supposed to be among the Top Ten Strongest beings in the world and even wield Mjolnir yet you do not have it and couldn't beat Kokabiel at full power or even the God of War's daughters. I guess that's what happens when being treated like property from the Church and being reincarnated."
Thor's drink slipped from his fingers as he spun around to face the stranger ready for battle. The boy mentioned Mjolnir and the battle at the school which meant he was part of the Supernatural world but who was he exactly? Could he be a spy from another Faction like the Celtics or the Vampires? He could be the latter since he ran into him at night but he saw no fangs or pointy ears so couldn't be one of those nightwalkers. Or worse, he could be part of the Khaos Brigade and if so means if the terrorist organization was planning to attack Thor would be very angry to have another peace summit turned into a battleground.
"Who are you?" Thor asked aloud as he planned his attack for a possible fight. Something about his voice sounded familiar, very familiar in fact. Either he had a voice similar to someone he knew or encountered this guy before but if he did meet him where and when?
"I thought you figured it out already. If I have to spell it out for you I will."
Thor's fists clenched in anger, this guy was really starting to anger him. He didn't like his tone, he didn't like his tone one bit. Digging deeper into his brain something started to surface, a voice, yes a voice he heard not too long ago….here… in Kuoh itself! He heard it here in Kuoh…at the school….in the fight against Kokabiel…
"Ddraig's rival. The White Dragon Emperor. Albion's wielder. Vali. Azazel's top human agent."
The host of the Divine Divide slurped up another bite of ramen before answering the God of Thunder, "That's right. I am the White Dragon Emperor and you clearly aren't a disappointment like my rival. Even though you struggled against Kokabiel you still managed to defeat him after I halved him twice. I was planning to halve him before he was as weak as a low-tire Fallen Angel. Defeating him at mid-tire has impressed me greatly. However, you had my rivals power boosting you. Could you still manage to beat him without the Red Dragon's aid? Could you beat me?"
Thor pursed his lips, "If you want to pick a fight with me now is not the time. Especially after I bought you a new bowl of ramen and with the summit happening tomorrow."
"Hmph. Fair point and there are too many humans nearby. We don't need the Faction Leaders going around this country wiping memories. When this summit is over I want to test my strength against you, God of Thunder. I want to see if you're the true Son of Odin or a pretender God."
Anger seethed in Thor's eyes at the insult. He WAS Odin's son and most definitely the God of Thunder! Azazel must have told him everything, what else did he tell this punk? Vali turned and faded into the crowd slurping his noodles, not bothering to thank Thor for the food.
"Entitled bastard thinks he can do whatever because he has a Longinus."
Thor jumped, standing right behind him with two drinks in hand was Azazel's son wearing a deep frown on his face. How long had he been watching them?
"Azrael? What are you doing here?"
"What does it look like I'm doing? I'm tailing Vali. What about you?" He asked in return while offering the second drink to the Aesir who accepted it graciously.
"Clearing my mind after a fight with Akeno."
Azrael's eyes softened, "So she told you, did she? I saw Issei looking uncomfortable for some reason. Guess he too was caught up in the fight?"
"No. It was my fault. She hates herself for being a Fallen Angel and said I shouldn't forgive her. It made me angry. I don't suppose you will tell me what caused the fallout between Akeno and Baraqiel?"
"If I knew I would. Alas, both mine and Akeno's father won't share the details with me. Whatever happened to Akeno's mother caused great pain to her and Baraqiel's hearts. If I learn anything I'll tell you."
"Thanks, Azrael. I'm surprised you don't interact with her."
Azrael snorted, "Sure she'll totally love the company of another hybrid like herself. Nah it's best I stay away from her until she accepts her heritage."
"If you say so. Anyway, why exactly are you tailing Vali?"
The frown deepened, "Cuz I don't trust him. Lately, he's been acting weird. He's either late or never shows up for a meeting and always gives the same excuse saying he went for a walk into the city. He's up to something, I know it."
"And… does he know?"
"Perhaps…but I don't care. Even he knows if something happens to me father will go berserk. He wasn't called the cruelest Fallen Angel for a reason. He'd make Vali pay for hurting or even killing me."
Thor raised a red brow, "And you're ok with that?"
"Not particularly. I would like to live a full life but if I can expose whatever Vali is hiding then it's worth the risk to preserve peace. Speaking of which you should get ready for tomorrow. I'm gonna keep tailing Vali."
Azrael was right, he had to be well-rested to represent Asgard tomorrow for the peace summit. Thanking the Fallen for the drink he turned for home. Whatever happens tomorrow he prayed things would go smoothly.
So that was the White Dragon Emperor. He really is a punk!
And so Thor meets Micheal with few answers and the White Dragon Emperor in a very unusual way. At least Micheal will have more answers at the summit for both Thor and Issei and anyone else. We also got to see our little Dhampire get the right help needed to become a real man.
I do hope you guys like the improvement to Rias, yeah cannon made Issei the big hero but truthfully, it should have been Rias. She should have been the one to help Akeno overcome her drama not stay out of it. Like she said in the story she sees Akeno as her sister so as her sister she should have helped her not ignored her problem. Not to mention nobody ever judged her for her heritage but we all know the death of Shuri shook her greatly so the way she acted would be understandable. Nevertheless, Rias still should have helped Akeno too.
Anyway enough ranting I hope you all enjoyed this chapter and next time the summit begins! See you all then.