Edited by: Argent345
Chapter 2 Reacting to A Human Touch
ll eyes were glued on the screen, and breaths were at a halt. Hearts skipped a beat, eyes began to water. There he was, their lover, friend, and rival on the screen, who lay defeated and missing an arm. Rias fell to her knees weakling weeping. Akeno was frozen like a statue. Asia prays even though it hurts her so that her love can be alright. Koneko was quiet but you could see her posture relaxed at the site of him. Xenovia and Irina both took deep sighs. Raval was happy to see Issei was okay, while Rossweisse felt the same. Miki was happy to see her son but stared in horror as he was missing his arm. Gorrou wanted to let out tears of joy.
Everyone else was happy to see him again though his missing arm was very alarming. Rias stood up in anger.
"WHERE IS HE!" she yelled. Doctor Wondertainment simply shrugged his shoulders.
"He's in another dimension and a place you all are unable to go," Doctor Wondertainment said. Miki stepped up wanting to know if they could do anything, they were angels and demons they had to have something. Azazel's interest grew in other worlds besides the ones of myth. While everyone else wonders what could this world hold. Ophis thought she could make a new home there for herself. Vali hoped it would have been a paradise, that maybe new devils could live there. Sona wonders what new possible world there could be and who dwelled in it. Though it didn't matter where Issei was, all they wanted to know was how to get to him.
"How do we get to him?" Rias asked. Her tone was one of stoic resolve. Sirzech was preparing to strike a deal though he wanted to know what this other world held.
"Trust me you do not want to go there, There are many advanced races not to mention the Imperium of man," He said. The screen changed into deep space. Most of all the supernatural people had one question on their mind, Did he say man as in mankind? Sirzech was trying to figure out his wording.
"I'm sorry what did you say?" Sirzech asked. Ophis was the first to answer Satan's questions.
"I think he just said that the main danger in this world is the humans," She said. Sona found that to be very unlikely.
"They're the most dangerous in the Milky Way galaxy. You see the year in this dimension is 30,000 years into the future, and let me tell you that mankind is nothing to scoff at, this a future where humanity crossed the stars.,"
Doubtless murmurs can be heard all over the room. Azazel found the claim to be silly. What could these humans possibly have to wield such power?
"So what are they close to their supernatural world or-" Azazel was cut off by the mad doctor.
"Religion is forbidden and outlawed in the imperium of man, they instead focus on science and the advancement of technology," Doctor Wondertainment. Asia gasped at the news. Sirzech wondered what they were like without religion. Though he thought they couldn't even get that far without any supernatural assistant.
"I'm sorry but I think you might be, how do they say it nowadays," Ddraig said. Ophis decided to step in.
"I believe the word is overhyped them," She said, "Sure they made it to the moon themselves but that is all," Kuroka gave a sly snicker.
"Sorry, but humans aren't the strongest thing that comes to mind," Kuroka stated. "Without a sacred gear, they're nothing but dead meat," Koneko glared at her with angry eyes but had to agree. Grayfia was tired of this man's lies and stood up in anger.
"Stop wasting our time and tell us where Issei is, you are meddling with underworld affairs," She said. Sirzech put a calming hand on her shoulder.
"Yes we're all tired of these games, Now tell us where he is," Sirzech said the tone of his voice slowly turning into anger. Rias just wanted to know where her love was, seeing that image of Issei missing his arm scared her. Doctor Wondertainment gave a sad sigh.
"Here let me show you,"
The screen changed into a grand city of mighty technology all of them marveled at the site, space ships docked the skies, the ground was silver and gold and the gray towers of this grand city reached the sky. Flying cars and people wearing stylish clothes. The sun shined on this great city. They saw all of the planets that were under their control and thousands of alien words conquered in their name. Mars a red planet now turned into a paradise.
All of them gasped at the wonder in front of them at this utopia. It was something beyond words in its magnificence. D'darig and Ophis had never seen such a city in their lifetime, not even heaven was this beautiful.
"Welcome to the golden age of humanity," Doctor Wondertainment said as he waved an arm to the beautiful image in front of them.
"Why are you showing us this?" Rias asked not understanding what the point of this was. Doctor Wondertainment gave her a calm gaze.
"Because you need to understand the history of this world to truly understand what's happening for love," Doctor Wondertainment said. The sound of thunder rumbles, getting everyone's attention.
"This was the golden age of technology, where humanity was truly at the peak in their history," Doctor Wondertainment waved his hand in front of the screen changing it to show all the marvels of this golden age.
"Teleportation that could cross the galaxy, bullets that could destroy souls and men of Iron advance A.I. robots that put the greatest of your minds to shame," He said. All of them watched the great marvels that were built by mankind, Azazel was about to cry tears of joy seeing these great innovations.
"This is Earth in the year 20th Millennium, Though Issei is not here or in this time, I wanted to show you all where this is and the history of this world," He then gave them a sad look. "Unfortunately this age would not last for long,"
A huge explosion wiped away the grand city and all the souls that were in it. you see there's another dimension, called the warp. Many other species had abused it, and this caused warp storm tears into the fabric of reality itself making walls covering entire worlds. The ship could not cross the tear in the immaterial.
"There were many factors that made this age of humanity fall, but space travel was unavailable for hundreds of years, locking mankind from the stars for a long time and you know humans are easy to war on," Doctor Wondertainment said.
Sona watched in horror as the earth became nothing, though one question burned in her mind.
"What was the warp?" Sona asked. The good doctor took a knee on the stage.
"The warp is a realm that dwells in that dimension, think of it, as a realm of pure energy, with infinite potential and many things lurking in it that should not be named, though some could tap into its infinite potential," Sona wanted to know why this realm was so important. Rias listened intently to the answers but surely wished to know how Issei was doing and if he was safe. Gorrou hoped his son wasn't trapped in some dystopian wasteland. Miki worriedly gripped her husband's hand.
"You see this was called the age of strife, nothing was invented, and people only made steps backward away from intervention. It kind of sucked," All of them could tell, even Sirzech was horrified by this destruction and all of this was cable of human hands.
The world of the earth became lifeless, and the great ocean was gone. Now replaced with harsh deserts. The world was dead and lifeless while techno barbarians walked the harsh planes.
"You see in the end one person was able to reclaim the earth, and readied the beginning of the imperium of man, This one man was known as, a dramatic pause," He said remaining quiet and getting all of their attention.
"The Emperor of mankind!" The screen changed.
A being in grand majestic gold armor stood over the scorched earth 14 feet tall, The emperor of mankind was a giant man, with long black hair, and a square jaw line giving a stern demeanor. The glowing light that came off him was like an angel. His eyes were piercing, glowing, white diamond in his right hand, a flaming sword. It was a future day god.
All of them had their jaws drop fat at the mere sight of this man, even calling him that wouldn't do him justice. He was a super-powered being of unimaginable power, trapped within a mortal form. Rias and Sirzeach both had their jaws dropped at the mere power emanating from his body. Vali felt so weak just staring at the image. Ddraig and Ophis felt like they were watching a dragon-slaying master. Both of them slowly took breaths not wanting to go into flight or fight.
"Is he even a man?" Sona asked.
"Yes, he is technically, I don't know to be honest, but that is beside the point, he was able to reunite the earth and take it back with the help of his breed of superhuman soldiers,"
"The thunder warriors," Then the screen changed again.
Then legions of thousands of giant warriors, futuristic Roman armored warriors with thunderbolt symbols on their shoulder pads. They marched with the emperor of mankind, leading them into a glorious future.
Azazel could see the unwavering loyalty in their eyes as they marched with their leader and saw how it was the best moment of their life.
"Amazing, and he genetically engineered these beings of strength and speed,"
"Yes, but don't get used to them, He was able to reunite the earth and begin his planning stages to reclaim humanity's lost colonies, because, after the unification war and years of loyalty, the Emperor had all of them executed,"
"What!" All of them said.
The skulls of hundreds of thousands of thunder warriors lay burning in the decrepit waste field. The years of service and loyalty betrayed and burned. The planet was littered with the betrayed screams and despot cries for the Lord the Pledge of Allegiance only for it to crumble into dust.
All of them were in utter shock even the biggest veterans couldn't help but feel uncomfortable with the news. Ophis sure has seen her fair share of horrors but this was downright cruel.
"Why did he do this?" Asked Asia in shock at the answer. Rossweisse felt rage at the dishonor of this man.
"Well the thunder warriors' genes were unstable and proved to be problematic, so the emperor decided to exterminate them for their good, This proved to be fatal for the emperor needed soldiers, but knowing that the conquering of the Galaxy would take time, he realized he could not be everywhere at all times so he decided to start a new project. A Matriarch's project, he would create 20 children to be his generals, and lead them to reclaim the stars," He said.
Azazel gave a soft chuckle.
"Wow, he must have been busy with the ladies," He said trying to lighten up the mood from hearing genocide. Doctor Wondertainment chuckled at his words as well.
"I'm sorry but there was no procreation in any way involved when making his children, The man genetically builds them from his DNA and a lot of advanced science, maybe some magic, I don't know to be honest, the man has thousands of faces," Doctor Wondertainment said. Rias started to act more anxious she just wanted to see him again. Her older brother could see this and grew angry at Doctor Wondertainment.
"Look what's the point of this," Miki wanted just to know where her son was. Gorrou was just about ready to throw a chair on stage. Ddraig was glowing with red irritation. Rossweisse felt like she watching her lord one for theatrics and such.
"It's all built up, Right? You're trying to make a show of this," Rossweisse said. Akeno wanted to blast this man with a giant bolt of lightning.
"Yes and no, I want you all to understand the situation that your Issei got himself into," He said. "Now please let me finish,"
The golden castle of the Emperor shined in magnificent beauty. The giant advanced castle was a pinnacle of architecture that put the devil and angels' building to shame. This was beyond the hands of the supernatural.
Azazel and Sirzech's jaws dropped at the sight of the building. It was huge and impossibly amazing; so advanced and giant. Rias shook in fear at the idea that all this came from humans. Rossweisse's Lord, Odin, didn't have a domain in Valhalla this great.
One person walked into the room, a beautiful woman, with a golden aura. She silently weeps as she hugs the pods. The Metal pods that held the Emperor's children, of them looked young and innocent. A spark of color erupted in the room. A spark of echoes ripped a hole into the golden room, and the sound of evil laughter ripped through. The pods were ripped away into the dimensions while hands of horror tried to rip them open. Though in seconds the pods were whisked away. The Emperor ran into the room and screamed into the air. The pods were gone from his site.
The audience was quiet but they did it for Issei and not for him. "Well when the children were in their pods, Yes they were test tube babies, The warp threw them into the far reaches in space and landed them on distant planets,"
Rias had one question.
"Who was that woman?" She asked. Miki knew what those eyes the women had, they belonged to a mother.
"I wouldn't worry about her too much, you'll see her later. Though after a long time of searching for his children, The Emperor of Mankind finally could begin his great crusade to claim the stars," Doctor Wondertainment said, he snapped his fingers as the screen went dark.
"David pull up the clip," He shouted a bit rudely going against his gentle attitude. The Screen changed back to Issei who laid in the garbage. All eyes were on the screen. Miki and Gorrou watched as he got up weakly.
"What..happened to me," Issei muttered out loud, the stranger looking around at his surroundings showing a face of pure confusion.
"Where am I?" he asked aloud to himself.
But as soon as he tried to get up he fell off balance, wobbling onto his feet. Issei looked towards his left arm to find it was missing.
Issei had an expression of fear or surprise but expected his fate the way it was. Slowly he kept walking out of the alleyway. Issei believed he was a failure to everyone he knew. So not a big surprise that he was left with nothing. Tears were leaking out of his eyes.
Miki wanted to cry so badly seeing how sacred her baby was. Gorrou grew angry at Rias at the others, they were supposed to care for him, and now look where he is.
"This is what I deserve, I'm nothing but a loser," He said. "Oh god, what happened to me,"
Rias and Akeno did not like seeing how distorted he was. If she were there a good wake-up slap would knock him out of it. Azazel lowered his head in shame, this was on his as well, Issei was his responsibility, he was supposed to be a teacher. Now his underling was a sad mess. Ravel felt so uncomfortable seeing him like this, Asia had only seen that look once and it was when Issei failed to save her. Her heart felt like bursting into a million pieces. Koneko remains silent.
Issei's eyes widened in horror. He just said god and it didn't even hurt. That means he wasn't a devil anymore. He failed as a human and now fails as a man. He cried in pain because he didn't even know what had happened to him. How did he become human again? He didn't even feel Ddragi anymore he felt more alone than he had ever felt in his life. Issei wondered what kind of hell this was this wait was even in hell.
"Well I better see where I am," he said in a forced sad voice like even speaking was too much for him. He broke into pieces. How he kept going was beyond anything of a miracle. Every part of him screamed just to lay down and die. Every thought that went into his mind was like pins of self-hate and every feeling that went past his heart was like an endless void. A black hole of pure anger swallowing him alive.
Slowly he limped out of the exit of the alleyway as the blinding light of the outside clouded his vision. With one more step, he was out of the alleyway, his vision slowly returned to him as finally, Issei could see his surroundings. He was in an empty city street: empty as in no people, no cars, not even the sign of any trash. Issei looked towards the vacant streets with worried looks, even the building windows looked like nothing was going on in them. The weather was cloudy and gray covering the sky and drowning out any blue up above. Issei kept his breath calm and walked down the empty street.
All of them thought the world was strange and not a single one didn't know where this place was.
Sirzech watched in pure regret seeing how sad Issei was and wondering how it came to this. Rias felt so empty seeing how Issei walked down this empty city. All of them felt sacred looking at the city. Grayfia wanted to know why Issei was there in the first place, and Ddraig wanted to be with his partner again, seeing him so weak, He was supposed to be Sekiryutei, a god killer. Now he was just a weak human.
"Dammit, why did this happen to my partner," Ddraig thought. Vali wanted to leave the room, his rival was gone and now what was left was him. Ophis gave a sad sigh it was the cycle of life. Kuroka gave a loud sigh.
"Sorry Issei, that's life for you, the weak die and the strong survive," She said, earning her many glares.
Issei walked for hours with no people in sight. He felt like this was his hell and that he deserved this; he was a loser who had nothing going for him. He only got lucky in fights, he had nothing redeeming about himself, Issei thinking these insufferable thoughts.
He kept walking around the city as the seconds became minutes, as the minutes became hours. Issei constantly puts himself down in self-hate. Even time didn't feel like it passed.
"Hello," Issei yelled in a panicked voice.
"Please is anyone here?" He called out into the empty city, only for his echo to return to him.
"Please, someone!" Issei cried in horrible pain screeching, only for the echoes to return to him. His breath slowed down and wavered as he felt the harsh self-hate whisper in the back of his head.
"ANYONE PLEASE I DON'T WANT TO BE ALONE!" Yelling louder only gets more echoes back. Issei hated what he was doing trying to save himself from this hellish fate but that hope started to fade quickly. Issei kept trying to call for something, and the feeling of despair started to spread in his heart, Issei's legs buckled as his knees hit the ground. His breath slowly faded it was then Issei realized what was happening. Issei couldn't breathe: for he was having a panic attack.
"HELP IS- THERE- ANYONE- HERE! I NEED HELP- I CAN'T -BREATHE!" Issei cried
"What's happening to him," Aiss asked in shock.
"Oh, that's what we call a panic attack you devils don't tend to take care of yourself with mental needs do you?"
Rias was the first to worry standing up as she watched the screen, Miki did as well; she had never seen her son act so hysterically. Azazel and Sirzech's eyes widen in shock.
"Issei," Rias weakly called out.
"What's happening to him?" Asia called out. Kiba and Xenovia gripped their seats in anger at themselves. Gasper hid away in a corner. Irina was ashamed of herself. Koneko hugged her knees sitting in her chair frustrated she did this. Akeno's smile was replaced with pure anguish. She had hurt the one she loved and now he was having a panic attack, they hurt his body, mind, and soul.
"Oh that's what we call a panic attack, that curse Loki put on him is doing a number on his mind, it probably didn't help with his trauma from Raynare as well," He said. Azazel now understood why Issei acted so strange he was stuffing from the damn curse. Rias had suffered from it too but Issei had worse, She fell for and attacked. How could she not see it? Rias started to cry, putting her hands to face.
"This is all my fault, THIS IS ALL MY FAULT!" She cried in utter pain. Sirzech's eyes widened in surprise.
"Rias what are you talking about," Her older brother asked, comforting his sister. She spoke in broken sobs.
"Issei was- afraid- to share his feelings and- W-we pushed him too far after- the rating game,"
Issei was crying in pure agony as he lay on the ground clutching his chest, his hand shook, his ear ringed, and his vision darkened. Issei could only panic more in his situation. Issei's thoughts were now a chaotic storm of mental confusion. He couldn't move from his spot as his muscles tightened from the intense stress.
"I didn't mean to lose Rias, I didn't mean it, just give me another chance please someone help me, help me," Issei cried in whispers. Issei falls to the ground: if one were to look at him one would think he was dead.
Issei thought he was going to be left in his state of mind forever while this empty city would be his prison for all of eternity. Issei thought a broke person like himself diverse all this with one last empty whisper.
"I'm nothing but a dirty perverted loser, I'm nothing," Issei cried.
Miki spun around to face Rias with a questioning gaze, the sadness in her. Gorrou also had a disappointed gaze locked on her. She spied out of her hand to see their gaze. Sirzech held her close while Grayfia had a saddened look seeing how the damage was done.
"Rias tells us it's not true," Miki said. Gorrou gave her a hurt look. "We gave you a home, loved you like you were our daughter,"
"Well, you guys always act so mean to your son, sometimes it makes me think you guys, never wanted a boy in the first place," Doctor Wondertainment said. Miki gasped at the actuation. Gorrou wanted to punch Doctor Wondertainment in the face but held himself and his wife back. Miki hugged deeper with Garou.
"You don't understand what it's like to lose two children in miscarriage, all we wanted for Issei was for him to live an honest life, and now look where he is, Our son lost and hurt, while all we do is judge him, damn it we could have been better parents," Miki weakly cried into Gorrou's shoulder. Rias just wanted to run or say sorry, though what could she do? How could she mend this wound? Sirzech sighed. sad life how did it come to this, why did Issei have to suffer?
"All I just wanted was for Issei to say my name," Rias said in a harsh whisper. "Mother told me that was how I would know if he loved me,"
"Rias," Sirzech said shaking his head at how literal she took her words. "It's okay Rias, Shhh It's okay Rias,"
"I'm nothing but a dirty perverted loser, I'm nothing," Issei cried.
Issei was so lost in his panic attack that his senses became dulled to his surroundings as all sounds, touch, and hearing became null. While he was choking on his breath.
His eyes slowly drifted to unconsciousness staring at the empty streets ahead.
A loud bang rang through the city. Issei was so deep in despair that he couldn't even be bothered to put his attention on his surroundings. Then another thud this time closer and the loud bang started to multiply and became very roaring. Within seconds the banging roared through the space. The closer the sound got the more you could hear what the noise was. It sounded like heavy metal slamming against concrete. Issei couldn't notice still having a panic attack.
Vali wanted to know what the noise was, and Ddraig realized something horrible.
"Somethings coming for Issei," He shouted making everyone stare at the screen. Azazel watched hoping no harm came to Issei. All of the girls stared in horror as they noticed a shadow was looming over them. Miki watched Sacred for her son's life. Vali wanted his rival to fight but how could he?
Seconds later the slamming of metal stopped and Issei was finally coming out of his daze slowly catching his breath while regaining his senses. Issei held himself up with his single arm. Held his head down in shame thinking he had suffered a panic attack.
It took Issei a couple of seconds to realize that the spot where he lay suddenly had a lot more shade than before.
"What is this place?" A deep dark voice boomed behind Issei, The voice made him stay in his place and every word that was said screamed fight or flight to Issei. He slowly turned his head around to see a giant, hulking armored being standing right behind him. It stood eight feet tall covered shoulder to toe in slick dark blue armor with sharp dark gold trimming around the edges, while the abdomen was covered by a bone rib cage. A bright white skull is worn on the chest plate with red bat wings on the sides. A tattered scarlet cape flew behind it, skulls that still had blood on them had been stuck to the giant shoulder plates, while a horrible cloth was hung at the waist, made of human skin. The worst was the gauntlets that had sharp metal tips with dual claws sticking out on their forearms.
All of them wondered what this person looked like seeing how they couldn't see her face.
The armor she wore scared many of them, they couldn't see this person's face yet but they were terrified. All of them could feel that aura of fear and unyielding malice. Gasper hides more in his corner, shaking in fear. Before the screen could reach the face the movie was paused. Doctor Wondertainment stood on the stage giving them all a curt smile. Rias was hoping Issei would be okay. Miki and Gorrou feared what this giant would do to their son. Koneko wanted to throw up seeing that human-skinned cloth she wore. Akeno gripped her arm tightly. Asia kept praying for Issei to be okay.
"I see you just watched one of the Emperor's children meet Issei," Doctor Wondertainment said. "You know it's kinda funny she's the most dangerous and quiet of them all but always there on time, Konrad Curze, not to mention, you can see how much detail and craftsmanship that her father put into her,"
The image changed to show a planet covered in advanced darkness. The planet gave off an uncomfortable glow. The world looks dull and dead, and the city is hopeless
Rias stood up in rage. "What is the meaning of this go back to Issei,"
"Easy little lady, he'll be fine, I just wanted to show you, who Konrad Curze is,"
"Nostrum is a bleak Hive World that was perpetually dark due to its pollution-clogged atmosphere and the fact that it circled a slowly dying star whose light was unable to penetrate this haze to reach the surface. This world is barely better lit at noon than at midnight. Its shroud of perpetual darkness produced by the massive amounts of toxic smog kept the planet swathed in dull greys and deep blacks. Only the rich could afford the Nostraman idea of illumination, which was little more than dim blue illumination strips that were placed in the ceilings of the ruling hierarchy's luxurious dwellings in the spires of the dark world's, You know perfect vacation spot," He said, making all of them think what a horrible home.
"Not to mention a crime rate was at a hundred percent and the only thing keeping the population in check was the suicide rate," Miki gasped, This place sounded awful and Konrad was raised on this planet. He must have been a monster of a man.
"So you're telling us Issei meets a monster that enjoys crime," Azazel said. Doctor Wondertainment shook his head.
"No, after Konrad landed on the planet, what I mean land her pop, her pod punched through the crust of the planet burning the child in molten rock!" Miki felt terrible about what had happened, no child should go through that. Vali gave a sad sigh it was tragic.
"That's terrible," Asia said, feeling sorry for Konrad. Rias then thought maybe this person was good and would take pity on Issei.
"Does she have a good sense of judgment?" Asked Sona. Doctor Wondertainment gave a soft chuckle.
"Oh dear, When Konrad grew up she took over the planet and brought the crime and suicide rate to zero in three years," All of them were amazed at how Konrad brought an entire planet of crime to zero.
"Woah we might need her brand of justice down here," Azazel joked. Sirzech wanted to know how she was so effective at her. Rias slowly relaxed this person was a man of duty.
"Oh no you don't want Konrad anywhere near your world Azazel, You see the way she dropped the crime rate so low, Was she murdering anyone committing a crime, including the little ones, She also podcast her torture to the entire world, spreading fear into the hearts of the people," The doctor said. Everyone had taken a nervous gulp thinking who this mad man was. Gasper spoke up meekly.
"What about the suicide victims," He asked.
"Oh, Konrad would simply find them before they could do it, torture them until they wished for death. They broadcast it to the entire planet they called Konrad the night haunter for a reason. Driving the people's knees to bend to her,"
"That's awful," Koneko said. Sirzech didn't want the imperium of man to find out about devils and what's worse they could have the technology to possibly defeat them. Doctor Wondertainment gave them a tense look. Miki then remembered how her son was an awful liar. If she found out her son was dead meat.
"Now back to the show," The camera slowly moved up to show Konrad's face. Rias was expecting an ugly monster. Miki thought of the terrible man making a mad smile. Asia thought of a horrible man who looked to be a vampire. Akeno thought of a twisted masochist.
"Run Issei!" Miki called out for her son," Then everyone could see who she was.
Issei slowly looked up to find a furious face staring at him. Issei saw the slim face of the woman, her skin was pale white, and her lips cracked champ. Her long oily black hair was like tar. Her eyes are what drew their attention. Her sclera was pitch black like night, while her irises were bright purple; all supported by her razor-sharp teeth, which she gritted.
Her whole appearance screamed alpha predator, that this person was more than human. Beautiful but dangerous. Issei's whole body told him to run to get away from her. Though instinct told him to run Issei got what he wished for.
The whole audience gasped in amazement, for her beauty was spectacular. Rias even herself had never sensed such human beauty. Miki and Gorrou couldn't help but say their thoughts out loud.
"Holy smokes she's hot!" Everyone was surprised she was a woman, most of them thought the title of night haunter belonged to a man. Azazel himself never was one to gak at others but hey there's a first for everything. Akeno could see Issei being lost in her eyes and she grew jealous.
"My patience runs thin boy," Her voice this time was very strong yet had a hint of softness, but that softness was like bait for its prey. Issei slowly stands up under the gaze of this mighty Amazon woman. Though Issei was not in his right mind this was a very beautiful woman and Issei couldn't help but admire that.
Issei looked up at the woman with a nervous face he tried to put on a confident face but her gaze could look right through it. Issei hyped himself up to give a cool response.
"M-my N-n-name I-i-i-ss I-Iiissei hyoudou," Issei stuttered.
All of the room had to ask themself what the heck was that. Miki had never seen her son so shy and sacred. Ddraig wanted to tell him to man up but gave a sad sigh. Koneko stared blankly at the screen.
"He sucking at introductions," She blanked said. Doctor Wondertainment gave a soft chuckle. All of them looked toward them seeing his reaction.
"What's so funny?" Questioned Sona. The Doctor's soft chuckle went away. He patted his hat and gave them all a fruitful smile.
"Well if you meet one of them, you would see how scared you would be," Doctor Wondertainment said. All of them didn't understand so they just went back to the screen.
Issei found himself lifted off the ground by the front of his shirt she was staring at him with an annoyed look on her face.
"I didn't ask what your name is, boy, I asked what this place is," She asked in a growl that sounded angry. Issei couldn't do anything at the mercy of the giant. Issei felt another panic attack coming on. With pain being the overwhelming factor Issei found himself accepting his fate
"Issei no!" Rias cried out fearing the worst. All of them watched in horror at what would happen next, everyone was quiet and refused to utter a word wanting to see what would happen next.
"I don't know where we are, I woke up here, I don't know where I am," Issei cried as his emotion stirred up. The giant didn't look pleased and held tighter on his clothes. Issei looked her in the eyes and with one final plead he had in himself to speak all he could.
"I'm sorry I can't tell you what this place is, all I know is that one second I'm on earth the next this place so I'm sorry I can't help you, but if killing me makes you feel better then," Issei paused what he said and decided to finish what he said.
"Then you would be doing me a favor," Issei said without any remorse for himself,
Rias, Asia, Akeno, Koneko, Xenovia, and Irina all gave an audible gasp. Miki and Gorrou would never want to hear those words; no parent would ever want to hear their child say that. It was welcome to death. Ddraig felt his heart stabbed as he had failed Issei to the highest degree. Vali thought how could this happen to his rival? Ophis held a straight face while watching this tragedy.
Then Issei looked the giant in the eyes, probably expecting a shameful gaze but when he looked up, the giant held a gentle stare that said I understand you from one look spoke thousands of words. Issei was so shaken by the gaze it snapped him out of the coming panic attack. Issei then was put down gently on the ground.
Rias looked completely confused at the screen, What had happened? Miki also took a sigh of relief seeing how her son was being put down.
"I don't understand why didn't she let him go," Sona asked.
"Letting the worst come and take you, is different from taking your own life," The Doctor said. Many of them found his words to be sad and hurt those who cared deeply for him. Rias gripped her hand until her fingernails dug into her palm. She was glad he was safe.
"Well if you don't know what this place is, then fine," the giant said in a begrudging tone.
"But I will take you to my sisters, Maybe they can get more answers than my way," the giant said. Issei was a bit shaken but stood his ground.
Issei had a shy smile on his face and the idea of meeting more people did make him happy Even though he was going to be interrogated he was at least happy he wasn't alone. Issei looked towards the giant and sighed with relief.
"Well, the mood certainly changed," Ophis said. Rias wanted to do something but all they could do was watch.
"Please Issei be on your best behavior, she probably will kill you if you have any peeking scheme," Miki asked out loud. "I know, please may our son be safe," Gorrou said.
"Okay well, I'll guess I'll go with you," Issei said with a happy sigh.
The giant sorted at the comment.
"Don't push your luck boy, Even if you didn't I wouldn't have let you run off so easily, I am Konrad Curze the Night Haunter," Konrad said in a proud yet announced threatening tone towards Issei.
Though Issei knew it was a threat, he couldn't talk back, especially in his situation How could he with his mental state right now? He couldn't fight back not without his boosted gear which is long gone. He had nothing so he mentally told himself to shut up and roll with it. One thing about the threat did make him smile, which did not escape Konrad's attention.
"Why are you smiling?" Konrad asked in a skeptical tone of voice.
Koneko gave a soft snort. "He's thinking perverted thoughts,"
"No, he's not," Asia spoke in a whisper, and all of them turned to see her. "He's just being kind,"
Miki and Gorrou both nodded at her words, they could tell when their son was being gross or honest. Ddraig wondered why Issei was being so nice to this harsh person then he remembered how nice and gentle his host was.
"I know your name now Konrad, it's a cool name," Issei said in a gentle voice.
Konrad looked at Issei confusedly at what kind of slang this was. Issei realized that maybe the word cool wasn't the best choice.
"Cool mean-" Issei tried to say.
"I know what it means, but why do you compliment me? Do you not see what's in front of you?" Konrad said with a raised eyebrow.
"I-ii-i um yes, I don't know I mean you beautifully- I mean Um," Issei said, stumbling over his words. Konrad only looked at him the same way as before.
"He's just trying to be nice," Asia shouted.
"Well, he could have been a little less awkward," Committed Sona. Miki glared at the girl. "Well, it's hard to have a normal life after demons and angels now is it," Sona glanced away from them.
Azazel wanted to tell them their son would be alright or at least offer some comfort to the family. Sirzech knew the damage was done so how would he handle this? Grayfia wouldn't imagine the pain they must have been going through. She thought maybe they could wipe their memories but that seemed harsh.
"You are a strange person," Konrad said in a dull tone. "But I grow tired of standing in this place, let us move,"
Konrad started to walk off with Issei falling behind. Only two problems: despite Konrad's size, she was moving very fast and Issei with only one arm was very off balance and could only really walk slowly so he didn't fall.
Konrad turned her head around to see he was falling behind. With a begrudging growl, Konrad walks back to Issei, she stands in his way with a raised eyebrow. Issei slowly looked back up at her.
"Sorry, I recently lost my arm-wow!" Issei couldn't finish his statement when Konrad picked him up and slung him up on her shoulders. Issei had the air knocked out of him when he landed on her armored shoulder.
"HEY, YOU BE CAREFUL WITH ISSEI!" Shouted Asia, all of them looked at her with surprised eyes. Sirzech was the frist to speak. Rias remained quiet and sat in her seat.
"It's alright Asia," Grayfia said trying to ease any pain. Akeno felt her rage boil at how harsh Issei's treatment was but relaxed knowing it could have been much worse.
"If you're going to talk on the way, make it little, but seeing your state I doubt there will be any conversation," Konrad told him in a cold tone of voice.
Issei was looking behind her but he could feel her smirking at his misfortune. He could only painfully groan at the answer that Konrad gave.
"Good answer," She said,
Akeno felt her blood boil how could this hulking woman just toss him around?
"I'll punish you for that!" She declared. Miki had covered her eyes seeing the blow her son took, Gorrou winced at their son. Azazel wanted to know more about Konrad, what was she? Konrad was more than human. Not to mention her freakishly tall height. Rias watched as these brutes took her love. She scoffed at her, Konrad was beautiful but she was still a monster. She had nothing to fear about stealing her Issei.
Issei then was held by one of her clawed gauntlets as she blitzed like an animal, Issei held onto her shoulder tight, though he did have to be careful of the sharp metal edges, but did find a safe grip on Konrad's metal armor.
Issei could only look behind but he could tell she was moving as fast as a car, but agile like a cat. He turned his head to see where their heading, only to find there were more empty streets, but the buildings got more and taller. Some reached the clouds, and many of the skyscrapers were jolted out of the ground. Hell, the buildings are sticking out of the sky floating in the air. Issei swore this place was crazy and he even went to hell.
"What a strange world," Xenovia said.
"I don't know this place," Grayfia said, while Ohips thought the same, wondering what this place was. Though she couldn't help but hold in her laugh as she kept glancing at Ddraig's state.
Issei looked towards Konrad. Surely she had to use a lot of energy to move, but when he turned towards her, to check on her well-being. Issei saw Konrad didn't even break a sweat; she looked like this was a normal walk: even though she was running at speeds that would be considered a vehicle.
"Look how fast she running," Kiba said amazed by Konrad's speed.
"She faster than regular devils," Grayfia said noticing her agility as well, Xenovia wanted to fight this beast to see how she would far she could go, but something told her she would lose. Irina sat by Issei's parents and wanted to lend any aid to them. Miki winced as they sat by them. Gorrou needed a word with all of them about his son. Though him being dragged off by this hulking beauty was scary.
Then another tree appeared Issei turned his head to see a lush yellow forest. There was something about the forest that invoked a feeling of safety, the city oddly felt more cold and trapping for him. Issei had a smile creeping on his face. Konrad stopped and dropped Issei off her shoulder like a sack of potatoes.
He landed on the ground with a mighty thud, he suffered worse things in his life but he was fine. Issei kept on smiling but slowly got to his feet. Why did he keep smiling? Maybe it was the hope of not being alone or the forest could have been another factor. Konrad turned and looked at him, pointing straight.
"Our camp is over there," Konrad commanded.
"Um okay, I'll just walk there," Issei said.
"Partner just be smart and you'll be okay," Ddraig said hoping for the best. Miki glared at all of them but quickly stopped making sure her son was okay.
Issei limped towards where she pointed, still trying to find his balance. It was hard because he didn't know what to do with his limp. While limping towards the camp Konrad followed behind. Issei did feel a bit nervous when there was a giant following close behind though as time passed. Issei felt very calm. Maybe it was the surroundings or that he put his trust In Konrad. Whatever it is he'd just go with the flow.
Vali's fist tightens in anger Issei should be flying through the sky, not limping, weak, and alone. He gives a hateful glare at Rias and the others. How did they even end up in this situation? Miki wished somebody helped her son. Gorrou didn't like the fact this person was forcing his injured son to move.
"You're thinking too much about balancing your weight, Just go with your body movement and you'll be fine," Konrad growled in annoyance.
Miki's eyes widened seeing how for only a second she could see compassion on Konrad's face. Rias witnessed as well seeing there was a hint of humanity in her. Kuroka gave a sly grin.
"Well, it looks like someone a softy,"
Issei breathed while limping, taking Konrad's words and letting his body try to balance himself out By taking the next steps he'd found some new balance letting his body take over. He was still limping but it was barely noticeable now.
"I'll have to get used to that," Issei said in relief, finally having some control.
More time passed, but it wasn't all that bad, and being out of the city was nice. This forest was very noisy with birds chirping, water running, and wind blowing in the trees. Issei turned towards Konrad.
"What a beautiful place," Sona said. Gasper liked how quiet it was while Grayfia thought this was some afterlife. Gorrou could see how calm his son was when he got out of the city and into the forest.
"It's so calm and peaceful," Ddarig commented Even though the galaxy was torn apart by war but this place sure was beautiful.
"Thank you for telling me how to walk correctly," He said to Konrad.
She kept a strong face, But Issei noticed there was a tiny crack of anger.
"Keep moving," she said in her usual growl. He kept moving but this time put a little more hustle into it.
"So it's you and your sisters, how many are there? Like maybe two, three" Issei asked, trying to start a conversation.
"We will ask the questions boy, now keep walking," She responded her eyes didn't even look at him but were glued to the direction she pointed. Issei lowered his head and kept walking; it looked like Konrad had stopped the friendliness he only hoped maybe he could survive but death would be his only saving grace himself he thought depressingly.
"Well, it looks like she is not a fan of conversation," Asia joked. Though the room would barely smile at how grim and dark the situation was.
The two then found themselves at the entrance of a glade of cut stumps. All the cut-down trees were stacked neatly with what looked like organized lines. Konrad groaned, causing Issei to turn towards her with a confused look. He could see she was very annoyed. Issei wondered why.
"Who cut down all those trees," Sona asked. All of them could see the hard work that was put into removing the trees.
"Where's the camp, there's nothing here?" Vali asked not understanding what she meant. Miki was worried that her son was gonna sleep in the cold dark.
"You finally back Konrad," A very monotone yet feminine voice called out.
Gasper winced at the voice, noticing how stoic it sounded. Rias thought this was one there sisters.
"Oh my, she sounds like a man," Akeno joked, but all they could hear was a woman's voice.
The two turned towards the wood pile to see another eight-foot-tall giant, who had bright yellow metallic armor that covered her entire body, with so many little carvings and symbols on the armor that made it look like she was wearing art. The two metal eagle heads sticking out on her shoulders gave her a medieval gothic look: well that and the metal golden wings Dorn wore behind her back. Her majestic red cape flew behind her. Held by her side was a giant red blade, which could only be described as a mix of a chainsaw and a sword. On her other side was a giant gothic gun. Slowly he looked up until she met his eyes. Her skin was creamy white to match her strong amber eyes, her hair was that of an aged white bun tied behind her head and with all that she was stunning.
The room was filled with a strong aura, a lot of people were forced to their seats as she appeared on the screen. Sirzech found her appearance to be very strong, there was something about these matriarchs that didn't sit well with him, it was like he was looking at demi gods but different, like fate itself, was bending right in front of his eyes.
Rias found her beauty to be amazing and could see Issei being lost in her stoic trance. Azazel just marveled at these perfect beings. "Wow, The Emperor made them perfect,"
"Oh yes, he made sure not to make any mistakes when making them," The Doctor said. Miki oddly felt comfortable seeing Rogal there, she seemed more reasonable, Gorrou had to say she looked like she had a good head on her shoulders.
"Woah!" Issei said in a hushed whisper, her gaze switched to him: if looks could kill then her eyes were like spears shooting right through you. Konrad sighed and waved toward Issei.
"This is why I took so long," Konrad growled in an annoyed tone, the new giant kneeled to him and stared at him with a studying look. Issei lost his breath again.
"Issei stops thinking perverted thoughts or else Konrad will kill you," Miki yelled in panic. Gorrou held her wife's shoulder.
"He'll be okay we just have to put our hope in them," Gorrou said Rias raised her head to them.
"Hope, these are warmongering monsters how could you put your hope in them," Rias said.
"Rias!" Sirzech retorted he gave the two an apologetic bow, though it did all seem to be bleak. Many of the other girls thought the same.
"And why not we give them a chance, after all, we gave you one," Miki said. Rias felt very uncomfortable after hearing that and squirmed in her seat. "Also I thought maybe after he freed you from his marriage that was the sign that he loved you,"
Asia looked away with shame while Akeno and Koneko both wanted to leave the room.
"It's not her fault, Issei was suffering from trauma and we didn't see his health was this serious," Azazel said not waiting for the blame on the girls. Miki just took an unhappy sigh.
"A human? hello my name is Rogal Dorn. Are you a resident of this planet?" she asked in a straight tone.
Issei was blushing red: Issei was not trying to be rude and even though these two were giants they were still very beautiful.
"U-mm N-No I'm not I'm lost here too, I'm Issei," Issei said in an awkward tone. Rogal didn't break eye contact but looked more into Issei.
"Where are you from?" Rogal asked.
"I'm from Earth-" Issei tried to say but was interrupted by Rogal.
"Do you mean Terra? Earth is an uncommon name for it in the imperium," Rogal corrected.
"I'm sorry we call it Earth where I'm from," Issei answered.
Issei was a bit confused even with all the other angels, demons, and other gods called the world Earth. Though all the other supernatural beings thought they were better than humans. Issei went silent for a while until he felt a giant metal glove touch his stub where his appendage used to be.
"Poor Issei he doesn't even know what age he is in," Ophis said. Ddraig felt his rage boil at the mockery but Miki just ignored it. Rias wanted to yell at Ophis for her sarcasm though she focused on the screen.
"Why do you not have a cyber prosthetic? It would be more efficient," Rogal asked.
Miki and Gorrou wanted to know how he had lost an arm.
"That shadowed one took it off and threw me in the gutter," Ddraig yelled gaining all their attention. Ophis laughed but she did want to know who this shadow being was.
"He certainly must be quite the jokester," Ophis said. Miki looked at the orb. "Who is this Shadowed one Ddraig,"
All of them wanted to know, Asia and Sirzech both had found the name of this Shadowed one to be a mystery. He sounded like no god they had ever encountered.
"Who is this person who took my son," Miki asked. Ddraig was about to speak only for Doctor Wondertainment to hush him.
"Quiet now we don't want to give away spoilers," Doctor Wondertainment said. Miki stood up from her seat and glared at him.
"I WANT-"
"To know what happened to your son, I know but if you watch the video you'll all find out," Miki sat back down and gave a huff.
"He said he lost it recently," Konrad told Rogal in a smug tone of voice. Rogal looked at Issei with a stern look from before.
"This is unfortunate, what was the last thing you remember before you came here?" Rogal asked.
"I-i-i-i don't remember, I was on a walk in the park now I'm here," Issei said lying about what his attention was at the park.
"A park in Terra, so you are noblemen, correct?" Rogal asked, still her eyes unmoving, unflinching, and unwavering. Issei was more confused every time Rogal brought up her topics trying to figure out who Issei was.
"Look, I'm sorry but I don't know how I got here," Issei said in a panicked voice. Rogal slowly stepped up and then looked toward the sky. She took a long deep sigh and then turned her attention to Konrad.
"Well, he's our only lead to why we are here. we need Magnus," Konrad said.
"I'm guessing you were on the assumption that Magnus would be here as well since you left a month ago when we went scouting after Angron left," Rogal said as she said in an annoyed tone.
Rias was unsure about Issei's story it seemed like he didn't know what was going on. Akeno and Koneko looked through that park rock by rock. Though many names were brought up they all just wanted to know if Issei would be safe.
"Well if she isn't here then where is Magnus, Rogal!" Konrad asked while saying Rogal's name with a hint of poisonous anger.
"I don't know where our sisters went, but the majority put me in charge of making a base camp and fortifying it," Rogal said in a strong stoic tone, as she stepped up to Konrad, staring her down. "Keep your rash behavior in check Konrad. we have been stranded here for months without any sign of rescue so stay here and make use of your labour,"
Konrad Slowly turned and walked away from Rogal with a feral growl, like she was some sort of animal. She looked at Rogal with a mad glare as she left.
"Make sure that this one stays with you at the camp and doesn't run away," Konrad barked.
"Well Kuroka, I think you have a better family relationship than them," Ophis said. Making the cat girl grip her fists in anger, though she found her king's hand resting on her shoulder telling her it was all okay and to stay calm. Kuroka would have made a joke but could see how hurt her sister was. Issei was so good to her now he was gone. Kuroka looked at Rias thinking that she pushed him away but realized it was a group effort.
Rogal looked at Konrad with a firm look, her face had a solid expression of calmness, and stood firm to her ground.
"Konrad, may I remind you that you ran off selfishly on your own, and left us to search for Angron by ourselves," Rogal said in a stern tone of voice.
Konrad didn't like Rogal comments and walked off into the woods. Issei only had to blink to see Konrad had vanished from his sight, she moved fast and easily disappeared into the dark forest. Issei had to rub his eyes to make sure his vision wasn't playing tricks on him.
"Boy," Rogal said, breaking Issei out of his confusion. Issei turned around to see Rogal picking up two of the logs, and setting them down on her side and across from her. She sat on one of the logs, her eyes never leaving Issei.
"Though Konrad left your interrogation is far from over," Rogal said in an emotionless order "Now rest boy you and I have much to discuss tomorrow,"
Rogal ordered as the light from the sky died down and became night. Issei looked at the dark cloudy sky and as darkness settled in. Issei couldn't argue with any of this, He was stranded but desperately refused to be alone. He felt he was asking for so much, so he thought this was the best he could get. Nothing could be done. Issei accepted his fate.
He walked over to the other log and slowly slumped on the ground trying to make himself comfortable. The grass was very soft. The short stubbles weren't even scratchy, as Issei lay on his back and looked up into the night sky.
"Thank you," Issei said, not breaking contact with the night sky. Rogal looked towards the boy.
"Your temps of gratitude to try and sway me from suspicions of you will not work," Rogal told Issei, trying to deny him friendly talk but Issei wasn't bothered in fact, he expected the harshness like it was nothing.
"He's just trying to be nice you hulking brute," Irina said, Xenoiva gripped her fist in anger why did her love have to suffer? Azazel could see how sad his smile was and it broke his heart. All because of a rating game. Rias held her head down.
"Still thank you," Issei said with a weak smile.
This only caused Rogal to be more suspicious of him. Issei only lay there with no care in the world.
"What are you even thanking me for, you do understand I'm watching so that you don't escape. I don't believe your story, and yet you still thank me, Why?" Rogal asked.
"I just didn't want to be alone, I know you're keeping an eye on me, but I'm not alone, hell If you want that's the best way you can torture information out of me, just by leaving me alone," Issei said in a quiet, sad tone. A strange silence took over the two and a few moments later Rogal broke it.
Miki was so close to crying after hearing such a wish. Gorrou wanted to smash his hand against the wall.
"Well, at least he's not alone," Miki cried out.
"Dammit I was his teacher and I failed him, F***!" Azazel yelled throwing his chair on the north wall. It smashed into a million pieces as he tried to take calm breaths. Sirzech got up and placed a hand on his shoulder. All eyes were on the two.
"The blame is on no one," Sirzech said as he began to tear up, Issei was a part of his family as well. "We need to be strong for him and will get him back. Azazel took a deep breath and took a step back.
"You're right," He said. "I'm sorry,"
"Konrad was right, you're strange," Rogal stated in a calm tone with only curiosity.
Issei said nothing and finally felt his eyes close as he fell asleep leaving a curious Rogal staring at Issei. The screen soon went black.
Doctor Wondertainment then appeared on the stage in a cloud of smoke. The stage lights were set on him and he gave them a grand look.
"So what do we think of the show," He asked. Miki soon cried her eyes out while her husband comforted her. Rias did the same only wanting to see her love again. Koneko was quiet but felt a burden lifted off her shoulder. Asia still prayed, Akeno was pinching herself trying to get back herself. Irina felt sick to her stomach but was happy to know Issei was safe. Xenovia felt so disappointed in herself. Kiba and Gasper wanted to be there for their friend but couldn't. Almost everyone was quiet and sad in one way or another.
"Sheesh, tough crowd,"
Okay, that's the first reaction chapter, Tell me what you think Also next "A Human Touch" Update will be out on April 7. Not to mention other projects I'm working on. Also, I got to take some edit days to fix some chapters, just really want to get things nice. Also if you have a good idea for a reaction in mind pm and I'll see what I can do, anything helps guys, don't be afraid to follow, favorite, and leave a review if you want, thank you and you people have a fantastic day.
