Hey, a serious apology for being late. big Author note at the bottom. Edited.
Chapter 4 Reacting to Chapter Two
The theater was experiencing a state of confusion after hearing the custodian dropping an F-bomb. Miki and Gorrou found it to be a little humorous. Kiba, Xenovia, and Irvine also thought so.
"What's wrong?" Azazel asked. Kitten walked by and sat by Miki and Gorrou talking up almost three seats. The golden warrior gave a heavy sigh. "Well, you can give up your regular human disguises and show me your true forms."
Many of them thought it possible this was a chance to establish some sort of peace with the Imperium, so many of the supernatural revealed their wings. Devils with large black bat wings, fallen angels with black wings, and so on.
"Is this to your liking?" Azazel said in a seductive tone. There was a strange silence that emanated from the Captain General. It was not disgust or anger. It was a more disappointing nature.
"Is that It?" The Captain General asked.
"What?" Questioned Rias.
"Is it just wings, that's more of a mutation, than being a devil." He said. Before anyone could speak Doctor Wondertainment appeared on stage. Then the spotlights were on the Captain General. Singling him out from the darkness.
"Hello, Mr. Kitten, you would say life back home is terrible. Correct?" He asked. The Captain General face-palmed his metal helmet.
"I would say my job is stressful but the outside planets suffer from being religious zealots, Xenos who try to destroy mankind, and Demons of unholy nature rise from the warp to end our lives. Yes, the Imperium of man faces adversity every day but we face and overcome it each day." He said with no hesitation in his voice. All of them gazed at how loyal he was to the cause. "Are times tough for your people?" Asia asked.
"Yes, they are but it wasn't always like that, for a short while we almost achieved the end," The Captain General said.
"The end of what?" Rias asked.
"The end of the great crusade." The golden warrior said in a somber tone.
Doctor Wondertainment smiled and bowed to the crowd.
"Well, I say let's get on with the show." The lights turned off as the screen turned white, and all of them watched hoping to see Issei again. The screen began to count down and went to black, fading into the next showing.
Issei could only see darkness floating in the void. Voices of the ones he loved tortured him as he hugged himself desperately with one arm. The only comfort he had was himself, but even that wasn't enough. As they denounced, shamed, and hated him. The pain slowly twisted his heart as he coughed up blood.
The voices of the one he loved screamed at him. An ominous black void swept him up, as he fell for an infinite amount of time. He had only stopped as the air had caught him. Leaving Issei hanging in the void. Issei could only hope it was over as he tried to catch his breath.
The crowd had a nervous feeling to them. Rias and the girls held their hands in a worried manner. Azazel felt horrible at this moment, though not understand what was happening.
"He's dreaming," Ddraig said.
"And from the looks of it a very bad dream," The Captain General said. The other feared what Issei's mind would do. Rias thought it was going to be just another perverted fantasy but this felt horrible.
The air went ice cold as Issei's breath fogged up around him, two giant bright green glowing reptilian eyes watched him and he could only stare ahead. The two eyes started to get closer to reveal out of the darkness, a great red dragon, looking right at Issei.
Issei could only look on in pure terror as the dragon flew right towards him with snarling teeth and those black malice slits stared him down with murderess intent. The Dragon flapped its wings at him, only charging at him.
"I'm sorry please I'm sorry," Issei screamed at the raging beast trying to plead with it.
"You were too weak to wield me. I expected good things from my partner, but you were too weak!" The Dragon screamed. "You will die alone and be a part of me, this is how you will end."
"Please I'm sorry I didn't mean to do that, please I'm sorry." Iseei crying out in pain.
"You will suffer forever boy now except fate, YOU WILL DIE FOR ME." The red dragon roared. The dragon zoomed at Issei's now in a fearful paralyzed state. Issei watched in horror as the Dragon bolted towards him. Before the dragon could rip him apart. He woke up.
Issei woke up, drenched in sweat, tears pouring out of his eyes. His throat was sorely dry. His breath was lost to himself. Slowly he looked around at his surroundings, immediately noticing he was not in the same place as before. It was dim and it looked like he was lying on a pile of leaves. On top of a smooth white wooden floor, wooden walls made of planks were all around him. Slowly finding his breath seeing the earlier sunlight shined on the stone floor outside the hut. Slowly he got to his feet walking out.
All of them were hushed at what they just saw. Miki and Gorrou both felt their heart sink into sadness. From what they watched, their son was subjected to such a horrible dream. Rias found herself covering her mouth with her hands seeing how her beloved was being haunted by his choice. Asia had muttered in a hushed whisper.
"Is this what he always dreams like when he thinks about Raynare?" She said. All of them realized how bad Issei's mental health was and it hurt them. Azazel was speechless at how horrible it was.
"Loki's Curse is still affecting him," Ddraig said. Asia and Rias covered their mouths in horror. She felt like crying for not seeing it sooner, not being able to help Issei from his nightmares. If it weren't for her parents holding her she would have been on the floor weeping.
"Damn that god!" Kiba said under his breath. Koneko held her mouth in horror, now knowing what pain Issei had understood, feeling the same as nightmares. She felt so disappointed in herself, feeling like she turned her back on another kindred flame like herself.
"That's one way to start your morning," Opis said.
He made his way out of the hut, and Issei's eyes widened with surprise. The grove around him was no longer there the stumps and grass that were all around before were gone. The ground was now covered in a stone floor each stone having different shades of gray. Issei looked around the area to find that all the logs that were once lying on the ground were now built into a fence around the glade. What looked like days of work happened in hours. Issei looked at the site before him. He muttered in a whisper.
"Amazing."
All of them marveled at how fast these walls and floors were made overnight. The Captain General nodded his head at the Matriarch's work. He wouldn't expect anything else.
"I would say this work is adequate, far from amazing." Rogal voiced as she sat on a log behind the amazed Issei.
Miki could see Rogal was the opposite of Konrad, but was this some sort of façade? Why do you end up being hurt by this one?
"She built this in an entire night of sleep and she calls it adequate?" Vali asked out loud. "Man, I would love to see what her good work looks like,"
"Her best work was the golden castle of Terra, her most crowning achievement, she, earned the name in the Imperium as the praetorian of Terra," The Captain General said.
As Issei turned around to see her calm face watching him with studying eyes: like how a cop watched a suspected criminal. Issei could see a stump in front of Rogal, Issei realized that was his seat: being that it was the only stump around them. He looked at his severed limb, Issei said in his mind 'let's get this over with."
"Sorry Issei," Asia said. Seeing how he looked at his served limp.
"Don't worry Issei always gets up on his feet," Irina said trying to comfort Asia.
He took a deep breath walking calmly to the stump across from her. Issei tried to walk towards Rogal with a cool walk but tripped on the way there falling flat on his knees. An awkward silence took over.
"OW!" Issei said.
All of them winced at the bad fall Issei just took. They found it a bit painful. Rias herself wanted to pick him up but felt bad she couldn't.
Miki and Gorrou slapped their foreheads at his clumsy nature. Now was not the time for it.
"You're focusing too much on your missing weight just go with your body movement," Rogal said as she watched Issei fall to the ground.
"I'm beginning to think that's going to be something will be hearing that lot," Vali said.
"Honestly I understand his pain," Azazel said thinking of the past when he lost his arm and tumbled down on the ground in his private time.
He picked himself up immediately and did what Konrad said before when she watched him fall. Walking to the stump and sitting down. The stump was hard and uncomfortable, but surprisingly even.
"You were still walking wrong, you'll have to fix that on your own time," Rogal said in her calm monotone voice. Rogal then got up from her seat towering over Issei staring him down like a prison watch tower. Then at that moment, Issei felt like the air around him got thicker, as there was an invisible weight placed on his shoulders while an overwhelming feeling of force, held him still.
Rogal didn't break eye contact with Issei. Rogal glared at Issei with cold murderous intent. Issei didn't know what to do, but he felt a panic slowly creeping its way into his heart.
"If you or in any way are involved with our current situation and you don't tell me, I shall promise you a long and torturous conversation," Rogal spoke in a commanding voice. Issei could only stare in horror.
"Do you understand?" Rogal asked.
"Yes, Yes I do," Issei reassured her.
The room felt a bit uneasy about her threat, it sounded like she would make good on the deal. Miki hoped her son would answer truthfully but even that seemed like it would put him in danger. Gorrou knew their son had to lie but would it be good enough?
"What is that?" Azazel asked, seeing something pushing down on Issei. "It appears to be magic," He guessed
"That is simply a natural reaction from a lower being seeing a Matriarch. They amplify and hold such authority and strength some say destiny bends to them," The Captain General said. Sirzechs wonder what an amazing skill to have, just your mere presence affects the other.
"Why have that in your children trying to scare off any suitors," Azazelfooled. Asia held her hand in a soft prayer. Sona was studying all the information she could about this place.
Rogal slowly sat back down, but as she did the feeling of the willpower around Issei slowly disappeared around him but he could still feel the pressure around him like a reminder of where he was.
"Now let us begin, where are you exactly from, planet and area?" She asked, clasping her armored hands in front of her. Issei took a deep breath and spoke truthfully.
"I'm from Earth, I was born in Japan and the town I lived in is called Kouh," Issei said in a calm tone of voice, He spoke honestly. Issei watched Rogal as she studied him every moment.
"I am unfamiliar with this Japan you speak of, while you keep calling Terra Earth which is the incorrect way to say it." Rogal insisted.
"My next questions are, how old are you, what is your name, what's your occupation, and what were you doing in this park?" Rogal asked again this time there was an aggressiveness in her voice.
Issei picked up on Rogal's attitude change and spoke quicker.
"I'm Seventeen years old, I'm still in school and I was, I was-" Issei self paused and thought back to why he was at the fountain where his new life started. This didn't go unnoticed by Rogal; she raised her eyebrow.
"On a walk, yes! I was on a walk in the park." Issei said trying to recover from his triggering memories. Issei looked into Rogal's eyes to see if his lie was working.
"Hmm, I see, what imperial school did you intend?" She asked.
Issei was a bit confused by this imperial word; it was brought up yesterday too but Issei didn't know what to make of it. Issei then spoke up about the question that had been on his mind yesterday.
"Issei, you're in unknown waters but please be careful with your words," Rias said, already seeing the idea of burning Issei at the stake. Her mother held her shoulder.
"He'll be fine just have faith in him," She called out.
"Yeah, Rias, my son is smarter than you let on!" Miki said.
"I'm sorry but what is the Imperium?" Just as Issei said Rogal's face was that of pure confusion and surprise. Rogal stood up again as the unknown pressure from before closed around Issei again.
"Now I know your words are nothing but tricks, what is the Imperium? You claim to live on terra yet you don't know what the Imperium is should I explain how to breathe or why the birds need to fly." Rogal yelled but slowly she took a deep breath and calmed herself as she sat back down. Issei spoke up in a rash whisper.
"For someone who seems so calm, she had a lot of rage!" Gorrou said.
"Well, her gene seed led to one of the most loyal sons and, the black templars," The Captain General said with a stressed sigh.
"Absolute lunatics! By the way," Doctor Wondertainment said. Sona and Opihs are interested in what this legion of superhumans could be to be so crazy.
"Oh, that's true, they kill anything that goes against the Emperor's word, all the heresy they can get." The Captain General said. Remembering all the stories and mountains of paperwork left by them.
"I'm sorry I don't know what the Imperium is, I'm just really lost," Issei said as he was held still by the pressure. Rogal closed her eyes. Issei looked at her to see she was in deep thought. Issei couldn't blame her, Rogal and her sisters sounded like they were stuck here for days.
"What do you gain from lying to me, what kind of plan is this, how do you not know of the Imperium?" Rogal grunted as her fist clenched so hard that the metal glove she wore screeched. Issei covered his ears to protect them from the loud noise. Rogal rubbed the bridge of her nose. Rogal looked very stressed, without thinking Issei walked over to Rogal and gently placed his hand on her armored gauntlet. Issei honestly still couldn't believe how big she was he wasn't disturbed by her size but amazed at her breathtaking beauty.
Rogal was snapped out of her deep thought to see Issei's gentle hand placed over her armored gauntlet. Rogal wondered what Issei was doing.
"I'm sorry, I know that it doesn't mean much, but I want to help you and your sister as much as I can but I'm just a little lost, I don't know what the Imperium is, I'm gonna help you guys as much as I can, even if you don't trust me, I'll still help you," Issei said from his heart. Rogal could tell Issei's answers were genuine and carried no weight of lie. Rogal questioned herself as to why he would do such a thing: I mean if he doesn't know what the Imperial was, would even know what a space marine was? Much less a Matriarch.
All of them watched how kind Issei was being towards Rogal seeing a usual beautiful trait of his.
His kindness. Miki and Gorrou knew how kind their son was. It brought them such joy to offer a hand but they did wish he didn't show it to his captors. Even Rias' parents were a bit surprised to see such compassion from Issei, they knew of his loyalty but not the softer side of him.
Rias felt a ping of envy, at how he acted but shoved that feeling away immediately knowing that's what got her here in the first place. Akeno felt her heart beat faster seeing how soft he was. Gasper wanted his friend back.
"You are strange," Rogal noted. Issei oddly didn't know what to say. Rogal wasn't insulting him but her straightforwardness was a bit hard to tell if it was good or not.
"Hey, he's trying to be nice to you, you big jerk," Rias cried out. Sirzech had to take a deep breath to try not to be upset with her sister seeing her reaction. All this pain she was in irked him, all he wanted was to get them back, so that her little sister could be happy.
"Well she isn't naturally mean, it's just Rogal straightforward, like a lot," The Captain General said. Sona pushed up her glasses and nodded at the comment.
"I could tell," Vali said.
"I threatened you and yet you still offer a hand to help. Yet you show no fear. You don't know what I am but you're so calm." Rogal said in her usual calm tone. She raised her glove and relaxed her grip. "My investigation of your character and involvement is concluded. Now I will continue my work at the base camp."
The Captain General turned towards Miki and Gorrou "Hmm no wonder your son survived Konrad's judgment, he truly has good of heart,"
"Of course he does, we tried our best to raise him right," Gorrou said.
"It's not just good parenting, your son has a gentle soul, some beings in this world or the next have a great noble nature within them," The Captain General informed the two. Rias gave a happy chuckle thinking of the many times Issei was kind and noble.
"Well it's good that my son was able to keep his traits human, even turned into a devil," Gorrou said, his tone of voice suggesting a stink at the Gremory family. The Captain General couldn't help but find that news a bit disturbing. These devils could turn other people into more of their wicked kind. Zeoticus found it was not too long ago he shared a drink with Gorrou now his friend couldn't even look at him. Venelana felt a burning guilt inside her thinking all of this could have been her fault. Though she would hold out hope for something like this.
"Forgive me, it slipped my mind I only have one more question to ask. A simple one." Rogal asked
"Of course!" Issei responded.
"Good, at what time did you enter the park, I will need the time, month, and year. Leave no detail left out." Rogal asked.
"Oh it was at 2:00 pm, March, and the year is 2008," Issei said his answer and watched as Rogal's eyes showed shock.
All of them knew of the huge mistake Issei made just then. Miki fears that Rogal will make good on her promise at that moment. Then she felt a golden gauntlet comfort her shoulder. The giant hand held her softly.
"Do not forget Rogal is more honorable than you let on," The Captain General informed her. Xenovia and Irina had strong stares at the golden warrior, though they could notice how Rogal accepted Issei's kindness so their suspicions were almost quenched; only they didn't like the way she looked at Issei. Sirzech needed Issei to be smart and not reveal the supernatural of their world to the imperium of man. There was no telling what war could be brought to their doorstep. One that would kill the gods.
"Rogal are you alright-"
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"
Before Issei could finish an ear-piercing female scream rang through the forest hitting them with a wave of shock. Issei's breath came to a halt while Rogal ran at full speed to the edge of the camp in a matter of seconds.
"You will stay here," Rogal yelled at Issei as she pushed on the wall to reveal it was a large disguised gate. Rogal opened the door so hard that a force of air knocked Issei onto his back falling to the ground.
That ear-piercing scream made them all wince. It sounded horrible. Koneko had to cover her ears because of her advanced hearing.
"What was that!" Vali cried out.
"Forget that did you see how fast she moved, she knocked him off his feet by opening the door," Gasper cried out. Even though they witnessed Konrad leaping and scaling buildings Rogal wore such heavy armor it looked like it would take a while to move.
"Jeez, she moves fast," Issei said in amazement despite her size she moved like an agile jungle cat. Issei did as he was told and waited. He sat back on the stump, holding his head down in shame.
Miki and Gorrou didn't know what to think now, was that Issei stayed at that base.
"I know that look, boy, stay put boy!" Ddraig said. Kitten glanced at the orb.
"Does he have a track record of disobedience?" He asked. The whole audience let out a tired sigh.
"Famously," Rias cried out. Thinking of all the times it has happened. Doctor Wondertainment let out a mighty entertained laugh.
Issei already hated this. He hated being alone he could help. All he could do was sit on his ass waiting for another to do something. Like leech-sucking blood, depression started to settle in his mind.
"I need help but I don't have my sacred gear. Without it I'm nothing." Issei said as he now realized how much of a fool he was: even if it wasn't true. A couple of minutes passed.
Issei still sat on his stump and waited.
"If you don't mind me asking why this young man seems so... well I don't want to be rude but miserable?" The Captain General asked.
"It's a long story," Ddraig said. Before the Captain General could ask further about it. Issei appears to be stricken with something. Though the Custodian could tell the teen was suffering from great pain. His eyes looked so empty like the people living in a hive city. That right now his suffering was his reality and only that. Yet the fact he could still have some hope and help others touched something in the Custodian.
A true Human.
Then Issei was hit by a grim thought, that the scream had to come from Konrad which meant she was in trouble or possibly one of the other sisters he hadn't met.
"Those two have been kind in their way and this is how to repay them by moping around while they are just as lost as me," Issei said to himself. "Fuck that!"
"Issei language!" Rossweisse yelled. All of them were taken back by how Issei had nothing and yet he charged in with no regret. Ddraig smiled knowing one thing that was his host and he could have been happier.
Issei got up to his feet and ran towards the gate that Rogal had left open, he had a good idea where she went due to a trail of bent tree trunks, broken branches, and fallen down trees. Slowly getting walking on the following path. It looked like Rogal had charged through this forest like a raging machine.
Issei remembered where the scream was. It was awful sounding like someone was in pure agony. Issei began thinking about the last place he saw Konrad which was in the opposite direction
All of them found Issei's skill in tracking to be impressive. Rias turned her head at the screen in an odd fashion, I didn't know he could do that. Akeno felt a sense of disappointment in herself for not knowing this about him, this was greater than the other time of his kindness. Venelana held her daughter's hand trying to calm her down. Rias tried to take comfort but found the action to not be helpful.
Issei thought it was a long shot but started to walk in the opposite direction the path led he jogged to the camp making his way around Rogal camp. Running towards the last time he saw Konrad was his best shot at finding her.
Issei made his way to the spot where Konrad had disappeared. Issei looked up at the high trees thinking maybe she could be in the trees but sadly there was no sign of her there. Issei kept going into the woods with no direction but stayed sharp if anything around him was strange or outplace. Issei had a horrible thought that Konrad had died or maybe he was entirely wrong.
Issei felt his chest tighten and his breathing slows down.
"Oh god please not now," Issei grumbled as he felt another panic attack coming, as he fell to his knees the self-pressure was getting worse.
"Oh no Issei," Asia cried out in panic.
"Just go back to the camp my love," Rias said. Miki and Gorrou agreed.
"Please Issei, you don't have to help Konrad, she's awful!" Miki yelled out. The Captain General turned to face them under his helmet there was a questioning gaze at them.
"You do realize he can't hear you, right?" The Sheild Captain suggested.
"It just helps so back off Kitten!" Koneko said with a harsh voice. Ravel even though knew the same held her heart like watching an intense movie.
On the verge of tears, there wasn't much for him. Issei slowly sat down, and a gentle breeze blew by him as tree leaves shook giving a calm melody.
"Breath in," Issei said to himself as he took a deep breath.
"Breath out."
"Breath in."
"Breath out."
Issei continued his slow breaths as his chest loosened, his breath slowly came back, and slowly got back up to his feet. Limping his way towards a tree he leaned on it. Has he worked through his panic attack?
Gorrou nodded in approval knowing how his son did pay attention on those fishing trips.
"I should go back to the camp," Issei said with a defeated groan, as he pushed himself off the tree it felt different than the surrounding tree around him. He looked at the bark to see what looked like giant claw marks. Two gashing slashes in the white bark as drips of red sap leaked from the cut.
"Those were made by " Asia tried to say only for Kitten to cut her off.
"Konrad!" He finished. The Captain General turned his head. In a pondering manner.
"Hmm strange she didn't cut that tree all the way though," Kitten said. Rias turned her attention to the Captain Generals at what he said.
"What do you mean?" She asked.
"What I mean is when one of the Emperor's children attacks an object they do more than just leave a scratch. Something is wrong," He said. A lot of them ponder on his words. Ophis couldn't help but smile.
"So they're that powerful?" Ophis asked. Kitten sighed he could see that these supernatural creatures had valued power, the glimmer in the eye was the dead giveaway. The Captain General gave a heavy sigh. Should he tell them what they truly were capable of in a planet-wide battle?
Issei remembered only one could make these marks from his memories. Konrad had claws on her armored gauntlets. Issei looked around to see another claw mark on another tree but it looked like the cut was sloppy. Issei had found there was a path of these cuts going straight away from the camp. His gut told him that they found something and followed the marked trees as they made a clear path to find who did this.
The Captain General thought Issei was unfit for combat, though his mental game of dealing with stress in this amount was good. The way this boy appeared on screen and faced Rogal he was interested in, and how he managed to delegate around Rogal was impressive. This Issei had some way with words. Grayfia never thought Issei would have such outdoor skills.
Issei sped up his walking pace for a couple of minutes, starting to see multiple cuts on other trees: like how captive wild animals would constantly scratch their cages. Still following the path as it worsened the claw marks started to become deeper, and the ground beneath him became more torn up with cut-up trees lying on the ground.
After a while the path of carnage started leading to a downward hill, Issei made his way to the edge of the hill, noticing the flattened grass leading down to the bottom of the hill to see motionless Konrad lying on her side facing away from Issei. He made his way down the hill
"What was she accomplishing? Look at all this destruction," Miki said.
"Perhaps she was attacked," Azazel suggested.
"There are not enough bodies," Answered Kitten. All of them found that answer to be disturbing. Koneko kept a dead emotionless glance at anything yet that made her eyes slightly wince. Rias just wanted Issei to go back to the camp.
Issei looked in horror at the proud warrior that met only a day ago, lying on the ground shaking and silently crying.
"Why is she acting like this? It makes no sense, one moment she is acting all like a murderous criminal now a weeping baby," Kuroka said.
"She suffers from a terrible haunting vision, I heard that she sees only the worst outcomes, she has no control over when they show but she uses it for battle," The Captain General informed them. All of them wonder why she would have such a double-edged sword and know the weakness of a Konrad.
'Is the poor thing having a panic attack?' Miki asked out loud.
"No, something far worse isn't that right kitten," the mad Doctor said. The Captain General is silent at the question not wanting to answer.
Something in Issei screamed to check on her to do anything to make her pain stop. Issei ran down the hill to see Konrad's face twisted into discomfort: like she was being tortured, tears poured from her eyes stanging her cheeks while she held herself in anger. Konrad's body shook like she was having a painful seizure.
"ROGAL, HELP!" Issei screamed for help.
All of them watched as Issei tried to help. They could only watch with gaped mouths seeing how he was trying to do anything. Many of the girls felt a tinge of familiarity when seeing Konrad in this state. Rias has nightmares about her arranged marriage. While many others suffered only for Issei to be there for them.
"Issei," Asia whispered. The more she cried out her name, the further he was.
Issei stopped everything he was doing when a quiet yet broken sad voice cracked out of Konrad's lips.
"All I see is death," Konrad whispered.
"I see the death of my sisters, I see the death of my world, and most all i-i-i-i-i- see my death." Konrad cried as her face showed oceans of sadness, and more tears poured from her eyes. Issei felt his heartache as he watched Konrad. What looked like to him was a panic attack.
Koneko and Akeno felt sad about this tragic site. Seeing how broken Konrad was, even during their hardships of breaking down it wasn't as bad as this but what caused it piqued their interest.
Rias still had her guard up and didn't want Issei to get closer to her.
Without hesitation kneels by her side. Gently laying his hand on top of her head stroking her hair so she would calm down. He did because it was the only part of her body that wasn't covered by her armor. Issei slowly tried to calm her down, he touched her hair to feel it was very oily, but that didn't stop him as he continued to try and comfort her.
In all the horror stories they heard of Konrad and even Kitten knowing of the terrible things done by her, this was still hard for even him to watch. Konrad is still one of his lord's children, his handmade creation. To see it suffering like this was hard for him to watch.
Rias could see how scared she was and a tiny amount of sadness entered her emotion, though she didn't care for her horrible attitude towards Issei. Asia's Bleeding heart couldn't help but feel bad for her.
Azael would have said a million haiku, to capture this moment though he is quiet like saying anything would ruin the moment, Rias could not help but feel happy when her beloved helped someone in need, being the Oppai Dragon. Seeing the person she fell In love with, in his time of strife.
"It's okay Konrad, just try and breathe in and out okay," Issei assured but could see it did not affect Konrad, as she was still shaking and crying. Issei bites into his white button-up, tearing off a piece of his white shirt. Issei used the cloth to wipe away her tears.
"Your son is always doing good by others; he truly is a kind man," Sirzech said to the Hyoudous. They both had sad smiles.
"Yes, yes he is," Gorrou said, a little surprised at how long he was, Miki wished this part of their son was seen more, even to them they had never seen this side of him. Their son was an angel and they were happy knowing that. Rias mused at how kind Issei was, thinking of all the time she cuddled with him. He was always a great way to relieve stress when the girl tested him.
"It's okay, breathe Konrad, I'm here, don't worry about anything, you'll be okay," Issei said, trying to comfort her. Konrad's whisper of pain stopped and her face slowly turned into a calm expression.
"Woah, your son would make a great therapist," Vali commented. Miki smiled at that comment. Akeno wanted her Issei back, having those same proactive only looks at her. The Captain General could tell how calm she was, he was at a loss for words at how he was putting Konrad down. Not even the best doctors in the imperium could do such a task. Even the emperor would only suppress those horrible visions. Xenovia held her broken heart as she wanted him back.
The more Issei spoke calm words, Konrad started to calm down and relax.
Konrad's eyes closed and her breathing steady. Issei relaxed himself seeing Konrad settle down.
"Woah he's good at that, in a sad pathetic way," Kuroka said.
"Will you shut up!" Koneko yelled. The Captain General would not take this childish behavior while seeing a hypothetical event that could've prevented The Horus Heresy.
"Enough you two take your childish antics somewhere else," The Captain General yelled. Both of them settled back down, not looking in each other's direction.
Dr. Wondertainment peaked at this fight. "Ew, looks like we got into a catfight!"
"I'm not a cat!" The Captain General shouted. "Never mind let's just get back to the show,"
Miki and Gorrou didn't care about the silly argument but felt a sense of pride. Seeing how their son was so gentle and helping Konrad.
"There we go, you're okay I'm here and so are your sisters-" Issei paused to what he was going to say. His eyes became empty as he felt vile in the back of his throat. Issei took a deep breath and spoke in a calm whisper.
"Your family here, that's what matters, you're not alone," Issei said in a very cracked voice.
Rias felt tears running down her cheeks. Her father quickly wiped it away and hugged her.
Akeno felt an empty pit in her stomach, Asia held her hand in prayer until smoke appeared over her hands, and Kiba gripped his hand so tight that his fingernails drew blood. Koneko's facial expression was as lifeless as a statue.
Irina was silent as a tear ran down her cheek. Xenovia comfortably held her hand, Gasper hid more in his seat. Azazel held his head down seeing his student was alone.
Konrad became tranquil as her relaxed eyes stared into the woods. Konrad zoned out as she didn't notice Issei was there. Her eyes then turned to surprise as she stared out into nowhere.
Vali could see something in Konrad's eyes that made him wonder what was truly going on here. Venelana
"Issei." She mumbles in a quiet whimper.
Issei looked at her to see Konrad was only looking off into space. Though Issei didn't mind.
All that mattered was that she was okay. Issei took the cloth away from her face and took his hand away from her head. The two were left with themselves, while the sounds of nature eased their minds.
All of them watched in awe as a god of war was being held by human hands. It was a beautiful moment, some felt envious of her, and others admired the site. The King of hell and her maiden thought it was a kind site.
A few moments of peace passed and Issei watched as Konrad pulled herself to her knees and gazed at Issei: not stunned by hate or anger, but a look stunned like when one sees something beautiful.
"What are you doing here?" She asked, surprised by his appearance.
"Why ask? just be happy he came for you," Rias said. The Captain General was at a loss for words, The night lord sat in peace. Miki was worried about what would happen next. Konrad's past behavior had not made the best first impression on Miki.
Gorrou also wonders what this night lord would do now.
"We heard someone scream and I thought you were in trouble so I came to check on you," Issei told his answer honestly. Konrad noticed the rags in his hand to saw he had ripped his clothing for her.
"Why is your shirt ripped?" She asked.
"You were crying so I ripped my shirt for you so you could wipe your tears..." Issei's words caused Konrad's eyes to look almost in disbelief. Konrad never received a concern for her well-being, like this before.
"Issei is always thinking about others, except himself, what an interesting host you used to have," Ophis said. The great dragon said her comment but noticed how many didn't pay her mind including Ddraig trying his best to keep calm. Though he told himself to be calm. The tension in the room was so close to becoming a brawl. If not for the unknown third party that was in the room, things may have gotten out of hand with the slight misuse of a word.
"You did that for me, why?" Konrad asked again, sadness layered through her voice. Issei slowly walked towards her holding out the rag he used to wipe her tears.
"It's what anyone would do, I guess helping people is just something I do," Issei said with an honest smile. Issei reached for Konrad's metal glove, Konrad pulled back her metal glove for a moment but she slowly pushed forward and opened her hand. Issei gently put the rag in her armored hand. Issei looked at Konrad this time deep into her eyes.
"I know I'm not the best at anything, I know you probably look down upon me and I understand why, look at me," Issei said as he jested to his missing limb, moving his stump around.
"Issei, please don't say that about yourself," Miki said. Asia in a rare moment gave them a broken look.
"But you call him a useless pervert a lot of the time," Asia said. Miki and Gorru both winced at the comment. They did it in a joking manner.
"That family thing alright, he doesn't take it personally, I think," Miki said, unsure of her answer. The Captain General's ears picked up on this information and shook his head in disapproval.
"Even jokes about something, from parents can hold much sway in a child's heart. You should be more careful what you say, relentless mockery solves nothing," He said. Gorrou felt a sense of self-angry, thinking that this person did have a point. Miki crossed her arms.
"What would you know of good parenting!" Miki bites back.
"Well not to brag but I do have the greatest Father figure ever," He proudly said.
Meanwhile In the heart of the Golden Fortress of Terra.
The emperor sat on the golden throne of Terra, stuck in perpetual pain and torment, trying to hold back the demons that would tear apart real space, though even in another dimension, he could always feel when someone complimented him.
[Yay go me!] His robotic voice from his text speech device said.
Back in the theater.
The doctor gave a soft sarcastic cough at the answer. "That's debatable!"
"But even if you were the worst person in the world or you hated me so much, I would still help you, it's just something I do, so I'm going to help you guys get back home no matter what," Issei promised with his heart. To him, a simple promise to Konrad would mean more than anything in the world.
"He is so amazing sometimes," Ravel said. Her eyes latched onto the screen seeing how Issei was acting so kind. Azazelsaw how Issei's human nature was always there. Rossweisse wished she could have seen this side of Issei more. Though more in person than on a screen.
Konrad's eyes were wide but slowly turned into a gentle gaze. Konrad was at a loss for words and stared with interest. Issei let go of Konrad's gauntlet leaving the cloth in her hand.
Azazel laughed at the site, "I've seen that look before eh Rias," He joked. Akeno and Rias both held heated glares at the fallen angel. Even her older brother shook her head in disagreement.
"That's not funny," Sirzech said. Grayfia held her hands in anger at the joke. Love is a sacred thing and not to be trifled with, even if you do, there are severe consequences to your own heart. Rias and the others had suffered enough from a misunderstanding.
"Oh, it's just a joke like Issei would fall for this monster," Azazel said. The Captain General turned to face him.
"I would be careful with your words, there sir Azazel, the matriarchs were made to perfectly negotiate, speak words, and learn any language, of the highest order," The Captain General said.
"You are unusual," Konrad said in a soft voice while she gazed into his eyes with a soft stare. Issei noticed Konrad was looking right at him as it caused him to blush. Issei couldn't help it. She was beautiful.
Azazel gave the golden warrior a sassy glance.
"Of the highest order?" He asked sarcastically. The Captain General took a long sigh.
"For personal notes, she's not the status quo of what matriarchs should be," Captain General said. Rias noticed how Issei was blushing and didn't care for it. Even now his perverted nature would get the best of him. Akeno didn't like the way Konrad looked at Issei like he was some sort of spectacle to be admired.
"Thank you." Issei blurred out.
Issei mentally slapped himself for his awkwardness, but Konrad didn't care she was cracking a small smile. Though it was a little smile. Issei could only see a happy face in front of him and that was enough for him right now.
"She looks like a pervert," Koneko said out loud. Rias let out a tiny laugh only for Grayfia to give a disproving glance.
"Koneko!" Rias said, scolding her servant but understanding where she was coming from.
Slowly standing up he gave Konrad a nod.
"Konrad, do you want to come back to the camp with me?" Asking in a polite tone. Something in Konrad accepted it and inside of her brought out a rare feeling she rarely felt joy.
"Yes, that sounds nice," Konrad replied.
Miki and Gorrou took a sigh of relief. Akeno gave a sly face.
"Fufufu seems like someone's dominatrix front was only front for a soft girl," Akeno said. The Captain General shook his head.
"No, this something new, she tossed hundreds of soldier decapitated heads into the streets to make another city surrender, it was awful, I mean terrible," He said, crossing his arms over. All of them had shocked expressions.
"Oh my god," Gorrou said.
"She has been acting very strange at this moment, I don't know what she is feeling though, it seems strange," The Captain General said.
"That would be a wise choice, Konrad." Rogal's voice said, her voice broke the calm moment, like a hammer breaking glass. The two turned towards where the voice came from to find a standing mountain of seriousness. Rogal looked annoyed as hell standing on top of the hill staring the two down like how an adult would stare at a misbehaved child. The air soundly got thick again but Issei stood his ground.
"She doesn't look so happy," Gasper said, ducking his head in the chair in front of him. The sound of beating anger banged around him.
"Oh you're in trouble now boy," Kuroka taunted.
"I went to find Konrad." Issei nervously said.
"Issei don't talk back, she'll punish you," Irvine said seeing that same look from the elder sisters from the church. Rias could see the displacement in Rogal's stone-cold eyes. Even Grayfia's strong, strict behavior shuddered, and felt her back straightened up. Rogal was the epitome of discipline.
Rogal did not respond at all to Issei, only looking toward Konrad. Issei could tell Rogal looked at her sister with a tired hard gaze, But Konrad didn't return the look. Instead, Konrad looked at her sister with a slight gap of mouth, while her eyes looked as if a spectacle was blazing in front of her.
"Konrad, why did you scream? Was it out of frustration then I understand, But let me tell you this! Your mad spurts should be kept to yourself sister and in your twisted head. Do you understand Konrad?" Rogal spoke coldly, but Konrad wasn't bothered by her sister's comment, Konrad was still in shock at what she was seeing in front of her. Issei hated what Rogal was doing and Issei madly fumed. Konrad had a panic attack and now her sister was just scolding her for it.
"She seems so cold to her sister," Koneko said.
"Honestly that has to be the most tame scolding from her," The Shield Captian said.
Issei stepped up, putting himself between Rogal and Konrad. He stood his ground feeling the pressure around him. Rogal finally broke her gaze from Konrad and stared right at him with a cold look.
"Why don't you back off, she's your sister so how about you start by asking if she is alright first, get off you're, high horse," Issei yelled as he was frustrated with Rogal's choice of words.
All of them felt that was the wrong choice to speak out against Rogal. She was giving that harsh energy around herself. "Partner No!," Ddraig cried out.
Miki and Gorrou held each other's hands in worry.
"Relax all of you, Rogal is calmer than you give her credit for." The Captain General said. Lazily holding his spear.
"Are you sure about that?" Rias asked.
"She has the eyes of a brutal warrior," Xenovia said, she could tell by the way she held her sword on her hip made her worry. Sirzech didn't care for this conduct, he only wanted to see Issei be safe.
Rogal looked at Issei with a calm gaze but Issei could tell behind those eyes was a raging storm of annoyance.
"Your son has a lot of courage to stand up to her like that, Rogal is not someone to back down," Captain General said.
"Oh my boy is gonna get the life beaten out of him isn't he," Miki said.
"I wouldn't worry about that," He said. Miki glanced at him with nervous eyes.
"And how do you know that?" She asked.
"Because they would find fighting him a waste of time and honestly if it's one thing they value it's time," The Captain General said.
"What about cute guys, they can peg," Kuroka said, gaining all eyes on her. "What's it's a joke,"
"Keep hold of your tongue Boy!." Rogal ordered, her voice cracking the air like thunder as Issei stood his ground. "YOU! are not some guest, you are stranded on this planet with us. You are just as lost and what's worse you have proven to not follow rules." Rogal scold.
"He always does that, not following the rules," Rias said.
"If he didn't follow the rules, you would have been married to a monster, you!" Miki shouted. Making her wince at her tone of voice. Vali could feel the raw power just by Rogal's words. Even the Dragon within felt a bit on edge.
Rias couldn't help but think about how harsh Rogal was with rules. Then a dark thought entered her mind. All this naming business was on her. Rias found holding herself in a scared way. Asia could see it as well and held Rias' hand.
Issei felt like he was standing in front of a tidal wave. Rogal's presence was very demanding of your attention. It also didn't help that her hand was hovering over her hip like she was readying for a fight.
"What rule, there were no rules!" Issei said as his voice raised in confusion.
"I ordered you to stay at the camp, and my word is the rule so there's your first lesson," Rogal told Issei.
"Those aren't rules," Gasper said. "Those are more like orders!"
"Oh trust me when Rogal says something, you follow it firmly," The Captain General said. Many of them could see Rogal was a hard worker who didn't make any mistakes. Azazel understood this was the same woman who built the golden castle of Terra.
"Oh come on!" Issei yelled back in anger, Issei was going to retort to Rogal's orders when Konrad walked next to him.
"I apologize, Rogal, you're right, let us return to the camp," Konrad said in a calm tone. Rogal expected a lot more resentment. Konrad, like a calm pond, was no longer agitated and became very still. Issei found it very strange how was in a panic attack just a minute ago but was calm like it was nothing. Turning towards Issei, Konrad looked at him with that same kind of look that stunned Issei before.
The golden warrior of Terra gasped at the site, Konrad was protecting him. "By the Golden Throne,'
"What is she accomplishing with this turn of the cheek," Grayfia asked.
"I think she trying to gain favor from the boy," Sirzech suggested.
"Issei don't argue with Rogal, I am fine now let us return to the camp," Konrad said in a firm gentle tone. Issei stopped his attitude.
"All right," Issei said in defeat. With that, the two walked up the hill. Konrad looked at Rogal, giving her sister a respectful nod. Issei witnessed the exactions to see Rogal's eyes showing surprise not that much though one could feel the emotion in the air.
"Alright let us be gone then," Rogal said.
The three started to walk toward the camp while Rogal and Konrad were taking the lead. Issei was following far behind, It was gonna be a long walk back to the camp.
He took a long sigh grabbing his stub in frustration because of Rogal's early comments. Then a snap of a branch drew his attention looking into the woods to find nothing. Issei felt like something was watching him, Issei felt very unsettled and stopped moving.
"What's he looking at," Asia said. The Captain General gripped his spear close in hand as he could feel its presence as well.
"There is something out there," The Golden warrior said, gaining some eyes on himself. Ophis could smell it as well. Something was there lurking at them. Ddraig felt a quiet aura that way and it was very red and angry.
The wind blew softly as he stared deep into the quiet woods. Issei felt a pit in his stomach. He felt like something was watching him.
"Issei, don't fall behind, you want me to carry you again," Konrad said in a harsh tone. Issei snapped out of his daze and continued to walk toward the other two. Issei took a deep breath, holding his head down but followed along.
"There's something in those woods," Rias said. All of them felt a bit uncomfortable, wondering what it was. Though they didn't push it further. Akeno believed Issei was safe. After all, he was with his two gods of war.
A couple of minutes had passed and the three made it to the camp, Rogal pushing the mass wooden gates open. While the other two walked into the camp. Issei walked to the stump, sitting by himself. Issei held his head down. The sound of someone sitting drew his attention to his right to find Konrad had sat from the far side of the camp, but her eyes were stuck on him. Issei looked at her gaze to find she was almost studying him. Issei ignored this, for now, it would be his best choice in all of this.
"Issei due to your rebellious nature I will give you a warning," Rogal said as she slammed the door. Issei could feel that anomalous pressure around him as Rogel looked at him with a cold gaze. She walked towards Issei. Her steps still cared great force and thud into the ground. She towered over him. Issei couldn't look at her gaze, holding his head down.
"Good, it will keep him safe," Grayfia said.
Miki held her hand tight in a vice grip. "In know he wants to help people but he got realize his limits,"
Ddraig couldn't have agreed more, without him what was Issei? What could he do now without his power to touch the gods, his gear and friend stood here. With a deep sigh, he wanted to go back with his partner.
Rogal kneeled to Issei, meeting his downcasted eyes. Issei couldn't look away; he swore that these two had some sort of power with their looks. Their faces were the most beautiful things he'd ever seen. When you looked at them your attention demanded to be on them. Issei's eyes turned to look at hers. Rogal had a calm expression, nothing else.
"When I give an order you must follow it for your situation is not the best but you must know you are the only thing we've found on this planet that can explain why we are here and how to rid us of this world." She explained.
"At least she explains it," Xeonvia said. She quite enjoyed seeing Rogal, seeing her as a noble warrior. Kiba couldn't help but see how strong she was. It was like looking at a mighty immovable fortress.
Issei understood her order; he couldn't blame Rogal; she was just as much a stranger to them as he was to the other two. Also being stranded for so long can make anyone cranky.
"Do you understand Issei?" Rogal asked. Issei nodded his head, Rogal was satisfied with the answer and stood tall.
"Yes, I'm sorry I only wanted help," Issei said in a low voice, Issei looked her in the eyes. Catching the young teen off guard with her beautiful features.
"He's already there just leave him be," Gorrou said, wanting this scolding to end. His son already learned how helpless he was.
"I will say that you did find Konrad before me which is no easy feat," Rogal said, finishing it with a sighing breath.
"Uh compliment sandwich not bad," Sirzech said.
Rogal's eyes then caught him again. Rogal caught something odd when looking at Issei he was blushing. Rogal studies his blush with extreme interest.
"I won't go against what you ask." Issei honestly said. Rogal could tell the honesty from Issei's posture and relaxed knowing the situation was over.
"Good son, just listen to them and be fine," Gorrou said. Even when knowing of his son, amazing feats. Issei was still a human. Unless this 'He who made dark' shows up there wasn't much to do. "I know you want to help but know your limits, think about where you are right now."
"But that doesn't mean I'll sit on the sidelines while you guys are in trouble," Issei said with a serious look. Rogal was always a fan of doing it yourself or getting out of the way but here a crippled human still offering his hand. It made Rogal appreciate Issei's grit.
"Alright," Rogal said as she stood up. Though Rogal was still looking at Issei trying to figure out why he was blushing.
Rogal's interest was broken when a low growl was heard. Issei looked down at his stomach and covered it. Issei looked at Rogal with a shy look.
"Sorry, I guess all that running around made me hungry," Issei said in an awkward tone of voice.
"He needs food and a good night's rest after Konrad carried him like a giant sack of potatoes to heal," Grayfia pointed out, her maid nature took over.
Rogal looked at Issei now thinking where Issei's blush came from was a place of hunger and humbleness. Rogal wouldn't risk more of these shenanigans happening from Issei and possibly Konrad. Rogal thinks of a way for Issei to eat food while also avoiding conflict.
"You wouldn't have any food with you guys?" Issei asked.
"No," Rogal answered in a very flat tone of voice. Issei soon questioned himself when he remembered that Rogal said they were stuck here for weeks.
"That is such a blunt answer," Miki thought,
"Honestly she is being very patient with him right now." the Captain General said.
"Wait but you guys have been stuck here for weeks, what have you been eating then?" Issei asked, trying to wrap his head around the nature of these giants.
"We don't need to eat that often," Rogal said. While Issei had a gaped mouth.
"WHAT!" Issei said in shock. Issei didn't know what to think but it was time for him to ask his questions.
"but there is a river near us," Rogal said.
Issei, still stuck in his mind, looked at Rogal and sighed. Issei looked at the giant, Issei knew he had to eat for he was human. Issei taking a long breath stood up. Looking at Rogal with a gentle look. Issei spoke in a calm tone of voice.
"May I go to the stream to get a drink?" Issei asked.
"Come on Issei you'll know they won't after talking back to Rogal," Kiba said. Val shook his head at his rival's foolishness.
Rogal was standing tall, in a show of care, and looked at Issei. She nodded toward him. Slowly Rogal looked at her work around her and walked to the exit holding the door open.
"We will go to the stream," Rogal said.
Issei gladly accepted the answer and stood up to walk over to where Rogal was. Before Issei could even out the door Rogal's hand stuck out in front of the teen, stopping Issei from moving any further. Issei looked towards Rogal to see her face was looking at Konrad who was still watching Issei.
"She could have been more specific," Vali said.
"Perhaps her angry tone would've been the answer for him," The Captain General said. Trying to best explain some of the Matriarch's tempered moods.
"I said we will go to the river, isn't that right Konrad," Rogal announced. Issei was shocked this made sense. He couldn't escape from this place and Rogal did not fully trust Issei. Issei wasn't surprised after the stunt he pulled it was better not to piss off the giants.
"Alright, Rogal I shall accompany you," Konrad said expressing some confusion in her mind.
"Wait, please let me come with you," Issei asked, and it was then Rogal who laid her hand on his chest. The feeling of such a big metal hand on his chest made his heart skip with fear. Issei's eyes shook in fear as he knew he would be left alone with no one. His eyes showed panic quickly only to be stopped when Rogal looked at him.
"Issei we will be back in a short time so stay here and be calm," Rogal said with a stoic voice that showed care for him to stay.
"Look at her giving orders like she runs the place," Xenovia said.
"Well she did build the place so in a technical sense yes, she does run the place," The Captain General.
Issei, taking in the situation, returned to where he was stinging and sat back down. Issei held his head down staring at the ground. Konrad stood from her ground and headed to the door before she could do that Konrad walked over to Issei kneeling by him and with a hushed whisper that warmly slithered in his ear in a slick gentle tone of voice.
"If you run to us again you will face a punishment, so be smart and stay here."
"Leave my Issei alone," Akeno said. Vali had enough and kicked his chair tired of seeing his rival like this.
"Why is he acting like this, damn it stop acting sad, you're better than that," Vali said, gaining many glares on him that he was a terrorist. "Maybe he's not my rival anymore."
The divining dragon inside him said that and understood there was no red in Issei anymore, what was the point of being here? Vali felt a sense of disappointment "In the end, he is just not the man he used to be, he's a weak little human who got lucky,"
There was a harshness in the air but before any of the top supernatural beings could say a word, the grip of a golden spear drew the young devil's attention behind him.
Turning around Vali could see the golden warriors standing behind him, looking down upon him. The energy in the air became somewhat cold, not from any actual power, but from presence alone, something mighty was standing behind him.
"Don't blame the poor boy, he lost his way, but is far from weak, if you ask me, he has become strong without your supernatural help," The Captain General said.
"Power is more than just lifting the biggest mountain, power is within the human soul, so silence devil or I'll show you what a human soul can do," The Captain General said. Vali was quiet and wanted to make a snappy comeback, but he couldn't find the words to say anything. The Captain General returned to his seat and watched this boy with great interest.
The gentle whisper triggered Issei, causing the boy to react in panic. He reached his hand out to try and feel something that would at least cause him less pain. Without any thought, Issei hand-cupped Konrad's check. Issei in his panicked state looked Konard in her eyes. With a shaky yet broken voice spoke.
"Please don't leave me alone."
"Oh no, Issei don't touch her like that," The Captain General panicking at Issei's choices. Rias thought he would be met with a hard smack to the face, to learn his place and never touch her like that again. Akeno waited for a knee to the stomach. Some suspected even worse. Only it never came as they watched something else.
Konrad could only stare back at Issei's gentle broken eyes, Konrad's eyes widened, and her advice senses could feel Issei's soft skin and how his hand shook from so much emotional pain. Konrad didn't know what to do as Issei asked her to not be alone. Konrad had an aching feeling in her heart, for no one had touched her like this. It was a sense of duty to keep him company. Konrad felt Issei's pain of loneliness but knew Rogal had to come first.
This was some rare moment of humility for Konrad being touched so carefully. Rias could see it in her eyes, the enjoyment of Issei's touch. That kind of aura would always be there with him. She felt a tinge of envy enter her body.
Issei snapped out of what he was doing and blushed. Konrad was shocked and without any hesitation darted back to her sister leaving Issei alone. As the gate shut echoing through the empty camp.
All of them felt uncomfortable seeing Issei like this. Sirzech compared it to watching a nephew or family member going through a hard time in their life.
Issei watched as the two left. Issei felt like he had overstepped again, looking at his hand. Clenched his fist in anger, so hard that he almost breached his palm. He cursed at himself for touching Konrad like that what right did he have for asking mercy and what right did he have for hiding anything from them?
"I am the worst," Issei whispered. As tears started to leak from his red puffy eyes.
"You're not though," Asia said in a sad voice. All of the high school devils put their heads down in shame knowing that they had some part in making Issei fall like this. All they truly waited for was an answer to see if he truly hated them or not.
The two sisters left their base camp and an unstable Issei behind.
The two hardly spoke to each other. Konrad's mind was thinking of events today and Rogal was quiet. When they had made a good distance away from the camp. Rogal broke the awkward silence between them.
All of them watched the two seeing how the giant marched to get Issei a meal.
"Aw man, we have to watch these two." Irina cried out. She didn't like these Matriarchs very much. They seem so high and mighty with their attitudes. Sure they seemed impressive in size and stature, but they have yet to see them in actual combat.
"The boy, what do you think of him?" Rogal asked.
Konrad snapped out of her dazed look at her sister as they walked toward the river.
Speaking calmly and controlled Konrad gave her answer.
"He Is strange, I've never met someone so compassionate and kind- Well besides one," Konrad said as she remembered her interaction with Issei. Konrad mused over remembering. "I threatened to skin him alive and the next thing he comes running towards my aid." Konrad softly laughed.
"That's right and you never forget that, he even gave you his word to help you bums," Miki said. The Captain General wanted to ensure that her son was safe.
"Please Madame, your son is in very good hands, and from what I've seen this might be the best situation for him," The Captain General said, putting in his input. " I've never seen Konrad be happy like that. I believe your son would make great friends with them."
Miki uncomfortably sat in receipt while watching the screen, the answer did not make her happy and how could she be all she wanted to see was her son.
"I wonder who that other is?" Gorrou asked.
"Her name is Vulkan she is quite kind, I believe your son and her would get along great," The Captain General said.
"Yes from my investigation he shows a lot of compassion towards others yet there are many things wrong with his character," Rogal stated.
Miki felt like they were watching a therapist talking to them about their son, they had pretty insightful opinions. Azazel thought the same seeing how they looked like they weren't just one trick ponies.
"Like his shirt is stained with blood and his clothes don't look like any Imperium style I know of," Konrad said, listing off many things that didn't make sense. There still was her vision she saw. In some way, he changed it. Wanting to know more about Issei Konrad asked for the investigation details.
"How did your investigation go with him?" Konrad asked in her gruff voice with a soft growl.
"His Characteristics are true, but his story of how he came to this place doesn't make any sense," Rogal said.
"Well does an inter-dimensional shadow being make any sense, heck does he even know the truth?" Rias asked. Ddraig while in or thought carefully.
"I believe not," He said, this made everyone more worried, but the Captain General wondered who the heck was this red orb.
"You think he's lying?" Konrad asked. Konrad knew the boy was, but the thing that couldn't have been fake was Issei's pain. Konrad could look at the boy and see he was emotionally abused and suffering
"Yes but I believe there is something else wrong with him, he is clearly showing signs of trauma," Rogal said as she walked looking towards the trees up ahead. Some unknown emotion flared in Konrad. Rogal could see her body language change, it was obvious Konrad was interested in the boy for some odd reason.
"If Issei is suffering and is causing us not to get the truth from him, allow me to fix that sister," Konrad said in a sadistic voice.
"Don't you lay a hand on him," Asia cried out, many of the others thought that would be Issei's fate. Miki and Gorrou glanced at the Custode.
"In safe hands uh?" She asked sarcastically. The Captain General facepalms his metal helmet.
"I know your torturous ways are affected but I believe the situation has too much at risk."
Rogal growled in disgust. Looking away at her sister clenching her fist. Rogal always hated what her sister did. Konrad was a torturer and terrorist and she was good at both. Rogal remembered how whole planets surrendered to Konrad and her legion of night lords. They wore the body parts of their victims. While crushing the weak for fun.
All of them were happy to see Rogal had some common moral ground, she was a strong noble, and wouldn't allow such a thing to happen. Gasper couldn't help but blush at the lady seeing how strong and determined she was.
Konrad could feel the irritation coming from Rogal. Konrad knew how she was most looked down upon by their sisterhood. But she'd be damned if she didn't care what the others thought. Though Konrad didn't have torture in mind she had planned something more intimate.
"Who said anything about torture Rogal, I know an easy way to make him talk?" Konrad stated.
"What is that evil woman playing at?" Venelana said. She didn't like how much disturbance this woman put on her daughter. Hoping she wouldn't do anything to Issei as well.
Rogal turned towards her sister, their pace toward the river didn't stop. Rogal wondered what Konrad meant. What other method was Konrad talking about? Did she perhaps know unknown information? Rogal remembered Konrad's sudden change in attitude as well.
"If you are withholding information from me, then you will be gravely sorry. You will tell me what you know." Rogal said in an angry tone of voice. The two stopped while Rogal stood in front of her sister. Rogal figured that Konrad's attitude was changed by something, but what was it?
Rogal stared at Konrad before cutting off Konrad's path standing in front of Konrad and giving her a hard glare.
All of them are on their seats, wanting to know what she is going to say, burning and skinning him alive. Would you rip off all of his limbs, and then beat him down? What was she going to do?
"Well Rogal, what if instead of pain?" Konrad said her breath hooked to the air around her, which made a sick smile.
"We give him care," Konrad said.
"What the Heck!" They all expressed in unison. Miki dropped her head on top of her lap. "She did figure our son out,"
Gorrou pinches the bridge of his nose, lifting his glasses. " it sounds effective. I'll give them that."
The Captain General felt a little embarrassed for the entire spanning army, of the imperium of man and especially the Night Lord's right now. Well better than being a world eater at that moment he would say.
Rogal for once had a stupefied look, that brought Konrad a sick sense of satisfaction. For once Konrad had done the unthinkable; she had surprised Rogal. Konrad could see the shock in her sister's eyes. Konrad's thoughts were that of glee.
"Oh look at my dear sister, did you think I was only a killing mad woman, you were sadly mistaken, oh how much I must thank you Issei for this moment, perhaps you could use the company when I'm back you cute boy." Konrad then went wide eyes to what she thought in her mind. "Did I just call him cute?"
"Oh jeez, she is punking her sister," Kuroka let out a laugh at the joke, while others grew very annoyed at the situation.
Konrad immediately snapped out of her thoughts and decided to tell Rogal very interesting information. Konrad smugly asked.
"Rogal, you know of my visions"
"Visions?" Sirzech asked out loud. The Captain General knew there was no withholding that information now, especially since it was out of the bag and lay in front of them on the table. Azazel showed a suspicious glance at the golden warrior.
"Something you're not telling, eh little kitten," He asked.
"Yes, out with it," Grayfia said. Sirzech gives a hard glance at The Captain General who gave Tired a sigh.
"Fine since you know, I'll tell you, Konrad has the unique gift of seeing into the future. She can see into years, days, and even seconds before it can happen. That's all I will tell you wretched beasts,"
Rogal knew of her vision, it was the first thing she learned when she and the Emperor had found her home world. Konrad's reunion with the Emperor was unsettling. Konrad tried to end her own life in front of their father. Konrad would always tell of her sister's fate trying to warn us. Rogal only saw it as a mad rambling from a sick person.
"Are you trying to remind me of how my fate is supposed to happen, Konrad, your sad rambling is pathetic?" Rogal said in a calm annoyed tone.
"That's horrible, why would anyone want to see that?" Asia said. Koneko soon put all the pieces together, and she realized what it meant.
"Oh, she sees only the bad things," Koneko answers. The question in her mind. The mad Doctor then clapped his hands together and smiled at the cat girl.
"Bingo we have a winner, all Konrad sees is the dark, horrible future anyone she meets she always sees their terrible fate placed upon them, and she has no control over it, and it's happened for years and years and years and years," He said making all of them think how horrible her life was. All of them had a somber expression learning how much pain that must've been.
"You guys feel like Azazeldon't you," Doctor entertainment
"Oh no Rogal, my vision changed," Konrad said in a calm voice.
"So her visions aren't hundred percent?" Azazel asked. This brought up some importance of how dangerous Konras was.
Rogal kept her eyes glued on her sister with a burning interest. Konrad could see she had Rogal's attention so she decided to entertain her.
"I was haunted by the image of you getting murdered by thousands of blades," Konrad spoke in a harsh tone, sounding broken at the idea of her sister passing away.
"But it's somehow changed, I saw something better like pure water finally washed my dirty eyes."
"What does she mean by that?" Asia asked. Irina couldn't help but think Konrad had a massive revelation.
Rogal was waiting for her sister's answer but could see something new about her sister. Konrad had looked calm, not her usual cold traits. Her eyes were warm and her vibe showed much compassion. Rogal didn't know what to make of Konrad's new attitude though it was an improvement.
"I saw you, Rogal. You were building an altar for yourself, while your beloved told you to relax." Konrad said in a quiet yet calm voice.
Asia couldn't help but smile a the thought it sounded lovely and funny to watch. It almost made her wish to see that idea, and then watch this show.
Rogal was in absolute disbelief. Still keeping her calm composure she furrowed her eyebrows at her sister's response. Konrad knew she would get a vision of the far future she could also see any future event that could happen seconds ahead of herself.
"I take it she is not the compassionate type," Vali said, making an obvious observation.
"What gave that way Einstein?" Koneko asked sarcastically.
Konrad welcomed what happened next, for Rogal's reaction was priceless for Konrad, she had to fight back a smile that was trying to show on her face.
"Enough Konrad if I have to hear about such a ridiculous future I might as well smash my head against a rock and call it a helmet!" Rogal said in a loud aggravated tone of voice.
After taking a deep breath, Rogal let go of her sister and quickly composed herself.
"Enough of this let us continue on the path to get food for the boy," Rogal said, trying to change the subject. Walking off toward the river her footstep left more of an impact on the ground. Konrad was laughing inside, never had she seen Rogal break her cool composure.
The devils all wanted just to see Issei but it was also wise to see what the captures were like. They were in the dark and anything would help them.
Konrad thought Rogal had no emotions but it looked like she found a crack in that wall she made for herself.
Konrad followed Rogal walking behind her, keeping a good pace with her, but making sure to keep her distance. Konrad still wanted to know more about Issei so she pressed on against Rogal more questions couldn't have hurt. 'Especially when it comes to Issei.'
"So the boy, what else did you learn from Issei?" Konrad asked.
They found it strange how Konrad was now using Issei's name like that. Again they don't know if they refer themselves to titles. Though in Japan calling someone by their first name was a very big deal. It was so important to Rias that it led to this.
Calmly Rogal loosened her fist that bald so tight, one could make diamonds from it. Not wanting to look at her sister's face and kept walking straight. Rogal answered with calm composure.
"The boy claims to be from the twenty-first century."
Konrad thought it was a ridiculous claim, but the more she thought the more confused she got. A lot of questions were answered about the boy's appearance here though it only raises more questions as to what this all could mean. Maybe that is why Issei had such a caring mood, he probably hasn't seen the terror of space, thousands of years of wars, monstrous Xenos, and the horrors of man. Konrad looked at her sister with a questioning gaze.
"It would seem that maybe his story hasn't been so far-fetched," Konrad said. "I see no reason why the boy would lie to us."
"How can they believe him, like that wouldn't he seem crazy to them?" Irina asked.
"Young lady after doing my job for Hundreds of years, hearing that is the least strange thing of the weak," Kitten said with a sassy tone of voice.
"I know that, but there is too much unknown about him, to be fair I was surprised you brought him in one piece, I thought you were going to tear him into shreds for any information," Rogal stated.
Konrad stayed silent, she thought to herself how lucky she didn't do anything to Issei. The idea of skinning him alive began to upset Konrad. She even pondered why it would upset her the boy was valuable right now, but what was she thinking?
"Yes, I was surprised as well," Konrad said she looked onward but in those visions, she had felt like her world was shattered in a good way. Konrad pressed on with Rogal to find the river.
The two kept walking in uncomfortable silence, with much time passing and the cloudy gray sky slowly brightening into a white sky. The midday was here as it shone upon the forest.
The sound of rushing water was heard from afar. The two sisters marched towards the gushing water, finding mossy rocks, while dew droplets littered the ground. Ahead of them were lush bushes full of many blue fruits that were unfamiliar to the two.
Walking past the bushes, A big river full of clear water, so clear that you could see the very bottom of the river bed. It had a natural beauty to it as the yellow leaves all around shielded it from the sun, making it a well-shaded paradise. Lined up and down near the river. There were many fruits of different colors, shapes, and sizes that hung from the trees.
"Woah this place is so beautiful it's like the Garden of Eden," Asia said in wonder.
"Yes little one, but always be careful, in every garden, there's a snake," The Captain General warned.
"Buzzkill," Koneko said with a dull voice, making The Captain General scoff.
The two only study their surroundings, not even batting an eye at the sincerity of the beauty around them. Though they looked at the area, picking the many fruits and looking at them, studying by touch, smell, and taste to see if they were safe. Rogal found a yellow fruit that had an oval shape.
Rogal took a bite out of it. She dug her teeth into it to taste anything venomous in the food she took part in. Rogal did taste a very strong sour flavor in the fruit and oddly enough Rogal liked it.
"Did she just eat a Lemon whole," Miki asked out loud.
"Oh watching her eat that is making my lips pucker," Gasper cried out. They found it a bit strange but the Captain General shrugged his shoulders.
"They can eat almost anything if I'm honest," He said, gaining a lot of their attention.
"What do you mean?" Sirzech wanted to know everything about these grand beings.
"Well, they're made to survive and adapt, they designed with stomachs that could metal steel, if the occasion demanded it," The Captain General said.
"Ah there like goats" Kurkoa teased. She didn't hate the Captain General but she wanted to get a rise out of him.
"Oh yes, they are the greatest of all time." The Captain General said. Kurkoa paused at the sentence. She could hear a smug scoff under his golden helmet.
"Don't try to beat me in words or you'll get punked!" He said with pride. Koneko gave him a deadpan look and sighed.
"Nerd!" She called out.
"We are here for another reason aren't we Rogal."
Rogal wasn't surprised, but she kept picking the fruit. Rogal left her sister unanswered for a while. After picking enough fruit to her satisfaction, Rogal turned her attention towards Konrad who was just standing around, looking at Rogal with a pondering stare.
"That is correct Konrad, you see there was a reason I left Issei at the cell, it's to test two things. To see if it's capable of containing him." Rogal told Konrad as she picked up a broken log wood, slowly jamming her thumb to make a deep divot and a cup.
"That's so cool, she really can make anything with those crafty hands," Azazel said. He was taking an interest in these amazing people. The Captain General took notice of this and did not like it.
"What is the second reason?" Konrad asked.
Rogal filled the hole in the log with clean water, soon dipping her hand into the river, pulling out a smooth stone, and jamming it into the hole of the log making a makeshift water bottle.
"When we come back, Issei shall tell us the truth, because he told me how to make him talk," Rogal said.
"What!" Konrad said in surprise.
"Is that strange or did She sound a bit considered for Issei," Sona asked. Rias just brushed it off it was nothing and should remain that way, I mean who would fall in love with someone the first time they met?
Konrad tried to figure out what her sister was talking about but grew confused with Rogal's words. Konrad wondered how she would make the boy speak.
"How?" Konrad asked.
"We leave him alone, for he told me that if we wanted him to talk, we would leave Issei alone," Rogal told Konrad.
Konrad's eyes widened to remember how she found Issei. The boy was screaming to not be alone and how happy he was to be found. Konrad remembered how Issei was happy even just to know Konrad's name. Why was this boy so alone? Why did she see him in her visions?
"I could hear how scared he was about being alone. It sounds unorthodox but also a test of his character to truly see what his intentions are." Rogal answers.
The audience found their attention to detail amazing seeing how they were making educated deductions on this person's mental state. Azazel couldn't help but be impressed by their thinking.
Rogal continued to pick more smoothed stones in the situation they were in; anything that would seem useful must be picked up. Issei's survival depends on it.
Konrad did nothing but only remembered the vision she had. In all of Konrad's life, all her visions were nothing of pain and horror, but for once this one was different. A vision that was full of life, fulfillment, and love. Konrad closed her eyes, letting the memory flush her mind.
"What's happening now?" Rias asked.
Konrad stood in a lush field of pale white grass that reached her ankles, staring into the stars that shined upon her dress, not the armor she wore from the emperor. Instead, she wore a black dress that hugged her body and shone in shimmering beauty. Konrad looked toward the night sky with a relaxed smile. She slowly sat down on the ground.
The audience was taken back in by the beautiful surroundings and the beautiful woman that was on the screen.
"So you're telling me that Konrad wasn't having a panic attack but suffering from her visions,"
It was a calm moment for her, as a breeze blew across her face. Gazing into the endless field with a smile.
"Woah she cleans up very nicely," Azazel said out loud. "Must get all those looks from the father,"
"Correct," Captain General said.
"Konrad!" a happy voice cheers. Konrad turned to see Issei wearing a white tunic, soft black shoes, long hair having braids on the tips of his hair, and the most important detail, Issei had both his arms. Konrad looked at Issei with a longing gaze and patted the ground next to her.
All of the audience had wide eyes. Seeing Issei have both arms and his new getup he liked so peacefully in his get up. Azazel thought that his arm must have been robotic like his.
Gorrou had to admit his son had a more mature look to him. Miki didn't want to have Konrad be her future daughter-in-law her side of the family seemed a bit scary to her. Even Rogal scared her a bit. Sons had never seen such a place even in hell it wasn't this beautiful.
Issei in all the surrounding beauty around him could only look at her. Walking over towards Konrad, he sat down next to her. Issei noticed her hand was still lying on the ground. Taking the opportunity for himself. Konrad felt a couple of fingers sneakily trying to clasp around hers. A little giggle escaped her lips. As the feeling of soft hands tried to grasp her big hand. In a smooth motion, she held the hand with a firm yet gentle grip. Konrad looked down at Issei. Her height is still dwarfing his size.
Rias felt her best in terror at the site, Even on screen the night lord was still torturing her.
Issei looked into hers to find those beautiful purple orbs looking into his emerald green. The two gazed at one another in comfortable silence.
"Konrad, how are you feeling?" Issei asked.
Asia wanted to scream at the screen for Konrad to get away from Issei. Xenovia felt a bit of frustration seeing how gentle he was to her. Irina wished that Issei would let this monster go.
"Issei, you don't have to ask about my well-being all the time. I'm doing just fine." Konrad retorted but she still had a smile on her face. This did not escape Issei's sight at all, making him only stare at Konrad with a longing stare.
Miki was in absolute shock seeing that loving gaze. Despite hearing all of the terror and destruction she has caused, she sees her having a moment of humanity inside the Night Lord but her peace. Not to mention seeing how happy her son was. She wanted Issei to talk to the girls back here and sort all his matters out before seeing anyone else. Though she wondered if this was her son's future and well she couldn't argue how happy Issei looked.
Gorrou pondered on the question as well thinking about how his son could handle all that woman. "Good luck my son."
"You know why every time I ask you that?" Issei asked. Konrad in all her advanced knowledge couldn't answer. Wondering why he asked her the question many times.
"Why do you ask?" Konrad asked. Issei smiled brightly.
"Because every time I ask I always get to see you smile and your smile is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen," Issei said, gripping her hand strongly. Konrad had tears of joy leaking out of her eyes. Issei spoke softly "I love you Konrad curse with all my heart I will die for you."
Even though this was a possible vision for the future, it didn't me it still hurt to watch. Akeno had her mouth gaped with shock. Rias even though felt saddened she could see how happy he was, and she felt heartbreak though she couldn't ignore how happy he was.
"He looks so happy," Rias said
"Damn you Konrad," Rias muttered under her breath.
In seconds Konrad leaned down and captured Issei's lips with a passionate kiss. The two had no care for their size difference. Issei put his hands on both sides of Konrad's head, pushing himself deeper into the kiss. The two were latched on to each other for minutes until the need to breathe was needed for Issei. As they parted ways Issei could hear Konrad's giggles escape her lips. Issei looked at Konrad with a mischievous gaze.
"Get your crocodile lips off my Issei," Koneko cried out. All the girls close to Issei felt their blood boil seeing this possible future.
"Looks like someone excited," Issei asked with a mighty blush on his face.
Konrad looked at her beloved gently guiding Issei back to the ground while she hovered above Issei's face. Konrad looked at the person to her, giving a soft smile playfully showing her sharp teeth.
"Issei," Konrad said his name to gain his attention. Issei's eyes were looking at her chest with a goofy smile, and Konrad took notice, still keeping her smile. "If you die for me Issei, you can't gaze at me, you can't touch me, and most of all you can't love me," Konrad said softly.
Rias' finger dug into her palms and they started to bleed. Venelana quickly saw this and tried to reach out to her. The young devil quickly stomped out of the room, her teeth grinding against each other as she ran out of the theater. She had small tears leaking out of her eyes.
"So this is was it felt for Issei to see surrender to Riser, I hate it," She thought in a sad somber moment.
"Rias!" Venelana shouted for her daughter to come back. She and Sirzech gave chase for her.
Konrad in the heat of the moment laid gently on top of Issei shifting her weight so that she wouldn't crush Issei but was still on top of him. Konrad's giant frame was lying on Issei.
"So don't die for me, please live for me Issei," Konrad asked with a soft cry. Issei hugged her in return. "I will Konrad, I love you," Issei said with an open heart.
The Captain General was in absolute shock at the site, was it possible for the emperor's greatest creations to find eternal happiness in a partnership? Gorrou tried to face his wife only to see, she had vanished. He looked at the theater door to see it was open.
"Konrad!" Rogal's voice popped out of nowhere.
Rias yelled herself up trying not to lose her breath, she learned in the hallway wall. Trying not to cry. The world around her seemed to spin.
"I'm sorry Issei, I'm so sorry," She cried. Right now she despises everything about herself, her devil heritage, her upper status, and even her perfect looks; it all means nothing right now. She pushed Issei away.
"And did this just to hear you say my name!" She cried out. "Over a fukcing stupid name, I wanted to hear!"
She fell to the ground, her knees giving in to the sadness. She pushed the wall yet it did not crack or break.
"I'm not even strong enough to fight, and I blamed it all on you to put my ambitions first before you," Rias said. The feeling of her heartbreaking was too much for her.
"I'm sorry," She whispered. Soon she found herself in a tight hug from her Miki, who held her tight. She was so surprised that Miki was comforting her.
"It's not your fault," She quietly said. "It's all our fault,"
Rias turned her head to see all her peerage and family giving her a sad look. Sona watched from afar to give his support. Miki slowly helped her up. Sirzech marched to her side and hugged her. No more of this pain would be put on her. It was for all of them to share.
Akeno stepped forward and hugged her king, Asia and Koneko did the same following close behind.
"We all pushed him away to make him love us, the blame is not on you," Akeno said, trying her best to keep up her smile, yet each second it was fading into a grim frown. Irina hugged Rias from behind and held her close to comfort herself.
" I deserve a lot of the blame too. He was my childhood friend and I did that to him." She mumbled.
"She's right, the blame is not just on you," Azazel said while holding the orb that held Ddraig. Rias gazed at the fallen angel leader. She was surprised to hear that coming from him.
"He is right, we both have the blame," Ddraig said. "I should have said something but I didn't and now he's gone, my silence cost me, my partner,"
"I'm supposed to be his sensei, I was supposed to guide him in his Darkest Hour, and yet I failed as a teacher and as a friend," Azazel said, his hands clapping over the orb. He was supposed to be there for his underling now he was gone. He was the one responsible for not having a better eye on his subordinates and it caused Issei a mountain of pain.
"Rias," Miki called out, making the young girl face Issei's mother. She had a tired front and sad eyes.
"I might be mad and your friends but I'm angrier with myself, this blame game is getting us nowhere, So please get up I'm sure Issei wouldn't want you so down in the dumps," Miki said. Rias in her moment of sadness felt some weight of responsibility be taken off her shoulders.
"Also let's not forget my dear sister, Loki's curse has been driving him further from you, Rias he's not fine," Sirzech said Miki rolled her eyes.
"Great you bullied my traumatized son, to try loving you, even though it was so obvious," Miki said. Making Rias wince at the comment. There was brutal truth in her words but Rias would accept them. In the moment of somber reality, they had each other. Rias also remembers that Konrad's visions weren't accurate, and could be changed. So there was still hope.
"Well, my son is a bit of a blockhead, but it's still not an excuse," Miki said. Rias could see this would be a long road to forgiveness, she gave a calm nod and Miki was trying her best to not just forgive the girls then in there but she needed to learn this.
All of them stopped when they heard the sound of tiny teardrops hitting the ground. They turned to face the end of the hall to see Venelana.
"Mother?" Rias asked.
Venelana couldn't help but break down and hold her face. She could feel the tears wetting her palms.
"I'm sorry it's all my fault," She sobbed. All of them were baffled at her choice of words. Miki slowly walked over to her. glaring at her with an intense stare.
"What do you mean?" She asked. Sirzech and Rias wanted to pull Miki back though they didn't think she would do anything too aggressive.
"I was," Venelana paused as her words but the glare Miki was giving her made her speak again. " this whole debacle was my fault. I asked your son to start seeing my daughter as a woman without really knowing his past pain, so I pushed him. It is the lady of the house my duty to find my daughter a suitor to continue our legacy,"
Venelana looked past Miki and to her daughter. "I wanted you to find a suitor, and I rushed things between you and him. I'm so sorry you lost each other, I failed you as a mother," Venelana said. Rias had felt like she was being stabbed through the heart. Everyone was at a loss for words. Many didn't know what to say but Venelana could see the look in her daughter's eyes.
Before an opinion or word could be said, in a great puff of red smoke, Doctor Wondertainment.
"Well, well, well, please can we all return to the theater," Doctor Wondertainment said with a smile. Though it was a warning to get back to the theater. Thankfully enough, they all agreed that they would. Venelana watched as Miki spared her with a very harsh glance. Making the devil shutter with a bit of fear. Rias simply walked past her mother, never truly acknowledging her.
She tried to reach out, but Sirzech put a hand on her shoulder. "She needs time," He said, trying to help the best he could.
"All of them need time," Venelana said.
Everyone soon left back to the theater except for one out of the corner, the captain-general made his presence visible.
"Issei is too important, to go back to your silly, small, childish ways, I'll make sure he stays with them, he needs to prevent the Horus heresy," The captain General thought.
Soon all of the audience members went back to their seats and they could see the screen was passed for them, and then the moment it made Rias very uncomfortable seeing Issei with that thing. Miki wasn't happy either; she found Konrad to not be the Issei type. Not to mention she was ginormous. She did not want this to be her daughter-in-law.
Konrad soon was back in the stream and was snapped out of her daydream. To find Rogal looking at her with a raised eyebrow.
"Oh thank god that nightmare is over," Akeno cried even though it hurt. It was hard seeing that world how happy Konrad was, seeing the fate they could have possibly had only for it to be yanked away.
Konrad took a deep breath, walked over to a shady tree, and lay under it. Konrad cared not what Rogal thought, simply taking in her surroundings and trying to ignore Rogal.
"I wouldn't know how to take care of another Rogal, I've never gotten that luxury," Konrad said in a quiet voice. Rogal went on making food and water containers for Issei who they left alone. Konrad could only think of the vision she had.
"Why, why, centuries of watching nightmare after nightmare and now I would be taking care of this boy. Why was this boy important, how does he change everything?" Konrad thought. "Why does he love me?"
"He doesn't love you, he's trying to be nice to you sweetheart," Miki said, not approving of Konrad at all. Rias felt a bit of discomfort but joy in her words.
Konrad wanted to go back to check on the boy but she knew if Issei tried to escape, she would track him down very quickly.
Konrad wished the boy would try and escape. Thinking how happily she would chase him down and look into the boy's eyes to see the fear. "Those great beautiful eyes" Konrad mouthed. Konrad's brain had stopped trying to find why she thought that feeling and thoughts. To Konrad, love was a foreign feeling.
Rias let out a light laugh, she wouldn't fall into despair, no she would watch as these mighty beings of war fall for her Issei. Even if he didn't love her anymore she would always look at him no matter what.
"You can't stay away from my man, can you?" Rias said in a proud taunt. Making the others gaze at her with wide stares.
Hours had passed and Rogal had picked every berry there by the stream and even made fishing nets out of plant fibers by peeling many planets near them. Rogal was able to finish her work undisturbed, setting all the containers for their sisters and Issei to the side on the dry ground. Rogal glanced at Konrad seeing she was holding onto the piece of cloth that Issei gave her.
Rogal studied the way Konrad held it. Konrad was holding the cloth gently, making sure she didn't rip nor do more damage to it, only admire it. Rogal knew something was afoot, and it unsettled her. She also worried about the safety of Issei, if what this boy said was true we could understand a lost part of history, but his kindness was a rarity, the only person he knew that came close to such mercy and kindness was Sanguinius. Though she needed to wait then things would be back to normal. All of their sisters shall return to their father. We will finish the crusade and bring forth a golden age of humanity.
They were both concentrating on what they were doing, but still fully aware of their surroundings.
Then a snap of a branch, followed by a decrease in freezing temperature snared around the area. Like a snowstorm was brewing. It gained their attention to see what caused the noise, only to find an armored figure standing on the other side of the river.
It was now freezing in the room. All of them feel the presence of something hiding in the cold. The storm of teeth and fangs made their spines tingle. Koneko gave a mild glare at the screen.
Her armor covered most of her body. The metal was worn down by countless battles, with sharp spikes on her shoulder plates and, rough gray metal sported by hundreds of dents. Gold trimming was on the shoulder pads. There was a pack of some sort on her back, that carried two golden wolf heads, jolted out from side to side while a gray pelt moved behind her. Chains, wolf skulls, and gray pelts decorated this primal warrior.
In her hand was a silver sword, held by a leather handle, a golden guard that had wolf teeth sticking out of the handle but in her other hand was a large two-sided battle ax. Along her hip was a big Kantsi a drinking horn. Wolf skulls hung from her chest making a long, neckless. A gray wolf pelt was tied around her hips.
Her face was opened to the elements, for all to see. Her hair was a bright blonde with two braids hanging on both sides of her hair, the rest was tied behind in a ponytail. Her skin was Caucasian with icy blue eyes that could freeze your soul with a glance with a thin scar line going over her right eye. All sported by her smile with sharp canines making her features more animal-like.
Rossweisse's eyes widened at the person feeling a familiarity. A Viking was in her sites, the two cat girls couldn't help but feel a natural hatred towards Russ like their instinct was warning them.
"Hello, Rogal." She greeted Rogal in a bash tone of voice that had an old English accent. Her eyes then went to look at Konrad who had an annoyed look on her face. Only for the newcomer to glare at her with intense rage.
"Well look, you've returned to us Konrad, or is it, night hunter." She growled in anger. Konrad pocketed the ripped cloth in a carpet in her armor.
"Nothing like good sibling fun," Kurkoa said, her tail thrashing in comedic fun.
"Isn't there a lion you need to bother Russ or is that savage brain of yours reverting to basic thought?" Konrad asked in a smug voice.
"I thought you were skinning a small helpless animal, you deranged milk-" Russ said but was cut off by another before she could finish her insult.
"Leman, we have news to bring to you, where are the rest of our sisters?" Rogal asked with seriousness.
"What was she gonna say?" Sona asked.
Rossweisse had a confused look as well, she had never heard such an insult. "I'm not sure," She said.
"Milksop means a person lacking courage and honor, she called her a coward," The Captain General said. Rossweisse found the insult to be good, she would have to use it later.
This person's name was Leman Russ, she only held a glare at Konrad but soon changed it when Russ walked over to Rogal. Russ looked at all the food and water that was contained in the makeshift boxes.
"So ya found food, I would love to have a feast after I track down Angron." Russ boosted as she walked over to Rogal. Konrad's attention was back on Russ and Rogal looked with worried interest. Russ could feel the silence in the air. The two knew Russ was an expert hunter, so if Russ was here then Angron wasn't too far. Rogal remembered her monstrous sister, her savage campaigns ravaged worlds as she would kill millions, soldiers, kings, women, and children. Not even her men would be spared from her bloodshed. Konrad thought of how Angron would kill anything in her site, she was a war hound and a berserker of rage.
"Who's Angron?" Koneko asked out loud, the whole building seemed to matter and talk amongst themselves about the subject at hand. Though of course, Irina tapped on the shield, the Captain General's shoulder gaining attention.
"Spill! you golden banana," She asked.
"Heh, she sounds like she would be angry all the time," Miki said. Azazel couldn't help but find that name sounded way too ridiculous to be true. Why name someone after an emotion like that?
"She is probably one of the matriarchs," Ophis said. Making an educated guess.
"She is, and one of the most mentally unstable, and has madness that could smash cities," the Captain General said. The angels and devils soon became very quiet at that information. Rias hoped that Issei would never meet this person, but with how things were going she highly doubted that.
"But the others are on their way," Russ informed the two, with a happy smirk. Russ had been in a hunter's mood but looked quite relieved that Rogal was here. Russ looked at Rogal with a kind look.
"So what have you two been doing? It's strange seeing an unlikely pair like you two here" Russ said, analyzing the two sisters, noting they were quiet and looked like they were doing tasks, well except Konrad who had marveled at a piece of cloth. Russ thought it was probably from a past victim of hers; a personal kill.
"Well Konrad found another upon this world, she brought him to the camp." Rogal voiced. Russ' eyes widened in surprise, with a calm sigh of relief that turned into a smile. Putting a hand on Rogal's shoulder.
"Finally some good news." Russ expressed joyfully. Rogal could see how the good news affected her sister. They have been stuck in this world for a month and they missed their homes, with many worried about not returning at all. Russ looked around hoping to see the other.
"Where is the person? I would love to meet him. This planet is so empty" Russ asked. Rogal jested towards where the base camp was.
"She seems nice," Gasper said. finding her bombastic nature to be kind of calming and inviting.
"Yeah in a dumb brute sort of way," Rias said. That remark upset the legendary captain. if only the devil knew that this brutish exterior lies behind a cold, tactical genius.
"Well, he's back in the camp-." Rogal's sentence was cut off when agonizing screams rang out from the distance, it came from the same direction as a base camp, one that sounded like.
"The camp, that's where Issei is," Asia yelled in a panic. The Captain General then felt a wave of harsh energy. As all the supernatural beings gave off a destructive aura.
"Angron!" All three of them said. Konrad and Rogal both realized that meant Issei was near Angron. Issei was near death. Rogal in her calculating mind turned to Konrad to try to tell her to move, she was the fastest out of there in the group, and she could reach them in time. Rogal directed herself to where Konrad sat, only to find an empty spot in her place. The others turned their heads to see Konrad bolting across the ground toward the camp. The two were stunned to see how Konrad pushed herself to begone from their visions in seconds, but the others couldn't dwell. Russ and Rogal ran as fast as they could to the camp.
Under her quiet breath, she cheered them on to move faster.
"Please hurry," Asia said in a hopeful manner. Rias just wanted them to move faster. However, if anything happened to Issei there would be hell to pay.
Rogal gripped the giant gun on her side and pulled it off from her armored thigh. A handgun that was the length of a rifle, it was jet black, sported at the bottom was a long curved magazine, and on the side a symbol of two-headed eagles.
Rogal tagged close behind Russ who ran with extreme movement. Russ's eyes were locked on where the noise was heard. Rogal knew Russ would find Angron out of all of them Russ the wolf lord always catches up.
After what felt like a suffering amount of minutes. They made it to the camp to only find the walls Rogal built caved in by a mighty force, wooden buildings splintered into many broken pieces, stone floors were now smashed in craters, the fire burns around the area spreading wildly, as blood splats littered the area. Though the air was full of black smoke, it felt like pure malice hanging around them.
Rogal would have been frustrated by the destruction though her attention was glued to the situation at hand in front of her. Konrad stood with her back facing Rogal to see she was standing her ground, Konrad hesitant to even make a move. Rogal's eyes widened in horror at what had happened to her.
Issei was beaten, and bloody, with swelling already happening to his face, delicate features broken, eyes sunken, his body lifeless hanging in the air, being held by a giant hand roughly gripping his head, Issei's brown hair stained with blood. The one responsible for all this carnage stood still holding Issei gripping his head slowly warning them not to come closer or she'd crush his head.
"ISSEI!" Rias cried out in horror, the room had lost its calm mood now replaced with worry and anger. Miki sunk into her seat, and even her Husband balled his hands.
Her yellow eyes glowed with pure hate, sharp nose, serrated teeth, and metal brads stuck in her hair jabbed into her scalp, mixing with black dreadlocks, with red war paint on her forehead, gave her the look of a mad titan. Her sun-kissed skin gave her a Roman look.
Wearing faded gold armor that covers her upper body, waist, legs, and forearms. Her metal collar was taller than her head, giving her a protective wall on each side of her head. The giant flat shoulder plates stuck out like knives, while her legs were covered by smooth gold armor, and a red bloody skull hung from her front waist. Fingerless, gold, spiked, gauntlets worn by her. Angron had the world eaters symbol on her knee pads. A symbol of open red maw. On each side of her hip were giant chain axes. Long chains that connected to her hip armor wrapped around each wrist.
Some parts of her were open to the world to see like her muscular arms, shredded abs, and the numerous scars that covered her flesh. Draped in a Black pelt is a makeshift cape from behind.
The room was filled with frightened eyes, All of them could see what Angron looked like, she was an uncapped, gladiator of pure, raging anger. Gasper hid further behind his chair.
Konrad stood her ground, her eyes shaky, trying to see into the future to which she could subdue Angron and free Issei. Konrad used her power to see the future to find what the future would say, but none promised Issei's safety. Issei in Konrad's eyes was innocent but it shouldn't matter to her if he died here and now it was fate but she couldn't move. She screamed to just get over it in her head.
Angron was in front of them she should do something. Konrad did nothing for it was fear that the future she witnessed would never come to be the future where she would be happy.
Konrad stood still, her hand shaking, slowly retracting her claw from her armor. Angron's eyes were on all of them. The situation had become too serious. Russ' eyes darted to both Konrad and Rogal to find they were in checkmate. Konrad spoke first, her voice showing no sign of concern.
"You think we care about this boy Angron, there are more like him in this world, so stop wasting our time Angron." Konrad relaxed her stance, showing no care. In Konrad's head, she hoped her facade would trick Angron. Issei, still conscious, could only make a sad expression at Konrad's words.
"Don't call her bluff," Miki shouted. Azazel tried it think of a safe way for Issei to get out of this but what would be the point, if he couldn't hear a thing? Ophis and Ddraig could see how ready she was to crush his skull.
What Angron did next almost shocked them to their core, even Rogal's eyes widened at what Angron was doing. Angron wore a devilish smile in front of all of them showing her sharp teeth.
"Well my sisters, please let me entertain you with this." Angron slowly walked back words, still holding her smile. Holding Issei by his head shows how helpless he was to them all, mostly being at Angron's mercy.
Some in the audience couldn't bear to watch this as they closed their eyes. While the more hardened from battle kept their eyes on the screen.
"If any of you so much as look in my direction, I'll crush this boy's head into dust!" She yelled. All eyes were on Angron, only to notice that a build-up of smoke started to gather around them. The fire had spread faster than expected. Rogal ran towards the fire pulling out trees ahead of the flames to make a controlled burn would happen. Russ was about to charge only for Konrad to tackle Russ to the ground. Russ and Konrad tangled, while one tried to free herself the other needing to subdue the other.
"What is the meaning of this Konrad?" Yelled Russ trying to push off Konrad. Evading all of Russ' grabs, she headbutted Leman Russ. Konrad's face shifted into a fit of desperate anger.
"We can't risk her killing Issei He's the only thing possible to lead us off this world," Konrad Yelled in Russ's face.
Rias and Miki were glad that Konrad was looking after Issei's safety now. It meant that someone was watching him back, even for the wrong reason.
Russ understood the risk, but if she got away with Issei, Angron would be on the run again, this time with a hostage. Russ readied a retort for Konrad, Russ suddenly stopped when wetness dripped down her cheek. Russ witnessed Konrad weeping lightly.
"We must - let them- go- for Issei- for him-to- li-ve" Konrad choked on her tears trying to reason with her sister. Russ knew Konrad's visions for the future. Though Russ had to capture their rogue sister her heart pained seeing Konrad cry.
All of them were taken back to see such passion to save Issei's life. To Kitten, he understood why, after so many years of torture to have a chance at happiness would drive anyone to protect it. Miki and Rias wanted nothing more for Issei to be safe.
Angron, taking the situation to her advantage, ran into the burning woods, letting most of the smoke obscure her assailants, all except one, Rogal turned toward Angron, seeing a strange site, Angron's back neck was covered in blood.
Many of them were focused on the carnage and destruction of the camp, but if Azazel paid attention, Angron was injured pretty badly.
Russ' finale pushes Konrad off herself, to see Angron escape from their field of vision. Russ looked at Konrad in anger knowing they lost their chance. No Russ refused to expect defeat, changing the world eater into the woods without any traces of where she might have gone.
"NO!" Miki shouted the loudest out of all of them, she quickly dropped to her knees and felt her world shattered. Gorrou gritted his teeth while his eyes showed worry.
This did not escape Russ who could tell where Angron had gone seeing a path of destruction ahead though it was just broken branches and a smashed grass trail. Russ chased after them only leaving a kneeling Konrad and working Rogal trying to put out the fire. Russ ran on the path to find Angron, she ran while studying her surroundings. The trail was getting hot, and she found more evidence of her sisters walking through the area. Running like no tomorrow, ramming through giant trees, crushing rocks under her steps.
"DAMMIT, SHE LIKES A DAMN TRAIN!" Kiba said with worry. All of them wonder if they will be able to stop her in time. Rossweisse knew the Russ would be able to take this hunt on.
"Get her you dumb dog!" Koneko cheers on, wanting this dog of war to catch and stop this Angron form from causing any more pain to Issei.
She could feel Angron was close by. When she heard a quiet leap, she bolted toward the direction of the sound. Passing the line's trees Russ came to a halt to see a cliff edge to a canyon so deep that the bottom was being obscured by shadow. The Bottom was nothing but a giant raging rapid of white water for miles.
Russ knelt looking deep into the canyon, with rage within her deep blue eyes, and let out a frustrated roar.
"AAAAAAAA~!" Russ yelled.
Konrad followed close behind, witnessing Russ in defeat. Konrad collapsed to her knees unsure of what the future held, Issei couldn't have survived that fall, and then nothing changed for the grimdark future, lying ahead for all she knew.
Konrad tilted her head down in shame. Closing her eyes to welcome the void of self-loathing within herself.
The room was left in silence again though this absence of words was different, instead of being in shame, this was on the edge of fright. They were all sacred for Issei's life. Ophis had a calm face but was not smiling.
Death had befallen Issei, all of them believed
"Issei is de-." Before Konrad could finish.
All of them believed that the worst had happened. Leaving them speechless in pure awe. They felt a sense of hope again.
A vision flooded her mind as she witnessed the event unfolding before her. It was the same vision of Konrad and Issei, but in a different place, with them still happy. Konrad looked to the canyon with hope in her eyes.
Leman Russ grabbed Konrad by the front of her armor, slamming her armored fist into Konrad's face, breaking her cheekbone, and knocking the night lord to the ground.
"If you ever interfere again I'll break you into a million little pieces," Russ yelled as her foot stomped on Konrad's chest. Though Konrad wasn't fazed at all, She looked like she was daydreaming. Russ walked off in anger swearing to the sky up above. Konrad rose to her feet.
Rias had gazed at Konrad seeing her stance and undefeated look. Many of the girls instead of falling into agony over the horrible things that could happen. They did what Issei would do. Look for hope and keep on fighting. Konrad was their only hope no matter their feelings toward the night hunter.
"Issei you must stay strong I will be coming for you," Konrad said out loud, opening her eyes Konrad had a look of determination, a look that screams calm before the storm.
"Beware Angron the Night Hunter is coming for you!" Konrad said in a harsh whisper that flicked like a whip hitting the air.
Rias held her head down in a sad manner. "Get her Konrad," She whispers. No more telling in envy only pushing onward until she could see him again.
Russ noticed Konrad's strange behavior but couldn't have questioned it, immediately walking away to meet Rogal, their sisters had much to talk about. Leaving Konrad by herself.
"I will find you Issei," Konrad whispered to herself. "My love."
"Is Issei going to be fine?" Rias asked in a hopeful manner. The question was pointed toward the Golden Warrior of Terra
"I'm not gonna lie it's not looking good for him, Angron just sucks so please hope for the best and expect the worst," He said, not making the room feel any better.
"Will see in the grim dark future you never really know," The Captain General said.
"Well tell me who wants a break," Doctor Wondertainment said in a joking tone. "Good thing we weren't in the splash zone,"
Doctor Wondertainment met with a punch to the face, knocking him unconscious as he lay on the ground. his top hat, flying in the air, landing perfectly on his head again. Miki was taking deep breaths trying to calm herself.
"Get him, sweetie," Gorrou said.
"hmm well while he's sleeping maybe I should tell you more about Konrad," The Captain General said.
Oh my god, it's been such a crazy last two weeks for me. I'm sorry you guys waited for such a long time for this, honestly, these reaction chapters take a lot of time and I think I'm going to start looking for help for these reaction fics honestly. I was on vacation and it was so hard for me to write like I couldn't contract at all. The good news is I'm back and getting back to my schedule and human touch will be posted every Friday soon. Alola and you guys have a great day please follow, favorite, and review. The next chapter will focus on Konrad and her home world and life. Sorry that it wasn't this chapter.
Also, check out my other stories if you want. Anyway, take care and still looking for an editor.
