Jwebb96: It was quite a chapter lol, never enough time for fluff. Indeed, apparently Thor is an honest emotional drunk XD
Haro654: That is correct…the fluff was real :D
FenrisFiltiarn: *sigh* Now I have to gather up the pieces so you can read this chapter lol. You're in luck…we'll get to find out how it'll go right now!
Guest: I'm sorry you feel that way, in truth the line about women being strong as the Earth but precious beyond all worth was one I used myself personally which is why I slipped it in. She seemed to appreciate it at the time :)
fanficcyberman: Thank you very much! :D
naruto: I certainly hope it will and that you'll enjoy the first foray into canon…
Curse of Whimsey: I am glad you thought so xD, Rossweisse certainly agrees with you.
Sakra95: Thank you for the kind words! Right you are, the Holy Sword arc and the first arc in canon begins now. I hope you enjoy Dorian's reaction to a certain pervert dragon. And fear not as one of the inspirations for writing this story is to, shall we say…shore up the inconsistencies in the personalities of the various characters that popped up as the series went on. I hope to not disappoint.
LordOfTee: Once in canon, at the Kyoto school trip after the Loki arc. That scene is far off…but you are not wrong ;)
Dorian felt himself land as the Bifrost dropped him off, immediately recognizing where he was. As promised, he was now just within the front gates of the abandoned dormitory of Kuoh Academy which he had seen from a distance the first day after arriving in Japan before the fire.
He was not alone as Hecuba whistled loudly beside him, clearly impressed with the sight of the building before her.
"A quaint old place, you can practically sense the history within its walls."
Earlier that Day…
Dorian stood before the throne of Asgard after just barely finishing breakfast. For the audience, he had selected his official tunic with an accompanying red shoulder cloak now clasped by Rossweisse's gold-lined ivory amulet with just a hint of blue inlays.
"Good Morning Mr. Held," the Allfather started. "I hope you are well-rested as we have found the perfect mission with which to test our new task force."
"Of course," he asserted. "But shouldn't the entire team be gathered for the briefing?"
"This situation requires a stern yet gentle hand," Freyja began. "Thanks to my dear husband's informants and Baraqiel's allies in the Grigori we have discovered what we believe to be the location of Hrotti."
Dorian flexed every muscle in his body, to that day they had not discerned who had broken into the vault that night, assaulted Rossweisse and absconded with the blade. He clenched his fists subtly as he stood ready to receive their orders.
"Regrettably, the regions of which they have withdrawn are on Midgard well beyond our territory. A moderately-sized town in Japan residing within the territory of a powerful devil family."
Devils from Hell, Dorian knew of them through Azazel's biblical religion as one of the three major factions opposite the forces of Heaven and Fallen Angels. It was a battle between the three which had caused the fire that had blown him to their shores through his death.
"As a result, we want to send two of you to speak with the heiress to the family, the Gremory Household to negotiate assistance with locating not only our own weapons, but those taken from their own neighbors which we believe are also in the city."
"You," Odin continued. "Are the first of that pair."
"Why me, if I may ask?"
"Your strength is not well known on Midgard or among the other myths beyond us and Olympus just yet," Freyja admitted. "A balance breaker may be needed if things go south; your Sacred Gear is still a symbol of what can be accomplished when multiple myths and factions work together. And perhaps most importantly, your connection to this particular town may be useful for future deliberations."
"My connection?"
"You will be heading to Kuoh Town as soon as you are packed."
Dorian breathed deep, Kuoh Town, the very place where he had died. He was to begin studying at the academy there had it not been for the fire. He'd been in his accommodations less than a day before that fateful night.
"Who will be the second?" The married deities glanced at each other before returning their gaze to him, their looks completely focused.
"We would very much like to hear your opinion on that," Freyja broke the silence. "Who do you feel would be most appropriate to join you?"
Your growing strength and determination are known, but how much like a leader do you think Mr. Held?
Dorian thought on it, while he would have cherished the chance to travel alone with Rossweisse on a protracted mission, it didn't feel right. Not only could she or Thrud be construed as a show of force due to their well-known strength, but if this was to be the first outing of the unified force between Asgard and Olympus then its composition must reflect that spirit of cooperation.
"Hecuba," he answered at length. "She is well-versed in the politics of Olympus. Bennia is as well, however she has voiced on many occasions her distaste for it. If negotiations and tempers can become as delicate as you fear, Hecuba calm and tact would be the best choice."
A good start, a good start indeed.
"We concur," Odin answered, the two obscuring their pride at his tactful and well-thought out answer. "Our friend Baraqiel had some information on the heiress, Rias Gremory whom you will be meeting with." He passed a thick folder to Dorian who accepted it. "I suggest you memorize it and do be polite, apparently her family protects his greatest treasure."
Dorian raised an eyebrow at the Allfather's odd statement, yet he did not clarify.
"She is aware of your arrival," Freyja continued. "All the preparations have been made through her mother, a delightful woman. We hope that you can form an alliance, however temporary, with the girl and her peerage of servants. That will make things infinitely simpler to scour the area for the stolen weapons of war."
"Keep in touch through Skilja," Odin commanded. "Either myself or my naïve bodyguard will be available should you require to speak with us. Best of luck, and may the tides send you swiftly to victory."
"And when you meet up with Ms. Gremory's peerage, watch out for a young man known as Issei Hyoudou. Azazel has had some strange stories about that one…"
Present…
"Ah, so glad you could make it. It always makes a good first impression to arrive on time."
Dorian turned, a woman which he could only describe as the embodiment of what was known as a Japanese beauty was walking towards him. She had black hair tied with a yellow ribbon into a single enormous ponytail that went down as far as Rossweisse's hair. She was wearing a Kuoh Academy girl's uniform; he remembered thinking even before his death how short the red skirt seemed compared to uniforms elsewhere. She was also phenomenally well-endowed, but Dorian ignored that point as he bowed politely to which she reciprocated. He felt quite out of place in his Asgardian armor holding aloft Twilight Star. Hecuba was similarly adorned in her Greek armor and weapons.
"We are the envoy sent by Lady Freyja in regards to the recent thefts," he started vaguely with how out in the open they were. "My name is Dorian Held of Asgard and this is Hecuba of Olympus, Miss…?"
"My name is Akeno Himejima, Vice President of the Occult Club at Kuoh Academy." Dorian sighed with relief that the magic allowing translation between them was working as he had never learned the Japanese language.
"And Queen to the Lady Gremory?"
"That is correct."
"Thank you Lady Himejima, it is an honor and pleasure to make your acquaintance."
"Lady Himejima?" Akeno chuckled cheerily at the title, the subdued yet gleeful smile never fading from her lips. "So polite, you and Kiba will get along. There is no need to be so well armed if you are worried."
"Mostly to stand on ceremony," Dorian admitted, turning to Hecuba with a nod. Holding out his hand, he summoned a portal to the Roads and deposited Twilight Star within; his armor shimmered out of existence leaving him in his professional business suit. Hecuba did the same with her own plate, her suit beneath a deep red in contrast to Dorian's blue. Her sword remained at her hip, that point was non-negotiable.
"That looks much more comfortable," she seemed to tease with a giggle, her interest holding on his Sacred Gear before it vanished. "The other two have already arrived so if you will follow me please."
"Other two?"
Dorian's question was quickly answered as they reached the inside of the old dorm. The dark-haired beauty led them to a large office with three sofas facing each other across a wooden table. It seemed their meeting would have quite the audience as two of them were occupied. On the left sat a crimson-haired girl, she was alone on the couch and was obviously Rias Gremory whom Dorian had been sent to meet with. Behind her stood the members of her peerage, each was recognizable from the file the Allfather had provided.
The first was a small blonde woman, Asia Argento. Up until recently she had been a member of the church though had been banished for using the blessed powers of her Sacred Gear's Twilight Healing on a devil, however after a situation to which even Odin was in the dark, she had become a devil and bishop under Rias.
Beside her was the man Freyja advised to watch out for, Issei Hyoudou, another Sacred Gear wielder like Asia and Kiba. Unlike Dorian's, his Gear contained one of the heavenly dragons within it, the Red Dragon Emperor himself. According to the file, he had only recently unlocked his Sacred Gear gauntlet form and while he had used his Balance Breaker against a son from the Phenex Clan in a duel, he had not yet learned to summon it at will. The Allfather's document had labeled him as a self-proclaimed unrepentant pervert having announced on more than one occasion his desire to become a Harem Devil King.
Hopefully he's not as bad as Rat…I can already tell dealing with him will be an endeavor.
Another man with short blonde hair and blue eyes stood beside him, Kiba Yuuto, the one Akeno had mentioned upon arrival. He was Rias' knight, very able in melee combat with swords as befit his station. Supposedly his Gear's ability "Sword Birth" allowed him to create unlimited demonic blades limited in power only by his imagination. Dorian could not help but wonder what it would be like to face him in a duel but immediately pushed the thoughts aside. They were here to find allies, not enemies or rivals.
The last was a girl with a petite build, even more so than Misty back in Asgard. She had snow-white hair and a stern gaze in her hazel eyes. Koneko Toujou, Rias' rook. Dorian knew better than to underestimate her, despite her small frame, she was likely the physically strongest person in that room including Hecuba. Despite being listed as a Nekoshou, she did not have the characteristics of feline ears or tail and appeared completely human.
Once inside, Akeno stepped away and took her place beside the small brawler. "The guests from Asgard have arrived," she announced.
"Ah, excellent, I thank you for being so punctual," the younger sister to one of the Four Great Satans welcomed. "Please, take a seat."
"Many thanks," Dorian and Hecuba bowed in tandem as they approached. "I was unaware you had other…"
Dorian glanced towards the opposite sofa; two women sat across from the heiress. They were both obscured beneath wide hoodless beige cloaks. One had a look to match Koneko, harsh and staring right at him without a hint of a friendly tone no doubt analyzing his appearance. She had short blue hair with a single fringe dyed green and held a cloth-wrapped sword in her hands.
Her companion seemed much more inviting; a content, cheerful smile seemed right at home on her face. She had bright orange hair tied into twin tails, Dorian stepped forward with his mouth hanging open as he saw her.
"Irina…Irina is that you?"
"Dorian?" The young girl asked, stepping up from the couch much to the surprise of her associate.
"It is you!" The new Asgardian broke his formation, Irina reciprocated as the two met in between, embracing with a powerful hug.
"I was unaware our envoys were so well acquainted," Rias smirked. Behind her Issei looked livid, barely containing himself only due to Rias' presence in the room.
"Irina, explain how you know this man," her blue-haired companion demanded. The two parted, scratching their heads clearly embarrassed.
"Sorry," she bowed apologetically. "I just couldn't believe he was here, he's a friend. We studied together in England years ago." She turned back to her old classmate. "Please don't tell me you became a devil too!"
"An Einherjar actually…a warrior of Asgard from the Norse realms," he explained further due to the confused expression on her face. "Since when are you a part of all this?"
Irina's companion loudly cleared her throat.
"We MUST catch up later, but for the moment I believe we are holding things up." He whispered at the not-so subtle reminder of their surroundings.
Irina realized the two had become the center of attention and nodded in understanding. In a flash she hopped back over the couch beside her partner as Dorian took his place beside Hecuba on the third sofa as if nothing had happened.
"Introductions are in order," Rias started. "This is Dorian Held and Hecuba; they are representatives of Asgard and Olympus respectively as part of a recent joint coalition. And these two ladies are agents of the church. We have not been given their names yet."
"Irina Shidou, a pleasure!" The orange-haired girl proclaimed, drawing a groan from her ally.
"Xenovia Quarta, and I feel we have gotten off topic." Everyone quieted as she started again. "As I was saying, recently the Holy sword Excaliburs that were kept by the Catholic, Vatican, Protestant, and Eastern Orthodox Church were stolen."
"But, Excalibur doesn't really exist, does it?" Issei asked behind the sofa.
"I'm sorry." Rias apologized. "One of my servants only recently became a devil and our guests are from outside parties, so can we continue this conversation while explaining what exactly Excalibur is?"
Irina nodded to the request.
"The original Excalibur broke during the Great War so it isn't the one you've probably heard about any longer."
Dorian listened intently, he knew that Church Holy Swords had been stolen similar to Hrotti and the attempt on Olympus, but they were all Excalibur? The file had been mum on the word as to the identity of the stolen blades.
"A famous sword like that can just break?" Issei asked once again.
Dorian thought back to his own swordspear, a weapon made of impossible items, yet that had not stopped the fallen angel Forcas from shattering it with ease.
"Even legends have their limits," he muttered, drawing a loud gulp from the young pawn.
"Indeed, these were created as a result."
Xenovia brought out her cloth-covered weapon; even to a novice it was obviously a long sword. With a quick pull she removed the cloth, revealing it to the room.
"This is Excalibur."
The entirety of Rias' peerage tensed at the weapon, and there was no wonder. Holy swords were the bane of devils, Dorian was certain even he could not take many blows from such a weapon. A single solid hit would be enough to slay all but middle tier devils or higher.
"Excalibur was broken into pieces during the war," Xenovia continued. "The fragments were collected and turned into a new form by alchemy. It was made into seven swords in total. This is one of them."
Just like my weapon, shattered and remade into something new…
"The Excalibur I hold is Excalibur Destruction."
Xenovia put the sword away and wrapped back up, the cloth clearly intended as some form of protection for the weapon. Irina followed suit, revealing a long rope she had tied to her arm in a ribbon that moved as if it were alive, changing shape right in front of the audience and turned into a katana.
"Mine is 'Excalibur Mimic.' I can change its shape into anything I want. Just like this, each Excalibur has its own unique ability."
"I never pictured you with a weapon," Dorian chuckled, remembering the young woman who had begged him to attend morning masses with her who seemed incapable of harming a fly.
"Irina, there's no reason to tell these devils and heretics the ability of Excalibur, is there?" Xenovia chastised her.
"It's okay Xenovia. Even if they are devils it would still be beneficial to form a good relationship with them. Plus we have no reason to distrust the others since I'd imagine they are in a similar situation if they are here…right?"
"You are quite right," Dorian leaned forward as it became his turn to speak. He clearly noticed Kiba behind the sofa glaring daggers at the two women and their weapons, his hatred for them was obvious. "The Runic Blade Hrotti was stolen from Asgard's Vault over a month ago. On top of that, Lady Hecuba's home of Olympus was attacked recently in order to claim one of their Legendary Weapons. We just barely repelled the assault and thwarted the would-be thieves. We have reason to believe they fled here."
"The Catholic Church was in possession of two Excaliburs including mine." Xenovia clarified. "The Protestant and Orthodox Churches also had two apiece. The last one went missing in the previous war between God, devils, and fallen-angels. One Excalibur was stolen from each Church. The ones that stole them escaped to Japan, and brought them to this town."
Rias Gremory sighed at the news, resting a hand on her head as she shook it back and forth "My territory has been so active lately; I presume you know who was responsible for stealing the Excaliburs?"
"The ones that stole them were the Grigori." Rias' eyes went wide at the accusation
"The holy swords were taken by the fallen angel organization? I suppose if anyone went after a holy sword it would be them. Holy swords do not give much interest to higher tier devils."
"We know the main culprit who stole the Excaliburs. One of the leaders of the Grigori, Kokabiel."
"That would fit," Dorian verified. "We still do not know who committed Hrotti's theft, however the assault on Olympus was orchestrated by a former Lieutenant within the Grigori known as Forcas. He was a devout follower of Kokabiel after their fall from Heaven."
"And how does Asgard know so much about this?" Xenovia asked, her expression clearly giving off an idea that he may be in on the attacks.
"Because it is not the entirety of the Grigori who are part of the thefts. Their upper echelons have been assisting us with gathering information to recover the weapons for return to their rightful owners. They want war as little as you do."
"We sent priests, exorcists and other experts to this town in secret but they kept getting killed. We don't know by whom but if it is fallen angels then their wish for peace has not helped save those lives." Xenovia's expression darkened, just how many had they lost?
Rias' peerage looked just as shocked at her statement; clearly they had been unaware of such attacks within their town.
"Our request…no, our order is to not to have any devils or others," she glanced towards Dorian and Hecuba, "intrude on the battle between us and the fallen-angels for the Excaliburs. In other words, we came here to tell you not to interfere with this incident."
"Such words, and is that restraint I sense?" Rias Gremory held her ground, not showing the slightest bit of intimidation before the swordwoman's declaration. Her composure was inspiring in how unbreakable it was. "Are you thinking that we might collaborate with those fallen-angels against you to claim Excalibur?"
"The headquarters does not find that beyond the realm of possibilities."
Dorian did not like the atmosphere of the room, it felt like a powder keg even worse than the first round of talks at Olympus. He tried to understand both sides as an outsider. This was Gremory territory after all and just asking her to turn a blind eye to murders within it was unreasonable. On top of that, to be not so subtly accused of potential collusion with the enemy…
"Then why do we not beat them to the punch?"
The two parties turned towards the young Einherjar.
"What do you mean?"
"Why, form an alliance. Even a temporary one would be understandable for the situation would it not? To work together until all parties have retrieved what is theirs and the perpetrators are no longer in Gremory territory? Lady Gremory's knowledge of the town, yours of the Excaliburs and my own of Hrotti could be utilized together."
"It would make things easier pooling our resources together," Irina interjected, Xenovia did not seem convinced.
"So Asgard would form an alliance with the devils? That could make you as much a potential threat as them."
"I would not be making an alliance with the devils," Dorian clarified, his tone becoming sterner yet without going too far. "I would be making an alliance with Lady Gremory for the duration of this venture while within her territory."
"She is the sister of a current Satan, disregard her status as a devil all you like it does not change the fact she is one."
"If you know that I am the sister of a Satan," Rias raised an eyebrow as if impressed. "Then it means that you have lots of connections with the higher-ups in the Church. Regardless as to whether we can set aside our difference today, I will not form an alliance with the fallen-angels. In the name of the House of Gremory I would never do something that would tarnish the name of my brother!"
To Dorian's relief, Xenovia laughed.
"Heh, hearing that is good enough. I had to warn you just in case Kokabiel was hiding in this town along with the three Excaliburs. I apologize Mr. Held but we cannot form an alliance at this time. If the devils joined with God's side or another mythology even temporally, then it would affect the balance of the three factions, especially if it's the little sister of a Satan."
Rias' expressed softened at her words. "I presume the Orthodox Church would send someone as well. Where are they?"
"They were put on hold for this case and have been assigned to protect the last Excalibur if Irina and I fail."
"Heaven only sent you two?" Dorian interrupted out of concern despite the rudeness. "But if Kokabiel is in town you can't hope to defeat him alone!"
"You doubt our skills so much?"
"I am fully aware of the strength of your foe, no insult is intended. Forcas was only a Lieutenant at Olympus yet he was able to best myself, a Grim Reaper, a goddess and one of the strongest Valkyries I know before he was defeated. He very nearly killed all of us, Kokabiel is even stronger.
"Our objective is to destroy the Excaliburs at the very least. If we can accomplish that then it is okay for us to die."
Rias raised an eyebrow. "You came here to Japan prepared to die? The belief in your teaching is extreme like always."
"Don't talk of our beliefs," Irina was the one to get upset here. It didn't surprise Dorian; he remembered the masses they went to before classes. She was always the most devout person he knew."
"You are talking about dying like it's nothing!" Dorian couldn't remain silent. He had been reunited with an old friend only for her to start talking about dying in the same conversation. "If it means saving your lives then an alliance is infinitely preferable."
Irina smiled behind her partner; it was always so pure and innocent. How it was she became a swordwoman of the church was beyond him.
"Is it even possible with only the two of you?" Rias asked.
"If it comes to that, we won't die in vain." Xenovia replied without hesitation.
"You seem confident. Do you have a trump card waiting in the wings?"
"Maybe, but I will leave it to your imagination."
The two women just stared at each other flatly as if waiting for the other to make a move. When it became clear that was not happening the two church agents stood simultaneously.
"If that is your wish, then you may perform your search in my territory," Rias agreed. "As long as you do not make trouble for my people or each other," she glanced at Dorian as well, clearly including him in the statement.
"Then we will take our leave now. Let's go Irina."
"So you won't drink your tea? I can prepare a snack for you." Xenovia only waved her hand declining Rias' offer which Irina repeated. Dorian silently sighed, the steaming cups looked quite good.
"If you change your mind," Dorian stood to bid her farewell. "Please do not hesitate to contact us," he handed Irina a small slip of paper. "We'll be staying at this hotel for the duration of our stay."
His former classmate took the paper with a nod; she was clearly saddened by her partner's lack of flexibility working with another realm. The two moved to leave only to stop, Xenovia in particular locking eyes with the blonde girl Asia in the back.
"I thought I recognized you at Issei's house. Are you the witch Asia Argento? I never expected to meet you in a place like this."
Dorian suddenly felt very uncomfortable, Hecuba looked the same as the young girl appeared unsettled at being called a witch. She was actually shaking.
"Are you the former holy-maiden, the one with the power that can also heal devils and fallen angels?" Irina jumped in with her usual overly cheerful voice. She didn't seem to be trying to accost the poor girl but was succeeding all the same. "I heard that you were exiled, but I never thought you became a devil."
"Um…I just…"
She can heal even devils. That is incredible, why would they have exiled a girl with such amazing powers? She looks terrified.
"It's okay," Irina continued. "We won't tell the higher ups what we saw here. They would scarcely believe it." Asia contorted her face in confusion at her words
"To go from a holy maiden to a devil, you fell as low as possible. Do you still believe in our God?"
"Xenovia. There's no way that she'd still believe in God after becoming a devil." Irina waved her hands as if to emphasize the ridiculousness of her question.
"No, I can sense it, the guilt of her actions conflicting against her beliefs. There is no doubt about it…you still believe in him don't you?" Xenovia stepped forward and focused entirely on the blonde bishop, her gaze boring through her.
"That is not necessary to know," Dorian stepped between, seeing not only how much her words were upsetting the girl, but the concerned glances of her peerage. Issei and Kiba especially looked as if they were ready to snap. "If you do not wish to work with them in an alliance then please don't…"
"I-it's okay," Asia interrupted, determined to answer if only to assure herself. "I do…I…I just can't give it up after believing and worshiping my entire life. It is part of me…and it always will be."
Before she even finished her sentence, Xenovia had already drawn her Excalibur blade and pointed it squarely at Asia. Dorian stepped left by instinct into the path of the blade, Hecuba's hand fell to her own sword but her partner raised a hand to halt her action. She stopped before it could be drawn.
"Step aside," she commanded without even looking him in the eyes, still focused on Asia behind him. "If her words are true then she should be cut down immediately. Even with her sins, if she gives up now God will forgive her."
"I thought we were here in friendship or at the very least cooperation," Dorian stood up straight, ignoring the legendary weapon a hair's breadth from his chest. "I am no devil or church saint but you are threatening someone right in front of…"
"Are you prepared to involve Asgard in a confrontation right now?" Xenovia's words bit deep. "This is a matter between a devil and her salvation, now step aside or..."
"You WON'T touch her!"
Issei Hyoudou appeared beside Dorian, pushing forward into Xenovia's face. His features were warped in rage and frustration at the swordwoman's words. It was obvious he was itching for a fight.
"If you touch her," he continued. "I won't forgive you! How dare you call Asia a witch?!"
"I dare because I have the right to, after all she has done, witch is the kindest thing I can call her."
Her words only spurred on the young pawn, Dorian could sense the rising tension yet could think of no words to disarm the situation. Between Issei's anger in defense of his fellow devil and Xenovia's steeled faith, they were on a course for blows. He didn't know enough of the situation before him.
"Don't fuck with us!" Issei roared at her face. "No one helped her when she needed it! If you can't see her kindness then you are the blind ones! Did anyone even try to befriend her?"
Issei, Dorian groaned internally. You aren't wrong, but this will only add fuel to the flame. If we can just get her to put her sword away… Dorian glanced towards the Lady Gremory for aid, but found her only watching the situation with intense, curious eyes. She wants to see how this turns out?
"A holy maiden does not need friends; all that matters is healing the sick and providing charity to others. A holy maiden fails the moment they seek friendship and love from others as the love from God is all they need. If she couldn't do that then Asia failed from the very beginning."
Irina looked scared for the situation as well yet did nothing to stop the words of her partner. It reminded Dorian back when he knew her. She was so kind yet could be faithful to a fault; if anything conflicted with her beliefs she would fight it to the last. From what little he had seen of Xenovia, Dorian was certain she was the same way if not even more rigid. Issei was far from done releasing the pent up frustration he seemed to share for followers of God.
"Gods are powerful entities," the calm voice of Hecuba unexpectedly interjected, drawing the attention of the church followers. "Yet if we were made in their image, then so too can they be fallible if even to a minute degree. Faith and belief will reinforce the will of man…yet to give oneself wholly over to it is to sacrifice your own identity."
No one said a word. Dorian breathed a sigh, more thankful than ever he had selected Hecuba as his partner for the meeting. Olympian gods were known to be just as flawed as mankind throughout their history; it gave her a unique perspective compared to others. Unfortunately, the message behind her words could not get past Issei's anger.
"So you guys just made her into a holy maiden and then abandon her because she's different from what you wanted? That's fucked up! "None of you know what she went through!
What happened between them?
"God didn't do jack when Asia was in danger…when she was nearly killed!"
"God loved her as he loves all his children. If nothing happened then it means that she didn't believe in him enough or faked it from the beginning."
She sounds like she's performing a sermon rather than having a discussion.
"What are you to Asia to defend her like this?"
"A friend, her family…a comrade and servant to Rias!" He was not backing down. "If you try to hurt her in the slightest, I'll make every single one of you my enemies!"
"Issei," Dorian cautioned. "That won't…"
"Is that a declaration of war against the church?" Xenovia's lips twisted into a smirk of superiority. "You have a lot of nerve for a low-class devil. Gremory, you clearly didn't educate your servant enough."
"Issei," Rias finally interrupted as it became clear the situation was spiraling. "That is enou…"
"If that is what you want, I will be your opponent."
Oh come on
Kiba Yuuto, Rias' knight stepped forward grinning from ear to ear as if a fight initiated by the guests was what he hoped for. He held an ornate sword that Dorian couldn't imagine where he'd been keeping it. The aura around him was begging for a fight.
I underestimated the animosity between these groups, Dorian realized in that moment more than ever how daunting a task of forming any agreements would be even for a mutual goal. Is this what the Aesir and Vanir used to be like…or the Olympians and Titans?
"And who are you?" Xenovia asked as she eyed him up and down.
"Your senior as a holy sword user, though I was considered a failure."
Dorian tensed as the ground rumbled, in an instant the group found themselves surrounded by dozens of swords emitting a demonic aura. None save the church women appeared surprised, combined with Kiba's glowing confidence Dorian was certain he was the one responsible.
Sword Birth, he recalled the details of the file, the young knight's ability to summon varying swords of demonic-make with seemingly infinite variety. No two were alike.
"Perhaps," the young Einherjar offered. "If there is no way to convince you to see reason…you should at least take this outside."
Outside in the Yard…
How did it turn out like this?
Rias Gremory's pawn and knight were standing amidst a sports field just outside the dormitory across from the church men. Thankfully, all parties involved had agreed to a non-lethal duel with the first to strike their opponents in some way being considered the winners. Dorian and Hecuba stood at the sidelines with the remainder of Rias' peerage who looked on with varying looks ranging from intense curiosity to worry.
"Can you not stop this?" Dorian whispered to the heiress. "They are your servants are they not?"
"They are," she confirmed. "But you saw the tensions building in that room, if we don't let them burn them off in some way it will only make it much harder to calm them later. They both agreed to the friendly terms, right? So it'll be fine if no one gets hurt."
Dorian sighed, turning to focus on the upcoming duel.
"Very well, but in the interest of keeping the peace we shall remain, if anyone takes it too far we will step in."
"A bold statement for an unaffiliated myth in our territory…but fair enough. Akeno can erect a barrier easily if they happen to get out of control."
Akeno bowed politely in confirmation of the statement, she was still smiling yet it had become uncertain as she watched the knight. Unlike Issei who was uncertain at the battle, he was ready to go all out.
"Let's begin!"
In a flash, Irina and Xenovia moved in tandem, throwing off their body-obscuring cloaks and drawing their respective Excaliburs. They wore all black battle clothes beneath not too dissimilar from the Valkyrie's in Asgard beneath their armor. They covered their forms yet were sleeveless and left their thighs bare with boots going above the knee. The tightness that the fabric clung to their frames left little to the imagination and it was obvious Issei was practically drooling at the sight of the alluring attire.
Who designs these?
With a nod, Dorian asked Hecuba to keep an eye on Xenovia and Kiba's fight while he oversaw Irina and Issei's. His gaze was drawn to the red gauntlet having shimmered into being on the pawn's left hand. It was just different enough from Laerad Ragnarok such as a green gem in the center, crimson metal shaped like scales rather than bark from a tree and pointed talon fingers instead of his own rounded ones. Dorian contemplated how long he should keep his own Sacred Gear a mystery.
Despite having been so vocal in the room previously, the pawn of Gremory appeared confused that he had been brought into the fight.
"Issei! Be sure to avoid all of her attacks, you are up against holy swords after all!" Rias called out to her servant, he acknowledged her words with a worried nod fully aware that even the slightest hit could cause serious injury to a devil such as he.
One of the heavenly dragons, to think they would be bound to a low-class devil.
Iggy? You know about them?
Not I, but my mother does. It seems she is an acquaintance of the red locked within his gear. Ddraig is his name…
The heavenly dragons interacted with Yggdrasil? There is a story I should ask her next time I am inside the Roads…
Across the way, Kiba was half chuckling, already surrounded by numerous demonic swords ready for combat. His smile was almost sinister; the Spartan commander could tell he fully intended to kill if the opportunity presented itself.
"Are you…laughing?" Xenovia asked confused.
"Indeed, to think the very things I wanted to destroy more than anything just shows up one day. I never imagined I would find them so soon!"
"That ability, a wielder that can create any demonic-sword they imagine in their head. It's unique even among Sacred Gears. I heard that there was a subject that avoided from being killed by the "Holy-sword Project, is that you?"
Holy Sword Project?
Kiba didn't answer Xenovia's question, instead rushing her as their blades clashed together with a resounding clang…
As Xenovia and Kiba's match started, Irina and Issei were still staring each other down
"What an auspicious of days," Irina called out in an almost melodramatic tone as if taking part in a Shakespearean play. Dorian recalled her playing a fantastic Ophelia back in the day. A single tear fell down her cheek. "I am reunited today with both my childhood friend and my dear classmate from across the sea. Yet not only is one a perverted devil, the other has become a pagan!"
"Hey!" Dorian could not help but shout. Technically she wasn't wrong, but it sounded so negative the way she said it.
"Um…Irina," Issei was looking very nervous. "I said what I wanted to about the church already, we don't actually have to fight do we?"
"Oh, how destiny has turned against me," she continued seemingly not listening to him. "I left one friend in Japan to find another England when they learned I could use holy swords to become an instrument of God! And now this trial has been forced before me to lay his judgment upon you for your sins…Amen!"
She hasn't changed one bit, Dorian could not help but notice that despite her tears and words, she looked VERY eager to begin the fight and commence her 'trial' from God. Once she gets started there's no stopping her.
"What are you talking about?" Issei finally shouted, his voice sounded exasperated. "Go Boosted Gear!"
BOOST!
Dorian noticed the green gem flare with the words, the known power of the Boosted Gear, the ability to double the wielder's power every time it activates. The Allfather and Freyja warned him there were certain to be other abilities yet other than the balance breaker they were unknown.
"Is that the Boosted Gear?' He heard Xenovia ask during a lull in her clash with Kiba. "The Welsh Dragon possessed someone from this far-off country?"
"Don't take your eyes off me!" Kiba reminded her as she barely managed to parry his next attack, not giving her a chance to analyze Issei further.
"Sword Birth, Boosted Gear and Twilight Healing, all of them are Sacred Gear considered heretical to the church. Perhaps you always meant to turn into a devil."
"My power is also that given by my comrades' hatred, those who were killed while filled with regret! I will destroy that Excalibur with that strength they have given to me!"
Hecuba listened to his proclamation and vow of revenge to his opponent; she could not know the specifics of this 'Holy Sword Project' but understood the pain based on his words. So many of her comrades had fallen in the Siege of Olympus and only the knowledge that those responsible had been slain gave her comfort. He had turned his anger towards the weapons themselves and would not stop until they were destroyed.
Your hatred at the swords is useless knight of Gremory; she wanted to shout yet held her tongue. They are but the instruments of those who deserve the fury of your passion.
Irina rushed Issei, swinging her katana sideways and barely missing his flesh though succeeding in slicing a chunk out of his jacket.
BOOST!
Issei's power doubled again, the light within his gear glowing quite brightly. Dorian could tell he was amassing it for an attack of some kind, much like Laerad Ragnarok, the energy within would be built up to the point he had sufficient power. He considered what such a Gear tied to the dragons themselves could be capable of.
"Could you stop staring at me like that?"
Dorian looked up and a shiver went down his spine as he spotted Issei's face. The devil pawn was eyeing Irina much in the way he had upon first seeing their battle suits, his gaze clearly lingering on inappropriate places.
"Watch out for him," the white-haired rook Koneko warned. "Issei has the power to blow away the clothes of any woman he touches."
"WHAT?" Irina and Dorian simultaneously shouted in shock.
"Koneko!" Issei groaned at the betrayal of his powers. "How can you warn the enemy about me?"
"Because you are the enemy of all women before all else…you are the worst of mankind."
Harsh words, Irina started praying for Issei's corrupt soul before they continued their back and forth. Even Xenovia mid-fight with Kiba had overheard and started looking him over with contempt. Hecuba's hand fell to the hilt of her sword again, her look threatening Issei should he venture too close to her.
"I am so sorry," even Kiba apologized for his teammate's conduct.
"Issei, if you wanted a woman's body…I could have obliged," Asia assured him out of the blue.
This is insanity!"
"Ms. Koneko," Dorian asked as the fights continued, leaning over to the short girl. "Is he really capable of such an attack?"
"Unfortunately," she sighed, seemingly beside herself for having to call such a man her ally. "He calls it his Dress Break technique and it was born from his infinite perversion."
That explains the Allfather's fascination with the move.
"Does…does it do anything else? Break armor, weapons, incapacitate her…"
"No."
"Then what is its purpose? How would he win the duel that way?"
"I doubt he thinks that far ahead, he just wants to get her naked then count on her shame to do the rest."
Dorian didn't know how to react, Irina mentioned Issei being a childhood friend from Japan, he even recalled her mentioning such a boy when they would talk back in England. If this was him, how could he do something as nefarious as shredding her clothes in a public setting? He was trying to comprehend the pawn's thinking so much he almost missed the shockwave heading his way.
Dorian and Koneko, along with the rest of the peerage leapt back as a blast from Xenovia missed them. After shattering Kiba's blades, she had buried her sword in the ground causing a tremendous explosion that had knocked her opponent backwards and upheaved the entire area. She had called her weapon 'Excalibur Destruction' and it seemed to be living up to its name. It had been so widespread, even Irina and Issei were forced to leap to avoid it, being pelted with debris from all angles.
"Dorian, Dorian are you alright?"
The Einherjar looked up at the familiar voice, perched in a nearby tree was Skilja looking down. He had let him loose to fly around the grounds until contact with Asgard was needed. His eyes had transformed into a deep blue to denote the one communicating through him. He'd recognize them anywhere.
"I am Rose, I can hear you."
"Thank goodness, I saw the explosion through Skilja and grew concerned. How fares the talks?"
"Could be better," he answered coyly, touched that she was watching over him from so far away. "Right now our hosts are having a…heated disagreement."
Skilja turned, eyeing the crater that had formed from Xenovia's use of her Excalibur's power. Despite the impressive show of strength, Kiba was still focused on the fight, his will not diminished in the slightest.
BOOST!
Rias Gremory's pawn dusted himself off as Irina lunged again to hit empty air. Issei seemed to be completely focusing on evasion until his Sacred Gear was ready. Even Dorian had to admit his skill and ability to weave between attacks was impressive.
"I've been trained quite a bit!" He bragged as Irina missed again. "I can even avoid people stronger than me as there seem to be a lot of those!"
BOOST! EXPLOSION!
"That's enough!" He proclaimed. "Time for a Dress Break!" For the first time since the match started, Issei went on the offensive, lunging for his opponent. "Sorry for stripping you but thanks for the view!"
"Get away from me!" Irina cried as she ducked past his outreaches towards her. At first she easily avoided him, however as the match continued he seemed to be getting better at predicting her moves, each time growing closer and closer.
"He has really improved," Akeno remarked.
"Unfortunately his power improves with his perversion," Koneko sighed.
"But…all he's doing is going for her clothes," Dorian's frustration was becoming evident. "It won't even win him the match!"
"I doubt he cares."
Dorian could feel a twitch developing in his left eye. He had seen duels, fought in them and considered himself understanding in regards to the desires that drive warriors to victory. But to be fighting for the sole purpose of seeing his opponent naked…he just couldn't let it be.
"This is no duel; if he succeeds it'll just become a…a peep show!" He finally decided, being reminded of the Allfather far too much. "If he won't fight as a warrior, I am putting a stop to this."
Dorian marched onto the field, hoping to reach the perverted pawn before he succeeded in touching Irina, which he was drawing closer to with each attempt.
"D-Dorian!" Rossweisse tried to dissuade him though was unable to do anything other than communicate through the emerald raven.
"Mr. Hyoudou," he reached out and grabbed his shoulder. "That is enou…"
"Hey, let go I almost had her!" Issei shouted, turning to push away the unwanted participant, snapping his fingers in frustration...realizing too late what he had done.
Issei forcefully shoved Dorian; his Sacred Gear impacting the Norse warrior's left shoulder, and leaving a strange red seal where it had made contact.
"No!"
Dorian's business suit in its entirety including his undergarments exploded without warning into a shower of fabric and metal as buttons flew away. Time seemed to move in slow motion as the cold air struck the young man's exposed skin, Issei's face warping in terror at what his ultimate technique had done. Kiba and Xenovia paused their struggle as they witnessed what happened, Asia had already slammed her palms over her eyes as Rias just shook her head in disbelief. Koneko and Hecuba had similar blank expressions.
The collected eyes of the observers looked him up and down, shocked at the outcome as he stood there completely exposed. Dorian had improved his physique considerably in his time among the gods of Asgard. While he was not rippling with muscles, what he had was toned and defined which he had admittedly become proud of. He barely had time to comprehend what had occurred before he turned, spotting Skilja's blue eyes widen and beak drop open to emulate the expression of the one connected who saw more than his bare back this time. Only then did Dorian start to feel the sting of embarrassment as he lowered his hands to cover what he could.
"HIDE YOUR SHAME!" Irina cried as she covered her eyes, peeking out though a slit between the fingers.
"Ara ara," Akeno let loose a friendly chuckle without so much as glancing away. Hecuba reacted fast, tossing one of the church fighter's discarded cloaks to Dorian who swiftly wrapped it around his waist like a towel.
"My…my ultimate technique…tarnished!" Issei cried as he fell to his knees in defeat. "It was never meant to be used on a dude! It was only for seeing giant luscious bazong…OW!" Irina had crept up behind him as he lamented the misuse of the technique he'd created with such pride. With a series of pokes she had jabbed him in the back using her Excalibur, stinging considerably due to his status as a Devil.
"That is for creating such a nefarious move!" The young woman chastised her childhood friend. "We should have that ability sealed immediately!"
"Never," Issei staggered to his feet. "I created this from all the skill and power I had, even chose it over a technique to see through women's clothing. I will NEVER stop trying!"
He stepped forward but was stopped by a powerful hand on his arm. Dorian had seized him again.
"Stop getting in the way, this is my…"
Issei suddenly doubled over, his back felt like it was on fire. Twisting each way he spotted a thin cloud of smoke rising from where he had been poked accompanied by an intense burn. He could barely move from the pain.
"That is why I stopped you," Dorian remarked. "Even a poke from a holy blade would be enough to hurt a low-class devil." With the young man's adrenaline pumping he hadn't noticed the pain until he calmed down a moment.
"Thanks," she directed to Dorian, certain if he hadn't stepped in that Issei would have scored a blow with his lecherous attack. "What is wrong with you?" Irina remarked. "That you only fight for that sort of thing."
"It is my power," Issei groaned through the pain. Regardless of how ridiculous his motivations were, he had determination. "My sex drive is justice!"
RESET!
Issei lost the last of his power as his boost died. Between using up what he had on a Dress Break and the stab of Excalibur Mimic, he had spent all of his energy and could not stand.
"D-damn it," Issei groaned as his loss settled in. "I'm sorry President…Asia…"
The second match did not last much longer either, no matter how many demonic swords Kiba summoned against Xenovia, the Excalibur lived up to its name and shattered them all. Not even pouring all of his power into a single blade availed him and with its sundering, the knight of Gremory was sent flying from a blow to the gut with the pommel of the legendary weapon.
"I-I'm not done yet," he asserted despite wobbling upon one knee, unable to rise again. His fury was boiling over which the fight had done nothing to alleviate.
"You won't be getting up from that quickly," she informed him with absolute certainty. "You let yourself get too worked up, it made you sloppy. Otherwise you wouldn't have tried creating such a massive blade and negating your speed advantage." With her stern eyes, she turned to the mistress of the house. "Rias Gremory, I trust that you will not ally with our enemies yet I hope you train and polish your servants a little better."
Dorian walked between them, still wearing only the cloak to hide anything inappropriate. With a snap of his fingers, his Nordic armor shimmered into being; allowing him to return the cloak to its owner though Irina accepted it hesitantly.
"My offer stands," he repeated. "Is there no hope for cooperation?"
Xenovia's stare darted between him and Rias before returning, she did not look as certain as she had inside the building.
"Not as long as we are in the presence of the sister to a current Satan," she muttered barely loud enough for him to hear before spinning on her heels and approaching the still-kneeling Issei. "I will tell you this…the Vanishing Dragon has already awakened."
"….What?" Issei groaned, looking up as if not understanding her words.
"He'll find you eventually, and as you are you cannot hope to win. Let's go Irina."
"R-right," the orange-haired partner rushed to catch up to Xenovia. "It was good seeing you again Dorian, and you too Issei. If you two want to convert or be judged just seek me out, Amen." She kissed the cross around her neck with a wink before turning and disappearing down the path.
"Issei! Are you alright?" Asia finally rushed forward and laid her hands on him. A soft green glow radiated from her hands, lessening the young man's injuries."
"No thanks to Goldie over here," he grunted as his pain subsided. "You shouldn't have interrupted!"
"In a duel you fight with honor or not at all," Dorian could not help but round on the man. "Could you honestly have stripped a friend in front of an audience with ZERO regrets?"
"You didn't even take into account how much stronger she was than you," Koneko agreed. "You need to come up with real tactics to use with your Sacred Gear."
"S-sorry," he apologized before the young girl, her eyes judging his chosen path. Not surprisingly she seemed to have no love for his Dress Break.
"Yuuto, wait!"
Hecuba stood aside as the knight stormed off in the same direction as the church duo. His master Rias was calling after him yet he did not seem to be listening.
"Stop!" She called again. "If you leave I will not forgive you! You are a knight of the Gremory family, if you become an exile it will affect us all…STOP!"
"I only survived thanks to my comrades," he muttered loud enough for her to hear. "Their regrets are put into each of my swords…" With that final word he disappeared, leaving Rias and the others behind with looks of shock etched on their faces.
"Lady Grem…" Dorian started, but a hand on his shoulder stopped the young man from continuing. Her Queen Akeno had appeared behind him.
"It would be best to leave, this is a personal matter and I apologize that you had to witness it. I am sure there will be no issue allowing you to search around town as long as you keep out of…additional trouble."
"Very well Lady Himejima," the young Einherjar sighed in defeat. "But please let Lady Gremory know that if she changes her mind, we shall be available." He handed her a slip of paper with the details of their location and cell phone number as he had given to Irina.
"Oh my, exchanging numbers so fast…you are bold indeed." She teased, clutching her cheek with a hand smiling. "And you can just call me Akeno."
Dorian bowed before her to hold his composure, a familiar emerald raven landed on his shoulder as they turned to leave.
"Rose, please let the Allfather know we were unsuccessful in forming an alliance with the Gremory Household. The church has representatives here as well; the stolen weapons were multiple Excaliburs." He continued on the report until all of the pertinent information had been provided.
"O-of course," the raven replied in her voice.
"And Rose, sorry you had to see that side of me," he looked away, fully aware that she had been witness to the Dress Break incident.
"I-I have no idea what you are talking about," Rossweisse attempted to feign. "I am not certain I saw…anything at all."
"You have naught to be ashamed of," Hecuba replied as she walked alongside Dorian. "You have quite an impressive…"
"I-I'll file the report to the Allfather!" Rossweisse shouted as Skilja's eyes returned to their normal black signaling that the connection had ended.
"You did that on purpose," Dorian glanced suspiciously at his partner as they started towards the hotel they had chosen. Fortunately it was not a far walk.
"I am sure I have no idea what you mean," the former Spartan Commander answered with the coyest yet still reserved expression imaginable reminding him of Thrud. "I speak only the unfiltered truth."
A Hotel in Town…
"I see," Lady Freyja mused as the apparition of her paced the room thanks to their connection through Skilja. "At least you have been given approval to remain within their territory to search. It is wonderful that you found an old friend despite the circumstances."
Hecuba was in her corner of the hotel that they had selected. It had modest accommodations, two beds and a bathroom with a small kitchen nearby. The Spartan was contemplating the reason for so many pillows on her bed and was slowly throwing them aside until only one was left.
"You may not think so tomorrow," Dorian informed her. "She's wanted me to convert to Christianity since I met her; I imagine she'll keep trying now that I've become a 'pagan." He performed air quotes at her previous words."
"Do you have a plan?"
Dorian ceased his unpacking, his thoughts of the day swirling in his mind again.
"We need to search the city, but with only two of us it will take far too long. If the exorcists and church agents were attacked, they may also come after us or Irina and her partner."
"We have been unable to detect Hrotti's power; whoever has it must be shielding the energy somehow."
"Hecuba and I will head out tomorrow at first light to either find the perpetrators…Irina."
"Why Irina?" Hecuba asked as she bounced absentmindedly to test the limitations of her bed. "Her partner made it clear they did not want help."
"Xenovia said that no alliance could be made in the presence of the sister of a Satan. I am hoping that the refusal of an alliance was more for their higher-ups and political reasons than anything else." Freyja and Hecuba listened as he explained his hopes. "Even if it wasn't, as the latest agents of the church sent into town they would almost certainly be the next targets if their presence is known to the enemy."
"Keep Skilja close," Freyja insisted. "Nothing can fully mask Hrotti's power; he should be able to sniff it out once near enough depending on the strength of the magic suppressing it."
"Sniff it out?" Dorian glanced at Lady Freyja as an idea struck his mind. "I know a certain someone who has quite the nose for magic."
Freyja sighed.
"If you must ask him for this favor, at least try to keep him away from the Gremory family. Venelana will not be kind if she hears her daughter receives less than appropriate compliments from a rodent."
"I'll give him the talk tomorrow my lady," Dorian held back a chuckle at how serious she was taking his presence. "With him we will be able to split up and cover more ground, I don't even want to think about how long it might take to find…"
A loud knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. Hecuba quickly retrieved her sword from beneath the bed, nodding to Dorian that she was prepared.
"I'll contact you tomorrow my lady," Dorian quickly whispered as she bowed in understanding. Her shape shimmered out of existence, leaving Skilja perched atop the bedpost.
Dorian crept hesitantly to the door as another knock echoed through the quaint room. Before answering he looked through the peephole.
"Irina!" He gasped, quickly unlatching the chain. True enough, his old friend was standing there in her wide cloak holding up the slip of paper he had provided with their intended address. "What are you doing here?"
"I don't know how Xenovia will react if she knew, but I felt it had to be done. Are you still interested in an alliance?"
Dorian nodded with a smile, despite her overbearing religious nature and determination to bring him to her way of thinking, he could not help but think how nice it was to see a familiar face after so long.
"Well then," she finally started as the door closed behind her and Hecuba relaxed the grip on Monster's Bane. "I have an idea that might help…"
Dorian and the task force spend their first day in Kuoh Town, having met the Gremory Household at long last, will he be able to recover Hrotti and expand the sphere of friendship between the fractured factions of the biblical religion? Updates may be a bit slower than before, but fear not as it shall continue, and as always Read and Review…but most of all Enjoy! :D
