Today was the day of a meeting with the Gremory heiress Rias. Leon and Rossweisse had been briefed on the situation with about the stolen swords along with how the Harpe was missing from Olympus's vault. They were instructed clearly by Hera, do not antagonize Rias and the exorcist, keep the peace as best as possible.
Leon sighed looking himself in the mirror, to look presentable he had been given a black suit with a red tie that had Greek symbols on it, even the collar was etched with symbols showing which faction the young man belonged too. Along his head was the Greek leaf crown many wore, this had been the first time wearing it and it felt surprisingly comfy.
Rossweisse wore her usual purple dress suit along with the symbol of Asgard etched near the shoulders. She no longer felt the hangover from yesterday though internally she cursed herself for that display.
"Are you alright?" She said to Leon as they both walked down the hallway.
"I'll be honest Rossweisse, I'm pretty nervous. I've never had to do something like this, I'm running circles in my head for the right things to say."
Rossweisse could understand that feeling, despite her being professional she was nervous at first being the guard of Odin, though internally she curses that the old god would fire her but what's done is done.
"I don't blame you, we're essentially going into a new territory despite being briefed," She held documents in her hands looking them over. "But don't worry too much, we must simply keep the peace as best as possible. Given the history between the church and devils I'm a bit surprised either would agree to a meeting."
She was not wrong, despite the war between Angels, fallen angels, and devils had long since been over there were still tensions. The only reason they didn't continue to fight was because the war had drastically reduced their numbers, if they kept fighting no doubt they'd all become extinct.
"I agree, guess it takes a serious matter for either faction to sit down and talk," Leon looked at the documents as well. He soon looked up at Rossweisse before speaking up, "Still though how are you doing? I imagine you must've felt groggy after...you know..."
The Valkyrie blushed a bit but composed herself to keep up the professionalism, "I'm alright, and I apologize for the scene yesterday, it was most inappropriate."
Leon simply smiled waving his hands, "It's alright and I could only imagine what you must've gone through. Still though I've heard how smart you are and honestly I'm glad you're here to help with this meeting."
She felt a bit embarrassed being praised yet wanted to feel pride. She simply smiled back with a nod, "I appreciate it, and don't forget the deeds you've done yourself."
"Haha I won't, everyone will definitely keep reminding me."
The two finally make their way to the summoning circle, there to greet them goodbye was Hera who'd got it up and running.
"Hera, you're here to see us off?" Leon asked the queen of Olympus.
"Of course, some last minute advice for the both of you. And I must say you both look very professional in your outfits," She clapped her hands together practically beaming at the suits.
"You're very kind Mrs. Hera. We'll make sure to represent our realms properly," Rossweisse bowed her head.
"Thanks Hera. And you said you had some last minute advice?"
"Ah yes," Hera cleared her throat. "We've received some last minute information about the possible identity of the thieves who stole the holy swords. Apparently fallen angels are a prime suspect."
"Fallen angels like Azazel and the other two?" Leon was a bit surprised especially learning the two factions have a cease fire. "Does Azazel know about this?"
His question was met with a nod, "Azazel is aware and is investing as well. If Rias or the exorcist asks about him tell them that he is investing as well but will not involve him or his people."
"To keep the peace despite how fragile it is, I can understand why Azazel would do such a thing," Rossweisse determined correctly how having a fallen angel leader involved in matters with the church would have tensions rising.
"We'll keep that in mind Hera, I promise," Leon's words were enough to make Hera smile.
"Ah! And one more thing, be careful with one of Rias's pawns Issei, that one is...a special kind of young man to put it nicely."
Leon and Rossweisse looked at each other puzzled by what she meant, they will have to find out when they meet in.
"Now then, keep us updated and make your realms proud," Hera stepped to the side waving goodbye as the two stepped on the summoning circle and were transported to earth.
Occult Research Club
Upon arriving on earth both representatives are met with the building that will be where they talk. It would have surprised them both had they not been told of the club house, it is a three story story building, the third story serving as a clock tower. It seemed like the building hadn't been maintained outside as vines creep up on the second story but that may have just been how they wanted it.
Two beautiful women in stature stood at the door way, inches away from where Leon and Rossweisse had arrived.
"Leon Alexander and Rossweisse it is a pleasure to meet you both."
The first to speak was Rias Gremory herself, her eyes blueish green, skin white, and a voluptuous figure. Her outfit was the Kuoh academy uniform for women, but her most distinct feature was her long crimson red hair that reached far down her legs.
Standing beside Gremory was Akeno Himejima her best friend and the queen of her piece system for devils. Her hair was black and long, if not just as long, as Rias hair except it was in a ponytail with an orange ribbon keeping it in place. Her eyes are violet and like with her best friend wore the Kuoh academy uniform. Akeno was also voluptuous but the big difference was her chest size that would put Rias's to shame.
"Heiress of the house of Gremory Rias you honor us by allowing us to this meeting," Leon said as he and Rossweisse bowed their heads.
"Polite and handsome a nice combination," Akeno giggled.
Rias smiled at their respect, "With our introductions out of the way let us go inside so you may meet the others."
"Please do lead the way," Rossweisse smiles back and everyone goes inside together.
The interior of the building was wooden panels but still kept clean. Upon reaching the meeting room was a Victorian style couch and chairs. Standing in a line from behind one of the couches was Rias peerage that Leon and Rossweisse read about from the documents.
From left to right starting with Asia Argento she was a beautiful young lady with long blonde hair and green eyes and wore the traditional Kuoh academy uniform for women. As well as being a reincarnated devil she also has the rare sacred gear Twilight Healing that can heal anyone and is Rias's Bishop.
Next to the former nun was Issei Hyoudou, an average height male with short spikey brown hair along with two short locks of hair from behind. He wears the traditional Kuoh academy uniform for boys along with a blazer. From the documents read it showed he was not only Rias's pawn but also the holder of the Longinus booster gear the Welsh dragon Ddraig. Leon glanced at him and almost thought for a moment he saw his eyes widen at the sight of rossweisse but shook off the feeling.
Standing next to Issei was Rias first Rook Koneko Toujou, a petite girl with white hair and golden eyes. Between everyone in the room she was the shortest one with the Kuoh academy uniform. Not only is she a reincarnated devil but also a Nekoshou which are a rare species of Nekomata.
And the last in line was Rias's Knight and vice president of the occult Research Club Yuuto Kiba, handsome with blonde hair and bluish-grey eyes. Like Issei he wore the standard uniform for males. Other than his looks and being a reincarnated devil he is the holder of the sacred gear sword birth that could create multiple swords with many abilities. Rossweisse couldn't help but notice the young man's face looked a bit tense but pushed that thought in the back of her mind.
The last two sitting on the opposite side of the peerage on the Victorian chair were two of the exorcists in church robes, both women and holders of holy swords.
The first one was Xenovia Quarta, a young woman with chin-length blue hair, dyed green fringe, and dark yellow eyes. Her demeanor seemed stoic despite being in the same room with devils.
Sitting next to her fellow exorcist was Irina Shidou, she was just as beautiful with chestnut colored twin ponytail hair with blue scrunchies holding them together and having violet eyes. Unlike Xenovia she appeared to be all smiles, it wasn't until she really showed how upbeat she could be when she leaped from the couch.
"Leon! Is that really you?!" The exorcist rushed to Leon who seemed very confused. "It's me Irina Shidou remember? We met during my school vacation in the city of Athens in Greece!"
Suddenly old memories started to click on the Spartans head, he remembered that one girl he spent time with at his grandfather's urging to have him make friends.
"Wait, Irina?!"
Wait those two know each other?!? Issei internally asked himself, he wasn't expecting his old childhood friend Irina wouldn't have any other friends, he simply did not expect one to be a representative to another faction.
Rossweisse was taken back by this sudden reunion wondering why Leon never mentioned her, "Friend of yours Leon?"
"Yeah, when she and her school were on vacation to my home town. I guess you could say she was the first friend I met."
Irina practically hugged Leon but soon stood back with eyes widened, "Wait Leon last time I saw you were human and yet..." The exorcist looked him up and down seeing the Greek symbols on him. "You're the one from the Olympus faction!? Oh what a cruel twist of fate for my friend to turn away from God, please have mercy on him."
"Uuuuh...," Leon could only look at her puzzled, he remembers her being a Christian and sometimes praying with her but never thought she'd be this religious.
Rias coughed to draw attention back to the meeting, "I am glad you two have reunited but I believe it is time we got back on track to why we're here."
"I agree, you can dwell on your pagan friend later," Xenovia said with her arms crossed annoyed at her companion.
"O-Oh right sorry," Irina hoped back on the couch now focused on the meeting with no more distractions.
Pagan? What does that mean Leon? Phyra tilted her head intrigued by that word.
From what I remember it's a word used to describe ancient religions like Greek and Norse, and not in the good way
"Now that things are back on track I believe we all know why this meeting is important, the situation with the holy swords and how they appear to be connected." Rias said in a tone that seemed fitting for royalty.
Rossweisse nodded her head in agreement before speaking, "We're aware of the stolen holy swords. We believe it is connected due not just the harpe being stolen at what seems like at the same time your holy swords were taken." The Valkyrie looks at the two exorcists which peaked their interest. "But because of the description you Rias yourself gave of a stray exorcist that attacked your pawn. Feed Sellzen."
Issei felt a shiver run down his spine hearing that name again, he'd hope to never see that psychopath ever again. "Wait, the same stray exorcist that tried to kill me and Asia?"
Leon nodded his head confirming Issei of the very same man, "From what we know he was trying to abduct me, no doubt because of my sacred gear."
"Why would he want to abduct you yourself? Does your sacred gear contain holy power?" Irina asked with a finger on her chin.
"No but my sacred gear has the ability to conjure swords and absorb powers or creatures that seem compatible.
"Make swords? That sounds almost like Kiba's ability. They sound similar yet he comes after you," Rias crossed her legs trying to think on why he'd target one but not two.
"From what I've learned no one has seen my sacred gear before, not even the gods."
Akeno seemed just as perplexed at the idea despite not being a sacred gear expert, "My my you must be a very rare one for that stray exorcist to single you out."
"If that is the case then no doubt from what I see then one of the leaders of the fallen angels, Kokabiel sees you as an asset." Xenovia telling a fallen angel leader's name got everyone on her attention.
Irina nodded in confirmation to her fellow exorcist, "We've learned he is behind the stolen holy swords which three were taken."
This guy has three holy swords but he wants Harpe and me?
Leon had to internally wonder how his swords would've helped. He did survive falling into the literal flames of Olympus and one of his blades was able a chunk of it but that was sheer blind luck and the outstanding power he'd gotten facing is no longer with him, Leon can still access his balance breaker: Olympus Might as Phyra said but that overwhelming power that could've possibly contend with gods was long gone.
"So he is the mastermind behind the church's troubles, still I must ask why you would bring your holy swords here if you know Kokabiel plans to steal all of them." The Gremory heiress asked the two exorcists.
"We know the dangers and we were chosen because we ourselves can wield holy swords. These are the remaining swords with us."
Xenovia was the first to speak showing the sword that was wrapped in layer upon layers of cloth. Excalibur Destruction, also known as Holy sword of destruction, is one of the fragments from the original Excalibur. Irina showed her holy sword, there was confusion at first but she noted how she wields Excalibur Mimic, also known as Excalibur of mimicry. Because of its ability it can turn into almost anything and Irina had decided to keep it close by making it a pink string around her arm.
Rias simply nodded and smiled, not in the least bit intimated by having two powerful holy swords just inches away from her. "Well then, what would you have all of us do? I assume the church has a plan in store."
"Actually we only agreed to come to this meeting to relay what headquarters asked of us," Xenovia spoke with a stoic look. "This matter with the holy swords is between us and the fallen angels and they wish for neither devil or pagan factions to be involved."
Leon was taken back by this revelation, yes he knew all factions at the moment had their differences but had hoped this would allow everyone to work together on this. "While I understand all three of your factions have intense history with one another this situation requires all of our attention." His words had the short blue haired exorcist glare at him but Leon kept his cool.
Rossweisse nodded in agreement, "Freed Sellzen attacked not only our faction but tried to abduct Leon, our goals may be one in the same."
"Is it perhaps your worried about us devils siding with the fallen angels?" Rias crossed her arms staring down Xenovia.
"Holy weapons are devils natural enemy. Naturally you could not be trusted to be left alone with our sacred swords," Xenovia's words caused the Gremory heiress eyes to glow just enough to show a hint of anger.
Oh crap, the president is getting mad! Issei and Asia could feel it, it was never a good thing for their president to get angry unless you wanted to play with your life.
Chuckling the words away Rias flipped her hair over her shoulders. "Make no mistake, I have no plans on siding with fallen angels you can be sure of that much."
The exorcist smirked at her, seeming delighted to know the scarlet haired princess wasn't as stupid as she thought. "That's good because I would not hesitate to annihilate the younger sibling of Sirzech."
Leon coughed to break the tension between the two, the last needed was a fight to break out. "To get back on track, me and Rossweisse didn't come here to start trouble but it will be difficult for us to leave while Freed is on the loose and our Harpe is still stolen."
"In all honesty I don't care what you do to Freed, killing a stray exorcist will be one less problem for the church. Still though, how do we know you won't find some sympathy with the fallen angels? Last I heard three of them are in your realms."
Rossweisse was the next to speak up to Xenovia about the Azazel and his other companions. "It is true they are welcomed in our realm but we have no alliance with them, they simply helped us in a dire situation but that does not mean our factions are allies."
Xenovia eyed up the Valkyrie, curious yet wary at the same time, "So you say, still headquarters we're clear that the holy sword situation is ours. If you decide to look for Freed and your Harpe you would do well to not interfere in our business."
"Seeing the situation here it seems best that I cannot get involved without starting conflict." Rias spoke with an air of royalty.
Leon didn't like that Rias and her peerage would have to sit this out but trying to force it would do no one good. "I see, hopefully we can keep the peace between us."
"If that is understood then we shall be on our way," Xenovia got up from the couch, strapping Excalibur Destruction behind her back and in her cloak.
"It was nice meeting you Leon! I'll pray that God has mercy on you," Irina cheerfully got up from the couch next to her partner.
Both were about to leave until Xenovia stopped in her tracks and turned to face Asia. "I almost had quite a hard time believing it when I saw you at the house but I guess it's true, your Asia Argento aren't you?"
The blonde devil looked shocked but answered timidly, "Y-Yes I'm Asia."
"I didn't think I'd meet a witch in a place like this yet here you are," Xenovia's words made Asia's widen.
Irina looked her way and realized who Asia was, "Oh you're the former saint who became a witch." Despite her words the exorcist still smiled, "I had heard you'd been banished because you could heal fallen angels and devils, but I didn't think you'd become a devil."
"I...u-um...," Asia was trembling and looked down, tears started to swell up from her eyes trying to say something.
Harsh, that doesn't seem necessary to say that Leon wanted to say those words but didn't want the tension to grow any higher.
Xenovia didn't care and doubled down on her words, "Hard to believe someone who was once called a saint now turned into a devil, there's no saving rotten trash like you."
"Hey!" Issei yelled out and was ready to approach her if not for the petite Koneko stopping him.
She didn't pay any attention to his outburst ignoring him completely, "Asia, do you still believe in God?"
"Xenovia, she's become a devil why would she still believe in God?" Irina looked at her companion puzzled by that question.
"No, there are those who remain pious even in the midst of their betrayal."
"Oh! Hey Asia, do you still believe in God even after becoming a devil?"
Though the blonde haired girl was still shaking she finally spoke up in a soft tone despite her head lowered. "Y-Yes, I can't...I just can't give it up. I have always believed in God, I won't stop even if I'm a devil."
The blue haired exorcist started to walk up to Asia, "Then you should let yourself be executed right here and now." Her words caused Asia's eyes to go wider with fear. "Even if you are a sinner, God will reach out his hand in forgiveness. Let yourself be convicted by my hand, under god."
Issei was about ready to break out of Koneko's hold until Rias sat up staring down Xenovia. "You had best stop right there if you think of talking down on my servant like that."
She simply smirked at the heiress not in the least bit threatened, "Look down on her? No. It is only natural to feel pity for a..."
Stopping mid sentence she was confronted face to face with the wielder of Ddraig, he had gotten loose from koneko's grip and glared at the exorcist.
"You call her a witch, yet you're the ones who put her on a damn pedestal as a saint! What is faith and God if you can't even see Asia's kindness?!"
"Issei...,"
"And just what are you to her?" Xenovia did not back down, thinking it's a silly a mere devil like him could intimate let alone challenge her.
"I'm her friend, family, and companion! If any of you do so much as lay a finger on her...,"
"Wait!" Leon took the initiative of stepping in between the devil and exorcist.
"I don't see how this is any of your concern," Xenovia had her hand on her weapon seemingly ready to fight just as much as Issei was about too.
Leon looked at both of them, his expression calm yet serious, "There's no need to start a fight, we both have a task to do, not pick fights."
"And how would you have us settle this insult? To challenge us would mean to challenge the church"
Issei was about to speak again if it were not for Yuuto stepping up, "Sounds perfect to me, I'll take you on."
She raised an eyebrow at the blonde haired devil, "And just who are you?"
With his arms crossed he answered bluntly "I'm your senior."
Leon sensed this wasn't going to end here and now, an idea popped into his head that could work to relieve some tension. "If it helps how about an informal bout? Just a match between just you, Irina, Issei, and Kiba showing your convictions."
Rossweisse was glad of Leon's quick thinking, she did hope it wouldn't come to a fight but at least this way they were killing each other.
Irina smiled at the idea, "You have bright ideas Leon, if it means to show my devotion to God I'm in!"
Rias sighed but nodded her head, "If that is what's needed then let us take this outdoors please."
Outside on the grassy plains
The four stood outside a few feet from one another ready to do battle, everyone else stood on the sidelines wondering who would come out their victor in this bout.
"You did good intervening back there Leon," Rossweisse noted Leon's diplomatic approach to that heated situation. "At least this way no one will be killing one another."
"I did what I thought was right, honestly I just hope this doesn't get us in trouble."
"As you've said Leon this is just an informal bout, nothing too serious. And I must agree with your friend," Rias looked at him and was also impressed.
Both exorcists soon took off their robes revealing the church battle attire fitted for both. A black skin tight short sleeved leotard with pauldrons hugged their curves.
Irina was the first to show Exaclibur Mimic, the pink string that was wrapped around her arms transformed into a katana with a round gold guard and long grip making it two handed. "If the church found out we'd all be in big trouble, let's keep this a secret okay," She winked at her opponents.
Xenovia was next as she unwrapped Excalibur Destruction for everyone to see. The sword was long, being two handed as it was necessary to hold such a large weapon. Two of it's unique features also were the double ace guards and a second grip with a chain form that connected the guard with the blade. "Let's enjoy ourselves without killing each other."
"I can see why they have those names," Rossweisse looked to Leon who nodded with her.
"A blade that can change into almost anything, and you can feel the destructive power emanating off it."
Kiba started to chuckle but that soon turned into a laugh which confused Xenovia, "And just what is so funny?"
"Because, the sword that I've been waiting to destroy is finally in front of me. I can now get my vengeance," Extending his arms out Kina summons multiple swords that extend from the earth.
Xenovia eyed him carefully looking at each and every blade, "Sword birth, now I see. You're one of the church's subjects that escaped being disposed of by the project I've heard about."
Irina hugged her katana close to body with a sad expression, "I can't believe this, one of my childhood friends is a devil while the other is a pagan, fate is so cruel!" Her words had both men give her a look that could say "She's really more religious than I remembered." Irina readied her katana holding it with both hands before lunging at him, "This clearly must be a test of God! I will take part and show my devotion, then I will be one step closer to true faith. Ready yourself Issei, Amen!"
"Gotta watch out for that Exaclibur. Let's do this, booster gear!"
For the first time Leon and Rossweisse saw the booster gear, also known as the Red Dragon Emperor's Gauntlet. A red gauntlet that looked like a dragons arm with a green jewel in the center and 2 gold spikes.
Boost!
Issei's sacred gear jewel shines, his power being boosted as he lunges at Irina throwing a fist. Unfortunately the exorcist had the advantage speed and she jumped up with the Excalibur over head. He only had a few seconds to spar by jumping back but not before the holy weapon came down slashing at his blazer.
"Issei be careful!" Asia called out worried for him.
"She's quick and her movements are pretty sharp," Leon had his arms crossed impressed by how she was.
Issei looked down at his blazer seeing the middle cut a part. "Jeez this isn't much of a friendly match it's like she's gonna kill me!"
Irina simply blushed with her eyes closed, "To have to kill my old best friend who turned Satan, oh such a cruel fate."
"Issei, avoid direct attacks. Remember a holy weapon is the devil's greatest weakness."
"Yes president!" Issei looked back at Rias then clenched his gauntlet hands.
Boost!
Irina rushes at Issei once more, this time with another boost he was able to block the sword. One would assume because Issei is now a devil a holy weapon just touching the skin would burn like hell, except the blade made contact with the gauntlet taking no damage.
"Huh?!" Irina was taken back seeing her old friend turned devil not feeling pain.
Rias smirked seeing the one advantage her pawn has, "Issei may be a devil but that gauntlet is all dragon."
"So he won't be affected unless a holy blade hits his body, a good playing field if he plays his cards right," Akeno giggled.
Kiba picked up one blade closest to him and pointed it at his opponent, "This power of mine comes from the resentment of my fallen comrades. The ones killed who died with regrets!"
Saying no more Kiba rushed towards Xenovia, their blades clashed with one another in what could be like a heated dance. The anger in his eyes showed just how much he wanted this and every other Excalibur destroyed.
"Died with regrets?" Rossweisse looked at Rias puzzled.
The Scarlet haired princess looked slightly down with a sad expression, telling both her and Leon about Kiba as a test subject along with others. When they failed to be able to wield holy swords such as the Excalibur shards they were disposed of and the project was shut down. Fortunately Kiba was the sole survivor but that was only because his friends held them off long enough to get away, he would've died in the snow had Rias not been there to revive him. She'd hoped Kiba would find a way to move past his horrible childhood but it was clear the scars on his soul were still there and fresh.
The blonde devil soon sank his blade into the earth and pulled out two in each hand. "Freeze then burn," One blade froze with ice while the other burned with fire.
He charged at her, slashing his blades in a flurry of strikes but Xenovia easily blocked and parried each one with ease despite Exacliburs size and weight. "You naive devil!" She yelled and with one swing easily destroyed Kiba's blades.
"What!?" He had no time to stay shocked as Exaclibur destruction was raised overhead and came crashing down. Thanks to being a knight Kiba used his speed to jump out of the way.
When the huge blade came crashing down the ground shook making everyone stumble on their feet to keep balance minus Issei who fell on his butt. When the dusk cleared there stood Xenovia in a large crater, Excalibur Destruction got its name for a reason.
"Even as it's a fragment of the original it still holds that much power," Rossweisse was amazed seeing the holy weapon display such power.
"Jeez wish she could've warned us," Issei got back on his feet dusting off her pants before turning his attention back at his opponent.
Boost! Explosion!
Green aura began to dance around the high schoolers entire body, his booster gear now at maximum charge. Soon the holder of Ddraig grinned mischievously ear to ear, "Time for my signature mov...,"
"Watch out for him," Koneko said interrupting Issei's monologue in a non expression tone to Irina who looked back at her. "He has the ability to blow off women's clothing."
"Koneko! Why would you give away information to the enemy!?"
"Because you are an enemy to women everywhere."
Leon's eyes went wide at the revelation, a move that can blow away any woman's clothes sounded unbelievable. "I think I now see what Hera meant..."
"Ugh no matter! I'll marvel at Irina's mature body today, Dress Breaker!"
With those last words Issei began to lunge at Irina like a wolf ready to pounce on its prey. She was fast enough to move but Akeno noted how Issei's movements had become more fast and flexible.
"Ah! What kind of lecherous move is this?" She said while running and holding Excalibur Mimic close to her chest.
What in the world am I witnessing right now... Leon couldn't believe this was a bout, it didn't seem like a fight at all but just a huge pervert desperate to see a naked woman.
Suddenly Issei was in front of Irina, both his hands stretched out as if he'd finally cornered his prey. "I got you now!" Leaping forward it seemed victory was at hand for the young man.
Though he was fast Irina was just as fast if not faster as she fucked down avoiding dress breaker. However, Issei kept going in mid air now just about to touch both Asia and Koneko.
Oh no!
Leon didn't hesitate to move in between him and the girls. As if on instinct he summoned Phyra Blade holding it horizontal, the moment Issei's hands touched the blade it glowed a purple hue.
"W-What the?"
Like with Heracles countering and reflecting attacks the same applies to this battle here. The magic red circles that were in the palm of Issei's hands reflected back and with the power up he was pushed far back. However, because of the nature of the dress breaker it completely blew off Issei's clothes leaving him as naked as the day he was born.
Asia had her eyes closed for a few seconds before opening them, "Issei are you ...ah!" Her face turned beat red from blushing seeing her companion naked and soon covered her eyes.
Irina closed her eyes as well looking away with a blush, "I can't believe I saw a devil naked, God please forgive me!"
"Ara Ara," Akeno giggled not in the least bit embarrassed at the sight before her.
"Ugh, what the hell happened? Wait, my clothes! Don't tell me...," He looks at Leon who still had his blade in hand. "Nooooo! My dress break, used on myself!" He covered himself up.
Phyra cover your eyes
O-Oh okay!
Even Rossweisse had to look away and stare at Leon blushing, "That was quick thinking Leon, but why that blade?"
"It was just the first blade I thought of using, I didn't think it'd... blow off his clothes himself."
Koneko patted Leon on his back, "You're a hero to women."
I don't know if I should take that as a compliment or feel weird my own blade made a dude's clothes blow off...
"A very fascinating blade, maybe you could give even Excalibur a run for its money," Rias noted intrigued by it but soon turned her attention back to her pawn. "It appears this battle is over, Akeno if you could please put some clothes on Issei for me."
"Oh it will be my absolute pleasure."
The fight here had reached its conclusion, now all that was left was Kiba and Xenovia's. Kiba had pulled another sword out of the earth but this time it transformed becoming bigger, if not larger than Excalibur Destruction.
"How about this then, your destruction against my destructive blade!" Yelling with all his might he rushed forward at the exorcist.
"Arrogant fool."
Xenovia easily ducked under the blade as it swooshed overhead. Kiba's guard was left open and she knew it, taking this advantage she thrust the axe handle against his abdomen. Pain wracked through Kiba's body, his sword disappeared as he coughed up blood and fell face first onto the ground.
The exorcist stood over her now defeated opponent disappointed. "You should've known your specialty is different swords along with your speed, yet you sacrificed the latter knowing you can't wield giant swords and which you sealed away the speed you're so proud of. Pathetic that you didn't realize." She soon turned and walked away.
"W-Wait...," Kiba reached out his arm only able to stand on one knee.
"Maybe when you're more rational we can fight again, senior," Her smirk made the blonde devil glare at her.
With the battle finally concluded Xenovia puts her cloak back on along with the Exaclibur hidden inside. "I assume this battle is over Rias Gremory."
"Yes it is, I thank you for not delivering a killing blow on them."
Issei was now fully clothed yet still depressed that his own attack blew off his clothes instead of a woman.
"Remember our deal pagan," Xenovia turned her attention now to Leon. "Deal with that stray exorcist as you wish but stay out of our affair."
He nods his head understanding to not aggravate her, "I understand, I still believe we should all work together but I won't force it."
Rossweisse agreed as well, but knew if you force something like this your just doing harm and no good. Some flicker of hope remained believing they would come around but only time would tell.
"If that is all we shall be taking our leave," Xenovia said as Irina had turn her Excalibur back into a ribbon around her arms and got dressed. Before they left Rias stopped them with a question.
"Just a second, out of curiosity do you both know who really stole the holy swords?"
"We know the one who did was one of the leaders of Grigori, Kokabiel."
Issei now fully dressed and healed looked at Akeno confused, "Grigori? What is that?"
"A group of Fallen angels said to watch over the children of God."
"Your gonna take on a fallen angel leader on your own, isn't that risking your life greatly?" Leon was surprised just two would go after a Grigori leader. He and Rossweisse learned the amount of wings an angel or fallen angel has the stronger they are.
Xenovia simply shook off his concern not worried in the slightest but did this out of conviction for the church. "If it means stopping the fallen angels from getting their hands on the holy swords we'll gladly trade our lives for it."
Irina nodded in agreement with her companion, "We knew the risk when taking this mission. We even know one of our own Priest was killed here investigating before we arrived."
"The culprit...was Freed," Kiba said while still on one knee. "I fought him, and it definitely looked like he had a holy sword."
"Again with that freaky guy," Issei shuddered just thinking on that stray exorcist face.
"We'll definitely need to be more careful with this new information," Rossweisse turned to Leon to which he nodded back at her.
"I see, this information will be taken into consideration, farewell," With those finally words Xenovia turned and walked away.
"Hey wait up Xenovia!" Before walking away Irina turned to look at both Leon and Issei. "It's been fun seeing you both, let me know when you'll want me to judge your sins! Mwah! Amen!" The twined ponytail priest kissed her cross necklace and walked away.
"Then I believe we'll take our leave as well, it's been an honor meeting you and your peerage Rias," Leon bowed his head.
"It has been a pleasure indeed, if there is any information you can send our way do not hesitate," Rias smiled and waved her hands goodbye.
One bedroom Apartment
Arrangements had been made for Leon and Rossweisse to stay in an apartment as they didn't know how long they'd be staying in Kuoh. While the Valkyrie took a shower and relayed information with one of Odin's birds Huginn to speak with Frejya back in Asgard, though it was understandable why given the situation with Odin firing her.
Leon sitting on his bed used a magical communication ring to speak with Achillia as Hera was very busy with lots of work to do. "And that's how this day went, I was hoping the church could put aside their differences just this once."
"It simply can't be helped, still you did good keeping the peace Leon," Achillia understood it wouldn't be easy but making enemies was something to avoid here. "Still be careful, I know you have balance breaker now but against holy sword even if it's a fragment is dangerous."
Leon nodded in agreement there, if not for Achillia or Zeus around he'd start to think he was invincible or something. Still, the thought of continuing to grow with supportive people by his sizes put the young Spartans mind at ease.
"Don't worry I won't do something stupid that'll get me killed, you'd never forgive me especially after I asked you out," He laughed yet internally found it scary to see an angry Achillia.
She blushed but retorted back with a smirk, "Good to know playing peacekeeper hasn't made you forget your promise. Still, be safe and don't forget to keep me updated."
Leon nodded smiling, it was cute seeing a strong warrior like Achillia blushing but he wouldn't out right say given he'd probably get a hard punch to his shoulder. With a wave goodbye the communication was turned off and Leon sighed looking out the window at the night sky.
Rossweisse having finished giving report came out in her pajamas, Huginn flew off to the table to eat some seeds she'd left for the birds'good work.
"Everything goes well on your side?" She asked and took a seat on her own bed.
"All good here, like they said we can't be too careful regardless of whether Freed is human given now he is in possession of a holy sword."
"I agree. Frejya has has also relayed more information given to her by Azazel."
Freed Sellzen was apparently a test tube baby from multiple genetic patterns at a place called Sigurd institution. They were apparently trying to create a true descendant of Sigurd, the same legendary figure who could wield Gram that was used to kill the dragon Fafnir. However Freed didn't seem to believe in God and only wanted to kill monsters, devils, practically anyone to the point he became a wanted criminal to the Vatican and forced to run away.
"I see, and I'm guessing Asgard is gonna want Freed because of his genes despite being artificially created?"
She nodded her head yes to the correct answer, "Indeed, they find it abhorrent that the genes of one of our factions is being used this way, especially for the purpose of using the legendary sword Gram."
"I'm hoping he doesn't have Gram, the situation is already bad enough given it's now confirmed he has a holy sword."
"One step at a time. For now we had better rest, we'll need it for the days ahead." Rossweisse smiles and lays down on her bed. "Good night."
"Sweet dreams to you as well."
Leon said and turned off the lights, as much as he kept thinking what to do next overthinking wasn't going to solve it. One thing was for sure, Freed needed to be stopped, along with kokabiel.
The day ends with all three factions meetings concluded. Though it was unfortunate the church faction was unwilling to work together with devils, Olympus, and Asgard it was better than having everyone at each other's throats. Leon and Rossweisse will have a lot of work to do, more to come in the next chapter.
