A.N.: Hey guys, this update is a bit late compared to others and future chapters will get even later. I got classes in university after all. Now then, onto the story.
Chapter 4: Outdated Knowledge
Freed was definitely someone I underestimated. I'm not even sure if he's human after taking my punches and still keep going a bit more. Then again, he was able to wield the Excalibur fragments. In the anime, he took on Issei, Kiba and Koneko before getting backed into a corner and ran away. By the time those three reached Asia, they were already too late. If I want to get them to make it, I need to fight Freed solo and let them go ahead.
Or I could just beat the shit out of Raynare at the fountain where she ambushed Issei and Asia to prevent the whole church incident. Yeah, that's the smarter approach. No priests, no other fallen angels, and no back up. If I can just get one good hit on her while she's insulting Issei, then hopefully she'll sustain too much damage to fight at full strength. After that, Issei and I can finish her.
Plus the fact I could get revenge on her for killing me was a bonus.
However now I'm in a different yet equally dangerous predicament, "Do you really have to hold me this tight?"
"I'm just trying to heal you as quick as possible, that's all. Or rather, do you want it to go slower". Her body glowing red and response full of amusement. Rias and I were on a bed with the former cuddling the latter like a teddy bear. Her arms were snaking around my abdomen and her bare breasts firmly pressing on my back. She's doing this on purpose, I just know it!
"More like discomforted about my personal space being invaded, especially when I'm already tired and weak from a fight. I feel violated". I tried distancing myself but she got a firm hold on me.
"Most boys would kill to have this kind of situation with me. Are you perhaps homosexual?".
... Being called gay by an incredibly hot girl just killed my inner pride as a man. Turning my head and giving her a level gaze, not caring if I can see her birthday suit in my peripheral vision, "Gremory-san no offense, but I'm gonna be blunt: How the fuck did you reach to that conclusion!?". I questioned her as calm as a madman holding a chainsaw.
"Well, you risked your life to save Issei not once but twice, almost as if you're harboring romantic feelings for him. And you're not happy with me being naked around you like any other adolescent males". She asked with genuine confusion.
"Well, I'm not most boys. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy it little. If it was with my girlfriend then yes, I would burn this sensation into my memory forever. But your my friend who's helping me recover. As for Issei, he's one of the few friends I have since coming here, so of course I went to help him when he's probably gonna get killed, even if I didn't know him at first". Turning my head back once I was done answering.
"... A very mature response. And here I thought I could make you fluster and see your embarrassed face like Akeno". Don't know why, but I can imagine her pouting right now.
"Unlike now, I was unprepared for a beautiful naked girl laying on the same bed as me. If I let it keep getting to me, then I'll die of hypertension".
"No fair. At least pretend to be embarrassed. Akeno isn't that much prettier than me, is she?". She wined like a child who didn't get any candy from her parents.
"Not a chance. And don't be so self-conscious. You're just as pretty, especially with your beautiful hair". I'm really glad she can't see my face because I can tell that face is getting a bit red right now. I can sound tough, but complementing a girl with her naked body pressing onto me was not something that can be easily handled.
"You and your words... But I still don't know whether you are just brave or plain reckless. Fighting against an exorcist of that caliber must have difficult. Next time if possible, save your friends without fighting the enemy".
"No promises. There will be times when fights are unavoidable if there's gonna be more situations like that. Otherwise I wouldn't have died trying to fight that fallen angel. But I'll try".
"Not the answer I want but I suppose that is the best I could get". She sighed out with exasperation.
"... Just how much longer do we need to be like this? I'm pretty sure my wounds aren't that bad". We've been like this for an hour at least, I wanna move my body around damn it.
"A little longer, your wounds may not be fatal but light-poisoning will still be in your systems for some time. They seep deep into our organs to cause problems even at low concentration and are harder to get rid of compared to external wounds".
I sighed while further enduring this healing session. To be honest, I actually forgot that it involves nudity. Wish Asia would join earlier, I could be up and about long ago if she was. But I guess it's not so bad, Rias' skin feels smooth and her scent was fragrant. Not that I'm gonna tell her, don't want to go through more of her teasing. At least I have some time to figure out how to counter light-poisoning.
The minor injuries are closed but my hand and stomach are wrapped in bandages, and I feel slightly lethargic and sluggish from the light-poisoning. Not bad to the point where I need to borrow Rias' shoulder. The Kuoh uniform I was wearing before has too much blood and is disposed, right now I'm wearing a plain black short-sleeved T-shirt and long cargo pants. Entering the main meeting room, everyone quickly looked my way with some concern in their eyes.
"Daisuke, you okay?". Issei went to ask first, must be the guilt.
"A little tired, but okay. Some sleep and food will get be back to normal as long as I don't strain myself. What about you? You were already bleeding when I got there".
"Ah, nothing I can't handle. Asia...", pausing briefly in sorrow before pulling himself back together, "... healed back me good as new. I think I even feel better than before". He moved his body around to prove what he said. "Though Akeno-san still gave me a check-up for any light still inside me but there wasn't any".
"Good to know. Your friend really knows what she's doing if you're back at 100% in such a short time". Light-poisoning to devils was like mercury-poisoning to humans, nasty stuff that can cause long term damage and difficult to get rid of. In hindsight, I guess the ecchi healing technique is better than poisoning any day.
"Right, a-about that. Buchou please...". His pleading was immediately struck down when Rias strongly denied him, "I know what you are going to say Issei, my answer is no".
"B-but...".
"I said no. I know she healed you, however it does not change the fact the she is still with the fallen angels, our enemies. Your life was already in danger once, I will allow it to happen again. My decision is final". Crossing her arms under her bust, Rias' gave Issei a stern gaze to accentuate her point.
"I... understand, Buchou". Issei's responded out with his eyes towards the ground and fists clenched in frustration.
The tense atmosphere was getting to everyone. With the whole Yuuma killing him, reincarnated into a devil, making a genuinely kind friend, getting attacked, and forced to be apart from that said friend. He's had one hell of a week and no doubt all that emotional stress is getting to him.
Sighing loudly, "I don't get it. This is your territory, right Buchou? So, why are you letting these fallen angels do what they want? If this keeps up, they'll think we're pushovers and keep causing more trouble for us". It doesn't make sense to me why she would just turn a blind eye, she was always the proud and noble type.
"It's not as simple as stopping them Daisuke-kun". Akeno chipped in, her serious look meant she wasn't kidding.
"Akeno is right. Just because this is my territory, that does not mean I can prohibit anyone from entering. The Great War has caused significant lost to all three factions. Hence, we had a cease fire to prevent more casualties. We may not exactly have war, but we also do not exactly have peace. Any rash decisions from any sides can be the catalyst to restart it. I have already submitted a report to the Grigori about what their subordinates have done. And so far, I have yet to receive a reply".
I slowly blinked at that before replaying her answer in my mind, "So you mean to tell me, that they can start killing humans in your territory and you can't retaliate unless we want another war!?"
Originally, I thought I could quickly overwhelm the white haired bastard, get Issei and Asia out of there and book it. Unfortunately, I forgot that even if I can do that, Asia is a nun under the fallen angels protection and we're devils. Even if she wasn't, a nun is still a nun. We're not suppose to willingly bring back people from enemy factions like a lost puppy.
The pseudo-peace we have now between the three factions is shaky. One incident like this doesn't affect much normally, but if we keep doing it then war will start again. It doesn't help that Rias is Lucifer's little sister, whatever she does will reflect on him. The animosity between the three factions haven't dissipated completely, not after a war that has taken countless lives from all sides.
"Currently, no. As much as I dislike the thought, while devils do rely on humans but they are still considered expendable. The cease fire does not include any species outside the three factions. Only killing a considerable amount of humans will allow us to retaliate". Rias then gained a softer look, "Issei, I understand how hard this must be for you but as long as she align herself with the fallen angels, taking her with us would subsequently cause more trouble". Issei understood it, but that doesn't mean he has to like it.
"Wait! What if she changes her allegiance to us, like for example, joining your peerage? You got to admit, her Sacred Gear would be invaluable to us". I voiced out my opinion, but Rias' poker face isn't changing.
"As tempting as that may sound, she is still a nun who strongly believes in... Him. Convincing her to join us, the angels enemies, will be next to impossible. Moreover, even if she does wish to join, her constant habit of praying and doing whatever that is holy would cause pain to herself and to other devils around her".
Frowning, the plan just got shot to hell. After watching Asia as Rias' Bishop for such a long time, I forgot that Rias is really overprotective of her peerage from any possible threat from the fallens. This is getting more and more aggravating.
"I think we all can take a break from our duties. I will not risk another one of my servants getting hurt again. I already had my familiar to inform the clients that our services are temporarily discontinued due to unexplained reasons until further noticed and to hide their flyers. Minimizing human casualties without letting them panic about possible death. Tomorrow is a weekend, rest and do not go out alone at night". Rias ordered with the confidence of a true leader.
"Yes, Buchou". Everyone responded as one except Issei's slightly less enthusiastic one. Everybody except me exited the building, after doing what I needed to do, I went to get my much needed sleep. 'This whole political bullshit is giving me a headache'.
I woke up later than usual, light-poison still making me weaker but not enough to fight if I have to. If everything goes according to canon, then Raynare should be at that fountain later today. My hands were shaking at the memory of my first encounter with her. The feeling of powerlessness against someone who killed you in one strike.
I took deep breathes and slapped the sides of my face a couple times to get out of the funk. Last time was when I didn't have much power, but now I'm much stronger. I held my own against Freed but I don't know how different it is to fight a fallen angel. Damn fear is gonna get me killed again if I hesitate in a death match. Right now, gotta find Issei and Asia, follow them, and wait for my chance to strike.
Heading to the arcade, I played some games to pass the time. Finally getting 4th place in a racing game after playing who knows how many times, I was about to try that drum game until I saw my targets. There were at a photo booth taking pictures with Asia holding some kind of plush toy. After some time, we finally arrived at the fountain. I was hiding behind one of the pillars and eavesdropping on their conversation.
They had some small talks, Asia being grateful to Issei for spending time with her, Issei being grateful to Asia for healing him yesterday. Then, it was Asia's past, a bunch of ass-kissing losers who couldn't even differentiate between a kind girl and a real bitch if you asked me. Issei got outraged and promised to be her friend, never abandon her, never view her as an annoyance. I smiled at that, Issei may be a pervert but also has a big heart. Asia finally couldn't take it and burst into tears of happiness. Although he wasn't done yet...
"Asia, please join us". Issei reached out his hand towards her.
"H-huh". Asia was just as confused as I am.
"Please join Buchou's peerage and become one of us. I know you're a sister and all but if you come with us, then you don't have to go back to those fallen angels. Buchou's really kind, she treats us all nicely and I'll protect you if someone like the that white-haired jerk tries to hurt you again. You don't have to use your Sacred Gear if you don't want to and I can keep showing you all the other cool places in Kuoh. Please...". Issei's voice was almost desperate, his outstretched hand shaking.
Asia was at lost of words, she was just staring at Issei. Is he trying to help her using my idea from last night? This could actually work! Now if only Rias would appear out of nowhere like a lover of theatrics she is, then this would be perfect!
Asia lifted her hand and was about to reach Issei's, until a voice rang out that made both Issei's and my stomach drop.
"There you are, little nun". The ever present strap wearing fallen made her appearance on top of the pond.
"R-Raynare-sama". Asia meekly stammered out while hiding behind Issei.
"Raynare...?". Issei whispered in confusion. Right, he doesn't know her real name does he.
"How was your last day of freedom Asia? Did you make sure it would be your greatest, because your time is up. So be a good little girl and come back like you promised". Okay, that hubris of hers just makes me want to cave her face in.
"N-no! I don't want to go back. I don't want to help you k-kill people".
"Have you forgotten our deal? Don't you wish to offer yourself to help the creation of God". Raynare's voice was steadily getting dangerous.
"Shut up! Can't you see that Asia doesn't want to come with you. Just let her live how she wants!". Issei shouted.
"Oh... it is you. That priest was right, so you have turned into a devil". The fallen's voice gotten a little quiet. Weird, what change did I make? "If it wasn't for that human... if it wasn't for that lowly HUMAN, my mission would have been a success and you would be completely dead!". Her voice reverberated all around us. If a barrier wasn't set up, then other people from afar would have heard her.
"W-what are you talking about?". Issei was more confused than scared, just like how I am right now.
"If that scum hadn't interfered and ruined my concentration, I would have completely disintegrated your body before those devils broke through my barrier and revived you! All those weeks of careful planning and searching, all ruined by one. Fucking. Human. If I see him again, he will be begging for death once I'm done with him!". The absolutely livid expression on her face says she wasn't exaggerating.
Issei has gotten pale and I couldn't blame him. My mind went into overdrive, 'Are you fucking kidding me! Issei would have died for good if I didn't show up!? I've only been in this world for one day at that time. I knew my presence alone can cause some changes, but I didn't think it would be this early. Wait, doesn't that mean I would also be dead for good if she completely destroyed my body! What other changes have I made without me knowing!?'
My breathing's gotten heavy and my hands are shaking again. I can practically hear my heart beating like crazy. Damn it not now! Not when the enemy still hasn't noticed. Gotta pull my shit together before it's too late. Shaking my head around, 'Cast your fears away, hesitate and you die, run away and you die. Show your resolve and fight'. Never thought I needed to quote Zangetsu's words before a real battle.
Raynare conjured a light spear after recollecting herself, "At least, you would stay dead this time. You cannot be reincarnated twice after all".
That brought Issei back to reality and he got his gear out, " Don't worry Asia, I won't let her take you. Just stay back, it'll be over before you know it".
Raynare paused momentarily before breaking into a laugh, "Is that it? A common Twice Critical. This is what the higher-ups have been worried about? Apparently, they have made a miscalculation. Now I don't have to worry about leaving you with the devils. After all, a weak low-class like you has no negative conseque..."
*SMASH*
"Surprise, bitch!". I yelled out with a shit eating grin and both gear colors emitting from my body. I found my opening and gave her an overhead hammer strike. Her face slammed onto the floor with a splash and a crack, she'll definitely be feeling that in the morning. As soon as that happened, I had to immediately get away when her spear was extending behind her.
"Daisuke!? What are you doing here?". I'm feeling some deja vu here.
"You looked pretty frustrated yesterday so I came to check on you to make sure you didn't do anything crazy like saving your friend alone, instead I found you already with her about to fight the enemy". I partially lied after cooling down.
"YOU!". Raynare was glaring daggers at me but with that blood coming from her head, it wasn't as intimidating as she thinks.
"Hey there ugly, nice seeing you again. You look better with red on your face by the way". I still had my grin and let me tell you: taunting her made me feel so good like never before!
"So you have become a devil as well. Now I can kill you both at once!". Raynare wasted no time and threw her spear at me.
"Issei, Asia move!". I sped up and got away in time, so did the other two. The spear whipped pass us and pierced through several trees behind us. The holes were cleanly made, I cannot let one of those hit me!
She's still on that fountain, I charge right at her while trying to dodge another spear. However, it suddenly exploded and I was blasted right up my feet, 'Shit, forgot that those things could do that'. I received some burns on my left arm and the light radiation was annoying but nothing serious. I made a big splash of water during my landing to cover myself. A third spear was thrown so I doubled up, charged forward and knocked it at the shaft away from me before it could detonate.
I continued and almost jabbed but she flew up before it landed. However, my clone jumped from behind me and mashed her back to the ground, clone two soon followed and gave her three hits to the body before roundhouse kicking her head. She skipped across the fountain like a pebble before crashing into one of the pillars. It didn't crack but my base Rook strength is still high.
Grabbing my clones, I threw them towards the downed fallen. I wasn't taking any chances with her but it was too late. She got air-borne and stayed there hovering, "It seems that you are a close range fighter, you need to get close or else you and your replicates cannot attack. So all I have to do is to attack from the distance". Her body's battered with bruises all over, and yet she could still analyze the situation. 'She knows I'm not used to aerial battles yet. Was she always this smart?'.
[BOOST]
"Daisuke! I came to help!". Issei as well as my clones rushed to my side.
"What about Asia?". I asked without taking my eyes away from her.
"Don't worry. She's pretty far from here and hiding. I don't think Yu- I mean Raynare will find her".
I couldn't reply as two spears darted at us this time. We split up as they exploded. My clones unfurled their wings and tried to get close, but they quickly got hit and dispelled before even reaching half-way. I gritted my teeth, I can probably get closer but can't dodge in time. She doesn't look like she's going to stop either and kept her focus mostly at me. We kept dodging while scanning the surroundings, but there's only water, trees, and concrete. 'Wait a second...'
I made two clones again and sent them to save Issei from a particular spear that was too close for comfort. I went to the greenery area and uprooted a tree to use it as a javelin. Raynare widen her eyes a little when she saw an entire tree hurtling towards her. She dodged since it was slowing down as it got higher. My clones were giving more ammo and I just kept throwing them, they weren't very accurate since my aim still needs some work.
It was until the fourth tree that she got used to it and threw her spear to destroy the fifth, "How pathetic, using trees of all things as weapons. I guess you are only useful on the grou- Aaagh!". Issei got behind her and punched her back. I got my opening and luckily threw another tree right at her and she crash landed on the edge of the fountain like a mannequin.
My shit eating grin returned full force. She was so focused on me that she didn't realize Issei was gone. When my clones saved him, they told him the plan to hide under the second tree I launched. It went off the mark on purpose to let him get up safely and her to focus on the more accurate ones. With Raynare's eyes at the ground, she never noticed Issei from above to slam her. Her moment of disorientation gave me the chance to finally land a critical hit.
She struggled to get up but I was having none of that, "Throw me!". The clones obeyed by each grabbing my arms and tossed me right at her before popping out of existence. A downward haymaker met the sternum which made her cough up blood and slumped lifelessly. Powering down, some moderate exhaustion caught up to me from using both boosts at once throughout the fight. Issei landed next to me with a shit eating grin of his own, "Holy shit Daisuke, we won!".
We had a high five in elation with the our victory still fresh in our minds, "Vengeance is served! Great job in catching her off guard. I would've been in deep trouble if she kept firing like that".
"Hehe, well it was your plan that made it work. I thought I was gonna piss myself getting thrown up in the air like that". He said joyfully.
Snickering at that, "Alright, let's go get Asia and leave this pla...".
"How unsightly". A deep masculine voice was heard which made us turn around. Our eyes widen with shock and fear; there was another fallen angel holding Asia hostage.
"Asia!". Issei ran towards them but immediately halted at the sight of a yellow light sword at her neck.
"Don't move! Take another step and she will have more than just a flesh wound". His ordered us coolly and calmly.
Issei was gritting his teeth to the point I can almost hear them, but Asia wasn't what I made me so unnerved. It was the male fallen angel taking hostage of said girl.
A fallen angel that I don't recognize.
Pupils dilating, my frozen body just stood there while my mind was trying to figure out what's going on, 'What the fuck!? A male fallen angel that's not Dohnaseek!? I can tell because since there wasn't any fallen that uses a light sword in the first arc. I've never seen this guy before in the anime. Who is he? Where did he come from? Are there more fallens that I don't know? Just what the actual fuck is going on!?'.
"Step away from Raynare". Asia was held tightly in his hold. With her taken hostage, we have no choice but to do as he says for now.
Closing his wings, he suddenly disappeared and reappeared next to the unconscious Raynare, "Losing to two low-class devils, I cannot imagine a greater shame. Perhaps you may redeem yourself after we are done with the sister's ceremony tonight". He slung her to his shoulder before facing us. "What are your names?"
"Issei"
"Daisuke"
"Issei and Daisuke. I will remember you both as enemies who are worthy of my attention. My name is Forcuis. Pray that we do not engage in a fight, as it will be your last".
'Fuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuck! Come on Daisuke, think! Winning means shit if we can't save Asia. Things will just happen as in canon if I don't pull something amazing out of my ass right now!'.
"Wait! What do mean ceremony? What are you going to do to Asia?". Issei shouted.
"It is none of your concern. Do not meddle into other people's affairs".
"Like hell it is! Asia's my friend".
Forcuis narrowed his eyes instead of replying. Asia looked like she has given up and turned towards Issei with a sad smile, "Issei-san, thank you for being my friend. You treated me with so much kindness, you showed me so many new things. I was so happy". Tears were forming at her eyes but she smiled nonetheless, "That is why, now I don't have any regrets. I will always cherish our memories together, so please don't suffer anymore for me. Farewell."
As if on cue, Forcuis teleported himself and the two females probably back to the church. Issei fell onto his knees, lamenting himself for losing his friend again, "Why... why couldn't I save her... What did she do to deserve this...".
The barrier became undone but I didn't care. I came all this way, managed to beat Raynare, only to lose sight of my true goal and got Asia taken again. My hands curled into fists in anger and self-hatred, 'I'm a fucking idiot...'
A flash of light snapped me out, I saw Rias and everyone else rushing towards us, "Issei, Daisuke! What is going on? The barrier was well constructed this time and we couldn't break through. I got worried that you two were ambushed again"
They saw the state of the surroundings. "Both of you don't have are not heavily injured and I don't see any enemies. Did you two win?". Kiba speculated as he and the others have impressed looks.
"No... we didn't". Issei mournfully replied.
"We can discuss more back at the club room. Let's go everyone". Rias commanded as she prepared a magic circle.
"Wait, there's still one more thing". I went back to the trees and look for something. 'It was around here somewhere... found it!'. Spotted it while I was busy dodging, the bottom is a little charred but overall still recognizable. Returning back to the group, I gave it to Issei who gingerly took it.
It was Asia's plush toy.
"Okay, now we can go back".
Arriving at the club room, Akeno's giving me some healing treatment to my minor injuries with her hands glowing while I was reporting to Rias what had happened to us. The King wasn't pleased about it but had an odd look when I finished.
Whoever this Forcuis guy is, something tells me that he's more dangerous than Raynare. He was straight to the point and not gloating like how Raynare did. There was no condescension, more like he was gauging us. If he was there before the fight even started, that means he saw all of our moves and I don't know any of his except for the fact that he uses light swords.
Issei was still holding the toy until he stood up with some fire in his eyes, "Buchou, please let me go and save Asia!"
"How many times have I told you? If you enter into an enemy territory, not only will you spark a war but also get killed by the fallen angels. The only reason you are alive right now is because Daisuke was there to help you". Rias sternly denied.
"He said something about a ceremony for Asia! I can't just leave her anymore".
"Then she is with the fallen angels at the church. There will be more of them, some might be stronger than the one you faced this afternoon. What can you do alone".
"I don't care! I'm Asia's friend. Even if it's hopeless, I'll still find a way to save her". Gotta admit, Issei's looking kinda cool right now.
Rias' gaze wasn't faltering and she stood up from her seat, "This discussion is over. Akeno, let's go. It's about time to settle some unresolved issues".
"Yes, Buchou". The Queen replied and dutifully walked beside Rias to exit the building.
"Buchou wait, I'm still not-".
"Issei. While a pawn can promote when they reach enemy territory, it is still impossible to defeat multiple fallen angels alone. Yuuto, I am leaving you in charge in my absence". With that, both of them left us to our own devices.
All was quiet until Issei walked to the door. "Where are you going, Hyoudou-kun?". Kiba asked politely.
"To the church. And don't try to stop me". Issei answered.
"Oh in that case, I hope you won't mind if I join you".
"H-huh, but Buchou said...". Turning around, Issei was puzzled so I quickly gave him answers.
Standing up and walking towards them, "Buchou said the church is an enemy territory, which means she gave you permission to go there and promote".
"... I'm coming too". Koneko said.
"And so am I. No way I'm gonna let those feathered asses get away with it after coming so far". I voiced out.
"But then, why did Buchou...?".
"All she said were the consequences of you going there alone, Issei. She never said that you couldn't go. It was a test of your resolve".
"Then that means, Buchou is letting all of us to go together?". A happy grin plastered on Issei's face.
"...Yes". Koneko monotone out.
"It will be interesting to see you in an actual fight instead of listening to it". Kiba eyed me.
"Alright then, what are we waiting for. Let's go wild". I grinned.
The four of us are currently flying in the sky near the clouds to minimize the chances of being spotted. The sun is nearly set so the lack of light just gave us more stealth. It's a bit cold but devils have better resistance to change in temperature compared to humans. Our night vision also helped out greatly in the dark.
The abandoned church is at the outskirts of Kuoh, just outside a forest. It took us about 10 minutes to get there before we had to land a distance away from it to avoid getting shot down by light spears. We landed in a back alley and could already feel our devil instincts telling us that it's dangerous.
"So, anybody knows what we're dealing with here". I asked.
Kiba pulled out some sort of a schematic diagram which showed us the interior of the church, "According to this, the church isn't very big and the sanctuary itself is seems suspicious, but..."
"But what, Kiba?". I asked.
"Our surveillance says that there are at least four fallen angels and almost fifty exorcists occupying the church".
"F-fifty!? How can there be so many? You just said the place isn't that big". Issei was intimidated by the numbers.
"My guess is that they got some kind of underground room to do whatever it is they're doing. Is there anyway we can sneak in without getting noticed, like a chimney or something?" I asked while checking out the schematic.
"No. Most probably one or two fallens and some exorcists will be stationed out in the air as well as the surroundings. The back entrance will take some time to pass through. They might even have some guards inside as well. From what I can tell, it is only the matter of when we are spotted, not if". Kiba deduced with a thoughtful frown.
So much for avoiding trouble, "If we're gonna get found anyway, then might as well just charge through front door as fast as we can".
"...Agreed". Koneko deadpanned and proceeded to smash the front gate open.
"I was thinking about climbing over the gate, but that works too". We all immediately ran towards the church in an irregular diamond formation, Issei in front and Kiba at the rear with Koneko and I at the sides. Each stair we took was clearly heard in the quiet night. As we got closer, the feeling of danger got stronger and I don't think it's just because of the building. Kiba suddenly shouted out, "Hyoudou-kun, watch out!". He blitz forward and pulled the Pawn back he was decapitated.
Forcuis showed up out of nowhere with a light sword in hand, "Your speed is admirable, had you been even a moment slower, your friend would have met a swift death".
Hardening my gaze, 'I barely saw him coming, his speed must be at least Freed's level or even higher'. Issei got back up after muttering a quick thanks to Kiba as everyone else was already prepared to fight, "Your the bastard who took Asia! Where is she?".
The unknown fallen stayed quiet with his ever present calm expression. We can't afford to waste anymore time! I walked forward, "Issei, Kiba, Koneko! I'll take this guy on, you all go ahead without me!".
"W-what? No way am I leaving you to fight him alone". Issei called out.
"Daisuke-kun, I know you have improved, but teamwork is essential right now". Kiba agreed with Issei.
"... Bad idea". Koneko gave her own opinion.
"He's trying to stop us, that means whatever they're doing to Asia is already happening. If you guys don't go now, it might be too late. Once I'm done, I'll meet up with you guys later. It's a race against time!".
Kiba wasn't satisfied with my answer though, "Then let me be the one to face him. As a fellow friend and swordsman, I'll be troubled if I leave him to you".
Shaking my head, "No, you're better than me at fighting. There are other fallens up ahead, your skills are more needed to save Asia". 'If I take your place, then there's no telling what other changes could happen, and one of them might be Asia dying for real in this world. Plus, Forcuis' presence is a huge change I made, which means I need to be the one to fix it'.
"But Daisuke...". Issei protested weakly.
I held a fist out behind me pointing at them, "I vow to win. That's why, make sure you don't lose either. Get your friend back safe and sound, so we can all go back together, okay?".
"... Damn it, acting all cool like that. Beat his ass for me too, got it?". Issei bumped fists with me and I can feel Kiba's and Koneko's fist connecting to mine as well.
"Got it!". They ran past me with Kiba mouthing 'good luck' and Koneko nodding her head. Forcuis saw what was going on and tried to stop them but I intervened with Double Burst in full glory, "Sorry bub, your opponent is me!".
I stopped his sword swing by backhanding his wrist and kicked him away. The others have safely past through, now I just have to do my part. Forcuis' eyes showed some anger but soon dissipated. Our eyes locked and I can already tell that this would be my hardest fight yet.
Time for some payback.
A.N.: Cliffhanger! You guys already got a fight with Raynare so wait for the next update, there's definitely gonna be some more changes. All review questions are answered through PM except ones from guests by the way. If there are many reviews with the same question, I'll answer them in A.N. Forcuis' features will be told in next chapter.
Ja Ne