Chapter 21: Finding the Will
We immediately teleported back to the club room, quickly wearing the fireproof suits over our normal clothes. Though my preparations are more thorough. My combat shoes are now complemented with a durable dark blue vest with rolled up sleeves, half way zipped up which reveals a black combat shirt underneath with long black cargo pants to complete the look. My gloves are out and Dream Sword strapped to my waist. All for mobility, some defense, and decreasing air resistance, much better than having my uniform torn up after every battle.
Miho's right behind me in her sleeveless qipao-like lavender blouse with pink fastening buttons and a blue flame pattern on the left, black navy shorts and combat sandals, prioritizing mobility over all else. Her expression and near-visible scales hardened in preparation for her first big battle. Her combat wear was also fireproofed courtesy of Akeno's cloth magic, and revealed more skin to unleash her flames.
Should have seen this coming, Kokabiel lured us out with Irina so Valper could sneak in and construct the magic circle, guarded by two cerberuses. It's almost as if fate is screwing with me somehow to offset the good changes I'm trying to make. At least Rapidly is still with Gasper.
"Miho, remember not to make any rash decisions and return to me alive. Please be careful."
"Yes, Hanwei-sama." Her mostly resolved response was betrayed by the tiniest bit of fear. Not that I could blame her, my heart's beating incessantly.
Issei barely bat an eye towards Miho's clothing when we all regrouped before quickly regaining focus, guess even the pervert knows how much is at stake, "Woah Daisuke, Miho. You two went shopping?"
"Yeah, thought it would be better to have some good equipment for fighting. Those uniforms costs a bit more than these you know."
"Ufufu, you do look dashing."
Rias nodded in satisfaction, inspecting our new looks in our new battle gear, "Good to see you are prepared as always."
Exiting the old school building, we met Sona and her peerage at the school gates. All civilians within 1-kilometer radius were already under a spell and evacuated, courtesy of Sona's peerage handling the situation fairly well.
Both Kings discussed with upmost seriousness towards the situation, "Sona, my peerage and I will take care of the intruders. My group is more combat-oriented. Can you construct a barrier to prevent any damage outside of school?"
The Sitri heiress nodded in agreement, her eyes surveying the Gremory group. I think she was focused on me and Miho a few moments longer though. "That can be arranged. I would hope for no damage on the school." She sighed regretfully, "But against a Cadre would be virtually impossible. Are you not willing to inform your brother? Even you will not find victory so easily."
"I have no illusions that defeating the destroyer of Sodom and Gomorrah will be anything simple. However, I cannot contact onii-sama for the same reason as you cannot contact Leviathan-sama; it will cause a panic."
Both little sisters of Maous grimaced as the light pillar continues to shine. Sitting not too far away from it on his hovering throne was the warmonger, casually spectating from up high like he's enjoying the show. No doubt Freed and probably some other form of backup are waiting in store for us. Saji and the others were in position, funneling their magic as a light blue barrier formed around the school.
Rias walked back with a smile. I question one last time for confirmation, "You sure you don't want to call Sirzechs-san? It might be over before he gets here anyway."
That did nothing to dampen her confidence, "Kokabiel actually wants onii-sama to come. Surely he must have a trap set up in order to face him. Besides, we still have you."
"Yeah, that's right." Issei fist pumped, smiling at me with confidence, "We beat that yakitori to crap because of your help. There were ups and downs but we got a complete win."
Kiba smiled just as confidently, "You reminded me not to lose sight of myself, and even brought me a part of solace with Excalibur Rapidly. I have faith you will not fail us."
True to their words, everyone's stress reduced a little as they looked at me with hope and reassurance. Miho even approached my hand and held it in her own, giving it a small squeeze with a smile. I sighed, followed by a smirk, "Way to add the pressure guys. Alright, let's show them who's boss."
Our King smiled, full of confidence as she declared, "Everyone, Kokabiel has invaded our school, and our home. He may be stronger but our bond is even more so. Let's show him that we are not to be trifled with and blow him away. I will not allow any of you to die. For the sake of our home and for the sake of everyone in Kuoh, we will win!"
"""""""Yes, Buchou!"""""""
Protectively guarding Valper at the sports ground were two cerberuses, each of the heads looking at three different directions with their noses twitching. A scenery that Kokabiel find as amusing as handling the paperwork when he was still in Grigori. The Cadre should have decided on a faster approach to draw out the Maous, yet he executed his original plan in order to satisfy his curiosity. Aside from having the chance to witness the current Sekiryuutei in action, there was a rumor about the peerage of Sirzechs' little sister that he wanted to confirm.
"Valper, how much longer until the aggregation of those fragments?"
"Not much longer, Kokabiel-sama. Soon, Excalibur will be reborn and the countdown to this town's devastation will begin." The old scientist replied in glee, his eyes not taking off from his work.
"Hurry up Valper-ossan." Freed was leaning against a tree, displeased at his temporary disarmament of the legendary Holy Sword, "I want to chop up those shitty devils after what they did to me. Maybe they like receiving bondage as much as they like giving it."
The guard dogs growled at the visitors, mouth ablaze with killing intent. Kokabiel smiled as the party finally arrived. Standing at frontmost of the group was an angry blonde with the rest behind him. Kiba was restraining himself from lashing out until he could get past those hounds.
"So you have come." The warmonger spoke leisurely, eyeing the newcomers until he spotted a male individual in different clothing. "When will Sirzechs arrive? Or perhaps it will be Serafall? Or will all four Maous grace me with their presence?"
"They have no need to waste their time. We will be the ones to thwart you." The King announced, each of them were in positions. Rias, Akeno, and Daisuke in front, Kiba, Koneko, and Miho in the middle, whereas Issei and Asia are positioned at the back.
Kokabiel merely smiled in response. With a snap of his finger, the two hulking cerberuses charged forward. The two third-years took the skies, Daisuke ran forward with Dream Sword unsheathed, leaning right from a clawed paw and kneed the right head's chin. The head yelped in surprise as the middle head breathed out a stream of fire, hitting him dead on. However, the flames were sucked into a concentrated spot, showing a pre-made fire-sealing circle in his hand. He tossed it forwards, the explosion forced it away with few burns. The fire resistant fur protecting them from most of the heat.
Seeing the tactic, Kokabiel made a change of orders to his pets, restricting the fire usage for long range only. The dog's brethren was occupied by the other three. Kiba summoned blades from the ground, stopping it in his tracks. Koneko uppercut the middle head, before quickly moving out of the way from a solid fireball thrown by Miho. Shaking their heads from disorientation, the gatekeeper broke the swords, each head looking at one opponent. Kiba sped in, narrowly dodging the fangs, and cut its front legs, albeit shallowly.
The white haired Rook slid underneath it and kicked the underside with both her legs. Dodging the opponent's flames, the fliers saw their opportunity and each blasted their respective magic at the two targets. The cerberuses bleed a considerable amount, but still standing and growling ferally.
The Salamander retreated to a near distance away from Issei and Asia, as per her master's instructions. The latter two were keeping an eye out for any enemies or ally that should arrive soon. Issei was almost done boosting and ready to make a transfer to the King and Queen, concentrating the power up to those two instead of fanning it out and decrease the efficiency. Those two were chosen due to specializing in wide-spread magical power.
"Asia, are you okay?"
"Y-yes." The innocent Bishop responded with a bit of shaking, seeing the intense battle and that much blood doesn't do well for the former nun, "Thank you for protecting me, Issei-san."
"Not a bad display I might so add, Crimson Haired Ruin Princess." Kokabiel commented, gaining everyone's attention, "Despite being so young, your little group is faring better than I envisioned."
"To be honest, I was expecting more from your so called invasion." Rias mocked with an angry frown, "Your little pack are mere pups, waiting for their death. Do you honestly expect you can challenge Lucifer-sama with this much?"
"This?" He waved his hand around, "This is nothing more than the preview. Quite the arrogance for you to boast about pushing back only two of my pets."
Daisuke narrowed his eyes at the words 'two of my pets'.
"I am more surprised Hades allowed them to slip through his grasp. He is not known for familiarizing with other mythologies."
"Oh, a simple cultivation of a few cerberuses over the years would bring desirable results, especially when Hades allowed it for a small price." Another snap of Kokabiel's finger, six more of the same dogs emerged from the ground beneath the Cadre. Curious about the limits, all 24 heads breathed out flames, merging together to form a huge wave of it.
The Gremory group stared out in shock and fear at the increasing numbers. Daisuke's battle instincts took over and he called out, "Everyone, regroup! Don't let them surround you!"
Asia quickly constructed a wide barrier in front of everyone as Rias, Akeno, Kiba, and Koneko pulled out their own fire seals prepared by Daisuke, and absorbed the flames. Some managed to get past but the fireproofed suits protected them from most damage. No explosions occurred however, those seals were perfected. Kokabiel quirked an eyebrow in interest at how well prepared they were, quickly piecing together that their purpose is to conserve as much energy as possible before the real fight starts. Yet, he wonders how did they know about the fire breathing cerberuses?
"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"
As eight beasts ran, eight clones appeared in their way, each holding a clone of Dream Sword. A trick Daisuke learned by consulting with Kiba by applying the same concept in creating clones. Three clones held their swords to keep the slobbery mouths away, holding their breathes and giving their utmost efforts to not puke from the hot and disgusting breathes. Another three were relentlessly punching and slashing the joints and eyes to keep them at bay. And the last two somehow thought it was a good idea to ride the dogs like rodeo bulls.
""Pffthahahahahahahahaha, yippee ki yay baby!""
And they're actually succeeding before the cerberuses let loose waves of fire to eliminate all clones. Although each clone is weaker than the original, they successfully separated them into smaller groups and distracted long enough for Issei to make his move.
"Buchou! Akeno-san! I'm ready!" The wielder of Boosted Gear flew forward and passed on the power boost, enveloping them in a draconic green aura.
A green barrier formed in font of Koneko, stopping a set of giant teeth and giving her enough time to jump up high and axe kicked a head. A large protruding blade erupted upwards, tripping a cerberus before the nekoshou slammed his side towards another. The magic users released wide spread magic and killed four dogs in total.
The ravenette Rook parried a paw to the side and fired a Getsuga to a neck, drawing blood. Two other heads attempt to eat him, but Daisuke Shunpo upwards to the back, forming a wind drill and roughly guessed where the thoracic vertebrae were, and struck. The wind and vibrations shook the whole body before the heads coughed out large amounts of blood and slumped limply. Daisuke felt nauseous but quickly recomposed himself.
His familiar formed two tendrils of fire from each hand and bound three heads together, forcing a weakened cerberus to the ground with minor burns. A new trait Miho acquired from her training. Without any other means to attack the fire resistant enemies, she switched to fulfill a more supporting role. Her master flew in and cleave through the same spot, gaining the same result. The Salamander, with arms stretched to her sides, rotated them and sent a whirlwind fire towards the bodies, sending them towards Rias and Akeno who made quick work of them.
The pillar of light vanished as a single sword shined brightly in a golden hue. Valper couldn't contain as he announced in unrestrained glee, "Finally, it is done. The Excalibur is reborn. And in 20 minutes, the entire city will be leveled."
"It is undoubtedly stronger than a mere fragment." The frustrated scowls and hateful glares directed at Kokabiel amuses him, "Has despair consumed you yet? Only by defeating me, you can deactivate the explosion. It is not too late to flee for your life, I won't blame you for cowering."
"Who would flee from you!" Rias yelled derisively, "Giving us the answer will be your undoing. Once we are done with your minions, you will be joining them next."
Grinning evilly, "Freed, I am sure you have waited long enough. Go ahead and kill those devils as you want."
"Finally." Freed grabbed Excalibur, ecstatic to wield the sword and enact revenge for his temporary imprisonment, "Hello Excalibur-chan, you are a naughty sword for making me wait. But now it's time to butcher some shitty devils." The crazy priest kissed the blade almost affectionately and leered, "Let's tango! So who wants to go first? Is it you?" He pointed at Daisuke, "Or you?" then at Issei, "Or... you?" finally at Kiba.
The victim of the Holy Sword Project glared with every ounce of hatred in his body but refrained and glanced at his King, silently asking for permission to fight him alone. The red head nodded reluctantly, knowing how important it is to her servant.
"Kiba!" Daisuke called out, "Be careful. That guy is above your level now."
"Put that bastard in his place, ikemen!" Issei cheered.
He nodded and walked towards Freed as the priest did the same. Kiba entered his stance, "So this is the Fused Excalibur. I was quite troubled we could not settle our previous duel."
"No shit dipshit! But it'll go my way this time, I'll be the dominant and you'll be the passive. Get ready to die shitty devil!"
The Knight immediately accelerated for a downward strike from behind, but blocked by a metal snake. Freed used Mimic to coil around himself without moving. The blade extended to pierce Kiba, prompting him lean back and quickly sped away as it homed in on him. He barely flew up in time from getting crushed by two incoming walls.
Immediately shifting back to normal form, Freed met Kiba midair and swung hard. The Knight gritted his teeth and tried to twist his body as fast as he can while reinforcing his sword with magic. Destruction tore through and nicked his side, but the small nick managed to smash the blonde towards the ground. He coughed out some blood before realizing his opponent was missing.
Sensing killing intent, Kiba jumped left and turned around with a new sword to find no one. He blocked an incoming slash and returned the favor. Each strike missed to pinpoint the vitals as the Knight had to rely on his other senses to find Freed. He ducked from the presumably horizontal slash and made a low spinning sweep kick, feeling the impact that it hit.
Kiba straight away got up and made a downward strike, breaking part of the ground instead of a human. Transparency was annoying to deal with in his opinion. He spun around again to lock swords. Freed lifted the invisibility and looked dead in the Knight's eyes, grinning madly, "Not bad handsome shitty devil, not bad at all. All that blood of yours excite me even more."
Breaking free and putting some distance, Kiba breathed deeply, carefully formulating his next plan. His clothes were torn and feeling fatigue from his fights, "Quite the troublesome abilities of that sword. What's more, you are using it more effectively than before."
"You can bet your ass I do. A little quick training and advise on manipulating the Holy element were enough to make me even better at using Excalibur-chan. I ain't gonna fall this time."
"Marvelous! Marvelous!" Valper was overjoyed at his work, watching every second of his subordinate wielding it, "The specs are just as I have calculated, and that is only with four fragments. With all seven, Excalibur will reign supreme and the church will sorely regret for ever banishing me."
The blonde's hatred took control for a moment, his unforgiving gaze pointed at the scientist.
"Where do you think you're looking?!"
Freed came with the intention to bifurcate his torso, snapping Kiba back to attention. He barely parried in time before facing the opposite of before. Widening his vision to the limits, Kiba deflected or dodged numerous Freeds from all sides. He has somewhat adjusted to combat illusionists from his time with Daisuke. Most felt nothing as the Knight attempt to sense for the real one. His hatred and sheer will kept him going despite his condition.
"Don't get ahead of yourself." Multiple voices echoed, "Nightmare can do more than just this." One by one, the Freeds turned into people Kiba never thought he could see again. The surroundings melted into one he never wanted to experience again. His heart beating so hard as if it would erupt from his chest. Screams resounded as Kiba stared at his younger self who was helplessly suffering from poison while watching his childhood friends die.
Paralyzed, his hands trembled at the sight of the children loosing light in their eyes, "No!' Kiba ran forward to save them, but his body phased through them as if he was a ghost. The scene ended with his friends dying in pain and agony until it replayed the memory all over again. Falling to his knees and grabbing his head, Kiba is suffering for his inability to change anything, "NO!"
"Hmmm, I like it." Freed watched the hyperventilating devil experience his trauma with a wide sadistic smile, "It's decided! Nightmare is my favorite Excalibur-chan. Don't worry babies, I love all of you equally. How about we spend some more time together torturing this shitty devil?" The priest raised Fused Excalibur, ready to impale the downed Knight.
"Yuuto!" Rias shouted in worry.
"Kyaah!"
While the sword fight was unfolding, the remaining gatekeepers encircled the sports ground and trapped the healer on both sides.
"Asia!"
Issei yelled in panic and rushed back. Koneko was already there, pulling a tail to stop one, while the other was crunching a barrier. The Nekoshou strained herself as the three-headed dog was advancing slowly. Cornered, Asia trembled in fear as she saw the drooling yet vicious look in the cerberus' eyes. No one else could make it time before Asia's only defense was broken.
Daisuke frantically produced two shadow clones, grabbing each one with intention to throw one to Kiba and Asia each. However, numerous dark pink light spears rained down on the cerberus which was held back by the barrier, heads and back pinning it in place. A yellow figure suddenly zoomed in and carve the joints and necks of another with precision, allowing Koneko to catch her breathe. Lastly, the Fused Excalibur was stopped by a blue blade, emitting an incredible amount of Holy aura.
The clones changed targets and made it to Kiba, moving him to a safe distance and dispelling the illusion he was in after several attempts with Tenkugan. The Knight woke back to reality with labored breathing in confusion before realizing his condition. He nodded weakly but appreciatively.
"Sorry we're late. We had a little discussion beforehand." Xenovia exclaimed, eyes and Durandal pointed heatedly at the Fused Excalibur wielder.
"You already died once. Don't let it happen so easily again." A familiar fallen angel descended and looked at the timid Bishop with something akin to softness, her black straps had a few cuts as if she just recovered from a fight, "Now, we're even."
"Raynare-sama. Thank you for saving me." Asia bowed in appreciation, already long forgiven her killer.
She scrunched her eyebrows in annoyed confusion, "And address us normally. We are no longer your superiors anymore remember?"
"Asia!" The clones supported the injured Kiba over their shoulders, flying to the group's direction. The healer noticed the situation and got to work, leaving the clones to dismiss themselves.
"To be honest, I didn't expect you two would come back. Thanks for the help." Daisuke smiled gratefully. Forcuis' formal clothing was considerably ruined, holes all over his coat and hair slightly disheveled, but otherwise fine. "Is everyone okay?"
"Yes. Raynare-san and Forcuis-san saved me."
"Raynare." Issei voiced out in awe before smiling widely, "Thank you."
The fallen ignored his gaze, irked and whispering out a small, "Your welcome."
"This is quite a development." Rias crossed her arms, mouth forming a thin line and studying the two fallen angels, "I assumed you would return to Grigori once your duties as messengers were completed."
"We were ambushed by Kokabiel just as we nearly exited the border. Freed was retaken, and we escaped while sustaining large injuries. Once we saw the pillar of light, we decided to seek retribution. Moreover, Azazel-sama would be pleased if we reconcile completely by lending you our aid and repaying our debt." Forcuis answered.
"I'm sure your reason is more keen on the former. However, I do not see any injuries."
"That would be because of me." Raynare answered Rias' subtle question. Her hands glowed dark pink as she helped Asia with Kiba's recovery, "After my brief assimilation of Twilight Healing, I have gained an affinity for this art. But the process is inferior in every aspect, we had to hide and replenish our strength until we could fight again."
"Just glad that you two are here. We could use all the help we could get." Daisuke exclaimed, happy that he made another good change.
The others looked uncomfortable, Rias and Akeno in particular until the King sighed in defeat, "Very well. As vexing as to admit it, we appreciate your help."
Kiba stood up, his injuries were healed but his body was still fatigued. He thanked the two healers and set his sights on Freed, who has starting to mix more than one ability to fight against Xenovia. Clenching his fists tightly for his lost, the Knight walked back for another rematch.
"Hey Kiba! Wait! You-"
Issei's words died as Daisuke held a hand in front of him, "Issei, I know he just lost but this is something Kiba needs to resolve on his own. If not for the sake of his deceased friends, then for his own sake. Besides..." He turned his head to the still casual Kokabiel, "... there's no telling when that warmonger's gonna strike. We need to be on guard and back Kiba and Xenovia up if necessary. One direct hit from his light spear and we're dead."
The Pawn cast another worried glance at the Knight before nodding resolutely.
"Forcuis. As a sensor and a former subordinate of Kokabiel, do you think we have a chance of winning if we all work together?"
The fallen narrowed his eyes in thought, feeling the power of everyone present and compared them to the Cadre. After a few seconds of thinking, "We might succeed if we have an opportunity to catch him off guard and deliver a lethal attack. He is able to deploy his wings offensively and defensively as well as a master swordsman with great power and control over light element. However, I do not know the true extent of his power."
Daisuke smirked, "Buchou, may I ask for permission to modify the plan a little?"
"Permission granted." Rias complied with no hesitation.
Back at the sword fight, Valper was spectating Freed's performance, flabbergasted at the sight of an Excalibur user wielding a different legendary Holy Sword, "This is- this is impossible. In all my years of research, there was none who could wield Durandal."
"Research? Are you referring to the Holy Sword Project all those years ago?"
Kiba stood behind Valper, startling him for a second before he scoffed at the tired devil, "Begone boy. I have no time for the likes of nobody such as you."
That insult fueled the fire within Kiba, his eyes glaring at such intensity that no teenager his age should have, "That's right, I am a nobody. After all, you tried to dispose of me after your project failed."
"Hmm?" Now that caught his attention as the exiled scientist turned fully to look at him, "What do you mean boy?"
"Valper Galilei. I am a survivor of that project. Once at death's doorstep until my master reincarnated me into a devil."
His eyes gained a look of recognition, "Of course, so you are the survivor. To think you would be reduced to a devil."
"Answer me!" The blonde yelled, finally releasing all the pent up emotions he's been holding since his childhood, "Why did you kill us?! Why when we all went through all those experiments?! When we believed we could be useful to God!"
"Why you ask? Because you were no longer necessary to me. After I obtained what I needed from you, housing you lot would have been a waste of resources."
"Obtained?" The Knight vocalized in question, resenting Valper to beat around the bush but curious enough to know what he needed.
"That's right. While you bothersome children were annoying, I am actually grateful to you for helping me discover the answer. It was then I realized that a specific dominant gene was required for one to wield Excalibur. However, none of you possess any large quantities of that gene in order to use it." Valper's smiled cruelly, remembering how he completed his work and proud of his own ingenuity, "Therefore, I extracted those genes from each of you, amassed, and purify them into crystalized forms."
Overhearing the conversation, Xenovia blocked whips enhanced by Destruction and scowled at Freed, "So those crystals were administered on you so you could use the Excalibur."
"Hole in one bitch. Thanks to Excalibur-chan, I can go wild as much as I want. Not even your pointy little sword can stop me, I'll be riding this rodeo until you're chopped to pieces."
"Freed Sellzan. Once considered to be a genius exorcist at the age of 13 under the direct leadership of the Vatican department of the pope with an insatiable hunger for bloodlust. Your accomplishments and success were unparalleled among your peers. Now branded as a pagan, you have fallen so low to serve under Kokabiel." The church agent couldn't contain her disgust, "I can see why the fallen angel has taken you in."
The crazy stray priest howled with laughter, "Yahahahaha! So what if I was kicked out?! It's the priest's job to kill all the shitty devils yes? So why not do it in style!"
Multiple Freeds appeared once again. Xenovia's eyes and ears strained to find out which was the original as she kept hacking at the illusionary clones. Blood abruptly splattered from her stomach as a slash somehow found towards her without any clones coming close. Jumping back, Xenovia clutched her wound and made an omnidirectional swing, blowing away all of them at once before the real Freed deactivated Transparency. A green glow closed her wound as she turned her head to see Asia healing her from the distance, albeit at a slow rate.
Valper stared out in wonder, "As expected of my research, not even Durandal can stand up against your might. Michael has the nerve to monopolize my research after condemning me. With this, I will show all those who exiled me."
"So that's your reason?!" Kiba yelled, his flame of hatred burning at a higher intensity, "You killed us because we outlived our usefulness?! Nothing more than guinea pigs to your research?! You toyed with all of us just to satisfy your own desire?! We had dreams and lives to call our own! And you trampled all of that in an instant!"
Clicking his tongue, "How annoying. If you care about them so badly, then here." Valper picked out a crystal and tossed it at him, "Those are the original genes I extracted from my research, used as a blueprint for the mass produced higher quality versions. It is a mere shadow of its former glory. Take it and leave."
Kiba stared out in shock, eyes tearing up at the last remnants of his friends. Slowly and carefully, he crouched down, picked it up and held it close, reminiscing the dreams they exchanged with one another back at the facility. His tears fell down in droplets, feeling great sadness for his friends sacrificed into this state, "Everyone... I'm sorry."
A single tear fell onto the crystal. As he hung his head in sorrow, the blonde felt someone grabbing his shoulder. Looking up, he saw a person he recognized instantly. She may be older but there is no mistake, she is one of his deceased childhood friends.
"Live."
Gone was the school sports ground, and replaced by every last one of his lost love ones, "E-everyone..." The former test subject hiccuped, experiencing great remorse, "I-I'm sorry. I always wondered if someone else should live. I always wondered if I deserved to live. I-"
His words were caught in his throat as the girl hugged him. All of them smiled softly, "Live Isaiah. We're sorry for causing you grief."
More tears cascaded down, even more remorseful at their words, "I don't deserve that from you. All my life, I dedicated to end the Excalibur because you died. I'm so sorry."
"It's okay."
One by one, they gathered around the suffering blonde, hugging and whispering consoling words, "We may be gone, but you still have important people right?"
Beyond the small crowd, Kiba widened his eyes at the sight of his current friends smiling at him. Rias, Issei, Daisuke... All of them, both old and new friends were here. He started tearing up again with indescribable happiness this time, recalling the fond memories they shared.
"We are sorry for leaving you for so long, but it's okay now. We are fine now, so please don't worry about the Holy Sword. From now on, we will be together. No matter what happens, our hearts will always be one."
Back at the sports field, a massive energy surged around Kiba, causing a shock wave of light and wind to spread around the others. Everyone stopped what they were doing and watched the energy erupted while partially shielding their eyes, including Freed and Xenovia.
"Oh? Interesting." Kokabiel stared in curiosity.
"What is going on?" Issei asked out before the green jewel in his gauntlet glowed.
"Partner, that Knight has reached his pinnacle."
"What do you mean?"
"Issei, I'm assuming you're talking to Ddraig. Pay close attention because this is what we need to achieve if we want to get stronger." Daisuke informed, his Tenkugan and other senses locked onto what's happening to Kiba. Seeing someone unlocking Balance Breaker for the first time in real life was something he couldn't pass up. Not that anyone else could do otherwise, they were all transfixed by it.
"Indeed. As the emotions and wishes of the wielder overflows, the limits of a Sacred Gear will be released to unleash its full potential. Some may evolve with new abilities. This is what I told you before."
"Balance Breaker."
The shock wave died down, revealing a revitalized Kiba with clarity in his eyes, "Valper Galilei, you have inflicted much pain on me and my friends. They do not wish for me to enact vengeance. However, I have resolved myself to end your madness and destroy the Excaliburs because this is my wish. To prevent you from carrying out anymore treacherous deeds, I will kill you." Raising both hands, the right filled with demonic energy while the left holding holy energy, Kiba yelled, "Balance Break!"
[BALANCE BREAKER: SWORD OF BETRAYER]
"Is that even possible?" Forcuis stared out in shock, mouth gaping a little. His sensory abilities are telling him that the two opposing energies were harmoniously mixed together, yet he still couldn't believe it actually happened.
Daisuke whistled in appreciation, "Now that's one fine sword."
"As expected of my Knight." Rias proclaimed proudly, happy for him to attain a new power. She doesn't know what happened to him, but the determined look on his face was enough for her to understand, "Go Yuuto, show them that we are not to be trifled with."
"Take those bastards down Kiba!" Issei shouted.
Valper couldn't tear his eyes away from the Holy Demonic Sword, his eyes wide and mind running in overdrive, "Inconceivable. There has been none that has ever come close to synergizing demonic energy and holy energy before. Theoretically it should be impossible, they both interfere with one another. Forcing the two to mix would result in a catastrophic explosion as the energies collide together and-"
The Holy Demonic Sword was pointed straight at the scientist, cutting off whatever words he has next. Fearing for his life, the old man called for help, "Freed!"
"Aye aye ossan." The stray priest dashed straight in between the two, scrutinizing at the new sword with intrigue. Valper ran back to get some cover, all the while muttering possible theories. "Looks like you got a new shiny toy yourself. Does that make you stronger?"
Kiba entered his stance, preparing for his second rematch and smiled, "Crossing swords would be a more convincing answer than words, don't you think?"
"I hope you would not forget about me." Xenovia stood next to the Knight, her clothes tattered yet Durandal humming. "I had underestimated what he could do. As regretful as it is, would you mind partnering up with me?"
"As long as I can destroy that sword afterwards. Very well."
"By the way, how's Irina? We were separated and she never came to the meeting point."
"Don't worry, she was healed my Asia and now receiving treatment from Sona-kaichou."
"I see. In that case, I can fight with no troubles."
"Now aren't I a popular guy?" Freed said in delight, "Who should I go first, the boy or the girl? I'm fine with screwing with either one. Or better yet..." Illusionary clones of Freed appeared once more, "... I'll do you both!"
The two swordsmen positioned back-to-back, eyes peeled for the original as the phantoms charged. After some dodging, Xenovia managed to block a solid hit. The bluenette held firm against the Destruction. Kiba sped to Freed's side for an upward slash, backing him away as Xenovia met him head on with Durandal. The Fused Excalibur cracked a little and his hands vibrated under the sheer force of the broadsword.
"Too bad for you. In terms of destruction, not even Excalibur can match Durandal."
The Knight aimed at the legs which disappeared along with the rest of the body. They picked up the changes in the air and backpedaled from the invisible whips. With a swing, Xenovia powered through the barrage, giving Kiba a chance to race in and trace the bloodlust, exchanging a flurry of sword strikes. Kiba ducked as Xenovia entered from behind and made a horizontal motion, crashing into Freed hard.
The priest in question coughed out blood, the wound on his chest stinging him. He snarled as Transparency was undone, "What is this plot twist?! I ain't letting myself lose again! Especially not after last time!"
Freed made more whips again, this time adding Destruction. Each lash onto the ground obliterated large portions, creating rubble. Xenovia dived into the fray, blocking the whips and rubble while Kiba used his Knight speed to dodge and close in as well. The whips were retracted as Freed stabbed the sword into the ground, erupting spikes all over him with Mimic as impedance.
The blonde jumped back but his partner kept bulldozing through, ignoring the small cuts on her body. Pulling out the sword, Freed resumed trading blows as the crack on Excalibur deepen. He jumped from a low slash. Kiba saw his chance and flew, swinging his Holy Demonic Sword. Freed blocked with the flat side of his blade but the Knight kept thrusting at a specific spot- the crack. The priest recognized his attempt as the crack kept getting bigger but was too late. With a final swing and loud cry, "HAAAA!" Kiba got his wish and broke Excalibur.
"Are you fucking kidding me?! Excalibur-chan died?! After all the shit I had to go through to learn it!" Freed landed on his feet, staring at his weapon and complaining like a child with a broken toy.
"Where do you think you're looking?!" Xenovia closed in on his left.
"It's over Freed!" Kiba ran towards his right.
As Excalibur was finished, its wielder also lost as a cross slash cut through his chest, spurting out blood. "Damn it all..." He uttered softly before his eyes lost light, falling defeated on his back.
They flicked the blood off their swords. "Way to go Kiba." Daisuke congratulated as he and everyone else arrived with big smiles, "How does it feel to finally achieve your goal?"
Despite the exhaustion, Kiba smiled happily and gratefully, "Like all the weight has been lifted."
"A splendid display Yuuto, you endeavoured greatly and reached success. I am proud of you." Rias praised.
"A splendid display indeed." Forcuis stared at his Holy Demonic Sword for a moment, "Would you care to cross swords with me sometime?"
Smirking, "I expect a good match from one Daisuke spoke highly of."
Asia got to work and healed their injuries, "Are you okay? Does anywhere hurt?"
Conflicted, Xenovia felt strange that a heretic would offer help again so earnestly to someone who once tried to behead her. She answered hesitantly, "I-I'm fine."
"Hope you didn't kill him." Raynare pointed at the downed Freed with not much concern, "Azazel-sama might still find some use for him. But then again, he's starting to become a real pain to tow back."
"Meh. Knowing the tough crazy asshole, he'll be fine after some rest. Now all that's left is to take out those two." Daisuke scowled at the last two enemies.
Shocked and despaired, Valper could only helplessly watch in all his research down the drain, "This is... this is impossible! First the Durandal user and now a Holy Demonic Sword. This is impossible! My research didn't even come close about artificial wielders for Durandal!"
"You are right. However, unlike the others, I am a natural Holy Sword wielder." The church agent pointed her sword towards him, "Valper Galilei, your twisted dreams are now over."
"Natural? Holy and Demonic elements cannot naturally fuse together. What if- what if it was unnatural?" Valper's face lit up in revelation, "Of course! Naturally, the balance between these forces is what kept them separated but that natural order is shattered. That explains it. Not only did the Satans die, but the God of the Bible too is dead!"
Silence consumed the field. Everyone except Kokabiel and Daisuke froze in shock, processing the information very carefully. They're eyes dilated and hands trembling, Asia and Xenovia in particular. A hollow pit formed in their hearts and their minds subconsciously rejecting the very notion.
"What?"
Byayan: Thanks for liking. Okay, don't worry about the mistake.
Guest: The War hammer 40k doesn't exist. The closest is the Mjolnir Hammer in dxd.
Krieger 3533673: Super powered shovels that can shoot laser beams would be more like it.
Guest: Thanks for liking the history.
Guest-Questioner: LOL. This reminds me of the time when you double-posted the same review in Chapter 1. Yeah I dislike Rias' origin content as well, Daisuke was worried about her personality when he first woke up after dying. Guess I just like to see the good in people. Thanks for the suggestion, I did read it and it's pretty good. A stark contrast to my fanfic though, still remember that you don't want me making Daisuke join Rias' peerage. How nostalgic. Now you can enjoy mine and the other fanfic. And don't worry about the double post, sometimes the site doesn't show the new reviews.
Guest in chapter 12: I think Krav Maga is a bit over the top. Thanks though.
Guest in chapter 9: I was thinking itching powder since it's more annoying than painful as revenge. Akeno is a masochist too.
Guest in chapter 4: Kinda cruel for my taste, but I guess Freed won't die from anything less.
Guest in chapter 20: Slayer songs? Not sure how that will fit her image but I'll think of something.
A.N.: Hey guys! I'll be extra busy for the next month or so with exams again, so next chapter will be late. Sometimes the site doesn't show new reviews but they'll come eventually so don't worry about it. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.
Ja Ne