Tales Of The Berserker (OC X Highschool DxD)

by HulkAMaineiac

The Berserker, a feared power that is exclusive to a single bloodline in all the supernatural. He hasn't been seen since the clash between the Heavinly Dragons. This is the tale of the next wielder, Leo Young ... This is his story... (I have fixed the mistakes that I had left in the first 3 chapters, everything should be good now. Let me know what you think, or if you enjoy it)

6. Chapter 6

"Ragnar Lothbrok," Leo whispered, awe and confusion mingling in his voice.

Ragnar nodded, a calm yet intense gaze locking onto Leo. "Aye, I am he," he said, his voice like gravel softened by the years. "And you, Leo, are my blood. My descendant."

Leo stared, the realization sinking in, but Ragnar continued before he could respond.

"As I said, welcome to the Ancestral Realm, Leo. It is a place bound to our bloodline, a bridge between life and death, where our life essence lingers on," Ragnar explained, his voice steady and deep. "This place is a part of you, and you carry it within your soul."

Leo took a breath, his mind reeling as he tried to make sense of everything.

"Why... or better yet, how am I here?"

Ragnar gave him a fatherly smile, his eyes softening. "You came close to death, Leo. And so, you came here, to this place where our ancestors dwell." He stepped closer, his hand resting on Leo's shoulder. "I've watched over you since you were born. I've seen all your smiles and laughter, as well as your tears and rage."

There was a warmth in Ragnar's words, a reassurance that Leo hadn't known he needed. It felt like the guidance of a father, a protector, someone who had been with him through every moment, even when Leo had felt most alone.

"I don't remember anything before coming to Kuoh. My past, my family… it's all just… gone. Like it was taken from me."

Ragnar's expression softened. "Memories may fade, but the blood that runs through you is stronger than time. And now, I am here to help you remember where you came from."

Leo's gaze dropped, his hands clenching at his sides. He had a phone, old messages, even photos of people he knew must have been a part of his past. But he couldn't bring himself to look, as if opening that door would change everything he'd come to know in Kuoh.

"Why me?" Leo asked, feeling the weight of the question. "Why do I have this… this anger, this emptiness that I can't explain?"

Ragnar stepped forward, resting a hand on Leo's shoulder. "That anger is a gift, Leo—passed down through our bloodline. It is a power, but one that needs control. It's the rage of the warrior, the fire of the Berserker. But with it comes risk." He paused, glancing over Leo's shoulder. "And it's a power that not just anyone can wield."

From behind him, Leo felt a presence—overwhelming, primal. He turned to see a massive figure standing tall and proud, his muscles like iron, his long green hair flowing around him like a storm. His dark blue eyes shone fiercely, with a power that was both captivating and terrifying.

The giant stepped forward, his gaze fixed on Leo. "It has been a long time," the Berserker rumbled, his deep voice filling the realm. "And you are the first worthy of me in many generations."

Leo took a shaky breath, his memories of the Berserker's chained presence in his mind returning. He remembered feeling that rage within him, a destructive force he'd fought to keep under control. "Who… are you?"

Ragnar's grip tightened slightly on Leo's shoulder. "This is the Berserker—the fury of our bloodline. He is both power and challenge. I wielded him once, in my time as King of Kattegat, but such strength comes with a cost."

The Berserker's mouth curled in a proud smirk. "I am the spirit of battle, the storm of fury. I am your strength, Leo, your power when nothing else can save you. But remember—if you call upon me, you must be strong enough to keep hold of yourself."

Leo felt the Berserker's fierce gaze, his pulse quickening. He could feel the weight of the warrior's words, the offer of power, but also the warning. It wasn't a gift to be used lightly.

Ragnar turned to face him, his blue eyes filled with pride. "You may have lost your memories, Leo, but you are not lost. The strength in you is true, and you have the will to wield this power as I did. Remember, the Berserker is a part of you, as I am. You may not remember your past, but we are in your blood, in your spirit. And we will be here, always."

The Berserker placed a hand over Leo's heart, his massive form looming over him like a guardian. "When you call for me, I will answer," he said, his voice fierce but steady. "But you must be ready to contain me. Know who you are—and know what you fight for."

As Ragnar's hand joined the Berserker's, Leo felt a deep warmth bloom inside him. The weight of his amnesia, of the empty spaces in his mind, didn't feel so heavy anymore. His ancestors were with him, even if he couldn't remember his past.

Ragnar's voice filled the space, steady and reassuring. "It's time for you to go back, Leo. We will meet again. You have the strength to find your way."

The fog began to thicken, and Leo felt himself being pulled back, the voices of his ancestors fading into the mist. Just before he drifted back, he heard Ragnar's voice one last time, like a whisper.

"Remember who you are, my blood."

When Leo's eyes opened, he was lying on a soft bed, his wounds bandaged, Leo pushed himself up slowly, wincing as he moved. The pain was sharper now, a reminder of his battle with Freed. He glanced down and noticed his leg and side wrapped in fresh bandages. He remembered the holy bullets piercing him, the blade of light cutting into his skin.

"Asia," he said, the name escaping him before he realized it. He clenched his hand into a fist grabbing a fistful of the sheet he was sitting on, an angered expression covers his face as he slowly stands up.

His legs wobbled beneath him, muscles tense and unsteady, like they'd forgotten how to hold his weight. He took a step, his knees nearly buckling, forcing him to pause and brace himself against the wall.

Each step felt heavier than the last as he staggered forward, the door only a few feet away but seeming so much further. His fingers skimmed the cool plaster as he half-stumbled, half-limped forward, determined to reach it. Finally, he grasped the doorknob, his hand trembling slightly as he turned it and pushed the door open, revealing the empty ORC club room.

Leo took a shaky step forward, suddenly a sharp pain flared through his side and leg, the wounds still knitting themselves back together, each movement a sharp reminder of his limits. He clenched his teeth, forcing himself to move despite the trembling in his limbs.

Another step and his vision began to swim, his balance faltered. The strength in his legs gave way, and he crumpled to the floor with a loud dull thud, he tried to catch himself by grabbing the coffee table but causing it to topple over along with it's contents

The sharp pain got worse as it felt like he was burning from the inside, his breaths coming in shallow, uneven gasps, the cold floor pressing against his body as he stayed there, his body refused to move.

The door creaked open, and the members of the Occult Research Club stepped inside, chatting casually—until they spotted the scene in front of them. Leo lay sprawled on the floor, a coffee table tipped over beside him, its contents scattered across the floor around him. Books, mugs, and a half-eaten sandwich were strewn about in disarray, and Leo looked up at them with a tired, yet mischievous grin.

"Oh, hey, guys," he greeted, trying to prop himself up with one arm. "Didn't expect to see me like this, huh? I, uh… figured I'd start training to become a professional doormat. You know, practicing for the tryouts."

Issei blinked, taken aback, before quickly stepping forward. "Dude, are you okay? You didn't, like, break anything, right?"

Rias shot Issei a quick, worried glance as she rushed to Leo's side, kneeling down to help him sit up. "Leo, what happened?"

"Just a little, uh, mishap," Leo muttered, wincing as they helped him shift onto the couch. "I overestimated my 'ability to stand upright' stats."

Issei chuckled, though he couldn't hide the concern in his voice. "Man, I'd give that fall a solid ten out of ten, but you've gotta stop giving us heart attacks."

"Yeah, I think that might be hard to do. It seems trouble seems to find me where-ever I go.."

Rias gently adjusted a cushion behind Leo's back, brushing a few stray crumbs from his shoulder.

"Leo, your body is still healing after fighting the stray priest last night. You need to rest."

The young man sighed and nodded his head as he leaned back into the comfy couch. Koneko takes a seat next to him as she quietly eats her sweets, Akeno disappeared into the kitchen to make the group tea and some snacks, Issei took a seat on the other couch getting lost in his thoughts, Rias takes a seat at her desk, and Kiba sits in a nearby chair with a book in his hand.

Leo's mind replays what Freed did to Asia last night and it angers him to no end. The young man's eyes harden as he stares at the ceiling, Rias stares at him with worry in his eyes before standing up and making her way towards the shower.

"It seems your still suffering from the effects of holy magic. Leo, please join me in here so I can give you a stronger round of healing." Said Rias as she walked into the curtains.

Leo slowly stood up and looked down to see his legs still trembling, frustration began to bubble up in his mind as he took a few shaky steps towards the shower. As he got closer, the sound of running water reached his ears.

As he walked through the curtains the steam from the hot water hit him in the face, his eyes peer past the steam to see Rias taking off the final piece of her uniform leaving her completely nude. She turns and smiles at him, she beckons him over with a seductive glint in her eyes.

"Come over here, I don't bite. Much~" She said in a teasing tone, he nods but before he walks over he looks down to see he's in nothing but boxers. He slowly takes them off and folds them up before setting them off to the side with Rias's neatly stacked clothes.

The young man joins her under the warm water, his tense body slowly begins to relax under it's warm confines. Rias wraps her arms around his body and lets her magic flow through her hands and body.

A tingly sensation begins to fill his body as he relaxes into Rias's embrace. The red haired woman tightly held onto him as her magic hit his wounds, slowly the pain began to fade leaving him in a comfortable warmth.

After a couple minutes of holding him close, the soft pink glow of her healing magic slowly dies down but she still holds him close.

"Its okay now. It seems like it will take a little while to heal completely. That stray exorcist was able to wield quite strong powers of light." She whispered gently.

"I can see why that prick is a stray. He's a cruel, evil bastard. For a man of the cloth, he sure doesn't follow God's teachings." Leo said. Rias gently squeezes him.

"There are many who get expelled from the Church and end up serving under the fallen angels." Rias explains.

Leo looked up at the shower head as the water rained down on them, his mind drifts to Asia and the nice interaction he and Issei had with her, to the time she healed a young boy's leg that was cut.

"Does that mean Asia is one of those stray exorcists?" He quietly asks, Rias gently grabbed the side of his face and looked into his eyes.

"Either way, you are a devil and she is a servant of a fallen angel. Those are facts."

---

The soft glow of moonlight filtered through the curtains of the living room, casting faint lines across the wall. The space was silent, save for the faint ticking of a clock hanging on the wall. But in Leo's mind, there was no quiet.

Flashes of Asia filled his thoughts—her frightened eyes as Freed loomed over her, his twisted grin, her exposed body as he groped her gleefully.

Leo sat on the edge of Koneko's couch, his head in his hands. His body still sore, bandages wrapped tightly around his shoulder and arm. But physical pain was nothing compared to the torment inside. His failure replayed over and over, each scene sharper than the last.

You weren't fast enough

You weren't strong enough

You let her down

You let Issei down

Your worthless

He clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. The rage simmered beneath the surface, begging to be released. The Berserker inside him stirred, whispering, save Asia using his power. All he had to do was give in, but he wouldn't. Not now. Not like this.

His phone buzzed on the floor next to the couch, breaking the suffocating silence. Leo reached for it, his movements slow and deliberate. The screen lit up with Issei's name.

For a moment, he hesitated, his thumb hovering over the screen. He didn't feel like talking, but something told him to answer with a resigned sigh, he swiped to pick up the call.

"Leo!" Issei's voice came through the line, bright but tinged with something else—something hesitant. "Uh, hey, man. You busy?"

Leo stood up and made his way towards the front door and quietly opened it. "Not really. What's up?"

There was a pause on the other end of the line before Issei spoke again, his tone quieter this time. "I was wondering if you wanted to… you know, work out with me? Maybe hit the gym or do some sparring or something?"

Leo raised an eyebrow as he closed the door behind him. "Sparring? That doesn't sound like you. What's the occasion?"

Issei chuckled nervously, but it didn't hide the strain in his voice. "Just thought it'd be good for both of us. You know, burn off some steam."

Leo's grip on the phone tightened. He could hear the guilt in Issei's voice, the way it lingered in the spaces between his words. He wasn't asking for himself. He was asking because he couldn't get the image of Leo's injuries out of his head.

Leo let out a slow breath, his jaw tightening. "You don't have to feel guilty about what happened, Issei."

There was a long silence on the other end of the line.

"I—" Issei's voice broke slightly before he steadied himself. "I should've stayed, man. You could've died, and I just… I left you behind, like a coward."

"You're not a coward," Leo said firmly. He leaned on the railing of the second floor, stretching his stiff back as he looked up at the night sky. "You ran to get help, if you hadn't, who knows what would've happened."

"But—"

"No buts." Leo cut him off, his voice low but steady. "I made the choice to fight Freed alone. That wasn't on you. That was on me."

Issei was quiet for a moment before letting out a shaky breath. "Still… I just—I don't know how to stop feeling like I let you down."

Leo's gaze softened, a small pang of guilt tugging at him. Issei's heart was always in the right place, even if his head wasn't. That was just who he was.

"Alright," Leo said after a moment, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "You want to work out? First thing in the morning, we'll work out. But don't hold back, got it? I'm not gonna go easy on you."

Issei let out a relieved laugh, the tension in his voice easing slightly. "Deal. Should we meet up at the park? Or are you swinging by my place?"

"I'll swing by early in the morning, so set your clock to 4:30." Leo replied, "Don't oversleep."

As he hung up the phone, Leo couldn't help but feel a small spark of gratitude toward Issei. The kid had his flaws, sure, but who doesn't? His heart was solid. And maybe, just maybe, this workout would give Leo the distraction he desperately needed.

He pushed off the railing and headed back into Koneko's apartment, the weight of what happened a little lighter but his rage still simmered beneath.

The Berserker saw what happened through Leo's memories, his blood boiled seeing the stray exorcist take advantage of an innocent person like Asia. And what he did to his wielder made him growl in rage.

But he can wait, when his wielder is ready he'll unleash all the stored rage Leo has kept bottled up.

---

The early morning air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of dew-soaked grass. Kuoh Town was still waking up, the soft hum of distant cars and chirping birds breaking the silence. The park was nearly deserted, save for a few joggers in the distance, their rhythmic steps fading as they passed by.

Leo stood near the edge of a small clearing, stretching his arms and rolling his shoulders. The workout gear he'd thrown on was a bit wrinkled, and his hair was slightly messy from a restless night. He hadn't slept much—his mind wouldn't let him. The images of Freed and Asia haunted him even as he closed his eyes, but the call from Issei had been a welcome distraction.

"I'm here! I didn't over sleep!" Issei's voice called out from across the park.

Leo turned to see him jogging over, his gym bag slung over his shoulder and a sheepish grin on his face. Issei was in a simple tracksuit, looking a little less exhausted than usual but still carrying a hint of guilt in his expression.

"I thought you were swinging by my place? What happened to that?" Issei asked.

"I told you I wasn't going to take it easy on you, and the first step to getting into shape; is initiative. I wanted to see if you'd overslept or do what I told you and set the alarm for 4:30." Leo replied with a small smirk.

"Hey! I'm not that bad!" Issei said, laughing awkwardly. "Okay, maybe a little, but I'm trying to be better. I really meant it. And besides..." His grin faded slightly, replaced by a more serious look. "Figured I owed you, you know? Least I can do is show up on time."

Leo smirked, shaking his head. "You don't owe me anything, Issei. But since you're here, let's get started."

The two set up in the clearing, a mix of bodyweight exercises and sparring in mind. Leo led the warm-up, running Issei through stretches and light cardio to loosen up.

"So," Leo said, glancing at Issei as they finished a lap around the clearing. "What's this workout about? You planning to get ripped and impress Rias?"

Issei nearly tripped over his own feet, his face sweating slightly. "Wha—no! I mean, yes, I wanna impress her, but not the way you think! That's not—uh—why I'm here."

Leo chuckled, rolling his eyes. "Relax, man. I'm just messing with you."

Issei rubbed the back of his neck, still flustered. "Honestly, I just… I've been feeling kinda useless lately. Like, everyone else is so strong, and I'm just… me." He looked at Leo, his expression earnest. "And after seeing what happened to you, after how I just ran to the ORC while you stayed to fight... I don't want to be the guy who runs anymore."

Leo slowed to a stop, turning to face him. "Issei… you're not useless. You've got a sacred gear, don't you? That's pretty rare from what Rias told us."

Yeah, but..." Issei sighed. "What if something happens before I get strong enough? What if someone I care about gets hurt because I wasn't good enough to protect them?"

Leo's jaw tightened. He knew that feeling all too well—the weight of responsibility, the constant doubt. He had felt it with Asia, and every time his past haunted him, he wondered if he had failed someone else along the way. He didn't remember who he was before Kuoh, but the guilt felt like an old, familiar ache.

"Then you do what you can," Leo said after a moment, his voice low but firm. "You fight, even if you think you're not good enough. Because doing something is always better than doing nothing."

Issei blinked, his lips parting as he tried to find the words. But before he could respond, Leo clapped him on the shoulder.

"Now come on," Leo said, a small smirk creeping onto his face. "Let's see if you've got what it takes to keep up."

---

The two squared off in the center of the clearing, Leo rolling his shoulders as Issei raised his fists in an awkward boxing stance.

"You ever throw a punch before?" Leo asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Hey, I've fought people!" Issei shot back, though his stance betrayed his inexperience. "I mean, they were supernatural people, but still…"

Leo chuckled. "Alright, hotshot. Let's see what you've got."

Issei lunged forward, his movements clumsy but filled with enthusiasm. Leo dodged easily, stepping to the side and lightly tapping Issei's shoulder with a mock punch.

"Gotta keep your balance," Leo said, stepping back. "Don't overcommit."

Issei grumbled, resetting his stance. "Yeah, yeah… Mr. Combat Prodigy over here."

The two continued sparring, Leo carefully guiding Issei through basic movements while throwing in light counters to keep him on his toes. For every awkward swing Issei threw, Leo offered a quick correction or a sharp jab to remind him of his openings.

But as the session wore on, something in Leo's movements shifted. His strikes became sharper, faster, and his breathing grew heavier. The Berserker stirred within him, faint but noticeable, as the tension from the previous night bubbled to the surface.

Issei stepped back, holding up his hands. "Whoa, hey! You okay?"

Leo blinked, his fists still raised, his eyes flickering with a faint blue glow. He exhaled sharply, lowering his guard as he shook his head. "Yeah… yeah, I'm fine."

"Are you sure?" Issei asked, his brow furrowing. "You looked kinda… intense there."

Leo forced a small smile, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Guess I got a little carried away. Don't worry about it."

But as Issei nodded and resumed his stance, Leo couldn't shake the nagging feeling in his chest. Something was starting to overflow, and was close to release. And no matter how much he tried to push it down, he knew it wouldn't stay down forever.

A Few Hours Later...

"Man, you're a machine," Issei muttered, his chest heaving. "How do you keep going like that?"

Leo smirked, wiping his forehead with his sleeve. "Years of practice, I guess."

Issei sat up, giving him a sideways glance. "You don't even remember those years, though."

Leo's smirk faltered, and he looked away, his gaze distant. "Yeah… maybe not. But sometimes, it feels like my body does."

The silence between them stretched, the weight of unspoken thoughts lingering in the air. Issei looked at Leo, his expression softening. "Hey… thanks for this, man. I needed it."

Leo nodded, his lips curving into a faint smile. "Anytime."

Leo and Issei were sprawled out on the grass, basking in the cool morning air as their post-workout fatigue began to set in. The park was quiet now, save for the distant chirping of birds and the occasional rustle of leaves in the breeze.

"So," Issei said between breaths, his arms folded behind his head as he stared up at the sky. "Feel like sparring again tomorrow? Or have I scared you off with my sick moves?"

Leo chuckled, his tone dry. "If by 'sick moves,' you mean flailing like a fish out of water, then yeah, you're terrifying."

"Hey!" Issei protested, sitting up and pointing at him. "You try having a Sacred Gear on one hand and no coordination on the other!"

Before Leo could respond, a familiar voice called out to them, soft and tinged with worry. "Leo! Issei!"

They both turned toward the sound, and Leo's breath hitched. Asia ran toward them, her blonde hair catching the sunlight, her green eyes wide with relief. She clutched the hem of her dress as she hurried across the clearing.

"Asia?" Leo stood quickly, his muscles protesting after the workout, but he ignored the discomfort. "What are you doing here?"

Asia didn't respond immediately. Instead, she threw her arms around him, burying her face in his chest. Leo stiffened, caught off guard, but slowly brought his arms up to return the hug.

"I-I'm so glad you're okay," Asia said, her voice muffled. She pulled back just enough to look up at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "You were so hurt that night. You passed out, and there was so much blood… I was so scared."

Leo's chest tightened at her words, guilt creeping in. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, offering a small smile. "I'm fine now. Really. You don't have to worry."

Asia nodded, though the worry in her eyes didn't completely fade. "I just… I wanted to make sure."

Issei grinned as he stood, brushing grass off his clothes. "See, Leo? Asia cares. Unlike you, who mocked my amazing fighting skills."

Leo smirked, shaking his head. "Amazing is one word for it."

Asia giggled softly, the tension in her shoulders easing. Issei clapped his hands together, his eyes lighting up with an idea. "Alright, since we're all here, how about we hang out for the rest of the day? Like, a full-on day out. Just the three of us."

Asia blinked, tilting her head. "Hang out? What does that mean?"

"It means we go somewhere and do stuff," Issei said, waving his hand as if that explained everything. "And I know the perfect place to start! There's this burger joint not far from here that's amazing. Best burgers in town."

Asia tilted her head further. "Burgers? What are those?"

Issei froze, his jaw dropping as he stared at her like she'd just confessed to being an alien. "Wait… you don't know what a burger is?!"

Leo laughed, the sound genuine and warm. "Man, she just got here. Cut her some slack."

Issei threw his hands up dramatically. "But it's a burger! How can anyone not know what a burger is? Asia, we're fixing this right now."

Leo shook his head, grinning. "Alright, lead the way, Issei. Let's introduce her to the culinary masterpiece that is a burger."

A Few Minutes Later...

The trio stepped up to the counter, where the warm glow of the menu boards illuminated a friendly-looking cashier. She greeted them with a bright smile, her ponytail bouncing as she adjusted her cap. "Welcome! What can I get for you all today?"

Issei stepped up confidently, slapping his hand on the counter as if preparing for a grand declaration. "Alright, I'll take a double bacon cheeseburger with everything, a large order of fries, and a chocolate shake!"

The cashier nodded, her fingers flying across the register. She glanced up at him with a grin. "That's a solid choice."

Issei puffed up slightly, clearly proud of his "expert" burger order. "It's my go-to. Trust me, it's the best combo here."

Leo smirked, stepping forward next. "I'll take the XL burger, two large fries, and a vanilla shake. Gotta make sure I don't pass out again."

The cashier chuckled softly. "Big eater, huh?"

"Something like that," Leo replied with a shrug, his lips quirking into a faint smile.

As Asia hesitated, glancing nervously at the menu, Issei noticed her struggle and stepped in. "Don't worry, Asia. I've got this." He leaned on the counter, pointing at the cashier. "Can we get her a classic cheeseburger combo? Fries, medium drink, the works."

The cashier nodded, her smile kind as she looked at Asia. "First time here?"

Asia nodded shyly. "Yes, thank you."

"Hope you like it," the cashier said, tapping in the order before glancing back at Issei. "You're good at looking out for your friends."

Issei scratched the back of his head, laughing awkwardly. "Ah, well, you know. Someone's gotta keep things running smoothly."

The cashier chuckled, handing him the receipt. "Your total comes to—"

Leo pulled out his wallet, but Issei waved him off. "Nah, man, I've got this. My treat."

Leo arched an eyebrow. "Big spender now, huh?"

"Hey, it's for the experience," Issei shot back with a grin. "Besides, who better to treat than my best friends?"

The three of them moved to the side, waiting for their order number to be called. The aroma of sizzling patties and crispy fries filled the air, and the faint hum of pop music played overhead. Issei, ever the mood-maker, leaned casually against the counter, clearly in high spirits.

"So, Asia," he began, grinning. "Are you excited to try your first burger?"

Asia nodded, her eyes wide with curiosity. "I am! It smells so good in here. Is it really as amazing as you say?"

Issei threw his hands up dramatically. "Amazing? That's an understatement! Burgers are the ultimate meal. The combination of meat, cheese, and buns is like a miracle of modern food science."

Leo chuckled, crossing his arms. "You sound like you're about to start a cooking show."

"Hey, don't knock it!" Issei said, wagging a finger at him. "I'm just trying to spread the good word of burgers."

His antics earned a giggle from Asia and a small shake of the head from Leo. Despite himself, Leo couldn't help but smile. Issei's boundless energy had a way of lifting the mood, even on the heaviest of days.

The cashier, who had been subtly glancing at Issei throughout their conversation, approached the counter with a tray. She set it down gently before holding out a small slip of paper to him, her cheeks tinged with pink.

"Here's your order," she said, her voice soft. "And… here's my number. Call me sometime? Maybe we can go on a date."

Issei froze, his eyes wide as saucers. He stared at the slip of paper in her hand as though it were a divine artifact. "W-Wait, really?!"

The cashier nodded, her smile growing. "Yeah. I think you're cute."

A huge grin broke out across Issei's face as he fumbled to take the paper, his hands trembling slightly. "Oh, uh, yeah! Totally! I-I'll call you, for sure!"

Leo, who had been watching the exchange, burst into laughter. "Well, looks like someone just had his day made."

"More like his year," Leo added, shaking his head.

Asia clapped her hands together, her expression bright. "Congratulations, Issei! That's so nice of her."

Issei beamed, quickly pulling out his phone and adding the number with care. "This is the best day of my life! Burgers and a date? Nothing can ruin this mood!"

The trio settled into a booth near the window, the trays of food steaming in front of them. Issei was practically glowing, his good mood infecting even Leo, who couldn't help but chuckle at his best friend's enthusiasm.

Issei grabbed his burger immediately, holding it up with reverence. "Behold! The greatest invention in the history of food."

Asia stared at the burger in front of her, her expression puzzled. She leaned closer, inspecting it like it was an artifact from another world. "It smells nice, but… how do you eat it?"

Leo chuckled, watching as Issei's excitement turned into near-exasperation. "Asia, it's a burger. You pick it up with your hands and take a bite. Like this."

To demonstrate, Issei took a massive bite of his burger, chewing with exaggerated enthusiasm. Leo, more composed, followed suit, taking a more modest bite but nodding approvingly at the flavor.

"There's no other way," Issei said around a mouthful of food, gesturing toward her burger. "Trust me."

Asia hesitated, glancing between the two of them. Carefully, she picked up the burger, holding it delicately as though it might crumble in her hands. She brought it to her mouth, taking the smallest of bites.

Her eyes widened as the flavors hit her tongue, and she chewed slowly before looking up at them with a bright smile. "It's delicious! I really like it.

Issei pumped his fist in the air. "Another burger fan joins the club! I told you it was the best."

Leo laughed, shaking his head as he dipped a fry into ketchup. "Told you she'd like it."

Asia's smile grew as she took another, slightly bigger bite. She looked so genuinely happy that even Leo found himself relaxing, the tension from the night before fading just a little. For the first time in what felt like forever, he felt… normal.

And as the three of them laughed and shared fries, the weight of recent events momentarily forgotten as they shared the simple joy of good food and good company. For Leo, it was a rare moment of peace, a reminder of what he was fighting to protect.

---

The day had passed in a blur of laughter and lighthearted moments, a rare reprieve from the chaos that seemed to follow them. The trio now rested by a large stone fountain in the heart of the park. The water trickled softly, its rhythmic sound blending with the rustle of leaves and the distant chatter of a few lingering passersby. The auburn sky above painted the world in warm, golden hues, the perfect end to their day together.

Leo leaned against the edge of the fountain, his leg stretched out before him. Though he hid it well, a faint grimace betrayed the lingering pain from the holy injuries Freed had inflicted. The faint glow of Asia's Twilight Healing spell began to surround his leg, her hands resting gently on the wound.

The soothing warmth of her magic spread through him, easing the ache and making his muscles relax. Leo let out a small sigh of relief, glancing at her. "Thanks, Asia. That's… better."

She smiled softly, her expression kind but distant, as if her mind lingered elsewhere. Issei, sitting on the opposite side of the fountain, tossed a pebble into the water, watching the ripples spread across its surface.

After a beat of silence, Leo spoke, his tone gentle but curious. "Asia… your parents. Do they know you were living at the church here in Kuoh?"

The question hung in the air, and Asia froze, her hands stilling over his leg. Her emerald eyes dimmed, her smile fading as sadness clouded her face. Leo instantly regretted asking, his brows furrowing.

"You don't have to—" Leo began, but Asia shook her head, cutting him off.

"No, it's okay," she said softly, her voice steady but tinged with melancholy. "You deserve to know."

Both boys watched as Asia folded her hands in her lap, her gaze fixed on the rippling water of the fountain. "I never knew my parents. They abandoned me in front of a church when I was just a baby. The priest there said I was wrapped in a blanket with nothing else—no note, no name."

Her voice grew quieter, the words heavier. "The church took me in and raised me. I always thought of it as my home, even if I never really… belonged. When I was a child, I discovered my blessing from God. I healed an injured puppy I found outside. One of the church members saw it, and from that moment, everything changed."

Leo and Issei exchanged a glance, their expressions serious. They remained silent, letting her continue.

"They started calling me the Holy Maiden," she said, her lips pressing into a thin line. "But not everyone saw it as a gift. Some thought it was unnatural… monstrous. They kept their distance, even the people who prayed to me for healing. I never had friends, never had anyone to talk to."

Her hands tightened in her lap as her voice started to shake slightly. "Then, one day, I discovered a man collapsed on the floor, heavily injured. But the man I came across was..." She trailed off as the horrible insults since that day have plagued her.

"She can heal devils? She's a witch!"

"Burn her at the stake for her blasphemy!"

"Crucify this witch! She healed a devil!"

"I was branded a heretic because I had the power to even heal devils." A tear dripped down the side of her face.

"So, that's why you had nowhere to go and got picked up by a fallen angel." Issei added piecing together events. Leo squeezed his knees as a look of anger graced his face but he took in deep breaths from exploding in rage.

"But I never stopped praying to God, expressing my gratitude. Not to mention I never knew what terrible things they were doing. The Lord must be testing me. If I can overcome this ordeal, He will make my dream come true someday. That's what I believe." She said as her lips formed a genuine smile.

"Your dream?" Leo asked now that he's put a cork on his anger for the time being.

She clutched the stuffed animal that Issei had won her tightly against her chest. "My dream has always been to have friends. I want to be able to buy flowers with them, share books, and talk about silly, everyday things."

Asia looked up at them, her smile sad but sincere. "You two… you've been so kind to me. But I don't think you're my friends. You're good men—people who've taken the time to be generous and nice."

Leo's chest tightened at her words, and before he could stop himself, he leaned forward. "You're wrong, Asia."

Her eyes widened, startled by his sudden intensity.

"You are our friend," Leo said, his voice firm but warm. "I don't care if you're a nun, or if we're Devils. That doesn't matter. What matters is that we care about you."

Issei nodded vigorously, his usual grin softening into something genuine. "Yeah! You've got two friends right here, Asia. And honestly, who cares if we're Devils? We'll figure it out together."

Asia's lips parted in surprise, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "You… really mean that?"

"Of course we do," Leo said, his tone unwavering. "Friends look out for each other. And you're one of us now."

Before the moment could settle, the sound of slow, deliberate clapping echoed through the clearing. Leo and Issei whipped their heads toward the source, their expressions hardening as two figures emerged from the shadows.

Kalawarner and Raynare.

Both Fallen Angels exuded an air of cruel confidence, their black wings spreading slightly as they stepped closer. Raynare's violet eyes sparkled with amusement, her lips curling into a smirk. "How touching. The Devil and the nun, bonding over their shared misery."

Kalawarner tilted her head, her blue hair swaying slightly. "I didn't expect to find you two idiots playing babysitter."

Leo's blood boiled the moment he saw them. His fists clenched at his sides, and his vision blurred slightly as the Berserker stirred within him. He stood slowly, his blue eyes glowing faintly as he glared at the women who had toyed with him and Issei before.

"You've got some nerve showing your faces," Leo growled, his voice low and dangerous. "After what you pulled, I should've killed you when I had the chance."

Raynare laughed, the sound cold and mocking. "Oh, listen to you. Such big talk for a weakling."

Issei stepped forward, summoning his Sacred Gear. The small red gauntlet formed on his left hand, glowing faintly. He stood protectively in front of Asia, his jaw set. "You're not laying a hand on her. You hear me?"

Raynare's smirk widened. "Relax. We only need the little nun. Hand her over, and we'll let you two live."

"Like hell," Leo snapped, stepping beside Issei. "You're not getting her. Not now. Not ever."

The Fallen Angels exchanged amused glances before summoning their light spears. The golden energy crackled ominously as they pointed the weapons at the two Devils. "Have it your way," Kalawarner said, her tone dripping with malice.

With a roar, Leo charged forward, the rage within him igniting like wildfire. His speed had increased—he was faster than he'd ever been before—but it wasn't enough. Kalawarner and Raynare moved like shadows, their light spears slashing through the air with deadly precision.

Leo ducked under one spear and countered with a powerful punch, but Kalawarner easily sidestepped, her spear grazing his side. The holy energy burned through his skin, the pain searing as he gritted his teeth and kept moving.

Issei joined the fight, swinging his gauntlet at Raynare. But the Fallen Angel danced around his attacks, her laughter mocking him at every turn. "You're even weaker than I remember!" she taunted, slamming the butt of her spear into his gut and sending him sprawling.

"Issei!" Asia cried, stepping toward him, but Leo intercepted another attack, taking a spear to the leg. The pain shot through him like fire, and he dropped to one knee, blood pooling beneath him.

"Leo!" Asia ran to his side, her hands glowing as she pressed them against his wounds. The soothing warmth of her magic spread through him, easing the pain just enough for him to push himself back up.

"I'm not done yet," Leo growled, his voice rough but determined. He stepped forward again, ready to fight even as his injuries slowed him.

The battle raged on, but to call it a fight would be generous. Kalawarner and Raynare toyed with Issei and Leo, their laughter echoing in the twilight air like cruel bells. Every strike the boys attempted was dodged effortlessly, and every counter from the Fallen Angels cut deeper—physically and emotionally.

Issei cried out in pain as Raynare's light spear impaled his stomach. The holy energy burned through him, sending him collapsing to his knees. Blood dripped from the wound, staining his shirt and pooling beneath him as he clutched at it, gasping for air.

"Issei!" Asia screamed, her eyes wide with terror.

Leo wasn't faring much better. Kalawarner's spear shot straight through his leg, pinning him to the ground as pain erupted from the wound. The searing burn coursed through his body, weakening him further as blood flowed freely down his leg.

Asia rushed forward, her hands glowing with the soft light of her Twilight Healing. "Hold still!" she said, her voice trembling as she worked quickly to heal Issei's stomach wound. The light from her Sacred Gear soothed the injuries, closing the gash as Issei let out a pained groan.

Next, she turned to Leo, her fingers trembling as she pressed them to his leg. The warmth of her magic washed over him, dulling the pain and mending the wound enough for him to stand again.

"Thanks…" Leo muttered, though his voice was rough with anger. His blue eyes burned with rage as he glared at the two Fallen Angels.

Raynare's amused grin faded, her violet eyes narrowing on Asia. "Enough of that," she snapped. "Asia, you're coming with us. Now."

Asia froze, her hands still glowing faintly before she quickly hid them behind her back. "Why? You only want me for my power," she said softly, her voice trembling but resolute.

Raynare smirked, crossing her arms. "Smart girl. That's right. Your power—Twilight Healing—can heal any injury, human or otherwise. It's a miracle, a gift from the heavens. With you, the Fallen Angels could tip the balance of power in this war." She stepped closer, her tone dropping to something almost conversational. "Why waste your potential on these Devils? Come with us, and you'll be safe. You won't have to fight."

Kalawarner added with a smirk, her light spear glowing in her hand. "Agree to come with us, and we'll spare these two fools. That's the deal."

Asia's breath hitched, her eyes darting between Leo and Issei, who were already struggling to stay upright. She bit her lip, her heart torn. Before she could respond, both boys stepped forward, positioning themselves protectively in front of her.

Leo's voice was a growl, his rage bubbling over. "Over my dead body."

"Yeah!" Issei added, raising his gauntleted arm despite the pain still coursing through him. "You're not taking her. Not now. Not ever!"

Kalawarner and Raynare exchanged a glance before laughing, their mocking tones cutting through the tense air. "Oh, please," Raynare sneered. "You can barely stand. What do you think you're going to do?"

Blinded by his anger, Leo took a step forward, his fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles turned white. "I'll kill you both."

Before he could act, the two Fallen Angels disappeared, vanishing into thin air. His eyes darted around wildly, trying to locate them, but his senses weren't fast enough.

"Leo!" Asia screamed as two spears of light materialized above them, hurtling toward the ground like deadly comets.

Without thinking, Leo turned and shoved Asia and Issei away with all his strength. "Get down!"

The spears collided with the ground where they had been standing, exploding on impact. The shockwave sent Leo flying backward, his body hitting the edge of the fountain with a sickening crack before plunging into the water. The explosion left the ground scorched, cracks spiderwebbing out from the impact site.

"Leo!" Asia cried, scrambling to her feet.

The water of the fountain rippled violently, turning crimson as blood and burns marred Leo's body. He gritted his teeth, forcing himself to his knees despite the excruciating pain. His cuts stung as the water soaked them, but he didn't care. He growled, his rage propelling him to his feet, even as his legs threatened to give out.

Issei tried to stand as well, clutching his side for support, but before he could, Kalawarner appeared behind him. She grabbed his hair roughly, pulling his head back as she pressed a glowing light spear to his throat.

"Enough," she hissed, her voice dripping with menace.

Issei froze, his breaths shallow as the sharp edge of the spear burned faintly against his skin. Asia froze too, her hands trembling as she stared at the horrifying scene.

Raynare stepped forward, her wings spreading wide as she smirked at Asia. "This is your last chance, Holy Maiden. Come with us willingly, and we'll let them live. Refuse, and your little Devil friends won't live to see another day."

Tears streamed down Asia's face as she looked between Issei and Leo. Her heart broke at the sight of Issei's wide eyes, fear mixing with determination, and Leo's trembling frame, still growling through his pain, his blue eyes blazing with rage.

Leo took a step forward, his body shaking but his resolve unyielding. "You… won't… touch her," he snarled, his voice hoarse but fierce. Blood dripped from his wounds, his strength fading, but his will refused to break. "Asia… run."

"No!" Asia cried, shaking her head. "I can't leave you!"

Raynare's smirk widened. "Then decide, girl. Their lives or your freedom."

The clearing fell silent, the tension unbearable as Asia's trembling hands moved toward her chest, her tears falling freely.

Asia's trembling form was barely upright as she stepped forward, her hands clutched tightly to her chest. Tears streamed down her face, each one falling like a heavy weight on the hearts of the two Devils who could do nothing but watch.

"I'll go with you," she whispered, her voice breaking under the weight of her decision. "Just… don't hurt them anymore. Please."

Leo's heart sank, and Issei's breath hitched. They both moved simultaneously, desperation driving their actions, but the pain and exhaustion of the fight caught up to them.

"Asia, no!" Issei cried, trying to rise, only to stagger back to the ground as his body failed him.

Leo snarled, his glowing blue eyes locked on the girl he had sworn to protect. He forced himself forward, his trembling arms bracing against the ground as he pushed himself to his knees. His muscles screamed in protest, blood dripping from his wounds into the scorched dirt.

"Asia!" Leo's voice cracked as he reached out a hand toward her. "Don't do this! They'll… they'll kill you!"

Raynare smirked, her violet eyes gleaming with triumph. "Oh, how touching. But don't worry, blondie. "We'll take excellent care of her."

Kalawarner chuckled, her light spear still pressed against Issei's throat. "This is what happens when you're too weak to protect the people you care about."

Leo's body trembled, his fists clenching tightly. He grit his teeth, a growl rumbling deep in his throat as he tried to push himself to his feet. His legs buckled instantly, sending him back to the ground. The holy energy from the light spears coursed through him, sapping his strength and making every movement feel like agony.

"Damn it," he muttered, his voice low and filled with fury. He slammed his fist into the ground, his knuckles scraping against the rough surface. "Damn it, damn it, DAMN IT!"

His head hung low as he cursed himself, his blood boiling with frustration and shame. "I'm… worthless," he spat, his voice cracking under the weight of his own words. "I can't… even protect one person!"

Issei watched, his heart pounding painfully in his chest as Leo's anger filled the air like a thunderstorm. He wanted to say something, to reassure his friend, but the words wouldn't come. Instead, his own thoughts consumed him, a whirlwind of guilt and self-loathing.

Why am I so weak?!

Kalawarner shoved Issei to the ground as she withdrew her spear, her laughter cutting through his spiraling thoughts. "Look at you two—completely broken. How pathetic."

"Let's go," Raynare said with a smirk, her black wings unfurling. "We have what we came for."

Asia hesitated, her wide green eyes filled with regret and pain as she glanced back at Leo and Issei. "I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice trembling. "I don't want to see you get hurt because of me…"

Before either of them could respond, Raynare grabbed Asia by the arm, pulling her close. With a powerful beat of her wings, she took to the sky, Kalawarner following close behind.

Leo and Issei could do nothing but watch as the two Fallen Angels disappeared into the fading light, Asia's tear-streaked face vanishing with them. The auburn sky darkened, and the once-peaceful evening was now filled with the echoes of pain and failure.

Leo's breath came in ragged gasps, his chest heaving as the reality of what had just happened sank in. His fists clenched so tightly that his nails bit into his palms, drawing blood. The Berserker stirred within him, feeding on his anguish, but even its power felt out of reach in his broken state.

"NO!" Leo roared, the sound primal and raw, echoing across the park. He slammed both fists into the ground, the force sending small cracks through the earth. "Asia!"

His yell carried with it the weight of his anger, his pain, and his helplessness. It was the cry of someone who had been pushed to the brink, who had given everything he had and still failed. The sound hung in the air, vibrating with the fury of a storm that had no outlet.

Issei sat frozen, staring at the ground as tears pricked the corners of his eyes. His body trembled as he clutched his stomach, the memory of the light spear's searing pain still fresh in his mind. His Sacred Gear flickered faintly on his arm, a cruel reminder of his inadequacy.

Why couldn't I stop them?

Why am I so weak?!

The thoughts consumed him, replaying over and over as he struggled to breathe. He felt the crushing weight of failure pressing down on him, suffocating him. His hands balled into fists, his knuckles white as he grit his teeth.

"I couldn't… even protect her," Issei whispered, his voice trembling with defeat. His body gave out, and he collapsed onto his knees, tears streaming down his face. "I'm useless…"

Leo's roar finally quieted, replaced by heavy, labored breaths as he sat slumped against the fountain's edge. His blue eyes burned with unshed tears, the glowing fading as exhaustion overtook him. He stared at the spot where the Fallen Angels had disappeared, his jaw tight.

For a moment, the two boys sat in silence, their world shattered by their failure. The sound of the fountain's trickling water seemed deafening in the stillness.

Finally, Leo spoke, his voice hoarse but filled with determination. "This isn't over."

Issei looked up, his eyes red and his face streaked with tears.

Leo's hands trembled as he pushed himself upright, his legs shaking but holding steady. He turned to Issei, his gaze hard and resolute. "We're going to get her back. I don't care what it takes."

Issei stared at him, the defeat in his eyes slowly giving way to something else—hope. He nodded, wiping his face with the back of his hand as he rose shakily to his feet. "Yeah… we will."

The two stood together, battered and broken but united in their resolve. The fight wasn't over. Not yet.

Timeskip The ORC...

The Occult Research Club room was filled with its usual atmosphere: Koneko sat cross-legged on the couch, nibbling on a cookie; Kiba leaned against a bookcase, flipping through a novel; Akeno sipped tea gracefully, her usual serene smile masking her thoughts. Rias stood near her desk, arms crossed and a storm brewing in her crimson eyes. Her stance was tense, her expression hard—she was waiting.

When the door creaked open, Leo and Issei entered. Both looked battered and worn, their faces shadowed with defeat. The warmth of the room felt oppressive compared to the cold reality they had just faced.

Before either of them could speak, Rias moved.

Her palm connected with Leo's cheek in a sharp slap, the sound echoing through the room. Everyone froze. Koneko stopped mid-bite, Kiba snapped his book shut, and Akeno's teacup rattled slightly on its saucer.

Leo's head snapped to the side, his hand instinctively raising to touch the spot where her hand had landed. His breath hitched as flashes of something buried deep within him resurfaced.

A darkened room. A girl's cruel smirk.

"Pathetic," the voice sneered.

The memory came in sharp fragments: a slap, the sting of humiliation, and the sound of her laughter.

"You'll never amount to anything, Leo."

The girl's face wasn't clear, but the pain was vivid. Her voice was dripping with venom, and her name rose unbidden in his mind: Melisa.

Leo's wide, shocked eyes snapped back to Rias. His jaw tightened, his fingers trembling as he clenched them into fists at his sides. The sting of the slap wasn't the problem—it was the sudden, suffocating weight of humiliation. He stared at her, his breath shaky.

"Rias…" he murmured, his voice trembling with hurt.

Issei stepped forward, glaring at Rias. "What the hell, Rias?! Why would you slap your own boyfriend?!"

Rias didn't flinch at his words, though a flicker of regret crossed her face. She straightened her posture, her voice firm. "How many times have I told you? It's not possible to save Asia. You need to forget about her." Her gaze hardened. "You are a member of the Gremory household now. You'll never be able to befriend someone from the church or the Fallen Angels."

Leo's stomach dropped. The words felt like a dagger, twisting in his chest. He had believed in Rias. She was the one who gave him a second chance, who brought him back when he had nothing. Now, the person he trusted most was telling him to abandon someone who needed help. His mind spiraled as rage began to bubble up, mixing with confusion and despair.

Issei, still glaring at Rias, clenched his fists. "If that's how you feel, then kick us out of your household. We'll go alone to—"

"That's enough!" Rias snapped, cutting him off. She turned her fiery gaze on Issei. "Do you even understand what you're asking? The pawn is one of the most versatile pieces in chess. You may feel useless now, but you have more potential than you realize."

As Rias continued, her voice faded in Leo's ears. He wasn't listening anymore. His thoughts were a storm of chaotic emotion. The Berserker stirred within him, feeding on his turmoil, and his eyes began to glow faintly blue. His chest heaved as he struggled to process the slap, the betrayal, and the weight of his own failures.

Rias noticed his trembling frame and faltering stance. "Leo?" she asked, her voice softer now, tinged with worry.

Leo turned slowly, his hand gripping the doorknob tightly. His glowing blue eyes met hers, filled with anguish and rage.

"You know," he began, his voice low and uneven, "when you revived me, alongside Issei… I thought you were someone who helped anyone in need. I still believe that. Maybe that's the only thing I really do believe."

His voice wavered, his breathing unsteady as his thoughts spiraled further into chaos. "I've got no memory of what type of person I am. I could be the worst kind of monster, like Freed. I could be a good man, a bad man, or something in between. You gave me a second chance when you could've left me for dead."

The room was silent, everyone frozen as Leo's voice rose, filled with raw emotion.

"This isn't the Rias I've come to love," he said, his voice breaking slightly. "I can see it in your eyes. Deep down, I know you'd run headfirst to help her. Call it a gut feeling or foolish faith. But I'm going to save Asia. I owe her that much… because right now…"

His voice cracked, and tears began to streak down his face. He slammed his fist into the doorframe, his rage and sorrow spilling over. "I'm at my wits' end, failing over and over and OVER trying to protect someone!"

Leo's glowing eyes burned as he screamed, his voice raw with frustration and pain. "IF I CAN'T SAVE ONE FRIEND IN NEED, WHAT USE AM I TO YOU?! HOW CAN I TRUST IN MYSELF TO HELP ANY OF YOU WHEN I'M THIS FUCKING WORTHLESS?!"

The room was stunned into silence. Kiba's book fell from his hands as he stared at Leo, recognizing a pain that mirrored his own past. Akeno looked down, her hands trembling slightly as old wounds of her own surfaced. Even Koneko's stoic mask faltered, her golden eyes reflecting a hint of sadness. Issei stepped forward, his mouth opening as if to say something, but no words came.

As Leo gripped the doorknob tighter, another memory surfaced—a man's face, shadowed and cruel. Valper Galilei.

The man's hand rested on a younger Leo's head, his voice echoing faintly in the background. Leo's stomach churned as he remembered the feeling of being powerless, a puppet for Valper and his daughter Melisa.

The memory left him trembling, his teeth clenched so tightly that his jaw ached. Without another word, he opened the door, stepping into the cold night air. He hesitated for just a moment, casting a glance back at Rias.

His eyes were filled with a mixture of pain and betrayal as he whispered, "I'll see you around, Rias."

In The Ancestral Realm...

In the ancestral plain, the storm within Leo spilled into the Berserker's essence. The figure, tall and hulking, let out a low, rumbling laugh, his grin twisting into something almost gleeful.

"He's finally waking up," the Berserker said, his muscles rippling as the rage bled into his form. He turned to Ragnar, his glowing blue eyes alight with anticipation. "Shall we show his enemies what his bloodline can do?"

Ragnar stood, his gaze steady, a small smile curling on his lips. "Aye," he said, his voice deep and resolute. "Let them see the fury of the Berserker. But remind him—rage is a weapon best wielded with purpose."

The Berserker nodded, his voice rumbling like thunder. "The boy will learn."

As the ancestral plain shifted, the two figures stood side by side, their combined power ready to guide Leo toward a storm he could no longer avoid.

---

The door slammed shut behind Leo, the sound reverberating through the room like the echo of his raw, anguished scream. The clubroom was silent, the usual warmth and comfort replaced with a heavy, suffocating tension.

Rias stood frozen, her hand hovering slightly in the air as if reaching for the door, but she couldn't bring herself to move. Her crimson eyes were wide with shock, her lips parted as if to speak, but no words came. The hurt and betrayal in Leo's gaze burned in her memory, an unshakable reminder of the pain she had caused.

Her mind replayed his words: "This isn't the Rias I've come to love."

The weight of his statement hit her like a physical blow. She leaned back against her desk, her legs threatening to give out beneath her. Her hand trembled as she clenched it into a fist, her nails digging into her palm.

Why did I… why did I slap him?

Across the room, Issei was pacing, his fists balled at his sides. His jaw was tight, and his eyes flicked toward the door every few seconds, as if expecting Leo to walk back in.

"Damn it!" Issei snapped, breaking the silence. "Why would you do that, Rias?!"

Rias flinched, turning her gaze toward Issei. She opened her mouth to respond, but nothing came out. Her usual composure, the commanding presence of the Gremory heir, was shattered.

"Do you have any idea what that just did to him?" Issei continued, his voice rising. "He's already beating himself up over everything, and then you slap him and basically tell him he's worthless! What the hell were you thinking?"

"I…" Rias's voice was faint, barely audible. She couldn't meet Issei's fiery gaze.

"You're supposed to be the one who understands him," Issei pressed, his voice shaking with anger and disbelief. "You're his girlfriend, Rias! How could you—how could you say all that to him?!"

"Enough," Akeno's voice cut in, soft but firm.

Issei turned to her, his frustration unabated. "No, it's not enough! Did you see the look on his face? Did you hear what he said?"

Akeno set her teacup down with trembling hands. For once, her serene smile was gone, replaced with a distant, sorrowful expression. "Of course I heard him," she murmured, her eyes downcast. "How could anyone not hear him? That kind of pain… it's impossible to ignore."

Koneko, usually silent and unflappable, looked toward the door with uncharacteristic sadness in her eyes. Her small hands gripped the edge of the couch tightly, her usual stoicism cracking ever so slightly.

"Koneko…" Kiba's voice was gentle as he noticed her expression.

"He's hurting," Koneko said softly, her golden eyes glimmering with rare emotion. "He's been hurting for a long time. We just didn't see it."

Kiba nodded, his gaze fixed on the spot where Leo had stood moments before. His own memories swirled to the surface—his anger, his helplessness, and the deep scars left by betrayal. "He's carrying something heavy," Kiba said, his voice low. "Something none of us understand yet."

Rias's chest tightened at their words. She turned her head toward the window, unable to face her friends. Her mind reeled with thoughts, her emotions a chaotic storm.

I was just trying to protect him.

But instead, I hurt him.

Her mind flickered back to the warmth in Leo's eyes when he first confessed his feelings to her, the way he smiled when he talked about protecting those he cared for. She had seen his potential, his goodness, even when he doubted himself. And now, she had become the person who made him doubt the most.

Rias let out a shaky breath, her hands clutching the edge of her desk. "I… I thought I was protecting him," she finally said, her voice trembling. "The Fallen Angels, the Church—those worlds are dangerous. They've already taken so much from him. I didn't want him to lose anything more."

Issei scoffed, his glare unwavering. "So your way of protecting him was to slap him and call him useless? That's some protection."

Rias winced, her shoulders slumping. "I know I shouldn't have…" Her voice cracked, and she closed her eyes, tears threatening to fall. "I just—he wasn't listening, and I panicked. I thought if I could stop him…"

"You pushed him away," Akeno said softly. Her voice wasn't accusatory, but the weight of her words was heavy.

Rias's tears fell silently as she pressed a hand to her chest, the ache there unbearable. She had always prided herself on being calm, composed, and caring. But now, she felt like she had shattered everything she had worked to build with Leo.

Kiba's voice broke the silence. "He feels like he's failing us, like he's not good enough. I know that feeling all too well."

Issei glanced at him, his anger softening slightly. "You mean… because of your past?"

Kiba nodded, his expression grim. "The pain of losing everything, of being powerless to protect anyone—it leaves scars. And those scars don't fade easily. Leo's still trying to figure out who he is, but right now, all he sees is someone who keeps failing."

Koneko hugged her knees to her chest, her soft voice cutting through the tension. "He needs us. But instead… we made it worse."

Akeno looked down at her trembling hands. The memory of her own painful past surfaced, and she bit her lip. "The things we carry," she said softly, "they have a way of consuming us if we don't let others in. But he's been alone with his pain for so long… I don't know if he'll let us help him now."

Rias wiped her tears, her gaze hardening. "No," she said firmly. "I won't let him face this alone. I made a mistake—a terrible one. But I'll fix it."

Issei folded his arms, his tone still sharp. "And how are you going to do that? You can't just slap someone, tell them they're worthless, and then expect everything to be okay."

Rias flinched but nodded. "You're right, Issei. But I won't let him go like this. I'll find him, and I'll make it right."

The determination in her voice silenced the room. For a moment, no one spoke.

Finally, Akeno placed a gentle hand on Rias's shoulder. "We'll help," she said, her voice kind but resolute.

Issei sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah… we all will. But you better apologize first, Rias. Big time."

Rias managed a small, sad smile. "I will."

Timeskip The Old Church...

The cold night air stung Leo's face as he trudged toward the old church. His body ached, his wounds still fresh, but they were nothing compared to the fire raging inside him. His thoughts churned endlessly, a torrent of self-loathing and anger.

Worthless.

The word echoed in his mind, over and over, like a cruel mantra he couldn't escape. It clung to him, heavy and unrelenting, like chains dragging him down. No matter how hard he tried to shake it, the feeling wouldn't go away.

He clenched his fists, his glowing blue eyes narrowed as he saw the silhouette of the church against the night sky. The building loomed over him, its crumbling facade and broken windows casting eerie shadows.

His pace quickened, his fury boiling over. Reaching the doors, he raised his leg and slammed his foot into them with all his might. The old wood splintered and shattered, the doors flying off their hinges and crashing into the dark prayer room beyond. The sound echoed through the building, wood splintering against the altar and scattering pews.

Leo stepped into the room, his heavy breaths filling the silence. His glowing eyes darted around, taking in the holy symbols that adorned the space. His gaze landed on the cross above the altar, and for a brief moment, his anger wavered.

He bowed his head slightly, his voice low. "I'm sorry for this, God… Jesus… for the damage, and for what's about to happen. But this isn't for me. It's for her."

A sudden cackle broke the silence, sharp and grating. The sound sent a chill down Leo's spine, and he turned his head, his glowing eyes locking onto the source of the sound.

Freed Selzen.

The rogue exorcist stepped into the dim light, his twisted grin stretching across his bloodied face. He twirled his light sword lazily in one hand, while his other held a smoking gun.

"Well, well, well," Freed sneered, his voice dripping with mockery. "What do we have here? A filthy little Devil groveling in God's house. That's rich! You really think the big guy upstairs gives a damn about you?"

Leo growled low in his throat, his fists tightening.

Freed laughed, running his tongue along the edge of his glowing blade. "Look at you. A filthy devil, apologizing to the Almighty. Pathetic. Don't worry, though—I'll help you find redemption. I'll carve you up and get a taste of that devil flesh!"

Leo's lips curled into a snarl, his voice a low, menacing growl. "Come get some, you sick fuck."

Freed's laughter cut off abruptly as he lunged, his light sword slicing through the air. Leo dodged, the blade missing him by inches as he countered with a sharp kick to Freed's side. The exorcist staggered, snarling as Leo followed up with a series of punches.

Each strike was precise, the movements of someone who fought not just with power, but with purpose. Leo's fists connected with Freed's face and ribs, his legs sweeping and kicking with the precision of a trained fighter.

"Not bad, freak," Freed spat, raising his gun and firing a volley of holy bullets.

Leo rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the shots. The bullets tore through the pews, splintering wood and sending shards flying in every direction. As Freed reloaded, Leo grabbed a nearby pew and hurled it at him with all his strength.

Freed's grin widened as he swung his light sword, cutting the pew cleanly in half. "Gonna have to try harder than that, blondie!"

Leo didn't respond. Instead, he ducked behind another row of pews as Freed opened fire again, the room echoing with the relentless sound of gunshots.

"Come on out, devil boy!" Freed taunted, his voice manic. "Let me see that scared little face of yours!"

After a few moments, Freed began advancing, still firing sporadically. Leo crouched behind his cover, his mind racing. He could feel the rage bubbling inside him, but he forced it down, focusing on the fight.

Wait for your moment…

As the gunfire slowed, Leo kicked the pew in front of him with all his might, sending it crashing into the remaining rows. The domino effect sent wooden benches tumbling through the air, scattering splinters in every direction.

Freed swore, raising his sword to deflect the onslaught of debris. His attention wavered for just a moment—long enough for Leo to strike.

Leo surged forward, slamming into Freed with the force of a freight train. The two crashed to the floor, the exorcist's gun clattering away as Leo pinned him down.

Freed barely had time to react before Leo's fists began raining down. Each punch was harder than the last, the sound of bone meeting bone echoing through the room. Blood splattered across the wooden floor as Leo's blows broke the exorcist's manic grin into a twisted grimace of pain.

Leo grabbed Freed by the neck, lifting him slightly off the ground. His glowing blue eyes bore into Freed's, his voice a low, menacing growl. "Where's Asia?"

Freed let out a wet, gurgling chuckle, blood bubbling at the corner of his mouth. "Under… your… feet," he croaked, his voice dripping with mockery. "Your little devil-loving whore is down in the basement."

Leo's grip tightened, his teeth gritting. Freed let out a choking laugh, his head lolling to the side. "Careful, big guy. You're gonna need a safe word if you keep choking me like this."

With a sudden burst of movement, Freed twisted out of Leo's grasp, rolling backward and putting distance between them. He wiped the blood from his face, his grin returning as he raised his sword. "Nice try, freak. But this game isn't over yet."

Before Leo could react, Freed threw a smoke bomb to the ground. The room filled with thick, choking smoke, and when it cleared, the exorcist was gone.

Leo staggered to his feet, his breaths ragged as he scanned the room. The silence was deafening, broken only by the distant creak of wood and the dripping of blood from his fists.

He stared at the spot where Freed had disappeared, his rage simmering just below the surface. The Berserker within him stirred, feeding on his fury, but it wasn't enough to quench the overwhelming sense of failure that clawed at his chest.

"Asia…" he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

His fists trembled as he turned toward the altar, his glowing blue eyes narrowing. The fight wasn't over—not yet.

Taking a deep breath, Leo moved the altar revealing a large trap door that lead into the depths of a basement. His mind racing with a singular focus: to find Asia and make the Fallen Angels pay.

---

The cool night air wrapped around Issei, Kiba, and Koneko as they arrived at the church. The faint moonlight illuminated the eerie ruins, where the once-pristine doors now lay shattered and gone. Issei frowned, confusion etched on his face.

"Wait… weren't there doors here before?" he muttered, scratching the back of his head. "Last time I was here—"

"They were intact," Kiba finished grimly, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. His sharp eyes scanned the surroundings, every nerve on edge.

Koneko sniffed the air, her nose twitching slightly. Her golden eyes widened with a mixture of alarm and worry. "Blood… and Leo's scent," she said, her voice soft but urgent.

Issei's expression shifted, his heart tightening in his chest. "Leo? Is he—"

"I don't know," Koneko interrupted, stepping out from behind their cover. She stood still for a moment, sniffing the air again before pointing toward the church. "It's coming from inside."

Without waiting for a response, Koneko began walking toward the ruined entrance.

"Koneko, wait!" Issei called, but she ignored him.

"She wouldn't move unless it was serious," Kiba said, his tone grim. He stepped forward, his grip on his sword tightening. "Let's go."

The scene they walked into was one of chaos. The once-serene prayer room was a battlefield now: broken pews scattered everywhere, blood spattered across the stone floor, and a faint metallic scent filling the air.

Issei froze, his eyes wide in shock. "What the hell happened here?"

Kiba didn't respond. His gaze swept the room, assessing the destruction. He drew his sword slowly, his face set in a hard, unreadable expression.

Koneko, meanwhile, was drawn toward a large trap door at the far end of the room, now left ajar. She crouched down slightly, her ears twitching as she listened. A faint sound reached her—fighting. The sharp clanging of blades, grunts of exertion, and muffled shouts.

"Leo's down there," she said firmly, standing up. "And… something else."

Without hesitation, the three raced down the stairs, descending into the darkness.

The sight that greeted them stole their breath.

Leo was a whirlwind of violence in the center of the room, his fists bloodied as he tore through a horde of stray exorcists. His movements were brutal, almost animalistic, as he struck down his enemies with terrifying precision.

Above it all, on a raised altar, Asia hung limply, chained in a crucified position. Her once-hopeful green eyes were filled with fear and exhaustion. Her lips moved as if to pray, but no sound came out.

"Asia!" Issei shouted, his voice breaking as his gaze locked onto her.

Kiba quickly stepped forward, pulling Issei back. "Stay sharp," he said. "Look around."

Raynare and Kalawarner stood on either side of the altar, their twisted smiles illuminated by the eerie glow of a ritual circle beneath them. Above Raynare floated two glowing rings of light, slowly descending toward her outstretched hands.

"Leo…" Koneko said softly, her gaze shifting from Asia to their friend. She watched in silence as Leo continued his rampage, his glowing blue eyes burning with fury.

The glowing rings finally merged into Raynare's body, sending a pulse of golden energy through the room. She laughed manically, admiring the two golden rings now etched into her hands.

"Well, well," she sneered, her voice dripping with malice. "Twilight Healing is mine. With this, we'll be unstoppable."

Kalawarner smirked, her eyes locked onto Leo. "But look at you, my little Rook," she cooed mockingly. "Still playing hero. Still thinking you can save anyone."

Leo's head snapped toward her, his teeth bared as he growled low in his throat.

"Ah, there it is," Kalawarner taunted, her grin widening. "That lovely little rage of yours. Go on, show me what you've got. You never were good enough, were you? Not for me. Not for anyone."

Issei's fists shook as he watched the scene unfold, his mind racing. "How did they take her Sacred Gear?" he asked, his voice cracking. "And… what happens when someone loses it?"

Kiba's face darkened, his grip tightening on his sword. He lowered his head slightly, his voice strained. "If a Sacred Gear is forcibly taken… the person dies."

The words hit Issei like a hammer. His knees buckled slightly as he stared at Asia. "No… no, that can't be true," he whispered, his voice desperate.

Kiba didn't respond, his silence confirming the worst.

Asia let out a final scream before falling silent, her body slumping in her chains. Leo froze, his chest heaving as his glowing eyes locked onto her limp form.

"No…" he whispered, his voice trembling. "No, no, no…"

A guttural roar tore from his throat, the sound animalistic and filled with anguish. He tore through the remaining exorcists with renewed fury, their bodies crumpling under his relentless assault. Blood sprayed across the floor as he fought his way to the altar, his breathing erratic.

Raynare and Kalawarner watched from above, their laughter echoing through the room.

"Did you hear that, Kalawarner?" Raynare sneered. "We're going to be heroes. Beloved by the higher-ups. And all those pricks who doubted us? They'll regret it."

Leo climbed the stairs slowly, his eyes locked onto Asia's still form. His voice came out as a broken whisper. "Asia…"

Kalawarner smirked and stepped forward, her voice sickeningly sweet. "Here, let me give you a reward for all your hard work." With a flick of her wrist, she released Asia's chains, letting the girl's limp body fall.

"NO!" Leo shouted, lunging forward and catching her just in time.

He cradled her in his arms, his knees buckling as he sank to the ground. Her green eyes fluttered open briefly, and she gave him a weak smile.

"Leo…" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"Don't talk," he said, his voice shaking. "Save your strength. I'll… I'll get you out of here. Just hold on, please."

Asia's trembling hand reached up, brushing away his tears. "Don't… cry," she murmured. "I… don't want to make you sad."

Her hand fell limp, and her eyes closed for the final time.

"No… NO!" Leo screamed, shaking her gently. "Wake up! Asia, wake up!"

Her body remained still, her soul gone.

A broken laugh escaped Leo's lips, low and hollow. It grew louder, becoming an unsettling mixture of laughter and sobs. The sound echoed around the room, sending chills through everyone present.

Kiba clenched his jaw, his heart aching as he watched his friend crumble. "Leo…" he whispered, his voice strained.

Koneko's fists trembled at her sides, her usually stoic face twisted with sorrow. "He's… breaking," she said softly, her voice barely audible.

Issei fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face. "Leo…" he choked out. "I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…"

Raynare and Kalawarner smirked, their amusement growing as they watched Leo's despair.

"You worthless piece of human garbage!" He snarled, his voice low and dangerous. "You couldn't save her. You let her die... IT'S YOUR FAULT!"

Blue and green energy erupted around him, the sheer force destroying what was left of the church above. The ground shook violently, sending everyone sprawling as the power surged outward.

The Berserker had awakened.

Elsewhere in the Supernatural Realms

Asgard – Odin's Study

Odin sat in his study, the flickering light of the fire casting shadows on the walls lined with ancient books. A raven perched on his shoulder, cawing softly as the All-father felt the ripple of immense power across the realms. A grin spread across his weathered face, and he let out a hearty chuckle.

"Well, well. The big bad Berserker finally stirs," he mused, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "It's about time, lad."

Despite his casual tone, his single eye gleamed with a mix of pride and excitement. Ragnar, your bloodline lives on, and it seems the boy might finally be ready to wield it.

Heaven – Archangel Michael's Office

Michael paused mid-scroll, his quill hovering above the parchment. A faint but familiar presence tugged at his senses, and he turned to look out the window at the heavens.

"It's been centuries…" he murmured, a small, reverent smile gracing his lips. "Dear God, has it truly been that long? Ragnar… your descendant has returned."

His gaze softened, his thoughts briefly drifting to the memories of the fierce Viking who once wielded the Berserker's power. "May he find the strength to control it."

The Underworld – Sirzechs Lucifer's Office

Sirzechs sat at his ornate desk, his fingers steepled as he felt the shift in energy. A warm smile spread across his face as he leaned back in his chair, letting out a soft chuckle

"So… Ragnar's bloodline still burns strong." He closed his eyes briefly, his expression tinged with respect. "He helped my father once. If his descendant is anything like him, this will be… interesting."

The Grigori Headquarters – Azazel's Lounge

Azazel swirled the whiskey in his glass, his robe hanging loosely as he relaxed in his private quarters. The moment the surge of power reached him, he smirked and set the glass down.

"The Berserker, huh?" he muttered, his tone laced with amusement. "I never thought I'd feel that again." He leaned forward, resting his chin on his hand. "Ragnar's heir, back in the game… This is going to be fun to watch."

He reached for his whiskey again, raising the glass in a mock toast. "Here's to chaos."

The Forest Outside the Church

Rias stood tall, her crimson hair glowing faintly in the moonlight, her arms crossed as she observed the two fallen angels before her. Donahseek leaned on his spear casually, though his wings twitched nervously, while Mittelt had a smug grin plastered across her face, as though mocking the two Devils.

Akeno, holding her usual serene demeanor, sipped tea from a small cup she'd conjured, though her violet eyes gleamed with sharp focus.

"You're awfully calm for someone outnumbered," Mittelt sneered, her voice dripping with disdain.

Rias raised an eyebrow, ignoring the jab as she glanced at Akeno. "They're stalling," she said quietly.

Before the conversation could go further, a deafening boom erupted from the direction of the church. The ground quaked beneath their feet as a beam of green and blue energy shot into the sky, tearing through the night like a beacon of destruction.

The power that radiated from the explosion was overwhelming, suffocating, and filled with a raw, primal rage. Rias and Akeno froze, their eyes widening as they felt the killing intent ripple through the air.

"What… is that?" Akeno whispered, her usually calm voice trembling.

Mittelt dropped her cocky grin, her wings folding close as a shiver ran through her. "That… that can't be—"

Donahseek's spear clattered to the ground as he stumbled backward, his face pale and drenched with sweat. "We're fucked… we're dead. We're dead, we're dead," he muttered repeatedly, his voice growing more frantic.

"Shut up!" Mittelt shouted, though her voice cracked as tears welled in her eyes. "We just have to get out of here—"

Before they could make a move, an unseen force pressed down on them. The air grew heavy, and both fallen angels collapsed to their knees, gasping for breath.

"What… what's happening?" Mittelt whimpered, her tears streaming freely now.

Rias and Akeno exchanged a glance, confusion etched on their faces. The oppressive aura in the air was hauntingly familiar, yet terrifyingly foreign.

A Sudden Crash

The tension was shattered by a loud crash as something heavy landed nearby, sending dirt and debris flying into the air. A cloud of dust obscured their vision, but the sound of heavy, deliberate footsteps echoed through the clearing.

Rias stepped back instinctively, her crimson eyes narrowing as her heart raced. "Akeno," she said softly, her voice tinged with worry.

"I see it," Akeno replied, her teacup vanishing as she readied herself.

When the dust cleared, Kalawarner and Raynare lay crumpled on the ground. Their once-confident expressions were replaced with terror as they struggled to breathe, their bodies bruised and bloodied.

"This… can't be happening," Raynare rasped, her violet eyes wide with disbelief. "I'm immortal now! I have Twilight Healing!"

Kalawarner groaned, her wings trembling as she turned her head. Spotting the two other fallen angels, she reached out desperately. "Help us! Please!"

Another loud thud shook the ground, and a massive figure emerged from the shadows behind the fallen angels. His sheer presence was overwhelming.

The man was a behemoth, his bulging muscles rippling with barely-contained energy. His veins glowed faintly with a mix of green and blue, and his glowing eyes burned with unrelenting fury. Each step he took was deliberate, the ground trembling beneath him.

Rias and Akeno felt their breaths hitch as they instinctively stepped back. The figure's aura was suffocating, his killing intent washing over them like a tidal wave.

"That aura," Akeno whispered, her voice barely audible. "It's… Leo's, but…"

"…but it's not him," Rias finished, her voice trembling.

The behemoth stopped in front of the fallen angels, tilting his head slightly as he regarded them with a twisted grin.

Dohnaseek, summoning what little pride he had left, forced himself to stand and raised his spear. "I—I am a servant of Azazel! You—"

In an instant, the behemoth's hand shot out, gripping Dohnaseek by the throat. The fallen angel's words were cut off as his neck snapped with a sickening crack. His lifeless body disintegrated into a flurry of feathers.

Mittelt let out a blood-curdling scream, tears streaming down her face as she crawled backward. "Please! I don't want to die!"

The behemoth didn't hesitate. His massive hand plunged through her chest, and she convulsed before bursting into feathers.

Raynare and Kalawarner watched in horror, their bodies trembling as the behemoth turned to them.

"Stay… stay away," Kalawarner begged, her voice barely above a whisper.

The behemoth grinned, stepping over her prone form. His massive hands gripped her wings, and she let out a piercing scream as he tore them from her back with terrifying ease. Blood sprayed across the ground as her body convulsed in agony.

"Please!" she sobbed, her voice breaking.

The behemoth said nothing as he lifted his foot and brought it down on her head, crushing it and reducing her to feathers.

Raynare, now the last one standing, crawled backward, her body shaking. "I—I'll give it back!" she stammered, her voice desperate. "Twilight Healing—you can have it! Please!"

The behemoth knelt, gripping her face tightly and pulling her close. His glowing eyes burned into hers, his voice low and filled with venom.

"Did Asia beg for mercy when you tore her soul apart?" he growled. "Did you hesitate when you toyed with the lives of innocent people?"

Raynare sobbed, shaking her head. "I—I'm sorry! Please!"

"Sorry?" His grin widened, a dark and terrible thing. "Feel his rage as I've felt it!"

With a roar, he hurled her toward the ruins of the church. Her screams echoed as her body slammed into the debris, silencing her.

The behemoth turned to Rias and Akeno, his gaze softening. For a moment, the overwhelming killing intent faded, replaced by something familiar.

"He did well," the behemoth said, his voice gravelly. "But he still has much to learn."

Rias stepped forward cautiously. "Who… who are you?" she asked, her voice trembling.

The behemoth grinned, clutching his head as his body began to tremble. "Leo's done well," he muttered. "Take care of him. He holds you all in high regard… his mates."

With that, the massive figure collapsed to his knees, his body shrinking as the glow faded. When the dust settled, Leo knelt in his place, his clothes tattered and his face streaked with tears.

Leo doesn't even register Rias and Akeno standing behind him as he staggers toward the ruined church. Each step feels like dragging chains through the rubble. His arms tighten around Asia's small, lifeless body, her golden hair limp against his bloodied chest. He sinks to his knees amidst the shattered stone, his face crumpling as he bows his head.

Tears streaked his face as he carried her back to the altar where her faith had been betrayed, where her innocent hope had been extinguished. Kneeling, Leo gently laid her down. His hands clasped together, a gesture so automatic it betrayed the searing pain that accompanied it. Praying hurt—his body screamed in protest—but he didn't care.

"I'm sorry, Asia," he choked out, voice trembling. "I wasn't fast enough. I couldn't save you… but if you're listening… please… please forgive me."

The others watched in silence, their expressions betraying a mix of emotions:

Issei clenched his fists at his sides, his face shadowed with guilt. His best friend was grieving, and it twisted the knife in his heart that he couldn't protect Asia either.

Akeno furrowed her brows, her usual playful demeanor replaced by solemnity. Watching Leo's anguish stirred a pang of sympathy and regret deep within her.

Kiba stood a step behind, his jaw tight. His knightly instincts urged him to step forward, to help, but he knew there was no comfort he could offer for a loss like this.

Koneko remained quiet, her golden eyes glimmering with empathy.

Rias took a slow step forward, her crimson hair catching the flickering light of the ruined church. Her heart ached at the sight of Leo's tears. She wanted to fix this, to right the wrongs that had unfolded under her watch. Gently, she knelt beside him and rested a hand on his shoulder.

"Leo—"

Before she could finish, a loud crash echoed through the shattered sanctuary. All heads turned as a pile of debris shifted, revealing the battered form of Raynare crawling out, her black wings bent at awkward angles, her body bloodied and broken.

Leo's grief evaporated, replaced by a seething fury that burned behind his eyes. Standing slowly, he turned toward the fallen angel, his fists clenching so hard his knuckles turned white.

Raynare looked up, her face pale and panicked. "W-wait!" she stammered, raising a trembling hand. "P-please! Don't—!"

Leo stormed over, ignoring her pleas. Grabbing one of her wings, he yanked her upward, forcing her to meet his cold, unrelenting gaze.

"Don't what?" he said, his voice low and venomous. "Don't make you suffer? Don't give you what you deserve?"

Raynare squirmed, her breaths ragged. "I… I-I didn't mean—"

"Save your excuses." His grip tightened as he loomed over her. "You killed her. You killed someone who trusted you… someone pure. And now you'll understand what it feels like to lose something."

Raynare's eyes widened in terror. "No! Don't—!"

With a brutal motion, Leo tore the wing from her back, a sickening crack echoing as Raynare's scream pierced the air. Agony radiated through her, and she collapsed, clutching at the space where her wing had been.

"Enough," Rias's commanding voice cut through the tension. Her aura flared, the crimson power of destruction rippling around her like a living force. She stepped forward, regal and fearsome, her presence filling the space with an oppressive weight. "Leo," she said softly, her voice calming, "leave her to me."

Leo's gaze remained fixed on Raynare for a moment longer, his hands trembling with rage. Finally, he released her and stepped back, his chest heaving as he struggled to contain the storm within him.

Raynare's eyes darted to Rias, a flicker of recognition sparking amidst her pain. "W-wait… You're a Gremory?"

Rias's lips curved into a dangerous smile. "That's right. And you've trespassed on my territory."

Fear flooded Raynare's features. "I didn't know! I swear I didn't know this land was—!"

"Silence," Rias snapped, her aura surging. The ground beneath her feet cracked as her power condensed, swirling in her palm. "Do you have any last words?"

Raynare's expression twisted with hatred. "Damn you," she spat. "Damn you, and damn that boy who thinks he can—"

Her curse was cut short as Rias unleashed a bolt of destruction, the energy consuming Raynare in a burst of crimson light. When the brilliance faded, nothing remained but a charred mark on the ground.

Silence fell, broken only by Leo's ragged breathing. He staggered back toward Asia, dropping to his knees beside her. His fury was gone, replaced by a crushing weight of sorrow.

Rias approached, her aura dimming as she knelt beside him. Her hand rested on his shoulder, and he leaned into her touch, finding a small measure of comfort in her presence.

"She doesn't have to stay like this," Rias said gently, her voice laced with compassion. Reaching into her pocket, she produced a small, pure white bishop piece, the polished surface gleaming faintly in the dim light.

Leo's eyes widened. "A… bishop piece."

She smiled softly, her hand brushing the side of his face. "Not just any bishop piece. An evil piece. The same kind I used to bring you back."

He blinked in shock, his gaze flicking between her and Asia. Slowly, Rias placed her fingers over Asia's chest, the Twilight Healing artifact glimmering faintly on her hand.

"This will work," she whispered. "I promise."

With careful precision, she pushed the bishop piece into Asia's chest, the light growing brighter as the magic began to take effect.

Leo watched with baited breath, a flicker of hope breaking through his despair.

The once closed eyes of Asia slowly opened revealing her green emerald eyes. Leo's breath hitched in his throat as he saw her slowly sit up and look around confused. Her eyes land on him and Issei.

"Leo? Issei?" She asked before Leo enveloped her in a hug, tears of joy leaked out of his eyes having his friend back.

"Welcome back, Asia."