Chapter 14: Collaboration with the Holy Sword users
"Here, I come, Issei-kun! Amen!" Irina launched herself forward, furiously slashing her sword. Issei had to admit she was pretty fast; it was nothing he couldn't handle.
"There's something you ought to know, Irina-san," Issei said as his lips curled into a light smirk.
Clang
". . .I'm not such an easy target." She was surprised and disappointed that his Boosted Gear blocked her sword. "You will need to do better than that," quickly counterattacking with a few rapid jabs to the stomach that made her skid back a little. He attempted to follow it up with a roundhouse kick, but she avoided it by backflipping away a few feet.
"How is that possible? My Excalibur Mimic should have dealt damage to you," Irina's purple eyes went to his red gauntlet before widening. "Wait! You're the Red Dragon Emperor?!"
"Bingo," Issei continued smirking. "Come on, Irina-san, give me a real challenge."
(Boost) (Boost) (Boost)The green jewel of Issei's Sacred Gear glowed a couple of times.
Irina prepared herself. "Don't worry, Issei-kun; this is only a sample of what I can do with my Excalibur Mimic. Prepare yourself to feel its true power! Amen!"
He watched as she dashed toward him with greater speed than she had previously and started slashing her sword again. However, this time, Issei could see her intentions were true. Her intentions were incapacitation, not murderous, though the way she was slashing her sword at him showed she meant business. How she bombarded him with deadly slashes and lethal precision showed she was a technique fighter. Because of the times he sparred with Kiba and trained under Sirzechs-sama, he knew how these types of fighters fought in combat. Thanks to his experience, Issei was able to defend, outmaneuver, and counterattack.
Just when she was about to slash her sword at him again, Issei ducked low while kicking her in the stomach before following it up with a spinning aerial kick to the face.
Even though Irinia was kicked a few feet, she bounced back onto her feet. "That's not fair, Issei-kun! I had no idea you were this skilled at combat," Irina complained.
"You should have done your homework," replying as he watched her sword morph into a silly piece of string. He wondered what her new strategy was, though he braced himself for what might be a new attack.
Irina then did something unorthodox. She not only charged forward but also brought her string around to wrap around her opponent. Issei was almost surprised when the string turned back into a sword; at the last second, he blocked it with his gauntlet, though that had been the end of it. After her initial attack was blocked, Irina revered her grip on her sword, hitting Issei a few times in the midsection and pushing him back with a strong front kick. She would have continued her attack, though he caught her wrist when she attempted to swipe her katana at him.
". . .that was a good combo you just used," Issei complimented, meeting her determined look with his own. "However, you'll need to do a lot better if you want to defeat me."
Irina attempted to punch Issei in the face, but her fist got caught in his hand. In retaliation, he brought her closer to headbutt her in the face. As she recoiled, he followed up with a few powerful jabs to her stomach, two hard uppercuts to the face, an open palm strike to her jaw, and a jackknife kick to the face that sent her spiraling away.
"Seems like Issei is doing well," Rias commented with a smile on her face.
"I'll say," Akeno agreed. "He may be up against an Excalibur sword user, but his skills as a martial artist and usage of his Boosted Gear's abilities more than make up for any disadvantage he'd be up against."
"I wonder if Issei-sempai can teach me some of those moves." Everyone looked at Koneko with surprised expressions at what she said. She, however, ignored the stares directed at her to focus on her senpai's battle. In truth, she was a little envious of his skills as a melee fighter.
"How is this even possible? Just how many martial art forms do you know?!" Irina groaned while getting back up to her feet and wiping the blood from her face. "I heard dragons were powerful, but this is something else!"
"To be fair, I'm not even using my draconic abilities," said Issei. "I commend you for your skills, Irina-san, and I can tell that you've trained long and hard. However, you still have a long way to go. There's no shame in calling this match of ours," he offered.
That caused her to narrow her eyes at him. "Not happening, Issei-kun," bringing her hands together like she was praying. This is, without a doubt, a God has set for me! I know he pushed this trial onto me to test my resolve, and as a child of God, I will prove my worthiness! Amen!" A look of pure determination marred her features.
"I admire your determination. Then perhaps it's time I kick it up a notch," Issei took a fighting stance.
(Boost) (Boost)The green jewel in his Boosted Gear lit up twice, increasing his power even more.
Issei shot a brief glance toward Kiba and Xenovia. Kiba's speed and Sword Birth allowed him to match Xenovia and her Excalibur of Destruction. However, he could see that she hadn't even begun to fight yet, and the waves of anger and rage that flowed off of Kiba were clouding his judgment. The anger in his silver eyes showed nothing but destruction, as he was not fighting in the right state of mind. Kiba's anger and single-mindedness on destroying the Excalibur swords will be his undoing.
Kiba landed a few meters back to where his other demonic swords were when Xenovia knocked him back after his initial attack. He stabbed his sword of Betrayer into the ground and grabbed two more swords. One was emitting fire and the other ice. "It's time for you to burn and freeze!" He said, charging in while slashing his swords at Xenovia with dangerous intent.
"You're so naive!" She destroyed Kiba's swords with a single slash. Xenovia spun her Excalibur in the air before stabbing it into the ground. Issei immediately jumped away when the ground shook from the explosion. However, Irina was unable to react in time and ended up on the ground, getting covered in dirt and dust.
One look in her direction and everyone could see not only dust surrounding the sapphire-haired Exorcist's location but also a huge crater that had been created when she had stabbed her sword into the ground. "The Holy Sword of Destruction, Excalibur Destruction. This sword's name is not just for show!" She took her sword out of the ground and pointed it at Kiba, who narrowed his eyes.
". . . Excalibur Destruction. Even after splitting into seven pieces, it still holds this much power. Then I guess there will have to be a lot of carnage when I destroy them all," Kiba said with a dark grin.
"Kiba? Do not be so single-minded. . ." Issei said with a mixture of concern and disappointment. He averted his gaze back to Irina.
"Geeze, Xenovia-san. Give me a warning or something before you decide to destroy the ground," Irina, who was back on her feet, brushed the dirt off her uniform. She then picked up her katana, taking a ready stance. Issei mirrored her smile as he regained her composure, ready to continue their battle. "It's time to finish our little contest, Issei-kun. I'm going to prove that a Devil is no match for a child of God!" Shooting herself forward, she slashed her sword at Issei several times.
(Boost)
(Explosion)Ddraig said.
It's not that Issei needed the extra power, considering he had already won the duel. In reality, he was only testing his friend's skills, wanting to see how far she'd come and see if her resolve was true. Using his enhanced speed and strength, he outmaneuvered her and started launching a few counterattacks. Issei jumped out of the way of an incoming slash before doing a couple backflips and adding a corkscrew. A light blush appeared on Rias' face when he landed and shot her a quick wink along with his signature grin.
That action did not go unnoticed by Akeno, Asia, or Koneko. Yet the latter ignored it, whilst the other two had different expressions. A slightly jealous Asia puffed her cheeks out in a cute pout. Akeno was amused.
"Ara, Ara, Rias. Are you sure I cannot borrow Issei-kun for a day?" Akeno giggled.
"No, Akeno! Issei is mine," Rias stated in a firm voice, glaring at her.
Back with Irina. She looked at the two Devils with a little confusion, then at Issei. Were he and the crimson-haired girl together? If so, then when did that occur? Those questions left her mind as she returned to her current situation. . .fighting her childhood friend whose speed and power had increased. "H-How are you this fast? Is this the power of your Boosted Gear?!"
He smirked. "I am the Red Dragon Emperor. Dragon Shot!" He fired three demonic balls at her.
She dodged the first two and cut the last one in half with her sword. Just as she charged in, preparing to slash at his midsection, Issei fell back onto his hands as she slashed through the air. "Wha—"
Issei didn't let her finish as he propelled himself up; kicking her chin with both feet, he sent her back a couple of meters. "That hurt," Irina said, rubbing her chin. I think you almost broke my lower jaw."
"Hmm. Better brace yourself, Irina-san," Issei warned as he ran forward while she got up, attempting to strike at him again, but once again, her sword failed to connect.
Irina was taken back by his new speed, desperately trying to keep up, but none of her strikes were connecting, though his were. Issei attacked her with a combination of punches, elbows, and kicks at different parts of her body. Attempting to figure out his fighting style and counter was difficult, to say the least. But then it happened. Just when she was bringing her sword down on him, he got in close and punched her hands with enough force that sent her katana flying out of her hands. He followed this up by applying pressure points to her right arm, a few short but powerful to her stomach, and a palm strike to her face that sent her to the ground.
The katana fell into his left hand, which he held at her.
"Looks like I've won this match. Well done, my old friend," said Issei as he lowered the katana from her face.
"Oh, how could this have happened?! Dear God, please forgive me for failing to show this Devil the error of his ways," Irina pleaded in prayer to her leader.
"There is no shame in losing," Issei commented, seeing a look of disappointment on her face. "You are a skilled fighter and Excalibur user. However, there is still room for improvement. For starters, you should research your opponent before engaging them in battle. Also, you should try to be less predictable in your attacks."
"Come on," extending his hand out to her.
Irina accepted his gesture by raising her left arm so he could grab her hand and help her to her feet. Her right arm, however, was another matter, as she couldn't feel it. "What did you do to my arm? It's completely numb!"
"Pressure points," Issei responded. "Don't worry. The numbness will go away in about a half hour. He handed her sword back to her, which she turned into rope and tied it to her numbed arm.
Still a little embarrassed, a light blush appeared on her cheeks. Issei was powerful and domineering yet also compassionate and supportive. ". . . Say, Issei-kun. How much were you holding back? Like for real."
"Mm. Let's just say if I used my Balance Breaker, you be nothing more than a pile of ashes." Her eyes widened at what he said. She wondered just how powerful he really is. "Speaking of which, I could see from how you fought that you had training in Karate, Kickboxing, and Kendo."
"I am both impressed and shocked at how you were able to deduce that from a single match," amazement was laced in her voice.
They, like the others, turned their attention to Kiba and Xenovia. The two were still going at it, though Issei could only sigh at the way Kiba was fighting. Rias saw this and agreed as Yuuto was fighting from his anger and pain and leaving gaps in his technique.
"I'm not through! Kiba yelled. A new sword manifested in his hands, though this one was much longer and looked much heavier than whatever sword he had ever created. "The destructive power of your holy-sword or the destructive power of my demonic-sword! Let us see which one is the strongest!" He angrily swung his sword at Xenovia, who prepared for his incoming attack.
Xenovia sighed. "Too bad. You've overlooked something important," she said, moving in close just when he brought his sword down and hit him in the gut with the axe part of her sword.
Kiba's sword had been destroyed. But more than that, his expression was one of confusion, disbelief, and pain as he coughed up a large amount of blood before falling to the ground.
"While this outcome was inevitable, I will commend your speed, agility, and your Sacred Gear. However, aside from lacking the power to wield large swords, you are also sealing away that speed you are so proud of. It's hard to believe you didn't realize that factor," she said, standing above him with a disappointed look. Then turned in the other direction and started walking away.
"N-No. Wait, I'm not done," Kiba groaned in pain, reaching out to her.
"The next time you decide to fight me, be more rational and use better judgment, my senpai," she looked over her shoulder with a mocking smirk. That only served to anger Kiba even further, not that she seemed to care in the slightest. Xenovia picked up her discarded white robe. "Gremory," she started addressing Rias with a cool expression, "your servant, Hyoudou Issei, is very powerful, as he bested Irina-san in a fair fight. The rumors about this generation's current Red Dragon Emperor appear to be true. Although my duel with your Knight should be proof enough for you to not interfere with our mission, correct?"
"Yes. I'm grateful that you didn't use a killing blow to end my servant's life with your Holy Sword. Thank you for your integrity," Rias replied as Xenovia and Irina put their robes back on, although Irina required some help from Issei.
"And please remember what we discussed. . ." Xenovia turned away. "We will count on you to not involve yourselves in our mission."
"Before you go. There is one thing I would like to know," Rias said in a calm yet firm voice. "Do you know which Fallen Angel is guilty of stealing the Excalibur swords?"
"We know who is responsible, yes. It was the leader of the Grigori, Kokabiel. He is the one who was directly involved," said Xenovia. Issei's gaze hardened at what she said, and he clutched his fist. He would make that rotten bastard pay.
"Who are the Grigori?" Asia asked.
Akeno then explained. "There a group of Fallen Angels, also known as the Ones who watch over the Children of God."
"You're planning on taking on a leader class, Fallen Angel? Are you two intending to die?" Rias inquired.
"We do what we must to keep the Fallen Angels from acquiring the Holy Swords. It would be better for us to just to destroy them rather than let the Fallen Angles use them. Even at the cost of our lives," Xenovia said as Irina came over.
"We understand the dangers. There has already been one casualty. He was a priest sent before us to investigate this town," Irina added.
"The one responsible was Sellzen. Freed Sellzen." Asia gasped at what Kiba said. "I ran into Freed after the priest fell dead in front of me. To make matters worse, he definitely had one of the seven Excalibur swords."
"Interesting, it was a Stray Exorcist. At least we know what we're up against," Xenovia said, her voice showing she was thinking. The information you've shared is appreciated, but do not involve yourself in our affairs any further."
"Hold on, wait for me, Xenovia-san!" Irina called out as her partner was walking away. "Looks like we have to go now. Goodbye, for now, Issei-kun. If you want to meet up sometime, then let me know. Amen!" She kissed her cross.
"Wait, Irina-san. There is something I'd like to talk to you about in private real quick," Issei said before she could leave.
"Oh? What would that be?" She inquired with a look of curiosity. Xenovia had turned around to see Irina following Issei several meters away from the others.
When the two were behind the tree, Issei began. "Look, I understand that this mission means a lot to the two of you. But you will need to be careful. Freed already has one Excalibur sword, so you can bet he will likely have others as well."
"I appreciate your concern, Issei-kun. Rest assured, we'll do our best to be careful," Irina promised.
"This is crucial," he replied seriously. I'm under orders from Azazel-sama and Sirzechs-sama. If you have any more information regarding the situation, please tell me."
Irina was a little taken aback by what he said. One of the Maou's and the Governor-General of the Fallen Angles had decided to get involved. Thinking for a few minutes, she contemplated what to do. The higher-ups may have assigned this mission to her and Xenovia-san, but the chances of them surviving were very slim. Plus, the information the Gremory Knight shared about Sellzen having an Excalibur sword and killing the priest were two distinct causes for concern. If Issei-kun were to provide some assistance, then their chances of victory would increase. Devil or not, he was still Issei. A good friend to her whom she trusts. He is an honorable person. There were times during their battle when he could have cheated by using his tail or wings, but he didn't.
Coming to a decision, she took a breath. "From what we know. There is one more person involved:Galilei, Valper. The archbishop of annihilation. He was the mastermind behind the Holy Sword Project. I take it you know how that turned out?"
"Unfortunately, I do," Issei said, rubbing the back of his head. "This does complicate matters. Kokabiel is one thing, but if Freed and Valper are working with him, then that could mean real trouble."
"Indeed," Irina quipped.
"All right here. . ." Issei reached into his pocket, taking out two vials of phoenix tears and putting them in her left hand. "Take these with you. If you two run into any trouble, then use these."
Irina threw her arm around his neck. Just before she made contact, he materialized part of his Balance Breaker armor to protect his chest and stomach. "Thank you, Issei-kun. I won't forget this."
"Good luck, and remember, if you need me, then give me a call," he said, hugging her back and giving his phone number.
The two parted ways, Irina leaving with Xenovia while Issei returned to his group.
(00)
As night fell, Kiba prepared to leave after Asia had finished healing him. Anger was swelling in him as he was determined to destroy the Excalibur swords, even at the cost of his own life. The fear, anger, and pain he and his comrades went through during the Holy Sword project was something he would never forget. Everyone he knew and cared about. His friends had been killed.
Issei fully understood Kiba's anger and pain; some scars run deeper than most and require longer to heal. He watched with his arms folded as Kiba attempted to leave the club room, but Rias stopped him. "Hold it, Yuuto. You realize I will never permit you to leave me. You are my servant and a Knight of the House of Gremory," she firmly reminded him.
"I'm sorry, Buchou," was all Kiba said before leaving out the door.
"Yuuto—"
"Leave it, Rias," came Issei. "I have some business to take care of. Can you take Asia home?" Everyone watched in bewilderment as he left after Kiba.
Before Kiba could exit the building, Issei grabbed him by the shoulder. "Do not try and stop me, Issei-kun," the dark edge in Kiba's voice could be heard.
"Whoever said I was going to stop you," Issei replied. Kiba turned halfway around to look at him. "As it is, I am resisting a powerful urge to punch you in the face and knock some sense back into you. But doing that will not help as this is your choice."
"Then what do you want?" Kiba heard the tone in his voice and narrowed his eyes, wondering what Issei had to say.
"To give you a warning," the brunette stated in a firm voice. "I understand what happened to you in the Holy Sword Project, and your anger is justified. But know this: if you go out hunting the Excalibur Swords with the same mindset you fought today, you'll get yourself killed."
"Is that it?"
"You should also know that I will finish you myself if you become a stray devil! Whatever death you are given will not compare to the pain it will cause me to do the deed." Kiba was surprised at Issei's declaration and could tell by the look in his eyes that he was telling the truth. Now fully turned around, their eyes met as Issei stepped forward. "What that means is that I would hate for you to put me in that position."
The two locked eyes for what seemed like hours but was only a few minutes. Kiba then answered, "you have my word that I will return once this business with the Excalibur swords has been dealt with."
"Then you better take some insurance. . ." reaching into his left pocket, he pulled out two vials of phoenix tears. He placed them in Kiba's hand. The two then shared a brotherly hug before separating.
"I will be back," Kiba promised, leaving the main door to the Old School Building.
Then, using a magic circle, Issei teleported himself into the Maous throne chamber to brief Sirzechs-sama about the current situation. Upon arrival, he was relieved to see his friend but had yet to leave the premises. Luckily, he wasn't alone, as Azazel-sama and Grayfia-san were also present. The former flashed him a grin while the latter acknowledged with a nod as she stood by the throne Sirzechs-sama was currently occupying. He then offered a respectful bow.
"Oh, Issei-kun, it's you," Sirzechs began. His expression was calm, and he greeted him with a smile. "Don't get me wrong, while I am always happy to see you. . .I get the feeling that this is anything but a courtesy visit."
"Your instincts serve you well," Issei quipped, "and while I do wish the circumstances were different, there is a grave matter that you and Azazel-sama need to be aware of. It concerns Kokabiel and the two members of the church. They were Excalibur Holy Sword users." He said in a firm, unyielding voice, showing that what he had to say was serious.
Sirzechs narrowed his eyes and immediately went into Maou mode. "Report," his tone of voice was serious, and Azazel's gaze hardened.
Issei explained what happened during the meeting between Rias' group and the two church members. All three of them listened with interest. Issei then touched on the duel he and Kiba had against Irina-san and Xenovia-san. This was followed by the information they shared during the aftermath of the duel ". . .they are fully aware that Kokabiel was the one responsible for stealing three of the Excalibur Holy Swords. Despite the seriousness of the mission and the fact that there is a good chance of them dying, they wish for the destruction of the swords rather than allowing them to be in the hands of the Fallen Angels. Moreover, Irina-san believes Valper Galilei and Freed Sellzen are likely working with Kokabiel."
"In other words: This is a more serious situation than we originally thought," Sirzechs said. His usual calm-serious demeanor became a little dark. He then glanced at an equally unhappy Azazel. "It seems the reports from our spies were true."
"Damn it all," Azazel half growled, cursing his subordinate. "The current peace between the factions is hanging on only by a thread. This is likely the start of what he has in mind. It's clear he stole the Excalibur Holy Swords to provoke the Archangel Michael-sama into action. And the fact that this is taking place in the same town where Sirzechs and Serafall's onee-chan's are is no coincidence."
"Remember what you reported on what Dohnaseek said the night you encountered him?" He looked at Issei, who only nodded.
"He said his boss was dissatisfied with the end of the first three-way war," he thought for a second. His eyes widened, then became dangerously serious. The bastard's ultimate goal is to restart the war between the Angels, Fallen Angels, and the Devils," Issei said, his face a mixture of anger and concern.
"What do you want me to do?" Looking directly at Sirzechs.
Sirzechs took a deep breath. "I would never suggest this lightly, but with what is at stake. . . Desperate times call for desperate measures." Issei's assumption about what his friend/mentor was about to say came to fruition. "You are to find and help the two people from the church on their mission. They want to destroy the Excalibur swords to prevent Kokabiel, Freed, and Valper from starting another war, and we want to ensure the peace between our factions remains. Therefore, our interests are one and the same."
"As for Kokabiel. I know how much you want revenge for what he did to you, so you have my permission to execute him."
"Hold on, Sirzechs," Azazel spoke, cutting into the conversation. "Remember, Kokabiel is a part of my faction, and what he's doing is happening without my consent. Even though I cannot interfere directly, that doesn't mean I won't hesitate to punish him in the most horrendous way possible. I want him alive, though if he proves to be too much of a problem, then he dies."
Sirzechs reluctantly agreed. Azazel turned to Issei with a grin. "Here is an incentive for you to get the job done. Have him brought back to me alive. . .I don't care what shape he's in. Do that, and the reward of 17.2 million yen will be awarded to you."
Issei scoffed. "That's all he's worth? After everything he's put me through and is planning to do, that's how much compensation you're offering for his capture?! I'm going to need a lot more incentive to keep him alive."
Azazel clicked his tongue. "Tch, fine," he conceded. He fully understood that asking the boy to bring Kokabiel back alive would be too difficult. Especially after all the pain he caused him. There was also the fact that Kokabiel was a leader-class Fallen Angel who fought in the first three-way war against God and the former Maous. Azazel smirked as an idea formed in his head. "How's this? Have Kokabiel brought back to me alive, and I'll award you 23.7 million yen. However, you'll receive only 12 million yen if you kill him. Is that fair?"
Issei grunted. "I can live with that," he said. "Just to confirm, I can do whatever I want to him so long as he remains alive. Even if he loses some of his limbs?"
"Yes."
"All right, fine. What about Freed and Valper? How do you want them?"
"That question goes to me," Sirzechs brought his fingers together. "Freed is a high-ranking stray exorcist who has killed several Devils. Valper Galilei, on the other hand. . .well, his reputation is already well-known among the other higher-ups. They are worth 2.9 million yen."
Issei let out a low whistle. "Guess I have work to do," he said, turning around but stopped halfway. "What about Leviathan-sama? Do we tell her what's going on?"
"No. It'd be wise to keep this away from her for a while. If she finds out about Kokabiel's intentions toward the town her onee-chan lives in, more importantly, if he targets Sona-tan herself, then. . ." giving Issei a knowing look.
"It goes without saying that all hell will break loose," he finished for him.
"Right in one," Sirzechs commented.
"I have to make another stop," said Issei. He used a magic circle to teleport out of the chamber.
(00)
Rias and her servants were at school the next day, though the day appeared to go by fast, not that anyone was complaining. School was almost over, and soon, the students would be allowed to leave. Issei and Asia were relaxing by one of the school's walking areas while many of their peers roamed the grounds. Not too long later, the Perverted Duo Motohama and Matsuda approached Asia to ask her to attend a karaoke club with them. While Issei would have just told them to "fuck off," there was something more important on his mind at the moment.
Kiryuu appeared out of nowhere and invited herself to tag along. ". . .I'll be joining as well."
"What do you say, Asia? Are you in?" Motohama asked.
"Uh, well, I—" she turned her head a little to see Issei's blank expression as he stared off into the sky. "Issei-san, are you all right?"
It was like her words fell on deaf ears as he continued to stare off into space. Motohama, Matsuda, and Kiryuu soon got into an argument about what songs they were going to sing at the Karaoke club. Who would be the best singer, etc.
"Well, what do we have here," came Genshirou Saji. The student council secretary and Sona-san's Pawn. He stepped in when Motohama and Matsuda were trying to hit on Asia. "Good day to you, Asia-san. Trust me, you will only soil yourself if you hang around too long with them," referring to the Perverted Duo and Kiryuu.
"Hello, Saji-san," said Asia.
"Blonde boy said what?"
"I don't want to hear that from the student council's secretary!" Motohama stated.
Saji merely smirked as he turned around. "Well, everyone, I'll take my leave now. Please try to stay out of trouble and do not corrupt Asia-san." Those were his last words as he walked away.
A light smile crossed Issei's lips when he got an idea while watching Saji leave. "Yeah, that could work. . ."
(00)
At the end of classes, Issei sent Saji a message requesting they meet at a nearby cafe to discuss something important. While waiting at a table, Issei smirked as he sensed two familiar people nearby. One was Koneko-chan. He had a feeling she would want to tag along. Drinking some of his tea, he looked out from the corner of his left eye when the person he'd been waiting for had arrived.
"Yo, Hyoudou," Saji greeted. They were both Pawns and not enemies. They actually started to get along after Issei broke Rias's engagement with Riser and displayed his strength in the Rating Game. Saji still considered Issei to be his rival but also an ally.
"Thanks for coming on short notice, Saji."
"No need to worry about it," Saji replied, raising his hand and brushing it off to let Issei know it was no big deal, and took a seat. "So, what's up? Why did you call me out here?"
Issei took in a breath. "You better get comfortable because this conversation is not something you're going to like. . ." Saji's expression fell as a cold shiver ran down his spine.
For the next ten or so minutes, Issei explained his plan.
Saji stared at Issei with wide eyes. His grey eyes were laced with fear, anger, and refusal. Mostly fear. "What, hell no?! Are you freaking serious?!"
"Completely. I'm asking for your help. . ." Issei bowed his head, pleading for him to agree.
"You're insane!" Saji shouted. However, he quickly sat back down, seeing that his raised voice had drawn the other customers' attention. He then returned his voice to normal. "Do you understand what you are saying? You do realize that both our Kings will punish us for being involved with the Holy Swords and you still want to destroy them? Kaichou will have my head on a pike if she finds out. I mean, you have Rias-senpai; she may be strict, but she is also compassionate. On the other hand, Kaichou is a pure menace who delights in dealing out punishments. No way, sorry," he got up and started to walk away.
Saji had only walked a few steps when someone grabbed his shirt, preventing him from further walking away. He turned to see who or what was keeping him there, only to see that Koneko-chan had been sitting at a table behind them, having a parfait. "Big surprise; I had a feeling you would try to leave." Issei's lips tugged into a small grin when he stood up. "I suspected you were up to something when I saw you earlier during the break, Issei-senpai. You sensed I was near," Koneko said.
"That I did," Issei confirmed with a curt nod. "If it means anything, I'm glad you're here," he exchanged the table he was sitting at for the one she was at. Sitting beside her, he watched as she forced Saji into the seat to her left.
" . . . There's no need for me to be here. I'm going home," a teary-eyed Saji attempted to leave, but Koneko forced him back down to his seat.
"You really want to cooperate with the church, huh?" Koneko looked at Issei with a questioning look while keeping Saji in place.
"They said they would rather destroy the swords than let the Fallen Angles have them," he stated.
"True. Even if they are successful in destroying the swords, they'll still want to recover them," Koneko replied.
"Kiba seeks vengeance against Excalibur and the Church, though they wish to destroy their wish to recover them before the Fallen Angels can use them," Issei said. "However, we look at it, our interest and the end result are the same. Plus, if we help, then Kiba will probably let go of his anger and remain a Devil with us."
"Your plan may be more complex than you make it sound. It's unlikely they will just go along with what you say," she voiced her opinion.
"We have to take the chance!" Issei stubbornly stated. "This is more than just about our differences. If Kokabiel is successful in using the swords, then we'll be up to our necks in another war between the Angels and Fallen Angels. Furthermore, we could lose Kiba in the process."
"Agreed," Koneko conceded as he made a valid point. She stood up, "first we will have to find them. I'm not too fond of the idea of keeping this from Buchou and Akeno-senpai, but I don't want to lose Kiba-senpai either."
Issei stood up as well. "This is a difficult situation, but given the circumstances, I think this is the best course of action." He then placed a hand on her shoulder when she looked down with a little sadness. "That said, I can guarantee you two things. One: that if Rias and Akeno-san do find out what we're up to, then I will take the heat for you. Two: I will do everything in my power to keep Kiba from leaving."
Koneko looked at him with a surprised expression. A soft smile replaced the sad look on her face. Issei removed his hand when his phone started to vibrate.
Buzz Buzz Buzz
He pulled his phone out of his pocket and read the message he received. His eyes momentarily widened when he read who it was from. "This certainly makes things easier. We know where they are now."
(00)
The three of them spent the next twenty minutes walking through town. "Why do I have to be involved in this?" Saji complained. "You got your team's Rook with you, so what do you need me for?"
"We stand a better chance of being together than apart," Issei explained. "Don't forget that this affects all of us because if Kokabiel's plans succeed, then we're done for. We could also capitalize on this when the higher-ups find out; it'll bolster the image of both the Gremory and Sitri Houses."
"So stop your gripping and grow a pair," Koneko added. "We have to find those white robe weirdos first. . ."
"I think we already did," said Issei, pointing in a direction.
"Please give blessings to the lost lamb."
"Please give charity to us on behalf of the father in heaven!"
The two were begging for offerings from the people passing them. Instead of money, a few people looked at them with confused expressions. Issei raised an eyebrow when he looked at some weird painting resting behind them.
"This is completely sad," Issei said, getting their attention.
"Completely," Koneko commented.
"Issei-kun. I knew you would come in our time of need," Irina perked up when she saw him while Xenovia frowned.
"You called him. Even after I said we didn't need his help," Xenovia's voice dripped with disdain.
"Out of everyone in Kuoh, Issei-kun is the one I trust the most," Irina defended.
"Do I dare ask how this happened?" There was sarcasm in his voice.
"W-Well, uh. . .that's a long story," Irina hesitantly responded.
Issei only sighed. "You were tricked into buying an amateur second-rate painting from a con artist and are now completely broke. Does that sum it up?"
Irina didn't need to say anything as her stomach growled, showing she was hungry. Xenovia's stomach was the next to growl in hunger.
"Yeah, I figured so. Come on, there's a family restaurant nearby. There is some business we need to discuss, and it looks like you two are in need of something to eat," he said the last part with a hint of humor in his voice.
Xenovia looked ready to protest, but her stomach growled again. Irina's eyes were soon filled with stars, and she began to salivate when he pulled out his wallet.
(00)
They went to the nearby family restaurant, where the three Devils agreed to buy them some food. Well, Issei was paying for them to eat, not that the brunette minded. He made more than enough money from what he made after fulfilling his clients' requests and the earnings from the missions he would sometimes take from Sirzechs-sama, Azazel-sama, or the other higher-ups. Even though he had money, he was still surprised by how much they were eating. The two of them ate like they hadn't had anything in weeks. Did the church only give their members the bare minimum or something?
"You guys might want to slow down before you choke on your food," Issei commented as he watched the two. Koneko and Saji looked slightly uncomfortable watching them eat.
"Delicious! Irina-san, the food in this country is delicious!" Xenovia said as she continued eating as much food as she could.
"This, this is amazing! It's been so long since I had food from my home country," replied Irina.
"This is a sight to behold. . ." Said Saji. A drop of sweat fell down the side of his face. They must've been really hungry.
"Here is your order of hamburger steak," the waitress said, dropping two more plates onto the table.
Within a few minutes, the two people from the church practically ate almost everything on the menu. "What just happened?" Xenovia asked in a low, contemptuous voice. "Even if it's to build faith, the world must be ending for us to accept help from Devils."
"We practically sold our souls to the Devils," Irina prayed. "Oh, God, please have mercy on these kind Devils for coming to us in our time of need." She made a cross over her heart.
A stinging pain soon fell over the three; Koneko and Saji held their heads in pain for the prayer they received from the chestnut-haired girl. However, even though Issei felt pain in his head, it didn't affect him as much as it did on the others.
"Irina-san. Remember what we are," Issei reminded through his gritted teeth.
"Ooh, sorry. That was out of habit," Irina ended her prayer to apologize. She had briefly forgotten that any sort of prayer to the Lord for a Devil would be painful.
Xenovia downed her glass of water and then put it back on the table, narrowing her eyes at the three Devils, namely at Issei. "Red Dragon Emperor, why would you do this for us?"
"You really need to stop assuming all Devils are the same," Issei easily commented. "I'm doing this for two reasons. Irina may be a member of the church, but I don't want to see her die on a thankless mission that is well above her pay grade. She may be naive, but she is still my friend. After all, I did give her two vials of phoenix tears," glancing at Irina, who reached into her pocket and showed the vials to her partner. "The other reason is because we want to help you destroy Excalibur."
"What?" Xenovia narrowed her eyes in surprise. Was this Devil being serious right now?
". . ."
"I understand the situation. In that case, I do not mind letting you guys take care of one sword," Xenovia said.
"Wait a minute, Xenovia-san," Irina interjected, and a pleased look appeared on Issei's face. Saji looked agitated, wishing she would have declined. "While I trust Issei-kun with my life. . . He and the others are still Devils."
"The other side is aligned with a leader of the Fallen Angles, Kokabiel," Xenovia rationalized. "In all honesty, it will be most difficult for us to recover all three of the Excalibur swords on our own."
"I understand that, but—" Irina tried to find the right words, but Xenovia continued.
"If they help us, then we have a thirty percent chance of surviving and returning home," Xenovia explained.
"We understood the dangers when we accepted the mission," Irina argued.
Xenovia then replied. "True. We were sent by the higher-ups fully prepared to sacrifice our lives for the cause."
"Isn't that the believer's dream? To do this for our Lord," Irina said.
"Let me explain something to you," Xenovia narrowed her eyes. "You spent all our money on that ridiculous painting, so we're broke. We have no backup, and our ability to fight someone like Kokabiel, let alone Freed Sellzen—who has an Excalibur Holy Sword and probably the other two—is rather limited. Therefore, our odds of surviving without the Devil's aid are low.Very low. Also, didn't you say you trusted Hyoudou-san with your life a few minutes ago?"
Irina was taken aback by Xenovia's statement. "Besides being the Red Dragon Emperor, he is still powerful even without his Boosted Gear," said Xenovia.
The two stared at each other for a couple of minutes like they were sharing a silent conversation.
(00)
The group went to the center of the town near the fountain as the sun started to set. They met up with Kiba, who'd been waiting near the fountain where Issei killed the Fallen Angel, Raynare. Issei sent him a message telling him they had to meet up. There, he explained their agreement on dealing with the Excalibur Swords, Kokabiel, and his accomplices.
"I get it," agitation dripped down the blonde Knight's voice. "But I'm quite disappointed that someone who could wield Excalibur would approve of their destruction."
"Speaking of disappointment. Didn't you recently abandon your position as a Knight of the House of Gremory?" Xenovia questioned, sharpening her eyes. "Since you are now a stray. We could execute you right now," showing her Excalibur Destruction sword."
"You're welcome to try," Kiba said. A magic circle appeared in his hand, ready to summon a sword.
Their attention was turned elsewhere when they heard something slam on the ground. Turning to the source, the two saw Issei's tail out. "Are you two done? We're trying to help each other achieve the same goal here. So, you two can either put your petty differences aside and work together to achieve the same goal, or you can deal with me. Which is it?"
The two could see he was serious and put their weapons away. "Good," Issei said, vanishing his tail.
Everyone looked at Xenovia when she spoke, "it's obvious you resent what the Holy Sword Project did. I completely understand. That incident is viewed with great resentment by us currently involved with the church. And that is why the person responsible was branded a heretic and excommunicated from the church."
"His name is Valper Galilei. The Archbishop of Annihilation," Irina added.
"Valper. . ." Kiba's eyes showed intense anger at the sound of that name, and venom dripped from his voice. "That man. . .was responsible for. . ."
"I did say that one of his tools happened to be a stray priest, right?" Xenovia reminded.
"Freed Sellzen," came Issei. He felt his own anger spike.
"It is not uncommon for there to be collusion among those who have been banished from the Church. There is a high probability that Valper is also involved with what is happening," Xenovia explained. Her tone showed a sizeable amount of anger and resentment toward the two.
"After hearing that, there is no reason for me not to cooperate with you," Kiba resigned himself, agreeing to help with them.
"Then we are agreed then," Irina perked up.
Xenovia looked at Issei with her lips tugging into what appeared to be a ghost smile. "We will return the favor for the food and phoenix tears someday, Red Dragon Emperor Hyoudou-san," turning away to leave with Irina following behind. She stole a glance back at her friend.
"That went better than I expected," Issei sighed, looking at the others.
"You're insane!" Saji angrily yelled. "Not only could we have been killed, but we could've been responsible for starting another war with the Church!"
"Issei-kun," Kiba began, getting everyone's attention. "I'd like for you to stay out of this affair. What is happening now is a personal vendetta between me and the Excalibur Swords. I don't want you or anyone else to get caught in the crossfire."
"We're family, and more importantly, we're friends here!" He adamantly said. "That means we look after one another. You would do the same for me or anyone else."
Kiba closed his eyes. "That true, I would. But—"
Having had enough, Issei sent Kiba to the ground with a hard punch to the face, surprising him and the other two. "But nothing!" Issei grabbed him by the shirt and pulled him back up. "How can you expect us to sit back and do nothing? Remember what I said, should you become a stray? I don't want that to happen, and I'm pretty sure neither does Buchou."
"Buchou. . ." Kiba looked down in sadness. "I first met her because of the project. I would be dead if not for her," he said, remembering what happened during the project. "We were only kids, being experimented on day after day. Our freedoms were taken, and, what's worse, we were treated like disposable tools. Yet we all believed we were chosen by God. We held to those beliefs, hoping we'd become special. In the end, none of us could wield a Holy Sword. The experiment failed. We were then disposed of quickly to cover up what had happened during the project. The poisonous gas made us vomit up blood and writhe on the ground in agony. But even then, we looked to God to save us."
"No one except for me was able to escape that night. My friends. The people I cared for. They sacrificed their lives so I could escape that hellhole. I ran as fast as I could, trying to avoid the captors, but the effects of the poisonous gas started to take over. As I fell in the snow, coughing up blood, I tried to get up, but my body was weak. While I lay there dying, my final thoughts were about how I could make things right and avenge my comrades. That was when Buchou found me."
"She brought me back to life and made me a part of her family," Kiba said, tears falling down his face. "I thank her from the bottom of my heart for saving my life that night. But in reality, I am most grateful for my fallen comrades as I am alive because of them. They're the reason why I live and why I fight so hard. My sword carries their pain. As the sole survivor of that accursed project, I must avenge them for their sacrifice."
Saji then burst into tears. The three members of the Gremory House turned to the source; they saw Saji crying aloud. "Oh, Kiba. . . I had no idea you went through such a traumatic experience! The hell with Kaichou's punishment!" He then grabbed Issei's hands and vigorously shook them. "Put me in Hyoudou; I'm in. I'll help you any way I can."
"Thank you, hatchling. There's hope for you yet."
As Kiba observed them, he felt something tug on his sleeve. Looking down, he saw Koneko looking straight at him. "I will also help you."
"Koneko-chan?" He looked at her with surprise.
"Don't be an idiot; I would be very sad if you left us Kiba-senpai," she explained.
"Guess I don't really have a choice. If you're going along with this plan, then I will never be able to do anything rash on my own," Kiba agreed.
"Seriously?" Issei asked.
"We already agreed who the real enemy is. I will accept whatever help I can get from you guys," he said. "And, Issei-kun. . ." looking at his friend. "Thank you for reminding me of what I mean to our group. Wait, hold on. . . I still can't taste anything."
"Yeah, I knocked the taste out of your mouth."
"You really are strong," wiggling the lower part of his jaw out.
"Oh, and Koneko-chan," Issei diverted his eyes at her. "Once this ordeal is over, Korean barbecue will be on me, and I'll teach you some more combat moves."
The white-haired Rook's eyes immediately perked up at what he said.
The four of them then began making plans for their next move. They were to meet Xenovia-san and Irina-san at the abandoned church later tonight to go over the plan.
(00)
At the Hyoudou residence, Issei sat at his computer in his room in deep thought about what might happen if they run across Freed and Valper. He felt his blood boil the moment he thought about Kokabiel. Azazel-sama may want him alive, but that didn't mean he could exact some revenge against him. So long as the bastard remains alive, then he can do whatever he wants.
His thoughts were interrupted when someone came into the room. Turning around, he saw Asia in a sexy nurse costume. "Asia? What are you wearing?"
"So what do you think? Does this look good on me?" She hesitantly asked with her cheeks red as a tomato.
Issei had to calm down his inner dragon and teenage hormones. Both were roaring for him to make a move on her. Oh, what he would give to see Rias in a similar outfit. Finding his voice he replied, "it looks good on you, but why are you wearing something like that?"
"I thought you might like a reward for winning the fight yesterday," she replied, feeling a little timid. "So, I asked Kiryuu-san for some advice on what to do."
"Kiryuu-san?"
"This is her idea; she thought wearing this would be a good reward for you," Asia said.
'This certainly explains a lot. Only that girl would suggest Asia wear something like this,'Issei mentally said.
"She let me borrow this cute outfit from her so I can wear it for you," Asia went on, adding a twirl to give him a full view. "She says wearing these types of things is what males like as a reward."
'Yep, it's clear. That girl is as perverted as Matsuda and Motohama,'Issei said to himself.
"Well then," Asia inquired, pulling him out of his thoughts, "do you like your reward?"
"Yes, Asia. I like it," he replied. "Though you really should not take everything Kiryuu-san says to heart. Believe me, I'm fine, and there's no need for this."
"Huh? Are you sure?" Asia asked. He answered with a curt nod even though his inner dragon was roaring no.
"Would you please get out of that costume now?"
"I can if you want me to, but I don't think you've been rewarded enough," Asia insisted.
"No, no. This is enough," he sincerely hoped she would go along with what he said.
Then, u-um. . . Can I ask something of you?" she timidly asked, her cheeks turning a little more red.
"Sure, you can ask me anything?" Smiling at her.
"Can I sit on your lap for a little while before you leave?"
Issei wanted to say no, but the pleading look in her eyes ultimately made him cave to her request. "Go ahead."
A big smile crossed her face. She turned around, sat on his lap, and leaned back into his chest. Asia was indeed like a onee-chan. She's had a hard life, and that made him feel protective of her. Any normal person would assume that he was treating her like a chore. Something to hold him back. Or a weak sibling who was incapable of taking care of herself. But she was none of those things, especially not to him. Just because he is protective of her doesn't mean he thinks any less of her as a person.
(00)
Close to fifteen minutes later, the sun had gone down, and it was now completely dark. Issei left his house to go rendezvous with Kiba, Koneko-chan, Saji, and the others at the abandoned church. Before using a magic circle to get there, he told a concerned Asia that he would be out doing some Devil work. She would insist on joining him and be worried sick if she learned the truth about what he, Kiba, Koneko-chan, and Saji were doing.
Arriving at the abandoned church, he phoned Azazel. "Yeah, it's me. Look, I know you summoned me tonight, but I will have to take a rain check. Something tells me that these next couple of days are about to get serious."
"Yes, it isthatsituation," he finished.
(00)
"All right, no sweat. I'll call you again sometime. Happy hunting, and remember, I want him alive," Azazel said, returning his phone to his pocket. Even though he and Sirzechs had assigned the mission to Issei and put a bounty on Kokabiel and the stray exorcists' heads, he still enjoyed the boy's company. As for Kokabiel. While he wanted him alive so he could punish him for his insolence, he had a feeling that whatever pain Issei inflicted upon him would be well deserved.
"Kokabiel, you have no idea of who you've crossed nor the type of danger you are in," Azazel chuckled. "You are about to get a severe punishment. One that you have longed deserved." He continued laughing.
Returning to what he was doing, Azazel threw his fishing hook into the river. He had been at the docks fishing for about an hour now. The smile on his face grew when he saw someone appear beside him. "Yo. Have you come to keep lonely me company?"
"That's funny. I never realized you ever got lonely," the young man, who appeared to be eighteen years old, said. He had dark silver hair and light blue eyes. He was dressed in a dark green V-neck shirt, a high-collared black leather jacket, burgundy jeans with a silver chain drooping down on the left side, and black combat boots. "So what's the reason you called me out here? Is it something interesting?"
"You might think it is?" Azazel replied with a coy smile. "I have a mission for you. . ."
A/N: Issei and Kiba had just had an unofficial match with Xenovia and Irina. Issei being better trained and having more experience in combat allowed him to win his battle, whereas Kiba lost due to being blinded by his anger and rage which caused him to act irrationally and have tunnel vision.
Even though they are on different sides, Issei still considers Irina to be a close friend and doesn't want her to die on a thankless assignment. Therefore, he gave her two vials pf phoenix tears. Now for Kiba. . .he is obviously still angry which is understandable. Before he could leave Issei gave him a warning and some phoenix tears as insurance.
The polls on Pa tre on have been tallied and there is now a bounty on Kokabiel and Freed. By order of both Sirzechs and Azazel Issei is now working with Xenovia and Irina to destroy the Excalibur fragments and stop Kokabiel from executing his plans.
Next Chapter: Here comes trouble