It was the end of classes and Issei, Mash, and Asia were walking towards the clubroom together, having finished their training for the three-legged race for the day. The group made it to the door when they heard voices inside. They weren't voices they normally heard which made Issei immediately suspicious. Issei narrowed his eyes and knocked on the door. The insides became quiet before Rias answered. "Come in," she said, tiredness clear in her voice. Issei didn't like the sound of that as he opened the door and walked in with the others. As soon as he entered his expression became dark as he saw the person in the room with Rias and the others. Diodora was sitting across from Rias with his usual cool smile on his face. "Welcome back Issei, Mashu, Asia."
"H-hello, Rias-buchou," said Asia nervously. Issei and Mash nodded toward her while also now taking positions in front of Asia.
Diodora looked at Asia, completely ignoring Issei and Mash standing in front of her and showed a kind smile. Asia just hid more behind Issei because of that. Diodora then turned his attention back to Rias. "Now then, Rias. As I was saying before–"
"The answer is no. No matter who or what you offer me, I refuse to trade Asia to you," said Rias, trying her best to keep her tone neutral but her glare spoke volumes of her displeasure. Asia and Mash were shocked by their conversation while Issei began emitting a murderous aura.
Diodora wasn't fazed at all and continued. "Rias, while I understand Asia's value as a person, surely someone of my peerage would be more appropriate for your group in terms of compatibility. Someone who can both heal and fight."
"And as I've already told you, my peerage is not up for trade. They are my family, not tools to be tossed aside at a whim. Asia is like a little sister to me, and I will not allow anyone to take her from me," said Rias firmly. Asia had happy tears in her eyes from Rias' words. She was glad that she saw her that way, and grateful to everyone who treated someone like her as family.
Diodora let out a small sigh in disappointment. "Very well. I'll leave it at that for today. But I'm not giving up." He got up and walked over to Issei, Asia, and Mash. "I haven't given up on us, Asia. I promise to be with you." He reached out to take her hand but was stopped by Issei who grabbed his wrist. Diodora's expression didn't change, but his tone is as he finally spoke to Issei. "Could you let go? I don't want to be touched by a filthy dragon," he said coldly.
Immediately the tension in the room went through the roof and Issei was about to deck Diodora, but someone beat him to it. A loud smack was heard as Diodora's face lurched to the side, a red mark on his cheek. The person who did it was, to everyone's surprise, Asia. She had a face that was a mix of sadness and anger. "Don't talk to Issei-san like that!" she said while grabbing Issei's arm.
Issei's temper simmered a bit due to being surprised at Asia's actions. He felt a smirk appear on his face and pulled Asia closer to comfort her. He then shot a mocking look at Diodora. "You heard her. Why don't you just give up already? This little show you keep putting on is quite frankly ridiculous," he said in an accusatory tone.
There was the slightest twitch in Diodora's expression before it went back to normal. "Don't let it go to your head. I will make sure she comes around eventually. We were destined for each other," said Diodora, who received and eye roll and glare from Issei. "It's a shame you won't be participating in the Rating Game. Then I could prove to Asia who is superior, and in front of a crowd no less."
"As much as I would like to mop the floor with you, I will leave that to my friends. After all, you stand no chance of beating them," said Issei with confidence.
The members of the ORC showed small smirks at Issei's vote of confidence. They knew that they had to meet his expectations after that claim. Diodora looked unfazed. "Hmph. We shall see about that." He looked at Asia again, which prompted her to cling to Issei tighter. "We will settle this another time, that I promise you," he said, a hint of something sinister in his tone. Issei narrowed his eyes at him as a magic circle appeared beneath Diodora's feet and he teleported away.
Once he was gone the air became awkward. Everyone looked at Issei to see his mood. Issei, who had a look of confidence before now had a scowl as Diodora left. Asia wanted to try and comfort him more, but he put a hand on her head and released himself from her grip. "I need to take care of something," he said and left the clubroom.
The others had complicated expressions as they looked at the door Issei left through, with Asia on the verge of tears. Mash put a hand on her shoulder and got her attention. "Don't worry. Senpai is not upset with you." Mash looked at the door. "He is preparing…," she said.
"Preparing for what?" asked Gasper nervously.
Mash was quiet but the look on her face said that whatever Issei was planning to do, Diodora is gonna wish he never met him. Meanwhile, Issei was back in school heading towards the teachers' room. He reached it and opened the door to find Skadi inside, grading some papers from today's classes. Skadi noticed his presence and gave him his full attention. "Is something wrong, Master?"
"I need your help with something…," he said seriously.
Later that night, Issei was laying in bed with the girl from the ORC in his harem. After they got home the girls wanted to try and cheer Issei up. So Rias proposed for them to sleep together that night. Issei wasn't gonna say no, and more so did it to give the girls some form of reassurance about him being ok. So him, Rias, Akeno, Asia, and Mash went to bed together and spent a few hours "comforting" each other till they were exhausted. Issei was now laying in the middle of the group of girls as they rested peacefully on top of him. Currently Asia and Rias were next to him while Akeno and Mash rested under his chest. Issei was still awake, thinking about what Diodora's next play could be. He knew he was up to something, and his last conversation all but confirmed it. He looked at Asia resting peacefully next to him and brought her in closer. "Issei-san…," she mumbled in her sleep.
Issei showed a caring smile at that and began to implement his plan. His finger glowed in a faint light as he traced a rune on Asia's abdomen. Once he finished, Asia's body glowed faintly before disappearing. The rune also disappeared, not showing any sign of being there. Issei nodded to himself and turned to the other girls and did the same to them as well. Sorry to do this while you're all asleep, but I don't want any of you to get hurt or taken advantage of. Also, I don't want to hear you all teasing me about being an overprotective boyfriend, Issei thought to himself. He spent his time earlier with Skadi learning a very specific protection rune since he had been having issues with guys trying to take his women. Once he was finished, he thought about what came next. He had a sinking feeling that something was gonna happen during the game and decided to talk to Sirzechs about it later. After deciding that, Issei drifted off to sleep as his exhaustion finally caught up with him.
It was the day of the Rating Game and Issei was sitting in the V.I.P. room with Mash and the other guests. He was currently glaring at the screen in front of him, waiting for the game to start as the teams were in the planning phase. Mash looked at him worriedly but understood why Issei was in a bad mood. A few days ago, Issei went to Sirzechs about something being off with Diodora. Noticing that Sirzechs didn't seem surprised by this he felt like something was up and got him to talk. Sirzechs told him that he and Azazel had gotten a warning from Vali about Diodora possibly being involved with the Khaos Brigade and were investigating him. After observing a few of his previous battles and actions from the past few games, they found that his power had seemingly dramatically increased. It was too sudden and unnatural for it to be his own talent, which seemed to add credence to Vali's words. This immediately got Issei's full attention as he asked why he wasn't told about this in a dangerous tone. Sirzechs told him it was because he would act like he was now, and his mood would spread to the others and distract them from the game. Issei grumbled but admitted he was right. But now that he knew, Issei asked what the plan was. Sirzechs said that their information points to an attack happening during the game, which only made Issei angrier. Issei immediately offered his Servants to add to security, but Sirzechs said they would be too conspicuous. Issei told him that they could remain in spirit form to hide their presence until they are needed. He also told him that if this attack was anything like the meeting, then they were going to need all the help they could get. Sirzechs agreed with him and accepted his help. The pair discussed the details, and Issei went to leave but had one final question. "Why did Vali give this information to you?"
"I don't know. He spoke with Azazel about it. I have my suspicions, but I don't know the White Dragon Emperor well enough to be sure," said Sirzechs.
Issei gave him a probing look but decided to leave it at that. After talking with Sirzechs, Issei informed Mash, Da Vinci, and Rias about what was going on and prepared for a possible attack from the Khaos Brigade. Issei had Skadi create a special teleportation runestone for Rias to carry in case Issei needed to get to her or vice-versa. They decided not to tell the others so as not to distract them from the match on the off chance that nothing happens. Back in the present, Issei was sitting and waiting, prepared for something to go wrong. He was currently wearing his Mystic Code he wore during the meeting since he figured it was formal enough to not be suspicious and helpful enough for when the fighting breaks out. As he was waiting, he was approached by a familiar face. "Hello again, Issei-san," greeted Rossweisse.
"Rossweisse-san. What a pleasant surprise. I guess you're here with Odin again?" Issei asked.
"No. Odin-sama couldn't make it to the match this time, and sent me as his representative this time."
"I see. Oh, by the way. This is Mashu. She's my first girlfriend and someone who I trust with my life," Issei introduced.
Mash stood up and extended her hand towards Rossweisse. "Nice to meet you, Rossweisse-san. I'm Mash Kyrielight, Senpai's girlfriend and Servant."
Rossweisse took her hand but showed a thoughtful look. "Servant? Oh right. Your group has beings that are summoned from different time periods to serve and help in your work. I'm still not sure on all the details, but is this a correct assumption?"
"Yes, although my situation is unique. It's a pleasure to meet another valkyrie."
"Another valkyrie? Did Odin send someone else while I wasn't looking?! Is he replacing me?!" asked Rossweisse in a panic.
Issei got up and began to calm her down. "No no, he's not replacing you. We have valkyrie's that work for Chaldea. Three of them actually," he said.
Rossweisse calmed down and looked at Issei with confused interest. "But, valkyries are warriors of Valhalla. They only answer to Odin himself. Why would three be serving you?"
"That's a bit of classified information so I can't tell you the details, but it's related to how we summon Servants and its processes. Maybe next time I can introduce you to them. I'm sure you four would hit it off," offered Issei.
"That would be nice. It would be interesting to meet new valkyries outside of Valhalla's halls."
Issei nodded at her with a smile which caused a small blush to appear on her face. Mash watched this interaction and decided now was the time to ask something she had been wondering for a while. "Rossweisse-san, are you interested in dating Senpai?"
The question caused both Issei and Rossweisse to stare at Mash in surprise. Issei didn't think she would ask that question now of all times, while Rossweisse's brain seemed to be going into overload. "W-w-w-w-what are you talking about?! Why would you ask that?! I-I-I'm not trying to steal your boyfriend or anything?!" she said in a panic.
Mash saw that she unintentionally set off Rossweisse and began to look a bit frantic herself. "I'm sorry, Rossweisse-san! That was too blunt of me. I wasn't accusing you of anything. I was asking if you were interested."
"B-but why? He's your boyfriend, is he not? Why would you offer him to me?"
"It's not a matter of offering. I'm sure you're aware of Senpai's dream. I, as well as Rias-san and others are fine with this, and Senpai talked to me about his first meeting with you, so I was curious."
"I. Well. I don't know? I've never had a boyfriend before. I don't know what to do. Who would want someone like–"
"I'm gonna stop you there. I told you already to have some confidence in yourself. You have to stop putting yourself down. You're fine the way you are," said Issei supportively, getting another blush from Rossweisse.
"R-right…, sorry," she said while avoiding his gaze.
Mash saw how they interacted and seemed to understand something. "Rossweisse-san, I think you should give it a try with Senpai. Think of it as a way to strengthen our respective group's bond. And as a way to help you build confidence."
Rossweisse blushed more deeply and refused to meet Issei's and Mash's gaze. "I-I'll think about it," she said. She quickly changed the topic. "So, what do you think about the match for today? I know you would obviously support Ms. Gremory but what do you think of her chances for the match?"
Issei's mood immediately lowered as he tried to stop himself from scowling. Mash also made a complicated look which confused Rossweisse. "Have you talked to either Sirzechs or Azazel yet?" he asked. Rossweisse was confused and shook her head in denial. Issei looked around to see if anyone else was listening before continuing. "Keep this between us but we think that Diodora is in league with the Khaos Brigade."
Rossweisse made a shocked expression before it became serious. "Are you certain?"
"Signs point to that, but he has yet to make a move. Although we have a contact that told us that there is a plan to attack the match today."
"I see…, so that's why you had such a serious look earlier," said Rossweisse, seeming to come to an understanding. "And what is your plan?"
"We have increased security, currently out of sight, as well as some other precautions, but we can't do anything overt until something happens, so for right now, we wait…," Issei said, a tone of annoyance in his voice when he said "wait".
Rossweisse let out a small chuckle. "I see. In that case, thank you for informing me. I will make sure to be prepared in case something happens. I'm sure everything will work out, Issei-san. You shouldn't worry about your friends."
Issei was about to say something when the room suddenly shook. Everyone in the room went on alert and the screens went static. Issei swore he heard crashes and explosions in the distance. Azazel came up to the group. "It's the Khaos Brigade. They're here."
Issei became serious and looked at Azazel. "Where are they?"
"Currently gathering outside the arena and partially within the viewing area," said Azazel.
Issei looked at the screen that was still static. "Were you able to get in contact with Rias?"
"I haven't tried to call her yet but currently magic circles are being blocked from entering the arena. I'd imagine it's the same for getting out."
As if on cue a small magic circle appeared next to Issei. "Issei!" called out Rias with a tone of worry.
"What happened?" asked Issei, a sense of dread rising in him.
"He took Asia! Diodora took Asia!" she said, a mix of hesitancy and panic in her tone.
Once Issei heard this his expression went blank. The others looked at him, worried he was about to explode. There were a few seconds of silence before a wave of killing intent released from Issei. As if in response, all the hiding Servants materialized and looked at Issei with worry. "Master…," said Cursed Arm, wary of his Master's mood.
"All of you, go with Azazel and Rossweisse-san to help the others. Rias, Mashu and I are coming to you. Take out the runestone I gave you earlier," Issei ordered to the group.
"Y-yes!" said Rias in a slightly stiff voice.
"Master, you shouldn't–," Gawain tried to protest.
"I'm not going in alone. I will summon Servants as I deem necessary," he said, ending any argument about coming along with him. "Just do as I told you." The Servants had unsure looks, hoping that their Master wasn't making reckless decisions because of his emotions. He was doing a good job of not completely freaking out, but the murderous aura never went away. Reluctantly the Servants began to move with Azazel and Rossweisse joining them. Issei pulled out another runestone he had made and grabbed Mash's hand. His Gear appeared and he funneled magic into the stone, which teleported them away. They then appeared next to Rias and the others inside the battlefield. The group immediately felt Issei's killing intent and shuddered when he turned his gaze on them. "Explain…"
The group recalled what happened while the attack started. They heard the sound of battle out in the further part of the arena and when they were distracted, Diodora teleported in and grabbed Asia. He said that he was taking Asia with him and that they would all die here. He more or less confirmed he was aligned with the Khaos Brigade as we suspected. Xenovia attempted to rescue her but he created a powerful barrier that repelled her and then teleported away with Asia. "As far as I understand it, he is waiting in his base at the other end of the arena. We need to get there quickly. Who knows what he's planning to do to her," said Rias.
Issei nodded and the group moved forward. Issei summoned some Servants to help and the first two to appear were Jealter and Dantés. Jealter was livid at the situation. If it wasn't for the fact that they had enemies to face she probably would have burned this building to the ground already. Dantés came in response to Issei's strong emotions. As it stood, the emotions Issei was feeling at this moment was the closest to that of an Avenger. Depending on how things end he could end up on that path, and Dantés wanted to see if he would. Eventually the group found themselves at a crossroads. The path split in two, both leading to the other side, and no doubt both having enemies. Issei let out an annoyed "tsk!". "If we only take one path then we leave ourselves open to the other side circling around and coming at us from behind. I doubt it's just Diodora's peerage that's here," he said.
"Then we split up. Issei, Koneko, Gasper, and Xenovia will go left. Akeno, Kiba, and I will go right," said Rias.
"Not just that," said Issei, as the lights from summoning began to appear again. The ones to appear this time from them were Hessian Lobo, Demon King Nobunaga, Ashtart, and Angra Mainyu. "Jealter, Nobunaga, Ashtart, and Angra go with Rias, Akeno, and Kiba. The rest will come with us."
The group nodded and split into their individual groups. As Rias' group walked up the stairs of the right path Angra Mainyu spoke up to break the silence. "Damn, Master must be really pissed."
"What makes you say that?" asked Demon King Nobunaga.
"Cause he didn't call you Nobu or me Angry Mango," said Angra laxly.
"Of course he's pissed! That bastard Dio-whatshisname took Asia! If Master doesn't rip him to shreds, I will!" said Jealter in rage. Her steps were now leaving flaming shoe prints as she was beginning to lose control of her temper. Angra scooted away from her, trying not to get burned. Nobu and Ashtart were silently contemplating Agnra's words. They obviously knew Issei was mad, but they have never truly seen him lose it.
"Well then, Master can let out all that rage on our enemy when we find them," said Demon King Nobu. Then a villainous smile appeared on her face. "I've always wondered what it would look like if Master ever let his wrath out on another. He was always so passive and understanding. No matter how desperate the situation he would always approach it with a hopeful yet naive vigor. It's almost charming in a way, but now I get to bear witness to someone who finally made Master snap. I wonder if there will be anything left of him when this is over."
"The one responsible for slighting my priest shall suffer a death most torturous. A slight on him is the same as a slight upon myself. Those who choose to make an enemy of a goddess should be prepared to face divine retribution," said Ashtart in her usual monotone, but there was an eerie dark aura coming from her, and her words told everyone exactly what she was feeling. Rias, Akeno, and Kiba, while understanding of their ally's anger, felt a nervous sweat roll down their backs, feeling even a slight sense of pity for Diodora. Only slightly.
With the other group, Issei was leading the others up the left staircase. Lobo was by his side, keeping pace while focusing ahead of them. Mash and Dantés took his other side and behind him. The members of the ORC looked nervously at Issei. They all were worried about Asia, but they were worried about what Issei would do if he was angered further. They all knew making an enemy of Issei was basically suicide, but now they didn't know what to expect when Issei and Diodora meet. Once the group managed to get to the first arena they were met with a group of enemies. There were some of Diodora's peerage, but alongside them were also enemies that Issei and Mash were familiar with. "Nagas and goblins!" said Mash in surprise.
"More enemies from the other world," said Issei, his mind now focusing on the situation in front of him.
"There are also ten of Diodora's peerage here," said Xenovia, readying herself.
Suddenly a voice could be heard throughout the room. "That's right. My allies had the courtesy to supply me with additional forces. As for my peerage, all my pawns have been promoted to queen. Let's see if you can make it past this. I look forward to seeing if you can even make it to me, filthy dragon," said Diodora in a mocking tone.
Hearing Diodora's voice ticked Issei off again. His Gear responded to his rage. [Welsh Dragon! Balance Breaker!] Issei went straight to Balance Breaker, not wanting to waste time with the fodder. [Class Change: Assassin!] Issei's armor changed to be sleeker, a blue scarf wrapped around Issei's neck, contrasting his red armor. Two swords appeared in his hands, one glowed with holy energy and another seemed to be a corrupted form of that same energy.
"Hessian Lobo, Dantés, Mashu, we'll take care of the Nagas and Goblins. The rest of you focus on Diodora's peerage," ordered Issei.
Before anyone could agree Lobo let out a howl and charged forward toward the enemy group. The Nagas and Goblins immediately charged in to meet him but Lobo was too fast and strong and easily began tearing into them. Despite how irritated he was Issei still managed to let out an exasperated sigh at his Servant's eagerness for violence. He nodded towards the others who did so in turn and they all charged in to join Hessian Lobo. The promoted pawns were a mix of mages and fighters, and the two additional members turned out to be the rooks. They used the monsters as the vanguard while the mages supported from the back and the fighters acted as the main fighting force. Issei, Hessian Lobo, Dantés, and Mash tore through the phantasmals and made an opening for Xenovia, Koneko, and Gasper as they charged the group. Gasper turned into a swarm of bats, and he used his Sacred Gear to freeze some of the pawns. The mages were stopped as were some of the fighters. Koneko took on the two free pawns by herself while Xenovia took on the rooks. Despite being outnumbered Koneko and Xenovia had no issue dealing with the peerage. Training with Issei's Servants had pushed them further than they realized as Koneko basically took down the pawns in one blow each. She delivered body blows to the two pawns and they immediately crumpled to the ground. If she had used any more force she would have pierced their bodies. She looked at her fists for a moment, taking in her new strength before looking at the frozen enemies and going in to defeat them as well. Xenovia charged the rooks who met her sword strikes with their fists and kicks. She got close to hitting them a few times and the rooks saw that they were beginning to be disadvantaged. So they moved to join the group of phantasmals to help distract Xenovia. This turned out to be a terrible idea, as Issei and his Servants were shredding through the enemies. Issei managed to get behind the two rooks and slashed at them with his swords causing them to reel back in pain. Xenovia capitalized on this and slashed her sword down on the rooks, but they managed to roll out of the way in time. "Damnit! They're fast for rooks," cursed Xenovia.
"It doesn't help that you only have one weapon against two foes," said Issei, who then got an idea. "Xenovia, take this," he said while taking out Ascalon. He handed her the blade, which surprised her. "You dual-wielded back when we fought Kokabiel and his forces so I figured this should help you out."
"Are you sure?" asked Xenovia, a bit surprised that Issei was loaning his blade. Issei nodded and Xenovia took the blade. She felt the holy power the blade wielded and soon a confident smile appeared on her face. "Alright! Time to finish this!" She charged forward at the two rooks who split apart to try and trip up Xenovia, but it didn't work out the way they planned as Issei got behind one of them and kicked her towards her ally. The two crashed into each other as Xenovia built up power in the swords, crossing them above her head. "For the sake of rescuing my friend, please lend me your strength!" she chanted and shot a beam of holy energy at the rooks. The rooks couldn't avoid it in time and were completely wiped away in the blast.
Issei looked at Xenovia and saw that despite her determined look there were small tears in her eyes. She was worried for Asia's safety as much as he was. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself further and turned to rejoin his Servants who were cleaning up the last of the Nagas and Goblins. Xenovia turned to where Koneko and Gasper were and saw that all the pawns were dealt with. Koneko and Gasper ran up and joined her and the three went to join Issei's group to help. Although when they looked, they saw that they had finished fighting as they went to join them, Lobo holding the remains of a Goblin in his mouth. "We're done here. We should keep going. No doubt the stronger monsters are with Diodora," said Issei.
"What about Rias-buchou and the others?" asked Gasper nervously.
As if on cue, a large explosion was heard from the side as everyone looked to another arena on the path the others took. They saw flames nearly consuming all of the arena as Issei let out a sigh. "I don't think we have to worry about them."
With the others, the queen and two bishops of Diodora's peerage, along with some Ghouls and Werewolves were currently being roasted alive, some were even impaled on pikes. While the group did battle the enemies for a short time, Jealter got fed up with them, saying they were a distraction and eventually just turned the arena into a burning hellscape. Some of the others had to quickly get out of the way, so as not to be roasted as well. Rias, Akeno, Kiba, and Angra all had strained looks on their faces at Jealter's actions but didn't exactly fault her for it. Rias quickly shook off her shock and spoke. Come on. We have to keep moving," she ordered, and everyone moved to the next staircase.
Eventually the two groups reconvened as their paths led to the next arena. As the groups moved into the larger arena they heard a disturbing noise. It sounded like something or someone was, eating something. As the group pressed on, they saw something that shocked the members of the ORC. It was two Demons with their backs turned, seemingly eating something. They all looked at the ground and saw blood. Before anyone could say or do anything they heard the sounds of footsteps heading towards them. "Yo, it's been a while, you shitty brats and shitty devils."
Everyone was surprised but narrowed their eyes in anger at the person who appeared. "Freed," said Kiba, some venom in his voice.
"Now I know what you all are probably thinking. "This guy is still alive?!" YES YES, I'm so stubborn that I'm still clearly kicking!" he boasted. He saw the group looking around while still paying attention to him and the two Demons with him. "Looking for the two knights?" he asked in a knowing tone. He then made a chewing noise before spitting something out. On closer inspection it was a finger. "I ate them!" he said manically.
Everyone paused for a moment, as if trying to compute what he said. In the meantime, one of the Demons picked up the discarded finger and ate it himself. Koneko's face scrunched up and she put her hand on her nose as if to block out the smell. "He has quit being human," she said in disgust.
After she said that Freed began laughing in a tone that sounded inhuman. "Hyahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah! Right after I was slashed down by you guys, I was retrieved by that shit Valiiiiiii! And I got fired by that rotten Azazeeeeeel!" As he spoke, Freed's body began to morph and swell, with a horn suddenly protruding from him and his skin changing to a dark red color. His body increased in size as his arms and legs became more muscular. "The ones who picked me up after I lost my place are the guys from Khaos Brigade! They...! They said that they would give me powers, and what did I geeeeeet! Kyuhahahahahahahaha! And that was turning me into a Chimera! Fuhahahahahahahahahaha!" A bat wing grew from his back as well as another arm. His face lost its original form as it began to look more draconic. His body, to put it simply, was a mess. Everyone had disturbed looks at what they were now seeing. Freed didn't care as he continued speaking. "By the way, did you know that Diodora has a particular hobby?" This question got them all to look at him in confusion, although some of them had a bad feeling about what he was gonna say. "It's so beautifully crazy that it makes my heart race! Diodora's taste in women. That rich boy certainly has great taste. Apparently he has fetish for girls affiliated with the Church! Yes, the ones you call nuns!" At those words they all became stunned as most of them immediately put the pieces together. "And the ones he preys on are the passionate and strong believers. Do you know what I am trying to say? His servant devils that you all defeated just earlier are all former believers of the Church! The same could be said for the girls who are at his house! All of them are famous nuns and Holy-maidens from various areas! His taste is really something, don't you think!? The devil rich boy seduced the women from the Church and made them into his toys! Oh wait, that's why devils exist! He speaks with sweet words to the passionate Holy-maidens and makes them fall for him! I guess that's what you call a devil's whisper!"
With those words, Issei's suspicions were now confirmed. "I knew it…," he muttered darkly, his fists clenching. The others picked up on his words and looked at him worriedly. Jealter had a complicated expression. She wasn't a fan of the church, since she was a corrupted Saint, so she knew she didn't exactly have a pedestal to stand on for judging Diodora, but that was irrelevant to her since he chose to make an enemy of her and her Master.
Freed started to laugh crazily again. "The one who wrote the scenario of Asia getting kicked out of the Church is none other than Diodora Astaroth. The scenario goes like this. One day, a devil rich boy who loves to have sex with nuns found himself his very ideal, Bishoujou Holy-maiden. He couldn't help but wanting to have sex with her ever since he saw her. But he thought it would be hard to take her away from the Church, so he used a different plan to make that girl his. The Holy-maiden is a very, very kind girl. I got advice from someone who is knowledgeable with Sacred Gear that "The Sacred Gear possessed by the Holy-maiden can even heal devils". So, the rich boy put his attention there. "Maybe she will get kicked out of the Church if another believer sees her healing me"! Even if a scar is left, it would still be alright if I can have sex with her! That's the way and is how that rich boy lives!"
With every word Issei gritted his teeth harder behind his helmet. That Bastard! He thought to himself.
"She will get exiled from the Church which she believed in, then her life will get ruined and she won't believe in God, and then she will come to me. –That's what he was thinking. Hyahahaha! Even the painful experience for the Holy-maiden is a spice for that rich boy! He will save them from the depth of despair, and then rape them! He will rape both their body and heart! And that was the best and ultimate entertainment for him! He had been raping and making the girls from the Church his own! And he won't be changing even from now! –So the rich boy, Diodora Astaroth-kun, is a devil who loves to fuck strong believers of the Church! Hyahahahahaha!"
Issei couldn't hold back his murderous aura anymore and took a step forward, with every intent to rip Freed apart when he was stopped by Kiba. He swung his head around and glared at the knight who surprisingly didn't even flinch at his gaze. "Issei-kun, leave him to me. Save your rage for Diodora Astaroth. You'll need every ounce of strength to fight him."
Issei wanted to disagree on instinct but managed to gather himself. "Fine. But you can't fight the three of them alone. Nobunaga, Hessian Lobo, Ashtart, Angra. Handle the Demons. By the looks of it they gained some power from eating whatever leftovers Freed gave them," Issei said with some slight disgust.
"As you will, Master," said Demon King Nobunaga. The four Servants immediately split into groups of two as they took on a Demon each. Nobunaga and Lobo took the one on the left and Ashtart and Angra the one on the right.
Seeing that the Demons were distracted, Kiba walked forward, preparing to face Freed alone. "I thought we had seen the last of you during the Excalibur incident, but it seems you have the stubbornness of a cockroach. Be that as it may, I'll simply correct my mistake from then, and make sure you're truly dead this time."
"Kyahahahahaha! You think you can beat me a second time? I easily beat the other two knights and ate them. I even got their traits as a bonus, so now I'm invincible! Let's have some fu–."
His words were cut short as Kiba moved at blinding speeds and completely dismembered him. "It would be better if you didn't exist anymore," Kiba said, his tone calm yet certain.
"–––What the heck. You're too overpowered," said Freed. A moment later his body completely fell apart, the cuts from Kiba's sword having sliced his body to pieces. Freed now lay in a pile of cut flesh, dead.
Kiba let out a breath, as if releasing some weight he had been holding. He looked over to the group and saw that Issei's Servants were still fighting the Demons. The others walked up to Kiba as they regrouped. "We should help them," suggested Kiba.
"No!" called out Demon King Nobunaga. "Leave these to us. The nun is waiting for you all. We'll catch up."
They looked around and it seemed the others agreed as well so Issei turned to the stairs and began to walk. "Don't keep us waiting," he said as he walked away, earning a wry smile from the Demon King.
The group ran forward as they made their way towards the final area. Asia…, wait for me. I will save you! Issei thought, tempering his rage and waiting for his eventual encounter with Diodora. The group eventually burst through the door and saw Asia strapped to a strange device, held in the air above a throne where Diodora sat. "Asia!" Issei called out.
"Issei-san…," came Asia's voice, slightly weak and with tears in her eyes.
Seeing this made Issei's rage grow again. Diodora gave a mocking smile as he saw the group. "You finally came," he said confidently.
Rias stepped forward, anger in her tone. "Diodora, did you tell Asia?"
"I did. Her expression when she learned the truth was quite beautiful to behold." His words caused Issei to clench his fists harder. "Although despite her tears I could tell she wasn't overly shocked by the revelation. I assume you had something to do with that?"
Issei swallowed his anger a bit. "Your act wasn't as believable as you thought it was. I've also dealt with my fair share of deceitful individuals and well, your actions and words gave you away, even if I didn't know exactly what your plan was."
"Hmm, a pity. Perhaps I should practice my act a bit more after this," he said, seemingly disappointed that he was discovered.
"You think there's going to be a next time?!" asked Jealter angrily.
"Oh yes. With the power I wield now, not even you Servants are a match for me." As he said this, three more people appeared. It was two Shadow Servants and, to the group's surprise, another Servant. It was Darius III. "Ah yes. I was also given the gift of more powerful Servants to aid me as well. Personally, I think they're being too paranoid, but I won't turn down more servants," he said, his smile turning into a sneer.
The appearance of the Servants put everyone on guard. Jealter, Dantés, and Mash prepared to fight the Servants but didn't make any moves yet. "You think they will save you? You think that whatever power you were given will protect you?" said Issei, his rage no longer being held back.
Diodora just gave a mocking laugh. "And what can a filthy dragon…, a useless human like you do to stop me? I'll kill all of you and enjoy taking Asia and making her my own." Issei's murderous intent started flowing off of him. "I would ask if Asia is still a virgin, but considering you put some kind of protection magic on her, I assume it's safe to say you did. Although that will make it more enjoyable as I dye her in my color. Perhaps I'll keep you alive long enough to see me defile and break her right in front of you."
"SHUT UP!" Issei roared as a light of summoning appeared behind the group. The Servant who appeared behind the group was Gorgon, her monstrous form towering over everyone.
[Class Change: Berserker!] Issei's armor shifted again, parts of it darkening to pure black. His helmet molded to be more similar to a knight's helm, with a red plume coming out the back. Black cord-like tendrils came out of his back as a black miasma began to emanate off of him.
The others backed off as the power Issei was showing flowed out of him. Even the Servants showed various looks at their Master's rage. "DIODORA!" he roared as he charged forward at amazing speeds. Darius and the Shadow Servants attempted to stop him, but Jealter and Dantés were fast enough to intercept and clash, pushing them to the side.
Diodora began to laugh maniacally. "Amazing! So this is the Red Dragon Emperor. Nothing more than a rabid–." He was cut off by a fist to his gut. His expression showed both pain and shock. Wasn't he supposed to be stronger than anyone? He didn't get the chance to ponder this as Issei tossed Diodora off his throne and to the ground opposite his Servants. Diodora picked himself up off the ground as he glared at Issei. "I'm a High-Class Devil! A blood relative of the Maou Beelzebub!" He extended his hand and began to shoot magic at Issei. "There's no way a noble high class such as myself can be defeated by a worthless human!" As he fired Issei weaved through the attack and charged at him like a wild animal. Diodora created several magic circles to try and shield himself from Issei's attack, but Issei punched straight through them and decked him in the face. Diodora screamed in pain. "It hurts! It hurts! It hurts!"
Issei stared down at the devil, a look of disappointment coming across his face. "How weak. It doesn't even compare to Vali's," Issei muttered as he walked to the fallen devil. He used one of the tendrils to pick up Diodora as he started using him like a punching bag, delivering several blows to his body and causing him to cough up blood.
While this was happening Gorgon, Jealter, and Dantés were taking on the enemy Servants. Darius summoned several phantasmal warriors to fight alongside him, but Gorgon just wiped out any forces he summoned with magic blasts and her petrifying gaze. Jealter clashed with the Shadow Servants without much issue, being able to fend off both due to her rage pushing her to fight with everything. She would be lying if she said her Masters rage wasn't affecting her too. Dantés was fighting Darius directly as he delivered a mix of blows and dark magic blasts against him. The ORC were simply watching everything go down. They wanted to jump in, but they felt like they would be in the way no matter which fight they joined. They wanted to go to Asia to try and free her, but the battles were too chaotic for them to get close to her. So, they watched the battles, mostly Issei's, to see if they needed to step in. Mash was with them, and they all had worried looks at Issei's brutal beatdown of Diodora. They all agreed he deserved it, but they didn't like seeing Issei like this. Diodora, having had enough of being a punching bag, managed to lift his hands in front of him. "I won't be beaten by a filthy dragon like you!" he yelled and managed to create a barrier that separated them and freed him from Issei's grip. Issei was a bit surprised but launched a punch at the barrier expecting it to break since Diodora has been so pathetic this entire time. But it endured. He threw a few more and the barrier stood strong. Diodora started to regain confidence from this. "Hahahahaha! You see?! My power is unmatched! There's no way a brutish, idiotic, filthy dragon like you can stand up to me!"
Issei stopped for a moment as Diodora mocked him. Once he finished talking the black miasma that was emanating off of him began to spread further and become darker. Issei let out another roar of rage and his Boosted Gear responded. [BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST!] His red aura mixed with the black miasma and created something that was violent and oppressive.
Diodora lost all the confidence he regained when he looked at Issei's increase in power. Issei launched a full force punch at the barrier, and it shattered like glass. Diodora's face twisted into fear as Issei was in front of him. "How dare you make my woman cry!" He punched Diodora in the arm, completely breaking it as it made a sickening snap. Diodora was launched into the far wall as it cracked and he fell to the ground.
He tried to pick himself up with his good arm. "This, can't be happening…," he said while coughing up some blood. "There's no way I can be beaten. I defeated Agares. I was planning to beat Beal. I was about to crush Gremory. There's no way I can lose to some human who only has power because he got lucky! I'm a High-Class Devil! Diodora Astaroth!" he yelled as he used his good hand to charge a magic attack.
Issei decided to show just how weak Diodora really was and charged his Dragon Shot, his miasma swirling around the energy. [BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST BOOST!] The malevolent aura returned with a vengeance as Issei charged his attack.
"Take this!" screamed Diodora who shot his charged attack, while Issei launched his Dragon Shot which easily overpowered the attack and continued towards Diodora. Diodora tried to avoid it, but it managed to hit him and completely erased half his torso and his only good arm. The attack continued, going through the wall behind him and destroying a nearby rock formation. He fell to the ground, barely clinging to life as he looked in fear at the approaching Issei.
Issei walked over to the fallen Diodora and lifted him off the ground by his face. With what little strength he had, Diodora tried to squirm free of Issei's grip futilely. Issei summoned Arondite, preparing to end Diodora, but before he could he heard a weak voice. "Issei-san…," said Asia. Issei turned to see her and her expression showed sadness. Not for Diodora, but for him. She was concerned that he was losing himself to his rage.
Looking at her calmed Issei down slightly as his miasma weakened a bit and he returned his attention to Diodora. He spoke in a growl at the cowering devil. "Never bother Asia, or anyone else again. If I see you again, I won't hesitate to kill you." With that he dropped him to the ground and went over to Asia. Issei tried to break the bonds that were holding Asia but to no avail. The ORC came closer to Issei and Asia, trying to see if they could help free Asia. Meanwhile Demon King Nobunaga, Ashtart, Hessian Lobo, and Angra Mainyu entered the room and joined Jealter, Dantés, and Gorgon to help them finish off Darius and the Shadow Servants. "I can't get it off!" said Issei, irritated. Koneko jumped up to try and help, but even their combined strength couldn't make the restraints budge.
"...It's useless. That device can only be used once due to its mechanism, but it's made so that it won't stop unless you use it once. –It won't stop unless Asia's ability is activated," said Diodora, some spite in his voice.
"What do you mean?" asked Rias.
"That device is one of the special barriers created by a Longinus possessor. The strong barrier protecting this field was also made by him. [Dimension Lost] is the ultimate barrier-type Sacred Gear. Having the possessor in the center, it spreads an unlimited amount of mist. It can seal everything inside its zone, and it can even teleport it to a different dimension. When it reaches Balance-Breaker, it changed its ability in which it can create any type of barrier device the possessor wishes with the mists. –[Dimension Create]. The barrier made can't be stopped unless it is activated once properly."
"What is the activation requirement?" asked Kiba.
"...The activation requirement is either I or someone affiliated with us gives the signal to start, or if I was to be defeated. The ability of the barrier is to increase the power of the one in the restraint, in this case Asia, and reverse its effect."
Everyone pondered what he meant by reverse when Rias seemed to come to a realization. "You were going to use the same method Sona used during our match against the leaders and guests!" Realization dawned on the others as well as they understood the severity of what their plan was.
Issei glared at Diodora who, despite his weakened state, managed to flinch under his gaze. "What's the range of this device?"
"...This field, and the viewing room where the observers are present at," Diodora admitted.
They all gritted their teeth. They were angered that they and Sona were used to come up with a plan to kill people. "Now we have to be wary of giving the enemies any ideas they could use against us," said Akeno in annoyance.
"...No. It seems like the possibility of this was predicted quite some time ago. Except, since the ones in the Sitri group used it, the plan was proven to work...," admitted Diodora.
Issei thought he was being unusually talkative, which made him slightly suspicious. Rias seemed to understand something from that statement though. "There's a traitor in the Fallen Angels Faction! They let Sona borrow Reverse on purpose in order to test its capabilities," she said, feeling anger for her friend.
Issei was trying to think of what they could do to try and free Asia. He looked towards his Servants but none of them had anything that could help in this situation. They could try destroying the restraints, but Asia would get caught up in it as well. These restraints were attached to her…. Issei had a thought. Maybe his personal technique he developed would help here, although outside of his training with Medb he never used it. He also wasn't sure if the restraints would count, but he didn't have a better idea. [Class Change: Archer!] Issei's sudden change of class surprised the group. Issei's armor changed to look like it did back at the Underworld party.
"Issei, what are you doing?" asked Rias.
"Senpai?" said Mash, also confused at what Issei was planning.
Issei walked up to the device and grabbed the restraints again. "Issei-san?" asked Asia.
"Don't worry, Asia. I'll get you out. Also, sorry in advance," he said a bit sheepishly which made Asia confused. Issei used a combination of Emiya's Circuit Connect skill, his newly trained Mana Burst, and boosting himself with the Boosted Gear, Issei powered himself up to the limit. The energy coming out of him pushed back the others. Issei focused on Asia, on the restraints, and used his new skill. "Dress Break!" The skill successfully activated, and Asia's restraints were successfully destroyed, along with her clothes. Issei caught the falling Asia and used his body to cover her slightly. Asia was momentarily confused, followed by relief at being freed, then embarrassment at realizing she was suddenly naked. "Sorry again," said Issei as his armor disappeared.
The others were shocked by what happened but quickly gathered around Asia, with Xenovia almost tackle-hugging her in relief. Asia patted her back to calm her down while Akeno used a magic circle on her to give her some new clothing. Mash gave Issei a confused look. "Senpai, what did you just do?"
Issei made an awkward expression. "Remember how a while back my Origin awakened?" Mash nodded while the others looked at the pair confused. "Well since then it has been slowly awakening more bit by bit, and during the time when you all were training against Sona, I was also doing various forms of training with the help of my other Servants. One of which was figuring out my Origin."
"And your Origin has the ability to remove women's clothes?" asked Mash with a skeptical look.
"I wasn't aiming for it! I discovered it accidentally with Scàthach-shishou and Medb one time. After figuring it out a bit we discovered that I can now disrobe any woman I touch. We figured it would be useful for something like throwing enemies off from how unexpected it would be or destroying armor that would be too durable otherwise. In line with that thinking, I thought that the restraints on Asia might count as well, which thankfully it did, although it definitely required a lot of power."
The others gave Issei looks that seemed to be a mix of amusement and exasperation, except for Jealter who looked annoyed. Diodora looked at the situation in disbelief. "... That shouldn't be possible…," he said.
"Issei-san!" Asia cried as she went to hug him. "I knew you would come save me," she said, teary-eyed.
"I told you; I will always be there for you. As long as I'm here I'll make sure you're safe," Issei said while rubbing her head comfortingly. Asia nodded with a smile.
"We should get out of here and help the other leaders deal with the Khaos Brigade," suggested Rias.
"Right. Angry Mango, grab Diodora and bring him with us. We need to turn him over to the Alliance."
"You got it, Boss," said Angra, a small smirk appearing seeing that his Master seemed to be back to normal.
As this group moved to prepare to leave, Asia seemed to pray in thanks for things going well, which Issei and Mash saw, and thought was sweet. But that moment was ruined as a light suddenly enveloped Asia, and she disappeared. Everyone was stunned by this sudden event. "Asia!" shouted Issei, confused and worried.
Everyone went on guard as they were trying to figure out what happened. "I knew something like this would happen. Diodora, you fool. You were too confident and prideful for your own good," said a mysterious voice.
Everyone looked up and saw a man floating above the destroyed device. He emanated a power that put the ORC on edge. "... Who are you?" asked Rias warily.
"It's my first time meeting you, sister of the annoying fake Maou. My name is Shalba Beelzebub. The true successor of the Great True Maou Beelzebub. I'm different from the relative of the fake one you fought earlier. Diodora Astaroth, I lent you my power and forces and look at the situation you are in. In the match against Agares, you used Ophis' snake without my authorization and had the enemy predict our plan. You are very foolish indeed," said Shalba.
Diodora seemed to regain some energy seeing him. "Shalba! Please help me! If it is with you, we can kill the Sekiryuutei! If the Old-Maou and Current-Maou were to join forces..."
A strike of light went through Diodora's chest as he was cut off. "Pitiful. I even told you the power of that girl's Sacred Gear and yet you couldn't do anything. That explains how useless you are." With those words, Diodora's body dissolved into dust as he died.
"How did a devil use a light attack?!" asked Rias in shock. She then noticed he seemed to have some kind of device on his arm. That must be the source, she thought to herself.
It was then that she along with others realized what happened to Asia, and they became enraged at him. "Now, sister of Sirzechs. It may be sudden, but I will have you die here. The reason is simple. That is to destroy every blood relative of the current Maou," Shalba said, clear hatred and disgust in his eyes.
"You think you can win? We already stopped your plan!"
"You are right in this case. Our plan ends with this. It is our defeat. I never thought that a Boosted Gear, a mid-tier Longinus, would win against Dimension Lost, a high-tier Longinus. I can only say that this was something we didn't anticipate. Well, we got significant results for future terrorism, so I have to be satisfied with that. Cruzerey died fighting Sirzechs and Azazel, but it won't be a problem. –As long as I'm active, we can still progress, even without Vali. The True Beelzebub is great. Now, as my souvenir while returning... –Sirzechs's sister, I will have you dead."
"You cowards would attack the relatives of the Maou than the Maou directly!" Rias cursed at him.
"Of course. They should taste despair before we kill them," said Shalba, unfazed by Rias' criticism.
"Scum! You'll pay for this! Especially for killing Asia!" As Rias declared this everyone readied to fight including the Servants.
Well, almost everyone. Issei and Mash were still staring at the spot Asia was standing. They hadn't moved or responded to anything that was happening as if in a trance. They only reacted when Rias accused Shalba of killing Asia. The pair stared at Shalba, a certain emptiness in their eyes. Xenovia charged at Shalba, wielding both Durandal and Ascalon against him. "Give her back! Give me back my friend!" she roared as she tried to slash Shalba.
Shalba was unfazed and released an attack that pushed Xenovia back. He gave her a condescending look. "Vulgar reincarnated devil and the dragon which is equally as garbage. The princess of Gremory seriously has bad taste indeed. That girl no longer had a use to our plans, so I made her disappeared beyond to the Dimensional Gap. Her body should have perished by now. –It means, she died."
At these words Mash collapsed. She fell to her knees as the tears finally started to fall. Issei, on the other hand, started getting flashes of his memories of Asia. Ah, my name is Asia, Asia Argento. I have a dream. My Dream is to have a friend. It's thanks to you that I can pray to God again. I always feel at peace by Issei-san's side. I never want to leave. I will continue to support Issei-san, by his side. I love you Issei-san… These memories replay in Issei's mind again and again, until something finally snaps…
Here's this months chapter done early! Today's my birthday and I figured I would post this chapter early as a special treat for myself and all of you who have stuck with this story. I just want to thank all of you again for sticking with this story for as long as you have. I never really thought I would be doing something like this a couple of years ago, even as a hobby. I truly appreciate it. Now, to this chapter, I'm sure you were all waiting to see what was going to go down with the battle between Issei and Diodora, but it wasn't really much of a battle, since even with extra help Diodora was always an overconfident idiot. But all that aside, the real show will be next chapter. I'm sure you all know what comes next, but there will be more to deal with than just the enemies this time. You'll all just have to wait and see. I look forward to the comments as always. : )