[2 Days Later]

(Ryoto POV)

It's already been some time since my encounter with Freed Selzen and realising Asia had been roped into helping fallen angels. And no one else even bothered to bat an eye on how she might be a victim. To be honest... I decided to leave Occult Research Club for good after what happened...

Now, I'm just silently sitting at the table for breakfast. It's Sunday, so I can take it a bit easy at least. But my parents are very perceptive and know I'm in the dumps.

Masashi: *patting my back* "Come on, champ. You've been this sour for two days now. You'll give yourself a headache being like this."

Ryoto: "I'm not being sour. Just... I guess a bit regretful."

Kyouka: *gently* "I'm sure everyone at your club didn't mean anything to make you feel left out, dear. New friendships are expected to be rocky at first."

Masashi: "Precisely. All it takes is to find common ground and work out anything that caused the rift in the first place."

Ryoto: "Thanks. But... it's actually not that easy. It's more like... I don't like being dragged and ordered for something I already know isn't going to result in anything good."

Daimonji: "grrraww... rraaawwaarrgh... ghraaaww"

Ryoto: "Try to prove my point? ...I guess that could work."

I guess I needed at least a little encouragement. I need to take matters into my own hands.

After eating breakfast, I decide to go for a stroll around town. Daimonji quickly scarfes down his own tray and jumps onto my shoulder.

Kyouka: "Will you be okay, honey?"

Ryoto: "Mh-mhm. I know what to do now. Thanks. See you later!"

I immediately bolt into town. I was lying about being totally okay and Daimonji could definitely feel it. But at least I know what I'm supposed to do. I'm a guardian. I should know how to handle things in regards to my own judgement. Although... how I let my anger out on everyone... I hope I didn't go too far.

""Opening theme: Trip Innocent of D""

(FLASHBACK - 2 Days Ago)

(3rd POV)

It's been an hour since everyone survived an encounter with a lunatic priest. Everyone was recuperating, while Issei transported to the Underworld to relay the message about the incident. Meanwhile, especially Rias has been still kind of stressed.

Rias: "Please, Ryoto. You need to let me heal those wounds. Otherwise your strength won't be restored for at least a week."

Ryoto: *coldly* "I said I don't need it..."

Furumai: "Sheesh. And I was worried sick about you guys. To think that stray exorcist would pull out light weapons like that. Jerk must've been a whole baggage of pain-in-the-assery."

Ryoto: "...Stray exorcist?..."

Yuuto: "A ton of them got the boot from the church. And for lack of options, many became servants of fallen angels."

Not needing to hear anything else, Ryoto stood up and started walking away. The cold expression he had could pierce a stone.

Akeno: "Where are you going?"

Yuuto: "You're seriously not thinking about going after them again?"

Ryoto: "...And what of it?..."

Before he could walk out, he's stopped by Rias pulling on his arm.

Rias: "I can't keep refrasing it for you Ryoto. When I say don't, you don't. You have to forget about Asia. You are a member of the Gremory family now."

Ryoto: *peeved* "And why should I expect to follow you're example? I refuse to let this go, so just release me."

Rias: "I'm sorry, but I can't do that."

Ryoto: "...Why? I'm just a Pawn. You don't need a weak footsoldier to look after, right?"

Rias: "That's enough, Ryoto!" *sighing* "Pawns are important. They're not the weakest piece in the game by any means."

Even with everything, Ryoto decides to listen to what Rias has to say.

Rias: *sitting down* "Do you remember when I told you my evil pieces have the same attributes as their chess characters? In this chess game, quite a bit. If a Pawn advances deep enough into the enemy's territory, it can be promoted to any other piece besides the King. If the master declares it the enemy territory, you will be able to use same abilities as everyone else. Say for example, the fallen ones church."

But it seemed like Ryoto wasn't paying attention anymore and just turned to the door.

Rias: "Ryoto! If you decide to dissobey your master, you will become a stray. I'm trying to keep that from happening. Why don't you cooperate?"

Ryoto: *stopping* "...Cooperate? With this crap? You turned your back on a helpless misguided holy maiden..."

Rias: "We don't have a choice! Any kind of contact with the opposing side would lead to horrible consequences-"

Ryoto: *turning around* "Oh just SHUT! UP!"

Everyone was absolutely silent after Ryoto suddenly had the guts to yell in Rias' face, who also flinched in surprise. She never saw Ryoto lose it like this.

Ryoto: *angry* "This isn't anyone else's problem than yours! And you even try to rope humans into this conflict! You devils have no idea how human minds truly work! So don't you dare lecture me! This isn't a chess game, this is a real life-or-death scenario!"

With every second Ryoto kept spouting in blind rage, everyone kept slowly backing up. Then, his devil wings were let out again and something once again started happening to them...

Ryoto: *angry* "You robbed me of the life I wished for after suffering enough in this world... and you expect me to be an obedient lapdog or something!?"

Rias: "Ryoto..."

Ryoto: *angry* "None of this would've happened if that fallen angel bitch wouldn've been glossed over! Even if you ressurect me, I'm NOT! A! DEVIL! I'm a guardian! And my duty is to lend a hand to any creature that deserves help!"

Rias: "Ryoto..."

Ryoto: *angry* "Both the Heaven and the Underworld can go stuff it up their ass! This is also why I distrust gods! They claim to be allmighty, but they never bother to even lift a finger! As far as I'm concerned, the God is just as big of a fuckin' asshole as the Devil King! I'D RATHER DIE THAN HAVE ANYONE CONTROL MY LIFE! IT'S MY LIFE! MY DESICIONS! MY! FATE! NO ONE ELSE'S!"

Rias: *weakly* "Ryoto!..."

Ryoto: *angry* "Hrr... WHAT!?"

Rias: *trembling* "Please... you're scary..."

Once Ryoto managed to calm down a bit and not see red anymore, he saw something that got fried into his mind... Rias was just leaning against her desk, trembling with fear on the verge of tearing up. And everyone was unusually weary, as if prepared to attack him any second. Even Daimonji was completely frozen in place after seeing his partner explode like this. He can't see it, but some kind of markings on his body are fading out of existence, as well as his eyes glowing in bright silver. But that wasn't the only abnormality... his devil wings were rattling and producing a hissing sound... like the tail of a rattlesnake.

After realising what was happening, Ryoto just quiets down with a solemn look. His wings stop hissing and look like they're starting to dissolve, which gets everyone's attention.

Ryoto: *solemn* "...See? I told you I'm not cut out to be a devil..."

Furumai: "W-wait... Ryoto... what're you gonna do?"

Ryoto: *turning around* "What I'm supposed to do. Daimonji... we're leaving for good..."

Daimonji just looks unsurely towards everyone's surprised expression and just jumps onto Ryoto's shoulder. As he's leaving through the door, his devil wings get completely dissolved and the body markings pulse extra brightly for a slip second, visibly shattering his devil aura... evidenced by a pawn piece on the table to turn from red back to white. Everyone's still in a state of shock on what exactly happened and Akeno examines the pawn piece.

Yuuto: *disbelieved* "Did... his devil aura shatter away?"

Furumai: "He must be absolutely filled with resentment."

Akeno: *worried* "Oh dear. His evil piece is still inside, but it's like he's rejection of it is super powerful... What have we done?"

Rias: *tearing up* "No... this is entirely on me..."

Koneko: *worried* "President?"

Rias: *crying* "I didn't even bother to consider what he believed... *sniff* I'm... such a terrible master..."

No one even dared to utter a single word. Akeno could just try to comfort Rias after that whole fiasco. But Furumai wouldn't have any of it.

Furumai: "I'll keep an eye on him and try to see what can be done. It was because of my carelessnes that the fallen angels got to him. I'll see to that something like that won't happen any time soon."

Akeno: "If you're sure. President?"

Rias is in too much sorrow to uther a single word. So she just quietly nods and Furumai walks out of the clubroom. Now Rias is afraid she made things even worse, that now her old friend hates her.

Rias: *crying* '...Just what I was afraid of. *sniff* Please Ryoto... don't disappear again...'

(FLASHBACK END)

[Present Day]

(Ryoto POV)

Ryoto: *slumped* "And... I haven't responded to anyone from the rest of the team for 2 days. I know I went all out on how they brought me in without my consent... but I still feel like a total ass for saying all of that."

Prof. Sanshō̄o: *shoulder patting* "Sounds like you're in quite a pickle, my friend."

I decided to visit professor Sanshō̄o for a little piece of mind. His huge library with a living room-like complex in the middle is still as weirdly organized as the last time I visited.

Prof. Sanshō̄o: "And do you feel resentment on leaving?"

Ryoto: *pondering* "Mmm... I keep telling myself I should... but honestly, I'm still grateful she was willing to bring me back to life. *sigh* Great. Now I just feel even more like a total dick..."

Prof. Sanshō̄o: "Want my opinion? As a guardian, you just have a strong sense of independence."

Ryoto: "Yeah, I guess. Sorry, but I don't think I will be able to provide service as a devil anymore."

Prof. Sanshō̄o: *nonchalantly* "Bah. No worries, young man. Even if you turn into a beesnake, I'm always happy to provide assistance. Besides, we still have a lot to uncover about the legendary guardians. This old man's door is always open."

Ryoto: *snickering* "You're not so old."

Daimonji: *nodding* "wrraaawwrr"

All three of us have a good laugh. It's a major relieve that I still have someone I can turn to. After Sanshō̄o gave me a small porcelaine statue of a Komainu, me and Daimonji arrive back to the same park, where my brief but crazy adventure started.

Daimonji: *nudging* "hrraawwrr?"

Ryoto: "Yeah, it does feel like a long time. All of this happened in a span of just one week. I know I complained about wanting a normal life, but... it's just starting to feel... I don't know. Boring? What DO I truly want anymore?..."

???: "Ryoto, it's you."

There's no way... I turn around, and right behind me is standing Asia. Completely unharmed.

Ryoto: *shocked* "Asia? You're really here!?"

[Later]

After an unexpected and honestly relieving encounter with Asia, I invited her to spend some time around the shopping district. First, we went to the fast-food store. I already ordered for both of us a tray, plus some smaller menu for Daimonji and we sit down.

Asia: *nervous* "Does this place really offer proper meal?"

Ryoto: "No, more like for a quick pitstop. But there isn't anything bad about it."

Asia: "Okay. Oh! Before we eat, I have to wash my hands."

Before I could reply, Asia just randomly pulls out a glass vile filled with... holy water!? ...She's so adorably clueless it's actually kind of dangerous. Even though I'm not a devil anymore. I quickly pull out few wet towels from my pocket.

Ryoto: *spazing* "Uh, hold up, hold up! That's not exactly a way to cut it."

Asia: "It isn't?"

Ryoto: "Here. Just a little rinsing with this towel is fine."

She still cleaned her hands quite methodically. And afterwords, she just presented her clean hands with a child-like glee. I couldn't help but internally squeel a bit at her reaction.

Now, we could dig in. But Asia on the other hand has been staring at her tray for a good minute. Guess being a holy maiden meant she never could go for any outings.

Ryoto: "You seem quite stumped. But there's no other way. Really."

Asia: "There isn't?"

Ryoto: *unwraps burger* "Watch. It's easy."

Guess I didn't help very much, since I tend to bite off a big chunk from my food. Even Daimonji just starts scarfing down his filling. But it didn't seem to worry Asia.

Asia: "Well, if that's the way you're supposed to do it, here goes."

She tries to imitate me. And after a little hassitation, she just dellicatly bites off a bit from her burger.

Asia: *smiling* "Oh my, it's so yummy."

Ryoto: *smiling* "Glad to hear it. By the way, what brought you to the park?"

Asia: *uneasy* "Oh, well..." *recovering* "The weather was perfect and I thought it might be nice to get out and enjoy the day. But then, I saw you there and my fun day got even better. So yay."

Ryoto: 'That sounded a bit forced... she's definitely still hurting.' "Well then. How 'bout the three of us hang out a bit?"

Asia: *blushing* "Uh... yeah sure!"

It seems this is just what she needed after the entire chaos. So I took her around a game corner. For supposedly never playing any of these kinds of games, she still held her own. Car racing, karaoke, DDR duet with Daimonji... I could feel her radiate absolute joy from such simple activities. Several employees even got Asia to try on a cosplay, much to her embarrassement. But I helped her power through it and we even took a picture in a photo booth. (GOD DAMMIT! SHE LOOKED ULTRA CUTE! Huh... no shock to my head afterall...)

Now, after Asia put on her nun uniform again, we're walking near some arcades. But what caught her attention was a plushie scooping game filled with Pikachu plushies.

Ryoto: "You okay?"

Asia: "Oh. Yeah, I'm totally fine, no big deal."

Ryoto: "Pikachu huh... are you a fan of stuffies?"

Asia: *blushing* "Uh, no. Nothing like that. Well, sort off... yes."

I decide to try and get one for her. I do have a bit of a sour experience with this arcade machine. But still worth the shot for Asia... I did it!

Ryoto: "Yes! And my losing streak goes caput."

Asia: *delighted* "Thanks for winning this little guy for me. From now on, every time I look at it, I'll remember how much of a blessing it's been to get to know you."

Ryoto: "Aw, shucks. No biggie. Come on, there's still plenty to see. If you want."

(3rd POV)

This was easily some of the happiest moments in Asia's life. But she still felt pain over this particular day...

Asia: *whispering* "Thank you. This is special. Even if it is only for today."

(Ryoto POV)

For some reason, Daimonji turned to Asia as if she said something troubling.

Ryoto: "You okay there, bud?"

Daimonji stayed still for a bit, but then just shrugges it off. But after everything, I should stay vigilant.

(Later)

After we returned back to the park, we decided to slow down a bit with just something little to drink.

Asia: "You know what? I can't remember the last time I had this much fun."

Ryoto: "Really? Well in that case, mission accomplished."

Daimonji: *nodding* "hrraawwrr"

But the moment is ruined yet again when my wound starts hurting again. The same spot where Freed slashed me with that sword. Even if I'm not a devil anymore, the pain is still there.

Asia: *concerned* "It's your wound from the other day."

Ryoto: "Yeah... guess it's still not fully gone."

Asia: "Didn't you get it healed?"

Oof... I haven't told her everything yet. So, we sit down near the park pond and Asia uses her Sacred Gear to heal me. In the meantime, I told her everything. About how I wanted to return to help her no matter what... and how I snapped at the rest of ORC. And also that I'm now back to being a normal human, miraculously not turning into a stray.

Asia: "I'm sorry that had to happen."

Ryoto: "Yeah... to be honest, I still feel a bit conflicted on whether it was justified."

Asia: "I'm sure they didn't mean any of this. They were even willing to save me. A complete stranger."

Ryoto: 'She doesn't even know them, but can already see good in them... she's very pure...'

Asia: *finished healing* "There. Does your leg hurt too?"

Ryoto: "Um... a bit."

No other question, she just heals my leg aswell. I turn to Daimonji and even he's amazed at Asia's selflessness.

Asia: "Is that good?"

Ryoto: *stretching* "Well I'll be. Holy cow, I feel a million times better. Thanks a lot Asia. I owe you, big time."

Once we can relax a bit and back to full strength again, she decided to tell me a bit about where she came from. Me and Daimonji are full ears now.

Asia: "When I was a baby, I was abandoned by my real parents. They left me in front of a church in a small town in Europe. I was told that when they found me, I wouldn't stop crying. The sweet nuns there brought me up."

That sounds really rough. I can feel in her voice that it's still weighing her down. Daimonji lays down on her lap to comfort her. She could recognize his gesture and pets him a bit before continuing her story.

Asia: "One day, when I was about 8, a sad little puppy, who was really hurt, found it's way into the church where I lived. I prayed as hard as I could that God would spare him. And when I did, a miracle happened. Because of my power, I was immediately taken to a larger church. Men and women from all over the world would visit when they were injured or sick and I was told to heal all of them. The idea that I possessed this thing that could actually help other people made me so happy. I finally felt like I had a purpose. But then one day, I came across someone who had fallen and was in bad shape. I was able to heal him. But he wasn't a man."

'This girl has the power to heal devils!'

'DEMON!'

'SHE'S A WITCH! BURN HER!'

Asia: *downcast* "They said anyone who had my kind of power was a heretic. So I had no choice but to run away."

Ryoto: *concerned* "That's some story. So after that, you had no choice but to turn to fallen angels for help."

Asia: "Yes. But I'll never forget who I am. I say my prayers and try my best to live a good life. They're awful. They do such horrible evil things and all in the name of God... this suffering has to be the test of my faith."

Ryoto: 'Damn... my distrust towards gods can't even compare to this...'

Asia: "But if I can overcome these trials, someday I know. My hopes and dreams will come true. That's what I believe anyway."

Ryoto: "What kind of dream?"

Asia: "To make lots of lifelong friends. To get to know them well and do cool things. To be able to have fun together and care for each other. It's kind of silly. Honestly, I'd be happy to have any friends."

I've heard enough. She's obviously in desperate need of someone she can truly trust.

Asia: "Hey, is something wrong?"

Ryoto: *standing up* "Even if there's someone saying othewise, I'm obviously your friend. And so is Daimonji. Right?"

Daimonji: *nodding* "hrraw"

Ryoto: "After everything we just spend together, if that doesn't make us friends, then I don't know what does. Heck, I even won you a plushie. And we know and care about each other very well, wouldn't you say so?"

Asia: *conflicted* "...We can't. I care about you too, but we can't. Ryoto, even if you're not a devil, you would only get hurt even more."

Ryoto: "I'm not afraid. Nothing will ever stop us from being together, I swear."

Asia: *tearing up* "Really...? Alright. Thank you, Ryoto." *looking down* "And thank you too, Daimonji."

There. All three of us are much better now. I won't let anyone to hurt Asia. Not now, not ever. And... I spoke too soon. Again! The freezing aura once again numbs my senses. And then... something... or someone, lands in the pond behind us.

???: "Isn't that sweet."

No way... I turn to the owner of the voice... and it's her again. Yuuma. Of course she's still around.

Ryoto: *frowning* "Not you again."

Asia: *trembling* "Lady Raynare..."

Ryoto: 'What? Raynare? ...So that must be her real name...' "*sigh* Shoud've known you'd be back."

Raynare: "So the rumors about your downward spiral into the wickedness of devildom are true. And I had such high hopes." *glaring* "Don't even try to run, Asia."

Asia: "Begone! I want no part of the evil you and the other angels are up to!" *turning to Ryoto* "I ran away. I'm sorry, but I couldn't stand to be around them anymore."

Ryoto: "Don't apologize. You did the right thing. That bunch of filthy heaven rejects have no right to threaten someone like you." *shifting focus* "Alright then, 'Raynare'. What exactly do you plan to do this time?"

I can't take any chances, after she pretty much killed me in a single shot. Now, I'm ready for payback on that bitch. Daimonji too, as he crowches in front of Asia, ready to pounce.

Raynare: *smirking* "Heh. Oh, don't worry. My business here has nothing to do with you, little boy. Though I guess we could finish what we started, couldn't we. Let's. Have. Fun."

At that, she summons the very light spear that caused my sudden death and the whole fiasco to kickstart.

Ryoto: "Hmph. Try as you might, you won't get to me second time, you deceiving bitch."

Raynare: *mocking* "Shame. I always hate seeing someone die a virgin."

Ryoto: *eye-twitching* "Okay, that's it. Imma kill you. DEPLOY! Oh yeah."

I successfully deploy my Sacred Gear. I'm so glad it still works. I'm more than ready to get back at Raynare. But... she isn't concerned at all. In fact, after seeing my Sacred Gear, she starts laughing.

Raynare: *amused* "Pffhahahahah! Is that really all you've got? It's nothing but a Twice Critical. Coming up short, aren't we?"

Ryoto: "Wait. What do you mean Twice Critical?"

Raynare: "It's also called a Dragon's Hand. That thing only doubles your power temporarily. You might as well be fighting me with sticks and stones."

Ryoto: "You cannot be serious. All that hassle and it's just this underwhelming!?"

Raynare: "Word upstairs is that you're a devil to watch out for. They said your Sacred Gear was a force to be reckoned with. That's why I put on that dumb little girl act." *mockingly* "'Please Ryoto. Will you except my feelings?' Ridiculous. And you almost bought it completely. Just enough for me to strike."

Ryoto: "Well too bad for you, I'm back to square one and now more than ready. Now fight!"

Raynare: "You're an idiot if you think you can take me on with that tiny thing. Give me the girl, take what's left of your dignity and go. Before even your precious pet also gets hurt."

Daimonji: *pissed off* "grrraaawwrrr!"

Ryoto: "You try and bend a single hair on either of them and I'll drag you to the pits of hell myself."

Asia: *afraid* "Please be careful."

Ryoto: "And FYI Raynare, I'm not a devil. I'm a guardian. Anyone who deserves help, I'll always reach out towards! Even if it kills me! Now, double my power, Gear! Show me what you can do!"

BOOST!

Ryoto: "It's working. My power is reacting! It's-"

Before I could react, Raynare just immediately pierces the light spear through my gut. It happened so fast.

Asia: *scared* "Ryoto, NO! You're hurt!"

Ryoto: *crouching* "It's not as bad as before."

Raynare: "Nice catch. Looks like your equipment can't get the job done. If I were you, I'd get used to that. Even for someone of pretty much a dead species by this point."

I have to get it together. While I'm still down, Asia tries to heal me again. I can see my amulet glowing in green light - reacting with her healing.

Asia: "I'll heal you, silly."

Ryoto: "Thanks. But watch out." 'She's the most powerful healer I've ever met.'

Raynare: *laughing* "Now Asia. Be a good little girl and come with me. Your healing power is far more rare and infinitely more valuable to our kind than his Sacred Gear ever could be."

Asia: "I knew it! You're only interested in me because of my power!"

Raynare: *summons light spear* "How about you and I make a deal? If you agree to come with me, then I won't murder your friend and his pet."

Ryoto: "Screw off, woman! You aren't taking anyone!"

Daimonji: "rraaawwrrr!"

It seems Raynare is now really angry, as she charges forward. Daimonji pushes Asia out of the way and I engage Raynare in close combat. My Sacred Gear can still be used as a battering ram. I try my best to deflect her attacks, but I can't keep up forever. As she then just hurls the spear at me, with little hesitation for some reason, some kind of barrier deflects it, causing to push me back.

Ryoto: "What was that?"

???: "You thought you could just get rid of me that easily, bro?"

No way. I turn around and it's Furumai, with his own Sacred Gear forming on his forehead. He used some kind of psychic ability to stop the spear.

Ryoto: "Furumai! How did you-"

Furumai: "I think you already know the answer."

But it was short lived, cause Daimonji fell on top of me and Raynare is now holding Asia close to her. Furumai was preparing to strike again.

Furumai: *frowning* "Why you-!"

Ryoto: *panicked* "No, wait! You'll hit Asia, too!"

Raynare: "I spared their lives on purpose. If I wanted to, I could've delivered a fatal blow. They would've shattered into million pieces."

Asia: "Alright, I'll go with you..."

Raynare: "Good girl. No need to fret. After the big ritual tonight, all your worries and troubles will be gone forever. I'll see you soon, Ryoto."

Ryoto: "No, Asia! Don't!"

Asia: *gently* "Goodbye, friend... I'll miss you."

And they immediately disappear. I failed again... Is there nothing I can do?

Furumai: "I'm sorry I was late... Ryo?"

Ryoto: "I don't blame you... I'm the one who needs to fix this."

I immediately bolt back home, with Daimonji hot on my tail, to prepare for what one would describe as a total lunatic attempt.

High School DxD NEO

[Sunset]

(3rd POV)

Now with the newfound determination, Ryoto and Daimonji make their way back home to prepare for the unexpected rescue. Ryoto bursts through his house's front door like a mad bull, his parents being shocked out of their skin.

Masashi: "Ryoto! What are you in such a hurry-? And why is your shirt bloodied!?"

But Ryoto doesn't respond, just speeds immediately to his room to change his damaged wardrobe and looks for something under his bed. Just as his frightened parents catch up, he pulled out from under the bed the same box with the dagger inscription. He undoes his amulet from around his neck and fits it into a tiny opening, waiting for the box to open as the amulet starts to glow and resonate.

Kyouka: *concerned* "Honey, please slow down. What are you doing?"

Ryoto: "Sorry, but it's not that easy to explain. A friend of mine is in mortal danger."

Masashi: "That still doesn't explain why you're trying to get to that family box. And why is it glowing?"

Kyouka: "What kind of danger?"

Ryoto knows they won't shrug off so easily. And they probably don't know where HE comes from, so it would just be an unnecessary shock.

When the box finally opens, Ryoto pulls out what looks like a small scepter-shaped wand, covered in black and ornamented with golden scales. Once he holds it out, it reshapes into an elegantly scale-ornamented longbow, still retaining it's color and the same four-jeweled cross at it's front, just like the amulet. Ryoto has a desperate look on his face and he can see his parents just look on in shock and amazement.

Ryoto: "You're probably not gonna believe me, but the supernatural kind of danger. I have to go."

And just like that, now with the proper equipment on stand by, Ryoto once again bolts back to the front door, with Daimonji waiting nearby. But he's suddenly pulled back by Masashi. Both he and Kyouka, to Ryoto's surprise, caught up to him in an instant.

Masashi: "Alright, slow down. Do you just expect us to let you go off like that?"

Ryoto: *desperate* "Dad, please. This is an emergency. I need to act now. I-I know you and mom think I'm losing it, but-"

Kyouka: "We're not trying to stop you, we want to tell you we're going with you."

Masashi: "Precisely. This could spout problems for the entire city."

Ryoto: *confused* "Wha? But- wait, how do you know what I'm up to-?"

Before he could finish, both Masashi and Kyouka, right in front of Ryoto's and Daimonji's eyes... sprout out their own wings. Kyouka possesses elegant white wings of a dove, while Masashi sports fuzzier, jet black wings of a crow. Ryoto is so taken aback that he nearly falls backwards. This entire time, he's parents are actually... an angel and a fallen angel...

Ryoto: *flabbergasted* "Uh- wha- what the hell!?"

Masashi: *raising hand* "We know you have so many questions and we shall answer them. But right now, we need to know what's precisely happening."

Kyouka: "We promise we can help out."

Ryoto is still shocked beyond believe, but knows this is no time for stalling. So he decides to clue them in on everything.

[Later]

Once everything is set and done, Ryoto and Daimonji head back through the park. Furumai is still waiting there.

Furumai: "Alright, I hope you know what you're doing. I know I can't stop you, but- um... what happened to you?"

Unbeknownst to Ryoto, he has a very shooketh, but silent expression. Daimonji nudged him a bit to respond back.

Ryoto: "Just feeling like everything I knew up until know is completely upside down. But all that later. Right now, I have an innocent life to save."

Furumai: "You bet. I'm comin' too."

Ryoto: "Huh!?"

Furumai: *pointing back* "And also someone else."

After looking past Furumai's shoulder, Ryoto sees Yuuto, Issei and Koneko just standing around, as if already expecting him. It kind of reminds him of their last falling out and gets kind of uneasy.

Ryoto: *nervous* "Why did you come?"

Yuuto: "You're gonna get killed on your own. That's very brave. Very stupid too. It's suicide."

Ryoto: "Your point?"

Yuuto: "I'm coming with you, too. You can't possibly do it on your own. So the four of us are gonna back you up. And there's no way in hell we're gonna let you go in there without us, so you might as well save your breath, dude."

Issei: "I commend your guts. But still, this will be like entering Tartarus. So like it or not, we're accompanying you."

Koneko: "There's nothing else going on, so we might as well."

Ryoto: "Ok, but... well... I didn't think you would want to help me after what... I said."

Issei: *intrigued* "What'd I miss?"

Furumai: "You gave everyone a scare, that's a fact. But even so, we still consider you a part of the team. So why not get bloodstained like a unit?"

Ryoto couldn't believe they're still willing to go out of their way to back him up.

Ryoto: 'I gave them too little credit back then...' "Alright, better get psyched up for a real pendemonium, you guys. Let's get out alive."

Once that's established, all six immediately head towards the old church. But while running, Ryoto could see black and white streaks of light heading their way as well. Despite still being very much shocked by the events, he decides to trust his gut.

[Meanwhile]

While Ryoto and others are making their way towards the old church, it turns out not to be ENTIRELY unsupervised.

???: "Ugh, this is the worst. Standing guard is the most boring thing ever."

It was a young and petite looking girl, with light blond hair tied in pigtails, sharp blue eyes and a visible fang, dressed in a frilly black and white goth girl dress.

But she had little time to complain as a red light shines right next to her. It's the Gremory glyph, from which Rias and Akeno appear. With them on the scene, the goth girl gets a bit more interested.

Goth girl: *smirking* "Oooh, ask and you shall freakin' receive. *jumps down* Hi there. I'm Mittelt. And I'm totally the most awesome fallen angel of history ever."

Akeno: *amused* "This little girl is really into herself, isn't she?"

Rias: "My servants sensed you were nearby. Since you're out here standing guard, your people must be worried about an attack."

Mittelt: "Worried? No, we're just in the middle of a super-duper top secret ritual we don't want you devils interfering with."

Akeno: "Not to burst your bubble, but unfortunately a couple of the younger members of our team are on their way there right now."

Mittelt: *baffled* "They're what!? Are you flippin' kidding me!?"

Akeno: "Nope. And they're not being discreet about it, either."

Mittelt: *frustrated* "Uuugh! I hate devils! I just wanna squish their ugly stupid devil faces! Ugh! Whatever, let them do their worst. Not like they can stop us. They're way more of us then there are of them. So why are you here? I hope it's not for some rescue operation. Cause if so, you'll have to deal with me first. I may be little, but I can promise you this much - I can pack a mean punch."

Rias: "They're on their own."

Mittelt: *surprised* "Huh?"

Rias: *smirking* "We won't be making any attempt to rescue them."

Mittelt: "So... what? You're just gonna sit back and watch?"

[At the Church]

(Ryoto POV)

We made it all the way to the old church, and it looks even worse than when I saw it from a distance. We had to stop and hide as not to be spotted. I can feel an immense amount of aura from there.

Ryoto: "Sheesh. Feels like being pressed against an invisible wall."

Yuuto: "No kidding. There must be a ton of priests inside there."

Furumai: "Having any regrets on us coming to help?"

Ryoto: "Nope."

Yuuto: *smiling* "Well hey. You and I are buddies too, right?" *glaring* "Besides. Fallen angels aren't exactly my favorite things in the world. The truth is, I hate them."

Ryoto: 'Uh oh, introducing dad later on will probably backfire...'

That was the first time I've seen Yuuto actually show some kind of negative side of himself. Especially Daimonji is kind of unnerved.

While I'm processing everything, Koneko just nonchalantly starts walking towards the front door.

Ryoto: "What the- Koneko, why're you just waltzing in there!?"

Koneko: "No need to be sneaky. They know we're here."

At that, she kickes the door open and everyone starts making their way inside. Before I enter however, I sense a presence from above. The same white light streak is making it's way around the church. It makes me feel reassured, that the last resort rescue is in place.

The interior of the church is kind of unnerving, with bleachers being pretty much untouched, but the holy statues missing their heads and the big cross on the front alter being partially damaged.

Ryoto: "Ugh... it looks like an attempt at a haunted house in here."

Issei: "I don't know. I could see this setup fit into Corpse Party."

Ryoto: "Really, dude?"

Daimonji then starts to growl at something in front of us. As if on que, we hear clapping as someone walks in. And... it's that snake creep Freed Selzen.

Freed: "So, we meet again. Glad you could make it. I bet I'm a sight for sore eyes, huh?"

Ryoto: *glaring* "More like someone one would want to smash into a bloody pulp."

Furumai: "Is he that psycho priest you ran into?"

Ryoto: "Yup. I'm not happy to see that face again. So, what do you want now, Freed?"

Freed: "Here's the thing - I pride myself on the fact, that I never have to battle any devil more than once. And yet here you are, just rubbing it in. If there's one thing I won't abide, it's being mocked by the maggot devils in the house of God. So what do you say? Let's finish this."

Freed once again brings out his gun and a light sword. Now I have to remain on point. I may not be devil, but that will still hurt like hell.

Freed: *demented* "The thought of tearing away your flesh and eating it piece by piece is making my mouth water." *licking his gun*

Furumai: *cringing* "Hnngh... this guy is even worse than I thought."

Issei: "I think I was right about the slaughter house..."

Ryoto: "Alright jackoff, tell me right now were she is!"

Freed: "Oh right. You mean that dirty devil-loving whore of a sister. All you have to do is go down to the basement. She's right beneath the alter we're currently standing on."

Ryoto: 'This guy's too full of himself to tell us directly...' "Alright, got it."

Freed: "But first, you have to go through me."

Ryoto: "DEPLOY!"

Being ready to throw down, I bring out my Sacred Gear, Yuuto, Furumai and Issei get in the battle stance, Daimonji moves to the side for cover and Koneko moves towards the bleachers. This snake is going down.

Koneko: "Here."

Koneko is first to act and throws a bleacher at Freed with no effort. But he just slices it in two.

Freed: *smirking* "You're pretty strong for a runt, aren't you?"

Koneko: *glaring* "...Suck it."

That was obviously Koneko's trigger button... as she now throws a whole lot more bleachers at Freed. But he still moves around like nothing, firing at us like a maniac. We move closer for a direct assault.

Issei: "Meteor Dragon Iron Fist!"

Out of nowhere, Issei punches Freed in the chest, pushing him back. He tries to slash back, but whatever ability is Issei using, it's giving him near-inhuman reflexes. He justs punches back several times to keep Freed off the reach, just barely dodging the blade.

Ryoto: "Woah! What was that!?"

Issei: *smirking* "That my friend, was a little something called Dragon Slayer Magic."

Ryoto: "Noice!"

Next to act is Yuuto, who jumps up and brings down a sword swipe at Freed, with both locked in an even display of swordsmanship, while Freed also keeps firing from his gun.

Freed: "Come on! That all you've got!? Show me something interesting!"

But with Yuuto being a Knight, his speed keeps him at the save distance from the holy-powered shots. Until they come to a standstill.

Yuuto: "You're quick."

Freed: "Well you're not so bad yourself. Of course that makes me want to kill you even more."

Before Freed could fire his gun, Yuuto immediately backflips and dodges a bullet. Gotta say, I'm very impressed with Yuuto's reflexes too.

Ryoto: 'Good one, Yuuto.'

Yuuto: "Alright, if you wanna get serious about this, I can too."

Suddenly, the blade of Yuuto's sword turns pitch black. It doesn't stop Freed and he goes for another swing. But after coming into contact, his holy blade starts to be absorbed by Yuuto's blackened sword.

Freed: *annoyed* "Hey, what the hell is this!?"

Yuuto: "The Holy Eraser. It's a sword of darkness that devoures light."

Freed: *glaring* "Please! You think I'm afraid of you!?"

Ryoto: "Yuuto has a Sacred Gear too!?"

Furumai: "My turn. Griffon: Gale Slash!"

Now with Freed's blade out of a picture, Furumai brings out his Sacred Gear - a bright blue crest on his forehead with a glowing yellow jewel. Then his entire body lights up in blue flames and I could've sworn I saw a griffon appear behind him. Both of his hands are covered in energy, looking like massive claws.

Freed: "Oh fuck-"

Furumai swipes both of his hands at Freed and he could barely keep up, receiving nasty slashes on his entire torso. Then he nonchalantly kicks him towards Ryoto.

Furumai: "All yours, champ."

Ryoto: "Gladly. NOW!"

BOOST!

Freed: *weakened* "Alright. No more of this bullshit!"

[Meanwhile]

(3rd POV)

Mittelt: "Rescue or not, I can't let you go. You're like, totally the captain of your loser squad. And if we take you out, they're on their trip to Useless Town. Sorry, but I'm bringing friends to this tea party."

After announcing that and bringing her black wings out, someone on que teleports in behind Rias and Akeno. It turns out to be both Kalawarna and Dohnaseek.

Kalawarna: "Good work, Mittelt."

Dohnaseek: "Sad to say we meet again, Lady Gremory. You should've kept your servant in line."

Kalawarna: "He stuck his nose were it doesn't belong again."

Akeno: "Well, well. The gang's all here."

???: "On both sides, I dare to say."

With the unexpected voice, all look to the side to see the newcomer. Especially Rias is shocked on who showed up.

[Back at the Church]

(Ryoto POV)

I have a clear shot on Freed. Time to send this guy for a little visit to the "Your-Fucked Town".

Ryoto: "Come get some!"

I charge ahead, but Freed has his gun out. What now? ...But then, I feel as if I had been strengthened. None of the bullets even reached me.

Freed: "Yup, I'm fucked..."

I reel back my Sacred Gear and give him a nasty uppercut. Such a powerful blow, that he's thrown back at the alter. That felt good.

Issei: *excited* "Boom!"

Ryoto: "You can count it as a payback for Asia, jackass."

Furumai: "Dude, that was a Promotion to Rook! Your Pawn piece is still active!"

Ryoto: "Seriously!?" 'Whoa... so I still AM a devil.'

Freed: *angry* "You bastards! RAH!"

This guy is just relentless. He brings two more light swords-

Freed: "Owchie!"

-but is immediately stopped by Koneko throwing another bleacher at him.

Issei: "Meteor Dragon Crushing Fang!"

Issei, Yuuto and Furumai swipe at him at once. As he's going for Ryoto, Daimonji jumps from the side and claws Freed across his face. That's my opportunity to bring out the bow - but he's flung back by a yellow lighted halo out of nowhere. Right in the face again. Now he has no choice but to retreat.

Freed: "I'll be damned if a bunch of devils get the best of Freed Selzen. You've won the battle, but not the war, scum!"

And of course, he retreates using a flashbang.

Ryoto: "Damn... he's out."

Yuuto: "Forget him, let's keep moving."

Koneko: "Guys!"

We move to the alter and Koneko punches it away. There is a staircase. Only one way to save Asia now.

Ryoto: "Time to move. Daimonji, you stay here. It could get really chaotic down there."

Daimonji: *nodding* "hrrawrr"

Issei: "Wait. Who threw that halo?"

Ryoto: *smirking* "You could say - a powerhouse backup."

???: "*giggle* I'm flattered, dear."

Someone is walking towards us from next to the front door. Me and Daimonji already knew what to expect, but especially Furumai is shocked on who arrived.

[Back with Rias and Akeno]

(3rd POV)

Masashi just waltzed into the clearing, not bothering to hide his wings and equipped with his own light spear out of teal green light. Rias especially is surprised on who Ryoto's father actually is.

Rias: *surprised* "Mr. Akanishi? Is that really you?"

Masashi: "Yes. It is I, miss Gremory. You don't have to fret, I came on behalf of aiding my son." *shifting focus* "So my hunch was correct that you bat-shit lot were up to no good."

Dohnaseek: "Tch. Do you even here yourself... Shamsiel? You traitorous filth?"

Akeno: *surprised* 'Shamsiel!?'

Mittelt: "Like, what the eff, Shamsiel!? Since when are you on the devil's side!?"

Masashi/Shamsiel: "I'm on the side who agreed on not starting another war. Did you forget about Azazel's decision? Of course you have. So, I came to straighten things back. If you desire any assistance, miss Gremory."

Rias: *nodding* "By all means. And thank you."

Dohnaseek: "Do as you will. We'll deal with you like any other wretched devil. On the main note, it seems very clear to us your intention here is to abstruct our ritual. And that we can't allow."

Kalawarna: "You'll pay for it with your lives."

Rias: "Akeno?"

Akeno: "Already on it."

Akeno brings out her lightning magic, turning her uniform into a shrine priestess kimono.

Mittelt: "No fair! I wasn't told we're gonna wear costumes to this fight!"

Ignoring her comment, Akeno summons a force field around the area, preventing anyone from escaping.

Dohnaseek: "It's a barrier."

Mittelt: *concerned* "Uh oh. We're totes screwed."

Akeno: *moaning* "Fufufu... catching my prey in a cage gets me sooo hot~."

Kalawarna: "This was your plan the whole time."

Akeno: "Yup. And I'm gonna take a whole lot of pleasure out of watching you three in pain. Hope you're into S 'n M~!"

Mittelt: *disturbed* "That's totally gross."

Masashi/Shamsiel: *concerned* 'Woah... hope Ryoto hasn't been badly influenced.'

Rias: *smirking* "End of the line for you."

Kalawarna: "Hmph. Go ahead and act as confidant as you want."

Dohnaseek: "The ritual is almost done. And once it's over, not even you will have the power to stand against us, Lady Gremory."

[At the Church]

(Ryoto POV)

With my mom's aid at our side, we finally make it to the basement. I can feel the familiar freezing aura. We enter some kind of chamber, absolutely filled with priests. And at the alter, stands Raynare with Asia strapped to a crucifix, wearing nothing but a white minidress.

Raynare: "Come on in, devils. Oh, and an angel. Welcome to the party. Though I'm afraid you're too late."

Ryoto: "Asia!"

Asia: *weakly* "...Ryoto... you came..."

Ryoto: "Just hang on!"

I'm about to jump in-

Yuuto/Issei: "No, wait!"

-but Yuuto and Issei pull me back, just when a light spear was about to hit me. Mom countered it affortlessly by another halo. The shockwave still propelled us back, but Furumai caught us with his summoned talons.

Raynare: "This really is an incredibly touching reunion. Unfortunately, the ritual's over."

At that, the crucifix starts to glow with green lines and Asia starts screaming in pain.

Ryoto: "What are you doing to her!?"

Yuuto: *realising* "That's it. They're after her Sacred Gear."

Furumai: *concerned* "That's a major problem."

Rias: "I see now. You're out to steal a sister's Sacred Gear and use it for your own evil purposes."

Ryoto: "Hold on... if her Sacred Gear is removed, what's going to happen to her?"

Yuuto: *solemn* "...I'm sorry, Ryoto."

Rias: "Taking that from her is taking her life."

Ryoto: "No... you can't be serious... she'll die!?"

It was so painful for me to watch. Once Asia's Sacred Gear was extracted, she just looked down with an empty look in her eyes. The green light orb containing her rings flowed down to Raynare.

Raynare: "Twilight Healing... at last, it's in my hands."

[END]

""Ending theme: STUDYxSTUDY""

Stakes are getting higher... After Ryoto left in frustration, the enemy found him regardless. And now... a dear friend may be gone... Do not worry! That won't stop him!

So... finally showcasing some abilities from the Gremory team. Honestly, with Issei's personality, I think Dragon Slayer Magic suits him. It may be a bit overused at this point, but I'll try a new spin on it.

And... the f-o-r-e-s-h-a-d-o-w-i-n-g has been revealed! I hope Ryoto's parents true identities wasn't too obvious.

Also, if anyone noticed, I'm also using the manga as a bit of a basis. Especially with Asia trying on a cosplay.

Also also, the ability Furumai's able to use, I drew inspiration from the Persona series. That's right~. In an alternate reality, Furumai Yājū is a Persona protagonist.;-)

Stay tuned for the resolution of the first arc (Light Novel-wise).