The Twin Dragons

by HolyKnightX

The Heavenly Dragons, the Red and White Dragons are destined to fight from generation to generation. Their current hosts: both Issei and Kazuki Hyoudou, were born opposites, with separate interests, goals, and traits find themselves walking different paths, leading to their eventual destined battle.

7. Saving a Friend Part 2

Welcome to the next chapter of The Twin Dragons, but before starting. Let us answer some reviews:

Streetlife34: Well, this is the start of their journey and there will be something done about that soon.

---

Saving a Friend Part 2

It was nighttime since that incident where Kazuki, Asia, and Issei were confronted by Kalawarner who appeared in the middle of their day off. Just as he was informed by his younger brother, Issei returned to the Occult Research Club where he knew that everyone else would be.

'We've already gotten everything planned in dealing with the fallen angels and stray exorcists here, but Raynare-san is dealing with things on her end. But, the four of us can't handle things alone, so what I need to do is return to Rias-senpai and explain the situation to them. Raynare-san should be finished with her business as soon as you arrive there.'

As planned, Issei entered the Occult Research Club almost out of breath having run there and began explaining all that happened at the start after Rias who stood in front of him to figure things out why he was running inside of the room in a rush. Issei was able to tell that she wasn't too happy about what happened and―

SLAP!

"Ouch!"

Issei shouted as he stared at Rias and holding the cheek that she had slapped.

"How many times do I have to repeat myself? No is no. I can't allow you to save that Sister even if it's Kazuki who is involved with her."

Rias maintained the same thing that she had told him before since just as Kazuki thought before, Rias can't start fights with fallen angels due to the balance between the Three Factions. This was the same thought in the minds of the three people who remained nearby watching both their King and Pawn go head to head.

"Your actions will affect not only me but also the other members! You are a Devil of the Gremory Household! You need to be aware of that!"

"I may not understand the whole balance about this Three Faction, but there's one thing that I know," Issei said in a strong tone surprising Rias who continued to stand in front of him with a serious expression. "Even if I'm a devil of the Gremory Household or that this Asia has nothing to do with me, that doesn't change the fact that Kazuki is still my little brother. I'm his older brother and I'm supposed to watch his back no matter what even if I have some common sacred gear, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm going to help my brother! If that means that I end up ending a stray devil, then that's fine!"

Everyone in the room was surprised by the words that came out of his mouth while realizing that neither Issei or Rias was wrong in this situation. Rias was trying to ensure that their actions didn't lead to another war between the three factions, while Issei was trying to help his twin brother. Despite being Rias' queen, Akeno couldn't even begin to choose sides between them since both of them weren't wrong.

Both Kiba and Koneko, on the other hand, were on the side of Issei for varying reasons, which could be seen as being more on a personal level. Though it seemed to resonate more toward Kiba on a personal level.

"…Ise, I'm not saying that you should just abandon your brother. But, things in this situation is complicated. Both our sides, the fallen angels and devils have been glaring at each other for hundreds to thousands of years. And if you show them a gap in weakness, then they will come and kill us. They're our enemies."

"Wasn't blowing away the enemy the Gremory's way of doing things?"

Both Issei and Rias continued their stare down with one another before hearing knocking on the Occult Research Club's door, which broke their conversation for a moment.

"I'll get it."

Akeno said as she headed in the direction of the door, then opened it causing her usual gentle expression to fall into a frown.

"Rias, we have a…guest."

After hearing that dejected tone from Akeno, Rias turned away from Issei who maintained his serious look before hers faltered in a more irritated one.

"Ugh, it's you."

Rias said in a low tone, which caused the visitor to do the same thing in response to her tone.

"Well, I feel the same way," Raynare entered the room holding what seemed to be a file in her hand. "Seriously, if Kazuki-kun was here, then I don't think that I would be getting those kinds of looks from all of you."

Raynare crossed her arms noticing that she wasn't getting an ecstatic look from all the people in the room aside from Issei who looked relieved that she had arrived in time.

"What're you doing here?"

"Well, little Ms. Crimson-Haired Princess," Raynare said in a tone matching Rias', which had caused her to make an even more irritated look. "I just came here by request of Kazuki-kun and came back after talking with Azazel-sama on a matter I'm sure that you're all familiar with."

Hearing that comment from Raynare caught the attention of all the people in the room as she continued.

"I'm sure that you already know that I was sent here as requested by Azazel-sama," no one in the room said one word as Raynare continued. "I was sent here to witness the eventual awakening of Kazuki-kun's sacred gear, but Azazel-sama failed to mention that it was Divine Dividing of all things. Though, I guess him saying, 'It'll be better if it was left to the imagination', but whatever. I was also sent to ensure that his older brother's sacred gear didn't make him go berserk and if it did then Kazuki-kun would use his to suppress him."

"Where's this leading to?"

Akeno questioned seeming more direct compared to normal.

"I was just given this assignment and not the fallen angel who attacked Kazuki-kun or the two fallen angels which attacked Issei-kun. The three fallen angels who attacked them weren't acting on the orders of Azazel-sama or all the other leaders and had their intentions in mind."

Raynare explained but didn't mention the fact that there could be a traitor among Grigori as it meant telling that to the side who were still their enemies. Rias looked toward Raynare who started to approach her holding out the files in her hands to the crimson-haired devil.

"Here's a signed consent from Azazel-sama himself stating that your group has permission to deal with the fallen angels who have now been classified as rogues."

Rias stared at the file being pointed toward her and took them off the hands of the raven-haired girl, then started to read the documents inside, while Issei remained on the sidelines looking on with a hopeful look. She scanned through the documents in her hands reading each of them to ensure that their contents were authentic.

"That Governor General," Rias sighed as if out of annoyance at the person who wasn't even in the room. "Using someone else to solve their problems. It would appear as if Grigori has some unreliable people."

"Oh, wouldn't the same thing be the same for the side of you devils?"

As soon as those comments left their mouths, the crimson and raven-haired women stared down at one another in an aggressive fashion, which caused the people around to no intervene. The presence that radiated from them is one that screamed, "No one interferes!". Among both of them, Rias was the first one to sigh as she sent a glance toward Akeno who returned to her usual demeanor after noticing the look of her King.

"I've got an urgent thing to do now. Akeno and I will go out for a bit."

Rias said catching the attention Issei who was still in the dark about the contents of the letter and stepped toward her in almost a panic.

"B-Buchou! I haven't finished talking about…."

"Ise," Rias said returning to her usual kind tone. "I believe you mentioned that Kazuki-kun informed you all about the 'Promotion' of Pawns about being able to promote after stepping into a location that I've acknowledged as an enemy's base. That abandoned church, for example, could be labeled as enemy territory."

All the people in the room got the meaning of those words and already prepared themselves.

"Y-Yes."

"Since it hasn't been that long since you became a Devil, there are restrictions, so it's probably still impossible for you to be promoted to the ultimate piece, Queen. But you could change to others if you wish strongly for it within your heart, then there will be a change in your ability."

"One more thing about your sacred gear. Whenever you use your sacred gear, just remember this," Rias said as she stroked Issei's cheek. "Desire. All Sacred Gears are driven based on the power of desire. And desire is also what determines the power for it as well. Even though you're a devil, you will to desire hasn't been lost. It means, the strongest your desire, the stronger your sacred gear will respond to you."

Rias explained in a gentle tone that almost caused him to forget his frustration, but he burned what she told him inside his mind, which sparked something inside of him.

"One last thing before we depart, Ise. Even a pawn can take down a king. That is one of the basics in chess that also applies to a devils' chess piece. You can become stronger."

Rias said those last words, which was what he wanted to hear to encourage him to be stronger before heading in the same direction as Akeno. But, she stopped and glanced toward Raynare who remained standing nearby.

"You're coming as well."

"Fine."

Raynare shrugged her shoulders as she headed in the direction of Rias and Akeno, the latter making a circle that would allow someone who wasn't a devil to transport with them. Soon enough all three of them were transported out of the Occult Research Club room leaving Issei, Kiba, and Koneko.

After hearing the words from Raynare and later Rias, Issei clenched his fist and started to hear in the direction of the exit. Before he could walk through the exit, Kiba had stepped forward and spoke up for the first time since he entered the room.

"Are you going?"

"Yes, I am," Issei said in a strong tone. "I don't know what kind of trouble Kazuki or that Asia girl will get into if the two of them are alone. Besides, Raynare said that these guys were like that stray devil from the other day so we should be able to fight these guys without getting in trouble."

"That's right," Kiba nodded his head but stating the obvious to him. "…You will get killed if you go alone without a single person backing you up. Even if you account for your sacred gear and use promotion, you have no kind of combat experience to speak up able to back up either. You won't be able to take on the fallen angels or exorcists alone."

Despite his personal feeling toward Kiba, there wasn't a single thing that Issei was able to refute. It was obvious in that last fight that he couldn't compare to either of them in combat and that last stray devil was taken out in a matter of moments.

"Good determination, that's what I would like to say but it's still reckless," Kiba pointed out as he walked closer to Issei who was still determined to leave. "That's why I'll come along to assist you."

Hearing that from Kiba caused Issei a great deal of shock, but wasn't able to continue as Kiba continued for him.

"I don't know that much about this Asia-san, but you are my comrade and Kazuki-kun is my friend. He was one of the only people who wasn't apart of our group that I could talk to," he explained with a warm smile. "Though I did respect Buchou's initial decision, I can also respect an older sibling going out of their way to protect their younger sibling no matter the cost. Also, I don't like either fallen angels or priests. I detest them."

Issei could tell that there was something familiar about what Kiba had said before his tone turned into a far more serious one.

"Besides, Buchou already gave us her consent before leaving," he informed as he noticed that shocked look on his face. "Remember, 'That abandoned church, for example, could be labeled as an enemy territory'. She was acknowledging that the Church is the location where the enemies of Rias Gremory is. Besides, if she wanted to ensure that you didn't leave after she did, then she would've told us to watch you or at the very least sealed you inside of the club room here."

After realizing that, Issei once again felt himself looking up to the crimson-haired devil who had just departed with her queen and the raven-haired fallen angel. Before either Issei or Kiba could depart, Koneko stood up from her seat and approached both the second-year students.

"…I'm going as well."

"Wha-, Koneko-chan?"

Issei was surprised about the young girl's sudden desire to join the fight against the exorcists and fallen angels inside of the abandoned church.

"…I feel uneasy about only having you two go. And I'm concerned about Kazuki-senpai."

"I'm touched! Right now, I'm so deeply touched, Koneko-chan!"

Unable to contain his happiness toward the petite girl, Issei opened up his arms and rushed toward Koneko in an attempt at hugging the stoic girl. Before he could reach her, she placed her small hand on his chest stopping him from advancing, then shoved him back.

"…don't hug me."

Kiba smiled wryly noticing the interaction between both Issei and Koneko, as well as that the former was far more excited about the latter joining their mission. After standing up on his feet, Issei clenched his fist then declared in a strong voice.

"Alright, let's launch an attack on that abandoned church and assist my little brother and his girlfriend."

Issei declared still believing that Asia was, in fact, Kazuki's girlfriend.

---

Meanwhile, in the same forested location where Kazuki and Asia had decided to take a break at, while joined by a small black cat. Kazuki who remained asleep on the lap of the blonde nun started to stir awake causing the black cat who remained on his chest to jump off in response to the sudden motion.

"Nnn…huh."

As he was just waking up, Kazuki was unable to instantly get a clear sense about the situation, but later realized it was already nighttime.

"Asia-san, I'm guessing that no one arrived?"

"N-No, it has been quiet since you fell asleep."

"That's good," Kazuki said as he started to yawn, but later noticed that there was something different. "Huh."

Having noticed that there was a difference, he started to move around making different motions and actions as if he were exercising before a match in the club. Both Asia and the black cat watched in with interest as Kazuki moved around without little to no difficulties at all.

"I feel better than when I wasn't exhausted from moving around."

"Uh, Kazuki-san?"

At the same time that Asia called his name with a nervous tone, Kazuki aimed an upward kick after turn himself around, which caused him to face her direction.

"Huh, what's wrong?"

"Um, who is 'Iri-chan'?"

"Wh-What?"

Kazuki became blustered after hearing "that" person's nickname again from Asia who started poking her fingers together in a nervous manner.

"H-How did you hear about…?"

"Um, you were saying that person's name in your sleep several times."

"I-I see."

He started to scratch the side of his cheek glancing to the side not knowing how to react as he had no conscious knowledge that he was doing such a thing in his sleep.

"S-So who is that person?"

"Iri-chan is just a nickname that I called her. Her real name is Irina Shidou," Kazuki answered reaching inside his shirt pulling out the same silver showing her the other side that had the initials "I.S." engraved on it. "Iri-chan lived near my house and is my childhood friend, this cross belonged to her and she has mine, which has my initials on it. But, she moved away a long time ago."

"O-Oh, I'm sorry if I brought up something unpleasant."

"It's fine. There's a lot that the two of you have in common."

"Huh?"

Asia was confused and interested in what she had in common with this Irina.

"Well, both of you are devout believers in God," Kazuki informed her. "But, there are some differences Iri-chan was kind of a tomboy to where Nii-san thought that she was a boy no matter how many times I told him that she was a girl. There were also times when she smiled at me in the same way that you do."

"Um, I see."

Asia said in a flustered tone thinking about the kind of smile that she was sending him, which caused her to look in the direction of the black cat, while she scratched her ear using her paw. Following the same direction that she was looking, Kazuki noticed that it was the same black cat as before.

"Ah, I believe this is the second time that we've met."

Kazuki said as he knelt in front of the black cat who affectionately nuzzled against his hand.

"Ah, she's so adorable."

"Yea," Kazuki agreed stopping after hearing the ringing from his phone, which meant he received a text. "This is probably, Raynare-san."

Having surmised that fact, he reached inside his pockets and fished out his cellphone, which had two messages from both Raynare and Issei. Deciding to open the first one, the one from Raynare:

'Things went on as planned. I'm with the Gremory Girl and her Queen heading to deal with the people outside of the abandoned church. P.S. If possible, please come toward our direction. I don't want to be left alone with these two, I believe that the King and Queen (though we've never talked) has it out for me. So, please come before the two of them team up to bully me ;).'

"Alright, how about Nii-san?"

He later opened the second one from his brother:

'Kazuki we're heading toward the abandoned church. If kidnapped, we're on our way. If not, then me, Kiba, and Koneko-chan will take them out before that happens.'

"Guys."

Kazuki was happy that he had friends that he could count on, then sent his separate replies to them and turned in the direction of Asia with a smile.

"Well, we've got some reliable allies on our side now."

"Huh?"

"My friends are going to take on the guys at the church."

"Really?"

Asia looked relieved about that but also concerned feeling responsible if someone who was injured, then it could end up being her fault.

"Ah, don't look worried. These people won't cause that much trouble for my friends, I doubt that either of them will receive injuries at all," Kazuki informed her as he pattered her on top of her head, but he was worried about one more in general. "I'm concerned about Nii-san, though. He doesn't have the kind of training or experience as the others. Even if I were to tell him to back off, there's no way that he would."

[I wouldn't concern yourself. If he were to die to something like these foes, then there wouldn't be a point in him having….]

"Huh, do you know something about his sacred gear?"

Kazuki questioned Albion who silenced himself before revealing anything else causing him to sigh a bit.

"Of course," he glanced toward Asia who stared at him with a wondering look. "Well, let's get going."

"Okay."

Asia nodded her head removing the barrier she placed around them, while the other one that was set up on top of it was removed without them knowing that it even existed in the first place. Afterward, he knelt in front of the black cat placing his hand on top of her head.

"Well, you might want to scamper off somewhere else. Things might end getting hectic."

"Nyaaa~"

Again as if responding to him, the black cat went in another direction, which caused Kazuki to mutter, 'Smart Cat' under his breath. Kazuki soon glanced toward the direction of Asia and reached his hand out toward her.

"Come on."

"Alright."

Asia grasped his hand, then started to lead her towards the abandoned church where all of them should be. Both of them continued to walk through the forested area until there was an unsettling sensation traveling across their bodies causing them to stop walking.

"…Kazuki-san."

"Yea."

Asia tried to warn him about the dangers and Kazuki had already reached inside his pockets and fished the light sword that he took from Freed. He had already heard from Raynare about how to activate and caused the light to appear from the hilt. Taking that as the signal, there were rustling noises that came from the bushes around them and coming from the shadows were stray exorcists wielding various light-based weaponry that didn't stop at just the usual light swords.

"Asia-san can you protect yourself with a barrier this time?"

Kazuki questioned as he started to walk in front of her while protectively holding his freehand.

"Yes, but what about you?"

"I'm going to clean up some of these guys."

He replied walking forward as the stray exorcists started to sneer at both of them evilly as all of them started to move closer toward him. A number of them wielding either light staves or axes, while continuing to inch toward him with their weapons in hand.

---

Meanwhile, in the same direction, Issei, Kiba, and Koneko were standing outside near the church. Issei received a message from Kazuki that explained that he was alright and wasn't kidnapped inside of the church. In case, it would be an abduction, Kiba looked through an old map of the building, which mapped out the entire building.

"It's a good thing that Kazuki isn't in danger."

"Well, that means that we can cut loose without worrying about hostages."

Both Issei and Kiba had said in a relieved tone as the three of them headed toward the entrance leading inside of the abandoned church. Kiba explained prior that most of the stray exorcists inside the church would possibly be inside of the sanctuary, destroying items inside the building and performing evil rituals inside the holy locations in spite of the god that they once worshiped.

After entering the sanctuary, as Kiba explained almost all the crosses and statues inside of the church had been destroyed. Though before either of them could react, there was a clapping sound that reached their ears as well as an eerie sensation that crept up to their spines as if it were an innate instinct to danger.

"Well, this is an emotional reunion. I'm so happy."

From behind one of the sanctuary's pillars, Freed came outside clapping his hands with the same sadistic smirk that he showed Issei in their initial encounter. His arrival caused the three of them to prepare for combat as Issei brought out his sacred gear, Kiba unsheathed the sword at his hip, and Koneko just cracked her knuckles. It was odd that it would just be Freed who arrived to face them instead of the entire group of exorcists that all of them were hidden somewhere.

"I've never met the same devil twice before! You know, since I'm super strong, I cut devils into pieces whenever I meet them! Once I see them, I cut them up on the spot! I kiss the corpse and then say goodbye," Freed said in a similar jovial and sadistic tone that he had done beforehand before becoming angered. "That's how I used to live! But, ever since I met you guys my style was ruined, I'm so lost! That's no good! It's not nice to interfere with the lifestyle of a person! That's why since you guys pissed me off! I hope you guys will die! Die! You trashy Deeeeeeeeeeeevils!"

His desire to fight and killing intent swelled as his light sword appeared and a light gun, both Freed replaced after Kazuki had taken both the other day.

"You guys came here to fight all of us, right?! To rescue both that bastard and Asia-tan, right?! Hahaha! All these devils have just big hearts for coming here to rescue a bitch who would even heal devils! Just being entranced by a devil should that Sister die! And being the brother of a devil deserves the same!"

"Where are they?!"

Issei became angered at how his little brother was being referred to, while Freed shrugged his shoulders.

"I don't know."

"Where are the other stray exorcists?"

"Well, there is a hidden staircase under that altar. From there you can go to the place where they planned on doing the ritual before that bitch Asia ran off."

Freed revealed without much care, which displayed in his confidence of being able to kill them without trouble.

Before Issei could move, he noticed something that caused his eyes to widen in shock as he noticed the petite white-haired girl lifting one of the pews that were several times larger compared to her.

"…Get smashed."

After spouting those cold words, Koneko started throwing multiple pews towards Freed who continued to laugh in amusement as he started cutting each of the pews thrown toward them. As soon as he sliced the last one, Kiba appeared in front of him aiming his sword toward Freed. His metal sword collided against the light sword of Freed, which caused sparks in their clash. Being a knight, Kiba started to move at speeds that Issei couldn't follow using his eyes, but Freed could causing more sparks in several of their sword clashes and locks.

"Hmmm! Hmmm! Such a pain! Why are you guys so noisy!? I'm sorry for talking in a dead language! Forgive me after you die!"

After another sword lock between them, Freed pointed his light gun toward Kiba at close range. Seconds before, it was fired, Kiba avoided the soundless bullets using his prided speed. Freed clicked his tongue continuing to fire off light bullets at him, but Kiba dodged all of them. Their sword clash continued after Kiba arrived in front of the stray exorcist slashing his sword, while he blocked without difficulties.

"Impressive. You are quite strong."

Kiba praised as he glared at Freed who laughed with the same sadistic smirk.

"Ahahaha! You too! You're a knight, right?! There isn't a blind spot that I can see! This is great! Yes, this is what I'm talking about! Lately, I haven't had an awesome battle like this! I was about to cry because of that! Hmmm! Hmmm! I'm going to kill you!"

"Then maybe I should also fight seriously for a bit then."

Kiba smirked as he clenched the hilt of his sword as a black aura that originated from his hand, which started to inch upward around his sword before all of it was covered turning into a sword of darkness.

"Eat this."

After that command was said, the light sword in Freed's hand started to act oddly, the light that made up the light was devoured by the darkness sword in Kiba's hands.

"Wha, what the hell is this!?"

"Holy Eraser, a darkness sword that devours the light."

"A sacred gear?!"

Freed surmised as his light sword lost form and vanished, which caused Issei to admire the darkness sword that was within the hands of Kiba. Not losing this chance, Issei started to rush toward Freed who lost his sword and did the same thing that he had done the other day.

"Sacred Gear! Activate!"

[Boost!]

Like before, Issei felt his power being doubled causing it to flow across his body, then as Freed directed his light gun toward him to fire. Issei recalled what Rias had told him beforehand.

'Since it hasn't been that long since you became a Devil, there are restrictions, so it's probably still impossible for you to be promoted to the ultimate piece, Queen. But you could change to others if you wish strongly for it within your heart, then there will be a change in your ability.'

"Promotion, Rook!"

Issei called out in a strong voice as he felt the second change in himself and felt stronger, which caused Freed to realize that he was a pawn. He fired off multiple light bullets toward Freed, however, neither of them could pierce through his skin as it had before.

"The traits of a Rook! Unreal defense and…."

Issei reeled back his left fist, then launched it forward toward Freed punching him in the cheek causing him to be pushed back toward the ground.

"…Ridiculous strength!"

After noticing that Freed's cheek was swollen, he realized that he couldn't display the same level of strength as a more experienced Rook like Koneko who lifted that enormous monstrous stray devil. Freed soon stoop back to his feet realizing that damage that was just dealt with him and started to rage.

"Don't fuck with me! You shiiiiiit! A mere Devil shouldn't act cocky with meeeeee! I'll kill you! I'll kill you! I'm going to cut you into pieces, you shiiiiit!"

Freed roared preparing the last weapon that he had to face them with but realized that he was outnumbered as all three of them inched toward them.

"Is this what you call a crisis? Hmm, for me, to get killed by devils is a no-no, so I feel like retreating. It's a shame that I can't exorcise you guys, but I also don't want to die!"

He reached into his pocket pulling out what seemed to be a circular object and threw it on the ground, which had generated a blinding light. This blinding even the more experienced devils as neither of them were able to react to it quick enough to cover their eyes.

"Ise-kun, right? To tell you the truth, I fall in love with you. So I will kill you, alright? I won't forgive that shitty devil who punched me and gave me a lecture, okay? Then, bye-bye."

Once all their eyesight was recovered after being affected by the flash grenade, but neither of them was able to see Freed anywhere. Neither of them was able to concern themselves with him since there was something that the three of them needed to concern themselves with, which the three realized without needing to speak. And so, all three headed down the entrance that Freed told them about prior.

---

Having descended downstairs leading to the room where the ritual involving sacred gears was meant to be held, where the power was still turned on at. The three of them soon reached a large door, where Koneko stated that a large number of scents from multiple humans and one fallen angels could be smelled. Though before either one of them could open the door, it opened itself as if it was automatic.

Inside of the room, there was in fact, a large number of stray exorcists armed with their light weapons, which had their light-activated once they entered the room. In the room was also an ominous-looking cross that had multiple engraved on it and chains meant to hold up whoever was meant to be placed on it.

"Welcome, devils and Ise-kun~"

Issei could hear the sweet and ominous tone from the person he knew as his girlfriend sitting legs crossed near the ominous-looking cross as her head rested on one of her hands.

"This wasn't what I was expecting."

Kiba said in a low tone after noticing that the number of exorcists inside of the room looked a little diluted despite the size of the room.

"What is that?"

Issei questioned out loud after noticing the ominous cross that Kalawarner was sitting next to.

"Oh, this," she questioned mockingly before chuckling a little. "This is the little item that we planned to remove both Twilight Healing from Asia-chan and Divine Dividing from your little brother."

"…remove a sacred gear?"

Though that was an odd subject for Issei, it caused a grave look to appear on the faces of both Koneko and Kiba who returned to their fighting stances. Without wasting him, Kiba summoned the dark sword that he used in his fight against Freed. After noticing their expressions, Issei became more concerned.

"What would happen if a sacred gear is removed from the user?"

"…Ise-kun. If a sacred gear is extracted from the previous owner, then that owner will die."

After hearing that response from Kiba caused a grim look to appear on the face of Issei who glared back toward Kalawarner who hummed without much of a care about his emotions on the matter.

"Oi, are you going to kill Kazuki and that girl?"

His was low enough to spark surprise from Kiba and Koneko while clenching his left fist, which trembled.

"Hmm, why so hostile toward me? Dying here would be a blessing, do you know that all of the past Hakuryuukou lived with greater power than a human should've been granted and each life was filled with nothing more than an assortment of threats and enemies. Do you believe that the Leaders of Grigori were the only ones who knew that the current Hakuryuukou was here? I'm sure that some of the Three Factions know about him. It'll be a life that he wouldn't be able to handle. This is…."

"I don't give a crap about that," Issei shouted enraged. "I don't know much about the other side of the world that Kiba and the others exist in, but I know that Kazuki would be able to handle himself no matter who he's against! I don't care who you are…no one threatens my little brother!"

"Silence, you filthy devil!"

One of the stray exorcists rushed toward Issei wielding their light sword but was intercepted by Kiba wielding his darkness sword. Another rushed toward him but was met by Koneko who punched him in the stomach causing a loud sound to resonate in the air.

"Well, you're certainly showing a strong side of yourself nowadays," Kalawarner said in an unaffected tone. "But, it should be obvious that I'm not the one going after him. There's someone else who has personal issues with the younger Hyoudou. I'll have to settle with Twilight Healing, while 'that' person called dibs on Divine Dividing."

"…Huh?"

"Whatever, I think that I'll be better off helping him take Asia-chan and the little brother," she stated causing her black wings to unfold out from her back and flew passed the three devils toward the exit. "Take care of the devils here and don't damage anything the device."

[Yes, Kalawarner-sama!]

All of the stray exorcists agreed as they started to face off against both Kiba and Koneko who covered Issei.

"Wait!"

"Ise-kun," Kiba called his name causing Issei to glance toward him. "You said that you want to protect your little brother, then you should be the one who faces off against that fallen angel, right?"

"Right."

Issei started to rush toward the same direction as Kalawarner, but he heard the voice from his fellow servant.

He continued to run up the stairs until he reached the sanctuary where the three of them fought Freed and found Kalawarner sitting on one of the pews legs crossed. Though Kalawarner said that she was going to retrieve Asia from Kazuki, she was sitting in front of him with the usual confident look on her face. But, this still worked within his favor since it meant that he could keep her from leaving.

"It seems that you just can't stop chasing after me."

"I'm not letting you go after Kazuki!"

"I guess that I have a minute or two to kill."

Kalawarner uncrossed her legs and placed her hand on her hip, marveling at the bracelet that was around her wrist, which caused Issei to recall their date.

"…You were my first girlfriend."

"Ah, yes. I got to say that I love messing around with guys who don't have that much experience dealing with a real-life girl. But, I have to say that you are my favorite one."

"…I was serious about taking care of you."

"Yes, you did take good care of me. Each time, I looked troubled, you managed to take care of it and made sure that I didn't get hurt. But, that was all a trick…who would want to be taken care of by an inexperienced guy?"

"…I made sure our first date was planned carefully."

"Hahaha, it was a fun date to remember, my personal favorite was seeing your face after I stabbed you."

"…Mi-chan."

"Ufufu, I did love that nickname. It was a wonderful time we spend together, Ise-kun?"

"Kalwarneeeeeeer!"

Unable to handle that arrogant tone from his former girlfriend, Issei roared her true name and finally displayed his desire to defeat the opponent in front of him.

"Hahahaha, why don't we relive the climax of our date?!"

Kalawarner laughed joyously as Issei rushed toward her with his fist reeled back.

---

Further away from the church, there were some exorcists whose bodies laid on the ground defeated with a deep wound on their bodies, while others seemed to have burns on them caused using fire magic. For a number of them, he did use Divine Dividing, but he didn't use it that much so that he could converse his stamina. Asia remained in the barrier that she placed around herself as requested by Kazuki, but she held her hands together praying he would be alright.

"Guah!"

Another stray exorcist that rushed toward Kazuki screamed as their bodies were sliced by Kazuki with the second light sword that he stole from their comrades. One of the last and larger exorcists wielding dual light axes started to rush toward Kazuki, who once again used reinforcement magic on himself again in preparation for the attacks, but it was just for a precaution.

"Argh!"

The large exorcist started making multiple strong slashes using his dual axes, most of them were deflected using his light sword in a manner that didn't use strength, which was a basis for the kendo he learned from Kaito. Their clash continued with Kazuki noticing the difference between him now compared to before.

"I wasn't able to move like well before without using reinforcement magic."

Kazuki wondered again as the exorcist making one more powerful slash toward him using his axes, while Asia him concerned for his safety, but she still maintained her faith in him. Following the exact timing of axes' slashes, Kazuki used the same technique that he had against Freed to cause the exorcist to stumble. Though he didn't fall on the ground, the stray exorcist was able to regain his footing.

However, before a single move could be made, Kazuki held his hand in front of his face like a magic circle formed before the exorcists' eyes. Seconds later, a fire spell was released at close-range causing the large stray exorcist to falter backward before falling on the ground unconscious. He looked around the area almost unable to believe that he was able to injure this many humans to this extent, however, Kazuki knew that if he didn't then that meant that Asia and the others could end up being placed in a terrible situation.

"Well done."

Kazuki heard both a familiar condescending voice and clapping noise from behind him, as he clenched the hilt of the light swords. From the forest came Gadreel the fallen angel who tried taking his life the first time he went out with Raynare. He took a slight glance toward Asia who looked even more concerned, then started to inch closer in front of her so that Gadreel couldn't get close to her.

"I would expect nothing more from the current Hakuryuukou," Gadreel said as he started to approach them in an intimidating manner. "Though, I believe that Longinus would be in better in the hands of someone stronger would you not agree?"

"Yes," Kazuki replied stopping in front of Asia. "That's why it's in my hands and not yours."

Taking that hint as a counter-threat, Gadreel summon a light spear that has a feeling that it was stronger than a simple light sword wielded by the exorcists.

"Well, angels and even fallen angels do have genuine light powers."

"Let's get this over with."

"Sure, because I'm getting tired of you lot."

"Same here."

Kazuki countered.

Gadreel brought out his four black wings, then he rushed toward Kazuki at a higher speed compared to that of all the exorcists that he just fought against. It didn't take him long to reach Kazuki who barely managed to block the spear using his sword, but he could feel the weight behind the slash causing him to falter back a bit. In response to seeing him pull out his wings, he brought out his own then both of them started to rush toward one another by using their respective wings.

Both their wings of darkness and light started to flutter across the darkened forested area barely lit using the light from the moon above them. Gadreel was a little irritated after noticing who well Kazuki was able to keep up with him at flying around using his light wings despite not having them that long while being this low on the ground.

"Tch, persistent bastard."

"Well, practicing with Raynare-san all that time paid off."

Since his meeting with Asia, Kazuki spent most of the free time either alone or with Raynare practicing flying at a lower or higher altitude using Divine Dividing. Though he noticed how Gadreel was keeping his distance from him in an attempt to avoid being touched knowing his power would end up being divided and taken like before.

But, a smirk soon formed on the face of Gadreel who made a second light spear that looked stronger compared to what he had created before. It didn't take long for Kazuki to realize that he was planning something malicious, which sparked concern for him. Gadreel took a slight glance to the side, where Kazuki had just flown past in an attempt to move further from him.

"…what?"

Kazuki questioned, but it didn't take him long to realize where it was looking.

Before the thought could enter his mind, Kazuki started to move as Gadreel was preparing to move his arm in an attempt to enact what he had in mind. His light spear was aimed at the person who had remained near him inside the barrier she had created. Kazuki moved so that he could move quickly toward her as the light spear was flung in the direction of Asia.

It didn't take him long to realize that Asia didn't have much experience in a fight and that she wouldn't be able to avoid the spear on her own. From his practice in being able to use the high flight speed of Divine Dividing, Kazuki was able to reach her in time, then using his left-wing, he blocked the light spear before it could pierce the barrier and hit Asia. She stared at him with an appreciative look, but their moment didn't last long as his eyes widened in pain and hers in shock as a light spear pierced through his left leg.

"Guaaaah!"

Unable to endure it, Kazuki landed on the ground causing his light wings to vanish and hold his wounded leg as a sensation of pain traveled across his body.

"Kazuki-san!"

Asia removed the barrier and rushed toward him in an attempt to heal his injuries, as the light spear vanished by the will of their conjurer. She soon placed her hand over the wound as a green light covered it, which soon sent a warm sensation on the place where he was wounded. It didn't take long for the sense of pain vanished as if there wasn't any in the first place.

"Thanks, Asia-san."

"I'm happy to see that you're alright."

"Well, this scene is touching enough to make me want to puke."

Gadreel said as he glanced toward Asia who defensively knelt in front of Kazuki, while also looking more afraid of the person standing in front of her compared to Kalawarner. She knew that he was the strongest in the abandoned church compared to the likes of either Kalawarner or Dohnaseek. Asia recalled all of the fun that she had with Kazuki during the short days that she was in Kuoh. She was grateful for meeting him in the park, for him forgiving her for lying, and for him taking her out around town.

"Kazuki-san," Asia smiled causing him to stare in her direction. "I'm grateful that I was able to meet you and all of the kind words that you said to me was able to lift the burden that I was carrying all this time."

"…Asia-san."

Without saying a single word in response, Asia stood up with a composed look on her face, then began to walk in the direction of Gadreel who remained standing their arms crossed.

"Gadreel-sama. If I were to surrender and return with you, then would you let Kazuki-san go?"

"What?!"

Kazuki was able yet unable to comprehend the words that were coming out of the blonde nun's mouth.

"Huh? What a brave nun," Gadreel seemed amused by the words that came out from her mouth as Asia stood in front of Kazuki without stepping aside. "I guess that I could consider it, but this little bastard has been making me look back since I arrived in town. How will I ever face our leader again if I don't at least cut an arm off a limb from this little human bastard?"

"You can have my sacred gear if that's what you desire. I don't care what happens to me, as long as Kazuki-san isn't harmed in any way."

"Ah," Gadreel started rubbing his chin as he's thinking about her response staring as Asia. "I've never had a good opinion about humans aside from the fact that foolish god decided to waste his time creating something too good as sacred gears for their benefit. That kind of power should be in the hands of those who have true strength not a bunch of weaklings who can be killed from something as simple as stabs or dies off due to old age. I thought that it would be a shame to let someone as cute as you die without giving you a certain wondering experience. What do you think? Before dying from having your Twilight Healing, I'll let you experience what those bastards inside of the church would consider impure."

Gadreel said in a disgusting tone similar to what Freed had said beforehand, which caused a grim expression to form on Asia's face, while Kazuki started to grip his teeth in anger. Despite the feeling of disgust, Asia was still on course in walking toward him without stopping.

"Asia-san, you don't have to go with that scumbag!"

Kazuki jumped back on his feet and shouted causing Asia to stop in her tracks, then turned toward him wearing a smile on her face.

"Kazuki-san, I'm glad that I was able to meet you. This is the happiest that I've ever felt in my entire life…all your kind words and actions were enough to take away all the sadness that I've felt until now. I've learned many things that I wouldn't have learned living my former life as the Holy Maiden. I was able to even forget about being called a witch. You don't have to concern yourself with protecting, I'm completely content with the life that I was able to live as of late. I'm happy that I was able to have a friend like you."

Asia spoke her mind as she smiled toward him just like the saint that he knew that she was no matter what all the people in the church thought. She wasn't a witch, but she was a girl brave enough to put herself in danger for the benefit of others, which wasn't something that most people would've have done in a heartbeat. But―

"You're lying."

"Huh?"

"I said that you're lying," Kazuki said again causing Asia to become confused. "I know that you wouldn't hesitate to sacrifice yourself to save someone else. I know that the days that we've spent together were the happiest that you've been. If you're being honest when you say that you're content with just dying like this after enjoying, then tell me one thing. Why're you crying?!"

It was just as Kazuki said, though she was smiling after saying that she was content with living her life, tears were trailing down her face. Asia looked confused for a moment as she placed her hand on her cheeks noticing a lot of the tears soaked both her cheeks.

"Huh? Why am I crying?"

"That's a sign that means you don't want to die yet! Did you forget?! I promised that I'd protect you from anyone no matter who it was. I made several promises that I aim to keep! I promised that I'd teach you about how to read and write in Japanese, as well as taking you to various museums and cultural spots. Do you remember, that?"

"Yes."

Kazuki continued to walk toward Asia who remained a distance between both him and Gadreel, who remained in a halted position even scratching the side of his cheek in annoyance.

"Asia, I know that you wouldn't hesitate to put yourself in danger if it meant saving someone. And even remain in a terrible position as long as it was for the benefit of someone else. After all that you've done for others. I believe it would be alright if you were to just be selfish and did what you wanted to do once or twice."

"It's fine if I did whatever I wanted."

"Of course. I'll ensure that you'll be able to do whatever you want in life. You just have to tell me what that is and I'll make it happen."

Hearing Kazuki's words caused Asia to think about all that he had happened in the past couple of days. It wasn't for long, but Asia was able to learn and experience things she never would've been able to do in her previous life as the Holy Maiden. All of that was true, but something was missing and it didn't take her long to realize what that thing was.

"I…I want to," Asia started struggling with her words taking steps forward toward Kazuki. "I want to live with you! I don't want to just learn more about Japanese culture! I want to travel all around the world and go on adventures with you! I'm always the happiest whenever I'm with you! I don't ever want to leave your side!"

Asia spoke her true desires for the first time as she started to run toward him at a quicker pace, which caused a smile to appear on Kazuki's face. She had said what she wanted to do and not just what others wanted her to do. Though, it wouldn't be that easy.

"Well, that's sweet. I think that I'll bury the two lovebirds together. As long as you're not already dead, we should still be able to harvest your sacred gears!"

Gadreel declared as he summoned another light spear, with the intent to pierce through both Asia, then Kazuki.

However, before Gadreel could launch his light spear, Kazuki took the hilt of the deactivated light sword, then he flung it toward the fallen angel. He scoffed at his attempt, then used his light spear to launch it into the air above his head causing it to spin in the air. Not wasting a single moment, Kazuki summoned Divine Dividing and flew in the direction of Asia who was still running toward him.

It didn't take him long to reach her and hugged Asia in his chest, then reached inside the purse she still had and pulled out the light gun.

"Tch!"

Gadreel clicked his tongue as Kazuki fired off multiple silent bullets at him, but he deflected each of them utilizing his light spear without many difficulties. He moved passed Gadreel as all the bullets in the light gun ran out, then the male fallen angel turned around in anger.

"You little bastard. This is getting irritating!"

In irritation, Gadreel held his light spear tightly in his hands, then reeled it back in an attempt to stab Kazuki, but a familiar object fell into the hand of Kazuki. It was the light sword that he had thrown at him beforehand, then was later flung into the air by his light spear.

"What the hell?! Did he plan on me throwing that light sword into the air?!"

He roared in his head not expecting that someone would be able to plan this far ahead in the heat of a fight, but a drop of sweat started to roll down his forehead in realization. Since Gadreel reeled his hand back, there wasn't a chance that he would be able to block the strike at this distance. Despite the odds, he still attempted to strike him as the light spear wasn't even close to touching any part of Kazuki.

"I won't be able to make it in time."

Gadreel panicked as Kazuki pointed the side of the hilt where the light sword was supposed to shot out from and realized that it was too late. He activated the light sword as the blade pierced through his chest where his heart was located causing blood to leak out from his mouth.

"D-Dammit. How did I…?"

"You didn't use your head and instead relied on the fact that you were stronger than me."

[Just to make things clearer. Even if you had taken Divine Dividing, there was no way that you could ever wield it to its maximum potential. The only person able to accomplish that if the true Hakuryuukou.]

Those were the last words that Gadreel heard from the Vanishing Dragon himself before falling back on the ground dead and motionless. After realizing that it was finally over, Kazuki had fallen back landing on his behind as the blonde nun followed him landing on the ground.

"Kazuki-san are you alright?"

"Yea, just a little bit tired after all that fighting."

Kazuki replied as he petted Asia on her head causing his fingers to feel the soft sensation of her blonde hair and even catching the sweet scent of shampoo from it. She didn't say a single word as she realized that the person in front of her had on all this just for her benefit. Unable to contain the happiness that she felt anymore, Asia stood up and wrapped her arms around Kazuki.

"H-Huh, Asia-san?"

Kazuki was caught off guard due to the suddenness and could even feel the slight hint of her still-growing chest on him as she hugged him tighter.

"Thank you, Kazuki-san!"

Asia thanked him as she continued hugging him as Kazuki could even tell that she was smiling as bright as ever despite not being able to see her face. He smiled and followed her lead hugging her back.

"I'm glad that I was able to save her."

[Kazuki! I believe that there's someone else here.]

Kazuki could hear informing him of that fact, which caused him to stand up on his feet causing Asia to follow him. But despite him turning around to see if there was someone else around him, he couldn't see anyone.

"Are you sure, Albion?"

[You're not trained to be able to sense the presence of others. Believe me, there is someone else here.]

"…Kazuki-san?"

Asia felt his grip around her tighten, which caused her to move back a little to realize the serious look that was on his face as he looked around the area. Soon enough, Kazuki heard there was a twig snapped from two different directions where he and Asia was. He glanced toward the closest one directing his light sword there and coming out from the shadows were three familiar women.

"It's us, Kazuki-kun."

"You don't have the point that thing toward us."

"Ararara, what a sight."

It was Raynare, Rias, and Akeno coming out from the bushes staring at him as he pointing the light sword toward the ground causing the blade to vanish.

"I'm sorry," Kazuki sighed in relief before noticing that the three of them came from one direction where the noise came from. "I heard another noise from the opposite direction where you guys were coming from."

After hearing his explanation, the three women focused their attention toward the direction where Kazuki pointed toward using his finger. Each of them should be more skilled in sensing the presence of others compared to him, but neither could sense anything.

"I don't feel anyone in that general direction. It could've been an animal."

"Is that what you think Albion?"

Kazuki questioned in a low enough tone where neither of the four women could hear him.

[It couldn't have been an animal. Whoever was there hid their presence just enough where it wasn't noticeable. I believe whoever it was teleported away the moment that Gremory Girl and the other two arrived.]

Hearing that from Albion did put him at ease, but the fact that there was someone else here meant that things will get more complicated if the person had malicious intentions. Rias glanced toward Asia who remained by the side of Kazuki, then she glanced in the direction where the abandoned church was.

"Well, I believe that it would be best that we head toward the church."

Everyone there agreed with what Rias, then the five people started to head toward the abandoned church.

---

Inside of that sanctuary, there was a one-sided fight taking place, where Kalawarner was moving backward in a nonchalant manner as she avoided all the punches that Issei threw at her. All of them were mediocre at best as he didn't have the kind of basic training in martial arts that Kazuki had. In the next punch, Kalawarner moved to the side sticking out her foot as Issei tripped causing him to fall forward.

"Hahaha, are you serious? After all, you said about fighting me, this is starting to get pathetic, Ise-kun."

"Shut up!"

After regaining his footing, Issei threw another punch toward her, which she avoided.

"Come on, Ise-kun. Can't you have some care toward your former girlfriend? If we receive Twilight Healing and a Longinus such as Divine Dividing, then our boss will be beyond happy."

Kalawarner said in the same "Mizuki" persona that she used during their face, which sparked more anger inside of Issei who clenched his left fist.

"Stop talking in that voice!"

[Boost!]

Another sound came from the gauntlet as Issei threw another punch toward Kalawarner, which sailed passed her head as she moved to the side away from him.

"I don't care about any of that! That has nothing to do with neither Kazuki or that girl!"

"Of course it does. Do you believe that sacred gear users can survive in the Human World? Those who have either powerful or irregular sacred gears are outcasts left out in the world. Don't you know that humans despise things that are different from what they believe as 'normal'? Even a power as wonderful as healing is viewed as being an odd thing among them. Even those people from the church as soon as they realized that Twilight Healing could also heal devils, they abandoned the person they once treasured as a Holy Maiden as if she became trash. As long as it benefits them, humans will uses those who can do things that they can't."

Issei couldn't care less about the words that came out from her mouth. All that surfaced inside of his head was all the words he heard from Rias.

'Desire. All Sacred Gears are driven based on the power of desire. And desire is also what determines the power for it as well. Even though you're a devil, you will to desire hasn't been lost. It means, the strongest your desire, the stronger your sacred gear will respond to you.'

"I don't care about all that! I'll do whatever it takes to bring you down and protect my little brother!"

[Dragon Booster!]

Another sound came from his sacred gear as he rushed toward Kalawarner once again as more power started to well up inside of him. Despite this, she continued to dodge and avoid all his punches as if she were dancing.

"It would've been better if you didn't even come here in the first place. Can you understand the wide difference between you and your little brother? 'I'll do whatever it takes to bring you down and protect my little brother!' You said those words, but based on what I've seen, it had been your little brother who've had your back taking care of you. What can the unpopular older brother with a common sacred gear even do for their little brother who has a top-tier sacred gear that can bring down even gods?"

All the words that came out of her mouth hit a certain spot in his heart, but he proceeded in his assault on her.

[Boost!]

There was a mark on the jewel embedded into his red gauntlet, which went from [I] to [II], but he wasn't paying all that attention to it. Instead, he focused as much power as he was able to into his fists, which was enhanced due to his promotion into a Rook beforehand.

"Heh! Did your power increase a bit? Still, it's not enough!"

Kalawarner created two light spears, which shined bright than it had before, then without hesitance, she took both of them and stabbed them into Issei's legs.

"Guaaaaaaaaaah!"

He felt pain greater than when Freed had first shot him using his light guns, which meant that she put much more of her power into these spears. Issei didn't care about the light spears piercing his legs and wrapped both hands around them causing a burning sensation familiar to when that other male fallen angel had stabbed them within his stomach.

"Guaaaaaaaaaah!"

Kalawarner started to laugh after seeing him attempt to pull out the light spears from his legs, finding it hilarious that a devil would attempt such as thing. As he continued to pull out the spears from his legs inch by inch, there was a familiar memory that replayed in his head. Issei recalled the time where Kazuki used to a be crybaby who would always be around either their mother or father never leaving their side. That was how things first were until 'that' person left his life and he tried to rebuild himself.

"No matter how many times he fell and landed on his face! No matter how many times he exhausted himself from running around! He didn't stop even though our mom begged him to! If I can't endure this much, then I don't have the right to call myself an older brother!"

Issei roared as he pulled out the light spears from his legs causing blood to spill out from the wounds on his legs, then they vanished as soon as they left their target. He started staggering backward as he felt the light poisoning his body after both touching them and piercing his legs. It took almost everything in him to remain standing.

[Boost!]

"That's amazing, Ise-kun. A low-class devil being able to pull out a spear of light from a fallen angel, but I have to say that it isn't quite enough. Though it's not as strong as most, my light is still able to kill devils. The dense light is even used for the light blades of those exorcists uses. Getting injured even once will be hard to heal even for a middle-class devil. And for a low-class devil, you've reached your limit. Well, how about a kiss before you die? As you've proven yourself to be more of a man than I thought."

Issei continued to ignore the words that came out of her mouth and could feel the light poisoning him. Unable to think of anything else, he just started looking around the church.

"In serious times of need or stress. Each time, Kazuki said that it would be a good idea to pray to god," Issei had started to mutter causing Kalawarner to question his saneness. "But, I became a devil, right? Would a god who is meant to be our enemy even listen to my request. Then, there would be one person left, right? Would the maou, who is supposed to be our leader listen to my wish?"

"Ara, I believe the light is getting to his head."

Kalawarner believed as she stared at Issei who continued to stagger.

"I couldn't do much for Kazuki as an older brother since we entered middle school. At that point, it was him being the person who supported me no matter what anyone else said," Issei said as he clenched his left fist as a bright red light started to shine from it. "If I can't at least land one good hit on this shitty fallen angel, then I have no right to call myself an older brother. I want to be the one who does it and no one else. I can still walk. My anger is high enough that I can handle this pain. I just want one punch! Please let me just hit!"

Issei started to take some steps toward Kalawarner who looked surprised that he was able to even one step with all the poisoning from the light.

"T-That's impossible. Due to the light, you shouldn't be able to even more in that condition."

"Oi, ex-girlfriend. You've put me through a lot in the past couple of days."

[Boost!]

Another sound came from his red gauntlet, which caused Kalawarner to take a step back out of fear.

"H-How is it is possible for a low-class devil without that much demonic power to ease the effects of the light!"

"I hate to admit it, but this hurts to where I'm close to losing consciousness. But, as long as I can endure it for just one hit, then that's fine," Issei glanced toward his sacred gear. "Hey, you still have some power to punch this thing in front of me, right? Then, let's finish this!"

[Explosion!]

His sacred gear underwent a different change as it released a brilliant red shine, which even caught the attention of Kalawarner who could sense the power radiating from him. Even Issei was surprised by what happened as his instincts were telling him that he had attained an immense power, however, information flowed in his head as if telling him that wouldn't last forever.

"…Impossible," Kalawarner could sense the demonic power radiating from him realizing that it wasn't comparable to what he had used before. "Isn't that sacred gear supposed to be a Twice Critical, which doubles the power of the possessor for a certain time? How is it possible that your power has surpassed mine. This demonic power I'm sensing is on par with that of a high-class devil!"

Feeling fear for the first time, Kalawarner brought out her black wings and attempted to fly away, but Issei arrived in front of her at a speed that she couldn't react to. Issei grabbed onto the hand of his ex-girlfriend, which caused her to be overcome by fear.

"I-Ise-kun, you wouldn't punch your…."

"Uoryaaaaaaaa!"

Issei ignored her pleas as he reeled his hand back and launched it forward punching her in the side of her cheek, which caused Kalawarner to be sent backward through the walls of the church. The impact was enough to send the female fallen angel though the rubble and was buried under it.

"Serves you right."

After punching Kalawarner, Issei felt the power leaving himself as he started to fall toward the ground, but he was kept standing by Kiba who arrived behind him.

"Good work. You beat a fallen angel."

As soon as he turned to face the blonde-haired young man, Issei was met with a refreshing smile, which caused him to let out a nervous smile.

"You're late Casanova."

"Hahaha, Buchou told me not to interfere."

His response caused Issei to become surprised, but it was stopped as he noticed the five people walking inside of the church. Those people were Rias, Akeno, Raynare, Kazuki, and Asia who continued to hold his hand.

"Ah, Nii-san. Come on, Asia-san."

"Y-Yes."

Kazuki noticing the wounds on his legs started to rush toward his older brother with Asia alongside him. Noticing both of them running in their direction, Kiba assisted Issei toward one of the still intact pews. Asia soon arrived in front of him and started using her Twilight Healing to heal his injuries.

"Ah, your sacred gear does heal devils."

Kiba pointed out with interest after noticing both the holes in Issei's legs beginning to close, while Kazuki let out a relieved sigh realizing that his older brother was alright.

"Well, you managed to win this fight despite not having no experience."

"Did you expect anything else?"

"I expected that I would need to come here to save you."

Issei replied with confidence, while Kazuki sounded as if it were putting him down. Despite this, both of them sent one another a sincere smile, then both fist-bumped one another. Both of them were relieved to see that they were alright without life-threatening injuries. He soon was approached by Koneko, then turned toward her with a smile on his face after staring at both her and Kiba.

"I want to thank for two for assisting Nii-san and coming to assist us."

"Well, that's what friends are for."

"…I wanted to assist, Kazuki-senpai."

Both Kiba and Koneko gave their individuals replies as Rias approached Issei to see if he was fine.

"I believed that you were able to defeat that fallen angel, Kalawarner."

Afterward, Koneko started walking in the direction that Issei had punched Kalawarner, which caused the sound of the rubble being moved to reach their ears. Soon enough, the petite white-haired girl started dragging along the knocked out fallen angle by her leg without much care.

"Buchou. I've brought it."

Koneko dropped the still knocked out Kalawarner in front of Rias who glanced toward Akeno, then she signaled to her with a single nod of her head. Akeno knew what that meant, then directed her hand in the air, then caused water to appear out of nowhere and caused it to fall on the fallen angel.

"*Cough* *Cough* W-What the…?"

Kalawarner coughed as the water was splashed onto her, causing the fallen angel to lift herself from the ground, then looked around noticing that she was surrounded.

"How are you doing, Fallen Angel Kalawarner."

"…The daughter of the Gremory clan…."

"Hello, my name is Rias Gremory. I'm the next heir of the House of Gremory. It will be for a short while, but nice to have your acquaintance."

Both the crimson and blue-haired woman glared at one another for differing reasons.

"D-Don't think that you've beaten me yet. There are other fallen angels and exorcists hidden around this church."

"We eliminated the exorcists and fallen angels who were hidden around this church, while Raynare sent the rest to the leaders of Grigori. I believe one of them named Dohnaseek was among those that were eliminated by us, I believe that Kazuki-kun here dealt with the one named Gadreel."

"Th-That's impossible. He was the strongest one among us."

"Getting hit by a single shot from Buchou's Power of Destruction wouldn't leave a trace. Being the princess of the Duke, Buchou is a powerful devil known as a genius among the group of young Devils after all."

"She is also called the Crimson-Haired Ruin Princess, you know?"

Kiba and Akeno added causing to Issei realize that he was the servant of a powerful devil with a terrifying name, the princess sent an interested look toward his red gauntlet. It seemed have undergone a drastic change in his fight against Kalawarner as an unfamiliar mark appeared on it as well.

"…Red Dragon," the attention of Kazuki was caught by that name. "Until recently there wasn't a mark like this…. I see so that's what it is…."

"You've got to be kidding me. What kind of insane coincidence is this?"

"Kalawarner, right? This child, Issei Hyoudou's sacred gear isn't a common type that you believed it to be," Rias started off causing Kalawarner to stare at her in confusion. "Boosted Gear, a sacred gear also said to be among the rarest among the rare. The Red Dragon mark on the gauntlet is pure evidence of that. I'm sure that someone like you would've heard that name before, right?"

Both Kalawarner and Raynare became shocked by those words after realizing the true nature of the sacred gear in front of their eyes.

"B-Boosted Gear…. One of the thirteen Longinus…. For a limited amount of time, it is said that it has the power to surpass that of the Four Maou and God…! Are you telling me that hateful and terrible power is now within the possession of him?!"

"If it's just like the legends foretold, then Boosted Gear doubles the power of the possessor every ten seconds. If it starts at 1, it doubles every ten seconds and it can reach the power of both the Leader-Class Fallen Angles and High-Class Devils. And by mastering it, he could even kill God. Though there aren't enemies that would just wait for the user to get stronger, which made it easier for him to defeat you since you didn't know that his sacred gear was Boosted Gear. It seems that the arrogance of both you and Gadreel led to your defeat."

Issei stared at the red gauntlet on his left arm with an interested and intense look realizing that it was more than just a powerful item, but an unbelievable item. Since it can double his power every ten seconds it means that he can be just as powerful as Rias, a high-class devil and even more. Though Kazuki stared at the Boosted Gear as multiple thoughts entered his mind about the future, which was when Issei realized something.

"Wait, that sounds similar to the Divine Dividing that Kazuki has, doesn't it?"

At that question, the people remained quiet in the room unable to speak a single word knowing the relationship that existed between the dragons residing inside of their respective sacred gears.

"Ise," Rias started off catching his attention. "Both Boosted Gear and Divine Dividing does have similar power and dragons sealed within them. Boosted Gear holds the red dragon named Ddraig known as the Red Dragon Emperor and Welsh Dragon, making you the Sekiryuutei. Divine Dividing holds the white dragon named Albion known as the White Dragon Emperor and Vanishing Dragon, making him the Hakuryuukou. Both these dragons fought against one another in the past as rivals before being sealed. And those who inherited the Longinus they were sealed in also fought against one another as destined rivals. I honestly don't know how it's even possible that twin brothers possess Boosted Gear and Divine Dividing, the chances of something like this should be one in a million."

Once those words left from Rias' mouth, those in the room stared at the twin brothers who crossed their arms in thought about the situation that they were just told. It was kinda hilarious since the two made similar expressions as they continued thinking, but no one pointed that out.

""Eh, it doesn't matter.""

Both of them said their honest opinions in unison, which caused them to become shocked.

"I don't know what our predecessors thought when they encountered one another, but that has nothing to do with us. Just because we are the successors of Divine Dividing and Boosted Gear doesn't mean that we have to have a deathmatch."

"I mean besides, we fight each other already every single day."

Kazuki and Issei gave their responses, which could mean that they were the only possessors who can say such as thing.

"Besides, what's the point of fighting when the victors already clear?"

"I know right."

""It's me!""

Both of them said in unison again, which caused the people in the church to guess what was going to happen. As expected both Issei and Kazuki started to glance toward one another with a crooked smile, then without warning both of them grabbed ahold of their collars.

""What was that?!""

"What makes you think that you're going to win?!"

"I'm smarter and faster than you!"

"I'm going to be stronger than you!"

"Whoever said that strength is all that it takes to win?!"

"If I can't outsmart you, then I'll just beat you in strength."

Rias and the others stared at Issei and Kazuki who continued their argument with one another.

"I'll boost my power a thousand times!"

"And I'll divide it a thousand times!"

Their argument started to dissolve into violence as the two of them began putting their hands on one another and everyone started to stifle in laughter after noticing their antics.

"Well, now fallen angel Kalawarner. For messing with my servant, I'll eliminate you."

Rias said in a dangerous tone as she held her hand out gathering the demonic power that Kiba referred to as the Power of Destruction. After noticing the potent power that could be felt from it, Kalawarner looked on in fear while she scooted away from her, then glanced toward Issei with a desperate look on her face.

"Ise-kun! Please save me!"

While pulling the cheeks of his little brother, while the latter pulled his older brother's cheeks, Issei started toward her after noticing she was speaking to her using her "Mizuki" persona.

"This Devil is trying to kill me! I love you! I love you so much! That's why let's defeat this Devil together! Then, we'll do whatever you want. I'll even show you the best time! Just please don't let them kill me!"

Kazuki went to speak up to what she was saying, Issei held out hand out causing him to stop speaking. He could see that there was a break in emotions in his eyes as if he were at the limit of hearing the voice from the woman who pretended to be his girlfriend and later his murderer.

"Goodbye, my love. Buchou, I'm at my limit…. Will you please…."

Rias noticed the emotions that were behind his voice and stood in front of Kalawarner who seemed to have been brought to complete despair.

"For toying with the emotions of my cute servant. Disappear."

Rias released her Power of Destruction onto Kalawarner as he covered her completely until she vanished without a since trace that she existed in the first place. No one in the room said a single word as things had finally ended and there was nothing else that they needed to concern themselves with. Asia who also remained standing next to the person who had rescued her, then grasped his hand causing him to stare toward her with a sincere smile. In response to that, Asia started to blush and smiled.

---

It has been a few days since the incident in the abandoned church as everyone was able to return to their normal schedules. As the two brothers left for school earlier, with Issei going to the Occult Research Club due to all their members meeting earlier before school as told prior. Kazuki, on the other hand, had gone to his regular meeting in the Student Council Room with the current president. Though Raynare wasn't in school since there were a lot of things that she needed to get sorted out in Grigori.

"I'm glad that things went on without anyone being killed or injured severely."

Sona said as she moved her black knights taking out one of his white pawns, which Kazuki hummed at.

"It was due to Asia-san that Nii-san was able to heal without any issues at all."

Kazuki moved one of his white pawns taking her last rook, which Sona smiled at.

"Yes, it was surprising to see one with such a rare healing power as hers arrive in a town like this. But, I believe the better question is about your current condition."

"I don't know what happened, but after waking up. I started to feel a lot better than usual"

"In my experience, there have been several wonderful things that occurred. But, I don't believe that someone with a condition such as yours can just improve out of nowhere. Did something out of the ordinary before?"

"It was just me falling asleep, then waking up later feeling better…though, I do feel exhausted if were to push myself too much. It could've been a blessing from God."

"Maybe so."

Sona replied with a faint smile, but due to her nature, she couldn't help but wonder if it was something else since there was a limit to even rare healing abilities even from sacred gears. Even Kazuki to an extent was curious about how he suddenly became a lot better suddenly since he knew heard from Asia that her sacred gear works on injuries and nothing else. But, for now, both put their focus more toward the game in front of them as the two smart students placed their focus on taking one another's pieces. However, in the end―

"Checkmate."

Sona said letting a breath escape from her mouth, as she took Kazuki's white king.

"*Sigh* I thought that I had you this time."

Kazuki leaned backward in his seat realizing that he had lost to the class president once again, but she smiled in his direction.

"But, you are improving a lot each time. Besides, how are things with you and your brother?"

Sona questioned curiously knowing that Issei was the Sekiryuutei soon after that incident occurred and meaning that his older brother is his destined rival. Kazuki wasn't surprised about her question since it was one that was a question that someone couldn't help but ask.

"That doesn't change our former relationship since we were kinda competing with one another anyway and I think that things are going to get more hectic since were actual rivals now. Don't you think Sona-senpai?"

"Ah, yes. I believe that things will get interesting since twins brothers ended up with the two heavenly dragons. Such a thing has never occurred in the past, the closest instance was two possessors being close friends with one another before finding out the other's identity. I believe that it would be more accurate to refer to the two of you as the Twin Dragons."

Sona joked a bit as a slight laugh escaped from her mouth, which caused Kazuki to believe that it was one of the cutest things that he's seen. Most people would believe that Sona is this serious woman who wouldn't laugh that much, but when she does laugh it's beautiful. Kazuki then noticed that she stood up from the seat, then seemed to head toward her desk to retrieve something.

Once Sona returned carrying with her the kind of bag that a doctor would give a patient, which she soon directed in his direction.

"What's this?"

"Since you decided to enter our world, I thought that you would be at a disadvantage if you were to have a sudden episode in the middle of a fight. So, I told my father about your condition and he prepared this medicine, which he explained would improve the bodies' natural function."

Kazuki had heard that the Sitri Household had the richest nature reserves among the other devil territories and had one of the most famous and advanced hospitals in the Underworld. Though, Kazuki was surprised that Sona had gone to this much effort for his benefit. Wearing a smile on his face, he reached his hand out to take a hold of the bag.

"Ah, thanks, Sona-senpai."

Kazuki couldn't say anything else aside from giving his thanks to his favorite upperclassmen.

"Well, my father said that power can be infused into drinks, but tea would be more preferable."

Sona started to explain the medicine to him but then realized how close that both of them were to one another, as well as their hands touching. Though Sona seemed a little flushed about it, she soon smiled after noticing that there was another person in the room.

"I believe that someone might end up getting jealous if they see us like this."

"…Someone?"

Kazuki was confused for a moment but stopped after hearing a slight sound coming from behind him.

Standing near them puffing up her cheeks pouting as Asia who seemed jealous after seeing the interaction which was between both Kazuki and Sona based around how much her cheeks were puffed up. Kazuki didn't even notice anyone enter the Student Council Room since he was so caught up with talking with Sona.

"A-Asia-san?"

"I see that Sona-Kaichou appears to a beautiful woman, so even Kazuki-san would like her," Kazuki noticed that Asia started to mumble some words to herself before realizing her words. "I can't think like that! Oh, lord. Please forgive my sinful heart."

"Ugh."

Though Sona wasn't the person speaking the prayer, she did receive a slight headache, which also caused Asia to realize her actions and bowed her head apologetically.

"Ah, I'm sorry about that!"

"N-No, that's fine. Just be a little more prudent about praying around devils."

Sona said in a subdued voice due to the headache she just suffered, which soon recovered after a while.

"So, Asia-san do you like that uniform?"

"Y-Yes. D-Does it suits me?"

Kazuki looked as Asia made a cute pose in the female school uniform of Kuoh Academy, but unlike their normal ones, she had the black sweater worn over her dress shirt instead with the school logo on it.

"You look like an angel."

Asia blushed at the compliment from him, which caused Sona to smile after noticing his interaction with the nun that he rescued, but there was a question on her mind.

"So, how did you convince Rias to have Asia-san enrolled into Kuoh Academy and even had her placed inside of the same class as you?"

"Well, it did take a lot of convincing and talking about her background. Though, I believe that the nail on the coffin was the little gift that I gave her."

Kazuki replied with a slightly mischievous smile that one would expect from a little brother, which made Sona all the more curious.

"Gift?"

"A historical movie about the history of samurai."

Hearing his response from caused Sona to laugh a little realizing that it was, in fact, something that Rias wouldn't be able to say no to after receiving something like that.

"Yes, that is something that Rias would agree to after receiving something like that."

Having said those words, Sona stood up from her seat and approached Asia who seemed a little confused about Sona standing in front of her, but those concerns were removed as the black-haired girl held out her hand.

"Asia Argento-san," Sona started with a faint smile. "I, as the Student Council President would like to welcome you to Kuoh Academy. I hope that you'll enjoy your school life here to the fullest."

"Y-Yes!"

Asia said returning the smile and returning the handshake from Sona.

Realizing that things were fine, Kazuki smiled after seeing that Asia was finally getting one of her dreams fulfilled, which was being able to attend a school like a normal girl her age.

"Now, all that's left is to become stronger and ensure that smile remains on her face. No matter what happens, I'll make sure that nothing but good memories happen in her life. I swear upon my namesake as the Hakuryuukou."

---

A/N: And there goes chapter seven of The Twin Dragons, this was the final chapter of the initial arc and it showed the events in the abandoned church. Issei realizes his identity as the Sekiryuutei and successor to the Boosted Gear, as well as being the destined rival of his younger brother. But, this doesn't put one damper on their relationship as brothers…who are occasional rivals to begin with. Next is the arc with a familiar blonde-haired Phenex.

I hope that you liked the chapter, until next time.

Issei's Harem: Rias, Akeno, Koneko, Xenovia, Ravel, Lucia, Tsubasa, Kiyome, Elmenhilde, Roygun, Aika, Yasaka, Ingvild.

Kazuki's Harem: Sona, Raynare, Asia, Irina, Lucina, Mariah, Kuroka, Ophis, Rossweisse, Kunou, Le Fay, Gabriel, Bennia, Jeanne, Lint.