The school that time went fairly uneventful at all for Issei, besides that he barely on time during attendance check. During the whole class, Issei's mind wandered at the nun he encountered in the morning. His mind could not shake off the sadness that he noticed behind Asia's smile when she had healed the kid's injury. He considered that healing powers are something someone should be proud of, but he thought that might be too naïve. During his past conversations with Ddraig, the boy learned that humans tend to fear and even despise anything that is foreign for them, especially something otherworldly. He could not make out what really happened, but he had a hunch that Asia had experience something bitter thanks to her power. The rest of the school after the class was going as usual. Issei declined Matsuda's and Motohama's invitation to peeping at girl's changing room, napping in the class after having lunch, then wake up to check on his two perverted friends whether those two were caught or not. After his usual routine, the boy left his class towards the occult-research club. Once he passed the door of the clubroom, he was met with his master in sour mood, accompanied with her queen who was putting a neutral-smiling face, while the rest of the peerage seemed had not arrived yet. Rias was sitting on her desk with her hands clasped and her stern eyes were set on Issei, making the latter felt that he is in trouble.
"Ise", was all Rias said once she saw her pawn entered the room.
"Yes, buchou?" replied Issei nervously.
"My familiar saw you're walking to the church with a nun this morning. Have you already forgotten about what I said about having contact with an enemy?" asked Rias in displeased tone.
"Enemy? Buchou, with all due respect that nun, Asia is not…" but Issei's reply was cut-off.
"Quiet Ise, though, perhaps enemy is not a correct term for that nun. However, what were you thinking walking into an enemy territory? You barely made it out from your last feud with the male fallen angel the other night, but if you were to end up trespassing the church, which is angel's territory, the angels and exorcists stationed in there wouldn't hesitate to terminate you! And when you're terminated, not even I or any devil would be able to safe you! You'll be reduced to nothing once the light-spear killed you! Nothing! It would be truly end for you! Do you understand!?" asked Rias as her tone raised up by seconds.
Issei only bowed his head, not being able to face his master. "Yes, buchou…. I'm sorry about earlier…" said Issei in remorseful tone.
Rias only sighed at Issei's apology. "It's fine, Ise… Since all you did was an act of kindness towards that nun, even the angels should not have enough reason to attack you. And I'm sorry too for yelling just now… I'm just so worried…" at Rias' comment, Issei only smiled in understanding. "Well then, let's go over your contract last night, shall we?" said Rias showing a form. Issei groaned inwardly about his unsuccessful contract from last night.
Akeno giggled at Issei's expression when Rias brought the topic about Issei's failure to get a contract. "Well, although you failed to fulfil your client's wish, we're quite surprised that you gained positive feedbacks from your client. The client said that he had a good time with you and won't mind to have you again".
"Since you have a good feedback, it means that your chance to obtain a real contract will also increase in the future, so I'll let this one slide. But I expect you'll get more contracts later, alright?" said Rias as she decided to forgive Issei's failure.
"Understood, buchou! I'll try even harder next time!" said Issei enthusiastically.
X
(Issei's POV)
As the time passed-by, Yuuto and Koneko arrived at the clubroom, few greeting exchanges, finally it was the time to do devil jobs. For some reasons, the teleportation circle still blow up when I was about to use it. Strange, according to Ddraig, my physical training should have increased my magical reserve in the first place, so there was at least another reason why I still could not use teleportation magic. In the end, I ended up using my free-running skills again to reach his client's location. This time, the client lives at a small, slightly old apartment, even smaller than the one Morisawa lives in. The building only has four rooms, including the landlord's room at the ground floor. Without putting much thought into it, I walked up to the residential level and reached the door that supposed to be belongs to my client. The plate-name were coloured pink with flower designs, and on the plate was written 'Mil-tan'.
I've no idea what kind of name that is, but this time it's a girl, eh?
Suddenly, my instinct screamed danger before I pushed the door-bell. I stood still for a moment sensing something from beyond the door before me. As I carefully pressed my ear on the door to eavesdrop on whatever happened from the other side, I also sensed that something was casted out around the building. A barrier? The barrier was weak, but enough to avoid pass-byer's suspicion. Then I heard something hurling towards the door I was leaning on, then I quickly moved away from the door. As soon as I had moved, the door busted up.
"What the fu-!" I didn't manage to finish my words as I was surprised on something, or rather, someone was thrown through the door.
That someone was a muscular man with his black hair dressed in twin-tail, I don't know if it's natural or a wig, but I was more shocked on his (?) outfit. The guy (?) was dressed in pink magical girl outfit that people usually see from magical girl anime. The man (?) also had quite number of bruises and cuts on his face and body. His costume was also tattered, but I still can recognise what kind of outfit it was.
Holly shit! What the hell!? Is this another stray-devil? But wait… This aura signature… A human? This… person is a human?! But then, what… Never mind, if this dude a human, then there's one thing I need to do.
"O-Oi, Ms… dude, or whatever, are you still there? Hang in there!" I asked to check on his condition as I tapped the side of his face. The cosplayer only let out a groan that sounds, 'Nyooo….' And he finally passed out again. Okay, at least he's breathing. Then, who's…
My thoughts were cut-off as I noticed another person from inside the apartment. The new person I saw was a young man with white hair and red eyes. He was also dressed in clerical clothing and for some reason, he had a slightly exhausted, but more notable one is, a distorted smile on his face.
"(pant*) (pant*) Huff… That creep managed to catch me off-guard for a moment and fuck, he was also tougher than I thought…. But whatever, the sinner will still be slain in the end by my hands! Hahahaha!" the 'priest' let out a satisfied, yet deranged laugh. Was he the one doing this? On his hands, I saw a gun and a sword with a shining blade, as if the blade was made out of pure light. Okay, adding his disturbing, crazy smile on his face and what he said, I strongly assume that he's the one who trashed the cosplayer. But when I take a better look on his face, I saw few bruises and not to mention his visible exhaustion, it seems that my cosplayer friend didn't go down without a fight. I guess his muscles are not just for shows.
"Are you the one doing this?" I asked with cautious tone as I clenched my fist, preparing myself to fight. The priest before me looked at me then he sneered.
"Oh? What's this? The shitty devil has finally shown up! I thought I will be bored only dealing with that fucking devil worshiper, but man, am I glad to have something else for me to pleasure with!" the priest's expression even crazier than before.
Wait a minute… devil worshiper? He means the guy behind me? Worshiper… Try to summon… Holly shit! This guy is my client?! He's Mil-tan!? I know it sounds horrible, but I can't help but slightly relieved that my client was now knocked out. I can't imagine what kind of things I'd have to do if I had to make a contract with this client…
"Okay… So I saw that you've taken care of my client…. But I thought guys like you have methods that… You know, much less violent?" I tried to sound cool when I asked that. I mean, if this priest were to perform exorcism, I thought he would have used something like prayer, or holly water, or anything other than using a sword and a gun! But I somehow can tell that the guy in front of me has no room for reasoning.
"Nope. Not for me. All I want is to kill as much as fucking devils and their shitty worshipers in the most painful ways as possible! After I'm butchering you, I'm gonna continue what I left from that fucker behind you! Seriously, what's with the outfit!? It's crepping the shit outta me!"
Okay, this guy is totally up to no good. Although I have to agree about the cosplay, it sooo doesn't suit him at all.
"Well, let the judgement begins, ame-" I quickly stepped in and punched his jaw before he could have finished his sentence, as much as sickening this priest to me, I still don't want to kill if possible, so I had used much less power in my fist than the one I used on the male fallen angel the other night. As the priest's body slammed on the wall and dropped to the floor, I approached him to take a look on his face, which has all day-lights knocked out of it. I poked his body and carefully placed my fingers on his pulse, then I sighed in relieve. The spot I punched earlier was sure swollen badly, but at least the priest still breathing. Now, back to my client…
"(gasp)!? Are- Are you alright? What happened?" a familiar female voice caused me to turned my head towards where my client was laid down unconscious.
What in the hell…!?
Beside him was a blonde girl in nun outfit, tending his injuries. As the girl noticed my presence and turned her eyes to meet mine, I finally confirmed that the nun who just came was Asia Argento, the nun who I was acquainted this morning.
"Asia?" I asked as I tried once again to confirm that it was Asia.
"Issei-san…? What are you- (gasp)! Father Freed!?" Asia was confused but she startled at the sight of the priest's body laying unconscious below me.
Father Freed? Father? Is she talking about this crazy priest here? Wait… "Wha- You… You know this guy?" I asked as I pointed at the priest's body.
"I… I…" Asia only stuttered on my question. When I took a step forward, I noticed Asia's body also moved step backward, her eyes were filled with confusion and fear. At first I don't know what's really going on, but after I put the two on two together, I realised the situation I caught myself in.
Oh, shit.
Then I frantically waved my both hands in front of her.
"Wh- Whoa, whoa… Wait, Asia. It's not what it looks like!" Damn it! She thinks that I was the one doing all this! And judging by her still scared looking eyes, Asia was still too scared to take in my words properly! Damn! What do I do now?
As if the world trying to make things more difficult, I saw a magic circle shining in red light appeared behind me. I recognised the symbol as the Gremory crest. My friends are coming here! Damn it all! What will happen if they saw Asia, who was technically from enemy's side? Shaking my head off, I looked at Asia again, who seemed had snapped out of it when she saw the magic circle.
"Asia, listen to me. Get out of here now!" I felt a bit guilty for yelling at her.
"But… But…" Asia hesitated to move as her eyes darting around between I, still knocked-out Mil-tan and the still knocked-out priest near my feet in worry.
"Don't worry about these two! Just trust me and get the hell outta here!" I yelled with an even louder voice.
After glancing at each other's eyes for a second, Asia finally took a shaky step first, then she left the area and out of sight just in time when Kiba, who had a black sword ready in his hand, and Koneko appeared from the magic circle. I quickly straightened myself and tried to focus themselves on me instead of the entrance where Asia was. "Oh, Kiba, Koneko-chan! What brings you here?" I put a smile trying to look and sound normal.
"We sensed a barrier was created on this area here, so we're sent here by buchou to back you up…. Though it seems you've already had it under control…" replied Kiba as he glanced over the priest who still unconscious face-down on the floor.
"Good job", was all Koneko-chan said stoically as she held up a thumb, making me couldn't help but to rub my head and smiled sheepishly. Geez, having a cute girl praising me felt nice, actually. But now it's not the time to feel flattered.
"Yeah, as you can see, I had it under control", I said trying to sound as convincing as possible. I can't tell them about Asia, so I need to make them go back to the clubroom ASAP. But first… "What are we gonna do with him?" I asked about the priest I knocked-out earlier.
Kiba thought for a while as he scanned the surrounding. "He's practically an enemy, and he seems tried to kill one of our clients so we're supposed to kill him. But as much as I despise people from the church, I don't like killing unconscious opponent…."
I also kind of agreed with Kiba there. Killing an enemy that cannot fight back sounds wrong in more ways than one. However, before we could have mused any further, Koneko-chan who was checking Mil-tan and the entrance suddenly notified us.
"Incoming multiple fallen angels! Yuuto-senpai, Issei-senpai, we need to leave now." Koneko walked back to us.
"Hold on, what about him, then?" I couldn't believe myself, but I actually worried about leaving Mil-tan behind.
Kiba and Koneko glanced at each other, feeling unsure of what to do. Then another teleportation circle appeared with Ojou-sama and Akeno-san came out of it. "What's the situation?" asked ojou-sama with stern, yet worried tone.
I quickly took the initiative to do the explaining. "Ojou-sama! Well… Simply put, we need to leave with our client there before a group of fallen angels reach this place", I said as I pointed at Mil-tan who was still unconscious at front of the entrance.
I saw ojou-sama put a serious thinking expression. Then a second later, she took a breath and gave out her orders. "We can't just simply leave our potential contractor behind, but preparing the teleportation for the human to pass as well will take too much time. Ise, I entrust you to bring our client to the school to be treated. Koneko and Yuuto will back you up. Akeno and I will return back to school first and we will meet up with you later to provide support in case of emergency. Do not engage those fallen angels if possible while you're moving. Understood?"
"YES!" all of us chorused at the same time.
"Oh, and Ise. If you ended up engaging those fallen angels, you're allowed to use promotion. Understood?" ojou-sama said to me before she and Akeno-san teleported away to the school.
"Got it!"
As soon as everything had been set, us three quickly carried Mil-tan away from the apartment building and we went towards a nearby alley that was big enough for three of us plus Mil-tan to squeeze through. I took the point at front as Koneko volunteered herself to carry Mil-tan's huge body on her back, and Kiba following from behind as the rear-guard. Right when we got into the alley, we noticed that three fallen angels had just arrived at the apartment. I recognised two of them as fallen angels who cooperated to kill me back then, Amano Yuuma and the blonde goth-loli whose name I haven't known. The last fallen angel was a tall, unknown woman with navy-blue hair and voluptuous body in tight suit. Given our devil-enhanced body, we could have just leapt from roof to roof to fastened our travel, but doing so is the same as revealing our presence to those fallen angels, while ojou-sama has ordered us to avoid them. So we had to resort to hide our aura as little as possible while we're running on the road with an unconscious human as our package.
X
(Back to third person POV)
The trip back to school went smoothly without any disturbance for the favour of three devils as they successfully sending Mil-tan into the school's infirmary. Currently, Issei, Koneko and Yuuto were sitting in the clubroom while Rias and Akeno treated Mil-tan's injuries as well as rewriting his memories. After waiting for a while, the three looked up as the voice of the clubroom's door opened up was heard and they saw Rias and Akeno walked inside with mix of relief and exhaustion on their faces.
"It's alright now, everyone. Our client's condition had been stabilised. Although it took quite a toll on us to cast magic on him…" said Akeno as she let out a small sigh, while her usual smile was still present.
"I never met a human who could resist devil magic. We ended up using full power just to use a simple memory alteration magic. Honestly, I'd say that this particular one would make a fine devil if he ever got reincarnated…" Rias commented as she rubbed her temple in exhaustion.
Issei only nodded in agreement, finding it not surprising for Mil-tan to become a devil. Hell, Issei even thought that Mil-tan was not a human when the former first saw the latter.
"By the way, Ise", Rias' voice pulled Issei out of his musings. "Did you see anyone else beside that exorcist earlier?"
Issei's eyes widened inwardly as he remembered that Asia was involved. He may only know Asia hours back in the morning, but he can tell that the concept of violence and Asia will never match each other, so Issei decided to try covering her. "That exorcist was the only one I fought back there". Yes, it was the truth in a way. Issei did not need to mention anything about Asia, he only had to state a part of the entire situation that was still true. And Issei's testimony was enough for now.
Rias inwardly relieved and impressed at the same time. When she noticed about what Issei encountered in the radar earlier, Rias had prepared herself to find her newest pawn to be at least injured or having a hard time fighting a stray exorcist. However, Issei had exceeded another of her expectations to do well in real combat situation. The Gremory heiress was now sure that she did not pick a wrong person into her peerage. However, now that there's an exorcist, not to mention a stray exorcist working for fallen angels also showed up in her territory, not to mention again had attempted to murder her potential contractors, Rias' suspicion about fallen angels activities only increased even more. She was definitely going to investigate more about this matter. Collecting herself, Rias took a deep breath and her expression softened. She clapped her hands and said, "Alright then, everyone. I'm glad that you managed to pull through for tonight. You can go home now, but since the fallen angels might still around, you will use teleportation circle to get to your homes. Except for you, Ise. I'll personally walk home with you, since you're still can't use magic properly".
While everyone else complied with Rias' instructions, Issei found himself reluctant. "Wha- No, no, no! You don't have to, buchou! I can walk back home by myself! I'll be fine!" said Issei frantically waved his hands. Issei's pride will not allow him to be escorted by a woman, even if the woman is older than him. He would not mind to be the one escorting, but he was too prideful to have the opposite.
"I'll take no objection from you, Ise. I'm aware that you're strong, but I won't risk my servant to be outnumbered by me as the heiress of house of Gremory, the fallen angels will have to think twice if they want to ambush us. So you'll have me walk home with you whether you like it or not", replied Rias with stern eyes and voice of authority.
"But-" whatever was about to come out from Issei's retort was cut-off by Rias' glare. After staring at each other for a few seconds, Issei sighed as he accepted Rias' offer. "Very well then, buchou… I'll be in your care", said Issei as he bowed down in resignation. Rias only smiled in content after hearing Issei's acceptance. Koneko remained stoic at the spectacle while Akeno and Yuuto giggled to themselves.
After everyone had been teleported to their respective homes, Rias and Issei had arrived at Hyoudou residence after walking for some time. Issei offered Rias to come in for some dinner, but Rias politely declined, saying that she has some matters to look into. The said matters are actually the activities of fallen angels and stray exorcists that had taken place these days. After Rias' leave Issei had a quick late supper left by his mother, checking if his mother had fell asleep then he went inside his own bedroom, letting his own body fell into the comfort of his bed. Looking at the ceiling, Issei's mind went back into the events in the evening. He never thought that Asia was somewhat affiliated with the psycho priest he fought that time, does it mean that he just sent such a nice girl into a den of fallen angels? Issei thought that Asia was member of the church, means she should not be around beings such as fallen angels. What happened to her exactly? The thoughts remained in his mind, making him had difficulty to have some sleep.
Issei ended up only had few hours of sleep. By the time he had to wake up to do his morning exercise, the young man could not help but still felt sleepy. With his sleepiness in tow, Issei proceed to do his training with a heavy heart, he even felt that the boulder Rias left for him to use as handicap felt heavier than usual. Haruka was a bit worried as well as she noticed the bags under her son's eyes, but Issei shrugged as he said that he was completely fine. As Issei let out a huge yawn when he walked to the school, Issei decided to skip school and he turned his heels towards the direction of the local park, the same park where his usually takes detour to the school. As he arrived at the park's bench to take another quick nap and took a seat, a familiar voice called out to him.
"Issei-san?"
Issei blinked and turned his head towards where the voice came from and his brown eyes were met with a pair of emerald green eyes. "Asia?"
X
Currently, Asia and Issei were sitting together on the bench. Due to the event last night, both of them were caught in awkward silence, neither of them knew what they should say to start a topic. However, Asia gathered her courage as she was the one who started to speak.
"Issei-san… What were you doing last night? I saw you… with Father Freed…" Asia asked hesitantly.
Issei glanced over at Asia and he closed his eyes and let out a small sigh. "I guess it's no use to hide things anymore…" He began talking as his eyes were focused on the ground. "Asia… The truth is…. I'm a devil. I was there to fulfil a contract from one of my clients… Then your 'companion' showed up, claiming that he wanted to kill my client and then he wanted to kill me. The rest is as you have seen last night. I…. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare or hurt you that time… I didn't have any other choice…" Issei explained with somewhat remorseful tone.
Asia only smiled as she shook her head slowly. "Mm-mm… I believe you Issei-san…." Said Asia making Issei not believing what he heard for a moment.
"You do?" asked Issei in slight bewilderment.
"Yes, when I saw you last night you didn't have a face of someone who wished to cause harm to others. Besides, when Father Freed woke up, he bluntly told me and our superiors that he failed to kill you and the lady in a fit of frustration. I never believed that you are a bad person, Issei-san…" Issei turned his widened eyes towards the nun whose face was brimming with warmth and forgiveness.
Though, another reason why Issei widened his eyes was because he was shocked at Asia's naivety for thinking Mil-tan being a woman. At first, Issei wanted to correct Asia about Mil-tan's gender, but he shrugged it off and chose to ignore it for the time being.
The young man snorted and chuckled a bit, "Thanks for trusting me, it means a lot to me…" he said as he scratched his cheeks. "By the way, what were you doing last night? I honestly was surprised seeing you there…"
Asia's face turned sad as she recalled the event from last night. "I was… told to help Father Freed performing exorcism around the neighbourhood… If I were to know that he would have done those terrible things, I would have declined… Killing people is just not right….", said Asia as her closed eyes started to get teary.
"It's okay, it's okay… No need to blame yourself, Asia… You had no idea at all that time… Besides, nobody died that time, that… 'lady' is now safe, you don't have to worry about it." said Issei trying to comfort the girl.
"Really? I'm so glad to hear that… Thank God!" exclaimed Asia as she felt relieved.
"So, what are you doing here early in the morning?" asked Issei changing the topic.
"I… was given free time for the rest of today, since my task will take place later tonight…" replied Asia resulting Issei's eyebrows to rise up.
"Don't tell me that you're gonna…" asked Issei imagining the event from last night. Is Asia going to have to assist that murderer again?
"No, no! They said they don't want anything to do with… 'exorcism' anymore… It will be a different task". Asia's reply made Issei sighed in relief, but Issei still felt worried what kind of another task those fallen angels have for Asia.
"What about you, Issei-san? Are you not supposed to go to school?" asked Asia as she noticed Issei's bag.
"Well…" Issei said as he rolled his eyes. "I still feel kind of exhausted from last night. So I decided to take a break for once in a while, at least until the over of the lesson period…"
"Issei-san, I don't really go to school like yours, it's fine to have a rest if you're tired, but please don't neglect your duties as a student, please…" said Asia 'reprimanding' Issei. Issei only replied by laughing sheepishly.
"Okay, okay, I'm sorry… I'll go there tomorrow…" said Issei apologising. As the topic ended, the awkward silence came over them again.
Issei finally decided to start a sensitive topic. "Still though, seeing you with that guy last night… I thought that you're… you know, with the real church", said Issei awkwardly.
Asia's eyes gazed downwards sadly, while her small smile still there. "I… am not a member of a church… Not anymore…" Issei only raised an eyebrow at her answer, but he didn't say anything back. "Issei-san… Do you mind listening to my story?" asked Asia finally tried to open-up more to the young man. Issei only nodded, suggesting her to continue.
X
Asia started to tell Issei the story of her background. In her past, Asia was an orphan raised in a church. One day, she was found possess a sacred gear with a healing property after she was seen healing an injured puppy. Soon after, the church announced Asia as 'The Holly Priestess' and put her in a sheltered life, away from society. Many people had come to have their injuries to be healed by her and the people adored Asia so much for her healing powers. However, one day, Asia found a wounded devil in front of her home and she healed him. When the church got a hold of the event, they started to scorn her.
A power to heal devils as well!? Blasphemy!
Such power solely for believers of The Lord!
Powers that can heal devils as well only belong to a witch! Damn the witch for healing the devils!
Asia was immediately banished for her actions and labelled as a witch, giving her no place to go. Not long after that during her travels, she was taken under the care of fallen angels.
Issei who heard the entire story could not help but to clenched his teeth. How could those people from church banished her, for a possibility that Asia might not even aware that she healed a devil? Besides, what happened with things like 'forgiveness' and 'love thy enemies' from the books they read everyday?
"It's all my fault… Since I didn't pray enough… I'm so stupid, I even always trip on nothing… I couldn't make any friends either…" said Asia as she wiped the tears that welled up in her eyes.
"Then do you want to be my… No, do you mind if I want to be your friend?"
Issei's question made Asia's eyes widened and she turned to meet her eyes with his eyes that filled with sincerity. "Issei-san… As my friend?" Asia asked with slight disbelief.
Issei smiled as he answered. "Yeah, I wanna be your friend. And don't say anything like we're from different species or factions or whatever, because I don't care. I myself was just became a devil recently, so I still haven't get much about politics and those stuffs, not that I care in the first place. So how about it? You mind me being your friend?" Issei finished with a goofy grin.
"Is… Is this a pact with a devil?" Asia asked innocently.
Issei blinked and he snorted in amusement. "No, no…. " said Issei waving his hand, "I'm doing this on my own free will. So if you ever get lonely, need someone to play with or talk with, just call or look for me, I'll definitely be there for you!"
"But… But I'm clumsy, I always give people so much trouble…" said Asia hesitant.
"I don't care. Rather, feel free to give me trouble as much as you want! That's what friends for!"
"But I don't know anything about Japanese culture, and I also not confident meeting with new people…"
"It'll be fine, I'll be there for you, remember? My friends might be bunch of odd-balls, but you guys will be get along really well! I assure you! I'll make sure you will get even more friends afterwards!"
At Issei's words and encouragement, Asia's tears finally rolled down on her face as she muffled her cry. "Wa- wait, what's wrong Asia?" asked Issei in panic.
"No, I'm fine, Issei-san… I'm just… I'm just so happy…. I finally made a friend…" said Asia beaming.
"I see… Then, let's get along, Asia!" said Issei grinning.
"Yes, please take care of me, Ise-san!" replied Asia happily as well.
GRRUUURR…
A weird grumbling noise was heard from Asia's belly, making the former holly priestess blush in embarrassment and Issei laughed a bit.
"Hahaha, looks like someone's hungry. Well, it might be a bit early but I guess we can have some lunch now. Come on, I know somewhere nearby! My treat!" Issei stood up from his seat and he extended his hand towards Asia, who was hesitant for a second, but she took his hand nonetheless.
Later, Issei and Asia were standing in front of a cashier of a fast-food restaurant. After Issei had placed his order, Asia was still having difficulty to order her own food since she does not really understand about Japanese language. In the end, Issei told the cashier that Asia would have the same thing he had ordered. While they were walking to their table, all eyes inside the restaurant were staring at Asia due to her foreign features and her outfit, not to mention Asia can be considered as a beautiful woman. As the two sat down on the table, before Issei could grab a bite on his meal, he saw Asia only stared at the wrapped hamburger in front of her.
"Asia? What's wrong?"
"Um… Don't we need any utensils to eat this? And it seems the surface is made out of… paper?" asked Asia as she poked the wrapper.
Issei could not help but amused. "Asia… First, you take off the wrapper like this", said Issei as he unwrapped Asia's hamburger a bit.
"Ooooh… So there's such a way to eat a hamburger! Amazing!" said Asia opening the rest of the wrapper and took a bite. "Delicious! Hamburger is very delicious!"
"You also eat the fries like this…" said Issei as he picked two pieces of his fries and ate them.
"Hoo… Shesh asho shush a way do eat shem!" exclaimed Asia as she kept munching her burger.
"You speak like you never ate one before…." Issei commented seeing Asia's blissful expression. "Wait… You really never ate one?" asked Issei as confirmation when he somewhat saw Asia's smile behind her bulging cheeks from stuffing so much food in her mouth.
Asia swallowed the food in her mouth and replied, "I never really go to the outside world… Most of my food were prepared by the church, so I'm so glad I had a chance to know such a cuisine!"
Issei only sweat-dropped as he had a rough image of how simple food prepared by a church, so he did not bother to ask about details. After having a lunch, Issei and Asia walked side by side through the shopping district and they took a visit at a nearby arcade. From what Issei could find, despite never stepped to the outside world, Asia was surprisingly good at playing games for a beginner, especially racing games. By the time they left the arcade, Issei caught the nun who was looking at the crane game with her eyes set on a particular doll. If the young man was not mistaken, the doll was popularly known as Rache-kun.
"Do you want that one?" asked Issei whispering as he leaned his face right beside Asia's ears, making the girl jumped a bit in surprise.
"Wha- err, no! I mean, it sure it's cute, but I just want to take a look at it…" replied Asia bashfully.
"Then wait here", said Issei as he walked to the crane game and he pulled several coins from his wallet. Asia who finally understood what Issei wanted to do quickly interjected.
"No, no, you don't have to go that far, Ise-san! I'm fine just having a look at it…"
Issei only raised a finger on her while he did not say anything back. He eyed the crane for a moment, then he shook the machine a bit. As he eyed the movement of the gripping hook, the young man nodded with a huff. "Okay, the hook is strong enough. Don't need to sweat it, Asia…. I'll get it for you in no time" said Isei as he put his money inside and he started playing.
After a few tries, Issei let out a sigh as he finally managed to get the doll. Asia was putting a baffled expression at first when Issei handed her the stuffed toy, then she quickly smiled like a child receiving her first Christmas present. "Thank you so much, Ise-san! I'll definitely treasure it!" said Asia gleefully as she hugged her new rache-kun.
Both Issei and Asia continued to walk a bit more in the shopping district as they looked into many other shops. Before they knew it, time had passed and Issei realised that the lesson period in his school had ended. Sure, he had skipped the lessons but he still felt obliged that he should at least show his face around the club. However, Issei was now torn if he could leave Asia for school or if he should stay longer with her, while he could also risking the situation between Devils and Fallen Angels.
Asia was the one who broke off the silence while Issei was thinking. "Um… Ise-san, I'm sorry but I have to go back…" said Asia with a heavy heart.
"Uh, okay. I also have to go to meet the others, but… Say, Asia…" said Issei receiving a look from the girl.
"Are you… Are you happy with the way things around you right now?" asked Issei with slight hesitation. He knew well that it was quite a sensitive question.
Asia gazed downwards for a little while, then she put on a smile, "Yes, I'm content with my life now. Some of people in the church may be cruel, but they did not do anything to me… Not yet…" Asia's expression became solemn as she finished.
"Then, do you… Do you want to come with me? I'm not saying you to make a pact or anything, but we can protect you. All of my friends are kind person. We might be from opposing sides but I'm sure we can work something out…" asked Issei again as he shuddered at the thought of Asia returning to people who had done all sorts of bad things, especially the fallen angels who had killed him. The young man could not stand seeing Asia to work under someone like Yuuma, if it was her real name.
Asia silent again as her eyes were covered by her bangs. When she lifted her face, Issei only saw a sad smile. "Thank you, Ise-san… But I can't… I can't go with you… But I'll never forget the time we spent today and I'll always keep the first gift you ever gave me as my first friend…" said Asia as she took a step away.
Issei who could only watch Asia taking her leave then said, "Then… Can we meet again?"
Asia only smiled a bit wider as a tear escaped her eyes, all she said was, "Goodbye, Ise-san…" as she finally walked away, leaving Issei alone.
Issei reached his hand towards Asia, but he somehow could not call her to make her stay. Deep in his mind, Issei was not sure if he was doing a right thing. If the situation between devils and fallen angels was at least as bad as his master had explained, then he might as well have sparked even a bigger conflict for just forcing his ideas into Asia. Rummaging his hair in frustration, Issei grumbled as he walked towards the school.
X
As Issei arrived at Kuoh's old school building, the young man hoped that no one from the club, especially Rias would ask or know anything about his hang-out with Asia. Fortunately, for some reason, upon entering the club room and having few greeting exchange with his club-mates, all Rias asked him was about his absence during school period and nothing more, aside from a bit reprimanding about skipping school. The rest of the day was nothing but completely uneventful. There were no contracts for him to fulfil, Issei was only told to clean up the room a bit and he skimmed some books in the club's bookshelves as the rest doing their own things, Rias and Akeno were going out of the club, saying that there are some matters they need to look into, Yuuto was simply reading his book while drinking his tea elegantly, while Koneko was sitting and eating the snacks prepared by Akeno as usual. The club activity was passed with just mundane silence and simple chit-chat.
As the night came, Issei who was lying on his bed could not help but to think about Asia. As he remembering the time they spent in their hang-out, Issei learned about how Asia awkwardly tried to interact with all new things presented to her, from playing games, picking clothes, trying out few snacks etc, and he found it very cute of her. And after spending so much time with Asia, Issei also found himself not being able to leave her alone. Strange, only from few meetings and spending time in such a short time, Issei saw Asia more like his younger sister, something that he never had. Remembering Asia's background and her expressions only reinforcing Issei's urge to look after her even more. However, what makes Issei worry the most was the fact that Asia was working under those fallen angels and that crazy killer he encountered the other night. And he still remembered Asia's sad expression when they parted ways after their hang-out.
[Worried about her?] Ddraig asked in concern.
"Yeah… You also noticed the look in her eyes, didn't you? I don't think she's happy with the way things are for her… Ddraig… What should I do?"
[How should I know? You're the wielder of my power. Although I'm pleased that you converse to me like this, you shouldn't let your own power to dictate your decisions. But I'll tell you this, if you really care about her, what do you think you should do now?]
"I'm not sure…" Issei answered as his mind trailed off. Is Asia going to be alright there with those kind of people? With people like Yuuma, and that crazy priest? And what was her task for tonight again? That particular thought was the one that worried him the most.
After Issei closed his eyes in contemplation, he opened his eyes, "I guess I really have to check on her, after all…" thought Issei as he steeled his mind. He did not bother to change his jersey pants and T-shirt that he usually wears when he asleep, as he only put on his hoodie, he took his cell-phone as well and Issei sneaked out from his house towards the church at the town's border.
(At the old church, Issei's POV)
Okay, now what to do from here….
I thought to myself as I hid in a nearby bush at the front of the church. Damn, the being a devil makes you cannot recklessly go into enemy territory, even only to see a friend! Strange enough, there are nobody guarding outside, are they going out? Or perhaps they are all gathering inside? Anyway, I need to look around first…. When suddenly I felt two presences approaching from behind. I quickly spun around when a hand touched my shoulder, I shake the foreign hand off my shoulder as I prepared to punch whoever tried to sneak up behind me. But before I can deliver any blow, my eyes quickly recognise one of the strangers. The stranger I was about to hit had a blonde hair with a mole under his left eye. The said person was holding both of his hands up in defence. I was surprised knowing the strangers before me.
"Kiba? And Koneko-chan too? What the hell are you doing?" I asked as I also noticed it was Kiba and I saw Koneko behind him. If the girl was surprised at my retaliation, she sure did not show it by much.
"That's supposed to be our line, Issei-kun", replied Kiba with his usual smile. Koneko only looked at me with a questioning look.
"Well… I, err, um… Just having a stroll… Yeah, just looking for fresh air", I replied trying to lie through my teeth. I don't want to imagine what ojou-sama will do if she found me sneaking into enemy territory alone. At my answer and awkward grin, Kiba and Koneko only raised their eyebrows, obviously that they won't buy what I said.
Knowing that they won't be convinced by any other excuses, I sighed. "Fine, I… I'm here to see my friend."
"A friend? In this church?" asked Kiba in slight incredulous tone.
"Yeah, she's a nun who was exiled from her previous church and taken in here by fallen angels. I'm here to see her again", I replied as I focused again at the church's front entrance.
"I see…" hearing Kiba's reply, I couldn't help but felt a bit suspicious. He and Koneko knows well that Asia was technically our enemy, but they didn't make any remark about what I'm about to do here. Well, I can ask them about that later.
"Now it's my turn, what are you guys doing here?"
Koneko was the first to answer this time. "Orders from buchou…" I raised my eyebrows asking for more explanation. The explanation was done by Kiba.
"Buchou had finally received words that fallen angels are using this church as their base without any orders from their higher-ups, so we were given the authority to deal with them accordingly. Simply put, we're just going to kick-out intruders from the Gremory territory."
"Really? She didn't tell me anything", I said as I flipped my cell-phone to see my message logs. As I thought, there were no messages at all from either ojou-sama or Akeno-san. "By the way, where are ojou-sama and Akeno-san?"
"They're scanning the area and erecting a barrier, they'll catch up with us soon", replied Koneko. "We'll go through the front door".
Good, this will make things less complicated. If I do well here, I have a chance to at least spare Asia's life. "Alright, then. Let's go!" I said as I walked out from my hiding spot and walked to the door. Without any further ado, I kicked the double doors hard enough to break them out of their hinges.
When I stepped into the hall, I found that inside the church was far worse than the outside. The dusts were all piling up, the statues and some ornaments were all broken, and the lights were all off. The benches and the painted-glass were still intact, though. As I scanned around the hall, I saw a familiar white hair in clerical clothing. If I'm not mistaken, he's the Freed guy who I beat that time. The said guy was sitting side ways on the benches far at front.
"Well, well…. What do we have here…" said Freed as he set his eyes on me. "Wait, I remember you! You're the son of a bitch who knocked me out last time!" his expression turned angry as he stood up from his seat and pointed at me.
"Uh… yeah, good to see you again", I actually didn't really know what to say. "I'll go to the point. Where's Asia?"
"Huh? Asia-tan? What's this? A shitty devil wants to see the nun? So you're looking for that witch? Well, I guess I'll tell you. Go through that stairs and you'll find her…"
I saw Freed's thumb pointing at the staircase leading to underground behind him, but I clenched my teeth in anger for this guy dared to call Asia a witch! I bet that this real son of a bitch doesn't even know what kind hardships Asia had been through!
"However… If you want to see her, you have to play with me first…. Kukukuku…" Freed chuckled as he brandished his sword of light and his gun with his maniacal expression plastered on his face.
Oh, so this guy wants a fight? Fine, I'll give him one better than before. I held up my right hand and I flexed my thumb over the base of my point finger, pressing it and let out a 'crack' sound as I prepared myself to fight. However, when I was about to summon my Boosted Gear, a hand tapped on my left shoulder. I turned my head to see Kiba came out from my left side and Koneko from my right.
"Leave him to us, Issei-kun…" Kiba told me as I found that he was already holding his black sword. Koneko also smacked her fist on her palm as she prepared herself to fight.
"Oh, what's this again? You want to gang up on me? It's fine! It will be more pleasuring for me to have more devil fuckers to chop up! Gyahahahaha! But if you're really coming for that witch, it's probably too late now…" said Freed as he twirled around his sword and gun in his hands.
My eyes widened at his words. What does he mean by 'too late'? "What are you trying to do to her?" I asked as I clenched my fist even harder.
"Well…. Something about extracting her sacred gears so those fallen angels can use her healing powers as much as they want… You better hurry, because once they're done with her, that witch is as good as dead! Hahahaha!" Freed laughed even harder.
I gasped inwardly at the revelation. These guys want to sacrifice Asia as the price for her sacred gear! I don't have time for this guy! I need to save Asia!
"Well, you heard him. Now go, Issei-kun!" yelled Kiba as he put on his battle stance together with Koneko.
"What about you guys!? You sure about this?" I appreciate their help, but I don't like the idea of leaving my comrades behind.
"This guy is the type I hate the most, Issei-kun. Besides, you had your fillings of him yesterday, no? So let us take care of him this time and go! We'll catch up with you soon!" Kiba said again and I took a glance at Koneko.
"Go", said the white-haired girl nodding at me.
"Good luck!" I said dashed towards the underground entrance and at the same time, my two comrades dashed forward to engage the crazy exorcist. I did not bother to look back as I heard sounds of metal clashing and sounds of furniture and material being crushed, together with the sounds of battle-cry from Kiba and Freed.
The trip to underground did not take too long as I finally arrived at another hall that looks to be used for ceremonial purpose. I saw a stage with dozens of men with clerical outfit like Freed gathering below the stage. Come on, there are more of these guys? Then my eyes widened when I saw on top of the stage.
"Asia!" I shouted as I saw the said girl, only in her under-garments, was chained on a large metal cross with three female fallen angels on her side, one on her left side and other two on her right side.
I recognised the female fallen angel on Asia's left, she is my first girlfriend, or rather, now ex-girlfriend in her BDSM fallen angel outfit Amano Yuuma. I also recognised one of the two other female fallen angels on Asia's right side, the little girl with blonde hair was the one who back-stabbed me. However, I don't recognise the last female fallen angel who was the tallest of the three. She was a tall and buxom woman with long, navy blue hair that obscured her right eye and brown eyes. Her attire consisted of a violet, trenchcoat-like top with a wide collar, a matching miniskirt, and black heeled shoes. The trenchcoat top was open at her chest, giving view to her breasts and cleavage. She also wore a gold necklace around her neck. Everyone in the room turned their heads towards me as they heard my voice.
(Third person's POV)
Asia, who previously had her eyes closed, weakly opened her eyes as she recognised the voice that called her name. She blinked twice when she saw the owner of the voice. "Ise-san…?"
"Just wait there, Asia! I'm gonna save you!" said Issei as he summoned his Boosted Gear. Asia only smiled a little as she struggling to stay awake.
Yuuma who noticed the exchanges between the two let out a smirk on her face. "Issei-kun? You're still alive?" asked Yuuma mockingly.
"Yeah, long time no see, Yuuma-chan…" said Issei glaring at the fallen.
"And you're now a devil too, that's surprising. What business do you have here?"
"I'm here to stop what you're about to do to Asia there", replied Issei with conviction.
"You're here to stop us? What can you possibly do on your own against all of us?" asked Raynare gesturing her companions, fallen angels and exorcists.
"Wait, Raynare", said the fallen angel with blue hair to the fallen angel Yuuma, or more known as Raynare.
"What is it, Kalawarner?" asked Raynare in slight annoyance being interrupted.
The blue-haired fallen angel known as Kalawarner only pointed at Issei. "Look at his left arm", Kalawarner said as she narrowed her eyes in caution as she recognised Issei's red gauntlet.
Raynare narrowed her eyes to get a better look at Issei's gauntlet, then her eyes widened upon realisation. "That gauntlet… I see… You're indeed a threat to our kind, after all…" said Raynare as she narrowed her eyes in irritation.
"Yeah, now that you know who I am, can you just let her go and let us walk away? I honestly not in a mood to fight", said Issei trying to 'bluff' his way out.
"Geez! We should've finished him that time!" yelled fallen angel Mittelt stomping her feet in her tantrum.
"Relax, Mittelt… There's no way a brat like him knows how to use a longinus on that calibre. Besides…" Raynare said as she gazed on Asia, then she smirked at Issei. "It's done".
Issei widened his eyes in horror as he understood the meaning behind Raynare's words. He tried to make a move, but it was all too late.
"AAAAAAAAHHH!" as soon as Raynare finished her words, Asia let out a scream of pain as a green light glowed on her chest. When the screaming died down, the light in Asia's eyes disappeared and a pair of silver rings with blue-green gem on each of them floating from Asia's body to Raynare's palm.
Issei could only gaped in horror as he saw Asia's lifeless expression. His body was trembling in a mix of emotions. He cursed himself that he let such a kind girl like Asia to die in front of him. After what Ddraig had told him in the past regarding a sacred gear and its host, Issei well aware of a fact of what will happen if someone had his or her sacred gear removed from his or her body.
"Fufufu… Ahahahaha! Now the Twilight Healing belongs to me! I will show those who looked down on me that now I have power! I'll be loved at long last!" Raynare laughed as she held up her hand with Twilight Healing on it.
Kalawarner walked towards the cross where Asia was chained up, she release Asia's restrains and she held Asia's body as she gazed upon Issei who was still stunned. "I don't know what's going on between you and this girl, but since you want to save this girl so bad, you can have her now. She still should have a little bit of her left", said Kalawarner as she roughly tossed Asia strong enough across the hall towards Issei.
The brown-haired man who snapped out of his shock when he saw Asia's body being thrown to him quickly firmed his stance and he caught Asia as he made sure that he had reduced the impact on Asia's body. Then he kneeled as he held Asia in his arms.
"Asia! Oi, Asia! Say something!" yelled Issei as he shook Asia's body looking for any response.
Asia opened her eyes, her eyes still lifeless without any light in it, yet she tried to raise her arms so she could touch Issei's face. "Ise-san….?"
"Yeah… Yeah, it's me, Ise! Come on, Asia…. Be strong! You can go through this! Just hang in there!" said Issei with his voice trembling. He knew very well that there was nothing he can do, but he still wanted to cling on hope as he said his futile words.
The army of exorcists prepared their guns and swords as one of them took a step forward to attack Issei who had his back opened, but Raynare raised her hand upwards, commanding them to stop. The fallen angels decided to wait Issei to finish his conversation with Asia, thinking that they were already having the upper-hand. All three fallen angels adorned mocking smirks on their faces as they watched Issei drowning in sadness.
"I'm… I'm sorry, Ise-san… It seems that… I won't be able to meet you again….", said Asia who finally managed to caress Issei's cheek with her hand.
Issei's eyes widened from Asia's words that the girl aware of what is going to happen to her. "It's been short…. But I'm glad that I met you… I'm very happy that I finally got myself a friend…" said Asia as her fingers moved on Issei's face. "A friend who wants to shed tears at my departure…"
Issei realised that he has been crying all the time when Asia's finger wiped the tears that drenched his cheeks. "No… It's me who is sorry to let this happen to you….", said Issei choked in his tears as he embraced Asia tighter. "If I had known sooner… I could've… I could've…"
"It's fine Ise-san… You came for me…. That's all that matters…" said Asia as her tears also poured down on her face. "Say, Ise-san… Do you think…. I can have more friends in the afterlife…?" she asked weakly.
Issei only smiled as his tears kept streaming down. "Yes…. You'll definitely make lots of friends in heaven… I know a sweet girl like you will be liked well among people… You will have lots and lots of friends before you know it!"
Asia smiled on Issei's answer, "Is that so…? I'm so happy… Ise-san, will you still be my friend until the end?"
Issei grabbed the hand that was holding his face gently, then he nodded. "Yes, I'll gladly stay as your friend. I will also gladly be your friend in your next life, and the life after… I'll always be your friend, Asia…"
"Thank… you…" was Asia's final words as she closed her eyes and her hand on Issei's face finally slipped away from Issei's grasp. Issei saw Asia died with peaceful expression on her face and he embraced Asia even tighter, letting out his silent cry with sobs.
(Meanwhile, with Yuuto and Koneko, Yuuto's POV)
The stray exorcist in front of me was very nimble and proficient in using his weapons. Honestly this proven to be quite troublesome for Koneko-chan and I to fight him. But with our numbers against him, we soon managed to overpower him. Koneko-chan who was cautious of the exorcist's sword of light used one of the church's benches as a club. Despite being distracted by Koneko-chan's giant swing, the exorcist still managed to notice my movements and block my sword. However…
"What the-!? My sword…! What the fuck is wrong with yours!?" the exorcists was shocked to see my sword absorbing all the light from his holy sword.
"I call my sword as Holly Eraser, the sword that devours all light", I calmly stated.
The exorcist jumped managed to kick me back and jumped backwards to gain distance. "I see! That's a pretty cool sword, I guess… But don't think that you and the midget can still beat me!" The exorcist yelled in irritation as he pointed the gun towards me.
"Midget…?" I felt a sweat dropped from my head as I heard Koneko-chan's reaction on the 'M' word. This won't be good….
As I feared, Koneko-chan began to relentlessly throwing benches at the exorcist in high speed, making the exorcist frantically tried to avoid the flying benches aimed for him. As Koneko-chan finally out of benches to throw, the exorcist also was seen to be exhausted as well after moving a lot to avoid Koneko-chan's barrage of benches.
"Tch, I hate to admit, but at this rate I'll be in a bad position! I'm not really needed anymore here so I'll retreat for now! Smell you later! Make sure to prepare your body properly for me to feast upon!" the exorcist then throw something to the ground and suddenly a flash of bright light blinded us and he already disappeared from the area when we regained our sight.
How despicable, but as much as I want to chase after him, helping Issei-kun is more important right now. "Let's go, Koneko-chan!" I said as I moved towards the staircase to the underground. Koneko-chan didn't say anything as she simply nodded and followed me behind.
As we ran through the stairs, we heard a loud scream of a girl when we reached mid-way. Whose scream was that? A girl? Are we too late? I know that Issei-kun is stronger than he looks, but assuming there will be at least multiple fallen angels waiting down there, I could only worry how Issei would stand against them. Please be alright, Issei-kun! When we finally arrived at the underground, the first sight we saw was the sight of Issei-kun who was embracing a girl with a blonde hair in his arms. Is she the nun who Issei-kun mentioned earlier? But when I heard Issei's sobs, I could not help but worry with Koneko-chan.
"Isse-kun…."
"Issei-senpai…."
"Alright, alright… That's all for the drama tonight, don't you think?" a mocking voice made me and Koneko-chan to turned our attention towards the owner of the voice with our weapons ready.
We saw a stage with three female fallen angels and dozens of stray exorcists with their weapons ready, as we prepared ourselves to intercept their attacks, I glanced towards Issei-kun for a while, who was still holding the girl in his arms with his back exposed. Please, Issei-kun… I know you're sad but you need to return to us for now!
"I finally got my hands on this power of healing… Don't you see, Issei-kun? The graze you gave me from the other day has already healed by now…" said a fallen angel with a long black hair. She had a silver ring on her hand glowing with green light as the cut on her cheek disappeared without a trace upon being touched by her glowing hand. That is a sacred gear? And a healing-type one?
"This kind of power will be wasted in the hands of that naïve girl. On the other hand, I can use this power for a greater purpose! I can be a valuable asset for Azazel-sama!" said the fallen angel with distasteful glee.
Azazel as the leader of Grigori and fallen angels? I had questions in my head but I must focus on the exorcists before me. I can tell that they are much weaker than the exorcist I fought earlier, but I need to stay careful. Suddenly I heard Issei-kun stopped sobbing as he stood up from his spot with the girl still in his arms. He walked towards us and he said as he handed over the girl.
"Kiba… Koneko-chan… Can you take Asia out of here? I'll catch up later." So this girl's name is Asia? And what does he man by catching up? Don't tell me…!
"Issei-kun, you're the one who should get out of here! Just leave this to me and Koneko-chan…" but my words were cut off as I saw the look in Issei-kun's eyes.
"Please…"
My guts telling me that I should comply Issei-kun's words for now. I nodded at Koneko-chan, who was still hesitate about what to do, but then she reluctantly complied and I took Asia from Issei-kun's arms. "We'll be back to help as soon as we can. Until then, please don't die, Issei-kun…" I said as I ran back through the stairs followed by Koneko-chan.
(Back to third person's POV)
As Raynare and her cronies saw Yuuto and Koneko ran back to the stairs leaving Issei behind, she snorted and chuckled. "How admirable to let your friends escape… However…" She snapped her fingers and the dozens of exorcists marched towards the stairs, with Issei stood in front of it and his back still facing his enemies.
However, when the closest exorcist was about to land his sword on Issei, suddenly the exorcist felt a painful sensation in his abdomen as he vomited a mouthful of blood. "Guhk…!" and without looking he knew that Issei's red gauntlet had pierced through his abdomen, the brown-haired devil's Boosted Gear had his fist sprout out from the exorcist's back.
"What!?"
In front of everyone else, it happened so fast. One second Issei's back was still fully exposed, a second later he had countered his attacker and had literally punched through the exorcist's body. The other exorcists halted their attacks as they saw their comrade's body hung limply on Issei's bloodied arm.
The fallen angels were also shocked at such a display. They never expected that a low-class devil could have easily killed an exorcist, with one punch. However, what shocked them the most was the terrifying atmosphere that emitted through the air as Issei yanked the corpse from his left hand. They sensed something emitting from Issei's body… A bloodlust?
Issei's eyes were covered by his bangs as the boy gazed at his bloodied hand. "You know, Raynare… I actually always fond of the twilight during sunset…." Issei's tone were emotionless, which in that prospect sent chills in every exorcist's and fallen angel's spine, making them unconsciously tightening their grip on their respective weapons. "And you said that Asia's sacred gear was… Twilight Healing, wasn't it? Indeed, the name really fits her… The light from the sacred gear was similar with the light from the twilight in horizon… Asia's light when she was using the power was brimming with love, kindness and warmth… The same like I felt when I gaze at the sunset…" said Issei as he spun his bloodied arm slowly, taking a good look at every single drop of blood that covered his Boosted Gear.
"However… When you used that power…. I couldn't sense any warmth at all… It's nothing like Asia's light… What you did was no different from average healing power that ordinary magician's can do… And the light came from you… It disgusts me…." Issei said it with a snarl as he gritted his teeth in anger. "So Raynare…. I'll have you to give it back to me… No, to Asia…." Said Issei as yanked the rest of the blood from his Boosted Gear and set his eyes on the enemy mobs.
"Kuh…! What do you, a mere low-class devil can do against all of us!? Just because you have a mid-tier Longinus and fight back doesn't mean that you have an upper-hand!" Raynare spat in annoyance and irritation. However, her words contained a hint of fear when she looked at Issei's expression and could not help but having a cold-sweat. Her two brethren also did not say anything as they were being overly cautious of Issei's bloodlust that filled the air.
"Hm? Sure that you have me outnumbered….", said Issei calmly as he put his battle stance, "But don't underestimate the Red Dragon Emperor….!"
The exorcists that were frozen in fear finally forced themselves to gather a bit last courage and roared as they marched toward Issei. The three fallen angels also soared to mid-air as they brandished their respective spear of light. The last thing they heard was the voice came from Issei's gear.
[BOOST!]
And everything became red.
X
(Church Ground Level, Rias POV)
I, Rias Gremory together with my queen, Himejima Akeno finally had finished scouting the area by flying and casted a barrier in order to avoid any un-wanted witnesses. We found nobody guarding the outside, nor any possible enemy reinforcements. As we stepped into the church, I quickly looked around the hall which already a mess, benches were sprawled across the floor hinting that a battle just took place, and my queen noticed a passage to the underground right under the altar. When I took a step forward to inspect the secret passage, I saw two familiar figures came out from the entrance of the passage.
"Buchou!" the figures recognised me as they ran towards us.
The figures are my knight, Yuuto Kiba and my rook, Toujou Koneko. I also saw an unconscious girl with blonde hair was being carried by my knight. If I'm not mistaken, she was the nun Issei hung-out with earlier. What is she doing here? But more importantly, I already know beforehand that my newest pawn will definitely be here as well, so I asked my knight. "Yuuto, did you see Ise?"
Yuuto looked hesitate about what to say at first, then he turned his gaze back at the passage. "I'm sorry… Issei-kun chose to stay behind while he asked us to get this girl out…" replied Yuuto as he looked at the life-less girl in his arms.
I honestly wanted to berate him for leaving his comrade behind, but knowing Ise, I kind of understand why Ise would have done such a reckless thing. I quickly told Yuuto to lay Asia on the bench for now, as we prepared to go down the passage to support Ise. However…
BOOM!
Suddenly, a loud noise, only enough to cause a slight tremor was heard from the passage Yuuto and Koneko came out from. All of us looked at the passage under the altar as we tried to use our enhanced hearing. With our hearing, we could hear screams and cries coming out from underground.
[Boost!]
"Guh… Aaaaagh!"
"Im- Impossible! How can a low-class…! Aaarrgh!"
"N- No! Stay away!"
[Boost!]
"Kyaaaaah!"
Whatever happened down there, I could only imagine that a massacre was occurring. I heard those cries belong to men and women, but I didn't think that none of the cries were belong to Ise. Ise, what happened to you?
WHOOSH! BYAARR!
"KYAAAAHH!"
As on cue, we caught a glimpse of a figure with a pair of black wings flew out from the passage, followed by a stream of powerful red beam was shot from the hole, trailing on the air and ended up destroying a large portion of the church's rooftop as the beam collided. We barely able to shield ourselves from the falling debris although most of the bigger debris had been evaporated into dust by the red beam earlier, we couldn't help but surprised at the display of power.
That red light…. Ise?
The red beam did not manage to get a direct hit, but enough to obliterate one of the wings, causing the figure to drop and skid on the ground. As we got a better look on the figure, we recognise her as Amano Yuuma, the fallen angel who previously killed Ise. Not only she had lost one of her wings, her body was also covered with numerous bruises and cuts, her face was distorted with fear and pain, as if she was being chased by a terrible monster behind her. She winced in pain for a while as she tried to muster her strength, if she still had any left, to move, and another figure came out walking from the passage with a steady pace towards the fallen angel. As I turned my gaze on the new comer, I saw the figure of my newest pawn, Hyoudou Issei walking towards the fallen angel who turned around to face him. Her fear became more apparent, as her hand shakily moved over one of her wounds, and I noticed a ring with blue-green gem shone a green light, and the wound started to heal. When I saw at Ise again, my eyes widened as I got a better view of his appearance. Both of his hands were covered in blood, I also saw a familiar draconic red gauntlet with large green gem on the back of his hand on his left arm as well. His face and body also covered in a dust and a bit of blood as well, and there are several cuts and burn marks on his clothing. He looks unharmed overall, but what worried me the most was the expression on his face.
"Ise?" I tried to call him, but he didn't seem to hear me.
Am I really looking at Ise?
(Change, third person's POV)
Ise walked towards Raynare with his expression devoid of all warmth, leaving his face stoic and his eyes glaring coldly at the fallen angel who nearly wet herself. His eyebrows twitched slightly as he saw the light of Twilight Healing was healing one of Raynare's wounds.
Ise only let out a small sigh. "Didn't I tell you? You're not worthy of that power… Or perhaps you still don't have enough? Though I don't really mind to give you more wounds to heal if you're not satisfied to use the power you'd been longing for…"
Rias and the others only chose to watch. They doubt that Issei would turn against them only in fit of rage, but they somehow had to think twice if they wanted to interrupt whatever Issei was about to do with the crippled fallen angel.
Raynare was now beyond terrified. Due to her own arrogance, she underestimated the devil, no the dragon in front of her and now she was now paying the dear price. She could not forget that Issei single-handedly slaughtered her comrades and army, while being outnumbered, the boy still managed to dodge all the projectile attacks directed to him by a hair's breadth, leaving only cut and ripped marks on his clothes. Her body could not stop trembling, she could not muster any strength into her legs to help her stand up, as her legs had given in to fear. However, She was still able to think properly enough to be aware that she was now surrounded with one of her wings taken from her. As she stared at Issei's cold gaze and contemplating about what the boy had told her, she shakily removed the Twilight Healing from her hand and simply dropped the sacred gear on the floor in front of Issei.
Issei only stared at the Twilight Healing in front of him then he dismissed his Boosted Gear and gazed back at Raynare. "Good, now get the fuck out of my sight."
Raynare did not think twice as she crawled with her body trembling towards the corner of the hall. With her wings reduced to only one, Raynare had to resort to the teleportation spell. With her hands still trembling while trying to draw a magic circle, her mind only focused to get her away somewhere, anywhere, anywhere but here, as long as she can get away from the enraged dragon before her.
Rias and the others inclined to stop Raynare to get away, but as they noticed that Raynare's spirit had already been utterly crushed, they decided to let the fallen angel go. It will be very unlikely for her to ever dare to return to Gremory territory.
Issei did not bother to pay attention at fleeing Raynare, as he picked up Asia's sacred gear and he walked over his friends who were surrounding Asia's body on the bench. Issei even did not bother to greet his master and the others as he simply kneeled in front of Asia and put the Twilight Healing on top of her chest. However, even after the Twilight Healing had been returned to its rightful owner, Asia's life-line had already been severed when her sacred gear was taken away. The other devils could only watched in silence as the Twilight Healing being absorbed into Asia's body, while the latter did not even move an inch.
"Ojou-sama", at that particular address, Rias saw her pawn was already facing her with his head lowered obscuring his eyes with his bangs. Suddenly, her pawn went down into one-knee gesture like a knight as he said, "I'm sorry for such a unsightly display. I'm also sorry for acting without your consent."
True, assuming that Rias was purposely not telling Issei about the assault tonight, Issei was practically moving independently without any orders or consent from his master, which means disobedience and Issei well aware that he still befriending Asia despite Rias had forbid him to do so. However, Rias noticed Issei's body that shook ever so slightly, trying to hold the grief over his loss tonight.
Issei who was expecting at least a lecture or simply just a dismissal suddenly felt a pair of arms circling around his head and pulling him into a hug. Soon he realised that his master was kneeling before him and embracing him by pulling his head into her chest, her arms gently rubbed his head. The boy did not bother to make any remark about his head being pulled into Rias' breasts, as he felt his master's warmth that enveloped him.
"Just let it out, Ise…" Issei was surprised at Rias' words. "It's been very painful for you, has it? It's okay, just let it out…"
At Ria's gentle voice, Issei's eyes softened as tears welling up in his eyes again. Soon his arms were raised as he gripped on Rias' uniform, his teeth gritted, he buried his head a bit deeper into his master's embrace and he let out muffled sobs as tears rolling down his face freely.
"I'm sorry…. I'm sorry…. I'm so sorry…. I'm so sorry for being so weak…" Issei apologised again and again between his sobs. "Even with this power… I still failed to save my friend…. I'm so sorry…"
Rias only smiled lovingly as she kept hugging the boy with her hands kept stroking his head to comfort him with her eyes closed. "It's fine, Ise… It's fine… Or rather, it's still too early for you to grief."
Issei stopped crying and opened his eyes as he broke off from Rias' embrace, only to see his master smiled in confidence, as if she still had everything under her control. Rias only stood up from her position and she picked out a chess piece from her pocket, a bishop piece to be precise. Issei who recognise the chess piece widened his eyes in realisation.
"Ojou-sama… Is that…?"
Rias nodded, "Yes, Ise. I'm about to do it. Can you tell me her full name? I will start the revival right away."
Not long after that, a red light was seen from inside the church as the sound of Issei's cry of joy and Asia's confused voice, then followed by a joyful voice were heard, signing a reunion between friends that had occurred that night.
X
On the following day, Issei was sitting in the clubroom alone with Rias, while everyone else had not arrived yet.
"Let me get this straight. You actually knew that I was hanging out with Asia all along, then when you received the authority to eliminate those rogue fallen angels you didn't bother to tell me just because you had a hunch that I was going to go to the church on my own accord?" Issei asked his master with slight incredulous look.
"Pretty much", was all Rias said. "Even if my hunch were to be wrong, I was going to recruit Asia as my bishop in the end. Her power to heal angels, fallen angels, devils and perhaps other beings will be very valuable to us. And speak of my hunch, it was actually based on your conversation you had with Asia yesterday, for some reasons I just had a feeling that you're coming for her sooner or later." Rias answered with satisfied smile.
"(sigh)… You're really are a devil, buchou…" Issei replied as he held his hands up in resignation.
"Thank you. And looking back into last night, now I understand why those fallen angels were targeting you in the first place, as well as why you took so much of my evil pieces to be reincarnated…" Rias said as she crossed her hands under her breasts, her gaze remained firm on Issei. "I never thought I would've recruited this generation's Red Dragon Emperor into my peerage", said Rias with a hint of pride in her voice.
Issei only smiled as he summoned his Boosted Gear, then he dismissed it soon after. His gaze was down-casted as he had a solemn smile on his face.
"Are you alright?" Rias asked as her posture remained the same, while her eyes were now showing concern.
Issei gazed on both of his hands as his mind was reminded by the event from last night. "I'm sorry, it's just… That feeling… I don't think I can ever forget about it…" Rias only remained silent, as she gestured Issei to continue. "Unlike that time when I ended up killing that male fallen angel by pure honest mistake on my part, I… really wanted to give them a lot of pain when I thought that I had lost Asia…"
The young boy remembered what happened last night. Right before he chased after the fleeing Raynare from the underground chamber, he took a last glance at the result of his handy-work. He remembered clearly that there were corpses of his enemies with their torso had a large hole on it, some of them had their limbs ripped off, some of them also had their face completely deformed from the force of his punch.
"Killing people when you mean it… It felt more horrible than I ever imagined… Ddraig had warned me that the path before me will be long and hard, but…" Issei closed his eyes as his lips tightened. "What should I say when my parents, especially my dad found out if I had dirtied my hands? I also might ended up hurting you guys too due to the dragon's nature within me, and I don't want that to happen…." Issei balled his hands into fists. "Buchou… If I ever ended up hurting the others, or when you think that I'm starting to loose sight of my path… Can you please put an end to me?" said Issei as he kept gazing downwards.
Rias did not say anything as she pulled Issei into another warm hug, her head rested on Issei's shoulder. Issei only widened his eyes again in surprise at such display of affection. "Silly Ise…" Rias paused for a moment. "By the time I recruited you into my peerage, I also had chosen to shoulder the burden that is, or will be put on you. I will shoulder those together with you. Everyone will as well. If you ever loose sight on your path, I'll be there for you… Everyone, Akeno, Yuuto, Koneko and even Asia will be there for you as well."
Issei's eyes softened after hearing Rias' answer. Soon his expression turned into a relieved one and he crept his hands to return the hug softly as well.
"Thank you… Thank you very much, buchou…"
After a few moments, Rias pulled away and she put a kiss on Issei's forehead, much to the boy's surprise.
"That's a good-luck charm for you. And I guess we should focus on our new member now, otherwise she will get jealous… Fufufu…" Rias giggled as she turned her gaze at the door. Issei following Rias's gaze widened his eyes as he saw a familiar blonde hair.
"Asia?" Issei saw Asia wearing a Kuoh academy girl's uniform, her face was flustered in shade of red as she played with her fingers nervously.
"U-um… I know that Rias-buchou is very beautiful, so of course Ise-san will like her… No, no, no… What am I thinking? Oh Lord, please forgive me for my… Ouch!" said Asia wincing in pain after she prayed.
"Uh... You okay there, Asia?" Issei asked in worry.
"Yes, I'm fine… Although now I can't pray to God anymore…" said Asia kept rubbing her sore head.
"Well, devils are technically enemies of heaven, so it will be natural for a devil not being able to pray to the enemy leader. Do you regret what you have become?" Rias asked after the short explanation.
"No, I don't regret being a devil. It's sad that I can't pray anymore, but I'm glad as long as I'm with Ise-san…" said Asia smiling brightly. Issei only smiled back contently in response.
"Well, since our guest of honour has come, let's bring the out the pleasantries, shall we?" right after Rias said those words, Akeno, Yuuto and Koneko came into the room pushing a small trolley with cakes and variations of snacks on it.
Rias held up a glass of soft-drink over her head and announced, "Let's have Asia's as well as Issei's official welcoming party to the Occult Research Club! Kanpai~!"
"Kanpai~!" everyone cheered as well with their drinks.
While Issei and Asia were enjoying the small party, the former felt that something was watching from outside. As he turned his head towards the window, his eyes were met with a bird that has a rather exotic appearance compared with other birds in general. The said bird and Issei stared at each other for a moment, until Rias snapped Issei out of his musings.
"Ise? What's wrong?"
"Ah, buchou… It's…" when Issei turned his eyes back at the place where the bird was, the bird was gone. "It's nothing, buchou", said Issei with reassuring smile as he joined the party once again.