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The Golden Dragon Empress - Chapter 10: Holy Swords, Part 2
🕑 Added 2023-08-30 12:01:00 +0000 UTCNatsuki did not expect to see Akeno on her knees, wearing an almost see-through robe with nothing underneath, sucking on Issei’s fingers when she walked into the clubroom that morning.
Both Devils turned and saw Natsuki standing behind them, both having different reactions to seeing the girl. Issei had a grin on his face while using the hand that Akeno was not holding to give his fellow Pawn a thumbs up. Akeno smirked when she and Natsuki made eye contact and made an even more provocative showing of licking Issei’s nearest finger.
“What is going on in here?” Natsuki finally asked after a few moments, her face blank and her voice eerily calm.
“The best thing ever!” Issei exclaimed.
Akeno smiled before going on to explain the process of removing the Dragon’s Essence from Issei’s arm so that the illusion spell placed on it to disguise the arm that he gave up to Ddraig would hold.
“And there are no other ways of extracting the Dragon’s Essence?” Natsuki asked once Akeno finished her explanation.
Akeno pressed her finger to her chin and pretended to ponder for a moment before answering, “Well, there is another way, but it involves a lot more contact.”
Akeno then turned back to Issei, “Do you want me to touch you more, Issei?” Issei sat up and was about to answer when a dangerous chill raced down his spine.
“AKENO. What is the meaning of this?” Rias answered, standing directly behind Natsuki, but keeping her gaze directly on Issei and Akeno.
Natsuki looked between the three before moving to the side and letting Rias into the room, not wanting to be on the receiving end of her King’s anger like the other two were going to be.
Akeno just gave her friend a closed eye smile, “Ufufu. We were just dispelling the dragon’s power.”
Rias’ body began to shake as she struggled to control her rage and jealousy. “Do you really expect me to believe that is all this is?!”
As this was going on Issei quickly put on his clothes and tried to sneak out of the room unnoticed. His attempt was thwarted by Rias pinching one of his cheeks and roughly pulling on the skin.
“Ouch!” Issei cried out.
“Looks like you were having quite the bit of fun, hmm?” Rias coldly asked.
Issei tried to reassure the Devil King that he was not, but all his words came out incoherently and mumbled due to her still pinching his cheek.
Rias huffed, dramatically turning away from the other occupants in the room as she pouted. “Fine! Do as you please!” She yelled before leaving the room and slamming the door in her fury.
Akeno placed a hand on her mouth, “Jealousy is so cute on her. I didn’t think she would get so jealous over our friendship, Issei-kun.”
“Why was she so mad?” Issei asked while rubbing his sore cheek.
“You cannot be serious?” Natsuki mumbled, shaking her head at her friend's obliviousness. She did not understand how Issei could not see that Rias was jealous, especially since she has been throwing herself at him since the Rating Game and how much she and Asia fight over him.
Some people just can’t see what’s right in front of them. Natsuki thought.
“Rias has always been hot tempered, Issei-kun, no need to worry about it. The Dragon Essence has been removed from your arm, so we’ll meet back here for your next session.” Akeno said once she stopped smiling to herself.
“Oh, okay. Thanks for your help, Akeno-senpai!” Issei said while buttoning up his shirt. He then left the room with a dazed look on his face, still thinking of Rias’ reaction.
“Did you need something, Natsuki-chan?” Akeno asked once they were alone.
“Hmm?” Natsuki turned her head from the door to face her senpai.
Akeno smiled, “You must have come to the clubroom for a reason especially since we don’t have an ORC meeting today.”
“Oh, right. I came for... I came to...” Natsuki realized that she could not remember what reason she had from coming to the clubroom. Catching Issei and Akeno in the position they were in, followed by Rias storming in had caused all previous thoughts to leave her mind.
Eh, if it's really important it will come back to me. Natsuki thought to herself.
“So, you and Issei have gotten closer.” Natsuki said, not looking Akeno in the eyes and staring at the adjacent wall.
Akeno blinked, not expecting the response. “We have. Issei’s a great person, it's hard not to like him.”
“Yeah, he is. It's not hard to understand why you like him so much.” Natsuki said.
“What?” Akeno mumbled. “Do you think I like Issei?”
Natsuki was confused by how quietly Akeno had asked her questions but continued. “I mean it's obvious, pretty much every girl in the Peerage is gearing up to join Issei’s harem. I mean why else would Rias start fighting with you earlier?”
“Do you want me to having feeling for Issei?” Akeno calmly asked.
Natsuki’s eyebrows raised, “Why would it matter what I want?”
Akeno opens her mouth to respond, but quickly closes it. She did not know what to say, she liked Issei, but knew she did not love him. Not the way Rias and Asia clearly did.
I like Natsuki as well, but I don’t love her. She caught my interest ever since I first saw her, but now... Now I'm not entirely sure what it is I'm feeling for her. Akeno sighed as she stared into Natsuki’s eyes, her thoughts swirling as she put on a fake smile.
“You’re right, it doesn’t matter. Excuse me Natsuki-chan.” Akeno said before leaving the clubroom.
Natsuki tried to stop her, but Akeno had already vanished before she could. She knew that what she said had upset Akeno, but she could not understand why.
I was just trying to be supportive. I mean Akeno must like Issei, why else would she suck his fingers so enthusiastically? Or enjoy watching Rias get jealous over her and Issei’s closeness?
But Natsuki felt a pang in her chest as she thought about Issei and Akeno’s physical closeness, it was not the first time she had felt it, that being after the Rating Game and Akeno had asked if Issei wanted to see her breasts.
Why do I care so much? Why the hell is this bothering me?
Natsuki let out a groan as she could not figure out what she was feeling, all she knew was that she felt like an asshole for unintentionally upsetting Akeno. The Pawn soon went on her way, hoping that she would feel less annoyed after a good night’s rest.
~X~
Natsuki’s feelings of annoyance failed to leave her as she stood in the ORC clubhouse with the rest of the Peerage in the presence of two members of the Church.
Rias had told others about the two girls’ visit to Issei’s house the previous night and how one of them was Issei’s childhood friend from the picture with the Holy Sword.
And now they showed up at ORC clubhouse to personally meet with Rias.
The first of the two girls looked just like the picture with herself and Issei, only older. Her chestnut hair was now longer and placed in twin tails.
The second girl was just a bit taller than her partner with chin-length blue hair with dyed green fringe on her right-side bangs and brown eyes.
Both wore slightly different large white cloaks that covered their bodies, and the second girl had a large sword wrapped in bandages placed on the floor next to them.
They had introduced themselves as Shidou Irina and Xenovia Quarta, respectively.
Rias, Akeno, Xenovia, and Irina sat across from each other on the couches while the rest of the Gremory Devils stood off to the side, in front of the doors.
It was the first time in days that the Peerage had been together as no one had seen or heard from Kiba since their fight with the Stray Devil.
Everyone could feel the anger rolling off the Knight as he directed his venomous glare at the two humans, but neither paid him any mind as they focused on the King and Queen in front of them.
“Three of the Excaliber Swords that were being by the Church in the Vatican Headquarters were recently stolen.” Irina finally said after a tense beat.
Issei’s face scrunched up in confusion, “Wait, you mean the legendary sword Excaliber is actually multiple swords?”
Irina turned to Issei, “Yes, Issei-kun. The true Excaliber was broken a long time ago.”
“Now it looks like this.” Xenovia said while picking up and unwrapping the sword that she placed next to her. “The broken fragments of Excaliber were gathered and reforged into seven new blades and this is one of them... Excaliber Destruction.”
Once the wrappings fell away the weapon was revealed, it was a large rust colored two-handed sword with an axe-like guard, its pummel was long enough that it could be held with three hands, with its huge blade ending at three points.
It was clear that this was one of the ultimate weapons used to kill Devils, the second it was revealed every Devil in the room felt a terrible chill race through their bodies. Fear, awe, and hatred were evident in all of them as they looked upon the sword.
“And mine is called Excaliber Mimic!” Irina exclaimed, showing off the white string tied to her arm, the sword taking on this appearance as it was not in use.
“Okay, we get your point. Now if you don’t mind?” Rias said, wanting to be as far away from the sword as possible.
Xenovia picked up the bandages off the floor and rewrapped her Excaliber Destruction.
Rias sighed “Well, what is it you would like us to do for you today?”
Xenovia began to speak, “As we said earlier, three of the Excaliber Swords in our possession were recently stolen and we believe the thief to be hiding out in this area.”
Rias arched an eyebrow, “So these thieves have decided to make my territory their base for their criminal activities. Fine, who do you suspect to be the thief?”
“An executive of the Fallen Angel organization, Grigori. Kokabiel.” Xenovia finished.
Rias had a smirk of disbelief on her face, “Kokabiel. The Kokabiel. One of the Fallen Angel leaders who survived the previous wars... I did not expect to hear the name of one that appears in the Bible.”
Irina sighed, “The other day we sent a group of priests and exorcists to this town, but they were completely wiped out.”
Natsuki was shocked when she heard this, the fact that not only a group of holy men from the Church but one of the most powerful Fallen Angels to ever exist, were in Kouh and were fighting each other and none of them noticed was alarming.
How did none of us notice? I mean even if Rias didn’t, surely Sona-senpai and her Peerage would have to have noticed it? For both groups to be caught off guard is worrying. I guess the only reason they’ve come to Rias now is because they’re probably desperate after losing so many of their own. Natsuki thought to herself.
“The reason we have come to you now is-” Irina tried to say but was cut off by Xenovia.
“We demand that you Devils not intervene in this battle between us and the Grigori over the Excaliber Swords.” Xenovia said, her eyes narrowing as she stared at the Gremory Peerage.
Rias returned the look in kind, “Did no one teach how to speak with the proper respect? Honestly, what you are saying sounds like an accusation. Do you think myself and the rest of Devils in my territory would side with the Fallen to keep you from obtaining the Holy Swords?”
Xenovia’s expression did not change, “Higher-ups have considered this possibility. I mean you Devils do find Holy Swords quite detestable. Wouldn’t it make more sense for you to support the Fallen Angels?”
Everyone could feel the magical power within Rias spike, sparks of destruction energy dancing across the Gremory heir’s eyes as glared at the Holy Sword user.
“And if you do interfere, we will have no choice but to eliminate you. Even if you are the sister of a Maou.” Xenovia finished without caring about Rias’ glare or the strength of her magic.
Rias smirked, “You eliminate me? What a fucking joke. Honestly, humans are getting quite arrogant, believing that their little toys and false god are enough to protect them.”
Xenovia was about to retort but stopped when Irina grabbed her arm, silently telling her to stand down. Xenovia gritted her teeth but obeyed her partner.
“If you know that I am the sister of a Maou, then it must mean that you have a lot of connections with the Church higher-ups, so let me say this: There is no way I would ever even think of joining the Fallen Angels. I would never do anything to besmirch the name of the House of Gremory or my dear brother.” Rias declared.
Xenovia smirked, “Fu. Hearing that is good enough for me. I was only relaying the thoughts of headquarters; I honestly didn’t think the little sister of Lucifer would really be that stupid.”
Rias sighed, “Good to know. Then you also know that I will not provide aid to your side either.”
“Of course. I trust that we will prevail if you promise not to intervene in anything we may do in this town.” Xenovia said.
Rias took on a look of shock, “So it really is just the two of you? Are you going to try and retrieve the Excaliber Swords from one of the leaders of the Fallen Angels with just the two of you? Are you trying to die?”
“But of course, we don’t intend to die. We will retrieve the Holy Swords.” Xenovia said fearlessly to Rias’ questions.
After that the conversation stopped and the two Holy Sword wielders looked at each other and stood up.
“If that is all we will be taking our leave. Let’s go, Irina.” Xenovia said.
As the two girls began walking to the exit, they suddenly stopped in front of Issei and Asia.
“I had my suspicions when we met at Hyoudou Issei’s house, but...” Xenovia began speaking, “You’re the ‘witch’ Asia Argento, aren’t you?”
Asia’s entire body shook as she was called a witch by the girl in front of her, her skin grew paler, and her eyes filled with unshed tears.
Irina noticed this as she stepped towards the former nun, “So you’re the saint, the former Holy-Maiden? I’ve heard rumors about you, you are said to have the power to heal Devils and Fallen Angels, right? They say that you were excommunicated and that you wound up being sent far away, I never thought that you’d become a Devil though.”
Asia continued to tremble, “Well, I um- I guess-I-”
Irina’s expression soon became a somber one, “Don’t worry. We won’t tell anyone that we found you here. I’m sure it would shock those who knew you as a Holy Maiden to find out that you ended up here.”
Asia did not know how to react to Irina’s words, standing with a perplexed and uncomfortable expression.
Xenovia looked down at Asia with disgust and contempt. “But to become a Devil, one who was once called a Holy Maiden. You have fallen to the lowest place you could. Tell me, do you still believe in our God?”
Irina looked at her partner incredulously, “Xenovia, how could a Devil possibly maintain her belief in the Lord?”
Xenovia looked at Asia with pity, “That said, there are those who have betrayed the Lord and chosen to live in sin but have not completely forgotten their faith... I feel that you may be one such individual.”
Asia’s gaze fell to the floor, “...I could never abandon my faith. I’ve believed in it my whole life and it brought me this far...”
Xenovia closed her eyes for a moment, “Is that so? Then it’s only fitting that we should end your life.”
In an instant, Xenovia brandished Excaliber Destruction. “Show me your conviction in the name of the Lord. Sinful though you may be, the Lord will reach out and save your soul.”
But before Xenovia could carry out this cleansing of Asia’s soul, Issei jumped forward standing in between the two and glaring at Xenovia.
“Issei, no!”
“Stop! Don’t do it!”
“Everything is alright, please stop Issei!”
Rias, Akeno, and Asia yelled simultaneously.
Issei ignored them as he glared at Xenovia, “Screw you! What right do you have to call Asia a witch?!”
Xenovia smiled, “Believe me; that’s one of the nicest descriptions I have for someone who has done what she has.”
“I don’t want to hear it!” Issei screamed. “You pricks are the ones who decided she was a Saint, not Asia! That wasn’t her choice! When Asia needed help, not one of you came to save her! If you cannot see what a kind heart Asia has than you’re just a stupid and worthless as the heads of your so-called Church!”
Xenovia scoffed at this, “A genuine Saint can survive on the love of God alone. If Asia makes sacrifices for the love of anyone besides God, then she was never a true saint.”
“Asia is more genuine than all your true saints combined. She is especially better than the so-called warriors of God standing in this room.” Natsuki spoke up, having had enough of listening to Xenovia insult her friend.
“What did you just say?” Xenovia hissed, turning her glare at Natsuki.
“You heard me. Your whole religion is just a front for the corrupt and evil assholes at the very top to abuse everyone beneath them for their own power and selfish desires and yet you have the nerve to act like you’re better than us. You say that God will ‘save Asia’ but it's nothing but fake shit that you’re using to make her feel bad for something that is not her fault. Those higher-ups and your pathetic God can fuck themselves, they’re all useless anyway.” Natsuki replied.
Before Xenovia could rage against Natsuki’s statement, Irina calmly stepped forward. “God’s love is true and just. If her faith had been strong enough, she would have been fine. Or maybe her faith was a lie from the start.”
“And who are you to Asia anyway?” Xenovia gritted her teeth not understanding why the Devils before her were fighting for Asia.
Before Natsuki could speak, Issei interrupted. “We’re her friends! Her family! That’s why we help Asia. And that’s why I will protect her and if you even think about laying a hand on her, I will spend the rest of my life making you regret it.”
Xenovia scoffed, “You would dare challenge the Church? For such a little Devil you sure have a big mouth.”
“This is perfect. I’ll take both of you on.” Everyone turned to Kiba. The Knight had stepped forward, his gaze never leaving Xenovia and Irina.
Xenovia raised an eyebrow, “And who would you be to suggest such a thing?”
Kiba gave the two girls a cold and hate filled look, “Your superior. Though apparently, I was a failure.” After this was said, countless demonic swords appeared in the clubroom, all pointed at Xenovia and Irina.
Irina smiled as she looked at the swords, unfazed by the intimidation tactic. “If it’s a fight you want, then we’ll be more than happy to provide one. Right, Xenovia?”
Xenovia nodded, “Of course. We can’t let a Devil get away with insulting us.” Then she turned her head towards Natsuki and Issei. “Especially these two.”
Natsuki moved so that she and Xenovia were standing face to face. “If you want to get your ass kicked so badly than I’ll-”
“Your fight is with me.” Issei said, cutting Natsuki off.
Okay, he has to stop fucking doing that. Natsuki thought in annoyance as she looked over at the other Pawn. “What are you talking about, Issei?”
“They insulted Asia. I can’t let that stand. Anyone who messes with her, messes with me.” Issei said to her, knowing that he had to be the one to fight. The day that Asia became a Devil, Issei swore to always protect her, to always fight for her, so this battle had to his and his alone.
Issei felt that it was truly time he stood up and showed everyone that he was strong. He could not keep relying on Natsuki to fight his battles for him because he was too weak.
Natsuki saw the resolve on Issei’s face and backed away. Even though she wanted to fight and show the humans in front of them what happens when to mess with someone she cares about, she knew that Issei’s mind would not be changed, she also knew that Kiba was itching for the confrontation himself. “Fine, but you better not lose, Issei. Especially not to people like them.”
Issei nodded his head and soon followed the humans and Kiba out the door. Asia and Koneko quickly followed, leaving Natsuki and her senpais in the clubroom.
Rias sighed, “So much for deescalating the situation.”
“You saw the look on Kiba’s face, Buchou. This was going to happen regardless of what niceties could have been said.” Akeno told her friend.
Rias groaned, “I know, you’re right, Akeno.” Rias then turned to her Pawn, staring at the younger girl with a tried expression.
Natsuki shrugged, “They should not have come in here preaching about the love of God and how Asia was a sinner who had fallen so low that she did not deserve to live any longer. Self-righteous and delusional idiots like that are the worst breed of garbage.”
Natsuki, even before becoming a Devil, had an incredibly low opinion of organized religion. In her eyes, all organized religion were just cults that used their doctrines as ways to subjugate the masses. The few at the top used their ‘faith’ as shields to commit the most depraved of actions in the shadows while calling those that did not bend to their will or fit outside the norm, sinners, and abominations.
Rias shook her head at the Pawn’s response before leaving the room. Akeno sighed and was going to follow Rias but stopped when she felt Natsuki grab her arm.
“I-I didn’t mean to make you upset the other day. I’m sorry, Akeno-senpai.” Natsuki whispered, feeling nervous as the words left her mouth. Since she had walked in on Akeno and Issei, the Pawn and Queen had not had a direct conversation with each other. Normally if someone did not speak or acknowledge her Natsuki would continue with her life, not caring about that person nor their individual opinions of her.
But for the last few days it felt like a rock had been sitting in her stomach whenever Akeno and herself would be in the same vicinity, but Akeno would ignore her.
Akeno was surprised, knowing that Natsuki was not an apologetic person, usually standing her ground on the things she said. She was also surprised because she did not believe that Natsuki needed to apologize to her, it was her own overthinking and subsequent embarrassment over the situation that led to this.
Akeno rested her hand over Natsuki’s, “Its fine, Natsuki-chan. You don’t have to apologize to me, I was the one who overreacted.”
Natsuki shook her head, “No, I do. I shouldn’t have assumed your feelings were and said that you were going to be in Issei’s harem. That was rude and inappropriate, I should have known better.”
Akeno smiled, “Thank you for caring, Natsuki-chan.” Akeno felt her heartbeat faster and her stomach flutter as she stared into Natsuki’s burgundy red eyes.
Natsuki’s cheeks burned as Akeno smiled at her, it was one of the Queen’s true smiles not the fake smile she constantly showed the rest of the world. I want to see more of it. “Of course, I care. You’re important to me.”
Akeno forced herself to look away from Natsuki to hide her embarrassment. “You are important to me too, Natsuki.”
The two teenagers stood silently as neither knew how to continue the conversation, both were simulations happy and embarrassed about what the other had said.
Eventually Akeno cleared her throat, “We should go outside. The others are probably waiting for us so they can start the fight.
“Oh. Yes, let’s go.” Natsuki said, walking to the door and holding it open, waiting for Akeno to walk past.
The fuck is wrong with me? Every time I’m around Akeno, she makes me turn into an idiot. It's impossible for me to act normally. Natsuki thought as she and Akeno walked out to the field where the Holy Sword wielders and the rest of their Peerage were waiting.
~X~
“Before we begin, allow me to confirm something...” Xenovia started as she and Irina stood next to each other directly across from Issei and Kiba with the girls of the ORC a few feet behind them. Xenovia looked between the two servants and met Rias’ eyes.
“...This is a private matter that needn’t concern the Church at large. We won’t make anything more of it, and neither will you? Is that correct?”
Rias used her magic to form a large barrier around the surrounding area. “Yes, that is correct.” Besides, Yuuto will not rest until this is over, after all...
Xenovia raised her sword high, “The power of Rias Gremory’s Peerage and that of one of our alleged ‘seniors’. I shall test them both then.”
Kiba then began to chuckle, his entire body shaking as his laughter filled the air. Xenovia glared at the Knight, “Why are you laughing?”
A cruel smirk formed on Kiba’s face, “Because the one thing I always wanted to destroy more than anything has appeared willingly before my very eyes. I couldn’t be happier.” A field of swords sprouted around Kiba, showing his resolve to destroy the Holy Swords before him.
“Sword Birth?” Xenovia asked, “Now I remember. During the Holy Sword Project, there was one subject facing disposal that managed to escape. So that was you?”
The smirk left Kiba’s face as his eyes became colder, branding Xenovia under his thirst for revenge. More swords sprouted around Kiba as the Knight became angrier from the reminder of his traumatic past.
“Issei-Kun!” Irina shouted drawing said Pawn’s attention away from Xenovia and Kiba and onto herself. “We finally see each other again after so long and it turns out you’ve become a Devil! God must be testing my will to overcome this traumatic heartbreak! If I can prove I'm strong enough, I will be that much closer to Him!”
Issei sweat dropped at the proclamation, “Yeah, I’m pretty sure none of this has anything to do with you. But whatever.”
“I’m sorry Issei. This hurts me much more than it hurts you, but for your sins you shall now face the wrath of my Excalibur!” Irina yelled, charging at Issei with her sword drawn.
“Fine. You want to go there?” Issei said as his [Boosted Gear] appeared. “[Boosted Gear]!”
[Boost]!
“Amen!” Irina shouted once she closed the distance between them and drew her sword downward. Issei just barely dodged the attack, having part of his shirt slashed in the process.
“What the hell?! That was so dangerous! I thought this was a friendly fight?!” Issei shouted while inspecting his damaged shirt.
Irina paid this no mind as a small blush formed on her cheeks and she rocked her body back and forth. “Oh! To return to my hometown only to be forced to kill one of my oldest friends? Alas, fate can be so cruel!”
“Issei, try to avoid her direct attack!” Rias shouted from the sidelines.
“Yeah, that was the plan. Thanks.” Issei replied while calling out another [Boost].
“... The Red Dragon Emperor’s Hand? That with Asia Argento’s [Twilight Healing], the other Pawn’s [Ethereal Domination] and your [Sword Birth], you Devils certainly have a fair amount of the pagan sacred treasures.” Xenovia said she and Kiba prepared to battle.
“I have another power.” Kiba began as he pulled one of his swords out of the ground, “One that comes from my fallen comrades. With this power, I will destroy all the Excaliburs and I will annihilate their wielders!”
Kiba rushed at Xenovia, using this to push her backwards. Xenovia landed on her feet, holding her sword up just in time to block an oncoming strike from Kiba.
“Just being touched by a Holy Sword can injure a Devil. They’re at a huge disadvantage.” Akeno said as the girls continued to watch the fights.
“Kiba can manage with his speed, but Issei...” Rias trailed off as they all turned their attention to Issei and Irina’s fight.
Just then Irina slashed at Issei’s left arm, but there was no damage, no physical reaction by Issei to the strike.
“Huh, that doesn’t seem to be bothering him all that much.” Rias said with pleasant surprise.
“Or at all. But that left arm is the Dragon itself.” Akeno added.
Issei’s [Boosted Gear] continued to charge itself up, increasing Issei’s power and speed, allowing him to slowly close the gap between them.
I'll just keep dodging and bide my time until I can find an opening. Then I can use my Dress Break! Issei thought as his face became increasingly lecherous.
“Why the hell is he making that disgusting face?” Irina whispered to herself.
“...Please be careful. Issei-senpai has a move that allows him to tear the clothes of the body of any girl he touches.” Koneko said to Irina, warning the older girl of Issei’s intentions.
“What? Their clothes?!” Irina said in shock.
“Koneko-chan! Why are you revealing my secret move to the enemy?!” Issei yelled.
Koneko looked at Issei with nothing but contempt and disgust. “Because you are the enemy of all women. Nothing but a disgusting parasite.”
Issei’s head feel in despair, “Sometimes the things you say really hurt.”
Natsuki rolled her eyes, “Seriously Issei? Why can’t you come up with an actual attack instead of this bullshit?”
“I can hardly believe how you ended up, Issei. It’s bad enough that you have become a Devil, but to fall to this level of depravity? Oh Lord! Please forgive this sinful pervert!” Irina cried out as her view of Issei instantly changed.
“Hey! Don’t look at me with those pitying eyes!” Issei yelled indignantly.
“...The absolute worst.” Koneko said afterwards.
“Ise-san! If you were craving for a woman’s body, then you could have said it to me……! I wouldn't mind sacrificing my body for Ise-san.” Asia exclaimed, jealous that Issei was once again focusing on the body of another woman and not her own.
“Self-sacrifice! Just to be expected from a former Christian, Asia-san! WAIT! Don’t say something bold like that out of the blue!” Issei screamed.
This caused the fight between Xenovia and Kiba to temporarily stop as both took in the Pawn’s actions and desires.
“I see. So, he truly is the personification of lust. From the start, he did strike me as a very lewd and greedy Devil.” Xenovia said as she stared scornfully at Rias’ first Pawn.
“I'm sorry about him.” Kiba said as he bowed to both Irina and Xenovia.
“Don’t apologize for me!” Issei screamed at Kiba, growing angrier over everyone’s scathing comments and opinions about him. Damnit! Why I'm I the only one being treated like this?!
The fight soon continued when Kiba sheathed his sword back in the dirt and pulled out two others. The first was his Fire Sword and the second was his Ice Sword.
“It's time for you to burn and then freeze!” Kiba rushed at Xenovia, waving both swords and creating streams of fire and ice as he moved.
“How naïve.” Xenovia said as she destroyed both swords with a single strike from her Excalibur, turning them to dust. Her feat of strength was not yet done, as Xenovia’s strike went onto destroy the ground around her, forcing Kiba to jump back and leaving a crater at the base of her feet.
Kiba was speechless as he watched both of his demonic swords were destroyed with a single swing. What destructive power!
“My Excaliber Destruction is the embodiment of ruin. There is nothing it can’t destroy.” Xenovia smirked.
“So strong, despite not even being the True Excalibur. Destroying all seven will not be an easy task...” Kiba said disparagingly, his facing becoming bitter.
“How the hell did she do that?” Issei asked, thinking that Kiba’s goal of destroying the even Excaliburs was becoming more impossible as he saw the damage that just one was capable of.
“Don’t forget about me Issei! Our fight is just about over!” Irina yelled, running faster than she had before and instantly closing the distance between her and Issei.
Issei’s eyes widened as Excalibur Mimic was now centimeters away from his face. Issei quickly lifted his Sacred Gear in front of him, hoping to grab the blade. He underestimated Irina’s strength as the force of the strike sent Issei flying backwards like a bullet.
Issei hit the ground hard, rolling a few times before coming to a stop and lying on the ground in a heap. The Pawn did not have time to think about the pain he was feeling, having to roll out of the way to avoid Irina’s second attempt on his life.
Issei jumped to his feet, “That’s it! Let’s go [Boosted Gear]!”
[Explosion]! Ddraig shouted from within the Sacred Gear.
Issei could feel the power surging throughout his body. A twisted look appeared on Issei’s face as he was now strong enough to use his Dress Break effectively.
“Sorry for stripping you.” Issei said, using his new speed to rush behind Irina without her even noticing.
Irina backflipped over Issei just as he was going to touch her, “How obscene!”
Irina increased her speed to avoid Issei’s lecherous fingers, but the Holy Sword wielder noticed that Issei was continuing to get faster.
“Oh my. Issei-kun’s movements are looking sharper than usual.” Akeno said trying to not sound judgment as she spoke.
Koneko had no such feelings, “...Senpai’s pervy instincts are enhancing his physical abilities. He is so much of a pervert that the increase is very noticeable.”
Natsuki slapped her hand against her forehead, “I should have just fought Irina myself.”
“At least he is trying to win.” Rias tried to find the bright side of the ‘fight’ they were witnessing, but her tone lacked its normal confidence.
Natsuki gave Rias a deadpanned stare, “Only so he can see Irina’s breasts.”
Before the two could continue their conversation, Issei lunged at Irina again. The human ducked when she saw the Devil, causing Issei to go flying over her.
Issei was heading towards Asia and Koneko and his hands touched their shoulders. The girls’ uniforms exploded in a flurry of cloth, leaving them both completely naked.
Asia and Koneko used their arms to try and cover their bodies as the others stared at them, shocked by Issei’s accidental use of Dress Break.
The only sounds that could be heard were the clash of Kiba and Xenovia’s swords and the blood dripping from Issei’s nose.
“Ko…Koneko-chan! You have it wrong! This is a mistake! Well, it did work! But I still think that even small boobies are important! Huh? What am I saying? That’s not it! It’s because Shidou Irina dodged it! I wasn’t aiming for you and Asia! B…But thank you very much! I will just thank you just in case……” Issei stuttered as he saw Koneko’s body begin to shake as she glared at him.
“...You super pervert!” Koneko yelled, giving Issei a devastating punch to the gut, sending the pervert flying into the air.
Issei violently hit the ground, creating a small crater from the impact. The Pawn coughed up blood from the critical hit.
Natsuki sighed as she quickly went back into the clubhouse. When she returned, Natsuki was holding a duffel bag, pulling out two large sweatshirts.
“Here.” Natsuki said as she handed them to Asia and Koneko. Both girls thanked Natsuki as they quickly took the clothes and put them on.
“Why do you have a duffel bag filled with clothes?” Rias asked.
“After what happened in the Familiar Forest, I figured it would be best to have extra clothes. Especially with Issei’s Dress Break now in the mix.” Natsuki explained.
Irina walked over to Issei’s crumpled form and repeatedly poked him. “Issei-kun, are you alive? I believe this is divine retribution for creating such an indecent attack. Should you live to fight again, would you please stop using that move?”
Issei slowly pushed himself to his knees, trying his best to stand. “...N-no way. That’s my special technique. I put all my talent, all my magic into it... I’m going to keep blo-blowing away girls clothes no matter what... The real question is whether I should continue with this move or make another that makes clothes invisible.”
Issei suddenly lurched forward, shakingly standing on his feet. “I’ll continue fighting until I can blow away girls’ clothes just by looking at them!”
Irina’s face lost its color as she took in Issei’s determination. What is wrong with him? Is his perversion really this strong?!
“My libido is my power, my strength!” Issei aimed a punch at Irina’s head but the human ducked and jumped back.
Issei then lowered himself to the ground, trying to deliver a sweeping kick to Irina’s legs. Irina noticed this and once again jumped back.
As this happened, Issei kicked off the ground to uppercut her...
SWING
Issei’s uppercut had missed Irina’s chin and with sharpen eyes, Irina swung her sword to the side, just barely grazing the Devil’s stomach.
At first, Issei thought he was fine as the cut was about two centimeters long, but the Pawn fell to his knees, feeling all of his energy leaving him. The pain was immense as smoke began emanating from the small wound.
“This is the damage caused by a Holy Sword. Devils and fallen-angels get their power and existence erased by receiving damage from the holy-sword to their body. If it were a bit deeper, then it would have been critical.” Irina explained once she saw the painful confusion on Issei’s face.
It was just a graze! Is such a small cut enough to get me on my knees!? The Pawn thought.
[Reset!] Issei’s Sacred Gear exclaimed. Issei looked at his arm in shock, the time for the Boosted Gear activation was finished, causing Issei to lose the boosted power within his body.
“If you had another boost, then you could have evaded that attack, and we could have had a proper match. You lost because you used your Sacred Gear while not knowing the power difference between yourself and your opponent. This ‘fight’ is over.” Irina said as her Excalibur returned to its rope form and she wrapped it around her arm.
Issei fell forward, lying flat on the ground. Damn it. It was no use, I can’t at all...... I lost? Did I make a fool of myself in front of Buchou and Asia? Fucking hell!
Rias let out a sigh, “You are right. Yes Shidou Irina, I officially acknowledge your win.”
Issei and Irina’s fight was not the only one that had reached its end as Kiba and Xenovia continued to square off.
“Let’s see which is the strongest gear! The power of destruction of your Holy Sword or my Devil swords?!” Kiba yelled, summoning a giant sword with a powerful aura around it. The blade had a jagged shape and stood more than two meters tall.
Kiba then swung the sword with such force that the strike flew at the human. Xenovia was unimpressed, letting out a disappointed sigh.
“What a shame... you made the wrong decision.”
GACHIN!
Kiba’s sword instantly broke apart, sending large fragments in every direction. Xenovia’s Excaliber easily destroyed Kiba’s demonic sword.
“Your weapon is the variety of swords you can create and your speed. You would need a lot of strength to swing a gigantic sword like that, causing you to lose the speed you are so proud of. Are you seeking a destructive power? From your fighting style, it’s something unnecessary. Don’t you even know that?” Xenovia said as she stared the Knight down.
Before Kiba could respond, Xenovia rammed the pommel of her sword hilt deep into Kiba’s stomach. The force of the hit created a shockwave behind Kiba, showing that even the pommel of the Holy Sword contains its devastating power.
“Gahh!” Kiba fell to his knees and vomited.
“Even if it’s not a hit with the blade, that hit just now will be enough to stop you from standing for a while.” Xenovia glared at Kiba and turned around.
“.........Wa......wait!” Kiba reached his hands towards her, but everyone here knew that the match was over. Akeno unsealed the barrier and the red aura that covered the area disappeared.
“Senpai, I suggest you don’t allow your emotions to overtake you the next time we fight.” Xenovia then looked at Rias. “Rias Gremory, I trust that you will not interfere as we discussed earlier. Also, you should train your servants a bit more, their battle styles need some work.” Kiba glared at Xenovia with hatred.
Xenovia then looked at Issei, “I will tell you one more thing. The Vanishing One has already awoken. You will meet him eventually but in your current state you’ll never win.”
“Will you face off against the Vanishing One as well, Sukehiro Natsuki?” Xenovia asked as she walked past said Pawn.
“The White Dragon is Issei’s to fight, not mine.” Natsuki responded, “But if they want a fight, I’ll give them one. And I'll beat their ass into the dirt.”
Xenovia huffed at the reply, annoyed by Natsuki’s arrogance. She picked up her cloak and rewrapped her Holy Sword and walked away.
“Wait for me, Xenovia!” Irina shouted as she rushed to grab her own things.
She then turned to Issei. “Then I guess it's like that, Issei-kin. Tell me when you next want to get judged. Amen.” Irina winked at the boy and ran after her partner.
The ORC watched the two humans as they left the school grounds, neither looking back as they faded into the distance.
~X~
“Are you okay?” Asia asked as she raised a hand to Issei’s stomach to heal the wound Irina gave him. The warm green colored light made from her Sacred Gear surrounded him and healed his wound.
“I'm sorry, I showed you a pathetic side of me earlier.” Issei said as he thought about how easily Irina was able to beat him.
Asia shook her head, “I’m just glad your wound was small after getting cut by a Holy sword. I was really worried, thinking Ise-kun could have vanished.”
“I'm also sorry that I blew your clothes off.” issei apologized again as he saw the spare clothes that Natsuki had given the girl on her body.
“Don’t apologize or encourage him, Asia-senpai. He's still a pervert.” Koneko said from her place on the couch, still angry over Issei’s actions.
Issei’s head fell in despair, “I said I was sorry! It was really dumb of me!”
Natsuki snorted, “You should be sorry. Irina was right; if you hadn’t wasted your boosts trying to strip her and actually fought, you could have won.”
“Wait, Yuuto! Where do you think you’re going?” Rias yelled, interrupting the discussion between her servants.
“You do realize that I never gave you permission to leave me. Remember you are a Knight of the House of Gremory.” Rias stated, trying to stop Kiba from leaving.
“I know Buchou. And I am sorry. Kiba replied as he walked to the door.
“Yuuto!” Rias yelled again, but Kiba ignored her and opened the door, shutting it loudly behind him.
“Oh no! He left.” Asia said sadly.
Rias’ face fell to the floor as her eyes dimmed. “Oh, Kiba. Why now?”
“Damn. He’s defiantly going after those girls from the Church and Kokabiel.” Natsuki muttered to herself.
“We can’t just let him do that. As much as I hate to admit it, that pretty boy is our friend.” Issei whispered, hearing Natsuki’s statement.
Natsuki turned to the other Pawn, “And what do you expect us to do about it?”
Issei said nothing, simply leaning back in his seat and smirking at the girl.
Well, that look is not comforting at all, it means we’re about to do something dumb and reckless. But Issei’s right, we can’t let Kiba get hurt on his quest for revenge, no matter how much he pushes us all away. Natsuki thought, dreading what Issei’s plan was to stop Kiba.
