Chapter 25: Holy Swords - 5
The midday sun cast a warm glow over Kuoh Academy as Issei made his way to a secluded part of the school grounds, where he had arranged to meet Saji. The two had crossed paths earlier in the day, and Saji had agreed to hear Issei out.
The atmosphere was calm, but there was a sense of urgency in Issei's steps.
Saji was already waiting by the tree-lined path, leaning casually against a bench. His usual laid-back demeanor was present, but there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes. As Issei approached, Saji straightened up and gave him a nod.
"Hey, Issei," Saji greeted, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "What's this all about? You seemed pretty serious earlier."
Issei took a deep breath, his expression determined. "Saji, I want you to help me and Kiba in destroying the Excalibur fragments."
Saji's eyebrows rose slightly at the mention of Excalibur. "Excalibur, huh? That's a pretty big deal. What exactly are you planning?"
Issei explained the situation, recounting the recent events involving the church, the stolen Excalibur fragments, and Kiba's personal vendetta against the holy swords.
"I know it sounds crazy," Issei admitted, his gaze unwavering. "But Kiba needs our help. This isn't just about revenge—it's about preventing those swords from causing more harm. We can't let the fallen angels keep them."
Saji rubbed the back of his neck, considering Issei's words. "You're right but you know If presiden found out the we are involving us with the hloy swords, it could spell disaster.
"You have rias, she is gentleand understanding. But sona like to punish people. And going up against fallen angels isn't exactly a walk in the park."
Issei nodded firmly. "I know the risks, but I can't stand by and do nothing. Besides, Kiba's our friend. We have to do whatever it takes to support him."
Saji sighed, a small grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You really are something else, Issei. Always charging headfirst into danger. But... I can't help you in this"
As Saji turned to leave, the sound of footsteps behind him made him pause. He glanced back to see Koneko standing there, her expression as stoic as ever. She crossed her arms and fixed him with a steady gaze.
"you're not going anywhere," Koneko said firmly.
Saji blinked in surprise. "Koneko? What's going on?"
Without another word, Koneko grabbed his wrist and began to lead him towards a nearby café. Saji, caught off guard by her uncharacteristic assertiveness, could only follow. They walked in silence until they reached the café, where a familiar sight greeted them.
Inside, sitting at a corner table, were Xenovia and Irina. The two church warriors were quietly sipping their drinks, seemingly deep in thought. As Issei, Koneko and Saji approached, Xenovia looked up and nodded in acknowledgment, while Irina gave a slight wave.
Koneko released Saji's wrist and motioned for him to sit.
Saji hesitated for a moment before taking a seat. Koneko sat after Issei, her gaze shifting between Xenovia and Irina.
"We know about your mission," Koneko stated bluntly. "You're after the Excalibur fragments, and we want to help."
Irina's eyes narrowed slightly. "This is our mission, Koneko. It's dangerous, and we can't involve civilians—especially devils."
Before Irina could continue, Xenovia held up a hand to stop her. "Irina, let's hear them out. The more people we have, the better our chances. Kokabiel is not a weak threat, and we could use all the help we can get."
Irina glanced at Xenovia, clearly conflicted. After a moment, she sighed and nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But only because you said so, Xenovia."
Xenovia turned her attention back to Koneko, issei and Saji, her expression serious. "If you're serious about helping, you need to understand what we're up against. Kokabiel is a powerful fallen angel, and he won't hesitate to kill anyone who stands in his way."
After they finished the talk they prepared to leave. Irina still seemed hesitant but didn't object further.
---
The night was calm, the gentle sound of water flowing through the river creating a serene ambiance. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a silver glow over the peaceful scene.
Azazel, Governor of the Fallen Angels, sat by the riverbank, fishing rod in hand, exuding an air of relaxed contemplation.
As he reeled in his line slightly, a soft rustling of leaves signaled the approach of another. Azazel's lips curled into a knowing smile, but he kept his gaze on the water.
"Out for a late-night stroll?" Azazel asked, his tone casual yet amused.
From the shadows emerged a figure with black hair, appearing no older than eighteen. His presence was calm yet commanding, his red eyes glowing in the darkness. It was Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, his steps graceful as he approached the riverbank.
"Fishing, Azazel?" Raizel inquired, his voice smooth and composed.
Azazel chuckled lightly, not turning to look at Raizel. "It's a simple pleasure in life. Even someone like me needs a break from all the chaos."
Raizel's gaze remained steady as he observed the calm waters. "Chaos is ever-present, yet it must be managed."
Azazel finally turned his head to glance at Raizel. "And what brings you here tonight? Surely, you're not just here to talk about the peacefulness of fishing."
Raizel's expression remained unreadable. "I have come to inquire about your intentions regarding Kokabiel."
Azazel's smile faded slightly, replaced by a more serious expression. "Kokabiel... He's becoming quite the nuisance, isn't he?"
Raizel's eyes narrowed, a subtle tension in the air. "His actions are reckless. If he brings harm to one of my people, I will have no choice but to bring judgment upon him."
Azazel nodded thoughtfully, his gaze returning to the water. "I figured as much. Kokabiel has always been a loose cannon. But you should know, I'm not exactly fond of his methods either."
Raizel's tone remained calm but firm. "Ensure that he does not overstep his bounds, Azazel. The balance must be preserved."
Azazel sighed, reeling in his line once more. "I'll do what I can. But Kokabiel has his own agenda. Keeping him in check isn't exactly easy."
Raizel's gaze remained unwavering. "It is not about ease, but necessity."
Azazel chuckled softly, a hint of admiration in his voice. "You always did have a way with words, Raizel. Rest assured, I'll keep an eye on him. I have no intention of letting things spiral out of control."
Raizel offered a slight nod, his expression softening ever so slightly. "That is all I ask."
With those final words, Raizel turned and began to walk away, his figure gradually fading into the shadows of the night. Azazel watched him go, a thoughtful expression on his face.
The night resumed its quiet tranquility, the river flowing gently as if oblivious to the weighty conversation that had just taken place.
...