Chapter 15 - The Battle that Decides... Last Part

It was one of those night. The night where moon was full and shine down to the earth, illuminating the darkness and act like second sun

He stare at the dark sky, mesmerizing the dark sky that seems endless and adorned by few sparkle of stars. Wearing nothing but plain blue t-shirt and long gray gym pants

It just few days after he rescue Asia and the blond girl decide to follow him. He actually not want to, but seeing the girl had nowhere to go it better to take her, she could fall to the wrong hand and if it happen he will damn himself

Sounds of woods groaned and followed by footsteps caught his ears. He briefly spare glance to the direction with one of his eyes before turn his gaze back to the dark sky

"You not sleeping?" He asked

"No..." She answered "It actually not about nightmare or I can't but I wish to see the stars today."

He only silence hearing that, giving small nod and staring at the stars again. He could feel the girl now sitting on his side, gazing into the sky as well.

Comfortable silence that only adorned by sounds of wind breezing the grass and tree not far from their house was the only thing exist that time. Both of them locked their eyes to the infinite numbers of glowing balls in sky while have their own thought

"Asia..." He called, broking the silence for first time

The blonde haired nun turned to the one who called her, she tilting her head slightly and shot him questioned look

"Yes, Issei-san?" She asked as she see her savior staring at sky

"You work as healer before right?"

"Yes..." She answered "What wrong?" She asked again as she wondering where this conversation going to

"Have you..." She noted the pause he have was strange, it sounds like he afraid to ask his question "Meet someone who don't want to be saved?"

"... ..." Asia only silence the moment the question asked, her mind drifted back to the time when she spend it as healer in Church "I meet few Issei-san..." She said finally, her green eyes seems bitter for some reason

She watch him once again fell to silence. His face was stoic but there few sweats on his forehead, the blonde haired nun could tell despite how brave she look but the man was afraid inside, to what she don't know

"And did you let them die?" He asked again and in instant Asia understand. She finally understand what her savior currently fear and what he just experience, she, herself had face similar thing in her past

"... ... ... Yes..." Asia answered again after moment of silence

"..." He fell silence again, he still not facing her and only gazing at the dark sky above them "Why?" It come out weak... Despite it filled with monotone but Asia could hear the silent plea and weakness in there

"Because sometime it the right thing..." Asia told him softly, giving him bitter smile and she instantly noted the man clench his trembling fist

"But-"

"However that doesn't mean they can't be saved Issei-san, they still could be saved..."

After she said that she see Issei-san snap his neck to her quickly as if there no bone in there. His eyes was wide and filled with shock but there hope in there, there hope live in there that wish to go out

"How?" He asked, his both hands now touching her shoulder, she noted he about to shake her and demand answer but held back "Tell me how?!" He almost yelled at her but Asia could see he realize what he about did and softened his feature, but the grip on her shoulder not "Please... Please tell me..." He asked, no. He practically begging to her now, his steel gray eyes filled with nothing but plea

He sounds so weak... So fragile like glass... He sounds like someone that not save her few days ago

It hurt her heart so much to see he in this state...

"Be there for them.". She said, her tone becoming firm and yet also soft to the point you would think she wasn't the same girl that you knew "When they spend their last moment be there for them, make sure they happy and enjoy their time."

She see his face was blank for moment but soon his eyes narrowed and she could tell the hidden fury in there "That! That doesn't even make sense! We could save them! If we save them they still could enjoy their time and moment! They could-"

"Issei-san... What right we have to judge their life?"

That words freeze him, his fury instantly gone like flame that blow by strong wind. His expression was nothing but pure shock as if that words struck his heart and it probably did, she sure of that

"Someone wish to be saved sometime... But not all of them... Few don't want to be saved, it inevitable. Just like when Hero exist, a Villain must exist as well..." She spoke softly, her hands and grab both his wrist that latched to her shoulders. Gently she tucked them down and grip his hands with hers

"Then what could I do? If someone don't wish to be saved, what can I do?" He asked in weak tone, there no more mask or facade that cover it "You said it before. They still could be saved just by stay with them in their last moment, tell me how it work..." He begged to her

And she answer it, her face scrunched to beautiful smile. She release one hand that she grip and lift up her hand then touch his cheek

"Make sure they die without regret and smiling... It was the best salvation for them..." She said

His eyes widened again in shock, but there something difference this time. Before they all filled with nothing but fear and confusion, but now it filled with light. A very bright light. It remind Asia to someone who like just find hope and salvation through his turmoil

"You... You right... Die with smile and without regret..." He muttered, his eyes then shone and bright smile on his face "You right Asia! You are right! You absolutely right!" He shouted in pure joy

Then without warning he scoop her, hugging her so tight and rise her up. Instantly blush adorn her face and she let out squeak as Issei-san began to spinning while hugging her body and laughed joy

Despite her situation she can't help but smiled to him, she feel happy that she able to save him. Able to help him when he in darkness, when he tripped on his path, she glad she able to. She could see despite how strong and brave the Hero in front of him there something inside him, a very strong solitude. Waiting for him to tripped and drag him down to the dark path

She won't let that happen... Not on her watch... She won't let this Hero fall... She promise to herself that she will be there when he trip, helping him to stand again so he not fell

She swear in name of Bible and God she love so much

But for now perhaps she should ask Issei-san to stop his spin, she could feel her dinner before now slowly crawling to her throat. It would ruin the moment if she puke to face of her savior

___________________________________________________________________________________________

[WELSH DRAGON BALANCE BREAKER!]

In instant that words come out from his gauntlet, power in form of red aura with shining green light illuminate his whole body

They all latched to him, glued to his skin, and covering every part of his body. Taking shape into almost dragonic armor, red almost like blood and emerald green jewels popped on various part of his body

All of them happen less than a second

And in instant that voice declare his power, the Fallen Angel also ready. They not let him move, not letting him attack or strike, they knew their enemies was someone to not underestimated the moment their eyes caught the red gauntlet on his right arm

Hundreds of spears made by light, it lost it Holy but it still Light. Able to extinguish flame and replace them, able to slice through the dark creature and cut through wall like it brick of paper. The moment the Hero finish his transformation, those countless spears already only few feets away from him, ready to skewer and destroy him into nothing

But it fail

Come forth, the Seven Rings that Cover the Fiery Heavens.

"Rho Aias!"

And it did come. Beautiful pink colored flower blooms from his palm, like a rose that growth from well treated garden. Then the core of it shoot pink laser, forming pink layer after pink layers until it number reach seven, large enough to cover whole his body, shielding him like mother lion that guard her pub

The countless spears of light meet it. Like bullets that rain down to brick wall of fortress. They shatter, break, disperse the moment they meet the pink shields, many of them able to break through the first layer, but the second layer was there, still strong and firm, blocking the rest of the attack, leaving the man in dragon armor unharmed

"Trace On."

Blue flame emerge from his back, all of them instantly taking shape as weapon, swords. Not just normal swords, they are fragments of Holy Sword, the majestic sword that belonged to King once. And this fragments was the most destructive, the most powerful despite it durability, made for nothing but bring destruction to evil creature under it Holy power

"That... That was!" Xenovia gasped when saw the swords floating behind him. She recognize that swords! How could she not?! One of them was not far from her position now! Siding with Durandal

"Excalibur..." Jeanne murmured, her eyes instantly roamed to the one near Xenovia to make sure it still there

"But how could it be?!" Irina whispered, but to everyone it almost like scream

[Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost!]

[Transfer!]

All of their powers increased, multipled from the ability of the mighty Welsh Dragon. They was already deadly before but now they turned to be more dangerous. But he not done, he give last touch to them, filled them with Prana and turned them to red, hot, fragile, broken yet, more dangerous than before

He disperse his flower shield, then he launch one of those sword

Fast, without any doubt the launched sword are fast, faster than bullets and launched to sky. Cutting through the air, it meet the spear and in instant it meet it target who not ready, it explode.

Like cannon that let loose, it explosion big enough to turn the night around them into momentary bright day. It almost like staring at the sun that appear out of nowhere, make everyone turned their head away from sudden brightness, even experienced warrior did. How could they didn't? No one expect the sudden brightness after all in middle of battle like this

The explosion not just brightened the night, it also engulf other spears that behind the spear it hit, dispersing them and destroying them like ice meet flames

But Issei not done, despite the brightness and his sight blocked he still not finish. The first explosion was used to make sure his enemies blinded or at least panicked and propel away by the sheer of the force. Then when they trying to regain their balance, he struck again

And he did strike.

The swords that floating like gripped by invisible hand behind him moved, twitched and with single motion from his hands, all of them launched like bullets. They cut and pierce through the dust that appear from the explosion, soaring to the sky and hit the group of the Fallen Angel

Each of them immediately explode

Once was already bright enough, and now there multiple of them appear. There nothing could be said other than total chaos, destruction from them

Like a sun that appear in night, each of them so bright, gracing everyone with light. The Fallen Angel that caught in middle or close of the explosion was turned to nothing but ash instantly, they are burned under the heat pressure of the destruction from broken Excalibur Destruction

Dozens Fallen Angels scattered from the attack, many of them burned to ash, few that fortunate to not burned were got knocked by the force of the shockwave from the explosion, make them crashed to building and field below them

The more experienced, able to balance themselves, pushing their way from the explosion the moment they knocked and flapping their wings, taking position once again in the air and ready their spears to counter attack

However when they pointed their spears, their target already gone. Only smoke of dust floating wher he stand before

'Fast!' Jeanne thought with awe. He vanish before anyone can blink, she sure of that. She not even see he move! One moment he standing there and the next he turned to dust! Even her trained eye can't catch him!

"What the! Where is he?!" One Fallen Angel with two wings asked as he began to look around, the other also began look around, helping their friends to find their enemy

It was then wave of energy crash to them. They are turned their heads down, and they found their target, he was far from them, probably around three kilometers away. The man in dragon armor was on one knee, holding bow that aimed to them and behind him was group of glowing long-kris swords that turned to Broken Phantasm once again

"Another one...?" Xenovia murmured as she recognize the swords behind him, she briefly spare glance to Jeanne and see she still hold hers and she also look to Issei with surprised face

"Strike him! Those projection act like bomb! Strike it before it reach us so it explosion got him!" One six winged Fallen Angel ordered as he already threw his spear, the other soon followed him as they let out battle cry and rain down another countless spears to their target

Barrages of deadly spears launched to him, this time they are fast, molded to be faster and deadly, it even surpassing the one that Dohnaseek make when fighting him. But he stay calm, his grip on the four arrows that on string of his bow never loosened despite the dead that approaching him

[Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost! Boost!]

[Transfer!]

Once again power of Sacred Gear he held flowing through his gauntlet to the arrows he held. Increasing their power. Then he let them go, his fingers releasing the arrows he held and all of them instantly fly toward his targets, and all of broken Excalibur Rapidly follow them.

Despite it fragility Excalibur Rapidly is swords that focused on speed. When Issei turned them into Broken Phantasm he didn't focus to their strength, he focusing them on their speeds, make them faster and more fragile so when it explode, it caused bigger damage

The arrows he let free was surprisingly able to follow their speeds. To someone who knew swords and wielding it they should knew it impossible, Excalibur Rapidly already fast and now it increased, becoming faster and a simple arrow could match it speed? Absurd!

Unfortunately, it not a mere arrow, it special one

"Spread..." Issei muttered

The four arrows that glowing in green light of power from Boosted Gear spread, their shapes change in middle of their fly and turned to net, they slithering to each other like snakes and began to wrap to each other, formed into giant net that protecting the fragments of Excalibur behind them

It not arrows, but it Excalibur Mimic that shaped into arrows. When Issei use Boosted Gear power he didn't focused to increase it strength, he increase it speed and durability, he made the sword not to cut but to hold, to protect, to shield. A very strong one, surpassing even the one that he create when facing Dohnaseek

"Again?! That was my sword!" Irina shouted this time. Even it shape different but as the wielder she knew those projectiles since they practically her sword, the one she wield for months already

The barrages of spears of lights meet with the strengthen steels. The steels hold firm, they no longer fragile. The Boosted Gear already increse their defense multiple times to the point they could shatter the real one.

But despite all of that, it still useless

The steels maybe strong, but the numbers of the spears of light that strike them was surpassing them. They more many, the strength from their combined numbers make them far superior than the steels

So it wasn't surprise when they all breakthrough the net that intent to protect the swords behind them. Then the spears meet their targets and the swords explode. However to the Fallen Angel surprise, there no bright explosion or the one that rivaled previous one. They simply explode like normal grenade

And they serve their purpose

Issei already predict the group of the Fallen Angels will mold their spears different after they see what he just did. He make his projections look very dangerous, so deadly, and the only way to stop them was to make sure they didn't reach them. So they mold their spears into thin, but fast and deadly, like the one Dohnaseek made

But it leave them opening... Their spears were fragile...

And it also give Issei time to prepared

Raising one hand, flash of blue flame appear on his palm just after he launched the two Excaliburs. The blue flame blazing and dancing on his palm like ballerina that show her beauty to the audience, then the blue flame changed. It let out sounds of sparkle before it turned to red, and it change again, it color turned to more dark until the red turn to crimson

The crimson flame expanded upward, line and webs start to formed around it as it start to taking shape. It was supposed to be sword, but it changed, altered. It edge twisted, bended and coiled into spiral rather than straight one. It looks more like drill glued to hilt of sword rather than sword

But even if it changed, but the power it held still same

Then he raise the twisted blade and set it to his bow, the bow he made by himself. EMIYA in his live had made bow, a special black bow that capable to launching Noble Phantasm.

His bow, is better. During his life, EMIYA made the bow by limited material since he live at the World where Age of Gods already over and Magecraft was dying, rare artifact even close to nonexist anymore

But not in here

The red bow was made from the scale and the structure bone of the mightiest kind of Dragon, surpassing only by Dragon God and the True Dragon. To craft this Bow should be impossible, seeing the Dragon already dead and sealed. Even if you meet with the host of their power you still won't be able to produce the near original since Juggernaut Drive not turn you into reborn of that Dragon, it only grant you the same amount of massive power

But Issei was different. He ARE the Host. He had seen and meet the Dragon directly, even talk with him and touch his scale. He even ask the Dragon to reveal his sharp fangs and claws

Thus he capable to forge this Bow, the Bow that superior than the one EMIYA create. It not heavier, it lighter but it more durable, more easy to use and more strong. It more than enough to shot Noble Phantasm that couldn't be carried by Human

'I'm sorry Sona, but it seems the school will need to be rebuild, can't afford to hold back. I already waste enough stamina to make these distraction, time to swipe them all out with one hit.'

Red lightning sparkled around the sword, it huge power barely restrained, it was like a Dragon that caged and roaring in anger, demanding to be unleashed upon it enemy

The moment he pull the sword massive amount of blue Prana start to pour out from his body, all of them formed into blue mist that began to surround the sword that covered by red lightning

My Core is Twisted in Madness

"Caladbolg!"

Not just one second it released, it already exploded

To the spectator who witnessing they just see Issei let loose another arrow then before they able to blink, a very, very loud sounds of explosion and magnificent heat crash to them. The Devils and Church, they maybe far from the Fallen Angel, two kilometers the distance perhaps but that not stopping them from blasted away. Many of them let out scream and squeak of surprise while have themselves knocked from the force of the explosion

And to few who able to watch, they will never forget what they see that time

Far on the top of Kuoh Academy main building that now crumbling under the pressure, a raging torrent blazing sphere of flame was there. It big to the point it not just illuminating the school but the whole city, almost making the night complete into noon.

Even their eyes hurt due to the bright of the flame but they didn't stop seeing, they try their best to make their pupil as small as possible so they can keep watching

The distance where the Fallen Angel flying in sky was high, it reaching hundreds meter perhaps, and the last projectile aimed to them. And yet even the distance was hundreds meter- maybe five even-, the three hundred meters sphere of inferno that raging still strong enough to the point make the school beneath it crumble

The force it power was so strong to the point it not just the school, but it continued. The gymnasium the sports field, old school house, everything behind the school was destroyed, even the building in front of it where the spectator watching was not save, they crumble under the strong pressure, not totally destroyed but clearly need to be renovated, the only thing that presence was three floating swords on middle of yard, the swords that Kokabiel stolen and used as pillar to cast spell to destroy the city

And when the sea of flames died, there nothing left of the Fallen Angel, not even corpse or feather. Five hundred and sixty seven Fallen Angels, all of them eradicated from existence as if they never there in first place

Needless to say, you shouldn't be surprise to find everyone who watching have 'WTF?!', 'Holy... SHIT!', 'What..the..heck?!' and 'Oh my GOD!' expression plastered on their faces. And you can't blame them for putting such faces, one moment they all losing, then their situation went from bad to worse by the reinforcement of Fallen Angel and then less than ten minutes all of the reinforcement destroyed

"Is he... Is he truly Human?" Ravel muttered while trembling in place where she laying as she stare at the destruction that just happen

The other Devils was have similar thing crossed in their minds. What they just witnesses was something that utterly close to impossible! True they had heard the legend during their childhood, people like Ewald Cristaldi, Vasco Strada, Griselda Quarta, Dulio Gesualdo and SLASH Dog that they are Human capable to slay hundreds of army by themselves despite they counted as Human

But hearing and witnessing was different thing, right now what they just see was something so marvelous and mind blowing. And not just that, the Human who capable to slay army of half thousand Fallen Angel wasn't older than them! He even younger than the two Kings in Kuoh Academy!

And yet, he displaying power that only they heard from story

"The school..." Sona whimpered as her mind finally rebooted and she finally got nice view of Kuoh Academy, the view of her school that she lead as Student Council President "THE SCHOOL!" She squeaked out in high pitched tone that so unlike her

Most Devils who hear that instantly sweatdropped. To few of them this is the first time they see Sona Sitri the famous Ice Princess of Kuoh Academy squeaked like that, it was so unlike her who always put calm and cold persona. Then again, after what happen until now they guess they can't blame her for shocked like this.

"Geez, get a grip Sona. It just a school."

The Devils turned to see Issei approach them, still clad in his red dragon armor and holding red bow that slowly dissipated into blue particles, his voice was filled with nonchalant about what he just did as if it was daily routine, prompting everyone to have their sweatdrop bigger

Sona meanwhile not share his sentiment, not a bit

"YOU!" Sona practically growled at him as she somehow manage to stand despite the pain and her injury and also throwing glare to him "YOU CRAZY POWER IDIOT MANIAC! DON'T YOU KNOW ANY MEAN HOLD BACK?!"

"Excuse me?" Issei deadpanned under his helmet "If you have to recall there five hundred and sixty seven Fallen Angel out there and you wish me to hold back?" He asked in the most tone that clearly spell 'are you stupid?'

"You could do it in more tame way! I don't know maybe summon multiple swords or sharp projectiles you just did then shoot them one by one?!"

"I could do that but it will be more troublesome. Look I'm sorry if I get the damage too big but-"

"TROUBLESOME?! What with those lazy word?! Hero not supposed to said thing like that when helping people! And you sorry?! While this building could be rebuilded but what about our Magical Book and knowledge inside them?! There plenty of them! There important folder that I store in my office as well you irresponsible-"

"Agh shut up! All your opinion from now are being rejected! I came here to rescue all of you like damsel in distress so act like one! Your job is to cower in corner, saying 'Save me Mr Hero! Save me!' not protesting like this!"

"Cowering?! You insufferable and ungrateful man! What kind of Hero speak like that to the people he save?!"

Everyone, including the one from Church once again sweatdropped at the scenery they currently see. The one who from Kuoh Academy completely baffled, if there something that Ice Princess and Lone Tiger of Kuoh Academy share together it was their calmness. Those two always calm and calculating despite their other reputation in school

And now they watching both of them bantering and bickering like an old married couple was clearly something new and also rare

"Ehem!" Rias coughed loudly, interrupting the two people bickering "If you two would remember we still have situation in here." She reminded make both of them do 'blink blink' motion -Issei face was unseen due to his helmet-

"She right, we will finish this later." Issei agreed as he suddenly shift his personality 180 and Sona take deep breath while adjusting her glassess

"I agree as well." Sona said as she feel herself calmed down

Issei nodded, their argument could continue later now he have something to do. Extending one hand, his mind instantly drifted to one particular "Trace On."

It was staff, one that made of shining iron, with the facsimile of two snakes entwined around it, one gold and the other bronze. Each had one wing extending, so that when they came together at the top, the wings were outstretched like a bird's.

It not ordinary staff, it was Caduceus, staff of Hermes, the God of transitions and boundaries. The staff that heal any illness, blessed by the second youngest of the Olympian God himself.

Or so it seems...

No... Issei didn't project the staff, he project a crude copy of it. The real Caduceus able to heal but it also contain Divine Power, an energy that harmful for Devil. He can't have that now right? Not to mention if he project the real one he will have Greek Faction come after his ass

Well, he not afraid of them but right now he not ready to face them

So he make his Projection incomplete, dismissing the Divine Power and reduce it healing ability very great. But it still there, it still able to heal. And as soon it formed on his hand he stab it to the ground, then in instant it glowing in emerald light before forming dome with diameter around five meters

"Gather everyone around here, this will heal your wounds." He ordered

Sona narrowed her eyes, it was common knowledge only Devil mostly able to heal other Devil. It because their magic structure was different from other creature, their magic was quite different, they didn't use equation but they use imagination. That's also reason why Asia Sacred Gear deemed as Heretic the moment it able to heal Devil

And Issei Hyoudou just produce staff that able to heal them? Ridiculous, she about to said it aloud but she notice that the pain on her wound lessened

"What the..." Sona muttered as she rise one of her hand that wounded and see the wound mended, regenerated and began to heal

"Bring the wounded here, any question will be answered later." Issei ordered to everyone before they able to speak. They did what he ordered and after he see the wounded gathered he take step forward and leave the healing dome

"Issei-kun?" Irina called seeing her friends step away "What are-"

It come far from the place they currently gathered. Rubble, ground and dirt explode to upward direction as if some kind of bomb was there. Then hand shot upward, not just one, the explosion also appear in many place, followed by the hands. Then they slammed to the ground, pushing the earth beneath them and a figure rose up

It was the Fallen Angel

Everyone who think they already dead was wrong, so wrong. The moment they sense power from Issei Caladbolg that made, they already move, flapping their wings down and shoot the earth then bury themselves deep inside it

Not all able to do it in time, many of them dead before able to save themselves but there plenty of them that survive. Issei eyes instantly fell to them before even they fully rose, he already counted the numbers and found there hundred of them, only twenty percent of their original number, along with Kokabiel who in front of them

"I must say..." Kokabiel spoke while brushing the dirt and dust that cover his cloth "That was quite surprise, producing attack that capable to kill Ultimate-class Angel in short time was something remarkable Issei." He complimented as he done cleaning himself and rolling his shoulder

"You flatter me Kokabiel." Issei replied simply, he take another step forward "Your army has fallen. Only less than twenty percent of their original numbers left, now will you fight me directly? Or need I destroy them all before I face you?" He asked

Kokabiel let out hum, he rubbed his chin and his face scrunched to thoughtful expression. Without any words, all the Fallen Angel behind him formed their spears, their light illuminating the yard where they stand

It was the answer Issei need

"They wish to fight you directly Issei... What right I have to deny them?" Kokabiel asked rhetorically "Be warned, they are just as skilled as Kalawarner. Surely you knew what it mean right?" He spoke to the young Hero clad in red Dragon armor

And after he speak that, the group instantly charged to him. Battle cry and yell out from their lips as they charging with speed that rivaling Devil with Knight trait while bringing their deadly spears

The Devils behind him tensed, the most healest one already try to stand and taking fighting stance. Issei can't blame them, seeing there hundred of people that possess skill in their weapons that able to make them enter elite army charging with intent to kill them was something you need to be feared of

But he can't have that...

"You all stand back, if you come with me you will become nothing more than hindrance." Issei ordered firmly. He see they about to protest, Irina the one that almost yell and once again he can't blame them, what kind of suicidal person that wish to face such skilled army by himself?

But he give them look, his green helmet eyes flashing in dangerous and stern manner. And that make them stop, relented to his wish

Satisfied with it, he take another step. He knew facing such army by himself will get him killed. He probably able to handle ten of them in melee range but fifty of them? Not even he that strong, not yet.

But he didn't afraid. If he can't beat them then he just need to create something to can beat them.

"Trace On."

And once again, the fastest of fragments of majestic Holy Sword appear on his hand. Once again it Reinforced, forged and crafted to be far more durable than it original self. The Excalibur Rapidly is sword that grant the wielder speed, speed that rivaled Knight of Devil, it power surged to the wielder whole body.

But he didn't need that, it was useless. His enemy speed already on par with it, few even faster. He didn't use any Boost to strengthen his body because he knew it was so draining, from the beginning he only focused to strengthen his weapon, it was necessary since he practically going to face an army not individual

So he focus all the speed ability from Excalibur Rapidly to one point, his leg. With his body that already stronger than normal Human and speed of Excalibur Rapidly, it make him faster than them without doubt

But come one problem, his hand can't match it speed, resulting bigger problem seeing it could leave him open. He only have one chance, strike them with surprise attack and kill them all in one blow, just like Caladbolg before

He have answer for that problem

Begin Projection

Memory of giant warrior, standing tall on his two meters height, wielding axe-sword that made of stone that able to matched Noble Phantasm. He need his strength, he need his speed, he need his skill

And he get it like he wish

Loading projections

Pain was the thing he get instantly before the strnegth. He felt part of his brain seems stabbed by numerous sharp needles piercing them and he could tell his bones cracked like just pummeled by giant hammer and trying their best to stand and adapting the mighty force of the giant warrior in his mind

But he held it back, despite how painful his body condition now he can't afford to fall. His mind keep focusing to finish the deadly army that approaching him, they close, but still not enough. Despite the pain on his whole body he still try his best to focus to his goal, he knew he can't fail. He only have one chance, if it fail then it will be fatal

All projecting processess completed!

"Trigger Off"

His both hands gripped the long kris-sword like, his posture was straight and firm like warrior that ready to face his mighty enemy. His feet was ready to move the moment the right time come in order to slay the army

Closer... Closer... Closer... They are twenty meters... Not close enough... Need to be more closer... Ten meters... Still not close enough... Closer... Closer...

Five meter.

NOW!

"Nine Lives Blade Works : The Shooting Hundred Heads!"

Kokabiel can't believe his eyes what he just see. One moment he see his comrades, allies and army charging to the boy from behind them, and in instant his eyes caught something move, it fast almost like a light, zig-zagging in his army multiple times -seven or nine perhaps-, then suddenly Issei appear not far from him, backs his army with his gold sword-kris like covered by crimson liquid

It indicate only one thing, that light before was him.

And before he could think any further, crimson mist made of blood began to erupted to the air where his army stand, blood spurt out from various part of their body, all of them also placed in vital part of their body, throat, jugular, spinal cord, head and else

Slowly, the army fell, all of his men dropped to the ground like group of puppet got their strings cut, not moving and obviously dead by the amount of blood that out from their wounds, bathing them in crimson pool

Less than one second, the hundred army of Fallen Angel that approaching the boy and intent to attack him dead

In front of him now the boy stand firm, his both hands stabbing the golden bloody sword in front of him in manner of Knight-like. Then the dragon armor shatter, revealing his appearance, his black armor and red scarf that flailing around his neck

His expression was stoic, his eyes was steel, there no sign of regret or exhausted from his posture, he look so heroic and strong man rather than someone who 17 years old

"Your army has fallen... Now only you left." He spoke solemnly

"Indeed..." Kokabiel replied, his eyes briefly glanced to his army that fall, he also caught the shocked and surprised faces of the Devils and group from Church "Indeed they has fall..."

Issei eyes still steel, his face still stoic as he staring at the leader of Fallen Angel that stand in front of him "Did you mourn for them?" He asked

"Yes... I mourn for them... They are my warriors, those hundred was elite that fall with me. And yet you beat them all, surprise attack it maybe but it was well planned. Truly such magnificent performance you did my friend." Kokabiel answered softly and Issei lips curled up slightly at that "That sword, I quite intrigued. How did you produce one of Excalibur fragments?"

Kokabiel was expecting Issei to answer it or at least try to use complicated words, or even refuse to answer. He clearly not expect the boy to scowled

"Don't compare mine to them!" He chided instantly "My sword are more durable than those fragile glass!"

"Really?" Kokabiel was genuinely curious "What proof you have?" He asked

In response, Issei toss the sword to him and Kokabiel caught it. The Fallen Angel began to observe the sword, he held it upward, one hand holding the edge while the other gripping the hilt and his blue eyes roamed at the sword

Both of them ignoring the horrifying look that Devils and Church give to Issei when he toss the sword to their enemy

"It a good sword..." Kokabiel murmured, his voice contain surprise "True it not as strong as legendary but it still better than the other." He stated as he spare glance to the three Excalibur fragments that floating behind him. "How you create this sword?" He asked

"Magic... My own Magic..." Issei answered simply make Kokabiel blinked in confusion

"What kind of Magic you use?" He asked again

"I don't know, that's why it called Magic. Since when Magic was describable?" Issei asked back

Kokabiel do 'blink blink' motion with his eyes before he explode into full laugh, it seems he accepting the explanation "Well, then have it back here." He toss it back to Issei but the sword not landed to him, it disperse into blue particle

He also noted the Boy now have serious face, it seems he no longer intent to playing "Cancel that magic Kokabiel. I knew it was nothing but a bait for the Devils and Church." He stated

Kokabiel furrowed eyebrow, indeed what he said is true. The spell was only a bait, if he want Kokabiel could destroy this city alone by himself without any problem.

"Very well..." Kokabiel extend one hand to behind him, his eyes still glued to Issei and without words, light beam shoot from it, launched to the three swords that floating and acting as pillar of the spell

It destroyed instantly

The might of Light from Kokabiel not crush the sword, it completely obliterated them, there no resistance or struggle from them, they instantly break and destroyed, gone into ash. Not even small fragments of the swords remain

"Let make a deal Issei Hyoudou." Kokabeil spoke "I want you to fight me without Boosted Gear." He stated solemnly make everyone show shocked faces at the declaration but Issei merely narrowed his eyebrow "And in return, I will give you this." Pulling out from his chest pocket was purple vial, it made of crystal that looks unbreakable and it probably did, it not as strong as the fragments of Excaliburs but it stronger than normal steel

"And what is that?" Issei inquired

"Phoenix Tears..." Kokabiel answered, creating gasp from Devils side "Oh don't be surprise Devils, you think there no traitor among your peers? You? Who creature of Sin? The way you betray each other could be said worse than Human betray another." He snorted flippantly

"And what..." Issei eyes roamed to the crystal on Kokabiel hand "Make you think I will need that tears?"

"The muscles and tendon on your arms practically scream for it my friend." Kokabiel replied "I could tell your arms now hurt isn't it? Even if you hide it but I still could see it, you are wounded after do such thing. Beautiful the speed you display but it seems your body can't handle it."

What Kokabiel said was right. Issei knew that, despite the pain still tolerable but he clearly doubt he could beat Kokabiel with his current status. Even if he have Boosted Gear on his side, with this amount of wound and stamina that already wasted, he will lose

He underestimate the mighty force of Kokabiel's army and now paying the price

But now Kokabiel offer him medicine, his body will be refreshed like new, the stamina won't change of course but it was good enough. As long his body not wounded and his power replenished then it will be good thing

Though he have to use all his skills now and left Boosted Gear untouched

"And why, you don't want to face me when I use Boosted Gear? Are you afraid?" Issei taunted

"I'm not." Kokabiel snorted "You know the reason why Issei... I come here not to see power of Boosted Gear but see power of Man..." Kokabiel said to him and Issei furrowed his eyebrow at that "Very well, how about this. If you proved to incapable defeating me using your Magic then you can use Boosted Gear." He added with small smile

Issei knew well what Kokabiel mean. Kokabiel wish to see something from him. Something special, not something like Longinus. Something that originally come from Human, he offering deal like this was because he wish to see that thing from him

...

...

...

...

...

...

Well, who is he to deny it?

"I accept..." Issei accepted, elicited gasp from his peers and smile from Kokabiel as the Fallen Angel toss him the vial. He grab the vial and drink it without hesitation and as soon he finished, he could feel all the wounds in his body perish

The sensation that like have needles sticking to part of your brain no longer there, the sore muscles and tendon gone, the other wounds he get also disperse like ice meet flames, turning to nothing but smoking ash

"Now let unto the business." Kokabiel said, two lights formed from his palms and it start to flail before shaped into golden light swords

Instantly, Issei also did the same. Blue flames appear on his palms and it taking shape as white snow and black shadow falchion.

The two combatants grip their weapon. Taking serious faces they began to take step to their side, circling each other. The battlefield was completely silence once again, all the spectator watching them with silent anticipation as both warriors ready to fight, it was like waiting the epic moment in movie

"Did you impregnate those two?"

Sadly the epic moment shattered

"Huh?" was the only thing Issei could blurt when hearing that

"I did not see Mittelt and Asia... Are you finally impregnate them and graduate from virgin?" Kokabiel explained his question, his face solemn as if he just talking gospel

"W-Wha?! What the fuck?!" Issei cursed loudly "E-Either I still virgin is not your problem! You-"

"So you still are one." Kokabiel sighed, closing his eyes in disappointment "Your father will be disappointed on you Issei..." He said in lecturing tone

The boy began to blabber and sputter incoherently hearing the sudden lecture, of all things he expect, that one was clearly not

The spectator only could stare dully at them

"Pervert..." Koneko muttered in dull tone

"Perhaps you wish to graduate now? You still could did it you know." Kokabiel continued to speak, his blue eyes fell to the chestnut haired girl "Shidou Irina there seems quite smitten to you. You also hold her dearly right? If you wish to I will let you two have small intercourse, I will even build some cave and comfortable ground-bed using magic." He offered, eliciting blush from Irina who watching and more sputter from Issei

"No! I don't need it!" Issei finally regain his composure and glared at him

"Really? Did you find her beauty unsatisfied?" Kokabiel asked, scowl adorn his face make Issei glare deepened

"You know that not what I mean you pervet!"

"Then why you refuse? How about small blowjob from her? Surely it-"

"SHUT UP AND FIGHT! I DON'T WANT HEAR PERVERTED THING COME OUT FROM YOU ANYMORE!"

Kokabiel let out bark laugh seeing the boy lost his composure again, oh young boy, still innocent in that part despite his bravado and power "Very well then, let get started. Though it shame you will die as virgin." He said with small regret on last part make Issei this time growled at him like animal

"I'm going to kill you!" Issei growled in anger "I'm going to create dildo version of Excal...Excal...Excali-"

"Excalibur?" Kokabiel offered

"-Rapidly then going to shove it to your ass multiple time until it bleed! Then after I done I will tie your whole body with. Ribbon that made from Excal...Excali...-"

"Excalibur?"

"-Mimic then toss you to the brothel of gay and let them have their way to you and when I done I will drag you out from them the crucify you in reverse manner just like what you did to Balba and laughed madly while burn you!"

In Issei mind, his anger was well reasoned. He already have enough with perverted talk, his father in home not even bother to hide it and practically testing what Kokabiel suggest to his mother! And worse it work! That night he can't sleep due to moan from their parents!

There not need to ask anymore what they did, especially the morning after that his father told him he will looking for Kokabiel to thank him

Not to mention the laugh that come out from Ddraig in back of his mind was not helping. So sue him if he that angry now to Kokabiel about sex

After Issei finish Kokabiel do 'blink blink' motion once again, his face was so innocent that it could be mistaken as child face "Wow, that was very morbid of you. You clearly have dark way to talk." Kokabiel commented

"He is!" Irina shouted in agreement from far, elicited strange look from her peers

"See? Even your girlfriend agree with me!" Kokabiel said with laugh

Issei only glaring at him in so much hatred and certain old Vampire who watching laughed

Kokabiel keep laughing

Then he struck

Issei barely able to block it. One moment Kokabiel laughed the next he instantly lunged at him, his light sword cleaved down to his head and he just in time to raise his Bakuya to meet the light

Only for his knee to buckled down instantly the moment his sword meet with Kokabiel's. The Fallen Angel was strong, stronger than him even when he Reinforced his whole body, it take everything Issei have to hold Kokabiel single attack

Kokabiel move, his right sword jammed straight to Issei chest with intent to pierce the boy chest and kill him. It meet with Kanshou immediately, not strong enough to fully block his attack but enough to deflect them and graze top part of the boy shoulder

And as soon he did that, Issei quickly leaped back. Ignoring the pain on part of his shoulders, his leg instantly twisted the moment it meet ground once again and he spinning then propel the ground, launching himself to the Leader of the Grigori with Kanshou and Bakuya raised

They twin black and white swords meet with the solid light of Kokabiel twin light swords, vibration and quake created in the air, followed by sparks from the impact. Issei not stopped, after his attack blocked he twisted in air and deliver spinning kick

The Fallen Angel simply take one step back, dodging the kick he swing his sword once again with aim to the boy neck. It meet with nothing, missing with the boy neck few centimeters

Quickly Issei already plant both his foots to the ground, he not wasting time to kick it again. This time he fully focus all his strength to both his arms, he moved swiftly, delivering strike using Kanshou

Kokabiel rise one hand, blocking the attack without much problem and parry it away. He counter it with jamming his other sword but it meet with Bakuya and deflected as well. He rise one leg, giving force to it and then extend it to his enemy stomach

It hit this time

Issei knocked away by the strength, his body flying but he able to balance himself in air and throwing the married sword at Kokabiel at same time like boomerang.

Kokabiel rise one eyebrow, once again raising one hand and block away the incoming swords with one his light sword. As soon he finish did that, multiple blue lights already launched from Issei who holding bow

This time he can't block them with one hand so he rose his other hand. Both his arms moved and he parry away all of the projectiles come, afterward he dashed. He can't let the bow to shoot another projectiles, he was in front of the boy in second, his twin light swords move swiftly

Once again, barely the boy dodge it, his bow already gone and now replaced by familiar long kris-like sword. So that's it, that's how the boy able to dodge it, his speed increased from Excalibur Rapidly. On his left hand was new sword... No... Kokabiel familiar with that sword, it was one of sword he sto-

It was his instinct from hundred years of battle that save him. He manage to duck just in time to dodge dual swings from Kanshou and Bakuya. Issei was there, behind him and on his mouth was medieval Europe sword, it guard have swirling steel that cover it.

Excalibur Nightmare.

'Creating illusion when finish shooting projectiles. This boy...' Kokabiel grunted, he twisted while have his body in ducking manner. Twin swords of light swinged in horizontal manner with intent to cut the bottom part of Issei but the boy already jumped over his body, and deliver vertical slash to his open back

But Kokabiel even while open still able to dodge it. He push his body down using his leg, making the married swords miss his back few inch, his swords dispersed and he use his hand to push himself, flipping his body and twist his body then shoot light beam to Issei so the boy can't continue to strike him

Issei block the beam, then to his surprise he got propel back. The light beam was created with fast, it was weak one but it contain power that enough to obliterate High-class Devil! Truly such power from Leader of the Grigori

But he can't afford to loss this chance! He open now! With small battle cry, he destroy the light beam and leaped to Kokabiel who just balance himself

But even when he just finish stabling himself, Kokabiel already prepared. His swords of light formed on both his palms, easily he block away the steel Issei made with his weapon

CRACK!

Crack appear on Kanshou and Bakuya, the moment Kokabiel swing his weapon with full strength. But Issei ignore it, he swing his swords once again and again, it blocked. And this time his swords broke

But Kokabiel not see any sign of panic, Issei face was calm and his swords formed instantly on his hands again then he deliver strike using it and the Fallen Angel block it again

Then he hear it, sounds of whirling from behind him and he notice it was attack. He don't know what is it but the boy able to make attack that able to strike him from behind while he dealing with the boy from front

It was good plan actually, making him busy like that while give hidden attack from behind

But to him it useless

His wings flapped, all of them becoming solid, stronger than steel and ten of them clashing against the incoming married swords that like boomerang. Burying them deep in ground and make sure they not rise and fly once again

Issei eyes widened in small fraction was sign that he completely surprise by that and Kokabiel for first time give him smirk, smirk that like his race for once

"What? You don't think I survive ambush attack all this long without any trick aren't you?" Kokabiel asked and he give strength to his arms, pushing Issei and breaking the twin swords

"Gugh!"

Kokabiel without doubt strong, the fact Issei who fully Reinforced himself now got pushed back was proof of that. He stumble back on his feets few times before bracing himself again, new swords formed on his hands and blocking Kokabiel that struck once again

The battle continue

Steels meet with solid light. Both fighters danced in flurry of strike, each of them trying to kill each other. Countering each other attacks, dodging each other, pushing each others.

The rest of the crowd were in amazement as those two warrior clashed. Issei fought with the ferocity of a wild beast, and Kokabiel was not much better. And despite them all having feel and see Kokabiel's power during their battle against him, they were in shock that right now Issei was fighting him on near equal ground.

Kokabiel was stronger, that was without doubt. Many times Issei have himself pushed and knocked by superior strength of the ten winged Fallen Angel, many times those black and white swords of him were broken.

But yet, never he back down, the broken swords instantly reforged the moment they shatter. Many times he knocked away but he always able to balance himself and deliver another strike that match Kokabiel. Many times they had to hold their breath when see Kokabiel attack nearly struck vital part of his body only for it to be blocked by the swords that reformed instantly

Now everyone could understand Issei stance, it was deliberately taking advantage of his swords that easily reforged when it destroyed. All of those fatal opening was made, not left, all of them was on purpose so it could make Kokabiel left opening where Issei could strike

And it did succeed... Many times Kokabiel left opening of that but he also able to dodge it, able to survive through it, showing that he no ordinary warrior and very experienced one

Even so... To one who very experienced among the peers, Jeanne could see the fight was taking to dangerous side. If this keep continue, it was clear that Kokabiel would eventually beat Issei. The Fallen Angel lived up to his tittle as Lord of the Grigori, clearly he was on another level, as expected from the Fallen Angel who survive through great war

She could see Issei breath heavier, sweat start to pour down from all his body, his scarf already tattered to the point only cover his shoulder, revealing his slim-muscular arms. Blood also on parts of his body, all of them seep out from cut wounds that manage to hit him and the numbers not small

"What's wrong Issei? Is this all you can do?" Kokabiel asked as his sword clashed against Kanshou, grinding the steel with his light

"I'm still far from done!" Issei growled as he held his the black chinese sword, he could feel the sword started to broke again

"Really? Good!" Kokabiel exclaimed happily as if he not in middle of battle to the death "Then let's continue!" He yelled as he swing his sword, breaking Issei weapon in instant and destroyed, propel the boy away

Quickly, Issei balance himself again. He tired, very tired, this battle was start to getting hopeless now! No matter what he did and no matter how many times he strike the Fallen Angel was able to block them! Few manage to graze him, slicing part of his arm and torso but that's it! There no fatal wound until now!

'I have to use it! I still not master it fully but at least last time I perform it I near succeed!' Issei thought while gritting his teeth, blood seeping down from his forehead, flow down to one of his eye but he ignore them as he began to chant while creating new Kanshou and Bakuya

Spirit and technique, flawless and firm...

He threw the new Kanshou and Bakuya that were in his hands at Kokabiel, who brushed them aside with ease and dashing to him with both his light swords. And at same time Issei also did the same, he dashed at Kokabiel while traced new Kanshou and Bakuya

Our strength rips the mountains...

Our swords split the water...

Steel meet with lights, even if the second strike supposed to hit his target but Kokabiel skilled enough to able block his assault. Their weapon clashed few times before Issei throw it to Kokabiel, however this time it not intent to hit him, but it pass through him

Then he Traced a third time, creating new part of Kanshou and Bakuya. But this time he not stopped there, he improve them

Our names reach the imperial villa...

"Trace Overedge."

He fed them more Mana than supposed to be but they not turned to broken like other weapon, no. Instead, they grew twice their size, and with feather-like attachments along the backs of their blades. Kokabiel seemed startled and interested at this change the moment he see the new blades

'One more strike!' Issei dashed at Kokabiel before the latter had time to recover from the consecutive blows before. He drew his swords over his shoulders for an x-shaped slash. Kokabiel was already moving his swords to counter, but the moment his light swords touch the new Kanshou and Bakuya, they the one that shatter. Kokabiel try to jump back, despite his surprise he should be able to dodge it in time

However the first sword that thrown was there, on his back, ready to skewer him. That shouldn't be problem too, his wings was more than enough to block it

But the problem was it not just one pair of swords but two of them. It combined strength, was more than enough to push Kokabiel even only one feet from back. And that proved fatal seeing there incoming two big swords in front of him

The two of us cannot hold heaven together...

Two great men, sharing a life!

Blood spurt out to the air like fountain as Issei appear on behind of Kokabiel while panting. The attack strike, he sure of that, blood was practically dripping from his swords after all and it not his. However his victory was short as he heard footstep, on instinct he spun his body and jumped back but it still too late

Golden light swords sliced through his chest and his blood spurt out, it wasn't fatal but it sure as hell was hurt! He instantly try his best to regain his balance, new Kanshou and Bakuya formed while breathing heavily, exhaustion was now clear on his face and he try his best to not fell to knee under the pressure of pain

Fortunately for him Kokabiel didn't continue his strike, the Fallen Angel also looks like catching his breath. Deep 'X' slash marked his chest, blood seeped out from it as he rose his hand and touch the spot

"I admit Issei... The last one was clearly unexpected. Your swords would kill me had I more close to you..." Kokabiel stated as he glanced at Issei who trying his best to caught his breath now, the boy give questioned look to him and the Fallen Angel understand what he intent to ask "It was close. But two pairs of my wing manage to pierce the ground and halting me from pushed further while the other three block your four swords. Had I not maneuver my wings now I already on ground, succumbing to my wound..." He answered Issei unasked question. Then he give Issei look, the look he give was filled with sadness "You already reach your limit aren't you?" He asked rhetorically

"No..." Issei gritted his teeth as he try his best to stand firm. It obviously fail since he now was already near his limit, he already use Balance Breaker and creating numerous Noble Phantasm. Now now those things actually not waste his stamina, he still could go further, but the problem was his brain and mind

He never use Boosted Gear to Boost multiple projections at same time, the strain. It not matter of body when he did that but matter of his mental, especially his first move against group of Fallen Angel when he Trace dozen of Excalibur Destruction. And then there Nine Lives too, that was something not easy, rather than create weapon, he forge his body into weapon, copying Legendary Heracles strength and skills then inject it this whole body was harder than creating Caladbolg

"Yes you are..." Kokabiel sighed "You near your limit, maybe you still able to fight but it won't be same anymore..."

Issei respond to him come in form of growl and glare, he about to lunged at the Fallen Angel but held himself. He knew his strength was inferior than him so the only thing he could do was wait, don't get taunted by him

Kokabiel give stoic look at Issei as he stare at the boy, he shook his head slightly at his stubborn "Well... If you didn't believe it then, let me show you..." He said as he tap one of his sword to his shoulder before he moved

No... He not move...

To untrained eyes, Kokabiel was gone. Completely gone as if he never there, the only one who capable to track him was Jeanne, but even she barely caught his move, she just knew he move but, she don't know where the direction

Issei who watching Kokabiel also able to caught it. However like Jeanne he can't predict where his move. Suddenly image of blue haired spearman clad in blue armor flashed in his mind and his eyes widened. Shiver went to his spine instantly and without speaking he quickly ducked, just in time to avoid have his neck severed from his body by Kokabiel who appear behind him and swinging his dual blades

"You still able to dodge? Great, but how about this one?" Kokabiel asked gravely, he spin his body, his leg twisted in ground before rose and hit the side of Issei. Sounds of broken bones instantly echoed in battlefield, there seems momentary pause in there as Issei eyes widened, blood spew out from his mouth before he launched forward

He crashed hard to the ground and bounced few times like rag doll then skidded on it. Oh shit, he sure hs ribs before just broken! That fucking hurt! Some of his organ maybe punctured! He barely able to hear Irina scream his name

'Damn it!'

Once again he try his best to bit back the pain. He rolled his body upward, dispersing his married swords quickly and place both hands on ground before push himself to the sky. Flipping in air, his bow once again materialized on his hands and he aimed at Kokabiel immediately, shooting numerous Broken Phantasm in instant to him

Kokabiel merely grunted, he swiftly move his body, his twin light swords deflected all the projectiles without problem, sending them all explode to area far from his location and afterward he moved again

Issei who just landed barely have time, Kokabiel was fast! True they was almost match before but he were on his prime condition that time. Excalibur Rapidly formed on his hand quickly, increasing his speed and he also moved to match Kokabiel speed.

But just when he move Kokabiel was there, he slam both his light swords to Issei's with mighty strength, making Issei grunted under the sheer of his power before he stumble back due to can't hold his ground. The Fallen Angel not wasting time, he move again and intent to struck down the boy but just when he did that, Issei was gone

"Hoo..." Kokabiel mused out "This actually interesting, however Issei you must know." As soon he said that Kokabiel instantly twisted his body, dispersing the sword on one hand and lung it to his right and it struck the air like a sonic boom, it like his fist hit the space itself "I had face invisible enemy before." He said gravely

From where his fist struck, Issei form slowly materialized, the fist stick on his solar plexus and he coughed glob of blood due to direct hit he got from his enemy

"Excalibur Transparency to make you invisible. While it useful but for someone like me it only useful if the one who wield it is perfect Assassin. And sadly Issei you are not.." Kokabiel told him before he pull his fist and deliver spinning kick to Issei jaw, sending the boy crashing to ground once again in painful manner

It was without doubt that kick broke part of his jaw, and his last punch also punctured his pancreas perhaps. It was also without doubt so painful to the point it make Issei wish to scream now, his vision was start to blurry due to blood loss

'Damn! Damn!'

"You are strong Issei... I admit that..." Kokabiel spoke solemnly as he approach Issei who struggle to stand, his blue eyes peered at him "Give few months and you going to surpass me something that actually magnificent giving your age, when Vasco and me go toe on toe he already old enough and considered as very experienced warrior with his Durandal." He finally arrive in front of him, the boy still struggling and glaring at him through his bloodied mouth

"And yet, here you are, boy who barely reach twenty but able to stand against me, even almost kill me. Without any Sacred Gear or Bloodline, using Magic that you develop by your own power..." He stated in respectful tone before he kick the boy in face again, elicitid scream from his friends and sending him tumbling to the ground

The Fallen Angel spare small glance, he notice Irina, Xenovia and Jeanne already charging forward to him again, the three of them not healed fully but they able to move. The Devils can't since they are the most wounded one, having their organ poisoned by light will take long time to heal

Kokabiel not in mood of playing

Extending one hand, a powerful light blast appear, it was more deadly than the one he use during their fight against them before

In their prime state perhaps they could defend from it, but in their condition that barely able to fight? They did not. So they all got propel back by the explosion, each of them let scream of pain as light burn their skins

"Irina!" Issei yelled only to be silenced by another kick from Kokabiel, and sending him crashing to the ground again, the boy already lost count how many times it happen

"Where was I before?" Kokabiel mused "Ah right. You are strong Issei... But it not enough... Nowhere near enough... The one you will face soon in future are monster even surpassing me Issei... You don't have a months, Humanity could not be saved with this amount of strength. If you can't then perhaps it better to kill you now..."

In response of his words, Issei let out roar and charged at him, Kanshou and Bakuya once again formed but before it could struck, his face already pummeled by Kokabiel fist once again, sending him back to the ground

"Why..." He speak in confused mixed with boredom "Hero always so stubborn?" He asked as he glanced at Issei who struggling to stand "Tell me why Issei? Perhaps you knew. Until this far all I see in Hero are they die in tragic manner. There never happy ending for them, you don't believe me?

"Look at Heracles, he cursed by Hera and in his madness he slaughter his own wife and children. Look at the Great Iskander, his Kingdom that he conquer for his whole life fall apart in matter of days just moment after he died!

"Look at Cú Chulainn, he forced to kill his own son, he broke most of his promise and die alone. Look at King Arthur, his kingdom fell, his most trusted Knight fuck his wife then murder his brothers in all but blood then his own Son murder him.

"And take one from here, the one that reside within Jeanne, the real Jeanne d'Arc have herself burned, burned ALIVE and charged as HERESY while in truth all she did was in name of Lord. Same case could be said to Saint George, the one that wield Ascalon

"And there many more of Hero that suffer." Kokabiel spoke solemnly, all the spectator who listening only could grimace more and more when he said that especially Ravel and Jeanne "There no such thing as happy ending for Hero, they all meet tragic end. So why? Why you wish to be one? Why you keep persistent knowing what await you in future Issei?" He asked, genuinely confused and also curious "Look at your friends now." He make gesture to them with one hand, his eyes also fell to them "In future one of them could betray you. One of them could be the one that responsible for your dead, perhaps Shidou Irina the one who will did it. Even if she deny it now but there no guarantee in future she won't. Even Saint Peter betray Jesus when he on the cross."

All the question... All the mockery... All the insult... All the accusation was right... In Issei mind, Kokabiel absolutely right. Until now he almost never read Hero that have happy ending in their end. All of them end in tragic and sad way, none of them end with happily ever after, spending time with their children and lover

EMIYA, the man who now his ability used by himwas living proof of that. Even Gilgamesh was living proof of that, having spend the rest of his time in isolation, watching and monitoring the Humanity from far

"So what?" Issei asked, his voice barely whisper but it loud enough to everyone to hear him "So what if they end in tragic manner?" He slowly rose, his body shaking in pain, blood dripped from his chest, forehead and mouth "Then let me ask you back Kokabiel... What happen to those Heroes you mention?

"Heracles, maybe fall into madness but in the end he died with satisfied. Knowing his wish granted and joining with his father, Zeus in Olympus. The Great Alexander maybe have his Kingdom split and destroyed in matter of days, but does he die in pain? Does he die while shedding tears? No, he not

"Cú Chulainn, he kill his Son and broke many of his promise but does he regret it? No, even with hole on his heart he still able to tie himself in tree and dead laughing! King Arthur, murdered by his own Son, his friend betray him but when he died does he regret it? No! He promised them instead that when Britain need him he will come back!

"Jeanne d'Arc and Saint George, die from accused as Heretic but does they scream in pain when they died? Does Jeanne scream and cursed the name of Lord that make her burned? No, she pray to him and give him her life! Same occured to Saint George!

"We do not become Hero because we wish for happy ending, not for fame, not for woman, not for power!" Issei yelled, his voice was as strong as war drum as he finally stood firm, blood covered his appearance but he still look so fierce "We wish become Hero, because it was the RIGHT thing! Because we did for our kin! For Mankind! We did it for the sake of people that praying for Hope! And we, Hero are their answer!"

(Play - Fate/Stay Night Anime OST - EMIYA)

Awe and amazement was the expression of everyone who listening Issei respond, their faces filled with admiration, none of them show any sign of disappoint or mockery to him. Even Kokabiel also can't hide his expression as his face scrunched as well, his blue eyes widened and his mouth also open slightly while staring at Issei with new light

"Great words... Magnificent speech it is Issei..." Kokabiel praised but his face then back to solemn "But that still not change you are powerless now, right?"

Issei didn't reply, he knew what Kokabiel said was right. He are powerless, even using Boosted Gear now won't be useful seeing his condition

So it only left him with one thing

'My brain already quite damaged... And with this condition, using it will be very dangerous. Even in my prime it still put very big restrain... But it not like I have choice now...'

Slowly he open his eyes, his steel gray shone with pure determination and he start to chant

"I am the Bone of my Sword."

Again, the married swords reforged on his arm. His whole body reactive the Reinforcement as Prana and pain surged to whole his body. But he ignore the pain, with mighty roar, Issei ran. He ran toward Kokabiel who far from him and watching him with solemn face

"What this? An Aria? Well, I'd like to see how you going with this." Kokabiel exclaimed, without any movement dozens of spears of light materialzed behind and above him. Unlike the spears of his army, his spear superior than them, capable even extinguish Ultimate-class Devil to nothing once it hit

"Steel is my Body and Fire is my Heart."

All of them launched to Issei, deadly projectiles that even make experienced Devil shudder and wishing to flee. He heard all his comrades scream, Sona and Irina was the loudest one but he ignore them, just like he ignore the pain. He only have one goal, and he will reach it

Raising Kanshou and Bakuya, he prepare himself and he swing them. Deflecting the first spear. Second spear come, he deflect it. Third spear, still he deflect. The fourth, the fifth, the sixth, the seventh. He lost count afterward, his mind was tumbling and his pain maybe forgotten already as his mind drifted further when he forced it to work, to mutter the third of his Aria

"I have Created Over Thousand Blades."

Then spear hit him, it pierce his shoulder, skewering them, then another come, piercing his thigh. And yet, he keep moving much to everyone shock. Blood come out from it but what shocking them further was what beneath his skin

"His body... made of sword...?" Kokabiel muttered and asked in same time, even he couldn't hide the shock to what he currently see. Is this what the first Aria he chant mean? Turning his body into sword? Into very strong steel?! What kind of magic is this?!

Again, that shock quickly crushed under numerous experience of hundreds years. His face become solemn and he launch all his spears this time, intent to destroy the boy to the fully

The boy keep running, Kanshou and Bakuya surpsiingly deflect all the attacks. By any mean it should be impossible, Issei Magic Resistance maybe high when holding them but it not high enough to defend from Kokabiel's spears. And sure the swords broken when it touch them, but new one already formed

Again, that should be impossible. Even if the new one formed the strain from blocking them will destroy Issei arms... But right now it not matter, for right now, his body is made of steel, a very strong steel

"Remarkable Issei... I never think your magic will be this strong. And you create it by yourself? This is incredible!" Kokabiel completely praised as he see some of Issei skin melted when block or struck the spears but beneath them there no blood, only swords and steel

'I'm close! I'm close! Its time to finish this!'

"Withstood the Pain to Create Weapon while Holding the Infinite Hopes and Unbreakable Dreams."

Kokabiel prepared himself as he summon his sword and dispersing all the spears he made. There no use of them, the boy will keep charging until reaching him no matter what. The best way was to cut him down when he near

He about to ran, to dash to Issei and finish it but he halted when notice light began to formed on Issei hands as his previous swords disperse

The light was different from every light he had seen until now

It was beautiful.. Bright... Not just that, it also contain warm feeling for him. Familiar sensation that he felt when his Father forging one of his special Sword. It light even surpass his might

What this? What this light? How this boy able to produce it

When the light end, a sword was on the boy hand. It was western sword with length of ninety centimeters anda width of twelve centimeters. It basked in rainbow colored light, make it look so beauty and give warm feeling to him, the same feeling he felt long time ago

'This light... I knew this light... I was there when HE pull out this sword!' Kokabiel thought with realization. So enraptured by the familiar sensation and beauty of it, it made Kokabiel halt his movement, preventing him from killing Issei

And had he move, he might win, the chance was big enough. But no, he didn't move for one second and that declare the result of the long battle in this night

"Nine Lives Blade Works : Reversal Caliburn!"

The speed that only possessed by Son of Zeus and Greek Mightiest Hero once again created on both his hands that gripped the Sword of the Victorious. The speed that matched Kokabiel own or even surpass him installed and become his

With Caliburn on his hand and speed of Heracles, the victor already decided

Nine slash, nine cut and nine attack performed less than second. Upper arm, collarbone, windpipe, temple, diaphragm, rib, testicles, thighs and finally struck to the heart. All of them utilized before anyone could blink their eyes

Music Off

"That light..." Kokabiel muttered as he and Issei now stand not far from each other, face to face in fact "It light that made by Father..."

"It is..." Issei admitted, his mind actually almost can't recognize anyone in here due to mental stress on it and pain was light words for his condition but he somehow able to reply Kokabiel words

"And you reproduce it... The light that had died when Father live end... Not even Michael able to create it no matter how hard he trying... Remarkable... Truly remarkable..." Kokabiel chuckled, his lower body slowly dissipated, it turning to nothing but smoking ash that slowly eat his body "It seems it your win my friend..."

"Yeah... It my win..." Issei grunted, his eyes bore to Kokabiel's

"Not much to talk in good bye huh? Well it okay... I already satisfied enought..." Kokabiel let out another chuckle, he then stare at Issei, his blue eyes shone with happiness "I finally found you... The brightest star ever since Father die... Issei Hyoudou... Take care of Humanity for me okay? Bring them back to their might..."

"I will... Just close your eyes and smile Kokabiel... I will save Humanity and be their Hero..." Issei promised firmly, his eyes was full of determination

"I see... Good then..." Kokabiel did close his eyes, his smile was so bright and beautiful "I will go first my friend... See you later one day..."

"Yeah... See you later..." Issei replied with nod and smile before his face morphed to serious "And no, I will not bang any girls. Not this soon... Later maybe but not so soon..." He added seriously make Kokabiel laughed in glee

"Really? ... What a shame..." Kokabiel said in fake regretful tone before his whole body turned to nothing but ash and mist that blew by night

And at long last... After long time... Kokabiel, the Angel of Stars, the Commander of Heaven army, the Lord of the Grigori finally died

And it that moment as well, Issei's mind turned black.