All in the office watched hundreds of small skirmishes, their side losing due to the high numbers and as predicted many were dying. Some of the fallen angels also summoned their weapons and had an easier time with their dead brethren but obviously they would never win at that pace.
Which was fine since they kept their retreat going, the devils on their side using their weapons to create huge magic circles for shields. Finally their side was really cooperating as the fallen angels' weapons easily passed the demonic energy construct but many had already fallen.
"Ma'am! Necromancers sighted!" One of her subordinates tapped a few buttons and the main monitor had the images of men and women with skulls moving around.
"Are they in range?"
"Yes, ma'am." Only she could give the order to shoot, no one dared to act without it.
Maya looked at the other monitors and began to count to ten slowly. Once she reached ten, she threw her arm down while her other hand went for the radio. "Open fire. Snipers on the necromancers."
From the entrance and every window in the direction of the battle with the exception of the ones for the meeting room, men dressed in black suits began to unleash a lot of bullets with a plethora of weapons as a silver boundary field covered the school.
Rifles, machine guns and sniper rifles were all part of the fire and all focused on the enemy devils. The rain of bullets from down below came as a surprise as a silver boundary field separated them from their adversaries, the devils and fallen angels surprised by the sudden reprieve as their enemies retreated.
Only the snipers were not aiming up as they had their orders and necromancers fell in droves. They were in the most distant area of the battlefield, only the magicians controlling the golems or familiars were farther but that was fine since the dead body of a fallen angel was more dangerous than any of those.
Because of how powerful a fallen angel could be, one necromancer could only control one of those but some of them already had raised a couple of the dead. At their own death the reanimated would perish completely and once all visible necromancers were dead the snipers joined their comrades in firing against the army.
Holy bullets were still normal bullets in a sense and while the devils' armor was strong it grew much weaker thanks to blessings.
Protections from God made them able to break through the enchantments most devils like to use as their power was nullified and in a competition against metal the bullets would take down any old fashioned knight.
Either way that was the only method the humans had of attack; pumping everyone outside the boundary field with bullets. If it wasn't for it then the Old Satan Faction could just blow up the building unless the other side was there to hold them back.
For the moment the alliance of the Three Factions got some reprieve but Maya knew it was far from over. "Your weapons can breach the boundary field. Fallen angels, prepare spears to shoot at anyone who manages to make an opening, our magicians will fix it as fast as possible."
This time there was no hesitation as half of the devils landed and began to cut down the golems and familiars while the other half pushed back the more aggressive enemies in the sky.
When a member of the Old Satan Faction managed to open a hole with their own weapon, spears of Light quickly skewered the man and the boundary field was patched up. Add to all that were the constant bullets that kept bringing hundreds of devils down with ease.
The defender's advantage was absolute in these circumstances but only for as long the boundary field lasted so the Old Satan Faction army began to throw more and more powerful spells at it.
Already in the command center the magicians in communication dropped the papers and rushed to help with the crystal ball with only two still with the magic circles, close to Maya to keep her options open.
The secondary boundary field wasn't connected to the ley line so it was frail in comparison to the other one but with so many magicians working together Maya knew she had time for her men to win the fight.
Because, zealotry or not, survival instincts had to kick in sooner or later either for the enemy soldiers or for their commander who couldn't risk losing all their men before the final fight.
"They began to retreat, ma'am."
"The snipers are already shooting the devils. No more necromancers are seen on the battlefield."
"More golems are advancing! Over one hundred!"
Taking all the information in, Maya frowned before barking more orders. "Tell the fallen angels to get ready to unleash a volley on that building. The hole will be open for just ten seconds to conserve our mana." Once again she lamented the fact they were in a school and most of the defense had to be improvised. 'Peace meeting or not, we should be in a fortress. We knew someone would try to stop the peace talks, it was just too tempting.'
As commanded a huge hole was open in the silver boundary field but instead of focusing on the retreating army the fallen angels obeyed and shot at the university. Many magic circles showed up to defend the sudden attack before the full devil army turned and tried to fire back. Only for the boundary field to close and protect the alliance's side, stopping more casualties.
Still the barriers showed that they weren't dealing with the whole army as the monitors identified demonic energy and normal mana signatures in the hasty defense. That told Maya that the commander on the enemy's side was there as well.
Unfortunately she found no way for her troops to advance for a counter attack, the enemy were numerous and if she was to be pessimistic then there was the possibility of another army still hidden in other buildings.
A possibility that she couldn't discard because she had no idea how they got inside. "Snipers keep up the suppressive fire." However she had other options to draw them out. "Prepare to open another hole, T minus 3."
"Yes, ma'am."
"Devils confirm they can prepare magic circles to help in the counter attack."
"Belay that order. Seeing our preparations may tip the enemy off." Maya wasn't going to risk an advantage to rush things over. 'Show yourself, whoever you are. I know an attack like this needs someone with real power. Show up so I can decide if bringing the leaders out earlier is safe or not.'
That the enemy was there was nagging on the back of Maya's head as there were no signs the main boundary field was breached. Plenty of alarms would have warned if it had and the power needed to do it would be warning enough by itself.
Thanks to the tertiary boundary field, the one isolating the leaders, Maya knew there would be no interference without her permission. That diminished the risks of something going wrong considerably because she made sure her men had brought enough ammo for months worth of war.
Especially sniper ammunition, that was her trump card against a weak army like the one laying siege. From a safe distance the devils tried to bring down the silver boundary field only for many to fail and die. Every single member of Black Sheath had a sniper rifle ready and waiting even if they wouldn't fight.
Sure some were designated to use it exclusively and had other weapons but while the silver boundary field was up then range was their advantage.
Those already fighting were getting to a kill count of hundreds and going up, even if keeping the boundary field was exhausting, they were ready for the long fight.
Yet that nagging feeling was still there. 'Where is the enemy? What do they have? Who is their leader? Until I discover those things, I can't go on the offensive.'
She could only hope the peace talks would last for a long while because on the rhythm things were going it would be hours before a counter attack was viable.
…
"Master, what are we doing here, again?" A bored out of her mind Xenovia asked while holding back a yawn.
Chuckling discreetly, Shirou could agree with the sentiment and knew he wasn't the only one. "We are here as witnesses and security detail."
"Do they even need this much security?" Her eyes noticed Irina who was shaking her head once she noticed them whispering. "We already have given our testimony so they don't need us."
After everything about the Caliburn's Incident was brought out, Michael admitted that the only reason he hid the fact it wasn't Excalibur that broke was to keep the secret of God's Death intact as He could easily fix that sword.
Nothing much came from it after and Sirzechs approved the rationality behind the decision and voiced his approval for the alliance. For many that meant that the meeting was over, quite early as someone joked about, and they all could go home.
Unfortunately for the more inexperienced in politics, approving an alliance was the easy part but not the ending of a meeting like this. No, just having such a meeting meant that the alliance was already pretty much approved and only some other kinks needed to be hammered out.
Not everything, just whatever the leaders found relevant at the time to get the ball rolling, everything else would be debated at a later date with assemblies and organizations built to foster their alliance.
"So we are all in agreement that Fuyuki is going to be a central hub?" Azazel didn't need to ask, nods of approval were already in motion. "That is great. Finally I can get a proper lab around here. After the one that will help the Underworld with sacred gear research, of course."
"Of course." Sirzechs smile was genuine and he couldn't be happier. He turned to Michael who looked equally pleased. "Are you sure you only want the church as your territory? It still needs to be reconstructed, maybe even from the ground up."
"Don't worry about it. We are pretty good at repairing Father's houses. It will be up and operational in just a few weeks."
"But your followers are going to need housing, right?" Serafall's smile was huge and her hands were resting on the table. "Maybe we can give you guys a couple of apartments, houses if they want to live in the area. Then a couple of warehouses, perhaps even some cars to move around-"
"You are being too kind, but we can manage."
"No, no, no. We're allies now and the Underworld won't be told it isn't doing its part." Serafall threw a look of challenge towards Medusa whose expression was similar to a statue's. It was lifeless but it was still a work of art and that irritated the younger Maou a little more. "Say, are you sure you don't want help in the construction? I can fork from my own pocket if that is the problem."
"Sister…" Plenty could hear Sona's exasperation but they choose to ignore it.
"There is no need for all that. Some houses and a few apartments sure, perhaps the construction crews of Gremory could help." Michael turned back to Sirzechs.
"Sure, no devils, of course."
Michael nodded as he looked relieved at the assistance regardless of how he didn't want to intrude. "There is also the matter of Caliburn. Are the previous agreements still going to stand?"
"Of course." That was Serafall's department. "Anyone willing to try and take the sword will be welcomed. Ah, but the rules and time tables won't change; either join the school as a student or staff for unlimited tries, late at night when there are no students or on vacation days when the place is empty."
"Wonderful. There are many who are excited to try and take Caliburn for themselves." Michael's words were full of pride and confidence but Shirou and Xenovia shared concerned looks.
They would pity whoever drew Caliburn from its resting place. In their opinion, the sword should stay where it was forever just to not condemn anyone to its Fate.
More than once Shirou thought about writing a warning or something but Xenovia stopped him, claiming that it was unnecessary since if anyone really took it then they would be ready to give their everything for the sword.
One way or another most of the talk had turned into things that only the leaders and nobles in the room cared about. The rest of the bodyguards or witnesses were just standing there, impatiently waiting for the meeting to end.
Issei looked to be half asleep with Asia still admiring Michael's splendor by his side, Kiba kept his smile going but it was strained, not as strained as Akeno's who sat as far away from Azazel as possible.
Vali didn't bother to hide his boredom as he looked completely disinterested in everything else, his hand sustaining his head as he looked at his wristwatch. Closer to him was Irina who occupied herself by silently communicating with Xenovia and trying to pay attention to the meeting.
While their former partnership helped some of the talk get through they were still bored even if the bluehead was just the one showing it. From time to time she broke eye contact with Irina to talk with Shirou who was half in the meeting and half on his Reality Marble.
Rias, Sona and Tsubaki were the only ones still looking comfortable in the meeting, already used to such proceedings while also being future leaders of their generation who were watching History being made.
Two people, however, concerned Shirou the most as he fully emerged from his Reality Marble; the first was his mother. Irisviel had not moved or talked much once the ball got rolling and he never knew her to be so stoic. That was mostly his father's deal and even the man himself would agree something was wrong.
But the other one he finally noticed that there was a growing irritation that was beginning to bubble to the surface; Medusa was getting angry and nobody else was noticing.
Those who lived with the goddess for a while could tell when her patience was at its limit; a small twitch of her eyebrows, her eyes becoming more snake-like, a small pout could also be seen before it disappeared once in a while.
It was her anger bubbling and evolving and only Shirou could notice it. "Medusa…" He tried to whisper at her but the goddess didn't move. Ignoring convention, he approached the table. "Medusa… are you alright?"
The goddess turned and he could see hot fury hidden behind her cold exterior. It reminded him of the giant Gorgon gazing down at him inside her cave and a shiver ran through his spine.
At that point Xenovia and Irisviel noticed that something was wrong but said nothing as goddess and magus traded looks. Shirou couldn't guess the reason for her rage but he could tell it was about to explode.
"Do you want me to… get you anything?" He had no idea how to do that but he wanted to help her calm down.
His concern helped Medusa realize that she was angry in the first place. She took a deep breath and gave him a small smile to show her thanks. For a moment, Shirou thought that any danger had passed and the meeting would continue without interruptions.
Only for Medusa to stand up and break the table in half with a single hit of her open hand.
Everybody grew quiet and nervous at the sudden action, Shirou's mouth hanging open as a shadow covered Medusa's eyes. Sona and Tsubaki were on guard while the members of the ORC were jolted and confused but just stared at Medusa. Even Vali was sitting straight and looking at the goddess with new eyes.
Irisviel just kept smiling nervously, trying to communicate with Shirou silently. 'What is going on?!' Her eyes demand him to respond.
Her son got the message and looked at her equally nervously. 'Sorry, she lost her patience because they are practically ignoring her.' Unfortunately realization came far too late.
Fact was that Medusa was invited to a meeting with nothing to do and that was pissing her off. Not to mention they didn't know why she was there in the first place.
But none of the leaders looked nervous, only a little tense with Grayfia moving to stand close to Sirzechs in case the goddess was going berserk. Quickly Shirou did a similar action but he shook his head to dissuade them that Medusa wasn't going to explode or anything similar At least he hoped.
"All this talk of 'alliances', 'being a leader' and fixing this or that is all well and good." Her eyes shone and some in the room could feel their bodies growing rigid. "But since this is a talk between the leaders of Factions, I can't see why a lowly goddess such as myself is here in the first place."
Azazel saw how annoyed she was and moved to try and calm her down. "Calling you 'lowly' is far from a stretch my dear Medu-" Her fingers closed in the wood of the table that easily gave out.
The goddess' eyes focused on the Governor General and while her power didn't affect him, he noticed it was there. "Do not call me 'dear'. None of you earned that privilege." She turned to a smiling Serafall that looked a little too pleased with herself. "Especially that false idol."
The satisfaction left in a flash. "You want to say that to my face?!" Serafall got ready to advance but Sirzechs held her arm.
"That is why you are angry, isn't it?" Before the redhead Maou could say anything, Medusa spoke again. "Took me a while to figure out but that thing about being a magical girl is about being an idol of some sort. Well, then you are a failure. Losing control of your followers like that is something my sisters would never do." Her hand rested on her growing breasts and an aura of elegance manifested around Medusa not by power but by her posture and grace. "An idol must inspire the best in all who watch them. We must not dominate but be muses for the singers so they can join our song. If you allow your followers to be rabid, they aren't inspired, they are mad and so you fail as an idol."
A defeated Serafall sat back down as Sirzechs patted her back in consolation. 'Giving her too much time to fester in her anger was a terrible idea. She is ready to rip everyone a new one without even throwing a punch.' Shirou could see how Medusa wasn't done but left Serafall to her devices. "Medusa, are you-"
"Not now, my protector. Your goddess is doing business."
No one was going to point out the fact that complaining to Azazel and shredding Serafall's self esteem weren't business per say but the first one was out of fury while the second was out of pride.
For before she was a monster she was adored by thousands with her sisters; a muse, an icon, a real goddess with followers and temples no matter how modest. She was invited to Olympus and her fall came after many wannabe heroes tried and failed to take her down and that was even before she was completely the Gorgon.
Such a being was Medusa, a Goddess of Beauty and Serpents that ruled the Shapeless Island with her presence alone. And she would not be denied as her eyes finally landed on Michael who kept a tranquil expression.
"I am used to people looking at me for long periods of time." Medusa started calmly, sitting down as her eyes met the angel's. "To be admired, to be studied, to be hunted, to be desired, to be frowned upon, to be hated, to be loathed, to be feared. I am used to all those eyes." The calm returned but the fury was still there, like a shadow at the bottom of the ocean just waiting to emerge. "But the way you are looking at me, the way that you are studying me, you have no desires and yet you keep looking. Is there a reason why? Is that the reason why I was invited to your discussion?"
Sirzechs shook his head, trusting that Serafall would recover by herself, and turned to Michael. "I think we made her lose her patience."
"That is obvious enough." Azazel recognized but Medusa cared for neither man.
Her eyes were fixed on Michael and the angel's smile didn't bulge. His next words were a surprise to all. "First, I apologize, lady Medusa, for my test."
"Wait a minute, test? That is the first time I heard about this." Azazel's surprise was shared by all in the table but the angel kept focusing on the goddess.
"What sort of test? Are you finally going to reveal why I am here?"
"Yes, you asking before the meeting ended was necessary for me to feel confident about moving forward." Michael's expression turned a little sad. "For my offer demands someone that doesn't wait to act when something bothers them. It is fine to be patient but allowing things to happen when you can intervene is not patience but foolishness."
"Then I shall act again; get to the point." Medusa demanded, her posture more relaxed. Progress helped her calm down but she was still alert. Only the fact that Michael seemed to have no negative intentions kept her on the remains of the table.
Notwithstanding that she was making a demand from the Acting God and Leader of Heaven or one of the most powerful people in the planet with millions of followers and capable of erasing her with ease.
Michael wasn't the kind who would kill someone for an insult but it was still a lot for many to process.
"The point…" Michael spoke slowly and with a great deal of melancholy. "The point is, lady Medusa…" He stood up suddenly and opened his wings. Their aura was such that faithful such as Asia and Irina dropped to their knees, one in reverence and the other in prayer while making the sign of the cross. "The point is that I am an angel, lady Medusa, not a god, certainly not Father for 'who is like God?' Certainly not me, a failure of a son who couldn't protect his Father."
"Michael-"
"No, Azazel. Father dying may not be my fault but I should have done something. We all should." He was referring to all angels, including the fallen. "Yet here I am, occupying His Throne, using His Authority that I have no right to. Those wings, they are the proof of my failure and all my lies. Look at them." He opened them for their full extension, looking at Irina and then Asia with even more sadness. "They used to be the most pure white, like snow in an empty field or a summer cloud, just like my siblings'. Now they are symbols of authority; instead of feeling relief and security, the first thought anyone has is to knee in reverence." Michael sounded depressed by the very thought.
Such words felt harsh for the faithful two girls and they quickly stood up, not wishing to keep perturbing the angel further. Unfortunately for them they couldn't help him, his problems were the golden beacons on his back, the wings he bore.
Just looking at their color, so much more bright than their original white, made Michael feel sick. "When Father died, someone needed to take over, to stop things from spiraling. I took upon the task and with time my wings turned gold like the sun… I dislike their actual form." His eyes grew firm, the angel truly looked like a leader in all accounts. "But I do not regret taking charge in our darkest hour. The Flock needed to be guided, protected, before the remaining wolves pounced. Not devils, mind you, but other gods who would want to expand their power. Those who would take away Humanity's Free Will." That was Michael's greatest fear and the reason why he didn't hesitate to take the Throne.
However Azazel looked equally sad before letting out an attempt of a smile. "You were always a Drama Queen."
"Are you saying that humans wouldn't be tricked?"
"Oh, they would. But then they would rise above it, sooner or later." The Cadre spread his arms confidently. "Fact is; God is dead, and the world is still here." He looked around the room as his brother let out a sigh of exhaustion. "Don't you all agree? Or do any of you think that a world without God would die? Decay? Sorry to disappoint but God is gone and we are still here, living healthy." He still gave Michael a look of concern. "You don't need to carry everything, brother."
"I don't try to but you know there is much more happening than just the world spinning." Michael spoke softly, not disagreeing with Azazel but adding to his words. "You are right, Father's death didn't stop the world, such is the beauty of its nature that God can go and it can keep going. Such is the nature of Free Will." A mix of emotions was carried on his voice and none could understand what was there besides sadness. But there was something else. "As such, Father wouldn't want the world to suffer because of his absence, He gave the people the right to let Him go and live their own lives."
"While this conversation is interesting, this is not what Medusa wants to hear." Sirzechs reminded the angels. "God is dead, Michael is in charge of Heaven even if with his death the world keeps going. Now explain to her why you needed to take charge so we don't lose the tread."
Both angels looked at each other, Azazel looked pensive while Michael was conflicted. Yet the blond's resolve came through. "You are correct, thank you, Sirzechs and my apologies, lady Medusa." Retreating his wings, he sat down again. "While the Throne of Heaven doesn't stabilize the universe or anything of the sort, it is connected to many of the Systems that Father develops to help his duties and keep His power on the rise."
"God needed help to keep his power? That is new." Vali was more interested in that than in the rest of the meeting.
Azazel turned to him with a frown. "It is an open secret that because of some events, Father's power was… broken into pieces."
"Divided into pieces. Don't make it look like it wasn't on purpose, brother."
"Fine, fine, divided. Doesn't make much difference. Creation isn't an easy thing to do and many gods can't pull it off, those that can usually stick to their Domains." He pointed at Medusa with his thumb. "Bet you can create an ocean of snakes as easily as breathing but can't make, let's say, a centipede or even an ant without popping a blood vessel." Medusa frowned but nodded in agreement. "But Father, God, was different. He was good at creating life, very good at creating life."
"When the world began to form, many creatures came from the Primordial Mother." Michael informed without hesitation, shocking those with Christian beliefs. "But he still created a lot to help fill some gaps. The Primordial Mother, Tiamat, usually went to give birth to powerful predators and even monsters. Father focused a lot on the more tame creatures."
"Birds were also a theme as you can see our wings." Azazel said only half jokingly. "But the point is, if you want to give a domain to the Christian God then 'Life' would be it."
"So what? Does that Throne control life or something? Wasn't Free Will his thing?" Issei asked after seeing Asia's confused look.
Azazel found both the question and who asked hilarious. "Hahahaha! Is it coincidence the two Heavenly Dragons are the ones jumping on this conversation?"
"No, Hyoudou Issei, the Throne of Heaven doesn't control life, but it can create it and recreate it." Michael expanded to erase many doubts.
"'Recreate it'?" Those words made the Pawn shiver. "As in-"
"Resurrection, the real deal. God's power can bring people back from the dead." Sirzechs informed the Pawn with a gentle expression. "Of course it can't bring everyone back like those under the umbrella of other gods or beings like us, devils, whose souls supposedly go to Nothing after our death."
Michael shook his head again. "It is different for devils because you are all Lucifer's creations with- Doesn't matter." The angel looked even sadder. "Apologies, I don't like to remember those days." Remembering how the war began was harsh for him and even Azazel was silent in contemplation. "Whatever happens to devils and other gods was not Father's design, there will be a war if someone starts to claim themselves as the First God for a reason, after all."
Medusa took a deep breath, studying the information she already received. She was trying to not draw conclusions for the ones she already did disturbed her.
But Michael kept going, his eyes still on the only goddess present. "Resurrection is one of its greater powers, nevertheless. In the days of the Great War, angels that fell in combat could be brought back after a day or so when Father used the Throne, something I can not do." He looked more depressed. "Many of its functions have been locked since Father passed. The Throne was created, after all, to compensate for the power Father used in many of his Creations. You can guess which ones."
"Sacred gears." Sona spoke with certainty, none disagreed.
As the lead researcher on the topic Azazel felt compelled to talk. "Much like that gem that Shirou has, sacred gears carried Father's Divinity in a portable and safe manner. While Father was monstrously powerful even He had limits. To stop Himself from exhausting His power for the third time since Creation, the Throne is supposed to act as a reserve of power, a filter to gather prayers, a center to control Heaven and to stop the sacred gear System from going out of control." He raised a hand to point at the sky. "That is why hybrids can be born with sacred gears since Father's death or Balance Breakers are even a thing. I honestly think the last one should be on the main design but-"
"They are far too dangerous as the incidents with Vritra can attest. And that is only one sacred gear." Michael interrupted his brother with some anger. "We had to promote it to a Longinus so everyone could understand how dangerous that one is. If I could control the System at least a little I would remove any sacred gear with that dragon's soul entirely."
"Unfortunately, you can't, because you aren't a god." Medusa words shocked many in the room, Sirzechs letting out a sigh as Michael grew stiff and Azazel scratched his head. "That is what this is about, isn't it. You want a god to drive the system."
"Correct." The angel admitted with a smile.
Medusa didn't like it. "You would chain me to the Throne and have me fix your mistakes? Why do you need a god? And if so, why me?"
"Hey, Michael would never chain anyone to anything after Lucifer, the Original, and that was an ugly thing nobody wants to talk about." Azazel spoke passionately in his brother's defense. "This is not him trying to force you to operate God's works. This is him offering you God's job."
""""What?""""
Many asked the question but Michael's eyes never left the silent goddess. "My brother is right." The Leader of Heaven admitted. "To answer your other question why we need a god is because, while we angels have Divinity in the form of Holy, it is not nearly as potent as the Divinity of a god." The angel let that sink for a moment. "We are not adored like our Father, sure there are those who pray to us but from the very beginning we always sent our prayers to Him. After His departure those prayers didn't just return to us but they are still powering the Throne, the System of Heaven."
"So all the power of God's prayers is locked on the Throne." Vali was thoroughly amused at the notion. The angel didn't turn or even replied, which made the White Dragon Emperor chuckle. "All that power is doing absolutely nothing, then. What a waste."
Azazel saw his brother was busy and decided to reply in his place. "THe System of Heaven works automatically after Father took a day of vacation and things almost fell apart. Even without proper guidance some miracles are still being performed even now."
"Not as much as they should." Michael took over. "Prayers losing power, protections breaking apart, even Caliburn's corruption by Valper are the result of the System being unable to work properly without a guiding hand." And he knew he was not the one who should do it. 'My name never felt more appropriate for I am not like God.'
"You want me… be your goddess?" Medusa didn't know how to feel and was ignoring everything else in favor of that information.
Michael could see the little goddess was overwhelmed but nodded. "Yes."
"Why me? There must be others." She had followers once, before her sisters and her moved to the Shapeless Islands and even after there were a few who prayed to them.
But it was for a short time and soon the Greek Pantheon reasserted their authority and they were left with little to nothing. She never had to manage those they had either as her siblings were better in that duty. In the end all Medusa was better than them was fighting and that turned her into the Gorgon.
She was well aware how underqualified she was as a god.
Yet here was the leader of one of the great Factions, one of the chief religions of the planet, offering everything a god could want in a silver plate. It made no sense to Medusa because she was sure there would be a plethora of better candidates for the job.
Another kind smile made its way to Michael's lips. "Yes, there certainly are. However they have affiliations with other Pantheons and we would never accept someone who would throw their bonds away for power. So we never bothered to ask." He waved at Medusa. "You, on the other hand, have no Pantheon of any kind. A lone goddess that belongs to nowhere. It was just a matter of testing your character and observing you from afar."
"Did you have anything to do with this, brother?" Rias was glaring at Sirzechs from the side and the man laughed weakly while avoiding looking at his sister. "You must have. There was no way Michael or any from the Church could have scouted Medusa for long enough to reach some sort of conclusion. Only Irina would have anything good to say and I doubt her word alone would be enough to offer the Throne of Heaven."
Grayfia shook her head at her King's hesitation to answer. "Besides contributing and protecting everyone at the risk of her own security with her meager power, lady Medusa also helped with training of Rias-sama's Peerage, showed care for young Gasper, offered sensitive advice and demonstrated great restraint in high stressful situations." All was said in a calm, collected tone. She glanced at Rias before focusing on Medusa. "With the authority of Lucifer who allowed you to stay in Fuyuki, we recommended you to take over as God since our relationship proved fruitful."
"It was as good of a suggestion as any." Azazel commented while crossing his arms. "Michael is at his limit as well."
"Azazel-"
"Nononono. You don't get to complain, mister, you are carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders."
"That doesn't mean you should have told her, brother." Michael looked really upset but quickly calmed down. "It isn't my body which is failing, I can keep going forever if it is necessary." His melancholy came back full force. "But I would like, if I could have a single wish, to not be in Father's place anymore."
"It cannot be that easy." Irisviel commented in deep thought. "Even if you recognize her, I can't see you just giving the Throne of Heaven. She could ruin everything you worked for with a snap of her fingers." She snapped her own for emphasis.
"You are correct, Irisviel, there is another reason why I approve of that choice." Michael's eyes hardened and Medusa felt her hand shake. Then the sad smile returned and his eyes became calm like the empty sky. "It is because Medusa is a god with an obvious weakness."
Irisviel didn't sound surprised. "So that was it, huh."
"That is cowardly of you, Michael!"
"Rias, calm down this instant."
"I won't, Grayfia. He is threatening someone I care about and I refuse to let that stand."
"He isn't threatening her. Just saying that there is no risk of giving her that power since she can be taken out."
"That is cold from you, Azazel. Usually you are against such things."
"I care about my family, Vali, and Michael need a replacement. Better one we can deal with than the other way around."
"Weakness? What is this about?" Shirou stood besides Medusa but his eyes were glued on Michael. Much like Rias he didn't like what the angel had implied and he was glaring at the angel with open hostility. "If you think I will let you kill Medusa, then you are wrong."
"Calm down, my protector. He isn't planning to do anything." Unlike everyone else, Medusa looked amused. She was even smiling much to the surprise of many. "And I think we have a misunderstanding here; even if you decided to kill me, unless you are stronger, then you are going to fail." Her posture became more confident and her smile became dangerous.
Just her statement alone was confusing the leaders of the Factions enough that they settled down. All eyes were on Medusa as she sounded like her advantage against Michael was absolute. "Oh, why is that? Your weakness is well known."
"Is it?" Medusa replied to Azazel's question with one of her own.
As carefully as he could manage to not draw attention, Issei got closer to Rias and tapped her arm. "Buchou, what is going on? What is this stuff about a weakness?"
"Please allow me to explain." The Pawn jumped and turned to a smiling Irisviel who giggled at the action. "The greater the silence, the easier it is to hear a whisper. Remember that, Hyoudou-kun."
'Mom is worried.' Shirou recognized the smile as fake in an instant. He glanced at Medusa who was all smiles. "Well, Ise is kind of right; it is a little unfair that you are talking while the rest of us are missing half of the conversation."
Vali was glad to explain. "It isn't that complex; every god has a weakness that is tied to their Legend, sometimes to Prophecy." The White Dragon Emperor and Mage of Swords' eyes met and the silver haired man chuckled. "Some stuff didn't happen yet but Fate is special to gods, it always caught up with them without fail. For those not tied to a Prophecy, however, things are more fun."
"Calling it 'fun' is rather cruel of you." Medusa commented and the young man chuckled again before looking at his watch and deciding there was no rush.
Irisviel decided to step in. "As all of you must be aware at this point; a god's power comes not just from their Domain and Authority, what they are the god of and where they rank in a Pantheon, but also from belief." She looked at anyone but her son with her fake smile. "'Belief' needs things to be believed in, obviously, and so a god must spread their Legend as much as they can to increase their power." True feelings were revealed with a frown. "Some took it too far and basically turned that into an arms race, revealing everything, even their weaknesses. Or how they could be killed."
"Medusa's weakness is an obvious one." Michael kept looking at the goddess but her confidence didn't diminish. "Because it already happened, she already died once."
"Perseus." Shirou remembered the brave man he saw in the mirror's memory. Touching his gem, the magus couldn't forget how he cut Medusa's head. "Or Harpe."
"Neither." The angel was quick to dismiss that thought. "Some weaknesses are tied to places, some are tied to events." He raised a finger. "In Japan, for instance, once upon a time Amaterasu hid herself in a cave and there was no sun. That is an important event for her Legend even if the cave was sealed soon after."
"So if you throw her in any cave, her power will go down by a lot." Azazel commented and his brother nodded. "Another one would be Buda for instance. Once he got stung by a scorpion and it turned into a human flesh eating monster."
"Wait a minute, you're saying Buda, the Buda, is weak to scorpions?" Because of how he was raised, Issei found that hard to believe.
"Got it in one." Azazel's face turned serious. "Our Father had problems with snakes… Anyone who has read the Bible knows why." Asia, Xenovia and Irina's eyes grew wide in realization and fear.
"That doesn't mean Buda will die from any scorpion or that God could be killed by any old snake." Sirzechs said out of pity after seeing the looks on the three girls' faces. "God in particular could deal with normal serpents and probably would have nothing against Medusa despite her domains."
"But the Serpent of Eden was a special case." For the first time Michael's voice carried loathing.
Irisviel shook her head at seeing confusion in some faces. "Some beings are natural enemies of the gods. They are either destined to fall to them or to defeat them. Beings like these usually have Legends of their own but, unless said otherwise, they have no weaknesses." Her expression became somber and she looked at Michael with a frown. "The Serpent of Eden didn't existed until God-"
"Don't dare to finish that sentence, Emiya Irisviel." Fury, even if a calm one, was apparent on the Leader of Heaven's face. "I have no idea how you came upon this information but if you keep going-"
"You will do nothing." Sirzechs didn't sound like he was giving a warning but a warning was being given. Then he turned to Irisviel. "And she won't say anything else." She bowed and he looked to the angel again. "Don't say anything you might regret, Michael. Our alliance came this far, please don't ruin this."
Tension began to grow as the leaders of Heaven and the Underworld stared at each other before the angel dropped his shoulders. "I apologize but that information is more classified than even his Reality Marble. Please, don't talk about it, don't even mention it." He looked around the room slowly. "It would be best if everyone forgets about it."
"I apologize, Michael-sama." Irisviel bowed once again but didn't hesitate to continue. "Indra and Vritra then?" No objections were given. "Indra is known as the Destroyer of Vritra per his Legend. If the two fight, even if Indra starts one eyed, one legged and less than half strength, the World will empower him to the point he can still face Vritra. Not defeat it, mind you." Was added with a hand up like a teacher's. "Legends don't give invincibility and Vritra is a powerful dragon but Indra will always have that advantage. The reverse is also true and so we circle back to Medusa's weakness." A pause to see if anyone else wanted to talk later, Irisviel proceeded. "While Perseus can take the credit for Medusa's first defeat, her Legend speaks of how she never left her lair and only someone who went inside could defeat her. Perseus took the challenge, the World gave him the help of the gods and other factors made it possible. It still took a lot of cunning and skill but many factors were in favor and against both sides in that battle."
"The centerpiece of her Legend is her Lair." Sona spoke for the first time in what felt like hours. "That is what you are counting on, right?"
"I don't get it." Xenovia admitted with a frown.
"None of them do." Medusa commented with a chuckle that confused all of the present. "Don't mind me, please, continue. Tell them how you plan to turn Heaven into the Lair of a monster."
"You aren't a monster anymore." Shirou got enough to understand such and Medusa smiled at him.
But her attitude was earning interest and soon all eyes turned to Michael. Some thought he would be offended by Medusa's words. "She is correct." Instead he smiled again. "We plan to turn Heaven into a new Lair by ascending her to God. Even if she is a serpent or a foreign one, after what I observed, she is our best candidate." He looked at Shirou, knowing his next words may set him off. "By turning Heaven into her Lair, everyone that ventures in it will become stronger when pitted against her. That is every angel, soul, guest, ally and enemy gaining power to face her."
The Leader of Heaven was correct and Shirou looked upset. "I don't remember getting any power up when I had a giant trying to crush me or throwing lasers around. Certainly I didn't."
"But you did, even if you didn't notice it." Medusa giggled at his baffled expression. "During our fight, you had not a single instance of bad luck and managed to execute a maneuver that you never tried before. You told me later it was the first time you altered Caladbolg into an arrow, remember?" She let out a small laugh at his expression. "It was still you; your training and accomplishment. All the World did was give a push and all your previous experience flourished into a power capable of bringing me down."
"That is how the World helps. Not with Miracles but with nudges in the right direction." Said Michael thoughtfully. "Miracles are the department of the gods, Father was pretty good at them and it is another part of the Throne's System."
"So the plan is pretty simple." Rias looked as upset as Shirou felt. "She becomes God but every angel will have an advantage if they decide her decisions are wrong. Add to the fact she is a 'Serpent' and I can already guess many of your siblings probably don't like the idea of her in charge." At that Michael grew quiet and Azazel began to look at the ceiling. "Good grief, you thought they wouldn't protest or anything."
"We would protect her. All of us." Michael sounded genuine. "Unless she abused her power, no angel would raise a hand against our new God, or Goddess I suppose. The angels in Heaven are those who did not Fall. Betrayal and lies would be shown in their wings."
"I will pretend I didn't hear that." Azazel commented out loud. "But he is right; betrayal would be shown the moment one of them even thought about it. Medusa would have to do something to justify it first."
The person who was more subdued in this whole meeting was Luvia but finally the aristocrat in her couldn't hold her tongue. "And the fact she is a woman doesn't affect anything?"
Considering her mistakes on how to deal with the Fragments, the new devil of Gremory knew she was let out too easily and was afraid of getting any attention. Unfortunately she wasn't the kind to stay silent when something bothered her but the two Maous, the Leader of Heaven and Grigori looking in her direction reminded her of her place and mistakes.
She gulped hard and hid behind Rias who smiled in amusement. "Sorry."
"No, it is a fair point. We personally don't care who leads us but her being a woman actually helped me make a decision." Michael surprised them all, looking at Medusa again. "Father went to War and never returned, we can never have another father and some angels would even rebel against it." Perhaps even he would. "But we would gladly accept a Mother if she respects Father's ideals."
Such words manage to crack Medusa's confident exterior and she looked more subdued, flushing at the idea. "I would respect His wishes." That made Michael smile more, banishing all his sadness. Until the goddess spoke again. "But perhaps you wouldn't accept me anyway, or shouldn't, since none of you can become my weakness." She pointed at Shirou. "Only he can."
Everybody looked between the redhead magus and the goddess with confusion or incredulity, conclusions being drawn as they tried to puzzle the purple haired girl's words.
"Shirou! She looks like a kid!" Irisviel's shock snapped everyone else as well, her son more than all. "I am a failure as a mother!"
"What are you implying here?! I do have a type and it's not little girls!" He pointed at Rias. "Look at the person I am dating!"
"Oh, you are dating, congratulations." Michael was the last to know with Irina who shook an amused Rias' hand.
"Congrats."
"Thank you. Now that I think about it, last time you were around you didn't have the chance to taste Shiro's food, right?"
"Buchou, let's not drag Irina into this." Issei placed himself between Irina and Shirou even if the redhead was on the other side of the demolished table. He feared that the food could be the tipping point for her to join the magus' harem and wouldn't have it. His King noticed the reaction with amusement and chose to say nothing.
"Shirou's tastes aside, we should get back to topic." Azazel's words weren't helped by his smile and Shirou glared at him. "What did you mean by that, Medusa? Say quickly now before Iri has another misunderstanding."
The white haired mother was letting out breaths of relief. "Right, sorry. For a moment there I thought I made a terrible mistake."
"My protector has tastes and preferences. None which would include a child's form." Medusa added for Shirou's benefit and he would be forever grateful. "However, I am sure he has a preference for women with long legs. Personally I don't see the appeal."
Shirou felt like he was stabbed in the gut. "Hohohoho. I would love to hear about that later." Azazel made things worse
"Do you want me to not cook dinner?" The redhead recovered enough to try and recover control of the situation.
However, threats weren't going to work today. "With your mother here you are cooking anyway." Medusa had him where she wanted and Shirou knew it. The goddess felt a little obliged to tease since Akeno was too quiet. "So go ahead, I dare you."
"Back to the topic, please." Serafall didn't like that Medusa was controlling everything but still felt too defeated to make any overt moves against the goddess. "Why couldn't the angels kick your but if you step out of line?"
Medusa placed her hand on her chest. "Because the Lair is the home of a monster and I am no longer a monster." The statement surprised everyone and Azazel facepalmed.
"Of course! How could we be so blind?"
"Mind filling us in?" A curious Vali requested his distressed guardian as Serafall fumed, Sirzechs shrugged and Michael seemed to be lost in thought.
"Well, the plan to keep her in check is a bust because she can't have a Lair anymore. As she said, she isn't a monster."
"Is that… is that how it works?" Serafall turned to her coworker but Sirzechs just shrugged again. "Wouldn't where she lives still be a Lair?"
"Maybe for the Gorgon but I am Medusa, a goddess." She announced with pride. "Once I was a monster lost in her bloodlust but my gauntlet was thrown and a hero took it, Perseus claimed my head." The pain of even was something she couldn't forget, neither what happened after. "Then I was brought back, not out of my own volition as Athena restored me and tried to sway me to her side. While Perseus saved many from my wrath, Medusa was still lost until another hero showed up." Shirou blinked as the goddess waved to him. "Not born of a god and a mortal but just a human, someone who first saw a monster that needed to be stopped but not one that needed to be killed, he saved me."
A moment of silence descended as everyone felt the emotion of Medusa's words, even if they were strong enough to ignore her Charm they were still captivated.
"He saved a monster, where others would kill me for power, he extended a hand like none before. When I gave up on living, he helped me remember that my sisters would want me to push forward." Her tone was kind and full of gratitude, so much so that Shirou looked at the side with a flush of embarrassment. "It doesn't change the fact that I was killed, that the Gorgon is gone and I will never fall to bloodlust again. For I am a goddess, like my sisters were and thanks to their Divinity that is in my Core, even as broken as I am, a goddess is what I always will be." Medusa and Michael met each other's eyes. "That is why Heaven can never be my Lair, only a Home if I decide to accept it as such. So the only person who invaded the Lair of the Gorgon, who has a chance to kill me no matter how much power I gain, is always going to be Emiya Shirou, my protector."
"Why ask him to protect you then?" Disbelief filled Serafall's voice. "He isn't captivated by you, inspired by you or in love with you. Why stay with the man that can kill you."
Medusa looked at Shirou with kind eyes and he knew the answer. "Because I would never do it." He placed a hand on the goddess' shoulder. "After all, I brought her back to a world she knew nothing about, it is my responsibility to help her."
"Bwahaha. Sounds more like an excuse, hahahaha" Azazel couldn't stop laughing. "Oh boy, oh that is so rich. I am going to love living here, aren't I? So many interesting things." The Governor General slapped his knee, barely controlling himself.
Medusa looked at Michael again, now she was the one with a sad look. "There you have it. Your armies, no matter how powerful, can't defeat someone with the power of your Father, not without a Legend to back you up." With a thought, she remembered something else. "Or without a god slaying weapon like Harpe or that spear I read about. But besides that, I am a goddess free from weaknesses."
"Because a human is helping you write a new Legend, one where you surpassed the darkness of your past." For a moment the Leader of Heaven was stunned into silence.
There were very few gods that could claim to be in the same position, to have no natural weaknesses whatsoever. Her weakness to Shirou was a technicality and everyone knew it, he cared for Medusa enough to stand against angels without hesitation after just fighting her. If he has the choice then she will never be in danger.
And she didn't even have a minor weakness like Buda and the scorpion and no means to acquire a new one either. In a sense all leaders present knew that the purple haired goddess was someone free from any greater Fate, a feat that many would envy.
Michael shook his head with a grin full of wonder. "Humans are… really something." Then his posture became firm once more. "But that didn't change my mind."
"Say what?" Medusa almost jumped in surprise only for Michael to stand up in the remains of the desk.
He began to walk towards her and the goddess stood from her seat, refusing to take a step back. With so many eyes and her protector by her side, she doubted that the angel would do anything malicious.
When Michael was just a few centimeters apart he stopped. The angel was practically three times taller than the goddess but his smile wasn't intimidating but gentle. For the moment it seemed the sadness and melancholy that plagued him had disappeared.
"Why did you point out that our plan would fail?"
"What?" Medusa almost stepped back in surprise but Shirou's hand on her shoulder kept her firm.
"Why did you point out that our plan would fail? Had you not done so, you could have taken the Throne and all its power."
Tilting her head, Medusa studied Michael's expression, only seeing joy. "Because it would be unbecoming of a proper goddess to do so."
"But right you can't be called a proper goddess." Silence reigned as Medusa stiffened, Shirou looking irritated while the rest of the room watched with either concern or confusion. "Reduced as you are, can you make Miracles? Prop your followers up or even defend yourself?"
"I can fight well enough." Her arm held her protector's sleeve. "And I won't be weak forever." That was said with some sadness.
"If you had stayed silent, you would have become the most powerful goddess of the planet, pretty much uncontested. Father's power added to your own and the many prayers from the Flock would assure that." His smile never left even as the goddess refused to look at him. "All you had to do was say 'yes' and stay quiet until you sat on the Throne. Why did you warn us?" Michael raised a hand for her to see. "The truth this time, please."
"Unbecoming." Was the first word Medusa could think of, remembering her sisters in that exact moment. "It is unbecoming of a goddess, of a true idol, to steal. Anything we have must be gifts from our followers or conquered by our talent." Anything else would be shaming her sisters and that she refused with all her being.
Unexpectedly for her, Michael's shoulders dropped in relief and Azazel began to chuckle much to Vali's confusion. Only the fallen angel knew what his brother was thinking but everyone began to have an idea when Michael dropped to a knee. He was still taller than the goddess but his expression showed both happiness and reverence.
"For such honesty alone, I would gladly call you Mother."
"Fwah?" Medusa was perplexed and incapable of understanding the expression Michael was showing her.
"Congratulations." Azazel clapped without mockery, Irisviel, Sirzechs and Grayfia following his lead. The maid then turned to the devils present with a harsh look which forced them to clap as well. Only Serafall didn't joy them as she pouted.
Everyone else was just trying to understand what was going on but Irina was quick to begin to clap too, the idea of the return of God, even if not the same and a Goddess, making her legitimately excited.
Xenovia watched her old partner before looking at Medusa again, not knowing what to feel. 'If Medusa becomes God, or Goddess, or whatever, does that change anything?' Then she saw the stunned goddess' face and shot the thoughts away. 'Does she want to?' When she noticed those thoughts, she knew that nothing would change for her but worried for her friend.
Shirou chose to do nothing, he didn't remove his hand from the goddess back but didn't say anything either. Things only changed when Medusa suddenly pushed the chair behind her and ran behind the redhead, a shocked Michael not knowing what to do while everything grew quiet again.
Then Azazel broke the silence. "Hahahahaha! Rejected! Must be your first time right?" He was there, beside his brother in an instant, patting his back. "Hey, hey. Don't worry, there are plenty of fish in the sea."
"Don't joke about that, Azazel." Michael's melancholy returned and stood up, looking obviously disappointed. The Cadre took the hint and shut his mouth. "Why?"
"I am not ready to be a mother!" Medusa admitted with some shame and a flush, Rias immediately feeling a huge amount of sympathy for her. "Goddess or not, I never had children!"
"Bellerophon-"
"Xenovia Quarta, finish that sentence and you will wake up with snakes as a bed for the rest of your life!" The bluehead immediately shut it with her hands as Medusa took a deep breath and stepped aside, her hand keeping Shirou from moving but she was fully visible. "I thank you for the generous offer but I am not ready to be a Mother of any sort. Especially for hundreds of children."
"Millions if you bring my siblings back, trillions if you account for Humanity." Seeing the horror dawning more on her face, Michael had a feeling he just shot himself on the foot. But he had no intention of forcing her to do anything. "Can you change your mind in the future?" If she said no, that would be that.
"Yes." Medusa surprised everyone once again, her expression sad as she looked at herself. "When I am a complete goddess once again, if you find her worthy, you may ask. Perhaps she will have changed her mind."
"Why are you talking like that would be a completely different person." Shirou turned, placed his hands on her shoulders and kneeled as he asked.
Shaking her head, Medusa seemed to hesitate. "I don't know. At this point of my previous existence I was already drenched in blood, on the path to become the Gorgon." Like a serpent spotting her prey, her eyes showed a coldness that wasn't present before. "Besides, I have a feeling that while my Legend is done, my Counterpart's Legends may not."
"'Counterparts'?" Azazel approached with interest. "Michael, she is right. She can't become Goddess now."
"I see." The angel accepted with sadness but bowed his head. "Thank you for holding back once again. Were you already complete, you would make a great Mother."
"Elaborating before anyone asks," Vali decided to intervene as Shirou kept looking around, ready to demand an explanation, "some gods, because of their religion or because of some agreement, split themselves in parts, discarding certain Authorities that gave birth to other gods and such." He pointed at Medusa. "She is saying that there is another goddess out there, or perhaps even a god, that is her origin and could try and take her back."
Medusa nodded to show Shirou that Vali was correct. "Uniting ourselves again is hard but not impossible, all it would take was an agreement or for one to consume the other." Her hands held each other above her chest. "Like when I devoured my sisters. Now I am three in one but in actuality we all were always parts of a greater goddess that broke apart for a reason or another." Then she looked up firmly. "If I take the Throne and for some reason, perhaps a Legend, perhaps luck, my Counterpart can try and take me back. To be truly complete, If that happens I may disappear if she consumes me unless I consume her."
"Any idea who she is?" Vali asked with a grin that vanished once Medusa shook her head. "You don't know?"
"It wasn't like we knew why we were born in the first place. One day, we were just there, together on a beach. We just wanted to live in peace even if devouring each other would make us more…"
"You want me to protect you until then?"
"No! That may put you in danger! Whoever I was part of was a much powerful existence, a true goddess of great power, especially if she managed to split herself so much." She smiled kindly. "Little by little I am recovering my power and even if I am not 'complete' I will be a 'whole' goddess one day." Then she looked at Michael. "I don't know if I will ever see or meet my Counterpart but if I do and I am still in control, you can ask me again. If not, judge them however you see fit."
"It will be for the best." Michael said in acceptance but Shirou frowned.
He waited for Medusa to look at him again. "You will disappear?"
"If she consume me-"
"I won't let her." Shock appeared in her eyes but he carried on. "I promised to protect you and letting you disappear would break that promise."
"If she is determined to take me-"
"Then I will stop her."
"She is also a goddess, likely more complete than I ever was. One strong enough to slip into four and still retain her power, likely most of it!"
"Don't care."
"Are you suicidal?!" Frustration was really starting to show but Shirou patted her head.
"Not suicidal, just stubborn."
Irisviel found the interaction and many of the baffled faces funny. She would be laughing if not for the reason they all were there. For that reason alone she clapped out loud to get everyone's attention again.
"Okay, cute moment aside, we should focus on the peace meeting and decide what it takes for everybody to sign the papers to make it all official." Pulling out a strand from her hair, Irisviel let it fall on the remains of the desk.
The angels quickly stepped out of it as the broken wood was restored with the strand of hair binding it all back together. Sona let out a sigh of relief as soon enough the meeting table looked like new, even if a little dirty, after the ordeal.
"Sooooo…" Irisviel started with almost childlike innocence. "About that treaty…"
"Fufufufu. We got sidetracked, didn't we, brother?"
"Perhaps you are right, brother." Michael took another look at Medusa, nodded in respect, and began to move back to his seat.
"Well, as I said before, I am all in for peace and I think we discussed every relevant topic we wanted, right?"
Sirzechs nodded with a smile as Serafall jumped from her seat. "Damn straight! The Alliance of the Three Factions has our full approval!"
Then the fallen angel began to rub his chin. "But just to make sure, there are still two important players who haven't given their voice to the topic." Confusion began to grow again but Vali scoffed, obviously knowing where this was going. "Plenty of those who earned the titles of White Dragon Emperor and Red Dragon Emperor have changed the world. Not hearing what they want to protect the peace would be a disservice."
"Me?" Issei asked as Vali just glared at his guardian and got up from his seat, marching to the window.
The silver haired youth folded his arms and looked at his watch again. "Yes, you!" Azazel said with a tone overly excited. "For all intents and purposes you are going to become a power in this Alliance… Eventually, we hope." He then looked at his charge. "Vali already is."
"I don't remember being part of the Grigori or anything like that." Said the Vanishing Dragon with a tone of annoyance.
"Come on, don't be like that. You already work some jobs for me, go on adventures and fight bad guys. Our very own hero. And you even have competition since the Gremory also found one." His thumb on the Mage of Swords' direction.
"I am not a hero." Shirou said quickly, much to his lover and mother's amusement.
Azazel partook in it with a smile. "Your goddess seems to disagree." Medusa flushed but Xenovia nodded in agreement. "But let's not digress, we are talking about the Heavenly Dragon Emperors here. With the right training, both can face and defeat gods." With a shrug, he looked between the two young men. "So we should ask them what they want."
"You know what I want, what I always wanted." Vali's eyes didn't leave the window. "I want to fight against the strongest, to be the strongest."
The Cadre shook his head in exasperation while shrugging exaggeratedly. "And after that?" Sirzechs asked with curiosity. "What will you do once you are the strongest?"
"Then I will die, because this won't be a world worth living. A world without challenge."
"That is stupid." Shirou couldn't help but say, Vali turned to him. "Are you saying you have nothing else? Just a desire to fight?"
"Heh, that is right. That is the only thing that makes me feel alive." The White Dragon Emperor raised his fist. "So I will be the strongest. After that, I don't care what happens or if I die on the way. If I can't fight, I can't live."
"The only thing you know for real." Xenovia murmured with wide eyes and Shioru turned to her before letting out a sigh and placing a hand on his face, letting it slide off miserably. "Why are you looking at me like that, Master? It fits him."
"Indeed it does." Vali couldn't help but smile. "Yes, Fighting is the only thing I know for real. The fast paced combat, the thundering heartbeat. I thought we had already talked about that."
The Mage of Swords frowned and shook his head. "A single minded obsession usually brings people to self destruction." His father was an excellent example. Looking at his mother, his expression became neutral. "'A balanced life is the better way to live.' At least that is what my mother usually says."
Iri was there nodding proudly but Vali scoffed. "Good for you if you want balance but fighting is the only way to test one's mettle." He left the window to stand face to face with Shirou. "The only truth that one can really find, is the one in the battlefield."
"That is extremely narrow minded." Shirou said back and Vali chuckled, making him frown.
"Tell you what, when you are stronger than me, then I will listen to you." The White Dragon Emperor chuckled again. "Just make sure to not be crushed before you can keep your promise."
"It seems we are never going to be friends." Shirou joked but his expression was serious and his hand looked to be searching for a sword. "I am ready whenever you are."
"Funny, I am always ready."
"We really need to get you a hobby." Despite the callousness of his charged words, or the danger in them, Azazel was still in a good mood and not a bit surprised. "Anyway, it isn't like you can't fight during peacetime either. The devils developed Rating Games for that and I am sure they won't mind including you in their fun."
"Hmph. If you call that true combat, a fight where lives are not placed in the line." Vali returned to his position on the window and placed a hand on it.
Azazel gave Sirzechs an apologetic look but the Maou waved a hand in dismissal. "And what about you, Issei?" The Cadre then turned to look at the Red Dragon Emperor.
"Me? What I want?" Azazel nodded at the question and a fire was lit in Issei's heart. "I want to be a Harem King." Some smiled in amusement, Vali gave him a glance before looking forward, Michael didn't know what to say and the Governor General barked out laughing again.
"Issei-san…"
"Ise…"
Both Asia and Irina sounded utterly embarrassed and disappointed at the same time but nobody paid attention to them.
Most were too focused on Azazel's laugh. "Well, that you can get in peace. It is even better because you get more time to spend with them." The Cadre stood up and walked to Issei, placing an arm around his shoulder. "Think about it, your face in a couple of girls' breasts, the whole day."
"The whole day!" Issei's ears had smoke pouring out as he was lost in his imagination.
"Of course! In peace times the priority is to make babies. And that usually leads to…"
"Leads to…" The blush and excitement on Issei's face told enough and the fallen angel kept striking while the iron was hot.
"You are a dragon, aren't you? Most of the Red Dragon Emperors didn't hesitate to have a lover, or ten." Azazel noticed someone else approaching and chuckled.
It was Sirzechs placing a hand on Issei's shoulder with a smile. "And with Rating Games you could become a star. Can you picture it? Thousands of fans shouting your name, hyping you up everytime you win a fight." That was the prelude before Lucifer landed the final blow. "How many would ask to join your future peerage?"
"My-my future peerage?"
"Oh yes, with enough wins you would be promoted to High Class, that is for certain."
"Just so you know, with this Alliance, the pool of girls will expand." Azazel took over again, a cheshire's grin on his face. "And they all will be watching you, wishing you, and as a dragon…"
"Peace! Peace! I vote for peace!" With a devil on one shoulder and a fallen angel on the other, Issei's vote was pretty much guaranteed.
While not liking that Azazel was part of the show, Akeno couldn't help but smile at Asia and Irina's expressions. "Fufufufu. It seems you two don't like the idea of competition." She whispered, making the two girls jump.
Then Issei paused his celebration to turn to Michael. "But… Can I ask a favor from you, Michael-sama?"
All three leaders were surprised and while the angel was hesitant because of the personality the Pawn had already demonstrated, he decided to nod. "If it is within my power."
Nervous but undetained, Issei stepped forward to stand right in front of Michael before bowing until his head was below his waist. "Please, let Asia pray to God again." Gratitude poured from the Bishop while most of the room seemed surprised. Michael's shock kept him silent and the Pawn was worried. "Michael-sama, I know that we are devils but-"
Then a sincere and happy smile grew on the angel's face. "Of course." The reply surprised everybody. "The prayer system is connected to the System of the Thorne and while I can't change much, I think I can do that for a single devil." Michael turned to Asia and the girl blinked in surprise as he repeated Issei's gesture, he just wasn't bowing for a request. "For all you suffered, Asia Argento, I owe you more than apologies. Trying to keep the secret of Father's demise and with you healing a devil..." His voice began to break but the Leader of Heaven controlled himself. "Mistakes weren't just made, it was a disaster. And when the fallen angels got involved things got worse."
Azazel stayed quiet but he also felt remorse from what happened to Asia and Issei, for more than one reason. He made himself scarce, trying to draw the least attention.
He didn't need to bother, all focus was on Asia and Michael. "No matter how much I want to apologize, I know it is never going to be enough. So if you want anything, ask and I will grant it."
Asia paused, not really knowing what to do, she turned to Issei who looked baffled and couldn't help and then to Rias who was as surprised and could only spare her a glance that held no answers.
"Please, could you raise your head, Michael-sama?" The former nun sounded shy, her hands were shaking but she made sure to speak clearly. To not distress her further the angel quickly stood up and focused on her eyes. "I… I forgive you." The Leader of Heaven's eyes went wide "I forgive you. You were in a difficult position and I… I don't know what I would have done in your place."
She almost broke when she heard about God's death and if she was there, watching it, then having to deal with the consequences of it, Asia felt that she would falter where the angel didn't.
In the end the former nun couldn't blame the angel before her. For all his faults, his name was apt; 'who is like God?' Clearly Michael wasn't but he still tried his best with what he had and while she suffered it wasn't because of malice or because her kindness was in the wrong direction.
"Besides, I made friends." Once more Michael was surprised by the sudden shift in her tone, more confident and happy. Her smile was one of the brightest things he had ever seen. "When it was discovered I had Twilight Healing, they moved me to a place where I would only heal and heal. I liked to help people but I also wanted something else, friends. People who cared for me because of me, not because of what I have. I received that after much suffering, it is true but… I wouldn't change anything." Joining her hands, her smile grew brighter. "So I forgive you and I would love to pray to the Lord again, if you allow it."
'She should have been a Holy Maiden- No, she is happy like this.' Didn't change the fact that Michael was sad that the Flock lost someone like her. Still he would grant her wish, even if it revealed things he shouldn't. "The weakness of beings like devils are regulated by the Blessings of gods and how they want their Authorities to interact with them." Azazel's eyes grew wide, he knew where his brother was going. "That includes certain words of power, or prayers if you will." He gently placed a hand on Asia's head. She accepted it, like a child being cared for by her older brother. "So to allow you to pray again, I shall remove all weakness born from our applies not only to praying but from any of our symbols, places of worship and whatever else carries Father's grace."
While Asia was shocked, Serafall jumped to her feet at the implication. "Can you do the same for every devil?" Her fellow Maou shook his head and massaged his temples. "Sirzechs, if they do that-"
"They won't." The redhead devil replied calmly but was clearly bothered by something. "Not while certain elements make devils a threat in general, both inside and outside our government."
"I am sorry but I wouldn't even if I could, Lady Leviathan." Said Michael with respect. "Doing it for one or two devils isn't a problem but to change the System further you would need the full capacity of the Throne. You would need God." His eyes landed on Medusa again but soon he looked back at Sirzechs. "It isn't that I don't trust you but-"
"But you are incapable and that would create a world of problems. I understand." He threw his fellow Maou a look for good measure.
Serafall nodded after some thought and sat down. "It would certainly make sense if God gave us his protection after the peace deal but a lot of people would disagree. Huff, that is annoying."
"That is politics." Azazel finally spoke again with a pensive expression. "Besides, we all must remember that there is a storm coming. A storm that includes devils and many other Factions that never worked together before."
"So it is finally time to talk about them?" Sirzechs mused. "Not that their existence affects the peace treaty anyway."
Azazel made a show of laughing but his heart wasn't on it. "You goddamn right-"
An explosion shook the room and nobody managed to stay on their feet. There was no fire but plenty of smoke as Grayfia moved forward and flipped the table for cover.
Unfortunately not everybody was behind it. "Shiro! Medusa!" Rias shouted as everyone in her peerage panicked.
"We are alright." Shirou helped the goddess stand up as Xenovia shook her head.
The former Exorcist's hand reached her sword when she looked to the newly made hole, in the back of her mind she noticed there was no debris from the blast. "What was that?"
"Company." Vali cleaned his shirt, still standing in the same place like nothing happened. He was just looking up which made Xenovia turn in the same direction.
Only after her ears stopped ringing did she begin to hear the sound of guns and her eyes grew wide as a battle was being fought over their heads. "An attack! We are under attack!"
Durandal jumped from its scabbard as everyone jumped to their feet and moved to the hole to see what was going on. At that point they all were hearing the bullets and Asia couldn't help but embrace Issei as the sounds of weapons and explosions actually scared her.
"This should be impossible." Irisviel commented, marching to stand besides her son. "How did they penetrate the main boundary field or knew we were here?" She frowned as the silver boundary field seemed to shiver. 'It has been going for a while at least.'
"How didn't we hear any of that before?" Irina asked with a short double edge sword in her hands.
"Because of the security measures." Sirzechs' frown mirrored Irisveil's and Grayfia was already standing in front of everyone, ready for anything. "Was that a stray shot? Did it hit the school?"
"It should be impossible." Then again Irisviel would have said the same for an army getting inside the fortified boundary field with it still intact. "I need to go check with Maya. Figure out what is going on."
"It isn't obvious?" Vali asked with a grin. "We are under attack." He pointed to devils fighting devils as bullets passed harmlessly by the boundary field and hit their targets. 'Three boundary fields in total, one for the meeting, one of the school and one for Kuoh in general. Not bad.' Previously he thought there were only two.
"Young ones, stay back." Michael opened his wings fully to shield the majority of those present from any other possible stray shot. Medusa noted he was right by her side and his hand also was covering her. "Looks like they came to the meeting after all. I see devils, golems and familiars."
"So they really came." Azazel cursed under his breath with a word he considered too impolite for anyone's ears. "To think they would be bold enough to attack us here. No, that they even know where to attack in the first place."
Serafall pointed to one of the devils fighting. "That is the symbol of the Old Satans." Which made things worse in her opinion. It was mainly a devil faction that was attacking and many were already dead.
"Yes, it is and if they are attacking, they have a plan." Sirzechs' face was cold to the point even Rias was worried. Lucifer was out in full force as he already was planning how to crush these enemies. "Looks like the Khaos Brigade is finally making its move."
Shirou and Irisviel traded looks; that didn't bid well for their family and they knew it.