Natsu Dragneel In Dxd - Volume 1 Chapter 23 Sword Of Peace Heart At War

Tension filled the air with a tight grip around both Issei and Natsu. After their encounter with the Chief of Angels, Akeno escorted them to a room inside the shrine. A table was laid on the floor separating the teens and the Angel as they were both sitting on their knees. Michael stood up, with his wings tucked away, staring at the two boys with a small smile.

‘So this guy’s one of the head honchos, uh? But something feels weird in me. It’s like my Dragon side is reacting weirdly to whatever’s here.’ Issei thought in his mind, swallowing a lump in his throat.

‘I can’t believe I’m faced with one of the most powerful people in the world. And the fact that it’s one of those Angels I heard so much about. I guess my wish came true when I said I wanted to meet one of them, now all that’s left is to fight’ Natsu thought with sweat dripping down from his brow. As the two boys sat in wait, Michael stuck out of his hand, hovering it over the desk as he began to speak.

“Natsu Dragneel, Issei Hyoudou today I have called you here to discuss a matter of utmost importance. This is a matter that couldn’t wait until the summit and the other faction leaders agreed. So now, I’m here with a gift and a proposal for both of you.” Michael’s hand began to shine a bright gold before the light on his hand moved onto his palm creating a small yellow orb. Letting his hand down as the orb stayed in place, the moment Michael back away, the yellow orb shone brightly while it began to be forming into what looked like a sword floating in mid-air.

The sword itself was one of beauty but also looked as fierce as it did magnificent. The grip of it was a dark color blue and with it was a red diamond shape design going across it while the pommel was gold. The guard had four Draconic claws sticking upwards towards the tip of the blade as it was also a bright gold. The fuller of the sword stopped halfway through the blade and was colored purple with a gold outline while the rest of the blade was significantly longer with the sword itself being double-edged.

“Issei, Natsu, this sword is one of the fragments from the greatHoly Sword Excalibur. It has been known to- not only be wielded by otherSacred Gearowners- but kill Dragons themselves.” Michael looked at the shocked faces of the boys that stood in front of him while Natsu began to speak.

“Wait that sword is known to kill Dragons unbelievable.” Natsu said gaping at the glowing sword in awe along with Issei.

‘So that’s why I got that strange feeling. It was coming from the sword!’

“Its name isThe Dragonslayer, also known asAscalon. It is said this sword alone, along with its wielders, has devoured so many souls of Dragons that it has one of its own. Now, the titleDragonslayeris only given to a person or item that specializes in the killing of said creatures, and this sword has certainly earned that title.” Michael explained thoroughly as the male teens listened intently.

“So what exactly does this have to do with us?” Natsu asked, raising his eyebrow in interest.

“The Faction Leaders and I wanted to give this to one of you. Of course, this means either one of you can make the decision to keep it or take it. It also means, Natsu Dragneel, that Sirzechs thought of giving this as a gift to you.” Michael explained while Natsu’s eyes widen at the revelation.

“A gift to me Zechs wanted me to have this?” Natsu asked.

“Yes, Natsu. He thinks that your magic would be very compatible with this sword. He even theorizes that you would be able to incorporate yourDragonslaying MagicintoAscalon.” Michael said, informing Natsu of the information.

“Are you for real” Natsu asked in awe.

“But why do you need to give this sword to one of us?” Issei asked, interrupting Natsu’s gaze with the shining sword.

“Well, after the great war, there have not been any large-scale battles going on anywhere in the realms. But unfortunately, little skirmishes and mishaps between factions have become more frequent because of that which is becoming a problem.” Michael said while Natsu and Issei’s faces cringed in surprise.

“No way, so the fight with Kokabiel is considered a skirmish?” Issei asked frighteningly.

“There’s no way that can be considered a little problem! He almost leveled the whole town!” Natsu yelled in defiance.

“Show some respect Natsu-kun. A town being destroyed is no problem for them. A real threat is if multiple cities get destroyed in the process, then it would be hard, even for the Faction Leaders, to cover to incident up from the world.” Akeno explained, getting Natsu back in his place.

“As I was saying, this problem will soon grow if not stopped which will, in turn, destroy most of the world as we know it. Or it is also possible for another power in the realms to rise up in all the disorder and ambush us for their own gain.” Michael said continuing his speech.

“What do you mean by ‘another power’? Are there others besides the ones we know?” Issei asked curiously, looking up at Michael for an answer.

“Oh, young Hyoudou, there many more kingdoms and realms as there are mythological creatures and entities. And that’s why I think the summit will be a great opportunity to show peace between the factions, hence why I’m having a Dragon on the side of the Devils harboring this precious sword from the Heavens.” Something in Michael’s statement sparked something in Natsu after hearing a certain part of his explanation.

‘Wait, he said ‘Dragons on the side of the Devils’. Why does it have to be one of us? Is there some sort of history with Dragons here that I’m unaware of?’

“Hey, but does it only have to be us two? Others without ADragon Sacred Gearhave been able to wield it so why does it have to be us?” Natsu asked, nitpicking on Michael’s statement.

“I am not sure if you two know this, but, in the past, there was one instance where all the Factions joined together to fight for one common thing. It was when theRed and White Emperor Dragonsinterrupted the Great war between us and started wreaking havoc with their own battles. So, right now, I’m asking the two most promising Dragon-harboring people to uphold this grand task of helping keep the peace by accepting this sword, showing that we have also made peace with the Dragons as well.” A strange silence followed as the two teens looked at the sword then at Michael and once again towards the sword.

What they were supposed to do with this- they did know. It’s not every day an Angel descends from Heaven to hand you a gift that would potentially stop another war from brewing. In fact, the last time that happened in recorded history was never. Who was going to take it? What would happen after? How will their lives change with this new duty?

The questions didn’t stop rolling and crashing in their heads until Issei took the initiative.

“I…I think you should have it Natsu,” Issei said determined, “Angel-sama here said that Sirzechs-sama wanted you to have it and you’re even more qualified than me.”

“You should take it the gift with great thanks, Natsu. It shows how much people rely on you.” Akeno turned to Natsu while encouraging him to take up the mantle of the sword.

“It’s purely up to you, Dragneel-san,” Michael said calmly, “If you are worried about not knowing how to properly wield a sword, I have trainers at the ready.”

Looking around at the people surrounding him, Natsu took in a deep breathe, “My answer is no.”

“What!?” Issei screamed shocked out of his mind.

“Hold up, just hear me out. First, I know it’s a gift Zechs wanted me to have and everyone is thinking I should get it, plus it has the potential to save the world, but I kinda already had that in mind on my to-do list- along with becoming strong enough to fulfill the thing I need to do. And plus, a sword or any weapons of sorts is just not my style. I tried before and it worked out horribly. You would have a better time using it Issei, ’cause you’re still developing your fighting style. All that I’m trying to say is that I’m not the right guy cut out for the job.” Natsu sighed in the end at seeing Issei’s shocked face and Akeno’s blank one while Michael just smiles at it all.

“As you wish Dragneel, you shall not take the sword as your own- Hyoudou will. And I already had a plan for that.” Michael stuck out his hands with his palms facing up as the sword hilt started to point towards Issei.

“I w-what- how did but huh?” Issei was at a loss for words as he foolishly jumbled words around.

“Come on Pervert, you got this. Keeping peace isn’t that hard!” Natsu cheered, trying to liven up Issei’s dampened spirits.

“This is crazy,” Issei whispered to himself, “Anyway, how does this work? Is there some sort of ritual?”

“The other Faction leaders and I have already come up with a way for you to possess theHoly Sword, Hyoudou Issei. We have found out that with yourSacred Gear, you’re able to assimilate the sword into it.” Michael said, informing Issei of what his Sacred Gear can do.

“But, is it even possible? I mean, I’m about to have aHoly Swordused for killing Dragons, merge with aDragon Sacred Gear. Seems a bit odd, don’t you think?” Issei said unsurely standing up.

“That does seem to pose a problem” Natsu said commenting on the fact.

“Do not fret, Issei.Sacred Gearsdo whatever the user desires. If you wish it, it shall be done.” Ddraig unexpectedly spoke out while Issei stared down at his gauntlet. Then, slowly walking towards the sword, Issei heard Ddraig speak again, “Now, focus your thoughts and become one with the sword. You have to match yourMagical Wavelengthwith its own.”

Doing as he was told, Issei grabbed hold onto the hilt and closed his eyes in concentration. A few seconds passed with nothing happening until suddenly, an unexpected glow of colorful lights surged throughout the room, covering the arm of Issei and theHoly Sword. The anticipation was high as they all saw that within the light both the sword and gauntlet were beginning to merge and come together as one. And as the light around the two started to dim, the full sight of the creation was seen as the entirety of the blade was etched onto the knuckle guard of the gauntlet, right above the green orb.

“Woah” Natsu said, dumbly looking at Issei’s new contraption.

“Wow, this feels awesome.” Issei started to swing the blade around in awe right before it nipped a part of Natsu’s hair.

“Hey, watch it!” Natsu screamed angrily.

“Well, you were just too close!” Issei yelled back.

And before Natsu could throw another comment, Michael interrupted their quarrel, “I am sorry to say this, but it’s time for my leave. I have done what I came here for and there is nothing for me to do here. Now, I must attend to my own affairs.”

“Oh, wait, I have a question for you!” Issei stopped Michael from leaving last second before he left.

“I’m sorry. But I cannot answer it as of right now. I am in haste.” Michael said, regretting not being able to be there for Issei.

“But when will you have time?” Issei asked unsure if he will ever meet his need.

“I will confront you after the summit is over.” Michael said quickly.

“You promise”

“By my Holy word.” Michael said with a smile before he sprouted his golden wings and walked into a yellowMagic Circlewith a cross in the middle.

“So what now?” Issei asked, looking intensely at hisSacred Gear.

“Well, I don’t mind answering any questions you guys have about how this all came to happen.” Akeno said, speaking up to the boys as she began to smile.

“Oh yeah, that reminds me! How the hell did you guys even have time for this?” Natsu asked hastily as he threw his arms in the air in confusion and curiosity.

“Oh, that’s a simple one. We began to meet up once the summit was confirmed and started to work on the sword to calibrate it to either one of your specifics,” Akeno explained while giggling a bit after seeing the two boys blank stares, “Meaning that the sword’s structure was modified to fit your Magics. And, if so, your personality.”

“Oh, so that’s what you did. Well, all I can say is that you guys did a great job ’cause that “assimilation process” went really smoothly. It really does feel like the sword and I have really connected.” Issei said impressed.

“Hey Akeno, I have another question but it’s completely off topic.” Natsu said sheepishly.

“No worries Natsu. Go ahead and ask me.” Akeno said, reassuring Natsu with a smile. So, feeling better about asking the question, Natsu walked up to her and bent down next to her side, surprising Akeno.

Bringing his head closer to her ear, Natsu began to whisper to her, “Uh, so Issei filled me in on the details of what happened with Kokabiel before I got there. And he said something about hearing Kokabiel saying you being related to some guy named Barachiel. What’s that about?”

Akeno froze in her spot as her eyes widen, with fear clearly in them. Natsu saw that little droplets of sweat started to form on her brow while he felt as if he had done something terrible.

“Issei-kun, do you mind leaving the room for a while. I have something I need to talk about with Natsu.” Akeno said a little too sweetly, which creeped Issei out.

“Yeah, I don’t mind. Just tell when you’re done so I can leave with Natsu and train Gasper.” Issei said, walking out through the sliding door. After hearing the slamming sound of the door, Natsu realized that there was no sound afterward. Akeno and Natsu sat in an awkward silence while Natsu did an audible gulp.

“So Issei told you about that, huh?” Akeno got up from her spot as she walked toward a counter on the side of the room.

“Yeah, he told me recently- When we were waiting for Gasper to get out of the room.” Natsu answered shakily. He saw that Akeno was preparing tea as she brought the pot and two cups over to the small table, “So, um are you related to Barachiel?”

“Yes, that’s right. I’m the product of a Fallen Angel leader and a human.” Akeno answered softly, hanging her head toward the ground. She sat slowly on the floor and slightly turned away from Natsu.

“What?” Natsu asked shocked at the revelation, almost spilling the tea that was poured for him.

“Yes, my mother was from a shrine family and one day she found an injured Fallen Angel. She healed him back to health and from there, they started to have relations. And not shortly after, my mother was pregnant with me.” Akeno explained her whole back story to Natsu while he listened in intently.

“I-I’m sorry I’m sorry if I asked something so private. Ahh, I’m such an idiot.” Natsu whispered the last part to himself while he hit his forehead in frustration. But while he was in his turmoil, Akeno stood up and turned her back to face Natsu which caught his attention. And as soon as he saw her stand up, Natsu saw expose her bare back and witnessed something astonishing.

From Akeno’s back sprouted both the wing of a Devil on one side and the wing of a Fallen Angel on the other. Staring in awe at the mixture of breeds standing before him.

“I thought that if I joined with Rias and turned into a Devil then I would get rid of this hindering Fallen Angel side. I thought it would vanish. But instead, I became this abomination with the wings of two races,” Natsu stayed quiet during her explanation which made Akeno even more nervous, “You can tell Issei if you want. He has the right to know as well.”

Turning around and facing front towards Natsu, Akeno spoke again, “So, what do you think? You hate Fallen Angels so how could you like me? They hurt you, Issei and Asia so much. How could you guys ever like me”

Natsu just stared at her with a blank expression until he began to speak, “What’re ya talking about Akeno? Me, hating you? That’s stupid!” Natsu exclaimed.

“But what if the only reason why I’m nice to you is so that you won’t hate me? Akeno asked, yelling back.

“So? Even if you are pretending, you’re one of the nicest people I know. Plus, I don’t hate Fallen Angels. Sure, a few of them piss me off and another I actually do hate, but you’re different. Akeno, you’re Akeno and no one can change that. The Akeno I know wouldn’t sulk over something that happened with her dad, but continue on with that sweet smile that she always wears, which always brightens my day and everyone else’s.” Natsu stood up saw the startled face of Akeno, “You know, this whole thing is my fault. I shouldn’t have pried.”

“Oh, Natsu” Akeno said through her breath.

“Um, yeah, so all I’m tryna say is that you’re awesome and I think you’re badass with the Devil and Fallen Angel wing thing ya got goin’ on. Wait, I’m not saying you weren’t badass before but, uh, you’ll always be awesome in my eyes. You’re really nice and pretty and all that good stuff, you know?” Natsu sheepishly started blurting out words of nonsense while Akeno brought a hand to her mouth with wide eyes.

“Natsu I’ve decided,” Akeno said, confusing Natsu with the out-of-topic statement.

“Uh? Decided what?” Natsu asked dumbly, tilting his head the side. What came next, he did not foresee, as Akeno jumped onto him like a leopard onto its prey. He hit the floor hard making a rough grunt of pain with Akeno’s weight pressing against his chest, making it hard to breathe, “W-what’s gotten into you, Akeno! Please get off- your b.r.e.a.s.ts are making it hard to breathe!” Natsu yelled panicking.

“I decided that I want to be in a relationship with you as well.” With this, Natsu paled in color. It’s not like he didn’t want to be with Akeno, but the inquiries he had about how she got to that decision was beyond his capacity. He wasn’t sure if she meant as friends or the other thing…

“I don’t understand what do you mean ‘as well’? I-It’s not like I’m tied to anyone at the moment.” Natsu said bravely, trying his hardest not to look down at the creamy-looking b.r.e.a.s.ts that were squeezing hard on his chest. But all of his hard work was for not as Akeno lifted herself up by the arms as her well-developed chest dangled in Natsu’s face.

“Natsu, I mean, I’m fine with sharing you with others as along as Rias agrees.” Akeno giggled at the last part while Natsu’s face contorted to horror.

‘Oh shit, that’s right! Princess! I can’t do this right now- she always gets mad for some reason when stuff like this happens with women!’ Natsu tried his hardest to suppress his “fight or flight” instincts ’cause he really wanted to fly away with the birds right now. His thoughts on the matter of Akeno was a jumbled mess, but he was taken out of it when she began to talk again.

“Oh Natsu, it would make me really happy if you called me ‘Akeno-chan’. I would really enjoy having a nickname too, just like the ones you give everyone else.” Akeno pleaded, throwing the nastiest curveball towards Natsu: the doughy eyes. No matter what kind of thing he was asked, if someone did the doughy eyes on him, he was powerless(this especially applies to Wendy).

“Huh, o-okay Akeno-chan.” Natsu awkwardly said, rolling his eyes to the side in embarrassment.

“Thank you so much, Natsu. You can call me that when we’re alone if you want to. Hmm, now I have no choice but to fall in love.” Akeno said, surprising Natsu. She hugged him tighter around the neck, pressing her firm but soft b.o.o.b.s against Natsu’s body.

‘W-what should I do! This is getting outta hand! At this rate, something will happen that’ll get me in trouble or worse- I’ll have my food privileges taken away!’

“Um, Akeno chan, I don’t think now would be a good time to do this, at all. What if Rias comes in and-”

“Yeah, what would happen if Rias comes in, Akeno-chan?” The voice that sounded deadly familiar resounded from the entrance of the shrine as Natsu-scared shitless out of his mind- turned to regretfully find out who it is.

“P-p-pr-pr-prin-c-cess!? I-I-I-it’s not w-what ya think! S-she- I got- thing just, ya know- and then bam! A-and then flashbacks and backstories and-”

“Enough, Natsu. I stood here long enough to know exactly what happened.” Rias said sternly. Her whole stature was one of extreme anger with her sassy nature coming out.

“You did?” Natsu squeaked out in an uncharacteristically high-pitched voice.

“And Akeno, you can get off him now.” Rias ordered while Akeno did as she was told but with her ever-present smile.

“Hey, what’s all the ruckus guys. I thought you were-” Issei walked in the room with his mouth gaping wide. The first thing he saw the incredibly pissed off Face of the President standing and blocking the only way out. This all sadly reminded him of the spankings he got, “Um, is it okay if I go back in there?” Issei asked fearfully, looking at the paling face of Natsu. ‘How did this guy screw up this bad!? Today was supposed to be a good one!’

“No,” Rias commanded, staring directly at him, “Stay here. I have a few questions. Did one of you get the sword?”

“Yes, it was me.” Issei answered, frightened by Rias’ attitude.

“And Sir Michael?” Rias asked looking at Natsu this time.

“H-he went to do some business.” Natsu answered shakily.

“I can’t even leave you alone for two minutes without something like this happening. Fix yourself and let’s go,” Rias said while Natsu nodded quickly and walked towards Rias, “Oh, one more thing.” She instantly knocks Natsu on the side of his head the minute he came with her range while he groaned in pain.

“Hey, Natsu, I’m gonna stay here until Rias’ anger blows over. And don’t train Gasper without me.” Issei said, helping Natsu off the floor he fell on from Rias’ hit. Natsu nodded his head, understanding Issei’s point, but instantly regretted it because of the head injury.

“Yeah, um, I’ll just see you later Issei. I don’t want to keep Rias waiting.” Natsu pointed over to the redhead standing outside with a glowing aura outlining her body. Issei just shivered knowing what was in subtext and waved goodbye to his partner(Issei doesn’t exactly know the relationship he has with Natsu since they both don’t like each other but get along pretty well. It’s complicated).

And so, Natsu walked out with Rias as both of them started their descent down the long stairs. Unfortunately for Natsu, half way through the trip, he was getting the vibe that he had done something to emotionally hurt Rias in a way that he doesn’t know how to fix. He walked behind Rias with a face of guilt and shame until she started to speak.

“Hey, Natsu. How do you see Akeno?” Rias asked, suddenly stopping.

“Well, I think she’s a great person. I like hanging around her even though she’s very “touchy” but I wouldn’t trade anything for that.” Natu answered, wondering why Rias would ask something like that.

“Yes, of course. She’s your precious friend, isn’t she?”

“Well, yeah. What about it?” Natsu asked, pouting a bit at how this conversation was going. ‘It doesn’t seem like Rias is getting any better. In fact, I think this is making it worse.’

“And what would you say about me?” Rias asked bashfully.

“Oh, that’s easy- you’re “Princess”. The one that rules over all!” Natsu exclaimed being silly.

“And why do you call me that?” Rias asked again, clasping her hands together in anticipation.

“Uh, well, I guess it’s because you remind me of one. I mean, your ‘house’ is basically a castle but with a different name and you have some kind of royal pureblood, right? Oh, plus you like to be in control. I found out from Kiba that you hold meetings a lot and punish people who aren’t there.” Natsu said, putting a finger on his chin, trying to remember everything correctly.

“Oh really? That’s it? Well, I guess you got everything about me, huh?” Rias’ voice started to go down which was immediately noticed by Natsu.

“Wait, there’s more. Uh You’re the President of the most super fantastic club I’ve ever joined and you’re a high-ranking Devil with an amazing family!” Natsu yelled out, trying his best to cheer up Rias.

“Yeah, you’re right. Let’s start going again. I want to be back before the sun sets.” Rias began walking down again with Natsu following suit. But evening when he was this close to her- just a few feet away- she never felt so far away. The way he described the things about her they were all platonic things that anyone could find out. Nothing seemed to be special about her in his eyes. ‘I don’t even know why he still calls me Princess. I thought I thought that I washisPrincess. Someone he loved. But Nothing seems to be that way. Natsu is just drifting away to other people. And at this rate, I won’t be able to’

“Hey Princess! What’re ya doing standing there like that? I thought you said you wanted to be there before sunset.” Natsu called out a few steps in front of her, interrupting her thought process.

“Yes, I coming,” Rias answered, beginning her descent. ‘I just hope things won’t come to that.’