Winds of Change (DxD)

Volume 7 - Chapter 17 - Thresholds of Radiant or Somber Tomorrows

Word count: 71k

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Róisín Toole's Soliloquy

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As we witnessed my son's group depart from our universe, he cast a glance our way, wearing a melancholic smile. Simultaneously, Vivi extended her hand towards him, her face bearing a sorrowful expression. Despite her earlier encouragement for her father to embrace heroism and save lives, it was evident that she had grasped the reality that a considerable amount of time would pass before she saw him again.

"They're gone, huh?" mumbled Azazel. "It feels a bit lonely now," he added with a chuckle before turning away. "Anyway, we have things to do. Let's not fail and appear inept in front of them."

"Yes, let's go," replied Sirzechs, and the other leaders commenced their departure. I, too, followed suit, and eventually, we all found ourselves back in the entrance hallway of Aaron's home.

After bidding farewell to our guests, the once bustling household now echoed with a profound emptiness. The familiar chaos of people moving about, generating noise, and adding life to the space had vanished, leaving behind a void that rendered the house strangely alien and devoid of its usual warmth.

"Róisín-sama, Vivi-hime, would you care for some lunch?" inquired Risette, now tasked with overseeing the household in the absence of Grayfia, the usual head maid. Alongside her, Yuri stepped up to assist in managing the remaining staff.

"Yes, and thank you," I responded. As Risette and Yuri departed to arrange lunch, I sensed an unusual tremor in Vivi's frame. It became apparent that she was quietly shedding tears. Instinctively, I reached out to gently stroke her head, offering a source of solace. "What's wrong, Vivi?"

"I miss Papa," she murmured with a touch of sadness lingering in her voice. Though their departure was recent, the absence of her father weighed heavily on her. It was evident; she was gradually transforming into a devoted daddy's girl.

Attempting to uplift her spirits, I chimed in with a more optimistic tone, "They'll be back before you know it. Besides, there are still many of your Mama's here, right?" A melancholic nod was her only response. "How about this? Let's go into learning more magic and mastering it before Papa returns. We can showcase our newfound skills to him," I suggested, hoping to divert her thoughts.

Her eyes sparkled with curiosity as she questioned, "I want to learn... is Mama Lilith still around?"

"Absolutely," I affirmed. "She and Frida are here. Both are skilled devils, and Frida has been under Lilith's tutelage for a few months now. We can seek their guidance; after all, you're part of the Buer household. Lilith might have insights into it," I explained, and without further ado, we set out to find them.

Vivi seemed a bit confused by my wording but she agreed nonetheless. We arrived in the entertainment room and found them conversing there. They noticed our presence and we made our way to them.

"Róisín and Vivi-chan, how can we assist you?" Lilith inquired, her gaze focused on us as she gestured towards the empty chairs beside them.

I nodded appreciatively, taking a seat before delving into an explanation of our intentions. Lilith's expression held a hint of amusement, particularly as she directed her attention towards Vivi.

"The Buer clan is renowned for their healing abilities among devils—think of it akin to the Sacred Gear, [Holy Resuscitation], wielded by Diethelm Waldseemüller. Initially designed for devils, I believe that with Vivi's involvement, the capability might evolve to encompass universal healing, similar to Asia's [Twilight Healing]. Of course, this is mere speculation on my part," Lilith elucidated, her words carrying a thoughtful undertone.