A Second Chance

Ch.8: Welcome To The New World

3rd Person POV

Back in the old world, Azazel has been working diligently with the other faction leaders to keep the peace that has been established.

Even though he's been up to his neck in mounds of paper work, on top of his sacred gear research, he's still been able to notice how his people have been holding up. In particularly, how Irina's been doing.

He's noticed that for the past week, she hasn't been as depressed, or robotic. Instead, she looks hopeful. Like she's been revitalized.

Of course, Azazel was happy to see her looking better. But then he started to wonder. What's got her in a better mood? He tried to push it aside, believing that it was none of his business. But, if there's one thing that's gotten him in trouble in the past, it's his curiosity.

After he had finished his work for the day, he decided to see if she was in the mood to talk.

He got to her room, and knocked on the door.

Azazel: Irina... You in there...?

Irina: Yeah... Come in.

Azazel entered the room, and Irina was dressed in some casual clothing. She put down a book she was reading, and looked at Azazel.

Irina: Is there something you need?

Azazel: Just checking in. Making sure you're doing ok.

Irina: Yeah. I'm doing ok. Thanks.

Azazel was a little surprised by her tone. Normally she would brush him off with a monotone sounding voice. But now, she was sounding a little like she used to when... when Issei was still alive.

Azazel: So... I couldn't help but notice that you've been in a much better mood this past week. Mind if I ask what's gotten your spirits up?

Irina froze a little. She had been given hope by Ophis when she told her that Issei was still alive. But, after hearing that he was imprisoned, and not dead, she didn't know who to trust.

She was silent for a while. Contemplating if she should ask if Azazel knew anything about Issei's imprisonment.

Irina:... Can I ask you something?

Azazel: Sure. Ask me anything.

Irina:... What was Issei to you...? How did you see him...?

Azazel was surprised that she wanted to talk about Issei. But, he took a deep breath, and answered.

Azazel: Issei... Issei was like the son I never had. When I found out about his parents' sudden disappearance I tried looking into where they could've gone... But, no luck...

Irina remembered when Issei told her about his parents suddenly disappearing a few years after she went to go live in London. She felt so sad for him, and how lonely he must've felt.

Azazel: But, regardless of all the hardships he's been through, he's always found a reason to keep smiling... That boy is an inspiration to all... Heh, he had a talent for drawing others to his side. In all my years, I have never met someone as extraordinary as Issei Hyoudou... And I don't think I'll ever meet someone like that again.

A week ago, Irina would've agreed with him.

Azazel: I just hope, wherever he is, he's at peace.

Irina could hear the sincerity, and sadness in Azazel's voice. So she knew he had nothing to do with Issei's imprisonment.

Irina: He's not dead...

Azazel: What...?

Irina: Issei... He's not dead. He's alive...