Highschool DxD Cosmos

Knowing a Friend

As the light of the transportation circle faded, the familiar surroundings of the Occult Research Clubroom replaced the chaotic scene Issei had just escaped from. He stumbled, disoriented, before collapsing to the floor, his body wracked with pain. His mind raced with thoughts of Asia, trapped and vulnerable at the hands of Freed, and the helplessness he felt was suffocating.

"Shit!!!" Ryu cursed as he rushed to Issei's side, concern etched across his face. He knelt beside him, examining his injuries, his jaw clenched with anger and regret. "I shouldn't have sent you there. This is my fault."

Rias, anguish flooding her expression, quickly joined Ryu, kneeling beside Issei. "It's not your fault," she said, her voice shaky. "We didn't know there would be an Exorcist. This isn't on you."

Ryu placed a reassuring hand on Rias's shoulder. "We'll get her back. But first, Issei needs to recover."

He took a deep breath, moving into a meditation position next to Issei. His eyes closed as he entered a state of deep concentration, blocking out the chaos around him. He needed to focus. The technique he was about to use required immense clarity and control and he still hadn't full control over that power only what Astreus taught him. As he calmed his mind, a familiar voice echoed in his thoughts, a guiding presence that had always been with him.

"Breathe, Ryu," the voice of Astreus whispered softly. "Focus your spirit. Let your mind become still like the stars. Only then can you channel the cosmos."

Ryu exhaled slowly, his body relaxing as he allowed his thoughts to settle, his heart beating in time with the rhythmic pulse of the universe. Once his mind was clear, he raised his hands, forming a Buddhist mudra—a symbol of peace and spiritual connection. His fingers came together, creating a serene focus point as a soft glow began to envelop his hands.

"Constellation: Virgo," Ryu whispered, "Healing Harmony."

With each breath, Ryu concentrated on the healing energy, allowing it to build and envelop Issei. The air around him shimmered, creating a radiant aura that cocooned his friend. As he began to chant the mantra, his voice resonated through the room, a calming cadence that soothed the anxious hearts of everyone present.

"Om Mani Padme Hum." The words rolled off his tongue like a soft wave, echoing in the stillness of the clubroom. Each repetition carried the power of the cosmos, amplifying the healing energy flowing from his hands into Issei's wounded form. As the aura brightened, Rias, Akeno, and even Freed paused, captivated by the sight before them.

After several moments, the light faded, and Issei blinked, feeling the pain in his leg significantly reduced. He could sit up and breathe easier now, his strength returning. Ryu opened his eyes, the glow from his hands dissipating as he regained his composure.

Rias stared at him in awe, her expression a mix of surprise and admiration. "How did you do that?" she asked. "I've never seen you use that technique before."

Ryu rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Honestly, I was never forced to use it before. The constellation of Virgo is more about the spiritual and restorative aspects than battle," he explained, glancing down at Issei, who was beginning to regain his bearings.

Akeno clapped her hands together, a playful glint in her eyes. "Ara Ara, Ryu, you're full of surprises! Who knew our guardian star had such a nurturing side?"

Issei regained his strength thou he was grateful his mind was still thinking of Asia. "I have to rescue Asia," he insisted. "I can't just leave her there!"

Rias frowned, crossing her arms as she regarded him. "Issei, you need to understand—getting involved with the opposing side is dangerous. You're not ready for this kind of confrontation."