Brothers in Arifureta

Chapter two

*Vince POV*

When I opened my eyes and I saw that we were in some kind of a large cathedral of some kind, with 30 men in white robes with golden outlines surrounding us and the circle under us. I noticed that the entire class was here, even with some people that were not even in the classroom. Soon a man with a long white bread walked over to us and started to speak in an old man voice, but I noticed that he had different clothes from the other men. He must be the leader, or a pope.

"Welcome to Tortus, brave heroes. It is our pleasure to welcome you here. I am the pope of the Holy Church, Ishtar Langbard. It is an honor to make your acquaintances." The old man, who called himself Ishtar, broke out into a good-natured smile. He then led us all into another room that was furnished with numerous chairs and long tables, saying it would be easier to speak calmly there.

It felt unnatural for some reason. I notice that my brother could understand why I feel this way, we got kidnapped after all. There he started to explain the world to us. Humans and Demons were fighting in a great war, and we are to help save humanity.

Soon enough Kouki stood up. What is that righteous bastard doing now? "The people of this kingdom is at risk of annihilation. We can't just let them die. We were brought here to fight and I say we do it." I slam my hands on the table and stand up. "You think I am going to get my brother killed then you sir are wrong! We don't know these people! For all we could know that this is a revolution against a human dictatorship!" He retaliated by saying "You just want to do nothing when we have the power to do something?!" "We need to know the facts before we jump to conclusions! We fight or we go back! If we fight in a war then someone or all of us is going to die. That is war. If you want to play hero then fine, but I am not going to let my brother get killed because of your righteousness!" I said with anger.

"O-okay everyone, let's settle down. First we don't know what's happening, and I agree with my brother. We should not be forced into this, but at the same time you guys sacrificed so much for salvation. So how about this, you take us around, maybe explore a low level area with an escort. Then we can decide on whether or not we will help you guys, whether it be fighting or some other passive way." Bryce said, calming everyone down.

Ishtar smiled, "Of course, I guess I was too straight forward with you all. I think this is a good compromise as of yet. How about that you heros are to at least train to a good standard and we take you to a low level area. Does that sound good for everyone?" Bryce looked at me with calm eyes. "I'll stick with you on whatever decision you make." He said. Soon everyone turned to face me, I guess I am the only one who is against it. I sigh in defeat and nod towards the pope.

He gave a satifasted smile, which I didn't like and soon several maids entered the room and gave us some lunch. I guess this is to calm everyone down. Everyone including me, except Bryce, was eyeing on the maids. They are lovely. Hehe. "Why are you drooling?" Bryce asked as a dark aura emitted from behind me. I spit out my drink, and look around. The aura came from Kaori, but she is just smiling at me, "I was just thinking about something is all. I guess I got too excited." I turn around and start to enjoy the food that was given to us. "So what happens now?" Bryce asked. "Now, we go with the flow but keep an eye out for any threats to us. I fear that several people might try to cause harm against us. Is that okay with you Bryce?" My brother only nodded as he got a little closer. He has been like that since the accident, whenever he gets nervous about something, he comes to me.

I put my arm around him and hold him tight, "No matter what. We stay together no matter what happens. Never leave my side." I look down at him, and he looks at me. "I should be telling you that whenever you leave me to go fight someone." He said before laughing a little. "True. True."