Fallen in DXD

The warmth of the morning sun and the faint buzz of my phone alarm stirred me awake.

I blinked, my vision adjusting to the golden light breaking over the horizon. The scent of fresh earth and morning dew filled the air.

I was still outside.

Still lying in the grass behind the church, exactly where I had passed out.

Exhaustion had crept up on me sometime during the night—after hours of crying, after my body could no longer keep up with my grief.

Slowly, I sat up, rubbing my eyes. I casually shut off my alarm and glanced at the time.

School…

Finals were in two weeks, and Sona, ever strict with the rules, would definitely be pissed about a student skipping during such an important period of study and review.

Did I really need to be there?

No.

But I had already missed so much while taking care of my mother. If I skipped today, I'd probably be called into the Student Council office to explain myself. The only reason I've been left alone so far, is probably thanks to my stellar grades. 

There's a weird thing when it comes to the supernatural presence in this world. As long as we concealed our aura from those of equal or less power than ourselves, we could pass each other unnoticed, like any other humans.

But if we stopped and had a conversation? Or were being watched from the beginning?

That was a different story.

No matter how well we concealed our power, our bodies would naturally recognize each other with prolonged exposure or when you're actively looking for something.

That's why I had avoided speaking to them entirely, especially Koneko as I would just have to be in her general vicinity for her to sniff me out.

If they discovered I was a Fallen Angel, I would be under constant would under constant surveillance, or worse—Rias would try to recruit me into her collection of trauma-ridden misfits.

I sighed.

It all sounded exhausting just thinking about it.

I'd deal with Sona tomorrow.

It's not like I'd be able to hide forever. Next year, when the plot starts, Fallen Angels will be all over Kuoh, meaning the devils of this school will be on high alert.

They'd figure me out sooner or later.

But today… I had more important things to do, being my mother's resting place.

I couldn't keep her in her room forever.

I had already chosen the perfect spot—a beautiful little hill in the woods.

Even surrounded by trees, the sun's rays always hit it just right, casting warmth over the land in the morning. At night, the moonlight cascaded down, bathing it in a soft glow.

It was a peaceful little patch of land.

Starting off, I dug an eight-foot grave, taking into account the height of the hill. The last thing I wanted was rain or erosion exposing the casket.

Then came the tricky part—the coffin.

I had thought about making it from wood, cutting down one of the surrounding trees, but…

I had no idea how to preserve it. Wood rots. I definitely didn't want that happening.

So I chose something more eternal.

There had always been a large boulder near the area where I trained.

What better use for it than this?

I placed my hand on the stone, closing my eyes as I focused.

I let my light seep into the boulder, not shattering it, not breaking it apart with brute force—but reshaping it from the inside out.

With a single thought, I made my magic vibrate in precise patterns, shedding away excess stone layer by layer.

Slowly, the shape began to form.

The drain on my energy was high, but the results were perfect.

A smooth stone coffin, flawless in design.

At its center, engraved into the lid, was a cross—simple, yet dignified.

With the excess stone, I shaped a tombstone in the form of a cross, inscribing her name in elegant script:

Maria Salvatore

Now with everything prepared, I made my way back inside the church.

She was still in her room, resting where I had left her.

She wore her church attire, her hands folded neatly over her chest.

She looked thin, frail, a shadow of the strong woman I had always known.

And yet… she was still beautiful.

Even in death, she had carried unshakable grace.

I stepped forward, slowly lifting her into my arms.

She was so light—far too light. The illness had taken so much from her.

I swallowed, carrying her outside to the hill.

I had lined the coffin with blankets and pillows, ensuring she would rest comfortably.

Then, I added two things beside her.

A Bible, worn from years of reading.

And a photograph—one of the first we had ever taken together.

It was from the day we arrived at this church.

She was smiling brightly, holding a baby version of me in her arms.

Behind her, the church was in ruins, broken and neglected.

I could still hear her voice from that day.

"It may not look like much, my little star, but we will make it whole."

And she had.

She had given everything to make this place a home for us.

With a deep breath, I reached out, and closed the lid.

At times like this I'm pretty happy to have the strength of a fallen. I was able to gently place the stone coffin in the hole without rocking it around.

Completing the burial didn't take all that long as the sun still stood high. But I decided to stay with her a bit longer.

I simply sat there, resting a hand on the freshly covered grave.

"… Rest well, Mom."

The words were barely a whisper.

I sat there for the rest of the day, watching as the sun traveled across the sky.

As the first stars flickered into existence, I slowly lowered my head, clasping my hands together.

"Michael… I don't know if you can hear me. But if you can—mind sending someone for a visit, would like my mom to have a safe journey up."

Michael, the Seraph, the one who guided souls to Heaven.

If anyone could ensure she reached her rightful place, it was him.

And I knew Heaven wasn't at full capacity. The system was weakened after God's death. Definitely wasn't going to have her wandering.

I prayed for what felt like forever, my words dissolving into the night.

Then—

A warm light surrounded me.

I felt it before I saw it—it was a very warm and welcoming presence.

A hand rested gently on my shoulder.

I turned my head, and there he stood.

A man with blonde hair and green eyes, wearing a casual red robe with a golden cross resting at his chest.

But what stood out the most were the twelve golden wings at his back, radiating a light.

Michael.

Though impressive, I had to admit…

I think mine look better.

Brushing the thought aside, I pushed myself to my feet, still staring at him in slight surprise.

"You know," I said, "I didn't actually expect you to show up yourself. I would've been happy if you'd just sent any Angel."

"Well I must say, you caught my curiosity."

He said as golden wings folded neatly behind him, as I was beginning to get annoyed with the bright light in my eyes. 

He continued as he looked at me with a mixture of curiosity and warmth. "A Half-Fallen Angel, your magic feels rather potent for someone at your stage as well, and… you're praying to me instead of God? That is not something I expected."

I shrugged. "Why thanks you for noticing my Excellence, but I figured God was busy."

Michael's expression didn't change, but there was the slightest hesitation in his gaze.

Shouldn't bring up big G. Forgot about the whole angels can't lie shtick. 

"But more importantly," I continued, keeping my tone casual, "The bible says that you were the one who guides souls to Heaven. So if anyone could make sure my mother got there, it'd be you."

Michael studied me for a moment before nodding slowly.

"Maria Salvatore was a devout woman of great faith and kindness. She has already passed through the Gates and now rests peacefully in Heaven."

I exhaled, something in my chest loosening slightly.

She made it.

Now I can be at peace knowing she was where she belonged.

Michael's gaze softened. "You cared for her deeply."

I scoffed lightly. "Of course, I did. She was my mother, she was way to good for me."

Michael's expression grew somber. "Her faith was unwavering, even in the face of injustice."

I frowned slightly.

"I am aware that she was unfairly tried by the Church. For that, I apologize."

That made me pause.

Not every day do you get an apology from a Seraph.

I shook my head. "It wasn't Heaven's fault. It was the Church's, I know you Angels try to keep out of human affairs unlike your fallen counterpart that is." I said with a slight chuckle

Michael regarded me for a moment, then nodded in understanding.

"We lived a good life," I continued, glancing at the grave beside me. "This church… we practically rebuilt the thing into a huge house with a prayer hall, we had a great time making it our own. Thanks for not trying to stop us by the way."

For a moment, neither of us spoke as we looked at my mothers grave.

Michael stood there, his presence calm yet I swear I hear him let out a little laugh after I thanked him for the church.

The moment of silence passed and I stretched slightly, shaking off some of the stiffness in my shoulders.

"You know," I said casually, "you came all this way. Want a drink? Maybe some food?"

Michael blinked, caught off guard by the sudden offer.

I crossed my arms, smirking slightly. "I've actually gotten really good at cooking. Had to, since mom probably burn water if left to the cook. Figured it was only fair that I took over the kitchen. I made my craft into an art."

Michael's lips quirked upward, amused. "A kind gesture, but I must decline. There is still much to be done in Heaven."

"Yeah, yeah, figured as much." I waved a hand dismissively. "Maybe next time, then."

Michael gave a small nod. "Perhaps."

I sighed, glancing up at the sky before looking back at him. "Well… thanks. For everything. I mean it."

Michael smiled warmly. "There is no need for thanks. I'm glad to have helped you find some peace."

His body began to glow once more, the golden light enveloping him.

Then, with a final nod, he vanished.

I stood there for a moment, staring at the spot where he had just been.

Then, with a shake of my head, I turned back toward the church.

"Man, I really need to learn that teleportation spell." I muttered to myself

[The Morning]

My morning alarm rang, waking me up from my slumber. I woke up feeling clear-headed for the first time in a long while, knowing my mother was at peace and no longer suffering.

After getting ready, I made my way to Kuoh Academy, slipping into my usual routine.

As soon as I stepped through the school gates, the familiar whispers and stares followed.

It wasn't anything new.

Like Kiba, I drew plenty of attention from the female populace of this school.

The difference was, Kiba played the role of the charming pretty boy.

While I masked a face of cold indifference.

It wasn't the most effective method as it seemed to just get the women here more riled up, this school truly is fully of the most perverse people. 

Sliding into my seat in class, I let out a quiet sigh, resting my chin on my hand.

Then, I ding on the intercom called out.

"Sosuke Salvatore, please report to the Student Council Room."

I closed my eyes briefly, exhaling through my nose.

Right, I completely forgot about that.

With how many days I had missed, Sona Sitri or other known as Souna Shitori by the school was bound to call me in sooner or later.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair.

Well, there goes my quiet life gardening after school I thought to myself as I made my way to the student council. 

Reaching the door, I let out a final sigh before knocking.

"Enter."

Pushing open the door, I stepped inside, immediately noting the neatly arranged desks, the faint scent of tea, and the ever-serious presence of Sona Sitri seated behind her desk.

Her sharp violet eyes locked onto mine, pushing up her glasses in that signature gesture of hers.

"You've been absent a lot recently," she stated, her tone neutral yet firm.

I shrugged. "I have."

A twitch of irritation flickered across her expression before she leaned back in her chair. "Skipping school right before exams is a bold move, Mr. Salvatore."

I smirked slightly. "Bold? I'd say it's efficient use of my time. I don't need to cram like the others."

Tsubaki, standing beside Sona, narrowed her eyes. "That doesn't excuse your absences."

I sighed. "Look, I had personal matters to deal with. I'm not failing my classes, and I don't cause trouble. So, what's the problem?"

Sona tapped her fingers against the desk, her gaze scrutinizing me. "The problem is that Kuoh Academy has rules. Rules that apply to everyone, even those who think themselves above them."

I tilted my head. "Do I seem like someone who thinks that?"

"You certainly act like it."

Well, that was rude.

Sona let out a measured breath.

"Regardless, I'm not here to argue. I called you because I want a guarantee that you won't disappear again. If something is going on, I'd rather you inform the school rather than vanish without explanation."

I met her gaze evenly, and nodded.

"I'll be here for exams," I finally said.

Her eyes narrowed slightly, as if searching for any deceit in my words, but after a moment, she nodded.

"Now, onto more important matters—why is a Fallen such as yourself in my territory without my permission?"

I raised a brow. "I need permission?"

Tsubaki's gaze sharpened slightly, but Sona merely adjusted her glasses. "You didn't know?"

I shook my head. "I was born and raised in Kuoh, President. This has always been my home. It wasn't until I was six that I found out—after painfully gaining a fancy pair of black wings. By then, I was already living at the church."

"So, you're Half-Fallen then?" she questioned, though surprisingly, she didn't show any malice so far.

"Yep. Can't say I'm proud of the man who gave me his blood, but I will say I like the perks," I said as I released my 3 sets of beautiful jet black wings.

Sona's eyes widened slightly, clearly not expecting me to be on her and Rias level. Tsubaki, on the other hand, immediately went on guard, her body tensing at the display.

I chuckled lightly and retracted my wings. "Look, I honestly mean you guys no harm. I've known you were devils since you arrived here last year and have shown zero animosity. I only ask for the same respect in return so I can live my life in peace."

Sona remained silent, her violet eyes studying me with a measured gaze. I could see the gears turning in her head, calculating my words, my actions—determining whether I was a threat or simply an anomaly she had overlooked.

Tsubaki, however, was less subtle in her wariness. Even after I retracted my wings, her body remained tense, poised for action. I didn't blame her. If I were in her position, I'd probably be just as cautious.

Sona finally exhaled through her nose and adjusted her glasses. "You claim to mean no harm, but hiding your presence for this long doesn't exactly inspire trust."

I shrugged. "Would you have preferred I walked up to you last year and said, 'Hey, I'm just your friendly neighborhood Fallen angel, I'm totally harmless'?"

Her lips pressed into a thin line. "I honestly would have preferred that, over the surprise I've received today."

I sighed. "Look, I didn't exactly have a guidebook on 'How to Introduce Yourself as a Fallen Angel in a school packed with Devils' When I found out you guys were here.

Honestly, I know both the fallen and the devils get such a hard on for killing each other. Though it's a pleasant surprise you are so accepting."

Sona tapped her fingers against the desk, her expression unreadable.

"And what personal matters were so important that you abandoned your usual discretion?" she asked.

I hesitated for a moment before answering. "I was burying my mother."

That made Tsubaki blink, her guarded posture loosening ever so slightly. Even Sona's usual composure faltered, if only for a fraction of a second.

"I see," Sona said, her tone softer than before. "My condolences."

I nodded in acknowledgment.

After a brief silence, she continued. "Regardless, it is still concerning to have a fallen on the level of a high class devil here in town."

I nodded slightly. "Then feel free to do a background check. I have nothing to hide. My life has been simple—wake up, go to school, return home, and take care of my responsibilities at the church. No evil plots, no hidden agendas, just a guy trying to live his life."

Sona studied me for a long moment before finally sighing. "Very well. For now, I will take your word that you mean no harm."

Tsubaki frowned slightly but remained silent.

Sona continued, her tone regaining its firm authority. "However, this does not mean you are free from scrutiny. I will be keeping an eye on you, Mr. Salvatore."

I chuckled. "I'd expect nothing less from you, President."

She adjusted her glasses again. "And from now on, if you plan to stay in Kuoh, you will inform me of any major changes in your circumstances. Understood?"

I gave a casual salute. "Understood."

Sona exhaled softly before dismissing me with a wave of her hand. "You're free to go."

I turned to leave, but before I could step out the door, she spoke one last time.

"And Mr. Salvatore—stay out of trouble."

I smirked over my shoulder. "Well, I'm usually the one farthest away from trouble, so rest assured. Oh, please call my Sosuke, Mr. Salvatore just feels stuffy." With that final word I left heading back to class.

That went far better than I was expecting.