A/N

I don't own High School DxD

I am irreligious, all due care but no responsibility about incorrect facts.

In this story, Hades is the One true God of Death.

All other personifications in religions are underlings.


Chapter 4


Last time

"So what happens now Kaichou?" asked Reya

"It's back to waiting for my sister. She may act like a ditz most of the time, but she is very good at her job". Holding out her hand and summoning her new rook piece Sona held it up to her eyes and studied it intently "I may just have a very good use for you after all" she finished.


Underworld

Reaper quadrant

"Ahhh, I can't take it any more" yelled Issei, "It's been over four weeks now how long can it take?".

Looking up from making her dinner Bennia replied "Cool your jets. The egg heads have to wait until things cool down remember".

"Yes but the not knowing is killing me. What is happening back home for the police to take this long in solving a crime?".

Finishing off her dinner Bennia moved back to the living area with her dinner. From what Doctor Sagiri said, the police back in Kouh will never be able to solve the current murders, remember he said that it was the works of Fallen Angels. We just have to wait until they give up".

Thinking about home Issei lamented "But my parents haven't been able to hold a funeral yet. How hard is this being on them?".

Thinking whilst she was eating Bennia commented finally "I guess you're right. I have always focused on the dead. I've never given those left behind much thought before".

Thinking about what he knew about the young girl's family, Issei asked after a while "If you don't mind me asking, what about your mother?"

Sitting there with a fork in her mouth Bennia paused for a second before removing it and replying neutrally "I never knew my mother she died giving birth to me".

"Oh, I'm sorry". Replied Issei falling into an uncomfortable silence.

Finishing off her meal she replied "It's ok. I never knew her at all. Not even a photograph. All I've ever known is life here".

"Not even a photograph?". Amazed at this he continued more shrewdly "Not even a photo? Cameras have been around for ages, How long ago did this happen?".

Smiling at him she waved her finger at him "No, no, no. See there you go again. No prying into how old I am. A girl has to have some secrets".

Losing all colour in his face, Issei stammered at being caught out "N n no that's not what I meant".

Peering at him closely Bennia commented "Are you sure? You seemed to be mighty interested in my age lately?".

"No nothing like that. I just want to get to know you better that's all".

"Yeah yeah, sure sure, you do. I'm beginning to feel like you're taking a little too much interest in my age that's all." pausing for a second she added "You're sure that you aren't one of those" snapping her fingers trying to remember "Dammit what were they called again", she added brightly "Oh yes 'Lolicons'" she grinned having cornered him.

"Lolicon!", jumping up and waving his fist in the air, he continued full speed ahead and damn the consequences "I have you know that there's nothing better than oppai, and you certainly don't find oppai on flat chested lolita's like you!".

Seeing red at this comment Bennia jumped up out of her chair and threw her empty plate at him "Creep!, Idiot!, Enemy of women!" running out of things to throw at him she summoned 'Scythie' from the closet and smashed it down, thankfully blunt end first, into the floor.

Seeing her with 'Scythie' in hand Issei took off trying to get away from the now angry girl.

Chasing him round the house Bennia laughed madly trying to smite Issei for his comments. "You'll won't have to wait for your body any more" she yelled "I'm sending you back to the Second Ring right now".

Issei just kept moving always staying one step ahead of the madly laughing girl. Using his ghost abilities to fade through objects he moved from room to room. She was just about to smash through the wall to stop him doing that when the phone rang.

Stopping what she was doing she put 'Scythie' against her shoulder and picked up the phone. "What!" she gasped out.

On the other end of the phone Doctor Sagiri pulled the handset away from his ear for a moment. Putting it back he answered "Bennia it's Doctor Sagri from R&D. Issei's parents have finished with their service and his body is being sent to the Crematorium as we speak."

Bennia just smiled and said "Right Doctor. When will you want Issei and I to come in?".

Hearing that Issei rushed in and was hanging over her shoulder trying to listen in. "What is it? Is it time for us to go? What's happening?".

Getting frustrated with his actions Bennia spoke into the phone "Just a moment Doctor" and took a half hearted swipe at him with 'Scythie' "Back off just wait a few minutes". Returning to the phone "Sorry Doctor please continue".

Hearing the commotion on the other end of the phone Doctor Sagiri waited, upon hearing her come back he finished off "as for your anxious guest, We should have his body in our possession some time tomorrow morning, so at this stage, I would say tomorrow afternoon say around 4pm. That will give us plenty of time to repair the damage and get it up and running again". Looking across the room at a medical table with a body on it, there were several medical people working on it, he reiterated "Yes most definitely tomorrow afternoon".

"Thank you Doctor we'll see you tomorrow, Bye". Hanging up the phone she looked at Issei standing there expectantly. Looking at his hopeful face she simply said "4pm tomorrow"

Hearing that Issei cheered "Yes!, finally no more ghosting about for me".

Tightening her grip on 'Scythie' Bennia leapt forward at Issei, but he didn't move and she went straight through him.

Unaware of her movement due to his cheering Issei felt Bennia pass through him. Seeing her stumble on the other side he looked at her and said "Pervert", and not letting go of it either he added smugly "pettanko".[1]

Hearing this she screamed "PETTANKO!," Jumping up and brandishing "scythie like a club she added "that's it prepare to die".

Their laughter and screams could be heard well into the night.


131176


Hall of Neutrality

Serafall sat there fuming, Several times this meeting had been put off or delayed by Pluto. To be honest if he didn't show this time she was marching straight to Hades' so-called throne room to tear his bony head from his shoulders. Hearing a whisper of footsteps and fabric on the ground She looked up and saw the object of her ire entering the room.

Raising his hand upon entering Pluto greeted "Kalispera[2] Serafall"

Raising her hand in reply "Good evening Pluto"

Taking a seat across from the irate woman Pluto took in her body language and knowing why she was here he wondered how much longer he could stretch this out for before doing something.

After exchanging pleasantries for a few moments, as one is to do during diplomacy, Serafall got to the point. "Pluto I have arranged this meeting because one of your reapers, someone by the name of Bennia violated the five minute treaty".

"Oh dear, that is quite unfortunate. We make sure that all of our active patrolling reapers are aware of the treaty. Are you sure that your information is correct?" he replied blandly.

"Quite sure Pluto, I checked 'The Book' to confirm my facts before contacting you". Replied Serafall diplomatically ignoring the jab about her information.

"Yes, yes 'The Book' certainly doesn't lie so you must be correct. What was the name of the reaper again?".

"Bennia".

"Bennia, Bennia", he thought out loud rummaging through his paperwork, "Ah here it is, Yes Bennia the daughter of Orcus. She is currently on administrative leave, tending to a private project for her father".

Hearing who the reapers father was, and suspicious that he had the information on the reaper in question at hand, Serafall knew that this issue just got a whole lot harder. With the girls father being the head of a faction, and the commander of the collections agency. 'Politics' she sighed to herself 'what a pain in the ass. Why did I let Sirzechs talk me into this position again?'.

Reaching into the file beside her, she removed copies of her supporting documentation and passed it over. "Hear are the supporting documents and depositions from the people involved. Also included is a file from the human police in regards to the summoning pentagram the boy was carrying. As you see our case is quite strong".

Looking over the documents Pluto frowned and swore to himself, 'Fuck' he thought 'The Gremory clan and the sister to Sirzechs as well'. Glancing up at Serafall he saw her smirking.

Seeing Pluto frowning Serafall smirked just to rub it in further. "I see you are well versed in our clans and heiress. Yes. She is the sister to our Lord Lucifer, and as you can imagine we won't be letting this go any time soon". Standing up from the table she leaned over. "I hope we can resolve this peacefully and sooner rather than later. I'll give you a few days to mull things over and speak to Hades and Orcus. But do keep in mind that Lord Lucifer dotes on his sister, and is watching things closely". With that she stood back up and walked out.

Watching her walk out Pluto clenched his fists around the paperwork. 'Well shit!' he thought 'that puts a big kink in Hades' plans'.


131176


Underworld

Reaper quadrant

Next morning

Sitting in Hades' presence whilst he irate was not recommended. His aura had manifested itself and seemed to be writhing like a mass of snakes waiting to strike at the unsuspecting. Sweeping his arm across the desk and depositing everything on the floor he hissed out "Sirzechs, that damn buffoon. It had to be his sister didn't it!. Well that bitch Serafall is right, the way he dotes on his sister he won't let this go". Spearing Orcus with a glare he asked "How is your daughter going with the host? Had she made any inroads yet?".

Sitting there calmly so as not to draw attention to himself Orcus replied "Yes. From what she is reporting to us they seem to be getting along just fine. The host is still receptive to joining us".

Smiling thinly Hades continued "Good, good. It seems that your idea of handing down her punishment in front of the court was a good one Orcus. My spies tell me that your daughter has become quite isolated within the community, and the reports from her apartment complex are positive as well. Doctor Sagiri informs me that the hosts body was quite poor in being able to use magic, and that the adjustments he has made has fixed that problem. Unfortunately he was unable to make too many modifications, as there are signs that, The Dragon was aware before the host was sent to the Second Ring".

Everyone in the room understood the issue, from past experiences with sentient devices, they were touchy about massive unexplained changes in their hosts, and reacted badly when tried. No one wanted to attempt that with The Red Dragon Emperor.

Looking over at his Foreign Affairs spokesperson Hades continued "How long do you think that Lucifer and Leviathan will wait before things come to a head?".

Shifting uncomfortably in his seat Pluto responded "Unknown at this stage. I have several plans in place to try and draw things out. But Serafall had done her homework, she had consulted "The Book" before our meeting so they are well aware that the boy hosts The Red Dragon Emperor".

With that Hades decided to end the meeting "Good. Good" he cackled "Things seem to be heading in the right direction for once. That's all for now". Hearing the dismissal Pluto and Orcus left the room. Hades spun his chair around and looked out his window and took in the view of his domain. Rubbing his hands together he continued to cackle "Soon, everything will fall into place" he finished with room falling into silence.

Breaking the silence a few moments later a voice spoke softly behind him "I don't take lightly to you messing with my kind".

Spinning around, not having felt a presence, Hades saw a young girl sitting in one of the couches along the wall. "Ophis!, What do you want".

"Just checking on my investment. Making sure that the power I have given you is not being misused for…." trailing off she finished exuding a presence more powerful than his own "other purposes".

"Of course not I am fully dedicated to your cause. There are thing that need to be put in place on our end to make your goals attainable".

"I would advise you, that messing with my kind can lead to bad karma Hades. I would recommend that you don't cross me, the results are…." trailing off again, she finished "unpleasant". With that final warning she vanished.

Watching the space where she had disappeared, he held up his hand and seeing a snake start to form he whispered "Oh yes fully dedicated indeed" exerting his magic he forced the snake back into his system.


Bennia's Apartment

Cleaning up after a fight in her apartment was not on the top 10 things that she liked doing, having to do it on her own was even worse. But she certainly felt a lot happier than she had in days. Finishing up she sat down next to Issei. "What's the first thing you want to do when you get your body back" she asked.

"Get something to eat!, I've been here for the last month watching you eat everyday. I want to taste food again". Thinking of the fast food store that he saw just down the road from Bennia's apartment he added "A burger and fries. With a thick shake. Mmmm I can almost taste it now".

Laughing at him she added "How are you going to pay for it? You don't have any money".

Turning to face her he held his hands up together praying, and trying to give her puppy dog eyes he begged "Please Bennia you have to help me. I'll pay you back as soon as I can. Please help this unworthy person".

"I don't know, you might skip out on me after the meal".

Getting off the couch he knelt down at her feet still praying to her. "Please Bennia, you have to believe me".

Continuing to laugh at him she agreed "Sure, sure I'll treat you. Consider it a proper welcoming present. Now get up off the floor".

"Thank you, thank you" Getting up off the floor Issei and sat back down beside her. Doing that reminded him of his experiments the other day and the fight last night. "Hey Bennia how come I can sit and lay down but pass through everything else?".

Looking at him she chirped "Reaper magic".

"There we go again with the reaper magic reply" he muttered, "no seriously how does that happen?" he asked.

Pausing for a dramatic effect she responded "How the hell do I know?, I'm not an egghead! I'm a reaper So it's reaper magic".

Face palming at the response he finished "Reaper magic, is the answer to all the unknowns isn't it?".

"Finally figure that one out did you. Good for you there's hope for you yet", she finished laughing at him.

Sitting there for a while watching TV, Bennia stirred "Hey Issei can I ask you a question?".

"Sure what is it?"

Moving closer to him she lowered her voice "Over the last month I've noticed some strange things going on".

Lowering his voice as well he responded "Like what?".

"Well as I said there have been a lot of changes at work. More militant people moving in massive restructuring of staff levels. More reservists coming through for training".

"Hmmmm, go on".

"When I came and picked you up from the Second Ring, Minos had a short conversation with me about things that he had heard, but wouldn't talk about it. I've known Minos for a long time he's a good person, he is only interested in doing his job. He doesn't get involved with politics or anything else, for him to mention that to me seems strange in hindsight. The other thing was, when I saw my father after your first night here his secretary had a similar conversation with me as well".

"That does seem odd doesn't it".

"Yes it does, now singularly they could mean anything but put all those things together and….".

Frowning at what she was insinuating "It doesn't look good, does it?".

Looking away from him in guilt she responded "The last thing is, that this all seems to have really got going when you arrived".

"You think that this is all tied into Hades trying to get Ddraig and I, to work for him?".

Looking down at her clenched hands in her lap she replied "I believe so".

Sitting back in the couch Issei asked "Well then what do we do?".

"We still have a couple of weeks yet, you'll need time to get used to your body again, and be trained on reaper magic and the use of your scythe".

Thinking of how badass he would look casting spells and using a scythe, Issei fist pumped and said "Yes".

Moving closer to him she leaned over and whispered in his ear "If the devils come looking for you, I think that you better go with them, and get out of here".

Whispering back he retorted "What about you?".

"What about me!".

"What about you?" he reiterated "After everything you've told me. About what you have been told to do to get me to stay. What do you think they'll do to you if I leave?".

Not really thinking that far ahead she answered "I don't know".

"Neither do I. But know this" he vowed, "If I leave you're coming with me ok. I won't leave you here to face them with failure. I won't leave a friend behind like that".

Looking into his eyes and seeing his conviction, Bennia felt her lips dry and a wave of emotion crash through her. Right then she wished that he wasn't a ghost. "Ok" she said thickly, licking her lips "Ok, let's see what happens". With that she moved back to her original place on the couch and waited in silence for the time to leave, with a myriad of thoughts running through her head.


Reaper R&D

Knowing where they were going saved them the terror of having to deal with the main receptionist again. Still Issei couldn't help but stare at her boobs whilst passing.

Seeing this Bennia gave him a verbal prod "Come on boob head we don't have time for that", pausing she continued on, "Anyway", she she said with a fake nasal twang, "I think you like being able to hear".

Remembering her voice Issei hurried along to catch up.

Seeing them arrive early Doctor Sagiri's receptionist told them to take a seat. Sitting there Issei focused on the clock, as 4pm came and went, he started to become nervous 'What's taking so long?' he thought 'What if something has gone wrong?, what if I can't get my body back?'. Just as he was about to get up he heard footsteps coming from down the hall. Seeing Doctor Sagiri they both stood up.

"Ahh Issei", looking at his watch he said "Running late again I see. You know if you keep this up Bennia you'll start to get a bad reputation".

Gritting her teeth in frustration she said nothing.

Disappointed in not getting a response, Doctor Sagiri turned around and said with a flourish "Right this way Issei, you've waited long enough, let's get this show on the road".

Just as she started to follow them Doctor Sagiri stopped her. "I'm sorry Bennia but from here on it's just Issei. You'll have to wait here".

Disappointed at not being there when he was brought back she asked "Why?".

"This is a very delicate procedure, especially with something as powerful as the 'Red Dragon Emperor'. Any magic from a source not keyed into the magical array could disrupt the whole procedure and kill Issei outright".

Hearing that she spun around and retook her seat. Waving at Issei she called out with a grin "Good luck Issei, hope you don't explode". With that she picked up a very out of date magazine, and started to browse through it, humming to herself.

Looking at his friend reading a magazine, Issei looked at the Doctor, mustered up his nerve and stated "Right!, let's do this". With that he felt like he was walking to a gallows.

Walking into the procedure room Issei looked around. Seeing his body on the ground shocked him. He understood now what people meant by out of body experience. Looking closer he noticed that there seemed to be no wounds like what Ddraig described anywhere on his body. There were also a heap of chalk squiggles on the ground with a section missing.

Noticing him studying his body Doctor Sagiri commented "You didn't think we would put you back in your body whilst it was still wounded did you?".

Replying truthfully Issei commented "I don't know what to think at the moment".

Proud of his work Doctor Sagiri filled him in. "Well we have healed the wound that killed you, and fixed up all the mess the human medical examiner did after you died. You should have seen the mess he made, why they would cut in to a man's pe…".[3]

Issei blanched at that waving his hands interrupting he said "No thanks".

Disappointed at not being able to fill him in on the details he continued. "Right then all we have to do now is complete the magic array. Now if you could enter the array through the passage we have left, we will finish it off and get started."

Doing as he was instructed, the assistants filled in the rest of the array. Once finished Doctor Sagiri and the assistants began channelling their magic into the array on the floor.

All Issei saw was the array begin to glow, then a light so white he closed his eyes at the brightness of it.


Mindscape

Opening his eyes again all Issei could see was white. Thinking something had gone wrong he called out "Doctor Sagiri, are you there?".

Not hearing anything for a few moments Issei panicked when he felt a low rumble in the ground. Turning around he saw him. Ddraig and boy did he looked pissed off.

Lowering his head down Ddraig rumbled "Stupid boy, What have you gotten into?".

Plucking up his nerve Issei retorted "What do you mean what have I gotten into?. I haven't done anything".

'You certainly have done something foolish boy. Why are we still bound together? Why haven't I been sent to a new host yet?", getting angry he roared "What have you done?".

"I haven't committed to anything yet you grouch. At this stage all I've committed to was to be removed from the second ring. It's not my fault if no one's actually asked me yet what I want!".

Being mollified at this Ddraig calmed down slightly and stared at his host for a while thinking, finally he responded "Clever, very clever boy, so seeing how you haven't made a commitment to anything yet what have you got planned?".

"Well seeing how I have been a ghost for the last four weeks, the first thing I had to do was get my body back. After that, from what I've seen and heard about this place, the sooner I get out of here the better".

"Hmmm" the dragon rumbled in thought "Maybe you're not as stupid as you look".

Deciding to tell the giant dragon what he knew Issei filled him in on what had happened over the last four weeks. "...so we think that Hades has got something planned, that he needs you for" he finished off.

Lowering himself to the ground Ddriag mulled over all that his host had told him. "I see, so that is why I have been stuck here in this void, instead of being sent to a new host." chuckling to himself he continued "You don't know how smart it was by not committing to becoming a reaper. By not giving an oath you are not bound to them. Oaths mean more in this world that the human world. Once you give your word you can be magically bound by it and forced to comply".

Hearing this for the first time Issei nodded carefully "So in other words watch what I say".

Feeling a power wash through his senses Issei stumbled "Wow what was that? That felt really good!".

"Like that did you? That was your soul connecting back to your body. That feeling you just got was the sensation of my power". Expanding his own senses, Ddraig stood back up and growled menacingly.

Seeing the change in the Dragon Issei looked around worried. "What's wrong?" he asked.

Looking down at the boy Ddraig considered his words carefully "When you were attacked by the Fallen Angel was when I first awoke. I have been bound in that accursed sacred gear for a very long time, and have had several hosts".

Interrupting the dragon Issei interjected "So I believe", and then kept his mouth firmly shut when Ddraig continued.

Stomping his foot on the ground Ddraig continued "Don't interrupt boy this is very important. When I am bound to a new host even though I am asleep, my senses work passively and I get a feel for what my host's body is like. During my first few hosts this sensation confused me greatly when I awoke. But after moving through several hosts I have come to understand what my new host can and cannot do when I first awake. This ability over time has managed to save the host in several occasions".

Issei just nodded his head in understanding.

"When I awoke in your body, my senses told me that whilst your physical condition was average, your magical ability was nil".

Dropping his shoulders Issei thought 'There goes shooting magical fireballs'.

Not noticing him Ddraig continued "Something has changed though, Your magical ability now feels about average." thinking about this Ddraig concentrated harder, "Yesss it feels like there has been an alteration made, subtle, very subtle but I can feel the remaining presence of foreign magic in certain areas that make one receptive to magic". Rousing himself he looked down on Issei and added "Your assumptions might be correct boy. Tread carefully and watch your back. For someone to do this they are desperate. It is well known that Dragons are a prideful race and don't like taking short cuts. Power earned by oneself is power gained permanently. They obviously don't know about the passive working of my senses or they would never have tried this".

Speaking up Issei asked "Why?".

"As I said we are very prideful, if you had did this to yourself, I would have refused to work with you, and just waited until you died and moved on. I've done it before and I'll do it again if necessary. You gain your own power, make your own sacrifices, and own agreements with ME, and as you get stronger, I'll add my strength to yours. Doing things that way we'll be unbeatable. I've got all of eternity to wait, so one way or the other I'll get what I want".

Thinking about what he had been told Issei couldn't help but feel conflicted 'No short cuts!, I've got god mode sitting right here and I can't use it straight away!. What a ripoff'. Sighing to himself 'Well Ddraig laid it out, so I guess I'll have to suck it up'. Out loud he asked "So what do we do now?".

"For the moment, train yourself in your new abilities, and watch and listen to what's going on. I've never been bound to a reaper before, so things will be different for me this time. Don't let anyone know that you know about the adjustments that were made. Let them think they got away with it".

Just then the dreamscape started to fade.

"What about Bennia?".

Fading out Ddraig finished "If you truly believe in her, then trust her, if not…..".


Medical floor

The first thing that Issei felt was the cold floor, then he heard the voices of Doctor Sagiri and his assistants slowly getting louder and louder as if someone was turning up the volume on a radio. The noise finally evened out at a constant volume. Deciding to open his eyes he saw the last traces of the white light fading out.

Standing there Doctor Sagiri saw Issei open his eyes and couldn't help himself "IT'S ALIVE!", he chanted "IT'S ALIVE!" and danced around.

His assistants just shook their heads at his antics and moved in to check on Issei to make sure everything was ok after the procedure. Poking and prodding, taking readings with medical probes etc.

Issei just lay there taking in all the sensations that he had missed over the last four weeks, he tried to speak but a croaking whisper came out.

Hearing him try to speak a nurse propped him up, once the assistants had finished, and passed him a glass of water.

Taking a small sip to wet his lips and throat he thanked the nurse, and proceeded to sit up properly. Sitting there on the floor he felt strange. He thought his body would be weak after four weeks, but Doctor Sagiri was as good as his word. Issei felt like refreshed, like waking up after a good night's sleep.

Coming over to him after his little dance Doctor Sagiri came over to where Issei was on the floor and asked "How do you feel?".

"I feel great, never better".

"See, I told you that you were in good hands didn't I?".

Thinking about what Ddraig had said about tampering Issei muttered "Yes, yes you did".

"Well then there's no time like the present". With that helped Issei up off the floor.

Standing there Issei was amazed, there was no weakness, no strange sensations, nothing unusual at all. Looking at the Doctor he said "I don't feel any different at all. It's all very strange".

Nodding his head in agreement. Doctor Sagiri explained "It is very different to a long stay in hospital. Your muscles have not weakened at all. With the healing your body has had, you are as good as new. It's just a mental thing you need to overcome, you'll be right in a few hours, here take a walk around the room. Don't fear I'll be right beside you".

Slowly taking a few hesitant steps Issei found that he was right. After a few minute's he was walking, bending, and jumping as if nothing had happened. Grinning from ear to ear, he said "Amazing, it's absolutely incredible".

Seeing that the procedure went well, Doctor Sagiri moved to one of his assistants, and checked the notes they had compiled. After studying them for a few moments he said "Right, everything seems to be in order, Come this way".

Thinking that they were heading for some more tests Issei was surprised that they were heading back down the corridor to reception. Entering the room he saw Bennia still sitting there reading the magazine she had picked up earlier. Looking up at the clock he saw that only ten minutes had passed since he first went in.

Looking up from her magazine Bennia saw Issei and the Doctor standing there. Putting the magazine down, she stood up. Looking him over she said "I assume that everything went well then, obviously you didn't explode?".

Thumping his chest Issei replied "Yes, they tell me I'm as good as new".

Interrupting the two of them Doctor Sagiri interjected "The procedure went according to plan".

Issei narrowed his eyes at that.

Seeing the look on Issei's face, Bennia made a note to ask him later.

"...so what you'll need to do now is just relax for a few days. Nothing too strenuous". Pulling a piece of paper from his pocket he added "It's never happened before but here is my contact details. If something happens in the next 24 hours then ring me straight away. After that everything will be fine". Patting him on the back the Doctor added "Welcome to the world of reapers Issei". With that he turned and headed off.


Making their way from R&D Bennia and Issei walked along chatting comfortably "How does it feel to be whole again?" Bennia asked.

"It's really strange, after being a ghost, I mentally don't feel any different. It's little things that I'm noticing at the moment like the feel of the breeze, and it's scent. Things that I suppose we take for granted in everyday life".

"Funny, I don't notice it at all. Maybe you become desensitized to it as you grow older".

As they were talking Issei wasn't paying attention to where he was walking and bumped face first into a pole. "Oww!" he said rubbing his forehead and nose in pain.

Beside him Bennia folded up in laughter "Bwhahaha, You have to watch what you're doing now idiot".

"Yeff, yeff lauf if uf" he said rubbing his nose making sure it wasn't broken.

Continuing to laugh she said "Come on idiot, lets go get that burger and fries you so desperately wanted".


Later that night

Laughing at his current mishap Bennia opened the door to her apartment summoning 'Scythie' and putting it in the usual cupboard they made their way into the living area. Sitting down on the couch Issei commented "Wow! I didn't appreciate how soft this really is".

After grabbing some drinks Bennia joined him. Placing one in front of him, she sat down as well.

"Thanks" said Issei taking a sip. Turning to face her he said "Thanks for everything you've done tonight, I really had a good time".

"Bah, if you thought I was going to only take you out for dinner as a proper welcoming you're sorely mistaken".

"It is a wonderful place that you have here and some of the sights were amazing. Thank you I really appreciate it" said a heartfelt Issei.

Blushing at the compliment and quickly finishing her drink she stood up "Well that's me done for the day, I'm heading off to bed. Good night".

Looking at the couch Issei said "Guess I'm still sleeping here then".

Hearing that Bennia giggled "I might know you better, but you're still not sharing my bed. Night Issei".

Sighing he replied "Good night".


Hades' Throne Room

Sitting on his throne with his court surrounding Hades was listening to a report from the good Doctor Sagiri.

"So to sum things up my lord, at this stage the procedure has worked correctly. There has been no adverse reactions to our adjustments and everything seems to be going according to plan".

"Excellent Doctor, well done. The risks of upsetting a sentient sacred gear are high. For you to have pulled this off is a testament to your skills. Rest assured that this won't be forgotten" Hades praised. "Now leave us".

Bowing deeply Doctor Sagiri said "Thank you my lord". Turning around he left the Throne Room.

Waiting until he left Hades looked over to Orcus. "Have him disposed of. There can be no loose threads".

Summoning an aide Orcus whispered his instructions to him. Bowing the aide left the Throne Room.

Just as he was about to leave Hades called out to the departing aide, always looking for something new to entertain himself and cackling at his idea "Make it look like a research accident, something stupid, we can't have our scientists getting too worried now, can we".

Receiving his updated instructions the aide bowed and fled.


Underworld

Devil quadrant

Serafall hummed a jaunty tune to herself as she made her way to Sirzechs' office. Knocking on the door she let herself in before getting a reply. Announcing her presence with a loud "Zechs-tan" seeing him sitting there she bounded over to her usual seat and sat down nodding to Grayfia standing in her usual place behind him.

Laughing at her entrance Sirzechs commented "You'll regret barging in here one day Serafall".

Adopting an air of innocence she replied "Oh like that day you were all tied up Zechs-tan hanging ...".

Cutting his friend off mid sentence Sirzechs said "Yes, well we best forget about that then. What can I do for you today Serafall?".

Grinning at the uncomfortable position Sirzechs was in and seeing the blush on Grayfia's face she thought 'Serafall 274 Sirzechs 0' "It's about the Red Dragon Emperor".

Hearing the topic Sirzechs held up his hand, and looked at Grayfia. Seeing his look she cast a spell through the room. Looking back at Serafall's inquisitive look he explained "A privacy spell of custom design, we had some elders in here earlier today, and we haven't swept the room yet".

Understanding where he was coming from she just nodded her head. Watching Grayfia work, she saw her give the ok that it was safe to talk. Focusing her attention back on Sirzechs she asked "Ok what's really going on.?".

"Whatever do you mean?" he replied innocently.

"Don't give that crap Sirzechs, there's something else going on here and I want to know what. If you want me to do my job properly, I need to know". She replied angrily.

Sirzechs glanced at Grayfia and saw her shrug. Focusing back on his friend he replied "Ok, we have been receiving reports that there has been a fundamental change in what Hades had been doing. We all know that we pushed too hard in creating that peace treaty but the elders would not budge. So now we have a pissed off God of Death with an axe to grind building his forces up".

Thinking about things she replied "Ok I get that but what about the Red Dragon Emperor, where does that fit into all of this?"

Smirking he answered "I keep tabs on my sister just as you do. When she started to develop an interest in the host, I had him checked out. Imagine my surprise when I found out he held the boosted gear".

Seeing things start to fall into place, Serafall added "and?".

"You know as well as anyone that I don't like this arrangement with the Phenex clan. That boy is nothing but trouble, so ….".

Finishing off for him "So you made arrangements to slip your sister the mutated rook you gave me, so that she wouldn't lose too many pieces, but that all fell apart when the Fallen Angel killed him".

"Yes, now you're catching on".

Shaking her head she answered "That's too subtle for you Zechs-tan", looking over at Grayfia she stated, "sounds more like your work".

Blushing at the compliment she answered, "Someone's got to have some subtly in the family".

Frowning at being shot down like that, Sirzechs continued on, "So then with the reports coming in. It became more about the reapers NOT having that kind of strength supporting them than anything else".

"So why give me the rook to pass on to Sona then?".

"During our surveillance of my sister, we discovered that, she is as impatient as her brother. She has taken on another Boy holding Vritra at the cost of four pawns. Courtesy of your sister. With the way the two of them are working together, it looks more than likely, that the two of them are going to form an alliance between our houses".

Thinking about this and liking where it was going she asked "How likely?".

Smiling Sirzechs responded "Likely enough for me to pass on to Sona through you a mutated rook, to hopefully use on a certain Boosted Gear user".

Sitting there Serafall started clapping "Excellent work….." pausing for a moment. She finished "Grayfia, excellent work indeed".

Beaming at the start of Serafall's congratulations, Sirzechs collapsed onto the desk when she praised his wife instead. 'Dammit why can't people believe that these plans are mine' he thought.

Finishing her applause Serafall wrapped up their discussion "So all that remains is for me to get him out of reaper possession".

Sitting back up and looking serious Sirzechs answered "Yes. From what we are hearing he can't stay at all. Push as hard as possible Serafall even if you have to use sanctions, I don't care, whatever is required. If you need me there to force the issue it will be done, everything short of war".

Seeing how serious he was Serafall stood up to leave "Right then, looks like I've got my work cut out then". Sniffing as she was walking out "I'll let you two get back to what you were doing then. Remember to lock the door next time". With that she opened the door and walked out.

Looking at her husband Grayfia said "I thought you said the door was locked!".


Underworld

Reaper quadrant

Bennia's Apartment

"Come on sleepy head time to get up" Bennia nudged the sleeping boy with her foot trying to wake him.

Issei just rolled over onto his side and continued to sleep.

Having been trying to wake him for five minutes she kicked the cushions really hard "Wake up" she yelled getting frustrated. Having been trying to wake him for some time.

With that Issei woke up with a fright "Aaahh, what did you do that for?", he yelled.

"I've been trying to wake you for over five minutes. Come on, time to get up. We've got places to go and things to do".

Standing up he grumbled "Like what?".

"We have to get you kitted out with everything you need. Luckily my department is picking up the tab for your gear". With him standing right in front of her she blanched and pointed "Go get in the shower, you stink". With that Issei moved off to the shower, fixing up the couch she grumbled to herself, "He better not stink up my couch with his B.O.".

After showering and helping Bennia fix a small breakfast for the two of them. She grabbed 'Scythie' from his resting place and they headed out. Walking along Issei asked "Where are we going?, are we headed to your workplace?".

Grimacing about her work and what happened there she replied "No, we are headed to the Armoury That's where we'll get you your own scythe, and work gear from so we can begin your training".

Thinking that he would have to look through hundreds of scythes to find the right one he asked "But how will I know which scythe is right for me?".

Looking at him stunned she replied cheerily "Reaper Magic". Pausing she added pulling out a notebook from nowhere and writing in it "I'll have to start classes to bring you up to speed".

"So you don't know then?".

Reaching up she clipped him behind the ear. "Idiot, we use reaper magic to find out what type of scythe is right for you". Thinking about what she had done she added to her notebook again "Remember to give Issei a beating for all the times he ghosted through me to cop a feel", and remembering she added writing down 'ask what that look was about yesterday'.

Walking along they finally came to a nondescript building with a sign on the front that said "Armoury - For all your slashing needs". Stopping at the entrance before entering she looked back at Issei, "Don't mind the look of this place everyone who come here can get quite upset at times and remember above all else DON'T cross the yellow line until permitted, Got it?".

"Don't cross the yellow line" iterated Issei "Got it".

"I mean it Issei, these people are fanatical about rules and regulations".

"Okay I got it 'Don't cross the yellow line".

"Right let's go", with that she pushed the door open and made her way inside.


Entering in behind her Issei stopped and stared dumbfounded at what he saw. A fairly large room with a wall at one end, with a small window in it that looked like a bank teller, and a large yellow line painted on the floor about three feet in front of it. The walls had large warning signs painted on them, warning about not crossing the yellow line until asked.

The thing that stood out the most was the damage. The place looked like a war zone the walls were slashed and burnt. The light fixtures were hanging down with wires sparking. There were holes in the floor that looked like someone had driven a spike through them. The furniture was smashed, it looked like someone had tried to use a bench to breakthrough the wall as there was a large dent in it and the smashed bench was just lying on the floor in pieces.

Making his way through following Bennia they stopped at the yellow line. Rummaging through her pocket she mumbled "Now where is it?", pulling out several pieces of paper she looked through then commenting as she went "No. No. No. Oh I forgot Lethe owes me fifty dollars, No. Ah here it is pulling out a ream of paperwork, one requisition order for a full reaper kit". Having found what she was after she yelled out "Service".

With that the teller window opened with a crash, and an old man, wearing a pince-nez on his long nose looked out and replied "Service".

"One requisition order for a full reaper kit thank you" she asked the man.

Just then a small panel opened in the wall and a tray on a long metallic rod came out. Moaning and groaning as it moved towards them, halting a few time before it reached them. When it finally reached them the teller stated "Paperwork".

Placing the paperwork in the tray it snapped back inside the wall with a large bang. With that the old man looked over the paperwork very carefully humming to himself as he did. Looking away for a moment he seemed to consult with someone else. Agreeing with the unseen person he looked back at them and stated "Sections 465, 768, and 872 are not filled out correctly. You'll have to correct this before we can process this order. Once again the tray made its way back to them.

Snatching the paperwork from the tray Bennia flicked through the paperwork and looked over the sections in question "Dammit, I triple checked this, what is the problem?".

Calling out the old man responded "You forgot to dot your i's in all three sections in question".

Just staring at the old man, and his bureaucratic idiocy, she summoned a pen from nowhere, and fixed the paperwork, slamming it back into the tray. "There done!".

Taking back the paperwork the teller disappeared from the window.

Right at this point Issei began to understand why the room looked like it did.

After a short period the old man came back and the tray slowly made its way back, only to stop two feet short of them with a groan. Looking at them the teller said "Sign here".

Looking at where the tray stopped and the yellow line. Bennia looked over at Issei. "Well!" she said impatiently holding out the pen "Sign the damned paperwork".

Taking the pen Issei stepped forward to sign the paperwork only to see it snap back inside the wall.

"Issei" Bennia hissed "The yellow line".

Stepping back behind the line and seeing the cross look on the old man's face, the tray slowly made its way back out only to stop three feet short. Looking at the old man who was sporting an evil grin, and Bennia who looked exasperated. Issei thought about this for a few seconds whispering to her he said "Help me back up when I'm done". Leaning forward he fell towards the tray, grabbing the edge with one hand, he propped himself there and drew an 'x' on the dotted line. With her help he stood back up.

With that the tray snapped back inside. After several minutes the wall beside them split apart and the goods that Bennia ordered were inside. With that the window in front of hem snapped closed. Moving over to the wall Bennia produced a bag from nowhere, and began to collect the goods that had been ordered.

Helping her pack, and after seeing her produce something from nowhere again, Issei couldn't help but ask "Where did you get the bag from?".

"It's a simple spell that we use to store stuff. I'll show you how to do it later".

With that the two of them finished and exited the building. Once they were outside Issei said "I can understand now why the room looked like it did. I bet that there have been some pretty frustrated people in there."

"Yes there have" she said emphatically.

"Sounds like you are talking from experience".

"Who you think tried to burn the place down!". Whistling a happy tune she walked off.


End


Author's notes

I only use the Light Novels as cannon. The anime looks pretty thou.

No to Hiden from Naruto's scythe, sorry for those who asked.

Got something worked out now in regards to that.

[1] Pettanko anime slang for a flat chested girl.

[2] Greek for greeting someone in the evening

[3] Doctor Sagiri was about to say 'pericardium'. Which is the membrane enclosing the heart. Get your mind out of the gutter :P

People keep asking about Issei as a permanent reaper, I strongly suggest they should read volumes 11 and 12. See baka tsuki for help.

Thanks for reading,

T.L