Sorry for the long wait! Between a nasty eye infection and several unforeseen family issues, both my ability and drive to write were severely diminished for a while. Back on track, so updates should be more regular. I'm so sorry for making you guys wait so long, please forgive me!
DraigTrueEmperor9 – Wait and see. Thanks for the support!
Aryan810101 – Soon. If you want it in the next chapter, sorry, but not that soon.
Shini Kurogane – Yes, the Excalibur Arc is happening. Can't comment on anything else
NAFNAF509 – Thanks for the continued support! Will do!
Punitor567 – Glad to see that my efforts to avoid that story type are appreciated!
GaryH2y – There's something called real life that prevents me from writing nonstop. I try me best though.
ShredX01 – Plays out just as well as one would imagine
Nega Kris – Yes, it is. Thanks!
Karlos1234ify – It had to happen, the trolling that is. And those are all legitimate concerns that may or may not be proven true.
DragonBoy – I will do my best to, work and school permitting.
T-B-R – Thanks for the support!
Kirinthor – Glad to hear from you again. Glad you like the backstory twist. Also, be prepared for more Ise Akeno moments
DatGuitarGirl – I'm so sorry but thank you. Trying to do my best here, but I'm glad you're patient, albeit enthusiastic about it.
Sennybee98 – All valid points. Background and prison training aside, he still has a Longinus. Also, if you recall, Issei is uniquely qualified to deal with other devils
Guest – Thanks?
KingRamses – Thank you!
Hunter-35 – Very carefully and in a way that complies with canon.
Nick – Thanks, thanks again, and I'm glad you enjoy it!
megaslayer321a – I had considered it, but there is an easier way, compliant with canon, for Rias to gain his trust. Glad to see you're interested, and thanks for the support!
Disclaimer: See 1st Chapter
" " – Speech
' ' – Thoughts
( ) – Albion, mental
( ) – Albion, speaking
Just a reminder that this is a DxD story that is also rated M. Last chapter saw the beginning of the ecchi scenes, they will continue. It wouldn't be DxD otherwise. You have been warned.
Slamming the last cabinet shut, Issei nearly crowed with relief. For four hours after the end of school, he had been kept in the administrative wing organizing records, transcripts, etc. It wasn't the worst punishment he'd had; it didn't even compare to Tartarus, but it was nice to be done.
The work itself had been monotonous, though it wasn't all that bad. Though he had had to sign agreements to never reveal other students' information, the process itself was very informative. Having sorted through his own class' records, he had found the complete histories of the Perverted Duo. Now he knew every little detail about their antics, some of which he'd pay to forget, but he now felt even more justified for what he did.
"Please refrain from excessive exuberance, the files may not survive." His warden, err, supervisor, was one Momo Hanakai, a second-year student and member of the Student Council. Short with white hair, her cute features were far from ordinary, further supported by the fact that she too smelled like a devil. She obviously was not part of Rias' peerage, but her energy most closely matched that of the Student Council President and her direct assistant. Filing away that information under 'interesting yet annoying', he shrugged.
"I wouldn't mess up the hard work I've done." Issei couldn't help but roll his eyes. "May I leave now"? He may have let up on controlling his dragon traits, temporarily letting his pupils turn similar to that of a snake and let his teeth visibly sharpen.
The poor girl gulped, rooted to the spot. Feeling sorry for scaring her, Issei retracted his reptilian features and profusely apologized before collecting his belongings then leaving. On his way to the clubhouse, he wondered about his sudden remorse.
'Strange. I used to not care at all for what people thought of me, but now?'
(You're not in prison anymore. You'll find that not everyone is out to kill you. Some want nothing more than to help, if only you'd let them.)
'You're talking about Rias and the others?'
(They've gone out of their way to help you. A home, clothes, food, and more. Maybe it's time for you to treat them with the same courtesy.)
Issei didn't respond. Shrugging his jacket off, he folded it and placed it with his belongings as he sat in the club's main room. Noting that there wasn't anyone present, he wondered where everyone was.
Since there wasn't anyone there, and he was still tired from his lack of adequate sleep, Issei decided to sprawl over one of the couches while facing the door. It only took a few moments before he dozed off, seemingly oblivious to the world.
Only a few minutes later, Rias appeared through a magic circle, illuminating the room with a ruby glow. Taking a moment to collect herself, as her client had been rather difficult to work with, she noticed that Issei had lazily draped himself over one of the couches. She would have frowned but chose not to, after remembering the punishment for him breaking school rules.
Regardless of how she felt about him napping, she did need to speak with him. It wouldn't do for a potential stray to be residing in her territory. Though she seriously doubted that Issei would ever truly go rogue, it was something that still needed to be addressed. But how to talk to him now?
Rias was no fool; she wasn't going to go out of her way to willingly waken a sleeping dragon. All common courtesy, and a great deal of common sense, advised against it. However she felt about it though, she did need to speak with him and lay down some ground rules.
Reaching to gently tap his shoulder, she was startled when Issei spoke without opening his eyes. "Is there something troubling you?" Recoiling, Rias drew back her hand as if stung.
"I'm sorry if I woke you. I just needed to speak with you that's all."
"You didn't wake me, I just got here. Resting my eyes and all that." Opening them and yawning, Issei reoriented himself into a sitting position that befitted a serious conversation. "So, how can I help?"
Unsure of where to begin, Rias decided to first appease the beast before her before possibly aggravating it. "I heard about what you did to those boys. Nice work."
Issei grinned. "I'm glad to see that it met you approval, though I don't think the devil president agrees."
"No, Shitori, better known as Sitri, was quite upset at your antics earlier, though the rest of the female population applauds your valiant actions." A smile graced her lips. "The rumor mill is already at work. They're calling you the 'Silver King of Kuoh' now. I think you've ousted Kiba from his former seat of undisputed royalty."
"Ha, that wasn't the intention, but I'm glad my work is appreciated somehow."
Rias nodded, before looking down and wring her hands. "Sona also brought up another interesting topic, one that you failed to mention." At his inquisitive look, she elaborated. "The gladiator fights in Tartarus."
Issei sighed, tilting his head back to glare at the ceiling. "So you know of them now. Is there anything specific you wish to know?"
"If it's not to much to ask, what was it like?"
"Why do you want to know?"
"Because I need to know if you're a danger to my servants. If you're a threat to devils in general. I don't believe for a second that you'd turn aggressively against us of your own free will, but it's a question that still needs answering."
"Huh. You're asking to please the higher-ups?" When she nodded, he continued. "If you see me as a threat, then you're on the right track. Anyone who fights and wins in the pits is inherently dangerous, that I can promise. However, that doesn't mean I intend to do anything to act against you. Remember, I do owe you for saving my life and all."
Somewhat grateful that her concerns had been laid to rest, Rias blushed. "You don't need to keep score like that. I already told you that I don't wish to keep you here if you don't want to stay."
"Ah, but I do want to stay. This is my hometown; it'd be very awkward if I left your service but stuck around a while longer. Not to mention incredibly rude. Now, what of the fights did you want to know specifically?"
Surprised that he was willing to divulge the information, Rias pressed him for details. Time passed as Issei described many of the trials he had undergone in prison. He elaborated where he could, but kept some things hidden. Rias understood that there were some details he wasn't comfortable with sharing and others that shouldn't be spoken of.
After an hour or two, Rias glanced at the clock before gasping with mock surprise. "Oh my, look at the time. I nearly forgot the other thing for you to do."
"Oh?"
Walking around behind her desk, she opened a drawer to retrieve a respectable stack of paper. Issei nearly cried as he saw his punishment would continue, though refrained from doing so through sheer will.
"These are the fliers we give to would-be clients. I'd like for you to hand these out on your way home tonight." Before he could complain, Rias added a silver lining. "You don't need to have all of them distributed today, just a significant number. I'd prefer for them to be fully disposed of by Monday morning, that way we can get started on jobs of your own."
"Alright then. Anything else?"
"No, that's all for now. Seeing that tomorrow is the weekend, you're free to do as you want until then. Just… try not to have any more repeats of this morning? I don't need another lecture from Sona."
"Hehe, no promises."
All in all, pamphlet duty wasn't particularly hard but it was time-consuming. Wandering through the market district, as well as through the mall, Issei was able to divest himself of all the evil papers before too long, though the effort of identifying potentials did bore him. Thankfully, he didn't have to walk far before arriving at his new home.
As he entered his apartment, Issei casually tossed his bag onto a table before stepping into the kitchen. After retrieving a glass of cold water, he nearly dropped it as yet another magic circle appeared.
(There is no end to them is there?)
From that circle, Akeno stepped forward. It looked as if she had been crying. Unsure of what to do, Issei tried to lighten the mood. "You know, usually people take the stairs. Or knock. Sometimes both."
Ignoring his rather pitiful attempt at humor, she stopped right in front of him. "Why didn't you tell me about the fights."
"I… I didn't want you to know."
"Why? Why didn't you tell me? I thought you trusted me!" Akeno was waving her arms now with each question, gesturing so fast that it was highly likely that she'd strike him by accident.
Grabbing her hands to get her attention, Issei chose to placate her rather than let her continue. "I didn't want anyone to know, you especially because I knew you would torture yourself over it like you are now!" He did not raise his voice nor speak quickly. Instead, he had chosen to say it simply, softly, and with a tone that conveyed absolute sincerity.
"Why?"
Pinching the bridge of his nose, Issei shook his head. "I knew that you'd freak out over it. Rias did too, but for different reasons that she could accept without guilt. But you…" he smiled weakly, "…you'd hurt yourself with the knowledge that I was suffering. Your imagination would run wild with possibilities that would do more harm to you than good. I couldn't let that happen, that's why I kept it from you."
Akeno was silent for several minutes. Issei waited for a response, any response, though now he was the one internally screaming for her to say something. A shout, a yell, a scream, those he could handle, but the accursed silence he could not.
"May I see?" Confused, he cocked his head sideways before she asked again. "Your scars. May I see?"
He wordlessly took her hand before moving to the main bedroom. Once there, he removed his uniform attire before stripping off his grey shirt. Turning back to face her, he watched as she circled him with new interest and sadness in her eyes. It was as if he was seeing him for the first time as she saw every scar, burn, and bruise for what they were.
"How… how did you survive?"
"It wasn't easy, believe me. There were times I didn't think I'd make it."
Stepping up to him, Akeno threw her arms around his neck as she burst into tears again. "It isn't fair! I should have been there with you, or you should have been with me! I hate the Grigori, I hate the Fallen Angels, I hate I'm one of them!"
Before she could keep going, Issei hugged her back, pulling her close to him and pressing his head upon hers. "It wasn't your fault, I don't want to hear you ever blame yourself for what happened. As for what you are, tell me, did ever you hate me for being a dragon?"
"No! Never!"
"Did you hate me for my parentage? Dragons aren't as perfect as many believe."
"That was never a problem! I just…"
Pulling back to kiss her forehead, he then moved his hands to tilt her head back so they were eye to eye with each other now. "If so, then please believe me when I say that it is not your fault. I have never blamed you for what other Fallen have done to me. Don't hate yourself; don't deny your heritage, please. For me."
She wordlessly nodded, before wiping away her tears. A sound of rushing wind breezed through the room, startling the pair. Looking around, they saw that Akeno had unconsciously released her wings. While she normally glamoured the lone wing she had previously despised, it now was fully exposed for its true nature. Black feathers swirled around her in a non-existent wind, silently falling to the floor.
"Even after all this time, it's nice to see that some things haven't changed." With a chuckle, Issei unfurled his own wings, now with their darkened outline patterned into the white scales. "You're still the prettiest Angel I know."
"Some things? I'm not a little girl anymore, and I'm certainly not an Angel." Her tears disappeared, a sultry grin crossing her face. "After all, neither would do what I'm about to."
Before he could discern her meaning, Akeno had pushed him to the bed before jumping atop him. Crashing her lips onto his, she kissed him as if it was her last. Returning it with equal passion, Issei sat up, pulling her into her lap. While the two continued, their respective wings, white and black, encircled the two, forming a comforting veil between them and the rest of the world, leaving them in peace.
Morning came all too soon. Issei, still shirtless, made a half-hearted effort to sit up before he found himself immobilized. Glancing down, he found that he was still wearing his pants form the day before, reassuring him that their make-out session hadn't gone too far. He also noticed that Akeno was draped over him, her dark hair a curtain that hid much of her body, though he could still see and feel that she was pressing her bare chest against his own.
The still-sleeping Akeno was currently resting her head against his shoulder, hence why he was loth to move for fear of waking her. Instead, he tilted his head back and stared at the ceiling, content to wait for her to regain consciousness on her own.
(Still doubt her feelings?)
'No… not anymore. Never again.'
(It's nice to see that you're happy with your lot in life again.) Albion did sound pleased. (So, what happens next?)
'Regardless of how Rias' engagement goes, I don't want to leave Akeno behind. Not again. I guess for her sake I can stay a little longer.'
(Hers and not Rias'?)
'What do you mean?'
(While I applaud your devotion, I recommend you find some way to cement Rias' trust with you, and yours with her. It wouldn't do for your 'master' to hold a grudge whilst you are in a relationship with one of her trusted servants.)
'Amen to that.' Further conversation was put on hold as Issei both felt and heard Akeno's breathing pattern change as she came to. Returning his gaze to her, he smiled as she opened her eyes sleepily. "Good morning."
"Good morning to you as well." Akeno pushed herself up slightly, exposing herself.
"Is there a reason for why you took your clothes off? I remember you being clothed when I fell asleep."
Akeno's cheeks turned red as she looked away. "I was hoping to remove some of your scars, but…" Her voice trailed off as he followed her gaze to a long scar that started from his shoulder and trailed to below his collarbone. "…it didn't work the way I'd hoped."
"Come here", Issei said as he sat up and hugged her to him once more. "Don't worry yourself over a few scratches. Besides, after so long, I'd miss them if they were gone."
Akeno nodded, not trusting herself to voice her concerns now that he had put them to rest. Though something else still troubled her. "So… what does this make us?"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean… where do you see yourself in a decade or more? I guess I really should be asking, what do I mean to you?"
Issei was taken aback. "In response to your first question, I'm not sure. After spending years dreaming of escape, I guess I didn't really plan that far ahead. As for the second, that depends on entirely on what you want."
"That's easy, I want you." Akeno snaked a hand down to his waist, where she deftly unbuckled his belt in preparation to go even further in her ministrations. Tears flooded her eyes when he forcefully grabbed her hand to make her stop. "Why? Do you not want me?"
"Believe me," he ground out between clenched teeth, "there's nothing else I want more. But too much time has passed; I don't want to hurt you because we decided to rush things when neither of us is ready. Besides," he gently cupped her face to bring her gaze to meet his own, "if I'm going to court you, I'm damn well going to do it right."
Relief blossomed in her eyes before she buried her head in his chest. "There was another reason. For sleeping with you that is."
"Oh?"
"You're really warm." With a contented sigh, she snuggled closer to him, pressing her figure to contour with his larger frame. Being the gentleman he was, Issei was only holding her to comfort her. He wasn't enjoying the sensations her breasts were causing. Not at all.
Breakfast was a quiet affair. Issei may have been provided a rather nice kitchen but it was lacking in terms of groceries, something that Akeno offered to help him with. While they were out procuring foodstuffs, they had time to talk. While he gave her an edited version of his time in jail, leaving out details that would worry her such as certain fights and Kuroka's presence, she graced him with a complete account of her time spent after their mothers were murdered.
She had spent some time, two years, on the run from Shuri's family, who had seen her as a monstrosity and an affront to their xenophobic traditions. After some time, she had stumbled upon territory under control of the Devils. By some good fortune, it was under the control of one of Lord Gremory's servants, and Rias was in his care at the time. He had sheltered her; Rias had brought her home to the Underworld, where they became best friends over the years. When Rias had received her Evil Pieces, Akeno had consented to being her first servant and Queen.
By the time she finished her story, they had returned to the apartment. After unpacking all the groceries, Issei's stomach was already growling for more food.
"Ara ara, ufufu. It seems that I'm trapped with a ravenous beast." Lifting a hand to cover her smile, Akeno was able to tease him with a guise of mock horror. "Whatever shall I do?"
"If you're so inclined, you could help with lunch. My cooking skills are abysmally terrible," Issei admitted.
"Do I hear a magic word?" Refusing to give in to her childish antics, Issei rolled his eyes, stepped forward and kissed her. Stunned, Akeno could only gape afterwards as Issei stepped back.
"Will that suffice?" Mutely nodding, Akeno turned back to the kitchen counter and began dicing vegetables for a stew, leaving Issei to begin gathering the other ingredients as instructed. It didn't take long before they were both sitting down to eat.
After the first bite, Issei's eyes lit up. "This is delicious! Where'd you learn to make this?"
"I learned many things while in the Underworld. I take it you approve?"
"Absolutely." Slurping up the rest of the soup, Issei quickly downed the rest of his meal. Suppressing a burp, he raised his bowl in supplication. "May I have some more?"
In the end, Issei finished off most of the stew on his own, surprising Akeno. 'I knew mother's old recipes were good, but he likes it that much? Although there is something to be said about a dragon's appetite.' Watching as Issei busied himself with the clean up, she smiled. 'I guess the way to a man's heart through his stomach after all.' She was pulled from her musings as a magic circle the size of a plate appeared before her. Through it came an envelope with the Gremory sigil embedded in the wax seal.
'A missive from the archduke?' Akeno frowned as she broke the seal; as Rias' Queen, she acted with her master's authority in Gremory affairs in the human world. 'Why would he… oh. Looks like we'll all have a bit of fun tonight.'
"Something the matter?" Issei stood at the divide between kitchen and dining room, plate and drying cloth in hand.
"Not really. We've been ordered to exterminate a Stray Devil that's taken up residence nearby. No, don't worry," she raised a hand to stop him from grabbing his dress shirt and jacket. "Protocol dictates that we move at night, under the cover of darkness."
Issei made a face. "How cliché."
"Trust me, I don't make the rules, but we're less likely to be spotted then and as devils we are stronger at night." Standing, she grabbed her bag before activating her own teleportation circle. "I'll go inform Rias and the others, so until then, you'll have to wait. I'll call Kiba, maybe he can hang out with you until tonight."
"Don't bother. I kinda want to explore a bit. Get used to really being back home. So much has changed, I still feel somewhat out of place."
"Alright then, I'll call when we're ready to go." Standing on her toes, she was just able to kiss his cheek. "See you later."
Turning to her circle, Akeno disappeared in a flash of red light, leaving Issei alone with his thoughts and an amused passenger.
(It's started already.)
'Huh?'
(The touchy-feely moments. Deny all you want, but that kiss goodbye wasn't absolutely necessary. Neither was the excess of last night.)
'You were spying! Fucking voyeur!'
(WE'RE A PACKAGE DEAL, BRAT! It's not like I want to know exactly how your love life is going. Though it is progressing rather well.)
'Tch, whatever.' Grabbing his extra clothes, Issei quickly donned them and prepared to head out into the city. 'Is it really?'
(You are a work-in-progress, perhaps I spoke too soon.)
Having gathered his phone and keys, Issei nearly opened the front door before a smile crossed his face. 'Fuck it.' Turning back to the massive window, he unlatched it, swung himself outside, and closed it. Taking a deep breath, he let go of the windowpane, allowing himself to free-fall four stories before stretching his wings to glide into a running landing.
(That's the spirit. Never take the stairs if you can fly.)
'You're a pain sometimes but I agree with you there.' Issei smirked as he retracted his wings. His senses were telling him that no one was in the vicinity, so humans wouldn't see his additional appendages. 'So, any idea where to start?'
(We've seen much of the market and residential areas. And neither of us is willing to go near the mall now.) Over the link, Albion seemed to groan at the thought. (Aren't there a few parks nearby?)
'It's worth looking at.'
(This is horrible.)
'It was your idea!'
Having surveyed two parks already, Issei had moved on to a third near the outskirts of town. The prior ones had failed to meet Albion's expectations and this one wasn't looking too good either.
(This is a park? There's no room! One dragon would barely have room here, let alone many!)
'Tell that to the humans that built it. I'm sure they'd acquiesce to your demands.'
(As they should! First, I'd order that ridiculous fountain and surrounding architecture to be removed, they're eyesores. Then… wait; you're being facetious again aren't you.)
Issei couldn't help himself as he sank into a nearby bench; he let out a few light-hearted chuckles. 'What was you first clue?'
(Don't be flippant with me, hatchling. I will make your life miserable.)
'We're a package deal remember? Are you willing to suffer with me?'
There was a long silence that followed, the Vanishing Dragon wisely electing not to reply. Sensing his victory, Issei inwardly cheered. His win-loss ratio against his elder was severely in Albion's favor; any victory over him was something for Issei to celebrate. 'Ha, next time, put up a challenge!' Issei remained in his seat for a good while; he nearly fell asleep. Checking the time, he saw that it was getting late since the shadows were lengthening. 'Time to go get ready for some hell-hunting.'
Issei stood up and craned his neck from side to side; a habit he had acquired in prison before his fights. Lost in elation at his win over Albion, memories from his previous fights, and anticipation for the upcoming one, he almost didn't notice that he had nearly bowled someone over on his way out of the park.
"M-mou." Stirred from his thoughts, a sense of shame spread over him. The voice was clearly female and considering he had barely noticed any impact meant she was a small one.
He turned his gaze to the girl in question. She had long blonde hair and vibrant green eyes. Her attire caught Issei's interest: a nun's outfit, complete with veil and silver cross pendant.
'Other than the whole church theme, she doesn't look hostile. If anything, she seems to be more of the neighborhood girl-next-door type.' Without preamble, he corrected himself and extended a hand to help her.
"My apologies, I wasn't paying attention." Truth. "I didn't notice I was in your way." Also a truth. "Are you alright?"
"I… I think so." The girl took his hand as he effortlessly lifted her to her feet. "Don't feel bad, I'm rather clumsy."
"The fault is mine," Issei clarified. "Is there anything I can help you with? To make up for my lack of courtesy?"
(Smooth.)
"Actually, I could use some help. I'm new to this town and I got lost. Could you help me?"
"Of course." Issei grabbed her discarded bag and stood at the ready. "Where exactly were you trying to go."
The blond blinked twice before blushing, "I'm supposed to report to the old church nearby, but I can't pronounce the address."
'Huh?'
(The Devil's gift of languages, she understands you in whatever language she knows best, while Japanese is a challenge. You're missing something though.)
'Huh?'
(Her name?)
"My apologies, but I still don't know your name."
"Oh, I'm sorry. My name is Asia Argento." Delivering it with a smile and a bow, the girl seemed rather exuberant. Unusually so.
"I see. I'm Issei Hyoudou." Racking his brain for any church locations in the area, he only came up with one long abandoned. "I only know of one church nearby, maybe it's the one you're looking for. Shall we?" He extended his arm, which she gratefully took.
They walked together in comfortable silence for a brief time before Issei broke it. "I take it you're not from around here."
"N-no, I'm actually from the Vatican. In truth, I had to leave but since I had nowhere else to go, the father of the nearby church invited me here!"
(If she's from the Vatican, then she must know about the conflicts between the Biblical factions. She seems young and inexperienced, but stay alert.)
While Albion was warning him about the possible danger of maintaining his proximity to Asia, a little boy who was playing nearby happened to trip and skin his knee.
"Oh dear! Are you alright?" Asia wasted no time in rushing to the child's side, "Here, let me help."
(What's she going to do? Pray?)
'We'll see.'
Asia would have examined the shallow scrap more closely if it weren't for the boy's resolute refusal to stop clutching it, thereby keeping it out of sight. Undeterred, Asia gently laid her hands over the boy's and began to pray. "Dear God, please bless this child and allow him to recover soon! In thy name, amen!"
Issei winced. That was a legitimate prayer this time, and for purer reasons than the Perverted Duo had scrounged up the other day. This one hurt more. He managed to keep the annoyance from showing, but his interest was caught by a faint glow emanating from Asia's hands.
Two identical rings, silver and exquisitely crafted, rested on her hands. The source of the glow, both Issei and Albion came to the same conclusion in a heartbeat. A Sacred Gear.
Asia removed her hands and asked if the boy was well again. The child looked skeptical and looked at her as if she was insane, though he did stop grabbing at his leg. To nearly everyone's surprise, the boy's knee looked as if it had never been injured in the first place. The now-babbling child wrapped his arms around Asia's waist in thanks before running off, allowing the unlikely pair to resume their journey.
"That was a Sacred Gear, wasn't it? A healing type?" Issei saw no point about delaying or ignoring what he had just seen.
"Y-yes. But how did you know? Are you also a follower of God?"
Oh, that hopeful face was something he did not want to dismay, but Issei couldn't lie to her. "No, no I'm not."
"Then how did you…"?
Checking to see if there were any humans or supernatural beings in the area, Issei expanded his senses and confirmed that the closest sentient being, the little boy, was currently a good distance away and moving further from them. Deciding to risk exposure, he unfurled his wings, "I'm half-dragon. A demidrake if you prefer. Things like Sacred Gears don't faze me."
Asia's face lit up like a Christmas tree. "Oh, how I must have been blessed to meet you. Dragons are so rare; I even heard that they're going extinct and thus spend their time hiding!"
"Really? My thanks, I wasn't aware of that."
"Oh, I'm sorry! I wasn't thinking, please, forgive me!"
"It's alright. Besides, you're not entirely in the wrong. There aren't many of us left."
They continued walking in comfortable silence, tough Asia was clearly still remorseful about her lack of forethought. A few blocks later, they turned the last corner and came in sight of the church.
Or what passed for a church anyway.
"Wow", Issei whistled. "They really need your help, don't they?" Crude words yet appropriate. The church was run-down. Cracks spider-webbed across stained glass windows; ivy and other vegetation clung to the exterior walls. The steeple appeared damaged, and the heavily rusted hinges of the front double doors indicated that no one had used the main entrance for some time.
"I'd like to think that it's just another trial God has laid out for me to test my faith. I must overcome this!" Asia looked quite determined as she said this, though the words themselves sounded… strained.
They reached the entryway, where Asia turned to him and reclaimed her bag. "Thank you for taking me here. I hope to see you again sometime to properly repay your kindness."
Embarrassed, Issei scratched the back of his head. "You really don't need to…"
"No, I insist!"
"Uh, if so, then it'd be rude to decline. Very well. I hope to see you soon."
Asia nodded before reaching for the handles. She tugged once then frowned and grasped one with both hands, clearly having difficulty. Issei rolled his eyes, reached over to place his hand above hers, and easily wrenched the door open, the rusty hinges creaking in protest at their mistreatment.
"Thanks again for everything!" With a bow, Asia stepped in and shut the door behind her. However, before she did so, Issei caught a scent from the dark interior. One that he had recently become familiar with again.
Fallen Angel.
(There are far too many intruders on our ancient nesting grounds. I say we burn the Fallen from our territory and let the Devils squirm for a while.)
'We can't cause a diplomatic incident. Not just yet.'
While Albion continued to rant about trespassers and rightful ownership of the lands that Kuoh was built upon, Issei rolled laterally to avoid a denser pocket of air. Before he had taken to the skies, he had received a text from Rias indicating the location that the Stray Devil had been tracked to. He was on his way now, albeit at altitudes that would make passerby's believe he was nothing more than a large bird.
Eventually, he reached the general location, his keen eyes spotting four familiar figures thousands of feet below. Tucking in his wings, Issei allowed himself into freefall. At the last minute, he flared his wings again in a mighty downbeat, the impact of which stirring up winds below him as he narrowly avoided become a bloody stain on the ground. Landing lightly, he dusted himself off and saw that his fellow devils were looking at him funnily.
"What?"
"Nice entrance!" Kiba gave him a thumbs up. "A little flashy, but appearances are very important."
"He's reckless. Foolish convict."
"Ara ara, Issei is a daredevil." Issei couldn't help but laugh at her play on words. While Rias smiled, it was clear that her humor would only extend so far in light of their objective.
"If you're done with the theatrics, we have a job to do. Koneko."
The small girl nodded mutely before stepping forward to the building and knocked on the door. It was more accurate to say she knocked the door down.
As the Gremory team moved into the building, Rias fell behind slightly to talk to Issei. "Are you familiar with the game of chess?"
"It's been a while since I've played, but I remember the basics."
"Alright, then I'd like for you to hang back. I'd like for you to see the comparative traits of the other players on the field." At this, Issei frowned. "Oh, don't give me that, I'm sure that we'll get a better chance to see your abilities in the field."
Before Rias could continue, a female voice sounded from the back of the large room they were in. "I can smell something disgusting. But I can also smell something delicious. Is it sweet? Or is it sour?"
"Stray Devil Vizer. We are here to eliminate you."
"HA! You can certainly try." With that, Vizer revealed herself. The upper body of a woman moved towards them from the shadows. Topless, the she-devil was floating well above them, her lower body still hidden in the darkness. "Admit it! You high-class bitch are just jealous cause you'll never have as nice a rack as mine!" With that, Vizer began kneading her own breasts, panting and clearly enjoying her self-ministrations.
"Go ahead, keep spouting mindless drivel. Leaving your master's side and rampaging heedlessly, you definitely deserve death. In the name of Duke Gremory, I will gladly eliminate you!"
"YOU BITCH!" Vizer howled. With heavy thuds, she moved forward, revealing that her lower body fed into the neck of a four-legged monster.
"Kiba." It was both acknowledgement and order simultaneously. With a nod, Kiba blurred out of existence. "Remember how I told you that Kiba is my Knight? His inherited ability includes unparalleled speed. Combine that with his mastery over bladed weapons and he becomes a skilled warrior, most capable in delivering precise, surgical strikes."
As she said this, the two forelegs of Vizer's beast half were neatly severed as Kiba reappeared before her, silver longsword clenched in his right hand. Vizer stumbled before rearing up on her hind legs. She tottered unsteadily before rushing forward as to stomp on him. Before she could, Koneko rushed forward. Lifting both hands above her as if to ward off the blow, the little girl easily halted Vizer's advance.
"In contrast, Koneko is my Rook. Her traits include both high defensive capability and absolute strength. Because of that, she can shrug off the greatest of blows and then return them with equal force." The ghost of a smirk crossed Rias' lips; it was obvious of how proud she was of her servants. "Vizer can't crush her."
Koneko then pushed upwards, forcing the beast further back.
"….Fly."
She then jumped up and delivered an earth-shattering punch to the beastly stomach of the stray's lower half. With a bang, Vizer was sent flying back into a wall, causing dust to start falling from the ceiling. Issei idly wondered how much more the room would take before collapsing around them.
"Akeno, it's your turn."
"Yes, Rias. Ara ara, what should I do?" Akeno was laughing light-heartedly as she strolled to the rogue devil. All the while, sparks and static electricity crackled around her fingertips.
"Akeno is my Queen", Rias continued. "She is my second-in-command, as well as the strongest after me. She possesses all the traits of Pawn, Rook, Knight, and Bishop combined." While she said this, Akeno raised her hands together towards the sky. Without warning, the dancing sparks on her hands disappeared. The next instant, the sky sparkled as a lightning bolt crashed into Vizer with a loud boom.
"Gagagagagagagagagagagagaaa!"
Vizer's skeleton flickered in and out of visibility as Akeno's strike violently electrocuted her. "Ara ara, I wonder, can you take some more?" Vizer's body was already covered in burns; she was literally smoking after the first hit. That didn't seem to faze Akeno as once again, another thunderbolt struck the hapless beast.
Once, twice, three times again, the thunder strikes resounded. The entire time, Akeno had a beatific smile on her face; it looked like she genuinely enjoyed the one-sided fight. After a time, Issei noticed a new smell, beside that of burning flesh and smoke. It was a heady scent, like sweet nectar yet somehow promised much more than mere taste. It seemed very out of place on a battlefield but he still could not identify it for the life of him.
Undeterred by the impressive display of violence, Rias continued with Akeno's description. "Akeno excels at attacks using demonic power. She could use natural elements like ice and fire, though she obviously prefers lightning. Not only is she well-known for magical prowess, she is also renowned for being really into S&M."
Issei nodded absently before paling and then turning bright red. A newfound scent. Akeno is the ultimate sadist. He wasn't a mental giant but even he could make the connection. As a devil, he was technically incapable of prayer, but right now, he was mentally pleading with every legendary dragon in existence that no one present could see his face right now. One of those dragons actually responded.
(I take back everything I said.)
'Huh?'
(Your mate scares me.)
'She's not my mate!' His blush worsened and he hoped that everyone present was still focused on the twitching Vizer. In hindsight, he should have known he wasn't that fortunate.
"Don't worry, she's gentle with her friends." Rias smiled at him, though he doubted that she knew he could smell Akeno's arousal. "She's only like this in fights; in normal everyday activities she is very kind." She turned to the girl in question. "Akeno, I think that's enough."
With that, the Queen ceased, lowering her hands to her cheeks. "Aw, over already? I was just getting warmed up." Akeno's eyes were closed and she was swaying her hips. Clearly, she was trying to savor the experience, not that it made any favors for Issei's self-control.
Rias now strode confidently towards Vizer, who had apparently given up the fight. "Any last words?"
"Kill me."
"Then disappear." Above Rias' palm, a roiling sphere of black and red energy was forming. Demonic energy in its purest form, Issei immediately recognized it as the other component to her unique scent.
"The power of destruction", Akeno now spoke to resume where Rias had left off. "A form of magic so powerful that it leaves no trace of its victims. Even among devils, her power is especially formidable."
With a cry, Rias flung the mass of demonic energy at the broken stray. Upon impact, the energies instantly expanded in a contained explosion, engulfing Vizer entirely. Once it dissipated, Vizer was nowhere to be found. Confirming her death, Rias made a sigh. "It's over. Good work everyone."
'Gee, thanks. Glad to have been here.'
(Well, we got to see the abilities of your peers. It was… informative.)
'I'm not concerned anymore about my ability to force an escape anymore, but that's still a last resort measure.'
(They're nowhere near your combat level. The Knight maybe could evade for a time, but that'd only be a temporary measure. Rias and your mate would be less effective against your magical resistance. The Rook is rather tricky. Her disuse of Senjutsu makes her a wild card.)
'Enough analysis. I'm not planning for a fight with them, stop encouraging it.'
Rias approaching him drew him from his conversation. "So… What did you think?" It was rather obvious she was nervous, she seemed very hopeful, as if his opinion mattered so much. Behind her, the other three devils were gathered, equally curious.
"Well… it was a nice show, but I feel like the little kid who wasn't allowed to join everyone at recess."
"I didn't mean that! Stop complaining about being held back! I meant about the fight!"
"Very well done. Your coordination is impeccable, but you had several opportunities for tag attacks. Would have minimized the risk, but since you're all unscathed, I'd say it doesn't matter as much for now."
"Alright then", relieved, Rias visibly calmed down while the Akeno and Kiba looked excited. Koneko betrayed no emotion at all. "Well, for now, I think it best to get a good night's rest. Tomorrow's Sunday after all, and we'll be busy for most the day."
"Huh?"
"Sunday may be a day of rest for most people", Kiba explained, "but since Sunday is sacred for Christianity, it's tradition for that day to be our most productive. Sometimes you'll spend all day out on contracts."
"Ok then. I guess that makes sense, in a weird way."
"Get used to it." Rias' tone allowed for no argument. "I expect you up early and at the clubhouse so as to attune a circle for your transportation."
With that, they parted ways for the night. Kiba and Koneko walked together towards the center of town, while Rias disappeared through her own crimson glyphs. That just left the dragon and the fallen together.
"So. I was wondering."
"About what?"
"Why was your face bright red earlier?"
Issei once again changed color. That minor transformation, as well as his silence, was answer enough for Akeno, who blushed as well after a few moments."
"Oh. I…"
"Yeah… I'm just gonna… go… somewhere else."
Akeno wordlessly nodded before nervously stepping forward. By standing on her toes and wrapping her arms around his neck, she was able to lift herself so that she could whisper in his ear, "I… I guess if you're the only one to notice, I don't really mind."
Akeno then stole a quick kiss from him before fleeing through a magic circle of her own. Issei stood there stunned for the next ten minutes, completely blown away by her actions of the day.
(Again, work-in-progress.)
'Shut up, pervy dragon.'
(What did you just call me!?)
Issei sighed, hands in his pockets before deciding to walk home himself. Eventually, he lost himself in a simple tune he whistled, completely ignoring the ranting of the Heavenly Dragon. His thoughts turned toward sleep and rest for the big day tomorrow. First real jobs, huh? Shouldn't be too hard.
What could possibly go wrong?
AN: Sorry for cutting it off like this. Would have been longer, but I didn't want to delay and I felt like I owed you a chapter after so long. Please let me know what you think! I enjoyed hearing your opinions, review! Help me improve!
