Firstly, Merry Christmas everyone! The fact that all of you are reading this right now, instead of doing… anything else, well, that must mean I'm a good writer, or, you all don't have any plans like me, haha. Well, I thought my inspiration was tapering off, but I've almost finished chapter 12… somehow, once I started working with my new idea, that I introduce in this chapter, I just kept getting more and more motivated. It's surprising really because I've never motivated myself before like this… In any case, this means I will have a few more chapters, before I switch stories, from the looks of things, maybe one or two more than I expected, but we'll see I guess. In other news… I'm going to try out a second lemon for this story (third in total for me). Also, if any of you can guess who it will be with… I'm checking my room for hidden cameras because I am confident none of you will guess who it is. I also appreciated the feedback, both on my fight scene and on possibly writing a Batman fanfic. I've decided, that I will hold off for now, until I finish one of my other stories, or the urge to do it becomes too great, like it did for me and my Fairy Tail fics. Also, the link to my page is on my profile page. Lastly, as a point of interest, I know I said I've changed the ending of this fic, but I'll still put in the original ending of the fic, around the time it would have happened, just for all of your collective curiosities. Enjoy the chapter.
In fact, at a limit of one guess per person, anyone who can correctly guess who the lemon will be with, can ask me any one question, about any of my stories, which I will answer. I'm positive that no one will be able to guess it… unless someone got secret cameras in my room somehow.
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the High School DxD anime/manga/light novel. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
'Ddraig talking and Sacred Gear sounds'
"Ddraig thinking"
*expression*
Flashback
Chapter 10 – It's All In Your Head
Issei gave a small groan, as he returned to consciousness. It took a moment for Issei to remember what had happened. After a minute, he realised he had passed out, after his fight with Sairaorg… and fallen flat on his face.
'Yeah, that must have hurt.' Commented a voice, which made Issei freeze.
Looking to his left, Issei saw milky white skin, covered in threadbare leather attire. As his gaze travelled upwards, he saw two distinct wings. Black wings. Wings of a fallen angel. Hesitantly, Issei raised his head the rest of the way and gazed at the visage of the person standing to his right. He could never mistake those violet eyes, coupled with an ironically angelic face and long black hair.
'Hi Issei, missed me?' Asked Raynare in amusement.
Issei merely started at Raynare with a scrutinising gaze, before weakly raising his right hand to his face and pinching his cheek, as hard as he could.
'Oh don't be like that. It's not a dream, I'm here, with you, Issei.' Cooed Raynare, leaning closer to Issei.
Issei kept his gaze on Raynare, even as she walked closer to him. If this was a dream, Issei was ready to wake up right now. As it stood, he was exhausted and even someone like Raynare, weak as she was, would have a reasonable chance of killing him.
Issei weakly tried to sit up, away from the smiling visage that was approaching him, only to hear someone open the door to his room, causing both him and Raynare to look at it.
Once the door opened, Ravel was revealed, looking somewhat tired, but she perked up upon seeing Issei.
'Issei! You're awake!' Exclaimed Ravel in joy.
Issei couldn't return her enthusiasm, as he glanced to Raynare, who Ravel seemed completely oblivious of.
'I'm… awake?' Asked Issei slowly.
'Of course you are.' Said Ravel, as she approached Issei from his left side, opposite Raynare.
'Your match was spectacular, however, after Sairaorg was carried away by his queen, you passed out and I brought you back here.' Explained Ravel.
It was at this point, that Issei took in his surroundings and noticed that for a hospital, or medical bay, the area was rather decorative. Lots of precious metals and stones dotted the room, even his sheets were silk.
Issei glanced over to Raynare again, before turning back to Ravel.
'How long have I been out for?' Asked Issei.
'Almost a full twelve hours now.' Said Ravel, with a hint of worry in her tone.
Issei's eyes widened in surprise.
'What about Sairaorg?' Asked Issei.
'He woke up an hour ago. It is possible you needed longer to recover because he landed his attack to your head.' Answered Ravel.
'I see.' Said Issei thoughtfully.
'I'm surprised though, Issei. I mean, what's the difference between her and that red haired bitch? Both are pure devils, both are spoilt princesses, both have doting families. Really, what's the difference? Is it the blonde hair? Maybe you like younger girls? I guess you must be a masochist, considering that this will probably go the same way.' Said Raynare, finishing with a shrug.
'If you are feeling better, you can get up and walk around for a bit.' Said Ravel softly.
Issei grunted, before trying to get up. Ravel quickly went to Issei's side and helped him sit up, supporting his shoulder and holding his hand.
Issei turned and let his feet rest on the ground, noticing that he was still in the same clothes he had been wearing at the conclusion of his fight, tattered pants and all.
Issei stood up, with Ravel standing very close to him, before cracking his neck to the left and rolling his right shoulder.
'I'm okay.' Said Issei to Ravel, who gave a small smile.
'Whatever, it isn't like I've been watching over you all this time.' Muttered Ravel, with a small blush on her cheeks.
Issei chuckled and patted Ravel on the hair, causing her blush to intensify.
'Hmm, that must be it, you like little girls, don't you.' Quipped Raynare.
Issei firmly ignored her and made for the door, with Ravel quickly walking in front of him and opening the door herself.
When Issei stepped into the hallway, his eyes widened when he saw Raynare resting against the wall to his right. Issei quickly looked back and saw that she was no longer in the room they had just left.
'Is something wrong Issei? Did you forget something?' Asked Ravel in concern.
'No, I'm fine.' Said Issei, giving Ravel a small smile.
As the duo walked, Issei couldn't help but notice that Raynare was walking right next to him.
'I mean, a girl with this much money, why would she want someone like you? Obviously for your status, but really, it isn't like you have much else to offer.' Said Raynare, with faux sadness.
Ravel led Issei back to the room he had taken his nap in, before going to the game and saw Irina and Xenovia sitting there, as they had before.
'Issei! We were so worried about you!' Exclaimed Irina, with a nervous expression.
'Yes, that was an excellent fight as well.' Added Xenovia.
'Oh look, two traitors. Well, I suppose that isn't really true, since they were never on your side to begin with. Quite frankly, I'm surprised you actually believed them. It's laughable.' Said Raynare in amusement.
'I'm fine.' Said Issei reassuringly.
'Fine? That's funny, if you had jokes like that for me on our date, I might not have killed you.' Laughed Raynare.
'Anyway, with that out of the way, I was thinking it might be a good idea to go home and rest.' Said Issei.
'Yes, that would be the smart thing to do. I'll get a magic circle ready for you.' Said Ravel, before leaving Issei alone with Irina and Xenovia.
'To think, you honestly thought these two cared for you. Then again, you thought I cared for you as well, so clearly you're a bad judge of people's intentions. I mean, I could have seen that red haired skank using you a mile away. Say what you will about me, but when I turned on you, I was upfront about. She just kept manipulating you behind her smile. I'm almost envious of how manipulative she is.' Said Raynare, becoming wistful towards the end.
'How are you feeling, Issei?' Asked Irina worriedly.
'I told you, I'm fine, really.' Said Issei, with a small laugh. Raynare laughed along with Issei, but for different reasons.
'Okay… if you're sure.' Said Irina reluctantly.
'How did you become so strong Issei? You didn't even use your Boosted Gear, yet you beat Sairaorg and he is no pushover, I'd know.' Questioned Xenovia, lightly brushing her stomach in memory.
'Ah, betrayal is a beautiful thing isn't it? Nothing serves to push someone more, am I right, Issei?' Quipped Raynare playfully.
'Just training I suppose. Senjutsu is really powerful, especially for brute strength.' Said Issei.
'Of course she wants to know. After all, if she can use you to get stronger, why wouldn't she stick around?' Questioned Raynare.
'It's ready.' Said Ravel, as she re-entered the room and gestured for them to follow her.
'I have to say though, compared to the red whore, this one has a much nicer house.' Commented Raynare, looking to the roof.
Issei looked at Raynare, who quickly matched his gaze.
'What? You know it's true. They might have had dozens of butlers and maids, but they had nowhere near this much gold, or anyway close to the number of jewels I've seen in this place.' Said Raynare.
As the four walked over to the circle, Raynare stood off to the side.
'See you at home, Issei.' Giggled Raynare, blowing Issei a kiss.
Issei pursed his lips, as his form was vaporised, before reappearing in his living room.
Issei sighed for a moment, before a figure walked out from his bedroom.
'Welcome home, Issei. I've missed you.' Teased Raynare, putting on a faux sad expression and placing her index finger on her lips.
'Girls, sorry if this is abrupt, but I think I'm going to go take a nap, I'm still pretty tired after everything.' Said Issei weakly, giving a small smile.
'Of course, it would be best that you rest as much as possible, so you can recover quickly.' Said Ravel, with the other two nodding.
'Thanks, I'll see you all later.' Said Issei, walking to his bedroom.
'Oh, is this your way of saying you want to get down and dirty? My Issei, I never expected you to go straight from a gruelling battle to a battle in the sack.' Said Raynare in surprise, before smirking.
Issei ignored the fallen angel, but made sure to close his bedroom door. Not like it helped, since she was lying down on the bed.
'Come on Issei, what's that expression? Oh right, paint me like one of your French girls.' Purred Raynare.
Issei walked to the bed and slid in next to Raynare, before turning his back on her.
'Oh, playing hard to get are we? That's fine, I have plenty of time. I'm not going anywhere after all. Goodnight Issei.' Said Raynare sweetly, blowing a kiss to Issei, before laughing.
-line break-
Issei awoke the next day, feeling two mounds pressing against his back. Issei stiffened, before feeling two tails wrapped around his legs.
'Oh, this one is hilarious Issei. I guess you do like bad girls. Although, you could barely touch me, even after I skewered you.' Said Raynare, standing in front of Issei, leaning against the door.
Raynare walked over to Issei, looming close to his face.
'I'm sure you wanted me to be the one to take your virginity though, didn't you? Don't deny it, I know the truth after all.' Said Raynare, with a smirk.
Issei tried to get up, only to find Kuroka had also wrapped her arms around his midsection.
'I bet you think she is holding you like that because she cares about you. Sorry Issei, but she only wants your kids, you yourself are just a sperm donor to her. It isn't like she only wanted you, after all, she did ask the White Dragon as well. You just happened to be the one to agree to being breeding stock. *sigh* So sad, at least I pretended to actually care for you, before taking what I wanted.' Said Raynare sadly.
After a bit of struggling, Issei managed to free himself from Kuroka's embrace and finally decided to change his clothes. However, given his odour, he decided to shower first. As Issei grabbed his robe and carried it to the shower, he sighed upon opening the door and seeing Raynare there, waiting for him.
'What? You saw me naked, it's only fair I get to see you naked as well.' Said Raynare calmly.
Issei paused for a full minute, before sighing and stripping out of his damaged clothes.
'Well, it's good to see you've buffed up at least a little since then. You were pretty scrawny after all. No wonder you couldn't get a girl.' Commented Raynare.
Issei gave a small huff, before undressing completely and entering the shower. The shower wasn't particularly large, but it could probably fit three people comfortably. Obviously, Issei hadn't tested that to be sure though. Grabbing his shampoo and lathering his hair, Issei scrubbed for half a minute, before closing his eyes and washing off the suds. Opening his eyes again, Issei saw Raynare standing in front of him, only now, she was naked.
'Want me to wash your back for you, Issei? I know you want me to.' Purred Raynare.
Issei turned around, as he grabbed the soap and started to spread soap across his arms and upper body.
'Oh, I see how it is, you'd rather I wash something else, wouldn't you, Issei.' Teased Raynare, from behind Issei, who resolutely ignored her.
'It's nothing to be embarrassed about, I am a fallen angel after all. Seduction is our greatest talent.' Quipped Raynare.
Issei ignored Raynare, but finished up as quickly as he could. After dressing in his undergarments, Issei quickly realised, that even though he had been out for a while, it was still the weekend. Sunday to be precise. Deciding a trip to heaven may help, Issei grabbed a plain, red, short sleeved shirt and black jeans, dressed quickly, then made his way to his living room. Issei concentrated, causing his halo to appear above his head. Giving a small chant, a white line split down the middle of his apartment in front of him, before manifesting into a large door, which slowly opened, spewing bright white light.
Issei walked through, before finding himself outside a pair of large gates, surrounded by marble structures. Calmly, Issei walked through the gates, emerging into a white fluffy area, which extended as far as the eye could see, before heading to the elevator. As he made his way through, he greeted everyone, who greeted him in turn. While the devils may have been unhappy at what happened, many in heaven were delighted. While the fallen angels, at one point, had the White Dragon and the devils had the Red Dragon, heaven was left without a dragon. That isn't to say they were disadvantaged, Dulio was a true force to be reckoned with, but having a dragon of their own, eased their souls.
As the elevator finally reached the sixth floor, Issei made his way to where he knew the Seraphs would be. It was rare for all of them to be present and today was no exception, but both Michael and Gabriel were present and of all people, Dulio was there as well.
'Ah, hello Issei, I trust you have been well.' Greeted Michael, once he noticed Issei.
'Yes, things have been going well recently.' Replied Issei, with a smile.
'Wow, I've never been to this level before. Funny to think a shameless pervert like you, actually managed to get up here.' Said Raynare, walking past Issei and looking around in awe.
'Well, for the most part.' Amended Issei, his smile shrinking slightly.
'Is something wrong Issei? You know I'm always willing to listen to anything you would like to discuss.' Said Gabriel pleasantly.
'Seriously! Her boobs are huge! Even bigger than mine, much as I hate to admit it. How did someone like you get rescued by someone like her?' Commented Raynare in shock.
'I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with you some time soon, but I came today in hopes that you may have need of me. I've been growing somewhat restless I'm afraid.' Confessed Issei nervously.
'Hmm, I don't mind if he comes along with me. It would be nice to have some company.' Said Dulio, giving his input.
'I see, in that case, Issei, there have been a few reports recently, of something rather disturbing. A rather unnatural energy source, near Romania. It is close to the dominion of the vampires, but not actually within the territory itself. It has gotten our attention, as the feeling is similar to the output of a Longinus. We have no idea if it is controlled or not, nor who it may be coming from. Ideally, you should only scout the area for information, but if a conflict is unavoidable, do try to not let it escalate and return as quickly as possible. We have never been on good terms with the vampires and our investigating so close to their area, is bound to cause tension.' Explained Michael.
'No worries, if we need to remain undetected, I'll be able to cloak both Dulio and myself, with Ki.' Said Issei.
'In that case, you can leave whenever you are ready.' Said Michael calmly.
'Alright, let's do this Dulio.' Cheered Issei.
'You're rather enthusiastic.' Commented Dulio in amusement.
'What can I say, I've had a lot on my mind and this sounds like just the thing, to help distract me from my current thoughts.' Said Issei.
'Oh, you can try, but we both know I'm going to be on your mind, whether you like it or not.' Teased Raynare, leaning over Issei's right shoulder, whispering into his ear.
-line break-
Issei and Dulio were walking through a dark and slightly foggy, mountainous terrain. There were numerous mountains in the distance and off to the west, a civilisation could be made out. A rather large town from appearances, but, it was in fact, the location of the vampires. The two jokers were a good distance away though, appearing only as tiny specks in the distance, to anyone who would try to spot them, enhanced vision or not.
'What are you eating, Dulio?' Asked Issei, noticing Dulio was eating a rounded, cylindrical sandwich.
'Hmm, I believe this is known as a kebab.' Replied Dulio, taking another bite.
'… and exactly where did you get it from?' Asked Issei in surprise.
'I always carry a few types of food with me. It helps make longer journeys more interesting.' Replied Dulio.
Issei blinked in confusion, before giving a slight shake of his head and ignoring it. Dulio and food had an interesting relationship, one that was best not attempted to be understood. Issei had found out, that Dulio was a food aficionado, but not out of gluttony. He brought back any new and exciting foods he found to children of various orphanages, hoping to give them a taste of exotic cuisine and buoy their spirits. Issei had also heard, that upon hearing about a new food, Dulio would become unreachable.
'I just wonder what could be so important, to rile up the higher-ups?' Muttered Issei.
'Funny, that rhymed. If anything though, I would think it would be a Longinus of some sort.' Said Dulio calmly, taking another bite.
'Ugh, not another one. Why do I always happen to run into overpowered people?' Lamented Issei.
'That's funny, considering you are the poster boy for overpowered. Light powers, Senjutsu and the ability to boost your abilities indefinitely, isn't exactly mundane.' Retorted Dulio cheerfully.
'And complete control over the elements is nothing, right?' Quipped Issei.
'Well, I'd still say you are the more powerful one in brute strength. I may be more versatile, but you hold the capacity for devastating singular attacks.' Said Dulio pleasantly, as he finished his snack.
'Hi kettle, I'm pot.' Scoffed Issei, getting a smile from Dulio.
'So, what has been troubling you lately, Issei?' Asked Dulio calmly.
'Me? Troubling you? How rude. I thought I was your girlfriend.' Said Raynare, from beside Issei.
'Just some stuff from my past.' Said Issei, with a small grumble.
'You know Issei, living in the past is dangerous. If we had continued to do that, our faction might not even exist anymore and neither of us would be angels right now.' Said Dulio happily.
'Yeah, I'd be dead too.' Snorted Issei.
'Come now Issei, Gabriel wouldn't want you to act like this, especially after how much you two bonded.' Said Dulio, with a sad smile.
'… I guess….' Said Issei quietly.
The two continued walking, before feeling a spike of energy.
'That felt rather powerful, wouldn't you say?' Asked Dulio.
'Yeah… and I felt an almost dragon-like presence… but it felt warped.' Commented Issei.
Issei paused for a moment and expanded his senses, before feeling a very strong power.
'I'm cloaking us now, whatever that thing is, it is best we avoid it. A battle would bring way too much attention to us.' Said Issei, before expanding his Ki cloak, over both Dulio and himself.
The duo followed the source of the power, with Issei leading the way. As they climbed over a moderately sized hill, they saw a deep basin, with an eerie purple glow coming from it.
'I'm guessing that is what we are looking for.' Muttered Issei.
Dulio looked over the area carefully, before stretching his awareness through the wind.
'That is definitely a Longinus.' Commented Dulio seriously, before the two heard a low rumble, followed by the sound of heavy wingbeats.
'Quick, get down!' Exclaimed Issei, pulling Dulio to the ground.
It was just barely quick enough, as a dark green, western dragon, shot into the sky after that, flying away in the direction, opposite of the nearby vampire settlement.
'I guess your search is over then, since that was Grendel.' Spoke Ddraig, manifesting on Issei's hand.'What do you mean? Why is the search over?' Asked Issei.
'I myself fought with Grendel long ago. That being said, after I was sealed into this gear, I've been listening out for the other dragons as well, not just Albion.' Started Ddraig.'Your point being?' Asked Issei.
'Grendel was slain by Beowulf.' Said Ddraig simply.'I see. That does indeed end our search, since only one Sacred Gear could possibly be behind this. To think, the Holy Grail would be here of all places.' Said Dulio seriously.
'We better head back then.' Said Issei, to which Dulio nodded.
-line break-'The Holy Grail you say… that is troubling.' Said Michael, as a frown crossed his gentle features.
'Do you know who might be behind it?' Asked Issei curiously.
'No, nothing definite, but given how quiet Khaos Brigade has been lately, there is a possibility they may be behind it. Additionally, given the location, it may also be the vampires.' Said Michael thoughtfully.
Dulio and Issei exchanged slightly worried looks, before Michael spoke again.
'In any case, well done on your successful mission. I suppose the others and I should deliberate on how to respond to this and liaise with the other factions as well. You are both free for now.' Said Michael, causing Dulio to give a smile.
'Splendid, I heard of a particularly interesting cuisine in France, so I might pop by for a visit.' Said Dulio cheerfully, before giving a small bow and heading off.
Issei couldn't help but chuckle at his counterpart. Dulio was truly unique in how positive he could be at all times.
'Shame you're nothing like him. I mean, you weren't even religious when you became an angel and you were full of lust. I suppose being the Red Dragon Emperor, will keep saving you, time and time again.' Said Raynare in disappointment.
'Gabriel, if your offer is still available, could we go for a chat?' Asked Issei.
Gabriel smiled beautifully and even seeing Raynare in the corner of his eye, Issei couldn't help but smile as well. Gabriel's presence had become somewhat of a lifeline for him and when she was happy, so was he.
'Of course, come, we can walk past Eden.' Said Gabriel happily.
Michael waved the two off, as they headed for the elevator. The elevator ride was short, but Gabriel was humming cheerfully and brought a smile to Issei's face once again.
As the two exited the lift, Issei was astounded at what was in front of him. No matter how many times they came by, Issei always held his breath a little, upon seeing the majestic beauty, which was: the Garden of Eden. A horticulturist would probably give their soul just to see the splendid site. Numerous plants, exotic and common decorated the entire area. Hues of green melded seamlessly with light blue, shifting to purple and dark reds. Bright flowers of yellow, orange and pink were scattered throughout the much larger trees that reached upwards. Gabriel followed a well-travelled path, leading Issei to her favourite location and the common place for their conversations. A gigantic trunk leading up into numerous strong branches and abundant large foliage. The sycamore tree had been a common fixture in all of their conversations and just looking at it calmed Issei.
'So tell me Issei, what's troubling you?' Asked Gabriel kindly, as she knelt down on the soft grass.
Issei mirrored Gabriel and knelt down as well, taking a moment to gaze at the large tree next to them.
'I've been having troubling visions and unpleasant memories recently. It started with only simple phrases that caused me discomfort, but it has progressed to me having conversations with my fears and even seeing apparitions.' Said Issei uncomfortably.
'I see. I know it may be hard for you Issei, but the more honest you are with me, the more I can help you.' Said Gabriel patiently, which caused Issei to sigh.
'I've been seeing and hearing Raynare again.' Confessed Issei tiredly, feeling all his strength drain from him, at the simple admission.
Gabriel's beautiful smile momentarily shrunk, before returning to normal.
'If it isn't too much for you, I would like to hear more.' Requested Gabriel kindly.
'Well, before, it was just the same line she said to me before she killed me… but just recently I started having conversations with her in my dreams… after yesterday, I've started seeing her form in my mind, speaking and commenting on everything around me. Even right now, I can see her form standing next to you, looking at me with a mocking smile.' Said Issei wearily.
Gabriel frowned at this, looking to her sides briefly and indeed, did not see anyone.
'I see.' Commented Gabriel.
'See, now she will write you off as a lunatic and throw you away like all the others.' Commented Raynare happily, which caused her to frown, at what Gabriel did next.
Gabriel had stood up and moved over to Issei, knelt beside him, and brought his head to the space between her bosom and her right shoulder, with her left hand, resting his head gently against her, as her right hand gently stroked the back of his head.
'Issei. No matter what, Raynare is a part of you. As unfortunate as it may be, it is the truth.' Started Gabriel, causing Issei to sigh softly.
'However, she doesn't define you. You are a special person Issei.' Continued Gabriel.
'Yeah, special because of your gauntlet.' Quipped Raynare, with a smirk, which was wiped off her face when Gabriel continued.
'It has nothing to do with being the host of Ddraig, but rather, because of your heart. Even before, when your mind was awash with lust, you were still caring and kind. You fought to protect your friends solely because you felt it was the right thing to do, not out of a sense of duty.' Said Gabriel calmly, pulling Issei's head off her and looking him in the eyes.
'Yeah, look how that worked out for you.' Scoffed Raynare.
'I know that things did not turn out as you would have wished and I am deeply sorry for what you had to endure, but you did endure it and survived, because you are strong.' Finished Gabriel, smiling at Issei brightly.
'I only survived because you reincarnated me.' Muttered Issei weakly.
'That may be the case, but not everyone can be turned into an angel Issei. There are three ways, as I'm sure you know. The first, is through devout worship, the second, through strong faith and the third, do you remember Issei?' Asked Gabriel calmly.
'To have a kind heart.' Said Issei, with a small smile, causing Raynare to grunt.
'Exactly, you are the one who survived. You are the one who persisted and you are the one who held strong. Issei, as I have said before, no matter what happens, you will always have my love. It is yours to have and I will never take it from you. Remember Issei, though you have suffered much and gained little, I will never ask you for more than you can give and you have my love forever. Remember those words Issei. Engrave them in your heart and no matter what happens, no matter what trials and tribulations you may face, you will always have me on your side; that is my assurance to you. While Raynare may be a part of you, remember also, that I am too. Even if she troubles your heart and mind with doubts, remember that I will be here for you, always.' Said Gabriel kindly.
The sincerity in Gabriel's words warmed Issei's heart. True, Raynare was still there, a little off to the side and sporting a grimace, as she gagged, but Issei couldn't care less.
'Thanks Gabriel. That really helped a lot.' Said Issei softly.
Gabriel smiled and kissed Issei on the crown of his head.
'Of course, Issei, you have no need to worry. I will be with you forever. Throughout it all, you can always come to me if your heart is heavy.' Said Gabriel, with a smile.
Issei wasn't quite sure what came over him at that moment and it would still be on his mind for weeks to come, but without warning, Issei leaned forward and kissed Gabriel herself, right on her lips.
Gabriel was surprised at the action and even the apparition of Raynare looked on gobsmacked. Issei quickly retracted his head, with a huge blush on his face.
'F-forgive me Gabriel, I'm not sure what came over me.' Stuttered Issei nervously, only for Gabriel to laugh softly.
'It is fine, Issei. I told you, no matter what, you have my love. Angels are not beings without emotions, if we were, the fallen would have never existed.' Said Gabriel reassuringly.
Issei risked a quick glance to Gabriel and upon seeing her smile, relaxed slightly.
'I-I see.' Said Issei, calming down slightly.
'Issei, if you love me in such a manner, do not be embarrassed. When God created both Adam and Eve, in this very garden, it was always the natural way of things, for man to love woman and for woman to love man. I see no reason why we could not pursue the same intimate relationship, as I know your heart is pure and you know mine.' Said Gabriel softly.
'A-are you sure?' Asked Issei in surprise.
'Of course. You have suffered much and gained little, but if being with me eases your soul, I would be happy to explore our feelings together.' Answered Gabriel happily.
Issei simply smiled.
'I would like that.' Said Issei happily.
-line break-'Gabriel, is there something you wish to tell me?' Asked Michael, once Gabriel returned, without Issei.
'Issei has been experiencing uncomfortable recollections of his past.' Explained Gabriel.
'I see.' Said Michael solemnly.
'I believe I was able to calm his heart, so much so, that he has officially expressed his interest in pursuing a romantic relationship with me.' Said Gabriel.
'I-I see.' Said Michael in surprise, his eyes widening slightly.
'Yes, I could tell after a few weeks of interacting with me, he had begun to develop feelings, but I didn't expect them to grow to this level.' Commented Gabriel thoughtfully.
'What are your feelings on the matter?' Asked Michael curiously.
'I can comfortably say I love Issei, as I love everyone, whether it is something more than that, I am unsure, but I am willing to attempt it. We are beings of love after all.' Said Gabriel.
'I see… I wish you my best then. It is rare for angels to interact in such a manner, but if it is through love, I'm sure the outcome will be good.' Said Michael optimistically.
-line break-Issei, meanwhile, was still in shock at what he had done.
"I kissed Gabriel." Thought Issei in shock.
'What the hell? How could you kiss another person, with me standing right there?' Shouted Raynare indignantly.
"I kissed Gabriel… I really did." Continued Issei, completely ignoring Raynare.
'Hey! Pay attention to me!' Snapped Raynare, clicking her fingers in front of Issei, as he sat down on his couch, unmoving.
'I actually kissed Gabriel… me.' Muttered Issei aloud.
There was a loud thud outside Issei's door, before someone quickly entered his house and grabbed him by the collar.
'What? What did you say?' Asked Azazel, his eyes nearly popping out of his head.
'I… kissed Gabriel.' Muttered Issei, unaware of Azazel completely.
Azazel looked at Issei in shock for a minute, before engulfing him in a hug.
'Issei! I hereby declare you, the one true inheritor of my will. My son! I'm so proud of you!' Cried Azazel tearfully.
Raynare just sighed in the background.
'Great, now the only person who can actually hear me… is a freaking vegetable.' Grumbled Raynare sourly.