The day after the match was announced the ORC gathered in the Gremory family's garden, dressed in training outfits.

Issei was wearing the gauntlet he used to summon his followers, making the others curious. But they kept silent for the moment.

Azazel spoke first, some papers in hand that he seemed to be consulting. "First of all, what I have set up is a training regime focused on the immediate future. Some people produce good results immediately, others have to take the long view. However, you're all growing, so even if the initial approach is wrong, you should grow well. Now then, first up will be Rias." Rias straightened up as she was addressed. "You've been a high-spec devil from the very beginning when it comes to pretty much everything, including talent, physical ability and magic power. Even if you did nothing and simply grew into those traits, you'd still end up as a candidate for a devil of the highest grade when you become an adult. But you want to be stronger than that, don't you?"

Rias nodded strongly. "Yes. I don't want to lose ever again."

"Then follow this regime from now till the day of the fight." Azazel responded, handing her a sheet of paper.

Rias looked at it and seemed confused. "This doesn't seem all that special though."

"Yes, it's a pretty basic training method. Your stats are already high and can only be increased through practice. The issue with the games many times is the quality of the King. A King needs brains more than strength as things go on. Devils can still climb to the top through brains and cleverness if they lack skill in magic, you know? So before the match, you need to learn all you can about the Rating Games. A King needs thought, quick-wittedness and judgement to defeat any kind of situation. It's your job to make sure your servants can display their power to the fullest. Just don't forget that, just like an actual battlefield, you won't be able to know what'll happen till the actual game."

Rias nodded, and Issei stepped forward. "Alright, time for my own contribution. No offense to Azazel, but an actual dedicated trainer would be better than a static training regime."

"Ara, so are you going to train me then, Ise?" Rias asked, interested.

Issei shook his head, brought his gauntlet up and pressed something on the screen. The customary light of a summoning appeared before leaving behind someone they'd all seen before.

"Well, well, it seems we'll be getting acquainted, ojou-san." Scathach said with a wicked smile.

Rias was wide eyed. "She'll be training me?"

Issei nodded. "Scathach is a famous trainer of heroes, as I'm sure you know. That doesn't just mean their physical skills, but their mental and, if appropriate, magical skills as well. She should be capable of assisting you in improving all your stats as Azazel said."

Said fallen scratched his chin. "Hmm… Yes, that could work nicely…"

"Don't worry…" Scathach said, still smiling. "I won't be too harsh on you. You should survive." She gave a throaty chuckle that had Rias gulping.

Azazel chuckled lightly before turning to his next target. "Now for Akeno."

"…Yes." Akeno said reluctantly, a sullen look on her face. As was usual now, she did not look enthused to be interacting with Azazel. She'd outright told Issei that she hated the man a little. Issei figured it was related to who her father was.

"You must accept the blood that flows within you." Azazel said, making Akeno frown more heavily. The fallen continued as though he hadn't noticed. "I've seen the recordings of the battle with the Phenex peerage. You should have been able to easily defeat their Queen. Why didn't you use your fallen angel powers? You limited yourself to only thunder. If you don't add light to it to make lightning, you won't be able to display your full power."

"…I can do just fine without using that kind of power." Akeno said with a frown.

Bell zoomed up to the Queen. "Why are you denying yourself, Akeno-chan? You used light during the battle at Kuoh. Not much, but you still used it. What's stopping you now?"

Akeno frowned more heavily. "I only used it then because it was necessary, and I regret it immensely. I'm not going to do it again." She became pleading. "Can't you simply teach me some new things instead, Bell-sensei?"

"I'll be happy to teach you as much as I can, Akeno-chan." As Akeno began to smile, it was wiped from her face at the pixie's next words. "After you've accepted yourself and starting using the light that is your birthright. Trust me, you'll never be able to move on in your life if you keep denying who and what you are. Everybody has things that they don't like about themselves. It's only by accepting those things, no matter how hard or painful they are, that we can grow. Don't, and you'll always be weak."

Akeno didn't say anything, simply turning her head to the side, a conflicted look on her face. Issei stepped forward and set a hand on her shoulder, making her look at him.

He smiled gently. "I believe in you, Akeno. You'll get passed this, and become that much stronger because of it." Akeno gave him a tremulous smile before once more looking away, deep in thought.

Issei stepped back to his spot as Azazel continued. "Next is Kiba."

"Yes." Said the Knight.

"Your first objective is to maintain Balance Breaker for a full day. That's your objective, so you become accustomed to it. After that, I'll personally teach you how to handle sword-type Sacred Gears."

Kiba nodded and Issei once more stepped forward. "I don't know if you already have something set up, but I have arranged for a personal trainer for yourself as well, if you'd be interested."

Kiba looked intrigued, so Issei once more tapped the screen of his gauntlet, causing another flash of light to illuminate the area. From that light emerged a new figure for everybody to see.

He was about Azazel's height, with shaggy black hair tied in a ponytail that reached his waist. He was in traditional samurai garb, his top a deep black, his pants a dark blue with intricate designs. He carried two swords, a katana and a wakizashi, neither of which looked all that ornate. Despite seeming to be a normal human, there was an air of danger around him.

"Greetings." The newcomer said with a small smile. His gaze settled on Kiba. "Are you the one I've been summoned to train?" At Kiba's nod he studied the boy before nodding. "Well then, this should be interesting. I am Shinmen Musashi-no-Kami Fujiwara no Harunobu. Though you may know me better as simply Miyamoto Musashi. I look forward to seeing how you fare under my tutelage."

Kiba was slightly wide eyed but bowed. "I-I have read The Book of Five Rings. I look forward to learning directly from you."

Azazel turned to Issei. "I feel I shouldn't be surprised you have Miyamoto Musashi, considering Cu Chulainn and Scathach, yet I still am." Issei simply smirked as Bell laughed. The fallen sighed before continuing. "Anyway, Xenovia."

"Yes." The former exorcist said, looking at Azazel with interest.

"I honestly don't have much for you beyond suggesting that you need to be able to use Durandal better than you can now. Originally I would have suggested you learn to wield another sword like you did with Excalibur Destruction, such as Issei's Ascalon. However, as Issei is not a part of Rias' peerage and as such cannot lend you the blade for the fight, that's out. So I was actually hoping Issei would have an idea on how to improve your abilities with your current weapon."

Issei scratched the back of his head. "I did have an idea of someone to summon to assist you with that, but I'm not sure they would be welcome, considering we're in the underworld. I'd need Rias' express permission."

Rias looked interested and cocked her head to the side. "Well… I suppose it's fine if they promise not to cause any trouble."

Issei nodded before once again tapping his gauntlet. After yet another flash everybody turned to stare at the newest personal trainer.

She was a beautiful woman who stood proudly in front of everybody, a little above Akeno's height. Her blonde hair reached her neck with bangs covering her forehead. She was covered in well maintained, steel armor that looked well fitted to her form. She carried a longsword in her hand, ready for use. One of the more eye-catching things was the cape on her back. It was red, blue and white, and it took several of them a while to realize it was the French flag.

"So…" She said softly, her voice lightly accented, as she gazed at Xenovia with bright blue eyes. "You are the former church agent Ise wishes for me to train." She looked the bluenette over, causing Xenovia to stiffen under her gaze. "Hmm… Well, Ise sees something in you, and I trust him, so I will give you a chance, despite my personal… distaste for devils."

Xenovia swallowed lightly. "Ah, may I please have the name of the one who is going to train me?"

The woman smiled. "Ah yes, of course. My apologies. I am Jeanne. Jeanne D'Arc."

As the ORC stared, shocked, at the Maid of Orléans, who continued smiling as her fellow summons chuckled, Azazel turned to Issei, eyeing him. "Okay, seriously, who else do you have? That's four mytho-historical heroes you've summoned." Issei said nothing, simply smirking. Azazel stared at him a bit longer before sighing. "Alright, whatever, at this rate you'll pull an archangel out of your ass or something…" He cleared his throat. "Next, Gasper."

The vampire jumped slightly at being addressed. "Y-yeeeeees!" He practically screamed nervously.

"Don't be so frightened. Your biggest obstacle is that fear. You need to train that mind and body that fears everything from scratch. Your specs are substantial, and improving your bishop characteristics and your magic will help you greatly. Since I've constructed an exclusive hikikomori escape plan program, you must first put on a proper attitude as much as possible. Even if going out in public is impossible for you, make sure that your movements aren't dull."

"Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees! I'll try to obtain a spirit a that goes for broke!" Gasper cried… before almost immediately trying to get back into his cardboard box.

Azazel turned to Issei. "Let me guess, you have somebody for Gasper too."

Issei scratched his chin. "Actually, I didn't have a clue of what to do for Gasper. Your plan to get him more used to people so he's more useful in a game has merit, so I've been thinking about what I could do to help with that. Hmm…" Suddenly he smiled and started tapping his gauntlet again. This time took longer, as he obviously hadn't prepared this one beforehand. Finally there was another flash of light, and everybody turned to look at who had been summoned this time.

It was a young girl of about ten or eleven. She was incredibly pale and had light blond hair that reached her shoulders with a white ribbon trying it back, and odd, yellow eyes. She wore a blue dress that reached her knees, which had a large white ribbon tied around her waist with a bow in the back. On her feet were black shoes that fit on her snugly. All in all, while she looked very cute, neither Azazel or the ORC could see how she would be good in a fight.

The girl curtsied with a sweet smile. "Hello, everyone. It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Alice." She quickly hugged Issei around the middle. "Big bro, you haven't summoned me in ages, you meany."

Issei smiled and patted her head. "I'm sorry Alice. Things have been pretty hectic. I had to deal with some bad people again."

She looked up at him with a pout. "Then why didn't you summon me to help?"

Issei chuckled. "Alice, you know why. Summoning you would be complete overkill. It would be like trying to swat a fly with a wrecking ball."

Musashi snorted. "Understatement."

As everybody not summoned by Issei looked at each other, mystified, Alice's pout turned into a smile. "Hmm… That's true, I guess. But then why did you summon me now?"

"I was hoping you would help me with a friend of mine." He said. "He needs a playmate and someone who'll spend time with him. He's really shy, but he needs to get over it as much as possible for a fight that's coming soon. So while he's doing his training for the fight, I'd hoped you'd just spend time with him, since I can't do it myself all the time."

Alice cocked her head to the side. "Mmm… I guess I could. Where is he?" Issei pointed at the cardboard box, which was shaking slightly. Alice skipped over and opened the box with curiosity to peer at the boy who was looking up at her apprehensively. "Hi!" She said with a smile. "I'm Alice. And you are?"

"G-Gasper." He said tremulously.

"Well Gasper, I hope we can have a lot of fun together!" Alice said happily.

As Gasper nodded hesitantly Issei cleared his throat. "Alice, I think it goes without saying, but the rule I set in place still stands. No doing 'that' without my express permission. Got it?"

Alice pouted at Issei again, but nodded when he looked at her with a firm gaze. "Yes sir…"

Issei smiled. "Good. I'm glad that's settled."

Azazel eyed Alice a bit longer but decided to continue. "Well, continuing on, now the other Bishop, Asia."

"Ah! Y-yes!" Asia looked unusually intense.

"You will also improve your body and magic through some basic training. Alongside that, your main task should be to strengthen your sacred gear. Your speed with your recovery ability is already considerable. However, you need physical contact to use it, and that's a problem."

Rias was interested. "So could Asia expand the range of her Sacred Gear's healing ability?"

Azazel nodded. "Yes Rias, she could. That's how she'll show the true worth of Twilight Healing. According to the theory based on the data gathered by our organization, it should be possible for the healing aura of the Sacred Gear to be issued from the whole body and to use the recovery on all allies within one's surroundings."

Issei smiled. "That's excellent. That would open so many avenues for attack and counterattack."

"Yes, that would be good, if not for the fact that due to Asia's nature as a kind person, it's very likely that she would heal everybody in range, not just allies. So enemies would be healed as well. It would be better if she could target it, but that's not likely. Even so, expanding the range is still something that should be done."

Issei tapped his chin. "Hmm… Good point. She is far too kind to be able to only heal allies."

Asia looked down, chagrined. "I'm sorry…"

Issei smiled and patted her head. "I never said that was a bad thing. It just means you're a good person." Asia blushed and smiled with pleasure.

"Indeed. So I've found another possibility. The ability to fire her healing aura." Azazel said with a smile.

"S-so you mean I would send my healing power to someone that is far away from me?" Asia asked while making a cute little throwing gesture that made several there smile.

"Yes, you could throw it as a projectile. For example, if Kiba was ten meters away and fighting while injured, you could fire your healing power at him. So you could heal without direct contact."

Bell looked excited and flew around the former nun. "That's great! Asia could really play a larger role that way!" Asia as well looked happy.

"Well, the power's effect would be lesser than that of a direct touch, but being able to heal allies from far away is still a strategic option with many uses. By just sending one or two people to the frontlines while Asia keeps them healed and someone guards her back you'd be able to set up an ideal formation."

Rias tilted her head to the side in thought. "It's simple, but strong tactical formations generally are. Usually the method used to heal allies is Phoenix Tears or a mixed healing medicine. Asia's Sacred Gear could easily top those with its all-purpose characteristic and reliability."

"Yes. The power of Asia's Sacred Gear could be this team's distinctive characteristic and weapon. After that it's all up to Asia's own strength. So please complete the training I assigned you properly, okay?"

"Y-yes! I'll do my best!" Asia said with adorable determination. Then she, along with everybody else, turned to gaze at Issei expectantly.

Issei chuckled before yet again tapping his gauntlet, generating another flash of light. When the light faded, Angel floated there, looking serene. "Hello young one. I shall be the one to assist you in unlocking your potential."

Asia looked delighted. "I promise to work hard, Angel-san!"

The winged woman smiled gently. "I'm sure you will."

Azazel continued on. "Finally we have Koneko."

"…Yes." Koneko looked pumped up, obviously looking forward to her own training. Issei was gratified that the melancholy she had been displaying during the entire trip was gone.

"You have nothing to be criticized about, as you possess the elementary traits of offence and defense as a Rook. Your physical ability is also not a problem. However, there are those better at offence in Rias' peerage than you."

"…I know that." Koneko said, looking frustrated. Issei frowned. Was that what was bothering the loli?

"The ones at the top when it comes to offense in Rias' peerage are currently Kiba and Xenovia, since they possess brutal weapons with his Balance Breaker holy demonic swords and her holy sword Durandal." Koneko was quiet, not looking as enthused as before as Azazel continued. "So, you will also improve your base stats like the others. In addition, you need to release the thing you have personally sealed. Just like with Akeno, if you don't accept yourself, you won't be able to grow."

Koneko said nothing. Any trace of the fighting spirit she had displayed earlier had disappeared with Azazel's words.

Issei's brow furrowed. Koneko was holding something back like Akeno was? What could it be? He shared a mystified look with Bell, but approached the small girl and moved to pat her head. "Don't worry. Like I said to Akeno, I have faith you'll be able to get passed whatever the issue is."

When his hand was about to touch her head, Koneko batted it away, something she had never done before. "…Please don't say something like that so lightly…" She said sternly.

Issei frowned lightly before sighing. "Well, I did have somebody planned to help you out too. Hopefully he'll be able to help you with whatever your issue is." One last time, he tapped his gauntlet, producing another flash of light. Now used to procedure, everybody turned to see who had just been summoned.

Big. Whoever had been summoned was huge, almost two feet taller than Azazel. He had darkly tanned skin and wavy brown hair that reached his shoulders. He wasn't only tall though. He was also incredibly muscled, making professional bodybuilders look like slackers. He was shirtless, exposing his chiseled torso, and wore only a skirt of leather strips like ancient gladiators wore. On his feet he wore brown sandals.

The giant let out an excited laugh. "Finally, something to do! So, where's the one that' I'm supposed to train?" Issei pointed down, and he looked down to see Koneko, who barely reached his waist, staring up at him. "…Tiny, isn't she? Sure she can take it?"

Issei chuckled. "Trust me, she can take it."

The giant grinned. "Great. Hope you're ready, girly. Ol' Heracles isn't going to go easy on you."

As Koneko nodded in awed determination Azazel threw his hands into the air. "Of course you have Heracles as well! Of course! It's not that much, just probably the most famous mythological hero in existence, a Catholic saint, and a legendary swordsman!" He glared lightly at Issei. "Can we expect any further surprises?"

Issei simply smirked at the fallen. "Not today…" He clapped his hands. "Now then, everybody has their regimes and trainers. You should all get to it. We only have 20 days to get you all up to snuff, after all."

"Yes!" Everybody exclaimed, looking mostly determined. The group broke up, and training began.

For the following week Issei spent time with the Gremorys as the ORC trained. He'd occasionally look in on their progress, but he left it to their respective trainers, simply giving them encouragement and advice. The trainers noted that their charges tended to work extra hard when Issei was around, something that made more than one of them chuckle.

When he wasn't doing that, however, Issei spent time with Zeoticus, Venelana and Millicas. The devils noted that, while quite willing to have rather entertaining conversations, Issei was very careful to keep things close to the chest, skillfully redirecting and obfuscating as necessary. They respected him enough not to push, but they'd be lying if the said it didn't make them curious.

One day as Issei was playing chess with Millicas (and losing badly), Zeoticus entered the room. "Ise-kun, I have invited a guest that I thought you would be interested in meeting. He should be arriving momentarily. Could you please follow me outside to greet him?"

Issei nodded and tipped his king over in surrender to Millicas before ruffling the kid's hair and getting up to follow Zeoticus out. He looked around for a carriage from the road, but nothing was showing yet. "So, may I ask who this guest is?"

A shadow was cast over the two, and the devil pointed up with a smile. "That would him."

Issei looked up and his eyebrows rose at seeing a gigantic dragon swoop down and land nearby. He studied the dragon as it walked towards them. It was primarily covered in dark purple scales, though is underside and the inner portions of its long tail and its wings were beige. It had a triangular head with yellow horns and large red eyes.

"Greetings, Zeoticus. Is this the one you wanted me to meet?" The dragon asked as it reached them.

"Indeed. Issei, this is Tannin, former Great Dragon King and current Ultimate-class devil. Tannin, this is Issei Hyoudou, bearer of the Boosted Gear and thus, Sekiryuutei." Zeoticus said, introducing them.

Issei nodded in greeting. "Hello Tannin. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Tannin nodded. "Indeed. I'm interested in what kind of Sekiryuutei you are. I've met some of your predecessors, after all." The huge dragon cocked his head to the side. "May I speak with Ddraig?"

Issei nodded and summoned the Boosted Gear, letting it appear on his arm. Ddraig then spoke. "How nostalgic you hear you again, Tannin."

"Ddraig, it has been some time. Your current host seems confident. Are you satisfied?"

"Indeed I am. I'd say that Issei is the best wielder I've ever had. I have experienced many amazing things thanks to him, and fought many good fights. Even should he die tomorrow of his preferred method I can still say I am happy to have been with him." Ddraig stated firmly.

Zeoticus raised an eyebrow. "Preferred method?" He asked.

Issei chuckled as Ddraig answered. "He wishes to die after a marathon sex session with the women he cares about due to exhaustion and/or dehydration." The sealed dragon said sardonically.

Zeoticus and Tannin both laughed at that while Issei grinned unrepentantly. "Well, I can see that he's at least a normal teenager in one way." The redhead said with amusement. "In any case, I'll leave you to talk."

After Zeoticus left them alone Issei, Tannin and Ddraig had a pleasant conversation that lasted well into the night. It wasn't the last time they met together for conversation, as they began getting together quite regularly.

Issei was following Rias to the room Koneko was resting in.

Earlier that day Koneko had collapsed due to overworking herself and was currently resting. This had made Issei quite worried about the girl.

He had wondered out loud why Koneko was pushing herself so hard and Venelana, who had overheard him, proceeded to tell Issei Koneko's story.

The story began with two cat sisters who were always together. Orphans, they stuck together despite having no home and nobody else to rely on, struggling to survive day to day. One day a devil picked them up, making the elder sister part of his peerage and thus allowing the younger to live with them. It seemed perfect for the two who had struggled so much.

However, the elder sister began to grow in power incredibly fast after becoming a devil, the reincarnation having apparently sparked the growth. Being of a species that naturally excelled in youjutsu, and having a high degree of ability in magic as well, she even managed to invoke senjutsu, which was nearly unheard of.

However, the elder cat, having surpassed even her master in power, became consumed by that power and became someone who only sought blood and battle. So she killed the devil that was her master, becoming a stray, and was so powerful that she eliminated all the pursuit squads sent after her, to the point they no longer attempted to capture her.

However, the younger cat sister was left behind, and so the devils in charge decided she was a liability that might do the same. They were about to eliminate her when Sirzechs intervened, stating that she was innocent. So Sirzechs took custody of the young cat for her protection.

However, after being betrayed by her sister and tortured by the other devils, the younger sister's spirit almost collapsed. So Sirzechs left her in Rias' care to help her will to live recover and her smile reappear. And she had slowly rediscovered her emotions during her time with Rias. So Rias gave the young nekoshou, an especially powerful type of nekomata, the name of Koneko.

After hearing that story Issei wanted to make sure that the loli was alright and asked Rias to take him to her. Rias acquiesced and took him to her room. Outside of it both Heracles and Bell were waiting. Issei stopped in front of the Greek hero. "What happened?"

Heracles shrugged. "She overworked herself. I kept telling her to pace herself, and even physically forced her to stop several times, but whenever I wasn't looking she just kept going." The giant of a man chuckled. "She's definitely a tenacious little thing. I'm impressed with her grit. Still, tell her not to do it again, will you, boss? It just sets us back unnecessarily, and she's more likely to listen to you."

Issei nodded and looked at Rias, who gently knocked on the door before letting him in.

As he entered the room he saw Akeno sitting by the bad, keeping Koneko company. Then his eyes turned to Koneko.

"…Holy crap, you're even more adorable now." Issei blurted out as he saw the white cat ears on Koneko's head.

Akeno smiled slightly as Koneko blushed a bit. "Issei, this is-"

Issei waved the explanation away. "Don't worry, I already heard the story from Venelana." He moved to Koneko's bedside and studied her, wanting to make sure that she was fine. He then smiled gently at cat girl. "Hey, how are you. Your body doing alright?"

"…Why are you here?" She muttered sullenly with half-open eyes.

"Because I'm worried about you, of course." Issei stated matter of factly. Koneko didn't respond, still acting sullen, so Issei continued. "You need to be more careful. Overworking yourself isn't going to help. You need to take things at an appropriate pace or you'll do more harm than good."

Koneko clenched her hands on the sheets. "…I want…" She muttered softly.

Issei cocked his head. "What was that, Koneko-chan?"

Koneko looked Issei in the eyes and spoke clearly despite the tears in her eyes. "I want to become strong. Like Yuuto-senpai, Xenovia-senpai, Akeno-san… and Ise-senpai. I want to make my spirit and body strong. Gya-kun is also becoming strong. I don't have a healing power like Asia-senpai either… At this rate, I'll become useless. Even though I'm a Rook, I'm the… weakest… I hate being useless…" Koneko began to cry, large tears sliding down her face.

"Oh, Koneko-chan…" Issei said softly, gently reaching out and stroking the girl's hair, being careful with her ears.

Koneko continued even she cried. "…But, I don't want to use the power sleeping inside me… my Nekomata power… If I use it, I… just like my Nee-sama… I don't want that… I absolutely don't want such a thing…"

Issei continued to gently stroke her head. He was about to speak when Akeno spoke first. "Ise-kun, please leave the rest to us."

Issei blinked at Akeno. "Akeno-"

"Please. You're a kind person. But sometimes it's best to keep your distance just a little. Since… since I'm the same as Koneko-chan, we have to overcome this together." She smiled bitterly. "If one can't accept all of oneself and can't understand it, one can't move forward. Koneko-chan and I understand this in our heads. But…our courage is just slightly not enough yet. Please wait just a little longer. Koneko-chan and I will definitely get through this."

Issei looked at the two of them before sighing. "Alright. But if you need anything at all, I'll be waiting. Even if it's just to talk a bit." He gave Koneko one last stroke before standing up. "I believe in you two. You'll get passed this and become that much stronger because of it." He smiled gently at them before heading out.

Once outside of the door he turned to Heracles, who was still standing there waiting and gave his shoulder a slap. "C'mon, let's go have a spar. I need some stress relief."

Heracles grinned. "Sounds good to me, boss." The two headed out in search of someplace they could fight, Bell following behind.

It was a little over two weeks since the training began, and Issei was waiting in the parlor of the Gremory home for the others to arrive so they could head to a party that was being held soon. He was wearing his now customary red coated outfit, once again forgoing any weaponry.

The day before everybody had come back from their training, looking for the most part beat up yet stronger. They'd gathered and reported on their progress with their trainers, which was apparently considerable, something which gratified Issei. Then everybody rested for the night in order to be prepared for event of the following night.

He looked up when somebody approached him to see Saji, much to his surprise. "Hello Saji. Wasn't expecting to see you here."

Saji shrugged. "Ah, Kaichou is going to the meeting place with Rias-senpai so I tagged along. I ended up wandering aimlessly after she went to see senpai till I ended up here."

"Ah. Yeah, this place is big. I'm not surprised you got a bit lost." Issei stretched slightly. "So, how did your training for the match go?"

Saji thought about it. "I think it went well. It was very difficult, especially the special parts of it, but I think I reached the goal I set for myself."

Issei smiled. "Glad to hear it."

Saji scratched his cheek before speaking. "Say, Hyoudou, do you remember the young devils meeting a month ago?"

Issei nodded. "Of course. What about it?"

"We were serious back then. M-my dream i-is to become a teacher!" Saji said, blushing.

"Indeed?" Issei asked serenely. "What do you plan on teaching?"

"Kaichou is trying to establish a Rating Game specialty school in the Underworld. It isn't an ordinary school. It's an open school for anyone and that accepts devils regardless of whether they are high-class or low-class, aristocrat or commoner. I heard from Kaichou that things like discrimination and traditions have been softened in the devil industry little by little, but there is still a part at the root of it all that refuses to accept these changes. That's why the current Rating Game School only accepts high-class devils from aristocratic families. The games have to be equal for everyone—. This is what the present Maou-samas have decided. Though it's equal, the path of the games is far for low-class devil commoners. That's strange, right? Though even a non-aristocratic devil may be promoted to a high-level devil depending on the method. The possibility shouldn't be zero!"

Issei looked at Saji, impressed with the boy. Saji continued strongly.

"Kaichou has told me that she wants to do something about that. That she wants to teach so that even low-class devils can participate in the games. That's why she'll make a school that anyone can enter in the Underworld! Kaichou is even studying in the human world as well for the sake of that! To give a chance to the ones who never got into the spotlight! Even if it's just by 1%! Even if it's almost zero! As long as it's not zero, one might be able to become a high-class devil! Hyoudou! Even I believe in that possibility, and will try to become a high-class devil!"

Issei grinned. "As you should. Always aim for the top, Saji."

Saji grinned back. "T-That's why, I will work as a teacher there. I'll study a lot, fight in a lot of games, and store up various things. I'll become a teacher who teaches about [Pawns] with that. Kaichou also said that she wants to help me. Even someone like me may be able to become a school teacher…I-I've only done stupid things in the past. I've also caused trouble for my parents and was disliked by the people around me. But, if it's Kaichou, I can see a dream! I will stay by Kaichou's side and help her for life! Kaichou's dream is my dream!" Saji rubbed the back of his head, a bit embarrassed. "Hehehe. I kept the fact that I became a devil secret from my mother, but she still cried when I told her about my dream. She was so surprised. 'You, become a teacher!' she said, surprised. But she looked relieved. That made me happy."

Issei smiled gently at Saji, like a brother with his younger sibling. "That's a wonderful goal, Saji. Work hard, and become a great teacher."

"Y-yeah! That's why I'll fight my hardest and help my master beat senpai's team!" Saji proclaimed, a fire in his eyes.

"Win or lose, I'm sure you'll make those who laughed at you and your master's dreams eat their words." Issei said with a grin. Saji grinned back, eyes serious and full of determination.

They continued speaking after that about various topics, though both were careful to keep from talking any further about the coming battle. Finally both turned when a voice spoke from the stairs. "Ise, sorry for making you wait. Ara, Saji-kun came as well."

Issei turned towards Rias' voice before his eyes widened at seeing all of the club members dressed up beautifully. His breath was taken away at seeing them all in wonderful dresses. Even Bell was wearing a perfectly suited strapless dress. "Damn, you all look… wow…" Asia wasn't the only one to blush at the honest compliment.

"Saji? Saji, what's wrong?" Came Sona's voice. Issei turned to see a similarly dressed up Class President looking at her Pawn, who seemed shocked into motionlessness by the sight of her, in confusion. Issei simply chuckled.

A short time later the group had arrived at the high-class high rise hotel being used for the party. The building sat in the wide clearing of a huge forest at the edge of Gremory territory.

As they walked into the building Issei saw Tannin in an area reserved for large devils and gave him a light wave, getting a nod in response.

"Now then, everyone…" Rias began as they entered the lift taking them to the top floor, where the party was being held. "If you're called out to by any people from distinguished families, make sure to greet them properly, okay?"

Everybody nodded, but Bell had a question. "Rias, I thought this party was set up by the Maou for the young devils."

"That's the official reason, yes. In reality there won't be much of a big deal made even after we enter the room. This is an annual custom. It's more of a gathering for the members of the distinguished families than anything. We, the next family heads, are just extras while our parents enjoy themselves. They've already planned things out to the fourth and fifth after parties. Proof lies in the fact that they arrived before us. They've probably already gotten together and finished their alcohol." Rias said with a sigh.

As they exited the elevator into a large, lavish hall, there was an exhalation of breaths of admiration at the sight of Rias. Issei smiled. Despite saying that their appearance wouldn't be a big deal, it was obvious that Rias was gathering a lot of attention.

As everybody nearby complimented Rias Gasper pressed himself against Issei's back, trembling slightly. "Uuu, there's so many people…"

Issei reached back and patted the hikikomori's head. "You're doing good, Gasper. Despite all the people, you haven't tried to run away. Keep this up and I'll give you some candy later." The vampire nodded softly.

Rias turned to Issei with a slight blush that he didn't notice. "Ah, Ise, would you mind accompanying me as I make my round of greetings?"

Issei blinked before smiling and holding out his arm for her. "It would be an honor, Rias." She smiled and took his arm, and the two made their way through the guests, exchanging pleasantries, despite the occasional looks Issei was getting for his association with the redhead.

A while later Issei sat in a corner with Asia and Gasper, keeping them company. The two were already exhausted, being completely new to such a setting. He looked around to see what everybody else was doing. Rias and Akeno were a short distance away, speaking with some female devils. Kiba was doing the same, a large amount of girls being obviously attracted to his pretty face. Issei rolled his eyes at that. Some things never changed.

Issei's eyes narrowed as yet another male devil approached to greet Asia. The former nun's cute looks were attracting them constantly. Issei definitely wasn't pleased, and his glare along with his scarred visage tended to make them retreat relatively quickly.

"Ise, Asia, Gasper, I've gotten some food, so eat up." Came Xenovia's voice. Issei turned to see the bluenette skillfully carrying several plates of exquisite food, Bell trailing behind and carrying some food of her own on a smaller plate.

"Thanks a lot, Xenovia. It looks good." Issei said with a smile, taking a plate from her.

"It's no problem. I brought Asia a drink as well."

"Ah, thank you very much, Xenovia-san. I was nervous and my throat got dry since this is my first time at something like this." The blonde said, quickly drinking down the glass of juice.

Issei was about to chow down when somebody stepped in front of him. He looked up to find blonde girl that looked vaguely familiar to him.

"Hmm? You're…"

"I-it's been a while, Sekiryuutei." The blonde said with a small blush she was trying desperately to pretend wasn't there.

Issei smiled. "Ah, it's Cutie-chan, Yakitori's sister."

"My name is Ravel Phenex! I would expect somebody of your ability to be able to remember at least that much!" Ravel said indignantly, still blushing.

Issei chuckled softly. "But Cutie-chan suits you so well…" Ravel blushed deeper, but before she could say anything further Issei continued. "So, how's your brother doing? I expected to see him here, and I haven't spotted him."

Ravel sighed. "…Thanks to you, he's been in low spirits. It seems that his defeat and having Rias-sama stolen away by you was a great shock. Well, since he had always relied on his talent and got cocky because of it, it should have been a good lesson for him."

Issei laughed a bit. "Wow, you're pretty merciless, aren't you? Weren't you also part of his peerage?"

"Well, I've currently finished trading, so now I'm my mother's servant after she traded away an unused piece she had in exchange for me. Since my mother said that she would trade me again when I found someone whose family I want to become part of, I'm pretty much a free Bishop now, seeing as my mother doesn't participate in any games."

Issei cocked his head to the side. "I can pretty much guess due to what you said, but what exactly is trading?"

"Huh? Ah, well, trading, according to the rules of the Rating Games, is exchanging pieces between Kings as long as they're the same kind of piece." Ravel explained.

"Ah, that's what I figured. Thank you." Issei said with a smile.

Ravel nodded, blushing once again. "W-well, b-by the way, Sekiryuutei-"

"Please, enough with the Sekiryuutei. My name is Issei Hyoudou. There's no need to address me by my title. You can speak to me normally. Just call me Ise." Issei said with a small, exasperated smile.

To Issei's light surprise, Ravel looked rather happy at that. "I-is it really okay for me to call you by your name!?" At Issei's nod she got control of herself with a small cough. "T-then I'll oblige and call you Ise-sama from now on."

Issei sweatdropped. "Ah, the sama is unnecessary, but if it's that important to you…"

Ravel nodded firmly. "It is!"

"Very well then…" Issei said with a light sigh.

"Ravel-sama." Came a new voice. Issei turned to see it was a woman from Riser's peerage. "Danna-sama's friend is calling for you."

"I understand." Ravel said. She turned back to Issei. "Ise-sama, the next time we meet, would you like to have some tea with me? A-a-a-and if it's okay with you, would you like to have a homemade cake p-p-prepared by me?"

Issei was surprised by her request but nodded with a smile. "I'd be delighted to, Cutie-chan." Ravel blushed furiously, curtsied, and hurried away. Her escort nodded to Issei and followed after her.

Issei was once again about to start eating when he spotted Koneko moving quickly, heading out of the room. Issei's eyebrows furrowed before he gave a small sigh and set his food down. "Asia, Xenovia, stay here please."

"Ise-san? What's wrong? Maou-sama's greeting will be starting soon."

"It's nothing, Asia. I just saw an acquaintance go by and wanted to say hello. I'll be right back."

"Well… Alright…"

Issei nodded before giving Bell a look telling her to stay with them. The pixie nodded, prompting Issei to follow after Koneko. He saw that she had gone down the elevator and quickly pressed the button to follow her down. He had just gotten into the elevator when Rias slid in alongside him.

"I saw your expression change. What's wrong?" She asked.

"I saw Koneko-chan leave, looking like she was following something." Issei responded.

Rias nodded. "I see. Then I'll come along too."

Issei nodded and pressed the button to the ground floor, making them slide down.

Several minutes later the two were, after checking with the people outside the hotel and sending Rias' bat familiar to look around, running through the forest, intent on catching up to Koneko. Soon the both of them reached her and hid behind a nearby tree to find out what was going on.

They saw that Koneko was looking around, searching for something. Then she seemed to notice something and turned in that direction, making her pursuers do the same.

"It's been a while, hasn't it?" Between one moment and another someone appeared without a sound. It was a beautiful woman in a loose black kimono. She had cat ears poking out of her black hair, similar to the ones Issei had seen on Koneko when he was in her room. That made Issei suspicious.

"! …You." Koneko's whole body was shaking.

"Hello Shirone. It's me, your onee-chan." The woman said.

"Kuroka-nee-sama…" Koneko managed to get out. Issei's eyes narrowed. So this was Koneko's sister.

Kuroka reached down to pet the black cat snuggled up to her feet. ""Onee-chan is very impressed that you came this far following after this black cat that sneaked into the party, nya."

"…Nee-sama, what is this about?" Koneko asked angrily.

Kuroka smiled. "No need for such a scary face. I just had some minor business to take care of and I heard that the devils were holding a party here, so I was a little interested. Nyan~" Kuroka proceeded to wave her hand like a cat and wink cutely down at her sister.

A laugh rang out. "Could it be that you're a member of the Gremory group?" Issei and Rias turned to see that Bikou, the man who had helped Vali escape the peace conference, had appeared.

Both of them tensed. Bikou was a member of the Khaos Brigade. So that most likely meant Kuroka was as well. Could this be a terrorist attack on the party?

Suddenly Bikou turned towards where they were hidden. "Even if you erase your presence, it's useless. With people like me and Kuroka who know senjutsu, we can detect you with just a slight variation in the flow of your spirit."

Issei and Rias glanced at each other before stepping out. Koneko looked at them in surprise. "…Ise-senpai, Buchou."

Issei acted supremely unconcerned. "Yo, wannabe Wukong, how's Vali doing?"

Bikou chuckled. "He's doing fine. How about you? Still hiding your power for some reason. How disappointing."

Issei shrugged. "Unlike some, I don't feel the need to throw my weight around to make myself feel good." He crossed his arms. "So, why are you here? Planning to attack the party?"

The two smiled at Issei's question. "No, we didn't come down here for such a thing. It's just that a standby order has come out in the Underworld. Me and Kuroka are off-duty right now. When the order was given, Kuroka suggested visiting the devils' party. Since she likely wouldn't return easily, I came along with her too."

Tension left Rias as she heard that. She was happy to hear that this wasn't a planned attack and simply someone's curiosity.

"Bikou, who is this boy?" Kuroka asked, pointing at Issei.

"That's the Sekiryuutei." Bikou responded simply.

Kuroka's eyes widened. "Really nyan? So this is the Sekiryuutei that beat Vali."

Bikou yawned. "Kuroka, let's just go back. We can't participate in the party anyway, so it's a waste to stay here."

"Alright, let's return. But I'm taking Shirone with me nyan. Since I didn't do so that other time~"

Issei, Rias and Koneko all tensed at that as Bikou responded. "Arara, if you bring her back of your own accord Vali might get angry, you know?"

"Well, when they realize that the same power as mine flows within her, both Ophis and Vali will be convinced, right?"

"Well, that's true…"

Koneko shivered in fear as her sister smiled widely at her. Issei had enough and stepped between them. "I'm afraid that won't be possible. I'm quite fond of Koneko-chan. Not to mention her friends would miss her a lot if she left."

Both Bikou and Kuroka laughed at Issei. "No, no, that's very brave of you." The monkey said. "But do you really intend to make both of us your opponents? Just give us the girl, and we'll leave quietly. Doesn't that sound better?"

Issei glared at the youkai as Rias stepped forward. "This child is my servant. I won't let you lay a single finger on her."

"Ara-ara-ara-ara, what are you saying nya? She's my little sister. I have the right to love her. A high-class devil like you doesn't have that privilege." Kuroka said, glaring at Rias, who glared right back. Kuroka then dropped her glare and smiled widely. "Well, since you're so troublesome, I'll have to kill you nyan~"

Issei was surprised when the feeling of the surroundings changed as he hadn't been expecting it. Rias looked at Kuroka sourly. "…Kuroka, so you learned not only senjutsu, youjutsu and devil magic, but also the skill to control space?"

"I didn't go as far as learning how to control time, but I have fairly picked up on how to control space. If I use the essentials of barrier techniques, it's relatively easy, after all. I covered this entire forest with a barrier and isolated it from the outside world nyan. That's why even if we do flashy things here, it won't leak outside and devils from outside won't come in. You're going to get pleasantly killed here by us and say goodbye. Nya~"

Issei set himself into a stance, ready to fight, when a new voice joined the conversation. "When I was told that Miss Rias and Issei Hyoudou had come to this forest and I quickly came to look, I didn't think I would be sealed in by a barrier…"

Issei looked up and smiled. "Yo, Tannin, good of you to join us."

"Indeed. It seems these visitors aren't suitable for this party." Tannin said as he hovered above them.

Bikou looked absolutely delighted. "Oh, oh, oh! If it isn't the former Dragon King 'Blaze Meteor Dragon' Tannin! So you came! This is already a big problem, Kuroka! We have no choice but to fight now!"

"You seem happy, Bikou. Well, if we take down two who are above Dragon King class, Ophis will be lenient on the matter."

"Kinto-Un! Nyoi-Bo!" Bikou yelled, summoning a golden cloud to his feet and a long staff. He then flew into the air and began an aerial battle with Tannin.

Issei watched the battle in the sky for a bit before he turned his gaze back to Kuroka, who was gazing back with a wicked smile and an evil aura.

Issei was setting himself for the coming fight when Koneko suddenly spoke. "…Nee-sama, I'll go with you, so please leave these people alone."

Issei whirled on the loli. "Koneko!"

In an instant Rias had embraced Koneko tightly. "What are you saying, Koneko!? You're a servant of my peerage, and I won't let you do as you please!"

Koneko shook her head, looking scared. "…You don't understand. I know nee-sama's power best. Her power rivals that of an ultimate-class devil. For Buchou and Ise-senpai… I don't think you can capture my sister even with a former Dragon King, since she excels at both genjutsu and senjutsu…"

"Even if that's the case, I absolutely refuse to hand you over to that person! To this nekomata that didn't try to help Koneko-chan when she cried so much!" Rias exclaimed angrily.

Kuroka smiled at Rias. ""It's because a youkai cannot help another youkai. However, this time, I simply want Shirone because I want another piece under my control. I can understand Shirone's power better than a red-haired onee-san like you, you know?"

Koneko began to shake her head at her sister's words. "…No ...I don't want that kind of power. …I don't need a dark power like that. …Not a power that brings misfortune to people…" She began trembling, tears falling down her face.

Rias held her tighter. "Kuroka…You who had been blinded by power left a wound on the heart of this girl that won't disappear for her whole life. After you killed your master and left, this child saw hell. When I first met her, there were no feelings left in her. Koneko was betrayed by you, who was her only family to her, lost a future to rely on, and was despised and abused by other devils, to the point where she was going to be disposed of…She saw many harsh things. That's why I will show her many fun things! This girl is Koneko Toujou, Rook of Rias Gremory's group! My important servant devil! I won't let you put even a single finger on her!"

Koneko began to weep harder at Rias' words, large, pearly tears trailing down her cheeks. "…I don't want to go… I am Koneko Toujou. Kuroka-nee-sama, I don't want to go with you! I want to live with Rias-buchou!"

Kuroka smiled bitterly, something that Issei took note of, before the look on her face shifted and she let out a derisive laugh. "Then die."

A thin mist began to emanate from Kuroka. It spread gradually till it reached them and began to spread into the forest, thickening every second. Issei's eyes narrowed as he studied the deepening fog. He whirled around when he heard Rias drop to her knees with a distressed sound, followed shortly afterwards by Koneko, who had a hand to her mouth. He turned back to Kuroka, glaring.

She looked back at him, her eyebrows raised. "Ah, this mist wouldn't work on you, would it. It's a poison mist that only works on devils and youkai, nyan. Since the poison is thin, you don't suffer much while it spreads through your body. I won't kill you quickly, I'll kill you gradually, nyan~"

Issei sighed. "Koneko-chan, why did you ask her to spare us as if we were powerless?" He cracked his knuckles. "Do you really think me that pitiful? I guess I'll need to show you again that I will protect those I care about."

Kuroka looked interested. "Oh, and what are you going to do, nya?"

"Well, first of all…" Issei held out a hand to Koneko and Rias. "Amrita." An odd light hit the two devils, and they gasped as they felt the pain from the poison leave, being cured. They slowly got up. Then he said loudly "Enduring Shout!" A new light appeared around them, and when the mist tried to get near them it was rebuffed by some sort of barrier.

"You healed them?" Kuroka asked, surprised.

Issei shrugged, cracking his neck. "Don't think that because of I'm the Sekiryuutei I'm all about brute, destructive power. I've learned to be more than that." He lifted a hand at Kuroka. "Although, I'm good at that too. Hama!"

Kuroka's eyes widened as the cage of light that Rias and Koneko had last seen defeat Riser appeared. There was a blinding flash of light, but when it faded there was nothing there.

"That's a good attack, but useless. I can easily clone myself using the basics of genjutsu." Came Kuroka's voice.

"We'll need to fix that then, won't we? Sukunda!" Issei said. A new light spread out in a wave with him as the epicenter. It seemed to hit something nearby, and suddenly Kuroka reappeared, looking shocked. Issei quickly pointed at her. "Megidola!" A bright, multicolored orb raced towards the nekoshou and impacted her as she tried to dodge, spreading out in an explosion of power. It burst like a small nuke going off, making Rias and Koneko fall back on their backsides. The black haired devil it was aimed at proceeded to impact against a tree hard.

She got up, staring at Issei. "So, this is a power of a Sekiryuutei. I can tell you could have killed me if you wanted. It seems you're too merciful. I'm surprised you still have a soft heart with that amount of power. No powerful beings keep such things long." She said. She straightened up before grinning wickedly, though there was a bitter edge to it. "It's only a matter of time though, before your power turns your heart to stone."

Issei frowned. He didn't let it show, but that hit far too close to home when it came to one of his greater fears. But it was surprisingly Koneko who answered. "It's true that most of the previous Sekiryuuteis were that lost their heads to their power… They drowned in the enormous power they had… My nee-sama is the same… Even if one has power… If they don't have kindness… They'll definitely go out of control… But Ise-senpai is a gentle Sekiryuutei, despite his great power… It's a wonderful thing… He's surely the first one to be a gentle Sekiryuutei. That's why…" She turned to Issei and gave him a beautiful, dazzling smile. "Please become a gentle Welsh Dragon…"

Issei stared at her before smiling gently back, feeling his fears abate. "Always, Koneko-chan…"

"Issei!" Tannin called down. Issei looked up. "That blast was enough to apparently destroy the barrier. I'm surprised. It shouldn't have been strong enough for that. There was something very strange in the energy you used for it."

Issei said nothing to the implied question, simply nodding and turning back to Kuroka. "Are you ready to turn yourself in?"

Kuroka had regained her balance. "No! I was holding back on you before. Now I'll show you a mixed shot of youjutsu and senjutsu!" She said, pooling two different kinds of energies in her hands before launching them at Issei. He sighed before lifting his hand and literally slapping the attack away. Kuroka once more looked shocked. "W-what? But how?"

"Enough of this. It's time you paid for making my cute kouhai cry." Issei launched himself at Kuroka. Before she could react he had buried his fist in her stomach before sweeping her feet, making her fall to the ground. He fluidly moved into a downward punch at her head. Kuroka flinched and closed her eyes, ready for a devastating impact. When it didn't arrive she opened her eyes to find his fist hovering a hair's breadth from face. "…Aim at Koneko-chan again, and I won't pull my punches next time." Issei said quietly.

When he stood up and stepped back, Kuroka immediately scrambled to her feet and staggered away, glaring fearfully at him. "You… You brat…"

Bikou twirled his staff and laughed. "So it's not just Tannin, that one is also boss level! How interesting!" He grinned, looking eager to continue the battle. However, before he could do so, a tear in space suddenly appeared.

A man appeared from out of the tear. He was young and wore a suit along with a pair of glasses, a strand of blond hair falling across his face. In his hand he held a sword that was releasing a potent holy aura which made Rias and Koneko look apprehensive.

"That's enough, Bikou, Kuroka. The devils have taken notice." He said.

Bikou descended, looking disgruntled. "Aren't you Vali's attendant?"

The man pushed up his glasses. "I came to take a look because Kuroka was being slow. And now I see you're here as well, Bikou. What are you two doing?"

Tannin cried out to his allies. "Everybody, keep your distance! That sword he's holding is troublesome!" He moved lower. "The holy king sword Collbrande. Also known as Caliburn. So Collbrande, the strongest holy sword, is with the Hakuryuukou, eh?" Tannin laughed bitterly at that. "I can see you have another at your side, though. Which is it?"

The young man pointed to the sword sheathed at his side. "This is the final Excalibur that was only recently found. It is the strongest of the seven fragments, Excalibur Ruler." He turned to Issei. "Sekiryuutei-dono, could you please give my greetings to the holy demonic sword user and the wielder of Durandal? I'm very interested in them, and would like to face them sometime as a fellow swordsman." After Issei nodded he turned to Bikou and Kuroka. "Now then, let's retreat." He cut the air with Collbrande and another tear appeared, quickly spreading so multiple people could go through.

"Goodbye, Sekiryuutei." The man said, as he and the other two left.

Issei sighed as he turned to Rias and Koneko. "You two okay?" Both nodded and Issei ran a hand through his hair as the devils who'd detected trouble appeared. He moved and patted Koneko's head as she leaned into his touch, looking tired from all the commotion. As Rias leaned against him, also tired, he gave a small chuckle. "And here I was afraid this party was going to be boring…"

It was the day of the match of against the Sitri peerage, and Issei was standing with the Gremorys, Azazel and Bell, ready to wish his friends luck.

Akeno and Koneko approached Issei. "Mou, I wish that Ise-kun was joining us in this fight." The Queen said with a playful pout.

Issei smiled at them both. "I'm sure you'll do amazing. I'll be watching you intently with the others and want to see how much you've grown."

"Ara, Ise-kun, It's thanks to you that we've grown so much." Akeno took a deep breath. "I'll be using my light for the first time today. Ise-kun, please watch me as I let out everything I have."

"…Me too." Came Koneko's soft voice. "…If Ise-senpai is watching, then I won't hold myself back. Please watch."

Issei smiled at them both and, to their surprise, gathered them both into a hug. "I'm sure you both are going to be amazing." He said softly. "Show everybody that you won't let your fears hold you back any longer." The girls, blushing at the contact, hugged him back before stepping away with determined looks on their faces.

Once the fighters gathered on the transportation circle everybody gave them their well wishes.

"Rias, you've lost once before. Win for sure this time."

"Fight a battle that won't make you ashamed as the next head of the family. Everyone else as well, okay?"

"Do your best, Rias-nee-sama!"

"Well, I've taught you about the things you needed to be informed about this time. All that's left is to exert yourselves and go all out."

"Do your best. Win or lose, show everybody what you can do."

"Ignore him! Kick their asses!"

The ORC nodded with determination as the circle began to shine brightly before it flashed and they were suddenly gone. Azazel lay a hand on Issei's shoulder. "Alright, we should get going to the VIP room. Enjoy the game."

While the Gremorys nodded Issei looked at the fallen, surprised. "I still don't see why I'm coming to the VIP room with you. I'm not a faction leader or anything."

"You've been directly invited by both myself and two of the Maou. Not accepting would be bad form. Besides, think of this as a chance to network. And yes, Bell can come too if she wants to." Azazel said with a smile.

Bell thought about it before shaking her head. "Hmm… Nah." She flew over to land on Millicas' shoulder. "I think I'll stay here and watch with the Gremorys."

Azazel shrugged. "Up to you." He turned to Issei. "C'mon, let's go."

Issei sighed but allowed himself to be pulled along, glad he'd once more dressed in his now ubiquitous red ensemble.

Before long they'd been transported to the VIP room, which was full of important looking people. Issei straightened up and used the old trick of looking like he was meant to be there just as much as anybody else was. It seemed to work, as nobody paid him a second look.

"Ah, Ise. Welcome. Ready for the match?" Came Sirzechs' voice as the Satan approached.

Issei smiled at him. "Yeah, I'm looking forward to seeing what they can do after the training I've helped put them through."

"Don't count my sister out, Ise-chan~ So-tan has more servants and is better at strategy." Said Serafall as she suddenly appeared from behind Sirzechs.

"I don't doubt both sides will make an excellent showing, Levi-tan. I've just been more heavily involved in the Gremory peerage, so I'm obviously going to be interested." Issei told the bubbly Maou with a smile.

"Yes, that does make sense. Hello, Ise-kun. It's good to see you again." Issei turned to find Michael approaching.

"Michael, I'm glad to see you're well. I hope the system is working smoothly and leaving you with less headaches." He said with a smile.

The angel laughed softly. "It's working as well as usual. You'll be happy to know I set up your request for Asia and Xenovia, by the way."

Issei smiled wider and gave the seraph a small bow. "Thank you very much."

Michael waved it away. "It was no problem." He then turned to an old man with a long, white beard and an eyepatch standing nearby. "Issei, I'd liked to introduce you to Odin, of the Norse pantheon. Odin, this is Issei Hyoudou. He's the current bearer of the Boosted Gear."

Issei nodded respectfully. "It's nice to meet you, All-Father of the Aesir."

Odin looked Issei over. "There's something odd about you, boy. You look like a normal brat, but there's something… off."

Issei simply shrugged. "It's the scars. They tend to have that effect."

Odin snorted. "Bah. As leader of a pantheon of warrior gods, do you think I'm unused to a little scarring? That's not it. I can't put my finger on it, though…" He turned to the others, dismissing his musings. "So, I meant to ask, what are the odds on this fight?"

Azazel shrugged. "As I told the Gremory group, I give them a seventy-five percent chance of winning. If they had another fighter of comparable skill it'd be higher, like eighty-five or ninety. As it is, they could win, but it won't be all that easy."

"However it goes I think we'll be impressed. Both sides have their own strengths, and are also well motivated." Issei added.

"Motivation won't win a war, boy." Odin said. "You need firepower as well."

"Perhaps, but a well-motivated person with a properly strong will can do impressive things." Issei retorted.

"Speaking from experience, Ise-chan?" Serafall asked with interest. Issei merely smiled.

Sirzechs cut in. "The game is about to begin."

Everybody made their way to the group of large screens as Grayfia beginning to speak, explaining the details of the location and the fact that additional rules had been determined, and that each team had been provided a single bottle of Phoenix Tears. She then provided them thirty minutes to strategize before the game began properly.

"So, what are the additional rules?" Issei asked.

"The primary one is that they can't destroy the department store battlefield." Sirzechs said.

"Huh. That's going to restrict Rias, Akeno and Xenovia the most. They're the showy type." Issei commented.

Azazel hummed. "Sixty-three percent…"

Sirzechs gave him a sour look before adding. "There's another rule. The use of Gasper's Sacred Gear is forbidden. We have provided them with Sacred Gear-sealing glasses that Azazel provided."

"Fifty-five percent…"

"Gasper has other skills. He has his magic and vampire abilities. So he's not useless like most Sacred Gear wielders are when without them." Issei assured.

"That's why the number wasn't lower." Azazel said simply.

"Well we'll see how it goes. At least the participants are nice to look at. These girls will be quite beautiful soon." Odin said. Issei raised an eyebrow. So Odin was a pervert? He shrugged to himself. At least he showed good taste.

Suddenly a silver haired woman popped appeared at Odin's side. "Odin-sama, you shouldn't be so indecent! You'll make Valhalla weep!"

"You are such a prude, girl. You'll never get a boyfriend if you continue acting that way." Odin grumbled.

The woman began cry. "Auu. I want to have a boyfriend, but who would go out with a woman of my age!? Auuuuu!"

Issei sweatdropped. "Uh…"

Michael chuckled softly. "That's Odin's Valkyrie assistant." He told Issei. Issei blinked. That was a Vakyrie?

Everybody's attention was shortly drawn back to the screens as the game began.

Issei nodded as he saw Gasper become a large amount of bats and head to every corner of the battleground, most likely for surveillance, as he didn't have Issei's blood to give him the boost needed to do more damage in that form this time. Still, it was a good strategy.

Due to their lack of numbers the Gremory team sent their strongest member, Kiba, on a roundabout route through the parking lot to the other side of the department store. The others, not having a pawn that needed to promote, gathered around their base to defend.

The Sitri group split into groups. One was headed straight to the enemy base by the shortest route. The other, smaller group headed to the parking lot. Sona went her own way, however, and headed to the roof, keeping herself safe from attack.

There were winces and mutters when Gasper was suddenly taken out, being retired and costing the Gremory team their surveillance capabilities. This meant that Kiba was completely unprepared for the team of two that awaited him. The fact that they were what was considered two of the strongest pieces, the Queen, Tsubaki, and Knight, Tomoe, didn't help Kiba's odds. He still fought incredibly well, however, impressing many there, and in the end he managed to defeat both of them, but not before Tsubaki landed a blow that left him bleeding heavily. He was retired shortly afterwards due to blood loss.

Meanwhile, the others had begun to battle the other five. Koneko fought her fellow Rook, Tsubasa, defeating her easily thanks to the fact that her natural durability didn't protect her from the spiritual nekoshou attacks that Koneko employed alongside her normal attacks.

Xenovia ripped through one of the Bishops, Momo, despite a very timely use of the reversal ability they'd learned to temporarily change Durandal's holy aura to a dark one, meaning it didn't do nearly as much damage to them. So despite Xenovia's victory, she got a lot more banged up than usual.

Asia was taken out by that same reversal ability. When she went to heal Koneko and Xenovia with her new area of effect ability, one of the Pawns, Ruruko, used it, making the healing aura become a damage aura. She was taken out alongside Asia because of it.

Akeno was in a fierce battle with the final Bishop, Reya, but was greatly hampered by the rule not to destroy the area. However, the lightning she now wielded in place of the thunder she used before made a big difference, so that she managed to win. However, it wasn't as easy a win as it should have been, and she was left quite tired. Because of this, she was completely unprepared for what came next: Saji.

Despite the fact that he was supposed to be the weakest of his group, Saji had caused utter havoc. He had learned new ways to wield his Sacred Gear that even Azazel seemed impressed with.

He took out Koneko by attaching one of his lines to her, steadily draining her even as he desperately dodged her attacks. He spotted Xenovia coming for him and turned, attaching the other end of the line on Koneko to her. As Xenovia swung her sword, who's holy aura had returned, at him, he somehow made the line shorten even as he dodged, so that suddenly a surprised Koneko was sent flying at the Knight and was sliced into by her ally's holy sword. Already weakened by the line's draining ability, this was enough to retire her.

Xenovia was shocked still, but Akeno wasn't. She started launching lightning at Saji, who started desperately dodging, getting more than a little singed from glancing hits. He connected another line to Xenovia and, before she could cut it off, connected the other end to a metal pole he was hiding behind just as Akeno launched an even bigger bolt of lightning. The lightning hit the pole, traveled down the line and into Xenovia, who gave a cry before being retired as well.

Akeno was not happy. With a cry she launched another, larger bolt of lightning. Saji barely managed to evade, though he got blown back by the small scale explosion at the epicenter. He quickly launched a line at a magazine stand and launched the other end at Akeno. She dodged, making the line hit the wall behind her. He still made the line suddenly shorten, launching the entire stand in the air, clipping Akeno's temple. Akeno cried out, falling to the ground, and before she could react Saji went for a blow that would take her out with a shout.

Akeno managed to get her bearings at the last second and moved away, but Saji pulled out a bottle of Phoenix Tears and splashed it at her. Before she could do anything, still dazed, he shouted 'Reverse', and the liquid that should have healed her instead caused her massive damage, causing her to be retired with a cry.

Saji panted, hands on his knees, obviously exhausted, but before he could even take notice a reddish black orb came from the entrance to the food court base, hitting him and causing him to be launched back. His last sight was a royally pissed off Rias. Then he was retired.

In the VIP room, many were muttering to themselves, discussing what they had seen. Both sides had fought impressively, but Saji's performance was the most talked about.

"Quite an interesting dragon boy. What's his name?" Asked Odin.

"Saji." Issei responded. "Saji Genshirou."

"Impressively thought out uses of his Gear. I doubt many previous users used it that way. He's one to watch out for." The old god said. "Take care to nurture him. He'll be big."

Issei couldn't help but smile. From the sounds of the mutterings around him, Saji was well on his way to his dream of becoming a teacher.

He turned back to the screen as Rias finally found Sona. With only the Kings left, this would be decided between them.

"Your peerage fought well, Sona. Especially Saji-kun. You should be proud." Rias said.

Sona adjusted her glasses. "Yes, Saji improved tremendously for this game." Her eyes glinted. "I will have to make sure to thank Hyoudou-kun for his help with my peerage's training."

Rias reeled back in shock at that revelation even as various people in the VIP room turned to Issei with raised eyebrows. Issei said nothing, simply watching with his arms folded.

"Ise… helped you?" Rias asked, sounding like she couldn't believe it.

"He gives excellent advice, as I'm sure you know. His ideas helped my peerage grow splendidly." Sona answered.

Rias managed to compose herself. "It... it doesn't matter. Now it's just the two of us. Let's finish this, Sona."

So saying, the two girls began an intense magical battle that had everybody watching captivated. It all culminated in one final, titanic clash.

Finally, Grayfia announced [Rias Gremory is the victor] to all listening.

It was a couple of hours after the match, and Rias had just left Akeno's infirmary room when she spotted Issei walking towards her. She stopped and gazed at him while he gazed back.

"Congratulations on your win, Rias." He said with a smile.

Rias looked away. "It might as well have been a loss. The higher ups aren't looking that favorably on me, considering it was so close when I was the favorite to win."

Issei snorted. "What do they know? You won despite many surprises. Just because Sona wasn't as week as they assumed is no reason to act harshly toward you."

Rias ducked her head. "…You helped her."

Issei sighed. He'd known this conversation was coming. "You realize she told you that to psych you out, don't you?"

"…It's the truth though, isn't it?" Rias asked quietly. She was obviously quite hurt.

"...Do you remember at the young devils meeting, where I pledged to support Sona with her school?" He asked. At her nod he continued. "After the meeting she asked for my help with preparing for the game that had just been announced. I made sure to inform her that I wouldn't help her as much as I would you. I didn't give her personal trainers, after all. Simply some advice on how to best nurture her servants. Saji got quite a bit of my attention, being so new to devilhood and to his Gear. So yes, I helped advise her, but I didn't train them to fight you."

Rias looked like she felt a bit better, so Issei continued. "I also wanted to give you a challenge. Facing adversity is a great way to learn and improve. If you had just curbstomped them, you'd have learned nothing. Now you know some things you can improve, along with ideas of new tactics." Rias nodded.

"Finally, I wanted to help Sona. Be honest, would you have felt good if you'd crushed Sona, and thus her dreams?" Issei asked.

"…No, no I wouldn't have." Rias admitted after a moment.

"She may not have won, but she showed her naysayers that she's serious and capable. She needed this. So I helped." He sighed. "I hope you can understand. I don't apologize for what I did. It was for the best for everyone."

They were silent for several minutes before Rias sighed and nodded. "I don't like it… but I understand." She smiled at him. "You better make it up to me though." At his raised eyebrow she looked serious. "Make me stronger, Issei."

Issei smiled. "Of course, Rias."

Soon enough, they were all on the train back to the human world. Issei was relaxing and talking to Rias when, suddenly, Koneko sat on his lap with her cat ears and tail out. Issei looked down at her in surprise when she looked up at him, gave him a wide, beaming smile, and let out a cute little "Nyan~". Issei just stared, mind blown by the sheer amount of adorable, before smiling and petting her head as Asia looked on, teary eyed, Rias glared, and Akeno let out an uncomfortable pressure despite her smile.

Bell simply laughed.

"Ah, finally home…" Issei sighed, stretching as he got off the train with the others. "Let's get home, Asia-"

"Asia Argento… We finally meet."

Asia looked bewilderedly at a delicate looking man that had drawn near.

Issei's eyes narrowed. "What do you want with Asia?"

The man ignored him. "I see, so you've forgotten me…" He pulled up his shirt, exposing his chest and a large, deep scar.

Asia's eyes flew open. "That wound… Could it be?"

"Yes, you couldn't see my face at that time, but I am the devil from that time." The man said. Asia was speechless. ""My name is Diodora Astaroth. That time you weren't able to treat it to the point where a scar wouldn't remain, but my life was saved due to your Sacred Gear."

Issei's eyes rose, realizing what was going on now, even as Rias cut in. "You're Diodora, aren't you?"

Diodora took Asia's hand and kissed it, which made Issei's eyes narrow and his blood boil. Then the devil spoke. ""Asia, I came to meet you. I apologize that I couldn't greet you at that meeting. But, I think the encounter between you and I was destiny. ...I want you to be my wife. I love you."

Issei wasn't the only one who stared in shock. He was the one who had blood flowing from his palms due to his nails cutting into them, however.

Finally. This fucking chapter fought me. Even with the extra day I had to work on it, I only barely got it out in the last few minutes of my Friday.

And it's shit, I know. I really don't like this chapter. Parts of it are practically copy n paste from the LN, that's how little inspiration I have for it.

Well, it's over, and next we get to the events that I've been looking forward to for a while. Something huge is going to happen. Canon had Juggernaut Drive making an appearance. I've got something else. Gonna have to wait though. Still haven't even started the LN. Hopefully it won't take me long to read it. Till then, I've got other stories I can work on.

Well, with this chapter, my word count is now over 100k. Have trouble believing I've reached that. Still, makes me happy.

To the guy who asked, nobody else will get the Demon Summoning Program, and Issei's demons are the only ones I have planned to appear. What he has on him will be the only SMT verse things to show up in this story.

For those who don't read my other stories' ANs, my days off have changed. I'm now Wed-Thurs when I used to be Sun-Mon. So since my workweek changed, my posting schedule has too. I generally try to finish my stuff during the workweek and post them on my Friday. That's Tuesday now. So more likely than not, Tuesdays are when you'll get new content from me. Just FYI.

Next should be a chapter for my HP story, if anybody's interested.

I can't think of anything else to say. So I'll see you all later. Please review if you can. It makes a difference. Bye.