Ayo, I'm here with another chapter! Also, I have an idea that popped up in my head. I'm thinking about two things. The first is either do a re-write for ReBirth: The Times or do a fanfiction of My Hero Academia where Izuku has the [Boosted Gear]. You guys choose, I'll do a poll (I prefer the MHA idea).
Onto the reviews:
– Yeah, I opened your page and saw the writing tips there, which are helpful. Thanks for it and thanks to everyone else.
Press Start: Game of DxD {Re-Write}
Chapter 8
«Flashback, several minutes ago...«
"What are our orders, Cao Cao?"
Just recently, Heracles, who's responsible for the mission of recruiting Issei Hyuodou, found out that Issei is at the Underworld, challenging the heir of the Phenex Clan of the Devils to save the heiress of the Gremory Clan from an arranged engagement. He quickly informed Cao Cao about this information, bringing us to now.
"Take George and do it now. The one-month period of observation is already over. Plus, we will announce the strength of us Humans to the Underworld. You and George are to ask him to come and join, and if he refuses, use brute force. Knock him out and bring him here." Spoke Cao Cao with firmness as he had a serious expression implanted onto his face.
"Are you sure, Cao Cao? The Devils could back him up, and then it'll be too hard to capture him then." Replied George, who stood with his hands behind his back.
"You have the [Dimension Lost], George. It's easy for you to block any teleportation sigils within the pocket dimension, both ways. The plan is simple; the first step is to trap Issei Hyuodou and isolate him. Second is to convince him to join us, and shall he refuse, resort to brute force. However, do NOT kill him. He could be a powerful ally. George, please be responsible for Heracles's actions. That guy is ruthless..." Stated Cao Cao, answering George's doubt and question.
Then, George and Heracles nodded before turning around and walking into a portal that George opened using [Dimension Lost].
«End of flashback. of flashback«
[Dimension Lost... It has the ability to control dimensions. It's Balance Breaker, Dimension Create, has the ability to create dimensions and trap other people in it. If he managed to trap us in here, then that means he had already unlocked Balance Breaker.]
'I see. So, the guy named George doesn't seem to have a bulky body build, unlike Heracles. I'd assume he's a mage.'
[George Faust, huh? The Human that contracted with the Devil, Mephisto Pheles. No, this isn't him... A descendant? And that other man there, his name is Heracles, which is also called Hercules. I see. Those aren't the actual heroes in the tales, they're their descendants. They're much weaker, but still strong. Be careful of George, you're a fighter that uses his fist, not magic.]
'I'm hurt to hear you say I lack in the magic department, but I do, and I can't blame ya for it. I'll try to improve on it later. Quick question, if I were to fight the originals, what're the chances of me winning?'
[I hadn't met them in person, but I believe that you would have less than a 40% chance.]
"Who are you two?" Issei asked them as he put his guard up. He already knew who they were and how strong they are, but he needs information.
Heracles gave a smug grin, "I, am Heracles, the descendant of the original Heracles! Beside me is George, the descendant of the original George Faust!" He said as he pointed at himself and his ally. Unlike Heracles, George merely nodded and pushed his glasses, and Issei considered this acknowledgement, for now.
"How did you both get here? This place was created by Grayfia Lucifuge." He asked them, whilst faking obliviousness.
Heracles shook his head, the grin dropping slightly, "No can do, bud. Can't tell you that. All I have to say is that you're coming with us."
Issei raised both eyebrows, "Have to say? Are you taking orders from somebody?"
Heracles was about to retort with a wider smug grin, but George placed a hand on his chest and shook his head, "Heracles, we're not here to keep talking."
George averted his gaze to Issei, "You either come with us or we'd have to force you to, and yes, we are taking orders from someone very powerful. It is best for you to comply." He warned with a stone expression, but Issei was not fazed.
"Well, do it."
"What?"
"Force me to come with you. What, did you think I would just raise my arms and follow you?" When he finished talking, Heracles hummed, nodded, and jumped straight forward to deliver a punch to Issei.
Issei had easily seen through it all and countered by simply throwing a punch back once Heracles was close. Heracles was launched back, but not much since Issei hadn't placed all that power in the punch. He was about to go forward but suddenly saw 4 magic circles appearing from different directions, boxing him in between.
The next thing he knew, he was blasted by multiple torrents of fire, ice, earth, and lightning. While the fire was less effective due to him owning a Sacred Gear containing a powerful dragon from the firedrake species, the other elements were much powerful, especially the lightning, for some reason. Once the four spells were dispelled, Issei stumbled a little bit.
[Unlike elements like ice and earth, which you can block with your defence, in order to block lightning, you need to build up a resistance to it.]
'Noted.'
By the time Issei had already stood up, Heracles was right in front of him, punch ready. Issei reacted on instincts and grabbed his punch, throwing his own at his stomach. No sooner did he do that, he found several magic circles in front of him, but those were different.
The past ones didn't have any specific letters on them, and they were coloured depending on their elements, but these ones were brightly coloured and had letters on them. They seemed kinda...
[Nordish. This is Nord magic.]
Issei doesn't know about magic that much, that is obvious. He had just taken an amount of damage that can't just be shrugged off despite it being normal magic, and he guessed that it did this much damage because it was from the descendent of George Faust. However, Nordic magic? Thank you, but he does not wish to test how strong his body is against magic.
He instantly erupted a large and thick wall of [Flames of Amaterasu] to use as a shield. While doing that, he also coated himself with them, gaining a buff to his stats thanks to them.
Immediately, the wall he had created was blasted with tons of light barrages coming from the Nordic magic circles. He continued focusing on keeping the wall composed and strengthening, but it was losing in this battle.
Danger sensed!
From above him, Heracles was there, ready to land on Issei and crush him while he was distracted with George. Issei raised up one hand, using [Dominator's Touch] to take hold of Heracles' body.
"Oi, hey! This ain't fair! The fuck!" Shouted Heracles in frustration when he found himself floating in the air. Issei was ready to launch him towards George, but then he saw something light up from underneath him and from behind him.
Magic circles.
This time, they were normal magic circles, but orange. While he thought of a way to escape, Ddraig racked his head for what orange can possibly mean.
[It's lava, you need to evade it quickly.]
Issei mentally activated [Mana Manipulation] to create a defensive shield all around him, similar to a bubble, and focused on that whilst releasing the wall made out of the [Flames of Amaterasu]. Once the two human magic circles, as well as the Nordic magic circles, collided with his barrier, he felt it deteriorating at a rapid rate. Issei pushed furth to strengthen his shield and even covered it with [Flames of Amaterasu]. His mind eased at sensing the barrier no holding up well against the attacks.
Then, Issei summoned the Boosted Gear.
[Boost!]
You've been Boosted to Lvl. 176!
Issei's Intelligence stat was already on 184, and it is the stat responsible for his MP reserves, the efficiency of controlling his mana, as well as the success rate of summoning his Shadow Soldiers from targets. With the stat double to 368, Issei now felt not even a single crack on the barrier he created.
This continued for a few seconds more until all the magic circles vanished, deactivating. Issei dispelled his own barrier and aimed for Heracles who was standing next to George now. Issei didn't need to use [Mana Reinforcement] to blur himself right in front of Heracles; his stats were already doubled for the time being.
He delivered one nasty sucker punch to Heracles' solar plexus, dealing an incredibly high amount of damage. Issei didn't stop there.
He kicked the ground, running to where Heracles was launched to and Issei delivered an elbow to the man's face, followed up by sticking up both his knees in Heracles' stomach.
Then, Issei grabbed the Heracles' head and pierced his chest, his heart specifically, with his hand. Blood dripped out and spilt over, but Issei didn't care.
They were foolish people, people who wanted to use him, forcefully, for their own benefit.
[Boost!]
You've been Boosted to Lvl. 352!
Once he confirmed that Heracles' HP reached 0, Issei dropped his body and looked for George, who was now sweating. Issei dashed forward but was met with a magic circle. He evaded it easily by jumping to the right.
But there was a magic circle there too.
Issei summoned [Flames of Amaterasu] and created a shield, blocking the ice coming from the magic circle. Issei then wasted no time in running to George, but suddenly, he saw the area around him glow.
He was surrounded by multiple magic circles, a mix of Human magic circles and Nordic magic circles.
He saw the different colours and the numbers of each one of them.
Lightning.
Fire.
Ice.
Earth.
Lava.
Water.
Wind.
Nordic.
If all of those hit him at once, without preparing any defences, it'll cause a ton of damage, and he couldn't afford that.
"Come out!"
As if sensing what he wants, all his Shadow Soldiers immediately gathered around him in a protective formation. The magicians raised up barriers of defence all around the group, and Issei himself used [Mana Manipulation] to create a barrier around him and his soldiers.
Then, there was light.
The entire area was engulfed in multiple energies, blasts, torrents, and all related, but all of them were entirely focused on Issei.
Luckily, due to him Boosting himself to a high level, he felt that his barrier was able to withstand the amount of pressure directed at him. Even then, his magicians and other Shadow Soldier would die thousands of times, just for him.
Once the magic circles deactivated, George stood there, exhaustion visible on his face.
[I don't think this is his actual limit, but keep in mind that he's activating his Balance Breaker, so it's reasonable why he's exhausted. Take the chance.]
Issei, with his Agility stat that has been Boosted up to 676, easily blurred behind George. Before George could even react, Issei had already pierced his chest, aiming for the heart, again. With George's HP turning into 0, Issei realised that the dimension won't hold on for longer, but he needed the Shadow Soldiers.
He needs to hurry up. If the Devils saw the nature of his powers, he'd instantly be a target even if he does not desire conflict.
"Arise." Their shadows rose from the ground, bowing in front of him.
[...]
Rank: Elite-Infantry [Lvl. 3]
[...]
Rank: Knight [Lvl. 4]
[It seems that the magician is at a higher level than Heracles.]
"Yeah. George will become Geo, and Heracles will become... Tank."
[Tank]
Rank: Elite-Infantry [Lvl. 3]
[Geo]
Rank: Knight [Lvl. 4]
"Geo, Tank, back to my shadow immediately." Upon his command, they did as they were told, and the dimension had finally collapsed. As soon as it did, a magic circle appeared underneath him and brought him back to the ruined engagement hall. The Devils looked at him with suspicion and slight fear.
Nearly right away, he heard Sirzechs calling out to him. "Issei-kun, may you please accompany me? There is a matter of sorts that I wish to discuss with you." Despite talking with a gentle voice, Issei can point out the confusion and urgency in his voice, so he complied.
After all, if a fight breaks out between him and the Devil with the position of Lucifer, he will not win.
He will die. Sirzechs Lucifer had survived a Civil War and is much older than Issei is.
Silently, Sirzechs took Issei behind him and led him into a room. Sirzechs entered first and then Issei.
Name: Serafall Leviathan [Lvl. 420]
Race: Pure-Blooded Devil
HP: 300,112/300,112
MP: 711,299/711,299
Name: Ajuka Belzeebub [Lvl. 300]
Race: Pure-Blooded Devil
HP: 242,288/242,288
MP: 301,000/301,000
Name: Falbium Asmodeus [Lvl. 276]
Race: Pure-Blooded Devil
HP: 211,900/211,900
MP: 280,744/280,744
Issei's heartbeat quickened and panic started to rise up in him, but [Gamer's Mind] activated and cooled him down.
He released a breath and talked calmly, "To what do I own the pleasure of chatting with the four current Maous?"
Falbium didn't reply, seeming asleep although Issei can tell he's very aware of his surroundings. Serafall, who had a bright expression on her face, was about to talk, but then Ajuka had done it first.
"You panicked for a moment when you entered here but then easily managed to calm down yourself. Your posture seems relaxed, but your body is somewhat tense. Possibly, you've realised that if your muscles are too tense it can cause us to be more on guard." Ajuka said as he placed on hand under his chin and gave a silent nod to himself.
Sirzechs sat down and coughed into his hand, "Issei-kun, I am confident that you've won the battle against Raiser Phenex fair and square, but we need to know what that purple mist was."
Issei hummed for a moment before shrugging to himself and spoke, "The purple mist was caused by the Longinus-Class Sacred Gear, Dimension Lost."
Upon saying this, Ajuka's interest piqued, Sirzechs hummed, Falbium barely reacted and Serafall kept that cheery smile.
He continued, "I believe it was the Balance Breaker too. In any case, to people emerged from the mist and ordered me to go with them somewhere, stating that if I do not follow their orders then I will be either forced to go or killed on the spot. Of course, I fought back and had to kill them both."
"Do you, by any chance, know the identity of those people?" Asked Sirzechs.
"Both claimed to be the descendants of Heracles and George Faust," Issei said that calmly, but Sirzechs seemed more alarmed as well as Ajuka. Falbium barely opened one eyelid in acknowledgement and Serafall... well, she's Serafall.
Ajuka then spoke up, "I see. I believe they were very powerful?"
"Compared to the original Heracles and George Faust, they were third-rate-ish. The magician was tough to deal with, but the one who claimed to be the descendant of Heracles was a brawl-head."
Sirzechs nodded, "I see. Thank you for the information, Issei-kun."
Then for the first time, Serafall spoke, "You won't join them, would you, Issei-chan?"
Issei blinked at the new nickname but answered nonetheless, "No, I have no intention of joining whoever those people are, Serafall-sama."
Surprisingly, Serafall pouted, "No, no! None of that! Call me Levi-tan, Issei-chan!"
He stood there, aloof, for a few seconds.
"Come on now, Se-" Sirzechs talked but was interrupted.
"Sure, Levi-tan." He said it, actually surprising Serafall, Ajuka and Sirzechs.
Upon his hearing this, Serafall beamed. "Really?! You'll call me that, Issei-chan?!"
Issei shrugged, "Why not? You'd rather I treat you like an average person rather than the all-mighty and high Maou all the time, am I wrong?"
Serafall nodded furiously, "Yep, yep! Issei-chan got it right! It's super exhausting especially because I keep doing Zech-chan's work!"
'I don't sense any ill-like intentions here...'
Issei nodded to Serafall before turning to Sirzechs, "Then, if we are done, is it alright for me to return?"
He said as he stood up, "Yes, it's fine. I do apologise for wasting some of your time."
Issei waved it off, "No, it's okay, but my... friend will be worried about me if I'm late. I did promise her to come back as soon as this was done."
Sirzechs seemed to have understood as he nodded, "Then, you may leave." He quickly summoned Grayfia and ordered her to teleport Issei back to his house.
As soon as Grayfia and Issei left the room, all smiles faded, except for Serafall's, of course.
"So, what do you think?" Asked the crimson-haired man.
Ajuka hummed, "He's rather strong and sharp. His posture isn't lacking nor is it too stiff and he is intelligent, to say at least. Although, despite me being the smartest Devil alive, I had never seen those black flames before. No magic circle as well... that's... rather unique." He said, but his speech had gotten slower towards the end, seemingly because he started getting lost in his own thoughts.
Sirzechs snapped his fingers, "Not now, Ajuka. Falbium, what do you think?"
To anyone else, the one with the title of Asmodeus would seem in deep sleep, but on the contrary, he's wide awake. "Hmm. Yeah, he looks strong. Just like Ajuka, I wanna know those black flames. The only person we know who uses such flames would be-"
"Amaterasu, the Shinto Goddess of the Sun or Vritra's Flames, but I've seen Vritra's Flames and they're different." Completed Serafall, although she still had a small smile on her soft lips.
"Welp, what are you gonna do about him, Sirzechs?" Asked Falbium, opening one eye.
Sirzechs stayed silent and pondered on it for a bit...
He then decided and spoke firmly, "If he wishes for neutrality between the Three Great Powers, then so be it. However, if he one day comes to us Devils with the intention of causing conflict, then we will get rid of him... peacefully. However, he is not to be left alone. I'll keep watch on him, it's the best course of action, I believe."
Serafall then hummed and spoke in an interesting tone, "Then I want to meet the Sun Goddess! What if he's her secret love child?!"
For a slight moment, Sirzechs considered that possibility as well, but he quickly drowned it. "Let him rest for a bit from all this, Sera."
Once Issei returned home, he sat down softly on the bed next to a peacefully sleeping Asia. It seems that she had gotten tired of waiting and decided to sleep.
Issei slowly went ahead and took a shower. After he got out of the shower, he carefully lifted the blankets to cover them both. Issei let out a breath and placed one arm over Asia, which she seemed to naturally react to, as she had moved to that arm's warmth.
He felt his eyes getting heavy, his mental and physical exhaustion finally catching up to him.
'Night, Ddraig.'
[Sleep well.]
"Hey, hey, hey! Wake up, boy! The school's about to start! Hmm? You don't wanna go? Ah, then I think you need some... punishment~..."
*Click*
He really needs to get a more appropriate alarm clock.
He yawned lazily, spreading his arms for a little stretch but then he noticed that Asia is not within the same bed as him. He calmly focused on sensing energies around him and found Asia in the first floor of this house.
When he glanced at the alarm clock and noticed he woke up later than usual, he guessed she's making him breakfast... in a naked apron... hehehe~
[We both just woke up and this is what you start your day with?]
'Shush, a man's imagination is unlimited when it comes to women!'
[Perhaps... but brush your teeth first.]
'What are you? My mom?'
[Oi.]
'Jeez, I was kidding. I'll go do it, you grumpy old dragon.'
Ignoring Ddraig's irritated growling, Issei walked with a hunched back to the bathroom in order to complete his morning routines.
After brushing his teeth, combing his hair and getting everything else ready, Issei walked down the stairs, the sound of his movements alerting the house occupants. However, when he entered the living room, he could only see Asia in the kitchen cooking breakfast but no sign of his parents.
"Morning, Asia." He greeted her and she looked at him smiling.
"Good morning, Ise-san. I'm preparing breakfast for you."
He nodded slowly, "I... see that, but where are mom and dad?"
Asia directed her gaze towards him, "Okaa-san said that the utensils for cooking she brought not too long ago broke easily, so she took otou-san and went to the same shop to give a complaint."
The boy raised both eyebrows to a certain detail, "Okaa-san and otou-san?" He allowed a small smirk to grace his lips when he saw a light blush covering Asia's cheeks.
"W-Well, you see..." She tried to excuse herself but Issei just chuckled softly.
"It's okay, Asia. If you wanna call them that then go ahead. This is your new home, right?"
She smiled fondly and calmed down a bit, "Yes, Ise-san."
Then he addressed another issue, "Ah, but going to that shop this early?"
Upon Asia's slightly strained smile, he only sighed. "Well, she said that she wants to spend the rest of the day outside with otou-san because it's been a while since they went out on a date..." She explained.
His face paled in realisation once he remembered something, "S-School!"
"Ah, I've contacted Kaichou and told her that Ise-san will be absent for today and she allowed me to take today a break as well."
Issei blinked, 'Is that her way of showing gratitude?'
[I guess?]
'That was a rhetorical question.'
Once breakfast was ready, both of them sat down and ate.
"Itadakimasu!" They both ate in peace with smiles on their faces. As Issei knew that his parents are likely to spend most of the day outside, Issei wished to have fun... without including any supernatural-ish elements into it.
So, Asia was surprised when all of a sudden Issei descended down the stairs, wearing a black-zipped hoodie with a black shirt underneath. For his pants, he wore black sweatpants with two large pockets on the sides, underneath the normal legging pockets. In his hands were spare house keys and his cell phone, texting his parents that he's taking Asia out for some fun.
"Ise-san? What are you...?" She asked while tilting her head with obvious confusion. What an angel.
"Honestly, for the past few days, we've been constantly working with the supernatural and all that, so I thought that maybe we can go and have some fun before some type of crazy maniac causes another blunder. What do you say, Asia? Do you wanna go outside with me?" While he isn't oblivious, the way he asked her out sounded like him asking Asia out on a date in her mind, to which she felt heat rushing to her head.
"Yes! That sounds like a wonderful idea!" She exclaimed as she went to her room and changed her clothes while Issei waited, sitting on the couch in the living room for her. Issei took out his phone and decided to kill time.
He decided that it'd be better to inform Rias about this in case of an emergency, although he wished nothing like that would happen.
Issei H.: Rias-senpai, me and Asia are going to go out around town, since she hasn't explored it out. I hope you and your Peerage are also doing well, tell them I said hi.
A few seconds later, he received a reply.
Rias G.: Oh! Yes, understood. Although please visit after this is done, I wish to thank you for that you did... truly, I am very grateful.
Issei H.: Typing...
Issei H.: Sure, I'll come to visit. Be well!
His enhanced hearing alerted him of footsteps going down down the stairs, he turned his out to find Asia wearing a cute yet stylish yellow sundress with flower patterns on it, the flowers being dandelions. She wore a straw-hat too, and her shoes were white sandals, flat sandals to be exact.
The boy stared, his mind blanking out for a second due to the amount of shock.
[Oi...]
He shook his head and he felt heat rise up, "A-Asia, where did you get that?"
Asia herself had blushed a storm, "W-Well, Kaa-san gave me this, saying that it was hers..."
'Ah, right. I need to take her shopping too. Ddraig, stay alert.'
[Aye, aye. Go get the gal.]
"You look very fine, Asia." He complimented, and he can see her radiating sunlight and joy.
"Y-You look fine yourself, Ise-san..." She said, although she mumbled it but do not underestimate a dragon's ear, my friend. Pink hue appeared on his cheeks and he extended his hand, and she took it with some nervousness.
Getting out of the house, he locked it with his spare keys after making sure that his parents had their own keys, in case they arrived earlier than him.
'She told me that she wished to go to a garden with her friends before...'
"Alright, let's go, Asia." As they had no means of supernatural transportation, Issei and Asia rode a cab to a park within Kouh, where the garden itself was filled to the brim with all kinds of bright flowers and trees. The scent of the air was fresh and clean too, he could feel all kinds of positivity from around him. Asia herself seemed mesmerised by the scene and stared with a small blush and wide eyes. She released a small breath she held and had a genuine, happy smile on her faced.
Naturally, our MC smiled too.
"This is... this is beautiful Ise-san! I've-"
"You've always wanted to go to a garden with your friends, right? Well, scratch that off the bucket list." He said and pulled her along with him, albeit softly, to continue exploring the large garden. Asia seemed to take interest in the various flowers and bees floating around them, but he warned her not to get too close or else she might get stung.
"Asia, what flower is your favourite?" He asked out of genuine curiosity.
Asia seemed to ponder about it before answering, "I think my favourite flower is the sunflower."
Issei stayed silent, a sign that he wished to know the reason why.
"I like sunflowers because even after a storm or after a cold night, they always face towards the Sun." She spoke with a soft tone.
"...I think I like the Asiatic Lily Black Eye." He said after a short while, and Asia tilted her head in confusion, hearing the flower's name for the first time but Issei had no problem whatsoever to show it to her. So, he grabbed her hand and led her to where he had seen the flower recently.
"It's very pretty, Ise-san." With sparkles in her eyes, she said that with fascination. All in all, the day was very fun, calming, and it was a good chance. After that, Asia and Issei grabbed some food and headed home...
...Although, Issei entirely missed the fact that a stealthy Fallen Angel had been watching him.
Once Issei went home, he remembered his promise with Rias and was about to cancel it... but Devils are creatures of the night, so this is like, what, 5 P.M. for them?
Issei walked casually to the O.R.C after informing Asia about Rias's promise and the sweet angel reassured him that it was no trouble. Upon nearing the door to the room, Issei was able to sense four presences, all of them familiar. When he entered, it was shown that there was a cake in the centre of the room on the table with slices cut out. Koneko had... three different cakes of her own, Kiba had one slice like a gentleman (curse that handsome prince), Akeno ate one cheerfully as well as Rias.
When Issei entered, everyone, especially Rias, brightened up even more. Kiba smiled, Akeno did too, and Koneko just remained with her very small smile, but he can feel her being a bit more joyful at his presence.
Rias, though, was incredibly happy and he admits that she looks super cute. While he was focusing on those thoughts, he saw a blur of red and all of a sudden, he can see her under his nose, hugging him tightly while half-laughing, half-crying, and repeatedly thanking him over and over again.
Being the absolute Casanova he is...
"Huh? Oh, ah." It took him a second until his brain worked and placed both arms tightly around the girl in his arms. Akeno giggled joyfully rather than in a sultry voice... like most of the time, Kiba looked happy and satisfied, and although he can tell that Koneko is happy, he saw a bit of jealousness in her before she masked it. Yet, despite it all, she was brightened.
After calming themselves and sitting down on the couch, Koneko wasted no time in using his lap as her golden seat, but Issei didn't mind. He just scratched her softly behind the ears, and it earned him a warm, deep purr from her chest though it wasn't very loud.
All in all, this day was filled with joy and smiles till the very end.
The Grigori was always considered, and still is, a Faction that's advanced in supernatural technology, including Sacred Gears, thanks to Azazel. Most of the time, due to how Fallen Angels were specialised in their spy networks, stealth abilities, and knowledge about various Sacred Gears, a lot of them were hired for multiple jobs with endless objectives. Almost all the time, Fallen Angels with four to six wings were contracted the most due to the fact that they're not weak, but they're not as politically valuable as the Cadres that existed within the organization.
Now, though, imagine Azazel's mood when he needs to hire someone in order to fulfil an escort position until Baraqiel can go to Kyoto, have a meeting with Yasaka, the Leader of the Yokai Faction under the Shinto Pantheon, and discuss on the trade of Spirit Beads.
There was Vali, who volunteered, and then there was supposed to be Tubiel, but guess what? Tubiel could not come due to him having to deal with the cluster fuck of shit his minions had created, specifically being Raynare, Mittlet, Kalawarner, and Dohnaseek. Sure, Azazel had now taken them under his own lead to keep a tighter leash on them and deal with their punishments, but they were assigned to Tubiel before that, so he has to handle whatever trouble they created.
Not only did Raynare illegally trespass Devil territory, which was the territory of two sisters of two of the Stans, but she stole an incredibly valuable Sacred Gear extractor from the Grigori for fuck's sake! On top of that, she attempted to kill innocent civilians!
Hell, the only reason they're not dead was that they were actually deceived by Kokabiel, who had gone off the grid right now. Under several magic circles that functioned as lie-detectors, they confessed that yes, their mission was to only and only keep watch of a suspicious human who could be a potential recruit, but then Kokabiel intervened and stated that new orders were given out, being to fetch Asia Argento, extract Twilight Healing from her, and give her corpse to Kokabiel back for research on a new Sacred Gear created by Azazel, but he lacked experimentation experience. Also, it was his order to kill Issei Hyuodou.
Either way, that was a mind-fuck-trip that he does not want to go through again. However, there was hope.
Due to how close the Three Great Powers' leaders wore on a personal level, they shared connections and information between each other, especially Grigori and the Devils. Not too long ago, Azazel witnessed a human with relative ease beat down a powerful young Devil to smithereens with very peculiar flames, and being the nerd he is, he wished to study this further.
Of course, he knew it wasn't the Sacred Gear's ability, as he had confirmed that the Sacred Gear was draconic as it gave off that exact feeling when the kid didn't learn how to properly control his energy signature. As far as he knows, the only flames that were similar to that were the ones from Vritra's Sacred Gears. Even then, Vritra's Fire Breath Sacred Gear was not like this, as the flames of Vritra were not made to be manipulated in such a manner, also, Vritra's flames were a mix of purple and black, but the flames that the boy was completely black.
Up until know, Sirzechs and Ajuka weren't able to determine which Sacred Gear that was, and it left them with only two assumptions. One, it's a brand-new Sacred Gear created by God's System. Two, the kid could be Amaterasu's biological child. And honestly, both were shittier than each other.
So, he decided to see what this Issei Hyuodou is capable of. He looks to be an excellent escort...
For the next seven days, Issei and Asia did nothing other than relaxing, enjoy a normal life, and do various activities together. Within that time, Issei did not even bother to enter an instant dungeon and grind for levels. He deserves a break, damn it! At least he still woke up and the usual morning routines in order to keep his body in shape.
One day, as Issei and Asia were sitting and watching TV while snuggling together, someone rang the doorbell. Issei's draconic senses didn't tell him it was someone dangerous outside, but his guts disagreed heavily. Pushing down this instinct, but not ignoring it, he opened the door with caution.
Only to see why his guts were inwardly screaming at him.
Name: Azazel [Lvl. 548]
Race: Fallen Angel
HP: 604,000/604,000
MP: 643,400/643,400
"Well, hello there! Issei Hyuodou, right? Mind if we have a talk for a bit, kiddo? I won't take much of your time." Azazel stated calmly, while Issei just mentally punched himself and the guy in front of him thousands of times over, and over, and over again.
"Just- fine, fine! Sure! Why not!" He shouted with obvious frustration and started throwing his hands around. He turned and opened the door, motioning for Azazel to enter, and enter Azazel did.
As the Governor sat comfortable, Asia went to make some tea while Issei's head raced with possible escape opportunities if worse comes to worse. Azazel was several millennia years old can easily tell what Issei was trying to do.
"Don't bother, I really am not here to harm you, just have a proposal." He raised his arms in mock surrender to try and lighten the mood, and it only worked slightly.
Very slightly.
"I am not joining your Faction, nor am I joining anyone's Faction. End of story."
Somehow, Azazel was not surprised. "Sure, but that's now what I wanted to talk to you about, though."
Issei raised a confused eyebrow and Azazel continued, "Recently, some mishaps happened at the Grigori and one of our leaders is supposed to leave for Kyoto for an important meeting, but one of the escorts that was supposed to leave with him can't go."
Issei somewhat figured out the problem here, "Nice, now why can't you assign someone else?"
Azazel sighed and rubbed his forehead in frustration. Luckily, Asia came in with tea that Azazel quickly took a sip from, "This is some neat tea, thank you."
He placed the cup down and made eye contact a bit more seriously now, "Tubiel, the one who was supposed to be assigned, is a six-winged Fallen Angel, and right now we're not all that free to do such a thing. On top of that, Tubiel was someone who I personally trusted."
Issei nodded and spoke, "Okay, but what does this have to do with me? I'm not joining."
"I know, that's why I'm proposing a contract."
Issei blinked, confused at the Governor's statement, but Azazel continued, "A contract between us and you, where until your role as an escort of this particular mission is done, you're under our protection, but not actually part of us. It's similar to how people hire mercenaries in wars. You'll only fill in the place of Tubiel and in return, you earn cash and you're under our protection until the contract expires."
Issei seemed astonished with this idea, and he honestly likes it. "First, let me see the contract, and as I read it, tell me what exactly the entire mission is about." Azazel handed Issei the paper, the contract, and Issei read it while Azazel continued.
"Basically, the Yokai Faction is a weaker Faction compared to us the Three Great Powers. However, they're the only ones who specialise in Senjutsu and are experts in exorcising spirits. They had the resources, but lacked funding and knowledge, while we lacked one thing: Spirit Beads."
"Spirit Beads?"
"Yup! Those are collections of spirit energy that has several uses, but it is mostly used to empower the person that consumes said Spirit Bead. Of course, they're especially helpful to Senjutsu practitioners, like the Gremory's Rook. Also, they can fetch a very nice price in the market and can even be used for protection. The Yokai Faction has mountains of those, but their knowledge about things such as Sacred Gears, weapons, armoury, and their overall manpower was lacking. That's where we step in; it's a trade."
Issei placed down the documents of the contract and closed his eyes for a second.
"...How much do I gain from this? Cash, I mean."
Azazel replied calmly, "As you're escorting Baraqiel, a powerful Cadre all the way to Kyoto and coming back too, you're earning at least 10 million Yen in this."
Ping!
A new Quest has appeared!
The Fallen Angels intent to contract you for your help in escorting an important member!
Main Objectives:
Agree to the contract.
Escort Baraqiel and act as a proper bodyguard.
Bonus Objectives:
Help ? and find ? from the clutches of pain and torture.
Rewards:
+10,000,000 Yen
+New [Skill]
+New Accessory
(Y/N)
Issei's eyes shined. However, he had a better idea forming in his mind. He didn't say anything for a while and then he sat up with a focused posture.
"First, I want to ask how many Spirit Beads you're expecting on the first shipment."
Azazel hummed in thought and folded his arms, "I believe we're taking an amount that's in a range from 6,000 to 8,000 Spirit Beads in the very first shipment."
"Then, I have two terms. Firstly, I get 15% of the very first shipment of Spirit Beads. Second, until the contract expires, my house and its inhabitants are under your care. That's all I ask for."
Azazel seemed to be in thought for a moment before replying in a relaxed tone, "I don't really have a problem on guarding your home until the deal expires, that's natural, but I don't see why I should grant you 15% of the first shipment."
Issei smirked coolly and ferally, "Because, if you take me, you're taking a small unit of soldiers with you."
"What?"
"Come forth." On his command, all his Shadow Soldiers came up; 22 average infantry, 1 Igris, 1 Tank, 1 Geo, and 5 magicians. All of them on guard, yes, but none are attacking.
Azazel's eyes widened a bit in surprise and fascination as he witnessed Issei's Shadow Soldiers. They weren't weak. Some of them were, but the rest, especially the guy with a knight-ish helm and rob, the muscle-looking guy and the other dude with glasses were much stronger.
"Is this your Sacred Gear's doing? Which one is it? Does it summon creatures, or do you control shadows? Can those creatures become stronger?" He sprayed questions on Issei, but Issei himself had no intention to reveal any more of his powers unnecessarily.
"I'll only tell you this, they answer to my orders and my orders only, unless I order them under to be under someone's leadership. In case you are curious, I have 22 normal infantry soldiers, one powerful knight, five magicians and the other two are people who I'd like their true identities a secret. There, do we have a deal? You take me, but it's more like you're taking 30 people and the price is just a mere 15% of the first shipment. Plus, all five magicians have healing magic, despite it being only minor."
Truthfully, they don't but he plans on making them learn it. Them being Shadow Soldiers does not limit their growth of knowledge, so he'll purchase books of healing magic from the [Store] and give it to them. Plus, their enhancement magic is only in beginner levels, so he'd like to increase it to at least intermediate level.
Azazel grinned manically at Issei's proposal. It wasn't a bad deal, not at all. "Deal. You get 15% of the first shipment of Spirit Beads, and I'll add more money on the price."
Issei tilted his head, "Isn't 10 million Yen kinda expensive, even for you?"
Azazel laughed deeply as he slapped his knee, "Boy, I can make 10 million in less than an hour, y'know? Adding another 5 million isn't a problem at all!"
Huh, so the guy is basically a multi-billionaire. Well, it wasn't surprising, he's a Fallen Angel Cadre that's been alive before even humans came up with the first pen. Of course, he'd be filthy rich!
Ping!
Quest has been updated!
The Fallen Angels intent to contract you for your help in escorting an important member!
Main Objectives:
Agree to the contract.
Escort Baraqiel and act as a proper bodyguard.
Bonus Objectives:
Help ? and find ? from the clutches of pain and torture.
Rewards:
+15,000,000 Yen
+New [Skill]
+New Accessory
+15% of Azazel's first Spirit Bead shipment
Time Limit: 240:00:00
(Y/N)
Clicking 'accept', Issei grinned as Azazel handed him a pen to sign the contract, both of them smiling.
"Deal." He said as he and Azazel exchanged handshakes and stood up.
"So, when do we leave for Kyoto? Also, how long will I be there for?"
"Tomorrow in the morning, 8 A.M. sharp. I'll come and pick you up using a magic circle. You'll be there for nothing more than 4 to 5 days. If some problem happens, 10 days is acceptable."
"Great, do I need to pack some stuff?" Not that he needs travel bags, he can literally just stuff everything inside his [Inventory] and not a single being will notice... other than Ddraig.
Azazel waved his hands, "Nah, the Grigori will provide you with everything necessary, even clothes."
Issei nodded, "Cool. Then see you tomorrow, Azazel. It's nice making a deal with a Fallen for a change." He grinned as Azazel prepared a teleportation magic circle that lit up under his feet.
"My pleasure." With that, he disappeared. He decided to inform Rias and Sona about that, but Sona is more responsible... and he really likes how smart she is.
Bringing out his phone, he decides to call Sona directly.
"Sona-senpai, can you come to my house right now? There is something important I want to inform you about."
She replied with the sound of her sighing, "Do I need to bring my Peerage and Rias as well?"
"No, just you. Plus, I like how you keep a cool and calm act. You're much smarter too."
"I-Is that so? F-Fine then, I'll come right away."
As she hung up, he only waited a few seconds before hearing his doorbell ring. He opened it and Sona stepped inside, alone.
Issei sat her down, "Do you want something to drink?"
She shook her head, "No, I just drank some tea before coming here. It helps with the paperwork."
"Okay then, I called you over to tell you that I'm leaving Kouh for a while, I'm going to Kyoto."
Sona seemed a bit surprised and hella curious at his statement, "Kyoto? How many days and why?"
"Around 6 days, maybe even 10 days at the maximum. I'm going because I made a contract with Azazel." He said it blatantly.
Sona seemed to freeze for a moment before taking a deep breath, "Azazel? As in the Governor-General of Grigori?"
He nodded and she sighed as she rubbed her forehead, "What's the contract and why did you accept it exactly? I know you're not tied to us Devils, but if it's something against us then I will do everything in my power to forbid you from going along with it."
Issei waved his hand and shook his head, "Nah it's nothing like that. He just needs me as an escort for an important figure. I can't tell the details, but the price was something I wished for."
She blinked for a moment before speaking slowly, "Did you...?"
"No, I didn't join their side. Azazel said that it's like hiring mercenaries. I read the contract's documents itself, he's really just hiring me as a temporary escort. The trip will end in less than a week, and possibly 10 days in case of an emergency. If you sense any Fallen Angels around my house or the area, try approaching them peacefully this time with the intend of simply knowing what they're doing in here and confirm their orders. Don't let Rias ask, she's too prideful and a bit much arrogant for it."
Sona seemed to agree to his opinion as she nodded, and he's correct; Rias would probably do something stupid like last time, so it's best to let Sona handle this.
"Also, can I ask for a favour?" He said suddenly, catching Sona by surprise.
"If it's within my power, then yes, ask."
"Do you have any books on Senjutsu?" His question seemed to halt her for a few moments before she turned her gaze to him seriously.
"Are you aware of what you're asking for, Hyuodou-san? Senjutsu is a fairly dangerous power and tampering with it can be incredibly dangerous."
Issei nodded, "Yes, Sona-senpai. I know what I'm asking for, and I know that I can become extremely violent and lose self-control if I mess it up, but that's why I need to learn so that I don't turn everything upside down. Plus, I already have a mentor."
Ddraig can be counted as a mentor if it wasn't for the fact that he knows only a little about Senjutsu.
She squinted her eyes, a gaze that would make anyone wish to shrink and hide, but Issei isn't just anyone. "Who's the mentor, if I may ask?"
Quickly thinking of a lie, he said, "No, you may not ask. Sorry, but I promised I'd let their identity a secret."
After a stare that lasted for several seconds, she broke it off and sighed, "I guess I can get you some books about Senjutsu. What level do you wish for it to be?"
"Beginner level."
"Understood, but you must know that you know owe me a favour, Hyoudou-san, keep it in mind."
He nodded and crossed his arms, "Yes, I know. I also am aware that handing me some books is not equivalent to resurrecting me into a Devil, so don't even think about it. Playing chess is an okay, though. Actually, why not do it when you're free?"
She really liked it when the person she's speaking to is smart, unlike his past self. "Then I will take my leave now."
He spoke up quickly, "Oh, and I need them either by the end of this day. If you can't do that, then you have until tomorrow morning, 7 A.M. See you later, Sona-senpai." He said as she teleported away, seeing her nod her head.
Issei sat back in the couch and sighed as he crossed his arms. The Fallen Angels keeping guard of his home might be enough, but he wanted to know exactly what's happening directly.
"Come forth." Summoning Tank and two other random magicians, Issei ordered them both to watch this house silently in the shadows and to alert him if any people attempt to harm any of the inhabitants as well, they should also fight back and prioritise their safety above all else.
With that done and the said Shadow Soldiers springing to life, Issei wondered what interesting things will happen at Kyoto. Fun, fun~
Tomorrow was supposed to be a good day, she thought. Baraqiel and two of his escorts were coming to finalise their trade deal between the two Factions, increasing their relationship together.
Yasaka was very aware of the amount of Spirit Beads her Faction possess, an amount so goddamn ridiculous that if it wasn't for Amaterasu's protection of the stock from the Shinto Mythology directly, most of it would be empty due to mass theft.
She had asked her servants to prepare the first samples along with the first official shipment, and she was feeling joyful at gaining new knowledge about weapons to make, Sacred Gears to study and much more...
...If it wasn't for the fact that she's staring at a letter that arrived earlier by an unknown sender, within it the picture of Kunou, tied up with metal chains against the wales, tears streaming from her eyes.
Okay, everyone! I know, I know. I was late, VERY MUCH SO, but I don't have any excuses, so I'll just say it right here, right now.
IGCSE is hard, and don't underestimate it at all. Plus, my parents didn't really approve of me writing so much with me studying for the first term exams (which I already started, with Physics being today's exam).
I'll try my best to continue uploading, but I will not give up on my precious story!
Edit (12/11/2020): Thanks for pointing out that I kept on writing 'Izuku' rather than Issei's name. Thank you. Also, great review, . I appreciate your admiration bro.
Words: 8,706.