by oblivon2991

proofread by the usual drunken band of misfits

Thank you for reading my fanfic!

My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.

I don't own High School DxD anime, manga and novel series created by Ichiei Ishibumi

Please review it. I know I will make mistakes that I intend to correct and will try to learn from them and improve myself.

Thank you!

Chapter 10: Prepare Like a Gamer!

"Haah! Nii-san, just what deal did you make?" Rias was seriously concerned about her brother, even going so far as to rub her eyes out of sheer exhaustion. "How come you, the Maou of our people, lost to a simple human? How is that even possible?"

"Ah! Rias, you see, she caught me off guard…" Sirzechs Lucifer offered a very bitter smile through the feed. One could say it was quite forced.

"Caught you off guard? Please, Nii-san, please tell me that's some kind of joke." It was too obvious. Even Rias did not believe that sad excuse. Her brother most likely lost intentionally, paying Gillian enough to help her — or even tricking that strange human into feeling herself in the reins and helping them out from her sheer feeling of superiority.

Just once, it would be so good if her brother doesn't try to pester her but let her walk her own path — grow to be strong through her own effort.

"Do you know me as such, dear sister? If I would have won, you would now have a powerful servant for free. But alas, she was trickier than I expected, and I lost. It is shameful, but even I am not unbeatable." Sirzechs lowered his head, his shoulders visibly trembling.

Be it out of rage, frustration, or some unknown reason, even Rias Gremory can't tell.

"You don't say…wait!? You wanted to force her into my peerage through a deal?!" Rias' eyes widened suddenly, then sharpened, filled with anger. "Nii-san! How could you!? I can solve my own problems alone! How many times do I have to tell you!?"

"I know! I know! Sorry about that." Sirzechs raised his hands forfeiting, smiling apologetic. "You just complained she is hard to crack last time. I thought a nudge could herd her in the right direction, that's all. Everyone wins! Her, as well as you!"

"!"

"Ah! That glare makes you even cuter! It makes you resemble your mother so mu…"

"Ni-Nii-san!" Rias shuttered, completely flustered. "Stop it!"

"Ah, sorry, you are just so cute, my Rias. You've grown so much!" Sirzechs sniffed, wiping away a phantom tear. "But returning to the topic of our call, I guess, then she arrived already? No?"

"Ugh! Please, don't even mention it." Rias turned her head away, unable to say if she was glad or distressed to receive such help after what happened today.

"It was that bad? What happened?" The Maou of Red raised his brow, concerned, worrying for a moment for his little deal not to cause more harm than the problem it solves.

"Haah! Don't even ask." The princess of the Gremory family lowered her head, sighing exhausted.

It was the middle of the night, and most of her Peerage already retreated to their quarters to get their deserved sleep. After their long day of training, they really deserved some rest. Yet, the King piece of the Peerage just can't! In some way, she just can't!

After what happened today, she just can't! Too many things were on her mind, too many things were bothering the Gremory princess to even think about resting peacefully!

"Rias, if she has caused any problem, I will…"

"I…" Rias bit her lip, withholding that little event that happened earlier that day. No! She can't burden her brother further with this! It was bad enough he was making deals behind her back, just to help her.

She didn't need more of his meddling and the abuse of his Satan title! Moreover, his further interference might cause an even bigger accident!

Yes, she needed help! Against Riser, every little bit of help she needed.

That man — unlike her — had experience with Rating Games. Not losing even a single one unintentionally, but winning them all!

The power of immortality that was his family's own was also on his side. It made him close to an unbeatable opponent. Against such a foe, she needed to grab every little possibility to push her chances up the chart!

Still, she wanted to win alone! She wanted to prove she can stand on her own legs! Without using the position of her brother! Without abusing the name of her family! Just her alone, earning things and saying: Yes, I am Rias Gremory. Not defined by the Gremory clan or my brother, but what I earned by my own strength!

Without this, she could simply marry Riser, and live as a simple housewife, a breeding cow only treasured because of her pure blood, her name, and heritage.

The Satan of Red looked worried for a moment, seeing his sister remaining silent for so long — Glimpsing her concerned expression.

"Rias? What's wr..."

Yet, suddenly, something burst forth from Rias — cutting the worried brother's sentence in half!

"Nii-san! I am a big girl! I told you beforehand!" Rias started to glare at her brother even more, pouting intensely.

She withheld what happened today. She needs to solve this with her own power! Using her wits and the help of her Peerage — and maybe, that little extra help that strange human can provide!

"If a problem arises, I would like to solve it myself! Also, as a Satan, you shouldn't just abuse your authority and power like that!"

"I-I see… So it is like that…" Sirzechs' eyes ticked, forcing a smile.

It was strange, since when was Rias so aggressive? She is usually calm and collected — well, not when he embarrasses her before others by being… well, just a caring brother. Or even in some way annoying her — like now. But usually, she is indeed the picture of a collected young devil.

"I see, nonetheless, if any problem arises, don't hesitate to call me. Despite my current rank, you are still my little Princess! If she comes to harm you or any of your friends…"

"Nii-san!" Rias started to pout even more intensely, blushing as she recognized her brother's overprotectiveness once again.

"Now, now Rias, you know well…"

"Papa! You speak with Rias Onee-sama?"

"Ah! Millicas! Right, I am speaking with her. Do you want to say hello?"

"Hello! Onee-san!" a boy resembled Sirzechs' younger version but with red eyes waved to Rias behind the camera, smiling intensely.

"Ah, Millicas, it is good to see you. How are your studies going?" In just a single moment, the annoyed girl disappeared and was replaced by the charming and kind big sister figure.

"Splendidly! Thank you very much! Teacher said I am an exemplary student!"

"That's good. Keep up the good work, and I will bring you some souvenirs when I visit you next time."

"Thank you, I will do my best!" The boy nodded with sparkling eyes and turned to his father. "Papa! Can we drive around in your red car again? It has been such a long time since we did so. Where is your car, by the way? I didn't see it parked in its usual place."

"Ah, you see, it is being serviced…" Sirzechs' forceful expression was painful to watch.

The car which Gillian won from Sirzechs was the boy's favorite. He just loved to sit on his father's side and watch him drive through the countryside. One can say it was his favorite pastime.

"Oh…" the boy's expression turned gloomy immediately. "I hope it will be back soon."

"I am certain of it." Sirzechs was a lousy liar, unfortunately, or rather, fortunately, his son didn't recognize this. "Please, can you return to your room? Don't you have unfinished homework?"

"I finished all of it!" The boy was honest and innocent, too good for this liar's world.

"Ah, I see, then, please, can you wait outside? We have adult things to discuss with your Onee-san."

"Umu! Bye, Onee-san."

"Take care, Millicas." After waving to him, the boy left the room, leaving the Gremory duo alone.

"Haah!" Sirzechs shook his head as he sighed, almost looking beaten.

"Just what made you put that car up for a bet like that? Isn't it a unique piece that cannot be replaced? Don't you often boast that it is made from handcrafted components and assembled manually by the best craftsmen and mechanics of hell? Didn't you say it is irreplaceable?"

"Yes, I know. I told you: I miscalculated." Sirzechs clenched his fist and teeth, looking down defeated. "That… human! One moment she…" Suddenly, the phone on his table started to ring, making the Satan turn his head towards the red phone.

"Pick it up! I can wait." Rias urged him, crossing her legs and arms under her chest.

Sirzechs neglected his duties as a Maou because of her for too long already. Any more time spent on her instead of her people would be a sin against devilkind. As the heiress of the Gremory family, she can't let such a thing happen!

"I see, thank you. Then please, wait a moment." Sirzechs picked the phone up, hearing out the one who called him. "Hmm, I see. I see. I will be there as soon as I can."

"I take it, it was important."

"Yes, very urgent indeed." Sirzechs nodded, sharing no further detail.

"Then I'll hold you no longer, Onii-sama. Please, don't neglect your duty and don't abuse your title, or I will tell Onee-sama about it."

"Ahhh…! You really are merciless. Have a little pity on your brother!" Sirzechs offered a distressed expression, nervously adjusting his tie.

"Then, don't neglect your duty." Rias berated him strictly, smirking devilishly.

"Haah! Fine! I will contact you as soon as I can. And Rias, look out for that Gillian figure. She might be more than she initially shows."

"And yet, you made a deal with her and sent her here. Very wise indeed." Rias made a sight, shaking her head, concerned. "Nii-san, you and your deals…"

"I asked her to offer her help. Whether you accept it or not is up to you. Nothing more, nothing else. Take care, sister. And good luck with your rating game. Don't forget! Give it your best! We will cheer for your victory! I will send positive energy!" Sirzechs offered a thumbs up and his biggest smile he could muster.

"Thank you. I'll do my best. Take care, and be careful."

With that, the line was cut, and the Gremory heiress leaned back in her seat.

"Haah… What a day…"

Rubbing her exhausted eyes, Rias recalled the accident that happened today, how Koneko was still shocked after she regained consciousness. How she lost control and almost killed Gillian!

"Yet, she was not even angry… did she not fear for her life?" No, that's absurd! Everyone fears death! Most likely, even the gods! Then why was she so dismissing so close to death? Why does she encourage Rias despite almost being killed by her? Why? Why was she dismissive about such a serious matter!?

"I don't understand…" Rias muttered, blankly staring before herself.

She recalled Gillain's last sentences before disappearing into the house.

That cold, crushing presence when she placed her hands on her shoulder still in her bones. The feeling was of a bloodthirsty but calculative beast staring down at her food. Staring down at her! Like a natural predator to her prey — Someone who was lower in the food chain.

That girl was a mystery, even she can't untangle.

"Gillian!"

'Creeek!'

Suddenly, a voice came from outside, bringing Rias back to reality, urging the heiress to run to the window.

"Kiba?"

She called out, but what she spotted made even her eyes widen slightly. Out of concern or surprise? Even she can't determine entirely.

"She just… jumped down from the roof, then slid down on the vertical wall?" Rias mumbled, stunned. "She is… indeed a strange human."

But it didn't matter now. What matters is to make sure Kiba is alright. With just a simple thought, her wings sprouted from her back. Opening the window, she left her room.

Rias Gremory really hoped she made the right decision accepting the help her brother bargained for.

Scene Change: On the Next Day:

And thus, the rest of the night passed rather uneventfully. Leading to further training in the next day.

"Haaa!"

"Yo-You can do it, Issei-kun!" As usual, Asia cheered on the sideline for Issei — who struggled with the most mundane tasks his new companions made him overcome.

He was miserably outclassed against Kiba, who was the master of the sword. Not to mention his mockingly friendly attitude just made his defeat and ever-growing list of failures even worse!

HE DIDN'T NEED THE CHARITY OF THE ENEMY! IT WOULD BE BETTER IF HE SIMPLY MOCKED HIM!

At least, he was used to that...

"You will do better next time. I believe in you, Issei-kun!"

"Damn Casanova…"

Against Koneko, he didn't last more than a few seconds. It was evident the boy never received any martial art training. It was shameful, but a first-year student who was so small beat him up without effort.

"Senpai is weak…"

When he tried to focus his magic just like Akeno instructed, he failed to call even a speck of the mystical energy! The best he managed was a fart as he tried too hard.

"Guuh!"

"Ara ara! Issei-kun is really bad at this…"

It was bad enough without one of the two great onee-sama of the school mentioning it. Thanks very much!

At least she did so smiling — which made the thing more bearable.

"Ah! I did it!"

Even Asia managed to produce some magic — and she was still a human.

This was the only thing Issei was happy about. At least Asia managed to earn some success during their training — unlike him.

"You did good Asia, I am proud of you!"

Under such circumstances, only his sheer determination and his new teammate's ongoing encouragement kept the will in Issei to push forward and continue — of course, not Kiba's encouragement. Thank you, but he was fine without that.

As for Gillian and Rias…

If you asked Issei, what Gillian did with Koneko and Buchou yesterday was close to unforgivable! But now, as the boy thought about it, maybe they needed this wake-up call to take things seriously.

No matter how athletic she was, a human beating Koneko — who he, as a devil can't even touch — was a warning sign they were dangerously outclassed! They need to take things seriously — especially him — or they will lose against that Yakitori guy!

"Still, she could have done it in a more subtle way…"

"Issei! Don't slack!"

"Guah!" Issei was smacked on the head by Kiba, using the pommel of his conjured sword. "That hurt!"

"Enjoying the show?" Meanwhile, on the side, the strange human watched as the group struggled, doing their best to improve.

Gillian sat before her laptop. Always watching, pushing the keys ceaselessly.

"Trying so…" The player didn't even bother to turn her head towards Rias — who stopped on her side in the next moment.

"You didn't come to eat breakfast with us. Neither did you join the dinner and bathed with us…"

"Was not hungry. Don't like bathing with others…" Gillian's gaze still nailed to her screen. Not one moment, her fingers stopped as she typed something on her machine.

"I would like to apologize for what happened yesterday. My reaction was a little…"

"What happened, happened. Let's not waste more words on it. Instead, try to improve. Keeping cool and redirecting your anger to the right direction is important in battle."

"You are not even upset? You were almost killed."

"No…" Gillian's answer was straight and simple. Not a moment she trembled or hesitated to answer. She was just… dismissively cold.

"Even if…?"

"Even if…? Even if what?" Still emotionless, Gillian glanced at Rias then back at her screen. "It was a calculated risk."

"But… you could have died! Doesn't that bother you?"

"We will all die at some point, Red. Humans, devils, and I suppose, gods too. The question is, how will you go down? Quiet, and forgettable, or grab every opportunity you can, and go down like a legend, in a blaze and glory — dragging your opponent with you. I ask you, Red, would you choose a quiet life or blaze of glory?"

"That's… a little extreme."

"It may seem like that. But have you ever heard of a famous person in history who just sat idle and did nothing? Letting others choose in their stead? Very few such people exist, and they are famous all for the wrong reasons. If I had a choice, I would rather decide how to go down than wait for others to choose for me. A slave can't choose. A free person can…"

Gillian spoke like she knows the first version all too well. Familiar with the concept of others deciding her life and fate.

"Even if I died yesterday due to your attack. I am sure it would have served some purpose. And after all, it would be my choice to go down that way…"

"What purpose? What purpose would your death serve?" Rias was slightly unnerved hearing Gillian — even edging being scared.

"Either you break before the barrier that stands between you and your goals, or you will be the one who is breaking that barrier. There are very few paths aside from these two. If you killed me with your attack yesterday, you would either break down due to the trauma, or the experience would instigate you to become stronger and gain more control. Encouraging you never to let things like that happen…"

"Hmph! You talk just like Sairaorg."

"Sairaorg?" Who's that guy? Gillian had no idea about it.

"My cousin. I may introduce you two one day. From what I heard just now, you two are very alike." Rias's movements were smug, throwing her long crimson hair behind her back. Yet, thanks to Gillian's heightened perception, she clearly saw and felt the subtle signs of fear on her.

"Oh, that's good. I can't wait. He sounds like a determined person." Yet, Gillian seemingly paid her no heed. Either she got used to it or really doesn't care about it anymore.

"Yeah, I know no person who is more determined than him," Rias remembered her cousin.

The eldest son of house Bael was supposed to inherit the power of destruction and his family's head position. Yet, he inherited nothing, no meaningful demonic powers, no noteworthy talent, nor the Power of Destruction. He was even stripped of his role as the next head because of this, shunned and scorned, sent to the countryside with his mother so they would not be in the spotlight.

Under such circumstances, the boy can only count on his sheer will, determination, and body. And yet, he succeeded where others would have failed! Training until he surpassed everyone, and by sheer strength and will, crawled out from the darkness his own father banished him to, becoming a prominent figure who even defeated the next head of house Bael.

If this is not an inspiring story, then Rias knows not what it is.

"Why are you here, Red? I guess it has some purpose, and you didn't just approach me for some idle chatter."

"Why do you say that? Maybe I just want to know you better…" Rias offered her best, friendly smile. Though she knew well her approach had some purpose, it never hurt knowing the other — Especially someone so mysterious as Gillian.

"Right…" Gillian turned her head towards her slowly, offering a flat and not so amused expression. "Do as you wish, just don't disturb my work." With that, she returned her attention to her screen.

"By the way, what are you doing?" Glancing at Gillian, then leaning to inspect what was on the screen, Rias raised her brow. "This is…"

"Recording your team's data, trying to create a combat and personal profile. From this, we can make a plan for the match. You said that Riser guy and his team have experience. Experience that you lack. The best way to counter an opponent and his team with experience is to observe the fighting sides, create a profile, then simulate battle scenarios until we find the best way towards victory." The player's expression was still blank, her fingers moving ceaselessly. She looked like a person who is in a trance, doing countless calculations at once.

"Hmm, you speak like you did something like this before."

"Hmm, indeed I did." For a moment, Gillian stopped, pushing her left palm against her chin, and forcibly tilted her head. 'Crack!' Gillian's neck cracked loud, making Rias shudder for a moment.

"Ah! That was so good!"

"May I ask when?" Regaining her composure, Rias continued her questioning.

She had the suspicion Gillian knew about the supernatural all along. In fact, someone trained her to counter them. How else could she counter a trained exorcist so easily? How else could she beat up a Fallen like they were thugs from the side of the road? How else could she keep up with devils and even defeat Koneko — true, in a very unhonorable and nasty way. But above all, how else could she outwit even the Maou?

"I still don't believe Onii-san's excuse. He surely let her win."

Yes! There was no way a human — even if exceptional — can beat her brother just like that. There was no way that would happen!

"Well, most competitive E-Sports require you to analyze your opponents, come up with tactics and methods to counter them. Then get rid of them mercilessly!"

Indeed, YGGDRASIL was the game that supported such a competitive mindset. If you wanted to be good and compete in the highest tiers, you needed to research other players and their methods continuously. Keep up with them by coming up with new counters and techniques by yourself.

Gillian herself was good in this regard. In fact, she paid huge sums for such data and recordings about different players and battles just to analyze them and better both her build and techniques. Come up with methods and new tactics to patch the holes in her defense and offense.

"Many also asked me to do the same for them. Of course, for generous compensation…" The money and items she received from others this way were not the most valuable rewards, but the free data about others and the secrets she learned this way was near priceless.

"Preparation and getting to know an enemy who is stronger and has more experience than you is a big step towards victory. Alas, we shouldn't forget the "human" factor. In your case, the devil factor. Let's just call it the "organic" factor now on."

"And that is…?"

"Hmm, you may call it instinct. The chaotic essence that every organic being possesses. A thing that no algorithm can replicate or counter perfectly. Experience unbound which can lead to counter otherwise unavoidable events unconsciously."

"Hmm, that is… interesting." Rias hummed, considering.

If she thinks about it, Gillian was right. The Gremory Princess watched many rating games last week in preparation for this match. In several cases, people dodged otherwise unblockable strikes or even somehow bypassed a perfect defense, hitting the opponent's weak point blindly.

If this was not pure luck, or what Gillian called instinct, she doesn't know what.

"So, you are recording our data to analyze them and get to know us better? To create a plan?"

"As I said, I am trying to build profiles to come up with a plan. Unfortunately, that needs data that requires more intense scenarios played. Scenarios that push you and your group to their very limit. Make you use all of your tricks and might! Sparring with each other provides quite insufficient data. Obviously, during practice, you will not go all out against each other."

"Hmm, that's true…"

"Which means you can't get in a near-death situation. Which would imply the potential danger of death."

"No, We don't…"

"Just as I suspected." Gillian sighed, almost tired, shaking her head. "But I guess the situation would be different if there was a way to resurrect your comrades. By the way, can't Asia do it with her Sacred Gear? Or you, using those pieces? As I remember, you mentioned something about them being able to bring others back from the dead."

"According to my best knowledge, Asia can't resurrect others with her power — yet. Maybe in time after she grows stronger she will be able to do it. But according to our history and books, even God was not able to bring back people after they died — A Sacred Gear he created is less likely able to do it."

"Really? That's interesting…" Gillian bit her finger in consideration.

The player still needed to find a few candidates from this world so she could try her resurrection items and abilities. It obviously works on creatures originating from YGGDRASIL — even if it is a waste of resources to resurrect summoned creatures.

As for using it on people of this world? She was unsure if resurrection skills will work on them too. Until now, she found no worthy candidate to waste resources with a resurrection or a reincarnation skill.

"I also need to get my hands on a few Sacred Gears to analyze how they work. It is critical to find a way to counter, deactivate, or steal them. From what Azazel told me, some of them may even rival the capability of World Items."

If that's true, the danger they possess is considerable. Better eliminate dangerous possessors, then collect their Sacred Gears for personal use and protection early on, than suffering the consequence of her lack of care later.

"About the evil piece's ability to bring back the dead... No, unfortunately, it can't resurrect people in a sense. It is not a true resurrection but an artificial reincarnation — The one the piece is used on reincarnates them as devils. It also can't bring back people who have died beyond the critical time interval — which basically requires an almost immediate action. A mostly intact body is also needed for the process to work."

"I see, so this is some fake reincarnation. Fascinating. Wonder who made those pieces…" Gillian wanted to get her hands on a set of those devil pieces too — in a sense, the content of her shopping list was steadily starting to grow.

They sounded inferior compared to even the simplest reincarnation or resurrection skill from YGGDRASIL. Still, here, she had limited resources and options to work with. Options she intended to expand if she had the chance without wasting items or resources she can't replace anymore.

Analyzing and even trying to replicate and upgrade the pieces using YGGDRASIL methods was critical for her survival. Just like Sacred Gears, they could indeed come in handy in the future as a possible tool to expand her influence.

She did not yet know how, but she was a hoarder, rarely throwing away stuff, always trying to find them some use and be as efficient as possible!

What was trash to most, those things were treasures for her.

"Unfortunately, most of that stuff I hoarded is in my private collection…" In her in-game manor's "infinite" vault — True, it was more like a complete fortress with a sizable territory around it after all those defensive upgrades she and her closest in-game friends installed.

"All those items, guardians, and NPCs we created are lost! All that work to create our dream home and seat of power was for nothing! All that money wasted on data limit expansions..! All that grind and months worth of salary..." her eyes moistened for a moment, intensely trying to wipe her tears — even sniffing a few times.

Now, she wished she would have returned to her throne and watched the fireworks from the safety of that place instead of going to raid abandoned guilds for fun.

Maybe then, her home base she created with her closest partners would have transported here.

The home where she and those few she enjoyed playing with — before they left the game — spent multiple salaries worth of money to upgrade and fill it with life! The home they fortified with great care so no invader can breach it without considerable loss!

"Are you crying?"

"No…" Gillian sniffed, trying to hide her tears of sorrow.

"Are you alright? If there is anything, I can…"

"No! No! I am fine! Just something sad came to my mind." Breathing deeply, Gillian calmed herself.

"You know, you can tell me about it. If you…"

"Geez, Red! Don't go all sentimental on me now!" She glared at Rias, her eyes still a little teary. "I hate when people do that. What happened, happened. Let's move on!" And just like that, Gillian returned to her old, stoic, slightly annoyed self, waving away the helping hand.

"Still, the offer stands. If you want to share something, we are here for you."

"Rather than wasting time with meaningless sentimentality, let's focus on why am I here so that I can return to my vacation your brother so generously gave to me — obviously abusing his authority and power."

"Haah, as you wish." Rias shook her head. She suspected something was really bothering Gillian. Something that scarred her deeply and made her afraid to reveal her real feelings, growing a thick surface around herself for protection.

She saw this before. All the members of her peerage were like that, having a painful past they would rather not reveal before anyone but the ones they trust absolutely.

"We need to work hard to make her open a little bit, and actually trust us." Maybe this was her brother's intention too, to offer this strange girl a way to recover — and eventually, make her join her Peerage.

"Onii-san!" Rias was angry, of course, her brother acting in her stead again was against her intentions.

But it was better than wasting a potentially powerful person, and at once, helping someone who was in need of help.

"Sorry, Sona…" Rias apologized inwardly for violating her deal with her friend.

No! Sona lost her chance when Gillian beat her in chess — and with it, unknowingly and unintentionally, earned the Sitri heiress's hand. It was now Rias's time to try to tame a new member!

"A question! Can you reincarnate someone who was already reincarnated before?"

Rias raised her brow. What kind of question was this?

"Well, according to my best knowledge, no… the number of pieces is limited. One set is usually given to every high-class devil who earned the right to create their own peerage." And after all, you can't be twice as devil, that would be ridiculous.

"...But that's it! If you lost your pieces or misuse them — wasting them on unworthy people — you don't get another set. Moreover, you can't reincarnate a devil twice — only using the piece to attach them to your peerage. Once you are reincarnated by a piece and die, then it is over."

"Ah, I see. Just what I suspected." Gillian pointed at her.

"Just what you suspected?" Now Rias was confused. Just what popped into the mind of this strange girl?

"Just as you said… Once you die, it is game over. Means, we can't make you go all out against each other without the risk of you dying."

"Yes, I already said that." Just what is in her mind?

"Two choices remained then. One, using simulated death battle scenarios generated by the computer — based on your profile and collected data. Using the performance data, you and your comrades provided during the training."

"Sounds good!" Rias nodded with a satisfied smile.

"But…"

"But?" That damn "but"! What's her problem now?

"But as we concluded, this is not really an option, as simple training provides insufficient data. You will not likely push each other to your limits, the brink of death. Which will right away degrade the end result which would be unusable."

"True, that is not likely to happen. You said you have an alternative. A "second" option. Care to tell?"

"Using recordings about real combat scenarios…" Gillian stated. "...your team participated in real battles before, yes? Recordings about them would provide the needed data. It would be even better if your group worked together on those recordings. Yes, building profiles using real battle recording would give a more precise result for the simulations than watching how you train!" Gillian's enthusiasm deflated suddenly, lowering her head. "But I guess you don't record it when you fight with those twisted devils — or any enemy you faced before. Nor do you usually go all out against them. Do you?" Raising her brow, she eyed Rias.

"No, we usually do not record those tasks. And yes, we rarely go all out. There were dangerous situations a few times, true, but we never got close to defeat before."

"Just as suspected. Lacking real combat experience…" Gillian muttered, typing intensely.

"But I can ask my Peerage to display their skills, and maybe spar with each other more intensely if that's good enough. We can even organize an event where we work as a team. I know it is not much better, but I don't want them to fall out before the Rating Game even starts."

"Haah! Well, if there is nothing else, we need to build a castle from shit. I suppose that's fine too. Nonetheless, I need more data about the magic you use, how it interacts with the physical world, what laws it follows before and after it manifests. Some information about devil biology would also be good."

"What's all of these for?" Rias gets more and more confused as Gillian proceeds with her requests.

Right, Gillian wants her team to win — for that, she was eternally grateful. But devil biology? Why? Why did she need such a thing?

"Look, do you want to win or not? I am already aware that devils are weak against some sprinkler water." Gillian grabbed the sprinkler filled with holy water from her bag, pointing at Rias. "But you can't just rely on one thing. It is like you only use one leg, when you have two. If you want to find an exploit, you need to investigate all possibilities, all sides, all truths. Find more than one way to secure victory."

"You are right. Excuse me for asking."

"No problem." Gillian put down the bottle, returning to her screen.

"Are you carrying those bottles with you all the time?"

"Better safe than sorry. After all, after your people started to pop up like dogshit on the side of the road. After an old man's trying to assault me during my nightly jog. After I was attacked in my own shop? Yeah, I am paranoid. I have every reason to be paranoid. Please excuse me for taking care of my life."

"Please excuse us once again…" Rias lowered her head while crossing her arms under her sizable chest. Calling attention to Gillian was indeed partly their fault. Even Rias admitted that. "Anything else you need? Or is that all?"

"Hmm, I suppose, all the recorded matches of the Yakitori guy and his team would be good. All the available personal info about them too would help my work."

"Ah! That will not be a problem. All his matches played before the public were recorded and uploaded on the DeviTube. As for the private ones? I can call in a few favors to gain access to them."

"DeviTube? Seriously? Your people have the internet?" Gillian turned to Rias, baffled by what she heard.

Albeit, it was not surprising if she thinks about it. Unquestionably, sooner or later, even the Devils would have come up with something similar to the internet or video sharing sites.

It was evident that if a civilization wants to develop fast and efficiently, they need an information network that is easily accessible to the masses, and provides a channel through which they can share information easily.

Communication and the exchange of information was the biggest driving force of development and technology, that was undeniable.

"Though, most of the net was porn, commercial, trash, and corporate propaganda in 2138. You needed to delve deep or use AI to mine any meaningful and precise info you needed — That is, of course, if you wanted to learn and not drown in all that shit people uploaded daily."

Back in her original world, the problem was not the lack of information. But the fact... they got drowned by uninterpretable data that has little or no information content. Even if you found the information you needed, it usually lacked the proper quality control — making the knowledge distorted or faulty.

As she surfed the web in this world, the same problem started to surface here too. A lot milder way, still, the cause of the problem was present as a growing tumor.

"Yes, well, we borrowed the idea from the humans." Rias continued, sighing lowly.

And yes, they borrowed a few more things — ok, many things! Human ingenuity was genuinely astonishing if you asked Rias and many devils all around the underworld. The idea to have a TV network and entertaining shows also came from humans.

"Figures…" Gillian deadpanned. "Don't say Birdhead even has those creepy fansites?"

"I am afraid, yes…" Rias chuckled.

That disgust mixed expression when the soul leaves Gillian's body after getting to know this was quite comical.

"He is quite popular amongst the female devils. Also, his group — which consisted purely of females — receives many fan letters from male devils."

"Your people are almost as twisted as humans…"

"Almost…?" Should she be offended? Or is this praise?

"I am sure. Even devils can't reach the level of creep certain humans can. But really? Did he build a harem? There are hardly more cliché things…"

"Many male devils do it. I even know a few females who choose all-male pieces."

"Haah! When I thought your people couldn't be more cliché! But no, that's wrong, you don't even torture the souls of the damned. Or trade souls for a favor. You are not cliché. You are just cheap."

"As I told you, the devils of old did that. But after some time, it became more beneficial to make smaller trades that do not cost our clients' souls. This way, they can request our services multiple times and spread the good name of our services."

"Huh… milking the cow as much as you can instead of butchering it, clever. You are like those multinational corporations. Choose us, we will not take your soul — at least now — but we take the interest — then take your soul anyway once you are dead..."

"I take it as a compliment."

"Goahhh!" 'Thud!' Issei was thrown away thanks to Koneko's punch. It seems he changed sparring partners in the meantime.

"Senpai is really weak…" Koneko muttered, her voice emotionless yet carried some disappointment.

"Well, I guess it was the right decision not letting her hit me."

"Probably yes, as you know, Rooks have higher offensive and defensive capability than the rest. The traits you simply ignored with your biological attacks and continuous evasion."

"Well, yes, as the catchphrase goes, if you can't break the wall, go around."

"I will remember that…"

Closing her laptop, Gillian jumped up, walking towards Issei, who still groaned after crashing into the tree — Asia doing her best to heal him.

"Phew! You are really unlucky today."

"Please, don't even mention it. It is bad as it is…" Issei shook his head with a big sigh, feeling numb all in his body after Koneko's strike.

"I am sure you are doing your best, Issei-kun." Asia always smiled like an angel, trying to cheer up the boy.

"Ah! Asia-chan, your words are the remedy my ailing soul needs!"

"Yo-You are too kind." blushed the nun, using her Sacred Gear to heal the boy.

Gillian shook her head, glancing towards Koneko, who hid behind Akeno at the moment she spotted the strange girl looking in her direction.

"Anyway, why don't you train with us? You as well will fight with that Riser guy! You just sat over there all day, doing nothing!" Issei pointed at the now empty sunbed. "I bet you played games all along!"

"Nope! You are wrong! I just watched the new Extra Thicc Hentai! My fingers moved because I enjoyed it too much! Red can also confirm it! Right, Red?"

"Probably…" Rias played along, lowering her head confidently.

"Hentai? What's that, Issei-kun?" Asia, like always innocent, blinked, confused.

"Ahhh! It is nothing, Asia. It is nothing important…" Issei tried to make Asia forget even the mention of this word. Such things were only for depraved — cultured people — like him, his two eternal companions, and it seems, for Gillian.

Standing up, Issei hurried to Gillian, whispering something in her ear.

"Well, as a fellow man of culture. I might share my secret supply with you. Of course, only for proper payment. You can lend me that movie you spoke about last time."

"Thanks…!" Issei showed a subtle thumbs-up, offering a grin.

"Haah! Gillian…" Kiba shook his head after a big sigh.

He still thought about what happened last night. His conversation with Gillian — A conversation that left a deep mark in the young knight of the Gremory household.

He tried to find Gillian after she left, yet, it seems, Rias' appearance and her questioning delayed him long enough to lose her tracks.

It seemed to be absurd for a devil to be unable to track down a human. Yet, it happened just like that. Kiba failed to find her. Even searching the whole mountainside was not enough to find her!

Wherever she disappeared or hid that night, Kiba had no idea. Nor can he make himself speak with her again — not this early at least.

"I don't even know why I tried to follow her. Even now, I wouldn't know what to say to her."

Scene Change: Gillian's café:

"Mittelt! Hurry up! Another order, ready for table six!"

"Guuuh!" the little Fallen under Gilian's employment did her best to serve the guests — and not blow them away with a spear of light.

It was an arduous task. Not because she struggled with simple table service and the duty of a waitress. No! She was Fallen! This much was nothing! What made her task so hard was the fact that she had to force that disgusting smile, to act kindly towards these lowly people! On top of this, bear with their antics and requests!

"Saji-san, please, stop lazing around. Or I might be forced to give a negative review…"

"Ah, sorry." As Saji tried to quicken his pace right up until he somehow managed to slip on the floor tiles breaking the several dirty plates he had once carried.

"Haahh…" Rorschach just shook his head, seeing the clumsiness of the boy. "Clean it up, and go clean the dishes."

Saji nodded and gulped before fetching a broom, and hastily cleaning the mess he made.

"Wi-Will you notify Kaichou about this?" When finished, he asked the handsome man behind the bar, even clenching his buttcheeks remembering Sona's last punishment.

"No, but please, be more attentive next time. Or I will be forced to do so. Though, you need to pay for the plates you broke. Now then, go into the back, do the dishes and help Tsubasa-san with the orders."

"Yes! Sorry once again!" Bowing deeply, Saji retreated into the kitchen, trying to behave the best he can.

"Mittelt doesn't understand. Why hire the devils to help out here?"

"Ah! Mittelt-chan." Rorschach patted her head — making the short girl shrug annoyed. "We are understaffed currently. Without Gillian-chan around, and with this place becoming more and more popular, we need to hire some new staff members to help out."

"Can't she just make those freaky clones and be done with it?" Mittelt referred to those astral clones who did the kitchen duty until now — if Rorschach was not around to do it himself.

"She can, of course. But she wants this place to run properly without abusing her powers. Besides, after a while, it would be highly suspicious if only the three of us ran this place. It is better to hire some support staff to help out."

"But devils of all things?" Mittelt clicked her tongue as she turned away. "Those disgusting things?"

"Now, now…! Mittelt-chan, don't be so grumpy. Your face will become wrinkled early…" The man patted Mittelt's face gently.

"…" Mittelt was not amused! Mittelt was especially annoyed by this comment. Her expression betrayed her feelings.

"Sona-chan offered her and her group's help if it was needed. And we need some help for today, especially because Sunday is the busiest day of the week! We pay them for their service. In return, they provide a service. Easy as that! A simple business arrangement. No small print to fear."

"Then why don't you hire simple humans?"

"Well…" Rorschach chuckled. "Gillian-chan started to distribute the pamphlets and post the job on the school board not long ago. You need to understand. We need to choose who we provide a job carefully. People, we can entrust important tasks and make sure they are not trying to cheat us."

"Hmm, Mittelt admits, there is something in what you say."

"I am glad you understand." Rorschach patted her head once more, slightly messing up her golden locks.

"Stop it!"

'Clang!'

Suddenly, the bell gave the sound above the door, signalling someone entered the establishment.

"Ah! A customer! Welcome! Please, take a seat, and the waitress will be with you in a moment." Rorschach pushed and waved Mittelt forth, grinning all along.

The man who entered chuckled. He was wearing round shades, typical bad guy trench coat — with a suit underneath. In his mouth, a toothpick, playing with it constantly using his tongue.

"…"

For a moment, he looked around, the two suited gentlemen behind his back tensely placed their hands inside of their suit jackets, scanning their surroundings attentively. Rorschach immediately recognized they were bodyguards, and what they grabbed in their jacket was a firearm.

"Nice place you have here…" the man with shades stepped closer to the bar, sitting down.

"Thank you very much, Sir. We do our best. What can I get for you?"

"Some whiskey, shaken, not stirred."

"Sir, this is a café, not a bar. Unfortunately, we don't serve alcohol here."

"Hmm, what a shame, then just an Espresso."

"Right away!" Rorschach started to prepare the drink right away. His movements were nimble, making no mistakes — almost otherworldly agile for anyone who watched him. "For the gentlemen behind your back?"

"They take nothing…" The man who clearly looked like he belongs to yakuza slurped the hot drink carefully. "Ah! Wonderful!"

"Thank you, Sir. We do our best to provide satisfaction to our customers."

"I see that. Say, have you just started this business? I have never seen this place before."

"We only opened around a month ago if my memory serves me right." Placing a cake on a tray, Rorschach handed it to Mittelt, urging her to serve the one who ordered it.

"Hmm, that is interesting." the man slowly slurped his drink, measuring the young adult before him.

"And, how do you like the neighborhood? I hope no nasty figures have showed up until now."

"Hmm, aside from a few nasty figures, no, we have had no problems with the neighborhood."

"Hmm, I see. May I ask, have you incidentally seen gentlemen in suits coming to your establishment?"

"Hmm, maybe there were a few, some coming with nasty reasons. Fortunately, we managed to convince them to change their ways and leave without harming anyone or doing property damage."

"That's unfortunate." The man stood up, spitting out the toothpick and taking out a cigarette from the inside of his coat, putting it on his mouth.

As he grabbed a lighter from his pouch, Rorschach spotted a strange tattoo on his forearm. "Strange, I remember I put my cig in my mouth." The Japanese man with shades searched for his cig that until now was in his mouth, blinking in surprise.

"No smoking here…" Turning towards Rorschach, he held the cigarette in his hand. "Didn't you see the sign? No smoking in the shop."

"How did you…?!"

The two bodyguards became restless and were about to pull their guns when the man waved for them to stop. They didn't even see when the owner of this place snatched away the cig.

"You are with the local Yakuza, aren't you? You too came for protection money." Rorschach squinted his eyes.

Not long after they came here and opened this café, people in suits started to visit their shop, asking for protection money. Normally, he, the ever dutiful servant would have disposed of them, exterminated their whole group, or taken them over from inside to provide further funds for his master's plans.

Yet, for her strict orders, they just made them believe they already got paid. As his master said: They need no attention from the Yakuza — neither did they need that dirty money.

"Hmm, more like to inquire what you did with our people. The ones we sent here came back as if they finished their job, but bringing no money. Also, when we asked what happened, they shuttered, having foggy memories about this place."

"Hmm, is that so?"

"Is that so…" The man sat down once again. "So, maybe you can explain what happened? I bet you drugged them. They were idiots, true, but they were still our men. Deceiving those means you deceived us. And who deceive us, shame us. And whoever shames us... will be punished so we can recover our authority and pride." the man explained calmly, folding his fists before his mouth as he leaned on his elbows.

"I see, so that's the case." Hummed Rorschach thinking.

"Normally, we would have simply beat you and your employers, ruining your shop to teach you some respect. But we are generous because you are new around here and because we found the confusing look of our employees amusing. That's why… You pay us triple from now on and you do us a few favors, then we are even."

"That's an interesting offer. And we might even consider it, but…"

"But?"

"Please, excuse me. But what's your name? I never got it…"

"Just call me Cheng-san, and that's it…"

"Well then, Cheng-san. What if…" Rorschach leaned closer, looking deep in his eye. "[You pay in our stead as an act of selfless donation, and provide info about your organization's daily base. Could you do us a few favors when asked? Manageable?]" Rorschach red eyes glowed up for a moment, his voice of command completely dominating the man, making his expression almost lust-filled and blank.

"Yeah, that would be my pleasure..."

"Good…" The servant nodded satisfied, patting his shoulder, whispering a few more things to the man.

"Boss? Is everything alright?" Not so strangely, the two bodyguards didn't recognize anything from this little exchange. Just "Cheng's" momentary silence that was out of the ordinary.

"No, everything is fine. We have come to an agreement. Luckily, this gentleman has more brains than most."

Wordless, the two bodyguards nodded, and the elegant man straightened himself, grinning triumphantly and adjusting his tie.

"Well, then, we're leaving. Have a nice day. Let's hope for a more successful business arrangement for the future."

"Yeah, it was my pleasure. And hey… [You should stop smoking, it is bad for your health.]"

Cheng was about to recover a cig from his pocket, when he suddenly stopped. "Yeah, you are right… how silly of me." Instead of the smoke, he put a toothpick in his mouth, giving Rorschach a mock salute before leaving.

"Is everything alright?" Tsubasa, one of Sona's Rooks, came out from the kitchen, inquiring about the strange men.

"Of course, why wouldn't it be? The gentleman just approached me with a generous business offer, that's all."

"I see, please, tell me if you see anything unusual. Kaichou will berate us if anything happens during our service."

"No, you two do a splendid job. In fact, we may once again require your services in the future. But now, please, take a small break. Tell Saji-kun once he is finished with the dishes, he can also rest. Take food and drink of your liking from the kitchen or from under the counter. It is on the house."

"Thank you for your generosity." Bowed the blue-haired girl deeply, returning to the kitchen.

"No problem." And the man just smiled, offering a pleasant expression which was sweet and friendly on the outside but hid a terrible, scheming intent! A feeling that may be even more malicious than the vilest fiend of the underworld!

Watching the man for a moment, Mittelt can't help but shudder, glimpsing the unnatural vile aura around the servant of his real employer.

Scene Change: Gremory Estate:

"Magic test number four. Subject, Akeno Himejima." Gillian used the microphone to record her voice.

New contraptions had been set up in the courtyard, amongst them a long iron rod — which was a thick sword conjured by Kiba's ability — several antennas, and a few more contraptions; that probably no one except Gillian knew their exact purpose.

"What is she doing?"

"She is testing how magic affects the physical world," Rias explained to Issei. Where did she get all of these electronic devices? She had no idea. She only knew Gillian recovered them from her brother's car, carrying them here with the help of her Peerage.

"Why does senpai do that?"

"Well…" Rias glanced at Koneko, then back to the test site. "I have an idea, but not sure about it."

"Ara Ara! Are you sure you want this? Many say my magic can hit pretty hard."

"Give it your best!" Gillian showed a thumbs up.

"Here I come!" raising her hand, Akeno started to gather her lighting. Now, instead of her usual school uniform — or the jersey most of them wore in training — she wore a white haori with red accents, a red hakama, and a pair of zōri with white tabi. All in all, she would be perfect to cosplay a Miko priest.

'Crash!'

Huge lightning crashed down on the scene, leaving only a charred crater the size of a big building . In the middle, the iron rod glowing white, several cracks visible on it.

"Ho-How strong!" Issei was flabbergasted, seeing the huge impact and hearing the thunderous explosion. That's it! He will never try to mess with Akeno — not as though he planned to anytime soon.

"Well, she is called Priestess of Thunder for a reason…" Rias chuckled triumphantly, throwing back her hair.

"Satisfied?"

"Hmm…"

"Something not right?"

"Akeno-senpai! Throw that lighting once more!" Gillian shouted, seemingly not satisfied with the result.

"Ufufufufu! Ara! Ara! Aren't you greedy, Gillian-chan?" Akeno chuckled sultry yet cute, tilting her head.

"She can only do this attack once a while. Attack at this scale drains her greatly. She needs to wait a little while to recharge her magic."

"So, it is all or nothing type of attack. I see…"

"Well, from my experience, after this, she can do smaller attacks. But as I said, she needs to wait for a little before doing an attack of this scale again."

"Hmm, then, we wait."

"Isn't this enough? I mean, the whole area just blew up! I don't think that place can bear more."

"Issei-kun…" Gillian glanced at the boy. "One measurement is no measurement. Remember this…"

"Huh? What do you mean by that?"

"She means she needs to measure things more than once, or the result will not be precise, Issei."

"Ah, I see…" though, Issei still didn't know why, he accepted Rias' words.

"Well then, until she recovers, why not move on to the next subject. Koneko-chan, willing to do it?"

"…" Koneko remained silent for long moments, looking around insecurely.

"I have some special chocolate for you in the car if you are willing." Gillian smiled friendly.

"!" almost like she had a tail and ears, she perked up, nodding vigorously.

"That's the spirit!"

And thus, the testing continued.

Koneko was tested for how strong she can strike, how fast she moves, her defenses by being hit continuously by others — her idea.

Though, according to Gillian's scan on the small girl, she had further abilities — monk and Ki related skills. For some reason, she refused to use them.

Indeed, her Ki reserves were active when the player inspected her rough stats, so there must be some other reason for her not to use them.

"There must be a reason why she is using only her raw strength and not activating her Ki…"

But she didn't want to mention it. The devils were already suspicious enough about her being something else than a special human. If she doesn't want to use those skills, then don't use them. One way or another, she had more than enough data from the girl's capabilities to proceed.

"Next, Kiba!"

Kiba was tested how fast he is, his cutting strength, precision, and how many times he can use his Sacred Gear before getting exhausted — also, the variety and size he can conjure those swords.

She had to admit, compared to his stats, the boy was quite fast. Not to mention how flexible he can use his Sacred Gear. He can basically perfectly replicate every blade he was given a description of — scaling them down to his stats. Though, the blades he can replicate can't be bigger than the ones he can effectively use — which means he can't conjure up a sword as big as a building.

"Indeed, a dangerous ability. If it scales with his stats, I need to watch out."

Rough stat-wise, all of the devils were far behind her. They can't even breach her passive damage invalidation.

But the fact she was unsure if they have a potential max growth limit or not made Gillian reconsider how to approach things.

As she knows it, she is still bound to her level 100 limit that the game set. True, until now, except Sirzechs and her current "training partner," she met no considerable threat that can truly endanger her existence.

But she was still new in this world, being here for little less than three months. There are possibly more dangerous or stronger opponents hiding out there.

"True, Azazel is quite smart. Because I can overpower him, that does not mean I should underestimate him. Weaker but smarter opponents often pose more threat, and more trouble than simple brutes…"

Even in YGGDRASIL, a weaker player who knows how to use every tool in their arsenal, know how to utilize their environment to the fullest, or exploit others to earn victory. Such people can prove to be a more troublesome opponent than someone with good gear, but no skill — People who had money to use the cash shop, but no brain to utilize every tool in their arsenal.

"Back then, I only survived in that company managed orphanage because I did the same. Outmaneuvering those brutes and bullies who tried to exploit me because of my weak, sickly body..."

Using different methods, those who tried to exploit her were usually sent to work camps by clever tactics and planning.

"One forged evidence there, another "coincidental" violation there, and those brutes gathered enough points to be removed from the orphanage by those "supervisors," and sent to those places."

Honestly, she was not proud of what she did back then.

As she heard, orphans sent to those company-owned work camps often died early, or even if they lived to be adults, they became cripples from the work conditions. But it is either her or them, the survival of the fittest and smartest. Her will to survive even despite her circumstances was stronger than letting herself be exploited by those barbarians. It was stronger than letting herself die in that place!

"I will not die here! I will not let myself be controlled! Not anymore! Whatever it takes, I will survive and rise above! I want a peaceful life. I want to explore this world! I want to live a life without regret — unlike the previous. But to be able to remain independent and not bound to anyone or anything, I need more power!"

"I promise…! I promise you…" She muttered, earning a glance from Rias.

"Did you say something?"

"Nothing. Let's continue the tests."

"Alright."

Gillian needs to find a way to extract those Sacred Gears from people and convert them for personal use — that was probably the most crucial matter. More so, if she really is stuck with her lvl 100 level limit, she needed to find a way to break this limit or drastically increase her stats — in a permanent way.

"I need to focus…!" Dismissing the matter, they continued with the testing.

"Asia-chan, can you participate?"

"Ye-Yes? How can I help?" Asked meekly, but kindly the nun.

"Hmm, do you have any fighting skills, or just your magic and healing?"

"Akeno-senpai started to teach me magic. But I am not yet proficient in using it. But my healing ability has greatly increased since we started to train. I think..." The shy girl played with her fingers, uncertain of what to say.

"Well then, use what you learned. What can you heal?"

"Umm… As I know, I can heal both devils, Fallen, and humans. I never really tried on anything else."

"I see… then let's try the next. I doubt anyone wants to be injured just for you to heal it. Or, Issei, do you want to try it? Huh? Being cared for by Asia's caring hands?" Gillian raised her brow a few times, inciting Issei to try it.

"Yes! I want it! I mean… YOU WANT TO TRICK ME!?"

"Well, it is worth one try…" Gillian said so completely neutral, still offering a subtle grin under her folded fingers.

"Damn you…!"

"Let's proceed then…"

And thus, ignoring Issei's fuming, Asia's test started. Fortunately, her power worked on the flora around, so no animal needed to be hurt for this test.

"Still, the problem stands. She can't use it at range, only by being a hands reach away from the target. Also…"

As she recognized, this kind of healing Asia's Sacred Gear provided was pretty basic in its current state. It can't even restore stamina or magical power and can only heal bodily injuries.

"As my experiments went with different angelic and psychic healing skills, even the lowest tier can restore both stamina, body and can even restore missing limbs…" Not to mention, some even bolstered mana recovery and removed negative status effects.

In that case, Asia's current ability was not much of use — at least for the player.

"Though there is still the potential, she can use it at range in the future, and maybe other secrets will be revealed about it once she becomes stronger…"

Sacred Gears were still a mystery to her. A secret she intended to crack and exploit like everything else back in YGGDRASIL — and her environment.

"Issei-kun, your turn."

"Yes! I will do my best!" the guy was pumped up. That was evident. From the surrounding people's low sight, they can only hope he will not hurt himself in the process.

"Mmm… what should I do?"

"Simply do your best, do that strength doubling stuff with that gauntlet thingy."

"Ah! Ok!"

"Boost!" He raised his arm, and a red gauntlet with a jewel appeared on his hand, glowing up for a moment.

[Boost!]

"I don't know much. I am not strong like Koneko-chan. Not fast like Kiba. Neither talented in magic like Asia or Akeno-senpai. Nor…" Issei remained silent for a moment, a lewd expression moving on his face.

"Senpai Hentai!" muttered Koneko with a subtle disgusted expression.

"Oi! Koneko-chan! What kind of new nickname is that!?"

"Hmph!" Koneko huffed expressionless, even turning her head away.

"…I wanted to say, I am not smart like buchou. I only have this, and my damn stubbornness!" he raised his gauntlet. [Boost!] Once more, the gauntlet shouted, doubling Issei's strength.

"Well then, Issei-kun, show us your will. Give your all!"

"I will do so!" [Boost!]

"Well, we are waiting…"

"Umm… this thing needs some time to charge. Sorry…" Embarrassed, the boy rubbed the back of his head.

"Take your time, Issei-kun. But remember, the enemy will not wait for you until you finish with your preparation. A careful enemy who knows about your ability would take you out first, blitz you even, then proceed to the other members. At least, I would do that…"

"Re-Really?" Issei blinked. [Boost!]

"Yes, what I observed yesterday, that makes it clear. Your ability is indeed dangerous for the careless. It scales with your base power! True, at first, it just doubles your power. But what if you double the double? Four times of power. That doubled? Eight times! Etc.… wonder how far you can go with this…"

"Umm… I don't really know. But it drains me greatly." [Boost!] He explained as the gauntlet once more doubled his strength.

"Well then, let's check it out. Of course, I imagine this kind of power-up heavily strains your body."

"Heavily strains?" Issei blinked. True, every time he used it, he felt exhausted and drained from stamina. So Gillian might be right.

"Yes… Hmm, I wonder... Can you boost it to a certain level right away? Or do you need to wait for each boost?"

"That's the case…" Issei laughed nervously. "I can't skip steps."

What a useless ability he has! If he can just boost more than once every ten seconds, it would be more useful.

[Boost!]

"Then it is not like Super Saiyan where you right away multiply your power… no, it resembles Kaio-ken much more." Muttered Gillian as she fondled her chin thinking.

"Yes, you are right. Though, with training, even that can multiply strength more than once with a simple activation. Goku can even use a version that can provide twenty times of boost at once."

"Kaio-ken?" everyone blinked as Kiba asked this, hearing Issei sharing his wisdom.

Maybe with the exception of Gillian and Issei, neither Peerage member knows what they spoke about.

"It is a technique that multiplies the user's ki for a "heartbeat" — thus increasing their power and speed and enabling them to inflict serious damage to opponents who are considerably stronger than them. It is from an anime called Drago Ball."

Gillian rolled her eyes for a moment hearing Rias' strangely accurate explanation.

They named a few anime differently in this world — as well as certain characters — but the story was basically the same.

"Wow! Buchou is also a fan!? I would never have imagined it!" Not only beautiful but knowledgeable about his favorite series?! This girl is a prize in Issei's eyes!

Gillian? Issei already knew she was knowledgeable about the topic — he may dare to say almost as well as him. Their intense debates in the brakes were the proof of that! But the president?! He never imagined!

"We-Well, I may have watched a few episodes…" Blushed the devil princess intensely.

"A few… heh…?" Gillian hid her smirk behind her folded fingers, knowing well when the first mention and appearance of this technique happened in the series.

Well, let's just say it was not in the beginning.

"Let's discuss this later, ok?" shrugged Rias, still red as her hair. "To put it short. Issei, your ability is like when you double a load on a truck. Every boost doubles the load. Which means you, the truck becomes slower each time. And after a time, you break under the strain."

"Potentially strong, but dangerous even to the user." Muttered the player.

She as well owned several such skills. Potentially overpowered, but can damage or even kill her. She usually uses such skills with some exploit that makes her avoid the lethal effect, or if all things are lost, simply lower the negative effect she suffers as a backlash.

"Like Kaio-ken!" Issei pointed out! [Boost!]

"Well, somewhat resembling…"

"So… how long should I charge this?"

"…" Gillian glanced at Rias. "Your call, Red. You know his capabilities better."

"I think he can go to a few more stacks, but after that, it might be too much.

"Right!" [Boost!]

Thus, the group waited a little more.

[Boost!]

"That's enough, Issei…" ordered Rias.

"Right! Go on!" Issei raised his arm, calling the power of his Sacred Gear. [Explosion!]

The jewel overflowed with energy in the gauntlet, and Issei right away felt the power coursing through his veins.

"Well, who wants to go against our newfound Goku?" Grinned Gillian, glancing at the people.

"I really feel like Goku…" chuckled Issei as he felt power coursing through him, making a few phantom hits and kicks.

"Just don't scream through several episodes…"

"I promise nothing!" Issei laughed triumphantly.

"Well, if no one is willing. I will…"

Kiba stepped forward suddenly, preceding the player. "Please, excuse me, Gillian. But you are still a human — no matter how remarkable, you might get hurt seriously if you go against Issei in his current state…"

"Oh! How chivalrous. But I can say the same to you. But oh well. Your choice. Just be careful." Honestly, it was all the same for Gillian. She had all the info needed already, now, she just wanted to have some fun..

According to her servant's report, that dragon sealed away in that Sacred Gear, not really bothering to conceal its presence — or its power if it comes to that. More so, it was quite eager to chat.

"Rorschach spoke with him, he introduced himself as Ddraig, the Red Dragon Emperor…" Although Gillian always assumes that people are lying, her servant was sure the dragon did not intend to deceive him. In fact, he was quite boastful about his power and embarrassingly honest about his depression about the weakness of his new host.

"In that case, I need to find a way to remove Sacred Gear from others or steal them. This Ddraig might be of use later…"

Rorschach confirmed the dragon's great strength when he communicated with him. If it is not some ploy to deceive them, it is better to be safe and find a counter for this dragon.

"Dragons were amongst the strongest beings in YGGDRASIL, with a ton of resistances, immunities skills and among all the greatest damage." Even top players like Gillian sweated bullets when they encountered the highest tier of dragons in the game.

"Either way, the best would be to acquire that Sacred Gear for personal use — with the dragon still sealed inside. Alternatively, either gain the complete trust of Issei or even destroy that thing altogether to not cause any problem in the future…"

Nonetheless, Gillian was aware. Alone, no matter her strength, items, abilities, and the exploits she knew, she can't triumph all the time. She needed to make alliances sooner or later to make sure she is on the winner's side, and not on the losing side.

"The question is… who should I ally with?" She needed more information in this regard before she made such a consequential decision. In the current situation, the only thing she can do is to go forth and gain more info about the strong beings inhabiting this world.

"Right…"

Kiba stepped forward, conjuring a sword. "Do you require a weapon, Issei-kun?"

"I fight with brawls!" Issei raised his fists like he is preparing for a boxing match.

"Haah! This kid…" The player can only shake her head. He was determined, but not too smart...

Watching Issei and the group's last day, she knew well that he was not good with Martial Arts, neither with a sword. But having a sword against a swordsman was always better than going toe to toe against it.

"Except if you are a monk who can use Ki to counter bladed weapons by infusing their skin and even destroy your weapon with just a touch. I really hate monks..."

Against a skilled swordsman like Kiba, Issei's skills were minuscule with a sword. Still, with a sword, his reach is higher than with his fist, and thus, he has a better chance than going with his bare hands.

"If only he could use that devil magic of theirs… the situation would be different."

In YGGDRASIL, warrior classes usually have the advantage over magic casters. Of course, this does not mean a clever caster can't outsmart a warrior and blast them away before the warrior can even get close.

"Let's begin!"

"COME ON!"

Issei shouted, filled with spirit and determination! Yet, his sudden burst of spirit did not last long as Kiba disappeared, his speed blinding, reappearing before the boy in the next moment.

"Huh?"

'Smack!'

"Ugh!"

Issei was smacked in the head with the pommel of the sword, making him grab the top of his head in pain.

"Damn! That hurt! Take me seriously, dammit!" Swiping his gauntlet forth, he was nowhere near fast enough to hit the knight of the Gremory household.

Kiba just smiled, jumping back and raising his sword again.

"Hmm, his speed only slightly increased. Striking strength…" Gillian glanced up from the screen with a blank expression, watching as Kiba disappearing then reappearing due to his dramatic speed increase — basically playing around the boy. "Further tests are needed."

Kiba played around with Issei, barely giving him time to react. Yet, despite knowing he was immensely outclassed, Issei never gave up! More so, after each miss, he just got pumped up even more!

"DAMN YOU!"

"Ise! Try to concentrate your demonic power! Don't forget. Imagination is the key!" Rias shouted, giving a bit of advice to her favorite pawn — her only pawn.

"Right!" Issei nodded, breathing deeply. Kiba also stopped, with a raised sword awaiting Issei's next step.

"Yeah! Use Kamehameha! Or a Spirit Bomb! Or even a Galick gun! That's even cooler!" Gillian shouted. "Yeah… Vegeta is cooler," she muttered.

"Guahh! Take this!" like he would want to shoot Kamehameha, Issei clenched his fingers and imitated the move of the famous character.

Demonic energy started to gather in his palms. First, it was only the size of rice, and then it began to grow! Grow to be the size of a beach ball!

"Kamehameha!"

When the beam of demonic energy was released from Issei's palm, Kiba's eyes widened, barely dodging it!

"Ah!"

The attack arched, leaving a trench along the mountain as it climbed higher and higher, then exploded when it reached the top!

'Bang!'

"I-It… it made the top of the mountain disappear completely…!?" Issei muttered in disbelief, even blinking as he can't believe what he saw.

"Phew! Look at that! What nice power output!" Gillian laughed. She really enjoyed the show.

"Good work, Ise!" Rias nodded, proud of her servant.

"I..."

"I-Issei-kun!" Issei collapsed in the next moment, making Asia run to the boy.

"Well, I think today's test is concluded for Issei."

"You are right…" Rias nodded. "Wait, you said Issei? You tested all…"

"You are still on the list, Red. Don't think I'll make an exception because you are their leader. No. As a leader, your duty is to be with your people, be their support, and fight on their side. Be on the frontline!"

"I would do that. Unfortunately, according to the rating game rules, the whole match is over in the enemy's favor if the King gets eliminated. Once the king is out, the game ends."

"Hmm, then you need to be strong not to fall right away. Ah, but whatever, do as you wish, Red. But remember, if you do not train, if you rely on your bloodline and your teammates too much, you will end up like Frieza."

"What do you mean by that?" Rias knew precisely how that villain ended, and this made her worried.

"If you saw the episode when Goku first went Super Saiyan, you know… Slap, slap, slap, slap... especially the abridged." Gillian made a few lazy slapping moves, using only her wrist. Yet, this small gesture made Rias shudder as she remembered the scene.

Frieza underestimated his opponents, tormenting and playing with them, going so far as to push Goku over his limit. The point where the Saiyan opened up his potential and grossly overpowered him. And that caused his ultimate fall.

"Still, Frieza had a huge potential! If he just took the effort to train! Well…" Gillian, who came from the future, knows well how strong Frieza could become with just a few months of training.

"Ah! Whatever…" Gillian jumped up, stretching her limbs. "This much was enough today. Tomorrow I will continue the data gathering — if you allow me…" she slowly turned her head towards Rias.

"Ye-Yeah, please, do so…" The red-haired Ruin princess was deeply shaken by the girl's words. She needed to reconsider her methods.

"Now then, if no more training will be conducted today. I will pack my stuff. I wouldn't want to leave this expensive stuff outside."

Meanwhile, others still wondered about what Gillian said to Rias, the player started to pack all the electronic devices she installed on the scene.

From the ultra-high-speed cameras to the antennas she installed nearby to measure different electromagnetic signals the use of magic released.

"Oh well! It is soon time for dinner…" Gillian inspected her silver pocket watch in the next moment. "By the way, what will be for dinner…? I am famished." She patted her stomach with a grin.

"Well…" the people looked together.

What will be the dinner? That is a good question.

Scene Change: Underworld:

"Who would...?"

"I have no idea, Sirzechs. I have no idea."

Two men stood in the air, inspecting the crater which swallowed a big part of the city.

The two men who inspected the scene from above met their fair share of monstrosities, opponents, and friends who were and are able to cause such devastation. Yet, seeing the deep crevice that gaped like the heart of the abyss and the shockwave effect that followed the explosion, both thought the worst possible scenarios.

"Hopefully, they could evacuate the city before this happened."

"Not all people evacuated before this happened — according to my Intel." noted the Maou with green hair.

"I see…" Sirzechs' expression was concerned. Not one person of his died in this "accident." Even so, the loss of life was always a tragedy in his eyes.

"It seems we have been spotted."

His companion pointed towards the rapidly approaching force—a huge group of Fallen, fully armored and led by an imposing figure.

"Halt right there! You entered the Fallen territory uninvited! May I know what the two Maou are doing here?" They were easily recognized right away. And they didn't blame them.

Wearing those huge shoulder pads and the ceremonial robes of the Maou, it was hard not to recognize the two.

"Ah! Baraqiel-san! What a pleasant surprise seeing you!" Of course, the Maou of Red offered a pleasant smile, not even bothered by the fact, the two of them are completely surrounded by the opposing faction.

"Lord Sirzechs, Lord Ajuka! Can I ask the reason behind your untimely arrival?" Baraqiel lowered his head.

He knew well, against these two, he and his whole unit most likely had no chance. Still, these two — be they Maou or not — entered their territory without invitation. It was his task to protect Fallen interest, whatever it takes.

"What happened down below?" Ajuka squinted his sleepy eyes. "My sensors picked up unusual energy signatures from the area, before that burst of energy…" Which obviously left most of the city in ruins.

"I myself also stand flabbergasted before the case, Lord Ajuka. Though, I have a few ideas. Maybe you two should speak with Azazel. He may give more insight into the case."

"Right, please, lead us to him."

"Unfortunately, I can't do that," Baraqiel spoke up, stopping the two. "As I said, even if you are the Maou, you trespass in Fallen territory. We are still in conflict. Even your presence here can cause the war to resurface. I request you to retreat, then request a formal meeting between the sides through official channels."

"In that case…"

"Wait a moment…" Baraqiel placed his index to his ear, seemingly receiving a communication. "I see. Are you sure? Your choice then, but be aware of the consequences."

He turned back to the two, sighing with a lowered head. "Azazel is inviting you to meet him. He would like to explain the situation himself."

"Well…" Sirzechs blinked, almost surprised. "That went easier than I thought."

"Please follow me, but do not wander away and be as subtle as possible. Some of our more courageous comrades might perceive you as an enemy and attack you."

"Thank you…" The two followed the Fallen escort, flying over the city.

The center of the hole that gaped was a respectable distance from the city. Still, even like this, the radius was big enough to make a part of the Fallen capital disappear—the shockwaves following affected the whole town and the surrounding, burying many civilians, killing many instantly.

Many Fallen were working non-stop to help their comrades and save those that can still be saved, even now their work will take a long time.

"We could send help if you wish. The devastation of this scale…"

"Thank you, Lord Sirzechs, but we'll manage."

As they flew through the ruined capital surrounded by the Fallen faction's cream, Ajuka scanned the area. Not only with his eyes but a smart device he subtly activated under his coat.

The energy signature that caused this devastation was devil in origin, mixing the White Dragon Emperor's familiar energy. What was strange, he picked up something else too, the remnants of something unfamiliar. Something even he didn't encounter before.

"I see, so they failed to contain something…" He muttered, already having theories about what called for such desperate measurements.

But what can warrant such destruction? An unstable Longinus? A sealed god that was trying to break free? The problem was, Ajuka had many ideas but was not sure which fit the situation the best. The alien energy signature that hid underneath the excess devil/dragon radiation was too alien and too weak to precisely say it.

There was simply too much interference...

"Did you say something, Lord Ajuka?"

"No… It is nothing." The Maou of Blue replied short and straightforward, glancing on the side and spotting Vali full in dragon mail flying over the area, almost like he searched for something. Something… that was probably better off dead, than alive.

"Hmm, strange…"

Ignoring him, Baraqiel led them to a heavily protected towering, black castle, silently leading the two Maou before a double-sided door deep inside the complex.

The little group gained many suspicious gazes from the passing Fallen but mostly left alone thanks to Baraqiel leading them.

"We are here." Without knocking, the warrior opened the door, revealing Azazel, and Shemhazai who were in the midst of a heavy discussion.

"Azazel, can't you take something seriously?"

"What? It's funny!" laughed the Governor of the Fallen, nudging the place above his missing arm before clicking his tongue in pain. "Dammit… it still hurts."

"Haah! Just… rest. Losing you now would be catastrophic. Especially in this situation."

"That means you'll take care of my paperwork?" Glancing at his friend, Azazel raised his brows teasing.

"…" Shemhazai shook his head, then turned towards the open door, his expression still sleepy, almost exhausted. "Ah, Lord Sirzechs, Lord Ajuka. I guess you came to investigate what happened." The high-ranked Fallen was not even fazed by the appearance of the two Maou. It seems he expected their untimely arrival.

"Yes… well, what exactly happened here?" Sirzechs asked, looking around for a moment.

As expected, Azazel's office was a mess. The man really gives no heed to keep it tidy — unlike Sirzechs who had his personal maid and wife who took care of such things.

"Ah, just a little blunder from my part. Don't even bother with it." Azazel waved away the blame, smiling all along.

"Haah…! I give up…"

Shemhazai just sighed, shaking his head as he started to leave, stopping on the side of the two Maou before leaving. "Please, try to make him act like an adult. I failed to do so…"

"Little blunder?" Ignoring the leaving Fallen, Ajuka raised his brow, watching the infusion connected to Azazel and the magical seal currently keeping his wound stable.

He right away recognized it was a clear cut, most likely originating from a Light-based weapon. But why would Azazel cut off his own arm? Unless…!

"That wound, and the hole outside says otherwise. Tell me, what warranted Vali Lucifer to apply such drastic measurements? What is he searching for currently? Why did you cut off your own arm?"

"Ah! So you figured everything out already. As expected from "The One who Controls Techniques and Laws." Very perceptive indeed." Azazel wanted to raise his arms to applaud the man's conclusion, only to realize he still had not installed his new, artificial one.

"…" Ajuka remained silent, continued to stare at Azazel with his uppity gaze.

"Ah, I guess you will not leave me alone until I tell you. Very well, then! Let's just say I made a bet by gazing at something even God would not dare and paid the price. Is that enough for you?"

"And what exactly was that thing: Even God would not dare to gaze at?"

"A piece of hair, dear Sirzechs. A piece of hair..." Chuckled the leader of the Fallen, seemingly very entertained by what happened — or more like he can't do anything but laugh in anguish experiencing all of this.

"A piece of hair? How can a…?"

"A simple hairbreadth, maybe more precious than the strongest Sacred Gear…" Continued Azazel with a sour grin. "Haah! But it was maybe my fault. I didn't ask for permission when I "borrowed" it, and this was my punishment." he placed his hand over the stump that remained from his arm. "But maybe, it was for the better. Sometimes, it is better not to poke a mine with a stick, else, it will blow up in your face." Maybe, Michael was right, this time, he flew too close to the sun, and it burnt him.

"This lesson will serve me well in the future. I was lucky I only lost this much. Definitely better than the other outcome..."

The Fallen Governor muttered in the end, remembering what happened to those soldiers and researchers that were caught in the crossfire.

"How can "borrowing" a hairbreadth warrant the destruction of the city?" This was absurd! Sirzechs hardly heard such retort even from a wrathful god.

"Better question, is why Vali did it…?"

"Vali did it?" Sirzechs turned to his friend, surprised and at once horrified.

The boy always sought a challenge, but to destroy a city full of innocents and people way below him in strength? Sirzechs kept an eye on that boy — being the possessor of a Longinus and on top of this the descendant of a Lucifer warranted this — but he never showed genocidal tendencies!

The fact he is patrolling outside even now made it obvious he fought something immensely strong that warranted destruction of such a scale.

"Yes, the radiation definitely belongs to him. The question is, what warranted such destruction, Azazel, what did you want to contain?"

"Like always, you see through everything. And the answer is… even I don't know. That thing…! Whatever it was… it was beyond my current understanding. It was the evolution in its purest primordial form. Yes, I can only describe it as such..." Azazel lowered his head, trembling slightly as he remembered that horror.

"Hmm…" Ajuka never saw the Governor in this state, a state that made even him concerned.

"I get it was destroyed, is it not?"

"Currently, it seems so. Vali is still searching for it's pieces."

"Pieces?"

"Yes, the dear is quite tough, it has a capability to regenerate even from the smallest section. Grow to be even resistant after suffering serious damage and surviving."

"Ajuka, can't you do something? You have those contraptions…"

"They are not contraptions…" Ajuka slowly turned towards his fellow Maou, almost offended Sirzechs dared to refer to his treasures as mere "contraptions"... Contraptions! "They are serious inventions. Not simple… Contraptions."

"Sorry…" The Maou of Red raised his arms defensively. "So, can you help?"

"I may come up with something, of course, Azazel's help who is more familiar with that creature would be appreciated."

"Sure thing…" Azazel nodded, accepting the help.

"So, who is this mysterious owner of that hair you spoke about? Is that person someone we need to be aware of? Is he or she a threat to the underworld?" Sirzechs squinted his eyes stern. It was rare he offered such serious expression.

"Oh, that person is definitely interesting." Azazel glanced out of the window, almost like reminiscing about the past. "As for being a threat? I have not yet figured that out myself. Fiercely protective of what belongs to them. Possibly merciless against enemies and those who consider a betrayal. But quite a pleasant conversation, partner."

"Who is that person? If it is someone dangerous, we need to know." Sirzechs placed his hand on Azazel's shoulder, squeezing it gently. "Azazel…"

The governor turned his head away, clicking his tongue. "I can't tell you…"

"Why not?"

"Look, we enjoy a relative peace now. Aside from that, I made a deal with that person so I don't reveal their location. If we start to harass them now, I don't know what consequences it will bring. I can only say I'll keep the situation under control. Please, trust me, just this once."

"That hole outside is saying otherwise…" Sirzechs sweatdropped, not believing Azazel the slightest — not in this case.

"Ok! Ok! I made a mistake! Are you satisfied?! Geez! You act like you never made a mistake before! I admit, I shouldn't have stolen from that person. But it was just a hairbreadth! Who knew she would place a trigger even on her hair!?"

"So it is a 'her'…" Ajuka hummed, already narrowing down the suspects.

"It can be her, it can be him, and it can be it! Who knows? Even I am not sure what that thing is!" Azazel grimaced, annoyed and distressed. "All I know is that I will not poke a sleeping dragon again! Giving away more info would do exactly that!"

"You are scared…?" Sirzechs raised his brow, recognizing the man's small shudder as he mentioned that person.

Ever since he knew the Fallen Governor, he never showed fear, nor distress, he was always cheerful. But now…?

"More like, cautious..." Answered Azazel, almost annoyed. "Let that be enough. I made the necessary precautions to notify you about everything I know if "it" decides to endanger innocent lives. But until now, that person only wanted us to leave her alone, and let her live. That's it. A very basic request we can hardly deny."

"You are not really convincing…" Ajuka muttered, gazing out from the huge window that peered directly at the destroyed part of the city.

"Excuse me, but this is the best I can do currently. If you want, you can seek out that person yourselves — that's if you can find her. I only ask to act civilized if you accidentally find that person, do not try to force anything, or you may end up worse than me. Oh! And do not mention my name — if I can ask you this much. It may affect me even more negatively."

"Hmm, I see…" Sirzechs' face was stern.

If a hair of that person can do this to the Fallen governor — one of the strongest beings he knows from the three factions — the person it belongs to is indeed dangerous. He would even categorize it as a godly threat.

"I assure you, if that person means no harm, we as well should act civilized. We only want to make sure he or she means no harm to our people."

"Naturally…" Azazel nodded, his face and the way he leaned back in his seat betrayed how exhausted he was after all that happened. "Now then, better start with that project, else catastrophe could surely follow. Ajuka, are you up to it? As you see, I need a helping hand right now…" He raised the stump that remained from his arm.

"Sure thing…"

"Do you need help? With the civilians." Sirzechs asked again. "We can send…"

"We will manage, but thank you. Instead, it is better for you to return to your position, that being is elusive and crafty. If a part of it is still alive, it might have already left the city range. If it pops up in devil territory, it is better for you to be around before it is too late. I advise you to monitor every suspicious activity strictly..."

"Thank you for your advice."

Satan Red glanced at Ajuka one last time, leaving the Governor alone with him.

As he left, Azazel allowed himself a sigh.

"Haah! How troublesome…"

Azazel was sure the girl was smart enough to connect the dots and lead the clues back to him once these two appeared before her doorstep, but what can he do? Curiosity killed the cat in his case…

"Maybe… she already knows about my little 'borrow'…" That was also a possibility.

Scene Change: Gremory Estate: A day later:

"Your skills with the knife are really… remarkable," Kiba commented as, under a moment, Gillian diced the onion and the vegetables. Skillfully, missing not one cut.

"Thank you…" Grinned the player, her hands never stopping. Not even looking, yet, her fingers were still intact.

"Why did you volunteer to make dinner?"

"Well, why did you?"

"I like cooking," Kiba answered, pouring some spice on the meat, offering his best playboy smile all the while.

"Really?"

"Really…" He nodded, his hands stopping not one moment as he skillfully prepared the meat. "In fact, I have a cooking vlog. Pretty popular, I might say." He boasted without shame, but giving no further details.

"Wow! You never said! Are you sure you don't want to change employment? Soon, we'll receive the right to function as a restaurant too. And we need a cook. I bet I can pay better than Red."

"No, thank you. But I can help out from time to time."

"Heh! Better than nothing, I guess."

The two worked in synchrony, and soon, the whole kitchen started to be filled with delicious scents.

Gillian herself never took cooking-related job classes, and thus, she only relied on the recipe, the little practice she had, the capabilities of her new body, and what she learned about cooking since she opened her café.

"Strange, back in my old life. I usually only ate those tasteless instant pastes, insect rations and similar things…" She earned a relatively high salary compared to most — thanks to the sponsorship of the company that raised her after she was placed in that orphanage.

"Who said working for a big company always sucks? If you were talented and willing to work hard, they nurtured and raised you to be a proper tool — even giving you proper education. If you are not, you were a discardable tool…"

Yet, even she couldn't allow herself to buy real meat back then. The maximum she managed was that cloned meat replacer that tasted like shit.

Coming here, eating real meat for the first time was a surprising, but pleasant experience.

"Of course, the meals I prepared will never compare to someone who possesses cooking-related job classes or was a professional cook. Neither do the meals I make provide any buff or positive effects. But, it was better than nothing. It is a step in a positive direction."

She was proud of how far she came since arriving in this world more than two months ago! Earning this much starting almost from the ground was indeed an accomplishment in her eyes.

"I wanted to thank you and apologize…" Kiba stopped for a moment, strange things leaving his mouth so suddenly.

"What for?" Gillian tasted the hot soup — seemingly ignoring the fact it still boiled in the pot.

"I was maybe… too biased, last night."

"You spoke with Red, didn't you?"

"How do you…?"

"It is obvious. Besides, I heard the flap of wings after I landed. Either you devils are crap at hiding your presence, or humans are simply stupid for not detecting you guys — I bet the latter."

"You really have a negative opinion about your species."

"History proves it, Kiba… stupid people follow the charismatic and the smart who can deceive them, its been going on since the dawn of history. Think how stupid an average person is, and realize, half of them are even more stupid."

"So you think I am stupid, huh?" Kiba smiled sour.

"I never said that. Maybe too trusting? A little bit biased? Probably. But stupid? I don't know you as such. You have your smarts, in certain cases…"

"In certain cases?" Kiba raised his brow, almost offended.

"Yeah…"

"I see… that means you are not mad at me after shouting with you that night? You still didn't answer."

"Well…Why would I? You have your opinion, your loyalties, and I respect that. I only ask you to think before acting. Because without thinking, we are cattle, and cattle are easily exploited by those who hold the gun." she turned to Kiba, sighing and shaking her head. It was visible, from how she exhaustedly nudged her hair she was not used to this.

"Look, I am not good with this emotional stuff. But there are very few people who can earn my friendship. So, please, don't die on me. At least, don't die a stupid death. If you do so, I will be forced to drag you back from that maw of nothingness then beat the stupidity out of you. Capiche?" snapping her fingers, she pointed at the boy.

"I…"

Kiba remained silent, considering what the girl said, even blinking a few times.

"Well, the soup is ready. Let's finish the rest and serve it. I bet they are famished after today's training."

Ignoring Kiba's flabbergasted expression, Gillian continued to make the meals, even pushing him to the side to reach other ingredients she needed.

"Gillian-chan…" Chuckling internally to himself, Kiba shook his head, proceeding to help her. His friend was really strange.

…

"Fuahh! Hot! Hot!" Issei tried to cool his mouth after eating the hot meal too fast, but instead of helping, he started to choke after downing the whole glass of water.

"Ufufufu! Ara ara! It seems Issei-kun fears someone will steal his food."

"Umm! It is really tasty!" Asia complimented her meal, almost finished with her current serving.

"…" Koneko, though said nothing, and her expression was still stoic, the lights in her eyes betrayed her immense joy and satisfaction.

"I never knew you could cook…" Rias glanced at Gillian, raising her shapely brows slightly.

"Well, it is not much. I just followed the recipe. The merit belongs to Kiba-kun. He was the chef on duty."

"I had a good assistant chef. That made all the difference."

"Damn Casanova… even good at this," Issei muttered under his nose. His expression was sour as he continued to eat some bread.

"Well, Issei-kun. The way to a girl's heart usually leads through their stomach. Just make sure to burn those excess calories. Maybe you can ask Kiba-kun to teach you a few things."

"It would be my pleasure." Nodded "Casanova" with his usual pleasant smile — a smile that unnerved Issei even more.

"I will not!" Issei glared at Kiba. The hell he will ask help from that Casanova!

"Hmm, your choice…" Gillian sipped from her drink. "So, Red, when can you give me access to those recordings and those sites? You failed to do so today. Time is of the essence, even I need some time to analyze them."

"After dinner, there will be a learning session. After that, I will have some time."

"Splendid!"

"Recordings?" Issei blinked, confused. "What recordings?"

"Rule 34 Rias, Issei-kun! Rule 34 Rias! Search for it!"

"Wow!" Issei's eyes started to shine, and right away, blood sprouted from his nose. "Can I join?"

"Rule 34? What is rule 34?" Asia tilted her head confused.

"Ah! It is nothing important, Asia-chan." Issei's eyes ticked as he tried to protect Asia from the outside world — again. "It is just a code language between me and Gillian-san, that's all!"

"Oh! I see…" The girl nodded in understanding.

Issei knew well. It was an impossible undertaking to protect Asia from the depravity of the internet — and people in general. Still, he tried his best to defend her innocence as long as he could.

"I-It is nothing like that!" Rias' face went all red once again, glaring at Gillian for a moment. "It is just recordings of Riser's previous matches. That's all!"

"Ah, I see…" Muttered Issei, somewhat deflated and disappointed.

After this, the group continued with their discussed learning session.

Asia was introducing the Bible and the use of Holy Water. The usual tactic that Exorcist prefered to use.

Rias explains tactics and other essential devil knowledge about the coming Rating Game, teaching some extra stuff to Issei about house Gremory and the underworld — things as a member of her house needed to know.

Nothing particular that really interested Gillian. What was more interesting, however, was the recordings Rias showed her after the sessions ended.

According to her experience, Gillian could easily take out Riser with holy water, or even use one of her skills that blocked all regeneration based skills and abilities.

But she wanted to challenge herself, only using the capabilities of a human and technology, discarding the use of anything supernatural during the match.

These devils were so full of themselves, boasting and thinking they are better than humans. Well, that is about to change.

And thus, two more days passed, filled with observation and learning.

Sitting outside, on the roof once again, Gillian heard familiar flaps of wings behind her back.

"You should be asleep…"

"Ah! Hey, Red!" She waved with a half-smile. "I just reviewed these recordings and information you gave me access to. And well, this devilnet. Are you aware of how much porn you people have there? Especially about you…" Gillian pointed at Rias. "Geez! Your people really love Rule 34!"

"Please, don't even mention it…" Rias turned her head away, her eyes ticking in annoyance, her face red once again.

Her family tried to ban those things once; obviously, they failed miserably. Even with the help of her brother, it just cannot be stopped. And after staying in Japan for years, she learned, it was impossible to fully censor the net, as people always come up with methods to circumvent and mock this restriction.

"Sure thing…" Gillian recovered a pack of smoke, placing one in her mouth, offering some for Rias. "Want some?"

"Since when did you smoke?"

"Hmm, who knows…?" She dragged one elegantly, puffing the cloud out.

"You shouldn't. It is bad for your health."

"Possibly, but I enjoy it…" In truth, this was a cash shop item. It increased her perception, health, and resource generation and provided a slight buff.

The pack version she bought from the cash shop even has infinite uses.

It simply could conjure an infinite version of these recovery items that looked like a cig. Of course, it can't be used in combat and was inferior to a proper recovery item, but it was perfect for roleplay.

"Issei is training again…" Down below, Issei trained in a secluded place. The rest retreated long ago, but he refused to do so. Even in his beaten state, he pushed himself forth.

"That guy will either burn out or break his limits, becoming something more. The question is which one will break first... his body or his will ."

"I told him not to push himself that hard. But he still does it." Rias' expression softened, watching the boy worriedly below.

"I have a question, Red. Why take him? It was only because of his Sacred Gear? Or did you see something more in him? Or… was it simple pity?"

"Honestly, I don't know…" Rias glanced down at Issei once more. The boy was so exhausted he laid on the ground, drenched in sweat, breathing haphazardly. "I had to admit. It was partly about his Sacred Gear. But also, something captivated me in him…"

"Hmm, I see. His denseness, his will? Or something else?" Gillian dragged her cig once again.

"I don't know, maybe both, maybe something else. It is hard to say…"

Rias remained silent, watching as Issei got up once more, dragging himself towards the nearby entrance. It seems, for tonight, he finished with his extra training.

"So, what do you think? Did you come up with something?" Rias turned back to Gillian, raising her brow slightly.

"You?" Asked back the player.

"I have my plan, refining it each day… Those tips you gave me in the passing days were useful in making it better."

"That's good. What matters is to try." She glanced at Rias, raising her brow confused. "Since when do you need reading glasses?"

"Oh, this…?" The princess removed the glass, inspecting it thoughtfully. "This helps me concentrate. That's all…"

"Hmm, so it is not a magic item."

"No… they're just ordinary glass. As for what I asked…"

"I analyzed the data I collected and came up with my own plan. Let that be enough for now..."

"And that is…? I need to know the details so we can bring out the most from this cooperation."

"You will know it in time." Gillian puffed out some smoke, forming perfect donuts. "The question is… how do you want to take care of Riser's so-called "immortality"? It is a vast wall you need to overcome if you want to win. Under those tactical and learning sessions you conducted with your Peerage, you gave no clear answer for this question."

"His body is immortal. His soul is not. We need to overwhelm his regeneration with a strong enough attack or break his mind, and we earn our victory. Once he falls, we automatically win the rating game."

"And how do you plan that? With brute force?" Gillian snickered mockingly.

"…" Rias remained silent for a moment, lowering her head. "Yes. The Phenex family is famous for their immortality. It is said only the attack from a god can overwhelm them. But I don't think Riser is on that level yet. As I hear, he is rather lax when it comes to training."

"So, you only think… you have no clear evidence..."

"Unfortunately, no…" Rias shook her head with a sour expression. "…I do not. And as you saw it in the recordings, they show no evidence of Riser's true capabilities."

"Haah, Red! You're doing this again…" Gillian lowered her head, disappointed, dragging her cig once more, holding it between two fingers.

"Doing what?"

"You hope you will be lucky enough you can overwhelm him, but you have no clear evidence about how much he can take? What if he did not even show up but use his pieces to tire and eliminate your group — Only appearing, in the end, to mock and finish you. Do you really want to lose this match? Do you really want to marry him?"

"And what am I supposed to do? Just give up!? I have no other option but to try!" Rias clenched her fist, lowering her head in rage, feeling helpless!

Gillian was right. She has no tools in her arsenal that can truly take out Riser. That prick might even use his pieces alone to tire or even eliminate her group entirely! But what should she do? Just give up? No! She was never that kind of girl!

"Haah! Red, remember our meeting with that guy. In the ORC club room… what I used to remove his regeneration and beat him up?"

"A sprinkler, filled with holy water." Recalled the Princess of the house Gremory. "But we are also devils. We can't use that! It also damages us."

"Well, it only damages you if it directly touches your skin. If you use it with a glove, it has no effect. But don't mind me."

"Still, using it against another devil? It would cause a huge uproar among other houses! I am the daughter and next heir of house Gremory. I have a reputation to upkeep. How would that look if I use holy water in my first official Rating Game?"

"Well, if you want to be that guy's fuckdoll and breeding cow for the rest of your life, and lose your freedom on top of this, sure thing, honor is a nice thing. A nice thing, and sounds good, but hardly effective when you go against someone stronger with more experience on top of this. Someone you have no idea how to deal with even if he is alone..."

"…" Rias remained silent, glaring at Gillian for a moment. Unfortunately, she was right. The problem was, the devil's society tied her hands. "What would you do then?"

"Honestly, I couldn't give a shit about honor. Not if my freedom is at stake. I would use every opportunity and dirty trick I have to earn victory. Because currently, comparing your team's data with his, it is obvious. You are fucked! He has more experience and a stronger Peerage. Also, their numbers are higher. When it comes to a contest of endurance, I would also bet on him…"

Gillian breathed out a big amount of smoke, making her look like a devil who was about to breathe fire.

"If he is as cocky as I remember, you may have some chance to take out his team — of course, stating you play dirty and smart. If he takes you seriously, well, then you have an even lesser chance to earn a victory — close to zero percent. His so-called immortality also stacks on this — making any assassination attempt, hit and run and guerilla tactics against him highly unlikely to work. This means, even if you take out his team, he can easily tank everything you and your team throws at him. He simply exhausts, then blasts you away… my best advice would be to take some serious fire protection."

"I know that well! But I refuse to give up! What would you do then? Do you have any idea besides holy water or an overwhelming power to take him out?"

"Fufufu! I may have a few. Unfortunately, you need to wait for the match to see the tricks I came up with." Gillian dragged her cig one last time, flicking away the butt. "Haah… Let just that be enough for now… Yakitori-kun and his family are not as invincible as they try to depict themselves. This regeneration of theirs has several things that can be exploited and turned against them."

"Such as?"

"Wait and see, Red. Watch the recordings and read up on the Phenex family history, their major battles, and you will see the pattern. You have every bit of info in your arsenal to succeed. Remember, there is no perfect defense. There is always a way around it! There is always an exploit to find!" Gillian stood up, walking near the edge.

"Early in the morning, I will leave. I have my own preparations to make. But don't worry, I will return when the match starts — just as our deal with big Red stands, I help you. Because unlike a few people, I keep myself to my given word. Unlike a few people, I respect pacts once they are made."

Rias blinked, just who was Gillian talking about?

"Until then, do your best to prepare, train, and don't forget, there is always a way around! There is always another option."

Jumping up and spinning her body towards Rias, Gillian made a mock salute, and like that night, she effortlessly landed on the ground, disappearing once again.

"This girl…!"

Against such odds, how can the Red Princess triumph? Will Gillian's help bring a surprising turn? Or will even her help not be enough? Read further and figure out!

A/N:

Well, folks, that's for now!

Sorry for the long delay. Other stories, life, and stuff takes up my time!

The next chapter in the making, hopefully, will not take this long to come! :P

In the next chapter: The Rating Game finally starts!

What will happen?

Will the fake phoenix triumph? Or humanity's ingenuity exhaust the eternal flames?

You will know from the next chapter!

Until then! Take care!

Stay safe! Sail safe! Good day! Good night! Safe journey! May the Flying Spaghetti monster be with you! And above all, stay away from Corona-chan!

RnR!

Read and Review!