Dragon Bone Z: Careful planning especially, much of my main story elements were planned months before I posted chapter 1. Don't sound so down, your story can become something unique, though it is a lot of work. I am sure you can do it :)
MountainBookSage25: Noooooooo! Anything but that! XD XD
Gan315: I am glad you liked it, Rat teddy squirrel was a moment I KNEW had to be included lol. Bennia, considering her desire to cheer people up born of her time with a human and Grim Reaper parent, I felt it was natural she'd know how to calm someone down. I sent you a full reply to your review via PM, but yes the finale to the High King arc of the Oppai Dragon show will be concluding. It means a lot you want to see Dorian's surpass Issei's...the time of his own is not far off this arc ;) And as for the 3...now at least they both know their feelings, now just to tell him :D
FateBurn: Thanks.
runelt99: No cliffhanger when skipping chapters XD You made genius! And I get that, having a "show within a show" mentality. It can lead to a lot of fun moments.
Guest: Thank you!
KaryPL: You are very welcome! This chapter was a lot of fun, from showing the motherly side of the characters to a nice sit down between the guys of Rias' team (Something that seldom happened in canon) and yes...Box-less Gasper! He can have different powers if he drinks Dorian's blood again, I worried having a permanent change would be a bit OP considering in canon his powers only last immediately after drinking. That being said, I did mention a few chapters back he keeps a few vials of Dorian's donated blood on hand... To your last question, yes and no lol. Dorian doesn't recall the day as a child other than subconscious feelings, but they fill him in off screen, he won't miss the show ;)
TheLycan2026: That really means a lot, I hope you like my next one just as much :)
WinterRuneWolf: Admittedly, I did express the passage of time poorly lol. I may need to update that later. The intention was Freyja was there a few hours during the scene jump mothering him, but it came across as much shorter. Thank you for the kind words and review!
ahsoei: I had to contain myself XD If I had no self control I could have easily made this chapter 3x as long lol. But that'd be a bit much. Maybe in the future I can have short stories detailing all that couldn't make it into the main chapters.
fanficcyberman: I always look forward to seeing your reviews :D It means so much that you have been enjoying it, especially the newest chapter. That is exactly was a hope for Dorian's character, even when not meaning to, he can bring out the best in others. My family and I have been doing very well, I pray the same for you too! :D
Grimraven.V: Only half a million so far lol, but thank you so much! Here's to a million next, I never dreamed of getting so many.
Uday Sra: Thank you! :D
OBSERVER01: Oh gosh, if tiny Dorian ever makes a reappearance...all the hijinks with Issei XD
theLawbringer: Hahahaha, precisely, and thank you :)
Spectrvs: Great to hear from you again! I am so glad you enjoyed the chapter and have sent a full reply to your review via PM. Well, we can sort of disagree on Indra in canon, to me he was clearly up to something. Giving a god-steroid drug to an opponent in a worldwide competition? I am surprised Issei accepted it as that feels like super cheating akin to fixing it considering he seems to want Issei to advance but not others. Thank you again for the in-depth review and kind words, all the manly hugs for you to stay safe too! :D
And with that...ONTO THE SHOW!
"Stay down Oppai Dragon," the High King commanded as he stood above his kneeling foe. "Your foul technique will not save you against my strength!"
"N-not happening!" He staggered to his feet just barely. "As long as there are breasts to grab and my fans believe in me, I'll keep getting back up!"
"Don't let him win Oppai Dragon!
"Show him whose boss!"
"Come on High King, finish him off!"
Such were the shouts from the crowd watching the onstage performance before them. Settled within a stadium within Gremory territory, the first live performance of the Oppai Dragon show was taking place. Having aired across the supernatural world using the scenes previously filmed by Issei and Dorian, they had decided for a more in-person aspect to please the fans. In addition to the stadium, the spectacle was being broadcast to each myth currently allied with the Underworld,
"Your alliance with Darkness Knight Fang failed!" The crimson dragon roared out, the unconscious form of his former enemy turned ally, played by Kiba, was laying off to the side. The High King had tried to recruit him several episodes earlier, only for the knight to hold to his honor against the ruler. You stand alone!"
"Your persistence and knack for drawing allies to you is most impressive, but I am never alone. My name is not mere show, for I rule the far-off frozen shores of my homeland! My kingdom may be small, but to be a king does not require great numbers alone, but the quality of those with me!"
"Be careful my king!" The soft voice of the silver-haired High Queen called down as the pair clashed again. Special effects exploded around them, their blows connecting with some flair added by Ajuka himself.
"Why does he make war against us?" The Switch Princess demanded, the two loves of the fighting men finally having a moment to speak. "We haven't done anything to you!"
"Not yet," she proclaimed loudly, a spotlight falling on the two. While originally timid at her first times on stage, Rossweisse had grown accustomed to the spotlight, her voice far clearer sure of itself. "But our eldest sages foresaw calamity from distant shores. The power the Legendary Dragon bestowed on your beloved is surely that danger."
"The Oppai Dragon would never!" She stepped up, red hair catching the lights beautifully. "He stands for more than that! If your seers tell elsewise, they are mistaken to the last!"
"Oppai! Oppai! Oppai! Oppai!"
"High King! High King! High King!"
The audience chanted as the two men fought more desperately, the Oppai Dragon's armor dented, the High King's helm shattered per the choreography. The adventures of the season from Darkness Knight Fang to the mysterious Hellcat, played by Koneko, finally coming to a head as the rivalry that had debuted the series clashed for all to see.
The Oppai Dragon surely cannot withstand this assault alone! Irina called out to the audience, standing in the orchestra pit of the stage as she had the entire performance. With the previous narrator having stumbled prior to shooting, spraining her ankle, the young angel volunteered to take her place even having donned her dress despite the tight fit. As he stands for your dreams, send your wishes his way!
Much of the audience, especially the younger children, continued chanting his name as if it would surely turn the tide. The rest did the opposite, rooting for their hero king despite not being the show's namesake. The Gremory family adored the rivalry between fans on the show, planning entire lines of verses memorabilia for the era the Oppai Dragon and High King quarreled.
"His acting chops can use some work, but doing his own stunts is not bad," Odin remarked from the upper rafters having boxed seats for the event. He couldn't help but smile at how Freyja was leaning forward in her seat complete with a High King commemorative hat. Her fists were raised as she swung twice at empty air cheering for his victory.
"My…full power cannot be beaten!" The High King roared, pushing against his opponent whose strength had surged as the script called for. Somehow, his power that had outclassed the dragon was now wavering, unable to last much longer without help. A great red blast struck his breastplate, cracking it to pieces with a cough of pain. "Face the light of the Rainbow Bridge!"
A prism bubble of energy erupted from him, impacting the faux-Ascalon wielded by his enemy. The Oppai Dragon responded in kind, the power he had gained from poking the Switch Princess' breasts giving him the strength to retaliate. The two masses crashed together for a moment before being redirected…straight towards the High Queen and Switch Princess watching beyond.
"My love!" The High King immediately broke away towards the women who surely would perish if such energy impacted them, his battle against the Dragon forgotten.
"No!" His rival similarly shouted, wings propelling him as fast as they could carry striving to outpace the blasts before it was too late. They were not close enough to reach their respective loves, but something happened that neither could have ever expected. The audience gasped in shock, the previous cheers suddenly growing to utter silence trying to process if what they saw actually happened.
"You…saved me?" The High Queen and Switch Princess muttered in tandem as their eyes opened. Both had survived not thanks to their loves, but their foes. Where the High King had raised his shield high, protecting the crimson-haired woman, so too had the Oppai Dragon extended his wings to guard the silver beauty. Neither would have survived if not for the other.
"Why did you do that?" The Lord from the north asked with a spin. "Dragons are known for naught but their destruction. Had you done nothing at all, my love would be dead."
"Mine too!" he proclaimed. I couldn't reach her, no chance, but I could save your Queen. I see you had the same thought. If I can stop someone innocent from being hurt, I will."
"My king!" His strongest guard, Thunder Maiden called out as she and those of his kingdom who had accompanied him approached.
The High King's troops are gathered! Irina introduced those beside her. Lady Grim and Cy-Devil Knight stand prepared to fight…but allies to the Oppai Dragon are also with him! Darkness Knight Fang and Hellcat stood beside their new friend; the battle lines drawn.
"My scythe shall feast well tonight!" Lady Grim, played by Bennia dressed in a black cloak and skull mask, boasted with a haughty laugh to follow. "Dragons have such delectable souls." They were relatively certain the last line had not been in the script.
"My readings confirm a 75% chance of victory in this fight," Cy-Devil knight, Seekvaira with false cybernetic parts and wings analyzed. "You need only give us the word!" They all stood prepared, however their readiness to fight fell as their lord spoke.
"This one seems adept at defying your calculations. A dragon who saves others?" The High King threw his head back and let out a laugh deep from his gut. Quickly he rushed to his beloved's side, kissing her hand, and stroking her face as if to ensure she was safe.
"Ugh," the younger audience members, particularly boys, groaned at the display onstage only to be shushed by others who were enraptured.
"The sages prophesied danger to my kingdom from these shores," he repeated the previous reason for their struggle. "They said the calamity knew only destruction and death without a shred of mercy. I see now, you cannot possibly be that force. I was wrong."
"But my lord," the High Queen laid a comforting hand on his shoulder. "If the great threat is not he…"
"Then our journey must continue!" He shouted back to his allies who had battled against the Oppai Dragon and his friends. "I am sorry I steered you to foul winds and foreign shores."
"That is…brilliant!" Misty gushed from the stands reserved for Crossroad members alongside her friends. "I am writing that down!"
"Nah, it's all good," Lady Grim hefted her scythe over her shoulder. "To err is human and you used to be one."
"And I shall stand by your side through any storm and foe," Thunder Maiden bowed while placing a hand upon her chest.
The Thunder Maiden's heart grows heavy, her loyalty to her lord beyond those of chivalry and honor!
That line wasn't in the script! Dorian's eyes popped as Irina shouted the hints of a subplot he wasn't aware of. Thrud's eye twitched but she held her acting composure.
"Oh, will her love for her King ever be requited?" A middle-aged woman in the front row dabbed at tears.
"Then we shall return to our castle in the highest mountains! From there we may find the true foe to our people." the High King called out, suddenly extending an arm to the Oppai Dragon. "It seems you and I are not so different, should you find yourself in the frozen north…you will have a place at my table."
The red dragon stared at the arm a moment, seemingly contemplating if the moment was real. Finally deciding, he reached out, grasping it up to the elbow with a powerful grip.
"You can count on that," the red dragon smiled confidently. "I still need to show you the joy of breasts you are missing out on. I can't very well leave you hanging."
And thus, the two warriors stared into one another's eyes, a twinkle of brotherhood born that day. The High King's days in the land the Oppai Dragon walked had come to an end, but what adventures lie ahead for both? That my dear audience…is for another time.
Irina leaned forward with a playful wink before bowing low, concluding her last line of the evening. The audience exploded into cheers and whistles demanding an encore, the actors bowing in tandem holding hands to their grateful fans. They bobbed up and down in thanks over and over until the curtains finally closed, leaving the actors and actresses on the dimly lit stage able to breathe a sigh of relief.
"Wonderful! Wonderful! Bravisimo!" The directly, a mature devil with a gut on him and burly grey beard complimented. "Oh, they will be airing that for weeks and everyone here got to see it live! Especially you Ms. Orcas, such improvisation!" Bennia grinned proudly while removing her foreboding skull mask.
"They never had anything like this in the Underworld?" Issei asked as he dispersed his Sacred Gear armor, they had let him use it for authenticity.
"Nothing so upbeat," Rias explained. "It would explain how the popularity took off so fast, that and big brother's promotional material…"
"This was…really fun," Dorian had to admit as he pulled the remnants of the ridiculous horned helmet off his head. "I'm going to miss this."
"Oh, you won't miss it long," the director winked at him with a grin of pride. "But that's for later, hop to it everyone! The show may be done, but your darling public awaits!"
After the Show…
This is strange, fun, but strange.
"And is that Aidenn with one 'n' or two?" Dorian asked as he signed a limited-edition photo of himself posing alongside Bennia, Rossweisse and Thrud in costume. He recognized them as being sold at the front entrance in limited quantity. As far as he knew, only those who were there for the live performance had a chance at one.
"Two, sir!" The man in front shouted with a fist bump in the air. He was a young devil, couldn't have been older than fifteen wearing a furred cloak and helmet from the gift shop. The enthusiasm in his eyes brought a chuckle to Dorian's lips as he finished the signature noticing he had more tickets for the others present. "You were awesome today! Is it true your story is based on your actual adventures?"
"In small part," Dorian tried to downplay it. "The background of the High King is influenced by mythology of the Nine Realms, the stories just a bit on our own."
"I bet you could have taken the Oppai Dragon no problem."
"Unlikely!" The girl to his side, a younger sister no doubt, elbowed him. "The Oppai Dragon can't be beat! We can ask him, he's up next!"
The pair moved to the next booth beside Dorian where Issei was currently signing while still in costume. The line went on with Kiba, Thrud, Bennia, Koneko, Rias and Rossweisse all remaining after for their fans. Tickets had been limited and sold out within minutes making for quite a gathering of devils. Everyone kept a big smile for the fans, mostly children and teenagers, passing through so see them. They had waited so long to see them that any discomfort or fatigue after the show was worth it. Waving to his fans, Issei quickly took a pen and started asking for names.
"Tell him! You'd win in a fight with the High King, right?"
"Well," he looked nervous but strengthened is resolve at how intently she stared at him. "If it came to it, I'd give my all. But we are allies now, we don't fight our friends."
"I see!" She hopped a little bit as he handed her photo back. "I'll cherish this forever, thank you Oppai Dragon!"
"He is popular with the kids," Dorian could not help but notice the age gap between his fans and Issei's. Glancing down the line, he locked eyes briefly with Rossweisse posing with a young fan who had purchased the bonus package allowing photos. She waved awkwardly to him, clearly nervous at the moment out of her comfort zone. All the same, she looked like she was having fun. Dorian waved in return with a goofy grin ever present.
"Thunder Maiden!" A particularly burly devil dropped his elbow on her panel. "I challenge you to a test of strength!"
"That isn't part of the package," one of the staff nearby tried to insist only for Thrud to raise a hand granting permission.
"Oh, I think I have a few seconds to spare," Thrud licked her lips as she met his challenge, locking hands prepared for an arm-wrestling competition. "Someone count us down."
"Three…two…one…GO!" Bennia shouted beside them, an almost manic smile on her lips as she knew what was coming next.
It took not even a second, the hapless fan's arm slammed into the table, denting it before the rest of his body was flung to the side, landing in a pre-prepared pile of cloaks, blankets, and other assorted wardrobe items. It had not been the first-time challenged since she'd taken a seat.
"Aaaand MATCH!"
"Okay, next u…Lady Freyja!" Dorian half stood up upon seeing the Norse Goddess herself was next in line alongside Odin, a welcome sight. "I didn't know you were here!"
"We preordered the first tickets before they were publicly released," Odin jeered a little, silencing himself only as a particularly sharp heel dug into his foot.
"Crossroad leader, high school student and now thespian," she glided around to wrap him in a tender embrace. "I am so proud and happy to see you back to your proper height. Are you feeling better? The shows not too stressful on you, have you been eating enough?"
"Thanks," Dorian stuttered a bit always touched by how she asked about his well-being. "And I'm fine, Thrud and Kuroka have been working wonders." He flexed his fingers as if to prove to her. "Another decade younger at least."
"Excellent," she smiled while laying a stack of photos on the table. "One of each please."
She bought one of everything? Dorian gasped internally counting the number of photos she had laid in front of her. Only then did he notice that Odin was holding a High King foam finger behind his back. They are so…
"Crossroad members have free admission, of course you can come in," they heard one of the staff call out, heralding one more arriving as Dorian started to sign the pictures with extra personal messages to the woman who had welcomed him to Asgard.
"Hecuba, we missed you backstage."
"I had an excellent view from the front," she assured while leaning against the wall to watch the others. "You, on the other hand, have your hands quite full."
"They could easily add a Spartan character," Odin teased. "If you wanted to join the show."
"That…isn't necessary," the redheaded woman looked a touch nervous, a rare trait to see in her. "I…am not comfortable on stage in front of so many."
She has stage fright? He could see the same uncertainty he felt when first informed of his pseudo-celebrity status. But she used to lead troops into battle, you'd think they'd be similar to an extent.
"Ah you'll warm up to it if given the chance," he persisted. "Especially with Mr. Held's future escapades."
"But this was the last episode of the High King arc," Dorian reminded him. "I believe they are having new villains for next time."
"Not for the Oppai Dragon show ma boy!" He tapped his false eye knowingly. "A spin off of yer very own! It's already been greenlit!"
"Really?" Dorian had to contain the excitement in his voice. He'd heard about the potential idea but nothing in stone so had prepared himself for either outcome. "I thought the Gremorys were only able to finance one series at a time."
"They got another to foot the bill," Odin twirled his beard while glancing painfully obviously to himself and Freyja, a wink to seal the deal.
"In one week," Freyja stepped forward. "You shall come to Vanaheim, my homeland to shoot the opening episodes. As the Underworld got the Oppai Dragon first, the Nine Realms shall have the High King. I've been wanting to tell you the last few days but could not find the opportunity."
"Vanaheim?" Dorian knew the name, Iggy granting him a boost to his magical abilities when tapping into the power of that land. "Of course! Lady Eir used to say how beautiful it was, I'd love to see it when I can." Thus far he'd not been able to explore the Nine Realms in full, a task he mentally noted to do one day, perhaps with Rossweisse.
"It'll be a grand day," Odin promised. "Get our own show set up, the young lads and lasses will adore it. We can make more merchandise, what we have Azazel helped design is already flying off the shelves. Perhaps next week even…"
I should probably see what they're making of us, he subtly worried knowing what sorts of items Odin and Azazel would want made. Next week is a bit of short notice, but not impossible.
"Ahem," one of the staff at the door politely cleared their throat. With an ever-so subtle nod to the door he pointed out the long line still waiting for a chance to come in that the Norse deities were currently holding up.
"Oh, of course," Freyja apologized as she collected the stack Dorian had finished signing. "Our land is a place of healing too," she whispered softly to Dorian. "You are ever welcome, so that we may help what afflicts you in both mind and body."
"Wha…?" He wanted to ask what she meant before she turned with a contented spin towards the door, the young Einherjar quickly lost the chance with the next fan who quickly filled her place. A sense of urgency to take her up on her offer took hold, but it would have to wait. "Okay then," he accepted the wall scroll handed to him by a taller young devil girl with golden eyes. "And who is this for?"
"Kassy sir, I'm your biggest fan."
Backstage…
"Think I'll ever have a cloak this black for real?" Bennia asked absentmindedly as she spun in her costume, still hesitant to take it off. "Maybe I can keep blue stars on it or something."
"In time," Koneko promised as the young reaper helped unzip her from the tight black costume that she wore for Hellcat. "I don't see why not."
"I hope so," she sighed while removing her own outfit. "Mr. Sirzechs' sphere did wonders, I'll always be grateful. All the same, I think I need a more grim reapery touch to it. Feels like something is missing." Koneko wasn't sure what she meant but patted her friend on the back to reassure her.
"That was hard work," Issei sighed as he relaxed, separated from them by a divider to his section of the backstage area. "Next to this, the school festival won't be a problem at all." Their preparations were coming along thanks to Bennia's inside woman on costumes, but he and Kiba were still doing a little bit to help every day.
To think we are so popular already, something like this is normal in the human world, but new to devils. Just how much war did they go through for something like a television series to create such wonder? Sirzechs helped set this up after all, he knew. Being promoted by the four Satans has to be good for marketing.
Not only that, but the events surrounding Loki's attack and subsequent return had been broadcast far and wide to all alliance territories. As a result, the Crossroads and Gremory Team had seen a surge in interest as both were named as being integral to the incident's resolution. Rias had theorized that was how the series garnered such attention so fast, especially with the media outlets covering it to see the heroes of the battles in a more normal setting.
And since most of my fans are kids, they think the Oppai Dragon and I are one and the same. So that means I must be extra careful even when not on stage. They look up to me now, that's a new feeling. And we have to deal with so many battles.
Issei rested his head with a sigh, it was true they had gotten mixed up in a lot recently and with the Khaos Brigade still out there it wasn't likely to end soon. Gods, old Satans and former heroes, no matter how low the chance of encountering so many so often were, they found them all. Issei remembered Azazel's words at the Peace Summit, peace is better for more time with the women he loves. Issei's mind went to his perverted place for a moment, thinking of all the things he could do with Rias and Asia if that were the case.
Doing sexy things with them every day, of that is what I want most. Of course, if I am to be a harem king I need more. The moment he thought that he recalled the time in the room with Asia, that quiet time between them all night with barely a word shared. Well, with Asia and Rias. Hearing the cheers of the kids and fans is pretty great too, if only there weren't so many battles.
The memory of his friends beaten nearly to death tugged at Issei's chest. In Kyoto he had seen almost everyone defeated by the Hero Faction, even with their training. They had become who they were through opening up to one another and the battles they shared, this was true. All the same, the idea of any of the others dying caused a bubbling sensation to simmer within his chest, an anger he seldom felt. If someone on his team were to die, he didn't know what he'd do.
Mr. Azazel said this kind of stuff happens to Heavenly Dragons, is it my fault then? If these things happen because I am around in some way, that just makes it that I need to be strong enough to protect them. And things only get weirder when Goldie is around. If being a Heavenly Dragon draws in odd things, they seem to just follow him…
"W-we missed it?" He suddenly heard the sound of crying from the hallway outside the backstage area. Curious as to the commotion, Issei poked his head around the corner. Sure enough, just beyond the stage room was a mother with a young child no older than eight talking to one of the staff. "But I wanted to meet the Oppai Dragon!"
"I am sorry," the staff tried to placate them. "But the event finished already, tickets for the autographs sold out before the show started."
That's right, they didn't have enough for everyone coming to the show who wanted to see us afterwards. Issei knew they had adopted the ticket system from the human world when putting the show together. No matter how much they wanted as many to see them as possible, it just wasn't feasible. He almost turned away, but the crying face of the disappointed son and the regretful expression of his mother made that an impossibility. When he first heard he would be a star, the Red Dragon Emperor's first thought was how many beautiful single mothers may see him. In this moment, however, it was the child's sorrow that pulled at his heart more. Counting down his power, he resummoned his Balance Breaker armor before stepping out around the corner.
"Is everything okay?" The boy's eyes went wide as his idol approached them, his face immediately transforming into a smile. His mother was equally surprised, the look of hope in her eyes only inspiring Issei further.
"Ah, Mr. Hyoudou," the staff started to explain that they had come in late. "Apparently the mother's office had delayed her longer than she expected, so they missed the handshake and autograph tickets." Issei nodded before going down on one knee before the child.
"I see, and what is your name?"
"Lirenkus!" He held a hand high half jumping with each push up.
"Thank you for coming to see me Lirenkus, um…do you have anything to write with?"
"Huh, oh, yes I do," the staff member found a marker in their pocket and presented it as Issei pointed to the boy's Oppai Dragon hat.
"Would signing that be fine?"
"Y-yes!" The child was practically shaking as he presented the cap his mother had bought at the front door. Issei signed it with his devil-letters Rias had helped him learn. He was still quite sloppy, but it would have to do. Based on the sparkles in his eyes, the child was completely happy despite the scribbles. "Thank you very much sir!"
"Yes, thank you," his mother bowed as the pair were finally ushered away by another staff member. "Remember Lirenkus," she remarked to her son. "You shouldn't cry so much. Didn't you say you wanted to be like him? No matter how many times you fall, you should stand up and keep going. Your father didn't cry when those bad men hurt him, did he?"
"I will mom!" He asserted; his tears already dried as they disappeared out the door. "No, dad stood up to them!"
"His father?" Issei turned towards the staff member who looked quite uncomfortable.
"It seems he was involved in the train hostage situation Lady Gremory helped to stop. That is why his mother had to bring him today, he is still recovering from his injuries. I am glad you could help, but please be careful in the future. We cannot please everyone and if exceptions are known to be made…"
Shit, I didn't think, but how could I not do something when a kid was crying? The staff do their best and I probably just made it seem like they don't care. Not everyone can be around a corner when I'm nearby. I know that, but still.
"I'm sorr…"
"You looked amazing doing that regardless," Rias Gremory complimented him, eliciting a bow from the staff member as she emerged from the dressing room. With the Gremory family funding the event, everyone there was a servant of her family. "I will talk with my Pawn, thank you for all your hard work today." They left with a bigger smile than before, clearly having needed to hear that after the long day. "You were rash, but you made that child happy. You wouldn't be my Issei if you were any different."
She always knows me so well, Issei smiled back as she patted his cheek tenderly. She is the best woman in the world of devils, there is no doubt about that! Even among her wonderful family, she stands out. And those eyes, she always looks at me so warmly.
"Ah, it seems I came at a good moment. Issei, Rias, how are you two faring?"
"Mother! Millicas, you made it!" Rias turned to bow politely at the arrival of her mother and nephew. She heard Millicas had grown interested in the show and hoped they could arrive to see it. She was not aware of their presence at the event, her flustered voice made that apparent, especially having interrupted the soft moment between her and Issei.
"I really enjoyed the show!" Millicas smile happily. "Even more that big brother Issei was able to rescue you!"
Big brother? Issei could barely hide his sense of pride at the statement.
"Yes, it was most delightful," her mother Venelana agreed. "I knew it would be, Millicas wanted to see it so as to take part in the family's activities. It was flashier than I imagined, but that seemed to work best with the children. Next season will be even grander."
"Thank you!" Issei bowed politely thinking just how much their family had put into this. They were the ones managing marketing, the actual show and merchandise all at once with a bit of input from the other houses and Azazel. He had always been polite to Lady Gremory, not just out of propriety for her being the mother of the woman he cared for, but the sheer family resemblance minus her chestnut hair made him feel the same sense as if he were speaking to Rias herself. "And for supporting this show."
"Oh, no thanks are needed," Venelana assured as she approached him. "The profits easily make it a positive gain for the Gremory Corporation. In addition, I feel this will go far to inspire the children of the next generation to something new. Not just between each other, but those beyond the Underworld. This is all thanks to you, your friends from the north and my daughter."
She almost sounds like Goldie's goddess mom. No wonder they are friends.
"Of course I'll work hard! How can I call myself her Pawn if I did otherwise? I'll work hard for the President's mom and family too!" He paused as he saw the sudden look of disapproval at what he had just said.
"Milly!" The three were interrupted as Bennia dropped out of the ceiling now wearing a casual outfit complete with shorts and a skull t-shirt. Despite how the boy clearly tried to maintain his proper demeanor, she wrapped Millicas in a tight hug, the two not having seen each other since their stay in the Underworld. "I thought I heard your voice, how's my favorite Gremory been…no offense," she quickly added seeing he wasn't the only one.
"None taken dear," the Gremory Matriarch asserted. "Why don't you and Millicas get something to eat, my treat." She handed a small bit of money to the young reaper with a smile. Venelana was fully aware of how close the two had grown while spending time in the manor. Considering her grandson's lack of close friends in the Underworld due to his status, she welcomed how happy he looked and the energy she brought to his life."
"You are the best Mrs. G." Bennia linked arms with the boy who was shorter than her as they strolled out the door. "Have you gotten taller?"
"N-no," he stuttered, trying to balance between his joy at seeing her and his reserved noble upbringing. "You were really cool too!"
"They are so sweet together," Venelana giggled before returning her gaze to Issei. "But back to our matters, calling me the President's mother is totally unacceptable. It must be Ms. Venelana or mother."
"Just mother?" Issei repeated as Rias started to look far more nervous beside him. "Isn't that a bit rude?"
"What would be rude would be to keep calling me 'President's mother' at public events," her face had changed to a stricter expression since Millicas departed. "And Rias, have you not been lax on your development with him?"
"Mother, my apologies but…"
"You will be bringing him into our house, will you not?" She interrupted. "So, should things not go more properly? The others helped prepare him for our society, this is true, but you are the one to make the moves. And with this harem he hopes to build…"
"That is a far off ideal," Rias interrupted, her expression twisting to match her mother's. Where a moment before she had been meek and hesitant, at the mention of Issei's desired harem, her resolve had strengthened. "Brother does not have one, and we are not the same mother, to manage the other women that come in as it grows larger and larger. Am I not enough?"
"President," Issei reached out for her, hesitating at her sterner gaze unbroken from her mother.
"It is normal among our world for multiple women to be attracted to one man," Venelana continued. "I thought you made up your mind about him, or is that not the case? If you do form a relationship, then you gain authority over the other women around him, that is how things have gone. Do you need Grayfia and I to get involved each time to progress with Issei?"
"I do not!" Rias' voice surprised even her mother. "I do not need anyone to tell me what I should and should not do. You accepted father's harem so readily, but I…we are not the same mother. Of course I care about him, he is my precious Issei, but when I see him looking at other women…"
She feels this strongly? Issei could only stand and watch, afraid to interrupt the standoff happening before him.
"Perhaps," Venelana interrupted as she saw the fire in her daughter's eyes and where her words could lead. "This is not the time for such discussions."
"You brought it up! Issei is mine and I care for him deeply, but are my wishes not to be counted?"
"They are!" Issei finally spoke up, stepping between Rias and her mother. "I care about you too, more than anything! My dream to be the best harem king doesn't change that!"
"Then what is she to you against this dream?" Venelana asked, the red dragon finding himself now caught between mother and daughter. "Think carefully on that."
That answer is easy, she's the woman I fell in love with. That is why I want to protect her, to stay close to her, to get along with and…
Would you die for me?
Issei froze as that thought and the dark-haired woman appeared in his head, a cold sweat broke out on his brow noticed by Rias who stepped forward to feel his forehead.
"Issei, are you alright?"
"I'm…fine," he stepped back a bit. He didn't know what else to say after Rias' statements.
She doesn't like me looking at other women, or them at me? I love Rias, maybe Goldie and the others are right about how she feels about me. But if she does and that is the case, what does that mean for my harem dream?
"I may have said too much," Venelana apologized with a step back. "Do as you wish; it is your life. I can give you the advice I will, but we will not force you as we did before. Issei Hyoudou," she addressed him fully now. "Think hard on what my daughter means to you and your dreams…and how you should address her going forward. A true relationship is one of each giving for the other. Remember that."
"Giving for the other?" Issei muttered as the Gremory Matriarch left to find her grandson currently wandering the halls with Bennia. He and Rias looked at each other in unison, neither completely certain how to proceed.
"I would give anything for you Pres," he asserted once more as he had many times. "If it weren't for you, I'd be dead."
"I know you would Issei," she took his hand tenderly in hers. "I'm sorry for what I said, but…I would like to also know the answer to mother's question. Where would I fit into your dreams if I wanted your eyes just for myself? Take your time, but when you can, I would like to know at last where we stand. Unless you know for certain right now."
Issei opened his lips to answer, but not a word came out. It was the only thing he could do. He had been so focused on one day gaining his peerage and filling it with beautiful devils to be his harem, he hadn't stopped to think about the details of Rias being one of them, so certain that would never be the case as her Pawn. If she felt this way when he looked at other women, what did that mean for the future?
Kuoh Academy, the next day…
"Just a little higher!" Hecuba called out as her fellow classmates lifted the sign over the door. "Perfect! Mark it off and we can get it up in record time on festival day!"
Her class had been making preparations for their play all week being divided between those preparing props or practicing their lines. They were fortunate to have gotten the spot first, as many had been vying to reserve the auditorium to such a degree only one class in each year was permitted. The young Spartan had taken it upon herself to help direct the, admittedly chaotic, activities as the class was much smaller with others assisting their club submissions first. The Occult Research Club were supposedly renovating the old school building that all were excited to see. Apparently, it would be a multi-faceted display with a maid café leading to a haunted house.
"Dorian, those uniforms should be stored in the third cupboard," she pointed as she saw him working to hang them in a closet towards the back of the room. "Also, if you could help outside that would be great. A few of the tables meant for the old school building are heavier than we expected."
"You got it!" He quickly folded the suits and stored them away thankful he would not have to hang them individually. With a final wave to the other classmates, he rushed out the door towards the front courtyard.
"Just think, Dorian on stage," one of the girls whispered to a friend. "Oh, maybe he's the prince."
"No such luck," another mentioned. "Apparently the exchange students all formed their own event on the first floor. A photo booth I think."
"A costume photo booth," Hecuba corrected. "We will have suits, dresses and other clothing spanning the globe. Anyone who wants a photo in them or with us can have one taken and the costumes will even be on sale afterwards to make money for the class."
"…so, we could ask to have him in a suit?" The first girl asked, the others all perking up at the plan forming in their minds. If we bring Kiba or Gasper over, we could get them too!"
"Or Issei too!" They heard a shout in the back, however when they turned the one who shouted it was nowhere to be seen. They missed the drill-like blonde hair vanish around the corner.
"These dresses are wonderful!" Aika gushed as she spun to show off the skirt twirl of her vaguely Victorian-era gown. When the first batch of costumes had arrived, she was more than happy to help test them out. "Shows off JUST the right amount of skin without breaking the rules. After the third years got the theater club in their pocket, I thought we would be stuck with hand-me downs. That friend of yours and Bennia is amazing, you HAVE to introduce us!"
"Well," the redhead could not resist smiling nervously. "She is a little shy."
"So? I am the spitting image of subtlety." Even she could barely hold a straight face at that line. "Okay, okay, keep your mysterious seamstress for now. At least ask her if I can keep one or two of these afterwards."
"That…I am sure we can arrange. Our mysterious seamstress is nothing if not generous."
Occult Research Club Building…
"That's it," Rias' Queen whispered in the darkness. "Just a spark, that is all we need to start with. One spark."
"I can make more than a spark," Thrud remarked as she focused further. She was more accustomed to training involving combat and honing her body. She had learned Sage Arts from Lady Freyja but had never considered merging it with her family's lightning.
With spare time given for the festival preparations, the pair had opted for a quick session between them. In thanks for helping to temper her holy lightning, Akeno was helping find ways to strengthen Thrud's body against the very lightning she could generate. It was a slow process, too fast and Thrud would be burning herself daily, even a single surge could leave part of her skin blackened. They'd not been certain on if she could get past her body's limitation, and that's when inspiration had struck.
"Manipulate the energy within yourself," Koneko had offered one day with an epiphany. "If your body cannot use the lightning without hurting yourself, then make it so you can." Between Thrud's training and Kuroka's advice, she had grown so much in her Sage Arts. "Don't reactively heal, proactively reinforce."
Tapping into both Sage Arts and her lightning at the same time was harder than she thought. Individually she was incredibly proficient in each, however together it was an entirely different story. They'd been at it for weeks and it was grating on the young goddess's already limited patience.
"If this feeling had a neck I'd rip it off," she referred in frustration to the spark that refused to come without pain.
"Ara ara, that could be the problem," Akeno leaned forward until her lips were just beside Thrud's ears. "Maybe you should be calm when you try. You are superb at forcing the change, drawing out your healing and touki with sheer will but perhaps this requires a more tender approach. What is the most peaceful time you can recall?"
"Peaceful?" The woman pondered, her skin shivering as Akeno's breath connected with her. "That isn't really my thing."
I relax with a good workout or one of Bennia's scary movies, especially when Zepar jumped a foot before. But is that really peaceful?
"Think hard," Akeno pressed, sliding her fingers up Thrud's arms to cup her hands gently. "A perfect moment when all your problems just…fall away. I had a moment like that recently when I was in bed with a young man" Thrud turned back to grin at the playful Queen, her big sisterly demeanor far more genuine now since the visit with her mother.
"Hmm," she pressed herself hard to think, the image of Freyja's fireside coming to mind even when she visited as a girl. Scratching the ears of her cats, the satisfaction of the soft fur running through her fingers. That was the first peaceful memory that came to mind, but she thought further. When she used Sage Arts, that peace was there, but not as prevalent, not until…
The cave when I healed a novice Einherjar. He was so flustered when I removed my top, he couldn't even look at me. She still laughed at that memory of Dorian's wide-eyed expression. Even when we first tussled in Olympus, he saw me as a friend, my naked body barely even a factor by then. The same calm was there when I held him as an infant in my arms just the other day…
Akeno gasped, Thrud opening her eyes in reaction. Her jaw dropped open, barely able to believe the sight before her. Sure enough, a single spark of electricity had ignited in her palm and was currently zipping around it in a circle, but unlike all previous attempts, her skin remained pure and unblemished. She could feel the energy of her body swirling within her palm, her focus with Sage Arts manipulating her normal flow in that one spot. Somehow, beyond all hope, it was enough to reinforce herself against the power that had burned her over and over. It was small and if the spark left that circle would surely burn her again, but it was a start. As she exhaled, the spark flickered and popped out of existence.
"Well done," Akeno released Thrud's hands with a wink. "That is excellent work, if you keep doing this every day, you'll have it in no time!"
"Thank you," she didn't know what else to say. "I wanted to help you with your powers, and you ended up helping me. I've never felt the power on my skin without it hurting before. Thank you Akeno."
"Oh, no need to thank me," she delivered a soft laugh that drove the men at Kuoh crazy. "We all have those who inspire us. Why, that young Zepar has been helping me get more in tune with my fallen heritage. He worked so hard to obtain those extra wings of his, there is power in my blood I never knew. Our training regimens can get quite…intimate."
Thrud could not help but release a belly laugh that would have made her father proud. She knew full well Akeno and Zepar were taking their relationship at a steady pace, but the idea of the normally stoic former aide just utterly out of his depth with Akeno's flirtations was too much to bear.
"You'll have to teach me a thing or two-" she paused as they heard a loud thud up above. "Oh, that must be the boys, the tables are here."
Out Front…
"Aaand, down," Dorian heaved as the table was placed within the main hall of the old school building turned clubroom. He and Gasper wiped their hands at a job well done, the maid café nearly finished. "I'll have to stop on by after our booth closes," he complimented at the decorations hung all over the place with help from the others and their familiars. Dorian was surprised at how strong Gasper was despite his smaller size, no doubt his Vampire half. Even nearly being shorter than the table, he was able to lift them without strain.
"The President wanted me to give you this," the young Bishop handed him a slip of paper. "Free cup of tea for you and your team if you stop by."
"Thank you," he readily accepted the offer. "And if you and Rias or the others want to try one some costumes in our booth it's on us. Letting Iggy do her magic here was really appreciated."
"A new masterpiece!" He heard the voice of the very woman he spoke of shout from the back room. Behind a pair of red curtains, Iggy emerged, her face scuffed and dirty as if she'd been completely unaware of the accumulation of dust and sweat as she worked. She was wearing a beautiful pink dress with white frills whose skirt swayed with every motion. "What do you think?" She turned for them to see. "I followed Akeno's idea for the maid outfits but added a little flair I thought really worked."
"Ara ara, and you went beyond all expectations," the Gremory Queen smiled, placing her hands on Iggy's shoulders like a big sister giving praise. She had emerged from the other room, Thrud opting to not let it be known she was training during school hours. "And you are so generous to help everyone else. Have you ever thought of making uniforms for the school?"
Iggy's eyes shone like stars at the proposition, the whisper of an overjoyed gasp escaping her lips. She was already making the monster costumes for the Occult Research Club, the various cultural outfits for the Crossroad's booth and even a few others for the play yet she never grew tired or asked for anything in return. She was getting a chance to use her hobby and interest for others, and nothing could have made her happier.
"Really!?" She gasped, Dorian fearing she would faint at Akeno's cheerful nod.
"Ravel sends her regard for the cloaks," Gasper bowed to Iggy politely. "She and Bennia said they were perfect for their fortune telling booth, enough for everyone!"
Iggy could only gush more at the additional praise heaped on her, it never failed to bring a smile to Dorian's lips how the simplest things filled her with such joy. Ravel had been adapting to life in the school rather well considering her highborn upbringing. Already she was making friends in the classes and had friends she hung out with between lessons.
"Iggy is so nice," Gasper admitted after Iggy had returned to her makeshift workshop in the back with the sound of her cheerful hums echoing throughout the building. She had been as kind to him as any other, many of his kilts made by her hand. "She could make friends with anyone."
"The best," Dorian muttered more to himself than to Gasper. "She's so much more than a Sacred Gear," he proceeded to regale his vampiric friend with how she had saved him in his youth and even against Modi when his gear fully awoke. Gasper listened with rapt attention as they finished setting up the room. All was nearly ready, the festival set to take place the day after the scheduled Rating Game against Sairaorg.
"I had someone like that," Gasper admitted, the ambiance of trust around Dorian affecting him too. "I had a friend, the best I ever had back home. She was good with dresses too; I wouldn't have become as comfortable without her. I may never have even left the castle."
"Who was she?" Dorian asked, Gasper's hesitant expression showing his worry at revealing more of his past. It passed as he opened his lips.
"Well, her name was Val…"
"Ah, glad I found you," Seekvaira interrupted the pair, appearing from the side entrance. "Are you busy?"
"Not anymore, we were just wrapping up. Is everything alright?"
"Yes," the devil heiress adjusted her glasses to maintain her proper appearance. "I wanted to inform you of a request from Sairaorg, he wished me to give it to you once you were well after Kyoto and had some time to spare." Dorian turned to her with trepidation, worried what the hulking battle maniac devil could want of him, remembering the bone-shattering power of his punches.
"What sort of request?"
Issei considers a complication to his harem dream never imagined, the woman he thinks of most, as one season of his beloved show draws to a close. Back in Kuoh, Dorian is given a request at the behest of the Bael heir. Once more he travels to the Underworld on an errand of mercy to seek a small miracle beyond hope. As always, a huge thank you to everyone reading and enjoying this story. I wanted to give a heads up my work has been getting a bit more hectic so I cannot guarantee an update every 2 weeks as I have been doing, but will still try to create content for you as often as I may. Until then, I hope everyone stays safe, Reads and Reviews, but mots of all Enjoys! :D