A/N: The question of the week: What will I do with the Boosted Gear? As of right this second, I have absolutely no idea. I'm hoping to do something super out of the ordinary but I'm equally as likely to give it to someone normal, whether an enemy like Jeanne or an 'ally' like Murayama/Katase. You'll probably know around the same time I do, to be honest!
"I'm back!" Issei called, walking through the door.
"Welcome home, Issei dear!" his mother called back, coming out of the kitchen to greet him. "How was your first day?"
"Did you meet any cute girls?" his dad hollered.
"Oh, be quiet, you!" Miki yelled back.
"Actually, I got a date for this weekend."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"Is this true, Yahweh?" she asked.
"I could hardly believe it either," he confirmed.
"My little boy has his first girlfriend!" she exclaimed, hugging him violently. "He's all grown up now!"
"That's my son! So, is she cute? Come on, tell us about her!" Gorou goaded, coming into the front room with his mother.
"Calm down and put me down! You're squishing me!" Issei protested his mother's 'ultimate motherly love' attack. "Besides there's more to it than that. She's a fallen angel but she was hiding it. I think she's up to something."
"So you do have a plan!" Yahweh exclaimed. "And here I thought you were a peace-loving guy who went with it because she was cute."
"That's only half-true!" Isse blushed and turned away, which made little to no sense seeing as Yahweh was inside of his soul.
"A fallen angel, huh? So, is she dangerous, Yahweh?" Gorou asked, suddenly serious.
"Well, she wasn't when I was in charge, but it's been a long time. Before you ask, no I can't tell you why she fell, but it wasn't anything major. The reasons angels fall is something very personal to them."
"Maybe you shouldn't go then," Miki said worriedly. "I mean, there're plenty more girls, right? You could always wait for Irina or try and meet someone else at school."
"I'll be fine, mom. I'm not exactly easy to take down if she tries," Issei chuckled. "Besides, it's good to have friends on all sides. Even if she's planning something, it doesn't matter unless she goes through with it."
"You really believe that?" Yahweh asked in surprise.
"Of course I do. I mean, she could be in bed right now cackling about how easy it'll be to kill me, but as long as she doesn't actually try to do it, I won't hold it against her. Maybe the date'll change her mind," Issei explained.
"You think you're that enjoyable that a simple date is going to make her give up on her plans? Plus one sin point, you really need to tone that pride down. You're not that fun to be around…"
"Neither are you, but I tough it out, don't I?" Issei snapped back.
"Alright you two, relax. Just, make sure you're careful, ok, Issei?" she said.
"I'll be fine, you don't need to worry about me."
"I'm your mother. It's my job to worry about you. You'll let me worry about you and you'll like it. Got it?"
"Yes, ma'am!" Issei quickly stiffened at her tone.
"Great!" she smiled, her tone instantly softening. "Well, dinner's almost ready. Why don't you go change and we can eat."
Issei turned to his father as she walked back into the kitchen. "Scary…" Issei shivered.
"You have no idea," Gorou agreed, shivering as well.
{Line Break}
BEEP. BEEP. Proverbs 10:4. BEEP. BEEP. A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich. BEEP. BEE-
SMACK
"I hate...so much...about the things...that you choose to be…" Issei groaned as the sunlight assaulted his eyes.
"You'd better be talking to the clock and not me. Now, get yourself up! Come on, child! Move it!"
{Line Break}
'I can't believe it's only the second day,' Issei thought to himself, heading past the gates towards the school. 'I hope every day isn't as eventful as it was yesterday.'
"Hi, Issei!" came a feminine voice. Issei turned and saw Katase running up to him with Murayama walking behind her. "Good morning!"
"Morning, Katase. Mury," he greeted the two. "How are you two?"
"I'm great!" Katase smiled her usual bubbly smile.
"I'm alright, thanks," Murayama added.
"So, have you thought any more about joining the Kendo Club?" Katase asked. "All the girls would love to have you. Even Mury, if she ever admits it."
"I don't care if he joins or not," Murayama protested, turning away with a slight pink to her cheeks.
"I appreciate the sentiment," Issei chuckled. "I thought about it. I don't think I really have time to be a full-time member-"
"Aww, Issei," Katase pouted. "Please~?"
"I didn't finish yet," Issei said, poking her nose. "But I'd love to come by whenever I have the time to if that's alright."
"I guess that works," she sighed. "But you have to promise to come often, ok?"
"Sure. And...I'll always...knock first too…"
Murayama blushed while Katase just giggled. "Alright, come on! Let's go, class is starting soon!"
{Line Break}
"I'm really glad I'm the Sacred Gear and not the student," Yahweh grunted and made noises of him stretching. "I can sleep through everything."
'...'
'...'
"Issei?"
'...'
'...'
"ARE YOU ASLEEP?"
"Zzzz…" the sounds of Issei sleeping softly came. "Come on, you can share…"
"Wonder what he's dreaming about…" wondered Yahweh.
"I'll just...date both of you…" he muttered, turning slightly in his sleep.
"Well...that answers that question…" Yahweh sighed. "WAKE UP, ISSEI!"
"AHHH! I'M AWAKE! NOT ANOTHER LAP!" he shouted, earning strange looks from everyone in class. Before anyone could say anything, the bell rang.
"Alright, class dismissed. Next time, Issei, please stay awake," the teacher sighed before leaving the room.
A few of the students snickered while Issei just stood there with an atomic embarrassed blush on his face. "Have a nice nap Issei?" Katase giggled.
"I wasn't-I mean, I didn't…" he sputtered out. "Alright, fine...I just...didn't expect public school to be this boring…"
"You get used to it. So, are you coming down to the Keno Clubroom today?" she asked.
"I think-" Issei was interrupted by someone entering the room.
"Issei Hyoudou," she said.
"Ah, looks like they agreed to meet with me," Issei smiled. "Hi, Koneko. You can come over here if you're coming to get me, you know."
"...I'll wait here…"
"Isn't she the cutest?" Issei sighed.
"You gonna get me up to speed?" Katase asked.
"Right, that's Koneko. I met her-"
"Issei...everyone knows Koneko. We call her the school mascot… I meant why is she here looking for you?"
"That's kind of...demeaning…" Issei scratched his head.
"Hypocrite…"
"I admit, I'm not much better, but at least I made an effort," he defended. "Anyway, her...club's president wanted to meet with me."
"So you're joining her club and not ours? I thought we were friends, Issei!" Katase pouted.
"Don't give me that look! I never said I was joining, I'm just going to meet them. Stop with the puppy dog eyes!"
Katase just giggled. "Alright, I forgive you. Just come by tomorrow, ok?"
"Of course. Ready, Koneko?" She didn't answer but just turned around and walked out. "Well, see you tomorrow then, Katase."
"Bye, Issei~!"
Issei, in the meantime, was following Koneko down the hallway. "So, where do we go to meet your king? I've never been to the underworld, so, if we go there, it'll have to be quick."
"I thought you knew," she said flatly.
"Knew what?"
"You said that my club president wanted to talk to you."
"You mean your king is the president of your club?" he asked bewildered. "I just made something up! It's not as if I can say, 'I found Koneko stalking me and found out she was a devil yandere on orders from her king to decide if I'm a threat,' can I?"
"Why would someone who lives in the underworld care about you being a threat if you live in Kuoh…" Koneko deadpanned. "And I'm not a yandere!"
Issei opened his mouth to respond but shut it again just as quickly. "Hahahaha, she's got you there!" Yahweh roared with laughter.
'Shut it!' "So, what club is it and where exactly are we going?"
"The Occult Research Club. The old school building."
"Not much of a talker, are you? Anyway, sorry for gushing over you so much. If I had known they called you a mascot I would have been a bit more restrained. I just don't really get a lot of contact with others," he chuckled. Koneko said nothing. "Don't get me wrong, you are adorable, I just figured you might have gotten tired of it. I'm sure there's plenty of things to compliment you about aside from that though, I just don't know you very well."
As Issei continued to fill the silence, they entered the old school building. After a short walk through the hallways, which were decorated to look like a Victorian-era mansion, they reached a door. Koneko knocked before walking in.
The room was also decorated in a Victorian style, with plush red couches and various candles around the room. Occult paraphernalia adorned some of the walls and desks and there was a large window overlooking the courtyard to one side.
"So, you're Issei Hyoudou?"
"Yes," Issei nodded to the woman sitting at the desk. "And you are…?"
"I'm Rias Gremory, heir to the Gremory pillar and high-class devil. Koneko's king," she greeted. "Please, have a seat."
'Well,' Issei thought while sitting across from Koneko. 'Becoming friends with an heiress could be nice, though I really don't know too much about the devils these days. You don't either, right?'
"Not a clue. The only reason I was able to teach you as much as I did is because, when my host dies, I get access to his memories, even if I wasn't activated. Some of them were involved with the supernatural through various means, but I don't recall any of them ever getting to any decent positions with the devils. I think one was a pawn for a few years before dying."
"So, you know who I am, why don't you tell me who exactly it is you are?" Rias asked suspiciously.
"Come now, Rias, take it easy on our cute underclassman," giggled another young woman who entered with a tray of tea. "I'm sure he's harmless. Tea?"
"Sure, thank you…?"
"Akeno, Akeno Himejima. I'm Rias' queen," she answered, smiling.
"So, what is it that you want to know?" Issei asked.
"Koneko says you're not human. We initially thought you were just a Sacred Gear user, but it seems you admitted to not being human. So what are you?" Rias asked.
"Aw, couldn't I be both," he grinned. "Well, little heiress, how about some information for information? I do really want to be friends, don't get me wrong, but trust is a two-way street. I'll tell you as much as I'm allowed to about myself and you answer some of my questions. Does that work?"
"And what is it that you want to know?"
"Devil politics. I don't really know how it's going down there and I've never been there. I know about the 72 pillars and I'm aware of what an heiress is, but I must admit, I'm behind the times. My most recent knowledge was Satan and his generals dying," Issei chuckled. "I wasn't there for that, so don't have a panic attack or anything like that, but I just don't have up-to-date information."
"Alright, I'll agree to your deal if your answers are satisfactory," Rias nodded. "So, as I asked earlier. What are you?"
"Well, I was a human," Issei started. 'Think you can make my wings white for me?'
"Yeah, give me a second here…" Yahweh answered, tinkering around his soul. A loud buzzsaw went off followed by what sounded like a frightened bird and a yowling cat. "AND STAY OUT, YOU DANG LECH! Alright, you're good to go."
'I don't want to know…'
"And now?" Rias asked.
"Alright, you win," Issei sighed. He released two pairs of white, feathery wings and a halo. "Issei Hyoudou, resident angel. A pleasure to meet you, little heiress."
"And why, pray tell, is an angel in my territory?" Rias asked, charging up some of her resident Bael family destruction magic. Across the room, Koneko had jumped up and gotten into a fighting stance while Akeno was charging lighting on her hands.
"Now, now, devils, I'm sure we can all get along," Issei held up his hands. "I'm a peace guy, remember? I wrote it in my note. That's why I'm here."
"Who sent you?"
"No one sent me. I live here," he answered simply. "Well, I guess my parents technically sent me."
"Who are your parents?" Akeno asked, putting down her hands while the other did the same, though did not drop their guard.
Issei simply flopped back down on his couch and relaxed. "Oh, lighten up, will you? My parents are pure human, through and through. I'm a bit of a special case."
"So, you're a Brave Saint then? Who are you working under and why didn't they tell you that this is my territory?" Rias demanded.
"Brave Saint...close enough. For now, we'll go with that. As for why he didn't tell me, that's a valid question, though I have one in turn. What makes this your territory? I've lived here my whole life, no one told me you owned it."
"My brother gave it to me to run along with my best friend, the Sitri heir," she answered proudly.
"Oh, no," Yahweh groaned.
"And why does he get to decide that you own the place?"
"Well, this is devil territory. We claimed it."
"And you just let a bunch of humans live here and don't tell them it's yours?"
"Well...that's different," she tried to protest.
"So, the way I understand it, is that you've decided this place belongs to devils. Your brother decided to give it to you as a present and it's your job to make sure no one but devils and humans come here, is that right? So, is there a reason you chose this place or is it just arbitrary?"
"I...uh…" Rias stumbled.
"Not that you'd tell me if there was, but I get the feeling there isn't. Your brother's either very smart or very stupid. Before you get defensive about anything, let me finish. He managed to make you happy by giving you territory that may or may not be his to give away, but the problem is now there are two heiresses in the same spot. That means that if someone wanted to piss off the devils or just get something from them, all they have to do is kill or kidnap you. Am I right so far?"
"My, my!" Akeno giggled. "He's a clever one. I've never seen you at such a loss for words, Rias."
"Great first impression, Issei...You called her brother an idiot…"
'Good point… Didn't think that one through now, did I?'
"Point taken…" Rias exhaled and angrily rubbed her eyes. "So, regardless of whether you agree or not, this is my territory. I have a right to know who or what comes in here and what they plan to do in case it endangers the people that live here."
"Actually, I'm rather impressed that you put their safety first," Issei admitted. "And sorry about that, I get a little carried away. Tell you what. As an apology, I'll give you some more information. You can choose whether to believe me or not."
"What kind of information?"
"Well, as you can see, I'm an angel," he said, gesturing to his wings. "But I'm not here on anyone's orders. I was just kind of around for most of my life, learning from various people, and my parents wanted me to go to high school for my last two years. That's why I'm here. Meeting so many adorable devils is just a bonus. That must be a supernatural thing, you're all so cute~!"
"You're getting off-topic…"
"Where was I going with this? Oh, right. Anyway, as I said earlier, my whole goal is peace. I see no reason why you have to hunt us angels down or why we have to hunt you devils down. It's pointless and stupid. I'm sure we can all just sit around a big table drinking tea and getting along without stabbing each other to death."
"So, you're here to try and foster relations between the devils and the angels? Under whose orders?" Rias asked.
"Still, no one's. I told you, I live here. I've lived here since I was a kid, ergo, I chose Kuoh Academy. I've done some work under Uriel and Archangel Michael, but neither one sent me here for any purpose. They didn't even tell me that this was devil territory, to be honest. I'll have some words with them about that…" he grumbled to himself. "Anyway, I was going to tell you that anyway. The extra information is that there are some fallen angels in your territory."
"We know that. Koneko told us one of them asked you out," Rias pointed out.
"True, but I thought you might want some more...precision. I may or may not have done some reconnaissance and discovered that there are four fallen angels working together at the abandoned church. Two are high-class, one is mid-class, and one is low-class. You also might want to know that there is little to no chance that they are working autonomously. If they were, there would only be one high-class and a hodgepodge of low-class. Since there are two high-class fallen angels there, it stands to reason that there is someone else running them directly behind the scenes, either leader or ultimate-class. Apparently, Azazel is a lot like me and is a big peace guy. That's what Michael has told me, anyway. The guy is way more interested in Sacred Gear research than fighting. That stands to reason that he's not the one in charge of this, seeing as no nonviolent mission would require two high-class fallen angels in today's day and age. That means that this is more than likely something violent that Azazel doesn't know about, which means that it's some sort of threat. If it was just Yuuma, you wouldn't have to worry. I really didn't know what this meant, but now that I know you and the Sitri heir are here, this makes a lot more sense. Assuming your presence here is common knowledge among the supernatural, my prediction is that a very high-ranking fallen angel defected with some subordinates, whether loyal or by force, trickery, or blackmail, and is attempting to do something to the two of you. Whether that be kidnapping you for ransom, murdering the two of you as you could be a threat, trying to use you as bait for a trap, I have no idea. There's no real way to know."
The room was silent for a few moments as everything processed. "You...you got all of that...just from finding the power levels of fallen angels?" Rias asked in shock.
"I made some leaps, but it's relatively logical reasoning. Keep in mind that this is all conjecture. For all I know, this could be a much larger conspiracy or a much smaller one. I mean, it's entirely possible that they are just trying to escape the Grigori and live normal lives."
"And...you didn't come to that conclusion because…?" Akeno asked.
"Two reasons; if you were leaving the Grigori to live a normal life, why would you leave in a group? Besides, as I mentioned, Azazel is supposed to be a peaceful guy. Unless Michael's information is outdated, I doubt he would force people to stay. The main reason though is that they're staying in the abandoned church. They might as well hold up a big sign that says 'we fallen angels are on a mission.'"
"Rias, if he's right, this could be dangerous," Akeno said. "Should you contact your brother?"
"No, this is my territory and I'll handle it. I'll make sure to tell Sona."
"Sona's the other heiress? So Shitori's an alias...Clever," Issei nodded.
"Ok, so I guess I have one other question. You said something about having a Sacred Gear earlier-"
"No I didn't," he answered, confused.
"Kiba," Rias called.
"Yes, president," he answered, coming out from his hiding spot in the closet.
'I wonder if that's a metaphor…' Issei thought.
Kiba cleared his throat before reading from a notepad. "Rias: 'We initially thought you were just a Sacred Gear user, but it seems you admitted to not being human. So what are you?' Issei: 'Aw, couldn't I be both.'"
"You have a scribe?" Issei asked, bewildered.
"This is Kiba Yuuto, my knight," Rias introduced.
"Pleasure to meet you," Kiba bowed.
"Issei Hyoudou," he grinned slightly. "So, you use the knight's speed to write faster? Man, you are something else, Rias. That's so stupid and so brilliant at the same time, I don't know what to think."
"Don't avoid the question, Issei. You do realize I have all rights to have you killed for trespassing, right? At the very least this could be a spark that increases the tension and lead to war," Rias threatened.
"Oh, don't be like that, little heiress. You know as well as I do that you won't do anything as long as you don't see me as a threat. Besides, I'm here to make friends," he waved her off. "And I am rather confident that you couldn't kill me if you tried, but let's not test my theory."
"Oh? And why's that?"
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, Rias. Don't underestimate someone you just met, hmm? Alright, why don't you answer some of my questions now, hmm?"
"Fine…"
A short while later, Rias' lesson on the history of devils and the basics of their current political situation finished. "Well, that was boring," Issei groaned.
"You're the one who asked for the information," Rias pointed out. "I never said it would be entertaining."
"True," Issei nodded. "Alright, got anything else for me?"
"Would you like to join the Occult Research Club?"
"Full-time? Nah, I get pretty busy. Besides, Katase would never let me hear the end of it if I did that. I'll split up my after-school time between you and the Kendo Club though if that's alright."
"Sure thing, Issei," Rias smiled.
"Ok, well then, I'll see you guys tomorrow," Issei waved but paused before closing the door. "Oh, and, one more thing. You guys know about the system of Longinus, right?"
"Yes... why do you ask?" Rias asked, tilting her head slightly.
"Well, why not add a bit of a bonus. God made thirteen of those powerhouses. That's what people think, anyway. What I think is that they're missing two. Well, I'll see you tomorrow! Bye-bye then!" Issei waved as he closed the door. Just before it shut, Rias could've sworn she saw his wings flicker gold for a brief moment.
{Line Break}
Once again on his way home, Issei was approaching the bridge. This time, before crossing it, he happened to see a girl standing and looking below at the water. He walked up and stood next to her.
"Hi, Yuuma," he greeted softly.
"Ah!" she squeaked, jumping up and turning around. "Issei! You scared me!"
"Sorry about that. What's wrong, Yuuma?" he asked.
"Nothing's wrong!" she smiled brightly at him, though he could tell it was fake. "I didn't expect to see you here this late."
"I had some stuff at school to take care of," Issei shrugged. "Are you sure nothing's the matter? I know we don't know each other very well, but if I'm going to be your boyfriend, I should help you, right?"
She blushed. "O-of course! I'm fine, Issei, but th-EEP!" she was cut off by Issei giving her a hug.
"It'll be ok, Yuuma. You don't have to tell me. You're sweet, you know? If something really is wrong, you remember you can come to talk to me, ok?"
"O-ok, Issei," she nervously replied.
"Alright, I should get home," Issei said, releasing his embrace. "And you should too. Remember what I said, it's dangerous around here at night."
"I know," she whispered.
"Bye, Yuuma," he said, affectionately rubbing her shoulder as he walked off. "Remember that you have many chances before you've fallen too far."
She stood there smiling and looking at the ground for a moment before his words caught up to her. "Wait, wha- he's gone…"
Sure enough, when she looked up, he was nowhere to be found. 'He couldn't know...right?'
{Line Break}
"You're really pushing it with all these hints you're dropping, you know that, Issei?" Yahweh commented as Issei worked on his homework in his room at his desk. "I can't believe I slept through that!"
'Hey, I fail to see how you falling asleep is my problem. Besides, I have faith in Yuuma. No one that adorable could be all that bad, right?'
"You are so weak…" God deadpanned. "Cute people can be evil too."
'I refuse that notion. Now, if you'll excuse me, Michael's stopping by with the news today,' Issei huffed.
Roughly two years into Issei's training in Heaven, Michael started teaching Issei about the job of the Seraphim and how God's system worked. Michael hoped that Issei would soon become an Archangel and take over his position and Issei simply wanted peace and to help as many people as possible. So, they decided, Issei would soon be introduced to the Seraphim and then the rest of Heaven, following which he and Michael would split the duties of God's system. Because of this, Michael would frequently bring Issei news of various happenings of Heaven and the churches so that Issei was up-to-date on important information and the decisions Michael made based on them. Issei occasionally gave input as well, allowing for some basic scenario practice.
Today, Michael would stop by the Hyoudou residence to discuss various happenings with Issei.
Ding Dong
'That's him.'
"Good timing, I suppose…"
"That's Michael, mom!" Issei yelled. "I'll get it!"
"Ok, dear!" she called back.
Issei headed downstairs to get the door. "Hey, Uncle Michael!"
"Hello, Issei," he smiled. "May I come in?"
"Yeah, come on. Mom's making dinner. Are you staying for that?"
"I'd love to, but we do have things to discuss first."
"Yeah, yeah. Come on, we'll talk upstairs," Issei said and the two headed back to Issei's room. Once they were settled, they started to chat. "So, what's up?"
"Well, there were a few events that were made known to me. First and foremost, apparently Excalibur Rapidly has gone missing," Michael began.
"It's WHAT?" Issei yelled. "Didn't I SPECIFICALLY say to keep those things in the hands of strong wielders? Don't tell me you're wasting the Holy Sword Project! That was the biggest failure I've ever heard of and you aren't even trying to use his research?"
"Relax, Issei. We're looking for capable wielders. Few exorcists have proven powerful enough," Michael explained.
"I'll take one if you'd like," Issei volunteered.
"Well, we'd have to introduce you to the Seraphim first and you aren't exactly the best sword user out there," Michael chuckled.
"I'm...adequate…" Issei huffed. "Alright, so you screwed up keeping another one of the Excalibur fragments from creating a tragedy and now we can only hope whoever took it isn't planning on taking over the world or something."
"Actually, that's part of why I came here. Do you have any theories on who took it? You've been second only to Lord Raguel in investigative affairs."
"Well, you haven't really given me any information to work on. What do you expect me to do here? Let's see...common enemies of the church or more specifically the Excalibers…" Issei thought for a moment. "Well, the most likely scenario would be that someone just wanted a powerful sword and decided that Rapidly was, for whatever reason, the easiest one they could take. They're looking for glory or power or something, who knows. Another possibility could be acquaintances of the victims of the Holy Sword Project. It's possible that someone knew one of the children and discovered that Valper killed them and this is their strange form of justice that they came up with. A third theory would be that someone seeks to weaken the Heaven faction, which would likely be either a terrorist group, a warmonger, or a combination of the two. That's likely the worst-case scenario. If I had any information I could come up with a better theory, but I can't really do much just from the knowledge that someone took Rapidly. Sorry, Michael."
"No, you've done plenty, Issei. You actually came up with more than Lord Raguel did. He only came up with your first theory," Michael praised. "I'll be sure to let you know if I get any more information."
"Alright, any good news?"
"Well...no, not really," the archangel admitted. "More bad news. I actually had to come to tell you this in person so you didn't freak out."
"Oh, Lord, what did you do now?" Issei groaned.
"Hmmm?" God hummed. "Shay shomeshing, Isshei?"
'No, Yahweh, I-are you eating something?'
"...Yeah?"
'You...you can eat? In my soul?'
"Uh...you weren't supposed to know about that. Just ignore me and finish talking to Michael."
"Did father say something?" Michael chuckled.
"Apparently he can eat food in my head…" Issei deadpanned. "Now tell me what you did or failed to do."
"Alright, calm down, Issei. So, you remember that saint from Italy? The Holy Maiden?"
"Yes, the one that you determined was so special she should be treated like a prisoner?"
"I didn't order that," Michael defended.
"You also did nothing to stop it," Issei pointed out.
"Anyway, she's currently in the process of being excommunicated."
"SHE'S WHAT?" Issei yelled. "WHAT IN GOD'S NAME COULD SHE HAVE DONE?"
"Well, that's the thing. She healed a devil."
"That's...that's it?" Issei looked down and clenched his fist. "You're telling me...a dedicated nun and the Holy Maiden...is being excommunicated...FOR DOING HER JOB?"
"Unfortunately, yes," Michael sighed.
"And what are you doing to stop it?"
"You know I can't do anything, Issei. Heaven is desperate. If we impeded on the trial of someone that's been nearly universally declared as a heretic, we'd lose huge sections of the church! Worst-case scenario, the Vatican could rebel!"
"That's absurd and you know it! The church was built on the principles of forgiveness, kindness, and love! Not rules, regulations, and race!" Issei protested. "Yahweh, back me up here!"
"It's a tough situation, Issei. Unfortunately, the idealistic beliefs we share are not necessarily universal."
"What are you-"
"Let me finish, Issei," Yahweh interrupted. "That's why we have these discussions with Michael. You are absolutely correct in your assessment, Issei. The church was built on my principles and I truly believe in forgiveness and love, but that's not always possible. Idealistic thinking is just that, ideal. The key to being a leader is a mix of ideals and reality. Unfortunately, Michael is right. What's happening to the Holy Maiden is terrible and if there was anything I could do to help her I would, but, as a leader, you must make the necessary choices. Sacrificing one for the good of many is the most painful decision that leaders are sometimes forced to make. It's only something that leaders could understand, but it's a pain you have to bear in order to be successful."
"I...I just…" Issei clenched his fist. "That's just not fair...she doesn't deserve that…"
"I understand, Issei. I'll do everything I can for her and if there's anything you can do to help as well, I'll tell you immediately."
"Thank you…"
"Well, with the two biggest issues out of the way, there are some other minor things. Let's see here… Church upgrades in Germany...yes, yes...strange prayers coming from the United States about foreigners...hmmm...Gabriel begging to see my Jack...no, not that one...Japanese restaurant to be built in Heaven...interesting, but-"
"What was that last one?" Issei interrupted.
"Oh, there's a Japanese restaurant that's-"
"No, the one before that."
"That one? Yeah, for some reason there's been a large increase in prayers from the United States-"
"After that. Come on, Michael!"
"Right, right! Sorry! Yeah, Gabriel has been pestering me about how she hasn't gotten to meet you in person yet. Something about 'it's unreasonable to keep my Brave Saints hidden for so long' and 'we're both Seraphim and siblings so I should know better to keep secrets from her.'"
"And? What did you tell her?" Issei pressed.
"I said I'm sure the situation would come up eventually," Michael shrugged.
"Why were you put in charge again?" Issei groaned. "Like father, like son, I swear."
"WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN?"
"WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN?" Yahweh and Michael yelled at the same time.
"Nothing, nothing!" Issei said innocently. "So, is Gabriel covering for your work in Sixth Heaven right now?"
"Yes, she usually covers for me when I have to come down. She doesn't get as much paperwork since she's Heaven's usual messenger. Why do you-"
"Issei! Michael! Dinner's ready!" Miki shouted.
"Thank you very much, Miki! We'll be down in a moment!" Michael called back. He turned back to Issei. "That's ev- Issei? Where'd you go?"
{Line Break}
Issei walked up towards the Gates of Heaven.
"Halt! Identify yourself!"
"Hey, Peter. Long time no see! Issei Hyoudou, Lord Michael's Jack."
"You may enter. Good day to you, Lord Hyoudou."
"I said not to call me lord!" Issei groaned, walking through the gates. Issei walked along the path of First Heaven towards the elevator. He could have just teleported, but taking the elevator was relaxing, so he preferred doing it whenever possible. After reaching the sixth level, the elevator stopped and let him out, allowing Issei to walk towards the path to Michael's office. After a few minutes, he reached the door and knocked.
Knock Knock
"You may enter!" a feminine voice called from inside. Issei opened the door and was instantly stunned in shock. Her title of 'most beautiful woman in Heaven' didn't do her any justice. Not meeting Gabriel before now would continue to be his greatest mistake in life for as long as he should live. Even though she was sitting down, Issei could tell she was rather short. She had long blonde hair and a pair of innocent-looking green eyes, an eternal smile on her face. "Hello? Who might you be?"
"Wow…" he breathed out. "Beautiful…"
Gabriel giggled, probably used to it at this point. "Thank you very much, dear. You're pretty cute yourself. Are you looking for Michael?"
"That's my daughter, you know. I'm giving you 100 sin points for even having the opportunity to think lecherous things about her!" Yahweh complained.
"Uh...no...Michael...elsewhere...wow…"
"WAKE UP!"
"AH!" Issei shouted, shaking himself out of his stupor and taking a knee. "I'm so sorry! Forgive me, Lady Gabriel! I never intended...I just didn't...I'm sorry!"
Gabriel giggled more. "You're a curious one. I like you already. Now, mind giving me your name?"
"Of course! My name is Issei Hyoudou. Michael said you wanted to meet his jack, so I came over to see you."
"Oh, really? Well, let's go then! Where is he!" Gabriel stood.
"Uh, my lady?"
"Yes?"
"Er...that would be me…"
"..."
"..."
"..."
"I'm sorry! I didn't realize!" Gabriel flushed. "He never gave me your name! You can get up-I mean, you may rise."
"Thank you, Lady Gabriel," Issei stood. "He stopped by to tell me about a few...less than pleasant things...and he also mentioned that you'd wanted to meet me."
"Yes! I did. I'm Gabriel, Michael's sister and one of the Four Great Seraphim," she introduced. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I can't believe Michael's been hiding someone like you for so long!"
'THAT'S THE MOST ADORABLE THING I'VE EVER SEEN!' Issei thought to himself as Gabriel pouted.
"Watch it, brat…" Yahweh warned.
"Ahem...yes, well, that's partially my fault," Issei admitted. "You see...uh…"
"Considering you're now too much of a stuttering and embarrassed mess to come up with a convincing lie, I might as well greet my daughter," Yahweh said aloud. "Hello, Gabriel. It's been a long time."
"That sounds like…" Gabriel gasped. "You're...you're...father?"
"Why did all three of you have that same reaction? No, if I was coming back, I would take a much more appealing form! And I certainly wouldn't have my brain break down by looking at my daughter! Issei!"
"I-it's-I mean she-shut up!" Issei stumbled out. "She's known as 'the most beautiful woman in Heaven' not 'if you look at her your brain will melt because of how perfect she is!'"
"You just said that out loud you know…" God sighed. Half of Gabriel processed what Issei had said so her body reacted in an atomic blush, but the other half was still registering her father's voice. "I'll explain, my dear daughter. I'm currently inside the boy. I sealed myself in a Longinus as well, I've just never been awakened before."
"So, you're…" she whispered, approaching Issei slowly before latching on to him and bawling. "Father! You're back! I missed you so much! I was so sure you weren't dead! I always knew it! Michael kept saying that you were gone, Raphael and Uriel too! I wouldn't believe them! I always knew you'd come back! Father!"
"Now, now, dear. It'll be fine," Yahweh reassured. "Host! Comfort my daughter!"
"DID YOU JUST CALL ME HOST!" Issei yelled back. "Fine! Alright, Lady Gabriel. Everything's going to be just fine. Shhh… Why don't we have a seat, ok?"
"Father…" she muttered, nodding in Issei's chest who led her over to the couch and the two sat down.
'Well...I did NOT see that coming.'
"She's always been very...emotional… Now you see why Michael wanted to wait?"
'Kind of? But at the same time, no. I should have told her earlier. She's thought you were dead for millennia and I could have spared her nine years of heartbreak. I was too concerned for my own safety. Soon, we're coming clean to all of Heaven.'
"If that's what you wish for… You really are too kind for your own good."
"Listen, Lady Gabriel? I'm...I'm really sorry...I've known about Yahweh for nine years and I've been working with Michael for four. We just...we decided to keep it a secret so I would be ready. I should have thought about how everyone else would feel."
"Thank you…" she whispered. "Thank you for bringing father back to me."
"I really didn't do anything," he answered sheepishly. "I mean, he chose me! I'm just his host."
"I hate to admit this, but you're more than just a host, brat. You're becoming a fine successor and I look forward to seeing you run my system someday."
"That...that means a lot to me… Thanks, Uncle Yahweh." Gabriel started to giggle. Then she started to laugh; harder and harder she laughed for over a minute straight before starting to calm down. "What is it?"
"It's just...really funny," she sighed, wiping the tears from her eyes. "You called father 'Uncle Yahweh.' I can't remember the last time anyone called him anything aside from a title."
"Well, I was only eight when we met," he admitted. "But it just kinda stuck."
"Well, if you're on such good terms with my father, you can just call me Gabriel."
"Are you sure, my lad-" Issei was cut off by her finger over his lips.
"Gab-ri-el. Not Lady Gabriel or my lady. Gabriel. Got it?" Issei nodded. "Good."
God made several grumbling noises of displeasure in Issei's mind. 'What is it?'
"My daughter...you're too close to my baby girl and I don't like it…" This time, Issei started to laugh.
"What are you laughing at, Issei?" Gabriel asked.
"Yahweh's complaining that I'm too close to you," Issei chuckled, causing Gabriel to realize she was still half on top of him.
"EEP!" she squeaked, once again breaking Issei's mind in cuteness-overload. "I'm sorry! I didn't realize!"
"You broke him again…" Yahweh sighed, causing Gabriel to let out another giggle.
"Well, thank you for introducing yourself, Issei," Gabriel said, regaining her composure. "Come visit me lots, ok?"
"Of course, my- I mean, Gabriel," Issei corrected.
"Much better," she smiled. Gabriel stopped him before he could leave. "One more thing, Issei!"
"Yes, what is-" Issei was cut off by Gabriel giving him a kiss on the cheek.
"Thanks for bringing father back home."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"You still there, Gabriel?"
"Yes, father, what is it?"
"He's totally stopped all mental functions. Hold on! I'll get the AED ready!" Yahweh yelled. "Alright, now...CLEAR!"
Gabriel giggled. "Are you always like this now, father?"
"I've been around Issei for nine years now. I picked up a few things," Yahweh shrugged. "Before Issei comes back around, I have one more thing to tell you."
"What is it, father?"
"I approve."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"FATHER~!" Gabriel whined, blushing aggressively. "We just met!"
"I know and you'd better hurry or be willing to share. My host is very popular among women. Oh, he's coming back to us."
"Uh...umm...Gabriel...errr...thank you…" Issei stuttered out.
"Good work, Issei. You almost managed to say a full sentence properly around MY DAUGHTER!"
"Hey! I'm fully capable of speaking full sentences!" Issei yelled back. "Anyway, goodbye, Gabriel!"
"Bye-bye, Issei!" she waved, smiling brightly. ''Thank you...'