Welcome to the next chapter.
danielsnow; Thanks! Yeah, I've got a few ideas for a familiar. And thank you!
ShadowUzumaki55; Yeah, some relaxing chapter before stuff goes down. That's Serafall for you, she does crazy things like that. Baraqiel and Haruki, it's going to be quite interesting when their stuff comes up. He did yeah, he tried his best to support Rias. I thought it would be cool for Griselda to do something like that~
Silver crow; Thanks, glad you liked it. Yeah, it was quite fun~ Rias did yeah. Yeah, seems Haruki did. That's Serafall for you, she really does love Sona~ Yeah, Haruki thought it would be good if those people came to support who they did, and made their way, Xenovia might've had a little scare with Griselda, but she was happy she came in the end. Yeah, Haruki doesn't really mind what others think of him, he goes with his own kinda flow. Yeah, seems that Riser and Kuroka were causing the issues at that time. Hehe, yeah, Gabriel is quite sweet, and Irina equally so. Yeah, Serafall's calling Gabriel out and yeah, Serafall seems to lose composure when she's around Gabriel. Yup, seems like the Church Trio has been officially formed~ Gabriel did her best to help out yeah. Vali will get something she likes, if that's a gift or something else. Griselda did yeah, she's doing her best for Xenovia. His Grimoire will be pretty cool. Sol could be in the harem. Yeah, it did. He could know her from childhood. Yeah, they could do something like that with Asta and Yuno. If he has a devil, they could be. They could attend. Roygun could do yeah. Suzaku's been hard at work behind the scenes to help out Akeno and Haruki with the clan business. Thanks for the harem suggestions. That's if Walburga shows up, we'll have to wait and see~
Guest 1; Yeah, that would be pretty cool for a story like that. I quite like the abilities, and the harem would be fun too.
OechsnerC; Thanks! No worries at all~
Guest 2; Rias will have her chance pretty soon~
Darkwubs; Thanks, and no worries. It will be soon. He does have a familiar yeah. That would be a cool connection between them. I can't spoil about that yet, we might some twists and surprises is all I can say. Suzaku will probably be after the summit. That will be answered this chapter. Yeah, those two fighting would be cool.
Valtryek sama; Yeah, that story won. Yeah, they'd be strong. They could have magic like that. He'd be able to fight up close and personal.
Andrew123456; Yeah, maybe they could be. That would be a cool magic, thanks for the suggestions.
Skull Flame; Yeah, it seems that they can do. Yeah, quite fun.
Guest 3; Those would be cool magic's, thanks for the suggestions!
Any of one; Yeah, I'll probably put it up to a vote when the story comes out.
Akeno fan; Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Yeah, Gasper appears this chapter, and the summit will be very soon. Rias did yeah.
question; Hopefully next week sometime.
With those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter.
The worried Vampire!
Sitting down together in a round table, three strong Devils had gathered.
Each from a noble family, the Devils looked at one another troublingly.
"We lost some more supporters yesterday."
A young woman with brown hair, wearing glasses, named Katerea spoke up to the males in the room.
"Yes, it seems that we have. That damn Queen of Serafall's."
Another man, named Creuserey spoke with disdain.
However, the last man, named Shalba shook his head.
"Even if he does take down some of our forces, he wont know of the attack that we'll be doing. Then the Factions Meeting is going to be ruined, and those are the top are going to be finished."
Katerea tightened her hand.
"Serafall...not only is it insulting she has the title of Leviathan, her Queen is the one that's caused us enough problems. What I wouldn't give to be the one who would end their miserable existences. Even if he does have a Longinus, my blood as the true Leviathan runs deep, and it will be the deciding factor for when I finally crush them under my hand."
Showing a dark expression, Katerea was showcasing her anger quite clearly on her face.
Creuserey placed a hand on the desk beside her.
"Don't worry, we will get them before the Factions Meeting ends, it's too bad that the half breed of Lucifer wasn't able to come to our side."
"She's too loyal to that damn Fallen Angel brat." Shalba spoke up in disgust. "Still, it would have been good to have a Longinus on our side. Even if it was a half breed like she was. But, it matters not. We still have a few surprises for the Factions Meeting, they might even end up losing a good few people on their side during the attack."
Shalba showcased a dark grin as he thought about what was going to happen next.
With the Factions Meeting, he wondered who was going to be the first one to die...
"Onii-chan! Lets train together!"
Early in the morning, Millicas came shooting into his bedroom saying this. Haruki groaned as he looked towards the young boy who got onto the bed, and seemingly showcased a happy grin that was erupting across his face.
Haruki looked at the girls all in the bed, seeing his peerage, Rias's female members of her peerage, and even Irina along with Xenovia and Asia also had gotten into the bed at night, all of them trying to hug him in their sleep.
Haruki raised a finger to his mouth, and showed a small smile.
"Lets be quiet though, okay? Can't wake the girls up."
Millicas mimicked Haruki's actions cutely, placing a finger to his lips.
"Yes, lets be quiet."
Smiling at the boy, Haruki managed to get out of the bed, and quickly placed on some clothes.
Then Millicas offered his hand, so he took the small hand and walked off together with the young boy.
As they left, Serafall rolled over in her sleep, which woke her up a little.
She saw a figure before her, presumed it was Haruki, and reached out.
"Haru-chan...lets snuggle for a bit..."
Serafall leaned over, and kissed who she thought was Haruki on the cheek.
In reality, it actually was Rias who widened her eyes, and looked towards Serafall.
She didn't speak, she couldn't.
When Serafall pulled away, Rias looked on.
"Serafall-sama..."
Serafall groaned, rubbing her eyes as she looked towards the young woman's eyes.
Her face dropped as she looked down at herself.
"You're not Haru-chan."
"N-No, I'm really not."
"Where is Haru-chan?"
"I don't know..."
Serafall giggled to herself.
"Even then, we'll go and find Haru-chan! Sona-chan can come too, then we'll have the best threesome~ Sona-chan is super excited about this! Aren't you Sona-chan?"
Sona groggily moved her head, and stared at Serafall.
Rias recalled Sona sometimes slept in the same room as them, though it was clear Sona felt embarrassed to do so.
"I'm here because you said that Haruki wished to be in bed with me Onee-sama."
"It's true~"
"Well, even then I feel like it was your ploy."
"Ooh, it was~ But you enjoy it too, don't you Sona-chan?"
Not even denying it, Serafall was giddy and excited for what was to happen next.
Sona released a large sigh at her elder sister.
But Serafall didn't care, and showed a wild smile, while Rias looked between the two sisters, not sure what she was even to think about all of this.
Back with the boys, Millicas excitedly swung his and Haruki's connected hands like a pendulum.
"I'm so happy Onii-chan, I've been waiting for this~"
"Fufu, I've been hearing noise that we might be going to the Underworld for Summer, so we could spent even more time together~"
Millicas' shiny eyes went up to the brother like figure Haruki had become for him.
"Really Onii-chan?"
"Yeah, think so."
"Yay! I'm so excited Onii-chan! I can't wait!"
"Fueee, me neither Millicas, it's going to be so much fun~"
Going towards the training room, he saw Riser surprisingly being there. It seemed that he had a lot on his mind, and his eyes kept going between admiration and fear for the young man, Haruki gave a bemused look at the sight of Riser having such contrasting emotions erupting out of him that even Haruki wasn't sure which would be the best to focus on.
Shaking his head, he turned to Millicas who looked ready for a challenge.
"Alright then, lets see how you've improved, okay?"
"Yes!"
Millicas placed his hand out, summoning his demonic power, and shot it off in a strong blast. Reacting to it, Haruki grabbed the power, and turned it towards the right hand side, where he blasted it off so it would harmlessly destroy some rocks around.
Millicas however coated his hand in demonic power, and came at Haruki with a right swing of his small fist. Even though he was young, Haruki could see the potential this boy was going to have, so he tightened his own hand and swung it for the boys fist, so they'd meet, and created a decent sized shockwave that caused the ground below them to begin breaking from the intense pressure of their attacks.
"Wow, Millicas. It seems that you've grown a little stronger since last time~"
Haruki praised, managing to release a burst of power enough to push the young boy back without truly harming him.
Mlliicas landed on the floor, his bright eyes going up to the elder brother figure that he admired.
"Onii-chan, teach me something cool, okay?"
"Right, something cool...hmmm, today lets work on you shaping your Power of Destruction, alright? Lets see if you can create...lets say a spear. Like this." Sticking out his hand, Haruki formed a demonic energy spear, and then tossed it towards the right hand side, causing it to smash through several rocks. "It's manipulating the shape of your power, and while it might seem simple, it is very effective for many situations."
"Like fighting with a weapon when you don't have one Onii-chan?"
Haruki chortled, nodding a single time as he patted the boys head.
"Exactly right. So work on that, and then we'll go from there~"
"Yes!"
Millicas got to work doing that, while Haruki sat down a small distance away from him and watched on.
Riser took this chance to move closer and stared in the former half Fallen Angels direction.
"So, it seems that you've gotten many duties, even Ravel said she's really busy."
"With the Factions Meeting coming up, there's a lot to do. So, how have you been Riser?"
"I've been...fine." Riser began, hesitating briefly as he thought about their fight for Rias' hand. "Since our fight, how has Rias been?"
"She's been good."
Riser slowly nodded, but then his face turned serious.
"I want to have a rematch with you."
Haruki blinked at the sudden tonal shift that he gave and turned towards the Phenex clan member.
"Fufu, have you gotten stronger?"
"I've been training hard! But, I don't mean right now."
Haruki raised an eyebrow.
"If not now, when?"
"When it's time for our battle of course!" Riser began, only confusing Haruki even more. "When you've gained more peerage members, and when the time is right for you to officially enter the Rating Games, then I'd want to have a match against you. Go all out. I'll be training my girls as well, so you better be ready."
Haruki could see that Riser had changed since before they had their fight.
It wasn't about being cocky, it was about showing his strength and doing his best.
"If that's how it is Riser, then I don't have any objections. I await the day that we can finally have another fight. I hope that you increase your strength more and more."
It felt good that Riser was a more positive person now.
Seeing how he had changed, was something that made Haruki happy.
As he thought about it, he saw Millicas continue training hard, something that equally made him smile, and continued watching the young boy, giving him pointers on how to improve.
Later on, after school, Isane was standing on the ground floor of the old school building's room that had been made the 'Sealed classroom'.
Everyone from the club had gathered, and even some of Haruki's group had come. Most notably was Ravel and Koneko. Xenovia who was considering joining his group, even Irina and Asia had managed to come to see what was going on with the Vampire that Rias was speaking about.
Haruki himself seemed to be busy, Vali didn't care to come and wished to do some kind of training all her own, Kuroka was relaxing on the couch back at the house they all lived in.
On the door before them, as a large 'KEEP OUT' written in magical letters. Rias looked on towards the door, and she let out a small humming sound.
"All day, that Bishop lives here. For the time being, the seals are loosened deep in the night, and if it's just in the old building, the Bishop can exit the room, but the kid inside refuses to do that."
Rias knocked on the door…
But heard a small groan in return.
Perplexity came over the young red head, as she looked to Akeno.
"Akeno...help me release the seal?"
"Of course Buchou."
Rias and Akeno together placed their hands on the circle, and began expanding it with their magic's.
Irina moved forward, intrigued.
"Xenovia, remember the last Vampire we came across?"
"The one that grabbed my hair?"
"Yeah, remember how we managed to fight together and take it down? Aah, good times~"
Isane looked curiously at her childhood friend, and was happy to see that she was returning to a normal state.
"I-Is the person a hikikomori?"
With Isane's question directed at her, Rias nodded while looking curiously towards the door, and kept hearing soft groans.
"The kid inside has been the biggest earner among the servants."
Isane was surprised, and turned towards Akeno who said that.
"T-They earn the most?"
"The kid takes special contracts from humans through a computer. Frankly, it's a person who doesn't want to meet us. Those type of people negotiate in a different way, and make relations differently. They solve things through the computer. In the dealings through computers, among the new Devil servants, this kid grabs enough numbers like those of a superior rank."
"W-Wow, I didn't think that would happen like that."
"It does, now lets open the door..."
With the seal gone, Rias pushed the door wide open.
Stepping inside, she looked around as she spoke up.
"Hello, Gasper. I'm-"
"Noooooooooooooooooooooooo!"
Rias wasn't surprised that Gasper reacted like that.
Instead, it seemed to be the normal thing to happen.
"Good day to you. It's nice to see you all energetic."
"W-W-Whyyyyyyyy?"
Isane furrowed her eyebrows, as Akeno went by her, and moved inside.
"Ara, ara, the seal got removed, you know? You are able to go out now. Now, let's all go out together?"
Akeno tried to be kind, and was attempting to connect.
But Gasper was shy, and couldn't do it in the end, shaking side to side.
"Noooooooooooooooooo! This place is gooooooooooood! I don't want to go outside! I don't want to meet peopleeeeeee!"
More curiosity came over the young girl, Isane wished to know what was going on, so she went inside of the room. She looked around the room, seeing that it was rather dimly lit, and that there was virtually covered in different kind of dolls, but what caused her to look worried was a coffin in the middle of the room.
Standing behind Rias, was what appeared to be a young girl, with blonde hair, and pinkish eyes, that Isane tilted her head at.
"Wow! Another girl! Another member for the harem baby!"
Rias blinked while Akeno giggled.
"Ufufu, Ise-chan you are as bold as ever when saying something like that."
Isane looked on curiously, before Rias exhaled.
"Ise, you can't suddenly say something like that to Gasper."
"But Buchou! Have you seen the Vampire-chan?! She's cute!"
"Yes, but even then Gasper's not a..."
As Rias spoke, Isane shot towards Gasper who let out a shrill voice.
"Hey there! My name is Isane Hyoudou, and it's your lucky day! Do you want to join Haruki's harem?! You have a lot of benefits you know?!"
Gasper panicked, and ran away from Isane, hiding behind a table leg.
Isane looked curiously towards Gasper, as the Vampire peered from behind the table leg.
"B-B-B-By the way, who is this person?"
Rias pointed at Isane.
"This is my newest servant, Isane Hyoudou. I'm sorry Gasper, I didn't think...then again it is Ise so…"
"Buchou! I'm right here!"
Rias nodded slowly, turning towards Gasper.
"Please, can we go out? Okay? It's all right for you to not be sealed any more, you know?"
Rias said it gently, but Gasper refused.
"Noooooooo! For me, the outside world is impossibleeeeeeee! I am scared! I am scared of the outside! In any case, even if I go outside, it would only cause trouble for otherssssss!"
Rias pursed her lips, and thought about it for a few moments, while Xenovia moved forward, and pointed towards the Vampire.
"Is this the Vampire I was told about? Shall I get Durandal out now?"
The colour from Gasper's face dropped, and ending up letting out a cry.
"Eeeeeek!"
Gasper's eyes glowed, and released the power of the Sacred Gear, freezing time for all those in the room.
Because of that, Gasper got frightened, and pulled out a phone.
"S-Senpaiiiiiiiiiii! It happened again!"
Gasper cried down the phone.
[It's alright Gasper, don't worry.] Haruki's voice came down the line, soothing the Vampire. [I'm sending my Demise-chan to come and help out, okay? I'll be there as soon as I can.]
"Y-Yes Senpai...I'm sorry for being...a b-burden..."
[Hey, you're not a burden. I'll be there soon, see you later Gasper.]
Gasper's face became happy, and within a few seconds, Absolute Demise appeared.
Her hands went out, and she released a bright aura from her body, covering Gasper's eyes, as the aura went all around the area.
Breaking through the time freeze, everyone came to their senses, with some letting out a gasp when seeing Absolute Demise.
"So Haruki sent Demise here..."
Xenovia gave the doll a curious look, while Isane looked on.
"Wait, what just happened?"
"Yeah, that was odd..."
Irina added, so Akeno began explaining.
"Gasper possesses a Sacred Gear that caused the time of everything in Gasper's field of vision to be stopped for a fixed interval of time when excited. Because Gasper can't control the Sacred Gear, by the orders of the Archduke and the Maou, Sirzechs-sama, Gasper was sealed."
"The Sacred Gears called Forbidden Balor View. It's very powerful."
Rias added on, with Isane and the others becoming more and more curious.
"To stop time, isn't that close to breaking the rules?"
Rias chuckled at Isane's response.
"Yes, that's true. But your doubling power, Haruki's freezing power and Hakuryuukou's halving power are all against the rules too, you know? The problem is that Gasper's not able to handle it. Because of that, Gasper had been sealed till now. Haruki's able to handle the time freeze, as would be Kuroka and Vali, however, because they aren't always around, so it was decided that Gasper had to be here."
"However, you sure were able to make Gasper, who has such a powerful gear into your servant, Buchou. Not to mention, to be able to do it with just one piece."
As Isane said it, Ravel spoke up.
"The piece used was called a Mutation Piece. They are basically Evil Pieces that can be used on people that would need more pieces to be reincarnated. However, they are rare, and one in ten Devils possess a single Mutation Piece."
Isane was glad that Ravel explained it in a way that made sense to her ears, and she could follow along with the conversation.
"Yes. However, because my evaluation was accepted, it seems I was now judged able to control Gasper by the people that evaluated me. Maybe it's because I made Yuuto attain Balance Breaker."
Rias spoke up, with Ravel nodding along.
"Yes, it probably was like that. Though because of Gasper-sans Sacred Gear...it might be difficult."
"...Uh, e-e-even though I don't want you to talk about me..."
Gasper hid inside of a cardboard box, looking shyly out of it.
"Even though I say half-Vampire, Gasper's from a pure-blooded Vampire family with a good lineage, and has a powerful Sacred Gear because of the human half. Gasper's well endowed with the abilities of Vampires, and excels in human magic wielded by wizards as well. If not so, then Gasper probably would have been made a Bishop with just one Evil Piece."
Isane thought that was amazing, seeing the kind of power that Gasper would have.
"Buchou, Vampires are weak against the sun, right?"
Rias nodded at Isane's question.
"Gasper possess the blood of a special Vampire known as a Daywalker which can move during the day, so there's no problem. However, Gasper may dislike it."
Isane looked at the Vampire, and moved closer.
"You don't attend class, right? If you don't control your power and open yourself up, then it isn't good, you know?"
Though Isane said it kindly, Gasper shook side to side several times.
"No! I am fine inside this cardboard box! The air and light of the outside are a natural enemy to meeeee! Please let me remain a Vampire who lives in a cardboard boooooox!"
"...A good-for-nothing Vampire."
Koneko said it with a cold look, Ravel shook her head.
"Koneko-san, don't say that."
"I am Head Loli Ravel-san."
"Eh..."
Rias placed a hand to her forehead, and looked between the members in the room.
"For the time being, till I come back, Ravel, Ise, Asia, Koneko, Irina, Xenovia, I'll leave Gasper's training to you. Akeno and I will be going to the meeting place for the top of the Three Factions. And Yuuto, it seems Onii-sama wants to hear in detail about your Balance Breaker, so you should accompany us."
"Yes, Buchou."
Xenovia, upon hearing that, turned her eyes towards the quivering Vampire.
"Gasper, now is the time for me to finally unleash my Durandal."
"Xenovia, don't do that."
Irina sweat dropped, but Xenovia wasn't having any of it.
"I couldn't cut your picture Irina, so this time I'll have to unleash my power."
"No, Xenovia please don't..."
Irina pleaded, but Xenovia showed a strong resolve.
"It is fine, my power is going to shine this time."
Gasper became nervous.
Gasper looked scared, and began shaking side to side again and again.
Xenovia then took a step forward, so Gasper rushed for the door, running as fast as possible.
The young girl brightly smiled, and then chased after Gasper.
Irina sighed and then began running after her, hoping that she didn't cause any trouble.
As that was going on, Haruki and Vali were finishing taking care of another threat that happened to be making noise about trying to target the Factions Meeting. As their jobs were to make sure the Factions Meetings went down without a hitch, they did their best to quickly dispatch of the enemies before them.
"Seems like these people aren't going to be causing trouble."
Vali said stoically, unleashing her devastating waves of demonic power, crushing the humans that could pose a problem out of existence, they tried to resist, but Vali was simply too much for them and they couldn't do anything in the end.
Haruki agreed, as he raised his finger up in the air, creating a massive spear of Holy Lightning, directing his hand downwards, and unleashed it in a strong burst of power, smashing into the ground and unleashed a devastating radius of Holy Lightning, causing it to spread through the targets of his, binding and shocking them in place, they weren't able to escape as their legs had been stopped by the Holy Lightning.
"Fufufu, isn't it fun when we get to let loose a little bit Vali-chan?"
Vali showed a slight smirk.
"I wish there was some stronger people here, but I do agree that this is a good thing to have once in a while." As Vali said it, she turned to see a man with a sword coming for her. "Speaking of, lets see how this guy does."
Vali took a stance as the man charged her, stabbing for her.
But she caught the blade, and crushed it with a single hand, before slamming her foot into his torso, sending him flying across the ground, smashing into it several times.
"Seems not Vali-chan, they're at most Middle Class Devil power. However, from my research, it seemed that they were planning to use a binding spell on the Maou's and other leaders of the Factions, one that I've seen and could see it causing some hindrance. Better to be safe than sorry you know?"
Vali nodded.
"True enough."
Haruki then saw some magic users come for him, so he placed his hand out, and created a magical circle himself. Creating fire, wind and darkness, he shot them out towards the opponents magical attacks, cancelling them out, before Vali flies up high, and rains down her demonic power, destroying the battlefield with her power alone.
"Vali-chan, I was going to have some fun then~"
"We'll have fun back at home."
Vali replied with a surprisingly sultry expression on her face.
Haruki was happily surprised with her words, and he showed a small smile on his face.
"That's good, because Vali-chan I'm gonna have to punish you for taking such a thing away~"
Joking with her, Vali let out a small laugh.
"Can't wait."
Haruki chuckled, looking around the battlefield.
"I'd say we've effectively crushed the opponents wouldn't you agree Vali-chan?"
"I'd say yeah, it seems we don't have to worry about these opponents for the time being."
Haruki began to nod…
But something deep inside of him didn't feel right.
"Vali-chan, do you mind doing something for me?"
"Direct, alright then, lets go to the bedroom."
Haruki let out a little laugh.
"You have turned quite naughty~ I wasn't thinking that, though if you wish to do such things..."
"Hm, perhaps later. So, what is it you want me to do?"
"There's a few people I'd like to have checked out before the meeting."
"Right, who?"
"Some people that I think could or might have some agendas against this meeting. So, how about it Vali-chan? I'll have Ravel-chan assist you."
"If it's important, I don't mind. Anyone in particular you're thinking of?"
"Perhaps, can't confirm it just yet though."
Vali folded her arms, more curious about what was going on.
"Right, then I'll do what's necessary. What are you going to be doing?"
"I've got some last minute preparations to deal with. And there's one last group that I've been hearing whispers about."
Vali scowled.
"If you're going to fight..."
"Fufu, I've not got any opponents that I'll be fighting just yet. Don't worry Vali-chan, if I'm be going to be fighting, then I'll definitely take you with me."
Vali pulled closer, allowing her hand to slide onto her favourite part of his body, and stared at him right in the eyes, showing a seriousness that held a hint of desire as well.
"Remember, I get the strongest one this time."
"For you my adorable Vali-chan, I'll do anything. So of course, I'll leave the strongest one to you."
"Good, now tell me what I need to do."
"Eager Vali-chan."
Vali allowed a small smirk to appear.
"Actually, there is something I've been meaning to try."
Haruki raised a brow.
"What?"
"It's about a game I've been hearing about, I wish to play it."
Haruki was surprised.
He didn't think Vali would get into games like that.
"Vali-chan, you're a gamer now?"
"I'm a casual gamer, it isn't something I hold above fighting or you, but it is something that I consider my hobby now. I like the fighting games, so I'm going to be playing something called Dead or Alive, Kuroka swore that it would be a game I'd enjoy."
"Dead or Alive huh?" Haruki smirked, knowing why Kuroka suggested those games. "Cool, hope you have fun Vali-chan~"
Vali slowly nods, while Haruki smiles towards her affectionately.
Later on outside, Xenovia brandished her Holy Sword Durandal, and ran forward as Gasper began running away.
"Hey, start running. If you're a Daywalker, then you should be able to run in the day."
"Eeeeeeek! Don't chase me while swinging Durandaaaaaaal!"
It seemed to be apart of the training that Xenovia was giving, but to most, it looked as if she was trying to kill Gasper, even Irina thought it looked like that, so she jumped into the fray and chased down Xenovia.
"Xenovia please calm down! If the Vampire-san dies now then it would be really bad!"
"I'm not trying to kill Gasper, this will toughen Gasper up a good bit."
"But it's a Holy Sword, dangerous to those like Gasper-san..."
"It's fine, Gasper is apart of Rias Gremory's peerage, this amount of power will be fine."
"Please don't say that! You're highly dangerous!"
Irina continued chasing after Xenovia, who chased Gasper.
And beside her, was Koneko holding a piece of garlic between her fingers.
"...If you eat garlic, you'll become healthy."
"Nooooooo! Koneko-chan is bullying meeeeeee!"
"...Come here."
"Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!"
Koneko continued chasing Gasper, with Ravel chasing after her.
"Koneko-san! Please show restraint! If you do anything, it could cause problems later on!"
"It's fine, this Vampire needs to be stronger."
"Don't say it in such a reckless kind of voice!"
"...It's fine, Gasper will learn."
Ravel sighed as she continued running after Koneko.
Isane watched it go on and was astonished by how the situation was unfurling. Even Asia who was sat next to her was baffled by what was going on, and simply had to watch on incredulously.
"It seems that everyone wishes to help Gasper-san get even stronger, but it is worrying as well..."
"Aah, don't worry Asia, I'm sure that everything will work out~ Gasper's gonna join the harem!"
Isane said happily, but confused Asia.
"But Gasper-sans a..."
Just then, before she could finish, Saji came walking towards them, looking at the situation at hand.
"Yo, Hyoudou. After hearing that there was a hikikomori servant whose ban had been lifted, I came to see it for a bit."
"Yeah...eehe, the Vampire is currently getting chased."
Saji looked, seeing Xenovia and Koneko going after the crying Gasper. Irina and Ravel were trying their best to stop it.
"Hey, hey, Xenovia-san, she's swinging the legendary sword heartily, you know? Is it all right? And Koneko-san as well...ehehe, I'll leave them too it~"
"Yeah, it's best to do that for now. So what are you doing, Saji?"
Saji was wearing a jersey, army cotton gloves, and was also holding a small shovel for flower bed use.
"It's as you see. It's the maintenance of the flower bed. It's been Kaichou's orders since a week ago. Hey, recently, there have been many events in the school right? And also, next time, Maou-sama and the others are coming here as well. It's the job of the Pawn of the Student Council, me, to make the school look beautiful."
He puffed out his chest and acted magnificently, but Isane just thought that he was doing odd jobs for Sona.
As they spoke together, they heard the sound flapping wings.
Looking on, they saw that it was Azazel who was coming in. Isane had seen Azazel before through some pictures, so she knew who this was.
"Heh. The servants of the Maous' families' Devils are playing over here."
"Azazel...!"
"Yo, Sekiryuutei. Is Vali well?"
Everyone was dubiously staring at him, who appeared suddenly.
Ravel then came forward as Xenovia held her sword tightly. Irina went towards Asia and got into a defensive position, while Gasper hid behind a tree, Koneko tightened her fists, while Saji showed his Sacred Gear.
Azazel, noticing that, pointed at Koneko.
"I get the rest, but why are you showing aggression? You know your King and I do speak and have cooperated in the past? Ravel isn't showing hostility."
"...Appearing without informing others of your arrival, it is rather casual."
Koneko replied in a monotone.
Azazel thrusted his hands to the side, shrugging.
"It's alright if it is only a little bit. I'm sure your King will be coming soon enough. Speaking of-" As Azazel spoke, Absolute Demise got before him, appearing seemingly out of nowhere, though the others knew she was looking on to make sure Gasper's Sacred Gear didn't go out of control. "-there you are Demise-chan. Are you going to speak today? I know that you can."
Absolute Demise placed its finger out to Azazel and wagged it as if she was scolding a young child.
Azazel laughed though, not being deterred.
"Well, that's alright as well. I'll get you to speak to me sometime."
Demise shook her head, Azazel furrowed his brows.
Shaking his head, he looked around.
"By the way, is the boy that has the Holy Demonic Sword here?"
Isane pursed her lips as she moved forward.
"If it's Kiba, then he isn't here."
Azazel releases a small breath as he heard that.
"...Seriously. ...I see, the Holy Demonic Sword user isn't present. Well, you're here Sekiryuutei, have you thought about the offer of me watching you train for a bit?"
Isane did recall Rias saying something to her about it.
She thought about it, and she wasn't sure what to even say as a result.
"Eh, well I don't know about that...I mean it wouldn't be bad per-say, however..."
"It seems that you've got some thinking to do." Azazel's eyes went towards Gasper. "The Vampire hiding over there."
"No, don't come closer..."
Gasper shyly said, so Azazel paused, and merely looked on curiously.
"You're the possessor of the Forbidden Balor View, right? If you can't use it properly, then it will become a thing that causes harm to others. As a support-type Sacred Gear, if you can supplement the deficient aspects, it should be fine but... Now that I mention it, the research of Sacred Gears by Devils didn't progress much. If you invoke it via the five senses while the Sacred Gear's owner's capacity is insufficient, then it will move naturally, and it will be extremely dangerous."
Gasper listened to his words, though was still frightened by what was going on.
Azazel turned around, and pointed to Saji.
While scared, Saji made a posture to fight.
However, Azazel seemed to be more curious than anything else.
"Is that Absorption Line? If you're practising, try using it. Connect it to this Vampire, and if The Sacred Gear is invoked while you're absorbing the Sacred Gear's excess, it would probably run less wildly."
After Azazel's explanation, Saji showed a complex expression as well.
"...M-My Sacred Gear, it can suck the power of the opponent's Sacred Gear as well? I thought it simply absorbs the opponents power and weakens them..."
Hearing that, Azazel had an amazed expression.
"Seriously, it's because of this that the Sacred Gear owners recently don't try to know the power of their Sacred Gears well enough. Absorption Line holds the power of one of the legendary five Dragon Kings, the Prison Dragon, Vritra. Well, this was found out thanks to recent research. That thing can connect to any object, and can scatter that power. If it's a short time, it's possible to separate the line from the owner's side and connect it to some other person or object."
"T-Then, the line on my side... For example, I can connect it to someone else, and then the power will flow into them?"
"Yeah, if you grow, the number of the lines will also increase. If you do that, the output of absorption will increase many times as well."
"..."
Saji became quiet, and thought about what had been said.
As he did say it however, Haruki came flying down from the sky. His aura came out in a golden like colour that could be felt by all those present. Even someone like Isane who wasn't that good at reading the flow of aura, it seemed she could grasp what was going on.
Relief came when they saw Haruki.
Gasper came running out from behind the tree, and clung to his shirt, Asia also went towards Haruki and hugged him from behind. He embraced Asia with one arm, while patting Gasper's head with his free hand.
"Azazel, what are you doing this time?"
Azazel showed a small smirk.
"I came to see what was going on. These people didn't know the power of their Sacred Gears, so I educated them a little. I also was interested in what was going on with the Hakuryuukou and wondered if I could visit her a bit?"
"You're missing Vali-chan, right?"
Azazel didn't deny it.
"I did raise her for a good while, so I suppose you could say that yeah."
"I don't mind if Vali-chan wishes to see you. Though you shouldn't drop by unannounced."
"I also have another reason for coming, besides my own curiosity."
Haruki raised a brow.
"What's that?"
"It's something that we have to discuss in private. I'm sure you'd not want others to hear this either. Or perhaps you'd like to process it away from others."
When Azazel said it, Haruki knew he was being serious so he nodded and stepped forward.
"Alright, if that's how it is then we'll go somewhere quiet and speak about what's going on." Haruki paused and turned to Ravel. "Ravel-chan, I've got something for you to do with Vali-chan, do you mind?"
"No! Of course not! I'm always willing to help!"
"Thank you Ravel-chan. Koneko-chan, can you stay here, and look after the others for me?"
"...Senpai, is it okay to go alone with Azazel?"
Azazel mildly gave a bemused look, while Haruki nodded.
"Yeah, it should be fine. I'll be back before you know it."
Koneko inclined her neck, so Haruki bowed, and walked off together with Azazel. Absolute Demise stayed behind in case Gasper's Sacred Gear began running out of control.
Isane looked on, worried for Haruki.
But Ravel moved closer, and smiled.
"Don't worry about Haruki-sama, he and Azazel-sama have had many dealings before. Even without Absolute Demise, Haruki-sama is more than capable of taking care of himself. And if Azazel-sama wishes to speak about it in private, then it must be important. I'm sure that if we need to know, Haruki-sama will tell us about it."
"Yeah...I guess I'm worrying about nothing~"
"It's nice that you are worried, shows your concern. But now I've got to be off, so I'll see you all later."
Ravel bowed, and walked off to do her own kind of duties, leaving Isane and the others alone.
"Alright then Gasper! Are you ready to train more? Saji, can you lend a hand?"
Gasper nodded shyly, while Saji inclined his neck.
"Sure, I don't mind helping out a little bit."
With that, Gasper began practising with the others. When Rias could, she came along to try and offer her best wishes and some advice as well, something that Gasper clearly appreciated as did Isane and the others.
Though they did wonder what was going on with Haruki.
Meanwhile, Haruki and Azazel went towards an isolated area, one where they could converse quietly together. It was a bar, with Azazel having a drink of alcohol, Haruki however just stuck to a glass of water.
"You should drink."
"I've got stuff to do after this, so I'm alright~"
Haruki laughed it off, Azazel let out a small laugh.
"Alright then, more for me~"
Haruki searched Azazel's face, wondering more and more on what he wished for.
If it was serious, then Azazel was trying his best to hide it.
"So Azazel, what is it that you wished for exactly?"
Azazel hummed, wondering how he was going to approach the situation.
"So, with the Factions Meeting coming up, I'll be having a bodyguard or two with me."
"Yeah, I thought as much. So what about it?"
Haruki could see that Azazel was looking sheepish.
Because of that, Haruki felt as if Azazel was going to say something Haruki wasn't going to like.
"Because he is one of my strongest Fallen Angels..."
Haruki knew where he was going now.
He could see it written on Azazel's face.
"This is about Baraqiel, isn't it?"
Azazel chuckled lightly, his hands wrung together.
"Getting right to the point, I see. Then yes, that man is going to be at the Factions Meeting. That, isn't a problem, is it?"
Haruki didn't say anything.
For over a minute, his face was blank, unreadable to Azazel who tried desperately hard to do so.
Haruki's mind ran through so much about his Father, he wasn't even sure where he was going to begin.
"Haruki..."
"Hmmm..."
Haruki didn't reply with any words.
He was still taking it in.
Azazel wondered what was going on inside of his mind, how he'd react to seeing his Father again.
"So, is it fine if Baraqiel comes?"
Haruki thought about the best way to articulate the thoughts going on inside of his head at that moment.
It was something that he had to think about deeply.
"My...My personal feelings have nothing to do with who you choose to have as your bodyguard. Though I'm surprised you aren't having Slash Dog take the role of your bodyguard. I know that Bikou is being your bodyguard, isn't he?"
"Yeah, that's right. Slash Dog was to be my bodyguard, however circumstances came up, and now he's on a mission. Sorry, that's how it is. That's why I came here first to tell you so you aren't caught off guard with him appearing."
Haruki thought that was wise.
Especially with Akeno considering how she was feeling about him.
"Yeah, that was a good precaution. I'll speak to Onee-sama about it as well. Thank you."
Azazel truly pondered what was going on inside of his mind now.
He knew Baraqiel was a sour spot for him.
Whatever was going to happen, Azazel had to wonder more and more if it would be for the best or not.
"It's fine, well it is always good when families reunite isn't it?"
"I wish Baraqiel shared that mentality all those years ago."
Haruki said it calmly.
But Azazel knew there was quite a bit that Haruki was holding back.
"Back then, it was a difficult time."
"Yes, I remember. It was difficult for Onee-sama and myself as well."
"Have you got anything to say to Baraqiel?"
Haruki shook his head immediately.
"Not until he has something to say to me. I thought one time maybe I should approach him...but, he is my Otou-san, it isn't my job to always chase him. If he wishes to be apart of my life then we'll see what happens, but if he doesn't, then so be it. I just wish that he'd give Onee-sama closure for what happened back then. Though I do have to say I'm not completely surprised, since I spotted Baraqiel in town the other day, I presume he was scouting out for the Factions Meeting."
Azazel gave a genuine confused face.
"No, I didn't ask him to do that."
"...Then why was he there?"
Azazel hummed, he did have a theory, and he knew Haruki had a similar one by the way he was looking, however Haruki was denying that it could be a possibility that Baraqiel was there for him and Akeno.
"You'd have to ask him about it yourself, and see what's going on inside of his head."
"I suppose you're right. As long as he isn't causing trouble then it's nothing to do with me. Though there is something I'd like to ask you Azazel."
Azazel perked his ears.
"What's that?"
"Can you trust everyone that works under you?"
Azazel focused his eyes on the young man before him.
"Honestly speaking...no."
"Yeah, the Devils have also been feeling something similar lately. Though those coming to the Factions Meeting from the Devils side, I've checked them all out, and they're all legit people that don't have ulterior motives. At least from what I can discover anyway."
"I see, hard at work, it seems that you've put a lot of time into this."
Haruki shrugged his shoulders.
"Sera-tans the Maou of affairs such as these, this is the hugest of deals for her, and I want to make sure that her biggest event as a Maou, or at least one of the biggest, goes off without any troubling situations happening. Like an attack from an outside enemy. I'm taking every precaution that I can."
"That's a good way to go about it, it seems that Serafall chose her Queen carefully. Though, if I could ask one thing?"
Haruki didn't have a problem with it.
"Sure, what is it?"
"You became a Devil, was it anything to do with your Otou-sama?"
"No, he had no part in the decision I made. Even if we were on speaking terms, if the same events played out but he was there, then I'd still have become a Devil under Sera-tan, because there's a lot of things I've been able to do thanks to her, and things that I still wish to accomplish. Plus I love Sera-tan, and being her Queen is the greatest of pleasures..."
Azazel developed a sly face, while Haruki could see what was going on inside of his mind, shaking his head a few times in disappointment for Azazel.
"I see, well it's good that your decision was yours and not influenced by anything other than what your heart and head told you to do. So, are you going to become a Maou?"
"They'd have to throw out the rule about harems being a no deal before I considered it. I'd prefer being with my girls, than being a Maou. Plus I could see many of the girls being firmly against the idea~"
"Fufu, I see that's how it is. Yeah, I can understand why that would be a priority. Plus, I could see some of the girls that like you being definitely against that kind of idea. Like the Sekiryuutei for one."
Haruki smirked.
"I'll speak to Rias-chan and see if you can watch her train tomorrow."
Knowing that he was hinting at that, Haruki explained.
Azazel chuckled as a response.
"That's all I ask, thank you. Now, how about a drink?"
"I'll stick to water for now, still got some stuff to do today."
"Right, right~ All the more for me~"
Haruki could help but find it rather odd.
But, he didn't mind spending time with Azazel in a manner like this.
His mind did cast back to Baraqiel a few times.
Ultimately however, he knew that it would have to be something he dealt with, and would do just that.
Later on, Haruki returned home, and pulled Akeno aside to explain to her. He was very curious about how she was going to react to Baraqiel, when seeing how her eyes were scrunching together, and her hands were tightening.
Many emotions ran through her.
Anger.
Fear.
Resentment.
All that and more kept going through her over and over again.
She wasn't sure what she was supposed to settle on, she didn't even know if she could settle on anything.
"So...that man is going to be there is he?"
Haruki could hear the venom in her voice.
After all this time, she still had hard feelings about him.
Not that he blamed her, as he himself also had a lot of feelings when it came to Baraqiel.
"Yes, he's going to be the bodyguard of Azazel. That's why Onee-sama, if it is too much for you, I can request that you aren't there. I'll fulfil the role of Rias-chan's Queen for the duration of that Factions Meeting and do what she needs you to do for her. It wouldn't be a problem for me."
He thought of the best way to help Akeno.
He knew she was strong, but he didn't want her to have to do something that she didn't want to do herself.
Akeno smiled at Haruki, hearing the supportive tone in his voice always helped make her feel calmer.
"If I did that, then I'd not be a very good Queen."
"Given the circumstances, you would easily be forgiven."
Akeno truly did love that about Haruki.
How he'd always try and help her out.
Shield her from anything that could upset her.
A quality that she admired, respected, and deeply loved.
"But what about you Haruki? That man is also..."
"I...I can push my personal feelings about him down."
Haruki replied in a monotone, something that Akeno was surprised by.
Because he usually was so full of energy and life, it was a hard thing to see that Haruki was drained of that because of Baraqiel.
"Fueee...if you're going to do it, then I'd not be the best Onee-sama if I didn't do the same thing. Besides...it's the Factions Meeting, it is important. If you can fight against your feelings for the meeting, then so can I."
Haruki was relieved to hear her say that.
"Yeah...it's only the meeting, it will be over before you know it Onee-sama. And if you don't want him to speak to you, if you do, then I'll make either come about. I'll even blast him with some Holy Lightning~"
Seeing Haruki becoming more lively, she was happy.
She didn't want a downtrodden Haruki.
She wanted the fun loving one that she cared for very much.
"Fufu, if you did that Haruki, it would hurt very much~"
"Well, we are sadists Onee-sama."
Akeno giggled, as she pulled closer.
Allowing her head to place on his chest, she let a small smile appear on her face.
She looked content as his arms went around her form.
"Yeah...Haruki, lets make sure that we can always do our best, okay? Even with...that man, we both have stuff we have to do, and he...he is who he is, it doesn't concern us if he doesn't think about us, you know?"
Haruki inclined his neck.
He was glad that Akeno was able to go forward, and even if Baraqiel was going to be there, she wouldn't be deterred by him.
He himself also was prepared.
He suspected that Baraqiel would be there.
But even if he was, he still had his own duties for his King, and he'd accomplish his tasks, no matter what was going to happen.
Later on, back at the school building, Gasper had locked the door to the bedroom Gasper had been accustomed too for so long, and was crying due to having experienced a good deal of worry after Rias had tried to have the Vampire go out and help out on contracts.
"Gasper, please come out. It's my fault for pushing you into going with Ise. I thought that if you worked with Ise, it might be for your benefit as well..."
Rias tried to speak.
But all she received in return was a crying sound.
"Fueeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"
Rias wore a troubled face.
She wished to have helped her Bishop.
But in the end it didn't seem as if it was going all that well at all.
So Rias turned towards Isane and posed a single question.
"Hey, Ise. How would you feel if you could stop time?"
Isane was surprised by the question.
Ultimately, however she knew what she wished to say.
"...I...would be a bit scared."
"I can see why. If you couldn't control it, and the world stopped around you...I wish there was something that I could do to take away the pain that Gasper has..."
Rias seemed down, Isane could see it clearly on her face, and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Buchou, you didn't do anything wrong."
"Yes...Haruki told me something similar. But seeing Gasper like this, I can't help but feel disheartened. I am Gasper's King, and I love all of my servants, all I wish to do is have Gasper live with us, and speak with us more openly...but, because of the past Gasper had, it's too hard..."
"Yeah...I heard before, it was...terrible, right Buchou?"
Rias inclined her neck.
"Yes, Gasper went through quite a bit of trauma as a child, and ended up being terrorized by many people. Thankfully, Gasper is with us now...but, it still is something that has scarred Gasper to this day, unfortunately it is something that I cannot currently cure, even if that's what I wish to do."
Isane could see how Rias would be as sad as she was.
She wished to do more, but because of Gasper's fears, it was something difficult for her to do.
"Buchou, isn't your meeting with Sirzechs-sama and the others in a short while from now?"
"Yes, but I will extend the time a bit more. I have to make sure that Gasper is all right first..."
That was the kindness that Isane was glad Rias had.
A reason why she chose to be under Rias, as Rias cared for her servants, and always thought of their well being, how they needed comfort, support. Even if she didn't always have the answers, the fact she was there for her servants was something amazing in the eyes of others.
"Please leave the rest to me. I will do something about it."
Rias looked towards Isane, seeing that she was adopting a bright smile.
However, even Isane had her own doubts, showcasing them clearly on her face, despite her best efforts to try and hide them.
"Ise. All right, I got it. Can I count on you?"
"Yes!"
Rias nodded, and looked towards Gasper's door. Staring at it for a few moments, Rias had many emotions running through her, while she wished that she could act on them, she wasn't able to do that, and simply lowered her head, and walked off.
After seeing Rias off, Isane took a deep breath, and sat in front of the door.
"Till you come out, I won't move one step from here!"
Isane didn't know what else she could do for the moment, and simply waited.
Even twenty minutes later, Gasper made no effort to try and come out, so Isane looked at the door, having thought of something to say.
"...Are you scared? Of the Sacred Gear...and of us?"
"..."
Though she didn't get a reply, Isane continued speaking.
"I also possess a Sacred Gear in which the strongest Dragon resides in. However, my life was not as amazing as yours, who was a Vampire, or like Haruki's. I was a normal high school student. But when I found out...I had this power, this Dragon inside of me, it was mind blowing. However...because of it, I got to meet many great people."
Isane spoke from her heart, trying to connect to the young Vampire.
Gasper mulled over a response.
However, Gasper then let out a meek sounding voice.
"Meet great people?"
Isane was glad that Gasper finally was speaking, so she continued on.
"Yeah, I've met Buchou, Asia who's really cool, I got to spend time with Irina again, and I've made new friends. I've even found someone I want to be with...heh, I didn't think I'd even get this far, you know?"
"...Why?"
Isane chuckled, remembering back to her past at Kuoh.
"When starting Kuoh, I immediately took notice of Haruki. He was...different to everyone else. I couldn't explain it at the time, he seemed so wise, so majestic, yet down to earth at the same time. When approaching him, many thought he was this untouchable thing that we'd never be able to experience."
As she spoke, Isane saw the door open.
Gasper's head poked out from behind it.
"...Senpai was always nice to me, even when I cried, or was scared, Senpai always supported me."
Isane showed a large grin.
"Yeah, me too! Even with all of this Devil business, I was asked to become a Devil...but, Haruki said that I should do it for myself, no one else. It was...It was amazing to know someone was there if I had any questions, and the more I got to know him...the more I knew that he wasn't this untouchable force that I'd never be able to experience...he was just a genuine guy that had his own things going on in his life. So when I chose to become a Devil...he still was there to support me, like we'd be there for you Gasper. Ehe, you're my Senpai in the world of Devils, but I'd try my best to make sure that you're alright, you know?"
Gasper thought about what she said.
"...I-I will just cause trouble... I am a hikikomori, I am intensely shy...and I can't properly use my Sacred Gear...people end up...hating me because...of my eyes...my power...who I am...everyone from Buchou's peerage...and Haruki-senpai...they all did...but others, if they saw me..."
Isane peered into Gasper's eyes.
It was clear that Gasper was in pain, so Isane did her best to try and relieve her worries.
"I don't hate you. As your Senpai, I'll always look after you. Don't worry about the complicated stuff, lets just focus on making sure that you're able to use your powers. We'll always be here if you wanna talk about it."
Gasper blinked, and listened deeply to the brown haired girl.
However, Isane continued.
"You know, I am jealous of your ability."
"..."
Gasper showed a surprised expression.
"Did I say something weird? Because, isn't it the best to be able to stop time? If I possessed that Sacred Gear, then it would be terrific. I would definitely use it on-"
"Who would you use it on Ise-chan?"
Isane sweated bullets.
Isane's eyes whizzed around and saw Haruki stood there, his eyebrow raised in small amusement.
"Eh? N-No! No one here!"
"Ufufu, is that the case?" Isane nodded furiously. "It seems that you didn't need me, after all."
Isane tilted her head.
"What do you mean?"
"Rias-chan called and told me about Gasper here, so I came over. But while I was arriving, I saw you both talking." Haruki looked towards Gasper, and bent down towards the Vampire. "Gasper, are you feeling okay now? Did Ise-chan help you out a bit?"
Gasper shyly nodded, and moved closer towards Haruki.
His hand landed on Gasper's head, who smiled up happily towards him.
"You know, the outside world is frightening, it can be scary. But you don't have to worry about what could happen, as we'll be beside you, as Ise-chan said. Even making sure your Sacred Gear doesn't go out of control. It takes time to move forward, but with all of us now supporting you, I know that in time you'll be able to do more and more."
Gasper peered into his eyes, while Isane grinned.
Thanks to her, and some encouragement from Haruki, Gasper looked to be recovering a little more.
Isane then leaned forward, showcasing her grin.
"Right! And you also have to join the harem Gasper!"
Gasper's eyes turned towards Isane questioningly, as did Haruki.
"S-Senpai?"
"B-Because, you're a member of Buchou's group! It is like a law or something!"
Haruki always found Isane to be quite the character, with the things that she would come out with.
But he didn't think she'd say that to Gasper.
"I-It is?!"
Gasper however seemed to believe it, and looked on with wide eyes.
Isane took the Vampire's hands, and held them tightly.
"Yeah of course! You know, it's my dream to become Harem Queen! Right next to the Harem King Haruki! T-Though I'm still a virgin, Haruki is experienced, and is going to be taking care of me as I lose it with him!"
Haruki shook his head at her antics.
But, he wouldn't change her as she was surprisingly endearing, and after hearing what he did with Gasper, he couldn't be more proud of doing her best to reach Gasper, and give Gasper all the support that was needed.
"S-So, that's your dream...Senpai?"
Isane affirmed it with a nod of her head.
"Yup! That's how I am going to achieve my dream! Haha! Standing with the girls and with Haruki...aaah, it's always been my dream, and I can't wait for that dream to begin….! However, Gasper! You also have a dream, right? What is it?"
Gasper looked shyly towards Isane and didn't know how to speak about such things.
Haruki looked towards Gasper, then chortled.
"Fufu, if it is about dreams, then I've got a dream, I've got many dreams in fact."
Both Isane and Gasper were intrigued, and leaned closer.
"What is it? Is it to do with the harem!?"
Isane's face burned red as she shouted it out.
Haruki let out a small groaning sound.
"Could be, could be~"
He teased her, Isane thrusted her arms up into the air, while Gasper looked towards Haruki.
"S...Senpai...I wish...my dream is to...be brave, like you Senpai…!"
Haruki looked towards the Vampire, and showed a compassionate smile.
"It's very achievable Gasper, you can do it if you truly try to be brave. Being brave doesn't have to take long, you can show courage for ten seconds and that could be life changing. One day, you'll see it Gasper, you'll find your moment and you'll show the world how strong you truly are."
"Can I Senpai…? Can I be brave...like you?"
"I wasn't always as brave as I am now, Gasper. When I was a kid, I was worried about going out on my own. After Kaa-chan died...the world was scary, being chased constantly...people rejecting me for my mere existence, I was scared at first."
Isane hadn't heard much of Haruki's past.
She knew certain details, she knew he was a Fallen Angel, but she didn't know the true extent of what that meant.
"Even...you felt like that, Haruki?"
Isane asked, Haruki nodded.
"I had to grow up quickly, I had to toughen up. I didn't have anyone to rely on, my Otou-san...he never came for me, and no one was there to protect me. Until I found Sera-tan, or more like when she finally found me...she was the first person that truly I could rely on after Kaa-chan died, excluding Onee-sama of course, but at that time, we weren't together. I was doing my best, to make sure Suou came after me...so she'd be protected."
Isane was enthralled by his words, and wondered more and more about him and his past.
Even Gasper looked surprised since while knowing most of it, Gasper didn't know the full details.
"Senpai...I didn't know...you were also scared...I can't imagine it Senpai...because you're always so brave..."
"I was a kid, thrown into the world that wished for my existence to end. At first, I was scared. I thought about how I would survive as I was being chased. But as time went on...I found myself being more bolder, braver, being able to face the dangers of the world, and show them that they couldn't stop me, even if they were scary and strong. Even Suou...that man I truly did despise."
"That Suou guy..."
Isane wondered more about Haruki's past.
What else he had to deal with.
How he was able to overcome.
There was so much she wasn't aware of, and the more she found out, the more she understood how he worked, and why he did the things he did, and also understood how his view on the world was, and how kind he truly could be, giving back the kindness that was shown to him as a child, one that was from limited people, but she could see meant the world to someone like Haruki.
"He's dead now, I ended his life after he tried to kill Onee-sama." Haruki replied in a monotone voice to Isane. "The point is Gasper...the world can be scary. But you can also be brave, strong and kind. It might take time, but it will come. You'll have your moment to shine, you'll see for yourself how strong you truly are."
Hearing words from both Isane and Haruki, two different people that had experienced different things, but both were able to come to points that they could be brave and strong, Gasper felt inspired all the more.
Haruki then smiled.
"Now, no more depressing talks~ Lets go and have some fun okay? Gasper, wanna play some games?"
"Y-Yes!"
"That's good, Ise-chan's also good at games, I think she likes the ones that you have as well."
Gasper turned to Isane, showing some more confidence.
"Y-Yes?"
"Eeh, sure! I do like playing games! Lets play all night!"
"Yeah, lets."
Haruki spoke with a sweet sounding voice.
He could see that Isane and Gasper would end up as good friends.
He watched them play games, and he felt...relaxed.
With the worries of the Factions Meeting coming, it was nice for them to be able to have time like this and calmly have time together.
While it went on, Isane pulled Haruki to the side.
"By the way, Gasper's a shoe in for the harem, right?"
Haruki furrowed his brows.
"Why would you say that?"
"Because Gasper's cute! Don't you agree?"
"Hmmm, I see Gasper as a little brother."
Isane stops in place.
"Wait...what?"
"Yeah, Gasper's like...wait, did you think Gasper was...hahaha, Ise-chan, Gasper's a boy~"
Isane's face dropped.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEH!?"
"You didn't know?"
Isane shook her head several times.
"NO! I THOUGHT...S-SO GASPER'S A BOY! THAT MAKES SENSE WHY PEOPLE SEEMED CONFUSED WHEN I SAID...S-SO THEY TRIED TO TELL ME! AAAAH! I THOUGHT...EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEH!"
"Ooh Ise-chan, you're so adorable~"
Isane got in Haruki's face, and shook his shoulders as Gasper peered out from behind Haruki.
"WHAT ABOUT THE DREAMS OF THE VAMPIRE IN THE HAREM!?"
"Ise-chan, there's other Vampire's out there, don't give up."
"I-Is that so? Then you have to get a girl Vampire in the harem, it would be perfect!"
Haruki lightly laughed, placing his hand on her cheek.
"If I find a Vampire that likes me and I like her, it's certainly possible~"
"Yes! That would be good!"
Many things ran through her mind about who could join the harem, while Haruki looked at Gasper, and shared a small laugh between them.
End chapter!
So this chapter dealt with Gasper, and the insecurities going on there, and at the end, after Isane believing Gasper was a girl, a little twist at the end there with Haruki dropping quite the bombshell after a few tried to tell Isane the truth but got interrupted, Haruki even sees Gasper as a little brother and now Isane does too, after the little confusion~
As that was going on, Haruki and Vali were dealing with some last minute taking out of some enemies, and checking on those who are going to be coming to the Factions Meeting and making sure that everything is going to be great. And also learning that Baraqiel will be coming to the Factions Meeting, and him having a small moment together with Akeno.
Well, until next time, thanks for reading.
Haruki's peerage
Queen; Vali.
Rooks; Koneko, Xenovia.
Bishops; Ravel, Asia.
Knights; Lint, Meredith.
Pawns; Elmenhilde (two pieces), Kuroka (three pieces), Le Fay (three pieces).
Haruki; Serafall, Sona, Ravel, Koneko, Kuroka, Gabriel, Akeno, Vali (fem), Isane, Xenovia, Rias, Irina, Asia, Rossweisse, Le Fay, Meredith, Elmenhilde, Lint, Ophis, Yasaka, Kunou,