Thank you to all who've followed/fav'd this story. Always glad to hear more people are interested!

TheLengendaryBalance – Still debating on that, depends on if I can find a way around canon

Karlos1234ify – Hades is involved in the light novels. That's all I'll say, besides that you might appreciate this chapter a bit more.

Guest – Oh, she will. She will.

NAFNAF509 – Thanks for the continued support! Hope this meets expectations!

Sasuke75249 – thanks!

Groszekace – Had to find a way to draw out Shirone/Koneko identity. Muddling senses was a first step but then I had to think of ways for his altered body to function with the new balance of power. Silvered hair seemed a good way to show there was some damage done. Cliché I know, but it actually plays out later.

Zeus501 – Thanks, will do!

Shdowknight121 – Glad you appreciate it! I will do my best!

L'assassin orange – Those stories do have their own merits, some are quite enjoyable. I just wanted to find a reasonable way to make Issei stronger yet comply with canon. Kill Issei? Then find another supernatural entity to do it and justify it. That's how Ares came into play, though since he seems to be a favorite I'll be sure to involve him more later on. Don't expect non-Biblical factions to play a major role for a little while longer. Also, I recently found your SAO fic, update soon!

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Shini Kurogane – Thanks, and I have to agree with you about the latest season. As for romance, don't ask in a review.

amadan – personally, I find that demidrake Issei is more fun to write. However, I'm well aware of my own abilities and know that it will be increasingly more difficult to write if I deviate too far from canon.

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Disclaimer: See 1st Chapter

" " – Speech

' ' – Thoughts

( ) – Albion, mental

( ) – Albion, speaking

It took longer than normal for him to wake, though Issei managed it in the end. In his defense, the bed he was on was much softer and much more comfortable than the bunk he had back in his cell. Warm and sleepy, he was content to remain there indefinitely. He would have were it not for some new developments that his sleep-addled brain quickly took note of.

First, and seemingly most important, was that his senses had been restored to their former capacity. While his eyes were still closed, he tested each of his other senses. Touch, smell, and hearing all checked out at or above the levels he was accustomed to. This restoration of abilities prompted the discovery of the morning's highlight. Each sense was screaming at him that he was not alone.

Cracking open his right eye, he saw a dark expanse of midnight hair. Further investigation confirmed that it was Akeno's scent, something he had once again memorized the previous day. Her face was serene, though her eyes twitched behind their lids as she dreamt. This was something he had missed, the peacefulness she instilled in him. Issei may have been content to stay and listen to her breathing and heartbeat forever if he had the opportunity. However, his observations weren't quite finished.

While it had previously escaped his notice, he began to understand the soft sensations that his right arm was entrapped by. Finding his arm immobile, and by observing the position she lay in, he came to one mind-halting conclusion.

She was naked as the day she was born, trapping his arm between her breasts.

'This is it. Heaven exists, and I have laid eyes upon it.'

His earlier attempt to move his arm must have hastened her own wakening. She stirred, blinking as her eyes adjusted to the light. Akeno yawned slightly, before noticing the incriminating position they were in.

"Good morning, Issei. How was your sleep?"

"Stimulating." He deadpanned. "And yours?"

"Best I've had in years." Akeno smiled sultrily, clearly trying to milk this situation for all it was worth, though unbeknownst to her she'd be hard pressed to make him squirm after two years with Kuroka. "Though I do have to ask, how are you feeling?"

"Great. Everything seems relatively normal now. Did you have something to do with that?"

"It's a traditional devil healing ability. Devils do so appreciate the special bonds a skinship can produce." That got a rise out of him; he wasn't expecting that response.

"So for the past two weeks, I've had a pretty girl in bed with me, without my knowledge might I add, as well as…" Issei's voice trailed off as he tried to hide his wandering gaze, though Akeno easily noticed the attention she was receiving.

"Au naturel is the foundation of such an esteemed custom." While she said this, she moved to sit up, letting the sheet drop and expose her upper body. Now Issei was fighting a losing battle to respect her modesty as he kept his eyes from drinking in every detail. Leaning towards and over him, Akeno let her… generous assets… rest upon his own bare chest. "I hope you don't mind."

"Gah!"

"Oh? It seems you're not as unresponsive as you let on." She licked her lips. "This will be so much fun. Though sadly, it'll have to wait."

Torn between relief at the end of her teasing as well as mourning her cessation, Issei cocked his head as he tried to make sense of her words. Whatever feeling he expressed was interpreted as confusion since she was quick to clarify. "I fully intend for our first time to be just the two of us."

Blushing furiously now, Issei followed her gaze to his other side where his heart stopped. Using his shoulder as a pillow, Rias peacefully slept with her breasts encompassing his upper arm.

It goes without saying that she was equally nude.

(Whatever you do, don't disgrace the legacy of the dragons!)

'What in the hell do you mean by that!'

The Vanishing Dragon chose to remain silent after that. Whatever Albion meant, Issei could only hope that it was intended as encouragement. However, that left him in the unenviable position of what course of action that supported. Thankfully, it seemed that the girls would make the decision for him.

Whether of her own accord or by the actions of her bedfellows, Rias was waking. Rubbing her eyes to hasten the process, she gave a small yawn before propping herself up on one arm. She stared at her Queen and Pawn, a look of amusement crossing her face. She must have been well aware of the view she was offering to Issei, though she made no effort to cover up.

"Good morning you two. I trust you both slept well?" While she wasn't using the same sultry tone as Akeno, her words had nearly the same effect on the male.

"Ufufu, we are doing splendidly Rias." Akeno answered for the both of them, but the sincerity behind her words was quite obvious. Issei moved his lips, but was still somewhat speechless from finding both beauties in bed with him.

"Yes, I can see that. Do try and show some restraint with our junior, Akeno. It may be enough to push Issei over the edge and unleash his primal instincts on us young maidens." With a gentle smile, Rias released Issei's arm and got out of the bed. By reaching for her clothing, she bent over in a way that set Issei's blood boiling.

'Fuck, how much more of this can I take!'

(You're doing rather well, all things considered.)

'I was able to restrain myself perfectly against Kuroka, why am I losing my mind here?'

(Side effect of becoming a devil, perhaps? You may be reacting to your subconscious desires. Dragons your age are usually quite sexually active. Personally, I find the fact that you aren't ravaging at least one of them right now speaks volumes for your self-control.)

'I hate you.' Tearing himself away from the mental link and doing his best to ignore it, he tried to focus on anything else. Almost immediately, he tried to shift his attention elsewhere, as his gaze had been drawn back to the two succubi still in the room with him.

Rias put her underwear back on before gathering the rest of her garments. She lightly stepped towards the exit, calling over her shoulder. "Please get ready, we have much to do today and I'd prefer to get it done sooner rather than later." With that, she left, closing the door behind her.

Still sprawled over him, Akeno let out a long sigh. "And it was just getting fun too. Though she does have a point, there are plenty of things to attend to." Taking her time to peal herself off his torso, Akeno lightly stepped away to collect her belongings as well, though she made no move to dress or cover herself. Winking at him, she strolled into the connected bathroom, and shut the door. Moments later, the sound of rushing water emanated from the walls, presumably for the shower. Issei nearly relaxed, until he realized that he had never heard the lock click, as he understood Akeno's subtle intentions.

'What have I gotten myself into?'

"Good! We're almost all here!" Rias seemed rather excitable today. Issei had waited for Akeno to leave before he finished his morning rituals and dressed before going to the clubroom proper. There he found Rias, Akeno, and Kiba lounging patiently. They had each forfeited their school uniforms, choosing to dress casually instead. After a few minutes, Koneko arrived, wearing a sundress that made her seem rather adorable.

"Good morning." She greeted the others before addressing Issei. "Convict."

Adorable? Decidedly less so now.

Since they were all present, Rias gestured with both hands and a magical circle appeared on the floor. Issei noted that it was identical to the one on the flier he had grabbed. 'Wow. If I hadn't gotten that flier, where would I be right now?' he wondered to himself. Joining the others in the center, he felt a tingle in his chest before it seemingly yanked him downward, and then up again, depositing the group in a back alley near the shopping district.

Issei stumbled, seemingly unsettled due to the quick change in motion. Though the situation was a bit more intricate than he let on. At the moment he had passed through the portal, he had felt a rather severe case of dizziness, perhaps a touch of nausea. He guessed it had something to do with his resistance to magic at best, his aura at worst. Regardless, Kiba was quick to support him. "Don't worry, it happens to everyone on their first time."

The girls were already walking towards the mall, though even Koneko seemed excited at the prospect. Issei turned to Kiba and then his face fell. Kiba's visage seemed resigned, as if he knew exactly what entailed coming here with a trio of girls. His fears confirmed, all Issei could do was square his shoulders and follow half-heartedly.

However terrifying it is to go shopping with a girl, Issei had found something worse. While the girls stopped to observe and occasionally try on several outfits or accessories, in the end, their goal was to completely construct a new wardrobe for him. Subjected to several hours of being a living doll, forced to try and retry outfits until the older girls were satisfied, Issei began to truly know despair. What made matters worse is that when he sealed away the packages and parcels to relieve his burden, the girls took this as a sign to continue, as well as extort promises that he would accompany them on future excursions.

As the day wore on, something else began to bother Issei. While not a very self-conscious person, he was unnerved by the amount of attention he was receiving. Rias and Akeno seemed quite content to let him model many of the latest fashions, and they appeared to enjoy showing him off. However, by doing so, he was subjected to the stares, gazes, and wanton looks of nearly every other girl in his vicinity.

'Albion, this is starting to freak me out. Come on, help me!'

The dragon inside him appeared equally aggravated. (It's both a part of who and what you are. Each of my wielders has had no difficulty in attracting potential suitors of their own preference. Additionally, you're the first half-dragon to be my host, and that only makes the attraction stronger. You're an apex predator; each of these girls instinctively sees you as an ideal mate to ensure their safety and that of their offspring.)

'You're kidding me!'

(I'm afraid not.) Now Albion seemed amused at his suffering. (Each of my hosts has 'gotten lucky' as this generation says. You could get a harem of your own, if you really wanted to.)

'Fuck that.'

(Lancelot said the exact same thing, citing chivalry and honor as his reasons, though that didn't stop him from having his fun as well. He always found the occasional lovely maiden or two to rescue and seduce.)

'Lancelot was one of my predecessors? Why didn't I know that?'

(Where do you think the term 'White Knight' originated?) Albion now sounded rather smug. (As for why, I never gave you his combat experience because he only had to fight opponents much weaker than himself. Mordred tried to become king and claim Excalibur to compensate for his inability to Boost more than twice.)

'Huh. The things you learn.'

(Indeed. Now, if you're done asking questions, put a shirt on. The females are drooling.)

Issei shook his head to clear his thoughts and found that Albion was right; there was a small crowd of teenage girls gathered outside the store, pressed to the glass to observe him. Blushing furiously, he ducked out of sight, pulled on the nearest shirt in his size, and found Rias to ask if they were done for now.

"Well, I suppose that will suffice for now." Rias sighed. "I guess the fun had to end sometime."

"You call that fun?"

Shaking his head in disbelief, Issei noted that both Rias and surprisingly Koneko were sporting faint blushes of their own. Akeno looked disappointed for some reason, though if he had to guess, it was because the free show was over.

The Gremory group left the mall, filing into the same alley to teleport somewhere else. Once again, Issei's body reacted negatively to the use of magic, though he was able to steady himself and thereby avoid suspicion.

Their final destination from the portal was a mid-rise apartment complex. Only a few blocks away from school, it was in a quiet neighborhood that Issei remembered fondly as a place where he had often played in the streets.

"Well, here we are. Time to acquire housing for our newest member." Rias calmly strode to the entryway of the building, as if she owned the place. Sensing his confusion, Kiba clarified for him.

"The Gremory family aided in the reconstruction of Kuoh nearly a decade ago. Rias' family owns many buildings in the area; this duplex is one of them. It makes sense that she'd find a place for you on such short notice."

"I guess so."

The five teenagers entered the lobby, where Rias spoke to the representative at the welcome desk. After a few minutes, she returned. "Come on now, time to see your suite."

'Suite?'

(As someone of your status undoubtedly deserves.)

After a short elevator ride, Issei found himself at the top floor. Following the others at his own pace, he admired the lavish decorations. White walls, adorned with gold latticework. Marble statues in equally spaced alcoves. He had yet to even enter his room and the place screamed expensive to him.

Handing him a key card, Rias motioned to the door at the end of the hall. Inserting it into the lock, it clicked, allowing him to gently push on the door to open. Inside, he was faced with a spacious entryway opening into a furnished living room. Said room had two hallways across from each other, while opposite him was a floor-to-ceiling layered window. Further observation showed that a set of hinges were set into the upper panel. While he had yet to see the bedroom or any of the other rooms, he was already sold. The window alone offered him something Tartarus denied, the freedom to fly whenever he pleased. First, he had to determine what was acceptable.

"You're sure about letting me stay here?" He turned back to Rias as he asked. "I don't want to be a burden."

"I'm quite sure. Besides, everyone else seems to be adjusting nicely."

To his surprise, the others had already begun exploring. Kiba had stepped up to the window to appreciate the view. Crossing his arms, it seemed like he could be there for a while.

Koneko had already moved to one of the couches. Seating herself, she moved around to find the most comfortable position before simply stating that it would suffice. Regardless of what she said, it was clear she had no intention of moving for some time.

Akeno had disappeared down one of the hallways. Returning, she confirmed that the hallway had two bedrooms with connected bathrooms, a modest kitchen, and a study. Rias confirmed that the floor plan was nearly identical on the other side, though with an expansive bath in lieu of the kitchen and study.

"Well? What do you think?" Rias seemed worried that he wouldn't accept it.

"If it's really alright, then I'll take it. Besides, I really like it. You don't get a view like this in Hell." Taking his first steps into the living room, he took a deep breath to understand his whereabouts. The background smells informed him that the suite had been vacant for some time now, that didn't bother him. What got his attention were the scents of the people around him.

Akeno smelled of lavender still, though it seemed charged with ozone. That made sense, Baraqiel did sometimes use lightning in their spars. Kiba's scent was that of a normal human, though heavily mixed with forged metal. Interesting, a sacred gear maybe? Rias had an authoritative air around her, both in her manner and her scent. He couldn't quite place it exactly, but he could identify sugar mixed with… something else that forewarned danger. The last scent put him on guard though.

He had known that Koneko was a Nekomata. Logically, he knew that he shouldn't treat her unfairly just because of his tainted relationship with Kuroka. So why did her scent remind him so much of the Black Cat? Forcing himself to remind calm, he took a moment to settle his breathing and racing heartbeat. Looking at Koneko, Issei began to try and understand.

Koneko seemed to avoid giving any sign that she was a cat demon. If Albion was right, it seemed that she was denying her heritage altogether, something that both helped and hurt her case. If she chose to not associate with her kind, then perhaps she had her reasons. On the other hand, denying one's heritage never sat well with prideful dragons.

Ultimately, Issei chose to give her the benefit of a doubt. She may not be his biggest fan, but she didn't mean him any harm. If that remained true, then he'd at least be amiable with her.

"Well, I guess I'd better get settled then." Issei grinned. "I don't suppose I could ask for help in decorating, could I?"

It was only a matter of three hours at most for them to fully furnish the suite. The previous occupant had left behind most of the appliances, making it a rather short list of what else was required. Personally, Issei didn't see the point in having an oven or any other heat-related cooking implement but he acquiesced to those who didn't have his control over fire. While he emptied the contents of his arrays and organized them in the master bedroom, Kiba had left to acquire the needed instruments. Upon exiting the room, he found the Akeno and Rias had moved around the furniture, so as to have more feminine touches. Albion found this amusing as Issei had yet to spend one night there and already decisions about the appearance of the suite were being made without him.

Inevitably, it darkened outside. Kiba and Koneko both took their leave so as to finish a few contracts, as well as prepare for school the next day. Rias and Akeno stayed behind only for a little while longer.

"Remember, this is a Gremory-owned building. All your expenses and utilities are paid. I trust you won't abuse that privilege." Rias entrusted to him the spare key, as well as a small package. Opening it, he found a smart phone, already detailed with the contact information of everyone in her peerage, though he didn't know that yet. "You can use this to get in touch with us when we're not at school. Take care not to lose it. Good night and see you at school tomorrow!" Rias primly turned on her heel before he could say anything. Downcast, Issei turned to Akeno, hoping she could plead his case.

"Sorry Issei, but you do have to go to school after all." Well, hoping didn't hurt anyone. "Oh, cheer up. We may not be in the same class or year, but I'll still be around if my cute junior needs any help. Who knows? Maybe we could get lost, find a nice broom closet together." Winking with the same teasing look she had that morning, she kissed him on the cheek before leaving as well. For good measure, she had added an extra sway in her hips.

(Still having doubts in bonding with her? She clearly wants you.)

'I think I'd prefer to wait. She might like me and the feeling is mutual, but… I don't want to rush it. Besides, if we beat Rias' fiancé, then I'm technically free to leave.'

(By that same logic, if you lose…)

'I won't think about that now.'

Glancing down at the phone in his hand, Issei frowned. 'I probably should have asked how to use this thing before they left. Any ideas?'

(I was with you in Tartarus while the world moved on. I have no idea either.)

'Damn. Well, here goes nothing.' Pressing the one visible button, Issei was surprised to see the screen light up and writing appear. 'A step-by-step customization process? This seems overly complicated.'

(One of my previous hosts wasn't strong enough to wake me and lived a long happy life. Imagine my surprise to find that humans had discovered how to utilize electricity.)

'I feel so out of place now. I'm going to be the first White Dragon Emperor to lose to a piece of metal and wire.'

(It shall make for an interesting tale.)

Deciding to waive his exploration of the digital world, Issei set the phone down before walking to the giant window. Giving it a once-over, he took a moment to appreciate its convenience. While he may have been able to fit through the other windows, this was the only one facing away from the other buildings nearby. He could take off and land without being detected this late.

'One quick flight won't hurt, right?'

(So long as it's only a quick flight, I think so. But you never know.) Albion seemed amused, as a teasing snort sounded through the link. (It is a school night.)

'Try and let that stop me.' Issei undid the latch and gently pulled on the handle embedded in the window. Silently folding inward on itself, the portal swung open, conveniently wide enough to accommodate his wingspan. On a side note, Issei noticed that the furniture had been moved to allow him a clear path for a running start. Vowing to thank the girls for it later, Issei unfurled his natural wings before hurling himself outside.

(You have no one to blame but yourself. Stop complaining and move, kid!)

Despite all intention to only fly for a short time, Issei had flown around and above Kuoh for some time, only returning to his new home in the early morning. He had managed to nap for a few hours, though it didn't feel like enough.

'Why didn't you stop me?'

(You're better than that. Learn to maintain your discipline.)

'It was my first time flying without the pressure of escape or being killed. I wanted to enjoy it!'

(Learn to temper your desires. You're choices are your own, as are the consequences. Freedom of choice and the acceptance of their outcomes define our race; you have your freedom now, accept the punishment of your own making.)

'Yeah, fine.' Issei had managed to stay lucid enough to make a quick breakfast, eat, shower, then dress in record time. Eschewing the typical Kuoh Academy uniform, he had chosen practicality over formality in his attire. Considering that none of the standard uniforms would easily fit him, according to the rules, he did have some leeway in how he dressed.

First, he pulled on some black cargo pants and a grey t-shirt. Both fit him well enough and while it looked as if he belonged in the workforce rather than in school, both had his approval based on the fact they were flame and heat resistant. In the event he was forced to use his flames, he didn't want to burn away whatever he was wearing. Choosing equally protected boots, he glanced at his reflection in a mirror. 'Ok, I can work with this as casual wear. Besides, the extra pockets are a good cover for my array.'

(Only to a certain degree, though you're correct in theory. Unseal something too large or summon a great quantity and people will ask questions.)

Shrugging, he reached for a white, button-down shirt and jacket. This was the only concession to the dress code he could manage. Deciding to leave both unbuttoned, he eyed the necktie before wincing. Unbidden memories of a four-on-four fight resurfaced, painful memories considering his opponent had wrapped a tentacle around his neck. Even if it got him in trouble, he wouldn't wear such a convenient noose.

Leaving both his apartment and building behind, Issei managed the walk to school in short time. Upon his arrival, he found he was early enough to receive his schedule without attracting attention, just as he preferred. Passing through the courtyard and into the main building, he found the administrative office where he was able to pick up his schedule.

'Hmm. Math, science, literature, history. All in the same classroom. For the entire school day.'

(I can make this worse. Three words. High school classmates.)

'I hate you.'

Making his way to the designated classroom, Class 2B, he found it just before class began. The homeroom teacher took one look at him before nodding. "I've been expecting you. Class, we have a new student with us today, a transfer from overseas!"

Guessing that it was the cover story that Rias had fabricated for him, he stepped to the front of the class. Preparing his mind for the monotone introduction drivel, he managed to smile while greeting his peers. "Hello, my name is Issei Hyoudou. I'll be in your care."

"Oh my gosh, a cute guy!"

What?

"He looks like a prince!"

"No, he dresses like a soldier! He must be a hero!"

Realizing that for whatever reasons many of the girls seemed to like him, Issei internally screamed. He didn't want any attention, especially the flak from the other gender in the room.

"Dammit! Another pretty boy!"

"Stealing the hearts of all the girls!"

"Take your good looks elsewhere!"

"Die handsome!"

A smile tugged at his lips. It seemed that no matter where he went, somebody was after his head.

"No way!" one girl cried out. "He's the hot model from the mall yesterday!"

Instantly, the classroom became a symphony of excitement and outrage as both fan girls and angry boys argued over the overall opinion of him. The intensity of it nearly threatened to overwhelm his sensitive hearing. Blocking out all the excess sound, he turned back to the teacher. "There's a window spot over there. May I take it?"

Receiving a nod of approval, Issei walked to his seat. As the lecture began, he started to take notes, scribbling down the bare minimum and memorizing the rest. After some time, he found himself glancing out the window instead of paying attention to the teacher. A window seat, huh? It could be worse. At least this cell had a view.

Some hours later, Issei yawned and craned neck sideways, grunting as he heard and felt a series of satisfying pops as his vertebrae strained and cracked. Nonchalantly packing his materials away in his case, he stowed it away in his desk as the class left for their lunch break.

Issei couldn't help but groan. All day had been nothing but mathematical equations and scientific formulas. After lunch came literature and the rest. While he knew that this was important, it didn't make it any easier for him to deal with.

Since he didn't pack himself a lunch, and he didn't think he could pay with a scale in the cafeteria, he resorted to wandering the campus. Everywhere he went, history repeated itself as the other students admire or threatened him. What a pain. Eventually he found Kiba with some fan girls of his own in tow.

"Excuse me girls, but I must speak with Hyoudou." Kiba at least had the manners to placate the crowd. Perhaps learning from him could help.

Once they were out of hearing from any human ears, Issei turned and asked, "How do you do it?"

"I beg your pardon?"

"The boring lessons. Teachers droning on and on. The noise, the excitement. The girls' silliness and the boys' aggression? It's driving me mad."

Kiba grinned. "I think you just described high school in its entirety." He looked pensive for a moment before understanding dawned on his face. "You've made an impression."

"So to speak. I can't show my face to anyone here without having to tune out the same teenage angst. How do you deal with it?"

"Well, I try to smile and take it. The girls think I'm a prince for it, though the male population seems to have it out for me. There really isn't a way to make both sides happy?"

"Sides? You make it sound like a battle?"

"In a sense, that isn't entirely inaccurate." Kiba rolled his eyes. "Just to clarify, if you want the nonsense to stop, I'm afraid it doesn't. The best you can do is appease one side and outlast the other."

"Damn. This is more complicated than I thought it would be. At least in prison everything was simple. Hit the other person harder than he hit you, that sort of thing."

Kiba sweatdropped. "I don't think that will work here."

"Once again, damn." At that moment, Issei's sensitive hearing brought him another headache. While Kiba may not hear them, Issei could clearly make out the words of some of the girls watching.

"Is the prince really talking to Hyoudou!"

"They look good together!"

"I'd ship them!"

"They're so hot!"

Now it was Issei's turn to sweatdrop. "Don't look now, but we've got a fan club." Confused, Kiba looked over his shoulder to see the group of girls steadily growing. "They seem to assume that we're… interested in the other. Sorry, you're a nice guy and all, but I don't swing that way."

Kiba smiled weakly. "I'm flattered by the praise, but fortunately for us both I'm not playing for the other team."

"Good. Glad we could get that squared away." Checking his watch, Issei grimaced at the time. "My lunch break is almost up. Sorry, but I'm going to have to cut this short."

"No problem, Hyoudou. Anytime."

"Ok, enough with that. Call me Issei, I insist."

"Very well then, Issei. As for me, it doesn't matter as much. Rias gave me my new name, so I'm rather partial to being called Kiba if you don't mind."

"I'm sure there's a story behind that. Maybe one day I'll get to hear it." Shaking hands, the two boys went their separate ways. Issei was rather content with how he and Kiba were getting along, though he could do without the commentary.

"I bet they're having secret rendezvous! How else would Kiba know the new boy so well"?

Issei almost wished for the comfort of his old cell.

Taking the long way back to his classroom, Issei found a rather curious sight. Turning around the corner of the main building, he noticed that the view of the town from there was nearly the same as the view form his old home. With a touch of sadness, he realized that this was where his old house was located. Dammit all to hell, could his day get any worse?

As if hearing his pleas, two voices sounded out, "Yes, this is excellent! Saving to brainbox under busty babe sections!"

"Aw hell yeah, brother! Get some nice good shots in there too! Pictures always make much better material, especially of them hot ass kendo girls!"

'What is going on?'

Taking the time to find the source of the voices, he found two boys with their faces pressed into a wall, neither of them noticing him. Interestingly enough, he remembered them as two of his less than respectful classmates. Matsuda and Motohama were there names or at least he thought so.

"Murayama! 84-70-81! Katase! 78.5-65-79! Dear God, we are blessed to see this!"

Wincing at the slight headache caused by hearing what barely qualified as legitimate prayer, Issei scowled. While he wasn't a little kid anymore, his ingrained desire to not be a pervert hadn't changed. The sensual women in his life may have challenged his ideals, but he was far from a lecher. On top of that, they were praying for the wrong things. Now if he were a good devil, he'd smirk and be on his way.

He wasn't a devil by choice and good is a point of view.

Taking care to mask his presence, he quietly maneuvered himself behind the Perverted Duo before noting the set of peepholes they were looking through. Scumbags. They had this coming. Even if he wasn't trying to be stealthy, they were too engrossed with the figures of the Kendo Team to notice him. In a twisted way, he was impressed by their audacity, though that wouldn't save them now.

Taking a deep breath, he allowed his lungs to fill to capacity before barking out, "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU PERVERTS DOING!" Immediately, both idiots jumped up from their hunchbacked positions. Whirling in shock at their discovery, they turned red; not out of embarrassment for being caught, but anger for being interrupted.

"Damn you handsome!" The bald one shrieked. "Don't stop us! This is our birthright as men!"

'Eh?'

The one with glasses added his two cents as well. "This is a discrete, invite only photo-shoot! You can't show up uninvited! Besides, you already have the girls in our class loving you! You don't belong here!"

Issei rolled his eyes as he reached out with both hands. "On that, we are in agreement." Grabbing them both by their jackets with one hand each, he lifted them off them the ground and to his eye level. Several fair and suitable punishments crossed his mind, but as much as they irritated him, it wasn't really his place to hurt them too much.

Motohama and Matsuda gulped in unison. Their words before may have been full of bravado and spoken with manly intent. But this specimen in front of them either didn't care or worse, cared much more. What made it worse was that, in hindsight, pissing off someone who was a giant relative to them was not a good idea.

(So? What will you do with them?)

'I'm not really sure. Any suggestions?'

(If I still had a body and possessed a just cause, I'd tear off their heads to rot as I fed on their corpses. Though that may not be acceptable for you.)

'Ugh, sorry I asked.'

While he was silent, it seemed the Duo was regaining some bravery after all. "You can't stop us! Women's bodies are treasures to be shared with those in need! US! We-" Whatever, they were going to say was cut off as Issei reflexively smashed their heads together. Both instantly received a massive red lump on their foreheads. Said injuries were only exacerbated as he let them fall face first to the ground, two satisfying thumps his pleasant reward.

Dusting his hands off, he decided to wash his them at the soonest opportunity. Turning on his heel, he paused as he saw the entirety of the girls' Kendo team standing there, fully dressed and watching him, with weighted shinai in their hands. Seeing that he had just been caught fighting, Issei threw caution to the winds. "Enjoy the show, ladies?"

To his great surprise, all of them blushed simultaneously. Two of them, Murayama and Katase, stepped forward. Bowing in the traditional manner, they stammered in unison. "Thank you, for the assistance."

Now it was his turn to stutter and blush. "Think nothing of it. Besides, I only did what anyone else would do."

Another voice rang out, clear and authoritative. "Anyone else would do what exactly?"

Behind the Kendo Team were two girls new to the conversation. Both were wearing Kuoh Academy uniforms, and if the whispers of the team were anything to go by, they clearly were to be respected by other students. Both had black hair and wore glasses, though one had hers cut short while the other's was nearly as long as Rias'.

That aside, what set him on guard was that they weren't human. Issei knew immediately they were devils, though he did know they weren't a part of Rias' peerage. Their energies were different as well. The longhaired girl seemed like the average devil, the other, who was clearly taking the lead, smelled of the usual devilry mixed with ocean air. An elemental user, then.

Katase indirectly informed him of their roles. "President Shitori! We… we weren't expecting you."

"Apparently not. Would you mind telling me what happened?"

Before any of the Kendo girls spoke up, Issei interjected. "I found these two outside their changing room. I don't think I need to go into details but their behavior was less than honorable, so I took action." The entire time, he was none too gently prodding the two groaning boys with the toe of his boot.

"Is that so? You are the new student, Issei Hyoudou? I'm sure you don't need me to remind you how this looks. You should have left this to the Student Council. Regardless of your intent, you've admitted to fighting on campus, therefore there will be consequences."

'Kiba said to take a side. Guess it's time to go big or go home.'

"I understand and accept the consequences."

That seemed to impress Shitori. "Oh? Without complaint or objection. That is indeed a rare thing."

"It's only right. I am the one who initiated the conflict after all. Besides," he grinned. He had her now. "…one punishment served is hardly something to fret about when compared to preserving a girl's dignity."

"Your new servant is out of control, out of line even! Contain him Rias!"

Both Sona and Rias were in the Occult Research Clubhouse, playing a game of chess as their respective Queens stood behind them and watched. Sona was usually the better player, but it was obvious she was distracted as her erratic moves were all actually to Rias' benefit.

"The way you describe it, it seems that he actually did a public service. Besides, I think you're more upset that he put you in an untenable position."

"What was I supposed to do? Issue a detention on the spot? My reputation would fall immediately as word got out that I punished a Good Samaritan."

"On the other hand, failure to issue chastisement would undermine your authority. The only other choice would end with the same result." Rias took one of Sona's Knights. "Check."

Sona frowned, her source of frustration unclear. "In the end, all I could say was 'Details of your punishment will come later. For now, return to class.' I've made no progress on his account!" Sona moved her remaining Bishop to eliminate the threat, in this case a Rook.

Rias smiled and then moved her Queen four spaces forward. "Checkmate." Sona blinked as she examined the board. After a minute of intense study, she sighed exasperatedly. Akeno smiled and clapped her hands together, while Tsubaki winced.

Akeno moved to collect the pieces and board, while Rias sighed. "I know it's frustrating to hear but there's very little I can actually do. I've only just reincarnated him, so while he's agreed to serve, I just don't have the personal loyalty needed to make such a request of him."

"Then make it an order!"

"Sona, you're getting too emotional over this. Until I secure Issei's trust, there's nothing I can really do. Remember that I didn't exactly ask for his permission to use my Pieces on him. Kiba was the same way for months until he came around, and this time I'm dealing with a Dragon's sense of pride." She paused, contemplating on how to deliver the final point.

"In the end though, I can't, but ultimately won't give that order. Not to spite you, but because I agree with his intentions, if not his execution. I won't ask a member of my household to change their views if they're of honorable and honest nature. I know you agree with his intent too, deep down."

Sona was quiet for some time. Sighing, she removed her glasses and rubbed the bridge of her nose. "Why do you have to be right about this?"

Rias smiled. "I know you well enough that you lose focus when emotional. I'm guilty of it too. I'll talk to Issei about it, but I can't promise anything."

Sona wiped her glasses with a handkerchief before putting them back on. "I guess I have been a bit childish. However, that doesn't mean I'm rescinding his punishment."

"And what exactly are you having my Pawn do? Nothing degrading I hope."

"No, nothing like that. Just helping with reorganizing the administrative records. Paperwork, something I don't think he'll be done with anytime soon."

"Thanks for that, now when I have him passing out fliers he'll hate it."

"Tough luck. By the way, I'm still curious. You never did tell me where he came from or why he was such a mess when I was here last."

"That's a bit of a long story and even I don't know all the details. All I know is that for the past decade, he was an inmate in Tartarus for a crime-"

"TARTARUS! AND YOU STILL REINCARNATED HIM!" Sona had leapt to her feet, spilling her tea in the process. Everyone ignored the loss of the calming drink; none gathered had ever seen Sona raise her voice like that.

"Yes, but he professed his innocence to me. He was never given a trial, and it was the Grigori that put him there as a child." Rias was getting irrationally angry. "Besides, with his innocence, what difference does it make?"

Sona had to visibly force herself to calm down. Returning to her seat, she began to explain. "A few years ago, back when we still lived in the Underworld, I found a few references to that particular facility. I asked my sister exactly why the Maou cut ties with the current patrons." She hesitated. "While there were many reasons, one particular reason was that the pantheons in control were in the habit of sending the inmates into Gladiator fights for entertainment. Sick and brutal matches, they made the Rating Game system look like child's play. There's no retirement system, only enchantments that prevent them from dying. You could have a sword through the heart, lose enough blood, be blown apart and yet the darkness of the Pit will extend your suffering by denying you the right to die."

Rias and Tsubaki looked sick, Akeno looked as if she was going to cry. It was obvious that the blood sport had been kept hidden from them. None of that convinced Sona to stop. "That is why I'm worried. You just spent eight Pawns, four of them were mutated, on a dragon that's spent his formative years fighting for his life against the most dangerous criminals Tartarus has to offer. The fact that he's here and in one piece is a testament to the fact that as a child, he fought and won." She continued, but now her voice was barely louder than a whisper. "By your own admission, you've said you have limited control over him. Don't you see now why I'm worried for you."

Rias now sat dejectedly, looking into her folded hands. Akeno was clutching the back of the sofa behind her. Both appeared to withdraw into themselves, making Sona almost regret her words. She silently tilted her head towards the door; Tsubaki nodded and left. Walking around the table, Sona crouched next to her friend and put a hand on her shoulder. "I don't mean to scare you. Honestly, I like Issei; he seems like a good person, but you must prepare for the worst. You may not be able to seal him away like you did your Bishop. In the event Issei goes rogue, can you stop him?"

Sona stood and began to walk to the door. Just as she placed her hand on the handle, she heard Rias call out, "I need him." Facing her longtime rival, she was surprised to see tears crawling down her cheeks. "I need him to beat Riser."

Turning back to the entrance, she pushed against the door and shut it quietly behind her. She only took a moment to compose herself before leaving the building and met with Tsubaki. While she later resumed her work as both a student and class official, dragons and devils continued to dominate her thoughts. 'Oh, Rias. I know why you're doing this and I understand. You need him because you need to believe there's still hope. But what happens when he believes he doesn't need you?'

Plagued by these notions of action and consequence, constants and variables, Sona didn't rest that night. Her peerage surrounded her offering comfort with their presence, but even that did not distract her from the fears she carried for her friend.

(PLEASE READ!)

AN: Not my best chapter, but I needed to set the stage for someone's introduction. Also, this is where I'm cutting it off because otherwise, I'd be writing and editing a 30K word chapter that would come out in… four, five weeks? Waiting that long doesn't sit well with me, particularly because it's because I'm indecisive about what comes next. I have an outcome in mind; it's just the steps to get there… have yet to be written in a way that doesn't set me up for discontinuity later. That being said, it'll be maybe two weeks till the next chapter.

Please note that Sona is one of my favorite characters, and this is just her being logical. She should be, it's her nature. If she wasn't like that I'd be worried for her friendship with Rias.

A reminder again to please not ask about Issei's love life in reviews, PMs only. Once I really get started with that, then I'll let you know but not before. Please, I respond to reviews, don't be the person to spoil the story for everyone else

Please let me know what you think! Please REVIEW; once again, I can't improve without your feedback. Besides, your input may change my mind about certain things. You never know.

Next time: Issei is confronted by the King and Queen, cuts loose, and then meets someone new.