This is the 55th chapter of the crossover story. I don't own the series of High School DxD or the videogame of Final Fantasy 13.
Town of Kuoh
Few days have passed since the arrival of Ophis, Le Fay Pendragon, and Fenrir, Ravel brought so many books for Issei to study between the Mid-Class promotion and the mid-term exam along with the study group in the living room. Ophis is sitting, staring at them while eating tea cakes that Miki gave her. For Issei, it's abnormal and it annoys him, but for Virgil, he can tell that she's curious which the Infinite Dragon is still new and couldn't help but wondering what they were doing. Of course, everyone was studying while trying not to think about it, but sometimes they looked at Ophis which it's understandable because she's the leader of the Khaos Brigade.
Though, they don't feel any hostility towards her at all, Ophis is just curious. Le Fay and Fenrir are playing at the indoor swimming pool located at the basement of the Hyoudou residence. Issei even told her and the wolf to remain inside of the house which Le Fay agreed. Kuroka however, remained in the living room to take care of the triplets while Kalawarner and Mittelt gave her a helping hand. The two Fallen Angels were new to this when it comes to taking care babies, but Kuroka was able to teach them since she got help a week ago. Virgil is studying some notes for the exam and review them which he was able to get the answers right without any problems.
Issei however, is struggling in his studies between the exam and the Mid-Class promotion. Since he received recommendation from Sirzechs, he can't betray his trust. He does remember the names of the 72 Pillars of Solomon, the rules in the human world, the houses that survived and how to maintain them, the different ways of treating his familiar, political difference between the Old-Satan and the New-Satan, and the information of the legendary creatures and gods from the different Factions. Though, he's not sure about the application problems, Underworld economics, and folkloristics from different regions. Kiba and Akeno answered the questions while Issei struggles because he still make mistakes. Koneko is also studying for the exam, but she's still feeling off because of the mating season.
"Are you alright, Koneko?" Gasper asked, worried.
"I'm alright, Gaspy." Koneko assures with a smile, but the blush says otherwise.
Apparently, her condition is still ongoing, and she didn't appear in front of Virgil. They both made sure not to see each other as much as possible, but she's fighting against her instinct because her desire. Luckily, Kuroka was able to buy some birth control pills for precaution in case if Koneko wanted to have sex with the white-haired l'Cie. Virgil felt terrible for not talking to Koneko, wishing there's something he can do to help. But with the exams coming up, both Koneko and Virgil wont' have to contact with each other. Koneko was still felling unwell right before the exam, but she and Gasper have excellent school reports, so they won't have problems for the exams, even if they don't study much. Though, Issei was in a very tight situation where Ravel teaches things he didn't know.
"It seems like Issei will be able to answer the questions, regarding those people who appear in legends because you have met some of them." Ravel states with a ponder. "Though, it seems you like the Underworld economies and folkloristics will become an obstacle for those people who have been reincarnated into a devil from a human. There are lots of differences between the values humans and devils have, so it will be natural for three to be things that are hard to understand, regarding economics and folkloristics. Since the fundamental culture is different after all. So, the test will ask questions about that, even if you don't understand the feelings and thoughts about devils, I think it would be better to answer them by thinking 'the devils would do it like this' instead."
"I see. I mean their personality changes, depending from which house they are from, so the way they rule their territory is also different...Gremory has strong love so there aren't any unfair rules towards the people living there." Issei said, realizing of Ravel's explanation. "But it doesn't mean it's the same in the other territories, right? Since the world of devils circulate as the noble society..."
As Issei continued learning about the cultures from Ravel, Virgil was able to gather information about the Underworld since he can hear them. Apparently, the test was about the different values due to the different cultures. According to what Ravel have to the Red Dragon Emperor, former humans who turned into devils are going to join Underworld Faction, so not knowing their culture won't allow them to get a promotion. It's said that the Underworld is gradually changing, but the fundamental base is different from the human world. Seems like understanding those things will be a problem for Issei, but Virgil was able to figure out a bit while understanding the different values and cultures.
Then, Asia stood up and went towards Ophis.
"U-Umm, maybe eating just tea cakes might not be good, so here is some green tea." Asia offered, extends the tea to the Infinite Dragon.
Ophis took the cup filled with green tea silently and drank it, leaving Issei shocked and Virgil impressed as Asia came back with a smile on her face.
"Y-You sure are brave Asia..." Issei said, whispered to her ear.
"No kidding, you've got guts." Virgil adds with a smirk.
"Well, I've learned a lot from you." Asia points out. "And I thought that she might not be someone so scary. Even last night, Irina invited her playing cards with her."
"Haa?!" Issei exclaims, turning to Irina who made a peace sign with a smile on her face.
"Yes, I asked her to play with me." Irina admits. "I got to play cards with the Ultimate Dragon!"
'Actually, Ophis is the Infinite Dragon.' Virgil mentally thought with a sweat drop.
That got Issei stunned which it got him wondering if Michael make Irina into his Ace. With her personality, she can communicate with any kind of person. He might have thought that keeping her in a place like that makes her meet people from different factions will allow her to play the role of the Heaven Faction.
"A change...She's quite different from the Uroboros that is told in the legend." Kiba said surprisingly, earned a nod from Akeno.
"She definitely has a different impression from that dragon that represents chaos, infinity, and nothingness." Akeno adds.
Issei and Virgil then turns to Ophis, who's staring mostly at the Red Dragon Emperor while drinking green tea. To Issei, Ophis doesn't seem like a being that is called God of Dragons. Great Red looks more like a God of Dragons instead. Like Kiba said, Ophis changed because she stayed in this world for long. Issei begins to understand why Azazel gained interest in her, but Ophis must be s being filled with doubts and she's taking an interest in the Red Dragon Emperor.
'What on earth is she trying to gain from me?' Issei mentally questions as they continued studying.
Later that night, they stopped studying since it's now the time to get some sleep. Virgil, Kuroka, and Koneko are at home while taking the triplets to bed. Virgil was getting worried, decided to head to Koneko's room to check up on her, but he noticed the door was open, meaning that Kuroka got here before him. He can hear the conversation from inside of the room.
"Shirone, why? You're an aunt of my kittens and I just want you to be happy. Why did you do that?" Kuroka asks.
"I know and I'm happy for you and Virgil. But...it's just...I'm..."
Kuroka then realize the reason why Koneko is in heat and tried to make a move with Virgil is because...she fell for the white haired l'Cie. Ever since Koneko lived in his house, Virgil treated her like a little sister and a friend after clearing Kuroka's name and the crime she didn't commit. Koneko is happy for Kuroka married Virgil and having the triplets, but she also envies her sister and secretly fallen in love with the white haired l'Cie. She was also worried that he'll reject her feelings like he did with Asia, but she knew what she was doing is wrong because she's the sister-in-law of Virgil and an aunt of the triplets.
"Koneko, if you fallen for Virgil, why did you tell me?" Kuroka questions.
"Because I was afraid...afraid that he'll reject me, like he did it to Asia." Koneko answered sadly. "I know what I did is wrong...and I know that I'm his sister-in-law and an aunt to our kittens, but the truth is...I envy you."
Kuroka and Virgil widen their eyes in shock when Koneko told her sister. Virgil never knew that Koneko would feel this way.
"I envy you because...you were saved by Virgil more than once...married him...and have kittens. I really happy for you, but I envy you." Koneko admits. "I just wish that have kittens of my own when I grew older and marry Virgil, but..."
"Shirone." Kuroka interrupts, placing her hand under her chin with a smile. "Of course, Virgil saved me and I'm happy for that, but you're forgetting one thing, he saved you, too."
Koneko now widens her eyes, shocked.
"He helped you by revealing the dark truth of our previous house in the Underworld and the reason why I killed him." Kuroka told her. "Even no one else helped me clear my name for the crime I didn't commit."
Koneko begins to understand what Kuroka is telling her, knew that she's right. Kuroka then turns to the door after using her ears to hear the sound.
"You can come out, Virgil." Kuroka said.
Virgil wasn't surprised that Kuroka knows where he's hiding because of her ears. Soon as Virgil went inside of Koneko's room, she's starting to blush, her eyes dilated, and her tail swings side to side which her condition is getting worse. Koneko was about to collapse, causing Kuroka to grab hold of her.
"You heard everything?" Kuroka asked her mate, earned a nod from him.
"Every word." Virgil confessed. "Koneko, I didn't know how you feel about me and I'm sorry. If I learned this sooner, then..."
"It's not your fault, neither of us know about it." Kuroka told him. "Koneko kept it from us and cost her to go into heat."
Koneko then approaches Virgil, wrapped her arms around him, push towards her chest, and made an emotional expression with her teary eyes.
"...Nya...Virgil..." Koneko said in her low tone, causing her tail to spin before wrapping his right arm with it.
"Koneko..." Virgil muttered.
Of course, Virgil didn't want to have sex with Koneko. One: He considered her as a sister-figure and a friend which to him, it's wrong. Two: If he did something reckless and make him regret, Koneko will get pregnant, and she'll die along with her baby. However, Koneko kept grinding ger body against his, tried to take his clothes off with an erotic expression as if the strong will that that had been stopping her. She also starting to take off her pajamas, revealing her petite body which it got Virgil blushed while Kuroka sighed, knew that her sister is getting more and more erotic.
"Virgil, will you not take it if it is my body...?" Koneko asks seductively. "...Am I not able to have sex...? I'm...already prepared to take on you...Even if there are lots of small parts, my body is still that od a woman. That's why...I want your-"
"Stop it!" Virgil said, hugged her. "I don't want this, not like this! I'm not like those perverts, and I don't treat you like you're a piece of meat. I'm telling you this because I love you and I can't risk it of getting you pregnant. You're not ready to have kids and I don't want you to die. Please Koneko, don't do this to yourself...Please..."
Koneko couldn't help but gasp with her eyes widen in shock, starting to realize the reason why Virgil didn't want to have sex with her is because not he loved her, but he cares about her. Her eyes are starting to fill up in tears as she hugged him, crying. Kuroka smiled at the heartwarming sight.
"Shirone, you shouldn't push yourself." Kuroka told her sister. "And we're sorry for not taking your feelings to consideration."
"I'm sorry...because of me..."
"Koneko, don't be too hard on yourself. Your part of our family and we love you." Virgil said with a smile, but turns to stern when he breaks the hug. "But Koneko, that is no reason to keep secrets from us. You think that's what I want?! You of all people!"
And just as Virgil raise his fist when he about to punch her, causing Koneko to flinch. However, Virgil just light fist bump her in the head, leaving Koneko confused.
"I'm sorry, Koneko, for not realizing it sooner." Virgil apologizes.
"Virgil..." Koneko muttered in shock.
"Listen, you're not alone anymore." Virgil told her, placed his hands on her shoulders. "You have a new family now. We stick together, you hear me? So, Koneko, from now on, no more secrets, you understand?"
Koneko responds with a nod as they embrace each other in a hug. Little did they know, Ravel watched them with a smile on her face. She knew that the white-haired l'Cie and the Black Nekoshou had it under control. And for that, Koneko's mating season is finally over and she's now back to normal which it got them relieved.
The next day, today is the day for the Mid-Class promotion. Virgil and Kuroka were able to give them an explanation about last night, telling them that they were able to get Koneko into her senses and back to normal. Rias and the others were surprised and relieve to hear the news, which Koneko owed them an apology for making them worried because of the mating season.
They were gathered at the magic circle located in the basement of the Hyoudou Residence. Rias and her peerage wore a Kuoh Academy uniforms while Virgil only wore a white jacket, a black shirt, black cargo pants, black fingerless gloves, and combat boots. They're also holding their bags in their hands and inside of them were the important things that were required for the test. However, the ones who are going to the stadium to take the test are Issei, Akeno, Kiba, and Ravel. Rias and the others are going to the Underworld with them, but they're going to wait at the hotel located at the stadium. The transport will send them into the stadium since Issei, Akeno, and Kiba are the only ones who are taking the test. After that, Rias and the others will transport to the hotel.
Issei thought that they would go to the Gremory territory first and then to the stadium by either using a car or similar method, but that doesn't seem to be the case. The reason is because Rias and her peerage were popular, but over there the relationship between him and Rias has also got a lot of attention which they're trying to avoid going to places with large numbers of people. Also, Virgil is also popular because of the previous fights and it also got attention after hearing the news of him and Kuroka being parents of the three kids. Though, it also continued to gather a lot of attention from the civilians in the Underworld between the articles and media, much to Virgil and Kuorka's annoyance.
"Rias, who is a princess of Gremory, and also the sister of Sirzechs. You, who is her servant, the Red Dragon Emperor who is also the 'Grabbin'' Dragon. It will turn into a love romance that will surpass social status." Azazel states with a smirk. "What will happen if a topic like that gets out of the aristocrat society? It seems it is the hot gossip topic amongst women from normal backgrounds."
That got Virgil rolled his eyes while Issei was surprised.
"It seems like it's getting really serious because people from the media are asking Riser for an interview." Ravel adds.
Issei and Virgil remembered that Riser is Rias' ex-fiancé. From how it got broken off, the story would be something that the media would love to cover. When it happened, the engagement breaks off only became famous amongst the Devils, so the media didn't take that much of an interest, but it's different. The media in the Underworld will gather around them, because of the 'Grabbin'' Dragon. Having that in mind, it's decided that they'll go directly to the stadium.
'Man, I seriously I don't know what to say. Is this something I should feel happy about it? In my case, I just want them to be quiet about us! I just confessed to her, you know?' Issei mentally shouted at the media which Virgil couldn't help but shook his head.
Because of that, Issei wasn't even able to have a single date with Rias since his confession which he's been thinking about asking her out on a date. But he couldn't because of the tests and Ophis' visit to his house. Issei then noticed someone is missing.
"Isn't Gasper here to send us off?" Issei asks.
"He transported out of here long before us to go to the Grigori's research institute that is located in the Underworld." Azazel explains.
"By himself?!" Issei exclaims with astonishment, earned a nod from Azazel.
"Right after that match against Bael, he came to me while crying." Azazel told him.
'I want to be strong like Issei and everyone! I don't want to be just protected anymore! I'm a boy from the Gremory team so I don't want to show a miserable appearance anymore!'
"He was a daywalker and also a coward." Azazael continues. "Even so, he came knocking onto the gate of Grigori, so it's not some weak determination. Right about now, he's probably facing his own Sacred Gear under the instructions of the researchers."
Apparently, Gasper wanted to seriously become stronger, so other than Virgil's training, he began learning to understand and face his Sacred Gear even more. He must've reached a dead end, which resulted in him go to the research institute of the Grigori's.
"What are Ophis and Le Fay going to do?" Issei inquires, turned to the two girls.
"They're going to the hotel with us. It'll be bad if they follow you to the stadium." Virgil explains. "Also, after your tests are finished, Azazel is planning to take Ophis to Sirzechs. It may be a good opportunity, but I have my doubts. Ophis also said she'll go as long as you're going as well. Which is why you guys are also going to Sirzechs place after the test is over."
"I understand." Issei said with an understanding. "I don't know what I can do, but taking Ophis in front of Lord Sirzechs has a big meaning to it, right?"
"Yeah. If possible, I want this to go in the right direction even if it's only a little bit. Negotiation that had been said to be impossible may now be possible, it's big step." Azazel explains with a nod. "I don't know what Ophis is thinking, but because of it, it may be possible to avoid a continued fight. If everything goes well, the enemy organization itself may collapse and split up. If that happens, it will become possible to crush them one by one. If they lose power of Ophis' snake, defeating them will occur earlier than we had thought. I even want to thank Vali who had suggested this."
'Vali, huh. The one who left Ophis in the care of Azazel was him.' Issei mentally thought, realizing why Ophis is really here.
Virgil was thinking the same thing, but knew there's more about the reason.
"He must be thinking in his own way as well. For him to place Ophis in our care." Azazel continues, narrowed his eyes. "He must have wanted to hide Ophis, from a threat that is."
'Threat?! Is Ophis being targeted by someone?! Well, she is the boss of the terrorists, so that would be natural.' Issei mentally thought.
Virgil can tell that Vali wanted to hide Ophis from someone, but the questions is, who would want the Infinite Dragon? Azazel seems to know what it is, but Issei doesn't have a clue and Virgil may have some ideas. However, Issei doesn't have time to think about it because he has the test to study. Everyone looked after the Red Dragon Emperor during the studies, so he won't be able to them if he doesn't show the results. And after that, there will be the school exams in Kuoh Academy. Just as Issei, Akeno, Kiba, and Ravel were about to leave.
"Wait." Rias called them, earned their attention as she kissed Issei on the cheek. "It's a charm, Issei. I believe you will definitely pass."
Tosca then did the same as she kissed Kiba on the cheek.
"Good luck, Kiba." Tosca said with a smile, earned a nod from him.
"I will definitely pass!" Issei declared with a blush. "W-When I pass, please go on a date with me!"
That got Rias shocked and dazzled for an instant he asked her out, but she showed a smile on her face.
"Yes. Let's go on a date." Rias replied. "It's a promise. I'll be waiting."
'Yeah! I made a promise for a date! A date with Rias! It's the best! The only thing left is passing the test! I will pass by burning up my soul! Since the date is on the line!' Issei mentally shouts excitedly.
"Guys, save it after the test is over." Virgil suggests in annoyance.
"Getting all lovey-dovey in front of everyone...It sure is good to be young." Azazel adds with annoyance, yet sarcastically.
'Don't say it like that! I was able to ask her on a date while having this embarrassing feeling!' Issei mentally shouts, then spoke. "Then we will be going!"
And with that, Issei, Akeno, Kiba, and Ravel bid them farewell to Rias and the others as the magic circle teleports them to the Underworld.
Underworld
Just as the magic circle appeared, Issei, Akeno, Kiba, and Ravel arrived at the stadium. The staff members approach them.
"Welcome. You are the servants of Rias Gremory, correct? I have heard about it. Please show me something to identify yourselves."
And with that, Issei, Akeno, and Kiba showed them the Gremory symbol and the recommendation papers. The seal is made from the bone of a certain creature and it's ground into a palm sized circular shape. It's a crimson color and it has a mark engraved into it. The staff members confirm our recommendation papers and seals.
"This way please."
The staff members guided them to corridor which was made from rocks. It doesn't have a gorgeous interior, only simple and accurately.
"This is the promotion test center for Mid-Class devils located in the territory of Glasya-Labolas." Kiba explains quietly.
It got Issei surprised and concerned that the test is being held at the territory of Glasya-Labolas, which he didn't even bother checking where the location of the test was. Meaning, it's the territory of the Household where one of the Great Satans, Asmodeus belongs to. It also belongs to a certain problem child, who got beaten by Sairaorg.
"It seems like they built the Mid-Class promotion test center here because of the influence of the strategist, Falbium Asmodeus." Akeno points out, leaving Issei shocked. "It seems like there is also a test center in the territory of Astaroth, which is the Household from which Lord Ajuka Beelzebub came from."
"There are test centers in various places throughout the Underworld, but the one with the most authority is the one held in the territory of Astaroth." Kiba adds. "After all, there are also noble Devils located there. Rias also had trouble choosing between the school in the territory of Astaroth and the one area of the Four Great Satans. but she ended up going to the school in the are of the Four Great Satans."
"Oh, is that so?" Issei inquires, earned a nod from the two. "Then why are we at the Glasya-Labolas territory today?"
"Because of the earlier incident, the House of Astaroth lost authority." Kiba answered.
Issei now began to realize why, understand what he means. That incident involving Diodora Astaroth caused this by betray and tempted a coup de 'tat after making a deal with the Khaos Brigade. He heard that the House of Astaroth went into a dangerous situation because of Diodora, but it seems like they avoided the worst case scenario because of the influence of Ajuka, who's the chief advisor for the Technical Equation Program. Though, it's certain that they are being looked at with strict eyes from the civilians living in the other territories as well as other nobles. They also lost their right to send out a candidate to be the next Satan Lords as well.
The place where they arrived after being led by the staff members is a place that seemed like a reception area. There were a couple of windows and test participants were talking to the receptionists which there are less devils here. Though, the reception area is spacious, but looks deserted because there aren't many devils in it. And with that, one of the staff members begin explaining.
"At the reception area over there, please take the compulsory documents along with the admission ticket for the test. After you are done with that, please go to the floor upstairs where the written test will be held. The first part of the test will be the written section and the second part will be the practical."
'So, written test is first, huh.' Issei mentally thought, ponder. 'I studied a lot for it, but I want to get a lot of points on the practical test.'
"Please had your report to the examiners who are standing in front of the room for the written section of the test."
'So, I have to hand my report to the person in front of the test room.' Issei thought. 'I wrote my report on the theme Grayfia told me. I'm still not used to writing with devil letters, so I desperately wrote it while holding the dictionary with my other hand.'
"Then I will pardon myself. I hope you do well."
"I will go and bring the documents you must fill out." Ravel suggested as she and the staff members left.
"Looks like there aren't many people taking the test." Issei said quietly.
"Yeah. In the current Underworld, there aren't that many devils who can take the promotion test." Kiba agrees. "The promotion test center for High-Class devils might even have less devils taking it."
Issei nods with an agreement. Since there aren't any wars in the Underworld, they can only get a promotion by attaining something from the pact for Devil's jobs or by performance in the Rating Game. However, the first option is gonna be hard to get a promotion, so it became the mainstream way to get a promotion test through the Rating Game.
"Issei, there's one thing I want to tell you before the test." Kiba told him seriously.
"What is it?" Issei inquires curiously.
"I'm glad that I met you." Kiba answered, smiled.
"You really became a natural at saying creepy things." Issei states with a disgusted expression, showing a sweat drop while Kiba laughed.
"But if you weren't here, I would probably never have got a promotion test." Kiba points out.
"Are you sure?" Issei questions. "You are strong enough. You would have got a promotion sooner or later."
"No, I'm here because I witnessed how you live your life and your battles." Kiba told him. "You and Virgil showed me things I didn't have. I wouldn't have been here if I didn't know about it."
Issei was surprised of his statement. He was also influenced by Kiba which there were a majority of things where he worked harder because he was someone near whom Issei aimed for.
"I'm not quite sure." Issei said with a sigh, scratching his cheek. "What good looking guys think is something I can't possibly understand. But...Let's pass the test together. Since we are boys of the Gremory team, right?"
"Of course." Kiba nods with a smirk. "If we've come this far, then let's aim to become Ultimate-Class devils. I've also got a dream now, to become the 'Ultimate Knight'. I want to become an existence that can stand side by side with you."
Kiba then extends his hand while Issei laughed, grabbing his hand.
"That sounds good." Issei said with a smirk, shaking hands. "That's simple to understand. I won't know for how many thousands of years I will be with you, but let's beomce men who will be famous throughout the Underworld."
Akeno then puts her hand on their handshake.
"Such a passionate friendship." Akeno states with a giggle. "Let's pass the test together."
"Yes!" Kiba and Issei replied in unison.
"Everyone! I have brought the documents! Let's fill them out over there!" Ravel instructed them as they filled out the documents. "Please do your best! I will be waiting here."
They split up from Ravel at the staircase leading to the second floor, and Issei, Akeno, and Kiba headed up to the third floor. They saw a sign written in devil letters written as 'Mid-Class promotion test: Written test room'. The room they've reached had long desks aligned inside, but to Issei, it's like a room for the university. He also saw a University room when he went to look at the Kuoh University. Issei sits on the table with the number of 12 while Kiba's number is 11 and Akeno's number is 10. When the three sat down, they heard people whispering.
"Are those people from the Gremory team? The Holy-Demonic wielder, Red Dragon Emperor, and Thunder Priestess..."
"The 'Grabbin' Dragon' who defeated that Sairaorg! Red Dragon Emperor!"
"So, the rumors about them getting a promotion recommendation from the Great Satan Lords were true."
"So, that's why there were so many people with cameras outside."
This truly is making Issei feel awkward since everyone knows about them. Well, they became famous because of the news, the kids show, and the Rating Game that occurred recently. Judging from their conversation, the media has gathered outside of the test center, basically in human terms called paparazzi. Issei then put up a strong face and a strong attitude.
"I think you don't have to put that much energy and act like you usually do." Kiba told him with a sweat drop.
'But we came here while having the name Gremory on our backs!' Issei mentally exclaims.
While he was doing that, other examinees gathered and the seats around them started to fill up with the other devils taking the test. Apparently, this room can hold more than a hundred people that didn't get filled. They're mostly devils who were former humans, but there were also devils who looked like beast-human, yokai, and creatures, meaning humans aren't the only ones who're reincarnated because many types and kinds of devils can take the promotion test. Issei looked around, noticed that it didn't even reach up to 40 people which it's not many people. Though, he did hear that a promotion is rare, but never expected to be this low and it's mostly empty.
Issei can understand Sairaorg's dream and his aim which it might be good to give a chance to the people who have talent. But in the current Underworld, it'll be hard. Azazel also said that the politicians are broken into the Old and New Devil Factions. While he's thinking about it, the examiner entered the room and began collecting the reports. They gave their reports to the examiner and finally they're about to start the written test. Practial test aside, Issei isn't confident about the written test at all.
"It's time. Please start."
And with that, the written test begins as they turnover their test papers and began answering the questions. Issei does the same, but as many questions as he can.
Few hours later, the written test was over, and Issei was so frustrating about it. The written test was broken into different sections, and it got him sighed because of the contents of the test. He was able to answer most of the basic knowledge regarding the devils, except there was a question about 'Magical Levi' and he was astonished. There were also the questions where he'd written down the names of the leaders of the enemy organizations. Also, the question about the 'Grabbin' Dragon' and the 'Warrior of l'Cie' have appeared which it got him astonished, not to mention the question about the 'Khaos Brigade'. Since he's the victim for the most part, he could answer them easily since he knows about them more than most of the higher-ups. However, he didn't include any information that can't be known by the public, but he doesn't know whether the Underworld is either proper or improper.
"Issei, I have brought another cup of tea." Ravel offer, extends another cup of tea for him.
"Thank you, Ravel." Issei thanked her, grabbed the cup of tea. "Thanks to you, my written test didn't become a mess."
"Of course." Ravel nods with a smile. "I will be troubled if you don't pass since became your manager."
"I didn't have that many blank answers. I have quite a lot of confidence in it." Issei told her. "But still, what got me curious as to why did you become my manager?"
"Well, it's mostly Virgil's idea." Ravel told him, leaving him surprised. "He convinced Sirzechs that you need some help for the promotion tests. Normally, I would become his manager, but Virgil had his hands full because of the kids."
'That sounds about right sine he's the daddy of three little kittens.' Issei mentally thought with an understanding.
"Though, Sirzechs also inform me that I should learn how to babysit and how to take care of the babies from Lightning and Serah." Ravel continued. "I was able to help Virgil and Kuroka of taking care of them, but those triplets were very mischievous because they mostly pulled my hair."
It got Issei sweat dropped since he had his fair share of those triplets. However, what's most important in a promotion test is receiving a recommendation. That's why there not many people taking the test, but this food court doesn't have many people in it, despite it being huge. But still, Issei still did quite well in the written test, but barely failed for the test which he managed to cover it.
"So, the practical test is next." Kiba said with confidence.
"Yeah, it's the test category I'm really good at!" Issei nods with a confident smirk.
"I heard that it will occur on the roof of this stadium." Ravel informed them, reading through the documents.
"Ara, ara. Getting heated up is good, but it is not good for you to overdo it, okay?" Akeno suggested with a giggle.
Issei then remembered Azazel said about he shouldn't try that hard for the practical as well, but the Red Dragon Emperor couldn't help it. He thinks this is the test where he can gain the most points. While this was occurring, the time for the practical test arrived. Issei, Kiba, and Akeno split up from Ravel again, and went to the roof while wearing a jersey which the roof was like a spacious gymnasium. The participants all changed into clothes that they could move around easily in, and they were warming up their bodies in their own ways. Issei then warms his body by sprinting from where he was standing, and begins to sprint around the running track.
While Issei was stretching with Kiba and Akeno, the examiners gathered and began to call their numbers. They attached a badge that had a number on it in their jersey. Then, one of the examiners gave them an explanation.
"The practical is quite simple. We will have the participants battle each other. We will have everyone draw a number, and that will decide who you will battle."
'Oh, that's simple and easy to understand. So, I just have to win than then?' Issei mentally questions.
"The battle will be looked as a whole so even if you lose to your opponent, you will not necessarily lose the opportunity to pass. Obviously winning the battle will allow you to get more points though, but we will look at the battle in depth so if you have the three satisfactory criteria of heart, technique, and body, we will allow you to get points that will be the equivalent of what you showed. Try to have the battle be as good as possible please! The rule is simple: Fight the opponent with the power you have. Using weapons will be allowed. You will fail if your opponent dies, but if the death occurred due to an accident, then we, the examiners, will decide the outcome. Please read the documents you have with you regarding about death by accident. Next is..."
Issei have already gotten the ideas of how to fight, basically he has to show a good match to the examiners. However, his previous fights were mostly fist fights and the frontal assault tactic. He mostly didn't rely on either demonic magic or technicality because he's mostly a brawler. The examiner then gives the addition of an explanation.
"Now people who are a 'Pawn' are able to promote during the match with the special approval promotion card dispatched by this test center."
'So, you can promote, huh. I never knew that there were special approval promotion cards used by this center.' Issei mentally thought surprisingly. 'Is it a derivation of the card Rias gave to Asia when we went on the school trip?'
"I heard that Lord Ajuka Beelzebub dispatched special promotion cards to places like this." Kiba explains, leaving Issei shocked. "Of course, Lord Beelzebub is the only one who can make them, and making copies of them is said to be impossible."
'So, Lord Beelzebub is the only one who can make something like this then.' Issei mentally thought. 'How amazing is that person in terms of technology...You can say that he surpasses Azazel.'
"It looks alright as long as we don't kill the opponent for the practical test." Akeno suggested. "Unlike the High-Class promotion test, Middle-Class promotion test doesn't require strategies that are based on tactics, so it's quite simple."
That got Issei shocked that the High-Class promotion has a strategy test since it's to be expected. Whenever they're receiving 'Evil Pieces' that will allow them to make their own group, having a test to test their knowledge.
'I'm screwed! If I pass the Mid-Class promotion test, then I will also have to study about strategies!' Issei mentally shouts. 'Though no matter how hard I think, using a strategy would be impossible for me!'
The explanation is finished and it's time for the draw. They put their hands inside of the box, and took out the ball that has a number on it. These things are quite similar to the human world...Well, the ones who come are mostly former humans, so they're probably making it more familiar and easier for them to understand. Issei's number is 4, meaning he'll be in for earlier matches. Kiba got 26 and Akeno got 32, which they're doing it separately. He wouldn't know what to do if they had to fight each other, but it doesn't seem to be the case.
"The matches will occur by two pairs fighting at once! First, 1, 2, 3, and 4 will start their matches!"
'Are you serious?! It's my match already! That was quick! Looks like my match will start before I get ready!' Issei mentally exclaims in shock.
"Looks like I'm first." Issei said turns to them.
"Do your best." Kiba said with a nod, cheering.
"Issei can definitely do it." Akeno adds, agrees with a cheer.
"I-I will be going then." Issei said nervously.
And just that, Issei entered the circular battlefield made by demonic power. Issei is coming up with a strategy since he won't be able to use the Triana because it's an illegal move, but even if he can promote, it seems also like cheating if he kept changing. Once Issei promotes, he needs to finish the match which he had to use the Queen. The reason is because the Cardinal Crimson Promotion is still unstable so it's not the condition where he can use it, but if they have to show their strength for the test, then maybe he should use it. While he's thinking, his opponent is a medium height and medium built man. Issei can tell that his opponent seems to be flowing a lot of aura, but he's no slouch.
"Both of you are ready then?"
They nodded as the examiner raise his hand up and put it down.
"Please start!"
[Promotion: Queen]
Issei then promotes himself to Queen while bring out his Boosted Gear. His opponent made his hand glow with demonic powers, and shot huge orbs of flames. Issei was able to quickly react by dodging the number of flames while getting boosted. However, he noticed something was off about his opponent, wondering if he possesses a Sacred Gear. And if he is, then Issei will unleash a Balance Breaker.
[Freezing Archaeopteryx]
Cold chills were surrounding the area. Ice started to gather in the air, and it turned into a gigantic bird, meaning he had a Sacred Gear. Issei is waiting for the countdown of his Balance Breaker while evading the ice bird's attack and demonic powers. His only weakness is the Boosted Gear to boost up and if he got hit, the time will reset before the Balance Breaker could even be used. But because he opened the path to Cardinal Crimson Promotion, the countdown needed for him to turn into Balance Breaker is also reduced. Issei then turns to expression into serious.
[Balance Break: Scale Mail]
Red aura enveloped his body and shapes into an armor. Issei then sprouts out his dragon wings, charged his power and flew up to his opponent while thrusting his boosters on his back. His opponent can't even react to his speed as the Red Dragon Emperor pushed his fist forward to hit him, destroyed the ice bird and punched his opponent. And when he punched him, it got him sent flying and crashed right through the wall, knocked him out. Issei was shocked and thought he was holding his powers back, but it gave him too much power. The examiners went towards Issei's opponent whom he punched quickly, hearing voices of other participants who're watching the match.
"Y-You must be kidding me?! What power!"
"I see...He surpasses the level of average Low-Class Devils greatly."
"I can only say that his opponent was unlucky. He's a monster!"
"If it's just power, isn't he a high-tier of High-Class Devil?"
"So, this is the power of the Heavenly Dragon who defeated Loki and Sairaorg..."
Issei was very nervous, troubled by how to respond. He used his full power to the fullest because he didn't want to fail, and thought that he can't let his guard down since his opponent is also a devil who's taking the promotion test. The examiner returns from the broken wall, carrying his opponent who seems to be unconscious, shook his head to the other examiner. The examiner confirms it and announces.
"#4, Issei Hyoudou wins!"
'T-This is the end of the practical? Are you serious?! I don't have to do anything more?' Issei mentally questions, astonished because of the victory he gained easily.
After the practical test is over, Issei, Akeno, and Kiba were able to pass the test. Ravel started a communication magic circle so they can report to Azazel.
"A-Azazel, about the practical..." Issei said nervously.
'Oh, what happened?' Azazel asked. 'I'm at the restaurant of the hotel in which we made reservations, and drinking alcohol even at noon.'
'Alcohol again?! You sure know how to have fun!' Issei mentally exclaims with a sweat drop, but shook his thoughts out of his head. "It's about the practical test! W-Well all of us: me, Kiba, and Akeno didn't have any trouble, but more like it was..."
'You were overwhelming, right?' Azazel asks with a smirk, putting two and two together.
"Ah, yes." Issei nods, causing Azazel to sigh.
'Of course, you guys have abnormal strength among Low-Class Devils and the ones going to the test have the powers of high-tier of Mid-Class Devils.' Azazel points out. 'You guys have the power of High-Class Devils. Especially you Issei, who can use Triana and Cardinal Crimson Promotion can release a power that isn't that much different from those with more power than that. Well, I could say the same for Sairaorg though.'
"I didn't know. I...So, we became that strong..." Issei muttered with a ponder.
Not just Issei, but Kiba and Akeno also gained victory with overwhelming strength for the test. Instead, Issei felt sorry because he went too far and destroyed the stadium. They achieved victory while holding back their power, not to destroy the stadium.
Which it's something what Azazel means by not fighting seriously. The reason is because it will harm the stadium if they go too seriously because of the power difference between the three and the other participants. And he might kill his opponent because of it, the Red Dragon Emperor thinks like that, then he put too much energy into the match. Though, Issei's head was full with the things like the feeling of not wanting to fail and not letting his guard down.
'The opponents you guys have been facing are the Vali Team, which are full of legendary guys, Loki and Fenrir from Asgard, and the Hero Factions you know?' Azazel continues. 'Fighting guys like that while returning with everyone alive is something isn't normal. It's a level where it would be aid that you guys are abnormal. At least in the Gremory team, you, Kiba, Akeno, Xenovia, and Rossweisse are strong guys with the power of High-Class Devils. Koneko who is still learning in Senjutsu and combat prowess will also reach the power parallel to a High-Class Devil soon. Virgil on the other hand, his powers are based in High-Class Devils, but his battle experience and sheer willpower was beyond than that.'
Issei knew that Azazel has a valid point since they went through a lot of crisis, so they surpassed average Mid-Class Devils. And if he thinks about it, their opponents they fought were abnormal and he trains hard so he won't lose. Then again, they became insanely strong. Even so, the enemies who came after them have powers beyond that so he's about to go crazy.
'She sure has luck meeting with you guys, the woman you fell that is.' Azazel said, as if he's depressed.
"Yes! Rias is the best woman there is!" Issei exclaims which it got Azazel thought on an idea.
'Hey, Rias! Issei said 'Rias is the best woman there is!'' Azazel called her which it got Issei blushed.
"H-Hey, Azazel! Why are telling her?!" Issei shouts with embarrassment.
'Haha! Rias became so red after hearing you say that! Man you guys are in a burning relationship! Shit! Tears are flowing out of my eyes! Looks like I will master being single, damn it!' Azazel shouts in jealousy and a bit of hatred, causing Issei to sweat drop and the Governor of the Fallen Angels change topics. 'Well, I also said it to Rias just now. That there is no reason for Rias to go through intense training to get strong.'
That got Issei surprised, but remembered that Rias was quite upset that she couldn't do much against the fight with Regulus. Though, it was her opponent that proves too much for her since it was a rare Longinus that could move on its own. It was also a lion that was based in Greek Mythology.
'One of the weapons the woman you fell for has is the fortunate meeting she has. The grade that the Gremory team has isn't something that other High-Class Devils have. Though it seems that guy, Riser, also said that. This is something in which you can't teach others.' Azazel continues. 'You need something like this since you were born. And things like that will continue on as well. In my case, I want to praise the high chance of survival I mentioned before. To survive many crisis with everyone alive is a level that surpasses miracles.'
'A level that surpasses miracles.' Issei mentally thought, pondered. 'I think I can understand that. I also think it's great members like this gathered and survived through these crisis together.'
'Anyway, the test is over, right?' Azazael inquires, changing the subject. 'Use the transport magic circle at the center to get to this hotel. The result isn't out yet, but let's celebrate here.'
With the transmission ended, Issei, Kiba, and Akeno sighed with relief.
"Great work, Isse, Akeno." Kiba said with a smile.
"Looks like we can relax until the result is out." Akeno suggests.
"No, Akeno. For me, I can't relax for the exam as well." Issei protests with a sigh.
"Red Dragon Emperor who wielded his power so greatly for the promotion test looks like he can't use that power for the exam." Kiba said sarcastically, causing Akeno and Ravel to chuckle.
'Yeah, yeah, I'm just a power idiot like you say.' Issei mentally thought in annoyance, glaring at Kiba.
That's it for the 55th chapter. Sorry about the delay.