Hollowreaper 93: Merry Christmas/Happy New Year to you as well :D Kuroka is going to need to learn to cool down with so many watching Dorian's back lol.
RezaAlive: You are so welcome! I felt exactly the same, beyond her having a sense of humor and being a fan of Issei's Oppai Dragon Show (because who isn't? lol) we know basically nothing.
Wrath of The Sun Deity: Yes, a conundrum indeed it doesn't wish to leave *strokes non-existent beard* curious indeed... XD I am glad you liked it.
GunBlade2019: Oh no, he still has his Sacred Gear. An Independent Avatar Type means that the Gear manifests as a separate entity. Iggy IS his Sacred Gear, the gauntlet before was her way of hiding and now when she is in his head he is bonded with the gear to use at will. He is stronger than ever since the Midgardsomr power boost.
FateBurn: Thank you.
naruto: Azazel was nice to make it look the part :) Hades you say? Hmmm, whatever deadly poison would he have access to which can be so deadly? *smirks evilly*
J0ker981: I can't say details, but can assure you Fenrir isn't done yet in his part ;) Doubtful as I don't like taking weapons straight from other franchises verses designing my own, though Ragnar's axe is similar in design.
deathwing17: Mine too XD They took the femme fatale trope and gave an actual reason she acts the way she does (At least until canon forces her into the harem lol). Showing up at Kuoh you say? Well...
ahsoei: Seekvaira's knights are not canon, I designed them. Thus far in canon the ONLY member of her peerage we are aware of is her queen Alivian, a dragon-devil and the first male queen in the series if my memory is right.
God of war: Thank you XD I hoped that would get some laughs. Dorian loves Rossweisse which makes her more confident than before...but he has yet to face the truth of other women looking at him the same way. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well! See ya in 2020 ;)
Raging Berserker: I'm afraid I've never played any in the DMC series XD I am guessing someone has a mecha arm? I hope not to disappoint there, Dorian will have to find all the "features" that Azazel snuck in to help him out in combat and his love life.
fanficcyberman: Skye is doing great! She is growing SOOOO Fast, bet she'll be an 80 pounder full grown. Thank you :D You have a wonderful 2020 as well and hope 2019 was kind.
OBSERVER01: Finding all those features will be a fun part of future chapters...will Dorian ever find them all? lol
Na2s: So glad to hear that you enjoyed it so much to make it here, you have no idea how much it means to hear how you liked the development. Not to worry, I may be keeping who will officially love Dorian in addition to Rossweisse on the down low...but the development will always be there if you can find it ;)
Slayer Cross: LOL Everyone looks forward to Diodora's arc for the smackdown. Dorian is unaware of the interest he had in Rose and the others or his nefarious plans for Asia. I always saw Diodora as such a good foil against Issei, but Dorian won't let his actions go lightly. Also, I am glad the arm wasn't too obvious, just thinking him adapting to it makes me chuckle inside.
CecilRedwing: Not summon directly, what he does is open paths to the Road Between Realms. The idea is that he stores his items in a specific place so when he needs a weapon/object, he just opens the gate right next to wear he left them. He can't actually summon any living beings from there unless they happen to be next to where he opens the portal.
KurokamiTendou: Merry Christmas to you as well! Well he is working on it. Right now he has access to Twilight Star, an impossible-item forged swordspear mixture of Asgard and Olympian craftsmanship and now a replica of Mjolnir. :D
And with that...ONTO THE SHOW!
"Thank you, Mr. Held, you may sit down," the teacher congratulated as he finished reading a passage from his book. "Your Japanese has greatly improved since arriving, I am quite impressed with Ms. Kiryuu's tutelage."
Kiryuu grinned smugly at the compliment unaware that it had been a combination of her teachings and Dorian's newfound devil magic that had expedited his study. He had been utterly surprised to find out that translation was a basic ability of devils allowing them to communicate across nations.
Definitely helpful in our line of work
The days at Kuoh had passed slowly since their return from the break. Classes were attended, Dorian continued to keep the perverted trio in line during Rossweisse's classes and in general while Ratatoskr played the role of common tree squirrel class pet with the zest of a Shakespearean actor. As expected, Irina was welcomed with open arms receiving a plethora of questions ranging from her interests to her taste in men. Dorian had to duck his head low when she mentioned knowing both himself and Issei from years past, receiving death glares from numerous men in the class.
"I know you will be excited over the sports festival," he cautioned his students as they filed from the room only half-listening. "But do not neglect your studies, I expect that chapter to be reviewed by next week and ready to…" It was only then he realized they were all already gone.
With a crack of his neck, the teacher strolled down the hall to his latest coworker. Rossweisse's class had let out as well and she was already sitting down as was often the case working in her classroom rather than joining the staff. Fixing his tie, he knocked on the door, causing her to look up with the most contented smile he'd ever seen.
"Oh, hello Mr. Tanaka," she welcomed him with a beaming smile. "Please come in, how can I help you?"
"Well, the sports festival is coming up and I wanted to see if you were ready. The teaching staff has to do their best too."
"Yes of course," she closed the binder she was currently reading over. "It will be my first time, but I am sure it will be a fun day for everyone."
"Excellent," he subtly slicked his hair back with a smile "Then, perhaps after lessons today maybe you'd like to get a cup of coffee. My treat of course."
Rossweisse stared at him a moment, her eyes widening upon realizing his implications. As politely as she could the genius Valkyrie bowed, the content smile he had witnessed upon entering growing even bigger while he frowned in disappointment at her response.
"I am truly flattered…but I am seeing someone already."
"Oh, my mistake," he backpedaled with an awkward chuckle.
So soon after working here?
"Professor Rossweisse!" A voice called out from behind Mr. Tanaka. "I have the supplemental material you requested on those exams."
"Oh, thank you Mr. Held. Please leave them on the table as I am sure you will need to make it to the sports field shortly."
Mr. Tanaka groaned in defeat as he slunk out of the room, rubbing the back of his neck to alleviate the disappointment however he could.
Man, what lucky guy could have caught her eye so fast? The moment he had rounded the corner Dorian turned, planting a kiss on Rossweisse's cheek.
"I didn't know you would be in the sports festival too."
"Just a scavenger hunt," she tried to downplay the excitement. "The teaching staff insists everyone participate. Thrud came by earlier, apparently 3rd years will be doing the tug of war."
Thrud with the tug of war…gods help them all.
"I'll be in 2nd year's team, no word yet on our event. I'm heading that way now to find out."
"Be sure to stay hydrated!" Her overly prepared nature was ever present. "Be sure to eat to keep up your strength but not too soon before…"
Dorian leaned forward again, giving her a quick peck on the lips giving away how much he adored her when she got this way. He always had even before realizing how he felt.
"I'll be fine," he assured before spinning on his heels and rushing out, with the timing he'd just make it. The two were so smitten that they missed bespectacled eyes grinning from ear to ear at what they witnessed.
"Huh, someone wants to give more than an apple to the teacher," Kiryuu reveled in the secret she had unveiled so quickly. "Lucky you Ms. Rossweisse," she quickly slipped back into the sunlit halls while pondering how best to use the data acquired.
"Big softies," Ratatoskr muttered to himself from the nearby window watching the blushing Valkyrie lower back into her seat practically glowing. "It's about fucking time."
"About time for you, I just got here!"
The squirrel turned while raising his hands in a pseudo-karate position expecting a fight. On the windowsill next to him lazily lounged a black cat twirling its tail playfully, the hazel-gold eyes and human-like smirk made it evident this was no normal feline even if it hadn't just spoken.
"A little late on the uptake pussy cat," he addressed Kuroka. "He only has eyes for her."
"Ah, but how would he react to finding others have eyes for him?" She raised an eyebrow at the presented question. "Surely he wouldn't turn away true affection and I certainly wouldn't mind sharing."
"A woman after my own heart," the denizen of Yggdrasil felt more comfortable expressing himself than he had around the others besides Dorian. "As long as you don't corrupt his mushy spirit or get in the way of...other interested parties, I don't see a reason not to promote his manly nature."
"Sneaking in doesn't work," the nekoshou grimaced at the memory of her first attempt.
"That would just put him on the defensive. I dunno what his idea of courtship was before Asgard but there are a few traditions of theirs I can offer that could catch his eye. Knowing our Einherjar though I wouldn't hold your breath."
Outside…
"And…GO!" The gym teacher called out prompting Hecuba, Xenovia and Irina to take off sprinting down the track.
Most of the gathered students cheered with glee and awe as the three were the fastest of the day, each one barely keeping pace with the other. Similar events done in preparation for the festival commenced across the field so that no one was left out. Dorian adored the enthusiasm of the students, making him nostalgic for the festivals during his time in Asgard.
I need to go back some time, I wonder how the other Valkyries are doing. I know Thor told me to stay here for the meanwhile, but I miss the sights. Then of course I haven't seen Freyja or Odin since…
Dorian, look out!
Iggy's warning came too late as he bumped into a small woman who surprisingly still held her footing as he stumbled back.
"Kassumi, are you alright?"
"I am fine," the young woman whom he had nearly run into weeks past brushed herself off. I was actually looking for you, I think my civics lessons could use some work."
"I did notice on your tests," Dorian helped Rossweisse grade in her class as part of his experience working towards an educational degree and saw her scores subtly slipping. It was new to him, but if he was to succeed as a teacher he'd have to get used to working with struggling students. "Is there anything in particular you feel you are having trouble with?"
"I would really like to have a few extra sessions to go over the material, could we study at your home sometime?"
Bring classmates back to the tower and castle that the Hyoudou residence has become? Dorian sweat dropped somewhat. I know they said that the devil magic will make everyone around think it's completely normal, but I don't want to push it.
"How about we study at your place? A familiar setting would likely…"
"My place is no good," she quickly blurted out while retaining her oddly calm and emotionless demeanor. "Would after classes at the school be acceptable?"
"Sure, but I will need to leave early some days," he considered if Crossroads business came up. "If you are okay with that, we can go over the material when both our schedules allow it."
"Excellent," she bowed politely before starting to walk past him. "You are doing well so far; I am fascinated to see what comes next."
"What do you mean by tha…?"
Dorian turned as she passed him only to find empty air. In the split second he had taken his eyes off of her, the woman had disappeared.
Dang she is good at that Iggy, Dorian glanced down the alley and back hallway, assuming she must have ducked into one. It seems like everyone who goes to Kuoh is unique in some way.
Not Far…
"Oh, why do they have to be so fast?" Motohama half-sobbed as they watched the three women make their second laps.
"You can't even see their breasts bounce at those speeds," Issei agreed with a pained expression. "They should be running at just the right pace for emphasis!"
Matsuda joined in their sorrow, rounding out the perverted trio performing stretches for their various events in the coming days. In truth, their efforts were half-hearted as they much preferred scoping out the many attractive girls stretching in provocative poses, at least they were in their minds.
"And worse, you'll be pressed up against Asia's for the three-legged race…you're a monster leaving your friends behind Issei!"
"Did someone say Issei? What are you up to?"
"Saji?" The three proclaimed almost in unison as the member of Sona's peerage and student council sauntered over. He was carrying a tape measurer over a shoulder having just appeared from the tracks.
"Appreciating the swaying breasts," he admitted in total honesty knowing that at least this blonde man and he were kindred spirits.
"Geez, you never change," he chuckled awkwardly.
"So which event are you in?"
"Oh, I'll be in the bread-eating event."
"Nice, that's after the relay."
"THE ENEMY!" The three muttered simultaneously as Dorian jogged up beside them.
"Ah, Dorian," Saji gave him a quick high five. "So, you'll be a runner, you'll be in good company." He motioned towards the three women finishing their final lap, breaking through the tape and slowing down. The perverted trio's faces turned bright red with a goofy grin, the girls having finally slowed enough to accentuate the movement of their bouncing breasts. It was obvious to everyone nearby.
"That's right," Dorian stepped to the right into their line of sight. "Getting some practice now so I don't make a fool of myself. I won't be as fast as Hugi after all."
"Who?"
"I'll tell you later," Dorian internally chuckled remembering the Thjalfi-Ras he had attended back in Asgard.
At least it's an event that doesn't require me to use my arm, pretty sure that would be cheating with my new one considering I've crushed three forks already.
"Do not neglect our game," a woman's voice from the side interjected. Sona Sitri and her queen Tsubaki were walking side-by side ensuring that school rules were followed even during the festival. While Sona addressed Dorian, Tsubaki subtly waved towards a jogging Kiba in the distance who returned the gesture politely.
"Will you at least take it easy this time?" The Einherjar slumped his shoulders, the sting of defeat in every chess match thus far fresh in his mind.
"If I do that you'll never improve, you come with us as well Saji. The Student Council is short staffed and we could use a hand."
"R-right!" He immediately acquiesced at his king's command. Ever ready to please her, the young man departed the others with eyes lingering on Sona longer than necessary.
With the distraction gone, the three turned their attention back towards the 3rd year classes practicing their exercises. Rias, Akeno and Thrud were at the forefront, the dark-haired queen and golden Valkyrie sitting facing each other, gripping one another's palms as they used the other for leverage. Even Dorian had trouble looking away but succeeded if only to glare at the three. Kiryuu and Asia did the same routine not far away.
"Man, I would sure like to get between them," Issei sighed contentedly.
"I got a few good shots," Matsuda produced a camera somehow hidden within his shirt. "We can check them out later in high def…"
Dorian's right arm shot forward, gripping the camera tightly he squeezed, crushing the device into a thousand pieces with his new augmented arm.
"NOOOOOO!"
"You're getting on my last nerve Goldie!" Issei rounded on Dorian, the two literally butting heads growling at one another. Eyes twitched as if the two could scarcely bear to look at each other, sparks flying every which way.
"You burned off my last one ages ago!" He countered. Hilariously, the way the two were gripping hands pushing off one another resembled how everyone else was doing similar stretches. "I've never met someone so one-dimensional in their thinking!"
"You're the one with unnatural thinking! We both are surrounded by luscious babes on a daily basis yet I'm the only one who recognizes our fortune!"
"Surrounded…"
"By Luscious babes…?" The pair of watching friends caught onto their words. "You are living with women too? TRAITORS TO MANKIND THE BOTH OF YOU!"
Azazel could only chuckle across the yard as the two friends dog piled on Issei and Dorian, the pair temporarily forming an alliance to fend off the jealous classmates. He had watched over Issei since meeting him out of a sense of blame for his becoming a devil in the first place and grown fascinated with Dorian in their short time together. Ever since the pair had met, he was baffled how they had such a relationship teetering between hate and friendship, no two were so different in his eye.
"How they don't kill each other every time they are in a room together may be a great mystery of our time," the fallen angel Governor-General pondered with a grin. "Different hopes, ambitions, outlook on the fairer sex, dreams…" he paused at the last word, an idea finally crossing his mind. "Huh, I wonder if maybe I can finally get a chance to test it out."
Occult Research Club...
"This is the most anticipated part of my schedule," Zepar admitted as he accepted the cup from Akeno. Her smile accompanied each pour eliciting a similar expression from the young fallen angel.
"I was surprised to see you today," she sat beside him as they concluded the day's latest discussions. "Have you fully healed from Fenrir's attack?" She recalled the sizable hit he took that day; however comparatively minor it was to others not so fortunate.
"Almost fully, the pain was the worst, however I must admit I have become accustomed to such things. I treat it almost as welcoming an old friend."
"Do you now?" An almost sinister smile danced across Akeno's face at the unexpected information of his outlook on pain. "Perhaps we should send Honda away and discuss this further?"
The Dullahan Rook stood at attention at the entryway. With Rias just in the next room it was on hand for protection, being just a suit of armor, it needed little in the way of recreation or relaxation.
"Th-that," he stuttered with a low gulp. "Will not be necessary, welcomed though your company ever is Ms. Akeno."
"Just Akeno," she leaned slightly forward, her vision of beauty inescapable. "When will our next meeting be scheduled?"
"Actually, I may be staying longer than I anticipated. If so…"
"Akeno," Rias' voice echoed in her mind. "We are arriving."
A flash of crimson light from a devil seal heralded the arrival of Rias and the rest of her peerage. Asia was among them with her sprite dragon Rassei huddled on her shoulder. The group looked rather serious, Asia most of all while she and Issei took up positions around the sofa as their king sat down.
"We have a guest coming, Diodora Astaroth requested an audience. I apologize for the interruption Zepar."
"None is required, I should depart if you another arrangement is to begin."
"No need," Rias assured him, motioning for the fallen angel to wait across the room. "This won't take long I assure you."
"I'll get more tea," she bowed while calmly stepping aside to refill the pot.
"Diodora?" The fallen angel attaché whispered in her ear once they were far enough. "So soon before your match?"
"He has been quite persistent on speaking with Asia," Akeno explained. "He has been sending love letters and proposal requests every day since the Devil Gathering."
"And Ms. Asia does not reciprocate I presume?"
"That's right, she and Issei are quite inseparable," she giggled lightly. "But she did save Diodora's life at the cost of her position among the church. Our little Asia cares about him I am sure, but not that way."
Right on schedule, the Astaroth family crest emerged from the floor bringing with it the young heir. His smile widened charmingly as he realized Asia was among the group, Issei frowning directly in proportion to it. He was flanked by his Queen Rosalina and knight Catherine.
"Thank you for seeing me on such short notice Ms. Gremory," Diodora bowed politely before taking the offered seat as his servants stood behind. "Despite our upcoming competition it does my heart well to know that we can still sit down between one another and…"
"As much as the sentiment is mutual," Rias interrupted fully aware of Diodora's intentions and reason for the visit. "I must ask you to get to the point considering you described it as a business deal."
Behind her, Issei gripped Asia's hand supportingly, tightening just a little as Diodora's gaze drifted to her. The former nun could not help but smile at the touch of the man who had saved her soul.
"In that case I will get right to the point, I wish to propose a bishop trade lady Gremory."
"He's not after me I hope!" Gasper muttered quietly. The young vampire was arrayed in the Kuoh female uniform but had replaced the skirt with one of the many kilts Dorian provided previously. He had grown accustomed to the new attire and was even contemplating buying the matching sashes associated with the garb. Being unaware of Diodora's interest in Asia, it made sense the devil heir would be after his Balor powers.
"You wish to trade for Asia I presume?" Rias' tone was noticeably tense and serious quite opposite of Diodora's carefree grin.
"I must be getting predictable," he chuckled lightly. "I certainly hope that isn't the case in our rating game." With a raised finger images of his twin bishops materialized in front of him; one was tall with trimmed blue hair while the other was short with gold locks nearly reaching the floor.
He's willing to trade two bishops for one, wouldn't that leave him one piece short? He must care for Asia dearly to make such a sacrifice. Zepar remained silent, only receiving sideways glances from Diodora's servants clearly analyzing if he could be a potential threat.
"I assure you it is a fair exchange; both are hard workers and will serve you well…"
"I am going to stop you right there," Rias raised her hand without a second thought. "Your offer is rejected. Asia is not only a valuable member of my peerage but also as family closer than any sister."
"Thank you, Rias, so much," Asia was nearly in tears at the touching words, the honesty in them undeniable.
"Furthermore, attempting to use a roster trade to obtain the woman who turned down your marriage proposal MULTIPLE times reveals a bit more about yourself Lord Astaroth. Between that and your tactics during the match you are a bit more uncouth than I imagined for Lord Ajuka's younger brother."
Zepar's jaw dropped open at how harsh Rias' words were, Issei clearly felt the same as he had the fringes of a smirk agreeing with every word she said. A chill passed through the room as for an instant it appeared that a terrifying expression crossed Diodora's eyes, however it was gone so quickly that few were certain of what they saw. Catherine's hand fell to her side but a raised motion of Diodora stopped its advance to her blade. Rosalina tensed up yet retained her composure utterly unwilling to act without her king's orders.
"How unfortunate," he waved away the images of his bishops. "My offer may not have been appealing today, however if I gave up so easily then I would not be worthy of Ms. Asia's affections." Without even looking Rias in the eye he walked around her, kneeling before Asia and taking her hand gently, eliciting a gasp of surprise from her and a growl of anger from Issei.
"You saved my life and now we have been reunited my love," he kissed the back of her hand. "Even if all the forces of this life stood in my way I would never give up, so I solemnly vow…"
"She said no!" Issei stepped forward much to the room's shock, gripping Diodora's hand and pulling it from Asia's who stepped back in surprise. "Get your hands off of her you scumba…"
Diodora's hand moved faster, backhanding Issei in the face and driving him back while Catherine and Rosaline stepped between them defensively. Even the Red Dragon Emperor had to admit in that moment the smaller devil was stronger than he looked. The dark gaze from a few moments ago returned, this time unmistakable in his disdain for the man standing before him.
"Common born should know their place," he covered his mouth with his hands as if to block out a nonexistent smell. "I cannot stand being touched by such a filthy dragon as you. "To even stand in mine and Asia's presence should be considered a…"
A resounding slap echoed through the room, Asia had struck the devil-heir clear across the face, her previous look of timid indecision replaced with a focused scowl. Rassei, bound as her familiar shared her demeanor, letting out the most protective shriek any had heard from the tiny drake since choosing her as its master.
"I won't stand here and let you talk to Issei that way! I understand how you feel, and I care for your well-being, but not in that way. I do not wish to marry you and leave my friends I have found here!"
Diodora paused along with the entire room, his eyes open a bit wider in surprise before closing. With a brush and straightening of his suit, the young Astaroth stood tall once more.
"Of course, my apologies for such unseemly behavior. I understand this must seem so overwhelming from all that happened to you since our fateful meeting. "I assure you my feelings are genuine; I will show you my conviction at the next rating game. And YOU, Red Dragon Emperor," he flung his finger right in Issei's face. "I will be sure to conclude this encounter at that same game. Once I utterly defeat you it will show the depth of my feelings for the Lady Asia! I pray you will accept my proposal then."
"Wh…beat me? That's never going to happen! I beat the tar out of that Riser prick for the President and you're next if you think you'll lay a hand on Asia!"
Rias' formerly stoic appearance wavered at that sentence, while most of the peerage were focused on Diodora's departure, Zepar noticed the change. Where all else had failed to dent her outward demeanor, Issei's words had succeeded.
Issei, I know I commanded you to call me Master or President…is that the only reason you adhere to that so diligently yet call everyone else by their first names? It would be so simple to reverse my orders, but then what kind of master would I be? And would it be by your choice or mine?
"Is your mistress alright?" He whispered quieter than ever to Akeno. It made his heart plummet that for the first time, Akeno's face remained in a concerned frown.
"She just…thinks too hard on certain things," was all she would say. Zepar did not press her further. "Issei really has grown since he joined us. To think that young man who only wants a harem would pick a fight with the younger brother of a Satan."
"Be careful."
"Oh, we have fought worse, next to Loki how bad could…"
"Please," Zepar became uncharacteristically serious as he stared with his mismatched eyes. "After that display yesterday, and the feeling I get from him…don't underestimate that man."
Akeno was taken aback at his sudden show of emotion, a light blush spreading at his concern for her.
"We will be careful, if anything he'll need to be the one to consider pain an old friend by the end of our upcoming match."
Outside the Hyoudou Residence...
"It doesn't seem that normal for a guy to own that many puppets." Koneko Toujo remarked calmly as she sat on the back of Issei's bike. With having just completed another contract they were almost back home for well-deserved rest.
"Yeah, no kidding, sorry with how late it is. I've found my contracts are more comfortable with me arriving the old-fashioned way instead of teleporting in. Thanks for helping me finally get that working by the way."
"Anytime, I've been…learning a few things about teaching others." The young nekoshou smiled somewhat at the improvement she had gained in studying with Akeno and Thrud surrounding Sage Arts. It had been a long time since she felt so confident, and it was all thanks to them. "It just felt right to pass on a bit of what I knew."
"I still don't know how I feel about Goldie," Issei admitted, the gates to his house finally coming into sight. "But if that group living by makes you smile like that, then they aren't so bad."
Koneko smiled at those words he couldn't see while she sat behind. The first year student may have been his superior as a devil, but he was her upperclassman and since achieving his Balance Breaker had surpassed her in strength by far.
"You have grown so strong," she admitted as he smirked back though it quickly died with her next words. "If you were less of a horrible pervert, I could really look up to you."
"You're so cruel Koneko!" He cried out unaware of the true admiration she held for the speed of his improvement since stepping into the realm of the supernatural.
"She can certainly be that way nya."
Koneko sighed at the familiar voice. Sure enough, lounging on the gates to the Hyoudou residence was none other than her older sister Kuroka smiling like the literal cat that had ate the canary.
"Kuroka, what are you doing here? You aren't on the prowl for Issei are you?" She glanced at her upperclassman's face, the goofy grin and blushing cheeks giving away where his mind was, squarely in the gutter. Kuroka had that effect on men not that Issei tried to resist.
"Can't a girl just visit her little sis for the heck of it?" The unamused glare from Koneko answered that for her. "Don't worry, I'm on my best behavior, honest. That fetching Einherjar is more than enough for my attentions…for now. If what he promises comes true, then both of us will be free to pursue our own interest." She looked Koneko up and down, beaming with pride. "You have grown so much; I am so proud but also disappointed I didn't get to show you the ropes myself."
"It wasn't my fault you ran," she fired back, a very awkward-looking Issei caught in the middle. "Rias was the one who was there when I needed someone most."
"And look how much of a better job she did than I would have nya." Kuroka's rebuttal surprised Koneko with its honesty. "Care for a sister-to sister chat?"
"I'll be inside," Koneko quickly declined as she started walking past all the while ignoring Kuroka's mischievous grin.
"Koneko…" Issei muttered weakly, the tension between the siblings so thick it was almost visible.
"Awww, what an adorable face," the catgirl teased with a wink. "Oh, don't look like that, I have my ways and she'll come around in time and that is what I have plenty of now. You didn't hear this from me…but a bit more time with my beloved little sister may be the best part of this probationary period, maybe."
"Is that why you were waiting out here?" Issei gulped upon realizing he was alone with her, his gaze failing to come close to her eye level. "To talk with her?"
"Well that, also thunder britches and your fallen angel friend told me they needed some peace and quiet for a project of theirs."
Inside Crossroads Tower...
"So, as you can see," Akeno spoke into the camera filming ahead. "With the proper conditioner you can loosen up your hair to be shaped into as many designs as you can imagine."
Thrud sat on the chair in front of her, hair down for the first time anyone had seen since moving into the tower. It was wet from having just been washed allowing Akeno to run her fingers through the strands for their soon-to be audience. The pair had discovered that Asia and Xenovia started filming in their spare time for an online station called DeviTube. While those two had started a series on what it's like to study at a foreign school, the lightning users had decided during a training session to try their own hand at it for views. The first viable talent others could utilize that both were adept at was styling hair and thus their first segment had been born.
"This is especially effective on long hair like my own. So, what kind of braids do you prefer?" Akeno pondered aloud for the camera. "You always have so many and such wonderful texture to work with."
"Back in Asgard it is customary to have one braid for every victory you achieve in battle," she explained, her tone a bit more wooden than Akeno's. "I had so many from competitions that I started making them smaller and smaller to fit more. On most days I try to make a crown braid with about two dozen individually woven segments."
"No wonder you never let us see you with your hair down, it must take quite a while to get them right."
"Very…long," Thrud's left eye twitched slightly wondering how Akeno had convinced her to take them all out for their video.
"That certainly explains why Dorian has been adding them to his own, I believe he is up to five?"
"He could probably claim more, but he only considers his individual victories. That would be Modi, Forcas, Ona, Seekvaira and now Loki."
"Speaking of…victories, I've seen quite a few gentlemen leaving letters in your shoe locker at school. Have you met any young heroes since settling in at Kuoh?"
"I have not," she answered bluntly. The pair plus Rias were known as the Three Goddesses of Kuoh and not one of them escaped the interest of men on a daily basis. "I have remained focused on my studies and practice, training everyday with…"
"Dorian?"
Akeno's eyes were closed in a cheerful smile by the time Thrud had locked eyes on her teasing companion doing everything in her power to not look foolish in front of their audience. She acted oblivious to the effects of her words but fully knew what she was doing.
"No more than yourself no doubt," she retorted with a smirk of turnabout. "You were turning heads long before I arrived, anyone turn yours?"
The two women stared each other down, matching smiles unbroken with neither willing to back down. After a moment Akeno cupped a cheek in her own hand as she reminisced.
"Well, I do have ONE person in mind but that is a story for another time." Without skipping a beat she waved to the camera, Thrud doing the same with a head-turn to show off a single small braid to the lens. During their back and forth, the half-fallen angel had still completed the intricate design for the walkthrough. "That is all the time we have for today, tune in next week as we take a stab at our resident angel and spartan."
This was a lot of fun, Thrud admitted to herself as the red light blinked off, signaling the end to their stream. Dorian and Rossweisse should start their own, it would give something else to do on their days off.
In the Underworld…
"…tune in next week as we take a stab at our resident angel and spartan."
"Think an old codger like me can do anything with this mop?" Azazel jested on the phone speaking with a voice on the other end.
"I'd be more concerned about a man of your years watching a teenager styling channel."
"It helps me understand them, plus it's good to see the kids settling in better than the dullness of daily school life. Any luck on finding our little saboteur from Mr. Held and Ms. Agares' fight?"
"None, and that is what worries me. To deceive Tiamat AND myself infers the Brigade has resources at their disposal we didn't foresee."
"But the last of the Rating matches are safe, right?"
"I have prepared for every contingency, doubled and tripled the redundancies and covered every backdoor I discovered when building the system even those no one BUT me should know. If they succeed a second time, then I fear there is a smarter devil out there than I. I also sent all my findings to Asgard to aid their ailing God Baldur, the effects of the poison looked familiar but I can't quite place it."
"Don't feel down Ajuka, there's always a bigger fish. The fact you've stayed the smartest in the pond this long is a testament to that brain of yours."
"Has Vali been cooperating since he came to us?"
"Surprisingly, yes. He has warned us that something else is planned for the future matches and to watch our backs but has been hesitant to share any details. That boy is wound up tighter than a clock, he parts with information slowly as a valuable commodity."
"At the very least it implies his team is truly not on friendly terms with the Brigade any longer. If that is the case, perhaps their other cells are similarly divided."
"You and your science wordplay," Azazel chuckled at his former enemy. "I hear you are having a blast with your little side project, any chance of it bearing fruit?"
"More than a chance," Ajuka's grin could practically be felt through the phone as he prepared for a lengthy explanation. "I never imagined more nekoshous in our time, just think of the impact a full colony could have on our world. They are surprisingly more similar to humans than even their appearance suggests, just the other day…"
At night...
"Papers graded, check," Dorian muttered as he finished the last of the documents on his desk by the dim light of the nearby lamp. "Approval signatures for Herja's escort to the Agares Isle, check. And my homework for Mr. Tanaka's exam, done." With that last word he slumped forward, nearly succumbing to exhaustion right there at his desk.
Agares Isle, the source of some of the most valuable resources in the supernatural world and they are actually allowing shipments to go out for use in the Brave Saint system and research for Olympus and Asgard. This is historic, it may even prompt other myths to seek membership in the alliance and...and Rose is still out, he sighed at the memory of the mountain of paperwork he had last seen her with. No doubt she was still hard at it without thinking of herself. Since moving into his room, she had converted part of her old into an office where she would work. I can turn in early, if she wakes me up all the better.
Falling into bed, he looked around the spacious room spotting all the new additions. The young Valkyrie's entire wardrobe had been added to his own, the bookshelf was noticeably fuller and even a familiar looking sofa had been added to the back in a previously bare corner. He was still astounded by how little she owned, even with it the entire bedroom was still very open.
The same sofa I fell asleep on at her place, the pleasant memory of her drunken stupor and rude awakening bringing a smirk to his lips. Could we just stay like this a while longer? He repeated Rossweisse's words from their first night together. As much as the sense of calm that had settled since Loki's defeat promoted the sense of relaxation, the sting of Baldur's state was ever present reminding them they must move forward. It almost feels like I'm back at her place, even has the…huh?
Dorian locked eyes on the bookshelf, a familiar thick binder he had spotted that night months ago standing out among the rest. With a bit of extra energy left in him he meandered over to the shelf, pulling it free once more.
"Trihexa: The Beginning of the End?" He mumbled aloud as he flipped it open with a shudder at the name he couldn't understand. The book was bigger than before with extra portions tacked onto the end; he was certain hadn't been there before. Where the original portion was worn with age, the end was quite fresh as if just recently added.
While its identity is not known, he read to himself, a beast has been alluded to in the works of wholly unrelated sources. Contained within this essay I will strive to showcase concrete evidence on why such a widespread, yet relatively unknown, prophesied calamity should be studied in further detail. To begin we must go back to the dawn of mortals fearful of the cursed number…
A low creak alerted the Einherjar that the door to the outside was opening. Thinking fast, he closed the tome-like binder and returned the essay to its place on the shelf. With a single semi-graceful leap, he dove into the bed, wrapping himself in the sheets securely so none would be the wiser he had been up.
She's done, thank goodness that didn't take so long. She's sure to be tired and as soon as she sits down, I'll be sure to make her feel…
Dorian paused as the expected approach of footsteps were replaced by a strange metallic skittering. Realizing something was off, he turned in time to see what looked like a golden steel spider lunge for his face.
"AAAAAAHHHH!" Dorian screamed as his eyes shot open. Where before he had been perched at the edge of the bed, he was now situated squarely in the middle with a familiar warm sensation encompassing his right arm.
"Dorian, are you alright?" Rossweisse asked. Her arms were wrapped around his, her impressive breasts pressing into him as she looked concerned at his cry of fear. "Was it the nightmares again?"
"Nightmare yes," he gulped with relief. "But a new one, have I ever mentioned spiders?"
The Valkyrie's face contorted in confusion, "no, I don't recall anything about spiders. You look pale, let me get you some water." She kissed him on the lips tenderly before pulling away. Rising from the bed, Dorian gazed with a timid blush at seeing she was naked before slipping on a robe.
What happened to her pajamas? I feel so tired, like I ran a marathon all night. With any luck I can get back to…
A rustling sound alerted him that another shape could be felt on his other side. With a sigh he reached to pull back the covers.
"Iggy, did you materialize in bed agaaaaaai?!" Where he had expected to find his lifelong partner instead a familiar strawberry blonde hair color greeted him, a body he had seen several times and could never forget lying naked beside him. "Thrud! What are you doing here?"
"Good morning," Thor's daughter smiled softly as she leaned up and kissed his cheek like it was the most natural thing in the world. "Where else would I be?"
"In YOUR room?" Dorian retorted as he started inching away from her sultry advance. He did not make it far before stumbling into another soft touch.
"Oh, is it morning already?" Iggy asked with a wide yawn. Unlike before, her dress was gone revealing an impressive pale hourglass figure almost as shapely as Rias. As with the others, she smiled warmly at Dorian without a hint of embarrassment.
"I can have breakfast ready if need be," Hecuba answered directly behind her, her chiseled yet still-feminine muscles glistening in the sunlight. "Though I would cherish a few more moments together.
"Wh…what…?" Dorian's jaw dropped as he soon realized his impressively sized bed was completely covered from front to back in nude women beginning to stir from the ruckus being made. Akeno sat up from his right apparently having been behind Rossweisse. She gripped his arm as Thrud did the same on the opposite side, Iggy advanced closer, even Yura from Sona's peerage raised her head above the group reaching for his leg.
"Ara ara, already active so soon in the morning?" The half-fallen angel queen teased coyly. She pulled him closer, snuggling her face against his shoulder as her breasts, larger than any other, sunk into him.
"I didn't sleep a wink nya," Kuroka purred after having claimed his side. "I am more than a little insulted you did. I suppose I'll have to try harder next time."
"Dorian!" The orange locks of Irina signaled the last body sharing his bed as she flopped atop him. "Don't think of leaving me behind, I've known you the longest after all."
"Irina?" He gasped in shock, knowing full-well angels would fall if they partook of impure situations. "Your wings, won't they…?" His fears were dispersed as pure white angelic wings exploded from her bare back, wrapping gently around Dorian and those closest to him.
"You always worry so much, as if the feelings we share and nights spent together could be impure in any way."
"Ah, everyone is awake," Rossweisse returned with a tall cup of water she set down on the nearby counter completely unfazed by the crowd clinging tenderly to the confused Einherjar. "We can get the itinerary squared for the day," the Valkyrie produced a clipboard covered with dates, appointments and information Dorian could not hope to fully comprehend. "Last night was wonderful but today Akeno and Thrud are up for spending the day with you during the various events. At night," she blushed at her next words, "Hecuba has gone the longest since being the focus with Iggy and Kuroka to follow should time permit."
"WHAT IS GOING ON!?" Dorian cried at the top of his lungs; mind utterly baffled at the scene of absolute chaos which had overtaken his room so early in the morning.
Rias' Rating game against Diodora swiftly approaches with foreboding clouds signaling ominous portents to come. For the present, the young Einherjar discovers himself in an unforeseen situation and must tread carefully through foreign plains. Until next time I hope everyone Reads and Reviews...but most of all Enjoys! :D
