(A/n)

I rewatched some of the early episodes of DxD and I just gotta ask...was it always this bad? Maybe it was because of my hormones, (most likely), but I swear it was better when I watched it for the first time years back.

Moving on.

Sorry for the super late update and I apologize for the low quality of this chapter. I needed a small break for myself but I think that may have come at the cost of my writing skills. :(

Regardless, hope you enjoy this Chapter!

Underworld: Phenex Territory

Y/n's POV

After receiving help from the Gremory Heiress in regards to obtaining a method to the Underworld, I was transported to the front entrance of the Phenex Estate. Before walking in, I turned and faced the young woman who had came with me. The same one who I had asked for help.

Y/n: "I thank you, Rias."

Gushina Rina, or if she were to go by her true identity: Rias Gremory, stood a few feet behind me as her eyes drooped from drowsiness. Upon hearing my voice, her eyes snapped open as she puffed her chest out in pride causing her pajamas to stretch. Her crimson hair swayed as she shook her head before giving a reassuring smile.

Rias: "It is quite alright, L/n-sensei. I may not know your intentions for coming here, but I trust that it is of great importance. After all, only a being of Chaos would seek help from me, a Servant of Darkness!"

I slowly nodded my head at her in confirmation, I don't see a reason to clear up her delusions. Though, seeing that her drowsiness was coming back, I decided to cut things short to allow her some rest. Tomorrow was a Monday after all.

Y/n: "That it is. Once again, I apologize for the inconvenience I have caused you. This will be all that I shall require from you, please head home for now and rest. I shall see you tomorrow in class."

Rias: "Fret not Sensei! As a Servant of Darkness I have the natural ability to persevere for long periods of time!"

Despite her cheerful voice, her eyes fluttered as if she were about to pass out and her shoulders sagged. I eyed her blankly not knowing what to do to get her to rest as I noticed the bags under her eyes.

Y/n: "Impressive...now go to sleep."

She froze before giving me a serious look.

Rias: "Daga Kotowaru!"

I raised an eyebrow at her.

Rias: "I have manga to read and dating sims to play! If you wish to stop me, I would like to see you try, Sensei!"

She grinned devilishly before striking a pose similar to before. Her family crest shined underneath her feet as she then disappeared in a flash. I stood in confusion, not once being able to understand this particular student of mine. After calculating multiple theories and formulas, I concluded that it wasn't worth my time. I turned my head to face the Estate of one of my more troubling students before walking towards it.

There were hardly any obstacles to obstruct my path, aside from the few guards patrolling who questioned my presence. Though they were quickly passive once I showed the Gremory Crest that I had borrowed for just this occasion. The entire Estate was large but extremely empty. The guards that were roaming around were hardly visible now that I was halfway across the field. My eyes glanced and took in the entirety of the mansion ahead. It was massive and had a delicately crafted exterior showing the wealth that the Phenex Clan possessed.

After taking my time with the peaceful and quiet walk, I eventually arrived and stood in front of the door of the mansion. I repeatedly knocked my fist on it and waited for the owner of the residence to arrive

No sooner than a few minutes after I had knocked, the door was opened as a man with golden hair who looked to be in his forties appeared. He wore a dark maroon suit that was laced in gold around the interior and edges. The way he stood and carried himself extruded a sense of nobility and arrogance. His eyes were fierce as they stared directly at mine while a frown was plastered on his lips.

Y/n: "Lord Phenex."

Lord Phenex: "Y/n."

We stood in silence as we stared at each other, no doubt he was sizing me up. When he saw that I hadn't backed down, he clicked his tongue before grunting as he stepped to the side. Allowing me to enter, I nodded my head appreciatively before stepping past him. Once he closed the door, he turned to face me while ordering a few servants within the room to prepare refreshments.

I didn't mention how I didn't require such needs, but nonetheless I would graciously accept them. Wordlessly he walked and entered a hallway to the right with me following right behind him.

The servants that we passed gave me glares and looks of distaste that I easily brushed off. A few who were bold enough to try and inflict some form of harm to my person were frozen in their steps when Lord Phenex sent them a glare. He may not favor me as much as I do him, but even he wouldn't allow such disrespect to be done to his guests.

After following him through a maze of hallways, we arrived at a room that seemed to be for guests. The two expensive looking couches in the middle of the room, the paintings on the wall, and the flickering flames of the exquisite fireplace, all had given the feeling of wealth and power. Judging by the way Lord Phenex had smirked at me, he seemed to take some pride with this.

For what reason? I neither knew nor understood.

Taking a seat across from each other, we waited for the servants to bring the refreshments. A maid came with a tray of tea along with a set of tea cups. They elegantly poured the steaming liquid before setting it back down and bowing. As quickly as they came and they soon left to do their duties.

Simultaneously picking up the cups, we both savored the flavors of the tea before getting to business. Lord Phenex gulped the last remnants of his drink before taking a deep breathe.

Lord Phenex: "What business do you have here, Y/n? If my son has offended you, then I must unfortunately inform you that he is not currently present."

I calmly sipped my tea. The liquid flowing down my throat with the soothing fragrance that came with it. I may not need to consume such things to sustain myself, but that didn't mean I couldn't appreciate them. Setting the teacup down, I merely waved off his statement. Riser's behavior towards me in class was the least of my worries at the moment.

Y/n: "You are correct that I am here for your son."

His body tensed for a moment as he narrowed his eyes at me.

Y/n: "But be at ease. For my visit today is merely regarding his safety and the safety of Kuoh."

My words slowly registered in his mind as he relaxed second by second. Once he was calm, he simply closed his eyes and laid back onto his chair causing it to creak a bit as he sighed.

Lord Phenex: "We have already discussed this, Y/n."

The sound of the fire consuming the wood it feasted on caused me to glance at it from the corner of my eye. The crimson yet golden glow from the flames burned bright as the logs split and crumbled. Flakes of it drifted upward into the chimney, but none of this is what caused me to stare at it.

I stared intently, watching the movements of the flames while it continued its natural process. It danced and swirled every which way that it could within its moderate confinement made of bricks and concrete. For only a moment, a mere split second, I saw what had caught my attention earlier. An unnatural movement in which the entirety of the dancing flames moved to "face" my direction before going back to its "natural" movement.

An infiltrator?

An assassin?

A familiar?

Whatever it was, I took into account the fact that it had probably been there for a while considering that Lord Phenex hadn't noticed or reacted to it. Though the probability of that being the case is low, the man is resilient and far too cautious in the protection of his clan.

So the only conclusion would be he already knew.

Bringing my attention back to the man siting across from me, I spoke calmly.

Y/n: "Indeed we have. Though circumstances have changed now."

Lord Phenex simply hummed in acknowledgement and filled his cup up with tea once more.

Y/n: "Danger lurks within the perimeter of Kuoh. An adjustment to Riser's peerage is a must to avoid any preventable casualties."

Lord Phenex: "An adjustment that I have no jurisdiction over. Riser is their King, and he knows the limits of his pieces."

Y/n: "But it does not seem that he knows how or when to limit his own arrogance and pride."

He narrowed his eyes in annoyance. The teacup in his hand let out a hissing sound as heat began to build up within his palm.

Lord Phenex: "Being prideful is in our nature, in our very being."

The tea sizzled and bubbled with steam continuously rising from his cup.

Y/n: "That it is, yet it is also you're most vulnerable weakness."

Lord Phenex: "One that a rare few are able to exploit."

Y/n: "A few that will turn to many if nothing is done to create improvement."

Lord Phenex: "Improvement that is unnecessary and redundant."

Y/n: "If that is what you consider redundant, then be prepared to be exploited and forgotten."

*SHATTER*

He suddenly stood up and threw the teacup at me. I easily dodged by leaning to the side, causing it to pass by me and crash onto the ground. The glare he gave me was the harshest of today and it only seemed to be getting more extreme as the traces of flames could be seen coming to life around him. The fire in the fireplace seemed to shine brighter and hotter, as if it was beckoning him to call upon it.

Lord Phenex: "Should I take that as a threat? Hmm? Because if it is, need I remind you that it is you who willing came to our territory."

He placed his hands on the table and leaned forward, almost coming face to face with me. Though with him standing, it gave him a higher elevation so that he was looking down on me.

Both figuratively and literally it seemed.

Lord Phenex: "What would He think if he found one of His Angels down here in the territory of the Underworld?"

I kept quiet to avoid speaking of the truth regarding Him. It would be problematic if word spread of such a thing, as well as inconvenient. Michael would surely use such an occasion to have me excommunicated, not that it would bother me since it means very little. But it would be an inconvenience no doubt to operating.

It seems my silence was misinterpreted as fear, if the grin Lord Phenex wore was any indication. No matter, it is best to let him continue his arrogant motions for now and simply wait.

Lord Phenex: "All bark but no bite it seems. As expected of your kind. I ought to slay you where you sit then parade your corpse and wings around Lilith."

Y/n: "..."

Before his threat could become an action, the Phenex crest suddenly appeared on the floor near the windows. A pillar of fire bursted out causing us to turn our attention to it. Two silhouettes appeared amidst the flames as they walked out from it unharmed. The flames died out while revealing their identities to us.

The first was Riser himself. Instead of his uniform, he was adorned in a red tux with his dress shirt and blazer opened allowing his chest to be seen. His crimson shoes clicked audibly as he strode forward. A frown was plastered on his face as his eyes glared forward before turning to confusion once he noticed us.

The second figure was a woman who seemed a few years older than Riser. Her purple long hair loosely flowed down to her hips while her headband kept it out of her face. White robe sleeves hung down her arms as she carried a mage staff in her hand. Her clothing underneath was quite revealing as it left a clear opening of her chest with her dress having a slit to reveal her left leg. Her eyes sharpened when she met my own. Rather than hostility, it was full of caution and awareness, I expected nothing less from his Queen.

Riser: "What is going on here?"

Riser's voice seemed to have snapped Lord Phenex from his previous thoughts as he glanced repeatedly between me and Riser. After a moment, he slowly stood back up before turning away towards the door. We all followed his silhouette with our eyes as he marched his way out.

Lord Phenex: "I was merely keeping our guest company while awaiting your arrival. Now that you are here, I will be on my way."

He coldly responded to Riser's question while walking out of the room. Riser clicked his tongue in annoyance at what I presume to be his father's attitude towards him. Saying nothing, Riser walked his way and lazily took a sit across from me. The woman, Yubelluna, followed him before standing right behind where he sat. Not once had she let me out of her sight.

Riser: "Tch, what are you doing here L/n-sensei?"

He nearly spat my name but was able to keep it barely in a respectful tone. Just wanting to get to the matter at hand, I paid no mind to anything he might say or do.

Y/n: "Recall your peerage."

For a moment he blinked in surprise. That surprise quickly changed to a baffled look, his eyes filled with surprise and rising anger.

Riser: "What? Am I going deaf? Yubelluna my dear, mind telling me what the hell he just said?"

Yubelluna: "I believe he told you to recall your peerage, Riser."

Riser: "Hmm, hmm, yes I thought that's what I heard."

Riser leaned forward before he suddenly slammed his fist on the table, causing an audible crack to sound out as the table split in two. He sneered while barely keeping himself calm while Yubelluna readied her staff in case she was needed.

Riser: "Who are you to tell me what to do?! We may have had an agreement regarding the precautions of protection, but do not forget who I am providing that protection to!"

The tables caught on fire as flames sparked within his palms. The intense heat radiating from them was apparent as the rug burned and became charred much like the wood. Yubelluna slowly walked to the side while keeping her staff pointed in my direction.

Y/n: "The Gremory Heiress. I do remember. Regardless, recall your peerage."

Riser: "I will ask once again, who are you to order me around like a mutt?! Need I remind you that Lord Sirzechs assigned me the task of keeping Rias safe?"

Y/n: "A family was found dead several hours ago."

I quickly put a stop to his complaints and simply went straight to the point. He froze stiff before processing the words that I spoke. Though once he did, he didn't react much and simply waved his hand while scoffing.

Riser: "Why the hell should I care if a group of human filth were murdered?"

Y/n: "Because among them was a student."

Riser raised an eyebrow still not understanding.

Y/n: "Who was also a friend of Gremory's Rook and Bishop... as well as a client of their services."

Riser's eyes widened as his glare was replaced by shock and anxiousness. His arrogant and prideful display was gone as he no doubt started to understand the dire situation they may be in.

With a snap of his fingers, the flames in the fireplace surged forth and molded itself as it flew towards his figure. Slowly, the flames turned and engulfed itself to form a bird—no—a phoenix. Orange wings sprouted from its body as its feathers released embers that trailed behind as it flew. Just as it fully formed, it perched itself onto Riser's shoulder as he looked at it. No doubt this was his familiar.

Riser: "...Yubelluna."

He didn't need turn to look at his Queen, the stern tone in his voice was all she needed to know what he wanted.

Yubelluna: "Right away, Riser."

The phoenix familiar released a mighty screech as it flapped its wings and flew in Yubelluna's direction. It landed on her forearm that she brought out for it to land on before she bowed her head in Riser's direction. The Phenex crest appeared as she teleported away in a pillar of flames, most likely to recall the rest of his peerage.

Riser kept a blank look as he leaned forward, now more invested and serious than ever.

Riser: "Continue."

I nodded my head as I pulled out four stones from my pocket. Stones that Rias' Rook had found surrounding the perimeter of the house. I handed them to him as he carefully inspected each one.

Y/n: "Sigils. Magic sigils of the Church to be precise."

Riser's face flinched a bit as his thumb stung from the holy essence being emitted by the carvings.

Riser: "...Exorcists."

He sneered as he finished inspecting the stones. He then eyed me carefully, no doubt suspicious due to my frequent visits to the Church in Kuoh. Though it quickly changed due to the fact that if I wanted the Gremory Heiress dead, I would've killed her by now.

Y/n: "Two exorcists, unaffiliated with the group of four that arrived last morning, have infiltrated Kuoh."

Riser: "Am I to presume that you know of their identities?"

I nodded my head. Riser rubbed his chin as he started to think, his eyes constantly glancing between the floor and the magic sigils in his hand. He frustratingly sighed after a few moments as he tossed them back to me as I caught them with ease.

Riser: "Give me names and, if you can, a visual profile as well. I'll have my peerage on the lookout for them as soon as they return."

I pocketed the sigils before summoning two files. I handed it to him as I stood up. Riser stood up as well as he fetched a drink from the wine cabinet behind him and opened up the first file.

Y/n: "Remember that Serrafall also tasked you with supervising Kuoh itself as well. Make sure you report any incidents, no matter how small, to the Sitri Heiress."

He made no rebuttal as he chugged down a shot of alcohol before grunting. He turned his back on me as he waved me to leave, though from his posture I could tell the stress and his anxiety was growing as he continued to read.

Riser: "Yeah, yeah, g-get the fuck out already."

With no other reason to stay, I fetched the piece of paper Rias had given me and activated it. In a second, my surroundings flashed white before it suddenly changed to a different scenery. I was now in a room much smaller than the one in the Phenex mansion.

The room I was in now was dark and cold, a clear contrast to the heat and brightness of the room I was in previously. The dim light from behind me allowed me to barely see the items within the room. A bed laid in the corner while a small table was placed right next to me. I turned my head to see the dim light coming from a TV that was on its lowest brightness. On the screen was an image of a girl who changed expressions as dialogue continuously played in a small text box at the bottom of the screen.

In front of the TV was a bundle of blankets that all laid on top of a figure. I took a few steps closer to see who it was, only to find Rias completely passed out while she laid on the floor. Her pajamas were more loose than when I first spoke to her, and her hair was becoming more unkept. A bit of nostalgia was felt within me as Rias' figure was replaced by a younger and smaller Raynare.

Seeing the controller that was connected to the console, I grabbed it from her hands and turned off the game. I made sure to "save" it as well, due to the fact that Raynare would throw a fit whenever I didn't do so in her games when she was younger.

Once the TV was powered off, I rolled Rias along the blankets before carrying her over my shoulder towards her bed. With no effort, I chucked her body onto the bed, not once had she stirred in her sleep. Her soft snoring was only interrupted when she started drooling a bit onto her pillow. I nonchalantly placed my hand under her chin before pushing her jaw shut, though it did nothing as her mouth opened back up when I removed my hand.

Seeing that it was pointless, I turned towards the window before opening it and jumping out after shutting it back closed. Upon landing unharmed, I turned to see that the "house" that Rias took residence in was simply the Old School Building. I didn't understand why she chose to take residence here, but it was convenient for hiding her presence from threats due to its close proximity to the school.

Walking away, I made my way back home. Contacting the Grigori could be done tomorrow after I inform everyone of what has occurred.

Kuoh Academy: May 3, XXXX

3rd POV

The atmosphere in Kuoh Academy was heavy and suffocating. No cheer, no laughs, and no humorous remarks were made or said as everyone had heard the news. In Homeroom at the start of the day, the teachers announced that today was a half-day. At first, everyone who didn't watch the news yesterday celebrated since it didn't matter what the reason was. That celebrated turned to mourning and shame when the faculty announced the passing of an unfortunate family.

The passing of a student.

A friend.

A lover.

A shoulder to lean on.

An innocent child.

She was many things to many people. But now she was simply a memory. Many tears were shed for the first hour of the day. The teachers didn't have the courage of giving work to them as they found it inappropriate. So they simply gave them the time off, a few organized some groups of students to create a memorial for deceased student and her family.

The rest of the day passed by quickly, even for a half day. Issei sat in his seat as he sadly looked around the empty classroom. It was now fourth block, and yet, no one was present in Y/n's class. Not even Y/n himself.

Issei didn't know what to do as he waited patiently for anyone to arrive. Irina hadn't showed up to school which worried him, but a quick text from her was enough to let him know she was alright. With nothing to do, he simply laid back against his chair and allowed his mind to wander.

Could he have prevented it? He wondered.

It was stupid to think that he could've. He wasn't close to her, and he never walked in that part of the residential area. There was no chance of him even being near the place the incident took place.

And yet, why did he feel this pit within his stomach continue to grow.

Maybe it was because he never thought of something like this happening. His dad always mentioned the Yakuza groups within Kuoh becoming more active. Issei wondered if they were the ones do have done this, but deep down he knew it wasn't that. Deep down, his instincts told him that this had something to do with the Supernatural.

That thought only made the pit in his stomach grow heavier and heavier.

Issei wasn't stupid, at least he didn't think he was. But frustratingly, he blamed himself for such a thing for happening. What was the point of having the power he had, if he couldn't prevent something like this from happening?

He knows that it is pointless to say that he could use this power to protect everyone, because if it came down to it he wouldn't hesitate to prioritize the people he cares about over random strangers. Issei had tried to ask Ddraig for advice, but much like the past few days recently, he was silent and never answered.

It was at his point that Issei realized something. He was neither a hero nor an anime protagonist. Without Ddraig or anyone to guide him, he was stagnant in the void of doubt and uncertainty.

Just cause he had the power, didn't mean he had what it took to become one. He didn't have the intelligence to figure out who and why they did the murder. He didn't have the courage to step up and take matters into his own hands. All he had was the determination to grow in strength and power.

But was that enough?

An image of his parents, his friends old and new, and Yuuma's smile flashed in his mind.

The answer: If it's for them, then yes.

...a sense of guilt creeped into Issei as he remembered the events of yesterday. How much he enjoyed and treasured the date he had with Yuuma, while somewhere in Kuoh a family was being murdered.

The sound of the classroom door opening pulled him out of his thoughts. Issei turned to the sudden sound and saw Rina walking in with a blank look. She walked in while closing the door behind her, their eyes met as she made her way towards him.

Issei flinched when he saw the uncharacteristic look on her. Far from the cheerful and energetic President of the Manga Club he was used to, the person who stood in front of him now radiated the aura of a King.

Rina: "Hyoudou-kun. How are you?"

She strode passed him before turning a seat around and sitting down while facing him. Her blue eyes pierced into his own as he fought the urge to shiver. Issei wondered why she was the only one here with him, but decided to question it later.

Issei: "...I'm okay...I guess. How about you, Gushina-senpai?"

She laced her fingers together as she leaned on it on his desk.

Rina: "I...I'm fine as well...Though the same could not be said for Gasper and Koneko."

Issei solemnly nodded his head, the guilt was increasing and crushing his heart now more than ever. He had heard how Gasper and Koneko didn't show up to school today. Both were close friends with that family and were always seen hanging out with their daughter. He couldn't imagine what they could be going through.

Rina: "Do you trust me, Hyoudou-kun?"

The sudden question caused his mind to blank as he looked at her. He didn't know where she was going with this, and could only nod slowly.

Rina: "Perfect. For starters, my actual name is—"

She stopped and they both turned their heads when the classroom door suddenly opened showing Yuuma. Her face was neutral as she looked between the two of them. Rina sighed as she stood up while putting her chair back in place.

Issei: "Gushina-senpai?"

Rina: "Hyoudou-kun, would it be possible for you to meet me at the Old School Building after school?"

Yuuma stood by Issei's side with a curious look while Issei himself didn't know how to answer. He looked at Yuuma to see what she thought about it but saw that she simply smiled at him once their eyes met. He felt his face redden as a small blush crept into his cheeks causing him to turn away towards Rina.

Issei: "Y-Yeah, I-I guess I could."

Rina turned to give him a small smile that caused Yuuma to scowl slightly. Issei and her didn't make their relationship official as they agreed to spend more time together to see if they would click. Though for Yuuma, she was already sure that she wanted to be with him with a hundred percent certainty but still respected his decision to not rush.

That didn't mean she was going to let another have a chance to get his interest, more so if it's a Devil.

Rina: "Good."

She then turned to Yuuma who didn't let up her frown, but Rina wasn't affected by it. Instead, Rina offered another smile and nodded her head at her.

Rina: "You can come as well, Ayano-san. No doubt I think this will be important to you as well."

She calmly walked towards the open door and left. Yuuma stared at the door before turning her attention back to Issei.

Yuuma: "Hey, are you okay?"

She asked once she noticed the grim look he had. Issei shook his head before standing up.

Issei: "I-I'm fine, let's just go. I don't think anyone is coming to class so there's no point in staying."

Yuuma nodded her head as she followed him out.

[Time-Skip]—

The Old School Building was no different than the New School Building in terms of atmosphere. The hallways were empty and dark as the people inside kept to themselves. Even though no one was allowed within this part of the school premise, Rias and her group still made this place one for them to meet and hang out. It was a home for them to stay for as long as they wished. Rias made sure of that by bargaining with her Brother about it.

In this home, the interior was lined with carpet and furniture that had no specks of dust on them. Several rooms were renovated to become bedrooms, closets, a single kitchen, and even some storage rooms. The only room left untouched was the office where Rias and her peerage usually met to hang out and discuss their day.

But today was not one for such simple things.

The wailing of sorrow from Gasper had long ceased as he cried himself to sleep in his bedroom located in the corner of the building. Koneko laid next to him as she hugged his head against her chest. Both wore their sleep ware as neither wanted to leave the bed ever since the events from yesterday.

Gasper stirred in his sleep as his breathing suddenly increased. Koneko simply hugged him tighter as she began rubbing circles on his back with her hand, while her other hand combed his hair in a caring way.

This was the tenth time he had stirred in the past hour or so. Koneko didn't mind the lack of sleep that he was causing her, for she too didn't think she would be able to sleep peacefully for the next week or so. Her emotionless face hid the anger and fear that she had, as well as the mental scars that she received.

Akeno and Rias had came to check up on them from time to time. Although a little too harshly, Koneko informed them that there was nothing they could do at the moment. Gasper was all Koneko cared about at the moment for he was the one openly suffering the most. But she made a mental note to apologize to them for her behavior later.

Finally being able to calm the quivering young boy in her arms, Koneko took a deep breathe to calm herself before nuzzling her cheek on the top of his head. The stress was catching up to her and she was undoubtedly going to fall asleep. With a final glance around the room for any hidden dangers, Koneko closed her eyes that slowly became drenched in tears and reluctantly fell asleep for the eighth time since last night. Though she was prepared to wake up to calm Gasper if he needed it.

In a different part of the building, Rina and Sona both sat across from another on the couches that occupied the office like room. Both sipped their tea as they waited for the meeting that they had organized with the new exorcists that arrived yesterday. Rina had a more grim look while Sona remained neutral faced. Akeno and Tsubaki stood behind their respective Kings while occasionally refilling their tea.

*Cough* *Cough*

The entrancing silence was broken when Sona coughed in her fist. Rina looked up at her before nodding her head as she took a deep breathe. Once she was calm, she adorned her Devil persona as her expression shifted to one similar to Sona.

Rias: "I didn't know of the incident till this morning."

Sona: "And neither did we until the Headmaster called for the us, the Student Council, before the announcement was made. Though I understand the predicament you and your peerage must be facing, I think the most pressing issue is the fact that exorcists have taken residence here. Not only that, but you also invited said exorcists to a meeting in your own home."

Rias simply nodded her head as their was no reason to lie or deny it. Though there were some details left out regarding who she invited to said meeting. After all, she had yet to tell her about giving access to the Underworld to their Mythology teacher.

Rias inwardly frowned as she swore it all felt like a fever dream. The fact that she woke up on her bed and not on the floor in front of her TV helped solidly that. But she had a feeling that it wasn't just a random lucid dream she dreamt from reading too much manga. Of course, that feeling was entirely proven true the moment that Y/n pulled her to the side during class transitioning to discuss the incident with her.

Rias: "Yes, I did. Koneko and Gasper were supposedly the first to arrive at the incident and were also able to identify who they were."

Sona nodded her head as she closed her eyes to think. In the mean time, Rias summoned two pictures before placing them on the table. Said pictures were of a young teen with blonde hair and another older man with white-grey hair.

Rias: "This is what they look like. And if you are going to question whether or not the crest within the household is still there, Koneko had already erased any trace of it."

Sona opened her eyes as she nodded. Taking the pictures from the table, she burned their features into her mind before handing it Tsubaki.

Sona: "Print these and give a copy to the rest. Tell them if they are to go out, that they should have at least two others with them. Especially Saji."

Tsubaki: "Right away, Kaichou."

Rias: "Akeno, accompany Tsubaki."

Akeno simply nodded before standing next to Tsubaki. Taking the two pictures with her, Tsubaki teleported the both of them away leaving the two Kings alone. Releasing a sigh full of stress, Sona reached her hand out towards the table as she summoned a magic circle slightly above it. The magic circle slowly moved down until it met the surface of the table before disappearing.

A chess set was now in its place.

Sona: "Would you care for a game or two?"

She asked as she moved to the edge of the couch while leaning forward. Rias didn't see why she shouldn't play, though it did suck that she wasn't as good as her best friend.

Rias: "One game wouldn't hurt."

One game did hurt. As did the second, third, and fourth. It wasn't much of physical harm but simply ego wise, Rias was in the slumps. Each time she thought she had the upper hand, Sona would simply trap her pieces or even checkmate her right after. And each defeat only made her aware of her incompetence for strategizing. The only time she really used strategy and information gathering was when she played her dating sims to get a 100% completion. But even then it was simpler since there were limited dialogue options and effects, none of this mojo voodoo crap Sona was doing.

The sun was starting to set by the time they nearl finsihed their fifth game. Sona played with the black pieces, like always, while Rias played the white pieces. Well...that's how it was at first.

Sona: "Can you please stop replacing your pieces with your Evil Pieces!"

Rias: "What?! Why?!"

Sona: "Because they aren't toys for you to play with!"

Rias scoffed in response which caused Sona's eye to twitch.

Rias: "If you can play with all these tricks and stra—te—gies. I should be able to play however I want as well!"

Her best friend rolled her eyes in annoyance.

Sona: "Just follow the rules...And stop trying to move multiple pieces at once!"

Rias: "What? Why? It makes logical sense that my army wouldn't just stand there while their brother-in-arms fight!"

Sona: "Rias, I love you, but can you stop trying to apply real life logic to a game?! That means no inspirational speeches, no bribes, no 'government corruption', and no assassinations!"

Rias crossed her arms and pouted as her cheeks puffed up.

Rias: "Well that's just boring...besides, if my knight can jump over one piece, he should be able to jump over TWO pieces with enough effort!"

A groan was the response she got as the Sitri Heiress slumped onto the couch.

Sona: "J-Just please play your piece already."

The red-head didn't reply as she just sat there still cross-armed.

Sona: "...Rias it's your turn."

Rias: "...well, I pass my turn."

Sona: "Huh? W-What, n-no! For the last time you can't just pass your turn!"

Rias: "But I'm going to lose if I move, I already know it!"

Sona: "Rias, god—"

Rias/Sona: "Ow."

Sona: "—dammit, just move your piece already!"

Just as Rias was about to reluctantly move her Bishop piece to take Sona's Rook, a knock from the door halted her. Rias cheered as she didn't have to lose another game to Sona. While the Student Council President herself just groaned in relief from finally being able to stop playing which she would have done so earlier if it wasn't for Rias' stubbornness.

Rias: "Come in!"

After getting confirmation to enter, the door opened with a click and in came several people. Some the two recognized which included Issei, Irina, Yuuma, and their Sensei. The others were unrecognizable, but the aura they emitted wasn't so foreign. After all, a Devil would never forget the bane of their existence.

A blonde nun, a hooded figure, and two Sisters of the Church entered the room. One of the Sisters eerily looked identical to Irina, to which Sona and Rias could guess it was her mother. The blonde haired nun had a smile as she gazed around the room in fascination, while the hooded figure stood stiff and still near the back.

Rias and Sona both adopted neutral expressions as soon as they entered. Sona snapped her fingers as the chess set disappeared while Rias pocketed her Evil Pieces. She felt a gaze on her and noticed the two Sisters staring intently as she held the Evil Pieces in her hand, but that didn't stop her from putting them away. Once the Pieces were gone, they directed their attention away causing any tension to leave.

Rias: "W-Welcome to my humble abode."

She stood up and spread her arms out in a welcoming manner as she spoke while barely keeping the calm in her voice. Her Sensei nodded his head with Issei and the rest following along as well. Since there weren't many seatings, Rias walked her way to her desk and took a seat.

In the silence, the creaking of her office chair resonated across the room uninterrupted. Every student of Kuoh within the room, minus Yuuma, fought the urge wince from the loudness and awkwardness.

Luckily for them, the awkwardness was ignored by the adults in the room as they made their way to the couch Rias left unoccupied. Y/n sat closest to Rias, followed by Irina's mother in the middle and then the other Sister. Issei, Yuuma, Irina, and the hooded individual all blinked before moving to the other couch.

Sona scooted herself to be straight across Y/n while the blonde nun took a seat next to her while offering a kind smile. Sona allowed her lips to move upwards a bit in return before turning flat. Issei allowed the hooded individual to take a seat next to the blonde nun since they likely knew each other while he, Yuuma, and Irina stood to the side.

Yuuma stuck close to Issei while her palms continuously dripped in sweat. Even if her Uncle was here and promised no harm would come to them during their duration here, she couldn't help but feel intimidated by both the Devils and members of the Church. Irina, however, was in a much better state as she trusted her mother and had made friendly relations with the Devils of Kuoh Academy.

Once everyone was seated, Rias was actually the one to take the first step in a conversation.

Rias: "Before we get to the matters at hand. There is something we need to discuss first. Hyoudou-kun."

Issei flinched a bit as he turned his head to look at her. He felt nervous and had a bit of stage fright when everyone in the room turned to look at him.

Issei: "Y-Yes, Gushina-senpai?"

Rias pointed at him with her finger while looking at him blankly.

Rias: "That."

A look of confusion came to his face as he didn't understand what she meant.

Rias: "That name. MY name. It isn't Gushina Rina. It's Rias Gremory."

Multiple people in the room were left confused while a few others simply nodded their heads in confirmation. Though seeing that she wasn't finished, all of their questions were put on hold.

Rias: "You said that you trusted me correct?"

Issei: "Uuuhhh, to a certain extent sure."

Rias: "Good enough. Now I know it might sound absolutely ridiculous but know what I'm about say is the truth."

Questions vast and broad appeared in Issei's mind as he wondered what exactly she would reveal. Was it some sort of Governmental Secret? Was this a test or something? Was this actually a Cult Initiation? Because he wouldn't be surprised since it sure felt like it with all the candles and gloominess.

Though for all of the scenarios in his head, he didn't imagine this one.

Rias: "I'm a Devil."

Issei froze as he processed the words she spoke. She admitted to being a Devil. He wasn't surprised that she DID admit it, no he was surprised that she admitted it to HIM of all people. He made sure to play dumb whenever she did her shenanigans in class like when they played Uno, special effects are a thing after all. Though now that he thought about it, he wasn't sure that he was supposed to be taking all of that with stride with how much she went over the top.

Issei: 'D-Did I really make a blunder this bad?'

Trying to be normal and a regular human instead just made him forget about what he was actually trying to hide from. He turned his head to look at the others reactions and surprisingly, no one showed a sign of surprise. The only thing that changed was how Irina was clenching her fists as her eyes glanced around the room.

Issei: 'W-Was I really this out of the loop?'

The shock was apparent in his wide eyes before he tried calming himself with deep breaths. After being able to calm his beating heart and racing mind, he offered a joking smile to Rias. He didn't know if they were really testing him or if they were joking around.

Issei: "R-Really? W-Well, I guess I could have made that connection with how you keep calling yourself a Servant of Darkness, ehehe...Don't tell me this is secretly a Cult or the Occult Club or something?"

Trying to play dumb, Issei spoke in a joking manner that he hoped they would buy it. Rias looked at him with a raised eyebrow, though the way her cheeks reddened a bit did show that she was embarrassed that he said her "title" in front of these people.

Rias: "*clears throat* It seems that you still don't believe me."

She then stood up before walking to the front of her desk and then leaning on it. Suddenly, two black wings sprouted from her back and extended outwards causing Issei to take a step back from surprise. Yuuma clenched her fist as she got ready to flee with Issei if things went down south. The members of the Church, aside from the blonde nun who marveled at the wings, placed their hands on their respective weapons. Though they were stopped when Y/n held his hand out towards them.

Time seemed to have frozen still as not a single sound was made. The candles flickered as the wind caused by the wings hit them back and forth, giving Rias a more demonic appearance than what it actually seemed. This only further cemented her next statement.

Rias: "Let me repeat myself, I'm a Devil."