italics - Thoughts

Bold underlined - Spells/Sword Skills

[Bold] - Ddraig

[Ddraig] - Ddraig mental speech

{Bold} - Albion speech

[Issei] - Issei mental speech with Ddraig

[Issei] - Issei speaking with Ddraig

Underlined - Timeskips/Flashbacks

"Bold" - Rating Game Announcement

Disclaimer: I do not own Highchool Dxd, Sword Art Online, or any of its characters. All rights belong to their creators.


Chapter 25: Trouble, Trouble, Troubles.

They arrived in Kyoto at the same time that Issei finished his lunch: Seaweed rice balls, specially prepared by Asia.

Ooohh! Tension rising in his body, Issei's eyes were quickly drawn towards the different sights and sounds he had never seen before in the railway station. "We have arrived in Kyoto!" And our first step into this much anticipated ancient capital!

The station had many automatic escalators, very fitting for the large station that had been covered by a huge atrium. Personally, Issei believed that it would not have lost to the one in Tokyo. Since both of them were major sightseeing destinations after all.

"Look look, Asia that's I-tan(*1*)!"

"Yes, yes! Xenovia! It's I-tan!"

Issei smiled warmly towards the enthusiastic actions of Xenovia and Asia, who pointed their fingers everywhere and commented on very sight. They sure are happy. Well, makes sense, since they had not been outside of the Church to look at the sights after all.

"Come on you two, calm down." Asuna smiled, laying a hand on both of the girls' shoulders. "There will be time for you to sight see later on, you know. Save your enthusiasm for later, okay?"

"…Right." Xenovia, upon hearing this, calmed down some, with Asia doing the same.

"Hmm…" Irinia muttered as she looked over the station with a critical eye, ignoring what had just happened. "Building a spectacular railway station like this in Heaven would be great for us..."

"The meeting point is the ground floor lobby of the hotel." Kiryuu called out, acting as the coordinator of their group. "Hey boys, as well as Asia, Xenovia and Irina who is daydreaming about the station. If we don't get there as quickly as possible, we won't have any time for free activities in the afternoon."

..

After the small group assembled, Kiryuu took out her copy of their travel guide, before she started to lead the group towards their hotel. Matsuda, at first, wanted to spend some time exploring Kyoto, but in the end, he agreed to follow Kiryuu's lead after some convincing from the bespectacled girl and Xenovia.

It also helped that there was a physical example of the dangers that the two girls had stated earlier appearing just after the two warned Matsuda and Motohama. Specifically, a pervert groping onto women that had to be restrained by several passengers of the train they had just exited.

So, under Kiryuu's leadership, the small group made their way through the ancient capital of Kyoto, spying Kyoto Tower, and for those in the know of the supernatural, two hotels that had the names of their Maous.

It also turned out that they were staying the 'Kyoto Sirzechs Hotel', the high-class hotel that their school had booked. Are you few trying to claim all the prime real estate around the Kyoto railway station, Maou-sama!

Well, Issei could not really complain too much, since in this way, Kuoh Academy had been able to obtain and book rooms for the entire second year students for a low price.

And so, when everyone arrived and showed their student identification to the attendants at the entrance, and further given detailed instructions to the lobby, Matsuda, Motohama and Kiryuu were understandably shocked by the luxurious décor of the hotel.

"Amazing…" Matsuda said in awe. "Is it really fine for the entirety of the second year students to live in such a hotel…?"

Well said my friend. Issei thought to himself. That is the most sensible opinon. But, since you have no knowledge on the supernatural…

"Yes it's amazing, but compared to Buchou's house, it's still a bit lacking." Xenovia commented softly, taking care not to allow the humans in their midst hear her true thoughts.

I guess Xenovia's thoughts are more up to par. Issei finished in his mind. After all, the Gremory home is basically a castle. Man, upper class devils sure are something…

As they went further inside, the small group reached the entrance to the hotel lobby. Already, there were many Kuoh Academy students gathered there, as well as a few teachers, Rossweisse and Azazel included. None of them really spoke up until every class had arrived, and that each of their numbers had been confirmed. Then, and only then, did a few of the teacher step forwards to start give them instructions.

Everyone listened attentively to the teachers' announcements, but when Rossweisse stepped up, some people tuned out most of what Rossweisse said. Not because they were disrespecting her or anything, but because she was pretty popular with the students thanks to her unique charms. Which the students were seeing right now.

After all, there was something endearing about seeing a cool, serious beauty have a rather cute and somewhat clueless personality. So much so that most of the students were actually calling her 'Rossweisse-chan' instead of 'Rossweisse-sensei'.

So, when Rossweisse started to talk about the 100-yen shops in Kyoto, most of the students only smiled and looked at Rossweisse with feelings of comfortable warmth. Some of them did pay attention though, since some students were thinking about getting the best product for their yen, and the 100-yen shops that Rossweisse was throwing out were sure to be good places for them to hit.

…Although, when Issei saw Azazel facepalming and heaving a sigh, he could, for a split second, feel the pain that his club advisor/teacher had went through earlier, when he saw them discussing something. Although, I doubt that 100-yen shops were all that they were talking about.

Thankfully, Rossweisse hastily finished up her sermon on 100-yen shops in Kyoto, allowing another teacher to give them some final clarifications.

"Thank you, Rossweisse-sensei." The teacher cleared his throat. "Now, please take note of the following points. After putting away your luggage in your rooms, it is free activities until 5pm, but please don't wander too far away. Best to stick to the area around the Kyoto railway station. Please be back to your rooms by 5:30."

"""""Got it~""""

After replying as such, the students got their respective room keys from the attendants at the lobby entrance, and were promptly shown to their rooms.

Issei was feeling excited. From what he had read and heard, the rooms were western-style double bedrooms. And not only that, but since Issei was in a class with an odd-number of males, he was given a room all to himself! Already, Isssei could think of the things he could do on his own inside the room!(And no, it does not involve anything rated 18. Rather, this would be a good time for him to set up his old ALO account that he managed to dig up a few days back)


…and, of course, Issei's hopes and dreams came crashing down.

""Bwa hahaha!""

"Shut up!"

Blushing from a mixture of embarrassment, disappointment, and sadness, Issei sighed as he took in his room.

His single room was the size of eight tatami mats, along with an old television set and a small round table, fit for serving tea for guests.

If this had been the room they had seen first, Issei might have been able to handle the complete difference from what he had been expecting. Alas… they had already seen the other rooms. A prime example was Matsuda's and Motohama's room, which they had all stopped by along the way to drop off the two boys' bags.

They had a large flat-screen tv, two big, fluffy beds, and a mini fridge.

Issei had his tatami mat room, and old-fashioned fridge, a small mini fridge, and a futon.

Matsuda and Motohama had a full view of the scenery around Kyoto station from their window.

Issei's sleeping area was surrounded by two walls, one Japanese style sliding door, a simple sliding door that was open that led to a small bath and washroom, and one modern door that led to the hallway.

I should have known something was up when I was the only one to receive my room keys from Azazel-sensei, and when I was told my room was on a different floor from the rest of the second years… Issei heaved a small sigh, burrowing the feelings of pain and suffering he felt from the drastic difference between the two rooms he was staying in compared to his friends. Well, at least they have a small bathroom for me, and modern appliances and outlets for me to use…

"Hmm…" Motohama calmly analysed the room, desperately trying not to laugh. "No bed, only sheets. And only a single set. So basically, a futon. And the base minimum…are these… the signs of resource allocation in the trip budget?"

"Ah hahahahaha! Is this for real!" Matsuda, one the other hand, was not restraining himself in the slightest. "Only this room is Japanese style! And looks like it's only the size of eight tatami mats? Ah, how fitting for Ise!"

"Ise-kun, are you inside?"

At the same time as Issei tried to stay afloat his disappointment, he heard someone knocking on the door. When he turned around to open it, he found himself face to face with Rossweisse, dressed in a tracksuit.

Leaning his head close, Issei whispered to her. "Rossweisse-san! Why on earth was I the only one assigned to this room…"

"Please endure it." Rossweisse whispered back. "This room was prepared by Rias-san to make it easier for us to hold discussions."

"Discussions?" Issei caught on quick. "Ah, about devil related matters?"

"Yes, pretty much." Rossweisse nodded her head. "If anything happens in Kyoto, we must first secure a place to carry out discussions. This is why the room was assigned to Ise-kun who was the odd one out."

Logically speaking, Issei could see the reason why this happened to him.

As a member of the perverted trio, it would be hard for teachers to room him with other students. At least, without complaints, anyway. And, as a member of the Gremory Peerage, one of the three(or was it four? Since Argo had her own…technically…) Peerages in Kuoh, it made sense to make his room the one to host discussions, since as he was rooming by himself, no one would know his comings and goings. Or any other devil for that matter.

Issei had half a mind to ask why wasn't it one of the other devils, but he knew the main reasons why.

The pairs were as follows. Kiba and Kirito, Kiryuu and Asia. Xenovia and Irina. And Asuna was alone, seeing as there were an odd number of girls in their class. It did not make sense to pair a male with a female, so they settled with allowing one male and one female student to room by themselves. Logically, it would make sense for him, who was staying in a room by himself and was a member of the Peerage of the person who was in charge of Kuoh, to have his room act as the place to hold meetings in Kyoto should the need arise.

He understood that. But… he would be lying if he said that he was a little saddened. After all, he too wanted to enjoy a luxurious western style hotel room on this school trip, just like everyone else! I just hope that nothing bad happens in Kyoto, and that this room won't have to be used for such meetings.

Placing a hand on Issei's shoulder as if to lecture him, Rossweisse said to him. "Anyway, I have to go meet with the other teachers, so your free time starts now. I feel like there will be lots of trouble during the afternoon free activities period… It's not good for everyone to be mesmerised by Kyoto."

""Right."" The Perverted Trio answered as a whole with great spirit, paying attention to what Rossweisse said.


After Rossweisse left, muttering about looking for Azazel who had gone off in search of some adult entertainment like the Maiko(*2*), the Perverted Trio met up with the girls, Kazuto and Asuna to go to the Fushimi Inari. It would have been fine for them to go to the shrine, as it was quite nearby. Just one stop away. And they had cleared it with the teachers too.

But, Kazuto and Asuna refrained. They wanted to mett Yui back in their log house, and spend some time with her. It had been a while since they had any family time.

So, as the small group left, Kazuto smiled and bid them a good trip. What could go wrong? We have the passes that Rias-san gave us, and we are here just to sightsee. No trouble should be found here, right?

Timeskip

I stand corrected. Kazuto grumbled to himself. We don't find trouble. Trouble finds US!

One minute, they had been having a relaxing day farming materials with their daughter to make some spicy snacks, the next, they recived a text message to meet them at Issei's room.

Besides him, Asuna was rubbing her head, trying to comprehend what she had been just told. "Okay…run that by me again." She sighed. "What happened?"

"So all of us were walking about and taking in the sights, and Matsuda-san was taking some photos for us." Xenovia started to narrate. "Then, like we planned, we went through the main entrance and went up the torii mountain. We took some photos along the way up."

"Then, I ran up ahead of the rest of the group." Issei took over. "I wanted to reach the top of the mountain."

"…Why was that?" Kazuto asked tiredly.

"Well…" Blushing a little, Issei rubbed the back of his head as he spoke. "I've always had this feeling that if you climbed a mountain, you should at least reach the top. So, I did."

"Yeah, it was amazing!" Irina cut in. "Iss-kun was dashing up the steps at full speed, avoiding all the tourists and slowing down so that you would not disturb the. He passed so many red torri as he made his way up! By the way, there were some names of companies and shops on them, but since we were trying to catch up to Ise-kun, we asked Matsuda to help us take some photos of those names so that we could read them later. Wanna see?"

"Thank you for the offer, Shidou-san." Asuna thanked the girl. "But we are getting off track."

"Ah, sorry." Irina had the decency to blush in embarrassment.

"So, when I reached the peak, I was surprised that there was an old shrine there." Issei continued. "Though, there were other areas it could have led to, since the torri did branch off at some points. Then, after I paid my respects, I noticed several presences surround me. Before I could say anything, they attacked."

"…I see." Kazuto furrowed his brow. Issei's not saying anything about whether they spoke. Well, I can get back to that later. "So, what did you do? I would like to hear on how you fought. So…Issei, you go first. Then, the rest of you, add on when Issei is finished. I want to know how well you fought, and how you could have improved in your opinion."

"Okay…" Issei scratched the side of his head nervously, before he began. "So, the attackers were a few tengus, some people in fox masks, and a small girl with fox ears in a priestess outfit. The tengu's attacked mainly with staffs and the mask-wearing people with some swords. They rushed me initially, so I ran. I did not want to damage the shrine unnecessarily."

And the forest was a better idea? Kazuto snarked in his head, but he refrained from saying that out loud.

"I would have activated Boosted Gear to fight back, but I was panicking a little too much to think about that. All I could think about was to avoid damaging the shrine, and to get away from them and see if they would retreat. I only really started to fight back when Asia and the rest came to my side, with Xenovia and Irina blocking an attack meant for my head. Then, I got Asia to use the substitute permit card that we got from Buchou to allow me to Promote to Knight. It was the best choice as it would deal the least amount of damage to the surroundings, yet allow me to subdue the guys attacking us faster to get some answers. I got Irinia and Xenovia to drive them away or subdue them while I protected Asia. After we took down about half their number, they backed off and retreated."

"Ise-kun was really cool, giving off orders like that so quickly and efficiently!" Irina squealed.

"I agree." Xenovia nodded her head. "Ise gave clear orders, and they were good ones too. And it was under pressure, and in unknown circumstances no less."

"It wasn't that great." Issei blushed a little. "I just thought that I should remind you two to hold back, since when the two of you attack, you tend to cause quite a bit of destruction, even with wooden swords."

"Hey! I'm not THAT bad!" Irina pouted, while Xenovia kept quiet. After all, she knew that what Issei said was true.

"…" Kazuto kept quiet as he digested what he had been just told, before he spoke his thoughts. "All I have to say is that you need to pick up on your training, Issei."

"Urk!"

"Your first instinct should have been to summon Boosted Gear to act as an offensive and defensive armament, should you be unable to avoid their attacks in time." Kazuto lectured. "Then, you should have, at the very least, made some plans the moment you felt eyes on you."

"Eh?" Xenovia blinked in confusion, along with Issei, Asia and Irina, with Issei the only one to speak among them. "Why? Wouldn't it make sense for us to be under surveillance? Since we are devils and angels are foreign existences to the authorities here."

"That doesn't mean that the people watching are JUST the yokai in Kyoto who are watching you." Asuna shook her head as she responded. "Honestly, if the enemy is good enough, there could be many different factions watching you and keeping tabs on you, all the while hiding from each other."

"Oh…"

"…Well, other than that, you did pretty well for the first time you were attacked suddenly. Especially if you take into account that this was supposed to be a relaxing break for you, away from the Khaos Brigade and the like." Kazuto smiled, clasping a hand on Issei's shoulder. "And I agree with Xenovia's assessment. You assumed the leadership role pretty well."

"…thanks, Kirito." Issei smiled. "It's near dinner time, so we should probably make our way down. I also have to tell Azazel-sensei and Rossweise-san about this, so we are going to go first."

"Go ahead." Kazuto smiled, allowing the second-year Gremory Peerage to leave first. Hang on, am I forgetting something…

..

..

After Issei reported to Azazel and Rossweisse about the attack at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, everyone went to have the luxurious feast of Kyoto cuisine.

Issei tried his hardest to enjoy the feast. The silky tofu, the Kyoto-grown vegetables, even the delicious broth. He really did. But in the end, his mind always returned to what had happened that afternoon.

In fact, both Rossweisse and Azazel were puzzled and perplexed by the fact that Issei and Co. got attacked. After all, the fact that devils, a reincarnated angel, and a Fallen visiting Kyoto for a few days for a tour should have been already reported to the ones in charge. Issei would have reported this strange occurrence back to his girlfriend, but in the end, he refrained. They had too little information to make any conclusive explanation.

Did the lower ranked in the supernatural group in Kyoto not get the memo that devils would be visiting? Was this supposed to be a test sent out by the higher ups for some convoluted reason? Was there some mistake, with another group attacking and causing their group to be mistaken as the illegal intruders?

If they reported to Rias unnecessarily, or with too little information, she would be worried, that was for sure. But, if in the end, the result of this attack was due to a miscommunication, Rias would end up worrying unnecessarily. And Issei did not want his girlfriend to be worried, on top of being depressed from him not being near her.

And before he left, he told the two about the missing possibilities that had flown away from him. In response, to that–

"If they will return to you one day, then waiting is a solution. Just be patient for the duration of the trip. However, I will ask some of my subordinates here to look out and report back for anything matching your description."

–Is what Azazel said.

Issei was pretty thankful for that. To think so much has happened in Kyoto, even though we just arrived…Well, these matters are best left to the superiors, so I'll just let them handle it!

And after that, Issei met up with the pervert duo and the girls to talk about the next day's schedule, before he turned in for the day.

…or he would have, had he not been too preoccupied by what had happened earlier.

Damn it, I can't sleep. Issei sighed. Kicking off the sheets, Issei took a peak outside. No one was around. Then again, this floor is away from everyone else.

Stretching his arms, Issei decided to have a quick walk upstairs. Maybe Kirito or Asuna-san is awake? I could really use some help with the configurations of my Amusphere…it's been way too long, and I lost the instruction manual. But, the time now is the girl's bath right? Maybe I will wait for Asuna-san to come out. Or better yet, look for Kirito there. He would most likely try to protect Asuna-san from any peeping boys.

So, mind made up, Issei started to make his way up, to where the public baths were.

But, when he finally reached the platform that led to the female bathroom–

"As a teacher, and as a fellow woman, I shall protect the girls' bodies!"

–So declared Rossweisse, clad in her red and white tracksuit, a white towel draped over her shoulders.

Not really surprising, since I am known for being a pervert who likes to peak on the girls. Issei sighed in his head.

"Sorry, Rossweisse-san." Issei rubbed the back of his head. "But can I ask if Asuna-san is in the baths? Or is Kirito nearby? I need to talk to them about my Amusphere."

"Your Amusphere?" Rossweisse blinked, her earlier tension leaving her body somewhat. "Well, unfortunately, those two are not on this floor at the moment. The only ones here are the second year Sitri girls who are acting as guards against you if you had decided to peak."

"Is that so?" Issei nodded his head. "That's a shame. I was hoping to talk to them." But since they are not here…

"Also, Rosseweisse-san," Issei asked.

"Yes, Issei?" The silver-haired woman hummed.

"Can I peek at some girls? I'll restrain myself to only looking at them."

"…eh?" When Rossweisse heard that question, her brain stopped working for a split second. Out of all the things she had expected the Pawn to ask, it had NOT been that curveball of a question! And the way he asked to act on his base desires politely on cemented how out of the left field that curveball of a question/opening move had been!

When she had finally regained her wits back, it had been to see that Issei had managed to cover the remaining distance between them, such that they were practically face-to-face. The only reason why she was able to respond was because of her trained, battle-hardened instincts.

[Boost!]

With a single shout, she fired off several icicles made from her magic, intending on pinning Issei to the ground.

[Boost!]

But, expecting this, he had already summoned his Boosted Gear, using the Sacred Gear to block off the attack and prevent it from getting even close to hitting his flesh. At the same time, he slipped off his blazer, and using his augmented strength, used it to whip it around the former Valkyrie's legs, causing her to lose her balance. At the same time, he grabbed Rossweisse's towel and quickly tied it up with his blazer.

When she hit the ground, she was effectively hogtied, thanks to him using Boosted Gear on himself.

"You! Did you think this would be enough to hold me!" Smirking at the poorly perceived attempt at restraining her, Rossweisse attempted to break free, the fabric straining as she flexed her muscles, combined with the Rook Piece she had been reincarnated as. However…

"I wouldn't do that." Issei said in a nonchalant tone, as if there wasn't a battle maiden ready to beat him into a pulp easily next to him. "If you break free you would rip that towel and my blazer. And, since that towel does not look like the one supplied by the hotel, I am guessing its one that you bought at a discount sale. And, if you break my blazer, you would have to pay for its repairs. Since you were the one who damaged it."

"…Ku!" Rossweisse, unable to escape the mental trap that Issei had put her in, stopped struggling.

"And besides," Issei continued. "I am only going to peek at a few girls, not all of them." Just Xenovia, Irina and Asia. As much as I want to see her as a little sister figure, the way she has been coming onto me is making it harder and harder to see her as someone I should protect. And honestly, I am starting to see her less as a sister figure, and more as a person I will love. Not too sure on Irinia though. She wants to be an Angel, and Angel's can't fall in love without falling. At least, to my knowledge. So, I guess we can say that we are 'more than friends, but less than a married couple?' At least for the moment, since I plan on marrying those in my harem.

"What level of pervertedness is this! You! Shouldn't you be satisfied with seeing and feeling Rias-san and Akeno-san's naked bodies virtually every day?" Discreetly, Rossweisse started to create several magic circles underneath her, ready to pin Issei to the ceiling to stop him. "And besides, aren't you dating Rias already?!"

"That is that, and this is this." Issei shrugged carelessly. "Besides, Rias is fine with me having a harem. I know; I asked her before. As long as she is the main girl, she doesn't mind. After all, devils value power, and me having the Boosted Gear is more or less a confirmation of me having loads of power, regardless of if I am the weakest wielder to date. It certainly helps that I have helped defeat a number of high-levelled enemies." With a casual touch of his hand, Issei used Dress Coat on the ground, destroying the magic circle that Rossweisse had been setting up.

"What! This perverted playboy dragon is hopeless!" Rosswisse "As long as it's related to the opposite sex, your power and abilities are raised to a higher level…No matter! Even if you get past me and the girls, we still have Saji! He has express permission from his King to awaken the Dragon King to obstruct you. - No matter what, you will not peek into the girls' bathroom."

Oi, oi! That is overkill, isn't it? Issei thought incredulously. I mean, it's only peeking! I'm not actively going to seek them out for any ecchi things! Getting Saji to turn into his Dragon King form to stop some peeking is a little too much, isn't it?! How dangerous do they think I am?!

"Come on, cut me some slack!" Issei complained, not thinking too much on what he was saying. "If you don't loosen up, you won't get a boyfriend, you know?"

He froze. Ah, shit.

Predictably, when Issei said the forbidden words, Rossweisse immediately teared up, her face blushing a deep red as she stuttered.

"Bo-bo-boy-boy-boy-boyfriend! Ha-having a boyfriend is irrelevant at this moment! Af-af-after all, I am still the virgin former valkyrie! I also want to do erotic things with a handsome boyfriend with a promising future!"

*Creak~*

The staircase they were on started to creak ominously, the stone railings starting to crack from the sheer amount of magic pressure that Rossweisse was releasing in her distraught state. At the same time, multiple magic circles burst to life just above them, spinning and glowing ominously with light from within.

Shit shit shit shit shiiitt! Issei rapidly paled. I stepped on that landmine! I stepped on it, and triggered Rossweisse-san's forbidden switch! At this rate, the staircase will be destroyed! And when Asuna-san and Kirito find out about this, I will die from the hell they call training for sure! So, I'll have to do that!

[Explosion!]

"Sorry, Rossweisse-san!" Muttering a quick apology, he quickly used Dress Coat to disrupt the magic circles that had sprung up. At the same time, he also used his other hand to touch Rossweisse's clothes, taking care to make sure that the output was at its lowest. "Dress Break!"

With the sound of ripping cloth, Rossweisse's clothes were quickly shredded into pieces. Thankfully, the towel and Blazer he had used to hogtie Rossweisse remained untouched. Oh wow, Rossweisse-san's figure is really great! Issei blinked in surprise as he observed the silver-haired former Valkyrie. She is like a work of art! Her full oppai, her slim waist, and her beautiful legs all combined together make her look like an exotic model!

"…eh?" Upon hearing the sound of ripping clothes, Rossweisse halted her actions, looking down slowly to confirm what had happened, as if she did not want it to be true. But, when her eyes met with her bare skin, and her exposed body shivered a little from a stray wind, she immediately started to sob. "Uweh~"

I went too far…But it was the only way I could think of to snap her out of it… Issei was thankful that Rossweisse had stopped attacking him, but he was a little troubled by what he did. "Sorry…"

"You think 'Sorry' will solve anything!?" Rossweisse cried with rage, her mood making a whole 180. T-that tracksuit was bought for 980 yen at a sale! I-it would take at least triple the price to replace it now! The bra and pants were also bought at discount! -Ah! iyaaah! I-I can't get m-married anymore!" Futilely, Rossweisse tried to cover herself up as a reflex, only for her to stop when she heard the sound of stiches ripping. Unable to cover herself up fully, she decided to press herself against the ground as much as possible to preserve her modesty from the front. A futile attempt for her chest area though, as the action only served to draw more attention to her large chest.

Seriously? The first thing you are angry about is your destroyed clothes? This is truly the actions of the cheap and nagging former valkyrie! Trying hard not to be aroused by the sight before him, Issei decided to focus more on the remains of the tracksuit, pants, and her undergarments that Issei had destroyed.

Following his gaze, Rossweisse immediately started to lecture Issei. "You! Enemy to the earth!"

Eh?

"Ruining clothes is such a waste! Your Dress Break is totally environmentally unfriendly! On top of that, your sex drive is too strong! Tissues, also, you must use tons of tissues right!? As a teacher, I cannot forgive you for this! Please " Rossweisse glared at Issei. "Respect natural resources!"

This is completely a first for me… Issei was a little taken aback by the current situation. Being lectured by a teacher, who is completely naked and practically hogtied, about respecting the items damaged by Dress Break, this is a first…or rather, how is she still managing to scare me in this position?!

"I'm really sorry! Please, accept my apologies!" Issei bowed his head. The action would have been a genuine show of his apologies…were it not for the fact blood was dripping from his nose.

"Ah, sorry to disturb your fun at the climax, my apologies." Suddenly, a new voice joined them! When Issei turned his head, he found out that is was Azazel. Said Fallen Angel was approaching the duo, his eyes half open as he shook his head at the scene that met him.

"Azazel-sensei!" Issei blinked in surprise. "W-Why are you here?"

"Oh, we've been summoned. To the nearby Japanese restaurant."

Summoned? What is it? They're already at a nearby restaurant? Curious, Issei asked. "Who is it?"

A smile tugged at the corner of Azazel's lips. "The very cute Maou-shoujo-sama."

"Eh? Maou Leviathan-sama?"

"Yeah, so get ready to leave." Azazel started to go down the stairs, but not before he said some parting words. "Oh, and please don't mind me. Continue your S-M play."

""We were not doing such a thing!""


Timeskip

After that…incident(Issei, for the first time, was a little ashamed at making someone nude. Especially since that someone was a very sensitive former valkryie), the second-year devils, consisting of the Gremory Peerage, the Sitri Peerage, and the SAO duo, all gathered at the restaurant that the Maou Leviathan was at. As they walked towards their destination, Issei and Saji talked. Apparently, the Student Council had spent the entre first day helping the teachers out, planning for the next few days, ensuring that the numbers of items they had for the students tallied up, re-checking the itineraries to ensure that there is no need for last minute changes, etc.

After entering and passing through the restaurant, they arrived at a certain room. One where their Maou, Serafall Leviathan, was quietly waiting for them, sitting in the seiza posture, and wearing a glamorous kimono.

"Hello! Sekiryuutei-chan, servants of Rias-chan, servants of Sona-tan, and SAO Clearers, it's been a while!" Serafall greeted the group of devils cheerfully. "The food here is really good. Especially the chicken dishes are exquisite. Sekiryuutei-chan, you and Saji-kun must really eat up."

But, we just ate dinner… Issei complained in his mind when he saw their Maou ordering even MORE dishes to add to the already large amount already on the table. But, when he put some of the chicken into his mouths, his complaints of having eaten dinner, turned into complaints of wishing he did not eat dinner already. When he looked around, he could see that almost everyone was mirroring his thoughts.

Almost everyone.

Kirito and Asuna were managing to put away the food on their plates pretty nicely, somehow. And he had seen them eat their dinner before they came here as well!

"So, why has Leviathan-sama come to this kind of place?" Issei asked, deciding that if they could not eat, they might as well know why they were here.

"I came here to secure the cooperation of the Kyoto youkai forces~" Serafall replied cheerfully, her body making a kiraboshi pose

As expected of the Maou in charge of foreign affairs! She was dutifully doing her job of negotiating with the youkai forces.

"So, Leviathan-sama," Asuna carefully put down her chopsticks, wiping her mouth before she spoke. "Why did you call us here then? If you were doing your job? After all, we are just devils with no knowledge in negotiations."

"For everyone but your cases, Asu-kun and Kaz-kun, that would be right, I suppose." Frowning cutely, Serafall placed down her own pair of chopsticks before she continued. "It seems that there has been a…unusual situation."

"Unusual situation?"

Serafall nodded. "According to reports from the Kyoto youkai, their leader, the kyuubi, went missing a few days ago."

Mother… Issei mulled over that word. Wait, didn't one of those people say to give them back their mother? Also, wasn't the kyuubi the very famous nine-tailed fox? It appears in manga often.

"So, that means Issei-san was attacked because of the daughter was distraught and angry, and Issei-san just so happened to be the target of that anger?" Kirito asked.

"Yeah." Serafall nodded. "I heard Ise-chan's report from Azazel-chan. I fear… that is the situation."

"So, to sum it up," Azazel downed his alcohol in one gulp, before continuing. "The leader of the youkai has been kidnapped. And the ones responsible are most likely...the Khaos Brigade. And, as a result, Ise was attacked due to a misunderstanding on their part."

Is that it? Issei wanted to smack his face from the sheer amount of drama that was unfolding around him. Again. So, a trip to Kyoto ends up with me being mistaken as an intruder, with the real culprits being the Khaos Brigade, whom we had just faced. Can't I just have a relaxing time? I don't want to go through Kirito-sensei's training during this holiday for me!

"You-You guys, what kind of trouble did you get mixed up in again?" Saji asked, his eye twitching slightly as he did so.

"Bah, this is super troublesome." Azazel spat out with some contempt. "Really, these guys, adding to our workloads….taking care of these kids is already tiring enough, on top of all the paperwork we have to do. With these terrorists being added…How vexing."

Didn't you say that you wanted to have fun with the maiko anyway?

"Didn't you say that you wanted to have fun with the maiko anyway?"

"Urk!" Azazel started to sweat a bit when two stares were aimed at him. One, the one who had spoken, the chestnut-haired girlfriend of Kirito. The other, from Serafall.

"Neh, Azazel-chan…" Serafall spoke in a cutesy tone, yet it did nothing to diminish the aura of anger that she was aiming at the fallen angel next to her. "Didn't you say that you were busy sorting out the messes that your subordinates made, so you weren't able to help me out at that time?" Hang on, is there beads of sweat on Azazel-sensei?

"Erm…it was a joke! A joke! They thought I was being serious!" Ah, yep. He is definitely sweating in desperation now.

"Hmm…" Serafall stared at the leader of the Griggori for a few more seconds, before she looked away, choosing to slurp up some of the soba that had arrived.

"Well, I'll deal with you later. Ah, it doesn't have to be said, but no matter what, this situation cannot be disclosed." Serafall spoke to the devils assembled before her. "We must solve it ourselves. I will continue to attempt to get the youkai to cooperate." As she said that last bit, she looked at Azazel, who was sipping another cup of sake.

"Ah, fine! Understood. I will act alone. Really, these terrorists bringing their trouble all the way to Kyoto." Azazel grumbled, downing the rest of his alcohol in a single gulp. "Seriously, now I won't have time to play with the maiko…"

What is with this situation… Issei sighed for what seemed to be the umpteenth time that day. It has only been the first day, and yet things have become so serious…Actually, can this even be called a trip anymore?...No no, precisely because this is the precious school trip of high school students, we must try as much as possible to enjoy the tour! But…

"So, what is it that we have to do?" Kirito asked, setting down his bowl of rice. He had remained quiet for most of the time, and thus, his presence had slipped out of Issei's mind. So it was a bit of a shock for Issei to hear him speak. "I'm assuming you want us to do something, since you called us here to tell us about the situation."

"Ah, about that, none of you have to do anything." Azazel forced a smile as he spoke, sighing heavily as he did so.

"Eh?" Issei blinked in surprise. He had not been expecting that. After all, as they were devils who were the Gremory servants, they were compelled to avoid inaction. "But..."

"Don't worry too much about this." Azazel reached out and rubbed Issei's hair. "If anything happens, I will call you guys. However, this is your precious school trip right? We adults will try to handle the situation as much as possible. So you all go enjoy Kyoto for now."

"Yes~ Sekiryuutei-chan, as well as Sona-chan's servants. Please enjoy your time in Kyoto. I will also enjoy myself!" Serafall cheered. "…Although, the work we would have to do later would be a pain…we would enjoy the fruits of our work later on!"

Unexpectedly, it looks like Azazel-sensei can be cool, even if he does act so slovenly most of the time. And that Leviathan-sama is the one who wants to enjoy Kyoto the most.


Timeskip

"Are you sure you have to do this?"

"I'm sure." Asuna gently squeezed Kazuto's hand as they watched around them. "…Are you ready?"

"As I'll ever be." Smirking slightly, Kazuto nodded his head. As they started to walk towards their destination, he could not help but think back to what had led to this moment.

..

Flashback

After some more words were exchanged, everyone headed back to their rooms, ready to take a quick nap before they had to wake up for their tours the next day.

Well, that was the plan. Instead, the SAO duo stayed behind, having been called by Azazel and Rossweisse for some reason.

Wonder why they called us to stay behind. Kazuto wondered. He could not think of any reason why they would have to be singled out for a conversation they would otherwise be able to have with the others. Well, besides Asuna's family, but it's not as if they have any pull over our school and its teachers, seeing as it belongs to the Satans and all.

..

"Asuna-san's family called our school." Azazel delivered the reason why they had to stay behind. "They wanted Kirito and Asuna to visit their family for some personal matters."

"…Is there no way for me to refuse?" Asuna sighed after she heard Azazel's words, a weary look on her face. Kazuto understood why. After all, from what she told him, her extended family focused more on academic achievements and wealth instead.

And that was all they cared about.

Blood relations? Pah, who cares? Let's get married to consolidate our power.

In a coma and just recovered from it? Oh, no fruit baskets. Just scathing words, bad mouthing and belittling hidden by some paper-thin sympathies

Inheritance? A blood bath, should the time ever come.

This was just a summary of Asuna's entire family, excluding her father, brother and mother(whose relations with her daughter was getting much better). Kazuto had no reservations that this was just the tip of the iceberg that was the amount of troubles and political-like atmosphere that was the Yuuki family.

"Unfortunately, we cannot." Azazel had a wry smile on his face as he replied. "The school had planned to visit some shrines and shops that belonged to the Yuuki family. If we refused their request, there is a chance we would end up being blacklisted from visiting any future establishments of theirs. At the very least, we would have a much harder time in the future. Asuna-san should know why."

"…Knowing my family, that would most likely be possible." Asuna admitted, a frustrated expression on her face. "The Yuuki family is well known and very influential in Kyoto. And their influence is only growing, reaching out to other regions of Japan." She sighed through her nose. "Fine. When do they want to meet me?"

"They also want to bring Kaz-kun with you, Asu-kun." Serafall spoke up, a small frown on her face. "Honestly, your family sure knows how to ruin the mood. They are all double-faced and full of hot air."

Asuna blinked in surprise. So did Kazuto. "You met them?"

"A few years back, when I started to build my new hotel." Serafall admitted. "Our deal was pretty short, but I could already tell that they were very not fun bunch." Serafall pouted. "Not like Asu-chan at all!"

"…Well, they only see you based on your academic background or influence." Kazuto sheepishly agreed with the Maou. "Sorry Asuna."

"It's alright." Asuna half-heartedly replied, not at all hurt by the statement her boyfriend made. It was quite true, after all. Most of her extended family was like that. Cousins, both older and younger, included. "The meeting time and place?"

"Your family's residence." Azazel replied. "They will be coming to pick you the two of you up after every group has departed for their respective tours. They told us that you should be free to go back to your classmates just before dinnertime. Your lunch would be served there."

"…" Asuna kept quiet when she heard that. "…did my mother say anything?"

"Your mother?" Azazel hummed. "She...was just as surprised as you. In fact, just after someone from your family came to tell us about this, your mother called to inform the teachers that you would be attending some family matter tomorrow. I was told she sounded a tad bit angry."

"…I see…" A myriad of emotions flittered across Asuna's eyes, but the most prominent one was uncertainty. "Thank you for telling us this."

Sensing what Asuna wanted to do, Kazuto followed Asuna's lead, almost mimicking her actions as they both stood up and bowed towards the two leaders before them before they left. Leaving behind any sort of happy mood that had occurred for the private getaway they thought they were going to have. Away from any excessive prying eyes.

..

Flashback end

With the mood for a few days rest from the supernatural(Well, as much as possible, anyway.) effectively banished thanks to the impending meeting with Asuna's extended family who were extremely difficult to handle, the duo decided to turn in early and wake up early to have some family time with their AI daughter and a friendly spar, before they had to face the Yuuki family.

Said meeting did not start off with them entering the house, oh no. The meeting already began the moment a luxurious car pulled up in front of the hotel, ready to pick Asuna and Kazuto up the moment the buses meant for the Kuoh Academy Second Year students left. Said car also drew the attention of the students who had yet to leave, which also included her new friends.

"Damn, that is a sweet ride." A random student whistled. "Wonder who it's meant to pick up."

Asuna winced, keeping quiet and staying out of sight until everyone left, if only to avoid unnecessary questions and get this over with as soon as possible.

"Don't worry, Asuna." Seeing this, Kazuto gripped his girlfriend's hand, squeezing it gently to tell her that he was behind her all the way. "I'll be there with you."

"…Right." Asuna took a deep breath, before she looked at her boyfriend. "No point in putting this off any longer than it needs to be."


(*1*) – Isetan

(*2*) – Apprentice geisha. In the past, geisha were prostitutes. Now, they are more akin to performers

AN

Okay, before anything, I am going to come clear on who is in Kuoh.

Kirito, Asuna, Klein, Eiji, Yuuna, Argo and Suguha are the only ones attending the school at the moment. Sinon is staying in her old school. Silica will start attending when Kirito and Co. become Third Year students. Liz will be joining the cast in the University, and would not appear as a student of Kuoh Academy. So, those who would join the harem are in a long-distance relationship.

Now, on to the meat and potatoes, if you will.

APOLOGIES FOR THE DELAY!

I have been pretty busy with my life, spending the last few months studying for exams, plus vaccinations, and work. A chapter would have been out sooner, but I had no mood to write for the last three months. The first two because of covid and the vaccinations, which put a real downer on any planning and writing. The last month, because I had to catch up on my studies. As such, there would be two chapters, at the very least

Now, you may be wondering: Why the 'at least' Animeted?

Well, the answer to that is simple: SAO MD.

The game is going to close on 30 August 2021. At the time of this posting and editing, it is 31 August 2021. Since it is going to take some time for me to churn out some chapters, I can only guarantee two chapters as of the end of August. I would most likely do a double release for next month as well, who knows?

Well, Anime is Life, and Please review!