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 31: Trip's end, Triaina's start

Everyone was in some sort of chaotic situation.

Heracles, who had become an oppai zombie thanks to the light of Issei's jewel of possibilities, was trying to go after Jeanne. Cao Cao, who had narrowly escaped being groped by Heracles, was trying to stop the large man, while also simultaneously ensuring there was enough distance for him to run if needed.

The rest of the Hero Faction, which included Georg, Jeanne and Siegfried, were working to subdue Heracles while also ensuring that Georg's work continued uninhibited, while also ensuring that they too did not get molested heavily like Cao Cao.

Issei and Rias were looking at each other with embarrassed blushes on their face. One, because she was suddenly summoned into a battlefield just as she was about to take a bath while only clad in her undergarments. The other, because he was trying to make sense of whatever was happening, while restraining the urge to fondle his master/girlfriend's boobs in what was previously a tense situation.

Oh, and let's not forget about the fact that a female former user of the Boosted Gear, Elsha, was trying to get Issei to poke Rias's oppai in order to power himself up in a solemn voice.

["Go ahead, poke!"]

"Uh…?" Issei wanted to clean his ears to check if he misheard. He really did. But at the same time, he knew that what he was hearing Elsha say was true. I-it can't be, right? I am hallucinating, right? A girl is asking me to poke another girl's oppai!

Of course, perverted as he was, he tried to run away from this utterly bizarre and seemingly impossible situation.

And then, Elsha spoke again. ["Please poke her breast."]

P-Poke?

["That's right, poke. Just as usual. Poke it with a 'pochitsu' sound."]

"With a 'pochitsu'!? No no, what will happen if I poke!?" Unable to restrain himself anymore, Issei finally responded to Elsha out loud. What are you even suggesting?! Are you really the strongest female Sekiryuutei!? This onee-sama, I fear you have gone mad!

["How rude."] Elsha huffed. ["This is the final switch to opening your possibilities, in other words, Rias Gremory's nipple. This is the switch: The switch to open the doors of your potential!"]

"No way. No." Sorry Elsha-san, but you're mad. Come on, this is beyond my imagination. Elsha-san, Buchou's nipple cannot be the switch to my awakening!?

["No, this is the switch to your awakening. Please understand, I truly believe this after observing you closely all this time."]

"Too far! Those words have gone way too far! But why do they sound so convincing!"

"W-What is it now!? I am surrounded by light!" Rias's voice, beset by shock, drew Issei's attention is his girlfriend. She had a rather troubled look on her face as her breasts started to flash with some golden light, as if it were a blinker. …Elsha-san, that is...

["Rias Gremory's breasts have come into contact with your possibilities, and entered a new phase."]

Next, next phase…?

["Those breasts have exceeded the limits, the frontiers of the Switch Princess - is entering the second phase!"]

Sorry, I don't understand. What second phase! Or rather, why did you say something Azazel-sensei would say for the show just now? Issei tsukkomied.

["Just touch it and you can change. You will realize a dramatic change. The power of the Evil Pieces within your body will be liberated with one touch. Press~ The~ Nipple~"] Elsha stated, her voice taking one a sing-song tone at the end.

Switch-nipple…

A small spurt of blood shot out of Issei's nose when what Elsha was talking about finally settled in. He was both reluctant to think that his power-up would come from poking his girlfriend's nipples, but at the same time, he was excited to do so because he loved oppai! So, I have to do this then?

["Yes. This is the finalised form of your possibilities. That is, if you want to unlock them, you need to press your master's breasts."]

Alright…I just have to hope Kirito will not have my hide after all this is over. Sighing, Issei walked over to Rias, withdrew his mask into the helmet, and smiled.

"…Ise?"

Rias tilted her head with an expression of surprise. Solemnly, Issei took a deep breath and said what he needed to say.

"Rias, please let me poke you in the breast."

"-!" The frank way in which Issei had approached this made Rias speechless for a few moments, but she quickly got over it. "…Okay. I don't quite understand the situation at the moment, but if you need to do this…" Blushing, Rias pushed down her bra, her face nearly matching her hair's colour as shifted her body to ensure no one could see her front besides Issei. "Go ahead."

Gulp. Swallowing, Issei released the finger portions of his gauntlets, before he extended two fingers and poked forwards, aiming them towards his girlfriend's nipples. Are you ready Ddraig?

[Ooooooh! Oooaaaaaaah! Oooooooh!] Instead of speaking, Ddraig showed his response by crying. Hard.

Ahaha… Issei could not help but laugh. …Thinking back, when reaching Balance Breaker, I also poked these breasts and awakened, huh.

Just as he thought about that moment, his fingers contacted Rias's nipples.

*pochitsu*

With that sound(Honestly, how in Hell did that happen?), Issei felt his fingers sink into the sinfully delightful flesh of his girlfriend's oppai.

"Hnn…" With a faint blush, Rias looked at Issei's face, her eyes glimmering slightly, before they widened as she started to rise, her entire body shining now. "Eh?!"

Before anyone could react, Rias started to rise into the sky, her entire body, especially her breasts, shining and flashing quickly, before she disappeared with a final, bright flash that obscured her entire form.

Clapping his hands together, Issei bowed his head. Sorry, Rias! Also, thank you for the treat! Elsha-san, where did Rias-buchou go?

["Back to where she came from."]

Really? Rias-buchou was summoned all the way to Kyoto just for that!? What the heck! When I get back, I will have to prostrate myself and apologise!

"…Sekiryuutei, what the hell did you do?" Cao Cao called out to Issei.

When he looked at the Hero Faction, it was to see Heracles groaning and holding his head. Looks like the oppai virus stopped affecting Heracles.

"Oi, Sekiryuutei!" Heracles shook his head, as if to get rid of something in it, before he growled at Issei, anger plainly on his face. "What the hell did you do to me!? You will pay for making me act like that!"

Serves you right for how you are treating Yasaka-san and Kunou! Issei retorted in his heart.

*Badump*

Issei felt a tremendous surge of power coming from his left hand, before it started to spread all over his body!

["It's coming!"]

As Elsha warned Issei, red light overflowed from the green jewels all over Scale Mail. Issei could feel a warmth coming from inside his body, before it started to overflow-!

This power, it can't be suppressed! Is this the power sleeping within the Sacred Gear, Juggernaut Drive? For a moment, Issei panicked. But just as quickly, he calmed down. No, no, there's no feeling of terror. Rather, it is some kind of energy pulse I have never felt before, yet it has a certain feeling of nostalgia. Ddraig, this is-

[I feel it too, partner…How nostalgic. This is my original aura.] Ddraig's voice was full of happiness and joy as he answered Issei. [Unlike the power from Juggernaut, driven by extreme emotion, there is no curse or negative emotion. This feels like the time when I still had my material body, when all I cared was to simply fight the White One to determine the victor!]

As the power that was both familiar yet not continued to surge forth, the red aura continued to increase, until it started to envelop Issei's vision and overwhelm him-

*flash!*

…For a moment, all that Issei could feel was overwhelming power. When he regained his senses, he found himself in a white space.

This is… Issei frowned. I should be fighting at Honmaru Palace in Nijou Castle. Why am I here?

Just as he thought that, two people appeared before Issei, confirming his suspicions.

It was Elsha and a fashionably dressed man.

"Elsha-san, why am I here?" Issei questioned the strongest female wielder of Boosted Gear. "Isn't it bad if I am here at this moment?"

["It is fine"] Elsha waved away Issei's concerns. ["Thanks to what you did just now, the door to the path different from Juggernaut Drive is now fully open."]

"So, is the path to Juggernaut Drive closed now?"

["Not quite. If I were to exemplify it…"] Elsha hummed, before she nodded her head. ["It is something like purifying the original power that belonged to Ddraig in the first place, I suppose. The Juggernaut Drive is a power that comes from the malice, greed, despair and anger of the past wielders and Ddraig when he was first sealed in Boosted Gear. Not only that, but it is also a seal that acts to prevent the full power of Ddraig being used. This path that you chose, this path on which you seek breasts, has purified this power, unsealing it from the chains that once bound it. In essence, you are one step closer to becoming what Ddrag was before he was sealed by God."]

"…I see." Issei nodded. "Thank you for that." A bad feeling started to blossom in Issei's chest. "…Will you be around to help me out in the future?"

["No. Belzard and I, we would be passing on."]

"Pass on…you mean…" Issei left what he was going to say unfinished, but Elsha knew what he was trying to say.

["That's right."] Elsha gave a small smile. ["We exist here only as residual memories, so it's about time for us to be free from this Sacred Gear. We died long ago. What remains here are just some memories. Not even souls. So, we plan on disappearing."]

"But…I have more questions!" Issei wanted to get to know his senpais more. To talk with Elsha and Belzard more. "I want to talk with Elsha-sana more, ask for more advice!"

Elsha only shook her head. ["You don't need us. Not only has my time as the Sekiryuutei passed, I also don't have the same interest in breasts like you. Only you, who cause all these strange phenomena by touching female breasts, can forge this path which is unknown to the previous wielders of the Boosted Gear."]

"I…see…" Issei was saddened, but he knew that whatever he says would not change the duo's mind. "I was hoping to talk to my senpais more though…"

["Don't worry too much."] Elsha gave a warm smile, placing her hand on Issei's head. ["Although short, the time we spent together was rather fun and interesting. Much more interesting than the entire time I have remained in Boosted Gear. You'll be fine as long as you have Ddraig and your companions. Go, current Sekiryuutei. Though the curse of the Sekiryuutei has not been fully lifted, it is something that will be resolved in time. If it's you, I'm sure the rest of the lingering memories will be liberated."]

"Elsha-san…" Issei was touched by Elsha's words. Overcome by the mixed emotions of gratitude and appreciation, his tears almost flowed out. Amongst the past seniors, there actually existed someone who cared so much for me…

["…I have to say, I am a little flattered that someone is crying for me at my departure."] Elsha smiled, her eyes moist.

["If you forgot, us Sekiryuutei have a rather lonely existence. Very rarely do we have anyone outside the Heavenly Dragons to lean on or share experiences with near he end of our life. To see someone shed tears for us… …Well, we're leaving now. Belzard, give him some final words."]

The man known as the strongest Sekiryuutei ever, Belzard-san. Issei looked at Belzard's smiling face with something akin to hope. Please give me some precious advice, I beg you.

Nodding his head, Belzard seemed to ponder on something for a few moments, before he nodded his head, as if he had decided on what he was going to say. Extending his two index fingers, the words out of his mouth were: ["…Click click, zoom zoom, iyaaan~"]

Eh? For an instant, Issei completely failed to understand what he was trying to express.

["Looks like he's satisfied. Let's go, Belzard."] Elsha smiled.

Wait, wait! Those parting words are- It took a few moments, but Issei regained control over his mouth just as he remembered just where he had head those exact words. 'Click click, zoom zoom, iyaaan~!' Aren't those the Oppai Dragon song lyrics! What are these parting words from Belzard-san!? What is that look of satisfaction?

Alas, Issei could not complain or even talk to the duo at all now. The two strongest wielders of Boosted Gear, the two strongest male and female Sekiryuutei were slowly fading away into the whiteness of the background. Before they completely disappeared, the two continued to wave goodbye.

"You must have better advice to tell your junior, right?" Issei begged the two. Please, don't just disappear after saying that! I can already hear Ddraig crying when this is all over!

["…Fine. If only to stop Ddraig from having his spirit broken."] A deep male voice spoke.

My prayers, were answered!? Issei was very surprised by this. He had not expected anything to happen to be honest.

["Remember, the Boosted Gear has the capability of being a god-slayer. The only reason why it is ranked low is because none of the users have ever reached past the theoretical applications of it being a god-slayer."] Although he could be faintly seen(very, very faintl), Issei could see a hint of pride on Belzard's face as he spoke.

["The restrictions imposed on the Boosted Gear were too high for us to overcome. But now that you, who have found a path different from Juggernaut Drive, have started this path different from ours, you will be able to go further and beyond what we were once capable of. Take flight, Chichiryutei! Be the strongest Sekiryuutei with the power of Oppai!"]

[Wait, Belzard!] Ddraig finally spoke out. [Why are you talking about that embarrassing name!? Is this payback for all those times I refused to listen to you were doing that?!]

["Click click, zoom zoom, iyaaan~!"]With those parting words, Belzard and Elsha finally disappeared.

This... Issei sighed. Well, I guess this shows one thing is certain. To become the Sekiryuutei, you must be a weirdo.

[…I resent that statement, Partner.]

"But there is truth in that statement, right?" Issei countered. "Elsha-san should have been some negative emotions regarding me searching for a power in line with oppai, and yet she not only encouraged it, she even seemed to enjoy my antics with oppai! And Belzard-san should not have been so happy about the Oppai Dragon, yet he seemed to love it!"

[...I cannot refute that...] Ddraig grumbled. [And now that you mention it...I guess all the wielders I and Albion chose are weird in some way or the other.]

"Right?" Issei could not help the grin that surfaced on his face. "After all-"


Back in the real world…

"After all, I'm just a hentai!"

Those words were the first thing Issei yelled out as soon as his consciousness returned to the real world. "Let's go! Boosted Gear!"

In tandem with his yelling, the red flashing light surrounding issei's body began to give off a massive aura

[… …This power…I finally remember. Why did I forget…? Yes, it was God. The original power of Albion and mine that God sealed-]

Hmm, seems like Ddraig noticed something. Even if he still seems a little disgruntled about what happened just now. Issei noted. Well, first things first!

"Oryah! Let's beat these guys over there Ddraig!"

[Right, let's show them this power of mine which hasn't been used for so long!] Ddraig positively shouted his approval of what Issei wanted to do. At the same time-

['Go! Sekiryuutei! Use our power! The possibilities of the Gremory servant, use it all!']

['Desire!']

['Diabolos!']

['Determination!']

['Dragon!']

['Disaster!']

['Desecration!']

['Discharge!']

-Many voices sounded out from the jewel, which began to repeat the sound of ['D'] as if it was broken!

['''DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD!''']

This power… The way to use this rediscovered power flowed into Issei's mind. Queen has been released huh. Well, no matter. Thanks to this power-

"Mode change! Welsh Blaster Bishop!"

-Asia's confirmation for Promotion is not needed!

*Clank-clank-clank*

With the sound of steam and shifting metal, Issei's armour began to change. A backpack formed on the back of his armour, along with two massive calibre cannons. At the same time, small feet-like appendages sprouted from his knees, embedding themselves into the ground as power belonging to the Sekiryuutei gathered in the barrels of the cannons.

In the span of three seconds, Issei had turned himself into a mounted turret.

[BoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoost!]

Magical power raised thanks to Promotion into a Bishop, alongside the newly awakened power of mine mixing together with the power of Sword Skills… Issei willed his new armaments to target Cao Cao's position. "To hurt my comrades and friends like this! And to look down and ignore us! You will be paid back tenfold for that arrogance! Disappear! Dragon Blaster!"

*Boom!*

With a large sound, the shoulder cannons discharged their payload as a massive beam of energy. All the magical energy, mixed in with the potent power of a Sword Skill, made for a deadly and swift combination. So much so that Issei, even though he was anchored, nearly fell backwards from the large recoil.

"Interesting!" Armour not yet dispelled, Heracles smirked as he stepped forwards. "I will take this shot, legendary dra-"

"Don't take it! Evade!"

As Cao Cao yelled out a warning, he used the base of his spear to hit Heracles away from the line of fire whilst he and the other members swiftly escaped from the line of attack.

Just in time as well.

The cannon blast, which did not hit anyone, continued on its way without pause, until-

*KABOOOOOOOM~*

A large explosion shook the entire space, bathing the entire area in white light. When it faded, Issei could see that a large portion of the replicated city had been destroyed by the attack. Not only that, but it had dug deep trenches in the earth along its flight path, practically vaporising the area it had passed through. Not a single hint of what had been there in the beginning remained!

"…That…destroyed the whole city…" Heracles could only look dumbfounded at the still sizzling trench of earth where he had once stood. "If he keeps firing, this dimension won't last!"

"Too late for that, Heracles." Georg grunted. A small stream of blood was dripping down the bespectacled boy's temple. "Not only did that attack distort simulated dimension, it even managed to punch a hole through to the Dimensonal Gap for a split second…even though this place was constructed to be sturdy…What kind of firepower was that?"

"Cao Cao!" Although he was elated at how powerful his new attack was, he could not afford to be complacent. Releasing the cannons on his back and his supports, Issei flew towards the Hero Faction. If I want to hit Cao Cao, I need to be faster! Just like a Knight! No, even faster! "Mode Change! Welsh Sonic Boost Knight! Purge Armour!"

As the boosters on his back went into overtime, doubling it's output with every passing second, parts of Scale Mail shed off, while others shifted into a more aerodynamic shape, turning Issei's armour into a slender, version that was built for speed.

[BoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoost!]

"Oooorrraahhhh!" Withstanding the large amount of G-force he was forcing his body under, Issei let his fist fly at the same moment he crashed into Cao Cao.

"Kra-" Unable to defend against the attack, Cao Cao vomited lightly as he was practically squished against Issei's fist.

"Finally got you! No objections to my fist?" Issei prepared to do another attack against Cao Cao. Much to Issei's surprise, he had quickly adapted to this swift attack.

"Never thought you would have really charged in from the front!" As he laughed, Cao Cao readied his spear. "But can that thin armour resists my spear? Sorry, I raised its power, so let's end this!"

It will definitely end if I get hit by your spear once more. Issei already knew what to do next. My thin armour built for speed is too thin to properly defend against anything. So-

"Mode Change! Welsh Dragonic Rook!"

-try to pierce this, bastard!

In that single moment, Issei's aura increased, gathering around his entire body as it restored his armour. But it did not stop even as he regained his former look, going further beyond. His arms, legs, and even body became thicker and heavier, covered upon plate after plate of Scale Mail.

*Ching*

With a light sound, the spear pierced Issei's hand, which had been raised to receive Cao Cao's attack. However, it only made a small dent, unable to fully go through and hit the unprotected flesh of Issei's hand.

"This output wasn't enough?!" Cao Cao, for the first time, sounded shocked. "Even though it is enough to instantly vaporise an upper-class devil!?"

"So what?" Raising his voice, Issei allowed his other fist to fly. "Don't look down on the Oppai Dragon, bastard!"

[BoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoostBoost!]

"Shit!" Retracting the weapon, Cao Cao used the spear as a shield to block the incoming attack. Once more, he was sent flying. But this time, the power behind the attack was much larger than before.

At the point of contact, percussion hammers appeared on the elbow of the armour, pumping large amounts of aura out to boost the attack. And at the same time, Issei's fist glowed with the tell-tale sign of a Sword Skill being activated!

"Gugh!" Despite the air being knocked out of him, Cao Cao was smiling as he was launched into the ground, creating a large spiderweb of cracks as it instantly cratered under the force it was subjected to. Large clouds of dust and dirt was thrown into the air, providing cover for not only Issei, but Cao Cao as well.

"…Ha ha…" Panting, Issei landed on the ground, the heavy armour dispersing into particles of red mist as Issei dispelled his new form.

This power is really taxing. Issei thought to himself as he struggled to regain his breath. Although I managed to get three new armour forms that increased the traits of the Bishop, Knight and Rook to the limit, the stamina consumption is truly enormous. Not only that, but other abilities are also reduced as a trade-off. And it seems that this current level of output is not enough for the Queen. If I forced the promotion, the power will either make me go berserk or it will disperse because I couldn't bear it.

[Beelzebub provided the key. Thanks to that, not only did we liberate my original power, you obtained a large increase in time for your Balance Breaker state, and the countdown to use it has decreased significantly.] The green jewel on Issei's left fist blinked rapidly as Ddraig spoke to Issei. [However, stamina consumption increased tremendously due to these new modes you gained, particularly when changing modes continuously. This will be lessened as you get used to it.]

So, I have plenty of room to continue training. Issei's breathing started to even out. No surprise there, I suppose. Kirito will ensure that I will not slack of once he learns about this. Rather, he will up its intensity so that I will get used to this as soon as possible.

As the dust settled, Issei could see Cao Cao standing up. …Bastard, he can still get up after taking my direct attack…? No, just before it struck, he used the spear to defend, so he can still endure...

"So this is the Sekiryuutei." Blood dripped from Cao Cao's nose and mouth, but he did not look bothered by it in the slightest. Wiping it off, he audibly cracked his neck before he started to speak, a smile on his face. "Pardon my earlier embarrassment. It looks like you have obtained great power at a time of desperation. If I didn't defend with my spear, I would have died. To think you would have gained a new characteristic you outside the rules of the Evil Piece system...This is almost like an Illegal Move."

You should just die, damn it! Even though your body is that of a human with no other special property, you are not only managing to survive in this direct confrontation, you also have the energy to boast! Truly the ultimate Longinus! "Illegal move?"

"A term in chess referring to irregular moves against the rules." Cao Cao replied to the question that leaked out of Issei's mouth. "That attack you did is clearly illegal in the Evil Piece system."

Well, I can't really argue against that. Like the words described, this power cannot be used in a match.

[This power gives me the feeling of the Triaina.]

Triaina? What does that mean?

[Triaina is the three-pronged spear of the ocean god Poseidon in Greek mythology. Better known as the Trident, I felt that the series of attacks from the three Evil Pieces was as intense as the Triaina itself.]

Illegal Move…Triaina… Issei hummed. Not bad of a name. I guess I will think of a new once I master the power of the Queen

"I just had an idea. Like the trident, I will call this series of attacks Illegal Move Triaina."

"A very good name. In terms of direct offensive power, this rivals Vali without Juggernaut. How terrifying. Wait, no. Vali is improving every day, I wonder how he is now…" Cao Cao tapped his spear on his shoulder. "Well, I suspect that attack should have consumed more stamina and aura than expected. You are also far from mastering it. No, even if you master it, its consumption will still be significant… By my estimates, ten minutes of Balance Breaker remains at most."

Issei sighed. This guy…he really is terrifying. "You are really too tough to handle. I thought you were underestimating us, but you were still calmly analysing all this time."

"No, it was my stupidity to have underestimated you slightly. My apologies. As one who has gained knowledge of the secrets of the Sekiryuutei yet does not revel in great power, you truly are a formidable adversary. I must go back and reflect." Cao Cao grinned. "How exhilarating, I haven't felt this way ever since the last time I duelled with Vali. Truly, fighting legendary dragons is the best. This is also proof that I am the descendant of heroes."

Exhilarating. I hate all these battle maniacs. When can I build my harem and live peacefully…

"Are you planning to have a total war with all the factions like this?" When Issei asked this, Cao Cao shook his head

"You're mistaken. This kind of team is not suited for long term warfare. Though individually we are strong, we cannot stand against the allied forces. Yes, we will inflict heavy losses upon them, but we will be eliminated. Targeting vulnerabilities with sudden attacks is far more efficient, so I will continue to stay in this kind of organisation."

So he had this kind of reason for staying under Ophis. How sly. Issei could not help but feel that there was something off about Cao Cao's answer though. There must be another reason Cao Cao is staying under Ophis though…

*Bzzzz! Bzzzz!*

Suddenly, a noise started to rock the dimension. This noise…its-

Looking up, Issei could see a hole forming in the sky.

"Looks like it's starting." Cao Cao laughed happily. "Perhaps thanks to your massive power, it attracted the true dragon to here! Georg, prepare the Dragon Eater ritual -"

Cao Cao stopped midway in his words. Narrowing his eyes, he stared at the dimensional gap with a questioning expression. "…Wait, that's not Great Red? …Plus, this touki is-!"

*Roar!*

With a loud roar, a massive slender oriental dragon, a few dozens of metres long appeared out of the dimensional gap, along with a tiny figure on its back.

"The Mischievous Dragon, Yu-Long! And- " Eyes narrowed, Cao Cao readied his spear.

As Issei watched, the tiny figure jumped down from the back of the dragon. But instead of kicking up a large amount of dirt, he landed on the ground rather gracefully, allowing Issei to see the new arrival clearly.

"What a massive flow of youkai ki, as well as the flow of [Domination]. Due to these, the entire capital city is full of strange fluctuations."

He was a rather short figure, but he had an elderly male voice. Covered in fur that gave off a golden brilliance, a monk's cassock also gradually took form over his body. His skin was also black, which along with his fur, contrasted against the golden band that sat on his forehead snuggly. A pair of shades of a cyber design covered his eyes along with some prayer beads that rested just below the glowing band. In his hand was a staff, both ends tipped with gold.

A youkai? A monkey youkai?

"Hey, it's been awhile, holy spear user." As the youkai spoke, puff of smoke drifted from the pipe in his mouth. "Looks like that damn kid finally grew up."

"The great Victorious Fighting Buddha." Cao Cao smiled, almost closing his eyes. "I wouldn't have expected you to come. I've heard that you have been thwarting our efforts all over the world."

"Kid, your pranks have gone too far. It wasn't easy for me to get assigned to have talks with the kyuubi leader on behalf of the Heavenly Emperor, and here you go kidnapping her. There are heroes who become gods and then there are heroes whose descendants poison the world. Tyranny and domination only lasts a single generation, isn't that saying correct? Cao Cao."

"Poison? To be called poison by you, I am honoured."

Cao Cao is speaking to this old man with such reverence... Issei looked at the rest of the Hero Faction. But those guys...they are looking at him with extreme seriousness? Or should I say, tension?

Or rather, there is only one person I know that looks like a monkey, while also having a staff and a golden band in that shape! Issei understood why the Hero Faction looked like they were under extreme pressure.

"That monkey-like old man…is he?"

"…Probably Sun Wukong, and the first generation as well." Kiba, who had finished his healing, answered Issei's question as he walked over to him.

I thought so! Issei felt shock and awe run through his body. That monkey old man is the famous one from Journey to the West…!

"Sekiryuutei boy, you worked hard." The first generation Sun Wukong having noticed Issei's gaze, spoke with a smile on his creased lips. "That's a pretty good dragon pulse. However, you don't have to push yourself any more. I am the reinforcements. Just leave everything to this old man. Yu-Long, I leave the kyuubi to you."

The dragon king, Yu-Long expressed dissatisfaction at being ordered by the monkey yokai. "Hey hey, giving orders to dragons just like that. Damn old man! Just getting here made me super tired! Anyway, what happened to the Hakuryuukou's witch companion! Wow, look, it's Vritra! Hey hey hey, the one fighting with the fox is Vritra! It's been how many years?"

Very enthusiastic, that dragon!

[Haven't changed at all.]

I-Is that so, Ddraig…?

First Gen puffed his pipe. "You can eat your fill of Kyoto cuisine later. How's that?"

"That's a promise, old man!" His attitude turning a new direction, Yu-Long flew towards the kyuubi leader. "You have to treat me to some delicacies later! Ah! Don't look down on the dragon king-sama! Fox lady! I am very amazing!"

"Apologies to the red fellow, but I will punish Cao Cao's descendant now."

Just as First Gen started to walk towards Cao Cao. Siegfried extended his arms. "Monkey boss! If you are that Sun Wukong, then I have no objections to such an opponent-"

"Siegfried! Don't take him on! If it's you-" Although Cao Cao tried to stop Siegfried, it was too late.

"Extend, Nyoi Bo(*1*)."

With a loud crash, Siegfried was sent flying into a pile of debris.

"You are not ready to be my opponent, young demonic sword user. Not enough strength in that waist. You'd better train again. Start with jogging."

"-Capture and bind. Mist!" Just as First Gen finished speaking, Georg, the Dimension Lost user released the magic circle binding the kyuubi and extended his hand towards First Gen, the mist he had used before surrounding the monkey yokai.

It looks like compared to summoning Great Red, handling this monkey old man was more important! Just as Issei was about to try and help out, First Gen calmly started to chant. "-By the justice of heaven, thunder sealing the dragon's jaw. Prostrate upon the ground."

Just as he finished the chant, he tapped the end of his staff against the ground once, causing the mist to quickly disperse!

"Your Sacred Gear training is very weak." First Gen admonished the shocked looking Georg. "You should enter in a dialogue with it like that red dragon over there, how's that?"

*Ting!*

"Oyah?" First Gen simply looked at Cao Cao, who had attempted to ambush him with an opening he seemed to have seen. The tip of the spear, which had expanded to reach the monkey yokai, was resting against his finger. "…Not a bad attack. But only this, you're still young. At the level that can be stopped by my finger, it is impossible for you to eliminate the other gods and buddhas. Whether you or the mist user, neither gave a serious attack. Don't underestimate me."

This old man, he is super powerful! Issei was in shock. Even though he had read the stories when he was young, it was stil shocking to see it in person! He defeated Siegfried with a single hit!

Hearing First Gen's words, Cao Cao laughed. "…I see. That monstrous strength still exists…We keep hearing how strong you were in your younger days. But how is it now?"

To Cao Cao's question, First Gen simply shrugged his shoulders fearlessly.

Siegfried picked himself up from the rubble and said to Cao Cao. "Cao Cao. It's over. Sun Wukong is famous for stopping Khaos Brigade operations numerous times. If we continue to attack recklessly, valuable talent may get injured. I was too naive. He is ridiculously strong."

Hearing that, Cao Cao put away his spear. "Time to retreat eh. Choosing the wrong moment could result in grave injuries."

Swiftly, all the members of the Hero Faction swiftly gathered in one spot, and the mist user started activating a giant magic circle conjured under his feet.

A transportation magic circle! Issei growled. They're trying to escape!

"Let's call it a day, First Gen-dono, Gremory servants, as well as the Sekiryuutei." Cao Cao looked at them with a smug expression. "Hope to see you next time."

Y-you…Doing this during our school trip! As well as taking Kunou's mother!

"Don't think you can escape that easily!" Forming a blaster on right hand, Issei aimed it at Cao Cao.

Seeing this, First Gen smiled at Issei. "Oho? So you'll finish up my mission? Sure, that's fine. I'll let you punish that kid. It will only be for a short while, but I will raise your power."

With a small sound, First Gen lightly tapped my armour with his staff.

This aura… Aura started to flow forth from Issei's body. Is this the power of sennjutsu? I never had this much aura before, so perhaps First Gen awakened it for me? Many thanks, monkey old man! This will be enough!

"You think you can return without any punishment?" The aura in the cannon reached the desired level. "his is my gift to you, your souvenir from Kyoto!

*Boom!*

Although much smaller and weaker it was nonetheless a fast one that was on par with his first attack. Seeing this, Heracles and Jeanna moved forward, blocking Cao Cao from view.

Do they intend to stop my attack? In that case- "Curve and hit it!"

As Issei yelled, he liberated his imagination in his mind! In that instant, the cannon shot changed trajectory and bent around Heracles and Jeanne!

"Ack!" Letting out a shout of pain, Cao Cao covered his face. Blood was leaking from his right eye, the red liquid dripping from his hand as he tried to cover it.

"…My eye was… Sekiryuutei!" For the first time, there was genuine anger in his voice. Raising his spear, Cao Cao began to chant powerful words of an incantation, an expression of mad glee on his face. "O' spear! The true holy spear that even pierces God! Absorb the tyrant's ambition sleeping within me, blessing and destruction will be-"

Before he could say another word, Siegfried swiftly covered Cao Cao's mouth and held him down. "Cao Cao! Stop chanting! It is too early to reveal the Balance Breaker of True Longinus, Truth Idea!"

For a moment, Cao Cao struggled. But with a deep breath, he calmed down. "Retreat. Annihilation Maker Leonardo is also at his limits. At this rate, the outside members cannot bide time much longer. After all, we already gained a lot of valuable data, and obtained very good experience." Staring at Issei with a sharp gaze, unknown emotions swirled in Cao Cao's tone as he spoke. "First Gen and the Sekiryuutei- no, Hyoudou Issei. Please allow us to take our leave. Really, I can't laugh at Vali any more. I am in the same state. You always manage to rile us up at the very end."

The light from the magic circle intensified.

"Hyoudou Issei, become even stronger. Stronger than Vali. If that happens, I can show you the true power of this spear."

With those parting words, Cao Cao and the Hero Faction vanished from the dimension.

One second. Then two. Issei kept his guard up as he looked around them for a total of five seconds before he finally relaxed, dispelling Scale Mail.

The Hero Faction…the True Longinus…and the plans that the Khaos Brigade have. All of the factions that make it up…it is all so very mysterious. Issei frowned. All i can safely say is that the Hero Faction, especially that man, were frighteningly strong.

With that, the remaining people in the damaged copy of Kyoto were the Gremory Peerage plus Saji, Sun Wukong and Yu-Long who came as reinforcements. As well as the kyuubi leader.

Speaking of… Issei watched as Yu-Long landed and took a deep breath. "Ah, so tired, if Vritra was not here it would have been a hassle..."

Thanks to the efforts of the Dragon King and Saji and Vritra, the kyuubi leader had been finally subdued. However, she did not return back to human form. Currently her pupils were still grey and had not recovered consciousness.

"Mother! Mother!" Kunou cried as she called for Yasaka, however…

"…" No response.

"Now what should we do? Though I can use sennjutsu to remove the evil ki presence, it will take a long while." First Gen puffed his pipe, brow furrowed as he thought of various other solutions to the problem at hand. Then, he looked at Issei. "Red kid. You seem to have a strange power that can listen to female breasts?"

"Ah…" Did First Gen watch the Rating Game match video? Issei scratched the back of his head, slightly embarrassed. "Ehehehe…yes, it's true."

"Good. Then I will assist." First Gen puffed his pipe. "Use the technique on the little girl and the kyuubi lady over there."

Use Bilingual on those two? Issei blinked in surprise. What could he hope to find out by asking their breasts? Well, no use thinking about it now.

Using the last dregs of his magical power, Issei sent power into his mind and released the ability. "Bilingual!"

"Hmm…" Confirming that the technique had activated, First Gen twirled his staff and tapped the ground. In that instant, a strange space covered the breast territory Issei had created.

Are? Issei swayed side-to-side a little from exhaustion. The surroundings seemed to be spinning constantly… And my sight was getting blurry?

"Red kid. This is a creative use of your technique, altering it to allow heart to heart telepathy." First Gen explained what as happening. "This would allow a dialogue between the little girl and her mother."

Oh? The blurry sight of Issei cleared up. Hmm...so this is another application of my Bilingual then? I guess I can do more modifications to my techniques like Kirito said.

Nodding her head, Kunou closed her eyes.

"Mother…Mother, can you hear me? Mother, please return to normal…I beg you, please…"

Yasaka remained unresponsive.

Tears started to stream down Kunou's face as she continued. "…I won't be stubborn any more…I will eat the fish I hate. I won't fly out of Kyoto at night any more…So please, please go back to the usual mother…Please…forgive Kunou…Mother…"

This is…a very depressing sight. Anger at what the Hero Faction did once more bloomed in the heart of Issei. Hero Faction…you would pay for this.

"Mother…" Kunou hugged the snout of Yasaka's face. "Please…come back…"

"…Ku…nou…"

-! It was faint, but Issei managed to hear that voice.

Similarly, Kunou's face started to lighten a little. "Mother! Kunou is here! Please sing that song to me again! Please teach me to dance again! Kunou, Kunou will be a good girl from now on! I want to be with mother…in Kyoto! I want to live together in Kyoto…!"

*Flash*

A dim light started to surround Kunou, before it spread to Yasaka, covering her large frame. As that happened, the kyuubi leader's body began to glow, and slowly, shrank in size.

Before long, Yasaka had regained the size of a human. Thankfully, she was still clothed, so Issei was not accidently perving on the mother. Though just in case, the pervert had the remains of his jacket to help cover the kyuubi should the need have arose.

"…This place is?" Yasaka, who was slowly waking up, peered at the trio gathered near her, her body shaking slightly.

"Mother! Mother!" Despite that worrying sight, Kunou could not help but jump into her mother's bosom, crying continuously as she hugged her tightly. "Mother!"

Slowly, the shaking started to stop as Yasaka tenderly embraced Kunou, caressing her head. "…What is it, Kunou. You're always such a cry baby."

Ah…such a touching scene... Issei sniffed a little. Oh, it looks like I am crying too! But it's okay! This is a wonderful moment!

"Mmm…" Appraising Yasaka, First Gen gave a small puff on his pipe before he nodded his head. "With this, Yasaka-san's sanity has been resorted, and this incident has been resolved."

"""Oh!"""

With those words and a subdued cheer from everyone, the battle for Kyoto and the fight to rescue the kyuubi leader ended after many twists and turns.


Timeskip

After everyone was checked up on by the medical team Azazel brought over, Issei's group that fought the Hero Faction went back to their room to rest. Even though the battle ended, not everything was fine.

For one, the Hero Faction managed to escape in the end. Even though Asuna managed to arrive in time to help out against the Hero Faction members, and even wounded Siegfried and Heracles with a Sword Skill or two, they had still managed to slip past the barricade in the end thanks to the Annihilation Maker kid creating a large number of monsters as a diversion in the end. Had she not retreated, Asuna would have likely been overwhelmed.

Another would be the fact that Julian Yuuki, the cousin who wanted Asuna, died.

Kazuto was not shocked that the guy had died. From how he was acting and how much stress he had placed his body under, it was only a matter of time before he perished. No, what really shocked Kazuto was how the guy had died.

Everything had seemed normal at first. A mixture of health potions and paralysation potions ensured that Julian would be unable to move anything besides his mouth. A truth potion was also added so that Kazuto could fish for information on the Khaos Brigade. Anyway, Kazuto had just managed to get some information from the guy before he started to writhe on the ground, as if he was in pain. An action which should not have been possible since the paralysis potions ensured that certain muscles would be locked up. Muscles which he was using to writhe in pain.

And then, Julian's body started to petrify. It was slow at first, but it was quickly noticed when they saw that cracking sounds were coming from his foot and hands, followed by the grey tinge of stone that slowly spread across his skin.

Nothing that Kazuto did could reverse the effects of whatever was happening to Julian. Health potions, both low and high quality, had no effect. Other more potent items, ranging from status-clearing potions to Full-Heal Crystals to the revival item that Kazuto used as a last resort, were used, only managing to halt the effect for but a single moment before it continued on, turning every portion of Julian's body into stone.

And the most horrifying part? Julian could feel everything that was happening to him. As his foot and hand turned to stone, he kept complaining about this itchy and burning feeling on said afflicted areas. He started to panic when he felt his arms and legs(or the remains of his legs) burn before the feeling to them became cold. He could feel the wooden floor digging into his stone limbs, as well as the fabric resting on them, but he could not move them. And when he accidently broke his petrified arm off because he shifted his weight too much?

He screamed, able to feel everything that happened. Not only to his broken arm, but also his separated hand. Every shard of stone that crumbled, every flake of dust that flew off it.

EVERYTHING.

And to complete this gory image, a grey sludge with hints of red poured from the broken off part, acting like Julian's blood. It was unnerving to hear Julian screaming and crying one moment, only for it to suddenly stop, his stone face forever set in its terrified expression for all of ten seconds, before that too crumbled away, turning his entire stone body into a pile of ash, a golden-black amulet the only thing that remained of him.

It took Kazuto some time before he could finally fall asleep. And of course, he was rudely awoken not but a few minutes later for some souvenir shopping.

Well, the only thing that Kazuto could take solace in was the fact that he and Asuna were not the only ones feeling sore and tired from their activities last night. The Gremory group, along with the members of the Student Council, were also lethargic for the better part of the morning until they got some sweet treats into their system.

And then, it was time to go.

The kyuubi leader the SAO duo had not seen before, Yasaka, along with her daughter, Kunou, and the Maou Leviathan, were seeing everyone off.

Well, although Kazuto said everyone, it was only Issei, Azazel, and Asia. The rest of the Gremory Group were chatting with their classmates, the Student Council were ensuring everything was fine, and both Kazuto and Asuna were simply watching the exchanges through the window.

"…" Asuna looked at the sight of Kunou smiling at Issei with a hard-to-read expression.

"…It'll be fine." Kazuto could more or less understand what Asuna was thinking. "Issei won't stoop to that low a level. He has his standards after all."

"…Yeah…" Asuna frowned. "But would he be able to resist them though? After all, Kunou-san is Yasaka-san's daughter. She would grow up to be like her mother, meaning that if she pushed hard enough, Issei would take her in."

"…" Kazuto could not refute that statement. It was true after all. Say what you want about the pervert, but he was rather weak against friendly women with large chests. And Kunou, given time, was very likely to be in Issei's strike zone after half a decade or so. That, and she would be legal too.

*Bi~Bi~*

That's the train whistle. Kazuto noted absentmindedly as he snuggle against Asuna. The two of them continued to look out the window, watching as Kunou shouted something to Issei with a large smile on her face, before Issei had to get inside the bullet train alongside Asia and Azazel. They continued to look out the window as the young kyuubi waved at Issei, watching her wave her dainty arms at the bullet train as it picked up speed, until she could no longer be seen.

"…" Asuna continued to look outside the window, her breath fogging up the glass slightly.

"…Are you thinking about Julian-san?" Kazuto asked his girlfriend/wife.

"…Yeah." Asuna closed her eyes. "Even if I hated him, even if he was a bastard arse, he was still family. He was still my cousin. He did not deserve to die the way you said he did."

"…" Kazuto did not say anything, only choosing to hug Asuna tighter. Yeah… Kazuto agreed with Asuna. Even if he was a bastard that wanted us crippled, he did not deserve to die like that. No one should die in terror and agony. Not even… Kazuto swallowed the bitter words down his throat. …Not even someone like him.

The couple stayed in this position, not moving an inch until they arrived back in Kuoh.

..

..

"…So?" Arms crossed, Rias looked at Issei with disappointment in her eyes. "What do you have to say for yourself, Issei?"

Sorry Rias-buchou… Issei could only accept what was happening to him with no complaint. I failed as your boyfriend…

The minute that everyone returned back to the Hyoudou residence, almost everyone was forced to sit in seiza position at Rias's feet as she interrogated them.

The reason?

Rias had her eyes half closed as she continued to punish/question them. "Why did you not tell me what was happening in Kyoto?"

Rias was angry that she had to coax the truth from Issei.

"Even if Leviathan-sama had asked you to keep this quiet, you could have at least contacted me and the rest." Rias pouted at them. "Koneko especially was eagerly awaiting everyone to call us. Imagine how disappointed she was when she did not manage to get to talk to everyone."

"…Punishment. No sweets or cuddle time with senpai." Standing beside Rias, Koneko was also staring at them, arms folded. "For Kiba-senpai, no training as well."

"""Eh?!""" The Church Trio and Kiba were saddened by the punishment Koneko levied on them. Especially the former thing, as everyone enjoyed the sweets made by Asuna.

"Mou…" Rias huffed. "The only reason why I am not angrier is because I got the information from Ise."

Several angry stares were quickly directed at Issei. Mainly, the girls who held a candle for Issei. I'm sorry! But girlfriends are scary when they are mad!

"Oh well, Ise was getting friendly with a new girl there."

Oi! Issei felt the number of stares aimed at him double. Azazel-sensei, what are you trying to do?! Don't add fuel to the fire!

"And it's the kyuubi's daughter."

Are you talking about Kunou! I mean, Azazel-sensei is not wrong, but context!

"No, it's not like that!" Issei tried to prevent any more misunderstandings from piling up. "Really Sensei, you're saying it in such a bad way."

"No, just look at Yasaka and you'll know." Azazel's eyes glinted. "If we base off of the mother, that girl will surely grow up to be a great busty beauty, right?"

For a split second, Issei imagined Kunou's future appearance.

"…M-Maybe so. But still! I already said I'm not interested in petite-gurk!"

Issei, who was about to say the sensible thing of 'petite girls in middle school', was cut off by Koneko's jab at his gut.

"…Why…Koneko-chan…"

"I just felt like doing it." Huffing with a displeased look on her usually impassive face, Koneko retracted her fist, allowing Issei to collapse forwards, holding his stomach in pain. Koneko-chan…there is no need to lie, you know? We already know why you did that…

"Well Rias, Ise managed to obtain a large power-up in Kyoto, so cut him some slack, okay?"

"That is…" Rias sighed. "I understand that part, and I am happy as well. However, being suddenly summoned to Kyoto, and br-breasts…" Rias stammered at the end, her voice trailing off as her face went red.

I understand, Rias-buchou! Issei's face also became red for various reasons. That was a shock even for me! I did not expect to get a power-up once more from my girlfriend's oppai of all things! Well, I am the Chichiryutei, but still! And also, I still need to make it up for all those innocent people that became temporary molesters!

"Oh?" Asuna's voice became a pitch lower, instantly causing Issei to sweat buckets! "So, Issei-san summoned Rias-san to Kyoto and molested her in public to get a power up? I do hope it was worth it, because you know what that means, right~?"

S-scary! Please, spare me~ Issei pleaded in his heart. "B-but, even I did not expect that you know?! Everything was so chaotic! There were oppai-loving zombies, and Elsha-san was solemnly asking me to touch Rias's oppai to get a power up! I actually thought I was going crazy!"

"Oho~?" Asuna's stare became heavier. "Is that so~?"

"Come now Asuna, spare Ise some pain, would you?" Azazel quickly tried to save his student, his face also starting to sweat when he saw the dark aura that was hovering over the chestnut-haired girl. "Besides, I think that his choice of power is great."

"Ah?"

"Wait, wait!" Azazel quickly leapt backwards, putting space between him and Asuna, whose judging eyes zeroed in on Azazel! Frantically, he began to explain his reasoning. "Ise's rival, Vali is trying to take Juggernaut Drive's power to the limits! Juggernaut Drive uses malice and hate as not only a source of power, but as a form of restriction whenever it is used. This would mean that Vali's path would ultimately lead him to becoming a true tyrant Heavenly Dragon if he does not make some adjustments to his power. Ise however is choosing a path different from Juggernaut Drive. That means that not only is Ise not going to get devoured by Juggernaut Drive when he faces Vali once more like when the Old Maou faction attacked, Ise is also choosing a path akin to royalty!"

"…Is that so?" Asuna finally ceased the dark glare she was directing at the Fallen Angel governor. "So why is Issei-san's path akin to royalty?"

"Why, because he is choosing to become a Harem King!"

"…" Asuna's face quickly became blank at Azazel's nonchalant reply. Then-

"Wait, wait, what are you trying to do with that knife?! Ah, please stop!"

"Take your punishment like a man! If not, we will have some chicken chop for tonight's dinner!"

"Hold on! Hold on! Can we just talk this out?!"

"The time for talking ended when you called being a Harem king royalty!"

"AHHH!"

*Crash~Clang~Crumble~*

Various sounds started to come from all over the house as Azazel tried to escape the righteously furious Asuna, who was chasing the Fallen Angel down with numerous knives in hand.

"Are you going to stop her?" Rias turned towards Kirito. "I know that Asuna is sensitive about these things, but to try and attack the governor of the Fallen Angels…that is a bit much, isn't it?"

"Well, Asuna is still a little sore about any subject related to harems." Kirito replied, wincing a little when he heard some very girly-like screams coming from the open doorway. "She won't tell me the reason for it though. Best to let her vent her frustrations a little before trying to stop her."

"I see…" Rias coughed. "Anyway, the daughter of the Phenex clan is going to transfer to our school before the cultural festival, so we need to start preparations earlier than usual."

"Really? Ravel is coming to Kuoh?" Issei was surprised by this piece of information. And judging by the looks on everyone else's faces, they were too. Well, besides Rias, Akeno, Gasper and Koneko. "Why is she transferring to our school?"

"Various reasons." Rias gave a deadpan stare towards Issei. "One of them is that she became influenced by me and Sona's example, so she decided to study in Japan for a bit. The main one however, is because a certain someone is staying in Japan."

wait, does Ravel like me? Like the girls?

"And yes Ise." Rias sighed when she saw the questioning look on Issei's face. "Ravel does like you. Like all of us."

Eh? So I am even closer to my harem then! Legal loli plus oppai loli getto! Issei cheered internally, feeling rather happy his dream was even closer to being fulfilled. But that emotion was quickly quashed by his feelings of panic. Wait! If Ravel likes me…then how will her brothers react? And how many others will try to join my harem?

Issei had very good reason to fear those reasons. For the first one, an overprotective father was bad enough. But a overprotective father who could survive almost anything that was thrown at him, and had the power to match the Sekiryuutei(For the moment)? Well, Issei hoped that he would be strong enough to resist the flames of the Phenex males before they met face to face.

As for the second reason, it was because he wanted to have a harem with girls he had genuine feelings to, and vice versa. Had he not been influenced by various sources(His grandfather and an accidental viewing of a harem anime), he would have settled with being faithful to a single woman. But of course, thanks to his grandfather, Issei wanted to have a harem. That desire, coupled with his nature as a good person, meant that his harem in the end would be filled with people he had feelings of love for and vice versa. Following this line of logic, it meant that he wanted to ensure that none of his girls would feel neglected in the end.

…Well, that, and he wanted some form of moderation. Say what you want about the pervert, but he knew better than to act like those anime protagonists who kept adding girls left right and centre, until there were like 20 odd girls in total. Too much was too much.

That said… Issei mentally tallied up the number of girls that would be in his harem. 4 from the Peerage I am in, including my master. My childhood friend/reincarnated angel. That makes 5. If we add Ravel, and Kunou if her actions and interest in me is deeper than those of a friend, that would mean I would have a total of 7 in the future.

Issei sighed. If this continues, I would get more girls interested in me! More oppai I may have, but too many girls is still too many girls! I know power attracts all sorts of attention, but if girls start to flock to me, this would get out of hand! Is this also part of being the Red Dragon Emperor?

"Crud!" Azazel popped into the room at that moment. "That girl...she is really bloodthirsty, ain't she kiddo? You have my regards."

"Meh." Kirito shrugged, before tilting his chin to a certain location. "That was rather tam for Asuna. If she wanted to, she would have taken up her rapier instead of chasing you with her knife. A butter knife, to be exact."

Azazel looked to the indicated direction. True to Kirito's word, there was a plate with butter, jam and some bread on the side table. And the missing piece of cutlery was indeed a butter knife. And right beside it, glinting maliciously under the evening sun, was a sheathed rapier.

"C-come on now…" Azazel had cold sweat running down his face. "A-are you saying that Asuna-san was playing with me?"

"…" Kirito chose to fold his arms across his chest instead of responding, eyes closed.

"A-anyway," Azazel hastily changed the topic from the morbid fact that Asuna was using Azazel, a leader of a Faction, as stress relief by stabbing. "The youkai world has decided to start broadcasting the Oppai Dragon show.-Hey Ise-kun, looks like you are going to be even more famous."

"Really?!" Issei exclaimed. "It looks like things are really getting out of control…This feels really surreal…"

Xenovia nodded."Ise will become the hero of all the children in the world one day. Yes, perhaps your dream to rise above the ranks of commoners will be achieved soon."

"Yes, yes..." Issei sighed. "But I feel like if I get welcomed by kids so enthusiastically, Ddraig will be in pain again. He would definitely complain about this." After all, they would not be talking about the Sekiryuutei, but the Chichikiryuutei.

"Anyway…" Rias coughed. "The formalities are all complete, so when Ravel-chan comes to Kuoh, she would be a first year."

"The same year as Koneko, eh? But Cats and birds don't get along too well…" Azazel cut in, a smug smile on his face. "Watching them together will be fun."

"…Mm, whatever…" Koneko pouted, hugging the a large plushie as she did so.

Hmm? Now that I think about it, Koneko-chan and Ravel-chan never did talk to each other whenever we met. They always tried to avoid each other…

"Hm, looks like we won't be having chicken tonight." Asuna chose that moment to come back, this time dressed in an apron and holding a kitchen knife. "Kirito-kun, how do you feel about some turkey?"

Is she actively harassing Azazel-sensei? Or warning him? Issei was not sure on how to feel on the situation. After all, a girl around his age was making threats at a Fallen Angel that was wa~ay above her power level.

"…Why not let Akeno and the rest cook dinner?" Kirito asked Asuna. "They are sure to want to cook something for their beloved Issei, especially after what happened."

"…Alright then." Sighing, Asuna folded her knife into the apron.

"Dinner plans aside, we should call it a day then." Rias coughed. "I'll ask details from Onii-sama through Grayfia later. With the school festival coming up, we need to do some serious preparations. Also-"

Rias's face turned serious. "The match against Sairaorg. This is supposed to be the last battle in the youth tournament. We cannot be careless. Let's prepare together."

""""Yes!""""

"Kirito, Asuna, could we trouble you to help us?" Rias turned to the only two other devils that were not in her Peerage. Azazel was naturally excluded.

"Sure, why not." Kirito got up and stretched. "We could use this to also train ourselves. That fight against Julian showed us that we were starting to be over-reliant n our devil's body. The two of us need to polish up our skills."

"Ise-kun." Turning his head, Issei looked at Kiba. "Let's spar when we recover. I really felt my incompetence in Kyoto, and hope you will give me strength."

"Yes, Kiba. Let's have simulated battles until the match." Issei agreed to Kiba's proposal. Training with Argo, Kirito and Suguha-san is great and all, but I need to develop my own style. Training with Argo-san and the Kirigaya siblings is more to develop my swordsmanship and Sword Skills. Training with Kiba again ought to help broaden my sights even more. I really want to try out this new power on Sairaorg-san and see what effect would happen. And hopefully, my Queen state would awaken to. Though, would the new power be allowed in the Rating Game?

"Rias-buchou and everyone, we will surely win!" Issei pumped himself up. -We must defeat Sairaorg-san! Nothing short of victory!


In a certain meeting room in the underworld…

"Sirzechs, we will send the data we collected from the Heroes Faction. They seem to have three high tier Longinus, as well as a gathering of Balance Breakers. Not only are they trying to summon Great Red, but it looks like they have other plans. These detestable terrorists."

"They appear to be working under the banner of 'Destroying the Devil and Youkai Alliance', Azazel." Sirzechs frowned. "Disregarding the core members, this is what the lower subordinates believe as 'Justice.' It is due to this that the various factions in the Kyoto barricade suffered heavy losses. They not only possess Annihilation Maker, but have many Balance Breaker users, this is changing the situation much more than we imagined."

"From the human point of view, devils, angels and youkai are all enemies." Although Azazel said it in a nonchalant way, Sirzechs could see that Azazel was bothered by this fact slightly. "They probably just view them as monsters. The alliance of the three Bible factions seems to be the spark that lit them into action. Devils getting along with fallen angels is already shocking, but Heaven working with the Underworld is even more unbelievable. It isn't surprising that humans will feel threatened and angered at this unnatural turn of events. - Anyway, how are the talks with the youkai?"

"Extremely well." Sirzechs smiled. "They want to negotiate with the Fallen Angels next."

"Really, looks like the proposal Shemhaza has been pushing all along will finally get started. Also, did you know that Sakra has been sending the first-generation Sun Wukong and the Jade Dragon all over the world? This time they also helped a lot."

"Since God of the Bible is dead, and now, Indra - As top tier gods, if Sakra and Zeus happened to get assassinated by True Longinus, then the balance of power between the various factions will be broken once again. Isn't sending the First Gen Sun Wukong to deal with terrorists the best way?"

"However, if the heroes, in other words the humans, are our enemies, then aren't we the final bosses that the warrior party defeats at the end? Or the hidden bosses?" Azazel pondered out loud.

"Humans will always be unpredictable and scary existences." Sirzechs said wryly. The two of them already knew this, but recent events solidified this thinking

After all, a human had managed to save the supernatural beings trapped in the Death Game. And said human was powerful enough that with the right training, he would have been the worst enemy that anyone could face.

"A faux Excalibur, anti-dragon, anti-monster, and large sword able to cut through most defensive enchantments." Sirzechs read the list that Kirito had complied for him. "I shudder to think if Kirito had joined the Khaos Brigade."

Both men shuddered. Despite the low ranking of Kirito's Sacred Gear, it was already proven to be extremely dangerous. He had, in his words, turned into one of SAO's floor bosses after all.

"That's right." Azazel coughed. "-By the way, Ise and the rest have accomplished new victories in Kyoto. There is no question to his promotion, right?"

"Yes, it is enough. If things go as planned, I will recommend him after the next Rating Game."

"…You mean the match with Sairaorg. Sairaorg has also defeated many terrorists."

"The only young devils possessing this level of power are Bael, Agares, Gremory and Sitri. As to being able to contend with the upper echelons of the core leadership, I fear only Sairaorg and Rias' servants have the power to do so." Sirzechs sighed. Much pressure was on his little sister's shoulders. "Thus, much hope is being placed upon the servants of both sides."

"Already rivalling the professional upper class devils, eh?"

"Yes. Once they begin official games, both of them will definitely win titles rapidly. Also, there are many in the House of Gremory that are optimistic about Rias, and they eagerly anticipate Ise's future performance. As his future brother, I am very proud."

"Haha, getting proud of your brother-in-law so soon?" Azazel teased the sis-con. "Being both Maou and a brother, your identity sure is complicated."

"I am very happy. Ise-kun and Rias are my hope. I want to watch over their growth. But then..."

"What is it?"

Suddenly, the atmosphere in the room became very tense. "...Azazel, I wanted to ask. - Rias, what is going on with Rias' breasts?"

"Hmm..." Azazel stroked his imaginary long beard. "Rias' breasts have exceeded its frontiers in this incident. Looks like they entered 2nd phase. - So Rias has become the Super Switch Princess."

"Ah, in that case…" Sirzechs clasped his hand together, dead serious. "Shouldn't the Oppai Dragon merchandise enter a new phase too…"

"Your mind for business is getting sharper..." Azazel chuckled. "Will Ise's new power be allowed in the match? I think it's a rather interesting ability."

"All the other higher ups are fine with it. They think it will be fun. What remains is Sairaorg… But I fear he will probably-"

As the two men discussed the Oppai Dragon merchandise, Grayfia stood to the side, sighing. Sirzechs…you are such a tease, I swear.


In a certain secret base…

-And that's it. My report is done. Vali-sama."

"Ah thanks, Le Fay. Thank you for luring the first generation Sun Wukong and the Jade Dragon to that dimension." Vali Lucifer, the current White Dragon Emperor, frowned. "-How's Hyoudou Issei?"

"I am very touched to meet the greatly anticipated Chichiryutei-san!"

"…Is that so." Nearby, Arthur's glasses became obscured by light, his expression suddenly hard to read. "Yes, that's great."

"One more thing." Morgan added. "First Gen-sama seems to be looking for Vali-sama and Bikou."

"We may run into them soon." Vali steepled his hands together. "To completely shake the First Gen off our backs will be very hard…But hidden in the depths of the Sacred Gear, Hyoudou Issei has begun contact with the past possessors."

"Vali-sama?"

"Persuading others by words is not my style." Vali plastered a bloodthirsty grin on his face, filled with eager anticipation. "-I will take the greater challenge of dominating the past possessors, it is more interesting that way. Cao Cao, if you want to defeat us you'd better do it while it's still possible. - Before I and Ise completely surpass your powers."


In a certain training room…

Sairaorg, are you listening?"

"What's the matter, Seekvaira Agares?" The buff devil in question was doing some push-ups as he spoke.

"Rumours say the Sekiryuutei under Rias Gremory has awakened a new power."

"Isn't that great." Arms continued to pump up and down as he spoke. "Yes, he finally awakened. I look forward to it."

"But then, they say that this ability is powerful enough to make the Rating Game unfair."

"No problem." A grunt. "I will allow it."

"It is also said that Ajuka Beelzebub-sama favours him."

"Doesn't matter." The concern was quickly dismissed.

"Your opponent will also become the future brother-in-law of Sirzechs Lucifer?"

"That's perfect." Another grunt. "Rias's happiness is all that I wish for her. If she is happy with him, then that's fine."

"He is on the same level as the Hero faction leader - he fought the holy spear and lived."

Sairaorg paused. Then, he stopped. Getting up, he looked through the window of his training room.

"Of course. It wouldn't do to break the agreement we had. Wouldn't you agree, Hyoudou Issei!"


With a certain group of Heroes…

"The Kyoto project failed, but another plan is under adjustment. You will see it soon, Cao Cao."

"Is that so? Good. Siegfried."

"According to the plan, I will take one of these. - Cao Cao are you going to use it?"

"This spear is enough for me."

A pause. "-How's the eye wounded by the Sekiryuutei?"

"…No good, it can't be used any more." Cao Cao laughed. "Hoho, he really got me this time."

"What made you carry phoenix tears and not use them…Then let's prepare a replacement. Are you going to make him pay for the eye?"

"Of course not. I'm not some third rate villain. This is a valuable lesson. The wound on the eye is a reminder. - To me, Hyoudou Issei and Vali are the best Heavenly Dragons. What joy."


(*1*) - The Japanses translation of Sun Wukong's staff, Ruyi Bang.

AN

Finally done! This took way too long for me to complete. I have no excuses.

But with this, the Kyoto Trip arc is over!

These two chapters, I am not quite satisfied with them. Partially because there is little change from canon, and partially because I felt like some things could be changed to be more action-packed or flow a bit more fluently. Well, no use crying over spilt milk. I am way too far into this to change anything. Also, as a side note, SaintInfernalNeos is back! WooHoo! I absolutely love his stories, especially the OPG series.

Because of various real life circumstances, my fanfic writing schedule will be more wonky from now until near the end of the year, around September. I will post a chapter here and there, but nothing concrete. Seeing as I have to write *Shudder* reports about my work, have to complete all my dailies and grind for all my games(Genshin included), and watch my anime. Especially Arifureta 2.

Sigh…I have too much backlogged. Ah well. Time to test my mettle, I suppose.

As always, Anime is Life, and please Review!