A Dragon's Tale

by Blackshadow999

All have heard the story of the Great War between the Biblical Factions. However, what you all have been told is wrong, there was far more to it what happened. This is the truth from a side that is often dismissed.

2. The Nun

A/n

And here is chapter two of this story, and so that you know, I normally don't write in third-person with stories, so this is my attempt. Do hope you readers enjoy the chapter!

Chapter 2: The Nun

Chris headed straight home from the "meeting" with one of the groups of devils in town and hopeful getting a message over to the other. He'd had more than enough of the devils' attics

to last him one day if not more should Chris have any say in the matter. Heck, he would even be willing to talk to and entertain Serafall if it got the redhead and her slaves to leave him alone. His mood was low as he was still mad with Gremory for trying to use not just any family member or his, but his life-mate no less. So, Chris had gone farther than he probably should have, but the redhead had ticked him off.

The flight back home helped Chris let go of the anger that had built up from being around Rias. So, when he arrived back at the house, Chris found it was around lunchtime from the chatter he was hearing. After glancing around, he saw one of his friends helping Phina with watching over his children by the name of Ayano Grace. Ayano appeared to be a woman in her mid-twenties physically with a tad above average human proportions. Her figure was one that models would normally work hard for to even have a chance at having especially with her three sizes. She was one-hundred-seventy-three centimeters in height possessing waist-length silky-looking silver hair. Her eyes were blue and she had facial features that seemed angelic in nature and gave a feel of kindness and comfort to others. And currently, Ayano was in a light blue dress with a darker blue shoulder cape watching the children as they ate. She was also telling Charles and Lily to make sure they ate their vegetables that were on their plates.

None seemed to notice that Chris was back which was somewhat rare as his presence was hard to miss. It came with him being a dragon, his aura even when hidden was nigh impossible to miss when you knew the feel of it. And his children knew the feel of his power even when it was faint or masked. However, it also allowed Chris to have a bit of fun, so he decided to announce himself in his own way, "~If it ever be so humble, there's no place like home~" Chris sang.

The moment Charles and Lily heard their dad's voice, they dropped the food they were eating, jumped from their chairs, and raced to where his voice came from. A moment later, Chris got the view of his twins appearing in the front hall and leaped at him once halfway to him. Chris managed to stay upright after his twins jumped into his arms and had his wings come out and help hold them. Charles was hugging Chris's upper torso while Lily was doing much the same but was also nuzzling Chris's neck. Chris soaked in time with his children happy to see them as he preferred their company over those that he was around at the school. After greeting them, Phina came and got the kids back to their meals while Ayano made her way over to where Chris was. "Chris," Ayano said with a bow, "I assume that you came home early because you have had enough of the devils for today?"

Chris nodded, though he felt words wouldn't properly say his feelings about the devils, he was doing his best to be patient as he had been asked to by Zechs. It was the lengths that he would go for friends and Chris didn't have as many as most would think. "Something like that Ayano," he answered. "I do hope the barrier around the property had been strengthened as I asked it to be?"

Ayano and her partner Alternes had strengthened the barrier they'd made a week ago when they had gotten here at Chris's request. The barrier was made to ward off humans by making them suddenly remember something important they needed to do immediately. For non-humans, they would either get so edgy they would leave the area, or they would be wrapped up in an illusion that would have them turn around and head away. With her partner's and her abilities, they could affect most if not all living beings with their power. So, she inclined her head, "Indeed, Alternes and I have strengthened the spells around the area with the house as per your request," she replied.

Chris was glad as well as confident with both of his friends Ayano and Alternes were with him and their capabilities. As they were both automatons made by his late father to be companions for him that looked human, they had been with him since his younger days. It was due to Chris living for a long time longer than most due to his mother's draconic heritage, so his father built the automatons to be like that as well. Chris had asked his father how he'd built Ayano and Alternes but had never been told the whole story by his father. All Chris's father had said was he'd built the two to protect Chris and those he cared about should that be needed.

And Chris valued his family more than anything and so he took steps to protect them the best he could. So, he had others set up a few things to prevent others from coming upon his family as well as keep those that had become enemies away. Chris preferred to prepare and prevent issues coming up as that worked out better more often. If Chris set said ideas himself then it would draw a great deal of attention as dragons had a knack of doing. Messes came of course and Chris wasn't the fondest of making or cleaning up messes, whether he started the issue or not it just tended to be a lot of work in the end. There were many instances in Chris's past of others sticking their interfere with his business and family. And just as many had ended in Chris killing the instigators in one way or another depending on how much they had angered him.

In this case, Chris's call to Zechs was the first attempt to get his sister off his back, but that hadn't gone as hoped thus far. And the devils at the school weren't the only issue in town as Chris had senses a few fallen angels in the area as well. To be honest, the Fallen weren't much better if at all, they were troublesome like the devils were anyways just presented different components to deal with. Chris focused back on Ayano, "The effort is appreciated, and please make sure Alternes knows that I appreciate the efforts too," Chris remarked. "Has there been any movement between either the Devils in general or Fallen Angels around town?"

Ayano and Alternes had been looking into the activities of non-humans in the area for Chris even when he didn't ask that of them. Alternes had been looking into the Fallen's activities and all that he had come back with was they were seeming to be looking for something. There had been some innocent bystanders injured thus far but no deaths yet, however, it was more a matter of time with the escalation of injuries. With that in mind, Ayano shook her head, "Not that we have detected beyond what we have already told you Chris. We do keep an eye on the children when they're playing outside, Phina helps in that," she responded.

That was good to Chris at the moment, though he still didn't like there was potential for danger for his family at all. Alternes had said the Fallen were toeing a line injuring people yet not killing them which worried Chris. Truthfully, Chris wouldn't have an issue leaving the town and if not for helping Ddraig for Markus if anything else. However, with things were as they were, and Hyoudou not absolutely confirmed as Ddraig's host, he couldn't leave. So, Chris grunted instead, "Thanks, keep that up please," he returned but then muttered more. "And if the devils and the Fallen value their peaceful lives they fool themselves into having, then they will stay away and mind their own business."

Ayano stared at Chris for a couple of seconds knowing that he would have done what he could to prepare contingencies. That's how Chris was, do everything possible to protect his family no matter the cost to himself. True he didn't just resort to killing or slaughtering those who threatened his family like he did in the past and it was well with him. Nevertheless, he would still do such should things come to that point, Ayano knew that for a fact. So that led to the question of what Chris had already done versus what he hadn't yet that he could. "You did contact Sirzechs and requested him to have his sister leave you alone, did you not? Or maybe you should contact your mother for some assistance."

Chris appreciated Ayano trying to help by suggesting things he could do to help protect his family. However, he didn't want to go to his mother for help though he knew she would assist in protecting his family. His mother loved his children and Aria, it was one of the rare times that she showed genuine emotion. So, he nodded, "I did reach out to Zechs," he remarked, "but I don't think he got to her before she tried approaching me as I had hoped. I guess we'll see if she got the message I gave to her today, I can't say just yet." Chris paused knowing that Zechs would be doing what he could to protect his sister from him. Zechs knew what Chris could do when others crossed him since he had cleaned up the last devils that had been dumb enough to do that. "Still, I thank you for your concerns Ayano, but for the moment, I think that Miss Gremory has been scared enough to back off for a time." Chris hesitated for a moment, "And I would prefer to not get my mother involved, hence why I called Zechs, and I'd hoped that he will get the point over to the other devils concerned so they could do the same so things would work out."

Ayano could respect that her friend wanted to do what he was able to protect his loved ones before he would go to others. It showed his independence and for a dragon, independence was a sign of power and deserving of respect from others of their race. And for Ayano, she also wanted to protect Chris's family as she cared about the children and Aria. With that in mind, she gained a caring expression, "I wouldn't doubt she would be willing to assist you in your issues should you need. She does care even if she doesn't show it and is concerned about you and your family," she began.

Chris exhaled, "I'm well-aware that she would, but I rather prove that I can handle my issues myself." He paused, "You can call it draconic pride if you like, but that is a part of me for good or bad, whichever way you wish to see it. That doesn't mean that I or the others should be stupid and just sit by, we prepare accordingly."

Ayano nodded and then headed off to do what Chris had requested while he joined his children. If there was one activity that could brighten his mood it was spending time with his children. They were his pride and joy that Aria had given him, and he couldn't get enough time with them. So, Chris enjoyed the afternoon with his children instead of being in a classroom sitting and listening to information he already knew. It allowed time for Chris's mood to calm down and improve the rest of the way from the blow that Rias Gremory had done. The redhead had certainly shown herself to be different from her brother Zechs and it was those differences that weren't good in Chris's opinion. But then, it was the nosiness of them that made devils as irritating as they could be at times. Days went by without Chris having to have much contact or interaction with the devils which he didn't complain about.

During that time Zechs did make a call to Rias so that he could explain her situation in a way that didn't reveal who Chris was. Rias was surprised to get a call from her older brother since he was kept busy with his duties as one of the Satans of the Devil Faction. "Sirzechs, to what do I owe the call," she greeted.

Things had been stressful as of late for Zechs, but that was before Chris had called and laid out the situation. There had been trouble with some of the older pillar heads and those that were calling themselves the Old Satan Faction. But family was so important to him that he would take the time to help Rias when he was able. And in this, Zechs wanted to make sure Rias did the safe thing and gave Chris the space he wanted. "Rias, you and I need to talk," Zechs began, "If your peerage is in the room, please have them leave."

Rias was somewhat concerned at the request from her brother to have her peerage leave the room. That either meant there was something important her brother needed to tell her or there was something else going on. She looked to Akeno and gestured for her and Kiba to leave the room and they did so. Rias then turned her attention back to her brother, "What is going on Sirzechs," she asked. "You don't do social calls often, and for you to ask me to not have my peerage in the room-"

"Rias, it is my understanding that you have had contact with one by the name of Christopher Maxwell," Zechs began, "That is what this call is about."

Rias was shocked to hear her brother somehow knew Maxwell as there had been no mention of anything like that from Chris himself. The only dragon that Rias could think of that her brother could know was the former dragon king Tannin. And if her brother knew anything about Maxwell, Rias would take that as she knew little. "So you know Maxwell," Rias posed keeping herself in her chair and the excitement down, "Then what do you know about him?"

Zechs held in the sigh at hearing the poorly hidden excitement that Rias had just displayed, it would make this discussion harder. Rias likely saw Chris as a potential ally that she could use against Riser and others. Chris wouldn't help Rias unless he had his own reasons and he rarely interfered with the biblical factions so it was unlikely. It was more likely that Rias would do something that would make Chris mad and make him an enemy. "Rias, listen to me, do not pursue Christopher Maxwell," Zechs stated.

Rias blinked at the single sentence, "What are you talking about?"

"Do not chase him Rias," Zechs insisted, "he is not one you want to attempt using for your own ends, it won't end well for you."

Rias was even more confused with the insistent reply to her question, it didn't answer the point either. She had asked for information on Maxwell, not for a course of action which is what she took her brother's statement as. His insistence mystified her as it suggested Sirzechs knew about Maxwell but for some reason wasn't willing to give it to her. It irritated Rias that her brother was withholding information from her when she was trying hard to get out of her "engagement". "And why should I not acquire his help Zechs," Rias challenged. "A dragon could stand up to Riser and I need something that can do that sooner rather than later."

Zechs had wanted to help with the engagement with Phenex that Rias was caught in, but his position made him unable to interfere directly. He knew Rias was against it and was at this point getting desperate for a chance to get out of it. The argument would be likely settled by a rating game which with how things stood right now Rias would probably lose. However, that was better than the consequences that would come should she get on Chris's bad side. "Rias, I would remind you that dragons don't interfere in the business of others normally," Zechs reasoned. "And don't even consider trying to convince or trick Christopher Maxwell, nothing you could do will work. Do not push and make him an enemy, it will make the problems you have now seem minor."

Rias could say nothing that got her brother to tell her anything else of value, he just kept repeating to stay away from Maxwell. She still wanted the help of the dragon, she was convinced he could beat Riser if things came to that. It was clear to her that Zechs knew something about Maxwell but he wasn't willing to tell her. It frustrated her, but there was nothing she could do about that right now.

During the interim of not having to deal with devils, Chris hoped Zechs used the time to have a conversation with his sister and explain that she shouldn't bother him. He knew Zechs was one of the few devils who understood why prodding Chris could be so dangerous. If it went from that to messing with him and his family, then there were serious consequences that would follow. Zechs had seen some of the more recent results of the point and had helped clean the last two up. And Chris knew that Zechs would do his utmost to "get" his sister to back off, but it came down to one question, would she heed wisdom. Should Rias Gremory continue her insistent pestering and attempted manipulation on him, it would not end well for her.

Then the other decision that Chris had been contemplating was whether he would contact several of his friends. Chris had made friends with many "unique" individuals over his existence, several of which were still alive today or their descendants were. They came from all different walks of life, many would be called "misfits" and others "outcasts". However, that was one of the reasons that Chris could sympathize with them as he was a kind of misfit and outcast. He knew that should he call on any of his friends, they would come and support him in any way they could without hesitation. But Chris didn't want to call upon them and have them put their own lives on hold for him if he didn't have to. Ayano and Alternes had suggested for Chris to call them for assistance, but he didn't feel things had gotten to the point he would need to do that.

In the days that went past, there were still minor crossings like with Akeno most mornings and other instances like that with the devils. Chris did catch glimpses of Issei Hyoudou now and then, but rarely alone as he would have preferred to talk to the kid. He wanted to confirm that the kid was Ddraig's host one hundred percent and not just assume even if it was likely right. Yet, Chris didn't want Gremory to know about it if Hyoudou did turn out to be the current Red Dragon Emperor until later. He didn't feel that Hyoudou deserved to be used more than he already was just because he had potential power he very likely not use yet. The kid would have more than enough ahead of him if he had Ddraig with him, the fight between Ddraig and Albion being the biggest thing.

However, with not being able to speak to the kid alone, things were more difficult for Chris to check if Hyoudou had the Boosted Gear. It was memories of his friend Marcus that had Chris wanting to do something to help Ddraig and his host. Marcus had been like the brother he had never had, that was how strong their bond had been. Nonetheless, Gremory seemed to keep one of her other servants within a fair distance of Hyoudou most of the time which made approaching the kid harder. The way the redhead acted was foolish to be sure even if in different ways and it showed her ignorance. As far as Chris could tell, Gremory thought she was untouchable, or her actions would suggest that. She was a spoiled princess no question, which Chris had suspected now knowing she was Zechs's "cute little sister". Granted, Chris knew that Zechs was a "siscon" it was obvious with the way he acted and talked about her.

Then there were the few times that Gremory showed the glimmer of potential intelligence in what she did. And yet, she tended to put out that glimmer not too long after letting it be seen so she "shot herself in the foot". It was humorous to a degree sometimes to watch the point, but then it also got Chris to shake his head more often. She was a walking contradiction more often than not, which most devils were but she just showed it more spectacularly. Yet, there was an opportunity to get a chat with the Hyoudou kid, and Chris had figured that out after observation. Hyoudou tended to be more left alone in the evenings that he would go and fulfill devil contracts. It was one of those contradicting points that Chris wanted to chasten Gremory for with how flamboyant she was sending her servants with little thought. However, that would require effort that would likely be wasted as she wouldn't likely listen to his wisdom. It was the sad thing, the girl wouldn't even be willing to take helpful advice when she needed it.

The second overall problem that Chris was having to handle was the presence and activities of the Fallen Angels around Kouh. They had been causing issues by harming some around the city supposedly searching for something from what sources Chris had. The local police were investigating but were coming up with nothing as to the culprit of the attacks. The authorities couldn't even pin down the weapon used though Chris's shadow puppets had told him such were holy weapons. It was akin to a powder keg primed to go off as the Fallen's actions against the devils could create messes that would affect others. That of course, included Chris's family which made it not okay in any way to him. He would slaughter the Fallen and the Devils if that was required to protect Aria and their children. However, should it come to that, such would result in a mess that Chris would need to clean up which he preferred to avoid if possible.

That brought Chris to the question of would it do any good to contact the Grigori leadership and get them involved. If it was talking to those that did the day-to-day business the Fallen had, then Chris would have contacted them days after arriving around Kouh. Chris got along fairly well with the two since they were reasonable than some of the other factions' leaderships. But he knew that if he went to the Grigori, Chris would have to deal with the Fallen Azazel and he had personal issues with the guy. Nonetheless, Chris was weighing the good it could do to contact the Grigori versus the waste of time it may end out being. Azazel could listen if Chris gave him the facts in such a way that would get the point across that things were not going well.

However, first, Chris had one of his shadow puppets follow Hyoudou to keep an eye on him. He felt that Hyoudou was in more danger than the other devils. Why the Fallen had an interest in the kid, Chris couldn't say exactly. It could be the sacred gear Hyoudou had, but he thought there had to be something more. But the kid was sort of a magnet for trouble, which Chris wasn't exactly surprised with the point. Being Ddraig's host made one a target, it just was sad the kid wasn't ready and had not a clue about what he faced. Yet, Chris also had other puppets go and watch other places around the city to report any change in the current circumstances. And it wasn't that he didn't believe Alternes in what he had reported, it was he felt things would get worse and Chris wanted to be ready.

The next few days only seemed to prove Chris's expectations right with the information that came from his puppets. Injuries were still happening according to "news reports" and police were unable to figure what was causing it. The issue was the injuries caused were getting worse and doing so at an alarming rate. Chris's shadow puppets were giving more details and it was not nice to hear what messes were occurring. Even those puppets who had once been fallen angels couldn't explain why their former brethren or those working with them were doing. One former fallen suggested that "another" could be pulling strings to start a chain of events that would lead down a bad path that the end would be war.

That suggestion helped Chris decide to contact the Grigori and get attention on the growing issue before it became a serious problem. If things did get to the point it was a problem Chris would step in and there would be a mess he would end out making. Should he talk to Azazel, Chris felt he would be sternly telling the fallen he was slacking in some form. Azazel was a "friend" of sorts to Chris, but there were reservations with the Fallen due to some quirks he had. The guy was a pervert and Chris wasn't in any way fond of those and normally didn't tolerate them. However, Azazel had done some favors for Chris in the last two centuries and so, he ignored his dumb behavior.

At the same time, Azazel was taking the time to relax during a semi-quiet time which was rare these days. He was researching some information on sacred gears as was a favorite pastime from him. A time and place were being discussed for upcoming peace talks that were being done by Shemhazai and Azazel trusted he would get things done. For the present, events were going fair which Azazel would take since they hadn't been that way for a while. Yet, there still was the assignment he had given to a small group that was at the back of Azazel's mind.

He had sent Raynare with a few others to a town by the name of Kouh to look into something for him. Officially, it was to observe potential sacred gear holders in the area while not drawing attention. Kouh was controlled by devils after all, and with the peace talks, it would be seen well if Fallen cause trouble in devil territory. Unofficially, Azazel had sent the group to scope out a rumor, which was the Boosted Gear wielder was around there. The last Red Dragon Emperor had been the strongest to date and had done amazing things. If the Boosted Gear had a new wielder, they had quite the legacy to live up to. However, there hadn't been reports coming in from Raynare lately, she had missed the last two weekly reports. It was concerning to Azazel since it could mean several things, some okay and some horrible things.

Azazel was brought out of his thoughts when his device used for magical contacts went off. He looked at the thing wondering who it was calling. Azazel tapped it and the face of his chief secretary popped up, "Oh hey Penemue, what's going on," he asked.

Penemue sighed at how her "boss" and "Governor" acted the way he did, it made her job harder. And if Shemhazai or Baraquiel could have taken the call coming in, she would have directed it to one of them. But no, the guy had asked for Azazel specifically and the tone of voice had said to get the Grigori Governor-General quick. "You have someone asking specifically for you sir," she replied, "And he didn't sound like he wanted to wait."

Azazel was left to wonder who was calling to talk to him directly. If Shemhazai or Baraquiel had needed him, Penemue would have said that outright. "Sure, put them through," he returned.

A moment later a face popped up on Azazel's device and he became an amount more concerned with things. Looking back at him was none other than Christopher Maxwell, the Shadow Dragon himself. "Azazel, your secretary said you were busy with things, but I recommend you make the time for this," Chris opened.

A drop of sweat slid down Azazel's face since the dragon didn't do social calls at all, if he reached out it was for a reason. And whatever the reason, Azazel had a growing suspicion that it had to do with Raynare's team in some way. "Yo Chris, this is a surprise," he replied, "Haven't heard from you in a while, how goes your research?"

Chris sighed at the question as it wasn't the nicest subject for him as it served as a reminder of his wife's health. That wasn't the reason he was reaching out to the Fallen leader, but Azazel did keep in the loop about the point. "It could be going better Azazel," Chris admitted, "but that isn't why I'm calling you." He paused for a moment to glare at the guy, "But I would bet you already knew this isn't a research-related call."

Azazel figured that the call was going to be some sort of business, that was how Chris tended to be. What worried Azazel was that business involved his project in Kouh for that would be extremely problematic. Being noticed by the devils in the area had been worrisome enough to him, more so with who was in charge of Kouh. The little sister of Sirzechs being there came with an issue, added to that having Serafall's was worse. Azazel had made sure Raynare had understood that discretion was a priority for her team. If they got the attention from the Shadow Dragon and ticked him off, they were as good as dead. Should Chris wipe them out, all the work Azazel had been working on would be wasted. "Sorry to hear the research isn't going the way you like," Azazel returned evenly, "So then, what can I do for you?"

Chris saw no reason to beat around the bush and got straight down to business as he was not in the mood to take crap. The devils in Kouh had been slowly but surely souring his mood and testing his tolerance. And with his family in potential danger, Chris was not going to mince words and waste time. "The town Kouh ring any bells with you Azazel," posed Chris.

Azazel had been afraid Chris's call would be about Kouh, it meant things would likely be much more complicated. That Chris mentioning Kouh meant that either one he knew was around there or he was himself. Neither idea would end well if things weren't going to plan, and both possibilities would end badly if unchanged. Azazel had observed Chris long enough to know that he would step in and "handle" those that could harm his friends or family. And if Chris happened to know something about what was going on, it was more than Azazel had. The absence of reports was implying something had either changed or gone wrong. "Yeah, I have a few subordinates around there doing a task for me," Azazel said carefully, "Why do you bring the town up?"

Chris trusted Azazel to an extent knowing that he wasn't stupid enough to do something that would cause serious trouble even if he was a lazy bum a good portion of the time. The Fallen Angel knew how to get business done and didn't fool around when the chips were down, one of the reasons that Chris figured Azazel was leading the Fallen. But him sending Fallen into territory that devils controlled was risky and Azazel would know that well enough, so the question was why. "Then should I even tell you that Kouh is claimed by devils Azazel," Chris questioned.

"I am well-aware that Lucifer's sister, as well as Leviathan's sister, are there yes," Azazel replied. If Chris was around Kouh as was inferred, then things were worse than Azazel liked. But the dragon wasn't the fondest of devils either, avoided them in fact as he recalled due to altercations with them. So, Azazel was a tad curious as to why Chris would be around that area, he couldn't think of a reason that made much sense. "And as I recall, you didn't live around devils when you could avoid the idea. So, do you happen to have a friend living in Kouh? If so, I swear I had no idea and definitely wouldn't be stupid enough to harm them."

While Chris had suspected that the "other" devil was the school's student council president, he hadn't figured they were related to one of the Satans. Sure, the girl looked somewhat like Serafall, but not so similar that they were likely immediate family. That didn't change his standing with the devils, just added a different complication. It was more surprising to Chris that the girl was so different than Serafall, pretty much the opposite. However, Chris was getting sidetracked, so he shook his head and refocused, "Azazel," he started. "I happened to have moved recently, so don't remind me of one of the current issues annoying me. You would do well to stick with your issues rather than stick your nose into others." Chris paused for a moment,

"Azazel," Chris started, "the air around Kouh is feeling like a massive powder keg set to blow, and that is without me intervening in it." Azazel swallowed a bit at hearing the situation around Kouh was not good without Chris involved. Should he step in, Azazel didn't want to imagine the slaughter that would result, it certainly wouldn't be pretty. "Should I ask what your helpers are supposed to be doing? For I'm thinking they aren't following your instructions as my shadow puppets have been seeing things I don't like. So, what were your orders given to them Azazel?"

It was clear that Chris wasn't pleased right now and that was being nice about the tone he was using. The mission the group was supposed to be doing should be simple, observe and report, nothing more. But by the sound of it, they were doing more than that and were attracting unwanted and potentially lethal attention. "They're supposed to be observing sacred gear wielders," Azazel said carefully.

Chris growled a bit as his puppets had been reporting much messier things that observation would do. The bloody messes that had been described to Chris had been unpleasant to listen to and it had angered him. Azazel didn't miss the growl from Chris, nor the dull glow that his eyes had gained. It was a sign to pay attention and not mess around if you didn't want his wrath directed at you and Azazel knew it. Chris's voice lowered and gained a cold tone, "Then either those subordinates of yours or those they have working with them aren't doing what you assigned them Azazel. My sources have been telling me about the bloody scenes of people beaten, injured, or most recently murdered around here and that it was done by holy-based weapons."

Azazel held back the curses that came to him at Chris saying that murders had been happening. That was begging for attention from most even humans, but unfortunately, in this case, it was drawing a dragon's. And as Azazel thought more about it, it was likely one or more of some of the stray exorcists that had done what Chris spoke of. Raynare at the very least should be keeping the stray exorcists in line and not let them go out and cause trouble that would draw attention. And yet apparently, Azazel's advice and insistence of not attracting notice had been going unheeded. And the tone in Chris's voice said he would kill them if things didn't change quickly which had Azazel letting out a groan, "The fools, I told them to not attract attention to themselves in that area specifically."

Chris grunted, "Well they are drawing mine Azazel, and I doubt I need to remind you," Chris stated. He planned to lay out what would happen should the Fallen in the area cross the line and tick him off. Chris had made it clear with enough of the biblical factions that he could and would still kill those that messed with him when he saw the need to. "That should any of your subordinates or those under them cross me, their end will come. I will slaughter them outright without hesitation and leave little if anything left to find as I have done with other fallen that have been stupid enough to screw with me."

Azazel knew that Chris meant what he said and there was an amount that was left unsaid as well. With the reputation that he had being the "Shadow Dragon" you didn't argue with what he could do. He had killed countless numbers for many different reasons before now and he could still do the idea if he saw a reason to. But Azazel saw his project in Kouh as important enough to strike a deal with Chris which was something he didn't do often. "I don't doubt you would, I know your reputation well since you've earned the titles you have. However, in this I would rather you not Chris," Azazel admitted. He knew he would have to offer serious help to Chris to get his cooperation, and truthfully, Azazel knew of one thing he could offer that would get Chris to agree to a deal. "In fact, I would request that you apprehend my helpers alive as I have questions for them I want answers to. If you do that, then I will dedicate time and resources to help your research to find a cure for your wife."

Chris's ears perked up at the offer as Azazel wasn't one to give time and resources without an extremely good reason. It was because the resources and time being offered would normally go towards Azazel's interest in sacred gear. Chris had seen enough of Azazel's extreme fascination in sacred gear to know the man didn't divert those resources and time without serious motivation. It made Chris curious about what kind of information the fallen around here could have that would be so valuable to Azazel. Plus, Azazel knew what making a deal with a dragon entailed. The guy was well-aware that you help up your end of the deal made with a dragon or else you paid a seriously high price. It made Chris's anger drain somewhat before he continued, "Fine since you are willing to make such an offer, I'm willing to have a deal in this with you. I'll do what I can to get them back to you alive, but out of curiosity, what info could they have that is so valuable?"

Azazel pause at the question as there could be seen implications from what Azazel wanted from those he had sent to Kouh. There was the rumor that the Boosted Gear's new wielder could be around there and Azazel wanted to size up the newbie. The last red dragon emperor had been the most fascinating he had ever seen and they had nearly won against Albion's host at that time. So Azazel let out a sigh and admitted what his reason was, "The Boosted Gear wielder," he stated simply.

Those four words explained some things to Chris about why Azazel would take the risk he was. Ddraig's previous wielder Marcus Lune had been the best and strongest that the Welsh Dragon had before. That said, Marcus had drawn an amount of attention because of how strong he was and the sense of honor he had. Chris would be one of the first to praise Marcus and his accomplishment. The two of them had been working together and been through many things in the two decades they had known each other. All of that made the point of Issei Hyoudou being a pervert all the sadder for Ddraig should he be stuck with him. So Chris exhaled, "Ddraig's likely current wielder isn't like Marcus Azazel, of that fact I can state with confidence. Whether he could become like him is different, but right now the kid is an absolute perverted idiot. You would get along with real well as you two have the same kind of pathetic interest," he replied.

By the sound of it, Chris had already met the current wielder of the Boosted Gear, which was a tad surprising to Azazel. Granted, one dragon could and usually did draw another to it, the more powerful the more likely it to occur. The three Heavenly Dragons were a perfect example to the point, they always seemed to cross paths with one another. And if the kid was a pervert as Chris said he was, Azazel would like to meet the boy. It sounded like the two of them could talk about several things that they could have in common. "You've encountered the Boosted Gear wielder already," Azazel questioned in a bit of shock.

"Yep, last week in fact," Chris answered recalling the meeting with the devils which he hadn't liked. He didn't think a great deal about Issei Hyoudou, the kid was a classic case pervert. That was a strike against him in Chris's mind more upon principle and it was disgusting behavior. Ddraig wasn't like that at heart, though he had some peculiar interests when it came to attraction, he didn't hold it against him. "And I feel sorry for Ddraig going from Marcus to the kid he probably has now," Chris continued, "It is a serious downturn for him."

There was a moment of silence, "You would know better than I would, though I wouldn't say no to meeting the kid," began Azazel. "But back to the business, I'll get someone there as quick as I can to settle things. If the situation gets worse before I get someone to help smooth things over, please give me a call so that I can try to have this not blow up. The relationship between devils and fallen angels is not nice and I would rather the work done to improve it not be wasted."

Chris had nothing against doing as Azazel asked, even if it was something he wouldn't normally do. It was a bit of a chore, but a deal was a deal and the payoff would make it worth it in the end. Azazel's and through him the Grigori's resources would help in the search for a cure for Aria and that was a pressing goal for Chris. Aria's health was declining and the sooner that he found a way to help her the better in his view. "Sure Azazel, we have a deal, for the help you ask of me, I'll hold you to your agreement to assist in my research," Chris answered.

Azazel knew that Chris wouldn't let him out of the promised help in the research for a cure, not with how determined he was. And he could understand the drive, it was similar in some ways to Azazel's interest in sacred gears. Also, it was a deal with a dragon, it was a serious thing and Azazel didn't joke around with the truth of that. "I know you will," Azazel returned then ended the call.

Chris believed he had gotten his point across to Azazel that the situation was one not to be ignored. That and Zechs talking to Gremory should have things get on track to be going better in the end. He had enough issues to work on without adding his family's safety due to fools playing a game with one another. And that was what Chris saw the problems between the biblical faction had with each other, a game that was played out. Like most dragons, Chris saw little reason to involve himself in the disagreements of other races unless they used or attacked what was his.

Days passed after the chat Chris had with Azazel and things were somewhat quieter than before but it didn't last long. There came a night when Chris's puppet alerted him to Hyoudou walking into a serious situation that could do him in. And it wouldn't due for the kid to die as then Chris would have to wait for however long it would take for Ddraig to get another host. This wasn't helping the redhead even though it may seem like it to several, the she-devil just benefitted. Chris wanted to catch the dangerous loose cannon that like was under the Fallen's charge. While that individual was allowed to roam free, his family was in potential danger and Chris wouldn't have that.

With the decided action in mind, Chris sat up in bed and glanced over at Aria who was asleep. As much as Chris disliked leaving his bed and missing time with Aria, there was work to be done. So he quietly got out of bed and headed for the door to go and rescue Hyoudou from the mess his "king" had unknowingly put him in. The defenses in place should protect his family while he was out and if needed, Phina, Ayano, Alternes would be around to step in. As Chris headed towards the front door, he came across a friend of his whose name was Alternes Dim.

Alternes appeared as a young-looking man around the same age as Ayano and was her "partner" also created by his father. He was a tad taller than Ayano and Phina in height but tended to be quieter and showed things with action. Alternes's figure was average for males or appeared to be so overall. Alternes also had mid-length pale blond hair made into a pompadour style which complimented his light tan eyes and the small silver stud earring in his ears. Currently, Alternes was in a black t-shirt and black pants and was just checking things over since he was on night watch. He understood why Chris was on edge lately and so wanted security tight around the house.

The activity of the Fallen angels wasn't helpful and those under them still reflected upon them. The devils weren't much better, and the two sides didn't seem to be willing to confront each other directly yet. Alternes more felt sorry for the victims that were being created by this standoff as the numbers were rising. Although, it was the Fallen side who was causing the injuries and recent deaths rather than the devils. Yet, the point still was that innocent bystanders were suffering from the conflict they were not a part of. It was an expectation and habit of the biblical factions more than the other non-human groups. Alternes was brought out of his thoughts when the sound of footsteps came to him, and a moment later Chris appeared in the front hallway. "Chris," Alternes started, "What has you up this late?"

Chris slowed down for a bit and glanced at Alternes, "Things have taken a turn for the worse," he replied. "Be on alert and stay here on standby in case it's needed, and tell Phina and Ayano to do the same," he ordered as he went by. "No one is to enter the property if they aren't friends or family, no exceptions."

Alternes didn't know what was meant by "a turn for the worse", but if Chris was concerned it was problematic. It implied that the Fallen had done something that pushed across a line Chris wouldn't ignore. His orders were clear enough, no one was to be let inside until he said so or returned here. "Of course Chris," Alternes replied without missing a beat.

After giving instructions, Chris flew out the door before sprinting down the walkway in the "front yard". Halfway down the paved path, he leaped up and had his wings out and flapping taking him higher and higher. Chris passed through the barrier around his property and flew in the direction his puppet had indicated Hyoudou was in. The night sky hid him as his wings blended into the dark backdrop as he went keeping those below from seeing Chris himself. And as he flew, Chris's thoughts returned to the foolishness of Gremory which had created the current situation. The redhead was being either flippantly ignorant or downright dumb sending out her helpers as she was. Most Fallen had no issue killing a devil they came across if they could get away with it and not face consequences. And with the recent spree of attacks, an "accidental" killing would be very easy to pass off with the Grigori.

If you combined those facts with how much the kid still didn't know about the non-human world, then problems were clear. Hyoudou could walk into something that was a trap to anyone that knew about the standing between the biblical factions and be blissfully ignorant. Should that happen it would come back to hang on Gremory's head since she hadn't educated Hyoudou as she should have. Sure, the she-devil would no doubt complain should the kid get hurt or worse killed and demand retribution. However, Zechs would tell her in some way she bore a portion of the responsibility. Peace between the Fallen and Devils was more valuable than the whining of the redhead, no matter how loud she could be.

Chris homed in on the house that his shadow puppet had followed Issei Hyoudou to so that he could bail the kid out of whatever he had unknowingly walked into. And as he got closer, the faint feel of holy energy registered to Chris, the energy was untainted so was unlikely from a Fallen. That implied that whoever was attacking Hyoudou was one of the Fallen's stray exorcists using holy weapons. If the attack was the same as the one doing the horrible things happening lately, then Chris had more reason to whip said individual. In the past, Chris would occasionally dispatch murder-happy individuals for the simple fact they were stirring up crap for everyone else. He did such less after meeting Aria, but that didn't mean Chris wouldn't take the time to silence killers if there was a reason to.

Once Chris was able to narrow down which building the kid was in, he dove down aiming for a window on the house. It appeared to be around four feet wide and three feet tall which would allow Chris to enter without taking out some of the surrounding walls. However, Chris didn't have his draconic scales appear and form an extra outer layer over himself as his dove. His draconic scales would help in this situation as there were several unknowns and dragon scales were better than any non-human-made armor. True, holy weapons wouldn't do anything to Chris unless they were the highest tier quality, but Chris wasn't just thinking of himself in this.

Chris retracted his wings in as the window approached and flipped his body to have his feet pointing forward. The window panes shattered as his feet made contact and kept going forward, Chris sailing through the space with room to spare. Some glass shards did make contact but were deflected easily by Chris's scales and he didn't feel them. He planted his feet on the floor and shifted them to balance the rest of his body as he slowed down. Chris slid to a stop a few feet from the wall opposite from the window he entered through still upright. The scent of blood hit Chris's nose the moment he came through the window which was rarely a good sign. Chris ignored the scent and scanned the room with his superior night-vision to take in his surroundings before assessing the situation.

Chris found he'd landed in what looked like a living or sitting room that was common to most houses. However, the furniture was scattered and not in a logical pattern and looked to be more disturbed and thrown around. The next thing that his vision landed on was Hyoudou himself who was behind where Chris stood. The kid was a couple of feet away and looked to have been injured as there were blood-soaked patches on his clothing. The accompanying holes in some spots suggested projectiles while the tears said a cutting weapon. That meant the attack likely had a gun of some sort and a blade to work with. Hyoudou was certainly worse for wear from what Chris saw and he was a tad impressed the kid was still aware and not out on the floor.

His gaze continued to take in the room but stopped on another oddity to this space. There was a body nailed to a section of the wall with the man's feet together and his hands spread out. The positioning was that of crucifixion which brought very unpleasant memories and thoughts to Chris's mind. It was a horrible way to be killed and was just meant to desecrate in Chris's mind as a form of horrible torture. His father had been murdered much in the same manner long ago but foolish idiots. Chris had made a number pay for his father's death, but seeing the individual nailed to the wall was brought up images of when he found his father like that. However, with the situation as unknown as it was, Chris focused on taking in the room and surrounding rather than the past.

The last thing in the room Chris noticed was the other person standing a short distance from Issei. They were a girl who was slightly younger-looking than Hyoudou with waist-length straight golden blonde hair. She had quite startling green eyes which somehow matched and complimented her blonde hair. The girl was wearing a European variation of the outfit that nuns wore, which was the 'habit' including a veil which was mostly white with a black outline around the veil. She also had two belts, one on her waist and the other being from her right hip going diagonal up to her waist. Then at the crossing of the belts on her right hip was a medium-sized pouch. Chris also noticed there was a cross attached to a necklace around her neck.

Chris did sense the power of a Sacred Gear within the girl, though he couldn't say which gear it was. Yet, what caught his attention was how pure this girl's heart was as it stood apart from the vast majority. Most dragons aside from evil dragons could sense the purity of other beings and pure hearts attracted dragons. Interestingly, from what Chris could sense, this girl before him had the purest heart he had ever felt before now aside from Aria. It was unreal how pure and innocent this girl was, especially with the world as it was currently. Secondly, she had strong compatibility with dragons as in what most dragon tamers possessed. That quality was getting much rarer these days, and those two points got Chris's attention more than anything.

Meanwhile, Issei was trying to keep calm and conscious with the beating that he had taken from the crazy guy who was here. Rias had been clear that he was to bring back a pact from this visit or she would be very disappointed. Yet, this outing just added to the weird crap he had been going through the last few weeks. The only good thing that had happened lately was meeting Asia and even that had ended out not as hoped. Now Issei was injured and doing his best not to die tonight. The pact didn't matter to him anymore, he hoped Rias would understand the contractor was dead when Issei had gotten there. So what had transpired wasn't his fault, he was just paying consequences for it. Meeting Asia again had been nice, but she seemed to be working for the crazy guy trying to kill him.

Then the window had shattered and Christopher Maxwell had slid into the room through said window. Issei remembered Maxwell from the one face-to-face encounter he had and it had been scary to tell the truth. Although, Issei's information about Chris mostly came from the rumors that he had heard going around about him. What had happened in the ORC club room still came to Issei for that pressure he felt had been unlike anything he had felt before. That he had stated he was a dragon, like the mythical lizard monster kind, Issei didn't know what to think about that. And so, with all that in mind, he was on-guard as he could be with the injuries that he had taken already. "M-Maxwell-senpai," Issei stuttered in surprise, "What are you doing here?"

Chris's gaze returned to Issei, seeing again the kid had been through the mill this evening and that was putting it mildly for the moment. It was another mark against the redhead being so careless and not thinking about the what-ifs when she should be. With fallen around, you couldn't take for granted that they wouldn't do anything, not with the relations between the devils and fallen as it was. Gremory should have known that, yet she sent out her servants like she was, it was downright reckless and foolish. In front of Chris was proof of the girl's blind ignorance and foolish confidence and if not for him being here, then it would have cost her and the kid. "Don't worry Hyoudou, I'm not here to harm you, quite the opposite really," he replied causing Issei to sigh in slight relief. "And it is lucky for you that I have been keeping an eye on things unlike your master, or else you would be in serious trouble."

Issei didn't understand what Maxwell was implying, but it was meant to be some sort of snap at Rias. That didn't sit well with him, but he wasn't really up to argue with the one saving him right now. Chris focused back on the dead man nailed to the wall and felt disgusted at seeing the sight. All people who did nothing truly wrong deserved a better end than being nailed or rather crucified to a wall just because of one mistake. Plus, it reminded him of what was done to his father and that was painful to have to remember. So, Chris raised a hand and tossed fire at the body setting it alight. The flames weren't normal since they were draconic and they quickly began consuming the body. It was a simple thing, but showed respect for the dead as much now as it had during ancient times, "a funeral fit for a king".

"Um, w-what are you doing," the girl questioned in close to a squeak.

Chris glanced at the blonde girl, "I don't know this man, but he deserved a better death than to be crucified like this. So, I figured that burning his body is the least I can do to show some respect, a means fit for the likes of a king," Chris said. He then walked up towards the blonde showing the difference in height with her being shorter with his shoulders reaching the level of her head. "And you are?"

Asia didn't know what to think of this boy that had appeared through the window moments ago. Having encountered Issei again had been surprising, he had been so nice to her the day before when she had been lost. To learn that Issei was a devil had brought many ideas into question in Asia's mind. She didn't believe that Issei was evil, even if he was a devil, which meant that other devils could have good in them too. And now there was this mysterious boy that had burned the man's body which Father Freed had said needed to be punished. "Um," the girl uttered, "I-I'm Asia Argento," she stuttered bowing her head slightly, "Are you a friend of Issei-san?"

Chris would have answered Asia by introducing himself as was proper, but was interrupted before he could, "Who the f**k has the balls to disrupt my festivities," demanded a male voice.

All in the room turned and to see a young man who wasn't all that much older than any of them appeared, likely in his early twenties at most. He was dressed in white pants and a white dress shirt and over that wore a black coat with a grey stripe in the center and gold buttons on the grey stripe. His hair was almost white, more like a dirty grey-white mix by what Chris saw, yet in contrast to his hair color, his eyes were a dark red. Those eyes had clear blood lust and a lack of sanity in them from the one look that Chris happened to get. And the way he was dressed confirmed to Chris that he was likely the troublemaker that had caused the mess he was seeing.

The thought went through Chris's head that he and this young man wouldn't be getting along for many reasons. The scent of blood pouring off of him was one of the flags that screamed the fact at him as well as confirming him as the murder of the man Chris had burned. Those who murdered just because and for the heck of it deserved to die in Chris's mind and he had done that to several blood-crazed idiots that had crossed his path. While Chris may be referred to as a merciless monster, he at least killed with reason unlike those that did it because they could. And if the thought was some sort of signal for the man to show how right Chris was, he spoke, "Well well," said the priest with a smile appearing on this face, "another devil to kill, what luck I have tonight! Since you interrupted, I'll shoot off your balls before I get back to playing with the other one and finish the f**king job!"

Chris didn't appreciate being called a devil at all, nor would he allow the mistake to slide without correction either. He was a dragon and would not be called something less than that, especially a race that was weaker than dragons themselves. If the priest was smart to any degree, then he would take the hint to apologize and beg for forgiveness. "Okay whoever you are, listen and listen good," Chris stated in a flat voice, "I am not a devil, nor will I ever be one. And I don't appreciate being lumped in with them as it is demeaning and akin to calling me weak." Chris paused and his eyes gained a slight glow to them before he continued, "If you could ask those who have called me weak in some way, they would tell you in pain-filled screams what a mistake it is to do. However, as they are all dead and gone, you can't ask them for the wisdom they may have. That said, if you like the way you are right now, such as where your vital organs are positioned and how they function for instance, then don't call me a devil."

If the newcomer thought he could intimidate Freed Sellzen, then he would be taught the futility of that before his death. Freed would enjoy killing the devil slowly drawing out the screams that were the sweetest music to his ears. "My name is Freed Sellzen devil," the man replied which irked Chris, "And it will be a pleasure to kill you along with the other one I was working on!"

This fool Freed Sellzen was showing to be a waste of space and a nut from the signs that Chris was seeing. He wasn't the fondest of dealing with murder-crazed idiots as they tended to be tedious to take care of. And that the dumb idiot had just openly called him a devil again even after politely telling him not to, that was pushing things. Chris didn't like it when idiots pushed their luck, he normally punched them and then put them in their proper place. If they were lucky enough to survive, then they would be in more pain than they had known, or else just dead. In the end, it was pretty much the same result, the fools shut up and Chris wouldn't have to deal with them further. And so, without hesitation, Chris rushed forward and inhuman speed and to embarrass the fool flicked his forehead which sent Freed crashing through the wall behind him.

Issei gaped openly at how Maxwell had just 'flicked' the nut in the head and sent him through a wall. He wondered just how powerful Maxwell was from that one action, and it also kind of scared him a bit. But if stories about dragons were true in any way, then who knew how powerful he was. Chris on the other hand, summoned a shadow puppet to finish up the fool, and the puppet appeared as a middle-aged man in the clothes of an exorcist. Which ironically, the puppet had been an exorcist before joining the Throng as it happens "Would you go make sure that dumb fool is dealt with properly please," Chris whispered.

The puppet bowed, "It would be my honor master, consider it done," he said and then went off to do as Chris had asked.

With that in motion, Chris made his way over to where Issei and Asia were to check on them before getting them moving away from this place. The sooner the three of them leave both this place and the nut was behind them, the better for all. Admittedly, it was tempting for Chris to break most of the bones in the guy's body one by one and the thought had crossed his mind. It was one of the activities that he used to do to those that seriously irritated him and it got the point across to the recipient and those like them fairly well. Yet, Aria had been curbing his inclination to torture another to get a lesson across as Chris had once done. It was one of the many wonderful things his wife had helped him with in the path of becoming a better individual. Aria's heart of pure gold had been and was healing his dark mutilated heart to be better than the monster which had struck fear into so many. So instead, he would have the shadow puppet he sent to settle things probably in a nicer way than Chris himself would in the same situation.

However, just as Chris got to be in front of the two, the sound of a gun firing rang out from behind him. That sound was accompanied by growling and cursing from the other room which cursing was from Freed. The growling was from the puppet likely trying to take down the nutcase. "You foul disbeliever," shouted the puppet, "You shall be struck down for the safety of the righteous!"

Asia was worrying about Issei as he was still injured and needed healing which she could help with. In fact, she was going to do just that yet a hand came down on her forehead and pressed her towards the floor. She looked to her left and saw the other sand-haired boy holding her down as noise came from the other room that Father Freed had crashed into. Chris had grabbed Asia and got her out of the way while at the same time keeping Issei down and out of the line of fire. It came as a bit of a surprise to Chris that Freed was up already as the flick to his head hadn't been gentle. That he was conscious at all was impressive as most tended not to be after Chris hit them like he did Freed. They tended to have cracks skulls or fractures from a flick Chris gave, but they tended to ask for the punishment. Plus, it sounded like the shadow puppet wasn't slowing him down a great deal which was a tad odd. None of the shadow puppets were what was considered weak, they could do a great deal in a fight and so this Freed was being difficult.

Freed came into view wielding the type of pistol that an exorcist normally used in his right hand and a light sword in his left. "Ha ha~, that f**king hurt devil. It's one of those rare times that I, the great Freed Sellzan have been hit by one of you before. Of course, that means I will have to," but Chris wasn't going to stand and take that and so he used a jet of fire to cut the idiot off. That forced Freed to jump out of the way to avoid the flames being sent at him or else get burned. The shadow puppet lunged a moment later attacking the fool and forcing him to defend himself. "Whatever crap this is, I won't let it f**king stop me from killing devils," Freed screeched.

Chris had been very displeased at being called a devil several times already even after he had told this lunatic to knock it off or be beaten for it. Then somehow the idiot was fending off the shadow puppet that was working to beat some sense into him. Freed was turning out to be a pain in the rear and Chris didn't deal with that idea on a normal basis like this guy often anymore. So, Chris would do as he stated and move on from there until the idiot was taught a lesson. His displeasure showed on his face, "I believe I told you that I am not a devil. So, get that point through your thick skull and stop calling me one before I bash your skull in instead," Chris said as he began walking towards Freed who had just recovered and forced the shadow puppet to back up.

"This fool will have sense and justice beaten into him master," the puppet stated as it got to its feet, "But he is unpredictable so it is taking longer than expected."

"You think that empty threats from devils would scare me," Freed replied mockingly. Then he aimed his gun at Chris, "Well then let's see if I can calm you down with some holy bullets you pathetic devil," he shouted before firing a barrage of light bullets at Chris while laughing gleefully.

However, Freed's glee turned to shock and minor anger when he saw the bullets merely bounced off of Chris's form. It was not only that, Chris didn't even flinch when fired at or the bullets striking him at all, he just stood there. Chris, on the other hand, knew that projectiles like these bullets could not even come close to penetrating his dragon scales. And it would be better in this case that Chris take care of the idiot causing trouble himself. It would get the situation settled faster and less likely to have others interfere and make a mess. "Your dedication is appreciated, but I think I should handle this personally Cortez," Chris said to the puppet.

The puppet turned and bowed, "As you wish master, may you bring justice upon this foul heretic," it replied and then disappeared.

After the puppet disappeared, Chris faced Freed and wasn't feeling inclined to be nice and gentle any longer with the nut that had called him a devil, not once, but several times. The "nice" thing that Chris had done was to tell him firmly to not do that and the idiot hadn't listened at all to that advice. So, Chris would give him a firm lesson on pushing luck and messing with those it is unwise to. Chris zoomed forward getting behind Freed and raising an arm and chopping Freed's head hard. The blow was enough to make Freed stumble away from Chris along with Issei and Asia wincing at seeing the attack. Nonetheless, to Chris's annoyance, Freed shook his head and then swung his sword at Chris himself.

Freed had quite the headache from the hit to the head he received, but he was determined to kill this devil, more so with the things he was doing. No devil had escaped him before now and Freed wasn't about to let one break that record which he had worked for. He caught Chris off-guard somewhat with a clear swing at his neck so Freed took the opportunity. "Got you now, sh**ty devil," he cackled as his blade struck.

Yet, the light sword came to a dead stop as it contacted Chris's neck as if it had hit a solid wall. That got Freed to cease laughing and gape a bit at the sight of his weapon not cutting through. It didn't make a lick of sense, Freed knew that there was not a single known devil that had immunity to light or holy weapons, it was their one common weakness they all had. That this interferer was not reacting to anything that Freed did was not right and it was frustrating him too. Then the stray priest noticed what appeared to be a shimmer of some sort on the skin of his opponent's neck which was barely visible. But he ignored that oddity and was trying to figure out how to kill this devil before him.

Chris did not even seem to pay attention to the blade at his neck since his scales blocked the attack. The priest had caught him off guard slightly which was a rare thing, and he would admit being wrong somewhat when it did occur. "I will begrudgingly admit that I'm surprised you are still up and going you idiotic nut as most wouldn't be. The chop I gave you a moment ago should have dropped you to the floor like a weakened sack of potatoes and then some." Chris paused, "Not that it matters in the end," he finished before delivering a punch to Freed's gut.

The blow sent Freed backward but even with his feet keeping in touch with the floor, he skidded across the room to slam into the opposite wall with force. After Freed came to a stop he was angry that somehow this devil was not dying like the others before him. Somehow, he was breaking the rules and cheating with how light wasn't harming him at all. And the cheater didn't even seem to be taking an expert like Freed seriously at all and that irked him even more. But Freed's anger was fueling him and that had never failed him yet and it wouldn't start now.

At the same time, Issei was still gaping at the ease that Chris was handling the guy that had been having his way with him. Issei had been on the ropes and was wondering if he would make it home alive from this. Yet, it was unreal the way that Maxwell fought and yet kept completely calm, almost like he hadn't a care in the world. There had been times that emotion did show, but Chris didn't let that get the better of him. Also, none of the weapons the priest had used against Issei himself had done anything to Chris. Issei couldn't explain that point, but he couldn't let it go either as it wouldn't leave his mind. Issei was fairly sure that Maxwell knew how to fight without he was handling the nut, but he couldn't say how good he was. It made Issei wonder just what Chris had done during his life wherever it had taken him.

The fight or rather the lesson that Chris was giving Freed was interrupted as a glow of red drew everyone's attention. The Gremory seal appeared on the floor, glowed brighter red for a moment before a few seconds the light dying down revealing Rias and her three other servants, ready for battle. Chris didn't know whether to be irritated, give a lecture on the irresponsibility and stupidity that Rias Gremory was showing tonight, or just keep his mouth shut so that he wouldn't have to deal with the girl. Honestly, the way the girl did things was so downright sloppy that it was embarrassing to watch. He hadn't encountered or observed many devils as foolish as Rias Gremory who lasted all that long before their ends came. And as an example of the other end of the spectrum, her brother's actions were the opposite which was even sadder.

Kiba summoned a sword, "Issei we've come here to save-"

Chris's exhale cut over Kiba, "Yeah, you're late, so hush up before you embarrass yourselves further," he said in a deadpanned tone.

Rias blinked, shocked to see Chris there as their last encounter hadn't gone nicely at all to put it mildly. She had never thought the contact Koneko had which she assigned to Issei would end out being a trap. To find out that Chris had saved Issei from the stray priest, Rias was grateful for the help he gave. But Chris had pretty much stated he wanted nothing to do with them, so that begged the question of why he was here. As Sirzechs mentioned, dragons didn't step into the business of others unless they had a reason of their own. Of course, Rias wasn't going to complain since Issei looked to be in less trouble while Chris was keeping the attention of the exorcist. "Maxwell, w-why are you here," she asked.

There were many fitting retorts that Chris could say to get his point over to Rias, he just had to decide how much he wanted to humiliate her. However, as he was friends with Zechs, he should resist the desire to embarrass his sister. That was one of the only reasons that Chris didn't thoroughly chew her out, he was leaving that to Zechs to do. For clearly, Gremory wouldn't listen to Chris himself for the wisdom he could give her, she was too full of herself. Yet, with her brother being one of the devil faction leaders, perhaps the redhead would listen to him. "Nothing for you to be concerned with Gremory," Chris started, but then his cellphone began to ring which drew his attention.

Freed was taking in that there were more devils he could kill now in the room and he certainly wouldn't complain about that. In fact, his mood improved at seeing more devils kill as he was always happy to kill devils. He still intended to kill the cheating devil, but he wouldn't say no to more targets to play with since it would make the fun last longer. "Ah, more sh**ty devils have come to play," he announced with his maniacal smile on his face, "This night just got so much better!"

Chris had begun ignoring the idiot and instead of taking out his phone and putting it to his ear, "Hello?" Everyone in the room other than Chris himself paused and was perturbed at how casual he was acting right now. It didn't fit the current set of circumstances and yet he didn't seem to care about that at all. "Ayano," Chris inquired, "Nope, I'm perfectly fine at the moment." There was a pause, "No, it's nothing serious, just some stray idiotic nut of an exorcist with mental problems by my observations, so handling some tedious stuff."

Freed didn't like being referred to as 'some stray idiotic nut of an exorcist with mental problems' that was more of an insult. "Oi, watch your mouth devil," Freed snapped, "Don't underestimate me, the great exorcist Freed!" However, Freed then was forced to dodge flames sent his way by Chris in the form of doing acrobatics. Yet, some of the fireballs flying at him caught him a moment later as he tried dodging and required him to stop drop and roll to get them out so they didn't burn his clothes and get to his skin. Chris certainly wouldn't refuse to broil the nut case, it wouldn't be the cleanest way to deal with him, but it would finish the issue. However, there were other matters to attend to and that was the only thing that was saving the nut right now. "Anything happening right now over there since I assume that's the reason you're calling," Chris asked as he paid minor attention to Freed. "Oh, so then Lynes has arrived has he," Chris went on making the others wonder who he was talking to and about what. Yet then Chris paused again, "Hey listen Ayano, I really should finish up and go, feels like some Fallen are coming my way and I'm not interested in dealing with them right now. See you soon," Chris finished before hanging up.

Akeno took a moment to see if Chris was right and a moment later, she found that he was, Fallen were coming their way. Rias had been having her and Koneko trying to find out what the Fallen were doing, but neither had been having much luck. But encountering them directly wouldn't go well as things stood and they knew it. "He's right Rias, I can sense several Fallen Angels heading for us. So, we'd had best be going too," Akeno commented seriously as Rias had gone over and was checking Issei's wounds.

Rias would have liked to question Chris with the potential opportunity to quiz him. There were so many facts about him that were unknown even if he had proven he could be dangerous. She still wanted to learn more about him even after learning of the danger and being told to not get involved with him. If the power that she had felt before was anything to go by, he could help against Riser and others that would come after. But there wasn't the time for that and she knew it with things as they were. Facing the Fallen was something to be avoided for now until they had more information on them and their activities. "Indeed," Rias admitted in agreement as she summoned the Gremory Seal to teleport, "It's time for us to go."

Issei glanced over at Asia with worry as he somehow knew that Rias wasn't including her. Asia didn't belong with those she was with, that much Issei knew for certain with how she was. The girl was far too nice and trusting to be left with those that would take advantage of her. Issei may be a pervert, but he wanted to help and protect Asia even if he couldn't explain why he felt that way. So, he had to try and convince Rias, "Wait Buchou, take Asia with us," he cried.

Rias could see Issei and a very good heart under the perverseness he showed much of the time. But what he was asking for wasn't possible since demonic power didn't work that way. And even if it was, the girl was a nun from the church, which made her one of the enemies of devils regardless of how nice she could be. Yes, he didn't know about the dichotomy between the biblical factions which was something Rias had planned to do that eventually. "I'm sorry Issei, but this only works on the members of the Gremory Family and their servants. There's no way we can take her with us," Rias replied sadly. Issei felt despair at being told that Asia couldn't come, he wanted to help her in some way, and yet he couldn't.

Chris could see this and was a tad surprised that the perverted kid wanted to help another like this since most perverts didn't care enough about others to risk their skin or reputation. It showed that there was promise in him and perhaps he could improve to the point the kid could be a decent person. It was much the same reason that he tolerated Azazel, there was good within them when it counted. Issei's good qualities just seemed to need polishing and attention, and some a serious polishing at that. However, if that could be done, then who could say what kind of individual Issei could become. Issei wasn't Marcus, but he could become of a similar kind of caliber given the opportunity by what Chris saw.

Plus, the Asia girl was pure and innocent along with having an extremely high affinity with dragons which was getting much rarer these days. It was a sad fact that the dragon race had been realizing and it wasn't nice at all. So, it was more an unspoken agreement among dragons to save those that were found to preserve the remaining individuals that were so good with dragons. With those points in mind, there was but one thing to do for Chris, "Actually, I'll take her with me," Chris remarked. The response was out of the blue and so the offer took all of them by surprise. Nevertheless, Chris focused on Asia and gave her a kind smile, "You don't mind staying at my place right," he asked, then jabbed a thumb at Freed, "I can guarantee you, it's a lot better than being around that nut and others like him."

Freed was getting back to his feet as the conversation was going on, and he wasn't happy. No, he was thoroughly angry now that this devil had been cheating and humiliating him was going farther. Now he had the gall to think that he could leave here with the nun under his charge, Freed wouldn't have that. Asia however, was gazing at this young man that looked to be a bit older than herself. He was being so nice to her and that felt good as it had been so long since another was nice to her, other than Issei. So, Asia nodded her head, "N-no I don't mind, thank you very much," she answered as confidently as she could while she bowed her head.

"Like I'll let any of you f**king devils escape me," Freed declared as he was already swinging his sword. Nonetheless, Chris unfurled his wings allowing all to see them and the act caused a shift in the air that sent Freed flying backward and slamming into a wall. The air whipping around also nearly knocked the Devils off their feet, but Chris didn't seem to care about that. Without sparing them a glance, Chris scooped up Asia and after making sure she was secured, he then shot through the window he used to enter and took to the sky once more that night.

It did not take long for Chris to get to his home with Asia and none had noticed his flight. He gently landed on the front yard before retracting his wings knowing that he and Asia were safe for the moment. Asia was reeling from what she had just experienced as it was unlike anything she had even dreamed about. The idea of flying was more a fairy tale in her mind, but she had just done that through being carried by Chris. And seeing the world from the sky was amazing, words couldn't describe the experience for Asia. Now Asia was at a place she knew nothing about and she had no idea what would happen next to her. She did wonder what Chris was, for people didn't have wings and they had been black so he couldn't be an angel. But he wasn't a Fallen angel either from what she could tell, he wasn't like any of those she'd been around. And there were no feathers in the boy's wings, so Asia couldn't figure out what he was.

After putting Asia down, Chris helped her regain her bearings since she had never traveled like that before. She was confused and nervous about what would happen to her though she needn't worry. Chris was confident that his kids would like her and help her relearn what good things she could have had before. He could tell that life hadn't been kind to her, and he could sympathize. Chris directed the nun inside his home, and both Phina and Ayano were there greeting them, "Welcome home Chris," Ayano said as she bowed respectfully. "I assume all went well and the Boosted Gear bearer is unharmed."

Chris thought about the question as the answer was complicated since Issei wasn't unharmed. He had made sure that Hyoudou hadn't been seriously hurt but he had been injured nonetheless. "The kid is alive, though a bit bruised up but alive still in the end," Chris responded before placing a hand on Asia's shoulder. "Moving on, this is Asia Argento, a former nun who will be staying here until stated otherwise." Chris then gazed at Asia and gestured at his two friends pointing to them as he introduced them, "Asia, that is Phina and she is Ayano, both are good friends of mine."

Asia looked at both women who looked very beautiful in different ways from others she'd seen. The dark-skinned one appeared to be in her early twenties and had a curvy and full figure by what Asia could see. At least, her proportion was fuller than Asia's were though not like the women that had appeared and Issei seemed to know. The woman also looked to be a foreigner like Asia herself was to Japan, but she wasn't from Europe, her skin color and hair made that rather clear. The other woman appeared in the same age range and her female proportions were also pretty filled out. Asia couldn't say much more than that as she'd never seen a woman like the second one. Still, after a moment, Asia remembered her manners, "Oh um, please to meet you," she greeted politely, bowing her head.

Phina could see this girl may have met Chris by chance, but it had been the best chance she'd had before now she didn't doubt. That the girl was brought here told her that Chris at least trusted the girl would be trustworthy enough to be around his family. So, she put her hands together, one flat and the other in a fist as would be expected of a monk or martial artist, and returned the bow. "Please to meet you as well Asia, welcome," she responded kindly.

Ayano smiled a bit, "Yes, likewise to you as well Miss Argento," she remarked inclining her head slightly.

Phina then focused back on Chris, "The children are still in their beds as it is late. Also, Ophis-sama is here since she arrived with Lynes," she said.

Chris blinked at the news as he hadn't expected a visit from his mother of all people to visit out of the blue. His mother for lack of a better way to put it didn't get out much though it wasn't as bad as it used to be, it was still putting it nicely to be honest. It was due to Chris's father that she was better than she used to be, but Chris's mother Ophis wasn't socially inclined. Chris loved his mother, of course, she was a good individual when one took the time to get to know her, most didn't though. But she did not drop by just to visit, she normally had a reason when she dropped by. "She wishes to speak with you and is awaiting you in the family room currently," Ayano added to Phina's news.

Chris sighed rubbing his head, which caused some of his hair to go up, revealing his pointy draconic ears that had become visible. He thought about what the best order to have things done in Asia was his guest and he would fulfill the role of a good host. However, it had been some time since his mother had come by, so he didn't want that to be delayed either. "Yeah, I supposed she would drop by now, " he muttered. "Very well, Phina, would you please take Asia upstairs to the bathroom so she can shower and get cleaned up? Also, if you could prepare a room for her as she will be spending tonight here and the following nights until otherwise stated, it would be appreciated."

"Understood Chris," Phina said before she led Asia upstairs.

Chris faced Ayano who was waiting for him, "Ayano, if you would secure and keep an eye on the parameter with Alternes, I would be ever-so-grateful," he said.

Ayano bowed, "Of course Chris, I would be glad to," she replied and then headed out the door.

The house looked quite ordinary from what Asia had read in books she'd had access to while around the church. She was left to also wonder about some of what had been said with Chris and the two women. There had been mention of children concerning Chris, but he didn't look old enough to have a child, let alone multiple children. Then there was his "mother" and what had been said or more how it had been said suggested there was something different about his mother. That was just more questions being added to the growing list that she seemed to have and her thoughts kept bouncing around as she used the shower offered to her.

After Ayano left, Chris headed towards the family room to meet with his mother before heading back to bed himself. He came into the room and found it lit by a single lamp rather than the lights in the ceiling. There were already two people present there, one on the sofa and the other in one of the chairs. Sitting on a chair was what appeared to be a young boy who looked like he was between the ages of fourteen or fifteen. He had pale skin and tired-looking gold eyes, along with light blue hair that reached his neck and covered his ears. His attire consisted of a sleeveless dark black hoodie with grey lines and black cargo pants with black gloves over his hands. The young boy was currently barefoot and was sitting cross leg on the chair. Resting beside the chair was a large black scythe with a skull mask hanging from the blade.

The other person in the room on the sofa was a young-looking girl with long black hair that reached her hips. Her gray eyes were similar to Aura's as they had an emotionless look in them as Aura's did. The girl's aura instantly said that she was a dragon and a ridiculously powerful one. Her attire was what she normally had which consisted of a gothic-style dress plus black tape that covered her nipples crossing each other like an "X". It was one of the appearances that Chris's mother used while going out and about, though it wasn't the only one she had to work with. Chris knew that his mother could look different for he had seen two other appearances. Plus, his dad had described what his mother looked like when they had met and she hadn't been a little girl. No, Chris's mother had back then looked like an adult woman and according to his dad an extremely beautiful one in his eyes. But for some reason, his mother liked appearing as a little girl, she never really explained why she preferred the form.

His mother was currently eating a cookie which got Chris to smile as sweets were something his dad had introduced his mom to. And Chris's father had always loved surprising his mother with sweets. And it was also the reason Chris was cursed with a sweet tooth which he passed on to his children. "I see your love of sweets hasn't changed much mom," he said drawing the girl's attention.

She paused from her eating to look up at her son, "Cookies taste delicious," she stated in her monotone voice.

Chris smirked knowing his mother was always like this and the quirk was fitting for her in several ways even if her appearance changed from time to time. He then turned to the boy, "As always, thanks for bringing her here Lynes," he greeted. "I know I've said this before, but you look like you could use some time off and catch up on your sleep. Does your boss really work you and your colleagues so hard?"

Lynes looked at Chris with the comment about his boss who was the Grimm Reaper or Death himself. It was true as a reaper he was kept busy, after all, humans and non-humans died every minute so guiding souls was a full-time job. He tended to work half-days as most reapers did which was fine, just could be tiring sometimes. So, Lynes waved a hand, "Guiding souls is a never-ending job you know man," he answered. "As a dragon, you have seen how the idea has increased over time, more volume and everything."

"Yes, that is true," Chris then hesitated for a moment, "Um, could you give us a bit of privacy?"

Lynes gazed at Chris silently for a few seconds, then shrugged, "Yeah sure man, I don't mind, just try not to take too long." Lynes replied with a yawn and he began floating up into the air, "Just keep in mind that I do have a schedule to keep and a quota needing to be met, how the business goes," he commented before he stretched a hand out and the large scythe that was twice his size sailed over to him and he exited the room.

Chris came around the sofa and stood face-to-face with his mother shaking his head at Lynes actions. He once again wondered if reapers were all like Lynes or if he was an "oddball" among them. Chris knew that reapers had a tough job even within the non-human world they had what was considered difficult. They worked long hours, normally full twelve-hour half days if not longer guiding souls of those that died, and Chris didn't envy them. "Honestly, I wonder if all Death's reapers are like that," Chris muttered before sitting next to his mother. At the same time Ophis finished the cookie as he continued, "Not that I'm unhappy to see you mom, but why are you here?"

Ophis had been "worried" when she had learned that her son and his family had moved to an area where those from the biblical factions were. Her Shadus had rarely if ever had good times with those from the three biblical factions, more trouble than anything. And she had lost her mate to those that were loyal to the angels, so she was concerned. Shadus had taken losing his father differently than she did, he had sought revenge while she'd isolated. It had been his lifemate and their children that had brought her out of her isolation, so she didn't want to lose them. With that in mind, Ophis's gaze shifted to her son and stared at him for a moment, "I heard you had moved into devil territory and that got me worried, so I came to check on you," she replied.

Chris sighed but was smiling slightly as his mother didn't show emotion as others did, and he appreciated it. He truly loved his mother despite her quirks and faults, he knew he could depend on her should he need. And if it wasn't in the middle of the night, Chris would have thought she had swung by to see his kids. Ophis may be an "all-powerful" dragon, but she loved spending time with her grandchildren. When she was with them she seemed almost like a normal person living and enjoying life. "You don't need to worry, I can easily take care of myself and my family. You of all individuals know that," Chris replied though the look on his mother's face showed she was not convinced though she did not press.

Ophis knew her Shadus was strong, the strongest dragon aside from herself and the noisy red idiot. However, that didn't mean he couldn't be overcome by other forces when many banded together. It had almost happened two thousand years ago when the biblical factions put aside their arguments and fought against Shadus and the other two heavenly dragons. While Ddraig and Albion had been sealed by them and placed into a device made by the fool calling themselves "God", her Shadus had not succumbed. That it had come even a little close to such a thing worried Ophis somewhat. "I still care about you, Aria, and my grandchildren," she stated firmly. Ophis then paused as she concluded why her son came to the town. "You have made contact with the wielder of the Boosted Gear I assume to repay your debt to Ddraig and his last host?"

Chris nodded, "Ddraig and Marcus were there for me and did some real favors for Aria and me, I will not let that be viewed as some type of charity. I always repay my debts, dad gave me that lesson as you should know," Chris iterated.

Ophis inclined her head, knowing that her husband had taught their son a sense of honor that he had himself. It was one of the qualities that had attracted her to him and held her interest for so long even when he was a Nephilim rare as they were. Her daughter who was her son's bond-mate was an incredible match for him and it was easy to see it. Then Ophis did enjoy the time she got around her grandchildren that her son and daughter had given her. So, with how her son was determined to save his wife, Ophis couldn't help but feel a bit of pride in him rare as emotions were for her. "Then you are still set on finding a way to save Aria," she asked, the tone in her voice changing a bit.

The white of Chris's eyes darkened to black in a moment along with his irises glowing gold and were slitted at the question. His head went down a bit as he had given the answer to this and it had never changed, not even once. "You better believe I am dedicated to finding a way to help Aria," he growled in a deep voice. Chris stopped as thoughts of what Aria had done for him went through his mind, "She has changed my life in ways that I can't put into words mom. She brought me into the light and led me to find happiness with her. I will not accept her fading as fate and let things digress back to what they were before she came into my life. I can't let it end without trying to do more for her." Chris paused, "Dad did much the same for you, so you can understand my determination in helping her. Or are you going to tell me I should give up on her?"

"No" Ophis replied shaking her head, "You are too much like your father to accept such an outcome. He was also stubborn and determined, not stopping until he found a way to succeed at his goals." Thoughts of her mate came to Ophis since she did miss his presence, and she craved it more than silence at times. Chris's father had been a unique individual and he had helped Ophis see that obtaining silence wasn't the only reason for existence. She still didn't like that Noisy Red had taken up residence in the dimensional gap which was still her home to a degree. However, her son and his family were one of her reasons for existing now for they taught her joy of family. Not that she would say that to Noisy Red, she wouldn't tell him she had progressed farther than him.

Ophis placed a pale hand on top of her son's and he looked into her eyes. And Chris saw a rare hint of emotion that his mother showed in the form of a small smile on her face. Her grey eyes showed slightly hidden comfort and love in them she had for him and his family. "I believe you will succeed given the time and opportunities," Ophis stated, "You and your team are strong and won't accept things as they are now."

Chris smiled and his eyes reverted to how they were regularly. He chuckled while gently squeezing her mother's hand with his own, "Well, if you say something like that then I better not fail mom," he returned.

Ophis nodded before she snuggled up against her son, and the two enjoyed a comfortable moment of silence with one another. Such moments were rarer now than they once were in the earlier days the two had since Ophis had rarely let Chris out of her sight when he was a young child. Eventually, the Infinite Dragon God left, but not before telling Chris to say hi to her grandchildren for her as they were sleeping.

Once she was gone Chris closed the door, he noticed both Ayano and Alternes standing in the foyer waiting. Chris faced his two oldest, dearest, and closest friends he still had currently. The rest from his earlier past had either died or were imprisoned in some way. "I assume the area around the house is secure for the time being," inquired Chris.

Both bowed as they had made sure the barrier around the house was as strong as it could be. Then they had set up other spells to deter uninvited individuals to bolster the defenses. ""Yes, Chris,"" they answered.

Ayano's gaze then met Chris's and he saw the serious expression she had. "However, I doubt that the defenses in place will shoo others for all that long," she stated.

Alternes picked up where Ayano left off, "We would repeat the suggestion, Chris, call the team for help before this becomes a mess," he remarked, "We do have ways of contacting them and they will want to help you, we know it."

Although Chris had been avoiding the idea, mostly as those that made up his team was doing other things as they had their own lives which he tried not to interrupt. However, Ayano had made a fair point that the defenses wouldn't hold forever. Chris suspected that either devils or another group would make the effort to break through what was set up for whatever reason they could come up with. He didn't like to admit that he still attracted attention even though it was unwanted. And his friends would always tell him to contact him should he need anything from them. So, Chris knew it was time to suck it up and admit that he needed assistance, "That would be appreciated Alternes." Chris paused, "I have a feeling something big is going to happen soon. You can call or consider it paranoia, but my intuition is normally on point. So, it will be good to have the others here too if or I think rather when things go bad," Chris replied. A thought crossed his mind then, "Also, I believe it would be wise to call the Grigori back. Azazel and I will be having another discussion about what is going on around here in more detail," Chris stated. "Whether or not that means I inform him how he is slacking in his job and that he may end out losing subordinates if things don't rapidly change."

A/n

Okay, I leave off here for this chapter. Now on to the ending comments as there are a few of them. So first, Chris in this chapter shows that he is willing to get his hands dirty and that's entirely true. Plus, you readers get a view into Chris's past and found out he has rather a stark picture others see him as. And Chris earned the reputation as the Shadow Dragon and the fear that comes with it as he was much meaner in the past. The reaction of the fallen angels is a good example of how many see the Shadow Dragon.

Next, yes I said in the last chapter that I would "not be the nicest" to Rias and that will be something that comes off and on throughout until I state otherwise. Granted, in canon later on, she improves to a degree, but in the beginning, perhaps it's just me, but Rias comes off as a pampered princess and so that's how I'm portraying her for the time being. And other canon characters are much the same in the respect that they come off as I'm portraying them to an extent. So, Chris doesn't like them all that much but it isn't them as individuals, though he is annoyed by Rias's nosing. That's it for this chapter, please some of you take the time to write a review and tell me what you think.