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.

3. The Fallen Angels

A/n

Here is chapter three of this story, I ended out splitting Chapter 2 and it will be action packed, enjoy!

Chapter 3: The Fallen Angels

After giving instructions to the two Chris contacted the Grigori again and got the same woman as before. She appeared to have long purple hair and strong-looking eyes also possessing large breasts. It made Chris wonder if Azazel made some passes with this Fallen, and he if had, he hoped the girl slapped him hard at the very least. "Hello again," Chris paused, "My apologies, but I never did catch your name, just that you do the secretarial work for the pervert the Grigori has as a governor-general."

Penemue remembered this guy, he was the one that had called a few days ago asking to take to Azazel. All he had said was his name was Christopher Maxwell and he had serious business with the governor-general specifically. That he called Azazel a pervert meant he knew him enough to be aware of his un-nice habits. Azazel had tried some passes with Penemue herself a few times, but she had made it clear that was to stop in her own way. "My name is Penemue, how might I direct you call?"

Chris considered for a moment if it would be better to go to Azazel's helping hands rather than the head fallen himself. "Is Shemhazai available," Chris posed, "Have a matter that needs quick attention and Azazel may not get on this as quick if I discuss it with him."

Penemue nodded, "One moment I will check," she replied.

Shemhazai was writing a report for the business he had been handling for Azael when the call came in. He had been busy making arrangements for a potential peace conference with the devils and angels. While Azazel would be the spokesman for the Grigori, he didn't do the planning of the said meeting. Then Penemue had contacted him, "Penemue, what can I do for you," he asked.

"Well sir," Penemue started, "I have an individual who wants to discuss something with you. He spoke with the governor-general earlier."

Shemhazai sighed hoping Azazel hadn't put someone off, it was tiring work to do damage control. "Very well, send them over," he said wondering what he was going to be discussing. The next thing Shemhazai knew he was looking at a face that had him sit up straight, "Shadus" he exclaimed.

Chris didn't smile, just inclined his head, "Nice to see you react well Shemhazai, there is a subject to talk about," he commented. "And from my observations, Azazel is not taking the situation as seriously as he implies he is."

Shemhazai was concerned with the Shadow Dragon calling him, it tended to spell bad things coming. And if he had already spoken to Azazel about whatever he had, then things were already on a slippery slope. "Oh, I know you don't call without a good reason," Shemhazai paused, "Do forgive me, but could you remind me of what name you use these days."

Chris nodded, but still had a flat face, "Christopher Maxwell Shemhazai, but let's discuss the business I'm here for shall we?" Shemhazai nodded and gestured for Chris to continue, "I talked to Azazel about an issue around the town of Kouh, apparently he has a few fallen around there doing research for him."

Shemhazai nodded knowing of the project that Azazel had set a few on in the town of Kouh. They were supposed to be observing potential sacred gear wielders but if the Shadow Dragon was bringing it up, that suggested that wasn't happening. And if those fallen had attracted the attention of the Shadow Dragon, that didn't bode well at all. "I assume that they or those working with them are doing something other than research then," he questioned.

Chris knew that Shemhazai would catch on very quick once he started explaining the situation to him. "You caught on quicker than your boss did, yes, some in that group have been going out hurt and even killing people in the area." Chris stopped for a moment before he kept going, "Normally, I don't call out others on how they choose to do things, but letting murders and killers roam free isn't something you want to do. So, I recommend you contact those around Kouh and inform them of how dire the situation is becoming. Should it not change, then I will step in and settle the matter and it will be by my choice of methods." Chris narrowed his eyes slightly, "I hope you understand it isn't personal yet, don't make it that way." Shemhazai understood the implied meaning, get things in order or he would do it and it wouldn't be pretty.

Chris ended the call and retired for the night having made one more "nice" attempt to get things to go a different direction. Chris woke up when morning came and found the familiar sight of Aria beside him and it was comforting. He brought her into an embrace and simply held her to himself happy to have her with him. If not for his wife, then Chris's life would be far bleaker than it was and wouldn't be really worth living to him. It was the reason that he was doing everything that he could to help her condition improve. Chris wanted Aria to be in his life for a long time to come and if things didn't change, then she wouldn't be.

He got out of bed and dressed before heading for the kitchen to see how the rest of his family was doing along with his guest. And when he entered the dining room, it was interesting to see the scene therein. Sitting around the large oval table were his kids who were conversing excitedly with Asia. They all seemed to like the new face and were happy to meet someone new including Aura who wasn't much of a people person Chris knew. The other reason that Asia was getting along with his children was of course, the purity of Asia's heart and the high affinity with dragons she had. The said nun seemed happy to be speaking casually with others as it appeared to have been some time since she had done so was nice to see.

He knew that Phina would be busy preparing breakfast while Ayano and Alternes would be doing other tasks around the house. Lynes was on a chair at the table across from the others juggling some knives without seemingly a care in the world. The Reaper was different than other people Chris knew and Lynes wasn't unique in that respect either, other Reapers had quirks that stuck out in odd ways as well. So, Chris said nothing about juggling dangerous objects around his kids, he knew it would do little. He was more surprised that Lynes had returned here as he had a busy job as he himself mentioned.

Phina noticed Chris first out of those awake, "Good morning Chris," she greeted as she walked out of the kitchen, which was connected to the dining area next to the Family Room.

"Morning Phina," Chris replied with a yawn.

"I thought that you should know that Lance and Lupus arrived earlier this morning, Lance is waiting for you outside," Phina iterated. "Minx is currently wandering around town, said something about exploring as I recall. Then Lupus is patrolling the woods around the house while waiting for tasks," she continued. Chris nodded in acknowledgment, but he was also pleased and heartened that so many of those he considered friends and family arriving so quickly. Most of Chris's "team" as his mother put it, had lives of their own, but the bonds they shared were strong as seen as a call would get them together regardless of the reasons. Phina noted the small smile that came to Chris's face and kept going, "Also, Alternes did get ahold of Simon who contacted Frodo to get information on our guest. It was assumed that you would like to know more about her and her background," she said lowering her voice so the blonde nun couldn't hear her.

Chris felt an eyebrow raise at the tone, not because he didn't want to know more about Asia, but the implications that Phina's tone made. Alternes and Ayano had been with him for long enough to know they could do things to help without being asked and did so most of the time. So, one of them going to others for information wasn't new or unexpected really. It was one of the reasons why Chris set up a network to gather information in the first place, to help keep himself in form and up to date of any new developments in the world. "Did either of them have anything useful," Chris asked.

Phina nodded, "Indeed, apparently, Asia Argento was originally a nun for the church and was titled as the "Holy Maiden". It was because of her healing abilities which in truth come from her Sacred Gear, Twilight Healing."

"Twilight Healing," Chris repeated, taking a quick glance at Asia who was laughing along with his kids. Chris had been around enough Sacred Gear users as well as the Fallen Azazel to have a fair knowledge base about them in general. And Twilight Healing was one that he had been told about and seen in action a few times though it had been a while since then. "A non-combatant Sacred Gear in the form of a pair of rings which allows the user to heal human, Angel, Fallen Angel, and even Devils. The same gear that Mira had as I recall," Chris mused but the last line was low in volume with pain in it. He shook his head to clear it of the memories of a friend that was dead and gone years ago. "I wonder why someone like her is all the way out here, and in devil territory at that? It seems rather odd to me and circumstances as I know them don't fit right."

"Frodo had the answer to that too," Phina replied. "According to him, Asia was caught by some healing a Devil who was fatally injured. Even though the possibility of not knowing it was a Devil and that being likely, she was deemed a heretic and a witch and she was exiled from the Church. How she ended out with the Fallen, that is still a mystery at this time."

Hearing that angered Chris but there was more to his reaction than just anger. But then, it was one of the main reasons why he disliked the Church as a whole and in extension wasn't the fondest of any of the biblical factions. Anything any of them could not comprehend or normally control in some way they saw as a threat. Threats to them were to be subjugated or destroyed and no other outcome would be acceptable. Just because they were the largest mythological factions right now, the Devils, Angels, and Fallen Angels thought they could do anything they wanted and not be questioned. And that was without caring about the consequences of their actions, nor how it would affect others, they thought themselves about that. It was especially true with the bias idiots of the Church who claimed to be allied with angels and the Old Satan Faction. It was because of them that his father was essentially crucified among other things that were done to him before his death.

Chris stopped knowing that the tangent wasn't healthy, nor would his father want him to dwell upon it. His family was what mattered to him, his father would tell him to focus on them and their happiness. The other nagging point with Asia's story was the 'devil' that she healed. Chris couldn't state exactly why at this point other than past experience, but something in him said firmly that the devil popping up wasn't a coincidence. Too many devils had some form of sick fetish and hobbies of the like for a sacred gear user being separated from what they knew and made vulnerable to not set such up. However, there was not enough information at the moment to come to a sensible conclusion.

Giving thanks to Phina for the info, he turned to the dining area while she returned to the kitchen, when Chris entered, he caught everyone's attention through Lynes just nodded his head in greeting. "Good morning everyone," Chris said to his kids. He got two cheerful greetings and one wave in return. Then he looked towards Asia, "Morning Asia, did you sleep well?"

Had Asia slept well her host had asked, she had difficulty remembering the last time she had slept as well as she had last night. This Chris Maxwell was so nice to her as were the rest in the house that she had met. It was a shock before hearing he had not one, but three children when he didn't look much older than herself. It was even more surprised when she met the children as the children brought back memories of happier times for Asia, back with others in the church. They didn't recoil from her or look at her with pity, it had been a while since that had happened to Asia. Then the two youngest kids who looked to be twins were just so cute that Asia couldn't help but hug them back when they had done the gesture. Being in this house had quelled some of the fear and uncertainty that had been in her heart. "Um yes, I did, thank you for having me," Asia replied with a bow of her head. "Your children are very friendly too though I still can't believe that you have children even though you look so young."

Chris chuckled as he moved over to ruffle Charles and Lilly's hair fondly earning giggles from his twins. They had not been "planned", at least not for a while after he and Aria had bonded. But they had come as nature would have them and Chris wouldn't argue that nature had a good system of how life was created. Chris certainly hadn't regretted any of them being born into his life, they had taught him many things and had brought joy. "Yeah, them coming along was unexpected for me too, but I certainly don't regret their births happening," Chris answered tones of fondness coming into his voice. "They have certainly brightened my life from the storms that have come with the joy they bring me."

Asia nodded slowly, surprised by the tones of fondness that Chris used when talking about his children. It made sense why the children were so happy with someone like Chris as their father. Asia could only wish to have had parents like him, though the sisters that had raised her and others had been wonderful. But there was still one question in Asia's mind with these children, if they had a father, shouldn't they also have a mother? None of the children looked exactly like Chris, though the oldest did resemble him an amount. "So then, if it isn't too much to ask, where is their mother," she questioned curiously. Chris's smile lessened a bit which got a feeling of shame to wash over Asia, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to-"

However, Chris raised a hand silencing Asia knowing that she hadn't meant anything mean or remind him of Aria's condition. "It's okay, I know that you didn't mean anything bad by asking that. You are not the type of individual that has a mean bone in your body by what I've seen." Chris paused and took a deep breath, "Unfortunately, my wife's health isn't the best and as a result, she is confined to a bed most of the time. I would ask you to keep that fact to yourself though Asia, I have my reasons to request that," Chris implored. "Perhaps when her health improves, you can meet her, I wouldn't doubt you would get along with her very well."

There was a bit of awkward silence before Chris continued changing the subject, "I guess you also met Lynes too," Chris said gesturing towards the young Grim Reaper who was still juggling the knives, but he paused and gave a small smile before continuing juggling. The expression on the guy's face was that of one who didn't have a care in the world with what they were doing. Asia stared for a bit at the "boy" as he was so different than any she had ever met. He could somehow float, Asia had seen that this morning but she couldn't explain how he could do that. Chris also stared for a moment and then shook his head, "He's not much of a talker but okay to be around," Chris commented dryly.

The conversation ended and breakfast started when Phina brought in the food and placed it on the table. After breakfast was over, Chris prepared to head out to school by saying farewell to Aria and then his kids. "Now you three behave for Phina, Ayano, and Alternes, and please don't give Asia a hard time okay," Chris instructed.

"Okay," the twins replied while Aura gave a silent nod.

Chris knew that Asia would be safer at his house from both the Fallen and devils with the defense he had in place. It was clear to Chris that the Fallen wanted Asia for something, which he didn't know but he wasn't interested in finding out either. The devils wouldn't be much better as they would be more inclined to make Asia an unknowing slave to them. The girl should have the choice of what direction her life went with all the facts given to her. So, Chris turned his eyes towards Asia, "It would probably be best for the time being for you to stay around the house and property it is on. Just let Phina or Ayano know if you need anything okay?"

Asia processed what Chris said and the realization of Chris implying that she would be staying at his house sunk in. He seemed to know something, but what Asia couldn't say yet it felt like she could trust his judgment. Still, her eyes widen as she understood what Chris was saying, "Wait, are you saying I can stay," she questioned. Chris nodded in answer, which made Asia happy, "I will Chris-san." She paused a moment as she had a personal request, "Um, also I was wondering if you could do something for me, if-if it's not too much trouble," Asia asked shyly as she fidgeted with her fingers.

Chris felt an eyebrow raised as a curiosity at what type of request Asia could have, but he gestured for Asia to go on in stating her request. Asia began in a quick muttering but thanks to Chris's good hearing, he heard what she was saying. The girl wanted to meet with Issei again who she saw as a friend and she didn't have many of those. Apparently, the kid had actually befriended the girl and hadn't acted the pervert which was different for Issei. It did show a glimmer of hope for the kid to become a decent person given the chance and opportunity. Chris was left to wonder if Ddraig may have gotten an okay host to work with this time around. And Chris didn't see Asia meeting Issei as a problem, the kid would unlikely hurt her from what he had shown thus far.

It was the other devils that Hyoudou was around which concerned Chris when it came to Asia. Those devils either saw Asia as a threat with her having been a nun or a "piece" to acquire, neither of which Chris found acceptable. The girl would be tricked and charmed by devils without someone with a clear head and experience with how devils were like. It was also likely what she had unknowingly missed after being ousted from the church. Chris wasn't inclined to leave Asia to such a fate, but nor did he want to control her life either. He saw controlling another's life as denying them the chance to make something of themselves. Thus, Chris said he would ask Issei if he would be willing to meet with her when he saw him next with her request to him.

Chris headed off to school and thankfully in his view, he was left alone during the school day since Akeno didn't appear. Nonetheless, after school that changed as a member of the student council approached him saying that he was wanted for a meeting. Chris decided that he would humor the devils as then perhaps they would leave him alone. That was the hope though Chris didn't think the break if he got one would last long it would be better than nothing. The devils at the school had shown themselves as too nosy for their own good really. There would likely come a time where that persistence would bite them, whether that came from Chris or another individual. But time with them not pestering him was time he could get the Fallen to clean up and vacate the area.

He was joined by his friend Lance along the way which Chris wouldn't complain about. Lance was one that he knew he could depend on no matter the situation, their friendship was a testament to that fact. Lance appeared to be in his very early twenties to most. He had messy mid-length strawberry-blonde hair that didn't appear to be well-kept often if at all. His hair complimented his green eyes and fair face naturally. Lance's skin was pale, and he had what looked like tattoos of some kind around his neck though his current attire made it barely visible. His attire consisted of a sleeveless dark blue dress shirt underneath a black military-style jacket which was fastened by two leather straps over the chest and a zipper. Over his hands were fingerless black gloves with white stripes on the tops of the fingers. And to top off the outfit, Lance had black cargo pants with a pouch on the left thigh and a holster containing a silver tool on the right along with his boots.

Chris knew that Lance wouldn't be welcomed by the devils for a few reasons not that he cared. The main reason the devils would be wary was that Lance was a Fallen Angel hybrid, though Lance wasn't affiliated with the Grigori. But since the devils called the meeting, Chris felt he should be able to get a choice in it, and said the choice wouldn't be denied by the other side. The two entered the student council room where the meeting Chris had been "asked" to attend would be. The student council member couldn't say anything to stop Lance from coming in with Chris nor did Lance answer any questions posed to him by any of the devils present. He simply took a place behind Chris to stand and said nothing while Chris sat down in a chair.

Lance still looked over the devils and didn't see why Chris was giving them the time other than being nice. Chris had always had incredible manners, better than most had on average and Lance wouldn't deny that so it was expected. Young devils were egotistical and he hadn't seen one yet that didn't fit that mold and he doubted these ones would break away from it. But Lance didn't want Chris to be in this alone so that the devils could attempt to take advantage of Chris. Should the devils get out of line, Lance would get them back into it. He wouldn't kill them as they were the younger siblings of two of the current Satans.

After sitting down in the chair provided, Chris faced the devils that were around the town thinking to himself about the conundrum they created for himself and others. They regularly made foolish choices and hadn't shown any sign of that changing, though Gremory was worse than Sitri, but not by a great deal. The instances that he had been forced to deal with their crap had been fairly annoying even as he tolerated it. Honestly, Chris was using patience to not teach the two head she-devils a lesson they clearly needed in his view. The hints he had given thus far had been ignored by both girls. And this meeting showed contacting Zechs hadn't helped as much as Chris had hoped it would since the redhead wasn't backing off. It was truly surprising after the "warning" Chris gave the she-devil a week ago, it hadn't been subtle.

Chris hadn't expected much with the Sitri girl, not if what Azazel said was correct with the student council president being the sister of Serafall. Talking to that leader of the devils was usually waste in Chris's eyes and that's before one took into account that he wasn't the fondest of Serafall to begin with. Plus, he had much better things that he could be doing with his time than sitting in this meeting. So, this was more to get the devils to understand the point to leave him be and stop pestering him in a "nice way".

The air of tension was impossible to miss for any of the devils and most were fidgeting in response to it. Beside Sona was Rias also sitting in a chair and with them were their respective Queens. Near the window were Koneko and Kiba, but there was no sign of Issei but that was most likely because Rias did not want him to get involved with anything regarding Asia. The rest of the student council was around the room paying heed to Sona waiting for orders. And yet, Chris appeared almost bored with being here which wasn't out of place from what the devils had been forced to learn. Also, there was his "companion" who had not given any of them an answer to who he was or why he was there. Sona was the first in the room to speak, "Thank you for meeting with us Maxwell-san. Although, I must ask who the person behind you is and why is he here since he wasn't invited to this?"

Chris didn't answer Sona's question immediately sitting casually in a chair that he had pulled up for himself, his legs resting on a table. Lance after a minute of standing behind Chris moved to lean up against a wall looking out a window. His arms were crossed and a small frown had come to his face making him look like Chris almost bored. However, the devils could sense power coming from the one that had been with Chris, and it felt like corrupted holy energy like what Fallen Angels possessed. That point had several possible implications that none could be proven or disproven without more information. Even if it was true, Chris was a dragon and so the most powerful in the room without argument.

Yet, after a long moment, Chris took a breath and spoke, "Well, the guy with me is a friend of mine by the name of Lance Vega. He decided to tag along while I was making my way here at your request and I didn't see a reason to stop him." Chris took in that the devils in the room were apprehensive of Lance and with his holy power, it was fairly obvious why. Nonetheless, Chris knew without a doubt that Lance was reasonable and logical and wouldn't kill another just because of what they were. So Chris continued, "You don't need to worry about your safety as he won't kill any of you unless you give him a reason to." Chris explained the point calmly though it did not really seem to satisfy the devils, he paid no heed to it as he didn't care. These devils could do nothing to force him or Lance to do anything they said. With that in mind, Chris focused on Sona as she had been the one that had called for this meeting specifically. "Now, what is this meeting for Sitri," Chris asked flatly, "I can find other things to do with my time that I would prefer doing rather than being here talking with you."

The reasoning behind why Sona and Rias had called for and arranged this meeting was to hopefully get information from their resident dragon. Recent events had brought up questions that they needed answers to. Not only had Chris appeared out of nowhere and "saved" Issei from the stray exorcist who shouldn't have been there, but he had taken the nun to somewhere else. There had been no explanation for either action and it made both Rias and Sona curious and worried about many things. They knew there were fallen around town, but that was about all they could figure thus far. The Fallen were moving on something but there was not enough to make an educated guess as to what they were after.

Then Chris had stated his intentions that he wanted nothing to do with devils to Rias. She had then delivered the news that he'd identified himself as a dragon a little more than a week ago to Sona. That encounter had been a harsh one for Rias and her peerage, one which they couldn't forget. Rias had explained what had happened with Maxwell to Sona and the two had become very worried. Dealing with a dragon was serious and they weren't to be taken lightly or death was the usual result historically speaking. Sona had even suggested that they may need to contact their siblings as neither she nor Rias was ready to deal with a genuine dragon themselves. Rias had been against that as she didn't want to call upon her brother or Lady Serafall and show they couldn't deal with a situation. And so, the meeting had been the compromise they two had come to, hopefully obtaining information from Chris about events.

They couldn't come up with reasons why Chris would help Issei as they saw no benefit he may have to do so. However, there were so many unknowns with Maxwell that they couldn't predict his behavior. Sona believed that honesty was better to go with when dealing with the dragon as they hadn't done much of that yet. Rias had shown what attempted charm and seduction got from him and Sona didn't want to receive anything like that. "The reason why Rias and I requested your presence here is because we were curious about some things and we're hoping for some answers." Sona took a breath, "Why did you save Issei Hyoudou last night, and then what became of the ex-nun?" Sona pause and then continued, "From what Rias said to me, you took the nun with you."

Chris didn't see what happened to Asia as the business of these devils nor what she did going forward. Were they to find out if they didn't know already that Asia had a sacred gear and one that can heal any being, they would want to have her join their peerages. Chris had found Asia extremely trusting and devils saw absolutely nothing wrong with exploiting and taking advantage of that idea while he certainly did. So, with that in mind, Chris gave his reply, "Well, if you must know, then yes, I did help the young nun get away from those that were using and abusing her. And she's currently staying at my place though she is free to leave if and whenever she wishes," Chris answered casually and said nothing else.

That was an answer, but not the information that Rias and Sona wanted from Chris. Yet, that wasn't odd with Maxwell, he didn't give them the answers they wanted regardless of the way they asked their questions to him. The girl may have told Chris things concerning the fallen angels she could have been around and that was important information. The point that fallen angels were around here had been the case for a few months now, but little information had been acquired on them or what they were doing. "Did she tell you anything of why she was around here, or what the Fallen Angels are planning," Rias asked evenly.

Chris's expression shifted to be deadpanned as he had made it clear that devils didn't have sway over him. Apparently, he hadn't made it clear enough that these devils couldn't make him do anything. If they tried to force him into something, then he would punish them. Then he'd explain to their older siblings what they had done that was stupid enough to earn the said punishment. With that in mind, they could ask him questions, but it was up to Chris himself to decide whether he felt the need or urge to give an answer. "No, she didn't, and even if she did, I really have no reason to tell any of you if I do not feel inclined," Chris responded flatly.

The reply wasn't the one that either Sona or Rias wanted from Chris, true or not as it could be. Rias was getting frustrated at the lack of information with Chris and it was hitting a breaking point for her. Yes, her brother had said it would be best for her to leave Maxwell alone, but he hadn't said why no matter how hard she had tried probing him. When Rias had asked for details as her brother clearly knew something about Chris, he had just said it's better she didn't know. Chris had been difficult from day one and she had enough of that getting on her nerves, "Maxwell, I remind you that this town is under my family's protection and as such-" Rias started.

Lance who had been simply listening to the conversation and not participating in it was tired of hearing the drivel from the Gremory devil. She nor the other had authority over Chris and they were acting as if they did and that wasn't acceptable. Plus, it was plain to Lance the devils were just trying to cover for their own screwups with the fallen being in their territory. So Lance let out a laugh interrupting Rias, "If this town was truly under your protection Gremory, then you're doing one of the poorer jobs I've had to see devils do in a while. Allowing multiple Fallen Angels and dozens of stray exorcists to infiltrate the area proves the quality of the job you're doing," Lance commented harshly.

It was the first time that Lance had spoken for the devils to hear, not only what he said, but also the tone he delivered that irked both Rias and Sona. Sona didn't let her emotions show as it wouldn't help the situation and she knew that. Rias, on the other hand, glared at Lance who just ignored her response which frustrated the redhead more. Lance wasn't intimidated by Rias Gremory nor would he be by any devil or any member from the biblical factions. He had said his view of the "one" that was supposed to be overseeing the area and if she didn't like what he said, then that was her problem.

Chris agreed with Lance's view on the type of job that Rias was doing if he were to be truthful. The girl had been lazy and botched things and she should be taking responsibility for the mistakes she made. However, it was not the time for arguing as it would only stretch this meeting out and Chris didn't want that. "Honestly Gremory, I couldn't care less about the validity of your claim to this town since it makes no difference to me." Chris paused for a moment to make sure that he had the devil's attention, "And I state again for both you and Sitri, I am not the servant of either of you. So as neither of you has any authority to tell me what to do, you are to stop acting as if you did before you burn bridges," Chris explained coldly.

Chris took a couple of seconds to calm down and not resort to making things messy. He didn't like having others act in a way that made it seem like they ran things and could tell him what to do. "Anyway, as I was saying before Asia is staying at my place and she is allowed to leave whenever she wants to by her own free will. Should any of you feel like taking her against her will, you're more than welcome to try," Chris said with a slight bow and then switched over to a cold tone, "But I would strongly recommend that you have things in order and body bags ready to use as you'll need them. I won't be buying for any stupid enough to try their luck and I kill them for their foolishness."

Added to the challenge, Chris grinned menacingly showing his fangs that sent shivers up the devils' spines. Even with superior numbers on their side, Rias and Sona were not dumb enough to believe that they could best the dragon with the power they had felt from him once. Besides him being a dragon, a race well-known for being immensely powerful, they had little to zero idea of his full capabilities and that was always a dangerous factor in an opponent. Plus, there was no telling if he had anyone else with him other than his "companion" who was already putting off an extremely unsettling aura. If Chris did have others close by, then there was no hint of them which could mean that they were hiding their auras well enough to be undetected.

The awkward moment that had been building was broken when a grey cat with tan stripes along its sides appeared out of nowhere startling the Devils but not Chris or Lance. The cat let out a meow before jumping onto the table in the middle of the room and walking over towards Chris. He knew exactly who the "cat" was, after all, the kid enjoyed appearing as a cat to either prank or surprise others, it was a hobby of his. The kid was something else Chris had found since their first encounter years ago and Chris didn't take that for granted. So, Chris smirked before rubbing the cat's back gently earning a pleased purr in response. "Hey, Minx, did you see anything interesting while on your little tour around town," Chris asked.

In response, the cat showed what looked like a satisfied smirk before its body briefly glowed and when the light died down it revealed a teenage boy in the cat's place. The boy appeared to be around Koneko's age if not close to a year older. He had spiky grey hair with tan bangs that matched the colors of the cat from a moment ago. His skin was fair and his eyes were violet with cat-like pupils. His attire consisted of a black shirt with a lion's head on the front and camo pants ending with red and white sneakers. But what caught the devils' attention were the cat ears and two tails sticking out of his head and rear respectively.

"It was pretty good boss," the boy said to Chris, "I also nailed down where the location of the Fallen Angel's base is while I was out strolling, it's an old church on the outskirts of town, pretty run-down place really." Minx took a breath, "And by what I heard, they're looking for the nun girl you took in 'Asia' I believe they referred to her as. They're even sending out several stray exorcists on the prowl to search for her boss," Minx reported cheerfully before his eyes scanned the room and its occupants before stopping on Koneko.

Chris had quickly found out how good Minx was at recon after they had met, he certainly got results. The kid could get into places that others couldn't and not be noticed by any as he proved once again. Minx had done in less than a day what the devils couldn't do in over a month, find where the intruder's base was. True, Minx had some quirks that were annoying at times, but all individuals did and Chris knew that. So, Chris nodded at the report Minx gave, "Good work Minx, you can head back to base until I need you again and get some rest."

"Got it Chris, but first," Minx said before slowly making his way over towards Koneko.

Said girl was staring at the boy with wide eyes as she was shocked to see another nekomata. She'd been told by many that she was one of two publicly known nekomata left after the purge. That wasn't to say there couldn't be a few unknown ones, but none had surfaced from hiding if there were any. Koneko's sister had vanished quickly after she had lost control and hadn't been seen in the open since and so, there were only rumors about her now. Those that had gone hunting for her had never come back, hence why Kuroka had been labeled as an "SS-class" stray devil.

Koneko's eye-level was at this Minx's chin was he standing next to her by what she could tell. He jumped off the table and came to be right in front of her and bent down to examine her face closely at the same time beginning to sniff her. She didn't know why this boy was doing what he was other than it being a Youkai thing. Minx was quite fascinated by the neko-girl that the devils had with them. Granted, she was part devil meaning that one of the devils in the room reincarnated her, but that wasn't a deal-breaker to Minx. Nekomata were rare since the purge and most that Minx had met were scared and hid from the world. He wasn't the fondest of Kuroka nor her attitude, so he was interested in seeing how this girl was. Chris and Lance watch with amused interest as Minx continued to inspect flustered first-year. The kid didn't get around members of his own race often so it was amusing to watch what he did.

The other girls in the room on the other hand, inwardly thought the interaction between the two was cute even if odd. Koneko was trying to figure out what this boy was doing when he suddenly leaned in and licked her cheek. The petite girl's face turned red as a tomato in response while Minx smacked his lips taking in the flavor. "Hmm, taste like," he paused inspecting the taste, "Vanilla, it's delicious," he said with a smile. Minx then teleported out of the room leaving behind several surprised devils.

"Ara, ara," Akeno who recovered first mused with a giggle as she stared at the blushing Koneko. "It looks like someone has taken a liking to our little rook."

Chris didn't know whether to laugh or chide Minx later for pulling that stunt, he could go either way. Although he had wreaked the mood and it was just because he could, Chris knew that as it was something Minx liked doing. However, Chris had to admit, it also allowed an opportunity to leave for Lance and himself and he wasn't going to say no to that. "Well, I think that is our cue to be on our way," Chris said calmly as a farewell, but it still drew everyone's focus back onto him as he got up.

Chris headed towards the door to leave, Lance falling in right behind him as naturally as a dance the two knew by heart. They had been friends for years and knew how to read the other's actions without words. Lance was more surprised that Chris had sat as long as he had tolerated the devils. Nevertheless, he attributed that patience to Chris's wife Aria, she had helped him be much more tolerant and patient. The woman would make a saint look bad from the times that Lance had been around her. She truly was quite the woman and he couldn't blame his friend for going the distance he did for her.

Sona wasn't finished questioning Maxwell, not with the threat of fallen in the area. The nekomata that had appeared didn't matter to her at the moment, even though by law among devils, the members of that race were to be captured. The stray devils Kuroka had proven that nekomata was too dangerous to leave alone and not have strict watch over them. Where Maxwell had found the male nekomata Sona couldn't say, but that was beside the point right now. "Wait, I did not say you could go," Sona said sternly.

Chris intended to ignore Sona as she did not give him orders as much as she may think she could. The girl could whine or even scream at him and he would just shake his head at the immature action. Chris didn't expect that from Sona, but he certainly did from Rias as she was the image of a spoiled princess. Lance, on the other hand, had been tolerant of the devils' actions up to this point even when they had been pestering Chris. He had been tempted to whip the two she-devils a couple of times already while in this room, but he had held himself at bay. If he touched them, then he would have to answer to others and so it wasn't worth it right now. However, that was before one of them started giving his friend an order after being warned not to, and he wouldn't let that stand without a proper response. Lance formed a dagger made of holy energy in his right hand and from what he saw the devils didn't notice what he was doing. So without warning, Lance spun around fast and threw the dagger at Sona.

The dagger grazed Sona's cheek before impaling itself into the wall that was directly behind her. Sona winced as she could feel holy energy brushing against her skin where the cut was. She knew that had the dagger actually made more than a grazing contact, she would be in much worse straits if she lived at all which would be questionable. The other devils looked on in shock as they followed the direction the dagger came from to find Lance glaring at Sona. Lance glared at the she-devil that had the gall to order Chris to do something. His expression was a serious one and the next blade he would send her way would be with the intent to hit directly. "No one, I repeat, no one, especially not any from one of the biblical factions commands Chris to do anything," Lance stated. "He already told you to be polite and mind your manners, you would do well to remember that fact if you wish to avoid annihilation." Lance turned on the spot and followed Chris out the door without another word.

The Student Council Room door slammed behind them leaving several still shocked devils. Dealing with Chris was one thing, and they were still having issues with that which none could deny. The dragon was as stubborn if not more than what stories and myths implied the race was around others. However, this companion of Maxwell's had just threatened and attacked Sona with holy energy. With him being a fallen, it either meant that he didn't care what consequences could come or didn't believe he would face them. Either way, Rias and Sona had to admit that the meeting was a failure in more ways than one. It had been hoped to be used to answer questions, yet the meeting had only produced more to be considered.

Chris and Lance were making their way down the hallway from the student council room not once looking back. Neither wanted to talk about the meeting as they both saw it as a waste of time in some way and so words weren't needed. All that was left at school to do was to find Hyoudou and deliver Asia's request to him. Whether the kid accepted Asia's wish to see him was the kid's business and Chris didn't mind either way. However, along their way to the exit of the school, they happened to come across Issei who hadn't been with Rias. It had been something that Chris had noticed but not thought much about other than the presence of the oddity. He figured that the redhead was just keeping Hyoudou away from Chris himself for some reason.

Issei, on the other hand, was rather upset at the moment and was trying to figure out the best way to deal with his anger. He was angry with himself for not helping Asia last night as he knew in his heart he should have. He was irked that he hadn't stood up for her better when Rias had chastised him after leaving Asia behind. But he was also mad that he was so weak that he couldn't help Asia let alone fight for himself against the priest who had attacked him. Issei had decided to find Rias and get his feelings off his chest to her in order to help her understand. And he remembered Kiba saying something about a meeting with the student council today, though he didn't say what it was about. So, he headed to the student council room hoping to find out what was going on and to talk to Rias. Yet, at hearing approaching footsteps, Issei looked up and saw Maxwell and someone else he didn't know walking towards himself.

Issei hadn't seen Chris in class today, which was odd as he always sat at his desk looking out the window. It was a daily thing, the teacher asked him a question to make sure Maxwell was "paying attention" and Chris always had the right answer to say he had been listening. And Chris was asked at least one question a day since their homeroom teacher was annoyed that he looked out the window all the time. If any other student was caught doing that they would be given detention at the very least. "Eh, Maxwell-sempai? Why are you here at school so late and where have you been," Issei asked.

Chris chuckled a bit at the kid's questions, it just showed he was a regular boy going about his life. That would have likely continued if Gremory hadn't drawn him into the non-human world as Chris suspected she had. Chris could still vaguely remember the simple life long ago as it had been for him. Granted, the kid would have been drawn in eventually with him likely being Ddraig's host, it was a given. However, Hyoudou had heart and that would serve him well should he employ it properly. "I could ask you the same thing Hyoudou," Chris replied, "I take it you are here to see Miss Gremory?"

Issei nodded wondering how Chris had guessed that he was looking for Rias as he hadn't said anything about that. Then, there were other questions in Issei's mind about Chris, both from what had happened last night and other things that Issei had seen. Issei had even looked up stories about "dragons" to hopefully get more information on the species. Yes, humans said they were mythical, but that was said about devils, angels, fallen angels too and Issei had been shown they were real. Not that he had learned much other than dragons were powerful and had a tendency to hoard treasure. However, before Issei could say anything, Chris kept going, "Yet, finding you save time since I actually wanted to let you know Asia wants to see you again as she is quite worried about you."

Issei was shocked Asia would want to meet him after what happened last night, he hadn't saved her when she needed him most. He had been close to useless against the crazy exorcist from last night and he had been forced to fight. Issei was glad she was okay of course, the poor girl had been through a lot which she didn't deserve. He wanted to talk with her, Asia was a nice girl and for some reason, Issei wanted to help her. Rias had told him to not see her and to avoid Asia all because she was a "nun of the church". Issei didn't understand what Asia being a nun would have to do with anything, but Rias had been insistent. "W-wha, serious," Issei asked in shock.

It was a tad amusing to see Hyoudou surprised, though it was also kind of said as well. The kid was so ignorant about the world he was shoved into and that could be a blessing or a curse. Hard as it could be to see, Issei had a good heart which his perverseness covered up extremely well. And that was a rare thing to see in the non-human world, selfishness and greed were much more common. "Yep," Chris returned bringing out his phone that had a map loaded on it, "here is the location she can meet you at if you're interested." Chris hadn't forgotten the kid's "luck" and proclivity of attracting trouble to him without trying. "And please try not to do anything stupid before that and I mean be wise and don't get yourself into bad positions. I would say you've done enough of that kind of thing to last you for a time," Chris summed up before continuing to walk toward the exit, Lance still behind him. The two had to make preparations while the pervert was deciding on what to do.

Issei wanted to see Asia again after everything that had happened, even after the lecture he had received from Rias. He had been worrying about her more so after seeing the scared expression on Asia's face. And though Rias had told him specifically to stay away from her as she was a nun and so "an enemy", he couldn't say no to the opportunity. Issei would apologize to Rias later after helping Asia the best he could. Perhaps he could show Rias that Asia wasn't a person to be feared nor would she harm any of them. So, instead of talking to Rias as he had been meaning to a moment ago, he turned around and headed home. And when Saturday afternoon came, Issei headed to the park that Chris had indicated he could meet Asia at.

When Issei arrived, he noticed the place was where he had been killed by Yuma and brought back to life by Rias. He had thought that things would go up after meeting Yuma and the date he went on with her. The park looked so normal and ordinary exactly like the Sunday with Yuma but didn't feel so exactly anymore and the feeling was hard to shake. His life had changed so much in the last few weeks that it was still hard to get his head around. But the sight of Asia did help Issei as he had been worried about her after the previous night. Asia was also happy to see Issei as he had been hurt the last time she had seen him. She had believed Chris would do what he could arrange a meeting with Issei as she had asked for. Chris didn't give any impression of lying to anyone that she had seen and he had been so nice to her. The two sat down on a bench and began talking to one another about many things like any other two individuals would.

At the same time, Chris and Lance were hiding in a tree standing on branches watching the two from their perches. The two had concealed their auras so they would not be detected with the leaves hiding them physically. Down below Asia and Issei were sitting at a bench in the park, talking to one another without a care in the world. The two were waiting for others to come and take action against the two below them. Chris expected the Fallen to show up soon enough and that was the point that had him setting this meeting up. It was a trap set for the Fallen with Issei and Asia as the bait, though Chris didn't like using them for the point. However, with Chris and Lance there, the two could make sure that Asia and Issei would come out of it alive. "So, how long are we going to be staying here watching this," Lance asked Chris.

While Chris set up the meeting for the two, he also did it to lure out the fallen ones as Azazel had asked to take alive. And while Chris didn't much appreciate the way the idiot ran things with the Grigori, the guy did pay back the favors he owed. With what Azazel had promised to repay Chris with on this task, he would do what he could to get what the guy wanted. Plus, the call to Shemhazai before coming here had gotten the point across that the Grigori was to get someone here asap before things got messy. "We wait for the Fallen to show up," Chris replied. "We are to attempt to capture them alive so they can be sent back to the Grigori. We do that, Azazel will owe us for stopping any possible conflict between his subordinates and Gremory. Azazel and I have a deal so, I will hold up my end and he will deliver on his and I won't say no to what he will provide. Plus, he's kind of a friend as he has helped me out in the research I've been doing so, since he asked, we'll do what we can."

It made sense Chris wanted a favor from Azazel to Lance and would willingly make a deal with him. It likely had something to relate to his wife and Lance had the good fortune to have met the lady that was his friend's wife a few times so he understood his determination to help her. The repayment that Lance suspected Chris was promised from the head of the Grigori was the resource for research. Azazel and the resources he normally used to research sacred gear would give a chance for Chris to find a cure for his wife. The fallen that would come were to be spared but it was unlikely they would be alone, they would have stray exorcists. So Lance just asked the other point of this situation, "What about the stray exorcists if they bring any with them, are they part of the bargain?"

Azazel had not said a thing about any other than the fallen he wanted back, so that was all Chris was required to deliver. So if there were exorcists with the fallen, they would need to be disposed of. Should that dumb nut from last night be with them, Chris wanted to make sure the fool was beaten for the crap he pulled before. "Nope, they are not so feel free to dispose of them as you like," Chris replied flatly. Lance nodded in return before the two picked up Fallen Angel auras approaching the park.

Sure enough, the four fallen that Minx reported about appeared, three females and one male making up the group. The lead female was wearing a revealing dominatrix outfit which Chris found disgusting. The tall woman had a full figure with long navy-blue colored hair and brown eyes. she was wearing a maroon trench coat-like top with a wide collar and a matching mini skirt. The short female had blonde hair styled in twin tails and had blue eyes to match. She was in a gothic style outfit that gave the feel of a spoiled girl off. The male fallen appeared to be middle-aged with black hair and dark blue eyes. He was wearing a pale trench coat over a white dress shirt with an ascot and black pants.

Raynare was leading the others to the place that was reported that the nun was today and they needed her back sooner rather than later. That Freed had lost the girl had been a setback to the plan to get her scared gear. And not only had he lost her, but the girl had also seemed to disappear that night from the face of the earth as there was nothing as to where she had gone. The way Freed had put it, the guy he had encountered was 'cheating' as holy-based weapons didn't seem to affect him at all. Devils had also interfered as well, and Freed failed to prevent Asia from being taken. The foolish exorcist had demanded to have another chance and if he wanted to make an idiot of himself she saw no reason to stop him. As long as they retrieved Asia today, the plans would still be on track. That is why all of her team was here, they needed to succeed this time or things here in this small town would be wasted.

The one that Freed encountered would have to be dealt with at some point in the near future with the trouble they cause. But that could be handled later by one of her group as whoever beat Freed wasn't worth the time right now. Getting Asia back was the priority and everything else was secondary to it. The Hyoudou kid was with Asia, but he wouldn't be much of a problem to handle. He was weak before and even if he was a devil, it didn't feel like much had changed with his reincarnation. Hyoudou's sacred gear had been a bust, no more than a twice critical, nothing to be interested in.

Issei noticed the four approaching him and Asia first, and in the lead was none other than Yuma or Raynare as she had called herself last time. She was wearing the same outfit as when she'd killed him after revealing she was a fallen angel. On Raynare's right was a tall woman with a full figure with long navy-blue colored hair. She was wearing a maroon trench coat-like top with a wide collar and a matching mini skirt. To Raynare's left, there was a short female who had blonde hair styled in twin tails and had blue eyes to match. She was in a gothic style outfit and her expression unsettled Issei a bit as it was arrogant and contemptuous. Then in the rear of the group was a guy that looked middle-aged with black hair and dark blue eyes. He was wearing a pale trench coat over a white dress shirt with an ascot and black pants.

Issei got between those approaching and Asia fully intending to protect her the best he could even if he died trying. And with others below Raynare and her group, dying was looking very likely. Still, he summoned his sacred gear and readied himself to do everything he could to prevent Asia from being taken. Raynare was leading the others to the place that was reported that the nun was today and they needed her back sooner rather than later. That Freed had lost the girl had been a setback to the plan to get her scared gear. And not only had he lost her, but the girl had also seemed to disappear that night from the face of the earth as there was nothing as to where she had gone. The way Freed had put it, the guy he had encountered was 'cheating' as holy-based weapons didn't seem to affect him at all.

Chris had been watching the scene and he couldn't help the frown that came when he noticed that Issei's Sacred Gear was as it was. The Boosted Gear had not fully evolved and so, still looked like a Twice Critical. It confirmed that Issei was Ddraig's host and the kid couldn't use a notable fraction of Ddraig's power. Truly, the kid really needed a lot of help and training, and the redhead was doing none of that. Chris was once again left to wonder just how incompetent Gremory was for she was showing herself to be horrendously incompetent. And Chris was getting more than just tired of being put in the position of cleaning up the messes the she-devil was creating.

Ddraig's previous host Marcus had gotten into trouble, no questions about that, he had a knack for drawing it to him. But the difference between Marcus and Issei was Marcus had trained and prepared for what came his way, the kid had no experience or preparation. And what was ahead of Hyoudou would only get harder until he met Albion's host. Marcus had done the best against the white dragon's host, who had been female back during his tenure. If not for a low and dirty stunt pulled by Albion's host back then, Chris believed that Marcus would have won against the White Dragon Empress at the time. However, it was in the past so whether that belief was true or not was up for debate.

Back to the present, Chris decided it was time for Lance and him to make their presence known and step in. The goal was still to capture the four Fallen and shoo away the rest in some way or form. Plus, Chris needed to vent some frustration, even if it was just a little bit from having to deal with Gremory. He turned to Lance, "Well, I suppose we better get started with this," he remarked as he jumped down from the tree branch, Lance joining him.

The two were soon spotted by Issei, Asia, and the Fallen Angels, and focus shifted to them momentarily. One of the two approaching did match the one from Freed's report which got Raynare to frown. The young man didn't look like much out of the ordinary, nor did his companion. The rustling of leaves got Issei to glance to his left and saw Chris and the guy that had been with him the last time landing a short distance away. Asia had been worried about Issei as the Fallen were coming towards them and Issei was alone. But the sight of Chris gave Asia hope that she and Issei could leave this park alive today. The two new arrivals didn't go unnoticed by the fallen or the exorcists that were with them. The light blonde guy definitely looked to be the one Freed railed on about, but after a moment of scanning, Raynare found no power coming from the guy. The other with him had the faintest feel of holy energy, so could possibly be holy magic or weapon user.

Still, the appearance of the two would make no real difference in the mission or its results. The stray exorcists could handle the two fools that had shown up while she and her companions would deal with Hyoudou and getting Asia. The two newcomers would be made to regret stepping out into this situation, they would have lived longer if they had left well enough alone. Raynare jabbed a finger at Chris, "So, you're the one who defeated Freed and took Asia," she demanded, "I admit it's impressive but do not think scum like you can defeat elites like us." The fallen formed light spears they intended to use against the two newcomers.

Chris slowly glanced at the fallen with one of his eyebrows rising at them with their banter and reference to themselves. It was beyond foolish and ignorant for them to call Chris "scum" as those that did that ended up dead normally. Granted, Chris's seals were masking his power but it was so he didn't stick out like a shining beacon for all to see. But he merely turned his attention towards Asia ignoring the fallen as he had no worry with them doing anything he would have an issue countering. Lance on the other hand, didn't like what had been said or the arrogant tone it was delivered in. These Fallen had no right nor place to say anything defamatory about Chris, they were weak fools after all. Lance alone could take those approaching them and wipe the floor with them, Chris need only say the word to do so. Chris smiled slightly, "Hey there Asia, did you enjoy your time with Issei," he asked the former nun kindly.

Asia was a little surprised by Chris's lack of care towards the Fallen Angels as they had made sure she knew they could do harm to others. Yet he had beaten Father Freed and made it look easy a few nights ago, so maybe Chris could defend her against the Fallen Angels. Asia still wasn't sure what Chris exactly was, only that he was not human like her even if he looked like one. She had gotten the same feel of non-human from those around Chris at both his house and the blonde guy that was with him now. In fact, the blonde young man gave off the feel similar to the fallen angels, but it wasn't the exact same. In any case, Asia could only think to nod in response to Chris, "Ah, yes, thank you very much for arranging this time with Issei-san, Chris."

The four fallen weren't appreciating being ignored by this young man who there was no power coming from him. He felt like a regular human, there was nothing at all coming from him at all. It did raise the question of how one with no power could not just best Freed but whip him noticeably. There was the possibility that Freed was losing his edge and proficiency in dealing with devils. In the end, it didn't matter, this nobody would die today, and they would get Asia back so they could extract her sacred gear as their orders told them to. Who did this young human think he was ignoring those that were superior to him? "Hey, don't ignore us you inferior being," Raynare snarled. However, she stopped saying more and flinched as the guy glared at her and her companions with emotionless gold eyes. The glare caused an icy shiver to go through Raynare as it felt like a glare of a monster.

Chris wasn't in the mood to take crap, not with the month he had been having with the devils trying to nose into his business and causing issues. And if Azazel hadn't specifically asked that the four be kept alive, they wouldn't be in the air right now nor silent as they would have been screaming in pain as they suffered. It used to be a matter of principle for Chris to punish those that irritated him and if not for Aria he would get down to punishing these fallen. But then that's why he'd earned some of the titles and the reputations that were attached to them that he had. Before Aria, Chris had been cold and rightfully called one of the "meanest" dragons if not the meanest one could encounter, there was no argument of that. Chris didn't take crap and even those seen as evil dragons were careful to not tick him off and avoid him as best they could. They had learned after one of their own had been whipped and punished by Chris himself and imprisoned.

And in this, Chris hadn't made any promises of capturing them without harm to Azazel nor mentioned anything of the sort to Shemhazai. However, were he to do things to them, he would have to come up with a viable excuse if the four were in horrible condition upon delivery and he didn't want to take the time to do that. "If I had not been asked by a friend to capture you four alive, you would be on the horrible and messy road to your deaths the moment I laid my eyes on you," Chris said menacingly. A small bit of his draconic aura began to leak out slowly as he glared at the four fallen.

Either it was the aura he was emitting, the look in his eyes, or Chris's words affected the four in some way. But something, a primal fear perhaps that caused the Fallen Angels to feel real terror run through them. The guy may look human, but the energy coming off him was that of a dangerous monster. They threw their spears at Chris at the same time in an instinctual measure for their survival. "Die," Raynare cried as she hurled her spear.

Chris prepared to swat the projectiles aside which would be trivial as the holy energy would not harm him. It would show that their attacks would be useless against him and that would hopefully help this along. But before the spears could even hit him, Lance appeared in front of Chris and used the light blade he formed to deflect them. Lance had been ready should the Fallen try something stupid and the expectation had been right on the mark. And he wasn't about to let others presume that Chris was an easy target just because he didn't lash out at them. If anything, then the Fallen should be thanking their luck that Chris was "asked" by the Grigori's governor general to deliver them alive.

Lance's appearance and action put the Fallen, Issei, and Asia into shock as none had seen him move. Then he also had a sword made of light in his left hand and a bigger blade in his right projected from the silver hilt Lance had taken out. He glared at the fallen daring them to try that stunt again so he could punish them properly. Yes, Chris had said the four fallen were to be alive upon delivery, but nothing had been mentioned them being in "good" condition when that happened. And assault Chris was akin to a death sentence, so they were lucky they were going to live after doing that. Chris knew all his friends would defend one another as he would them without hesitation, but he could defend himself just fine. With that in mind, he let out a sigh, "Lance, not that I don't appreciate what you did, yet you know attacks such as those wouldn't have done anything," Chris commented.

Lance was well aware that Chris was strong against conventional magic which holy energy would fall into and would do little to nothing. Heck, as the strongest dragon confirmed to exist, he had what some would say was near perfect magic resistance/immunity. However, it was his honor and pride that would not allow another to attack his captain while he did nothing to stop them. "Indeed, I understand that point Chris, however, you cannot expect me to stand idly by while these lowlife scumbags claim to be superior to you," Lance replied firmly. "They are stupid enough to attack you ignorant to the consequences of such when they are pathetic fools who are not worthy to kiss the ground you tread upon with their last ounce of strength."

Chris smirked at the loyalty Lance was showing as it was quite flattering to tell the truth, but it wasn't meant to be. He knew Lance's honor and pride would have him do what he was, and Chris couldn't fault him for it. It was some of the qualities Lance had which endeared him so much and set him apart from most Fallen. Frankly, Lance could whip all four of these fallen by himself if put to or called upon. And there was a part of Chris that was tempted to let Lance do just that for the heck of it. The idea would be rather entertaining, and Chris knew Lance would be more than happy to do the task and keep the fallen alive as requested yet punish them at the same time. Chris glanced up at the still shocked fallen with his smirk as the situation was getting amusing, which made it harder not to let Lance beat them for good measure.

Raynare was in shock that this "human" had not just deflected hers and her companions' light spears but had done it with a light sword. Humans couldn't summon pure light swords, not even exorcists, they had to have mediums to do that. And the guy clearly knew how to use the sword too, which brought up the question of who and what was he. Raynare quickly snapped out of her stupor that had come from their attacks being deflected and was angry. This was supposed to be an easy job of retrieving Asia, now it was becoming complicated. "You," Raynare snarled, "How the hell did you summon either of those swords, you shouldn't be able to use holy energy."

As Raynare had been screeching, Dohnaseek had been using his senses to try and determine who this sword user could be. The sword was definitely a blade made of holy energy which said he either had angel or fallen blood in him. There was an ever so faint taint to the holy energy in the light blade, which inferred that the guy had fallen blood in him. Then the scent coming off was likely being masked as it was hard to detect but it was fallen. "Wait Raynare," Dohnaseek said, "The scent coming off that young man, it's both Fallen Angel and human, which would make him a hybrid."

Mittelt gawked at Dohnaseek's statement as hybrids were uncommon these days. They also tended to be weaker than fallen angels and could rarely summon such defined light weapons. So any hybrid that did have some skill and talent was normally taken in by the Grigori and trained. That one could have been missed was possible but highly unlikely, "Wait, are you serious Dohnaseek," Mittelt questioned.

Kalawarner had taken a moment to check Dohnaseek's statement and found he was right, the guy below with the light sword did have the faint scent of fallen angels. That he could form a light weapon was kind of impressive and that it was as defined as it was made it more so. However, that the guy deflected their light spears said it was at a similar power level or better which was concerning. "The light sword in his hand is a clear indication of him having angel blood Mittelt," Kalawarner reasoned.

"But to produce a sword like that Kalawarner, that's kind of impressive for a hybrid," Mittelt said. Dohnaseek nodded in agreement. That show of skill and power was notable for a hybrid, which brought up the question of who was the human with him?

Raynare on the other hand did not pay any attention to her comrades as Lance's comment angered her. Even if the guy was a fallen hybrid, that didn't change the facts that Fallen was superior to hybrids. And he was siding with a human over his own kind, he should be punished for even considering that. "You traitor," Raynare shrieked, forming another light spear, "Even if you're a hybrid, how dare you call your own kind scum! Where is your pride as a Fallen Angel?!"

Lance didn't fear the threat of the attacks from these four fallen, they were likely one pair winged fallen. Lance was more powerful as he had four wings thus far and he didn't let emotion rule him as the lead fallen was. He would teach these four a lesson in respect before this was said and done, he would vow that point if necessary. None insulted Chris in his presence and walk away without chastisement of some form and punishment for the majority. Chris was Lance's friend, his captain, and his brother since he had helped him at his times of weakness, Chris had stood by him when he needed the support most. It was why Lance would do anything for Chris and his family for they were his family as well. It was his honor and privilege to serve and defend them with everything he had. So, he just narrowed his eyes as he stared at the four fallen, "I have no ties to the Grigori. My loyalty has and always will be with Chris," he declared proudly.

It was annoying that the hybrid insisted on resisting and standing in the way of the reason they were here. But in the end, Raynare knew that obstacles were to be swept aside and the goal obtained. There were four of them plus the stray exorcists with them versus the hybrid, Issei, and the no account human. Raynare would scoff at Issei standing against her again let alone with her companions, even if he had his sacred gear usable now. The hybrid would need some work but shouldn't be too much trouble for all of them after the exorcists wear him down. And finally, the human Asia had referred to as "Chris", he had no power so would be nothing to worry about. So, Raynare uttered an annoyed sound before snapping her fingers. In seconds, dozens of stray exorcists moved forward into the open, all of them armed with light swords and pistols, most likely loaded with holy bullets. "No matter," she stated, "You two will make no difference in this, our goal is Asia. The rest of you are expendable, so get rid of them."

"Yes Raynare-sama," The stray priests cried as one before charging forward towards Chris, Lance, Issei, and Asia.

Lance did not look the least bit concerned at the oncoming swarm of priests, they were as dead men walking. The fallen were hardly a challenge, the stray exorcists were even less so and nothing compared to those in the kind of profession they had been in. Frodo had been a real challenge and these fools were nowhere near his level, so this was more tedious than anything. So, instead of waiting, Lance strode forward casually towards them, not even giving the Fallen a glance. Chris would take care of them and the fear they would experience would serve as a punishment.

Issei looked on in shock as Lance kept getting closer to the charging stray priests wondering what the guy was thinking. Sure, he had made a blade of light, and being close to it had given him a sick feeling in his stomach. But he was just one individual going against many guys with weapons of the same kind as Lance himself had. True, Chris could no doubt fight most here, Issei wasn't going to question that after seeing what he'd done to that nut Freed. Yet, Chris wasn't moving forward with his friend, kind of like he was going to let him do the job by himself. And while Issei may know little about the "non-human" world, this whole situation was crazy. However, Issei was more than willing to fight to protect Asia even if it meant he was hurt or got killed to do so.

Chris knew what was coming since he had seen Lance work before now and had no issue with the future mess. Several of his friends were extremely accomplished fighters/warriors and had little issue with the blood and gore their work could cause. It wasn't normally as bad as Chris would cause when put to fighting seriously, but that was a different subject entirely. However, while Chris was okay with the coming scene, he felt that the two with them might not be so fine with the blood that would be spilled. It was mostly due to the fact that Chris figured the two had little to no experience in seeing genuine battle and not the devils' severe poor excuse for the idea. "Hey Issei," Chris started, catching the brunette's attention, "You might want to stay in front of Asia and behind me as this is about to get messy."

Issei twisted around to gaze at Chris who was completely calm and looked to be unconcerned with what was going on. Sure, the guy was a dragon so probably had little to worry about, but he wasn't talking about himself. So, he had to know something that Issei wasn't seeing with what was unfolding. "What-" Issei was about to ask but his sentence was quickly cut off by a loud swooshing noise.

"AAAAHHHH!"

Three stray priests were suddenly slashed apart immediately by what looked like some sort of white line, their severed limbs flying in the air with blood splattering across the ground. Lance had his left hand raised and coming out from his fingertips was what looked like threads made out of light. The silver hilt he held in his right hand which had the light blade reformed into a light whip modeled after a cat-a-nine-tails. The counter-attack from Lance caused the remaining stray priests to halt in their charge as they stared at an approaching Lance. "While you're all still quaking in fear, let me properly introduce myself," Lance began as he pulled on some of the light threads that he had sent out retracted. "My name is Lance Vega, friend and loyal follower of Christopher Maxwell," he stated gesturing at Chris, "and your executioner."

Lance then swung his left hand and the threads shot forward toward the priest at the same time he snapped his whip towards his targets. The stray priest attempted to scatter and get out of the way of the attacks, but it was in vain. Lance's strikes were precise and ripped his targets apart and made the fight more of a slaughter. There were some of the priests that tried firing bullets back while keeping their distance, but the tactic failed. Lance would either dodge the incoming projectiles or use his threads to deflect them away. The real difference with Lance's two weapons was the whip had a longer reach than the threads, so the priests couldn't avoid the weapons as easily.

From the sidelines, Issei was observing with his mouth open, shocked at the brutal display before him. Issei knew he shouldn't watch something like this, but he couldn't help but stare at it in a morbid fascination. However, he kept himself between Asia and the Fallen to make sure they couldn't sneak in and take her while the fighting was going on. Nonetheless, the Fallen Angels were looking on in disbelief as their army was being decimated. And because they were so focused on that, they didn't notice Chris turning towards them.

After seeing Lance had the expendables the fallen had brought under control, Chris decided it was best that he do his part. The deal made with Azazel was to "deliver" his four subordinates alive, so it wouldn't due if they got killed in the crossfire. With that in mind, Chris spread his wings and leaped into the air, and got above the fallen before he punched downward. Combining the punch with a sharp downbeat of his wings, Chris sent a shockwave towards his targets. Hitting the ground would stun them but not kill them and Chris would go on from there in getting their cooperation. The more the Fallen did what they were told, the less pain there would have to experience. And Chris didn't need to touch them to cause them to suffer, he knew of other ways to make another miserable.

All four fallen were still watching their forces getting destroyed when a powerful force of wind came from above. They were all forced down and slammed into the ground stunning them an amount. Raynare had a flash of a figure above them as she and the others fell but once she hit the ground her vision when white for a moment. Chris floated down to the ground slowly as the Fallen were regaining their senses taken from the landing they had. "I'm going to need you four to stay right where you are for now," Chris stated, "it will be in your best interest to do as you're told I assure you."

The fallen were working on getting up to their feet, trying to comprehend what had just occurred to them. The one who had just spoken was the "powerless human" that had appeared with the hybrid. Millet brought up her head glaring at the sand-haired guy with anger in her eyes with how the situation had morphed into. And as he was the nearest meddler to them, he would receive the punishment. "And what would you know you foolish, weak little," she snarled but her voice caught in her throat as Chris's gaze shifted to her.

Chris's eyes were hollow lacking emotion much like his mother would have regularly. His pupils were switching faintly between draconic slits and his "human-looking" pupils as he looked at the fallen. Punishing them would be a waste of time if Chris were to be honest, they were idiotic fools that didn't know who or what they were facing. And so, he would enlighten them, and Azazel better be grateful for the point by not skimping on the resources he would provide. With that in mind, Chris sniffed, "Be careful what you say little crow," he warned, "or else you will be made to regret your words in horrible ways." He paused for a moment, "Truthfully, I can kill you four with a single finger and it would still be a complete waste of my time and energy."

Mittelt shivered as ice-cold fear filled her at the guy's cold voice and she couldn't move while he was looking at her. She had not felt fear like this since the great war between the biblical factions. This guy may appear human, but the fear coursing through her screamed at her that the one before her was a monster. And this one couldn't be an ordinary monster, but a king of them that stood above the majority. Kalawarner had glanced over at Millet and could clearly see she was frozen in fear. Within the moment she looked at the "human" she felt terror taking root in her which had come a little at his statement. His claim that he could kill all four of them with little to no effort on his part was arrogant. However, the fear growing in Kalawarner told her that he hadn't said the statement in arrogance, but from confidence. "You," she began, "You can't mean that. You couldn't possibly be able to kill us-"

Chris's gaze shifted over to Kalawarner and she stopped talking when it came onto her. He knew the fallen hadn't a clue they were facing the most feared dragon, though they could figure it out soon enough. Nonetheless, it was their good fortune that Azazel wanted them alive when delivered, and he had struck a deal with Chris. "I could and to tell the truth, I've ended lives for less than what you four have done." Chris shrugged, "It is a reason why messing with a dragon is such a bad idea, we tend to take it rather seriously. Heck, other dragons consider me a stickler about things in particular as they know I would whip them, but you four are certainly pushing it."

Meanwhile, as Lance was still fighting against the stray priests, and Chris was dealing with the Fallen Angels, Issei remained in front of Asia just watching the event. Yet, a certain insane human had managed to separate himself from his colleagues. Freed would love to fight and kill the cheating devil who had shown up with the blonde guy, but he vanished a little while ago. However, there was still the devil who had slipped away days ago along with the nun, and Freed wouldn't say no to finishing the devil and erasing the mark on his record. Punishing Asia would also be a mood booster though he knew he couldn't kill the girl at this time, maybe after her sacred gear was extracted. And after capturing the two in his sights, Freed charged towards them catching Issei's attention. Issei had seen a figure approaching and recognized Freed as the priest who had tried to kill him a few nights ago, so he readied himself to defend Asia. "You," Issei cried as he raised his sacred gear to use for both striking and defending.

"Haha," Freed cackled, "We meet again sh**ty devil, could this be destiny at work? You know, until now I never met the same Devil a second time, that's just how good I am! Yet, then you and the meddling cheater broke my perfect record," Freed snapped. "But now I can fix that by painting the park with your f**king blood along with the cheater's afterward," Freed exclaimed as he began to ruthlessly swing his sword at Issei, "What fun this will be!"

Issei dodged out of the way of the swings and unknowingly got further away from Asia in the process. He was keeping an eye on the sword as the pain Issei had been in after the last fight with Freed hadn't been forgotten. The feel of the light touching and cutting him had hurt and burned horribly and Issei didn't want to go through that again. Unfortunately, Issei was so focus on the sword he did not pay attention to the gun in Freed's other hand, which cost him as said person fired the weapon. The light bullets pierced both of Issei's legs just above the knees causing him to cry out in pain from the burning the holy energy caused.

Asia had been watching the fight between Freed and Issei with growing concern in her heart. She didn't want Issei hurt, he was a good person even if he was a devil and didn't deserve to be hurt or die. Issei needed help but Chris was busy with the fallen angels and his friend was fighting the other priest so they couldn't help right now. Then Issei got shot by Father Freed in the legs and Issei with down to the ground. "Issei-san," Asia cried moving towards him, only to earn a smack to the cheek courtesy of the butt of Freed's gun.

While Freed couldn't kill the stupid nun, he could still punish her for doing what she shouldn't be. The girl was trying to help a devil, the enemy of the church and of humanity, they shouldn't be helped, they were to be exterminated. "Back off bi**h," Freed snarled, "Once I'm done with this sh**ty devil and nailing that cheater, I'll punish you before we rip your sacred gear out!"

[Boost!]

The announcement from his sacred gear snapped Issei back to the present and he shut out the pain. Rias had mentioned that his gear was supposed to be able to double his power every ten seconds. Issei may not be strong like Maxwell was, but Issei could focus his strength on one target and hit them hard. And Issei really wanted to punch Freed for the crap he'd put Issei through but more than that, the guy had struck Asia. Issei wouldn't let another hurt Asia and get away with that without consequences. "You murdering bas***d," Issei shouted as he rushed forward towards Freed.

Freed turned his head back to glare at Issei after hearing the two voices fully ready to shut the devil up. The kid would wait until Freed was good and ready to torture him before killing the devil and he wouldn't do anything to stop that. However, Freed's eyes widened as the reincarnated Devil charged towards him with renewed strength and most of all, his left arm glowing a bright red. The last thing Freed saw was a red gauntlet making its way towards his face. Issei felt some satisfaction when his fist made solid contact with the nut's face.

Back with the fallen and Chris, Dohnaseek swallowed hard as what Chris said and the reactions from his comrades had brought a thought to mind that he really hoped was incorrect. There were stories about dragons and how dangerous they were among the factions even if they weren't as told as in earlier days. However, there were a few specific ones that killed those that angered or even irritated them just because they could. Of course, the mythical dragon gods were assumed to kill those that would go against them if they really existed. But there was one dragon that the biblical factions feared, and most others did too as they had wiped out those that had messed with them in most instances. That dragon was known as the "Dragon of Darkness" or more commonly the "Shadow Dragon".

They were unofficially considered the third Heavenly Dragon alongside the Welsh Dragon and the Vanishing Dragon as they were "equal" in power with them. And it was the Shadow Dragon who unlike the other Heavenly Dragons hadn't been sealed into a sacred gear. An attempt had been made and many angels, fallen, and devils had died in that failure as a result. The "gear" God had made to imprison the Shadow Dragon had also gone missing without a trace after the attempt. The havoc that had been seen from the Shadow dragon had been carved into the minds of the members of the biblical factions. The description the guy had given fit what others said about the Shadow Dragon, normally in whispers by the vast majority. The fear that was felt just being under his gaze fit the reputation the Shadow Dragon had. However, those that had seen the merciless monster and survived never had said anything of the dragon possibly having a "human" form. "You can't be," he whispered, "You can't be the Shadow Dragon."

The mention of the feared dragon's name got the other three fallen to shiver visibly with fear. All had heard tales of the "meanest" and feared dragon along with what they'd done. It was the stuff of nightmares and that was usually being nice to say it that way. All records about encounters with the dragon had been clear with how bad things tended to end with them. And it was filling in the missing pieces about this guy in Millet's and Kalawarner's minds. Raynare on the other hand didn't believe what Dohnaseek was saying, there was no way the human in front of them was the dragon monster of legend. "Don't be silly Dohnaseek," Raynare said evenly though the tones of terror were clearly heard, "There is no way that this guy-"

Chris knew his reputation was known by most in the non-human world, with what he'd done during his existence it was no surprise. He also was aware there had been others that had tried to use his reputation to get what they wanted. It had been annoying, and Chris had been forced to step in and silence those from time to time. So, Chris harrumphed which served to silence the Fallen, "So, you've heard the stories then," he said flatly, "Yes, some call me the Shadow Dragon. And I know there have been several who've claimed the title as their own and used the fear that comes with the reputation earned by it. And truth be told, I've slaughtered an amount of those to get them to shut up and stop posing to fulfill their greedy ambitions." Chris let out his wings to add to his point before he continued, "Yet rest assured, I'm the true Shadow Dragon which many compare to Ddraig and Albion."

The four fallen shook with terror as the fact the one before them was the monster they had heard about in stories sunk in. The dragon hadn't been seen or heard from for centuries officially, only the stories had been told. There had been rumors about the Shadow Dragon popping up, but nothing had been confirmed, and the rumors had been more than concerning. The last rumor had involved devils "hunting" rare creatures and had come across the monster and had been killed for that. Chris continued, "Fortunately for you, I have agreed to not kill you today, but for you to be delivered back to the Grigori. So again, it is best for you to do as I tell you, it will be extremely unpleasant should you not."

Raynare was shaking slightly but she wouldn't be cow-towed by this guy claiming he was the Shadow Dragon. "The hell you are, cut the crap," she snapped at Chris.

Chris gazed at Raynare, "Wish to resist do you," he inquired. "I said I agreed with another to deliver you to the Grigori alive," Chris paused for a moment, "Nothing was ever said about what condition that would be in."

Millet's imagination was in a fever with possibilities flying through her mind, but she shook her head, "You said you wouldn't kill us," she whispered.

Chris sighed as this was a common misunderstanding by many in the non-human world, that death was the worst thing that could be done to the other. Honestly, Chris felt humans comprehended the point better, that there was so much that could be done to make one miserable. Death was more a release than punishment, so he felt that a demonstration would be more helpful. "You think death is the worst that can be done to you," he posed, "You lot have much to learn if you believe that." Chris glanced back to Raynare who recoiled ever so slightly, "And since you spoke up so vehemently, I'll take that as you volunteering to demonstrate the point for your comrades."

All four fallen couldn't move as Chris closed the distance and stretched out his hand towards Raynare. He stopped to have his hand a few inches away from Raynare's face before he snapped his fingers. Raynare instantly started writhing on the ground contorting in clear pain, but her voice didn't sound out. Chris stepped back a bit and stared impassively at the crow as she suffered on the ground. He had sent the girl to drown in an unending nightmare made up from her fears and terrors. It was mental and emotional torture that had no end until someone like Chris released them from it. Physically they would be perfectly fine, but they would be a wreck in most other ways given enough time. Raynare was suffering for less than a minute before she began whispering unintelligible words. Chris leaned in a bit, "You care to say that louder crow," he dared.

Raynare was in so much pain, the things she was seeing were unspeakably horrible to her and she wanted it to stop. She didn't care if this guy was the dragon monster anymore or not, if he could get the things she was experiencing to stop she would do anything. Raynare crawled forward slowly, tears streaming from her eyes, "Please, make it stop," she uttered, "I'm begging you, make it stop."

Chris snapped his fingers again and Raynare stopped trembling and was breathing hard on the ground. "Let that be a lesson to you that there are things worse than death," he remarked before he glanced at the other three fallen. "I assume you three will be cooperating by doing what I tell you?" The fallen flinched at the question, "Or do you need to experience what drowning in a horrible nightmare is like until the misery gets the better of you?" None of the fallen said anything in response, which irritated Chris. That feeling combined with working on this mess that Gremory should have handled some time ago had his mood sour. "I asked you," he growled, "do you need to be thrust into a dark nightmare that will have you begging for mercy in minutes, or will you be doing what I say?"

The fallen nodded their heads at the questions and Chris sniffed, "Good, then you are to stay where you are until I tell you it is okay for you to move." Chris turned towards the ongoing fight, "Should you try and escape, then I will show you what type of things make up the darkest of nightmares." The four fallen shivered at the threat as none of them wanted to know what the dragon had in mind.

Chris left the fallen where they were and moved forward toward the fight. However, along the way, Chris noticed the kid dealing with the nutty priest from a few nights ago. Issei sent the guy flying unknowingly towards Chris after there was a flash of crimson. Chris shifted himself to be able to handle the idiot flying his way. And just as Freed got to him, Chris did a roundhouse kick and sent the nut to the trees nearby. Freed didn't stop after making contact with the first tree, he kept going toppling trees as he went. Chris continued forward to help Lance wrap things up so this could be finished, and Chris could close the deal he had with Azazel.

The fight continued, Lance slaughtering the priests with Chris pitching in here and there, but mostly just moving the situation along with to its conclusion. Asia moved over to Issei and started doing what she could to heal the injuries Freed had given him. It was within the time of five minutes that things were wrapping up Chris was considering calling Azazel and telling him to get his rear here to pick up his lackeys. Chris had no interest in sticking around the park longer than he had to. So, he planned to pick up Asia and send Hyoudou home after he was healed up and be done for the day. He would talk to Zechs tonight and rip Gremory a new one for her negligence in this matter. Chris felt it would be more effective to go through Zechs to get his she-devil sister to back off and leave him alone and stop having him clean up her messes.

However, before Chris could talk out his phone and tell the fallen leader to get his crap in order, there was a glow of crimson a short distance away. Chris turned slowly and held in the groan that wanted to escape him at the sight of the Gremory crest on the ground. That sight meant Chris would have to deal with the foolish girl that bore responsibility for the mess he and Lance had just finished up with. And if she was as arrogant and haughty as usual, then Chris would be keeping this encounter short as possible. Chris was already annoyed and irritated enough with what the fallen had done and tried to pull, he had no interest in dealing with more crap.

Rias and the rest of her peerage had come to this park as contact had been lost with Issei a little while ago. Rias had noticed that Issei had been acting a little odd since his encounter with the nun and stray priest a few nights ago and she was worried. Koneko was supposed to be keeping an eye on him off and on to make sure he didn't get approached but the nun or worse one of the Fallen. But she had lost sight of him earlier today and then all means to keep tabs on Issei disappeared. That had been followed by an area in town gaining a barrier over it to ward off humans which caught the devils' attention. Rias assumed that the Fallen were making a move for something, which she nor Sona still had no idea what they were after. So, Rias had volunteered to go with her peerage to the area and do what needed to be done to get things under control.

With that in mind, Rias had teleported her group to the park that the barrier had been made over. They were prepared the best they could be for a fight if it came to that with the fallen angels and those with them. Rias had her arms crossed across her chest making her breasts rise a bit, standing at the front of her group, a determined look on her face. The fallen had been causing trouble for more than a month in territory that wasn't theirs and it was time for that to stop. "I've just about had it with you Fallen-" she started but never finished. Chris appeared right behind the redhead and chopped her head without hesitation which he had wanted to do to her for a while now. "Ouch," Rias cried as Chris chopped her on the head.

He'd had more than enough crap from Gremory by this point, he wouldn't let this go unpunished. The she-devil was coming in at the end of this whole situation when the fight was done and that was very annoying. Chris was pretty much doing a job that the redhead should have done which Zechs would hear about later. Truthfully, if not for Chris and Lance, then Issei would likely be dead or severely injured and Asia taken. And the point of Chris coming upon and then cleaning up the messes that Gremory played a part in was seeming to be an ongoing theme and it wasn't appreciated at all. Heck, right now Asia was doing the work that Rias should be doing for her peerage member, bless her heart. Rias grabbed her head having a harsh headache before looking up at the perpetrator who was gazing deadpanned at her. "Are you devils usually this late to things these days, or is it just you that is late Gremory," Chris asked in an annoyed tone. "It's simply amazing you haven't lost a servant or two considering how careless you are with what you order them to do."

Rias wasn't pleased at the chop Maxwell had given her as it had really hurt nor the blatant insult he had delivered. She wasn't late to things most of the time, this situation had been unexpected and the fallen had been sneaky about what they were doing. Yet, Maxwell was accusing her of putting her servants, her family intentionally in dangerous situations. Rias would never do that to any in her peerage, she cared about them too much to lose them. So while she was thankful that Maxwell saved Issei, she didn't appreciate him being so mean to her.

Chris ignored Rias's glare directed at him instead of walking forward and sitting down on a park bench. He showed not a single mark of what had occurred, not one stain on his clothes unlike the area around. The park was the opposite of Chris's appearance, it was the remains of a bloody battlefield. The four fallen were exactly where Chris left them not moving for fear that he would carry out his threat, they didn't even look his way so scared of Chris were they. The rest of the park was littered with the body parts and blood of the stray priest the fallen had brought with them, not a single one had escaped. Lance was standing feet away from where Chris sat smoking an odd-looking cigarette that was letting out blue color smoke.

When Rias and her peerage scanned around, they found Issei sitting on the ground his pants stained red around the knees. The blonde nun who they'd seen nights ago was with Issei and appeared to be healing injuries he had on his legs. Rias was a tad concerned that the nun was healing her pawn, but Issei wasn't showing any worry about it. That the girl was helping Issei was nice, but she still had affiliations with the Church or the Fallen Angels, both of which were enemies of devils. However, Maxwell had apparently handled the fallen issue even if in a messy way and Rias couldn't deny that. "Um, I guess we are a bit late," Rias said sheepishly to which Chris shook his head but said nothing about.

With Chris's lack of response or acknowledgment, Rias took a moment to regain her confident posture and made her way over to Issei. He was her pawn and she didn't want to lose him not just because he took all eight of her pawns, but also because he was family. And as Rias reached Issei, she got a better look at the injuries he had which looked to be holes in his legs above the knees. She guessed that Issei had taken shots from the fallen or their stray exorcists they had. The holy damage would be difficult to undo, but the nun seemed to be fixing things that were odd. The girl could have a sacred gear that specialized in healing there were some of those, but Rias couldn't say.

Meanwhile, Kiba was still looking over the park trying to decide whether to be disgusted or kind of impressed at the results. The fight appeared to be one-sided since there was Maxwell and his "fallen" companion and neither of them was injured at all. Then the four fallen angels here were in one spot and from the look of it were scared of something. Kiba would admit that they could be frightened of Maxwell as he was a dragon. Dragons were creatures of power and that incited fear in many so it was quite possible the fallen were terrorized into compliance. And he wouldn't blame the fallen either, Maxwell had shown he could scare another into doing what he told him, Kiba had personal experience in that fear.

Koneko on the other hand, the moment teleported into the park, covered her nose as the scent of blood was horrendously strong. And not only was the smell of blood overwhelming, but the freshness of it also brought other less overpowering scents along with it. Other bodily fluids were in the air too which suggested the killing had been vicious and unclean in the point of body parts being severed. Granted, Koneko had heard dragons could slaughter their enemies, but this was the first time she had seen proof of the idea. She hoped after this Rias would leave Maxwell alone and not bring this down on them.

At the same time, Akeno was looking over the results of whatever Maxwell and his "friend" did to the Fallen and their forces. And where Akeno was a masochist as well as a sadist, she was having trouble deciding which side to observe this with. The sadist side of her could appreciate the mess of blood and gore, she wondered about the screams of pain that would have come from the victims. the scared and trembling fallen was also a welcome sight, Akeno wondered what Maxwell did to get that outcome. The masochist part of Akeno was trying not to shiver with pleasure at what work had to go into this mess. "Ara, ara. You really have been quite busy here Maxwell-san," Akeno cooed holding back the shivers of pleasure she was holding in. She glanced at the dragon, which said person gazed at the girl and rolled his eyes as Akeno continued, "Though I'm surprised that no human has noticed the art you made yet."

Chris didn't know whether to reply to the girl's clear interest in what had gone down in the park. She clearly liked something that was done, and Chris's nose was saying the girl was aroused for some reason. For all Chris knew, the girl could have a serious liking of torture, what was called sadists or masochists these days depending on if you were the giver or receiver. Granted, Chris was aware that several would say it was a sadist when he delivered deserved punishment, but that was not the point. The girl's question upon the situation not being noticed more said to Chris that Gremory didn't think about what her actions did to those around her. "I unlike you think ahead and so," Chris began gesturing towards where Minx just appeared, "had Minx set up a barrier around the area to ward off humans beforehand."

Minx was standing on another bench a short distance away smirking at being pointed to. Chris was giving him a compliment and the dragon didn't do that every day. The barrier over the park had been easy for Minx, warding off humans was a sinch. And throwing in blinding the devils as to what was going on was a bonus that Minx figured would earn some brownie points for him with Chris. Chris had helped Minx with a personal issue recently so he owed him, Chris had been the only one that could get Kuroka to leave him alone for a time. That girl's insistent flirting had been annoying and she didn't take no as an answer. Minx didn't have an interest in Kuroka she was too pushy and bossy for his taste.

Chris kept going in his explanation, "He's pretty much a master in Senjutsu, and a very skilled one which I doubt many could outdo were they to try when he gets serious." He did notice Koneko's eyes shift towards Minx briefly at the mention of how he was a Senjutsu master. The fact was true, Minx was not just talented with Senjutsu, the kid had a gift with it and could do pretty much whatever he wanted with it. Then supposedly, the white-haired girl with Gremory was related to Kuroka who Chris knew since she was a "friend" of his. He'd also had to tell Kuroka off and to leave Minx alone as Minx had come to Chris and begged for his help with her. Kuroka was pushy and had shown she wanted to have "something" with Minx, and it wasn't hard to know what with how frisky she was with him.

But before Chris could keep going, his attention shifted to Rias as she was staring at Issei's left arm where the Boosted Gear was. The sacred gear had morphed into the far more recognizable form of the Boosted Gear. It wasn't the exact same as Marcus had after training, but it looked like what Chris had seen when they had first met. He was a bit surprised to see it had evolved in one battle, but he merely assumed that it was due to Issei's overflowing emotions to protect Asia that triggered it. "Issei, what is-" Rias's voice of amazement caught everyone's attention.

"It's the Boosted Gear, also known as the Red Dragon Emperor's Gauntlet and one of the thirteen Longinus. One of the Sacred Gears capable of killing Gods and sealed within is Ddraig, one of the two Heavenly Dragons that even God fears. It can double the wielder's power every ten seconds just to start," Chris explained in a monotone voice. Chris didn't hate what the boosted gear meant to him, it was how the boosted gear came about. He hated sacred gear and more their creator God since they stole powers from others or at least copied them. Chris saw God as no genius, he was a thief and a chaos bringer and his sacred gear was Chris's proof. In the case of the boosted gear, God sealed Ddraig to steal his boosting ability as well as besting a dragon. However, Chris didn't blame those that possessed the sacred gear, they hadn't chosen it, the gear had come to them just by chance because they were human.

Nevertheless, now that it was fact that Hyoudou had the Boosted Gear, Chris's hope of talking with Ddraig had viability. Ddraig was one of the few he knew over the years of existence Chris had lived through. He and Albion were friends hard as it could be to believe for some even with the contest that went on between them. And Chris had missed talking with Ddraig as he had when Marcus had been his host. He would love to have a conversation with both Albion and Ddraig, but God's actions made that very difficult. It was harder to even be on friendly terms as Ddraig's and Albion's hosts tended to be on bad terms shortly after meeting.

Issei gaped as he heard what incredible power his sacred gear the Boosted Gear possessed, especially since it had the potential to kill Gods. That brought the question to Issei's mind of just how many legends he'd heard were actually true. Rias had not told him much about the non-human world, only that angels, fallen angels, and devils existed. But now Issei knew dragons also were real so why not other magical or fantastic creatures?

Asia also stared at the red gauntlet in awe too along with Chris knowing so much about it. If he knew about the gauntlet that Issei had, then perhaps he could know about the healing power she had. Asia had never been able to explain her healing power, she'd always had it and she didn't know how it worked, just that is did. Her ability to heal anyone had made her stand out and singled her out in the church. She had asked why she had the power and had only been told that she'd been "sent by God to show his love". The term sacred gear had been mentioned in relation to her healing ability by Lady Raynare and Lady Millet, but it meant nothing to Asia.

The Fallen Angels came out of their fear somewhat at the revelation the Shadow Dragon had stated. That Issei Hyoudou's sacred gear was not a Twice Critical but the Boosted Gear, one of the thirteen gears in the Longinus category. The category of sacred gear was sought after for the powerful capabilities that the gear had. They were literally called the tools that destroyed God, and they had earned the title. And the Boosted Gear was one of the two draconic gears in that category so were thought to have power that was only possibly outdone by the "True Longinus" or perhaps the "Zenith Tempest". The full power of the Boosted Gear and the Divine Dividing were still not thought to be known, they contained the souls of two of the Heavenly Dragons.

Meanwhile, Rias and the other Devils stared at Chris wondering several things about him that they hadn't thought about before. His knowledge of sacred gear was clearly more than just a passing interest or casual research. He'd known Issei had the Boosted Gear at a single glance and had info on the gear along with implying he knew more about what the gear could do. Rias herself had only heard the basics about the Longinus gear, that it could double the user's power over time. But that Maxwell knew more than she did was once again annoying Rias as she kept being reminded of how little control she had with the guy.

However, she knew there was business needing to be done before dealing with Maxwell today. The fallen had assaulted Issei twice now directly and attacked by one of the stray exorcists, neither of which she appreciated. They had been going around unchecked for over a month now which Rias and Sona hadn't liked. Yet, due to the tension between the Grigori and the Devil Faction, they couldn't directly engage the Fallen in the area. It was high time that the Fallen be dealt with and with them attacking Issei, which gave Rias provocation to discipline them. With that in mind, Rias soon approached the Fallen, "So, you four are the ones causing trouble in my territory, and you even had the nerve to attack one of my cute servants several times. For that I'll have to erase you," the redhead stated with steel in her voice as a ball of red energy began to form in her hand.

Chris watched as Rias acted high and mighty like she was in control and was wrapping up something she had handled. Normally, Chris would wave this off and let devils like Rias fool themselves into believing they had control when in reality they had very little. And if this wasn't a common thing for Gremory, then Chris would consider letting her have this her way. Still, Zechs would not like the things Chris would tell him, but hopefully, it would help him tell her what needed to be said for her to improve. It was the best that Chris could do for the hopeless she-devil, give her "encouragement" to improve herself. And since Gremory had made it clear she wouldn't listen to him when Chris gave advice, better to go to those she may heed.

However, the more pressing matter was Chris had a deal with Azazel to deliver the four alive and he wouldn't let Gremory tarnish his record of holding his end of a bargain up. When Chris made a deal with another, then he held up his end of the agreement to the best of his abilities. Gremory would shut up and accept that she wouldn't get her way in this and move on from there if she knew what was good for her. Should the girl be insistent, then Chris would "persuade" her to back off and leave this situation in his hands. He would apologize to Zechs if he was required to scare the Gremory to the point she embarrassed herself or became a blubbering mess. Chris preferred that it not go that far as he wanted to be on good terms with Zechs, but the redhead would be the one to choose how this went. So, Chris sent a robust gust of wind in Rias's direction to both to catch her attention and stop her attack.

Rias had been about to start with the smallest fallen, the blonde one, obliterating her with an orb of destruction, but she never got to that. Just as she was going to send her attack, a strong gust of wind hit her, which threw her off balance. In fact, she stumbled back a bit from the force of the wind which had come from her right. When Rias twisted in that direction she saw Maxwell appearing bored and having wind circling his right arm. Clearly, Maxwell had interfered with her responsibility to deal with these intruders in her territory and that frustrated her. The dragon's stubbornness and uncooperativeness had been a non-stop pain she had been experiencing in the month since meeting him. It was just coming to a head now with him stepping in and stopping her from punishing the fallen that had done horrible things in her territory. And if that wasn't enough, what Maxwell said next fueled Rias's anger, "Unfortunately, Gremory, I cannot let you kill these four, there are other plans for them."

Everyone except Lance looked at Chris in surprise while the four Fallen Angels looked at Chris with sheer terror in their eyes. Yes, the Shadow Dragon had stated he wouldn't kill them, but with what Raynare had been put through, none of them wanted to experience that sort of thing again. The "nightmare" he had subjected Raynare to had scared them all in different ways, they just wanted to get away from the dragon. None of them would ever doubt or argue with the stories told about the Shadow Dragon, the fear of them was earned. All four fallen angels were praying for mercy and none of them had prayed for a long time.

Rias, after regaining her composure glared at the sand-haired young man with anger with his interference. Kouh was her territory and even a dragon had no right to tell her a Gremory what she can and cannot do. And for weeks now, he had been uncooperative, and Rias got what she wanted so his denial was beyond irritating. "Oh, does that mean you wish to spare these four," she asked heatedly. "This doesn't concern you so stay out of this and stick to avoiding devils like you claim you do."

Chris continued to gaze at the redhead as she was acting like a child with her snapped retort. He knew his attitude of ignoring those that pestered him annoyed several individuals and he could understand the response. That didn't change the fact he still did what he did, and it prevented messes from occurring. So, it was Chris's go-to method to get most that were around him and not family, it was effective most of the time. "First off, don't you get that snarky tone with me Missy, you brought this situation on yourself. You're the one who allowed the fallen into this town along with their army of expendable grunts they had," Chris retorted.

Maxwell's statement caused Rias to flinch since she knew he was correct about letting the fallen into town and letting them do what they were. Sona and she had been attempting to deal with the issue, but neither had a great amount of luck. And Maxwell had dealt with the stray exorcists and the fallen in one fell swoop, she couldn't deny that without lying. She wouldn't admit the point to the dragon or anyone else and that frustrated her even more. Then Chris continued feeling a presence he knew and said that he no longer had to contact Azazel for a pickup. "And second, it is neither for you or me to decide what become of these four, that is going to be up to another." Chris pointed upward to the portal that was appearing in the air, "It's going to be his call specifically."

All there followed Chris's finger and gasped at the arrival of a new figure coming out of the portal that had formed. Said person was a man who appeared to be in his late twenties to mid-thirties. He had fair skin and short silver hair on his head without a single strand covering his face, along with violet eyes. The man wore a casual suit with no tie, but what got everyone's attention were the five pairs of black feathery wings coming out of the man's back. Chris had figured that should Azazel get the message he'd given Shemhazai, it would be either him or Baraqiel that would be sent to pick up the lackies.

Rias's heart sank at seeing the fallen who had five pairs of wings, which changed the whole situation. A high-level fallen was bad for devils, but one of their Cadres made this a guaranteed political issue if it went wrong. Politics with other factions was the responsibility of the Satans' and their staff, normally Lady Serafall was the one that did outside politics. Cadres were leaders of the Grigori and survived the Great War and whose powers were equivalent to Satan-class. She didn't expect Maxwell to help her, or her peerage should there be issues with the Grigori's Cadre. "One of the Cadres of the Grigori," Rias muttered, some fear showing on her face.

The four fallen did glance up and saw the vice-governor of the Grigori, Shemhazai, Azazel's right hand. The Shadow Dragon had mentioned he wouldn't kill them but "deliver" them to others, and they were now hoping that would be Shemhazai. The sooner they got away from the Shadow Dragon, the better off they would all be. "Shemhazai-sama," Raynare whispered with a faint tone of hope.

Shemhazai gazed at the four that had caused the issue that was reported to Azazel by Chris Maxwell. When the Shadow Dragon had called him, Shemhazai had ended out going to Azazel and asking what was going on around Kouh. Azazel had mentioned that Raynare was supposed to be observing sacred gear users, but that her group hadn't reported in. With Chris contacting the Grigori a second time, Azazel ordered Shemhazai to go to Kouh to settle things. It was expected that the Shadow Dragon would capture the four fallen, but the condition was uncertain. And while the return of those here would be good, there was more going on from what Shemhazai had seen.

The fallen team sent here had gone against orders given to them, their reasons did not matter in the end. If it had only been the disobedience to orders, then the consequences would be simple and set, but there was more. Shemhazai had found Arandia Apparatus in the place that Raynare's team was using as a base of operations. The Arandia Apparatus was designed to remove or extract a sacred gear from a human. The apparatus was banned from use and had been for a long while so that it was there was serious trouble. Using the apparatus came with serious and defined consequences, and the four would know that. The reason the device was banned was the removal was torturous and would kill the person strapped into it.

It was good that the Shadow Dragon had spared the four and looked to have done little damage to them. Raynare's team could have easily caused political issues and destroy the work being done to smooth relations with the devils. There would be a formal apology made to the devils and needed concessions would be made. Even if the Shadow Dragon had killed them apologies would be made, it would just conclude the issue with the four. Chris did have a history of exterminating those that got on his bad side, which was not argued by any. Yet thankfully, according to Azazel, the dragon's family had been helped him change that mentality. But overall, this was a serious disappointment, all four fallen knew better than what they had and what they apparently planned to do. So, a frown formed on Shemhazai's face with the growing disappointment at the situation.

The four fallen saw the disappointment in the vice governor general's eyes and it caused them to hang their heads. Shemhazai landed gracefully on the ground below the portal before folding in his wings and folding his arms. He wasn't normally one to clean up messes like this, it was a subordinate and if it needed to go high enough, Baraqiel would handle it. However, Baraqiel was busy with another task Azazel had given him which he didn't mention. Back to the present, Shemhazai's mood brighten a bit as his eyes shifted towards Chris glad at least the situation was coming towards a close. "Chris, it's good to see you are doing well," he greeted.

"Good to see you too Shemhazai," Chris replied knowing that Azazel had gotten the intended message he wanted. Plus, Shemhazai would finish this up quickly, and then Chris could snag Asia before leaving. "I figured Azazel would send you to get things in order after my second call, I'm glad you were able to respond so quickly to this."

The Fallen Angels and Devils blinked at the way that Chris addressed pretty much the second-in-command of the Grigori. How could he know not one but by what he said, two at least of the leaders of the Grigori? It was a rare thing for non-leaders of factions to know or deal with Azazel or Shemhazai. And by what Chris had said, he knew both the Grigori's Governor-General and the vice general well enough to be on a first-name basis.

Shemhazai let out a sigh knowing the potential growing mess Chris was really referring to as he'd seen some of it. Raynare and her team would have a lot to answer for since their actions had endangered themselves and a lot of work that had been done. "Well, given the possibilities of things getting worse and potentially a war breaking out because of this situation, it was decided that I should get here as fast as I could. That plus, Azazel and I know you wouldn't joke about something like this," he said. And after looking at the four fallen and seeing how scared they were told Shemhazai that Chris had done "something" to gain their compliance. Also, the blood that stained the ground, trees, and surrounding area said that the dragon was still as proficient as he'd always seemed to be. "And I see you are as efficient as you've proven to be dealing with fools that cause problems."

Shemhazai then turned towards the other who was with the dragon finding it to be Lance Vega. The young fallen hybrid was well-known to the leaders and higher-ups in the Grigori for several reasons. Lance was considered the strongest hybrid to date, yet little was really known of his heritage, though there were some guesses. Shemhazai smiled, "Ah Lance, are you doing well?"

The Human-Fallen hybrid bowed a bit in response, "I am Shemhazai, thank you for asking." Lance knew what Shemhazai would ask next, it was almost customary with the leaders of the Grigori and him. They wanted Lance to join the Grigori and strengthen their numbers whereas he had no interest whatsoever in doing so. Lance's loyalty was set, and it wouldn't change for any foreseeable reason. So, the question was more a nice formality than an inquiry these days, "And no, I still won't join the Grigori sir," Lance said with a small smile with the last part having a bit of humor in it.

Shemhazai couldn't help the chuckle that came at the comment as Lance had known the next question. There had been offers for Lance to join the Grigori for some time now and from several leaders, but he had refused each one extended. Azazel and Baraqiel were some of the others aside from Shemhazai himself that had made offers. However, Lance had made it clear that he had no interest in joining the Grigori but had done so in a polite way. "Stopped me before I could even ask," he muttered as he shook his head in amusement. His face then hardened when turned his attention towards Raynare and her colleagues. The consequences they would face would not be nice, but they had broken the rules so they would have to answer for that. "And as for you four, I hope you know just how much trouble you're in for attempting what you did along with how lucky you're dealing with me instead of the one that was asked to apprehend you."

The four captured Fallen were going to say what they had been told and the change in the orders that had come weeks ago. Originally, they were assigned by Azazel through others to come to this town and observe potential sacred gear wielders. Then had come the change, it had come through the right channels. The sender had been insistent that Azazel had been specific on the new orders, stop the devils from getting gear wielders. They were also to covertly disrupt the devils' contractual activities as well, which had been a tad odd. But the Grigori contact had told them there was no reason for there to be checks with the order, just to get to them.

However, Shemhazai cut them off before they could say anything in their defense, "And don't try to talk your way out of this. Azazel's orders were to observe the Sacred Gear wielder, not kill him and you know that regardless of what others may have told you."

"Governor Shemhazai," Millet squeaked, "We were contacted weeks ago and told to stop devils from getting sacred gear wielders. The sender said that Azazel had seen things had changed."

Shemhazai paused at what Millet said and the other three nodded in agreement. There shouldn't have been any message sent to these four, certainly not that Azazel's orders changed since they hadn't. That brought on the question of who was circumventing the Grigori's hierarchy for their or someone else's agenda. There were a select few that could do that and less that actually would do such things. "Be that as it may, you had the nerve to try to use an Arandia Apparatus to extract a Sacred Gear which is clearly banned. Fortunately, I destroyed it before I got here so it will cause no more issue than you lot have already." Once that was said Shemhazai opened a different portal and began shooing the four Fallen Angels into it. He gave one last nod of gratitude towards Chris who nodded back in return before the fallen disappeared.

It was still a query to Chris that Shemhazai was the number two in the Grigori with the work he did for the group. Shemhazai and his friend Baraqiel pretty much kept things running within the Fallen Angels faction if truth be told overall. Granted, neither were perfect, they were fallen angels, after all, they would be angels in heaven if they were perfect. But how Azazel was the Grigori's Governor-General, Chris couldn't say or really have an educated guess in. The pervert was a figurehead though Chris couldn't say that he was completely useless. The guy was improving the relations between the Fallen and the other biblical factions which weren't easy Chris would imagine.

With the fallen gone, Chris returned to finishing this situation up and leaving before things had a chance to change again. He didn't want to give Gremory the chance to badger him with dumb questions that he had no interest or intent to answer. The she-devil was too nosy for her own good with her believing she had the right to know about another's business. So, Chris decided that to punish her for not just creating this situation but also making him deal with it, that she should have to clean it up. With that in mind, Chris gazed at Rias, "Well then Gremory, since you were late to this, I think that it's only fair you clean up the mess made. After all, it's because of your carelessness that it occurred really in the first place, so hop to cleaning it up," he stated.

Should Gremory argue with the point she would be cleaning the mess up, then Chris would enlighten her. It may have come out as a suggestion, but Chris saying she would be cleaning up the mess was a statement of fact. The she-devil would be handling this or else Chris would take measures to make her life very unpleasant for a time. Yet moving on, one of the results of the fallen debacle was that Asia had nowhere to go. From what she'd said, Asia had come here without knowing what would become of her. She had only been told that her "gift" could be of use here and nothing else. But perhaps, this could be turned into an opportunity for the girl to have a second chance at a decently happy life. So, Chris shifted his attention to Asia, "Well now that's settled, I think it is time to head home finally, it has been a long day." He strode forward and placed a gentle hand on Asia's shoulder, "Shall we go then, Asia?"

The former nun blinked several times processing what Chris had said to her wondering if she had heard wrong. Yes, Chris had told her that she could stay at his place as long as she wanted to before. Nonetheless, it sounded like he was saying something different with this and Asia couldn't figure out what it was. Granted, his children had been incredibly nice to her, and that had helped with some past issues. Still, she felt the need to ask, even if she stuttered a bit, "Chris-san, w-w-why-" she began.

Rias wasn't happy with how things were going at all, not about Chris interfering with her business not telling her what to do. And really, Maxwell had not "suggested" she clean up the mess as much as telling her that she was to do the job. With how the park was, the cleanup would take time and effort that she didn't want to put in since it would be extensive. Rias wouldn't deny that she and her peerage were somewhat late to help Issei. However, there had been mitigating circumstances that had made it harder to know what was going on. Maxwell was once again being rude needlessly snapping at her and then forcing her to do something he was responsible for. And Rias felt she would have the chance to argue the point with the dragon nor could she win against him.

Then there was the issue of the nun and what was to be done with her. The girl was a nun who was normally enemies, and she had been with the fallen which were enemies as well. Nevertheless, the girl was so different than any Rias had met from the church and it made her wonder if the things she'd been told were possibly incorrect. Plus, the girl had helped heal Issei and Rias was grateful for that kindness and wished to thank the girl for that. However, Maxwell was offering her to come with him which was something that neither she nor Sona had gotten close to. Rias figured it would be best to have a chat with Issei about the nun and see what he knew about her.

Chris stared at the blonde wondering he'd had given a bad impression of some sort to Asia. It certainly would be the first time that Chris would have done the idea unintentionally. Dragons as a race were intimidating, no way around that, but they weren't all mean and monstrous as some stories stated. And he didn't want Asia scared of him, she was too nice a girl to be fearing him. "Well, the kids have taken a shine to you pretty quickly and I did say that you can stay as long as you want." Chris shrugged, "Plus, I feel kind of bad of leaving a kind girl like you with nowhere to go in a country that you know little to nothing about," he explained before placing his hand on Asia's head rubbing it gently. He came to the decision to welcome Asia to his family and the flock of "misfits" that made it up. "So basically, what I am saying is," Chris hesitated and then continued, "welcome to the family, Asia Argento Maxwell."

Asia could feel tears brimming in her eyes with what Chris said, to welcome her into his family. For as long as she could remember, she had wanted a place to belong, a friend, a family to call herself a part of. It was a simple wish, but after watching the families that would come to worship in the churches she's been at, she wanted that. But then her healing power had been discovered and she had been named "a holy maiden" and everything changed. Shortly after that position had been thrust upon her, Asia had felt less than a person, an object of some kind. Only a few had treated her as a person and they had been disappearing from her life slowly but surely. Then had come the fateful day that life had come to an end with her healing another that she'd come across.

It had started like any other day for Asia, she had gone to morning prayer and had begun walking around the church garden. That had been her daily routine and the walking time would give her time to think. But that day, she had come across another who was hurt and had blood on their clothes. She hadn't given it much thought then, there was someone hurt and needed help that she could give. Only later had Asia learned that the one she'd helped was a devil that was not supposed to be there. The devil had killed the ones that had been on watch guarding the church before reaching the garden. Asia had tried to explain to the priests that she hadn't known the one she'd help was a devil. However, none had listened to her instead of casting her out of the church calling her a "witch" and "heretic".

Then she'd met the fallen and they had said to her they could use her help and that they would give her a home. That had turned into where she was now, in a land she didn't know and around people she knew little about. But from this she had not only made friends through Issei, Chris, and others, now she could have a family too. At last, she finally found the place she longed for, a place to call home and be safe.

The smile from Asia said she would accept the offer to become family in Chris's view and he didn't make that offer often. In the last decade, he'd only extended that offer to less than ten others that he could count. And Chris would make sure that Asia would be as safe as she could possibly be without hovering over her all the time. So he moved the hand he had on her shoulder to her back and gently guided her away. Lance fell into step behind them making sure to keep his senses on the devils to make sure they didn't follow. He didn't question Chris's choice to induct the girl into the family. She certainly had issues during her life like most in the fold of misfits that Chris saw as family.

The three left the park before any could stop them leaving the devils standing there wondering many things. An amount of information had been revealed in the conversation that had gone on between Maxwell and the nun. Rias had gotten the impression that Maxwell had a "family" of some sort before now with the encounters they'd had. She thought that had included his girlfriend and maybe one or two others. However, the mention of children had thrown most assumptions out the window. If Maxwell had children, then was the "girlfriend" more than what is normally expected of one. Then should Chris had have more than one child as was implied with the term children, it begged the question of how old was he really. As a dragon, he wouldn't have much when it came to life-expectancy, other than ridiculously long if not indefinite naturally. While the guy appeared to be in his late teens or maybe early twenties, he had only implied he had been around for long enough to have issues with the biblical factions.

And now the nun was under his watch, which essentially made her off-limits in many ways unless they wanted Maxwell's wrath. Rias and Sona had enough issues with what the fallen had been doing in the last month, they didn't want to see what a dragon could do. However, Rias couldn't dismiss the point that the nun had a connection to the dragon and could potentially help get more information on him. Yet for now, that would have to wait until the mess was cleaned up and she had the time to figure things out. Rias definitely wanted to have another talk with her brother as he'd implied he knew Maxwell more than just an acquaintance. Yes, he had said to leave Maxwell alone, but only said that there would be "consequences" should she not leave him be and nothing more.

Nonetheless, with what happened with the fallen, Rias needed more information on Chris before she did anything else around or to him. Admittedly, Sona had been right in prodding a dangerous individual though Rias wouldn't tell her that. But that didn't explain why the four fallen had been more than terrified of the dragon as they had. True, Maxwell was a dragon, yet that couldn't be all there was to the reaction, could it?

A/n

And I'll leave off there for this chapter. So some of you readers might be wondering why I had rated this story M, it is because of what happens in the next two chapters, but that's all I'll say on that. From this chapter, I would like to point of a few things the first of which is that Sona and Rias along with their peerages and their knowledge base on Chris. They know that he is a dragon, and that he has kids, but that is about as specific as it gets for them right now. They don't know that he is a dragon the biblical factions have crossed and paid for. So, in essence, they are playing with fire unknowingly blissfully ignorant of the danger.

Second, the Shadow Puppets that Chris has to work with, I've shown that they can have been any race or from any point. I'll let that sink in and let your minds wonder what future shadow puppets there may be. Then third, Phina being not human, it should have been fairly clear she wasn't from the beginning. But I have a reason for her being a phoenix which become more clear as the story goes on. That's it for this chapter, please some take the time to write a review and tell me what you think. Peace out everyone!