Chapter 8-) Gathering Storm

Over the fountains of blood, he hovered. The Captain-Chief of the Demon Army, the Prodigy Demons produced as a whole, in his veins, ran the blood of a Noble. Honoring his ancestors, his King, Solomon.

Wrath he unleashed upon the unholy creations, that he shared kinship. To achieve the very thing his ancestors deemed as an uprising to the One Above All. Iron-tight grip Sparda had shown, to sever the bloodline the races shared between.

Brave and ruthless the Demon Knight might be, but not without compassion. Cared for the beauty of the nature he had born in, a merciful gardener to the flower, a cruel landlord against the intruders, who dared to step into his home.

Took his role in the carnage that brought chaos and discord among the Demons, fought for his homeland, as his destiny was written to be of a Hero's. Uniting the Demonkin under one banner, Sparda proved his worth, to be called the Demon Knight.

Severing the relationship between the Ancient Demons and Devils, his uprising. Beacon of Hope littered among the Demonkin. Fulfilling his duty, Sparda relieved himself from the position he acquired by his will. Seeking shelter in the Human World.

The Knight of Demons, escaped from the strings of Fate. Behind him followed Battalions of Demons, considering each his own, his men, his brothers. Sparda, with his vanishing Will, left a final message. 'My foul body will inevitably fall to the cruel circumstances of mortality, but our home will not fall another time.'

The Demon Knight left his home, his realm, indefinitely. Prophecies of the Old Times, revealing itself yet again.

The undefeatable Sparda had fallen, under the gaze of a Single Human. The gatekeeper of Hell's Finest, The Chief-General of the Infernal Legion, had been mesmerized by the beauty of a Mortal, as the prophecies foretold.

He conceived two children, becoming the first demon to have Hybrid offsprings. His children bore his honor and abilities, allowing them to use his hereditary strength and Mythical Blades.

Demon Crescent had been given as a gift to his elder son, Vergil. The child had already surpassed his father in Swordsmanship' Expertise, marking the beginning of a new hurricane that would turn the world upside down.

As Hell faced a new and improvised threat that had never been seen before, Sparda abandoned his home and never returned, sacrificing his life for his brethren to move on. His lineage continued, as His descendants took the duty of protecting the fatherland.

His Sons, who would be later called as Sons of Sparda, had taken their roles in the Great War, aiding their allies and bringing Glory and Fame to his name. The Demon had perished long before, yet his name did not.

As long as their line continued, Sparda has always found his way in the Demonic and Devilish societies alike. Once arch-nemesis', now the greatest ally Devils could ask for. His children resumed Sparda's mission, to bring peace and prosperity to their Homeland.

As the World of Devils had come to a halt, His descendants intervened, as part of the wishes of the Old-King. Devilish Civil War, it had been coined, bore the carnage that had never been seen before among the Devils.

As the annals of History finally erased his name, a new Champion had emerged. Dianne, the last Descendant of House of Sparda. She fought bravely, with her heart beating with the Devils and Demons together. Relinquishing the Old Prophecy, Dianne brought pride to her house.

The Wheel of Fortune had long abandoned the House of Sparda, as Dianne fell in battle, ending the line of Sparda along with her.*

(*) The Prophecy foretold, as the Devourer of Worlds return in the realm of living. The last heir of Sparda will arrive, saving their kin and brethren from the ill fate they would have faced. The uprising of Sparda will finally conclude, so as his line.

While Issei continued to read, he couldn't understand some of the metaphors the poem linked to. There had been flaws, such as Dianne's demise, he had experienced the full story firsthand and knew why his mother had passed away. Not because of a battle, but due to dire circumstances her body put her into.

The final prophecy, it related to him, didn't it? He could finally understand Azazel's surprise and apprehension upon seeing his heirloom. If he was here, then it only meant that this Devourer of Worlds would soon announce its return. Prophecies of Demons would often come out to be true, as it did with Sparda and his line.

He had also realized that his dream of Peace and Prosperity ran in his blood, as his ancestors imagined the same image. Until today, he had no idea that he came from a family with much history and honor behind it, it felt weird and honestly he couldn't wrap his head around it.

His mother would tell him about his Grandparents often, yet she didn't mention anything about them being Demons. He only knew that he bore the looks of his Grandma, being the identical copy of her, something that his mother cherished.

"Welp, this one is down. Time to read the other one as I have a day off." Good thing that he bunked off, he didn't need to deal with further headaches after yesterday's events and had plenty of time to waste. He might get accustomed to it, though.

As he reached for his cup of tea, Issei's phone began to ring. All he wanted was some space, but from the looks of it, some people didn't seem to have any of it. He could just turn his phone off and call it a day, but for the sake of Kyle, he didn't. There might be a case of emergency that needed him, concerning the youngest boy of the Silver family.

Pondering the thought, Issei released his grip on the cup and took the phone. After waiting a bit more, he finally answered

"Ayo, Whatcha doin Issei."

"I'm dying, let me die in peace."

"Well, Laira and I are actually dying so I need you to do me a favor."

"Rejected." Not in the mood of any pranks or something else, he couldn't keep up with their antics today.

"B-But! Hear me out first, okay?"

"Nah." Honestly, why? They should've handled everything by now and wouldn't need his assistance.

"For a moment, please?"

"I'll think about it." Again, he couldn't help himself and gave in. If this turns out to be one of Kyle's attics, he would have a long talk with the blonde.

"So…"

As Kyle explained the situation he and Laira are in, Issei could only facepalm. The Devils wanted to conduct an official treaty but they didn't have anyone that could be their guarantor, so they let him know and wanted him to become their guarantor figure. The idea is sound, as Issei too is a Devil of his own, yet Kyle didn't know that the brunette wouldn't put his freedom in danger when he didn't have to. So much for an off day.

"Is this what it's all about? You need a guarantor and you can't alert your sister? Shame on you, Kyle. Your sister values you and wouldn't think twice on occasions like this one. You need to learn how to depend on your family." Scolding the younger Angel, Issei resonated with him. Really, Kyle needed to get past his grudge and set the deal with Gabriel as soon as possible, especially as Laira's life depended on it.

"Fine, I'll arrange someone for you. However, I too have a condition, keep an eye on Lucifer, I will pull a trick to confirm my suspicions. Even the tiniest bit of reaction would be helpful. As for the guarantor, you don't need to worry, I will call in a favor." As he finished his take, Kyle agreed and hung up. Issei began to concentrate, he could call her, but did he have to?

He could make himself known, thus he would put an end to this masquerade and wouldn't need to deal with headaches anymore. That could work on paper, but he didn't know how the consequences of such an action would affect him.

["Don't even think about it, your thought process is already unstable. You wouldn't do something like that normally, Issei. Don't give into that idea of yours, you will only be sorry afterwards. Just call Almalexia and have her handle this, we can't afford to lose our facade, not now."] Ddraig gave his two cents as he overheard the conversation between his host and the Angel.

What he said was the plain truth in front of them, however; Issei often had voices inside his head that told him to do the unthinkable, with their voices rising especially on days like this. It was up to Ddraig to turn him back before he did something he would regret in the foreseeable future.

'I mean, what would happen if we did, partner? Wouldn't this be for the best? I would be casted away or incinerated, either of which I wouldn't mind. I'm sick and tired of this and I think it will be the best to give in and unleash the Crimson Purgatory. At the very least, I would see Anna once again, in the afterlife.' He was slowly giving into the curse, Ddraig could feel it. He was drawing power from the Gear as his negative emotions multiplied by each second, so did his power.

["Did I stutter? I said, not now, Issei. We won't drop our cloak and you are going to stop this nonsense at once. You will not meet with Anna if you're gone, Hyoudou. She is still alive and we both know it."] The Red Dragon raised his voice, which seemed to be of no good as Issei still couldn't get his point. Ddraig came to learn that his host wouldn't step out of his mind if he hadn't been yelled at, harshly. So the dragon did what he had to, shouted at him and cut the link between him and the Boosted Gear.

His sole action brought his host to the world of living and ration once again as the device had been altering and modifying his emotions, blinking, Issei snapped out of his miserable state. Even shimmering frictions of negative emotion put strain on his body, he could feel the bags underneath his eyes, reaching, he touched his forehead, indeed, he had a high fever.

'Let's be done with this, Ddraig, once and for all.' Fearing for the worst, the dragon in question could only watch as Issei channeled his Devilish energy. He could use this one way connection to reach the Foxy Devil as he dubbed her. He still had her magical signature, in case she would be in grave danger another time, this was his way of checking up on her.

'Connection stabilized.'

'Lone leaf flown away, courtesy of the breeze surrounding the little cute rabbit.' The catchphrase.


"Once and for all, Mother. I am telling you, I have no intention to build a peerage, let alone to do it for my public image. These crackheads could weep for all I care, I am fine on my own." High pitched voice, very unnatural for their daughter. If they looked closely, they could see that she was on the verge of exploding.

"It's no use, Dear. We should let our precious daughter do as she wants. Forcing her would not suit us as we are one of the Houses of Gremory, we should be kind and caring, she is our only child." Zurich Gremory raised his concern and support for his daughter. He didn't even bring up the topic, why was Merith so persistent about the private life of their child all of a sudden.

"I know, Zurich, I do. However, I want my daughter to be safe and sound. Don't you think that I don't know the capabilities of our finest member? I am mesmerized by her expertise of our strongest gifts, yet I'm concerned, can't you two see that?" The Lady of the family didn't seem to back away from the topic, as she only wanted her daughter's safety. Almalexia wouldn't even let any guards nearby, always so stubborn and wanted to mind her own business.

Their evening had started just fine, with the servants of the house preparing the supper for the royalty and serving them the finest dishes the Underworld could offer. Almalexia, again, being the punctual heiress she is, arrived just in time, to spend some time with her family. It was all good and well until her mother persisted with the cursed issue as she called it.

She didn't even need someone to protect her! For Satan's sake, she could even take on Ultimate Class Devils if she gave her best to it. The Beauty could understand the point of their concerns as she had been abducted once, when Almalexia was only but a child. However, time had passed and she was one of the most powerful rookies the Underworld had ever seen.

'Lone leaf flown away, courtesy of the breeze surrounding the little cute rabbit.'

How?

After all these years, they hadn't come into contact with her, even in the direst of the situations where she needed them. Why now? Why would they now want to summon her? The exact moment Almalexia heard the last line, she knew that it had to be them, the mightiest hero of the current Underworld, The Dark Slayer.The last line had a code embedded to it, the little cute rabbit, a passphrase they would use to call her.

Memories overflowed her mind, the feeling of helplessness, the dread she felt once she realized that she could no longer see her family. Even if Almalexia didn't admit it, she was utterly traumatized from the event. The tingling sensation was embedded in her mind, not even leaving any room for feeling the relief she was in at the moment, in her father's dearest's arms.

As her surroundings slowly blackened out, due to her concentration and shock, she was unable to hear her mother's cry and her father's relentless defense. Only thing she was able to form was a fickle smile, one that hadn't been seen since she was only a child. A fickle smile grew into a smirk, which then evolved into a full-blown laughter. The time hath finally come!

"Pfft…" Losing all the strength, the beauty collapsed. Her fickle smile, still intact.

Looking at her with eyes that held utmost concern and rage, Zurich Gremory rushed into her side. All of a sudden, his daughter couldn't even find the strength to stand up. Fearing that they pushed her too far, Zurich profusely apologized, with words that couldn't even come out of his mouth.

"Are you alright, dear? What happened? Have we pushed you too far?" Being the overprotective of the two, the father figure of the family quickly checked up on his daughter. Truly, even if hundreds of decades passed, Almalexia would still be his baby girl, he couldn't even fathom the idea of her getting hurt in the slightest.

For the girl in question, they couldn't be more wrong. The instance she had been waiting for all these years had finally been realized at this moment, an audience with someone she held so dear, so lovingly. A moment she had anticipated for the remaining days of her life after they parted ways.

Albeit shakily, Almalexia found her standing once more, with her father's help, of course, who was still shaken by the sudden turn of events. Eventually, she would reveal to them what exactly took place, but without their consent, she would do no such thing. Quickly setting the connection up between them, the beauty went straight to the point.

"Little rabbit, at your service, Sir." Putting her index finger right beside her left ear, forming the magic circle. Thus began the dreadful silence. She was sure that the connection had been established without any problems, but they sure took their time to reply. Of course, she would wait as much as they wanted. She had no intention to rush her only chance at communicating with them, thus began her nail-biting biding.

She could very well remember the day, when he became her white knight in shining armor. Almalexia had only been so afraid once in her life and it was the day that she had been abducted from their own territory. Being a child, no wonder she felt that much terrified by something that she could endure with relative ease now.

"I apologize for the sudden intervention, how are you feeling, Almalexia? I hope I'm not detaining you from anything." Rough and undecipherable, seems like they were using an altering device. It made sense though, if she was being tailed and inspected, being in a connection with someone that left their mark on their history would definitely be a topic that would be worth discussing and interrogating.

"I feel well, Sir. Thanks to you, of course. You're making me ashamed, Sir, I will always have time for you." Respectful and grateful, as her parents brought her up to be. Almalexia was deeply indulged in the conversation, even if Lord Gremory was interested, and frankly, curious, he couldn't even reach out to her. The girl had felt all giddy inside, this is a dream come true!

"I'm relieved to hear it. How have you been, after our untimely parting? I hope life has continued to bless you and your loved ones." Always caring, never thinking of anything but her safety. She felt relieved that they hadn't changed even for one bit, she could deduce from their tone that they were sincere and meant every word.

"It has, Sir. If it weren't for you, this life of mine wouldn't have continued, I am indebted to you greatly." She couldn't wait to tell her adventures and how much she had grown up after the incident. Almalexia was sure that they would be proud of her to have accumulated this much influence and power in her young ages.

"Haha, no Almalexia. You don't owe me anything and all your accomplishments are yours, who am I to have a part in it? I'm certain that you've found your way in life and don't need my assistance any further. Had I had the opportunity to see you, I would've confirmed it with my own eyes." Being praised like this had made Almalexia smile, a triumphant smirk that she rarely made, arrogance was not a part of her being.

"You always have, Sir. My Family will welcome you with open arms, I as well. If you wish, something can be arranged immediately." If they had such a chance, Almalexia herself would begin the preparations immediately. They always had a place in her heart and house, she would treat them with utmost respect and elegance.

"That doesn't sound like a bad idea, however, I would very much like to be alone with you. I have a habit of going undercover, have you forgotten that, Almalexia?" Of course she hadn't, however, their tone had a piece of amusement in it. Meaning that they had just been playing around. They hadn't outright refused the idea, which bore the question and the chance for her.

"Does that mean yes, Sir? Can I visit you?" 'Please say yes, please say yes.'

"Yeah… about that. I think that can be done, I would like to see you as well. However, I think I've strayed away from the point too much, thus I will be going for that immediately. I have a favor to ask you, Almalexia. Would you carry a mission on my behalf?" She had a chance to at least ease the burden on her conscience? The beauty was more than ready to comply with their request.

"Anything, Sir. I would be more than honored to accomplish your wishes." She was renowned for her stubbornness and selfishness. If somebody saw her at the exact moment, they would have a hard time distinguishing between her public image and the girl before them. Of course, Almalexia would only be this loyal for someone she held in utmost regard.

Upon complying, her contractor explained all the details she needed to know at the moment, rest would be explained when she came to visit, which would take place as soon as possible, possibly right after the red headed beauty comes back from her mission.

Being a guarantor was something Almalexia wasn't used to, however, after hearing that she would conduct a treaty between two heiresses she knew too well, she had thought that it wouldn't be that much of an issue. Confirming the fact that she would be rewarded with Intel that nobody in Underworld had was icing on the cake.

The only thing that bothered her was the fact that she would need to side with Angels against her own house, which would raise questions on another level. However, she could care less, it was the Dark Slayer she was talking about! Their wish is her command.

"I will understand if you want to back down from this. I don't have any right to force you to do something you don't wish to do, Almalexia." Even when they presented her with something like this, they still cared about her feelings and the trouble she would face had the word spread around. Yet, she had already made up her mind.

"It is my pleasure, Sir. I will fulfill my duty and prove myself to you." Finishing her sentence with full of respect, Almalexia heard that the connection was cut from the other side. Her resolve, hardened, her will, reignited, Almalexia now had to carry her task. However, she could see that she owed an explanation to her parents, which were both confused and full of admiration towards the woman she had become under their eyes.

"If it isn't any trouble, I want to ask you who that is, my Almalexia. It seems that you hold them in high regard, will you fill us in?" Zurich was the first to take the lead and asked the questions on their minds. Of course, the first thing they want to know is if they're trustable or not. Though she couldn't give a clear answer to them, she could at least tell them the truth.

"Nobody, but it is somebody for us. The hooded figure who returned your precious daughter." Leaving them with their own confusion, Almalexia quickly prepared a teleportation circle. They would ask more and more until she would be late, which would have been the case had she not acted quickly.

"Ciao!" Winking and realizing the look on their faces, Almalexia was sure that she would be grounded once she got home.

'Whatevs, I have important business coming up. I'm sure they will find a way to forgive me' If everything went according to her plan, she would get away with it quite nicely. However, fate tends to be a bitch and this was no exception, like her mother.


Afterwards of the battle between the Emperors

'Are you absolutely certain that you will be able to finish this idiotic rivalry once and for all?' Issei could feel the grunt of his partner behind his neck, which made sense as he was asking the same question repeatedly for ten minutes straight. He had his reasons, though, if Ddraig couldn't, then this only meant that he needed to fight Valerie, for, presumably, eternity.

['This is the last time I'm gonna make an explanation, you little bastard. I have communicated with Albion during our battle, he has agreed on the condition that Valerie is safe and sound. Once that grump trusts you enough, he will be ready to drop the enmity he shows. Until then, you gotta make sure that you don't do anything stupid and harsh, is that understood?']Even if Ddraig was a nigh omnipotent being, he was having headaches dealing with Issei. There isn't something to be terrified of, is there?

'Yeah, got it, but what if something happens and Albion comes after us? I don't want to hurt her, that would be the end of me. Valerie would be determined to put an end to the Red Dragon, hence, me.' He worried too much about something he cancontrol, the Emperor hadn't seen Issei this anxious over a long time. This day would mark the day the boy fell for the girl, the Dragon could feel it.

['Listen here bud, a piece of advice from me. If you want to end our rivalry, you gotta put yourself on the line and convince that bastard. I never said it would be easy, that grumpy Dragon is not someone that you can reason with.'] If Issei asked another time, Ddraig would cut their link outright and leave him to be. He was being too childish! The brunette should know that there isn't anything he couldn't accomplish on this damned soil, be it reasoning with a dragon or saving the day.

'I don't think we are capable o-' There goes Ddraig, the dearest friend. Issei was more than capable to realize that he had been getting on his partner's nerve with useless questions and worries, however, when it involved a great catastrophe that would leave so many people heartbroken, Issei thought he would be more than welcome to have a discussion, apparently, he wasn't.

Now there laid so many questions and things he had to look for if he wanted to live his life quietly. First of all, he made a blunder in the heat of the battle and accidentally shouted, which would've been forgiven if not for the fact that they both knew each other in person. Valerie was a smart girl, if she could connect the dots, she would expose him in an instant.

There was the fact that she had been suspecting him from yesterday, courtesy of having an idiot in the place of a partner. The mistakes they both committed in the heat of the moment hath come to bite them in the most unexpected way, of course, that was still on them. Had they been more careful, this predicament hadn't happened by now.

The first issue, he could at least take care of it by being careful and not doing the same blunder twice. The brunette could at least save himself some headache with relief that comes through his successful plan, he was now certain that Valerie is a dangerous individual, but if handled properly, Issei could save them from their destiny.

However, there laid the second predicament. How in the hell that he would be able to cause so much distraction that Valerie wouldn't suspect him being aware of the supernatural? The Devilish Aura Surges only appeared when he was targeted and they must've realized, or at least, theorized that he was somehow linked with the surges.

He needed a deterrent, to drop all the suspicion on him, however, he couldn't act rashly. If Issei made his move right after they suspected him, he would give them enough proof that he has been, at least, made aware of their existence. One deterrent strong enough would be something that Devils would be wary of, something that would completely prove his innocence.

What would someone not expect a Devil to do regularly? Without the usage of mana, there were limited things a Devil could do to conceal their identity. Most of all came in the form of an artifact that he couldn't afford at the moment, due to the fact that Issei is trying to conceal himself instead of revealing, his actions were very limited.

'I have to find a way to make it seem like I'm not a Devil, which could force me to do something Humans do but Devils can't. I wonder what that would be, as far as I'm concerned, there isn't anything Devils can't accomplish compared to Humans in a physical contest, which leaves two other things.'

'Accessing some sort of Holy Energy and mixing it with my trace, which, in turn, would make an enemy out of Kuoh's Devils. Truly, there is exceptionally no other choice but to get some help from someone that will be able to do it for me. That person is no one other than Kyle, of course. I can't risk Laira for such a small thing and because of the fact that Uncle can't help my condition with the way he is, Kyle seems to be the only option.'

'That begs the question, how on the earth that I am going to fuse Holy Energy with my own? As far as I'm concerned, that would be very detrimental for my health and especially my Aura. I already have a hard time managing the domination and pride within my body, fueling those dangerous energies with something that is hostile to these energies would cause enough damage to petrify me for at least a week.'

'Would it even be possible? Yes, with a slim chance of success. However, if I can't handle it properly, there is a great possibility that these powers residing in me will result in a rampage, which would do me and the people around me no good. Even I can acknowledge that Valerie will be no match for me in her current strength, this one is out of question, no fusing and something close to it.'

'Then I can at least wear an ornament containing Holy Energy, even with the unbelievable amount of Holy Energy, I managed to hold Calibur for ten good minutes, something that shouldn't have been possible without Ddraig's precautions. I can wear a cross, but it should not, under any circumstance, touch my skin. I can fortify my own skin thanks to the sacrifices I have given to Ddraig, however, I am already unstable, that is out of the equation as well.'

'If I can't bargain with Ddraig one more time, that leaves only one solution. There seems to be one more ally I have, albeit I can't count on them, I think I have contributed enough for them to at least consider my request. The gamble I'm playing is huge, I can admit that, however, if I can pull this successfully, I will be able to rest as much as I can because I won't be able to deal with anything for the presumable future.'

'With this concluded, I have only one more thing left to take care of. After all, I promised her that I would keep in touch, didn't I?' Initializing the right equation, the Brunette established the connection between the parties. On the other side of the magic circle, there was someone that held high importance to not only him, but to the whole Underworld. Almalexia Gremory, the prized daughter.

"I have told you that I would get into contact with you, didn't I, Almalexia? Has the treaty gone well? I hope Kyle and Laira didn't cause you any trouble."

'None in the slightest, I can definitely see why they're such important individuals for you, Sir. I'm thankful for the opportunity you have given me.' Wishing her best regards, Almalexia once came to respect the figure on the other side of the communication device.

"I'm relieved to hear it, I mean it. Then we can now discuss the aftermath, am I wrong? What would you wish to do now?" He could realize her desires, but Issei knew that she would straight want to meet with him. Even if she didn't, he would be sure to compensate her efforts as much as he could.

'If it's not much trouble for you, I would like to meet with my saviour, Sir.' As he expected, the only thing in her mind was the opportunity to see him, the curious side of her hadn't gone by now.

"If it's you, then I think exceptions can be made. You've helped me a great deal, thanks to your contributions, I don't need to reveal myself and gather unnecessary attention." The plain truth he served, without Almalexia, things wouldn't have spurned the way they are, beneficial to both him and Laira.

'You have my eternal gratitude, Sir. I have done what I think is the best, I wouldn't wish you to feel indebted to me.'

"23. Building, 7-3, Kuoh Town 5-Chome, Osaka Wand, Kinki Prefecture, Japan. Come here, that's where our meeting will take place." Detailing the address for her, Issei immediately cut the link between them. The longer they communicate, the more likely someone else would be able to locate him. He was already risking so much, this better go without any issues.

Standing up from his seat, Issei went into his nest, he was starting to become dehydrated. Opening the fridge, he was able to locate the bottle he had placed this morning, fresh water would always be a nice welcome to his fiber. The fresh sensation that traced his body like a snake, he could thank the heavens for this nice gift, if his kind hadn't been casted away from them a long time ago.

"You took longer than I had anticipated, I assume there isn't anything wrong, is there, Almalexia?" Three minutes were all it took for Almalexia to precisely locate the house and immediately teleport right into it. She didn't think that he would be hosting the meeting in his house, of course, that was all her speculation, the beauty hadn't been able to see him, but hear his voice.

"There isn't, Sir. I'm grateful that you're considering my well being."

"Seriously, you need to drop the formality, Almalexia. I thought we had become friends, but it seems that I need to reevaluate my opinions." She could tell that he was being semi serious, semi playful. However, his words had an effect on her.

'He thinks we have enough qualifications to be considered friends… I hadn't thought of that before. What does he see in me to consider me his friend?' The inferiority complex began to show its symptoms, she didn't see any worth in herself to even look up to her idol figure. She was even scared that they would be seriously disappointed in her, even if she acted all mighty before coming here, thinking that she would be able to overcome her issues.

However, even if she was right in front of her interest, she couldn't even find the strength to look them in the eye. How pathetic she had become over the years of isolation and trauma suppression, in her first real test, unpleasant memories overflowed her whole being. Even her fingers were unable to twitch due to the immense anxiety she felt.

"Hey, are you alright? I guess something is indeed wrong." Even if Issei tried to reach her, he soon knew that she was long gone, engulfed by her own negative emotions. He expected that much, suppressing one's own trauma would often leave them in a state like this when confronted directly.

Being concerned about her well-being, Issei stepped out of his kitchen to face her. What he found in the place Almalexia was supposed to be was merely a shadow figure of the glorious heir of Marchosias; she couldn't even lift her head and look directly into him. Her fragile body was shaking uncontrollably, the brunette was beginning to be seriously worried about her.

"Hey… Hey, Almalexia, talk with me, open your heart to me. What scares you this much? I'm here, I'm with you, I won't let anything happen to you." In an attempt to control her body from falling, Issei reached out to her, holding her by the shoulders and lowering himself directly to her level, to look her in the eye.

Even in a state like that, she couldn't gather the courage to lift her head up. Her wish had finally come true, she should be happy and show how much she appreciated this instance, instead, she couldn't even control her own body. Almalexia found it incredibly difficult to even appease the vibrations, her own mind conflicted with her body, a phenomenon she hadn't thought of before.

Releasing herself into the arms of her saviour, the red headed beauty could only savour the feeling of warmth and safety it provided. Directly facing his chest, feeling his heart beating with peace, even if she was being selfish, she felt that it was okay to be at least once in a while. She didn't know whether this boy agreed with her decisions, but she couldn't do anything but hope.

"You can stay like this as much as you want, I'm here for you." His words resonated with her deeply, his voice, so soft and caring. If she didn't know better, she would think that he had feelings for her. Nobody in this damned world could be this considerate against her, as much as she wanted to deny it, that was the plain truth. Tightening up her grip, seemingly controlling whether this man before her is not something from her wildest dreams.

"You're real… You're real…" The relief she had felt upon realizing that the brunette was indeed here, and quite frankly, for her, was unmatchable. She hadn't felt anything in her life quite like this, this sincere feeling of belonging and benevolence, addicting, scary…

"I'm as real as you are in this deceitful world, Almalexia." Softening his gaze and grip on her, Issei decided to let her feel at ease and know that he was indeed for her, to help her. Whispering softly, the brunette could only smile, how much time had passed for her to become this vulnerable? The Foxy Devil must've been suppressing her own feelings for quite some time.

"Oh my little butterfly, fly~ fly high and rise. For I'm here for you, nothing may frighten my little Angel… Fly~ Fly~ fly~ my dear, Mommy's right beside you… Mommy will always look out for you~"

Trying to relieve her from her anxiety, Issei sang a lullaby for the beauty, an iconic one from his perspective. It was the same lullaby his mother chanted for him whenever he had difficulty sleeping. He still remembered the sincere and perplexing expression she would make when making eye contact, ruffling his hair with one hand, caressing his face with the other.

He could at least ease some of her concern and managed to get a giggle out of her, on her behalf, it was funny that he was referring to himself as mommy, however, she couldn't be more thankful. It made all the doubts she had gone away, right outta window and actually concentrate on the fact that this boy was here for her.

"Thank you, I really mean it. I think I needed someone to tell me that they care about me other than my family." With her usual grateful tone, Almalexia exclaimed.

"No need to thank me, everyone would do the same in this situation." Quickly reiterating, Issei didn't want to take the credit for himself. Feeling that she loosened her grip, He gestured her the way to one of his couches. Deciding that she would be most comfortable sitting across him, Almalexia took her seat.

"No, Mister. I don't believe everyone is as kind as you are." The beauty followed, wishing that her contractor would take some credit to himself.

"Riiiight. By the way, How old are you? I don't think there's any need to call me mister considering the possibility that you might be the same age as I am." He was bored to death by the formality she had taken against him, she needed to cut some slack and be at ease.

"Eighteen, Sir. My parents have brought me up to respect every kind of person, it is my way of honoring my family's name. After all, you are the Hero of the Underworld." Bowing, placing her hand on her heart, Almalexia still continued to show her utmost respect.

"I'm thankful that you think of me in such way, but I have to say that I would be more comfortable if you at least refer to me by my name. You can call me Issei, or Ise. Your choice." Issei exclaimed with a hint of relief in his eyes, really, seeing the consequence of his actions had always pleased him. This girl was no exception, he was almost glad that he had gone through that hell.

"Is this your name, Sir- I mean, Issei?" Quickly refuting, Almalexia voiced out her question.

"Yep, My name is Hyoudou Issei and I'm the same age as you are. My friends call me Ise, my acquaintances call me Issei and for the common courtesy in Japan, people that you're not too close with call you by your surname." Surprised by the fact that her saviour was really young, Almalexia made a face that, in Issei's opinion, was too cute to be surreal.

"I see… I wish to call you Ise. Are you comfortable with it, Mister?" She was nervous, meanwhile Almalexia didn't want to cause him discomfort, she didn't want to bombard him with questions as well.

"It would be my pleasure, Almalexia. So… Do you want to share a cup of tea with me? If you want, I can arrange different beverages as well." Waiting for her confirmation, Issei glanced at her with a smile that could erase any second thoughts in her mind.

"It's fine, Ise. I would very much like to." Her approval caused him to stand up and head right into his kitchen, he could let the tea brew once he had made the preparations.

"Enjoy yourself, Almalexia. I will be back in a minute, if anything catches your interest, feel free to use it." His tone made it sound like he was expecting her to roam around the house and answer the questions she had herself.

Glancing and wandering around, Almalexia could deduce that it was indeed his house, not some kind of cover-up mansion he held privately for instances like this one. The Foxy Devil understood it at first glance as the house was a little bit too clean for its own good, also the fact that there were several books piled up on the table in front of the couches was the icing on the cake.

'Legendary Dark Knight, The Unholy War, The Mythical Blades, Champion of the Demon Realm' The components of the books seemed to contain the secrets of ancient Demons and the Prophecies regarding the Legendary Dark Knight, Sparda. She had heard the name, after all, his existence had brought Underworld glory and victory in the Great War, and their successor continued their legacy by participating in the Devilish Civil War; almost every Devil knew the name of Sparda, the Champion of Hell and Underworld.

Which spiked the question, why did her benefactor seem to be obsessed with that Figure? The connection between his abilities and his heritage seemed obvious, Hyoudou Issei was affiliated with the descendants of Sparda, or was one himself. If that were to be the case, Almalexia would actually be surprised for once.

"I see that you're interested in something, aren't you, Almalexia?" With a playful attitude, Issei went out from his nest and reached for his sofa. He seemed to brew the tea in the meantime she was theory crafting, as it could be seen that he was holding two cups of green tea, his specialty.

"May I ask, Issei, are you interested in Underworld's affairs and History?" If he is, then she would be glad to fill in the blanks whether he encounters one or not.

"No, I have plenty of knowledge regarding the Underworld. However, I'm curious about Hell, Demons Realm, I have borrowed these books from an acquaintance." Pointing to the piled up books, Issei explained himself.

"Would I come out too curious if I wanted to know how?" Stupid, Stupid, Why would I ask that? Her whole demeanor changed whenever he was around and Almalexia was beginning to be very uncomfortable by her sudden shift.

"I think a reintroduction could spare me the headache." Taking a sip from his tea, Issei stood up.

"My name is Issei Hyoudou-Lucifuge, I am honored to be in the presence of Almalexia Marchosias-Gremory." With his command, his Devil Wings shot up, revealing themselves to the shocked heiress. On his hand, laid the crest of Lucifuge, demolishing any chance that he was lying.

"What?!" Very unnatural for her to scream in such a high pitched voice, however, the very thought of them being related was simply overwhelming for her at the moment.

"You've heard it right, Almalexia. I am the next heir of Lucifuge Family and if you ask me, a mistake that should have never occurred in the first place." Filled with anguish and self hatred, Issei's tone made it clear that he suffered. Referring himself in such a way simply made whatever thought Almalexia had at the moment vanish.

"No! You can't call yourself a mistake, Sir! The mistake as you name it has saved countless lives and given hope to thousands!" Refuting, Almalexia felt her blood boil, she couldn't understand the turmoil her saviour is in, but the beauty would be damned if she didn't try to soothe his pain.

"I have long accepted it as the truth, Almalexia, you don't need to convince me otherwise." Unfolding his wings and taking his place once more, Issei kept his eye contact still.

"I refuse, Everyone has their moment of self hatred and pain, yet we continue to live on. Just because unfortunate things have happened doesn't mean that we hold no value as living beings. You've saved me from pits of despair once, it's common courtesy that I return it, Issei." Her determination is truly something else, Issei noted it down.

"What do you think that you know about me, Almalexia? Let me tell you one simple thing, I have brought misery and pain everywhere I stepped on, everyone that contacted me had misfortunes happen to them sooner or later. My existence is called a miracle, yet I see it as a curse." Venom evident in his voice, he had fallen beyond saving, Issei knew it yet still pushed on, to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

"I won't be able to understand your pain and I will not try to act like I know, yet there is something that I know, my saviour had not stopped to think twice before rushing in to save me and my friends. The only thing I know about you is that you're stubborn and will accomplish whatever you have in your mind, you're kind, caring and thoughtful. You are merciful, you can't stand injustice once you see it." She tried the describe her saviour as much as she could.

Strength didn't matter, as long as one is in emotional turmoil, everything around them crumbled. Almalexia knew, at various points in her existence, she had sunk low that her willpower gave out, but always, there were people that lent her a hand, pulled her out of herself.

"B-But-." As Issei opened his mouth to protest, he was quickly shut down, none other than…

["No buts, no if's. Everything that Little Rabbit has said is correct and the sole truth. Seriously, Issei, opening yourself to someone once in a while would help you tremendously and we both know it, Partner."] The very Earth shook beneath the might of the voice, this intoxicating presence, as soon as Almalexia heard it, she knew that this being is the very essence of the concept they called Domination.

"D-Ddraig?" Issei could only stare at his left hand in shock, Ddraig hadn't made himself known to anyone before, what had changed from other instances?

"A-As in the Red Dragon Emperor, Ddraig Y Goch..?" Impossible, it was downright impossible. Issei is a Devil, Devil's couldn't have Sacred Gears, unless…

["On my host's behalf, I feel the need to thank you, Almalexia. This idiot thinks that he can shoulder the burden of everything that happened in his life without counseling anyone. I appreciate the concern. As for your question, yes, Heavenly Dragon Emperor, Ddraig Y Goch at your service."] If Ddraig any bit of deceit from Almalexia's tone that she was deceiving his host, he wouldn't have shown himself. This girl cared more about his host than anyone at the moment, something that Issei desperately needed even if he said that he didn't.

"It's an honor to meet the Almighty Dragon of Domination, Sir!" Almalexia instinctively dropped to her knees and planted her left arm to the ground, saluting the Great Dragon with respect.

["You can stand up, hatchling. It's I that should feel the honor. Now, Issei, don't you think that you should take some rest and I can privately discuss some matters with our guest?"] The Red Dragon exclaimed in a tone that left no room for argument, Issei, knowing what his partner was up to, could only sigh. This damned Dragon, going to such extent for him, it made him smile.

"Very well, however, if I catch you trying anything funny, I will bury you, Ddraig." Materializing his Longinus, Issei closed his eyes, he knew that Ddraig was trying to pull Almalexia inside the gear and talk with her, meanwhile Issei would rest, allowing him to drift away from his negative emotions.

As soon as the gear made contact with the Foxy Devil, Issei felt his consciousness slip away.


If there was any place Almalexia could reference to explain the dreamspace she was in, it would be the depths of Hell. Raging blazes and flames ravaged the place, as far as the eye can see, there was nothingness but infernal tornados.

"Welcome to my Domain, Hatchling." The voice resonated with her, lifting her face up, the beauty was met with a sight that she would never be able to forget.

Before her stood the mightiest of all species, A Dragon. The Enormous creature hovered above her, the Crimson Scales endowed its appearance. His wings managed to cover the entire sky. His aura, suffocating and yielding, the true personification of Domination, Almalexia could feel that even the sheer force of his aura could demolish her instantly.

"Are you wondering why I wanted to speak with you?" It seemed as if The Emperor could read her mind, not that would be surprising, after all, the Red Dragon Emperor was known for his strength, something like this would be child's play for him.

"Y-Yes, Sir. Has something about me caught your interest? Have I done something?" She could never think she could be this obedient, however, meeting with a creature whose mere existence was enough to instill terror to hundreds of thousands beings at once was a lifetime experience.

"Be at ease, Almalexia. I can feel your emotions are sincere and you haven't done anything wrong, you have just caught my interest, that is all." Everytime Ddraig opened his mouth, Almalexia found it hard to even breathe.

"However, there is one thing I have to confirm." Mighty Dragon's voice echoed throughout the space, everything in its wave shook. She could feel the vibrations the blazes around her endured.

"Do you care about Issei? I want you to be completely honest with me, or else, I will understand." Growling with intent to strike fear into her heart, Ddraig accomplished his mission to survey the capabilities of the girl before him.

"Of course! He has saved me from not only abduction, but also the despair that came through with being powerless. I was always looked down on by the fact that I couldn't utilize my gifts as much as my parents, leaving me in their shadow. However, Sir-, no, Ise has helped me overcome that obstacle by showing that I didn't need any Supernatural powers to be strong. I just had to train and make my own body my finest weapon." Ddraig could feel the admiration this girl felt towards his host growing second by second.

"Very well, then listen to me, I will speak only once." Grunting, Ddraig descended to her level, maintaining eye contact with Ddraig proved to be very difficult as Almalexia couldn't keep her head straight against the gigantic figure before him.

"If the situation demanded that Albion, the Vanishing Dragon Emperor, started a hunt to begin our fated clash, would you be on his side, or their side?" Ddraig's question caused a mixture of feelings inside her, but she knew the answer already.

"I won't interfere, no matter what. If I have the power to do so, I would very much like to stop the bloodshed with my own hands. It is their destiny to clash with each other." Her answer was a noble one, Ddraig could feel it, henceforth, came his second question.

"In your eyes, which one is more valuable, your own life, or my host's?" This question was more of a metaphoric one, if she had one bit of hesitation before replying, Ddraig would be able to catch her lie.

"My own, of course. I will do everything within my power to help and protect Ise, I will not abandon him and turn my back. However, in a matter of life and death, I will do everything to increase the chances of my survival." Almalexia stopped, her thoughts resonated with the Mighty Dragon.

"Yet, I can say this certainly that I will not betray his trust. Even if I'm in such a situation, I won't commit anything that would return to him as misdeeds." Her answer pleased the Emperor, only those that were pure in heart and mind would voice out their feelings as clearly as the Foxy Devil did.

"Intriguing, I can definitely say that I don't feel any ill thoughts radiating from you, Almalexia. We have come to trust you, I can only hope that this trust is well-placed." Scrutinizing her with his eyes, Ddraig took off to the skies.

"We shall meet again, I sincerely believe that you, Almalexia, will be of great help to my host. Until then, I need to leave you with my host for explanations. I'm fairly certain that you have many doubts and questions." His voice reignited all the blazes that were put down, her resolve, now hardened than ever before, was shining brightly.

'This is my debt and only mine, I'm looking forward to return the favor, Red Dragon Emperor.'


Experimental chapter yahoo, I dun know why but it felt like I should go down the route to allow the possibility of double-pairing should I decide that this fic is no longer Fem Vali exclusive. And yeah, I cut a lot of context and content from this chapter to the next one.

Anyways, I think it's already a huge mess and this should be the worst chap I had in like, years or smth. Our Protag is getting chicks unknowingly, and character development is emportante.

Almalexia is slowly developing a crush on Issei and Valerie is ready to make her moves on her target. Who can believe that Almalexia suddenly wants to do something she wouldn't do in normal conditions? This should be enough spoiler for next chapters as I don't think there is any need to reveal anymore.

There is one more thing I have to address to avoid confusion. Although Almalexia is referred to as Gremory, she is the heiress for the Marchosias Family, thus making her the Marquess of Marchosias. She has the right to choose between becoming the Lady of Marchosias house or fighting her place for the heiress of Gremory, either of the way, Almalexia's spot for Marchosias is guaranteed because of the fact that her family is the only remaining of the Marquis of Marchosias

For the pacing, I know this is fucking slow as there has only passed like 2 days while I worked my ass up for 8 chapters, after this chap we gon have some time skips, believe me I hate em but I need to fasten up this shit before I publish 100 chaps and still couldn't progress even halfway through the story.

Anyhow, kthxbai for reading and reviewing.

I'm out