Hello, this is your author in-progress, SecretArtLotus here! I'm here to bring you all the new chapter of A Problem Devil, Born~

It's been quite a journey for me to endure what I went through most of my life. Exams, assignments, sleep, rest and finally exams…

Nonetheless, I'll keep updating this fanfic in every way possible I can think of. So, I hope you will all be patient for the next chapter and so on.

~Daily Answer~

Enigma95: Thank you for your review. It is nice to see you again. I hope you can continue to read my fanfic after this. ;)

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Galeiam: I've fixed the problem. Now you can read at ease and continuing reading.

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~End of Daily's Answer~

Anyway, without further ado, I present to you, A Problem Devil, Born~

~Full Summary~

Follow Sakamaki Izayoi, in the world of Devils. After transferring to Kuoh Academy, he had faced a lot and had unlocked his true potential. Teleporting to a World called, Little Garden, he fought with a Demon Lord and had won. Returning from the new world, he only spent little time before a new danger arises in the Underworld to which it took form of a Demon Lord. Carrying the fate of the Underworld in his hand, he had sacrificed everything even his life. After ending the Tyranny of the Three-Headed Dragon by himself, thus saving the Underworld from total destruction. But it left scars that couldn't be healed in everyone's minds. And after suffering mortal wounds and could barely able to stand, what happened to our Hero? Returning back to a family as part of a promise he once made, will he keep it? A Gathering of Young Devils is approaching, what will unfold in the party? Will 'he' attend the Gathering? In this new chapter, what challenges lies ahead of the Occult Research Club? New enemies? New friends? The old past, perhaps? 2nd Sequel starts at Chapter 35. Marrying Rias, will he still be able protect her last?

Ja'ne! ArtLotus out!

Chapter 36: Going to the Underworld!

~Human World~

Asuka's Home

Night

"Can she do this?" Asuka asked as she looks at the direction of her kitchen while she stands next to Leticia, who looks at the same direction. Wearing only a white nightgown, Asuka recalled seeing both Pest and Shirayuki-Hime entering the kitchen while Leticia stood outside. After knowing the answer from Leticia on why they both entered the kitchen, she couldn't fathom the slight bad feeling that would happen in the kitchen.

"She must be if she wants to serve Izayoi-sama as his maid." Leticia replied as Asuka raised an eyebrow before turning to look at her, seeing her wearing a black silk pyjama.

"But serving dinner…Isn't that too much?"

At this, Leticia shook her head. "Don't worry, Shirayuki-Hime is with her. She'll know what to do." She answered as Asuka look at the kitchen, not liking the quiet sound that he emitted.

"Are you sure you want to leave them alone in the kitchen?" Asuka suddenly asked as Leticia thought about her statement for a second.

"…I'm questioning myself the same thing when I made the decision that the two of them should work together to construct a delightful dinner." She replied crossing her arms as Asuka look at the kitchen with a concern look.

"Are you certain that they'll work together?" Asuka asked as Sala appeared from downstairs and walk to stand next to Asuka.

"What are you two doing standing here?" She asked standing next to them with a confused look.

"Leticia asked Pest to cook dinner with Shirayuki-Hime." Asuka answered as Sala look at Leticia with a raised eyebrow.

"Are you sure they are capable of doing that task? They are not well acquainted with each other yet." Sala voiced out her own worry as Leticia step forward, deciding that she should check at least once to see the progress between the two.

But not a moment after she steps forward, a loud explosion erupted in the kitchen accompanied by falling sounds of silverware touching the ground which makes loud clanking sounds.

"I think you should check on them now." Sala stated as Leticia walk towards the kitchen and step inside, leaving both Asuka and Sala.

Looking at Sala, an amused smile appeared on Asuka's face as she saw what's written on the front of Sala's red pyjama.

"Why Don't You Love Me?" Asuka said out loud catching Sala's attention as she look at her in surprise. "Isn't that the song Izayoi-kun sang with Rias?"

At her statement, Sala blushed a shade of red which could be seen visible on her cheeks.

"Yes…But is there any problem that I should be aware of?" Sala look at Asuka, who shook her head in amusement before answering.

"No, except wearing that with those words in this situation doesn't help you very much."

But before Sala could reply on asking why, they were caught by surprise by a shout. "Don't get in my way next time!" Pest's voice could be heard from kitchen, as Asuka and Sala look at the kitchen.

"You're the one who should follow orders!" Shirayuki-Hime's voice yelled out, replying to Pest's protest.

"Well, you shouldn't be so strict about it!"

"Then stop shouting!"

"You should stop shouting too!"

"Argh, you little!"

"Hey, where do you think you're touching?! Hey!"

"To teach you a lesson, of course. What do you think I'm doing?"

"Get away from me, you reptilian woman!"

"What did you say, flat-chest!"

"What did you call me?"

"Did I hit a nerve point, perhaps?" Amusement could be heard from Shirayuki-Hime's voice.

"Why, you!"

After that statement, a loud explosion occurred in the kitchen, sending away pots and pans outside the kitchen to land in front of Asuka and Sala.

Looking at the pots and pans, both Asuka and Sala look at each other before they nodded, deciding to check the kitchen themselves. They both turns towards the kitchen but before they could move towards it, they were stopped by a silhouette walking towards them amidst the black smoke that was coming out of the kitchen. They then watches as the said figure walked out of the smoke while pulling something with both of her hands.

"Leticia, is everything okay in there?" Sala asked as she spotted her walking out of the smoke with her face slightly covered in black.

"Everything is alright, except the relationship between these two." Leticia stated as she look down at the unconscious Shirayuki-Hime and Pest.

Asuka smile in amusement as she looks upon the two, noting that they were covered in black, including their hair which was covered by dust. "What happen to them?"

"Punishment." Leticia answered as Asuka stifle a laugh while Sala shook her head in amusement. Then, Asuka look at the direction of the kitchen, seeing the black smoke had receded but she could see a few silverwares scattered on the floor in the kitchen.

"Anyway, I think I should clean up the mess while they're unconscious." She stated as Sala crossed her arms over her chest.

"I'll help." Sala replied with a smile.

"I will help the two of you after I discipline these two over here." Leticia gestured the unconscious maids before she dragged them all the way towards Shirayuki-Hime's room.

Looking at the unconscious pair, Asuka smiled before she looks at Sala.

"Let's get to work before we miss out dinner." She said to her as Sala nodded and the two heads towards the kitchen.

After dinner...

"I apologize that you have to clean up your own kitchen, Asuka." Leticia apologizes with a small frown as Asuka smiled at her.

"No worries. But it was a lot of work than I thought." Asuka stated as Leticia look pointedly at the annoyed Pest, who was sitting on the couch with crossed arms.

Sensing the blonde's pair of eyes boring into her back, Pest glared at the floor. "It's not my fault. It's all her fault." She mutters annoyingly as Leticia shook her head.

Smiling at the corner of her lips, Asuka sips onto her drink before she set it down onto the table. "They will learn to work together sooner or later." She said as Leticia look at her.

"How do you know?"

"Because they will not be good maids to Izayoi-kun if they continue like this." She smiled as she glanced at Leticia, who looked at her with wide eyes before her eyes soften and she nodded in agreement.

"You're right. If they can't work together, I don't know we can serve him as his maids. Maybe I have to make a schedule for both of them to practice with. One for morning duties and one for night duties." Leticia said with a thoughtful look as Asuka smile.

"Isn't that too much? They'll have a lot of free time if they work like that. Isn't maids supposed to work all day?" Asuka asked with amusement in her voice, knowing how a maid's job does since she once had maids serving her in the past.

"That is true." Leticia smiled down at her drink. "I hope they can work together before he comes back."

"I think we all do. Izayoi-kun would be getting the joy of his life if he has powerful maids with him. One is a pock-doted Loli and the other two are two royal-looking women."

"Why is that? Do I look royal-looking?" Leticia asked in curiosity, never expecting her kind of answer.

Nodding her head, Asuka replies. "Yes, when I look at both you and Shirayuki-Hime. You two look like princesses to me." She smiled after words.

"Really..." Leticia mutters as a vague image appeared in her mind. Suddenly, the whole surroundings had changed and she was sitting on a throne. In front of her, two women were standing with a smile. One of them was peculiar similar to her. But before she could watch any further of the image, it suddenly stops right there and she was immediately broken out of her thoughts by Asuka's voice.

"Leticia?" Asuka called out in worry as Leticia blink her eyes from her strange thought and she look at the worried brown haired.

"Yes?" Leticia asked as she touches the side of her head with her right hand, disturbed by the sudden blast of image in her mind.

"Are you okay?" A frown appeared on Asuka's face as she look at Leticia, recalling the confused and surprise expression that she saw on her face earlier, much to her confusion.

Looking back at Asuka, Leticia forgone the image away before she reply. "Yes. I'm okay. I just remembered something…" Leticia looked down, not wanting to worry Asuka any further than she already has.

"...Okay." Asuka replied deciding not to question Leticia as she knew that it wasn't her business to do so.

Looking up, Leticia could see the slight sadness on the brown haired's face. "I'm sorry." She frowned as Asuka shook her head before smiling in reassurance.

"No need. I understand. I know when it is not my business to interfere. It's perfectly fine." Asuka reassured as Leticia smiled back, grateful that she understood her attention. "Anyway, have you packed your clothes for tomorrow? We're going to the Underworld, right?" She questioned as Leticia nods.

"I already have. But I don't think Sala has already. I will help her after this." Leticia stated as Asuka nodded.

"Good." She replied but Leticia held a disturbing look as she recalled something during the meeting earlier, much to Asuka's confusion. "Is something the matter, Leticia?" She asked in curiosity.

"...In the meeting earlier, I can't help but noticed something about Koneko."

Quirking her eyebrow, Asuka looks at her in curiosity. "Why's that?"

"After the recording ended, we saw how Koneko asked those strange questions about Kuroka to Sirzechs-san, right?" She asked looking at Asuka, who nodded in agreement. "Why? For all I know, she doesn't know her."

"Kuroka..." Asuka look down with a thoughtful look before she look at Leticia. "Do you think she knew her in some way? Like in the past?" She asked, finding it strange that Koneko would know the black haired nekomata from which she learned from Shirayuki-Hime. "...Do you think she's related to Koneko, perhaps?"

"Related to her?" Leticia looks down at the table. "...There might be a slight possibility. But the look on Koneko's face after she asked those questions... She seemed awfully disturbed for some reason..." She stated having saw Koneko for a moment to which she found it strange that she would be disturbed by someone she did not know. "I'm certain that she was disturbed from getting to know Kuroka from Sirzechs-san."

"It might be." Asuka answered with a nod before she stretches her hands in the sky accompanying with a yawn. After she lets down her hands, she looks at Leticia. "Anyway, I'm going to sleep. Are you going to...?"

Leticia smiled at her before shaking her head lightly. "I'll stay here to clean up. You go on ahead."

"Okay. Good night, Leticia."

"Good night." Leticia reply back with a smile watching Asuka left by going upstairs. After she left, Leticia look at her glass, thinking about Koneko possible relationship with Kuroka and why did she kept it a secret from everyone? Immediately, she erased the last thought as she believed the white haired Rook would have a reason to keep it hidden.

Holding her hand under her chin, Leticia looks down at the drop of water sliding down the glass. "Hm..." She squint her eyes. "Are those two...possibly blood-related?"

Before long, Leticia sighed and stood up from her seat. She picked up all the empty glasses before she walked into the kitchen and cleaned them up in the sink. After letting them inside one of the kitchen's cabinet that was filled with glasses, she closed it and walked towards the stairs, deciding to help Sala with her clothes. But just as she approaches the stairs, she stopped abruptly as she think about the image that made it known to her earlier.

A small frown appeared on the corner of her lips before she look forward and walked upstairs towards hers and Sala's room.

After the sound of a door opening and closing upstairs, Pest look down at the ground while sitting on the couch all alone. Since dinner had ended for today, everyone was preparing themselves for tomorrow to which they were going to the Underworld for the summer break, much to her slight annoyance. But apparently she had to go according to the Fallen Bird. She had already packed her clothes for the trip since it would be nuisance if she would think about packing clothes in the middle of the night just before dawn.

Sighing, Pest leaned against the couch as she look at the television blankly, recounting the things that she heard from both Leticia and Asuka. She crossed her arms over her chest as she leaned her neck down, making her sweater's collar envelope her entire neck until it reaches below her mouth.

"Why am I here? I don't like this..." Pest muffled over the collar. "If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be here and do all of things like a slave..." She mutters with narrowed eyes.

Suddenly out of nowhere, water instantly drenched Pest from above, drenching her in cold water from her shoulders to her head. "What..." Pest mouthed with wide eyes, speechless to say any further.

"Would you lighten up? You're not a slave, are you?" An amusing voice greeted Pest's ears as she slowly lifted her head to look above her.

Once she looks up, she was greeted by a smirking Shirayuki-Hime who was wearing a blue kimono.

Clenching her fist, Pest was about to retort back by sending a wave of black wind towards the smirking woman but she was stopped by her next words.

"You shouldn't be so beat up on being a maid for Izayoi-sama, you know?" Shirayuki-Hime said before she turns around to lean her back against the couch as Pest look at her back.

"What do you know?" Pest retorted back with a glare.

"I've been beaten when I am in my divinity form by a single human. I think I know enough, do you?" Shirayuki-Hime replied as Pest didn't reply. "If you want to do some good, make yourself useful by being the Loli you are, and in the meantime prepare yourself. If he wakes up, I'm sure he'll have a fit." She stated with a smile while she crossed her arms in satisfactory.

Pest narrowed her eyes at her, "How do you know he's going to wake up anytime soon? For all you know, you never going to see him ever again. Why do you bother?"

"Because I have faith." Shirayuki-Hime confidently said.

"Faith?"

"Hope, belief...You know the rest. Even if you don't know, these words kept us from being worried too much. So, I have faith that he will wake up. What about you?" Shirayuki-Hime asked as she glances back at Pest, who held a confused look.

"What do I care what happens to him?" Pest asked turning her head away.

"If that's your answer, then I better get some sleep. We have to get to the Underworld in the morning." Shirayuki-Hime said standing up. But then, she threw a dry towel on Pest's head, surprising her, before heading towards her room upstairs without responding. But before she set foot on the stairs, she turns her head to the side, giving view of her mouth only. "Get some sleep, alright?"

With that, Shirayuki-Hime climbed upstairs to which left Pest all alone in the living room.

Staring at where she left, Pest grabbed the towel on her head and dry herself off while thinking about Shirayuki-Hime's strange kindness. After that, she set the towel over the couch before she look at the stairs and turned her head to the other side with a frown. She crossed her arms over her chest before she glance at the stairs. "Who does she think she is? My mother?" She questioned under her breath. After a while, she looks down at the ground. "Why do I care if he dies? I'll be free if he does even though he isn't..." She quietly whispers as she knew that her Master wasn't dead yet. If he did, she would have felt it with her body by going through a long period of immense pain that couldn't be cured. As far as everyone was worried about whether he would live or die, she got the answer straight away from her contract with him. She knew that everyone had forgotten or they haven't realized it yet, that she could sense his condition when he was near-death or he was entirely dead. But the strangest thing was the feeling of gratitude that she was feeling now deep down inside her.

Recalling her fellow maid's words about tomorrow, Pest sighed, knowing that she had to go along with them.

Suddenly, she has the urge to yawn to which she look around her, looking if anyone was around. When she noticed that anyone wasn't around to see her, Pest yawned before she cutely rub her eyes with her left hand.

"I should go to sleep..." Pest mutters as she walked over to the stairs. But then, she turns around, realizing the lights were on. With a sigh, she goes off to close the lights with a flick of her wrist by sending a small wave of black wind to close the switch. After that, she tiredly climbed upstairs towards her room that she shares with Shirayuki-Hime.

Opening the door to their room, Pest look over at Shirayuki-Hime, sleeping on her bed with her back at her while the lights were close off. Closing the door, Pest climbed onto her bed, readying herself to sleep. But before she could, she look over at the sleeping Shirayuki-Hime.

"Don't think I'm not going to take revenge on what you did." Pest said to her ignoring the fact that she was sleeping, before she turned her back to sleep.

"I like to see that happening." Shirayuki-Hime whispered with a small smile before she closes her eyes.

Morning

"Flat-chest!" A loud voice was voiced out throughout the house as Asuka immediately got up from her bed in surprise before she instantly rush towards Shirayuki-Hime's room.

Just as she reaches the door to the room, she look at the smiling Leticia and Sala, who were standing in front of the opened door while they were already dressed up in their Kuoh Academy uniforms.

Curious, Asuka walk over to them and look inside the room. Once she does, she failed to suppress her laughter as she saw Shirayuki-Hime standing at the middle of the room, completely drenched in water from top to bottom. She saw her glaring daggers in front of her to which stood a smirking Pest, dressed in her Kuoh Academy's uniform. Beside the red head, was an empty bucket which she guessed was filled with water earlier.

"What happen?" Asuka asked as she looks at both Leticia and Sala.

"Their usual banter." Leticia answered as she looks at the glaring Shirayuki-Hime and the smirking Pest.

"In the morning, too." Sala added with a smile before she turned to head downstairs. "I'll set the plates." She said to Asuka and Leticia before she climbed down.

"I said I'll take my revenge. Didn't you hear me?" Pest smirked as Shirayuki-Hime clenched her teeth but then a smile appeared over her lips, much to Pest's confusion.

Suddenly, Shirayuki-Hime raised her hand as the water that drenched her clothes were sucked out from the fabric and was elevating in the air around her to form a ball of water, surprising Pest.

"You know that I can control water, right?" Shirayuki-Hime asked with a smirk before Pest closed here eye to braced herself for the water attack. But after a while, she didn't feel any water drenching her. She then opens her eyes to see a smiling Shirayuki-Hime while she crossed her arms. The ball of water that was above her earlier had disappeared out of nowhere, much to her relief.

"Call it even." Shirayuki-Hime stated as Pest look at her and smiled even.

"Fine. But it's not over." Pest said as Shirayuki-Hime.

"Who says it's over? It's just the beginning." Shirayuki-Hime said as she lean her head forward, followed by Pest. Suddenly, electricity could be seen clashing between their foreheads as the both of them smirked at each other.

"I guess they managed to work out their difference, I think." Asuka smiled.

"Indeed, and I hope it can work out this time." Leticia stated before she look at Asuka. "You should get change. Breakfast will be served in a moment."

Smiling at the blond, Asuka nodded. "I'll be there." She said before she turns around towards her room.

Walking inside her room, she could still see her luggage below her bed to reveal neatly stacked and folded clothes, to which she had prepared all of her stuff for the summer break in the Underworld. Then her eyes lingered to the red scarf that was hanging over a hangar in the opened closet in front of her. Walking over to the closet, she grabbed the scarf from the hangar and felt it with her hands. Smiling down at it, she lay it down on the bed after reaching a decision in her mind.

"It's only temporary, right?" Asuka questioned in her mind as she prepared to get bath.

~Dimensional Gap~

"We're going to the Underworld in a train?"

"Yes."

"I never expected we would be riding a usual human transportation on the way." Asuka stated as she look around the room or cargo. She then look at everyone who was wearing their Kuoh Academy school uniform just like hers, to which she was told to wear from Akeno.

"Last time we went with Grayfia's magic, and we came back with it." Issei said to her as he sat at another couch beside the couch where Asuka and Akeno were seated. He was holding four poker cards along with Xenovia, Asia, Leticia and Pest.

"The Devils of Buchou's noble family, are in charge of the official route." Akeno stated as Asuka nodded in acknowledgment. Then, Akeno look at the piece of fabric that was wrapped around Asuka's neck. Before everyone boarded the train, she had noticed the piece of fabric around Asuka's neck, much to her curiosity. "I've been meaning to ask this but why are you wearing a scarf, Asuka?" She asked as Asuka look down at the red scarf around her neck.

Looking up, Asuka let out a smile as she answers.

"I never wear this outdoors before so I wanted to wear this while we're on summer break."

"Really? Well, the scarf suits you very much if you want to know." Akeno commented smiling at Asuka, who smile in appreciation.

"Thank you, Akeno." Asuka grabbed the scarf below her neck. "It means very much to me..." She unconsciously mutters while Akeno stare at her, noticing the smile on her face as she mutters.

"It seems so." Leticia made herself known as she set the silver tray on the table in front of the two.

"Yes, it is." Asuka smiled at her before she watches Leticia set the cups on the table and pours the cup in front of her with black tea, much to her slight wonder.

"I hope it satisfies you." Leticia stated before sitting next to Asuka, who picks the tea cup and lightly sips the tea.

"This is delicious!" Asuka commented as she looks down at the black tea with a smile before looking at Leticia, who bows her head in appreciation. "How did you do it?" She asked as Leticia look at her.

"It takes quite a lot of practice." She answered. "But I'm grateful that you like it, Asuka."

"It isn't too bitter like coffee but its sweet!" Asuka stated. "I tasted black tea once and I remember that it isn't as sweet as this. Why is that?" She asked as she looks at Leticia.

"I prefer to make it my own black tea than to make the original black tea." Leticia explained with a small smile as Akeno that was sit at beside Asuka, nodded in understanding before setting her cup on the saucer.

"It's really satisfying, Leticia." Akeno commented as Leticia nods.

Smiling down at her black tea, Asuka set her tea cup down on the saucer and let it down onto the table. Then, out of the corner of her eyes, Asuka spotted Koneko sitting on one of the couches next to her couch. She watches as Koneko stares at the window with a sad look.

Then, Asuka recalled the conversation she had with Leticia yesterday concerning about Koneko. She doesn't know what the white haired's relationship with Kuroka but she knew that she would find out eventually. But now, she was slightly worried on seeing Koneko without doing anything but staring out the window. Asuka look to Gasper, who was sitting next to Koneko while playing his game. She watches as he look up from his game console and notices Koneko's lunch that wasn't yet to be touched or eaten as she noticed for the entire time she was in the room.

"Hey, Koneko-chan, are you going to have your lunch?" Gasper asked looking at Koneko staring out the window, slightly worrying him. "Koneko-chan?"

Then, Koneko turns her head to Gasper and offered a small smile.

"No. It's nothing." Koneko answered as Asuka look to her right, seeing Kiba responds to her answer by lifting his head to look at the white haired.

"Soon we will arrive at the station in Sitri." A woman's voice announced as Issei raised an eyebrow.

"Sitri?" Issei asked as Akeno nodded.

"Hello, Hyoudou!" A voice called out as Issei look to his left, seeing Saji, Sona and Tsubaki walking through a door before the door closes.

"Saji! Kaichou and Fukukaichou are alongside him?" Issei look surprised.

"Hello, Sona-sama." Akeno greeted as Sona, Tsubaki and Saji walked towards her and the others before standing in front of them.

"Since we can't stay inside the Gremory family train, we came to say goodbye before going down." Sona said to Akeno, who nodded.

"I appreciate the gesture, Sona-sama. I think Buchou would too if she was here." Akeno smiled as Sona smiled back.

"This year, we're not just gonna lay back like everyone else." Sona explained as Saji look at Issei and the others.

"You're going to train down there, aren't you?" Saji asked pointing his hand behind him, referring to the Gremory Territory that the ORC group were headed.

"I don't know what you're planning on." Xenovia replied as Saji smiled.

"Well, I plan to be much stronger than you by the next time we meet. You'd better prepare for it." Saji stated as Sona look at him with a serious look.

"Saji." She called out as Saji stopped and glance at her. "Let's go."

"Hai! See you!" Saji raised his hand to Issei and the others. "Bye!"

Sona turns around and walk to leave but she turned her head to look at Akeno and the members of the Occult Research Club.

"It's unfortunate that I wouldn't say a proper goodbye to my friend. But I hope the next time we meet, she would be with you all, including him. Because it wouldn't be the same without them, would it?" Sona explained as Akeno nodded in agreement.

"I agree."

"See you all later." Sona smiled before she walked away with Tsubaki and Saji while everyone watched them leave.

~Time Skip~

"It's been a long time since we left." Gasper said while he plays his game.

"Just goes to show how big our destination will be." Issei stated as Xenovia and Kiba chatted over tea.

"I wonder how's the Gremory Territory is now. When we arrive at the place on that day, it was horrible..." Asuka frowned as she sat next to Leticia and Sala while on her left was Akeno. "It was anything that I ever seen. All of the houses were in ruins..." She explained as Leticia and Sala look down in sympathy, recalling the houses that were in ruins and some were beyond repairs.

"There was so much destruction, and all of that was caused by only one individual..." Sala slowly said with a small frown.

"One of the individuals from our world..." Leticia added as Akeno look at them with a smile.

"Even though it is unfortunate at that time, but you don't have to worry." Akeno assured as the three look at her in question. "The Gremory Family is quick on their constructions and that goes for repairs too." She assured as Asuka let out a small smile.

"Venelana said the same things about that. But will they repair it the same as before?" Asuka asked.

"I don't know about that yet but I think they might touch some things up. But other than that, the good thing is that you are here with us, Asuka. The same goes for Leticia, Sala and Shirayuki-Hime. You're all are still here with us." Akeno said to them as Leticia smiled, followed by Sala and Asuka.

"Thank you for your words, Akeno-san." Leticia thanked as Akeno waved her hand in dismissal.

"No need to call me that, Leticia. We're classmates, right?" She asked as Leticia nodded.

"Alright, Akeno." Leticia said as Akeno nodded in appreciation.

"Come on, what do you have?" Shirayuki-Hime's voice catches Akeno and the other three attentions. They turn towards the bar that Kiba and Xenovia were sitting. They could see that the two of them were looking a few seats next to them, seeing as two seats were occupied by both Shirayuki-Hime and Pest. The four of them watches as the two maids were playing each other in a game of poker. Both were wearing serious looks which amuses them.

"You better ask yourself that before you regret losing." Pest mocked with a smirk as Shirayuki-Hime narrowed her eyes at her.

"You better take that back before you know what's about to happen to you." She replied as Pest look up at her while four poker cards hid her smirk from being seen.

"Do I?" Pest asked as Shirayuki-Hime grip tightly on her four poker cards in her hands.

"In three." Shirayuki-Hime stated as Pest nodded. "Three, two, one!" Simultaneously, both Shirayuki-Hime and Pest showed their cards to each other. After a moment pass, Shirayuki-Hime grin in victorious upon Pest's shocked face.

"Soon we will arrive in Gremory Territory." The voice from before announces as Asuka look ahead from the window.

"We're here?" Asuka asked as Akeno look forward with a smile.

"Take a look." She said to everyone as Leticia and Sala look out the windows of the train and their eyes widen, along with Asuka.

"These are all huge chunks of land!" Xenovia exclaimed in surprise looking at the widespread of giant buildings inside huge-sized walls that are surrounding them.

"Yes. They're all territory of the Gremory Family." Akeno informed to everyone, who was awe at the display they were seeing.

"And they're huge, too?" Issei exclaimed in surprise, looking down at the Gremory territories that appeared huge to him.

"They're all the size of Japan's main island." Kiba explained to him as Issei gasp in surprise.

"But now, the buildings..." Sala look down at half of the buildings in some of the Gremory territories that she recalled were destroyed at the time of the tyranny of the Three-Headed Dragon. "They've been repaired." She exclaimed in surprise, surprised by the fast development of repair to the buildings she once know were destroyed completely.

Nodding at her words, Asuka smiled in happiness.

"Yes, they are."

"The Gremory Family are quite commendable." Leticia commented with a smile, glad that the buildings that she recalled were in ruins had been repaired fully.

"But if you said it was repaired and the buildings were these huge before, then when the Three-Headed Dragon step inside the Underworld..." Xenovia stated recalling the time where she saw ruined buildings but she didn't know how much was the destruction was on the Gremory territories in full scale. At the thought of that, she couldn't fathom to imagine.

"He destroyed almost everything in his sight." Shirayuki-Hime answered as Xenovia and the others look at her from the windows. "When we arrived at the Underworld with Rias-sama and Serafall-sama, the place was in ruins. Every place we had saw had either been burned to the ground, crushed or wipe out of the territory." She said as everyone frowned, imagining the total destruction that Three-Headed Dragon had really caused when it arrived. "But the place that I didn't see burn to the ground was a mansion when we first arrived in the Underworld but I didn't see who the owner is. That place is really lucky to not be destroyed with all the destruction it was surrounded by." She explained with a small smile as everyone smiled, relieved that everything in the Gremory territories weren't all destroyed by the Tyranny Dragon.

Out of the corner of his eyes, Issei spotted something through the window beside him. He then turned towards the window and look closer. When he did, his eyes widen in surprise.

"Woah, what is that?" Issei asked as he looks down at the large decimated area away from the Gremory territories. At the decimated area, he could see a large round crater decorated the ground that stretches over a few miles.

Once he said that, everyone look to his side of the window and stare in awe and wonder about the large round crater, wondering what had caused it to be like that.

A small frown could be seen visible on Asuka's face as she look upon the large round crater on the decimated area.

"That place...It's where Izayoi-kun fought the Three-Headed Dragon lastly." Asuka informed, her sad voice could be heard in the room, letting everyone know.

"Huh? You mean..." Asia's eyes widen. "Izayoi-senpai made that?!" She exclaimed in pure surprise at the massive size of the crater that her senior had made.

"He used his power at the last attempt to defeat the dragon." Asuka explain. "The explosion was gigantic and was anything I've seen him do before."

"You mean you've seen him do it before, Asuka?" Asia asked looking at Asuka.

"Yes. But not at this scale, it's not. When the explosion had disappeared, all of us rush towards where the explosion occurred." Asuka continued as she glances at Leticia, Sala and Shirayuki-Hime, noting the slight sad expression on their faces. Looking back to look at the window in front of her, she recalled the sad scene in her mind which caused her to lightly laugh. "When we arrived, we saw him in Rias's arms, bleeding." Asuka said as a tear fell from her eye before she wipes it with a sad smile. "Sorry." She apologized to everyone as Leticia look at her in sympathy, sharing the pain she felt at that time.

"Asuka..."Akeno mutters her name. "It's okay."

Asuka smiled through her teary eyes, "Even though I know he was the only one that could fight the Three-Headed Dragon but it hurts to see him smile because he was in pain. I don't know how he could stand with those injuries after the battle." She explained as she wipe her tears that were starting to fell one by one. "Baka..." She mutters with a sad smile as everyone hang their heads down in sympathy.

But then, the train stopped as Issei instantly lean forward and hit the window, causing him to wince in pain.

"We've stopped!" Xenovia stated holding the couch for support.

"It's an emergency stop." The announcer announces as Akeno look around, followed by Asuka, who put her hands on the window for support.

"It happened by accident?" Gasper asked in wonder lying on the couch before standing up.

"Soon the big boys will gather. So we should proceed with caution." Azazel explained as he walked through the upper door of the train while everyone looks at him in confusion.

"The big boys will gather?" Issei asked in curiosity.

"I don't think we're going to move right now. I'll take a look. See you." Azazel said with a raise of his hand before leaving everyone, much to their added confusion.

"Are we planning a meeting with someone important?" Asuka asked with a raised eyebrow.

But before anyone could answer, Koneko's eyes widen slightly.

"Something's outside!" She said as a purple atmosphere appeared over the train and light engulfed the entire train.

"Ahhh!" Issei yelled as he fell down towards the dark strange atmosphere.

Unknown Place...

"Huh?" Issei woke up as he lifted his head and nursed his head. "Where are we?" He asked as he look around, noticing everyone was on the ground near him.

"We were forcibly ejected from the train." Kiba stated as Asuka brushed her uniform and scarf from the debris of the ground before she helped Shirayuki-Hime on her feet beside her.

"So much for safety travel..." Pest muttered annoyingly while standing up. She then looks around at the area she and everyone was in. They were at the bottom of a cliff, much to their confusion.

"Where's the Professor?" Asia asked. "I can't find him." She said as everyone searches for Azazel.

Suddenly, Leticia and Sala readied themselves into a battle stance as Xenovia look up forward, sensing something.

"Silence!" Xenovia said to everyone.

Everyone look up and they watch as the top of the cliff breaks apart and fell in front of them.

"Something's coming." Leticia said as she summoned her lance while Sala summoned her blade of fire.

Suddenly, loud thumping sounds could be heard before a head of a dragon could be seen peaking from the side of the cliff, surprising everyone.

"A dragon?!" Issei exclaimed in surprise.

The purple dragon then breathed out streams of flames towards the ORC group. But before the flames could reach the group, Asuka quickly revealed her red wine card to the sky.

"Deen!" She yelled loudly as the card glowed brightly and a big red intricate magic circle appeared in front of the card. In an instant, Deen appeared from the circle and stretched his arms out, making a big wall of light. The flames hit the wall of light instead of the group. Everyone look up in wonder at the giant steel of metal, except for those who have already seen it.

After the flames had already disappeared, Koneko saw her chance and quickly bounded against the left side of the cliff and held out her fist to punch the dragon. But her eyes widen as the tail of the dragon hit her hard and send her into the side of the cliff, making a crater. Blood instantly leaks from her forehead just as she collided with the hard stony cliff before she slowly fall to the ground.

But before she could fell to the ground, Leticia had caught her in her arms while angel wings made out from her shadow could be seen from her back.

"Koneko!" Gasper shouted looking at how Koneko was hurt.

Turning around, Leticia looks to Asuka, who look at her in return. "You know what to do, Asuka." She said to her as Asuka nodded before she looks forward towards the purple dragon while standing behind Deen.

"Deen! Attack!" Asuka commanded as Deen stretches his metallic right fist towards the dragon.

"!" The dragon look surprised by the fist but before it could dodges, Deen's fist had already collided with its stomach, sending him to crash straight into the stony cliff, giving some distance between them.

Leticia then looks to both Shirayuki-Hime and Pest, "Front lines now." She commanded as both of them nodded at her and they look up at the dragon, who was starting to stand up from the crater of the cliff.

Narrowing her eyes, Akeno flew to the sky and transform into her shrine maiden attire. "Due to Buchou's being absent from her command, I will fill in as an interim!" She declared. "Yuuto and Xenovia, distract the dragon. In the meantime, Issei will use his Sacred Gear. Asia, help Koneko. I will spectate in the air." Akeno commanded with her right hand outstretched in front of her.

"Hai, Vice president!" Issei, Kiba, Asia and Xenovia shouted together.

Leticia looks up at Akeno, who look down at her at the same time. They both nodded to each other, knowing that they had their roles set up for them.

Looking down at the injured Koneko, Leticia slowly landed down on the ground as Asia rushed towards them. Leticia slowly put Koneko down as Asia quickly gets to work on healing the white haired. A small frown could be seen on Leticai's face as she looks upon the blood leaking from Koneko's forehead. She then looks up at the dragon that is battling with both Shirayuki-Hime and Pest. She could see that the both of them were working together by taking turns on defending and attacking. When the dragon blow its flames towards them, Shirayuki-Hime would build a wall of water to defend against it while Pest attacked the dragon with a big wave of black wind, which blew the dragon back and simultaneously eating away its energy, much to their advantage.

Leticia smiled at both of them, relieved that they were working together. Gripping her lance tighter, Leticia spotted Sala flying behind Deen. She then ascended to the skies towards Sala, who look at the approaching blonde.

"Is everything alright with Koneko?" Sala asked as Leticia nodded.

"She will manage."

"Do you have any ideas to deal with this dragon?" Sala questioned as Leticia glance at the dragon.

"I might, with just one strike to take it down." She answered which confuses Sala.

"One? But how?"

"We need Pest, that is all." Leticia exclaimed before she look at Sala and extend her lance in front of her.

Looking at the extended lance, Sala smiled and extend her blade of fire towards the lance, forming a cross.

"We'll be the decoy?" Sala asked as Leticia smiled before she nods.

"Yes. I'm afraid so."

"Let's go, then." Smiling in front of her, Sala look up before she flew straight to the skies, leaving Leticia.

Holding her lance in front of her, Leticia look at the dragon and her shadow immediately grew and instantly head straight towards the dragon.

"?" The dragon turns to the right, looking at the approaching shadow. Hs action caused Pest and Shirayuki-Hime to stop attacking and look at the same direction as he is, seeing Leticia's shadow rushing towards the dragon. Immediately, the two of them flee from the spot they were standing on by flying into the skies before they look at the dragon that only stood in his spot.

The two maids watch as the dragon open its mouth and blew streams of flames that instantly rush towards the attacking shadow. But just as the fire hit the shadow, the dragon didn't notice the smile that crosses Leticia's face.

Suddenly, the shadows that was about to be hit by the fire started to materializes and formed together to form a large dragon jaw, surprising the dragon and everyone. Immediately, the large shadow dragon's jaw opens its jaws and eats the fire, clamping its mouth shut as the fire instantly dissipated.

"Is this Leticia's power?" Asuka thought in awe as she watches the large dragon jaw immediately rush towards the purple dragon after it ate the fire. In an attempt to escape, the dragon quickly spread its wings to ascend to the skies. But before it could, the dragon's eyes widen in surprise as countless of blades made of shadow appeared around him. The shadow blades were positioned to the dragon's knees, hands, upper body and wings, preventing him from ever escaping.

"You're not going anywhere." Leticia exclaimed as everyone look on in awe of her powers. Everyone could see how dangerous and powerful her power is by watching the shadow blades positioning directly at the dragon's wings, mere inches from touching the wings.

Without a moment notice, the purple dragon senses something and he looks up. Just as he looks up, his eyes widen as he spotted the shining glint of a sword before he heard a swift cutting motion that went across his body.

"Be emblazed by my flames." Sala said with closed eyes as she stood a few distance behind the dragon before clicking her sword shut inside its sheath.

Turning around its head, the dragon look at the individual that had slash at him but before he could retaliate, his body went aflame in a big explosion, surprising everyone who defended themselves against the burst of wind that swept across them.

"They're strong." Issei commented in awe as Xenovia and Kiba agreed wholeheartedly in their minds while they watched the explosive scene in front of them.

Suddenly, a loud roar came from the blazing dragon and Leticia calmly said to Pest, who was standing beside her along with Shirayuki-Hime.

"Give it a little taste of your power." Leticia said to Pest, who smirked.

"With pleasure." She answered as she held her hands in front of her and black wind started to form a circle around her. "Taste this, lizard breath." She said as she shoot out a large dark wind wave that swept through the blazing dragon.

After a while, the black wind wave receded which caused everyone to look at the purple dragon, hoping that it was defeated by the combination and teamwork of Leticia, Sala and Pest.

"I admit that you three are remarkably strong." A deep voice said as everyone look at the purple dragon that was kneeling on one knee. The purple dragon lifted up its head and look at Leticia, Sala and Pest. "I will hand this battle to you. You had proved yourself truly." He said as everyone look at him in surprise, surprised that the dragon could talk.

Suddenly, clapping sounds could be heard as everyone look up at the top of the cliff, seeing a smiling Azazel standing on the said cliff while clapping.

"You really outdid yourself." Azazel smiled.

~Time Skip~

"Huh? This dragon is a Devil?" Issei stated in surprise.

"How long has it been, Ddraig?" The purple dragon asked as Issei look down at his gauntlet.

"It's been awhile, Tannin." Ddraig answered.

"You two know each other?" Issei asked in surprise as he looks down at his gauntlet.

"Blaze Meteor Dragon. In other words, the Dragon Flaming Meteor, Tannin. A former Dragon King. He reincarnated as a Devil. It's an interesting case." Azazel explained in amusement.

"A dragon turned into a Devil?" Kiba asked.

"How strong is it?" Issei look up at the dragon.

"I ask him to assist with your training." Azazel said to everyone.

"Training? We're going to train?" Xenovia asked.

"By order of Sirzechs, I made an exception and came. Don't forget about that, Fallen Angel." Tannin said as Azazel shrugs before he looks at everyone.

"If your President was here, she would be against it nonetheless. But your powers won't grow because of her softness and hesitation which is a disturbance." Azazel explained.

"Buchou never hesitates!" Issei retorted as Azazel smirked.

"I wanted to confirm how much power you are able to use under pressure. And thanks to that, I've decided the training you will undergo." Azazel smirked.

"Very bold for a Fallen Angel." Akeno said with a serious expression while she looks at Azazel.

"If it's keep them strong, I'll do anything. After all, I'm your teacher." Azazel said before he looks up at Deen, who is standing in front of Tannin. Its height almost reaches the head of the former Dragon King. "Anyway, I never saw anything like this before. Where on earth did you get it?" He asked as he looks at Deen with interest.

"From a Gift Game." Asuka answered as she looks up at Deen.

"How do you control it?"

"Unfortunately, I'm the only one that can control it." Asuka answered as Azazel raised his eyebrow at her.

"How?"

"My Gift or simply my power." Asuka answered with a small smile as Azazel nodded in acknowledgement before he looks at Tannin.

"So, how's their group, Tannin?" He asked as Tannin look at Leticia, Sala, Shirayuki-Hime, Asuka and Pest.

"They're strong. Teamwork with strength along with one's power. They had proved themselves during the battle. Not to mention, I was caught off guard when the giant appeared. I admit I wasn't prepared for something like that." Tannin explained with a smile as Asuka smiled at him. "Attack and defense. They've got it."

"Yes, but that is because they were led by this lady here, am I right?" Azazel asked to Leticia.

"Is that a concern I should take account of?" She asked as Azazel shook his head.

"No, and since each of your powers are different than the other. I absolutely have no clue on how to train you any further than you already are. Because of that, I will make you in charge of training them. Will that be okay with you?" Azazel asked as Leticia look at him before she nods.

"That will suffice." She answered as Azazel smiled.

"Good." Azazel answered with a nod as Pest raised her eyebrows.

"Is that all we're going to talk about? So, the dragon's a good guy now after he wanted to kill us just a moment ago? If you hadn't remembered, he tried to kill us." Pest stated with narrowed eyes in slight annoyance as Leticia look at her and nodded in agreement.

"While that may be true," She started as Pest smiled. "but that is just his role in this training." She finished as Pest frowned a little, annoyed from Leticia's last sentence.

Crossing her arms over her chest, Pest stated annoyingly. "Did you forget? He tried to roast us alive too."

"Yeah, no kidding. I can feel the heat burning my hands earlier." Shirayuki-Hime said letting her right hand on her hip, as Pest nodded in unison. "Are you sure that he isn't here to evaluate us?" She asked as Leticia look at the two before recalling the Tannin's flames that were growing hotter than a minute while he fought with Pest and Shirayuki-Hime. Even if she didn't fought with them, she could still feel the immense degree of heat from where she stood, much to her curiosity and slight confusion.

Hearing the comments that were thrown from both Pest and Shirayuki-Hime, Tannin bowed his head much to everyone's attention.

"I deeply apologize for the way I act during our fight. I did not expect that there were strong warriors amongst your group. Sirzechs did not tell me of all of your presences at once. He only told me that there will be new members joining this training."

"What, so he meant that we're a bunch of noobies that don't know anything? How about I'll show him something what a Demon Lord would do." Pest exclaimed bringing her hand in front of her as black wind started to rotate around her hand.

Looking at Tannin, Sala narrowed her eyes a little. "If that is true, are you trying to tell us that you underestimate us? Is that right?" Sala asked with a small frown, unsatisfied by Tannin.

Hearing Sala's statement made Tannin bowed his head down before looking down at Sala and the others. "...That is true. I can't lie about that fact but I didn't expect that there are some of you that are capable yet. But after the initiative battle, I am proud to say that you proved yourselves. Most of all, I certainly did not expect the red giant that was summoned by that young girl there." Tannin said with a small smile as he looks at Asuka, who smiled at him. "That completely took me off guard. Also, I was surprised by its ability to stretch, including the protective shield it has given you all." He complimented. "Aside from that, I can say that your group has the element of surprise overall. Teamwork with a range set of skills and immense power that can support it." Tannin stated as the five smiled in appreciation. "But I admit that out of the five of your group, one of you has the ability to drain energy. That ability alone is enough to empower even a dragon like me. It's a remarkable ability truly." He complimented recalling that his energy was draining by the second whenever he came in contact with the black wind waves that was casted by Pest.

"Now that's the way of calling a victory." Pest smiled in satisfaction, satisfied by Tannin's compliment of her ability. Meanwhile, Asuka shook her head in amusement before looking at Shirayuki-Hime, seeing her rolling her eyes before turning the other way.

"Show off." She exclaimed as Asuka stifle a laugh while Pest smile smugly at Shirayuki-Hime.

"Anyway, I heard what happened to the Underworld, and I apologize on my behalf that I couldn't be of any help whatsoever." Tannin suddenly said as everyone look up at him, surprised that he knew. "After I heard the news and after news of the first known destruction of the Gremory Territory from Sirzechs, I convey my deepest sympathy for one of your comrade that played a huge role in the battle. He is recuperating if I heard right."

"Yes, he is now recuperating." Leticia stated as Tannin nodded.

"I have heard from Sirzechs about his battle with the Three-Headed Dragon. He fought with the dragon on equal grounds for hours, when the dragon alone had defeated the four powerful Satans that ruled the Underworld itself within minutes along with the Head of the Gremory Family. Aside from that, I also heard of the decisive battle that took place in the Gremory territories and the forest that surrounded the place. If I remember correctly, there were multiple scars over the ruined forest, some of which destroyed a large area of the landscape. On my way to the Gremory Territory, I couldn't believe the damage that has been done to the soil of the Gremory's." Tanning shakes his head in sympathy before he look at everyone. "Sirzechs said that the battle would have taken a wrong turn without your comrade's help. His name is Sakamaki Izayoi, am I correct?"

At this Asuka nodded. "Yes, that is his name." She answered.

Tannin nodded his head, "I apologize if I brought up the past so suddenly when I know all of you wanted to forget." He said feeling slightly regretful of reminding them of the tragic past.

"No, it is alright." Asuka assured waving her hand in dismissal at Tannin, wanting him to continue speaking.

"If that is so." Tannin stated before continuing. "I have heard of Sakamaki Izayoi's prowess in the battle against the Tyrant Dragon, and all I can tell you about him is that he is an individual with many talents that I can't describe in a sentence. I'm sure you would all agree." At this, everyone nodded in unison, knowing that Izayoi has many talents than one, starting with his unique charisma that attracts anyone to follow his lead.

Looking down, Tannin continued. "He battled the dragon in exchange of the citizen's safety. During the said battle, I was informed that he gained a mortal wound, but he still kept fighting against the Three-Headed Dragon. When I heard the final confrontation between Izayoi and the dragon, which resulted of the dragon's banishment from the Underworld, I can say about Izayoi is that he is a true Hero which is not seen in many years. Sacrificing his own life for others is an act of true bravery which earned my full respect of him. The whole world of the Underworld rest upon his shoulders during his battle and I would assumed he knew of the weight that he shouldered and that act alone along with the achievement of the banishment of the dragon gained my admiration of him. He is truly a Hero." He said as Asuka smiled gratefully at Tannin, thankful for his words that gave them reassurance.

"Thank you for your kind words, Tannin. I know Izayoi-kun will appreciate it." Asuka said with a nod before Leticia nodded in agreement, followed by Sala and Shirayuki-Hime.

"And so, I will hope for his fast and safe recovery." Tannin said with a smile while crossing his arms over his chest.

"Hey, Ddraig, why didn't you tell me this was a mere exercise?" Issei looked down at his gauntlet.

"If you knew from the beginning it was an exercise, it would do no good." Ddraig stated.

"It wouldn't?"

"Tannin did not use even a tenth of his power."

"Anyway, since we're all dirty. How about a bath?" Akeno asked with a smile.

~Time Skip~

~Underworld's Hotsprings~

"I don't want to! I'll come later!" Gasper stated in desperation as Issei pulled him with his hand.

"Why are you ashamed? Why are you ashamed? Are you a faggot or something? Don't wrap your towel around your chest!" Issei said as he looks at the way Gasper hold his towel above his chest to which only women does.

"No way... You look at me like that, Issei-senpai?" Gasper said in surprise as Issei's eyes widen.

"You're crazy!" Isse shouted as Kiba smiled in amusement.

"Issei, don't tease Gasper so much!" Akeno stated as Issei stopped and look up, seeing Akeno looking down at him while exposing just above her shoulders.

"There's women here?" Issei asked. "That means...the Heaven of Breasts must be upstairs!" He thought in wonder. "This is too good! Viva la hot springs of Hell!" Issei shouted in delight.

"It would be even better if he had a drink." Azazel stated smiling before Issei look at him, to which he gestured the brown haired to come forth. "Listen, Issei. I have a proposition to make…" He said as Issei sit on his knees.

"Huh?" Issei questioned in confusion.

"Have you ever groped a person's breasts?" Azazel asked as Issei tried to remember. After a while, he frowns as he recalled that he never groped a person's breasts before, much to his disappointment.

"No..." Issei said deflated as Kiba shook his head while Gasper watched them next to Kiba.

~Women's Side of the Hotspring~

"Xenovia really likes to train." Asia commented as she watches Xenovia swim around the water determinedly.

"Can we really bath if the boys are here too?" Asuka asked sitting down next to Leticia, who was relaxing in the water with a towel around her chest till her middle area.

"Don't worry, they know what will become of them if they ever peek." Leticia said with closed eyes before she opens them and looks at Asuka in curiosity.

"Have you never been to a mixed bath before, Asuka?" She asked as Asuka grip onto her towel tightly, recalling the time in Little Garden where she shared the hotsprings with Izayoi alone.

"Y-Yes, I have..." Asuka glanced sideways with a blush as Leticia raised an eyebrow.

"What's gotten you so flush about a mixed bath?" Pest asked as Asuka look at her, seeing Pest sitting down in the water by the edge of the pool.

"I am curious as well, Asuka. Did something horrible happen while you shared the bath with a male?" Sala asked brushing her hair down with her hands.

"It's better that I shouldn't tell you." Asuka said with a shook her head. "It's embarrassing as it is..." She said.

"Let me guess." Shirayuki-Hime said as Asuka look at her right, seeing the black haired deep in thought before a smile become present on her face. "It wouldn't happen to involve Izayoi-sama, is it?"

Just as she asked, Asuka immediately blushed to which she turns her head away, trying to hide her blush. At her reaction, Shirayuki-Hime smirk grows.

"So it involves Izayoi-sama." She stated out loud as everyone look at Asuka, who was blushing from embarrassment from all the attention she was getting.

""Huh?" At the sound of Izayoi's name, Xenovia stopped swimming and walk towards the group of girls that had gathered around Asuka, who was avoiding their stares.

"What's involves with Izayoi-kun?" Akeno asked making herself present beside Shirayuki-Hime followed by Asia, who stands next to her.

"Yes, I heard his name being spoken. What is he involved in exactly?" Xenovia asked as Shirayuki-Hime look at the blushing Asuka.

"I don't really know. But Asuka had already shared the hotsprings with Izayoi-kun."

"Some of us had shared the hotsprings with him, even Rias. I don't think that's such—"

"Were the two of you alone?" Shirayuki-Hime asked Asuka, who didn't respond and stayed silent. In truth, her face had already turned red after she had heard Shorayuki-Hime statement. Smirking at the silent treatment, Shirayuki-Hime hold her hand under her chin. "So, you two were alone after all."

At this, everyone look at Asuka eyed wide, surprised.

"Asuka you shared the hotprings with Izayoi-kun alone? What did you two do in there?" Akeno asked as Asuka look at her and waved her hands furiously at her.

"We didn't do anything!" Asuka said out loud.

"Well, can you tell us in detail what did you do to prove you're still an innocent girl?" Shirayuki-Hime asked with a smirk as Asuka glared at her before she look at everyone that was looking at her, waiting for her to tell them, including Leticia who was curious herself on finding out.

Sighing in defeat, Asuka started to speak, knowing that it was useless for her to escape from the situation she was in. "…Well, we went to the hotspring in Little Garden."

At her statement, both Leticia and Sala look at her in surprise.

"And?" Pest asked as Asuka look down at the clear water that showed her reflection.

"…We didn't know that the boys hotspring had a slight problem with the water and Izayoi-kun agreed to share the hotspring even after I protested." Asuka said with a small frown as Akeno and Shirayuki-Hime smiled.

"Izayoi-kun…" Akeno shook her head in amusement.

"But in the hotspring, I did get to know him a little better…" A smile appears on Asuka's face.

~Human World~

Looking at the kids playing around the park, His Highness stood back under a shade of a tree, knowing nothing else to do but watch as the kids play.

"Hm?" His Highness turns his head around as a presence made itself known. Knowing who was the presence, His Highness lazily look back and continued to watch Rin play with the kids that had asked her to play with them earlier. "What is it?" He asked to the newly-arrived presence behind him.

"I have news about a certain meeting that you will like."

"What this meeting doesn't concerns me."

"Oh, but I beg to differ, Your Highness. I heard from a reliable source of mine that there will be many strong opponents gathering at the said meeting."

At the word, 'strong', His Highness glance behind him.

"If I remember correctly, one of the Satans couldn't even lay a hand on me. What matters if anyone in the meeting would?" He answered as the male behind him only smile.

"Because you defeated one of the four Satans that ruled the Underworld. You haven't defeated the strongest Satan yet." The male stated as His Highness raised an eyebrow.

"Strongest? You mean I defeated one of his lackeys?"

"I wouldn't say lackey, but one of his comrades. But I assure you that he will attend the meeting. In the Underworld, he holds the title of 'Lucifer'." The male explained.

"There's only one that can fight me and he is dead. What makes the difference if Lucifer isn't one of the strong you said he is?" His Highness asked the male.

"I'm just here to give you a moment's notice, that is all."

"...Where's the meeting held?" His Highness asked, wanting to know if he could fight any strong opponent that can fight with him.

Smiling at his answer, he answered. "In the Underworld." After he said that, His Highness only saw darkness.

"Your Highness?" Rin called out as she looks around the park where she knew he was walking around somewhere. But after looking for a while, she couldn't find him, much to her confusion and worry.

~Kyoto~

Afternoon

"Okaa-sama…" Kunou called out with a small frown as Yasaka was sitting behind her while busying herself with her daughter's hair, braiding and twisting it.

"Hm? What is it, Kunou?" Yasaka asked softly above her as Kunou begin fiddling her at the sides of her skirt, nervous to speak the words that were about to come out from her mouth. She knows that words can be sharper than swords as told by her mother and she knows what she was about to say might make her sad, much to her sadness. But she wanted to know badly herself because she did not want to be the clueless one amongst the ones that know about her father. While she was having her own thoughts, she was unaware that her nine tails were swaying nervously behind her to which it went noticed by Yasaka, who looked at the tails with pure curiosity.

Knowing that she was acting nervous, Yasaka pretend to busy herself with her daughter's hair while waiting for her to talk about what's the cause of her nervousness. If she questions her now, she knew that her daughter would dismiss the cause, knowing that she knew the cause even though she did not know it herself. And so, she waited until her daughter begins to speak.

"Okaa-sama, will Otou-sama be alright?" Kunou asked surprising Yasaka.

Curling her lips into a frown, Yasaka looked down at her daughter in sympathy. Even though she was surprised by the sudden question, she wasn't surprise that she wanted to know about her father's condition after what she saw.

"I'm scared…" Kunou mutters as she hugs her knees while hiding the frown that formed on her lips. "I don't want to lose Otou-sama…"

At that statement, Kunou's eyes widen at the pair of arms and nine fox tails wrap around her body.

"I don't want to lose your father too, musume." Yasaka stated with a small smile. "There are people too who doesn't want to lose him either. I don't want to tell that he is going to be okay, because I don't know about him now." She said as Kunou frowns deeper. "But he will make it through."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because he promised us that he'll come back to us, right? So, he wouldn't break that promise, correct?" Yasaka asked her daughter. "Not now…" She thought to herself afterwards in sadness.

Upon hearing the spoken promise, a smile lit up on Kunou's face.

"Yes, Otou-sama did promise." She exclaimed as Yasaka smiled at her daughter but she hid the sadness that were visible in her eyes.

"So now, we just have to wait for him. Okay?" Yasaka asked as Kunou nodded.

"Okay. Thank you, Okaa-sama." She smiled as she closed her eyes and cuddle in the warmth of her mother's embrace, thankful that she was with her.

But she was unaware of the unsettling frown that appeared on Yasaka's lips, thinking if she did the right cause of action at the moment. She did not want to give false hope but she just have to give it for the sake of her daughter's happiness. But at the thought of giving suh false hope in the form of a promise, she was guilt-ridden and ashamed of herself, knowing better herself than to do something like that. More importantly, her daughter that she truly loves. But in spite of the false hope she had gave, she wanted to believe in that promise too. She wanted to believe that the promise will make him want to wake up from his coma state. For that, she hoped that he will wake up and everything would be alright, even though her words had her and her daughter raise their hopes up for the better, and she wished that their hopes wouldn't be rewarded with a horrible loss.

"Yasaka-sama?" A voice said over the sliding door, interrupting Yasaka's thoughts.

Raising her head, Yasaka look towards the door while her daughter wakes up from her short nap.

"Yes?"

"There are visitors that wanted to see you." The fox servant stated over the door as Yasaka thought about the visitors for a while.

"Visitors?" Kunou asked looking up at her mother, having fully wakened up from her nap.

Looking at her daughter, Yasaka turns towards the door.

"Let them in." Yasaka commanded as the fox servant slides the door open to reveal Rias, Serafall and Kuroka, dressed in kimono.

"Excuse us for interrupting, Yasaka-sama." Rias said politely as Serafall nodded in agreement while Kuroka look at her.

A smile appeared on Yasaka's face as she gestured her hand in front of her.

"I don't mind. Please have a seat." She said as the three Devils took a seat in front of her and Kunou, who look at Kuroka. Turning to the servant, she nodded at her, signalling that she would be alright to which the servant nodded her head and closed the door, leaving the five of them in the room. After she left, Yasaka turns to the three Devils that were seated in front of her.

Silence envelope the room, as neither one of them wanted to break it.

"What are you?" Kunou asked in pure curiosity as she watches Kuroka's tails swaying back and forth slowly.

"What?" Kuroka asked in slight confusion.

"Kunou, we shouldn't address the guests like that when we first meet them. Did you forget?" Yasaka scolded gently as Kunou finally realized her mistake and she bowed her head at Kuroka.

"I'm sorry." She apologizes before she lifts her head to look at Kuroka.

"Don't worry, little fox. Everything is forgiven." Kuroka stated with a smile as Serafall and Rias glance at her with slight worry, worried about her manners.

"Thank you." Kunou smiled before she looks up with a thoughtful look, much to Kuroka's and the others confusion.

Yasaka smiled at her daughter and placed a hand on her shoulder, breaking her out of her thoughts.

"Okaa-sama?" Kunou asked as Yasaka urges her free hand to the three Devils.

"There is no need to be nervous. You can ask them directly." She stated as Kunou blushed in embarrassment.

Heeding her mother's words, Kunou turns her head to face the three Devils. She bowed her head to them, much to their confusion.

"My name is Kunou. It's a pleasure to meet you three." Kunou introduced as Rias couldn't help but smile sweetly at her, followed by Serafall, who couldn't resist at how cute she introduced herself.

Lifting up her head, Kunou look at Kuroka first, much to the latter's confusion.

"Introduce yourself." Rias whispered to Kuroka, who glance her at the corner of her eyes before she look at Kunou's expecting look.

A smile appears on Kuroka's face as she tilted her head to the side slightly. "The name's Kuroka, nya!" She introduced herself lifting up her right fist next to her right cheek and let it down, acting as a cat with her right fist acting as a cat's paw.

Wide eyed at the surprised introduction, a smile made its way on Kunou's face as she smiles wide at Kuroka.

Smiling at the look on Kunou's face, Rias gestured herself with her hand at the middle of her shoulder blades.

"My name is Rias Gremory of the Gremory Clan. It's nice to meet you, Kunou." Rias introduced as Kunou nodded in appreciation.

Seeing that it was her turn, Serafall bowed her head slightly before lifting it up to face Kunou.

"My name is Serafall Leviathan. It's nice to meet you, Kunou!" Serafall smiled while holding her two right fingers over her right eye, which makes Kunou smiled wider.

"Thank you. It's nice to meet you three too!" Kunou commented as Yasaka smiled down at her daughter before she focuses her attention at the three Devils.

"As you may have known, my name is Yasaka. A Nine Tail Fox as is my daughter. Due to the past event that happened, I apologize that I cannot speak to all of you during those several days while Izayoi-kun is recuperating. There were matters that I had to concern myself with that involves your sudden arrival." Yasaka smile as she held up her hand at Rias, who was about to speak. "Worry not. I have taken care of the matters already." She assured as Rias slowly nods in acknowledgement.

"If I may, those matters...did they concern Izayoi-kun instead of us?" Rias asked as Yasaka smiled.

"Yes, apparently it did. But as any of you may worry about, there weren't matters that involve the relationship between you three and Izayoi-kun." Yasaka stated which confused the three Devils.

"What do you mean?" Serafall asked with a quirked eyebrow as Yasaka look down.

"The matter that they were talking about was the relationship between Izayoi-kun and me. In other words, they thought about us as husband and wife." Yasaka said as she glanced up at the shocked looks that she was greeted by the three Devils, knowing that they would be shock by the information given to her. She was indeed shocked by the revelation that one of her advisors stated at the said meeting to discuss the event which dates the sudden arrival of Izayoi. But while she was shocked, she had mixed feelings about the revelation such as confusion, embarrassment and lastly happy, to which she didn't know why she felt happy at that time.

A small pink tinge coloured her cheeks as Yasaka tried to shook off the thoughts about the meeting, which made her suddenly feel flustered whenever she think about it.

"Okaa-sama loves Otou-sama, that's why! Right, Okaa-sama?" Kunou asked as she looks at Yasaka with a wide smile while Rias stare at Kunou with wide eyes, followed by Serafall and Kuroka.

Yasaka look at the three with a reassured smile before she look down at Kunou.

"Musume, I wouldn't say that—"

"So, Okaa-sama doesn't love Otou-sama?" Kunou asked with a small frown as Yasaka shook her head before she stroke her daughter's head a few times.

"I wouldn't say that. If it makes you feel better, I like your Otou-sama. Like is a little similar as love." Yasaka explained as Kunou smiled widely.

"So, Okaa-sama likes Otou-sama?" She wondered truthfully.

"Yes, so don't feel upset or discourage about it, alright? Even though your Otou-sama might twist the matter into his own but this is the truth." Yasaka explained as Kunou raised her eyebrow in curiosity.

"Into his own? Like what?"

"He can say that we love each other rather than like each other." Yasaka stated as Kunou raised her hands to the sky with a smile on her face.

"I love Otou-sama's twisted matter than Okaa-sama's." She said out loud surprising everyone who was in the room. Meanwhile, Yasaka look down at her daughter with wide eyes as she couldn't believe that her own daughter would pick such a choice. Suddenly, Yasaka's cheeks turned a rosy red to which could be seen by everyone.

"Okaa-sama, why are your cheeks red?" Kunou wondered curiously as Yasaka covered her cheeks with her right sleeve, trying to hide the embarrassment she was experiencing right now.

"Musume, why would you pick Otou-sama's rather than Okaa-sama?" Yasaka asked behind her sleeve as Kunou smiled wide at her.

"Because Okaa-sama should always loves Otou-sama!" Kunou exclaimed brightly as Yasaka's face flushed.

"Oh my..." Yasaka thought as she tried to compose herself in front of her guests but she can't seem to after hearing Kunou's answer. She admitted that her daughter is growing smarter by the day, much to her slight happiness. But she can't seem to be happy and proud of her if she was immensely flustered by a sentence that she created based on her love for her father.

When she heard about her daughter's statement of her love for her father, she was taken by surprise and her mind went blank to answer her back. After she had gotten herself under control, she twisted her daughter's statement a little bit to which she told her that she likes her father rather than love him. Even though she had told her daughter that fact, she couldn't help but to think over her true feeling for Izayoi, to which she suddenly questioned herself whether she likes or truly loves him as a lover.

At the thought, Yasaka's cheeks flushed with a rosy red colour, not expecting her to think about her love for Izayoi when she didn't even know her feelings of him. "What have I gotten myself into? I don't think I'll be able to concentrate if I always think about this for the rest of the day." She thought feeling truly disturbed by the situation she put herself into courtesy of her daughter that had started her to think about it in the first place. Thinking about the cause of her situation, Yasaka smiled, not knowing how her daughter was making her feel inside whenever she thought about Izayoi. "Kunou…" Yasaka thought with a sense of amusement, not blaming her daughter in a bad away but she wished that she wasn't in the situation she was in right now, to which she felt disturbed by the thought of her own love life to which she knew that she shouldn't think about it and instead, she should think about her position as the leader of the Youkais in Kyoto. "…Love…" Yasaka thought about the word but before she continued to think about the word, she was interrupted by a voice calling out to her.

"Okaa-sama, are you alright?" Kunou asked slightly worried for her mother who stared at the ground earlier for a while, much to her slight concern.

"I'm alright, Kunou. Sorry for worrying you for a second. Okaa-sama was thinking about something, that is all." Yasaka answered letting down her sleeve to reveal her smile before she stroke her daughter's head in reassurance, much to Kunou's happiness to which she was glad that her mother was alright.

"What did you think about, Okaa-sama?" Kunou asked in curiosity. "Is it about Otou-sama?" She asked which surprises Yasaka but she didn't show it on her face. Instead, she smiles in amusement.

"You really do like to talk about Otou-sama a lot, musume." Yasaka stated as Kunou nodded with a smile.

"I do. Because I love Otou-sama!" She said to which made Yasaka's eyes widen for a second before they soften.

"Yes, you are." Yasaka replied back with a soft smile as Kunou smiled back at her.

Meanwhile, Rias look at the two with a smile of herself, liking the feeling of watching a mother and daughter like Yasaka and Kunou, which reminded of herself and her mother, much to her happiness of relieving the sweet memories between them. Recalling the image of the blond red haired girl in her mind, she smiled inwardly as she couldn't help but wished for the moment that she and her own child would talk just like Yasaka and Kunou in front of her. Rias then glance at both Serafall and Kuroka's expressions and she honestly can admit that they each liked the scene that was displayed in front of them.

Smiling down at her daughter, Yasaka couldn't help but feel her growing love for her grow even more since her birth. But then, realization struck her as she knew that she wasn't alone with her daughter in the room. Yasaka glance at her three guests that were seated in front of her and send an apologetic smile towards them.

"My apologies, I don't mean to waste your time." She apologized with a slight bow of her head before looking up at Rias, who lightly waved her hand in dismissal.

"It is okay, Yasaka-sama. We don't mind at all. Truthfully we enjoyed seeing you and your daughter happy." Rias explained to which Yasaka nodded in appreciation before looking at her daughter.

"Thank you, Rias. I'm grateful that I have a daughter like her." She explained as Kunou smiled widely at her mother. "Anyway..." She started as she looked at the three Devils in question. "...what do you three want to talk about?" She finishes with a question as Rias smiled at Serafall, who smiled back.

"Well, since we've stayed here for almost a week, I thought if it's not too much trouble to talk about, we were wondering how did you meet Izayoi-kun? I mean, it's hard to believe that he met you, Yasaka-sama, the Leader of Youkais." She smiled as her question surprises Yasaka.

"How did Okaa-sama met Otou-sama?" Kunou asked in wonder before she smiled widely. "I know how they met!" She stated loudly to which Rias smiled.

"Really? If you don't mind, can you tell your mother to tell us about it? If you want, you can tell us together with your mother." Rias explained as Kunou beam brightly and she immediately looks at her mother.

"Okaa-sama, tell them! Tell them!" Kunou said to her as Yasaka look at her before looking at Rias and the others. A smile appeared on her face as she shook her head in amusement.

"I can't help but ask on why are we talking about Otou-sama a lot today? It seems that today of all days is dedicated to him." Yasaka stated to which made Kunou laughed.

"Because Otou-sama is a fun topic to talk about today!" Kunou replied between laugh.

Smiling at her daughter for her reply, she looks at Rias and the others, deciding to tell her story. "To answer your question, I, myself, wouldn't have met Izayoi-kun without Kunou. She plays a big part in all of this. Without her, we wouldn't be happier than we are now." Yasaka look at Kunou, who smiled at her and sit closer to her. Yasaka then look back at the three Devils as she absentmindedly look at the ground and recall the event to which she feels like it just happens yesterday, much to her happiness.

"We met last year and it was on the day of the Gion Festival held in Kyoto…"

To Be Continued…

That's the end of A Problem Devil, Born~ Chapter 36: Going to the Underworld!

First of all, when I write about this chapter, I had to wait for a few days for the ideas to come. So I'm sorry if you had to wait for a month until I updated. I'm truly sorry. Anyway, I feel happy when I wrote this chapter because it's another version than Canon. And since you all like and love this story because of the characters that I put in, I hope that you will give me reviews to rejuvenate me to work harder, alright?

Without further ado, this is today's questions:

1. How was the story? Satisfying after I didn't update for a month? I hope I didn't lost my touch.

2. How's the scene of Yasaka and Kunou with Rias, Serafall and Kuroka? If you didn't know, I feel great when I wrote this scene and the scene with Pest and Shirayuki-Hime, not excluding the whole story that I've written. So, I hope you give a lot of love for my hard work of the chapter.

3. What happen with His Highness? Where did he go? Who's that male figure?

4. If there are any confusion or any errors that you found rushed, please PM me immediately.

5. What will happen in the next chapter?

Answer these questions when you finished reading it, okay? If you have any other comments to make aside from answering these questions, you can comment on it. But I'm hoping majority are good ones.

So, I really hope you stay tuned for the Highschool DxD Born in this Version of the Fanfic, and don't forget to leave favorite, follows and especially, reviews.

And so, I bid you farewell, Jane! ArtLotus out!