Chapter 2: Let's go back to the Underworld! Issei's Secret
A/N: Well to old and new readers your support is a refreshing and long missed thing. Alright then on with the next chapter.
In a dark and unknown location a man was walking down a stone corridor. It looked like the underground tunnel of some castle by the color and look of the stone walls. Torches that were alight with magically fueled fire lit his way but the shadows still too many and his face was unseen.
Finally he came to the end of the tunnel where there was a single massive wooden door, with no handle.
Raising his hand he summoned forth a devil magic seal. Then snapped his fingers making it shatter and vanish. After that the door opened at the center.
Stepping inside he entered a cavernous sized stone room, or rather cave would be more fitting. From the shadow he could hear something screaming.
It was a horrific scream, it seems a mixed of human and monster, filled with rage, pain, anguish as well as insanity.
"I see you are managing well enough my new pet, soon the time will come for us to make a little chaos. The Red Dragon Emperor awaits your affections" the man said in a dead joking tone.
At his words the screaming stopped and something in the shadows moved.
"Red Dragon?" a voice asked, it was oddly clear despite the earlier unstable howling.
"Why yes, I am sure this will make for a delightfully fun party. I am becoming excited the point of arousal already" The man at the door said with a chuckle
A huge shadowy form moved closer to the man.
"Who are you?" it asked
Then man said nothing but simple turned and walked out.
"Come along let us see if you are ready" He called
As he walked out the light of the torches shined on long silver hair
"You!" the thing inside the shadows said.
Then without another world it stepped out of the cave into the tunnel
"Red Dragon….you will pay"
…..
At that time the Red Dragon Emperor, Issei Hyoudou had finally come down to the main floor of his family mansion. Even months after the renovation, courtesy of his girlfriend's brother and father, he still had moments of being amazed at the place that he called home, rather one of the places he called home.
The kitchen table sure was crowded in the Hyoudou household.
It was nearly a full gathering, with only a few absences. Ravel Phenex, Issei's manager, for one who had informed Rias of family obligations with the coming New Year festivities had already left. Among their group Rossweisse and Irina had informed that they also would be away.
Rossweisse had decided that she would be visiting her grandmother, while Irina was planning to return to heaven to spend some time with her father.
"I understand completely, still I hope you can make it back in time for the New Year Ball in the underworld" Rias said as she, Akeno, and Asia were all busy inside the spacious kitchen cooking breakfast for the group.
"I think I can be back by then" Rossweisse said as she opened her small notebook and flipped to the calendar section.
"Let's see it is the 26th of December today so the Ball will be on the 1st. yes that is plenty of time" the platinum haired former Valkyrie said to herself as she made notes.
"Same here, wouldn't dream of missing a big party" Irina said cheerfully.
"Excellent, and it will be a formal party so remember to wear something dazzling. As my servants I expect you to make a big impression" Rias said cheerfully.
Issei sat down at the end of the table. He glanced to the spots that his parents usually occupied but recalled that they away visiting other relatives as is the tradition for the year but had said to tell Rias' parents they sent their best and would love to have them visit again soon.
"Ise, for you" Rias said brightly setting down a plate for him.
Today was a western dish day, with fried eggs, imported bacon and toast. Naturally of course as one of the queens of the kitchen it would have Rias own special touch.
"Thanks Rias" Issei said as he cut into the eggs and took a bit, seconds later he was already crying
"Delicious" he said overflowing with emotion.
"Well aren't you sweet" Rias said with a smile as she swooped down to kiss him on the cheek.
At once Issei felt danger and glancing past Rias he say the dark looks the other ladies around the table, and kitchen were giving him.
Smiling nervously he continues to eat as Rias sat down next to him.
"So are we going to the Underworld today or for this ball thing?" Issei asked trying to avoid the coming of cheek pinches or worse.
"Tonight, it's tradition that families reunite before the New Year, between now and then no official Devil affairs can take place, so everyone gets a break. The ball is also a tradition to welcome the New Year, it's very popular among all the devil families and one of the few events that is open to all. Naturally we attend as part of the High society, that is to say us two, together" Rias said explaining, also blushing.
It almost looked like she was concerned about that last bit.
Issei was eating as he listening. Then a light went off above his head as he heard her mention that Devil affairs were suspended.
That means…maybe I can ask 'them' for help yes…would beat asking Azazel he would try something. Yes Issei don't pass up this chance.
"Issei? Is everything alright?" Rias asked.
Shaking himself from what made him lost touch with the conversation he nodded quickly
"Yeah sorry, was just thinking that this all sounds like fun and I'm glad we can go together" he said with a smile and blush thinking of him and Rias together at some ball like a really fancy date.
Rias was looking at him curiously noting that his reaction was a bit off from his norm but after a moment nodded with a happy smile again.
"We'll need to see about some shopping. I think we all could use some new clothes for the Ball" Rias said thoughtfully.
Suddenly Issei felt someone grab his arm, and it was then enveloped into something warm, soft, and like what most would consider the embrace of heaven
"Ise Dear, would you come shopping with me, help me pick out a nice new Kimono to wear, maybe something else sexy for later" came Akeno's seductive voice that she used around him.
"A-A-Akeno umm I uh...well" Ise said startled at seeing his arm sink between her breasts.
Then a whine came from behind as he felt another, Asia, put her arms around his neck.
"No, no Issei come with me I've never been to a ball before" Asia demanded as she held him tightly.
This prevented Issei from speaking for the moment as he could only watch with mounting horror.
"Hmm I also haven't been to many formal events that I needed to wear something special for. Yes, Issei take me shopping as well" Xenovia said from across the table
"…and me, if I'm gonna wear something to show off what I got, I'd want your opinion" Koneko said.
"All you of you stop it! If Ise goes shopping with anyone it will be me. After all he'll be going with me to the ball" Rias said commandingly, but also in her jealous girly tone whenever any of the others attempt to take Issei's attention from her, as she stood up and her body was soon enveloped by her crimson aura.
"*giggle* Now, now Rias. Ise may end up taking someone else if he wants to, maybe all of us"
"Yeah it's not fair that you get him alone for a party"
"True, it has not stopped us before"
"Word"
Akeno, Asia, Xenovia, and Koneko meeting Rias' glare and also readying for battle in their own ways.
"I will also go shopping, but pass on the party, too crowded" came a quiet voice from under the table
Glancing down Issei saw Orphis sitting there watching events unfold. However she was unnoticed by all but him, and as always maintaining her pure and obviously eccentric behavior.
As the other girls all faced each other in a contest of who would win Issei, with Irina and Rossweisse maintaining the position of observers, primarily as they had no desire to get in the middle and as they also may not be attending the party.
Issei meanwhile took this chance to slip around them. Quickly slipping his cleaned plate into the sink before he slid out of the room.
"Phew close call…but this may be my best chance" he said to himself.
Making his way through the house he climbed the levels until he reached the sixth floor. This floor was meant for meetings of the three great powers, Devils, Angels, and Fallen Angels, when they desired an informal meeting place. It was also meant to house guest of any of these said powers.
Issei opened the door to the VIP meeting room and headed for the desk. Inside were various materials needed to facilitate meetings? Namely the papers with the magic circles meant to open communication channels.
Normally those with magical powers, such as Devils, could use their own power for create a channel, a sort of magical phone call. Issei however lacked in many of these spells doing them only when it was meant for a short distance as his devil writing ability was still in the works. For this he would need one of the already prepared cards of paper that had symbol on it to make the call he wanted to make.
"Let's see no those a heaven symbols…no that's not it that's fallen angel…" Issei said to himself as he was looking through the pile.
Finally he spotted one that had the correct symbol. The writing around the circle edge ready as Satan, and Lucifer. The center had a crimson rose encased in a circle.
"Alright now then, if I remember right I just need let my devil power flow into this and it will open the channel"
He closed his eyes and concentrated on his own Devil aura and started to stimulate it so that is would flow into the paper card he held.
After a moment he felt it activate and opened his eyes.
In front of him he saw he had already made a big mistake.
It was a card meant for a channel with a 3D visual connection, not just a regular audio channel.
"Well now this is a surprise" came a calm and pleased voice.
For the moment Issei was dumbstruck.
Sitting in front of him, or rather seeing through the magic of the communication circle was the man he had hoped to contact.
Leader of the Four Great Satan's, Devil-King, Sirzechs Lucifer. Rias' older brother and formerly of the Gremory Devil clan.
A man of impressive features, Issei had always thought him to be the male version of Rias. Almost always having the look of a kind and caring man he also exuded an aura of great power. Given that he was chosen to be the Devil King, as well as the title of Lucifer after the previous Lucifer was killed in the great war, it made sense that one would feel a certain sense of overwhelming presence about him, even though a magical communication circle. Yet being from the Gremory clan, reputed for their deep sense of care and affection for those around them be it friends, family, and servants, Sirzechs was a man Issei had often felt a brotherly connection to, but always in a highly respectful and formal manner.
That was a given as, even though he was ignorant of the matter, Issei had become engaged to Rias some time ago and was in essence a member of the Gremory clan. Being the 'idiot' that he was the ritual they had undergone had been too confusing to him, thus he not realized the meaning of it.
Yet he was not alone. There was another with the man he was hoping to talk with.
He was in fact seated on a leather couch with a woman at his side. A silver haired, and eyed, woman wearing a simple maid's outfit. She was stunning but also gave off an aura of serious nature. Still she had kind eyes directed to Issei. Grayfia Gremory, formerly Lucifuge. Known as the Greatest Queen among all the devil peerage servant's. She was also Sirzechs wife and mother of his only son Millicas. At least that is what was known in a private sense. Given she was formerly of the Old-Satan faction it had made for some interesting talk as she ended up marrying a man who was essentially her enemy at one time, a truly popular love story among female devils a Romeo and Juliet kind of tale. Now she was a maid in the service of the Gremory clan.
Issei had always felt a certain sense of fear for this woman. Given his lower status and that she represented, at times, the will and wishes of his beloved Rias' parents he strived to earn her approval. She was a strict woman but a good one at heart and he had seen her kind side.
Something had come of that during a trip to an Onsen in Izu. True she had somewhat drunk at the time but had given her approval of his relationship with Rias and asked that in private he call her "Big Sister". Similar to how Sirzechs had asked Issei to call him 'Big Brother'. A feat Issei found to be too great an honor, in his mind how would he seriously call a Satan Big Brother, it had always seemed impossible.
Yet…perhaps now…that was due to change.
Issei also noticed that they were seated rather close and from the look of the room his 3D image was standing it, a very ornate and impressive office, they were enjoying a cup of tea together.
They are enjoying time off!...
"Oh crap…I used the wrong card" Issei suddenly blurted out, already turning red with embarrassment and shock as he realized he had just appeared in front of the Devil King without any warning and what's worse appears to barge in when he and Grayfia were enjoying some quiet time.
While Sirzechs was looking at Issei with a pleased smile, Grayfia was maintain a curious look at his sudden appearance.
Issei dropped down to one knee instantly and bowed his head
"Sirzechs, Grayfia. Please forgive me I didn't mean to just show up like this and interrupt you both, I thought I was grabbing a basic communication circle to ask if I could speak with you and got the wrong one" he said hurriedly and with no small amount of panic in his voice as he rattled off the most polite apology that he could manage, and realizing that perhaps he should have added proper titles, but it was a bit late for that.
He was then surprised to hear a pair of chuckles. One he recognized as Sirzechs, having heard it many times before. The other was Grayfia, something truly rare having only heard it once before.
"Ise, please stand up. I am glad to have this unexpected pleasure of your visit. I did have those communications circles prepared to contact me after all. Though when I saw the circle form I expected it to be Ri-Ri. I also do recall saying that you could call on your Big Brother whenever you needed" Sirzechs said in his kind tone.
Issei took several deep breaths to calm his panicked mind. The words got in but the meaning took it's time to sink in.
After a few seconds he raised his head and saw Sirzechs smiling at him. Grayfia also appeared to have a smaller smile on her face.
"u-ummm alright then but I am sorry I didn't meant for this to happen" Issei said shakily as he stood up.
"You are not entirely at fault Ise, Sirzechs had intended for those circles to be full communication. He prefers face to face, and you have acted properly to this unexpected situation. We are in fact enjoying off time so having family call is perfectly acceptable, Still Sirzechs you should have told them" Grayfia said as she bowed her head in greeting. She also reached and gave Sirzechs cheek a twisting pinch as for his little prank of not mentioned the nature of the magic communication circles he prepared.
Sirzechs merely smiled while asking his wife to stop as his face was now hurting.
Family huh…well still not sure I'm quite there yet, and I don't get why they seem to think I am…but I guess if they aren't mad
Issei managed a shaky smile as he rubbed the back of his head slowly getting over his embarrassment at this situation. Now that gotten past initial shock he was in fact glad to see Grayfia was present. Only a short while ago her brother Euclid Lucifuge had made his reappearance in the devil world. Of course he did so as a member of the Chaos Brigade, specifically loyal to one particularly nasty devil who had caused a lot of trouble. His motives were both loyalty and deep seated love for his sister, whom he felt abandoned him by falling in love, then marrying Sirzechs and becoming a servant to the Gremory family. This had impacted Grayfia badly as she had told the higher ups among the Devils that her brother's fate was unknown to her. This led to her being removed from Sirzechs service, along with the Gremory family. All but making her a prisoner she was questioned and put under immense scrutiny.
Issei recalled the pain this caused Rias, along with her family. However around the time they had their battle in heaven Issei and Rias had gotten news. Grayfia had been permitted to return to her duties but still under observation. This was due to support from both her master/husband and her family, the Gremory's. Those who eyed Grayfia with suspicion could hardly ignore such so a compromise was reached.
If nothing else, at least she can be around those she loves...hopefully she will be cleared
"So then Issei, to what do we owe this visit?" Sirzechs ask as he also nodded his head in greeting.
Issei blinked, the shock of things had almost driven the original purpose out of his head.
"Oh um..well the thing was…I was kind of hoping to ask you for some help, I mean some advice if It's not too much trouble mmm B-B-Big Brother, B-Big Sister" Issei said trying to keep his voice steady as he had to steel himself into calling them by the two titles they had both asked him to use. Still thinking he was pushing boundaries but knowing he needed their help he felt it was time to change. Still when he finally called them by those honored titles he said it with such a tense face and strained voice you'd have thought he was preparing to face deathly consequences for his actions.
The result was….warmly welcomed.
At first both Sirzechs and Grayfia were noticeable surprised. Then at once warm and wide smiles appeared
"Well now, this is truly a happy occasion, it seems you have come to terms with things and are ready to address me as brother Ise. Thank you" Sirzechs said, and he actually looked like he was a tad embarrassed at this.
"Yes, it also makes me happy to hear you call me such, Ise" Grayfia said she took looked like she was embarrassed but it was hard for Ise to read her.
Issei chuckled nervously again rubbing the back of his head.
"Are you sure it's ok? I mean I know you are busy but I'd heard with the New Year coming that all devil business was on hold and everyone's getting a break" Issei said
Sirzechs nodded "You are correct, Grayfia and I had in fact just finished our last bit of business. Even in times of the three way deadlock during this point of the year an open truce was accepted among the three great powers. Now with peace established it's an even more leisure time. So baring a state of emergency my time is my own, or should I say my time is for my wife, son, and family"
He said this all with clear warmth in his words. Even Grayfia blushed lightly. Usually their relationship was not meant to be spoken outside of private discussion but it looks like this is a time when they are allowed a little break of that sort as well.
This also made Issei breathe a little easier.
"Oh..Well then I'm glad. Still I didn't mean to show up so suddenly" Issei said now back to normal
"Pay it no mind Little brother, now then you say you need our help? By all means explain" Sirzechs said.
"Well Rias told me that tonight we are headed back for the underworld. To stay at the Gremory manor and to attend a ball" Issei said starting to explain.
Sirzechs nodded "Indeed. I myself and looking forward to it immensely. I also plan to spend some time at home"
"Really that's great news, I'm actually really looking forward to it too. Anyway there's something I wanted to ask you both but I may have to explain a few things first well umm try to at least" Issei said
Grayfia sipped her cup of tea, watching Issei and listening.
The pair could see there was something of great importance in his words.
"I see, I can hear the desire in your words Little brother. As your Big brother I will help in any way I can so please explain away" Sirzechs said leaning forward with interest.
So then Issei began to explain. If he tried this only a few months ago he would have found the task impossible. After recent events not to mention the sense of deepening love with Rias, the greater bond with his friends, and of course Rias' family he felt he could finally take the steps to something he had been wanting to do for a while now.
It didn't take very long for him to explain what he wanted to, and finally the details of his request for their help.
Throughout it all Sirzechs had maintained an attentive and warm expression listening intently. Grayfia had also listened with focus. At the end however both of them were smiling much the same way as when Issei had called them Big Brother and Big Sister.
"I see Ise. Well you certainly have impressed me with how much thought you put into this. Clearly it's a matter very dear to you and I understand fully. What do you think Grayfia?" Sirzechs asked his wife.
Grayfia nodded "You honor the Gremory family, and your love to Lady Rias" she said
Issei felt himself blushing at their praise, such meant a lot to him.
"So then what's say we come up to the human world and personally see to things little brother?" Sirzechs asked
Issei gasp and went wide eyed, to the point of them popping out.
"Are you sure about that!? I-I-I mean I really appreciate it, but I don't want to ask all that from you" Issei said
Sirzechs laughed "You are such an amusing one my dear Little brother. Of course we would be happy to help. We can be there by mid-day"
Issei thought about that "umm actually If it's alright with you both, could we keep this a secret for now. I was kinda hoping this might be a surprise"
"I would have it no other way. Your plan is filled with such warmth it's only right it be a surprise" Sirzechs said.
"Great! Thanks…..Big Brother. Big Sister" Issei said this time with a little less trepidation in using those titles.
Both of them nodded to him
"It will be out pleasure, Little Brother. Please expect us to arrive at your home soon" Grayfia said.
With that Issei stepped out of the magical circle and was gone.
Sirzechs rose from his seat and laughed heartily.
"That young man, the Devils ranks are made better with him in them. We could use more honest ones like him" he said
"You are simply just saying that because you're happy he called you Big Brother finally" Grayfia said seeing through her husband as easy as through a pane of glass
Sirzechs could not contain the joy crossing his face
"Indeed, yet I think my feelings on the matter are not limited to just me, Grayfia" he said in reply
Grayfia blushed briefly "Still his desire at the end of all this. Doesn't it seem a bit redundant? I mean the affairs have already been settled and there is no need for him to go to such lengths"
"Perhaps, in matters of family affairs and duties things have been settled with him and Rias for Mother and Father's concerns being put at ease. Yet Issei's desire comes from his heart. He is after all an honest man and wants to earn things in what he feels is the right way, and at the end he has our support and blessing's. This should prove to make the family gathering truly amusing and splendid" Sirzechs said with a knowledgeable tone.
Grayfia considered his words and nodded to herself.
"Well then shall we my dear?"
"Yes, let us go"
Issei breathed a very long sigh of relief.
"Talk about nearly giving myself a stroke. I mean even if things between me and Rias have gotten this far…never thought I'd be able to call them like that…still I guess if they wanted me too….ahhh! Gotta stop confusing myself and figure out what I'm going to do. Rias and the others all want to go shopping but I wanna keep this a secret..Oh man" Issei said to himself as he quickly made his way down from the sixth floor.
He was amazed he had managed to pull of making this secret phone call without anyone coming to look for him.
He came to the second floor and slipped into the bathroom to take care of usual daily hygiene needs. After he came out he almost walked into Rias
"Oh, there you are. I was wondering where you had gone" she said with a smile
Ahhh..Rias that smile that could melt me in an instant. How I love her, oh crap…gotta be careful can't let on
"Yeah, sorry about that" he said
"No it's fine. I realize things got a little heated down there. Kiba and Gasper actually just arrived but seems Gasper had a little slip on the pathway from all that ice building up. So as a result it calmed things down but we'd already agreed to a solution on the shopping"
She had warm spark in her eye as she closed in on him
"Oh really? What's the plan then?" Issei asked, for some reason he also kept thinking of the ice on the front walkway to the Hyoudou residence. It had been an icy winter thus far. He was curious as to why that stuck in his head however.
Rias put her arms around his neck and pressed against him. Issei would feel the warmth of her seeping through their clothes and the touch of her bountiful breast against his own chest and already felt his body and brain melting.
Already he felt the blood rushing, be it threatening to come from his nose, and also heading further south.
"Hehe, well we decided that we'd go shopping ourselves, this way no one tries anything. So Ise, what would you like me to wear? I want to make you really happy with a nice outfit" she said her cute pink voice that she used around him taking place of her Master voice.
Issei meanwhile was relishing in the warming presence of her wonderful body, not to mention her words.
"Umm well..I-uh well I'm not really good when it comes to fashion but I remember that dress you wore to the last gathering of young devils was really sexy…maybe something like that?" Issei asked
Rias further closed the gap between them until her face was barely more than an inch away
"How sweet of you to say, alright I'll find something like that" she said with a quick peck on his lips before pulling away
"We'll also need to figure out what you will wear" she said her tone still that casual one she used with him when alone with him.
"Oh ah…well I kinda already have plans for that" Issei said
Rias title her head and then smiled "Oh really? My Ise, you impress me today. Alright I'll let you handle things. I trust you on this" she ended with a wink
Issei could not help but turn really red, never finding her affections and praise anything but dazzling
"Thanks Rias…oh but mm when you go shopping could you get something in a crimson color to match your hair?" he asked suddenly finding inspiration.
"Hmm, and you said you don't have any fashion sense. I had already been thinking that same thing as it is a good color for me. I'll do my best just for you, my lovely Ise" she said and together they went back downstairs.
Upon reaching the main floor they found the adorable half vampire Gasper seated on the couch in the living room with Asia tending to a few scrapes on his knees. Kiba was standing by observing as well as Koneko standing behind the couch, and Gasper. Akeno, Xenovia and Irina were talking care of cleaning up from breakfast and Rossweisse appears to be talking to someone, the color of the magic circle by her ear was the blue of the northern Norse magic.
Issei suddenly recalled Rias mentioning that Kiba and Gasper had arrived and that Gasper had slipped on the ice.
Wait…the ice…that's it!
"Is that better Gasper?" Asia asked as the soft green glow from her hands, the sign of her sacred gear ,Twilight healing, which could heal anyone she chose it too, had enveloped Gasper's scrapped legs.
The gentle, cross dressing, junior nodded "uh huh…thanks Asia. I'm sorry I'm such a klutz"
Koneko, who had been standing behind him patted his head
"There, there Gaspie" she said with clear care for her friend.
She and Gasper were the only two juniors of the group and as such had a close friendship, and an amusing one at times as well.
Issei headed over to them
"Gasper, hey buddy. Glad to see your staying strong, that's what it means to be a real man" Issei said patting him on the shoulder
Gasper smiled at him. You wouldn't think it if all you knew of him was that he was a half vampire but he was in fact the most gentle and kind boy you'd ever meet. Though not without his own oddities. Such as his fondness for girl's clothes, calling them 'cute', his extreme fear of people or crowds which as linked to his overall shy and fearful nature due to his tragic upbringing.
He was also the bearer of a truly awesome but dangerous power. The sacred gear, Forbidden Balor view. The ability to stop time with his eyes. At least that was on thing. When his true power was awakened he was a fearsome kid but even so his brother like bond with Issei had truly helped him come far.
"I just following your example Ise!" he said with greater enthusiasm as Asia finished healing his legs.
"Careful Gaspie, following his example too far might be trouble for you" Koneko said in a cute tease direct to easy but did wink and smile at him as well.
Issei felt someone pat his shoulder
"As always Ise, you show your skills to make others become better versions of themselves. Yet you only flatter Gasper?" asked his friend Kiba Yuuto
The, Casanova, prince charming, Knight of Rias' Gremory's peerage. He was in essence the epitome of what you'd think of as a knight. At first Issei held him in jealous contempt as he had such a natural way with other girls. Yet in time the two developed a true and honest friendship
However Kiba's openness toward him did throw Issei some odd vibes.
"Ahh! Kiba don't say weird things like that, it's creepy!" Issei said fearfully
Kiba chuckled and took a cup of tea offered by Akeno.
Issei then turned from the group.
"Anyway I'll go take care of clearly the walkway" he said
Rias raised an eyebrow and looked at him curiously.
Issei was always dutiful, hard worker but that was rather quick of him and his taking the initiative about formal clothes upstairs had also surprised her, still it was a happy surprise.
"Need any help?" Kida asked
Issei waved a hand over his shoulder as he headed for the entrance way, which was in fact like the lobby of a high class hotel.
"It's ok I got it covered. This is my house after all, should be me who handles it so guests don't get hurt" he said plainly.
"If you need someone to warm you up after, come see me since you are working so hard for us all Ise" Rias called affectionately.
Still there was a curious look in her eyes. Something her best friend, Akeno noticed.
"Something wrong Rias?" she asked following Rias' eyes and also becoming genuinely curious.
"Hmm well honestly yes and no. Still I suppose it's nothing" she said and turned back to her friends.
Meanwhile in the Entrance hall of the Hyoudou residence Issei breathed another sight of relief.
He also thanked his Grandfather in heaven for this lucky coincidence that gave him just the opportunity he needed. He also marveled at how quick he was to act on this.
"Heh maybe Rias is rubbing off on me" he said before realizing he had just put a wonderful perverted thought in his head without meaning too.
This indeed did result in the start of a nosebleed as he starting to picked many erotic things in terms of Rias rubbing on him. Not to mention a few others who had done similar many times now.
Then he forcibly shook his head
Get it together Hyoudou, you set a goal for the very near future after all. Besides if it goes the way you want the pervert in you will be rewarded in the end!
He said as he pulled on a winter coat, a black one with the crimson symbol of the House of Gremory on the back as well as on the chest over the left pocket. Next some boots and a pair of gloves. With a quick check of his watch he saw he did have some time to kill.
Selecting a snow shovel from the closet dedicated to household tools on his way out the door he could easily see how Gasper could have slipped.
It had snowed the night before and this a layer had covered the ice buildup underneath.
"Well better get to work" Issei said as he took a step.
As he did he promptly felt his foot slip and before he knew it went flying head first into the snow banks on either side of the front walk way.
[hahahahahahahahahah! Oh how the mighty pervert has fallen]
Came the voice of his partner Ddraig, The Welsh dragon otherwise known as the Red Dragon Emperor.
He had been relatively silent for the past while likely enjoying his rest after the battles in heaven but now was getting his kicks out of Issei's clumsy footing.
"Very funny Ddraig" Issei grumbled as he stood back up Shaking the snow the clung to his hair
True enough they were excellent partners. Ddraig residing in the sacred gear, Boosted Gear that was bound to Issei as such they shared the destiny that follows the one known as the Red Dragon Emperor. Although thanks to Issei, the notorious pervert, and his pure honest love of women's breasts, especially big ones like Rias', they had earned some titles that more or less drove the mighty Welsh Dragon to depression. Those were the "Breast Dragon Emperor and Grabbing Dragon". Both popular names among the many adoring children who looked up to Issei, and by extension Ddraig, as well loving the TV program that Issei was the star of as the Breast Dragon Emperor. It had certainly had its impact on not only the Devil world but the other two as well.
It had proven to have its embarrassing moments but Issei saw the positive things that had come of it so he went along with it as per the request of Sirzechs and Azazel.
"Well glad to see you're in a good mood partner" Issei said in the direction of his left hand.
The boosted gear appeared on his left arm so Issei had a habit of taking there when speaking to Ddraig there but really Ddraig was inside him.
[Well let's say I'm improving. By the way why not try using your fire breathe to just melt it all?]
"Doesn't that seem like an abuse of power?" Issei asked
Ddraig was speaking of course of an ability he had picked up while training with the Former Dragon-King, later reincarnated into a devil, Blaze meteor Dragon Tannin. Essentially it was to let him breath fire like a true dragon by filling his lungs, using his devil power to produce a flame within him and then breathe it out as a stream of flames. It had come in handy many times. A stronger version when his balance breaker was possible by using his boosted gear to transfer power, and make the flames closer to the intensity of true dragon fire.
[Hey I'm just offering a suggestion. Way I see it, be good way to keep up training. You can do a standard steam and even managed wide range when in Balance Breaker but what about a more precise, focused blast. Say just to clear this stone path]
Issei thought it over. Ddraig did have a point and during his various training sessions under Rias, Tannin, or Azazel's supervision a common belief they held was that if a chance to practice and refine a skill was presented why not make use of it.
"Alright then, let's give it a shot. Any suggestions Ddraig?" he asked
[Well think about it, how you let the stream out is no different from how you generally blow out air. You let out a big wide stream if you open wide…so a precise stream would mean….]
"Huh, I think I get it. I've already gotten the concept of how intense I can throttle the flames but precision was always meant to be the next step. At least that's what Old man Tannin talked about…funny as he didn't do much of that while 'training' me by chasing my all over that mountain" Issei said recalling his three week training sessions with Tannin, it had still yielded impressive results.
Ddraig often did know how to get through to him.
Issei set his shovel against the railing by the door. Then he took a stance to steady himself before inhaling and filling his lungs. Then focusing his devil power he sparked a small flame into life within his belly. Mixing it with the air in his lungs when he exhaled.
Then finally he blew out. However this time he blew like one would when blowing up a balloon or a pool toy. The result was a narrow and focused stream of his fire breath. Focused on the path at the base of the steps he already saw the snow melting fast. His flames were naturally strong.
Ending the stream he smiled feeling pride in himself for honing his technique.
"Awesome talk about a kick ass way to use this trick"
[What I tell you, kick ass indeed]
It was funny how Ddraig would talk in this more modern teenager style sometimes.
"Alright let's try something new, maybe I can start at that but slowly increase in the same breath" Issei said
So thus he began to experiment. Most of the time his 'ideas' for honing his techniques came from desperate needs in the midst of battle. If not then it would be when he was working on something that would satisfying his perverted urges, such as when he created the dress break and the Breast translation technique.
Still he did feel pride in himself. After all he was in essence a dragon as well and being able to breathe fire with this kind of control was a big deal.
He slowly worked on throttling not just the heat and intensity of the flames but the spread of the stream.
Fortunately the front path was wide and long and gave him plenty of work space.
After an hour or so of work he had the entire walkway as well as the front steps and stoop looking clear and dry as they would be on a hot summer day.
As the house has been renovated by Sirzechs and Lord Gremory it was of course infused with magic to make it study. Thankfully there was no risk of Issei's fire save for melting the snow and ice. Not to mention offering handsome amounts to the neighbors so they could occupy the extra needed landscape also gave the residence of the Hyoudou household no small amount of privacy.
"There all done" Issei said with pride
He heard a laugh behind him.
"Splendid Issei, you really have mastered the art of fire breathing. We really must include that in the next Breast Dragon episode" someone said behind him.
Issei turned and was surprised to see Sirzechs and Grayfia standing behind him. Both looking amused as clearly they had been watching him do his fire breathing for a little while
Smiling nervously "well Ddraig did suggest it as a way to train and hone things" he explained
Sirzechs smiled "well the fruits of your labor are quite good" he said nodding to the clear walkway.
He was wearing his casual attire. A handsome and well-tailored three piece suit along with a fine looking dark grey coat. Next to him stood Grayfia wearing her own set of casual clothing and a silver winter coat of her own.
"It does take a fair amount of control to handle such an ability with precision. Well done Little brother Issei" Grayfia said.
"Heh thanks, and umm thanks again for coming here. I really means a lot to me" Issei said
"As I said it's our pleasure to be of help and it is a time for family and bonding after all this is just as much our treat. So then shall we? I assume you'd rather not risk anyone spotting us as of yet?" Sirzechs asked.
"Oh right, just one second" he said holding up his hands
He held them palms flat and summoned his devil powers again.
"Hey Ryuuteimaru, come on out buddy I need you do to me a favor. Oh mm toy boat size please" he said
In a flash his familiar the legendary living ship Skíðblaðnir of the Norse mythology, as well as Issei's familiar, appears floating above his hands. It had proven a loyal and valuable companion since joining him and was even able to grow in size to match Issei's own growth but could still assume any previous size he needed.
"Ah yes this is my first time seeing your familiar, what a charming one he is" Sirzechs said.
"Thanks" Issei said as Ryuuteimaru flew around him happily.
Issei took out a piece of paper and a pen from his pocket and quickly wrote something down before placing it on the toy sized boat.
"Alright buddy, take that to Rias for me and then you're done. Thanks" he said with a smile to his familiar as it fly off to perform its master's task
"Hmm A good plan. Well then gentlemen, shall we?" Grayfia asked.
Joining them, and with Sirzechs patting him on the shoulder the three walked headed for the gorgeous limousine that belonged to the Gremory family.
Issei was happy things were going so well but still found himself feeling a tad bit of anxiety. This was the Devil-King and ultimate queen he was walking with after all. Not to mention the possibility of Rias finding out.
Ah well, it's not like they dislike me…may as well try and make the best of things even If I don't always get them.
A/N: Phew did not expect things to go this far. Always telling myself that I need to try and shorten my chapters to pace myself but hardly ever practice what I self-preach haha. Ah well so the plot continues. We got high society devil stuff coming and what's with all the secrecy. Plus who's the pain in the ass likely looking to muck up poor Issei's big plans. Anyone care to make guess's?
Looks like with how big this chapter went I may end up going to 4-5 in total. Anyway I hope you all enjoy I am being highly critical of my own work to keep to the awesome nature that is the DxD serious
I hope you all enjoy and look forward to your opinions. Oh and I should add I am purposefully writing some things in what you might call a slang style to keep to the style of the English dubbing of DxD anime
As to my readers of my other works I do apologize for the lack of activity there but I am lacking some crucial elements and inspirations for them but they are far from abandoned just wait for that right moment you might say. Stay tuned!