Chapter 3: I will never give up! Issei's Resolve.
On a rather barren landscape a man wearing a hooded cloak watched as the creature he had unleashed from underground was wreaking havoc on some minions he had provided to test its strength. There was little to no light in this region. Still to this man light was not needed.
"That's enough" he called.
At that moment the beast he had finally let out had only just finished beating another creature into a misshapen pulp. It turns and for a brief moment its shape could be made out in the darkness.
It had the shape of a dragon.
"Alright them I think the time for us to go is now. Tonight we should arrive so be sure to eat your dinner and all your vegetables because desert will be Red Dragon Emperor surprise" the man said in an ill sounding joke.
"Curse you! Red Dragon!" the dragon like creature howled.
Inside the Hyoudou residence the ladies were all getting ready to head out and do some shopping for something nice to wear at the upcoming ball.
"Wouldn't it make more sense to do this after we arrive in the Underworld?" Xenovia asked
"Normally yes, but most of the Underworld's business' will be closed now. Besides some of the most reputable tailors and designers from the underworld also do business here, more profit's that way" Rias explained
All of them were putting on winter coats and such as it was rather cold out today.
Only a short while ago, after Issei had left to clean the walkway they had bit farewell to Rossweisse and Irina who choose to magically jump to northern Europe and heaven respectively.
"Tell Ise we said see you soon" were their parting words.
Rias had just put on her coat when a small flying toy sized boat appeared before her.
"Hmm Ryuuteimaru? Now what are you doing here?" She asked
Issei's familiar swung from side to side in midair then dropped and she saw there was a note sitting on him. Curious as to this she took the note, unfolded and read it. After a moment she just smiled
Rias.
Finished clearing the path so tell Gasper no more ice. Decided to head out now to look for something nice to wear. I'll be back soon and I'll be sure it's something that looks bad ass for you.
All my love.
Ise
"So wants to surprise me now does he. Alright then my lovely Ise" Rias said re reading the note and enjoying the ending of sending his love.
"Well now, what have we here" Akeno said as she read over Rias' shoulder and snatched the note
"A-Akeno give that back it's meant for me!" Rias called
"Oh my, what a caring message. Yet only for you, my Ise must need a reminder of my love" Akeno said with a giggle.
"Just try it sister Queen, I'll pick out a dress that will have Ise's eyes glued to me the whole time" Rias said.
"I look forward to the challenge then" Akeno said returning the note.
Ten minutes later they were already making their way down the street headed for the shopping district.
Akeno and Rias walked in the front. While Asia, Xenovia, Koneko, Gasper, and Kiba followed behind. There was no sign of Orphis as just as they were leaving she had suddenly decided she wanted a nap and laid down under the table and within a second was asleep, in her standard pose like that of someone resting in their coffin.
"Ise has seemed rather driven today hasn't he? Do you think something is on his mind?" Akeno asked in a genuinely curious tone.
Rias didn't answer right away. She knew Issei very well and understood him. So naturally she picked up on him acting with unusual initiative and drive about things. Normally when it would come to formal Devil affairs he looked to her guidance but here he was taking steps on his own. She was both proud and surprised.
"You're right he has surprised me today. I am starting to wonder if I said something to cause this. Maybe when I said we'd be going to the ball together…I mean it is going to be the first time for us together" she said voicing her thoughts.
"Well he hasn't still figured it out. I mean what you two did at the Ruins of Connection right?" Akeno asked
Rias smiled thinking back to that. The ritual she and Issei had undergone to test their compatibility to become married one day. After completing the ritual he had become her fiancée officially. The main reason was to satisfy the concerns of her parents and to keep with her duties as the future head of the Gremory clan. Still she knew that had all been lost on her Ise but she was glad for that.
Ever since she had first realized her feelings for him she was glad things had progressed at a pace that did not involve the arrangements or plans of her Father and Brother, like how things had been set up for her and Riser. Her relationship with Issei had grown naturally, without any pressure put on by both their statuses. There had been difficulties along the way but after they confessed their true feelings and become a 'real' couple in their view she knew soon she would have to explain things to him. Her old concern being him scarred off somehow but ever since the aftermath of the Rating game against her cousin Sairaorg Bael where Issei confessed that he loved her, well he first did it to her, their opponents and an entire audience, and she done the same to him her doubts had ceased to exists.
"Maybe he has figured it out. I was just worried to tell him back then because I thought he might start to panic. I know he loves me but it's been best for us that grow naturally like we have been" Rias said after thinking.
"Of course it could just be he's excited to go to a fancy ball with you after all is trying his best to make things special. It is after all like big deal date, for us all" Akeno said.
Rias thought her best friend's words over and nodded, that did make the most sense. Regardless she had complete confidence that her and Issei's relationship would only get stronger.
"Thanks Akeno, but don't think I'm not watching you. Try to get something flashy to steal my Ise from me I'll just beat you to it" she said in a friendly but challenging tone
Akeno just giggled as they all walked on.
Meanwhile in the busy part of the city Issei was getting out of the Gremory family Limo along with Grayfia and Sirzechs and realized where he was. In the heart of the most expensive and high quality shopping district.
"Holy balls….this is one of the most epic tailor's in the whole region" he said is disbelief.
"Of course, actually the owner is in fact also devil. He does business here and in the underworld and is one of the finest. I think this would be the perfect place to get what you need" Sirzechs said putting a hand on Issei's shoulder and guiding him in.
They entered the store and a soft bell sound signaled their entrance.
"Welcome, oh my, my Lord Sirzechs Lucifer, Lady Grayfia" came the voice of a tall lean man. He had a refined air about him wearing what was likely a masterpiece of tailoring skill, a dark suit, perfectly fitting dress pants and shoes shined so well Issei was certain he could see himself in them.
Short black hair, balding at the top, a kind but serious face, and a pair of piercing dark brown eyes behind small circular glasses.
Sirzechs and Grayfia both nodded their heads in greeting. Issei did as well with only a second's hesitation. Thanking his lessons with Rias' mother, Venerana Gremory, and her tutelage on the ways of etiquette as clearly this man they were meeting with had the respect of high ranking devils.
"Good to see you again, Edmund. I have a special request for my brother today. He is attending one of his first formal balls alongside my dear sister and when he asked where he might find something suitable to wear I knew of but one place" Sirzechs said.
He placed a hand on Issei's shoulder to help him step forward as for the moment Issei was feeling somewhat overwhelmed as he looked at the shelves and racks displaying various styles of suits, formal wear, even wedding clothes. All of them looked like what he had seen in movies or videos that had high society scenes.
The owner of the shop, Edmund, approached and extended his hand
"I see, it is an honor then to have the Red Dragon Emperor enter my shop this day. So my boy let us see what we can do for you"
Issei smiled nervously shaking the man's hand. He found his eyes rather intimidating kind of like he was being x-rayed.
"I um..Thanks" he said
Edmund chuckled "No need to be nervous my boy, it's my pleasure to be of service to a member of the House of Gremory, come then" he said leading Issei, Grayfia and Sirzechs to the far end of the shop.
"I take it business has been well for you Edmund?" Sirzechs asked.
"Well I do not wish to brag but I have had a bounty of business lately. Lady Grayfia you are looking lovely as always" he said casually speaking to them both.
"You are too kind" Grayfia replied
"I am surprised that the Lady Rias is not here as well" Edmund said eyeing Ise as they came to the far corner where a three sided mirror faced him.
He also took out a rolled up measuring tape from his pocket.
"Well as it happens my brother, Ise, is hoping to surprise Rias at the ball" Sirzechs said with an amused smile
"Does he now? Well the words spoken of the blossoming romance between the next head of the Gremory clan and the legendary Red Dragon are not over exaggerated. Now then young sir if you'd be so kind as to remove your clothes so I can take your measurements" Edmund asked as he snapped his fingers.
At once a partition folding screen sprang around to make block off the corner they were all standing in. This man clearly made use of his devil powers to gain an advantage over no apparent staff, given he'd heard that his business extended to both the human world and underworld it wasn't a surprise.
Blushing slightly as he was the center of attention Issei stripped down to nothing but his boxers. Then with occasional directions from Edmund he was measured from head to toe, and quietly literally as the man was very thorough. Issei was absolutely certain if Rias or the others saw this he would be in the line of fire from there dangerous glares.
After maybe ten minutes, during which Edmund never wrote anything down but muttered numbers to himself. Issei could only assume he was keeping track of his measurements in his head.
"Hm, a handsome young man to be sure. Well now I believe that is all I require. Do you have a design in mind that you'd like, as well as color of choice?" Edmund asked rolling up his measuring tape.
At that Grayfia stood up.
"I have spoken with Sirzechs and we have made a selection on Ise's behalf. Might we go look at some fabrics and color choices?" she asked.
Edmund bowed to her "excellent, this way"
Together they left as the partition screen move out of their way on its own.
Issei sighed in relief and proceeded to get dressed again.
"Anymore measuring and with my luck Rias would have shown up and gotten mad" he said
Sirzechs laughed heartily at that.
"I suppose it could have been worse" he said
"By the way, are you sure this was the best choice. I am not sure I could afford something from a place like this"
"Oh that's right I forgot you weren't aware. Well as the star of the Grabbing Dragon franchise which our father and I own you have your own share of the profits in your name. We have just been keeping them tucked away for when you come of age" Sirzechs explained
Issei looked confused "P-profits?" he asked
Sirzechs nodded "why yes, either of us can also make withdrawals from the savings in your name. As it stands right now the cost for these clothes will be but a drop in the bucket compared to what you have earned from the franchise"
Issei had utterly no words. He could simply not react to finding out he apparently had some form of fortune in his name. He knew that the Gremory family was very wealthy but the thought of that being connected to him had never occurred nor really mattered.
So now I got money? Wow talk about a weird day…well I guess it's not a bad thing, may come in handy…
"Also Ise I have been meaning to thank you" Sirzechs said continuing their talk.
"Hmm um for what?" Issei asked coming out of his thoughts.
"Well Grayfia told me of the time she joined you, Azazel and the others for a trip to Izu. She mentioned that you had formally asked her approval on your relationship to Rias and that you treated her with a kind like that of a brother, something I know she has missed. I was glad to hear that you've been working so hard to be part of the family" he explained.
Issei went stiff. Suddenly recalling that trip. The Onsen, the bath, ending up having his back washed and then washing Grayfia's back at her request before soaking in the Onsen with her. Later on he had heard because Azazel had talked her into having a drink that she could be a bit 'troublesome', for lack of a better word.
"I can also tell by your expression you suddenly feel guilty for the fact you saw her naked. No need, you are family after all. Although Grayfia did admit she felt a little embarrassed her tolerance for alcohol has always been minimal. Even so the unfortunate things her *sigh* brother Euclid has done have troubled her. I know she was deeply hurt being removed from my side and service to the family. Yet she said she was happy to know the bond of having a little brother again, for that I thank you again" Sirzechs said calmingly.
Issei still felt a shiver run down his spine, but at the same time was blushing at the praise. After all the times he had talked with Sirzechs, he had to admit, he was starting to feel he could be a little more casual around him. At least in private like this. He even started to regard him and Grayfia as like siblings, something he had never known before.
"Yeah mmm thanks Sirze- I mean thanks Big Brother. Truth is it was really an accident. I ended up almost being blown up in the battle that followed" he said smiling nervously
"So I heard, still I would have enjoyed being there myself to enjoy the show, perhaps next time" Sirzechs said as he sat calmly in the chair while they talked.
"Well umm why not try the one we have at my house. I mean you and your dad did renovate the whole place" Issei said as it was the first thing that came to mind.
"That sounds like a splendid idea. It has been a long time since my last visit. We'll have to see if Father and Mother can also come and Millicas as well he talks about you very often. Seems he's also become quite the popular boy at his school given he's associated with famous Television stars" Sirzechs said
Issei felt a slight blush as he recalled his own fame for the 'Breast Dragon Emperor show'. However at the mention of Rias parents something else surfaced in his mind. Given the day's strange turns he had nearly forgotten the second part of his plan for today.
"Oh crap…I almost forgot about the other thing I wanted to do while we were here" Issei said out loud.
"Oh yes those 'items' you had thought about getting. Well what's say we go look into those" Sirzechs said standing up.
"You sure, I don't want to trouble you" Issei said
"Far from it. Grayfia and Edmund will be a while she has an eye for picking out good material so we have some time"
With that Issei and Sirzechs left the tailor shop and then proceeded up the street. Issei had mentioned a second thing he wanted Sirzechs advice about during their talk earlier. It involved some 'gifts' he wanted to pick up.
Given also that Sirzechs was the holder of Issei's 'funds' for this project it did make sense for him to help in the search.
About twenty minutes later they had successfully taken care of the gift purchases and were making their way back to the Tailor's. They had just come to the front of the shop when.
"Ise? Ise!" someone called.
Issei turned and felt his heart jump right into his throat.
Rias, and the others were all across the street from him and Sirzechs. Rias had spotted him and called out happily but then was shocked to find he was walking with her brother.
"Hello Ri-Ri what a happy surprise" Sirzechs said not the least bit surprised.
"Big Brother? What are you doing here? Ise?" she asked obviously confused.
The others followed suit, after they all quickly bowed in respect for their king. All of them had bags in hand as clearly they had done their own shopping.
Issei meanwhile was trying to keep his temperature down as he felt himself slowly going into meltdown. His panic mounting before he felt Sirzechs pat his shoulder.
"Well as it happens Grayfia and I came to do a little shopping in the human world. Since I am currently enjoying some time off. We ran into Ise and he offered to help us out as it's been a while since we were last here" Sirzechs explained with a cheery smile.
Issei felt the eyes of Rias and his friends turn towards him. Had it been anyone else they would have accepted that explanation, Issei was a helpful person by nature. However when that person happened to be the Devil-King well that was just a bit much.
"Is that so? So you aren't trying to borrow Ise from me again without asking my permission.. and for the last time please stop calling me Ri-Ri" Rias said both eyeing her brother suspiciously and blushing at his using her pet name, her voice also switching to her cute embarrassed sister one.
"I would hardly seek to steal your Ise from you Rias. Still he has done a splendid job helping me out" Sirzechs said indicating the bag Issei was carrying.
Then with a discreet nudge to his shoulder from him, Issei finally found his tongue working again.
"Yeah..Right it was mm my pleasure to be of service, Big Brother" Issei said trying to sound calm and casual.
Rias eyed him with shock at that "….Ise did you just call him big brother?"
Sirzechs laughed "Indeed he did, much to my joy. I had been asking him to call me that for a while now. To be called brother by a heavenly dragon not to mention my Ri-Ri's –owww Grayfia please, that hurts"
In mid-sentence Grayfia had appeared behind him and was pinching his cheek and tugging on it. While a tear appeared in his eye he did keep his pleasant smile.
"That is enough Sirzechs. It is time we were on our way back. Thank you again Ise for all your help. I'll take that now" Grayfia said taking the back with the 'gifts' from Ise.
"Grayfia? You're here also?" Rias asked
Grayfia nodded and bowed her head "Yes, hello my lady I'm glad to see you. I apologize for the surprise but it seems Sirzechs got a bit ahead of himself. Ise has indeed proven very helpful to us both. I wish we could stay but we must return soon. I shall see later this evening at the manor"
"O-oh yes. Take care Grayfia, Big Brother" Rias said with a smile to them
"Yeah see you both soon" Ise said noticing the second bag Grayfia was carrying.
Wait…did my clothes get made up already…well if torn up clothes can be fixed with magic I guess just making them out of fabric is doable.
Akeno then giggled "well now this sure has been an interesting day. Did you have fun Ise?" she asked
Suddenly shaken from his attempts to put confusing facts together he was now aware that again he was under scrutiny
"Mm yeah, it was a fun time. Talk about wild luck" Issei said trying to keep calm
"Hmm I doubt it *sigh* my brother's likely just snooping around me again, and taking advantage of my Ise's helpful nature" Rias said putting her fingers to her forehead.
Issei suddenly saw that rather than assume anything suspicious of him she was just assuming it was her brother's antics as she had said once before that the four devil-kings were always this kind of trouble to those closest to them.
Grandfather in heaven, thank you for saving me this day…..
"So Ise, get everything taken care of?" Kiba asked
Ise nodded "yeah all done. How about you guys?"
Rias nodded as she sidled up next to him
"I got something I know you'll just love" she said in a cute voice taking his arm.
"We should get back soon. So we don't miss the train to the underworld" Xenovia said
Asia nodded as she took Ise's other arm "So what did you end up getting Ise?" she asked
"Oh mm well it's a surprise" he said.
Everyone looked at him at that but they let it be.
"You are full of those today Ise, like calling Zechs big brother, I am sure that is just making his day" Rias said, from her tone it sounded like she approved.
A few hours later, after the sun had set, everyone was gathering in the living room where Akeno had a magic circle for transportation prepared. They would jump to the underworld train station and board to return to the Gremory territory in the Underworld.
Issei was glad that upon returning home from his near miss of a shopping adventure with Sirzechs and Grayfia that things had not been ruined. Despite being a self-proclaimed idiot, as well as called that by others, even he had figured out what Sirzechs and Grayfia had done. They made it look like Ise had helped them and Grayfia must have seen what was happening and prevented his new clothes from any risk of being revealed.
Now how the hell am I going to get ahold of them….Rias told me that since it's break time for everyone we can really relax and she's been enjoying being close by for more 'us' time then we normally get….not like I'm gonna complain about that it's awesome but I still wanna surprise her….
"Alright my dear servants, it's time we were on our way" Rias said.
Everyone was wearing their school uniforms as for the moment a professional look was best for when returning to the Gremory home.
The group all gathered in the circle and after a flash of crimson red light Issei saw they were standing in a nearly empty subway train station.
Well it looked like one but this was just the station for trains that went down to the underworld.
Usually it wasn't very crowded but today is was silent.
"Hmm looks like we must be one of the first groups to return home" Rias said.
So they then boarded the train.
"I am surprised Azazel didn't join us for the ride down" Kiba said as they all sat down in the plush car.
Akeno went for the bar right away to prepare some tea, Asia followed to help.
Gasper immediately sat down and started into Issei's portable game that he let him use whenever he wanted. The small mercy being he wasn't in his cardboard box right now, although likely he had them stashed around.
Koneko took her spot on Ise's lap and was already eating from the spread of food that had been left for them.
Rias had gone to speak with the staff of the train as to their destination.
"He did say something about an epic party in the Fallen Angel HQ, even invited me to come…something about 'this party making what we did to fall from heaven look tame' or something like that" Issei said shrugging and making himself comfortable.
Akeno giggled as she came around with a tray filled with cups of tea
"Good thing Ise has all he needs for that right here" she said
"I do? Well if you say so Akeno" Issei said not getting it.
After a while Koneko left his lap after she was challenged to a game of cards and even managed to drag Gasper along promising some of her sweets if he won. The challenge had come from Akeno and Asia. As such Issei was left alone for the most part to observer.
Then Kiba sat down by him.
"So Ise, got a big surprised prepared for Rias and some others do you?" Kiba asked in a friendly but hushed tone.
Issei gasped and his eyes went wide.
Kiba chuckled "You are too easy to read Ise, even easier to question but an honest guy like you is a rare thing. Still I have an idea what your aim is and honestly all I can say is don't tie yourself in knots man. You're already accepted even if you don't see the extent of it yourself"
While his words only made partial sense Issei could at least realize that Kiba was support his goal and that he was trying to lessen the mounting fears and panic that were building as the crucial time was fast approaching.
"Thanks Kiba I'm glad you're on my side" Issei said with a genuine smile
Kiba then gave him a look "Oh Ise, I'd always support you"
Issei's smile was frozen as on the inside he felt his innards shrink together in fear.
"K-Kiba, don't say weird things like that!" he said aloud
"Aww Ise's having some heart to heart with Kiba..no fair Kiba!" came Asia's voice.
Issei turned his head mechanically as he realized, once again, he was in danger. Asia was looming over him with teary eyes, and puffed up cheeks while the others where right behind her.
"*giggle* Oh Ise you really are a man of wide tastes" Akeno said touching her cheek with a smile
"Yeah a two sided kinda perv"
"You are an awesome man Ise!"
Koneko and Gasper of course were not helping.
Then, right on time, Rias reappeared behind Issei
"Care to share with the rest of us, Ise?" She asked.
"WHY ME!" Issei could only shout in his head.
About an hour or so later they had arrived at the Gremory manor. A lavish castle like mansion that easily dwarfed the Hyoudou residence.
No matter how many times he came here Issei could scarcely believe the sheer volume of it, let alone the surrounding region that was all Gremory territory, equal in size to Japan's Main Island.
Their arrival was met with two carriages and a display of fireworks as an army of butlers, maids, and other servants were all bowing to them.
At the head was Grayfia
"Welcome home Lady Rias, Young master Issei Hyoudou, everyone" she said in perfect maid mode as she and the others all bowed.
Rias smiled and waved to them all that they might stand straight
"Thank you Everyone, I am glad to be back" she said in a cool Heiress manner but with warmth in her words.
The Gremory family was known for having a strong bond to its servants after all
Issei however was again puzzled by the young master bit. He had been called that by the servants for a while now but wasn't sure why. Now even Grayfia singled him out after Rias. True if she spoke to any of Rias' other servants alone she addressed them properly but as a group this was a first he was named specially.
Maybe….Oh hell I don't know any more! Maybe she's just happy I finally called her big sister or something.
Were Issei's thoughts as they boarded the carriages.
Issei road in the first with Rias, Akeno, and Grayfia. While Kiba, Asia, Koneko, and Gasper took the second one.
During the ride Issei felt Rias take his hand as they sat next to each other. She was squeezing it.
Looking down he saw that then looked at her. He could tell she was likely feeling anxious herself, on two parts. One being the strict nature of her parents, more her mother, and two for their tendencies to embarrass her in various ways from still treating her as a young girl or about the direction of her relationship with Issei.
He squeezed her hand back and met her eyes trying to convey his readiness for what he was about to do and to also stand by her through the 'worst' parts.
They must have been staring at each other long enough for one of their classic 'stupid lovey dovey couple' moments because they heard Grayfia clear her throat
"We have arrived" she said
She opened the carriage door and got out first.
Issei and Rias blushed together while Akeno giggled to herself at the humor of the moment before getting out ahead of them.
Grandfather in heaven…please give me the guts to do this…
"Well Ise ...Here we go" Rias said in her cute teenager girl voice.
"Right behind you Rias" Issei said.
No sooner had they gotten out and walked through the main door did an excited cry meet them
"Rias! Ise! You're finally here!"
The cry was from a young boy with crimson hair.
Millicas Gremory. Son of Sirzechs and Grayfia.
A boy with devilish looks at the charm of one brought up in a high society devil home he already had an instantly likely air to him at his young age. A real prince charming is what most thought of him.
Rias could only laugh as he ran right at them and hugged both her and Ise
"Hello Millicas I'm so happy to see you again" Rias
"Hey there Millicas you've gotten bigger there, buddy" Ise said. He was one he already felt utterly at east around among the Gremory family.
Millicas smiled happily at their greetings before Grayfia placed a hand on his shoulder
"Now Millicas we must not show poor manners, don't forget others are present that also want greet your aunt and her family" Grayfia said in a soft but motherly strict tone.
Millicas nodded "I understand mother" he said and bowed the rest of Issei's friends before stepping aside
"My, my ever the energetic little boy aren't you and welcome home everyone" came a warm voice
Looking up Issei and the others saw Rias' mother, or if you were not already aware of that fact you'd think it was her sister, and father coming down the stairs to greet them.
Venerana Gremory was wearing one of her usual white dresses and looked absolutely gorgeous her hair was nearly identical to how Rias wore her own but of course was chestnut brown. In the past it had earned her the nickname "Brunette Ruin Princess" a title that would pass onto her daughter as "Crimson Ruin Princess". While in fact much older than her appearance she used magic to maintain a younger look as was common among higher ranked devils. A kind and caring woman, she was also a strict and orderly mother towards her children. Still though Issei always felt she had nothing but love in her heart and intentions for those children.
Being the stunning woman she was, as well as looking a lot like Rias, especially her breasts which like Rias had that undeniable pull on Issei who, as always, could not suppress the inner pervert flaring up briefly. Lately however that side was getting easier to control, perhaps due to his profound love for Rias, or the fact so many beautiful, bountiful beauties were around him so much. He also still had a goal in mind so he was able to at least avoid making any hot eyes or faces that would result in a pinched cheek or scolding word.
Lord Gremory was looking as dapper and confident as always. Like his wife a good and kindly dispositioned man. He had welcome Issei to call him father numerous times and seemed to be whole heartedly thrilled about his relationship with his daughter, so much so he often made comments that were considered 'pre-mature' by his wife and earned her disciplining touch. An excitable trait that would prove to pass on to his son, and oddly enough Issei as well.
"Father, Mother. It's wonderful to see you both again" Rias said warmly as she bowed to them respectfully.
This of course was followed by Issei and the others.
"Of course welcome home dear" Venerana said smiling at her daughter.
Lord Gremory also smiled then looked past her to his daughter's peerage
"Welcome back everyone. I heard you've all been working hard for my daughter lately and am glad you could join us for the New Year celebrations. I welcome you all to relax and enjoy your home away from home" he said pleasantly.
"Thank you very much" came the unison replies of Issei and the others.
"Ise my boy, come now no need to stand there all day. Come great you're Father" Lord Gremory said friendly as he beckoned Issei over.
Issei gulped as he took a step forward. Surprising the others, Rias included, true he always strived to maintain utmost respect and civil behavior in the presence of Rias' parents but usually he had wasn't this quick to act when they called him out like this.
Alright Issei, it's time…it's do or die, balls out, now or never you can do this…you can do this…you…oh shit the presents I don't have the-
"Young Master the items you asked for" said a voice in his ear.
He looked over his shoulder and there was Grayfia behind him. In her hands she was holding two items wrapped in a couple layers of fine silk.
Were Issei not so focused, he would have broken down and cried in gratitude for Grayfia saving him.
"umm..yes, thanks Grayfia" he said quickly as he took the two items from her and she gave him a subtly smile to show her support.
When he looked back he saw everyone was looking at him curiously.
With good reason.
Taking a deep breath, and pushing all the tension, anxiety and fears as far down as he could he put on a smile and bowed respectfully
"Lord and Lady Gremory, thank you very much for having me in your home once again. Please accept these gifts from me in honor of the coming New Year festivities" he said in a friendly but highly courteous tone.
As he did he held up the items and offered them
The lord and lady in question were both high ranking devils and as such used to handling virtually anything with grace and composure. The fact that Issei would see true surprised on their faces meant, or so he hoped, that he had succeeded.
Rias on the other hand was looking at him with shock. He could also sense the shocked gazes of the others behind him.
After what felt like an eternity of a moment the lord and lady smiled and each took the gift meant for them
"How wonderfully thoughtful of you dear, but you shouldn't have we are simply glad to have you here and I must you have done well to heed your lessons, such a gentleman" Venerana said with a grateful nod as she undid the silk knot holding the wrappings together.
"Indeed, you certainly know how you offer a greeting" Lord Gremory said with an open laugh, always the one for noblemen flair
The next moment both lord and lady were again surprised.
"Oh my, Japanese pickles, Ise dear you seek to spoil me?" Venerana asked as she held a jar of Japan's finest Tsukemono.
Lord Gremory on the other hand laughed again quite heartily
"Ah! Juyondai sake. Well now my son, you have certainly proven to be a match like no other for our daughter. Tell me now, why this kind generosity?" he asked curiously
"It's quite simple father" someone said
Sirzechs was coming down the stairs.
Issei just simple felt is best to stand straight, keep quiet and hope he did not give himself a stroke as it looked like things were going alright for him
"During a little shopping trip in the human world I happened to have my dear brother Ise help me find my way and he had mentioned he was looking to find a little gift for you and mother as he had hoped you have you both visit his home again soon" he said with a smile coming to join them
Exchanged a look with his wife, Lord Gremory nodded.
"Well then Ise, I accept with gratitude and will be sure to visit your lovely home again soon. I have to admit your parents put on a feast like few others. Now then I know for you it's early but what say we open this bottle and have ourselves a taste. We can also discuss the still open matter of calling me father as well"
He said as he put hand on Issei's shoulder to guide him into the mansion. Venerana however slipped her arm around Issei's and followed suit with her husband.
"A lovely idea darling. Ise dear, before we sit down to dinner, please tell me of the recent exploits I've heard about, regarding battles in heaven" she said as together the lord and lady led Issei away.
Alright stay calm…just stay calm this is good..right? Well ummm ahhhh save me Rias!
Was all Issei could think, as he smiled nervously to both of Rias' parents.
…
…
…..
It was perhaps a good minute or two as while the servants maintained their proper positions. Rias and the others could only watch in stunned surprise
Finally there came a flash of a camera
"Ah dear Ri-Ri that look was truly priceless" Sirzechs said as he smiled after taking a picture of Rias. Something that was a hobby of his.
Grayfia promptly came up behind him and pinched his cheek.
The flash of the camera finally broke the spell the others were under.
At once Rias rounded on her brother
"Are you behind this brother?" she asked
Sirzechs smiled despite the cheek pinching "Actually Rias it would be more accurate to say I am helping in this. The idea was Ise's originally. He only asked for my advice"
"Ise?" Rias asked confused
Sirzechs nodded "I should think the reason is obvious. My brother is working to better his relationship with Father and Mother all for you. After all it's you he loves"
Rias' irritated response for her brother was stopped then as she suddenly put the pieces together.
"Oh Ise…silly sweet Ise" she said
Meanwhile behind her Akeno was hiding her mouth behind her hand as to contain her laughter
"Oh my now this is going to make for a fun evening" she said
"Yeah, who've thought Ise would finally work up the nerve to do something like this" Kiba said nodding and grinning at his best friend being led down a hall.
"Ise is so kind" Asia said smiling fondly
"I bet there's something perverted at the end of all this regardless" Koneko muttered quietly but actually was trying to hide her smile at the hilarious situation.
"I didn't know Ise was so brave!" Gasper said proudly
"I see now, that must explain why he was acting so strangely with this secret plan of his. I didn't think it would turn out to be something like this from the way he had been acting I'd have thought he was preparing to do something taboo" Xenovia said grasping her chin and tilting her head to the side
"Big brother Ise is really awesome" Millicas said ending the side commentary with sparkles in his eyes.
Grayfia and Sirzechs exchanged a pleased look at how events turned out.
As the maids took away their luggage Sirzechs turned to Rias
"I am sure you do not want to leave your Ise alone. He likely will need your rescue before long despite his efforts. I wish I would stay and enjoy but I promised Ajuka and the others I would meet with them once more before we all agreed to be done with anything official until after the ball" he said as he made his way to leave the mansion with Grayfia following behind.
Rias watched him go then after Millicas tugged her hand she realized she had to hurry as knowing Ise he was likely panicking without her and others around to help him endure her parents.
When Rias caught up she saw Issei clearly was about to be overwhelmed.
For the most part the visit with Rias parents had gone remarkably well for Issei. After being led to one of the many lavish living rooms, and also after politely turning down an offer for a drink or two of the sake he had given to Lord Gremory….
"Well that is a shame but I can at least admire your strong principles on this. However once you do come of age I must insist on a father-son bonding time with this sake" he said as he poured himself a cup to sample the gift. He found it to be utterly delicious.
He was then treated to tea with Venerana while hearing praise for his exploits in heaven and continuing to be a pride for the family.
Issei however was starting to feel himself relax but in the back of his mind he was still tensed up as there was something he had hoped to do by this point. He had hoped to ask them something but upon when Rias and the others arrived he saw he had to wait. Although he was grateful for the rescue as he was despite making great leaps in his interacting with the Lord and Lady he knew he still had his limits.
He even got an utterly glowing and mind melting look from Rias at one point when the conversation didn't involve them.
"You really are something" she had whispered to him.
He felt himself overflowing with emotion but wasn't entirely sure what she specifically meant by that.
Before long it was time for dinner.
Again Issei had the honor of walking with Venerana and Lord Gremory into the dining hall, well one of them he was certain there were at least a dozen of them.
This time they were using one that was kind of like a greenhouse style dining room. The walls and ceiling were all glass then let in the bright moonlight and along the walls were an assortment of flowers and exotic plants native to the underworld.
"So tell me Ise I hope your parents have been doing well?" Lord Gremory asked
"Oh, yeah they told me to say they send their best for the New Year and hope you both can visit again soon"
"A lovely idea. I have been wanting to meet them for some time" Venerana said
Issei was really starting to feel better about things.
Maybe during dinner…I can ask…..
As they passed through the open doors into the dining room Issei could not help but marvel at the sight.
It was a stunning room with how the moonlight filtered through the glass walls and ceiling hitting the crystal chandelier sending sparkling lights all around. Candles lit the table as it seemed like this room was more meant to eat with natural light.
"Wow…now this is something" Issei breathed out
"I'm glad you like it, Venerana and I were thinking we'd use this for you and Rias" Lord Gremory said with a pleased smile
"For us?" Issei asked confused as the doors were closed behind them.
It was then they all heard someone chuckle.
It wasn't anyone of their group. They also saw that all the servants that should be present on standby were not there.
The chuckle came from the far end of the room at the head of the table.
"How touching, and about time. I was getting so bored I debated eating something"
Someone was sitting in the seat Lord Gremory would normally have. He was hooded and cloaked
At once Issei was on alert, without a word his boosted gear gauntlet appeared. He could feel a familiar presence and a dangerous one
Everyone else was immediately on alert.
The man at the table stood up
"Eager aren't we Red Dragon. Well then.."
He raised his arm, he was holding what looked like a short spear in hand
His hand shifted and at once Issei could read the line of attack, he was aiming for Venerana.
"Look out!" he said pushing her to the side as the spear was thrown
"GUH!"
Issei felt a sharp intense pain in the region of his stomach as the spear was thrown with such speed and force he wasn't able to do anything but push Venerana out of the way. He spat blood as the force of the spear piercing him sent him back and nailed him to the wall behind him.
"Ise!" Rias shouted
At once she was at his side
The others meanwhile all watched in horror and surprise.
Lord Gremory went to his wife first, to help her up, then they put Millicas behind them.
Kiba, Xenovia, and Koneko took to the front. In only a couple seconds they summoned their swords. Kiba not taking this enemy lightly went directly into balance break summoning his holy devil sword, and Xenovia calling forth Ex-Durandal. Koneko immediately changed to her cat form her ears and tail sprouting.
As they had been caught by surprise their first tactic was to take the front line for defense.
Akeno, Asia and Gasper feel back as they looked to Ise with worry.
"Ise" Rias said as she looked to the spear sticking in his gut and pinning him to the wail.
"Nhg shit…this fucking hurts-"he started but then stopped as suddenly he felt a wave of numbness wash over him. He tried to lift his arm to grab the spear but he couldn't move
"Ise what's wrong?" Rias asked him.
"Likely it's the poison I put on the spear head. A little blend of mine even mixing a drop or two of Samael's blood. Oh but not enough to kill though I imagine the paralysis has taken hold now eh dragon boy?" the intruder said with ill humor in his words.
"How dare you!" Rias said enraged as she turned and was aglow in the crimson aura of her power of destruction.
On cue Akeno changed to her priestess outfit in a flash, and summoned her own aura. Her power of lightning dancing on her fingers as her eyes also alight with rage at this man who hurt Ise.
"Who are you? Why do you attack my family?" Lord Gremory said as he and Venerana kept Millicas behind them.
The man titled his head to the side.
"Why you ask? Simple I owe the Red Dragon and I seek to cause some chaos, this chance allows me two birds with a single stone I mean we devils are meant to be bad existences, as for who I am" the man said chuckling
At the mention of chaos Rias and her group at sensed something familiar about the man.
He raised his hands and lowered his hood.
They saw long silver hair, a short beard. As the cloak was cast aside they also saw he wore an outfit similar to what Sirzechs wore as the Devil king
Issei's eyes narrowed in anger. Just as the numbness of the poison was about to render him total incapacitated
"Rizevim…Lucifer" he said before losing all feeling.
A/N: What a productive weekend. Likely that's because we're getting to the part I been looking forward to the most. I can barely contain myself. Well now you all know whose going to be screwing up Issei's plans the ever pain in the ass Rizevim Livan Lucifer (seriously what a dick this guy is).
I sincerely this story has proven amusing for you all. I am trying to keep in sync with the DxD theme.
Now a little Tease…the next chapter will be called "Stunning New Transformation. Crimson Dragon Emperor". Looking forward to working on it soon.
Stay Tuned!