REVIEWS:
Simmonschr: Thanks, but I try not to go too hard. I wanna keep the quality as good as possible, hence why I take my time. That and I don't really have that much time to write during the week.
DragonGodZalama: I don't really get what you mean by thin air. Them coming over was stated, and the rest is simple teleportation magic. Simple as that. I mean, didn't Grayfia also pop up from thin air in Issei's room in Cannon? Same thing, truly.
SpartanKing J: Issei as Ains? Lord above, imagine if I wrote one such FF where Issei was a normal guy, but ended up transported to a world where he meets the rest of the DxD supernatural cast as things such as Rias being the Demon Empress or something like that XD. Also, dunno about how to compare Leonna. Still, for those who are in the discord, stay tuned for possible fan art of her! Also, despite the points you have brought up, they do not get flushed out more in the chapters. But I can explain them here! Getting knocked out counts, yes, and fatal means they actually died and had to resurrect. Also, yeah, they are still allowed the tears, but only because not everyone in their peerage is like them. As Ajuka said, or will say, he was strongarmed into changing their rule. Bloody politics.
uchiha-rune:Yeah, no, sorry.
: You are half right. He is too arrogant to actually consider losing and training, so he mainly tries to figure out what happened with his spy.
Remzal Von Enili: THat boy is THICC!
PraetorXyn: THICC boy!
PTYN: Honestly, the Twilight Forest bits were the idea of Old Man of the Mountain on Discord, so shoutout to him. Leonna seems robotic, but trust me, there is some personality in there, and for the last point, the answer is nothing. Nothing is stopping Issei from moving into his dungeon, and I will make it so later. But trust me, he does so with a reason.
To MERK FOX, TheRazgrizDragon and Uday Sera: Here you have the next chapter.
JustAngry: It is my rule to only answer the revs on the most recent of chapters, but thanks anyway.
: *Awkward whistle*
Guest: Thank you.
MeliodasGremory23: You will have to wait and see XD.
nexusplayer: The holy spirit? My friend, I am not that big on religion, but pretty sure the Holy Spirit and God are the same, though some cults say they are not...Confusing stuff. Other than that? My friend, I am not one to mix fandoms just like that, so sorry to disappoint, but things will be as DxD as they can get.
Xerzo LotCN: Once again, from the start. Pretty sure the hair monster you think was based on a pokemon was based on the same Youkai. Also, yes, Riser did try to cheat but he is not allowed to, and killing him twice is very much easier than killing him a dozen times until he quits. And yeah, Kuroka getting some love, though, politics be politics my friend. Can't just pardon a murderer, especially since she DID kill that man. Also, sorry to say, but Leonna is not going to receive any Smut content. SORRY! Also, no, the design is as OC as possible, made with aid from the discord. As for the dungeon needing upgrades? Well, meet me on Discord, and I might just reveal my plans.
OechsnerC: She can't. No being created by the dungeon can.
Discord Link: /nNZdvX3pbz
He was beaten. Both figuratively and literally. The dummy proved to be an even more formidable opponent than he imagined, making him constantly push for more. Still, the training was every bit as fruitful as promised. He decided to train his water magic since it was bound to have the most effectiveness against Riser. Thanks to the dummy being able to take more punishment, the fact he no longer gets only 50 EXP per skill used for his skills, plus the bonuses he has for both magic and specifically water-related skills, this went quickly.
Not only did his proficiency go up, but he made efforts to max out some of his skills too. His [Water Whip] grew to have a lower maintenance cost for the tendrils, and a bit more.
[Water Whip] ( Level MAX): A basic water spell that implies the creation of a long, watery tendril extending from the magical circle. This spell costs 10 Mana to cast and 3 to maintain per minute. As of level 5, you can make the whip split into multiples. As of level 10, this skill can now deal additional damage equal to 10% of your STR stat.
More damage is welcomed. However, just with his fire magic, this skill resulted in a new one being created.
(Sub-Skill) [Water Serpent] (Level 1| 0/400): The ability to create a water construct that resembles a serpent, which lunges at your enemies and strikes with the power of a raging river. This skill deals +20% more damage based on your MGI stat. 100 Mana per use.
As his proficiency increases, so do his skills and the number of skills grows. Granted, the system did need his input on something, namely the sub-skill he had between water and shadow magic. It asked him to delete it, as the system's recalibration from a while ago detected it as redundant as well, but needed his input on the action. He decided to delete it, granting him a free 1000 EXP to all skills in both Water and Shadow Magic as compensation. Nice.
Furthermore, he worked on [Water Blade] and maxed that one out as well. Since it reached MAX, its damage bonus TRIPLED. No new sub-skill from this one evolving, but that was alright. He decided to train his newest skill once he finished this one, and he marveled as from his magical circle a serpent made of water flew through the air and smashed right into the dummy, pushing it back before it broke apart into liquid. It did damage and a decent amount, plus, he was able to summon multiple of those things. Best part?
It is like a homing missile! He had a hunch, and it proved correct when his serpent sharply turned and smashed right into the dummy despite aiming in the completely wrong direction! It SOUGHT its target, and went in THAT direction! However, he noticed how it didn't seem to hold an endless traveling distance, meaning he had to be smart about abusing this element. However, he did get an idea and put it into practice.
He focused his mana around him, and the water followed it. It took him a minute to perfect it, but eventually, he was pleased with the overall results.
[Aqua Dome] (Level 1| 100/400): A defensive water-based spell that conjures a dome made of water around the user. At base size, this skill uses 100 Mana to be activated, and 20 Mana per minute to maintain. This skill is able to block incoming strikes of both physical and magical nature completely, but only as long as the combined values of the user's MGI and DUR exceed those of the opponent's offensive stats. Additionally, the size of the skill can be adjusted, provided the user feeds it extra mana.
A new defensive skill, which he had put to work. Luckily, the dummy was happy to help, pounding at the barrier when he summoned it around him. The clear, blue water swirled around him, and as the dummy struck it, it rippled, blocking the strike. With each strike delivered by the dummy, the skill grew. But he was curious about something else. Using a bit more mana to expand his dome as mentioned, he put an arm forth and summoned two magical circles.
He launched his watery serpentines, and sure enough, they could pass through the barrier with no issue whatsoever. Ok, this was extremely nice. Work began instantly after figuring this out. It didn't take long for his serpents to reach level 5, rewarding him with its growth. Namely, a 5% increase to the bonus damage. As for his dome, once it reached level 5, it allowed him to summon it around allies that were close enough to him. His water magic made leaps and bounds in barely one evening of training, and he was still left with time.
As such, he decided to begin training his swordsmanship and martial arts against the dummy. Sure enough, once he got his sword out, the dummy also produced a sword out of seemingly nowhere. Ok, best upgrade so far, hands down! Since most of his skills in this category were mostly his defensive ones, he decided to be defensive whilst training, only using [Block] and [Deflect] against the dummy. Truth be told, magically, he held the edge against this guy, but physically, there was more challenge.
The dummy was 10 stats above him in every physical way. It was made to CONSTANTLY challenge him to improve. And it worked. His proficiency for swords went up, and now he had a passive +6% damage when using swords in general. But there was more.
(Sub-Skill) [Stone-Cleaving Slash] (Level 1| 000/400): A more advanced slash-based technique that implies the delivery of a powerful slash with the power to cut apart a whole boulder! This skill deals a bonus of +45% damage, and can inflict the [Medium Bleed] effect on enemies with a 75% chance of success! 200 Stamina per use. 3 Minute cooldown after use.
(Sub-Skill) [Swift Slash] (Level 1| 000/400): A more advanced slash-based technique that makes use of speed over strength. When activated, your next slash-based attack will be boosted by +50% more damage based on your AGI. 100 Stamina per use. 2-minute cooldown after use.
New skills were ALWAYS welcomed! And he tried them out instantly. The first, [Stone-Cleaving Slash], was true to its name, as when he used it, he cut right through the dummy's sword and slashed it over the chest, scoring major points of damage! Next, he activated [Swift Slash] and used it in a combo-like maneuver, managing to swiftly slash across the dummy's right eye, temporarily blinding it, and then stabbed it in the chest. Ok, those new skills were lit as fuck, but he had to be smart about using them. They had cooldowns, meaning he could not simply spam them.
It didn't take long for the dummy to recover, however, and resume his assault in full force. Issei decided to maximize the training of his skills, meaning he returned to the defensive for now and waited out his cooldowns for when he could use his skills again. He managed to reach level 5 in his raw proficiency, but nothing changed again, so he kept going. Eventually, [Deflect] reached max level, but nothing happened. No growth, no anything.
[Block] followed soon after, becoming maxed as well. By the time that one reached that level, his proficiency was almost at the next tier too…He went hard. But then something seemed to happen.
Conditions have been met! The skills [Deflect] and [Block] have reached MAX level, and the user's proficiency has reached the necessary level as well. As a result, those two skills shall be combined.
Skill Acquired!
[Sword Block] (Level 1| 000/400): This skill allows you to block an incoming attack, or deflect it. The chance of applying this is, by default, 50%, with every 5 points of STR you have above the opponent giving you an extra 1% chance. Additionally, when you successfully counter-attack, you have a chance to inflict the [Stun] status effect on the enemy, in addition to [Minor Bleed]. 50 Stamina is used when launching a counter-attack.
It was like his two skills fused, and now, with their potential refreshed, opened new gates. Deciding he trained his swordsmanship enough, he began to work on his martial arts some more as well. Namely, he started with [Power Kick] and began to attack the golem focusing solely on kicks and using [Power Jump] as well for the additional distance being put between him and the dummy. [Run] was also getting a good amount of development too.
He maxed out [Run] before he even realized it. Strangely, it didn't grow either, but he didn't mind it much. Soon, [Power Kick] was maxed out as well, and sure enough, things began to progress.
Conditions met! The skill [Power Kick] has hereby evolved into [Dragon's Kick]
[Power Jump] was next, so he trained that easily enough, but could not bring it to MAX. He ran out of Stamina to use his skills. So, with that done, he ended the training sessions.
"Thank you, Sir Dummy." Issei thanked his training partner, bowing to him and receiving a bow in return. Then he went back inside the building, seeing Leonna on the other side of the door as soon as he entered.
"I hope your training was fruitful, Master." She said. "Per your orders, we have prepared some light snacks. Our chef had some basic ingredients on hand, and hopes that you find the cooking to be to your liking"
A plate with some food was presented to Issei, the boy looking at it closely. They were basic snacks, like biscuits, but getting his hand close, he could feel the heat radiating from them. Home baked. Additionally, the other snacks there included some kind of cheese, white and creamy, likely to go with the biscuits, and lastly, several slices of meat with a thin layer of mustard on them. Snacks. light and nice.
Taking a few bits, however, had Issei's eyes widen. "Leonna."
"Yes, Master?"
"Tell the chef his cooking is more than just to my liking," Issei said. "Also, inform him to be prepared. I want him to cook for a party tomorrow evening. I will give you all details to rely upon him, and you will also need to gather ingredients post haste."
Leonna bowed. "Yes, Master. We have already begun the farming process, and animals have also been acquired during your training. However, they won't be ready in time for this dinner you speak of at their current growth rate. Master, if you will please allow us to redirect some of the Mana in the dungeon, we could acquire everything in time, but this might slow down the creation of the Naga Garden."
"Very well. Frankly, this dinner is more important than the Naga Garden, considering the guests I will be having." Issei replied, earning another bow from Leonna. He then checked the time on his HUD, seeing that he should be heading out and getting things ready. "Take care, Leonna."
"You too, Master." And with that, Issei left his dungeon, went to shower, then hit the bed. Tomorrow was bound to be busy.
"TWO SATANS ARE COMING OVER?!" Raynare shouted in utter disbelief as Issei gathered everyone to tell them the news. "TWO OF THEM?! AND THE ULTIMATE QUEEN?! NOT TO MENTION IT IS THE LUCIFER AND BEELZEBUB DUO!"
"Raynare, please calm down!" Asia begged the Fallen, trying to help her compose herself. "They are coming here as guests to take part in the New Year's party."
"Nya! Still!" Kuroka, to Issei's slight surprise, seemed to side with Raynare. "Sirzechs Lucifer and Ajuka Beelzebub are extremely high-profile guests, nya!"
"I don't know them, so I can't say much, but I guess they are not here to cause trouble seeing how they offered Kuroka a partial pardon here," Ingvild said, trying to bring up a bit more reason for everyone to listen to. "Still, this is…a bit short notice. This means we only have so much to prepare for the party, and we have not even prepared snacks, drinks, or anything of the like!"
"Oh, there is no need to worry about that. I got it covered." Issei said, his grin betraying him to some degree.
"Issei…" Kuroka trailed off.
"What have you done this time?" Ingvild asked, curious to know.
"Follow me, girls," Issei told them, and sure enough, he also got his key from his pocket.
"YOU HAVE AN ENTIRE FORTRESS?!" Raynare, once again, shouted from the top of her lungs as the entire group was in shock seeing the dungeon again. It just…evolved so much since the last time everyone saw it. Everyone was shocked to the point words would not come to their mouths.
"This…" Asia said, looking in the distance and taking on the size of the entire place. "Is overwhelming."
"No, fuck that! This is more than just overwhelming, it is pure, inexcusable insanity!" Raynare continued, sharply turning to Issei. "What kind of monster ARE you?! Having a pocket dimension of this scale is a privilege only Gods could afford!"
Suddenly, as the group was still within the main lobby - which Issei had to admit, was really nice as well with a bright red carpet and tall, strong well-carved pillars - the next surprise swiftly showed itself. "Master, is everything alright? I heard a commotion." Leonna showed herself, and all eyes were on her. Ok, at this, Issei began to feel awkward.
"Master?" Kuroka repeated, then she looked at Issei. "I think I will level with Raynare for once…" She inhaled deeply. "ISSEI! EXPLAIN! NOW!"
Damn…No 'Nya' either, meaning she was dead serious. "Alright, alright! I will explain, so please, don't shout. The acoustic in this place is nuts!"
"Issei…" Ingvild warned him slyly, and the boy began to speak.
"Look, Ingvi, as you and Kuroka are fully aware of my abilities, this is part of them," Issei said, and the two girls seemed to almost gain a look of recognition on their faces. "This place, and the beings within, are all born of that power."
"No!" Raynare suddenly shouted. "Fuck this! This is too much!"
"I…I find myself agreeing with Raynare, Issei. We know you hold a lot of power, and strange ones to that, but this is a bit much to accept without a more proper explanation." Asia said, and sure enough, Issei saw the writing on the wall. The gig was up with those two.
"Well then…I guess I should start from the start." He began, and so, he began to explain how abilities to then, making sure to include his explanation about Solomon. Save to say Raynare was scared shitless learning that THE Solomon was among them, all this time, and then her face completely fell by the time he was finished. Both she and Asia seemed to have issues processing the information, but eventually, it was Raynare who collapsed on her knees first.
"Video Game…You are a motherfucking video game character in the real world, with powers that defy the laws of our reality. And all this time, all we've seen, progress that takes usually years of training, you have been achieving in mere months?!" Raynare covered her forehead, dizziness overtaking her.
"It's…insane." Even Asia couldn't process things easily.
"I have to admit, it takes some getting used to the idea," Ingvild said, trying to lighten things up. "But, it's not so bad! Besides, aside from some small perks, it is Issei who has to deal with most of the hassle."
"You can say that again…" The boy in question sighed. "The first ten years were quite troublesome too, with the constant headaches."
"I…I'm done…" Raynare said. "Given enough time for you to increase your level, odds are you could overtake Sirzechs in a year or two more. But, at least, now things are making more sense. This is how you can wield the powers of other races without reincarnation of special heritage."
"Yup!" Issei stated proudly.
Raynare remained silent for a bit, her gaze drifting slightly to Asia. She seemed to be thinking about something, and thinking hard as well. "Is this…Your entire secret?" She asked slowly.
"Yes. It is the secret of my power, and I don't really have anything else to hide." He admitted, and to his surprise, Raynare actually smiled. Said smile quickly began to turn into a chuckle, then at last, Raynare broke out in full-blown laughter, holding her stomach and almost running out of air in the process. To say she was freaking everyone out would be an understatement, however, Asia seemed to be the most surprised of them all by Raynare's reaction, but eventually, Raynare calmed down, then, to Issei's utter surprise, something popped into his vision.
+10 RP with Raynare!
Raynare
1/100
Now that you have laid all of your cards bare, this Fallen no longer thinks about trying anything. Well, anything bad for you, that is.
FINALLY! Her Relationship tab was no longer in the negative, but what did it mean by this description? Something didn't feel right to Issei, and honestly, he felt a bit scared if anything of Raynare right now. Something happened, no doubt about it.
"Ummm. Raynare?" Issei called out her name, then, suddenly, watched her get down on the ground, bowing to him. "Woah there, what are you-"
"Please!" Raynare shouted, once more surprising Issei. "Please…Allow me to wield a Draconic Piece."
"Nya! Do you know what you're asking?!" Kuroka raised her voice, looking down at Raynare with a slight scowl. "Draconic Pieces are precious, so why should Issei use one on you?"
"I…I have nowhere else to go." She began, fist clenching. "I cannot return to the Grigori, and if I leave your protection, I'd be no doubt hunted down and killed. I know I am not as powerful as I perceived myself to be…Learned that the hard way…But I wish to become more powerful, and for that reason, I have made up my mind to fully submit."
"That is not everything," Issei muttered, keeping his gaze on Raynare.
"I…I am sorry…For everything I've done and said up to this point." She continued. "I've…I've realized that all this time, you could have done a lot of things to me. Rape me…Starve me…Torture me…But you never did. Instead, I was given shelter, 3 meals per day, and even some clothing. Conditions that other prisoners would call luxury. And I attempted to kill you when we met, right before the grave of your parents. Please…accept my apologies and allow me to start over within this group."
"Hmmm. Kuroka, Ingvild, Asia?" Issei called out to them, wishing for their opinions. However, before the Nekoshou and Devil could speak, Asia was the first to open her mouth.
"Issei…Please let Raynare have this chance." She said, which got his attention. "I know she did awful things and planned to…use me for my gear…But I know there is good in her. She can change and has changed a bit already. So please." Asia bowed her head to him as well. "Please, give her this chance to prove herself. Please."
"Asia…" Now, Issei was quite stunned to see Asia go this far for Raynare. Although at first, it made sense, given how Asia was, he didn't expect her to have pretty much forgiven Raynare for what she tried to do to her! It was…overwhelming, to say the least.
"This is the true nature of Heaven, Ise." Solomon began, voice soft. "To hold in your heart the kindness and compassion to forgive even your worst enemies. Given how Asia was brought up, it holds no surprise to me she'd do this, but her personality makes it even more stunning to behold. My, she truly deserved the title of Saint within the Church. This girl, Issei, has a true heart of gold."
"I support Solomon's words, Ise. Such kindness and forgiveness are rare in the world. Trust me, I know. The fact she is forgiving Raynare and even asking you to grant her a Draconic Piece is nothing less of a way for Raynare to redeem herself, and for Asia to show that Raynare can be better. Partner…You know what is right."
"I do…" He muttered under his breath, then looked at both Asia and Raynare. However, he looked at Asia first. "I wanted to ask you, Asia, if you'd desire a Draconic Piece after I finished my explanation."
The former nun's attention was on Issei immediately. "M-me?"
"Yes. But now, seeing how you are bowing your head for Raynare, I have no choice." Reaching into his inventory, Issei made to pull out two pieces. One Bishop and one Pawn. He focused, and imbued them with his Mana before their eyes, turning them into Draconic Pieces. "I will grant you both a piece. Asia, you will become my second Bishop, and Raynare shall become my first Pawn!"
Asia smiled widely. "Truly?" Raynare looked up, seeing the Pawn piece in Issei's hands.
"Yes. I will grant them to you right now if you'd have them here and now." He said, and Asia spoke swiftly.
"Let Raynare go first! I can wait."
"Very well," Issei said, going to Raynare and kneeling to her. "Up." He said, and Raynare allowed herself to rise in front of Issei. "Raynare, know that the only reason I am doing this is because Asia asked me to. Kuroka and Ingvild, as well as I, do not yet fully trust you. We might never trust you in full…But today you showed that you can change, even if slightly." He raised the Pawn piece before her eyes. "Ready?"
Raynare gulped, feeling nervous. Her hands were shaking, if they weren't currently put away, so would her wings. To be truthful with herself, Raynare wanted to try and earn their trust because Asia URGED her to get closer to the others. Every time they were in the same room, Raynare always just stood to the side, minding her own business, while everyone else did theirs. Only the nun showed her any kind of kindness, but then again, it was a kindness she knew she did not deserve.
Had the roles been reserved, she'd let herself starve or something. Yet, they didn't mistreat her in any way, and Asia helped her see things in a bit of a different light. A blinding light, to that. Frankly, she still held strong opinions of them, with Issei and Kuroka being huge perverts and Ingvild a devil princess with no real worth. Despite her great raw power, she barely had any real abilities to use it. Asia, however…was ok. She didn't hate her, anymore, but Raynare would not go as far as to call her a close friend.
Just…A friend, for now.
This was a step forward for her and them, to allow her to better integrate into their group. She didn't need to sleep with the dragon in the room, thankfully, as she didn't wish to either. For now, at least. The mewling and moaning she heard night after night in the house, coming from the cat in the room AND recently the devil were extremely, EXTREMELY, loud. Sue her, she rubbed one out more than once listening to them.
Not like it was anything new. Unlike some of them, she was experienced and has been with several other men during her immortal life. Well, semi-immortal life. She had to remind herself that she simply did not age, but getting killed was possible. But she digressed. The red dragon before her? Nothing new. She was never with a Longinus user, truth be told, but she didn't hold high expectations of him. The experience made her pretentious, to some degree, judging a man by his own experience to make sure it matched or OUTDID hers.
That is how she knew a man could do her right.
Still, her relationship with everyone aside, being in this group was truly her only true choice. As she said, she had nowhere else to go. Every other path led to doom, and she would be damn if she survived a war but not the aftermath. She WILL survive, and maybe, just maybe, as the dragon just said…change a little.
"Ready." As soon as the words left her mouth, the piece floated into her body. It sunk into her chest, and a throbbing headache overtook her as her vision blurred. Suddenly, things were added to it, things she had not seen before…A HUD, yes! This is what it was, a game HUD! It showed things like her HP.
Name
Raynare
Title:
Pawn of Hyoudou
Level:
27 (210780/685790 EXP)
HP: 16000/16000 (1 HP/Min)
STA: 21000/21000 (1 STA/Min)
Holy Energy: 13000/13000 (1 H.E/Min)
Mana: 20000/2000(1 Mana/Min)
STR: 122 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
AGI: 137 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
MGI: 107 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
DUR: 146 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
ACC: 130 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
WIS: 81 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
INT: 95 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
CHA: 112 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
LCK: 32
Skills:
Skills:
[Lie] (Level 7| 12000/25600): A nasty side of things, but necessary in many situations. When you lie to people, there is a chance they will buy it is dictated by your CHA+LCK- (of the person you are lying to)INT/10. From level 5, you gain a bonus 5% chance your lie will hold!
{ Proficiency Skill} [Swordsmanship - Novice] (Level 2| 550/800): This Skill shows your proficiency with a sword, allowing you to handle the bladed weapon according to the level of mastery of this Skill! No cost for this Skill. Currently, when using a Sword, you deal 3% more damage to your opponents.
[Stab] (Level 1| 200/400): A simple movement and attack of your sword, used to stab your target with your sword or any other weapon which can use this skill. When performing a stab, if successful, you will receive a 5% damage bonus. This Skill has no cost.
[Slash] (Level 3 | 700/1600): A simple movement to cut your enemies with your blade. When you successfully slash an opponent you have a 50% chance to inflict the Status Effect [Minor Bleed], and a 20% chance to inflict the [Medium Bleed] effect.
[Light Effect] (Level MAX): If wielding your [Light Saber] skill, then your [Stab] skill will deal a 20% damage bonus against Devils, and your [Slash] skill will have a 70% chance to inflict [Minor Bleed] and a 40% to inflict [Medium Bleed]
[Dual-Wielding] (Level MAX): This skill does not level up, instead, it only enables the user to make full use utilizing two weapons at once.
{Proficiency Skill} [Light Power Mastery - Proficient ] (Level 9 | 87050/ 102400): The most common ability found within all Angels, and consequently, Fallen Angels as well!
[Light Spears] (Level MAX): The user of this skill is able to generate spears made out of Holy Energy, which manifests itself as light. Those spears deal damage equal to the user's MGI +20% and deal a bonus of 100% to Devils. This skill costs 100 H.E. per spear created.
[Light Saber] (Level 2 | 300/800): A saber made out of Holy Energy, which manifests itself as light. This sword made of light deals damage based on the user's STR with a bonus of 10% based on their MGI stat. This skill deals +100% damage against Devils.
Magic-related Skills:
[Communication Circle] (Level MAX): A basic spell used to communicate over long distances, and even inter-dimensionally provided a link is established.
[Memory Alteration] (Level MAX): A spell used by supernatural beings to alter the memories of humans to remain hidden. 100 Mana per person.
[Outfit Change] (Level MAX): A spell that enables the user to change their outfit, often in relatively flashy ways.
{Proficiency Skill} [Casting Methods] (MAX): The ways of casting magic.
[Casting Method: Magical Circle] (Level MAX): The most basic of casting methods.
Draconic Piece Skills:
[Promotion]: This allows a pawn to become any of the other pieces, gaining their skills in the process! However, to maintain this Skill, 100 Stamina per minute is required.
Perks:
Normal Perks
[Golden Skin]: This Perk grants you a -25% damage reduction from physical strikes.
[Expert Sharpshooter]: This perk grants you a 25% bonus chance to hit your targets at long range.
[Golden Striker]: This Perk grants you a +25% damage boost when striking using physical strikes based on your STR (Original)
[Extroverted Nature]: This perk grants you a bonus +10% chance of success in all skills that require the use of your CHA stat.
Draconic Piece Perks
[EXP Bonus]: Each time your King levels up, you will gain EXP equal to 25% of the EXP required for their next level.
[Draconic Boost]: You gain a permanent +10 to all stats, except LCK.
Titles:
Pawn of Hyoudou.
As the title says, you are the Pawn of Issei Hyoudou, possessing the Draconic Pawn Piece. This Title grants the [EXP Bonus] and [Draconic Boost] perks, The Draconic Piece Skills, as well as an overall 20% EXP bonus to the wearer, and the ability to equip a different title aside from this one.
"Those are…my abilities?" Raynare said slowly, looking at her new window. Looking over them, she scrolled through, and noticed everything being there! Including something she wanted to keep a secret - as a surprise! Until later…A good one!
"[Light Saber]?!" Issei gasped seeing her skill. "Raynare! When did you develop this?!"
"During the time we spend in the mountains, that's when." She replied with a bit of annoyance to her voice. "I wanted…to showcase it to you when I train with it more."
"Sneaky little-"
"Easy, Solomon."
"Well…I guess I can overlook this." Issei said, which seemed to play well for Raynare.
+1 RP with Raynare.
"Would you wish for a demonstration?" She asked, trying to show off, pretty obviously. However, that is when something else caught her eye…Kuroka and Ingvild brought their own stat pages up, and Raynare's face paled seeing them. "I…"
"Don't attempt to act smug, Ray." Kuroka said, playfully calling Raynare by a small nickname. "So far, you are only level 27, barely above the Low-Class level of power, nya!"
"Actually, when I first saw her, she was level 26." Issei pointed out, which wasn't lost to them.
"She gained a level?" Ingvild asked, curious. "That's amazing! Me and Kuroka have really high levels, so it takes time for us to raise them more."
"What about skills?" Raynare asked, curiosity washing over her.
"Nya! I had a lot of them already, so I'm good." Kuroka stated, but then Ingvild spoke.
"I…I didn't have that many, and even now, I am working on more."
"Perhaps the two of you can work together to develop new skills!" Asia perked up, making her suggestion. "I would also love to join you, but first…I think I could be of more use if I would be able to see what is going on, as to me, it kinda seems like you are waving your hands around in the air for nothing."
"Wait, you mean you cannot see the windows?" Issei asked, likely forgetting that detail. Still, her words did remind him that they didn't have all the time in the world right now. So, without much in terms of delay, he got out his Bishop piece.
Raynare sighed. "Of course, she'd get a better piece than me…"
"Chin up, Raynare." Kuroka said, going to her side. "Pawns can also be useful!"
"Hmmm." The Fallen processed her words for a bit, remembering how the Pawn is basically all the pieces in one. Including the Queen piece. "Yeah…Very useful. You have a solid point, cat-"
"As bait and sacrifice."
"WHY YOU LITTLE-"
"Guys!" Issei raised his voice, quieting down the commotion. "Please, be peaceful, I am trying to focus here."
"Sorry/Sorry, Nya!" The two of them said together, then Issei turned his attention back to Asia. In a similar manner to Raynare, the piece floated from his hand to her, sinking into her chest. Then, Asia hunched forth, the headache occurring, and shortly after, as she opened her eyes, the window for her stat page opened up, revealing her own information.
"Woah…"
Name
Asia Argento
Title:
Bishop of Hyoudou
Level:
23 (20780/280900 EXP)
HP: 10000/10000 (1 HP/Min)
STA: 12000/12000 (1 STA/Min)
Mana: 18000/18000(1 Mana/Min)
STR: 34 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
AGI: 38 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
MGI: 67 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
DUR: 29 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
ACC: 28 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
WIS: 57 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
INT: 61 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
CHA: 43 (+10 from Draconic Piece)
LCK: 28
Skills:
Skills:
(Hereditary Skill) [Dragon Tamer] (Level MAX): By being of a special bloodline, you have been granted this skill that enables you to tame the mightiest beasts - Dragons! This skill's effects are passive, and by default, they make dragons more attracted to you, giving them the desire to defend you and not let harm come to you.
Magic-related Skills:
[Communication Circle] (Level MAX): A basic spell used to communicate over long distances, and even inter-dimensionally provided a link is established.
{Proficiency Skill} [Casting Methods] (MAX): The ways of casting magic.
[Casting Method: Magical Circle] (Level MAX): The most basic of casting methods.
Twilight Healing Skills:
(Unique)[Twilight Heal] (Level MAX): A variation of healing UNIQUE to the Twilight Healing Sacred Gear, able to heal anyone regardless of race! When activated, this skill will consume 50 Stamina per second, but in exchange, it will heal up to 500 HP per second!
Draconic Piece Skills:
[Arcane Recharge]: This skill converts the user's Stamina into Mana at a 3:1 ratio, turning 3 Stamina into 1 Mana. Additionally, if the user's MGI is higher than their STR, this skill will allow them to convert all of their STR stat into MGI.
Perks:
Normal Perks
[Natural Magical Talent]: The holder of this perk was born with an innate talent of magic, even if they do not realize it. +10% EXP to all magic-related skills!
Draconic Piece Perks
[EXP Bonus]: Each time your King levels up, you will gain EXP equal to 25% of the EXP required for their next level.
[Draconic Boost]: You gain a permanent +10 to all stats, except LCK.
Titles:
Bishop of Hyoudou.
As the title says, you are the Bishop of Issei Hyoudou, possessing the Draconic Bishop Piece. This Title grants the [EXP Bonus] and [Draconic Boost] perks, The Draconic Piece Skills, as well as an overall 20% EXP bonus to the wearer, and the ability to equip a different title aside from this one.
"You're a Dragon Tamer?!" Raynare exclaimed in shock, looking at Asia. "Why didn't you tell me?!"
"I-I-I- I didn't know!" Asia replied in a hurry, nervous at the sudden outburst caused by Raynare. "I am only now learning of this! Along with…Other things…Level 23…"
"That has to be the lowest level among our group so far," Ingvild stated with sympathy. "And you don't have many skills either."
"However, it makes sense," Issei spoke. "Asia here likely never engaged in any form of combat. The fact she is this high in level despite that must mean she either had alternate ways of gaining EXP or…I don't know, but how she got her level is not important."
"She also has even fewer skills than me. Hell, she has no offensive skills either." Raynare pointed out, making Asia blush with embarrassment. And shame.
"S-sorry that you wasted a Draconic Piece on me." She apologized.
"Oh no, don't worry about it, Asia! Please, this is not something to be ashamed of!" Issei said quickly, trying to lift her spirit. "Sure, you lack some stuff, but everything can be gained now! Plus! You gain EXP when I level up, meaning you don't need to worry about your level being dragged down, and trust me, you will be leveling up in no time!"
"Nya! And as you said, you wish to join Ingvild and Raynare here for skill training as well! It is a perfect chance for you three to work on more skills!" Kuroka pointed out, and sure enough, Asia's smile returned to its brightness.
"Thank you, everyone. You're right, I was hasty in my self-judgment. I apologize."
"Great! Now that everything seems to be settled, how about we get on with the party? Leonna!"
"Master." The servant replied.
"I trust everything I ordered is ready?"
"Indeed. The Chef and Farmers have been working tirelessly to get everything prepared in time, and they seem to have done an exquisite job. Here, I will lead you to the kitchen where you can see the prepared dishes as well as meet the chef."
"Lead the way."
"Nya! This is insane!" Kuroka shouted as she and the others went to the table, where the snacks were laid down. Everything was home-cooked, and some of the food was still warm even! Still, everything was more or less basic stuff for a chill New Year's party. Well, sans the booze.
Lots and lots of booze. He counted at least 20 bottles. Oh boy…
"Does this mean we no longer need to cook ourselves?" Ingvild asked aloud, and sure enough, a dark chuckle was heard throughout the kitchen.
"Oh, I hope you will rely on my services plenty, Mistress." The voice of the creature was hoarse and dry, yet the creature was nowhere to be seen. That is, until everyone looked down, namely, Asia doing so first.
"AHHHHH!" And screaming as a result.
"Please, Mistress Asia, I didn't mean to spook you." The shadow below them…was speaking. More yet, it was starting to gather and began to form a body. It rose above them all, being extremely tall and somewhat gangly, with large, yellow glowing eyes and an unnaturally large constant smile on its face that shared this glow. As it spoke, its lips didn't move, keeping the smile constant. However, what broke the usual horror image, even as multiple tendrils came from its back, was the fact the creature grabbed and put the Chef's hat on its head. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Blackberry, the Chef of the Dragon's Fortress."
"O-oh! S-sorry for screaming." The girl quickly apologized, but then Leonna interjected.
"As he said, this is our Chef, Sir. Blackberry here is classified as a Shadow Fiend, a creature that exists solely within the realm of your Dungeon. He is in charge of making sure the kitchen is productive and he ensures the food for all inhabitants."
"Just tell me what it is you wish, Master and Mistresses, and I will gladly cook whatever your hearts desire," Blackberry said.
"It is nice to meet you, Blackberry, but do tell me, are you alone in here?" Issei asked, looking around. The kitchen was a fairly large place, and despite Blackberry being a monster-like creature, he worried that he might be a bit… overwhelmed.
"I am, Master, but worry not." Suddenly, multiple tendrils came from his back. "I am more than capable of manning the entire kitchen by myself. Why, if anything, this position is a perfect fit for me. Still, it warms my black heart that you worry."
"Blackberry can cook almost any recipe, but if you wish, you can leave other recipes with him to try. He does require the ingredients, however, as he is unable to create something from nothing. But we have already begun work on such aspects, to ensure the Dragon's Fortress is always stocked with provisions in case of need." Leonna explained further.
"The snacks you asked me to prepare are simple dishes, so they were no challenge."
"I see. You certainly seem like a talented cook, Blackberry." Issei said, giving praise to the shadowy being.
"Nya! Can you make ramen?" Kuroka asked the being.
"Most certainly."
"What about Tuscan Chicken Pasta?" Asia asked, and of course, it was an Italian dish.
"But of course!" The chef had no issues still, which confirmed he might be able to prepare even foreign dishes.
"Lapskaus?" Ingvild asked, and the chef smugly replied.
"Yes!"
"Muhammara?" Now, Issei didn't know Raynare had a favorite dish until now, but now he did.
"No issue!"
"As you can see, Blackberry is well-versed in various recipes already, and can more than satisfy all demands," Leonna answered. "However, I do believe you all have something to prepare for, no?"
"Shit, that's right!" Issei exclaimed, having remembered that they were to host the New Year's party. "We need to do other preparations as well, so we better get started. Girls, let's get this food back to the house, then wait for our guests. Leonna, Blackberry, do you wish to-"
"Unfortunately, Sir, we may not leave the Dungeon." Leonna cut him off, quickly telling him.
"Aye, Master, she is right. We are beings that exist in the dungeon, and only in the dungeon. We may never step one foot outside his place without going out like a candle." Blackberry added. "Still, do visit us often!"
"We will. All of us!" Issei declared, then, before his eyes, multiple keys appeared, flying to each of the girls. Even Raynare received one. "What the-"
"Those are access keys, Master. The Mistresses all have the same level of access to the dungeon as you, and similar authority, but may not access the administration functions and your word always overrules theirs. However, they can make use of every perk the Dungeon grants and facilities." Leonna explained.
"Even…the dummy?"
"Yes."
"What's the dummy?" Raynare asked.
"If you want to train some more, the dummy is your…dummy," Issei replied, vaguely so. "Trust me, it'll put you through the wringer."
"Oh? Sounds like a solid way for me to improve." Raynare replied with a mischievous smirk on her lips.
"Yeah…It is." Issei added, and then he cleared his throat. "Anyhow, let's prepare. There are only so many hours left until midnight."
True to Issei's words, everyone prepared themselves for the arrival of their guests. They cleaned, prepared the food, and even readied some music if the Satans wanted some. Issei won't lie to himself, he was nervous, and Solomon was 100% NOT happy with the arrangement of having the top brass of the underworld coming here for a party.
Then again, he always had a bad opinion of the devils in general. He won't let it influence him, however, and he will try to relax as much as possible for the evening. Kuroka and Ingvild were also pretty nervous, but they had their reasons. Kuroka, despite her pardon and relative forgiveness of her criminal status, was rightfully nervous they might change their mind, despite the unlikeness of that scenario, and Ingvild was nervous because, well…
It was them who ended her ancestor. The original Leviathan. She was nervous because those two might take particular interest in her, but Issei would make sure they wouldn't try something rash. He doubted they would. Ddraig was clear on a couple of things when explaining politics to him. The Dragon Emperors were beings that every faction sought to make their allies, going as far as sometimes, metaphorically speaking, kissing their anus to achieve this.
Lots and lots of brown-nosing.
This time was barely any different, the only difference being that they were likely to refrain from being bad guests to make a good impression on him, given who he was. Hopefully, for tonight, there won't be any need to flex any muscles. Preparations went by smoothly, and by the time eight PM rolled about, and the sky darkened, they were more than prepared. They had food, some drinks, and even some light music. Now, all they were waiting for were-
Ding! Dong!
Right, the guests. Issei went to the door, to greet them, opening it to see the first ones to arrive. "Welcome to the Hyoudou Household!" He greeted, trying to sound cheerful and energetic to set a light mood.
It worked, as Akeno gave him a nice chuckle. "Thank you for having me." The Queen of the Gremory Peerage walked inside the house dressed in more casual clothing, namely a lilac turtleneck sweater coupled with a knee-length skirt. A bit conservative, but Issei did guess it was pretty cold outside. She also wore a red jacket over her sweater, which she left at the door. "Oh my, you really did prepare!"
She eyed the snacks almost at once, seeing the variety. Blackberry must be a culinary deity or something, Issei had no other explanations for his talent.
"Indeed, this is quite a nice line-up." And sure enough, Rias herself was not far behind, coming in shortly after Akeno. Now, in contrast to her Queen, Rias dressed in a short-sleeved shirt, green, with a flower design on the side, wearing a jacket as well over it to keep herself warm in the outside cold. On her bottom half, she wore a pair of blue jeans, a simple choice of clothing. Her jacket, however, was identical to Akeno's. Must be something akin to how best friends sometimes buy similar clothing to match.
"Are there any sweets?" Shirone was next after Rias, wearing a puffier coat, white in color, that almost looked like the fur of a coat, over a baby blue sweater and a knee-length skirt.
"Right that way, you cannot miss the plateaus." He pointed the way to the sweets, prepared by Blackberry as well, and she made a straight B-line to them.
"I must say, the speed of your culinary skills is quite something." And finally, Kiba came in, dressed in a pair of comfortable jeans and a hoodie. "That is quite the line-up of snacks."
"Well, let's say we have a good cook on speed dial." A light joke, slightly hinting at Blackberry, but not revealing the existence of the shadowy being. "Is there anyone else coming?"
"My brother and his wife will be here shortly," Rias said, offering a reply. "Ajuka, however, will arrive a bit later. Something about a call from the lab regarding a small error. He will need to direct them from the hotel, on his laptop."
"Ah, I guess there is no rest for the wicked," Issei mentioned, then he turned to everyone. "Well, in that case, how about we all enjoy ourselves until they arrive? There are 4 hours left of this year, after all, and it'd be a shame to let them all go to waste."
"True that," Kiba replied, then walked inside the house to join the others, letting the party get underway. Honestly, Issei is quite pleased with the progress they have been able to achieve in the last year. Not only did he gain the system, but he managed to make good progress in establishing himself as the Red Dragon Emperor.
And getting himself a Harem. Kuroka and Ingvild were fine women, and he's proud to name them among his women. Asia and Raynare, however…Well, he's yet to actually make a call on those two. Asia was just so innocent, he didn't quite see her with the same eyes as the others, but rather, more as a very good friend. Her kind nature even let her help Raynare turn a, sorta, new leaf.
And now, he was about to celebrate with 3 of the strongest beings out there, at least from among the devil race. Compared to other beings, who trained for YEARS to reach their current level, and honed their skills, he managed the same amount of growth in less time. Though, Issei can't help but wonder how it would have been had he had something akin to a dungeon he could grind.
Doesn't matter. The System has been kind to him thus far. And he hopes it will continue to provide the same love/hate relationship vibe in the future as well.
The celebrations were ongoing, with everyone chatting up and having a generally good time. However, Issei couldn't help but take notice of how Akeno kept her distance from Raynare. Something to address at a later date. Rias was chatting away with Ingvild and Kuroka, with Akeno occasionally throwing in her own two cents. Koneko, predictably enough, was enjoying the snacks presented to them, and Kiba was pouring himself something to drink.
Asia seemed to be sticking to Raynare for the most part, but who knows? Plenty of chances to make a new friend or two in here for the fallen angel. It didn't take Issei long to begin chatting with everyone either, especially Kiba.
"Thank you once again for your aid, Issei." The boy said, sipping from his drink. "Before, even I had my doubts about winning against Riser, but now, I am confident we can achieve victory since you're with us."
"Do not give me the entire credit, Kiba. You all worked hard and made good progress with your abilities. Whatever victory we achieve, it won't be by singular merit alone, but the merit of us all." Issei replied to his fellow man, earning a gentle smile from him.
+2 RP with Yuuto Kiba
"You are too kind, Issei. And humble." He looked at everyone else in the house, his smile a light one. "Among us all, you are the only one with a Longinus, and one at the Balance Breaker stage no less. Even if you lacked experience, you would have still been a fine addition to our numbers."
"Ah, but I am afraid I am not quite comfortable with becoming a devil, Kiba." He replied jokingly.
"I guess it is only fair. This life is not for everyone." Kiba replied calmly. "But, Issei, I have been curious about something for quite some time now. And please, forgive me if I am overstepping."
"Hm? What is it you are curious about?"
"Your scar." Kiba's words immediately had Issei tense, fixing his gaze on the man before him. "We know that your parents died in a fire that was planted by someone, and you have been looking for the killer. But…How close are you to that compared to before?"
Issei remained silent for a bit, taking a few breaths to keep his composure. That's right. This particular subject is a sore spot for him. Why? Simple. Because Kiba had a very good point in his words. What progress had he made so far? The only clue he ever got was the system telling him he had to return to Kuoh, and ever since then, it hasn't given him any other leads on where to even begin searching for the ones behind the murder of his parents.
It is frustrating to think about. But, then again, had he gotten his hands on them earlier, would he have reached this point? It might be his high WIS talking, giving him this kind of insight, but if he ended his journey early, he wouldn't have met Rias and the others. Heck, he wouldn't have saved Ingvild and Asia either, and that would have meant leaving them to whatever grim fate awaited.
Not to mention his drive to improve himself. Yes, not having made any significant progress is frustrating him, but at the same time, it is DRIVING him. And drive is something one cannot afford to lose.
"Honestly? Still at square one." He replied, yet Kiba was slightly confused, as he didn't quite feel the same amount of frustration or anguish he expected from Issei. He only had this weak, weary smile on his lips, as he looked down at his cup. "But had things ended too early, would we still be here?"
"A question to answer my question? Still, a wise reply, Issei." Kiba commented, raising his glass to him. "But I know one day you will find your peace. Here's to not giving up."
Issei accepted the small toast. "To never giving up."
Then they both took a good gulp of their drinks, just in time for Issei to hear knocking at his door once again. Putting his glass down, he went to the door, opening it to reveal the next guests. Plus a surprise addition.
"Well, I was under the impression you'd be arriving a bit later, Ajuka Beelzebub," Issei remarked as Ajuka, now dressed in a more formal green three-piece suit with a black shirt underneath, nodded.
"The matter was resolved rather quickly, so I was able to catch up with Grayfia and Sirzechs here." The man replied, pointing to his company. Grayfia for her part didn't lose her maid uniform and retained the same look as before, but Sirzechs did ditch the formal devil clothing and was now wearing a crimson suit, similar to Ajuka's, but his hair was braided this time around.
"Hmm. Is that alcohol I am seeing from here?" Sirzechs asked.
"Yup. We have quite the stock. Nothing vintage or expensive, so apologies for that."
"None needed at all! Any drink can be a fine drink if properly enjoyed."
"Then why wait in the doorway? Come in." Issei greeted his guests inside the house, watching them filter in one by one. Upon seeing him, Rias immediately got Sir's attention, who went to have a chat with his sister while Grayfia seemed to have caught sight of Asia and Raynare, going to them. For what reasons, Issei didn't know, but that did leave him with Ajuka.
"Not going to join anyone?" Issei asked.
"I'm afraid I was never the type to mingle much during parties," Ajuka confessed. "I was always focused on studies and research since my youth."
"Ah, so you are one of those types. Still, I don't find it to be a bad thing. You just need to loosen up a bit with a drink or two. Anything in particular you wish to try?" The boy offered, seeing the satan look at the drinks offered thoughtfully. He sighed, however.
"You do realize it takes more alcohol to get a devil drunk than it would a normal human, correct?" The satan asked, making Issei look at him slightly awkwardly. Ajuka, however, was quick to correct himself. "I'm sorry, force of habit to correct others. It only got worse with the office."
"Don't worry, it's fine. I kinda figured that aspect, which is why we have some more stuff stored up in case we need more." Issei replied, trying to make the satan feel better.
"Still, it was rude of me. I apologize." He bowed to Issei.
"Hey now, no need for that! Come on, try to unwind a bit! Surely, there is something you wish to talk about over a drink, right?"
At this, however, his eyes seemed to glint. "You."
Issei was silent for a bit before he managed to reply. "Ummm. I am flattered, but I am afraid I don't-"
"You are an anomaly, Issei Hyoudou." Ajuka clarified, making Issei feel better. "I just cannot seem to understand how a human body could harbor so many foreign energies without any visible modifications and remain stable. I know this relates to the secrets you wish to keep, but my curiosity and lust for knowledge cannot allow me to leave the matter be. "
"Oh, I-I see…Well, Mister-"
"Please, just call me Ajuka. As the Red Dragon Emperor, you hold that much of a right to at least call me less formally."
"You boot-licking son of a-"
"Solomon, please calm yourself!"
Ah, it seems Solomon was truly boiling from so much devilish presence. "Ajuka. I am afraid I cannot reveal my secret, not yet. It is something I share only among trusted individuals, and right now, I am sorry to say, you do not fully count among such individuals."
"I see…Unfortunate." Ajuka replied slowly. "Well, I can at least hope that, one day, you may reveal to me this secret. Or is it foolish to hold such a hope?"
"Not at all, Ajuka. One day, I might share my secret, but not today, tomorrow, or even next month. For now, however, how about enjoying the party? I mean, Sir is having no issues with it, and his wife- wait a minute, where did Grayfia go?"
Ajuka looked around, noticing she really was gone. "Wasn't she talking to the fallen angel and human girl?"
"She was…Oh, they are coming here. Asia, Raynare! Do you know where Grayfia went?" Issei asked the two, with Raynare giving a reply first.
"She said she wanted to go to the bathroom. Honestly, I don't know how someone is supposed to go with that frilly dress on them." The fallen replied, but then her eyes fixed on the person next to Issei, and her breathing seemed to hitch for a bit. "A-Ajuka Beelzebub."
"At ease, fallen, I do not quarrel with you," Ajuka replied, affirming the fact they were not here to fight.
"W-well, Miss Grayfia did have a few good glasses before she said she had to go." At this, however, Ajuka seemed to freeze up.
"By that, you mean…alcohol glasses?"
"Honestly, I am impressed with the amount she drank. That woman can hold her drink." Raynare added.
"Oh no…" Ajuka seemed to grow nervous, then quickly turned to Issei and saw Kiba near the table as well, talking with Koneko. "Yuuto Kiba, come here, quickly!" This got Kiba's attention, who put his glass down and walked to them.
"Is there a problem, Sir?" Kiba asked, but that was when the sound of someone spitting their drink was heard.
"Grayfia! Not again!"
"What is- Woah!"
"Sir, Beelzebub!"
Ajuka closed his eyes tight, then covered the eyes of both Issei and Kiba as well for their protection. "Forgive me, but we cannot stare. Sirzechs would blow a casket if we leered over his naked wife."
"Wha- NAKED WIFE?!" Issei half-shouted, his instinct telling him to remove the hand over his vision, but then his WIS kicked in. This was the wife of a Super Devil wielding a power able to eradicate beings in the blink of an eye. Best not to stare.
"Grayfia, for the love of all that is unholy, put on some clothing!" They could hear Sir shouting at his wife, yet she didn't seem to listen.
"Oh my, look at her breasts! They look so full!" Kuroka remarked.
"Grayfia, get down from the table!" Sirzechs shouted again.
"Ahaha! No way, Zechy! This is the most fun I've had since our wedding night when you knocked me up!" Grayfia replied, her tone cheerful and cheeky, with the hand of the booze clear as day.
"She's a mother as well?" Asia gasped in surprise.
"Hot damn, look at her body! She had a kid, yet she still looks this good?!" Raynare commented as well, which in all honestly, was NOT helping.
"Issei…" Kiba called out his name, sounding like he was pleading. "This…This is a bit much, won't you agree?"
"Ajuka, please, if you wish to spare all three of us, let's go upstairs to my room," Issei suggested.
"Knowing Grayfia in this state, she might follow us. Can the door be locked?" The satan asked, to which Issei nodded and the three made their way to the stairs, slowly, leaving the others to deal with Grayfia's current state.
Granted, this didn't stop their small celebration. A few minutes later, Asia came to fetch the three men as Sirzechs was finally able to get Grayfia under control and took her to where she left her clothing to get dressed back up again. The rest of the party and evening was smooth sailing after that, with laughter, good feels, and only the occasional attempt of a drunken Grayfia of undressing.
Things were going well.
"Alright, everyone! There are only 10 seconds left until midnight!" Kuroka shouted, getting everyone's attention. "Let's begin the countdown! 10!"
"9!"
"8!"
Everyone was counting together, watching the clock slowly ticking to midnight. Issei was on the sofa, with Asia flanking his right.
"7!"
"6!"
"5!"
Honestly, he would never trade all of this for nothing. Those moments are the moments of peace and happiness people struggle for every day. However small they may be, they are precious, and to be forever cherished in memory.
"4!"
"3!"
"2!"
Nothing could ruin this-
"Quite the lively group, aren't they?" Issei's eyes widened as his head turned to the side, seeing a person whom he could swear was not there before. Dressed in an intricate black and white suit with golden trim, their hair long and like a field of golden wheat, and eyes burning like two suns with a rich golden hue, the stranger seemed to have just appeared out of thin air. No one took notice of him, not the Super Devils, not Kuroka, not even he did.
"1!"
And then, before the hand of the clock could fully move to strike midnight, everything froze. The color drained from reality itself, and Issei felt himself almost choking as the stranger who was sitting to his left on the couch got up, strolling around the room through everyone, who was frozen like statues in place.
Only he was not affected. And ONLY Issei was not affected. He couldn't hear them, Ddraig and Solomon, were silent. He simply looked at the stranger, at his strange features and even stranger beauty. Although Issei could firmly say he wasn't by any means gay, he could not deny the beauty of this man. It was like he was a God of Grace descended upon the land. It took him a bit to feel like he could breathe again, a moment in which he tried to summon his Sacred Gear, but nothing happened. The man's eyes fixed on him and he smiled, his expression warm and eyes gentle.
"I guess I did startle you. I sincerely apologize for that." He bowed to Issei, offering his apologies. But things were not making any sense now, and Issei didn't need an apology. He needed answers.
"Who…Are you?" None of his abilities worked. Nothing did. And this frozen space they found themselves in? It was similar to the System's, but different at the same time. Stronger.
"A fair question. I am the V in V.O.I.D." The man replied, but Issei needed a moment to figure out what he meant.
"Wait…The Void System." Issei said, piecing some stuff together. "You ARE the System?!"
The man chuckled. "Oh no, the System is not a person, silly. Rather, I am one of the beings who created it. I am Valerius, and it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Issei Hyoudou, the 129476576th wielder of the System."
"You…Created the System?" Issei asked slowly. "But, if the System is not a person, then how-"
"I never said it doesn't hold a degree of sentience, silly. Trust me, others asked the same question before. Also, I am only ONE of the people who created the system. I had help, you know. It was a team effort."
"Why are you here?" Issei asked next, and this seemed to make the being smile a bit.
"I am here to fix some things, do some final tweaks." He walked up to Issei, the boy trying to take a step back, but found himself frozen in place. Valerius raised his hand and hovered it over Issei's chest, pulling it back slowly and extracting something at the same time. A sphere of light came out of Issei, and Valerius looked at it with a keen eye. "This is the System's core. Or, at least, your System core. It is what makes the connection between you and the 'main server' so to speak with terms you understand. This, Issei Hyoudou, is the heart of the system within you."
"What are you doing with it?"
"Nothing to worry about. You see, when you awakened the system ten or so years ago, you did so by accident, which caused damage to the system that took 10 years to fix." Valerius replied, putting the orb between both of his hands and then expanding it, bringing forth a screen of some kind. "I took it upon myself to also fix the bug that allowed you to awaken it early. It won't ever happen again. However, due to how long it took me to fix that bug, the system has been developing error upon error. Normally, it uses the time before activation to gather information about the world around it via means…you needn't concern yourself with. However, when you awakened it early, this caused the system to focus the time it usually used to research for repairs. Why do you think you have patches? They are a manifestation of the system catching up with the rest of this world."
"I…See…But, if the bug is fixed, what are you doing?" Issei asked. "Surely, you didn't need to show up personally to fix some small errors, correct?"
"Correct, I can do that remotely from the main server," Valerius confirmed. "But you see, you suffered for a decade. Headaches like those? Nasty. But, to be fair, you were not supposed to be able to use the System way back when either way. Hmmm. This, this…And this, yes, this looks good." The being seemed to have finished what he was doing, a moment in which he returned the core to its spherical shape and just allowed it to float back into Issei's body.
"What'd you do?" The boy asked, feeling uneasy, but the being merely grinned.
"As I said, some tweaks. Ten years' worth of headaches did amount to something, young one. Trust me, this should be useful to many future generations of Gamers. Don't worry, you won't be stomping gods any time soon, but…Maybe in the future. Anyhow, to apologize for my rude interruption of everything, I took the liberty of giving you a little something." The being's body became translucent and transparent, slowly fading. "Bye, Issei Hyoudou."
And so, he vanished, and time resumed itself.
Issei found himself back on the couch.
"-1! Happy New Year!"
And everyone cheered around him, but he couldn't join in just yet. He quickly opened his stat screen, trying to see what was changed, or added, or who knows what! Scrolling down, to his perks, however, he came across something that had his grin widen.
"Happy New Year!" And he joined the cheering.
[Experience Leap]: As a reward from one of the developers, you are hereby going to receive DOUBLE EXP from Quest, Enemies, and other Perks from now on.
