Chapter 6: Obtaining a familiar
Shortly after the Occult Research Club's celebration, Issei showed Asia where their homeroom was and what she should expect. Heading inside himself, he sat at a desk in the second to last row next to the window as his classmates talked about how they were supposed to get a new student today.
"Our class sure is popular," Katase said to Murayama. "First, it was Issei-san, and now we're getting a new transfer student." She was grateful to Issei for teaching her and the other members of the Kendo team new moves, and the workout routine he gave them helped improve their skills. More importantly, she was glad to have taken his advice on how to deal with the Perverted Duo trying to peep in on her and the other members of the Kendo team while they were changing in the locker room.
"That's amazing! Hopefully, whoever they are. Will be nothing like those two," Murayama jabbed a thumb and sent a dark glare at Matsuda and Motohama. Last Friday, after the Kendo club got through with practicing for the day, the two tried to peep in on them while they were in the middle of changing, but the girls nailed some wooden boards against the wall and set up an alarm to let them know if the two got to close to the girls' locker room. Of course, the two were punished and received a fitting beating from the Kendo team. "Any idea on who it is?"
Katase shrugged her shoulders. "The only thing I know is that they are from abroad."
Soon as the bell rang, the teacher entered the class and went to address the student. "Good morning, everyone. Before we begin today's lesson, we have a new student who has been enrolled into the Academy and will be joining us." He turned his head at the door and said, "you may come in now."
Everyone turned to see Asia walking into the room to stand before the chalkboard. The teacher then added, "hello, Ms. Argento. Welcome to the Academy and your new homeroom. Why don't you introduce yourself to the other students and tell us a little about yourself."
She complied with a smile. "Good morning, everyone. My name is Argento Asia, and I am from a town abroad. Excuse me, but I feel like a fish out of water. But I'm really excited to be here. Please take good care of me," she finished with a bow.
"Damn, she's hot!" Matsuda exclaimed while the other students gasped.
"Girl might be short, but she has a lot of fantastic features," Motohama agreed and listed her measurements.
"Since you are new, where are you staying?" one of the female students asked.
Issei then cringed when Asia replied. "I'm currently staying at Issei-san's house. He's been very courteous and compassionate to me when I first arrived, has offered me a place to stay, and has shown me around so I can familiarize myself with the town."
"What?!" All of the classroom's males shouted.
Issei let out a long sigh as he made a mental note to speak with Asia about revealing too much information. Like the fact, she was living with him. Out of the corner of his left eye, he could see the other boys shooting hateful glares at him, with Matsuda and Motohama being the most furious as they sent him loathing looks. He could literally feel the waves of anger and envy rolling off them. However, he wasn't at all worried as their fighting skills were comparable to that of an unskilled street brawler. The one thing he has to worry about is them taking advantage of her naivety and turning their perverted nature onto her.
"Well, since you are so close to Hyoudou-san, you can take the seat behind him," the teacher said.
Asia happily walked to the desk in the back of the room, not noticing the looks of envy from the other girls or the predatory glances from the boys. She then took the desk behind Issei and listened as the teacher went over today's lesson.
For the most part, the teacher had been going over some complex math equations, and before the bell could ring, he looked for the next person to call on. Quickly looking through the room, he settled his eyes on his favorite student. "Hyoudou-san," he called, and the brunette lifted his eyes from his math book. "You haven't said a word all day. Why don't you try answering the question."
Issei sighed after a few minutes of looking at the equation. If the teacher was going to put him on the spot, then he could at least make his problems a challenge. "The answer is. . . 25.81," he said in a cool yet bored voice.
A smile appeared on the teacher's face. Once again, his favorite student demonstrated his proficiency in academics. "Correct! I don't know how you do it, but you sure know how to solve complex equations quickly."
"That's because Hyoudou is a nerd," Motohama said. "Only nerds are good at solving math problems!"
"Or I just have a brain and know how to use it. Something you and your bald sidekick apparently lack," he retorted, gesturing to a fuming Matsuda. "Maybe then the female students of this school will give you two the time of day." That made some of the students laugh, and their teacher to have an amused smile before he quieted them down.
Then when the bell rang, the students went to their separate groups and started talking about what was going on in their lives. A few of the girls dragged Asia away and began asking questions and complimenting her looks, mainly her long blond hair. "My goodness, your hair is so beautiful. Is this its natural color?"
"Yes, I was born with it," Asia answered Katase.
"What's it like living with Issei-san?"
"It's great! I truly love living with Issei-san," Asia happily replied. "He is very kind and understanding of me. Being with him fills me with great happiness."
Another girl from the Kendo club then asked. "He hasn't been inappropriate with you, has he? Keep in mind that he is still a teenage boy."
Due to his enhanced hearing, Issei could hear what they were saying, and when one of the girls asked that question, he was about to get up and respond but stopped when Motohama and Matsuda walked toward him with menacing glares.
"Damn it, Hyoudou! How is it that you keep getting so close to the hotties of this school?" Matsuda demanded. "First, you became close with Rias-senpai and Akeno-senpai, not to mention the school's mascot Koneko-chan. But now you're living with a hottie like Asia-san. You bastard."
"You are probably doing all sorts of things with her," Motohama added. "Acting like a wild beast with her when you two are alone. You probably told her some kind of sob story to get her to trust you and pretend to care for her so you can get a peak at her when she is not looking."
"That sounds more like something you would do, Motohama," Issei said loosely, not really wanting to deal with these two today. "You and Matsuda need to pull your heads out of your asses and face reality."
Matsuda made to grab him by the collar of his blazer, but he intercepted by grabbing the boy's hands in a vice grip. Then when his friend tried to deliver a punch, he pulled Motohama in the direction of the incoming fist that nailed him in the face. Stunned by what happened, Matsuda barely caught his friend when Issei pushed him forward. Pushing him away, he went to throw another punch at Issei, but it was easily avoided, and then countered with a punch to his solar plexus knocking the wind out of him.
"This is not even a challenge. I suggest you two back off before you really get hurt," Issei recommended. When it seemed like they wouldn't make another move against him, he walked toward Asia as she chatted with a few of her classmates. "Are you ready to go, Asia?"
"Yes," she said and followed him out of the room. The two then went to go have lunch in the Occult Research Club room.
At the end of the day, when the night sky appeared, Issei and Asia went to go hand out flyers to people if they wished to summon a Devil to do a task. "So, Asia, how did you enjoy your first day at Kuoh?"
"It was nice," she replied. "Everyone was so nice. Matsuda-san and Motohama-san invited me to a three-way devil party. Do you know what that is?"
The muscles in his back tensed up at what she said about Motohama and Matsuda inviting her to a party. Knowing those two, they might try getting frisky with her. "Trust me, Asia, when I say you should be careful around the two of them."
"Why?" She seemed slightly confused.
"They have a not-so-good reputation when it comes to dealing with people of the opposite sex," Issei explained. "And I don't want anything to happen to you."
Though the helmet covered her face, her lips formed a soft smile as she wrapped her arms around Issei and hugged him tight. She was pressing her body closer to his. "Issei-san, you really are a nice, caring person. You are always concerned with my safety. Thank you."
"I am always going to look after you," Issei promised and then added, "rest assured. You'll find that being a Devil is actually pretty nice. Since you are still new to this, me and the others will help you adjust to your new lifestyle." The two continued riding and delivering fliers to those who didn't already have one.
An hour or so later, they returned to the Occult Research Club to deliver their report to Rias. "Buchou, we're back," Issei said, but Rias didn't respond and seemed like she was in deep thought about something. "Uh, Buchou, is everything okay?" Issei asked, spotting an unusual expression on her face. Whatever it is she's thinking about must be really important, as there was a wave of sadness in her eyes.
Returning to reality, the sadness in her eyes and deep-in-thought expression turned into a smile. "I'm sorry, I guess I spaced off there for a bit. Good work, you two."
She soon followed up by saying, "Asia-san. . ."
"Yes, Buchou?" Asia wondered what Rias-senpai was going to say.
Rias stood up from her chair, "if you're up to it, I think it is time for you to make your big debut tonight."
"Debut?" Asia gasped.
Issei then explained, "she means you teleport to a client through a magic circle where you will then need to do what he or she says to get a contract." He turned to Rias. "Are you sure that is smart? I mean, Asia just recently became a Devil."
"It's no problem," Akeno's voice came from behind them. The two turned around, and she continued, "Asia-chan's demonic powers rank just below mine. And since she's a Bishop, this will be good practice for her."
"She does make a point," Issei agreed. "Because you're a Bishop now, you'll be skilled at magic, and given that your sacred gear grants you healing powers, that means you will need to train and develop your healing and other magical skills."
"Asia-san, don't worry," Kiba said from his spot on the sofas. "We all believe in you!"
Koneko, who sat on the other sofa while eating the snack Issei had got for her, nodded in agreement.
"However, there is still the matter of Asia being new to this country," commented Issei. "Given what's happened as of late, I think it be best if someone went with her."
"Are you volunteering?" Rias asked.
"Issei-san?" Asia gently tugged his shirt.
Closing his eyes, he replied, "unfortunately, I cannot. I received a summons from what might become a regular client."
"Someone else is summoning you?" Rias asked with an impressed smile. "That's pretty impressive. Any idea who you're meeting?"
Shrugging his shoulders as Asia let go of his blazer. "I don't know, but chances are that it might be a wealthy client." He then placed a hand on Asia's head and gently rubbed it. "I'll be back later. Hopefully, with good news."
"Good luck Issei-san," Asia said.
The young Devil walked toward the window and used a magic circle to teleport out of the room. He then appeared in a very spacious room. Having a quick look around, he saw record labels hanging up on the wall and multiple music awards. Judging by the shape of the office and the items inside, he realized he was in the Executive Office of a music company. "Ah, right on time," a voice behind him said.
Issei whirled around to meet the person who summoned him. "You're the Devil I summoned, right?"
"Yes. Hyoudou Issei," extending his hand to the person. The man introduced himself, and Issei immediately knew who the man was. "So, how may I help you, Mr. Yoshida?"
"Straight to the point. I like that. Please sit," gesturing to one of the open chairs in front of his desk. Issei took the one on the right as Mr. Yoshida sat in his executive chair. "You see, I could use some assistance on where to expand my business, which investment offers would be the best, and earn some additional profits for my next album."
"Then let's begin. You might want to get a pen and some paper because this could take a while," Issei said as he began looking over the files on the man's desk. "By the end of next month, you will be seeing new profits."
That made the man's eyes lit up as he pulled out a pen and notepad and began writing what Issei had in mind on what he should do. Roughly two hours later, the man looked happier than he had ever did in years. By the time they were done, Issei had gotten a new contract and a very generous compensation for his services. "Pleasure working with you, Mr. Hyoudou. You are about to help me take my business to the next level."
"The pleasure is all mine, sir," Issei shook the man's hand after pocketing his money and contract.
"Um, before you go. Would you mind if I recommended you to some friends of mine?" Mr. Yoshida inquired with a hopeful grin. "They would be most gracious if you could lend them some assistance."
"Please do. As a Devil, I could use some work. Have a good night," Issei magic circle to teleport out of the office.
Returning to the club room, Issei found Rias sitting behind her desk and looking over what looked like important documents. "Welcome back, Issei. Did everything go all right with the new client?"
"It was all right. I received a very fitting compensation and got a contract out of the deal," he explained. "Mr. Yoshida even said he'd recommend me to his friends. So, there's a good chance I'll be meeting with some wealthy people in the future." To show what he was talking about, he showed her the contract and handed over the reward he got.
Rias gave him an impressed whistle as she looked over the contract he made with his client and put the roll of money in her pocket. "As expected of someone from my household. Well, done Issei! Oh, and no need to worry about Asia-san. Akeno dropped her off at your house after they finished meeting with the client."
"Then I guess my work here is done. Good night Buchou," Issei turned around and left the room.
(0^0)
A week had passed since Issei got a new contract, and Asia debuted to a client who wore a Magical Girl's outfit. Issei could hardly believe what he heard when she told him, as it did not make sense for a man in his early thirties to where such a thing. After that, the two fell into a routine in which they would go out delivering flyers, or in Issei's case, doing that and answering requests from his clients. Their time in school stayed mostly the same as nothing interesting except for the Matsuda, Motohama, and a handful of the others boy's tried getting fresh with Asia. If possible, Issei became more of an outcast among the male population, as they were envious of how close he was to Rias, Akeno, Koneko, and Asia. He suspected this was likely because of the Perverted Duo as a way of getting back at him for not being able to peak as much at the girls while they were changing in the locker room. Not that he cared about those two did.
During the next club meeting, they sat down and waited for Rias to deliver the announcement for the day before heading out to distribute additional flyers. Yet, Rias had something else in mind.
"I am pleased to say the two of you will no longer be distributing flyers." Asia's eyes widened, while Issei grinned as he had an idea of what Rias had in mind. She then stood up, "the flyers were a start to your training mainly for you, Asia-san. Because of Issei's parentage, he already knew the importance of handing out flyers and making contracts. However, distributing flyers is normally a familiar's job."
"I see. You want us to get our own familiars and let them take over the responsibility of handing out flyers," the grin on Issei's face widened.
"Nice deduction, Issei-kun," said Kiba, who entered the room, followed by Akeno and Koneko.
"This is my familiar. I believe you have met her, Issei," Rias said, rounding the table and standing before them as a small bat popped in next to her shoulder. The bat then transformed into the same brown-haired woman wearing a red cosplay outfit that gave Issei the flyer before his outing with Raynare. It was only a minute before she transformed back into a bat and then vanished.
"This is mine," Akeno pointed at the floor, and an imp appeared.
"This is Shiro," Koneko said from her seat on the sofa, holding a white cat with a bell collar.
"Mine is pretty handy to have around," said Kiba as a budgerigar appeared and flew around the room before settling on Kiba's shoulder.
Issei chuckled at Kiba's familiar, "yeah, that one definitely suits you." He then explained, "essentially, familiars can assist you, deliver messages, and even locate people or things depending on the wish of their master."
A question then popped into Asia's head, "um, how do you get a familiar?"
"Hang on," Issei cut in before Rias could speak. "We're about to have some guests," turning his head at the door.
Someone then knocked on the door, and Akeno said, "come in."
The door opened to reveal the Kaichou of the student council and her entourage. Everyone save for Asia knew who just entered the room.
"Please excuse us," the one with the bob-cut black hair and glasses said.
"Issei-san who is she?" Asia asked, not knowing who the person was or the people who accompanied her.
"She's the Kaichou of the student council, Shitori Souna-senpai," he explained. "However, that is just an alias, as her real name is Sitri Sona. Much like Buchou, she is also a High-class Devil and the heiress to one 34 pillars of the Devil community. She's the next Head of the House of Sitri and the younger sister of one of the four Maous Lady Leviathan-sama. In terms of academics, she is considered a prodigy in Japan and among young Devils."
"The people behind her are members of the student council. Shinra Tsubaki-senpai is her Queen and Fuku Kaichou," gesturing to the woman with the long black hair and glasses standing slightly behind Sona's left side.
"What brings all of you here?" Rias enquired as to why Sona had brought her peerage with her.
"Just a greeting since both of us have some new servants," Sona replied calmly. "Also, your servant, Hyoudou-san, seems well-informed about my status and who we really are."
"All of them are Devils?" A surprised Asia looked shocked by the information.
The blond boy standing at Sona's right then commented, "it's strange that she wouldn't notice fellow Devils, though," grunting, then turned his attention to Issei. "But this guy knowing a little too much about us is oddly concerning."
"Saji, the two families do not meddle in each other's affairs," Sona said. "And Hyoudou-san was born a Devil before he became a member of Rias' peerage."
The boy, identified as Saji, widened his eyes in surprise at hearing what she said.
'Hey, Ddraig, do you sense what I'm sensing?' Issei mentally asked after observing the young male Devil known as Saji.
(I do partner. He has one of the pieces of The Prison Dragon Vritra. Yet, given his low power, I say he hasn't awakened him. In other words. . .)
'He's a hatchling,' Issei finished what Ddraig was saying. 'To think that someone like him is the host of one of the five Dragon Kings is almost amusing.'
"Hmm. Now I remember. You're from class 2-C and the student council secretary," Issei looked at Saji.
"My pawn Genshirou Saji," Sona confirmed.
"This is my bishop Argento Asia and my pawn Hyoudou Issei," Rias introduced the newest members of her peerage.
Issei and Asia walked forward. "It's nice to meet a fellow pawn. I hope we can get along, hatchling," the former said.
"Please do not act like you are on the same level as me," a superior, smug grin appeared on Saji's lips. "For the Academy's perverted womanizer to think he is on a similar level as me is an insult to my pride."
"I may have recently just become a Devil, but I took up four of Kaichou's pawn pieces," holding up for fingers and arrogantly declared. "Well, how much did you take? I bet it was only one or two."
Sona then went to correct her pawn, "if you've done your research, then you would know that. Hyoudou-san took up eight pieces. Six of them had to be turned into mutation pieces."
"What?! This guy? How did he take eight pieces with six mutations?" Saji found it hard to believe that Hyoudou was worth that much.
"More than that. He is also this generation's Red Dragon Emperor," Sona added.
"How the hell, this lame pervert, the Red Dragon Emperor?!" Saji demanded.
Sona gave Issei and Asia an apologetic smile, "apologies for that, Hyoudou-kun, Argento-san. Please try to get along with him, as he is still new to being a Devil. Saji," she turned to her servant, who looked like he wanted to do something else but complied.
Grumbling to himself, he walked forward and extended his hand out to Asia, "pleased to meet you." He began leering and sizing her up.
"I'm pleased to meet you as well," Asia shook his hand.
Saji then became excited with a glint in his eyes that made Issei feel uncomfortable from the way he was looking at Asia. "To be with a real cutie like you, the pleasure is all mine!" Sona looked a little embarrassed by her pawn's actions.
He then walked over and removed Saji's hand from Asia's, and shook it. "Hatchling, please try to rein in your emotions and put your eyes back in your head. It's embarrassing to your master if you pervertedly look at someone like you're looking at Asia."
Saji looked insulted and took his hand away. "You're the pervert here! I've heard you've been luring girls into the Academy's storage room."
"Saji!" Sona snapped, finally had enough of watching the encounter. "How dare you embarrass me and the council in such a way! Hyoudou-kun has been nothing but civil toward you. Yet, you throw insults and accuse him of something based on a rumor that Motohama-san and Matsuda-san have started. I will punish you later."
Saji immediately went pale and cringed as he knew his King was merciless when dishing out her punishments. Issei stepped in, "Kaichou, please cut the hatchling some slack. Like you said, he's new. Therefore he doesn't really know the rules of knowing his audience. Just let him off with a warning."
Sona thought about what he said, then turned her eyes to a fearful Saji. While she is angry at how he embarrassed her peerage, Hyoudou-kun made some valid points about him being new and not fully knowing the rules. Weighing her decision, she said, "Saji!" The boy froze in fear. "Because Hyoudou-kun vouches for you, you will receive a warning and be required to study the rules on how to act when meeting a new peerage. If you embarrass me again, I will make you feel my displeasure. Understood?"
"Y-Yes, K-Kaichou. You are perfectly clear," he said in a fearful voice.
Asia leaned closer to Issei, "um, Issei-san," he turned his head to her. "What did you mean when you said Sitri-senpai's sister was a Maou? I only thought there was one?"
"No," Issei shook his head. "There's not enough time to go over everything, so I will give you a brief rundown. Currently, there are four Maou's: Lord Ajuka Beelzebub-sama is in charge of the Technology Department, Sirzechs Lucifer-sama is the Head of Domestic Affairs, Falbium Asmodeus-sama is Military Affairs, and Lady Serafall Leviathan-sama is in charge of Foreign Affairs," he explained and went to add some additional information. "In terms of Demonic power, Sirzechs-sama is probably the strongest out of the four Maou's. But a little advice from me to you. Do not get on the wrong side of Serafall-sama. It will not end well."
"Why is that?"
"Despite her easy-going and childlike personality, she can be very dangerous when provoked. Or, for better words, if someone is foolish enough to either insult or target her younger sister," he involuntarily shuddered at the memory of what happened the last time provoked her ire.
"Hyoudou-kun," Sona cut into the conversation. "Why were you referring to Saji as a hatchling?"
"You don't know yet? Hmm. I'm sure you'll figure it out later," he said in a knowing voice.
Thinning her lips, Sona turned her attention to Rias. "We came today to inform you that we were going to meet with a familiar master next week."
"Funny," Rias commented. "I was thinking of doing the same thing and wanted to let Issei and Asia-san get their familiars."
"Really? But he's only available once a month," Sona began to think.
"Then how about deciding it with a fair game?" Rias suggested with a challenging smile.
"A game?" Sona looked surprised.
"The winner gains the right to commission him," she explained.
"You can't mean by a rating game, right?"
"No. We would never get permission," Rias quickly waved off the suggestion.
Sona then smiled. "You can't afford to harm yourself right now, after all."
"Irrelevant," Rias perked up. "We'll settle it through sports, like actual high school students.
(0^0)
Next week the Kings and Queens from both peerages found themselves on the tennis court, and things quickly got heated when the two Kings started using their Demonic powers, attempting to gain an advantage over the other. Several of the students watching were enamored and cheering for either side to win. Matsuda and Motohama were trying to snap pictures of their panties whenever their skirts would come up. However, thanks to them infusing their powers into the tennis ball, the match ended in a draw when they destroyed their rackets.
When that happened, the members of the Gremory household, except for Rias and Akeno, were in the ORC discussing the alternative sport they might be participating in. Soon after, surmising that there would be a team match, the King and Queen entered to deliver the news.
"We decided on dodgeball," Rias informed them when she and Akeno walked in. "The match will be tomorrow night in the gym. Let's do our best for Issei and Asia-san!"
"Yes!" Kiba, Akeno, and Koneko said in unison.
"Thank you very much, everyone!" Said, Asia.
"Tomorrow's match is as good as ours," Issei grinned.
Hours later, Issei found it hard to sleep and decided to visit Asia in the guest room. Knocking on her door, she exited the room she was staying in and asked what he needed. There he explained what he needed and why, much to her surprise. She then agreed to help him, and they got to work.
The next night the Gremories were in the gym doing their stretches while going over the rules of dodgeball. When done, Issei brought out what he and Asia had been working on the previous night.
"This is my way of saying thanks for accepting me into your peerage," Issei said as Rias and the others looked at the headbands he and Asia made. "It will also give us a sense of unity and ensure we do not accidentally knock out one another.
"Issei-kun, these are great!" Kiba complimented.
"I have to concur these are indeed very cute," Akeno agreed.
"They will be very helpful. Now let's win this thing," Rias tied her headband around her head.
". . . Hope you're ready to lose, Rias." Everyone turned to look at the entrance, where they spotted the Sitri peerage.
The game between the two began in earnest as both families squared off. In a few short minutes, Koenko was the first to be taken out by a member of Sona's team. Tsubaki then infused the ball with her powers and threw it at Rias; however, the crimson-haired girl caught it. Yet the workout clothes she was wearing got torn in places. Sona then commented. "Catching Tsubaki's strike head-on is pretty impressive."
"Don't forget Sona. I'm a Gremory. That's just how we roll!" Rias infused her own demonic powers into the ball and threw it at one of Sona's. The girl was then sent flying when she attempted to catch the spiked ball, and her clothes burned away.
Another girl from Sona's team tried to tag Issei out, but he saw her out of the corner of his left eye and caught the ball she threw with one hand. You are going to need to do better than that," he threw the ball back at her, adding some of his magic, and she was out.
What started as a simple game of dodgeball quickly heated up, with both sides using their demonic powers to either catch or throw the ball at the opposing teams. Saji glared menacingly at Hyoudou as he received punishment from Sona after what happened in the Occult Research Club. Thankfully, his punishment wasn't that bad, though it hurt his pride, and he didn't want to feel like he was indebted to Issei. Plus, what did he mean by hatchling? What the hell was that? Why did he refer to him as a hatchling? His glare alleviated a little when Sona infused her power into the ball and shot it at the brunette. He hoped Hyoudou would be out, yet to his surprise, the boosted gear appeared on his left arm, and he caught the ball.
"That's pretty good," Sona complimented. "I half expected you to start running away, trying to dodge it. Though, it would not have amounted to much as it would have followed you."
"You will find that I am full of surprises," Issei smirked, then turned his attention to a stunned Saji. "Sorry about this hatchling. But it looks like me and Asia will be the ones who get our familiars this month."
"Would you stop calling me—" Saji didn't get to finish as Issei spiked the ball with some lightning and his demonic power. The ball hit the blond boy in the face, then the stomach, and finally in the groan, eliciting a high-pitched scream. "P-Pawn down," shakingly, raising a finger and said in a high-pitched voice.
"Looks like we win, Sona. A deal's a deal."
"True, I'm disappointed with the outcome," she watched as a few of the members of her peerage helped Saji out of the gym. "Though had this been a rating game, you would not have been so lucky."
"Think so, huh?" Rias returned the smile she received from Sona and watched as she went to catch up with her peerage after the two exchanged a couple more words.
A quick celebration in the ORC later, the Gremories used a magic circle to teleport to a magical forest where all the familiars live. Asia was a little fearful as the forest was kind of creepy, eliciting Issei to place a hand on her head.
"No need to worry. A lot of children and newly reincarnated Devils get scared when they first come here. "You'll be fine," smiling down at her.
"You've been here before?"
"This is one of the few places Buchou and I would sneak off to whenever we wanted to get away from our parents," he chuckled, then looked at Rias. "I still remember the first time we came here, and your reaction was priceless."
"Let's not go into that," Rias's face became red in embarrassment, and she waved her hands. Calming down a bit at the memories she had of the two of them running through the forest.
"Who wants me?" The teenagers looked up at a tall tree to see the master of familiars. "I am the master of familiars, aka Towji."
"If your goal is to find familiars galore, then you come at the right time, that's for sure. The full moon is out, and I'll act as your guide," he was overly excited.
"Towji is obsessed with making things rhyme," Akeno commented.
"Now, how can I help? Tell me all your wants and desires. A strong? Fast? One that likes to set fires?"
Figuring it was now or never, Issei spoke up, "I would like a powerful and reliable familiar."
"And you young lady?" Towji jumped off the branch he was standing on, landing in front of them. Looking at Asia.
"I like one that is cute and fun to be around," Asia looked hopeful.
"Marvelous, then follow me," Towji led them deep into the forest.
While walking, Issei and Rias were talking about their goals for the future and where they'd like to visit outside of Japan. ". . . Aside from becoming number 1 in the Rating Games, I would like to visit London, England, and there are several locations in Italy I would like to visit—namely, Milan, Pisa, Verona, and Rome."
"Those are some very interesting travel spots," Issei commented. "For me, I wouldn't mind visiting Milan, Rome, and Sicily, in Italy, seeing the major attractions in France, Hollywood, in the U.S., and probably the Bahamas," he said. "Italy would be a good vacation spot, and I hear it's beautiful during the summer and spring."
"Sounds like a plan." He did have a point, as Italy would be an ideal vacation spot, and so would the Bahamas.
Towji then stopped in his tracks, "look high," he pointed to a baby dragon with diamond-blue scales sitting on a high branch tree.
"A sprite dragon," Issei stared at the dragon.
"Aw, he's so cute," Asia gushed.
"Cute but dangerous," Towji warned. "When they get angry, they have the power to shoot blue lightning."
Kiba then added that type of dragon is pretty rare."
"It's the first time I've ever seen one," Rias replied.
The master of familiar then turned around, "do it now if you want this one claimed. Once these dragons grow up, they're hard to tame."
"Then I say Issei should be the one to get him," a smile crossed Akeno's lips. "Since you are part dragon and have the power of the Red Dragon Emperor, it might be a good fit for you."
The brunette shook his head, "that's a negative," he bit back. "Sprite dragons don't like other males that much, and he has to choose me, not the other way around." He would have sad more when Asia shrieked.
Turning his head, he saw green slime falling down on her and the other girls. And not a second later, they started burning their clothes. Quickly removing his blazer, he handed it to Rias while he went to go comfort Asia. An embarrassed Rias buttoned the blazer she got from Issei, created a magic circle in her hands, and started burning the slimes.
Just as another slime was about to fall on Asia, blue lightning came and burned it. "Where did that come from?" She asked.
The sprite dragon flew in circles above the group and landed on Asia's shoulder. Towji then explained, "sprite dragons don't attack unless they believe their loved ones are in danger. Which means that dragon and lovely lady should be together on the double!"
The sprite dragon nestled against Asia's chest, making the young blond giggle, "that tickles." He then hopped down, and a magic circle appeared. "In the name of Argento Asia and Devils everywhere. I command you to accept this pact. So you may be my familiar forever."
The dragon hopped into Asia's waiting arms when the magic circle glowed, showing the completed pact. He affectionately nuzzled his head against her chest. "That tickles! Rassei, stop it!"
"Rassei?" Issei wondered why she chose that name for him.
"The name popped into my head," then a light blush appeared, and she explained further. "I love him, and every time I hold him, I'll think of you."
"That's really nice of you, Asia," Issei smiled. Before anyone could say anything, he turned around and looked intently into the forest.
"Issei-kun? Is there a problem?" Akeno asked, noting the serious expression on his face.
"Incoming," was all he said. Everyone turned to where he was looking and saw another dragon flying toward them. However, unlike Rassei's blue scales, this one had blue-green scales. "Well, I'll be—a Vortex dragon."
When the dragon landed a few inches away from him, he roared and gave Issei a challenging look. Issei then gestured for the others to back away and not interfere. He, in turn, roared back, showing he was not afraid. The two then started circling one another like they were about to fight.
"Issei," she looked at him with concern in her voice.
The two dragons stopped circling each other and stared intently into the other's eyes. After what appeared to be a couple hours of an intense stare off which was actually a few minutes, the Vortex dragon flew into the air and into Issei's arms. The happy dragon then started nestling himself into Issei's chest.
"Um, Issei-kun," Kiba seemed confused at what just happened. When Issei turned to him, he continued. "What was that about?"
"Male bonding," Issei replied. "Dragons don't normally like those of our own kind, and in the case of vortex dragons, they don't normally like people and are ridiculously hard to form a pact with. The only way to form a pact with one is by proving you have a high level of power or potential to become stronger," he explained, then turned to the dragon in his arms.
"You're going to need a name, hatchling. So, how about I call you. . . Cadmus? Do you like that name?"
In response, the dragon licked his face. "Well, I'll take that as a yes." Issei then set him down and performed the pact to bind Cadmus to him. Two minutes later, when the pact was complete, Issei took a knee. "All right, Cadmus, I feel like I should warn you that we are not the only dragons in this group."
"See, Rassei," gesturing to the sprite dragon in Asia's arms. The two dragons glared fiercely at each other with fire in their eyes. "Easy, little one," Issei rubbed his head. "You and Rassei are now family and will need to learn how to get along. Because you're older than him, you will need to look after him. Can you do that for me?"
Cadmus glared intently at Rassei before turning to Issei and roared in understanding. "Thanks, pal," he then reached into his dimension storage space, pulled out a dragon apple, and extended it to Cadmus. "Here you go."
The small dragon immediately saw stars as he gratefully took the apple. But before he could take a bite, he looked at Rassei and motioned for him to come closer. Rassei flew out of Asia's hands and landed in front of Cadmus. The two locked eyes again for a minute. Yet the vortex dragon pulled the apple apart and gave half to the Sprite dragon, who happily accepted it. They then began eating.
"Seems like these two just became friends," Akeno said, observing the two.
Once everything was in order, the members of the Gremory household used a magic circle to teleport back into the club room, where they said their goodbyes before heading home.
(0^0)
Things for Issei and the rest of the Gremory peerage continued to go smoothly the next day as they all attended their classes as usual. Issei and Asia sent their familiars to work, though what surprised the former was how Cadmus and Rassei immediately became fast friends. Cadmus started acting like a big brother to Rassei as the two started flying, performing aerial maneuvers, and playing tag. Seeing as the dragons were out and about, he had nothing further to do that day. Issei decided to take a short nap under a shaded tree next to the ORC building.
Sat behind her desk Rias had been pondering about what might happen in the future. While she wanted nothing more than to become the next of the House of Gremory, she wanted to live the life she wanted. Yet that was easier said than done as her mind drifted off to her arranged marriage with the third son of the House of Phenex. Above all, she hated who her parents set her up with as he didn't value her as a person. He only saw her as an object to be owned, and she had serious doubts he wouldn't force himself on Akeno, Koneko, and Asia. The mere thought of what he might do to them sent shivers down her spine and set her heart ablaze. Hopefully, there would be a way out.
Her mind drifted to the members of her household, more notably Issei. He was her first friend. The first person to see her for who she truly was. After what happened when the Fallen Angels killed his mom, and he was taken away, she felt like a part of her had died. For years she had been sad and lonely without him. Sure, she had Akeno, Kiba, and Koneko, but Issei was special to her. He was there for her when she needed him and treated her like a regular person. Then after some years had passed, a warm feeling entered her heart, and a heavy burden seemed to have left her shoulders. The day he officially became a member of her peerage was practically one of the happiest days of her life. Her heart soared to new heights that day, and since then, he has continuously proven himself and a valuable member. With those thoughts in mind, she figured some fresh air would do her some good and decided to go outside.
Stepping outside, she took a minute to take a deep breath and feel the warm air blow across her face. Turning her head to the right, she saw Issei sleeping under a tree and walked over. Coming up on his side, she dropped to her knees and smiled as she pushed a few strands of her hair behind her ear. "Even after all these years, you're still the same person I met all those years ago. Never change, Issei."
She then stretched her legs and lay beside him with her head on his shoulder. When his armed unconsciously moved around her to pull her body closer, she readjusted herself to burying her head a the crook of his neck. 'Are you really asleep, my Issei?' Lifting her head a little to see that he was still out like a light. 'Good. Well, it's the duty of a master to deepen their relationship with their servants.'
About an hour and a half later, Issei's eyes fluttered open as he felt something lying on his chest; looking down, he saw a familiar crimson-haired person. The familiar floral scent could only belong to one person. Rias. 'Not only is she incredibly hot. She smells amazing.' His dragon side was roaring for him to make a move on her. 'Damn it, man. Control yourself! Remember, she's your master and out of your league.' Mentally he cursed his teenage hormones and the fact he was part dragon. 'But she is sexy as hell,' his inner dragon roared, wanting him to claim her.
With great effort, he resisted and shook her arm to wake her up. The minute her eyelids opened, her blue-green eyes met his brown a light blush appeared on her face. "Hello, Buchou. Did you enjoy your nap?"
A smile appeared on her face to meet his, "actually, yes. You make a great pillow."
"Glad to see that I can be useful," he chuckled at his own joke. "As much as I would like to continue laying like this. . . we have to get up."
"Do we have to? Can't we stay like this for a bit longer?" Rias pouted, which Issei found cute.
"Unfortunately, we have to get up," he said, even though he wanted to stay like this longer.
When she lifted her head and sat up, he stood up and stretched before offering his hand to her. He hoisted her up to her feet the minute she took it, and she bumped her head against his chest, where she heard his heartbeat.
Issei leaned into her ear and whispered. "No, matter what, I will always be there for you," pulling back to look her in the eyes. "Now and forever. Because I am yours," bringing both her hands up in one hand and caressing her cheek with the other. He then leaned in and kissed her on the forehead.
Rias's heart fluttered with joy as her cheeks went red. But most of all, when she saw the look in his eyes, she could tell he meant what he said as determination shined in them. The crimson-haired girl threw her arms around his neck and stood on her toes, embracing him in a tight hug.
"Thank you, my Issei," she said in a barely audible voice.
The two separated and walked inside the ORC building to wait for the others. When everyone arrived, they had a short meeting about their clients and any new contracts they made before heading out for the day. As Kiba, Issei, Koneko, and Akeno went home, Asia went to do a job for a new client, while Rias stayed behind to ponder what had happened before the meeting. The way Issei held her close, the promise he made her, and the look in his eyes. He had stolen her heart. Thinking again, she figured he always had it. Her train of thought was interrupted when a familiar white magic circle appeared, and out came Grayfia. Judging by the look in her eyes, she could tell this would not be a pleasant conversation.
(0^0)
Hours later, after getting home, Issei went to get a shower and make dinner for himself and Asia. She returned just as he finished cooking. Asia shared the details of the job she had to do for her client; a relieved Issei internally sighed in relief to hear she had an easy job tonight. At the end of dinner, she went to take a shower before heading to bed. Meanwhile, Issei sat in his own room in a meditative position speaking with Ddraig about what he said to Rias earlier today.
'. . .Like, I don't know why I said that. But I meant every word. I know she's the heiress to the House of Gremory, but. . .'
(You feel a strong attachment to her) Ddraig finished for him. (Issei. I have always known you had special feelings for her. It's been in your heart since you were a small boy and before you awakened me. But keep in mind that aside from being a teenager, you are half-dragon and will attract a lot of attention. Both good and bad. In the case of females, they tend to be drawn to us and find our kind to be quite appealing). If only his partner knew how special he was to the Gremory girl.
(The only advice I can give you is: do right and prove to her why she means so much to you. Night). Ddraig then went to sleep, leaving a confused Issei to think about what he said.
"How the hell am I supposed to prove how much she means to me?" Issei asked himself.
Then in a fraction of a second, the magic circle used by Rias and the others appeared in his bedroom, and Rias came out with a desperate look on her face.
"Uh, is everything okay, Buchou?" He asked as she walked toward him.
She quickly jumped on top of him and sat on his waist while pushing him down onto the bed. "Issei, please. You have to take me."
He could only blink his eyes at what she said. "One more time. I don't think I heard you right."
"I need you to take my virginity and do it now!" She said in a firm yet shaken voice.
". . .What?" Issei found it hard to believe what he heard.
A/N: I debated what type of familiar I should give Issei for a while, so I finally thought, why not give him a dragon? Kind of ironic, in a way. A half-Dragon with a dragon familiar. I also wanted him to have something unique and thus created a vortex dragon.
Whether Rias wants to admit it or not, she is falling for Issei, and he feels the same about her. In this story, Issei will not be a non-perverted person. But for how long remains the question, as that could change at any time. Will the dragon inside of him win out and claim what it wants?
While she was enjoying her thought process, Grayfia came to deliver news to her, and we can all guess what that was. The crimson-haired girl appeared in Issei's room later that day and told him to take her. However, it was clear that she was desperate for help. How will Issei respond to this?
Next Chapter: An explanation and a chance