Chapter 2

Here we go! It's the beginning of the new dawn!

Shinto Teito.

Issei slowly woke up from a comfortable sleep. As he looked, he saw that Kazehana was spooning him like a large spoon, which shocked the fallen emperor. Strangely, instead of pushing Kazehana away, Issei let her continue hugging him before Kazehana slowly opened her eyes and smiled down at him.

"Good morning, Issei. Did you sleep well last night?" Kazehana asked, speaking with genuine concern, which surprised Issei since he had thought the woman was pretending to be kind yesterday evening at the bar before Issei just nodded in response.

Kazehana could tell that Issei enjoyed being her snuggle buddy, so she kissed his forehead, got out of bed, and left the room.

"Let's just keep this between us so Miya doesn't find out," Kazehana said in a hushed tone before Issei just nodded again before the woman left him alone. Issei was surprised that Kazehana didn't try to ask for money or anything else, but her actions showed that perhaps he misjudged her.

"That is one interesting woman," Issei mumbled as he got up and stretched his arms and back, causing some of his bones and muscles to crack. He then headed to the kitchen to see Miya cooking breakfast. She then smiled at him.

"Ah, hello there. How are you doing this fine morning?" Miya asked as Issei smiled and replied to her.

"Well, I'm doing good, but I do apologize if I was an inconvenience for you and your inn yesterday evening," Issei said as Miya shook her head and replied.

"No, not at all. In fact, I wanted to thank you for what you did for Kazehana last night." Miya said as Issei was surprised, but before asking what she meant, Miya beat him to the punch.

"Don't worry. I'm not mad since you remind me a bit like myself when my husband passed away." Miya said as Issei was shocked by this before sensing that Miya had some incredible power built up inside of her.

"What do you mean by that Asama-san?" Issei asked as he looked closer at her power level. 'She's definitely on par with a Low Tier Ultimate Class being. Not a Maou level, but definitely strong enough to face a whole army of High-Class fighters.'

Issei could feel her power as a sharp blade capable of destroying probably more than half the city should it be let loose. Miya could tell that Issei was like her as well, a being with so much power yet a broken heart and a desire to fix himself.

"Do not fear, Issei. You are always welcome to stay at the inn," Miya said as she set her spoon down and gently ruffled the top of his head. "And I am sorry for all you had to go through in your life. You were deeply hurt by a broken heart, yes?"

Issei was shocked. She saw through him until Miya nodded as if she understood him.

"I won't ask what happened to you because that would be rude, but I do wish you would stay here. I think this will be a wonderful place for you to be able to live again." Miya said as Issei sighed and pulled out some money before handing it to her.

"I'll stay here for a week. I don't wish to inconvenience you anymore, so after a week, I'll be gone," Issei said. He then thanked her for the chat until he left the kitchen and almost bumped into Kagari.

"Sorry about that. You okay?" Issei asked as Kagari nodded before asking him.

"Are you looking for work? We could use a new bouncer and security guard at the bar. The pay is nice, and you'd get free drinks on the house." Kagari said as Issei rubbed his chin, thinking about it before Kagari handed him a card.

"Think about it and let me know what you think," Kagari said. Issei thanked him and took the card before heading to the front door. He left the inn and headed towards an alleyway, where he saw he was finally alone. He summoned his wings and used an invisibility spell on himself.

"Thank Kami, I can use magic now thanks to the training with the others," Issei said to himself before he took off to the sky and snapped his fingers, transforming his clothes from his casual clothes to his new clothes that are part of his new fashion sense. After Issei's popularity grew, even after losing the Boosted Gear, Ravel told Issei that he needed a new style since his school clothes just wouldn't cut it, so after taking him clothes shopping, Issei got some new clothes that suited him and also helped him with three new styles for battle, casual, and formal.

(Here's a weekly wardrobe plan for Issei Hyoudou, balancing battle-ready, casual, and formal styles:

Casual Day:

- Dark jeans

- Graphic red T-shirt

- Casual zip-up hoodie

- Sneakers.

Issei's battle-ready attire is a combination of functional and stylish elements designed for enhanced protection and agility during combat:

1. *Black Leather Jacket with Enhancements*

- Stylish yet reinforced with protective materials.

- Provides resistance against physical attacks and minor energy blasts.

- Flexible panels for unrestricted movement in battle.

2. *High-Tech Combat Pants*

- Form-fitting for agility and flexibility.

- Equipped with advanced materials for enhanced durability.

- Integrated pockets for carrying small tools or gadgets.

3. *Red and Black Armored Vest*

- Adds an extra layer of protection to vital areas.

- Energy-absorbing panels for defense against magical attacks.

- Enhances Issei's overall resilience in battles.

4. *Lightweight Combat Boots*

- Designed for agility and swift movements.

- Reinforced soles for stability during intense combat.

- Equipped with concealed compartments for small items.

5. *Pendant for a Subtle Touch*

- Doubles as a protective amulet with magical properties.

- Symbolizes Issei's connection to his strengths and abilities.

- Aesthetic detail that complements his overall battle style.

This battle-ready attire not only serves practical purposes but also reflects Issei's evolving maturity and style in the Sekirei series, combining functionality with a distinctive look.

Formal Elegance:

- Tailored black suit

- Crisp white dress shirt

- Red silk tie for a pop of color

- Polished black dress shoes

- Classic watch and cufflink.

This diverse weekly wardrobe showcases Issei's adaptability to different occasions while maintaining his style.)

Issei still kept red in his style, but he now wore a combination of casual, formal, and battle attire. He decided to go with his casual style since he wanted to explore the city merely. However, his clothes had some special enhancements to make sure he could still defend himself in battle, and he needed more time to change his attire for battle.

Issei flew to the top of the M.B.I. building and looked around the whole city. He was amazed by how small it looked, but he could tell that this was the start of a new beginning in his life. Issei did go to Shinto Teito to have a fresh start, but not for the reasons he said to Gasper.

The truth is that Issei was there because he heard of an interesting opportunity at M.B.I., and the president, Minaka Hiroto, who was actually a man who made a contract with Azazel a few years ago under Azazel's human disguise, actually reached out to him after hearing about his experience in fights from Azazel himself so Issei decided to take the job offer.

Issei's thoughts were interrupted when he felt a massive blast of ice magic coming from the park. This shocked him, as it was almost close to Sona when she attempted to use ice magic.

Issei flew over to the park and saw a small noble behind a man wielding a sword of sorts fighting a woman who seemed to be using ice powers.

"I already told you I don't wish to go with you." The woman said as he continued to blast more and more ice magic towards the man, who leaped away in the nick of time to protect the noble before he slammed the bottom of his sword into the ground, causing the ground to shake and destroy the ice.

"It's not a bad deal when you think about it, Akitsu. Come with me and my master, and you won't be broken anymore." The man said as he tapped his forehead. "After all, as long as that mark is on your forehead, you'll never be able to find your Destined One."

Akitsu looked down as if struck in her soul, which made Issei grit his teeth in anger. He had seen that same look in his own eyes when he was broken and doubted himself, but thankfully, his friends saved him, so Issei decided to intervene.

"I'm afraid I'll have to stop you there," Issei said as he made his appearance known to the three of them before standing in front of Akitsu, shocking her until she saw his eyes that told her to stay back.

The man was surprised by the man's appearance before the noble behind him stopped him from speaking.

"This man means business, Mutsu. Let me take over." The noble said, and the man known as Mutsu nodded, sheathing his sword before the noble looked at Issei and asked.

"My name is Mikogami Hayato. It's a pleasure to meet you. What are your intentions here? Mikogami asked as Issei could tell this noble was a woman, given her scent, before speaking.

"I intend to prevent you from taking advantage of her state of well-being. Tell me, is that how you do things? Break them down with their weaknesses and pretend to care about them when all you desire is their power?" Issei asked, and the noblewoman could tell this man meant business before she replied.

"I will admit that, granted, my ways may seem cruel, but I am offering this broken Sekirei a chance to be accepted someplace since that mark on her forehead is her curse that she must bear for the rest of her life," Mikogami said as she pointed to Akitsu. "She is a broken Sekirei, meaning she can't find her Destined One, and not finding their soulmate is very cruel to their hearts, so I'm merely offering her a place in my home so others don't try to take advantage of her."

Issei didn't understand what a Sekirei was but knew it all came down to Akitsu's opinion, so he turned around and spoke to her.

"What is it that you want, Akitsu?"

That simple question shook Akitsu to the core since she had been in the park for days and never once tried to form a connection with anyone since the game began due to them only wanting her body or power, which resulted in her freezing them.

Akitsu almost considered taking the order from Mikogami, but the boy in front of her stopped her as his words deeply made the Sekirei feel special and comforted in his presence. Looking at his back made Akitsu's opinion change as she could see that this person was a man who didn't know her but still desired to protect her from harm.

And the question he asked her broke the camel's back, as she felt something she had never felt before since being broken.

Her heartbeat resonated with the men. She could see his soul and tell that although he may appear silent and cruel, he has a kind heart and soul that has been hurt and endured much.

Akitsu then knew what she desired, as she took Issei's hand and cupped his left cheek before asking him.

"Are you truly asking me for my opinion?" Akitsu asked as Issei nodded his head, not knowing what would happen next, which made Akitsu smile at him.

"Then I have made my choice," Akitsu said in a firm voice as she leaned in and kissed his lips alone, shocking Issei, Mikogami, and Mutsu. The mark on her forehead began to glow brightly, and her aura began to appear as an icy blue. Issei didn't push her away because her power felt comforting, and could feel a piece of his heart, mind, and soul be fixed by the kiss along with feeling the emotions and warmth of the woman in front of him, so he reciprocated the kiss, causing a massive spike in his power to shock a few individuals.

Olympus.

Aphrodite was shocked as she felt the massive spike of power from Issei's soul. Then she looked at Issei's soul and saw one of the hearts she couldn't see before appearing as Akitsu.

"This aura. That's impossible. I didn't think I'd ever see a Sekirei again after their planet was destroyed." Aphrodite said as she recalled creating a species that was beings of emotion that she, the Goddess of Love, created to help bring life into others by showering them with love and kindness from a being that may be powerful but desires to feel accepted and loved by their Destined One.

Aphrodite knew the Red String Theory was a double-edged sword, but that's why she made the Sekirei to help lost souls find their soulmates so they could feel complete and loved by their partners.

Issei had such a large heart and powerful emotions that Aphrodite could tell that if the Sekirei were on earth, Issei would be able to heal with not only the ones who still love him back in his home but also the ones who would put the pieces of his heart together.

"Now I know that Issei will be able to heal and perhaps even help those who long to be loved as well," Aphrodite said, with happy tears in her eyes, as she saw a glimpse into Issei's future with him snuggling Akitsu in his arms. Akitsu is complete and loved by her husband.

Also, another thing to point out is that Aphrodite is a sucker for happy endings in things that involve romance. This could explain why she loved romance anime and shows that piqued her interest.

Heaven.

Gabriel was shocked as she could feel Issei's power spike up. She wanted to see that he was fine until she felt his soul and heart being repaired as well. This amazed and shocked Gabriel since she knew Issei was doing better after the therapy with her but was worried Issei would close his heart off to others, which is why she was happy that the kind-hearted boy she became the Guardian Angel of was still in there despite all the pain and sadness he endured with his journey in the supernatural world.

"Lady Gabriel. Are you okay?" Jeanne asked as Gabriel wiped her tears and smiled before replying to the Knight.

"Of course, Jeanne. I'm just so happy that my little soldier is opening his heart to others who are healing him." Gabriel said as Jeanne smiled in response, knowing she was talking about Issei.

"Well, I guess we'll have to see how he is when we see him in a few months," Jeanne said. She was happy to hear Issei was doing well, as the two had bonded and seen each other as a brother-and-sister duo who watched each other's backs.

'I hope you well, Issei. I can't wait to see how you are doing after a while since I know a few others want to see you after their assignments are finished, and we can truly relax and rest in peace.' Jeanne said that she knew there were still some issues to work out to ensure that peace could truly be achieved so we could begin the celebration reunion for a special announcement the Faction leaders wanted to give to everyone.

Speaking of the Faction Leaders.

Indra was shocked at the vision he had just seen involving Issei Hyoudou, which made the Hindu god smile a tiny one. He was interested in seeing what would happen at the reunion.

'Six months. Only six months before this new Issei emerges. Oh, I can't wait to see this. The future really does rule.'

Mutsu grabbed Mikogami as she was shocked to see this.

"What's happening, Mutsu?"

"Akitsu's being winged, and we need to get out of here before we're caught in the blast!" Mutsu shouted as the duo escaped the fire and icy aura from covering the two. The kissing duo continued to share their souls as their auras began to blend. Akitsu's wings appeared as icy ones as their auras began to send a massive shock of power to all of the Sekirei in Shinto Teito as well, causing those unwinged to feel the power that was released from the duo, especially the Ashikabi.

Meanwhile, those who are winged sense a powerful force that even surpasses Sekirei 1 and 4, Miya and Karasuba.

Even M.B.I. scientists were shocked by the massive spike of power coming from the park until their auras receded to normal. Akitsu and Issei parted lips and stared into each other's eyes before they smiled at each other as if they had known each other for a long time.

"Issei Hyoudou, the Diablo Dragon."

"Akitsu, Sekirei Number 12. This prayer is the ice of my pledge. Shatter the misfortunes of my Ashikabi."

The two souls, both broken, have now found solace and love in each other as their hearts heal.

Issei and Akitsu then notice that both Mikogami and Mutsu left the park during the winging process before Issei's phone began to ring.

Issei answered it and was surprised to see the I.D. number.

"Shit! It's my job." Issei said as he answered the call and apologized to him. "I'm sorry for being late, Mr. Hiroto, but something came up and-!"

[Nonsense. Do not worry because this has made it easier to bring you into the game.]

"What do you mean bring me into the game? What exactly is the job you hired me for?" Issei asked as he had his suspicions about the job before Minaka waved his concerns off.

[Do not worry; everything will be explained when you come to M.B.I. Meet me in my office, and I'll explain what I want you to do.] Minaka said before he hung up the call, which annoyed Issei slightly. Akitsu stared at Issei with concern.

"Do you need a hug?" Akitsu asked as she spread her arms out, showing off her massive bust pinned down by chains before Issei nodded and hugged the Sekirei, making Akitsu smile as she nuzzled her head into Issei's hair and enjoyed his scent.

"Thanks Akitsu."

"It's my pleasure to tend to you, my Ashikabi." Akitsu let him go, and the two headed towards M.B.I., unaware that there were other Sekirei who also felt the new Ashikabi enter the game.

Izumo Inn.

"Holy shit! That kind of power was even greater than both Miya and Karasuba combined if they were using their Norito." Matsu said as she looked at the energy readings from both Akitsu and Issei Hyoudou during the winging process, she felt very turned on by the energy output.

Matsu had never felt this kind of power before in her whole life, and learning that there was a person this powerful made her think there were beings out there who were probably even more powerful than their species. This idea amazed and worried her; the idea of being around those with incredible power amazed her but also scared her since if others can take on Miya and Karasuba, then they have a good reason to be scared.

"I can already imagine the chaos that will come in this game since this Ashikabi is much different from the others," Matsu said, as she could imagine the other Sekirei and Ashikabi wanting to try to take Issei down. Still, if her readings were correct, then this Ashikabi would be the most powerful and dangerous Ashikabi of all.

M.B.I.

"Excuse me, but I'm here to see Minaka Hiroto. I have an appointment with him," Issei explained. The receptionist looked at the appointments on her laptop and nodded.

"Ah, yes. Issei Hyoudou. Hiroto-san is waiting for you at his office." The receptionist said as she handed a pass to Issei before the Dragon thanked her and headed to the elevator with Akitsu next to him. The two then headed up towards the highest floor in the building before they ended up in front of a large office with a woman being there to greet them.

The woman had a striking presence. Her chestnut hair flowed gracefully down her shoulders, complementing her determined, amethyst-colored eyes. Standing at 5'8", her athletic build was a testament to both agility and strength. Her attire was clerk attire, but it was more business-oriented than combat-wise.

"Greetings. My name is Natsuo Ichimochi. It's a pleasure to meet you, Issei Hyoudou," Natsuo said as she lightly bowed before showing him to the door.

"Hiroto-sama is expecting you, so we shouldn't keep him waiting," Natsuo said as she led the two into the office. There were a few chairs in front of the desk where the president of M.B.I. resided, and he smiled at the duo.

"Ah, Issei! I'm glad to see that you are well. I'm grateful you accepted my offer to work for me at M.B.I. I was impressed when I heard of your skills from Azazel, who spoke highly of you." Minaka said as Issei was surprised to hear that Azazel spoke highly of him. Still, then again, the Fallen Governor was a dear friend to him as well as a second father figure in his life who was also there for him when he needed someone to talk to after Ddriag died in the war.

"I'm grateful, though I was hoping to continue my education at Tokyo University," Issei said, as Minaka sighed but nodded.

"I can understand your desire to continue your education, but I'm afraid I should inform you of something important," Minaka said as his glasses had a glare before it faded away to reveal his eyes with a look of maturity and melancholic clarity as if he had years of experience walking the earth.

"I have met many like you from high school who thought they'd be able to make their dreams come true, but there is much more to life than passing tests. Tens of thousands of students have passed their entrance tests this year for the university of their choice. So what? You are uniquely qualified for a position we have. If you accept, your starting salary will be 100 million yen per year, which will not only include bonuses and stock options but also allow you to work in the company as a member of my staff since I can tell you are a smart lad and could use some business experience so I wish to offer you a job that would not only pay you well but also grant you a position in my business that will greatly benefit you. Are you interested?"

Minaka asked as Issei looked over at the benefits and such before looking at Minaka with untrusting eyes before asking.

"What exactly is this 'position' you're talking about? If it's something like security, then I'm more than capable of dealing with anything that comes my way." Issei said as Minaka laughed with amusement as he replied to Issei.

"I knew I'd like you," Minaka said before he calmed down and began explaining the position.

Issei listened to the position and was surprised to hear that Akitsu is an alien with superpowers called Sekirei, whose human partners are called Ashikabi. Minaka also told him about the Sekirei Plan and his role in it as the enforcer of its rules. Minaka also informed Issei that should he accept, he would be part of M.B.I.

Issei was unsure about this, so he looked at Akitsu, who had been quiet the whole time. She then looked at Issei and nodded in response to his unasked question.

I will follow you wherever you go. I am yours, and you are mine.

Issei smiled despite knowing her for only a few hours, but that kiss had allowed him to see all of Akitsu and vice versa. The two were able to look into each other's souls and memories, which helped them understand that they were similar and would be there to support each other in good times and bad, sickness and health, life and death until death did them part.

Issei then looked back at Minaka and replied.

"I'll do it, but I have my conditions," Issei said as Minaka expected this and gestured for him to make his demands.

"One. Akitsu is on the squad, and I decide if the others are worthy of being on the team. I need a team I can trust, not babysit some brats who can't put up a fight."

Akitsu smiled at this as she hugged his left arm and took his hand into her own.

"Two. I'll be staying at a place of my choosing, and communicating with me will be via cellphone or email. Also, I expect a list of the rules of this game. I'm not against killing, but I won't kill for simply pleasure or amusement. I'm not a bloodthirsty psychopath."

Issei said as this amused Minaka since he spoke just like how Azazel described him.

"And finally, the squad will be staying with me. If you agree to these terms, then I shall accept the job. Do we have a deal?" Issei asked. Minaka smiled behind his hands before getting up from his seat and walking towards Issei.

"I've said it before, and I'll say it again. You're just like Azazel described you," Minaka said before holding out a hand.

"I accept."

Issei then shook the hand before Issei stood up with Akitsu next to him.

"So, where are the ones you wanted me to take on the team?" Issei asked as Minaka pointed to the left of the office to see three women enter.

One had pink hair and was dressed in a black kimono with a missing sleeve. One had a mess of wild, unkempt hair and bandages wrapped around her chest and arms. The last's silver hair was in a long ponytail, and she was dressed in a black outfit with a long grey coat resting on her shoulders. She was the one who got Issei's attention. She looked at him with an odd grin and slowly sharpened a katana with a wet stone.

"So you three are the ones the M.B.I. hired to be this Disciplinary Squad, " Issei said, looking them over before humming to himself.

"Nope, to all three," Issei said as the pink one shouted with disbelief on her face.

"What?! What do you mean no?!"

"I mean, you three don't even look like you have any actual combat skills. I've been in many battles and can tell that you three are weaker than me. Akitsu, I can tell, has a lot of power but needs help fine-tuning it. Sure, having power is cool and all, but it's about control, which, sadly, you three don't have." Issei said as he looked at the three of them.

"Pinky is a close-combat type who gets too heated in battle while thinking she can destroy her enemies. She's nothing worthwhile but a bully who tries to make herself think she's strong when she's too scared to admit her weaknesses." Issei said as the pink-haired one bristled like an angry cat before Issei looked at the bandaged one.

"You seem to be a bit of an airhead, and granted, you seem to be a bit more competent than your friend there; I'm afraid you'll only be in the way," Issei said as the gray-haired one shrugged her shoulders before Issei turned to the last one.

"And you, my samurai wannabe, are just annoying and too much of a wild card. I have no need for a Sekirei who doesn't know what real loyalty is." Issei said as the pink one glared at Issei's back before stomping towards him and jabbing a finger in his chest.

"You and me! Right now! I'll show you just how strong I really am!" Pinky shouted as she glared at Issei before a smile appeared on his face.

"Okay, then. If you can actually make me take you seriously, then I'll consider having you on the team." Issei said before asking if there is a training arena for them. Minaka replied that they could fight on the roof.

The group went to the roof. As Issei and Akitsu walked towards the left side, Pinky readied herself to hit that smug look on Issei's face as he reassured Akitsu that he would be fine.

"I hope your bite is as good as your bark, Pinky," Issei said as Benitsubasa growled at him and charged toward him before delivering a right hook, which Issei dodged with ease. Benitsubasa was shocked by this since humans were not able to see her coming before she tried to strike him with her fists.

"Don't always aim for the same spots. Use unorthodox tricks to throw the enemy off." Issei said, as Benitsubasa then tried to kick him with a helicopter kick. Issei merely caught her leg and pushed her away.

Karasuba and Haihane continued to watch Benitsubasa try to land an actual strike on Issei before Issei allowed her to hit him in the face, but as soon as her fist made contact, the sound of bones breaking echoed on the rooftop.

"Ahh!" Benitsubasa shouted as she pulled back her fist and felt her left hand swell up a bit as she was shocked by the results of her attack.

"What the hell is your body made of? It felt like I was punching a massive steel door." Benitsubasa asked as Issei revealed his scales, shocking the Sekirei as Issei had his eyes become that of a dragon.

"Well, if I were still a human, then I probably wouldn't be standing here, but I lost my human body due to the war and have been reborn as a Diablo Dragon. This is who I am. Issei Hyoudou, the Diablo Dragon, and I are far more powerful than you can even comprehend." Issei said as he lifted his left arm before sending a punch that not only broke the sound barrier but also blew Benitsubasa a few inches back. She felt the power of the punch as her face was that of pure shock.

'T-There's no way. H-He was a human once?' Benitsubasa was shocked as she fell to her knees, defeated before Issei walked towards her. The pink-haired Sekirei cried her eyes out as she realized she could never reach that level of power. Her whole life, she'd desired to become the strongest, but seeing power like that in front of her made her realize her dream was that of a fool.

"Dammit!" Benitsubasa yelled as she slammed her left fist into her ceiling.

"Why? Why can't I get stronger?! Why doesn't anyone want me?! I have power, and I am beautiful! So why am I always alone?!" Benitsubasa yelled as she didn't care about what Haihane or Karasuba would say to her until a gentle voice spoke to her.

"You can become stronger." The voice said as Benitsubasa looked up to see Issei kneeling on one knee and speaking to her. "For you see, I was weak once. In fact, I was the weakest of a line of great warriors, but I didn't let that stop me as I trained hard and had to go through powerful forces to get where I am now, and every time I got knocked down, I continued to get back up. I wished to become stronger to protect not just myself but the people I love and care for. Power is meaningless unless it has a purpose, so I want to ask you a question, Benitsubasa."

Issei then lifted her face to look into his eyes before he spoke to her a simple question.

"Why do you want power?"

Benitsubasa has always been a passionate woman who loves shopping and fighting and wants to try the finer things in life. However, one thing she truly desires is to be loved by a man who accepts her and cares for her so much that they would be married and have a family.

However, Benitsubasa hadn't met any men who seemed to be interested in her because of her fiery personality and how she was perceived as a boy by others even though she had feminine qualities.

The rejections didn't hurt as much at first, but when the tenth one came in, Benitsubasa began to feel like she would just be alone before she saw a message from their creator.

"My children. Know that love is such a powerful emotion, but also know that if the one you wished to become one with doesn't truly reciprocate your feelings, then they are not your Destined One. Your Destined One is someone who will not just be there for you physically but also emotionally and spiritually. A person who will be there to help you when you hit rock bottom and feel as though you are alone. Their words and actions will help you see that they are your Destined One, so be patient and remember that every one of you deserves love. Never forget that."

The message hit Benitsubasa's soul as she cried tears of joy and happiness from the words of her creator before smiling to herself as she knew what she needed to do: train so hard she'll become strong enough to find her Destined One and destroy their fears and doubts. Become a pillar of support for them and give them so much love and strength that they'll accept and love you.

That is why, on that day, Sekirei 103: Benitsubasa began to train for the day that her Ashikabi would appear and wing her before they became one in body and soul.

"I want power so I can protect and help my Ashikabi. I wish to crush the stones torturing my Ashikabi so I can be his pillar of support and help him in his troubled times." Benitsubasa said as Issei patted her head as he spoke to her.

"You remind me of myself. I wished for power to protect the ones I loved, and I still do to this day, which is why I still strive to better myself. I am not perfect. No one is, but if you truly wish to be a pillar of support for your Destined One, then come with me and let me help you gain that strength that you so desire." Issei said as he held out a hand for her, which made Benitsubasa's eyes widen. She felt her heart beat so loudly in her chest it would've exploded.

"It's you," Benitsubasa said as she took his hand and fell into his arms. Then she kissed his lips, causing crimson wings to appear on his back. Issei returned the kiss, and Benitsubasa felt safe and warm in his arms. She looked into his eyes and smiled at him.

"Benitsubasa, Sekirei Number 105. The palm of my pledge crushes the stones, torturing my Ashikabi. Now and forever." Benitsubasa said as Issei gently took her left hand and healed it with some magic before looking at the last two, who were amazed and impressed by his power before he spoke to them.

"I'll be taking Benitsubasa and Akitsu with me. They're part of the Disciplinary Squad. If you two wish to try and join us, then you'll have to come find me." Issei said as he carried Benitsubasa in bridal fashion as Akitsu followed him before they stopped to see Minaka smiling at him.

"I'm going to enjoy having you in the games, Issei Hyoduou."

"I look forward to them as well, Minaka Hiroto."

The two stared at each other a bit more until Issei left the rooftop. Karasuba then walked towards Minaka with a smile of excitement on her face.

"I see why you wanted him to have the job. It's to strike fear into the hearts of the other Ashikabi, isn't it?"

"We shall see. After all, I am a mere spectator who wishes to see this game be the one that holds the fate of the Sekirei in the palm of the victor's hands. Let's see how he does on his first day tomorrow." Minaka said as Karasuba watched the trio leave, with her eyes looking at Issei as if he were her prey. However, after he displays power, Karasuba's warrior side wants to fight him even more now.

"Minaka was correct about one thing. This game is going to be a lot more fun." Karasuba said as she walked back to M.B.I. to get to her room for training to clash with Issei Hyoudou.

"Oh my. This is unexpected." Miya said as Issei came back and bowed to Miya again, thanking her for letting him stay the night before seeing that Issei had moved across from the inn and paid for one of the houses in the area up front. It was a two-story building with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a good-sized kitchen, a dining room, a large yard, and a front garden.

Issei had told Miya to keep the rest of the money he gave her for a week, and he thanked her for the hospitality. However, he wanted to live in a place that was his own, so he bought the house. He was still invited over to a welcome-to-the-neighborhood dinner at the inn, which was pleasant with a touch of chaos due to his new Sekirei.

"How in the world do you not topple over?" Benitsubasa asked as she stared at Kazehana's breasts before the Wind Sekirei giggled at her eyes before placing her hands below her chest and pushed them up a bit to show their divinity, much to Benitsubasa's annoyance until Kazehana replied to her.

"It comes with a healthy diet, plenty of sleep, and milk to help my girls get to where they are now," Kazehana said as she noticed Issei taking a peek at them before turning away. Kazehana then leaned into Issei's ear, squishing Benitsubasa's head into her chest, and whispered into his ear.

"They're all yours if you want to take a peek," Kazehana said before a ladle flew in the air and knocked her off both Issei and Benitsubasa, who began to take big gulps of air after being suffocated by the Boobs of Destruction.

"No illicit or sexual activities while we have dinner," Miya said. Kazehana pouted but nodded as she returned to her side. This amused Kagari before she spoke to Issei.

"Hey, Issei. If you are still looking for work, my workplace is hiring a security guard for my second job."

"Second job? How many do you have?"

"Only two. I work as a bouncer but also as a host at a host club sometimes. It depends on my boss since I have a lot of admirers in both of them."

"Huh. I'll have to think about it since it sounds like it could be fun," Issei said as Kagari nodded before Akitsu fed Issei some food, which he didn't mind, and this made Akitsu smile as she was enjoying his warm aura while Kagari smirked at the two of them.

'They really do make a nice couple. Maybe Issei can help me find my Destined One as well.' Kagari said, unaware that his body was slowly getting warmer when Issei's left hand brushed against Kagari's hand.

All in all, it was a good first day for Issei Hyoudou in Shinto Teito.

Meanwhile, back in Kuoh Town.

"So your brother told you about the special announcement for the reunion in six months?" Akeno asked as Rias smiled and nodded.

"Indeed. Sirzechs told me that since the war is over. The time of peace is now underway; Sirzechs said that a special Ratings Game is in order for not just the Biblical Faction but also our other allies who will join as well in the Azazel Cup: a special Ratings Game that will be for all of us and our allies. This event means that we can not only participate but also help our boyfriend get stronger since he has unlocked his Sacred Gear, but he could still use some more training." Rias explained as Akeno agreed that Greg needed some more combat experience since he did wield incredible skills with a sword, but he also tended to be a bit of a brute who relied too heavily on muscle more than brains.

It was a bit of trial and error, but Greg realized that he couldn't always barrel his way through all attacks despite his talent for being a tank when taking multiple physical or magical hits.

"I can't wait to tell the others about this. Let's go tell them now!" Akeno said as Rias nodded in response before the two left without realizing that they weren't alone, which made Kiba sigh in relief as he had to send the letter as soon as possible to Sirzechs, so he went towards Rias's desk in her room as he then took a special stamp that Rias used to mark very important letters to be sent immediately. Hence, he used it on the letter and watched it teleport to Sirzech's domain.

"I just hope he gets it before the reunion because if the other leaders hear about it, then who knows what will happen," Kiba said as he left the room quietly and was shocked to see Gasper standing in front of Rias and Akeno using her Sacred Gear, before gesturing Kiba with her hands to leave now.

Kiba thanked the vampire as he left the area, letting out a sigh of relief. He was glad he had accomplished his mission before apologizing to Issei for breaking his promise to him.

Scene!

Now Rias and Akeno's boyfriend will be one of the amusing and dense characters from an anime that amused me to no end called Trapped in a Dating Sim: The World of Otome Games Is Tough for Mobs, which is one of my favorite shows.

The others will be revealed in the next chapter as Issei also prepares for his first day as a host at Kagari's workplace.

I hope you liked what I did with Benitsubasa and Akitsu since this Issei would be able to help the Sekirei on a more emotional level and understand the pain of Sekirei who are unloved, broken, desire for their Destined One, or forced winged.

Akitsu and Benitsubasa would be two of Issei's lovers, as he would have a medium-sized flock of around fifteen to join him in the game as well. Now, Ravel, Rossweisse, Kuroka, and Gasper will still be with Issei but not in his peerage since Issei wanted to gain his peerage with a fresh start. The girls understood, knowing Issei still loved them and wished to still be with them.

Anyway, I hope to see you all next time. Ta-Ta, and see you all soon!