hey hey people

Here's your meal. Don't spill it. i cooked it for like a year or smthing

Refugees

[Chapter 13]

|| New Colors ||

The gentle rays of dawn filtering through the curtains as Roygun found herself awake just as usual, as if her morning routine refused to change despite the significant change in her life.

Normally she'd be up and strutted straight to the bathroom, even if it was Sunday. But this Sunday, Roygun rolled to her side, and found him slumbering peacefully, his features softened by the tranquil embrace of sleep. His nest of brown hair seemed intent on gathering as many cowlicks as possible. Sighing, her gaze lingered on him as a small smile graced her lips. This time, she could afford the luxury of watching him sleep, free from the relentless pull of duty and the ceaseless demands of her profession. Former profession.

The sense of peace that washed over her was a welcome change. For so long, her life had been a relentless treadmill of work, a ceaseless marathon through the corridors of a hospital filled with patients in need, old and new. She had felt like the linchpin holding everything together, a vital cog in a vast, intricate machine. But now, she had stepped away from that role, and it brought with it a strange sense of liberation and melancholy.

As his chest rose and fell peacefully, she couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. Guilt for leaving her patients, for turning her back on those who had relied on her expertise. It was a feeling that lingered. Another ghost in the corners of her mind, a haunting reminder of the responsibility she had carried for years. She wondered if she had made the right call, if her decision to resign was a betrayal of those who had needed her most.

The conversation that followed with Azazel had offered some solace. He had been nothing but understanding, even encouraging. He had thanked her for her years of dedicated service, acknowledging that she had held the fort long enough for him to bring in new hospital staff to continue her work. A bittersweet recognition that her sacrifice had not been in vain, that others would now carry the torch she had carried. His words had offered a measure of solace, a reassurance that her departure wasn't a betrayal but a necessary step for her own well-being.

With a quiet sigh, Roygun shifted her gaze from Issei to the ceiling above. She knew that healing, both for her and her patients, was a process that took time. Her decision to resign was not a rejection of her calling, but a recognition of her own limitations.

She had given her all, and now it was time to step back, to find her own sense of peace and balance.

The room remained cloaked in hushed silence, the stillness amplified by the soft hum of the air conditioner, allowing her the space to reflect.

But even as she welcomed this change, her heart remained heavy with the knowledge that she was still learning to let go. The path to peace was a winding one, fraught with doubt and uncertainty, not much different to her time as the Lady of House Belphegor — now the sole survivor.

As the dark thoughts crept in, the voices threatening to scream, her fingers instinctively sought Issei's chest, feeling his heart beating from the thin fabric of his shirt. She inched closer to him, finding solace in his warmth while her mind wandered the maze of her thoughts.

Could she find the peace she sought by staying close to him? His empathy and unwavering support had been a lifeline during and before these tumultuous days of transition. With each heartbeat, she felt a subtle shift, a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, her guilt could be eased by the genuine connection they shared.

The sex was an added bonus.

But there was no use denying it. She was beginning to fall in love with him. Yet another hole she wasn't sure she wanted to crawl upon, though this time it was much more tantalizing. It was a sentiment that had crept upon her slowly, its roots taking hold in the fertile soil of shared moments and genuine connection. Or perhaps she was already in love with him without realizing. Perhaps the roots had claimed their place during that night when she learned to rely on someone else.

His words that were spoken with an earnestness that only few could convey, swam through her thoughts long after their conversation that night. They acted as a soothing balm to the weariness that had seeped deep into her bones during her years as a medical expert. His perspective, untainted by the weight of years and experience yet nowhere near naive, had a way of cutting through her doubts and uncertainties.

'Dreamlessly…' that word had struck deep in her mind. She understood what he meant and how aptly he had put it. Dreamlessly was such a hauntingly perfect word to describe those unfortunates.

Issei's impact wasn't just about the words he spoke; it was about the sincerity with which he spoke them. His empathy wasn't mere sympathy; it was a reflection of his genuine understanding. His presence had become a steady anchor, a reminder that in a world often marred by indifference, there were still those who cared deeply.

Each passing day, as they navigated the ebb and flow of her life together, Roygun found herself drawn to him in ways she had never imagined. It wasn't just his empathetic nature, which had been a balm to her wounded soul; it was the way his gremlin laughter and stupid jokes and remarks echoed in the quiet corners of her mind, the way his presence lit up even the most mundane of moments. She marveled at the way he saw the world—a world that could be cruel and unforgiving—but he chose to embrace it, to cherish the fleeting instances of joy and warmth.

In the quiet stillness of that morning, with his warmth beside her, she found a sliver of peace. With each heartbeat, her love for him deepened, a quiet and powerful force that whispered promises of shared tomorrows, along with the man who had become her anchor in this new chapter of her life.

And for now, it was more than good enough.

His eyelids fluttered open, revealing brown eyes that transitioned from dreams to reality, blinking away the remnants of sleep. He yawned and stretched, his muscles uncoiling in the slow, languid movements of a newly awakened body.

"Mmmrmghrmh—"

Roygun couldn't help but smirk at the sight and his unintelligible noise, mischief dancing in her green eyes.

"Morning, Sleeping Beauty," she purred in a mockingly sultry tone, "Did you have sweet dreams while I watched over you like a diligent guardian?"

Her lips curved into a playful smirk as she watched his still sleep-fogged expression slowly sharpen into awareness.

"You've been watching me sleep? Creep alert," he replied, his voice still laced with the raspy drowsiness of just-woken moments. She caught his eyes snaking down from her face to her bare chest, and she chuckled at the shift in his smile. "Good morning my beauties. You're both delightfully pink as always."

"Perv," Roygun hummed, a musical sound that filled the room with warmth. "Flattery won't get you out of helping with breakfast, you know."

"...Ah, that's unfortunate…"

"Nh~ you can't just press my nipple, you dolt."

"Yeah. Well. Don't point them at me next time."

Inside her bedroom, Raynare had been awake for a while.

Her thoughts were preoccupied by the events of the previous week. She had heard about Roygun's decision to resign, and it had filled her with an unusual sense of relief. As complicated as their relationship was, she genuinely wanted what was best for Roygun — also because she knew Issei sometimes stayed up late to receive her, just to make sure she got home safely.

Jealousy came in the strangest of ways, she swore.

What Raynare didn't mind, however, was the budding connection between Roygun and Issei. She understood that people could find solace and happiness in unexpected places, and if that was what made Roygun happy, then she supported it. But what gnawed at her, what kept her awake at nights, was the fact that she had known Issei longer than Roygun, and yet her progress in gaining his attention seemed stuck at ground zero.

Getting out of her 'like girlfriend but actually not a girlfriend' status felt like an entire ocean to swim.

Today she had decided that things must change. She couldn't continue to stay in the shadows, letting her feelings for Issei ferment unspoken. The fear of disrupting their dynamics, of potentially losing a friendship she cherished, had held her back for far too long.

With resolve burning in her heart, Raynare got out of bed and took a moment to compose herself. She knew this wouldn't be easy, but it was necessary. She had to make Issei see her in a different light, as more than just a friend.

Today, Raynare was determined to take that first step, and hopefully, the rest would follow.

As the morning sun bathed the dining room in warm hues, the human, the devil, and the fallen angel gathered around the table for breakfast. The atmosphere was relaxed, a stark contrast to the hectic mornings Roygun had grown accustomed to during her years as a medical professional. She actually could eat her breakfast at home now.

The aroma of reheated leftovers filled the air, a reminder of their shared reluctance to don the chef's hat. On their plates lay a medley of reheated easy food: yesterday's pasta with a hastily thrown-together tomato sauce, scrambled eggs that had seen better days, and a slice of toast that crunched with a solemnity that bordered on melancholic. It was a breakfast devoid of heart and soul and perhaps too much salt, and their expressions mirrored that sentiment.

"I miss Grayfia," Raynare remarked with a wistful smile, her voice tinged with longing.

"You just miss her cooking," Issei countered between bites of the uninspiring pasta.

"True."

Lazily pushing her food around her plate, Roygun chimed in, "Well, I never had to cook a day in my life. Being a noble has its perks, you know. And my days as a head nurse were so hectic that I barely had the energy to boil water, let alone whip up something complicated."

Issei countered, "And as university students, Raynare and I have perfected the art of ordering takeout. Cooking just isn't our thing."

Raynare nodded in agreement, savoring a particularly unimpressive bite of toast. "We prefer the eating part, not the cooking."

The three of them paused, united in their culinary misfortune, each savoring an equally lackluster bite of their meals.

With a forkful of scrambled eggs that left much to be desired, Raynare couldn't help but remark, "No offense, Issei, but these eggs could use a serious dose of magic."

"None taken," Issei shrugged, fully aware of his gastronomic shortcomings.

Roygun leaned back in her chair, a sly grin on her face. "Well, I'm not thinking of finding a new job yet and it's your Summer break. We can always take turns. Each of us can be the chef for a day."

"Like cooking roulette?" Raynare muttered, then physically recoiling at the notion. "...I don't think that's a good idea... Not for my tastebuds."

Issei furrowed his brow. "Russian roulette, more like. I don't know if I trust any of us in the kitchen, to be honest. Feels like unnecessary waste." He nudged at his 'masterpiece', at the egg that tastes like they had been marinated in salt water.

"Hmm… well... you both do have a point. I can't even make toast without turning it into charcoal briquette," the devil muttered, jabbing her crusty evidence shamelessly.

Raynare also leaned back in her chair, looking unamused and resigned. "I tried to make spaghetti once, and it turned into goop. I forgot things I've no interest in doing."

"Same with me, so scratch that plan, I guess," Roygun shrugged. "We'll just have to stick to reheated meals and takeout for now. At least until Grayfia is back."

"When is that?" Raynare asked with probably a little bit too much hope. A sentiment that Issei shared.

"Should be within this week should things go well," answered Roygun as she crossed her sleeveless arms. "Rias has been making fast progress with her white cane, though she still experiences headaches every now and then. Blunt trauma, no doubt."

With the lingering taste of their less-than-stellar breakfast still in their mouths, the trio shifted their conversation to a more practical topic: making their house more accessible for Rias.

"How do we get started?" Raynare asked.

"Simple things like labeling items in Braille, installing handrails, and arranging furniture to create clear pathways would be a good start," Roygun stated, but she couldn't resist sending a playful smirk Issei's way. "Sounds like a job for a strapping young man, wouldn't you agree?"

Issei glanced around. "Man? Where?"

The two girls rolled their eyes at his masterful deflection, but chuckled nonetheless.

"We could also look into getting some talking appliances and gadgets, like an accessible thermostat, a voice-activated assistant, and an accessible phone with screen-reading software."

"You say 'we' like you're the one paying for any of it."

"Well, duh," Raynare retorted Roygun's remark. "I need to feel like I'm contributing."

"And don't forget about the bathroom," Issei cut in. "Maybe install grab bars there. Like the ones at her hospital room. She's the independent kind, I feel, and she'd make it her point to not bother any of us."

"It's better that she does," Roygun stated, adding her professional unbiased perspective. "She has an admirable resolve and resilience, but it's less about being a bother and more about preventing anything unwanted from occurring. But just because she needs help, it doesn't mean she's in any way 'lesser' than those that aren't visually impaired. You two must help her understand and accept that."

The two young adults nodded thoughtfully, their appreciation for Rias' strength deepening.

"I volunteer myself as a tribute to help her shower."

Raynare shot him a glare. "Stupid idiot pervert."

The Stupid Idiot Pervert merely raised his hands in a Gallic gesture of resignation. "My heart may be impure but my intention is noble."

Nobody in that table bought his words. Not even himself.

Break

At ten, the trio began their plans for a productive day out. Their mission: to make their home more accessible for Rias and to enjoy a proper meal outside the confines of their less-than-stellar cooking. The local restaurants were calling their names, and the promise of food that didn't require a Braille guidebook was too enticing to resist.

As they stepped out into the morning sun, Roygun led the way, her graceful stride befitting a noble. Issei and Raynare flanked her closely behind, with Raynare juggling a handwritten shopping list that looked like it had been through several drafts.

He, as per usual, was the least eye-catching of the trio. Then again, he was competing against two people that might as well be cut out from fashion magazines. With Raynare wearing her light combo of light pink blouse with white pants, and Roygun with her sleeveless purple shirt coupled with her form-fitting jeans, he was by far the least stylish with his trademark combo of lean red shirt and casual shorts.

In all fairness, Issei rarely ever dressed to impress, prioritizing comfort over style. He doubted he could impress anyone with his looks so he didn't bother. Being average looking definitely had its perks.

Their first stop was the hardware store, where they picked up a collection of handrails in various sizes. Issei's shoulders straightened with a sense of responsibility as he imagined himself mounting these handrails around their home, secretly enjoying the thought of finally being the "man of the house."

Roygun, on the other hand, eyed a selection of Braille labels, her fingers tracing their embossed letters thoughtfully. She had to marvel at the intricacies of a world she hadn't explored before. Humans always had ways in countering their weaknesses. Much more innovative than sin.

She selected a few sheets, undoubtedly destined to adorn various items around their home.

Raynare, meanwhile, demonstrated her knack for balance and handled the shopping list with a diligence that might seem out of character for an effortlessly stylish person like her. But this was no ordinary shopping trip.

Exiting the hardware store with their newly acquired treasure trove, it became evident that Issei was the designated 'pack mule' for the day, laden with handrails and gadgets that would soon find their place in their home. It was a role he bore with a blend of resignation and pride. A burden he must carry for Roygun was the one with the wallet whilst Raynare was, well, Raynare. She could whip up excuses and all of them would sound perfectly sensible — like a mysterious sore that had struck suddenly.

But did Issei whine?

Of course! Plenty of times to make sure the girls had never forgotten his sacrifice.

Their next destination—a local restaurant—was a beacon of hope, his oasis, a place where they could forget about their culinary mishaps and savor a meal prepared by professionals.

As they settled into a cozy corner of the restaurant, the aroma of freshly cooked food enveloped them, banishing memories and the aftertaste of their breakfast. The menu, printed in large, clear fonts, was a welcome sight. For once, ordering was a breeze, and there was a sense of freedom in choosing from a variety of dishes without the fear of culinary catastrophe.

Leaving his seat to head to the washroom, Issei couldn't resist a playful jab. "I wonder if they'd let me help in the kitchen here. I've had plenty of experience with chaos."

"Let's just enjoy a meal without turning it into a disaster, shall we?" Roygun chuckled, shaking her head.

With Issei gone, he left Raynare and Roygun in a temporary solitude. It was a moment of quiet reflection amidst the bustling restaurant. Roygun's gaze was fixed on the elegant surroundings for a moment, until Raynare turned to her with a thoughtful expression.

"I've been wondering about something, Roygun."

"Oh?" Roygun paused the leisurely sipping of her melon juice. "Well don't leave me hanging."

Raynare hesitated for a moment. "I've noticed how close you and Issei have become lately."

"Hmm? I'd argue we've been quite close for a while. I'm pretty sure you've heard."

The fallen angel brushed off the innuendo. "You're way closer now, if that makes sense."

The devil blinked, before leaning back in her comfy chair, a small smile playing on her lips.

"I suppose so," she admitted shamelessly. "I'm intoxicated with him. Almost addicted, you can say."

"That's what I've noticed too." Raynare nodded, her gaze distant for a moment as she held back a frown. "He's… got a way of making you feel truly seen and understood."

There was a pause as the implications of her words hung in the air. Roygun raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more to this conversation than met the eye. "Are you going to finally make a move, Ray— Yuuma?"

"WH—"Raynare nearly toppled backward in her seat. "How did you— oh. Right. Womanly instincts and all that."

"More or less," Roygun tittered, taking another sip of her beverage. "He's caring but he can be quite dense. You're not exactly making it easier by dancing around your feelings. Just take the leap already, Yuuma."

"...I know…" She groaned, before taking a deep breath followed immediately with a sigh, her usually confident demeanor faltering slightly. "I want to take that step, but I'm… still scared. Scared of how it might change things, scared of rejection, scared of... well, everything."

"I don't doubt that he values his relationship with you deeply." Roygun's languid nature remained intact, but her advice carried a weight of wisdom. "Bravery isn't the absence of fear. It's acknowledging your fear and taking that step anyway. And he is one of the most understanding and compassionate people I've ever met. If anyone can appreciate the courage it takes to confess your feelings, it's him. Put him in a spot; I did it before and look at where I am now."

Raynare absorbed those words, finding both truth and solace in them. And slight annoyance.

A small smile tugged at the corner of Roygun's lips. "And besides, you'll never know unless you try. …His life is too short to let fear hold you back. If you don't seize him, you might not catch on until you realize he's already slipping away."

"...Yeah… Rias told me that as well…" Raynare muttered, a touch more melancholic this time.

Roygun chuckled softly. "A year is still a long enough time until it passes by. And, a safe environment, cleaner and better living conditions; these are more significant contributing factors to longer lifespan than the advancements of modern medicines."

Yeah… That'd be nice, Raynare thought.

Her gaze drifted to her untouched plate, and a shadow of melancholy clouded her expression. She was acutely aware of the stark contrast in their lifespans. Issei, with his fleeting human years, was like a delicate flame that could flicker out all too soon, while she and Roygun possessed the gift of longevity that stretched into centuries.

Sensing Raynare's sudden blues, Roygun reached out and gently placed her hand over Raynare's. "I didn't mean to bring you down."

Raynare offered a faint smile, her fingers curling around Roygun's in a reassuring gesture. "No, it's not your fault. It's just... Sometimes, I wish I could see the world through his eyes. With that sense of urgency to cherish each moment."

Withdrawing her hand, Roygun nodded in understanding, her own nigh-immortality lending her a unique perspective. "I know what you mean. But that's all the more reason why we should treasure the time we have with him. Never about the quantity of years, but the quality of those moments. Take it from me."

After a moment of contemplative silence, Raynare inquired further.

"So, I guess that means you love him then?"

"Hmm… that is a question…" Roygun's gaze briefly flitted toward Issei, who was approaching their table with an almost absentminded look. A fond smile curled at the corners of her lips, adding a twinkle to her green eyes. "Well," she whispered, tinging her voice with a hint of playful mystery, "it's a maybe... though it leans on 'yes'."

Raynare couldn't help but smile in response to Roygun's reply. In that fleeting moment, amidst the clatter of plates and the hum of conversation in the restaurant, the unspoken feelings and connections between the former medical professional and the professional procrastinator seemed to speak volumes.

Yeah, Raynare thought. She would like that.

His return brought with it a playful tone, and his greeting was accompanied by a lighthearted grin. "Heya gurls~ ya came here often? What say you treat his hunk for a chunk of… something that isn't junk but rhymes with it."

"Hunk," Raynare snorted while Roygun rolled her eyes. "You?"

"Hey now, I have confidence in my own hunkiness."

Break

As their delightfully fulfilling meal came to an end, and the trio savored the last bites of their respective dishes, Roygun couldn't resist leaving Raynare with the boy. She supposed she might try out 'people watching' like Issei did, now that she had a new perspective on their dynamics.

Roygun stood up gracefully from her chair. "I'll leave you two alone for a bit. Try not to flirt too much," she said, her eyes glinting with a hint of mischief as she winked at Raynare.

"Where you going?"

"Mind your business, Clown."

Issei honked sadly, eliciting a giggle from the adult devil as she strutted away, her effortless beauty already catching stray gazes and causing several jealous girlfriends and wives.

Left alone with Issei, Raynare felt her heart start to race, her earlier determination now giving way to an unexpected surge of panic. She fidgeted with her silverware, her mind racing as she tried to find the right words and moment to express her feelings.

But as the humanoid gremlin scooped up a spoonful of vanilla ice cream with a piece of french fry, Raynare's eyes widened in surprise as her thoughts were completely ripped away.

"Did you just dip that into ice cream?"

Issei shrugged nonchalantly, his mouth full of the peculiar combination of sweet and salty and cold. "Yeah, it's a thing. Don't knock it till you try it."

Raynare couldn't hide her disbelief. "You're such a weirdo."

"Hey man," he defended, pointing his singular fries, "sometimes, you've gotta break the rules to discover new pleasures."

As she watched him eat his uncanny combination of the cuisine, watching him feel like he'd just invented a groundbreaking culinary innovation, Raynare couldn't help but chuckle. Without knowing, her anxiety had started to wane.

Maybe not now. It had to be today, but not here, at least. Too public. Too many strangers. She didn't want to make a scene, and, regardless of his reply, she knew she'd want to be somewhere more private.

As she glanced around the window, out to the streets bathed under the summer sun, it was then she felt a surge of spontaneity wash over her.

She looked at Issei with an impish gleam in her violet eyes. "So, when are we gonna hit the beach?"

Issei stared at her for a moment, devouring the vanilla-ice-cream-dipped-french-fries before responding, "Who is The Beach and why must it be hit?"

Raynare snorted. "I'm serious, dingus. We should invite everyone. Ah~ I bet Vivi will be pleased." Wait a minute, this was a set up so she could deliver her confession with the right setting, not a group hangout— …but oh well. She wanted to see Ingvild anyway. It had been a while.

He blinked in surprise, setting down his intriguing ice cream and french fry combination. "The beach huh? I guess it is that time of the year again…"

"Why do you sound like a grandpa all the sudden."

"I am old. My body is young but my core is rotting away," he declared, his voice withering like a centuries-old sage. "But seriously, this came outta nowhere. What happened to our home improvement?"

"We can just do that tomorrow— or the day after." Raynare leaned in, her smile mischievous. "And I mean it's summer. I get sudden craving for some salty sea breeze and sandy shores. Plus, it's the perfect opportunity to try your weird ice cream and french fry combo in a new setting."

"Fair enough. Well I'm down," he scratched his hairless jaw. "But am I going to be the only dude? Operation "Babe Hunt" can't be done solo, you know. I need my wingmen."

"Yeah, right. Like they miraculously raise your chance," Raynare huffed. "I know you want your two idiots to join, but I'm thinking of inviting Rias and Grayfia and Vivi. Roygun as well. Obviously. She's the one with the wallet."

"Obviously," he nodded sagely. "Well. In that case, as long as no one gets mad at me for checking out their swimsuits, I'm all in."

"Uh huh, just don't drop your jaw when you see mine."

Issei raised a challenging eyebrow and replied without missing a beat. "As long as you don't drop yours when you see mine."

"This is not what I have in mind."

"C'mon, Issei. You're our designated pack mule."

After the decision to hit the beach was set in stone, the duo met up with Roygun, who, after making a phone call to Azazel to ask about Rias, then enthusiastically suggested they should embark on a new quest immediately: finding new swimsuits. Being the considerate gentleman he was not, Issei regretted volunteering himself to carry all the bags from their home depot adventures.

As they entered the swimwear store, the gender ratio became starkly evident—Issei stood as one of the few males amidst a sea of bikinis, sundresses, g-strings, and various other female swimwear whose nomenclatures eluded his vast knowledge. Yet, to his credit, he appeared entirely unfazed, unashamed, and, oddly enough, undisturbed, almost as if he belonged there despite clear evidence to the contrary.

As they entered a trendy swimwear store, Raynare couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of Issei burdened with bags of home improvement supplies and Roygun leading the way among racks of swimsuits. She grinned mischievously. "You look like a bodyguard keeping our precious cargo."

Issei took it in stride, his lanky body adopted a gallant pose and declared, "Fear not, fair ladies. I'll protect our treasures with my life. I charge by the hour, by the way."

Roygun giggled softly at their playful banter as her eyes scanned the array of swimsuits on display.

As they ventured deeper into the store, Roygun and Raynare quickly got down to the business of selecting swimsuits. They each gathered an armful of options, ranging from classic one-pieces to trendy two-pieces in a rainbow of colors and patterns, to an elegant combination of the two.

Raynare, in particular, seemed drawn to a sleek black halter neck top and paired it off with a same-colored high-waisted havana bikini bottom. She held it up to herself, giving Roygun a theatrical twirl. "Will this make me look like the villainous vixen of the beach?"

Roygun nodded appreciatively. "Very femme fatale. I love it."

Examining herself in the mirror, Raynare felt her confidence growing. "Hmm… I think I'll hang on to this…"

Determined to find hers, Roygun then gravitated toward a rack of one-piece swimsuits in elegant, deep colors. She held up a navy-blue swimsuit with intricate lace details, examining it in the mirror. "What do you think of this one, Issei? Classic, isn't it?"

Issei looked her way, his eyes tracing the contours of the swimsuit. "I'd say it's classy, but let's be honest, you two could make a burlap sack look elegant."

Roygun smiled and gave him a playful look. "Flattery will get you nowhere, mister."

"As long as you're the 'nowhere' then I'm fine getting lost."

She narrowed her eyes, trying her best not to blush. Roygun failed and looked away to pretend her heart didn't just skip a beat, doubly determined to find that coveted swimsuit.

With the ladies getting more occupied with their shopping and his opinion started to matter less and less, Issei, carrying the bags with an exaggerated sense of responsibility, couldn't resist getting into the spirit of things. With three home depot bags in tow, he spotted and picked up a particularly vibrant floral bikini top, green and yellow with an explosion of red all over, and held it up in front of him, then struck a pose with an exaggerated pout.

"Hey, what do you girls think?" he asked with faux seriousness, batting his eyelashes dramatically. "Does this one make me look fat?"

Momentarily distracted from their swimsuit hunt, Roygun and Raynare turned and burst into laughter upon seeing him.

Roygun playfully placed her hands on her hips, pretending to critically assess his floral trikini that she doubted he knew the difference of. "Hmmm... I don't know. It's a bit revealing for you, don't you think? But flaunt it if you've got it, I say."

Raynare chimed in with a grin, "Yeah, you've got some pretty killer curves there."

Issei proudly flaunted his nonexistent curves, posing like a professional gravure figure as Raynare took a commemorative photo and set it as phone's wallpaper.

.

As the unlikely trio continued to explore the shop, Issei had to face the inevitable moment when the ladies decided it was time to try on their chosen swimsuits. Standing outside the changing room area, he had an air of mock disappointment about him.

"Wait, you mean I don't get to see the grand fashion show?" Issei pouted, feigning a wounded expression. "I thought I'd at least get to rate your swimsuits on a scale of one to fabulous."

Raynare couldn't help but laugh at his dramatic antics. "You're going to have to wait, Issei. We can't give away all the surprises just yet."

Roygun chimed in, her voice filled with amusement. "Besides, we have to make sure they fit perfectly, and we wouldn't want to ruin the big reveal, now would we? Just be patient, young man. It'll pay off."

"Fine," Issei hmphed. "I guess I'll busy myself with these bags of home improvement stuff. Maybe I'll start redecorating the changing room and make it visually impaired friendly."

With that exchange, he settled in to wait, occasionally making exaggerated sighs of boredom for added effect before he actually got bored.

…But he couldn't resist going off his own adventure. He had gone shopping with them before, and they took around fifteen to twenty minutes if he was lucky. He wasn't going to remain idle and drool for that amount of time.

And so, Issei ventured off into the store once again, meandering through racks of swim trunks, the frightening speedos, flip-flops, beach towels and even sections dedicated to tanning oil and sunscreen. He picked up a frisbee, tossing it into the air and catching it absentmindedly, momentarily distracted by the beach-related paraphernalia.

As he ventured further, he couldn't resist trying on a particularly outlandish pair of sunglasses, complete with neon frames and star-shaped lenses. He grinned at his own reflection as he tried to strike a pose that matched the eccentric eyewear, being the shameless weirdo even as he could hear snickers coming from nearby patrons.

In between his playful exploration of the shop's wares, Issei took several longing glances at the changing room area from time to time, a mischievous glint in his eye. He was eager to see what swimsuits Raynare and Roygun had picked out, and he knew that their fashion show was bound to be a spectacle in itself.

Well, he wasn't going to let them beat him.

.

As the girls emerged from the changing room, now clad in their regular attire, they were greeted by an unexpected sight: sat on the nearby seat, hands crossed, slightly nodding away, was Issei. And not just any Issei, but an Issei that was wearing an oversized straw hat with a comically wide brim that made him look like a lampshade with legs, or the less fortunate cousin of a famous straw hat pirate that struggled on the streets rather than the ocean.

"I-Issei…?"

"Hm?" he raised his head, and both Raynare and Roygun burst out laughing. The contrast between his everyday attire and this beach ensemble was so strikingly absurd.

"Are you seriously getting that?"

"Yeah," he plainly said to Raynare. "It's big, it's wide, it's a sunhat."

Their laughter echoed through the store as Issei stood, looking like a fashion-forward scarecrow.

"Yeah, yeah, laugh all you want— this is my favorite hat now. I just need a pair of cheap sunglasses and I'm all set to go on my Operation: Babe Hunt."

"Oh?" Roygun hummed. "Can I be the babe?"

Without missing a beat, Issei responded, "You already are."

"Disgusting," Raynare said despite her feelings for this doofus. "Never do that in front of me ever again."

Break

The sun glistened on the surface of the sea like a million tiny diamonds as the unlikely trio took their first step off the pier... and onto a yacht.

It was a vessel straight out of dreams, the kind that made lottery fantasies seem modest. Roygun simply smiled while Raynare and Issei exchanged bewildered glances, their jaws hanging perilously close to the edge of the ocean. Boarding felt like entering a different universe, where even the sea breeze whispered of opulence.

Their destination? A private island owned by the Grigori Institute. The revelation felt like the punchline of an expensive joke, leaving both Raynare and Issei in a state of shock that would make a deer caught in headlights appear calm and collected. They were dumbfounded, to say the least, struggling to process how a simple beach day had transformed into an extravagant week-long escapade.

Indeed, Roygun had pulled off a surprising move by redeeming her vacation days, the catalyst for her enigmatic phone call with Azazel. Turns out, Azazel was more than willing to grant her request, seizing the opportunity for a well-deserved break of his own. After all, even the mighty needed to kick back and enjoy a cold beer every now and then.

As they boarded, their designated captain and sponsor welcomed them with enthusiasm that rivaled a kid at Disneyland. Azazel stood at the helm, sporting a captain's white hat complete with a golden anchor logo above the black brim, looking relaxed and casual in his flora-patterned Hawaiian shirt and simple shorts. In his hand. He held a half-full cold can of beer, which seemed like the unofficial flag of this impromptu adventure.

"Ahoy, you three!" Azazel greeted them with a smile that could light up the whole ocean. "You better be ready for some fun in the sun and a speedy getaway from reality."

"Ahoy-hoy!" Issei replied just as brightly, fulfilling one of his bucket lists as Azazel tossed him a can of beer that nearly smacked his head.

Azazel wasn't alone in this nautical escapade; Penemue stood beside him, an ever-watchful and ever-mindful presence. She sported an alluring air, commanding attention in a more understated manner than Roygun. Her hair, a striking deep shade, flowed gracefully down to her thighs, making even the most radiant of sunsets jealous. With her middle-parted hairstyle and a pair of stylish sunglasses perched on her nose, Penemue was the epitome of elegance meets efficiency.

Or so she would claim.

Hard to believe her when she was the only person on the boat already wearing her swimsuit.

"Hello again, Hyoudou. Raynare."

"Penemue," Raynare nodded. "Uh— wow. You look…"

"Stunning," Issei completed, taking in the sight before him. The all black swimsuit she had revealed the toned features of the Chief Secretary of the Grigori Institute, and much like Roygun, Penemue exuded a mature charm that left a lasting impression.

Her hair was several shades deeper to Roygun's cherry blossom pink, but they both shared the same middle parted hairstyle, though Penemue's hair cascaded all the way down to her thighs. Roygun, on the other hand, had opted for a more practical bun that somehow managed to look effortlessly elegant. The comparison was inevitable, and even though their styles differed, both women had the kind of presence that turned heads and sparked daydreams.

And it seemed that, judging by the way they looked at each other, they had started a rivalry.

But that was not all the guests.

"Issei? Raynare?"

Rias and Grayfia were already on the boat. The Devil Princess with her other senses heightened due to her condition was visibly animated and excited about the trip, seemingly unphased by the fact that her life nearly ended by the very ocean she was about to traverse. She navigated the deck with ease, her posture straight and regal as her hands lightly grazed the railing, tracing the path ahead with Grayfia right by her side. Her floral patterned, vibrant and silky beach dress, coupled with the sunglasses resting on her brilliant crimson hair — she was a vision of chic sophistication.

Grayfia, her constant companion, was a vision of elegance as always, though Issei couldn't help but wish she'd loosen up a bit in her choice of attire. Preferably something more revealing. He felt stuffy just looking at her.

Raynare, too, shared the sentiment. Her gaze lingered on Grayfia for a moment longer than strictly necessary before speaking her mind. "Seriously? A maid outfit even out here?"

Grayfia's response was a masterclass in restraint. "It's standard attire," she replied evenly, her tone as composed as the calm before a storm. But Issei swore he detected a hint of amusement flickering in her eyes, like a secret joke shared between old friends.

"It's part of her identity, Raynare," Issei pitched in. "She doesn't leave it behind, even for a trip."

"Let's focus on enjoying the trip, shall we?" Roygun intervened as she took a seat on the couches lining the deck. "We're here to relax, not to pick apart each other's wardrobe choices. And besides, I knew this would happen so I also got her a bikini."

"I don't see how that's necessary."

"It's super necessary," Roygun replied, not settling for a no. "I'm sure everyone would agree."

"Well. No complaints here. The more bikinis the better."

"I second that!" Issei exclaimed, tossing a 'I got you' look at Azazel. The rest of the Fallen Angels simply sighed while Grayifa had the tiniest hint of a frown quirking her lips.

"Can we go?" Rias bluntly asked. "I want to feel the sea breeze on my hair."

"Someone's excited." Issei had to remark. "Just be careful not to fall overboard and make a splash before we even reach the island," he quipped, earning a playful swat on the arm from Raynare.

Rias laughed, however, a melodic sound that mingled with the gentle lapping of the waves against the yacht's hull. "I'll do my best to stay afloat, Issei. But if I do end up taking an unplanned swim, I trust you'll be there to rescue me."

"Of course, Rias. I'll be your knight in shining swim trunks."

Pleasantries exchanged, beer cans clinking, warm laughter in the air, the yacht set sail. Roygun and Penemue exchanged a glance, a silent challenge passing between them, while Rias and Grayfia found comfort in each other's presence, navigating their first sea.

The yacht glided smoothly across the water, the only sound the gentle hum of the engine. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, the group settled in for the evening, content in each other's company.

Until one sight pried their attention away.

"Is that... Is that Vivi?" Raynare muttered aloud, pointing a finger towards the ocean,

Sure enough, there she was, a blur of light purple and white streaking through the water with astonishing speed, her lilac hair trailing behind her like a banner of freedom. In the sea, Ingvild Leviathan was a force of nature unto herself, outmatching even the yacht in sheer velocity. With a friendly wave, she raced alongside the boat, her giggles echoing across the waves.

"Helloooo~!"

Issei leaned over the railing to catch a better view, and decided, "Man… She's like a mermaid on steroids."

His comment elicited a round of laughter from the group, even as Ingvild playfully splashed water towards them, her movements graceful and effortless. Roygun couldn't help but admire the girl's free spirit, envy flickering briefly in her eyes before she brushed it away.

Azazel joined in the jesting. "I think she's just showing off. Probably wants to race us to the island."

"A race!" As if on cue, Ingvild surged forward, her speed increasing dramatically as she darted ahead of the yacht, performing a series of playful flips and spins in the water.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the scene. Rias tilted her head towards the sound of the splash, a small smile playing on her lips. She could appreciate the joy and freedom in Ingvild's movements, the pure exhilaration of being one with the sea. She listened to the sounds of her friends, the gentle rocking of the boat, and the rhythm of the waves. As the setting sun kissed her skin, at that moment, she felt content.

"How is the sea, Grayfia?" she asked quietly, not wanting to bring down the mood.

Grayfia turned towards Rias at the sound of her voice. "The sea is calm, my lady," she replied, her tone reassuring. "The weather is favorable, and there are no signs of any storms on the horizon."

Rias chuckled. "That's not what I meant."

Grayfia paused, taking a moment to fully immerse herself in the surroundings. The sea was calm, its surface reflecting the fading light of the setting sun like a mirror.

"It's beautiful, Lady Rias," Grayfia replied softly. "Blue as the sky."

'Just like the picture books,' Rias smiled to herself. "I'm glad we came," she whispered, reaching out to grasp Grayfia's hand in a silent gesture of gratitude. The maid squeezed her hand gently in return. "And you better wear the clothes Roygun got for you. Dress for the occasion, Grayfia."

"...Yes, my Lady."

As the yacht continued on its journey, the gentle rocking of the waves lulling them into a sense of peace, Rias closed her eyes and allowed herself to relax, glad in the knowledge that she was surrounded by friends who cared for her. The worries and troubles of the world seemed far away, replaced by a sense of tranquility that she had rarely experienced before.

To be continued...

hey hey people, Danzy here

I basically have migrated from fanfic. This is sorta my retirement notice. You can find me in Questionable Questing instead, shitposting there. Just look up "DanzyDanz" in the search menu and all my works should be there. You might have to make a new account first because all my story are tagged NSFW

Why? Well, in QQ, I can post images in the middle of the story, which I like. lewd ones included. I also REALLY like the forum style of back and forth instead of fanfic's review system which I doubt anyone apart from a few readers give a shit about

I've packed up some of my stories, like Shadow's Eclipse and even rewritten a QQ exclusive Everyday Life with Supernatural Girls with a better Issei. There's also a couple new ones, one featuring the bum Toji in Highschool DxD because it seems I can't ever escape this DxD sinkhole

It's 2024. Fanfic is soooo 2015 - and besides, the writing quality in QQ is objectively far better than the ones in this site. Including all of my shitposts

find me there. or i'll find you