Hardric62: The overly protective anime dad trope is so strong that even when not her actual dad, it keeps going! XD Indeed, when someone can appear as anyone, it gets tricky with who you can trust and the motivation of the enemy if it's not really them. I hope as well that you are a fan of where this is going. :D

DragonGodZalama: Oh yes :D Hollowreaper and I are good friends so it was my pleasure to adapt one of his characters into Roots of Hope. Well, you are close in that I am juggling arc-adaptations, but only 1 canon at a time while the rest will be original. So much to do, so little time haha.

I don't want to give away too much, but right now the main focus is the Trihexa arc which was my personal favorite of the endgame of canon DxD. The ExE world definitely still exists out there, I'd never write them out entirely. And while I did want to in a way imply a connection with them and elements of Roots, my current plans are that they are not directly involved yet.

OBSERVER01: Thank you so much man! Things are definitely escalating fast and I was worried it may be too much but am glad you've been liking where they are going. I hope to never disappoint. :D

Fanficcyberman: Exactly :D She found that spark to really enjoy her post in Helheim beyond making deals for souls. Both of those are definitely future commission ideas LOL, too many. I sent a full reply but am so glad you like the events currently unfolding…and now the image of all the women dressed as Seras can't get out of my head. XD Your words are too kind man, it truly means more than I can say how much you've been enjoying the story all this time. I hope the time to this update wasn't too long and hope you and your loved ones have been staying safe as well!

Chidoriprime: Lots going on at once.

Avenger3576: Not any reference to Blair Witch that I intended. Right now the eagle looks like a regular baby eagle but as it grows will get more unique-traits like its parent had such as multiple pairs of wings.

7: Precisely :D That is why it seems so much more powerful than most. Yea, angels have it rough. In canon it was stated that under specific circumstances focused purely on procreation that angels could have kids but it was super complex. And in regard to the underwater "shrine"…well, let's just say I hope you enjoy this arc.

TheLycan2026: That really means a lot and makes me wish I had more spare time to keep writing so you always have more to read. Thank you so much! I hope this update wasn't too long in coming.

Swid16kawail: Oh that sounds like a fun time, another of Azazel/Seekvaira's machinations gone awry for some lighthearted fun. I had side stories planned that are more self-contained so that could fit nicely in.

Ragna126: Just the perfect way to end an arc. Considering Albion, Ddraig, GR, Ophis, etc…I doubt you'll want for seeing dragons.

Dragonx411: No worries at all man, I am glad you enjoyed it and hope things cool down for you.

And with that…ONTO THE SHOW!

Maybe I'm starting to enjoy school life more, Issei thought to himself as the minutes ticked away before the end of classes for the weekend. Chalking it up to how many drastic life-threatening battles they'd gotten in, the young man had slowly realized how much he was appreciating the quiet moments in his life. All the more reason to deal with the Khaos Brigade as soon as possible so we can have more like this.

"Now don't let this long weekend hamper your studies," the older professor warned as time ran out. "That includes you, Mr. Ouryuu. You may be new to our school and having already joined the Student Council, but I will not accept any less than the best."

"I wouldn't have it any other way!" A young man with slicked-back hair announced proudly. Ever since he'd arrived from Kyoto, he'd not wasted any time setting roots in the academy. "Mr. Held, may I borrow that textbook on the Meiji Revolution?"

"Sure thing," he handed the thick textbook to Suzaku's choice to join the Crossroads from the Shinto factions. "Oh geez, I think I forgot…"

"This?" The voice of Seekvaira surprised Dorian as she appeared at the door holding a stack of papers. "I noticed these when fixing up your workstation, I presume they are important?"

"You are a lifesaver! Thank you." The Einherjar accepted the papers, handing them to the professor. "I don't know how I missed them."

"Well, you did go over twenty-four applications, approving of eight, then went over the reports of the latest Crossroad tasks worldwide. Not to mention the readings for classes coupled with the boxing match you saw with Thrud…"

"Good lord Goldie, pace yourself!" Issei turned with wide eyes after hearing the schedule Seekvaira read off. "Keep going at this rate and you'll explode!"

"I must concur with Mr. Hyoudou's colorful assessment," the Agares Heiress agreed. "You have a lot on your plate, it may be best to delegate some activities. I would suggest perhaps an assistant full time?"

"Oh wow, who are you?" Motohama and Matsuda appeared at the door catching sight of Seekvaira who was wearing the robe she often had when not in the Crossroad uniform. "Talking to Dorian, eh? If you're new to the school, best watch out for him. Rumor is, he has a thing for teachers."

"I am quite familiar with Dorian, your gossip is unnecessary," she replied with her usual cold tone sending the two reeling back disappointed she wasn't as unaware as they hoped.

"Hmmm, on second look, she has a lot in common with Ms. Rossweisse," Motohama stroked his chin. "Maybe that is Dorian's type?"

"Like how yours is bespectacled pervert hotties?" Aika Kiryuu grinned evilly having overheard everything. "And here I thought you two eased up on scoping out potential new students."

"Sh-shut up!" Motohama called out, taking a few steps away from Seekvaira. "I-in any case…you said you wanted to go over that project today, right!?"

The one-half of the perverted duo screamed the last sentence as if trying to keep up the argument despite the reasonable request. Dorian had noticed his and Matsuda's change in demeanor over the previous weeks much to Issei's surprise as well. Whereas before they had often chastised the two for having so many women in their lives, now their insults seemed toothless as if they were more out of habit than legitimate malice. They hadn't even remarked how the entire school noticed Issei calling Rias by her first name in some time. Aika led Motohama away with the two standing a bit closer than normal, Matsuda going his own way to meet a young woman at the end of the hallway.

"Nothing is the same anymore," Issei remarked as they left. "To think those two could have some change of luck too. Did God give a blessing or something from beyond the grave?"

"I have not seen them at morning masses," Irina cupped her chin in thought at the great mystery. "But I will pray if it helps divert them from their sinful ways."

"Sounds like a good thing to me," Dorian lifted his school bag over a shoulder. "Now we can enjoy the long weekend. Come on, let's head home."

Crossroad Tower, several hours later…

"And this is the training field," Bennia floated cheerily while showing a group of new recruits the area outside the main building. "You can use it to practice your skills and we have a nice tennis competition every other Saturday. Honda is quite good at it, but watch for his backhand."

"Remember," Hecuba took over as Bennia deferred to her for the more serious announcements. "That if you are chosen, you will represent your given people to the world at large. That is the purpose of the Crossroads showing that such differences are no reason to start wars or conflicts."

"And if you break any rules, you have to put up with her cooking for three square meals a da…" Bennia didn't finish her sentence before the True Longinus emerged in Hecuba's hands missing her cloak by a thin margin. The crowd awed at the sight of the weapon, the Heaven-based recruits saying muttered prayers. "Hehehe, just kidding of course," the reaper took a few steps back before continuing the tour.

"Come on! I can take it!" The group turned to a brown-haired woman with white cat ears and tail floating away from four pursuers. "I won't become the strongest neko-Valkyrie by taking it easy!"

"That is NOT our designation!" Herja called out while swinging with her enchanted punches at the surprisingly nimble Aika. "You need to balance Valkyrie magic and nekoshou Sage Arts carefully!"

"If I do, will I get that sexy armor too?"

Three Valkyries with their own cat ears along with Kuroka in her billowing black kimono darted through the skies. Magic flew between them, the four holding back against the girl who was new to the powers within her. All the same, her talents were growing daily. It was a rare sight that could only be found in that one Tower in Japan; five of the six known nekoshou in existence battling in the skies.

"The new quarters have been finished," Seekvaira walked with Dorian reading from the clipboard in front. "State of the art heaters to ensure our Musphelheim recruits are comfortable and stronger air conditioning for Helheim. Please sign here…and here."

"Perfect, and is Suramar settling in well?" Dorian recalled when a kin of Surtr had shown up barely a bit smaller than his progenitor. The towering giant assured him that he would not seek the Tafl piece until it was earned before entering his new home.

"It seems so, I was surprised that Surtr's choice was so…managerial." Seekvaira had spoken with the new recruit who, despite being a looming wall of fire, scored quite high on applications that leaned more towards a job focusing on overseeing the many Crossroad records. "I hope you do not mind I took the opportunity to update your filing system."

"My filing system?" Dorian looked like he was about to be insulted. "That's the one I used when working directly for Lady Freyja and she said it was the most efficient she'd ever seen."

"I meant nothing negative," Seekvaira threw her hair back as she stood confident in her words. "But it had some room for improvement. I am sure the new additions will increase our efficiency several times over. It helped me find a few places we could afford to streamline our budget."

"I knew there was a reason you and Rossweisse got along," he teased while double checking her work though it was clearly unnecessary. "This much!? You are incredible!"

"Well…" The Agares Heiress took the compliment in stride but was now smiling from ear to ear. "I would be more than happy to go over with you how to find such details."

He's grown so confident in his role balancing schooling with the growing Crossroad responsibilities. Could he keep this up without some of that stamina-replenishing flame? Surely not even the potential from the apple would make that an easy feat. At this rate, perhaps he should look into early graduation so that he can focus a bit more.

"Mr. Dorian," a Valkyrie Dorian recognized having shown up on the first day of new recruitments stepped forward looking nervous not realizing her interruption of Seekvaira. "One of Lady Sitri's peerage was asking for you, something about an appointment?"

"Ah, tell Saji I will be right there," Dorian smiled back to try and relieve some of her worry. "Take a rain check?"

"O-of course," Seekvaira replied back cordially. "Perhaps after the meeting later on?"

"It's a date!" He shouted cheerily clearly not realizing his particular phrasing. The Einherjar rushed off inside leaving the young devil standing with the new recruit, both glancing towards each other awkwardly.

"He is taller than I expected," the newcomer admitted.

"He really is," Seekvaira could do nothing but agree, gripping the clipboard in her hands a little tighter.

Elsewhere, several hours later…

"Pretty sure that is checkmate." Dorian looked over the board for several minutes before conceding with restrained frustration.

"You've been practicing outside our own sessions, Saji," he chuckled at the first loss he'd had against the devil Pawn. "Congrats on your win, I hope you don't make it a habit; I get trounced enough playing against Sona."

"Then I'm one step closer to that," he grinned maliciously with a fist pump of satisfaction. "I need to start winning more if I'm to have a chance of her accepting a marriage proposal. Mr. Azazel has been teaching me a few tactics that appear to leave openings but set up for late game."

"I thought you two were pretty close already?" Dorian asked nonchalantly while resetting the board. "But you still need to win at chess?"

You're a good guy man, Saji appreciated how he tried to help when he could even if it was just to talk. We're both orphans of damned car accidents, we should stick together.

"We are," Saji looked like he was almost swooning. "But she is a woman of class and refinement, I can't expect her to settle just because she happens to think I'm dashing. Gotta meet her requirements at least partway. I met one of her sister's, now I have to work on hers. Thanks for letting her use your conference rooms by the way."

"My pleasure, I just hope the discussions between her, Rias and Ravel aren't too serious." He leaned closer as Saji beckoned him in for a whisper.

"No chance of that, I am afraid. Old man Mephisto is in there bringing them up to speed. Apparently even with the Hero Faction being reformed under Hecuba, the other Khaos Brigade agents out there are STILL getting Phenex Tears for their fights."

"A traitor in the family?"

"It doesn't look like it. The tears being made are…wrong somehow, don't ask me, I don't know the stuff. Just that Sona kept referring to them as 'fake tears' going around."

"That would be terrifying if they learned a way to duplicate them, no one in history has managed to do that. When we took apart Loki's lab, there was evidence he had been trying to with no success."

"Then of course there is that meeting later with the vamp…" Dorian raised a finger asking for silence as he looked to the side, a shape appearing from the darkness.

"Hi Mr. Dorian," a familiar face he had not seen for a while greeted them. "I am sorry to have hidden, I just wanted to see you both play…"

"Kassumi?" Saji recognized their fellow student. "How did you get in?"

"I snuck in when no one was looking," she smiled innocently. "Perhaps I can get next game?"

"You may have a bit of an advantage over us," Dorian eyed her suspiciously. "Millennia of experience would be a bit unfair; don't you think…Kassaegtha?" The reaction was instantaneous as the dark-haired girl's form became more mist-like swirling around them. Saji leapt but relaxed upon seeing Dorian wasn't worried.

"How did you find out?" She asked, voice unable to hide the disappointment at her long-time façade being revealed.

"Blame your future self, or would that be the past from your point of view?" Dorian tried not to smirk. "She…I don't know, linked with me and I saw a few images of myself at Kuoh through her eyes. It was obvious they were from times we were studying or I was helping you in Rossweisse's class. You were that devil who asked for autographs at the High King signing too, just how many aliases have you used to hide in plain sight?"

"Enough," she answered sternly. "Undone by myself even with peripherally inserting myself into the students' memories, I am sure you love the irony."

"Another girlfriend of yours?" Saji asked half in jest. He was well aware of the Old Goddess' connection to Dorian, though her existence was kept a secret to all outside their circle of trusted friends. He regretted his words as the ancient being older than his entire race turned to look at him with uncaring eyes. His body felt as if it had turned to ice, his fight or flight instinct switching squarely into the latter option. "Y-you can get a rematch next time…I think I'll go see how Sona is doing." With that last remark, he turned to leave out the back exit unwilling to use the main door now blocked by Kassaegtha.

"He is a skittish one, so single-minded towards one person as to overlook all others. Although, he has noticed some of his team who look his way and even become more assertive with the Sitri which is new…"

"You look tired," Dorian interrupted her mutterings with an observation. The old goddess looked almost out of breath when she'd always seemed so indomitable. As soon as he mentioned it, the appearance fell away and Kassaegtha looked as stoic as ever. "Are you alright?"

"My kind do not get sick, if that were possible, the illness would be enough to eradicate your entire race."

"Then how about that game you wanted?" Dorian offered her a seat that she accepted. "I never thought about that, do you have a home?" He asked the first question that came to mind while setting up the board. "You said you were at Salem, Roanoke, Egypt…where did your people live?"

"Nowhere that is accessible anymore," she analyzed the king piece with a restrained smirk before setting it down. "I doubt you would enjoy a game with me if you lost to that one."

"Let me guess, you've seen every strategy that exists?" Her glare answered that for him. "And you remember them all? I can see why things can get repetitive. That combined with having a presence at different points in time and there isn't much that would surprise."

"Prescience is more finding the patterns in the world and seeing how they repeat over and over again. I do not remember everything; I do not need to. Everything that has happened will repeat itself again and again in different forms."

"And, of course, you still won't say anything about what happened in the future in the original timeline beyond what I experienced? Or did you forget that too?"

"No easy way out for you here," Dorian could sense her satisfaction from those words. "I kept away certain complications early on so you could grow and reach the point we would meet, but I want to see where this will lead. The soaring highs and the submersed lows, it's getting harder to keep track of the new things to see. Your actions have far-reaching consequences."

"Like Moloch? Iggy knew him from the future, but that can't be…how did he get here?" Kassaegtha merely sat there staring into him with those eyes that frightened so many. "Fine, keep your secrets, I'll find them out myself. He won't get away with whatever he has planned for Ophis' infinity."

"I wouldn't be so sure of that," the old goddess created a glass in her hand, taking a short sip. "I've noticed certain events are leading you down a rather interesting course."

To think that both of your presences caused just enough difference for them to discover that place. If you go there…oh the unique sights you will see.

Not Far…

"Saji-kun," Sona greeted him in a way that made his heart flutter. "Are your games already over? We have time until the next Student Council Meeting."

"Um, Dorian had a guest so I thought it was best to sneak out," he admitted nervously upon seeing the rest of his team was right behind her. "We can work on the important stuff now."

She'd been smiling a lot more at him which was all he ever asked for other than maybe hearing her say his first name. At the same time, he noticed Ruruko and Momo were eyeing him smiling just as much as their King. Reya and Nimura seemed to be egging them on, giving a big thumb's up with giddy expressions. Shinra could only shake her head, fully aware of the machinations occurring among her fellow peerage members. Even Ylva had started becoming immersed in their inner-team gossip and trying to share with Loup despite his clear disinterest.

"Our itinerary is short today, just a few clubs requesting more funds. After that, we can go over our potential mage pacts and future teammates."

"Just a few Pawn spaces open, right?" Saji asked which Shinra answered.

"There were many candidates who witnessed our battles in Lilith. Loup and Ylva were the most promising by far, but not the only ones."

"It's nice finally having another guy on the team," Saji crossed his arms with a smirk. "And I've never met an elf before, Ylva is a real cutie and wicked good with that axe…halberd…thing."

The elven devil-Knight could often be seen in the yard practicing, being new at the power boost for becoming a reincarnated devil. She hadn't talked much about herself or why she became a devil, giving Saji almost the distinct impression she didn't want it known. He was thinking hard on why, that he did not expect the soft yet still forceful smack to his face from a rolled-up magazine.

"You were spacing out again," Sona chastised him with her usual stoic voice. "Are you unwell?"

"I'm fine, but if it got you to take care of me, maybe I am feeling a little under the weather." That remark earned him another whap with the magazine, but he saw the distinct hint of a blush trying to hide in vain behind the Student Council President's glasses.

"Dorian did tell me one thing while we were playing," he mentioned as he started looking over the requests. "Once we get that school we've been working on running, he'd love to help out when he can." The restrained smirk from Sona was all he needed to know that information had just made her day.

"That is good, Auros has the funding between our families pitching in so all that we need now is the staff and curriculum when it opens. A lot will want it to fail."

"But it won't," Saji beamed in his usual spunk. "Kaho and Gengo would have nowhere to live if it weren't for you, I'll work my ass off to keep your school running! Say, why don't you visit sometime, I know the two miss you."

"That…" Sona thought as he brought up his younger sister and brother. After their parents' deaths, life had gotten hard for the three which had grown infinitely better since Saji agreed to become her Pawn. Money for his siblings may have been part of why he accepted so readily, but was not the only reason, a fact that caused her to appreciate his dedication all the more. "…that sounds nice. I'll have some food brought…"

"J-just the ingredients," Saji accidentally let his worry for her cooking slip out before trying to laugh it off. "I-I mean, I wouldn't want you to do all the work. It's the older brother's job to make everything, right? Plus, if you join us, I'll get to cook for you too!"

Please say yes, please say yes. If you and Dorian both tried cooking at the same time, it could poison the entire school!

"Very well," Sona acquiesced. "I will bring the ingredients. I look forward to what you have planned." Saji had to restrain himself jumping for joy.

You confuse me so often, Vritra sighed within the depths of his psyche. If you wish to bed this devil and give her children, just take her and…

YOU STAY OUT OF THIS! Saji gripped his own head and shook violently, causing Sona to look at him confused. Despite how he sometimes acted, she had surprisingly learned that it didn't bother her, quite the opposite in fact.

Hyoudou Residence…

"You can do it Rassei, one more time!" Asia cheered on as the small dragon took aim at the moving targets in the distance. With a renewed burp of power, a bolt of lightning arched across the room vaporizing the dummy. "Well done!" The former nun threw herself forward hugging her beloved familiar.

"Most dragons only respond to force," Ophis instructed as she'd been trying to help Asia improve with her knowledge of dragons. "Rassei seems to be an anomaly warming up to your compliments." The sprite dragon acknowledged her words, landing on her head and making himself at home.

"He got a little bigger," Ravel complimented Rassei while throwing him a chunk of meat he snatched out of the air greedily. "Sprite dragons grow based on their diet; I would suggest increasing his caloric intake to at least double what you have now if you want him to get close to what he showed at the Rating Game."

"You know so much," Asia smiled much to Ravel's swelling pride puffing out her chest. "No wonder he stayed so small. I may be his master, but I have a lot to learn on how to care for him. We're building a sort of aviary on the roof so they'll be able to stretch their wings."

"Of course! Knowledge is the best precursor to experience. You showed how amazing your powers can augment familiars; Mr. Azazel was right saying you need more."

During their recent training, the elder Fallen Angel had pointed out Asia's potential at summoning to give her a more offensive skill on the team. To that end, to help a woman Issei loved, Ophis agreed to help her socialize with dragons who were easily the most difficult of familiars to tame other than possibly a hydra. In the distance, more of her baby dragons she had acquired in the forest fluttered about in a veritable swarm. They were growing accustomed to their new home, but she kept them in good shape exercising via obstacle courses made as well as normal playtime among one another.

"At least in Rating Games without restrictions like the last one," Ravel continued. "In most of brother's matches, familiars were heavily limited. With that in mind, perhaps you should find many of different strengths. Stronger ones for the frontline, weaker ones with more techniques or talents when larger are not allowed…and a small army when anything goes."

"I don't know about your games," Ophis admitted while spinning in circles seemingly to give Rassei a fun ride. "But a larger team would make it difficult to get to know all your summons. You could force them of course, but I don't feel like that's you. A pact would be more fitting."

"I agree," Asia agreed immediately. "I don't want to force anyone to follow me, like Rassei. If it's meant to be or they want to be with me, then that's fine. The others who followed me home from the Familiar Forest are liking the room we built for them. In time, they may like a change of pace learning to be stronger."

"I knew they would," Ophis remarked as an absolute certainty. "They won't mind fighting for you."

"It would make it harder for teams to gauge your abilities," Ravel's mind went to work again. "With so many different options, they'd never have the information on what you may use next. Big brother needed all the intel he could get in our matches and I watched everyone to know their strengths and weaknesses. Even the best strategist is no good if they don't know their allies and enemies."

"And how would you rate our team?" Ravel took her question very seriously, taking a seat and sitting very professionally.

"In one sentence, a very offensive one that works to smash through the opposition. You are incredible at overwhelming opponents, especially thanks to Lord Issei and Lady Rias' new forms, but that power can be thwarted if a strong enough technique-type is present."

"Issei hates those kinds," Asia admitted to a nodding Ravel. "Dimension Lost, Sona's illusion tricks, anything that prevents just attacking head on."

"He'd probably ban them all if he could," they both chuckled together at the expense of the man they loved. "But that is normal for basically any group to worry. You have all been working so hard to cover one another's weaknesses in battle. Issei and Rias are your powerhouses close up, Koneko and Honda can act as a buffer or shield while Kiba's speed keeps him mobile with Catherine to cover the battlefield. All of this while Akeno can nuke from a distance if protected and you supporting all of them with healing or Gasper's time stop. Altogether, you might be able to challenge even the best soon if not already. Even with this incredible potential, you're all still training and refining your powers every day and not just relying on natural talent."

"I don't know if we could do that yet," Asia's humble nature was on full display. "Mr. Sairaorg's team, Sona's and Seekvaira's are working so hard too. Maybe we could have a nice friendly match with them sometime?"

"I couldn't agree more!" Ravel stood with a light shining in her eyes. "Individual training mixed with a team cohesion and tactics fit for a real battle! It's no wonder that people are getting more into the Rating Games than since the olden days, it's so exciting! Even…no, especially when Lord Issei is fighting without thinking things through, that is…" She seemed to drag herself back to her senses now looking very embarrassed. "S-sorry, that was rude."

"No, it wasn't," the two women turned as Issei came around the corner. "It's true, you and Rias think way more about battles than me. If we were ever on the same team, you'd be the best tactician and manager."

"A t-tactician?" Her face lit up red at the compliment and image of being in Issei's future peerage. "That is too much, even with all I study, I just think about things more than I should."

"That thinking has helped a ton since you became my manager, I just wish I had more ways to thank you," the young Pawn grinned that innocent cheerful smile that neither Ravel nor Asia could resist.

"ou…at…my head…"

"What was that?" Issei leaned closer as the Phenex daughter repeated herself.

"You could…you could thank me by patting my head!" Issei looked wide-eyed at the simple request that surely wasn't enough to make up for all she'd done. "I am proud to be your manager, if you pat my head then any work would be worth it!" He did not hesitate, Issei reached out and placed his hand securely on the top of her head. While holding back the urge to hug her, he proceeded to pat Ravel as requested trying not to mess up her hair drills too much. She responded with a big smile loving every moment of it.

"How has Suraiya been, Issei?" Asia's curiosity was too much as she rushed up to him. The Red Dragon Emperor looked up at the ceiling deep in thought. "Has she been settling in?"

"I think so," he smiled in that goofy way he did when probably thinking of something unsavory. "She sleeps in her slime form, but turns into a woman when she wakes up every day. Said she wanted to play hide and seek to see how well I can recognize her in other shapes…gotta admit, she has me stumped."

"She has been very cordial since becoming your familiar," Rias' voice carried across the room as she and Akeno emerged from their own training room. "No lost clothes yet, thank goodness."

After having their meeting with the other devil heiresses, they had decided to get some more time strengthening their new forms. Issei nearly fell over seeing them, they'd gone all out to such an extent that their shirts were barely holding together. Their jerseys were shredded and Issei could see the underside of Rias' breasts, a magnificent sight almost as grand as if she weren't wearing anything at all. The group looked up bewildered as they noticed a black and red sphere following the pair seemingly under the Gremory heiress' control.

"Um…what is that?"

"A small project," she admitted while waving her hands causing the object to disappear. "My new form has allowed me to manipulate the Power of Destruction to an extent I never imagined. I have to be careful, that particular move is so powerful that I don't think the retirement system would be able to keep up if I used it. That will be reserved for those who threaten our lives or those of others."

"It was fortunate our clothes were the only parts caught in the blast," Akeno teased, casting a spell of her own that mended their tops much to Issei's disappointment. "It was a nice way to burn off some steam after that meeting. The mention of the discussion they had recently gotten out of was as if a battery had been recharged in Ravel, her attention turning to Rias.

"How did it go? There were many requests for Oppai Dragon show charity events, but I didn't want to set them up until hearing how things were going with Gasper's people."

Those kids deserve to see the Oppai Dragon in person, Issei thought to himself. After everything that happened during the Underworld invasion, some downtime making children smile sounds nice. Goldie is already starting up High King stuff and Serafall's show is getting a new season. Who knew this business was so competitive?

"Their envoy will be arriving by midday tomorrow," Rias sighed while maintaining her demeanor. "They accepted it too readily after years of ignoring my messages. I have a bad feeling about this."

"But if there is a chance that they mean it…" Asia started with a burst of courage. "It's worth the risk!"

"Well said!" Issei put a hand on her shoulder to show his resolve. "We'll hear what these people have to say and if they mean Gasper any harm…I'll kick all their asses!"

Never change Issei, the women thought simultaneously. It's great seeing you mature and grow into your powers, but there are some aspects of you I hope never grow. That confidence when standing up for your friends is one.

"How about we get something to eat?" He offered the others. "Maybe some nice…"

"BOO!" Suraiya suddenly emerged from a nearby tree that Issei hadn't realized was never there before. The Red Dragon jumped a foot, but Asia had gone pale white. They were almost afraid she'd keel over on the spot."

"My nerves can't take this!" He screamed while the slime girl giggled playfully. "There has to be SOME way to spot you before you take a few years off my life!"

Elsewhere, not long after…

"What are they doing?" Dorian asked as he entered the room to find Gasper, Kuroka and Koneko sitting cross-legged on the floor. Their eyes were closed yet focused, touki energy clearly pulsing from the two sisters while a dark shadow was restrained by the young vampire.

"I believe they are meditating?" Zepar guessed though was as equally confused as his team leader. Kuroka could clearly hear them, a smile spreading across her face.

"I'm teaching Shirone and Gaspy to empty their minds. It's easier to control Sage Arts that way so we thought maybe it'll help with that scary aura of his."

"Only I get to call him that," Koneko's tail whipped her sister in the side without opening her eyes.

"Ah ah, you aren't being empty-minded," Kuroka teased. "If you want a big girl form like mine, you'll need to become one with the nature Sage Arts around you. Gaspy is way ahead of you in that, I'm such a proud sister-in-law."

"There is one way I can relax more," Koneko huffed as she stood up and walked over to Gasper who was unaware due to his eyes being closed. By the time she had sat down on his lap, it was too late for him to say anything. "There, now I can do this for hours," she smiled as her ears fluttered against his cheeks before she closed her eyes to continue.

"I…well…um…huh…" Gasper was instantly flustered, his skin gaining more color than any vampire in history. "Th-this is quite nice too." Everyone around had to admit the look on his face of contentment at the situation was adorable.

"Awww, I guess Shirone is ahead now in the calm mind department. Are your thoughts drifting a little further south?" It was fortunate that Dorian stepped between them as he was certain that Koneko was about to fly at her sister with teeth bared otherwise.

"Kuroka! You said you've been to Romania before, correct?"

"Of course, though it was years ago a bit after I joined Vali's team. I had a few tricks that allowed me to hide out after my initial, ahem, less than savory actions. A little illusion magic here or there and they were none the wiser for years. You might even fancy how I looked as a vampire, a real porcelain beauty. They are even more caste system-heavy than devils if you can believe it."

"I don't know how the meeting will go when their people arrive," the Einherjar admitted. "But I want you to go there with me on behalf of the Crossroads at the earliest opportunity. Rose…I mean, future Rossweisse said that the start of the Trihexa started in Romania with that word she said, Qlippoth. This cannot be a coincidence."

"Oho, aren't you worried about a criminal like me representing your shining team?"

"I'm more worried about you getting hurt," his words riled up something in Kuroka that made her want to tease him more, maybe even jump him right there but she restrained herself. "Joining us and working through your probation has gone a long way to clearing your slate as much as Vali's adoption to Odin did for him. I'd want the whole team to go, but based on how close-minded they are with Rias I doubt they'd allow that."

"I can be discreet," she understood his meaning. "Even if they don't allow me to tag along, I have my methods. Vali has a few contacts there too, though he's been absent more than usual. My guess is hanging out with his new brothers or maybe finding a few reasons to pay Hecuba a visit."

She never gives up.

"This practice would help a lot," Iggy materialized next to Gasper and Koneko seated in the same way. "I have been hoping to hone the Sage Arts I learned when Dorian became a nekoshou. So, I sit like this?"

"Make your back a little straighter," she assisted getting the young spirit into the right position. "This sort of thing requires a lot of flexibility."

"No worry there," Iggy demonstrated as while still sitting she pulled her leg up fully extended pointing up high over her head. Everyone looked impressed, even Koneko and Gasper were awed as she seemed to be able to contort her legs into every direction.

"Daaaaaammmmmmn boss," Ratatoskr appeared seemingly drawn to the awkward situation. "You could bend her into a pretzel!" He did not wait for the hail of fire that came his way, already retreating out the opening above he'd come through.

He never gives up either, Dorian smirked at his incorrigible friend. At least we have one more night to rest before tomorrow…one more night before the vampires come.

Dorian's thought was interrupted as a familiar emerald raven soared in through a window, landing on his shoulder to immediately begin asking for food. He quickly acquiesced, holding a handful of seed he kept in a pouch for just such an occasion. When the bird had eaten its fill, its eyes flipped to a familiar pair belonging to Odin himself. It was only then Dorian saw the parchment tied to its leg.

"Dorian ma boy," the Allfather's voice echoed through Skilja. "This is a recording from yours truly, if this reached you well then there should be a scroll on his leg. Be sure to read it in private for now."

Dorian complied, sneaking around the corner while the others were distracted by Kuroka's antics. Once far enough, he removed the paper noticing it bore the seals of every member of the greater alliance. He opened it, face scrunching at the words.

"We'll talk more after the meeting with those reclusive vampires. Who knows, maybe they'll really want to party afterwards. I will see you then and hope for the best." Dorian was about to walk back, however Skilja continued to speak. "Whew, I hate talking to these things. Hopefully he didn't show up when Dorian was having some fun."

Did they leave the spell on? He grimaced to see the recording was quite long based on Skilja's mannerisms.

"Must you always bring that up?" Freyja's voice was distantly heard in the same room. "It is hardly our place to pry into his love life. I am sure they are doing fine, Skilja knows to stay away should they be doing anything like that."

"Reminds me of our early days," Odin growled low in what was clearly an attempt to sound frisky. "The way you looked when you tried killing me on the battlefield. It was the only part of the war that made me smile even a little bit."

"You could survive every attack I threw, and I did the same for you. Entire battles won or lost while we were stalemated."

"And later a different kind of mated," a slapping sound could be heard in the background. "How about we try to relive those memories?"

"Well," Freyja's voice dropped low into a seductive tone Dorian had never heard before. "Maybe for just a few hours…"

"HOW DO YOU TURN THIS OFF!?" Dorian grabbed a very shocked Skilja and started shaking the bird desperately. "FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THE GODS! HOW!?"

Crossroad Tower…

"Oh, the top floor system chamber was beautiful!" Irina regaled the group upon her return from Heaven. "Lady Gabriel said it had not shined so brightly in centuries! We MUST go sometime; I would love to show everyone."

"I would be honored!" Rossweisse sounded truly excited for the prospect after hearing all that the reincarnated angel had told them. The very system that was the backbone of Heaven's power and influence being improved drastically for the first time since God's death by someone she worked with every day. "A chance to look over such a legendary device would be wonderful."

"Is it more mechanical in nature?" The Agares heiress asked as she entered the room, hearing the tail end of the conversation. "Or perhaps something more alive?"

"I…it is a secret of our father," Irina's enthusiasm faltered as she realized who she was talking to. Seekvaira had only ever been kind and Dorian trusted her completely. All the same, realizing she was describing one of Heaven's greatest secrets to a devil gave her pause. Seekvaira seemed to sense the reason for her hesitation, nodding without asking another question. "I don't fully understand it yet."

In the next room, they stopped hearing the clashing of swords and flinging of spells. Everyone knew what it was, Rias' team training again which they had redoubled since the Hero Faction attack. Kiba learning to use Gram and controlling his soldiers wielding the other blades won from Siegfried. Xenovia more than once was seen sparring with him trying to improve his stamina for wielding the legendary Nordic sword among other things. Issei did not miss the opportunities either, fighting with him and Catherine always yearning to become somewhat more proficient with Ascalon.

"It's amazing how different swordsmen can be," Xenovia put an arm around each of them. "My twin weapons make me better for dealing with a single powerful opponent yet Kiba is now a walking army while Cat's holy-devil form is a sight to behold. How was Heaven? Did our self-proclaimed angel have fun?"

"I am NOT self-proclaimed," she huffed at the teasing nickname that had caught on from her constant remarks of being Michael's ace of the Crossroads. "I am a true angel in every sense of the word. I-I touched the Heaven system and it reacted to me, if this keeps up, miracles can be like they were in biblical times!"

"A self-proclaimed miracle then?" Rossweisse didn't even react as Irina grabbed her by the collar of her uniform and started to shake at the new name.

"You…are…horrible!" She didn't notice Seekvaira chuckle slightly until it was too late and quickly recomposed herself. "I'm just trying to be as good as I can!"

"And that is admirable," Seekvaira risked the compliment. "My kind do not have a system linking us all together, the fact you have a trait that allows you to better your entire race…that is something many would aspire to. Myself included."

"Th-thank you," Irina muttered while rubbing her arm awkwardly unable to look her in the eye.

I knew I'd be working alongside devils in the Crossroads, and Lady Agares is very kind…but still. It was because of devils that we had to flee Kuoh Town as a child. I missed so many years with Issei, but then again…if we hadn't, I would not have been in England when Dorian studied there.

The three women had to move as a body went flying past them suddenly from the gym to slam into the wall. Peering inside, it looked like the scene of a massacre as a dozen giants, Valkyries, angels, fallen and even a kitsune youkai could be seen sprawled out barely conscious. In the center, Thrud stood in shorts and a shredded tank top with her hands held high dripping with sweat.

"That's a new record!" She cheered while jumping up in victory. "Who is next? This is the best warmup I've had in a while!"

That night…

"Trouble sleeping?" Ratatoskr asked as he came across Dorian wandering the halls of the Crossroad Tower.

Everyone was asleep between both buildings, Issei especially so, huddled against the four women he loved in the same bed. Suraiya still slept in her gelatinous slime form, sloshing gently in a rhythmic fashion within a special bucket-like container made just for her. It seemed that all those who loved one another had done so, Xenovia having snuck to Kiba's room, Akeno to Zepar's, even Gasper wanted to see Koneko before the big day.

"It's Thrud's turn tonight, right? She won't be happy."

"She's asleep," the Einherjar assured him. "Plenty tired."

"My man," Ratatoskr fist-pounded him, interpreting the words his own way. "So why the long face?"

"I feel like we're stepping into it deeper," he admitted to one of the few he knew could be wholly trusted. "Romania was our big clue from the future, if that is still the case then perhaps, we can start getting to the bottom of the Trihexa, this Qlippoth and Moloch."

"Tits deep," the squirrel looked up as the two passed a balcony, stepping out into the cool night. "But no one ever got anywhere worrying about the future. That Moloch turd won't leave you alone anymore now that his little paradox is no longer a problem. Any guesses how he got here if he was from that depressing future?"

"Just one, but I don't like it."

"How bad can it be?"

"Kassaegtha made it seem like time travel wasn't common, even that future Gasper could only look. The only other instance of someone coming here from the future that we know of…is Vaetta before I was born."

"Oh…shit, she had a cling on? A stowaway?"

"Maybe, I didn't want to mention it to her. Don't worry, she's in her room right now. Maybe we'll find out more in Romania."

"I'm worried about you too man, you're getting too many wrinkles at this rate. Come on, let's go get a midnight snack. My treat."

"But we don't pay for the food here," Dorian tried to rationalize; however, Ratatoskr had already started running ahead. He sighed with a smile; it was always relaxing to speak with the elder squirrel. Despite how frustrating he could be, he was a good friend and the young student couldn't picture being without him. "Wait, Rat! Don't step on the…!"

The denizen of Yggdrasil's boughs was too late noticing the teleportation mine materialize beneath his feet as he crossed the threshold. The last thing Dorian saw was his eyes go wide, wondering how long it'd take him to get back to the tower.

"Bennia!? You're still setting these things you boney bitc…!" Before he could finish, he vanished in a flash of light leaving Dorian alone.

Crap! Man, he's not going to be in a good mood come the morning depending where this one sent him. I really need to talk to her about not putting them in public areas! Did Hecuba guess some may try to sneak midnight snacks?

"I know you're there," Dorian turned to the darkness as he realized he was not alone. "Your kind don't sleep, do they?"

"It's a waste of time," the shadows moved out like a wave before coming together into the appearance of a teenage woman with dark hair.

How did I sense her? She's usually completely undetectable.

"I had a question," Dorian approached the Old Goddess with a look of uncertainty. "You followed me all these years because I make things different from how things were the first time around, right?"

"That is correct," Kassaegtha nodded slowly. "So many new occurrences from your presence not to mention the unforeseen outcomes. That future-mishap with your mate would not have worked on anyone but you…"

"…and Moloch?" Dorian finished for her. "He's from the future too, but he didn't seem to know about you, at least not in a personal sense. You never followed him, did you?"

"I considered it, but while his actions were new…his goal was not."

"His goal?"

"He wants what had already happened to come again. I have little interest in retreading walked paths. And…"

"And?" Dorian almost kicked himself as his question seemed to snap her out of the moment. Instead, she turned with a huff, disappearing into a puff of smoke. The Einherjar stood alone there, not sure what to make of the scene.

The path seems to lead there no matter what, the Old Goddess mused as she watched him from a distance once more. And it seems I am trapped to return after so little time…

The Next day…

The Einherjar commander of the Crossroads looked out into the sea of visitors truly impressed. With the arrival of the newcomers, he was certain it was the largest gathering since the Peace Summit. Rias and her team, Sona with her Queen Tsubaki, Azazel for fallen angels, Dorian representing the Crossroads. Percelos and Poseidon were sitting beside a contingent of Spartans from Olympus and a woman whom he had never met for Heaven yet knew her from the dockets received for that day. She was dressed as a sister of the Church with a veil down though could be seen through it. Her features were so smooth and beautiful that she could have been mistaken for an actress yet couldn't have been past her late 20s. The soft, gentle smile was for the entire room yet directed more so at Dorian.

"We have not had the pleasure," she spoke in a calm tone as she held out a hand politely, the tattoo of the letter 'Q' revealing her reincarnated angel nature. "My name is Griselda Quarta, supervising those from Heaven in this region of the world. Thank you for giving my ward a home. I know becoming an Einherjar was her only means of survival at the time. I am in your debt for that."

"My old boss is here!" Irina's eyes widened clearly through a mixture of respect and fear. Dorian took the focus, accepting her hand with a shake as she did so for the other leaders.

"Gabriel's Queen, correct?" The Crossroad leader spoke clearly and cordially. "And you don't need to thank me, Rossweisse was the one who had the power to bring her back, she saved her. I hope your trip from the Vatican was uneventful."

Griselda Quarta, supervising agent for this part of the Church's holdings recently made into an angel by Gabriel. Dorian's mind worked overtime to recall the many details and not make a mistake. Gabriel's Queen of Hearts.

"Then I must speak with her after our business today," Griselda's eyes locked onto Rossweisse still laying out documents that would be reviewed at the vast meeting table behind them. "But for now…" She turned to see Xenovia who looked to be on the verge of a panic attack, something wholly abnormal for her. Kiba noticed, inching closer while they had some time before the vampire delegation arrived.

"Is that your guardian you mentioned at Thanksgiving?" He asked to her slow nod of confirmation. This was all Griselda needed to verify the young man's identity and swoop closer in the blink of an eye.

"Yuuto Kiba, Isaiah," she loomed over him. "I heard of you from the unfortunate business of the Holy Sword Project, your battle with Kokabiel and later Siegfried. An impressive swordsman, after the rumors of Xenovia's infatuation with you reached my ears, I should have come to meet you immediately. And you, Xenovia," Griselda reached out and squeezed one of her cheeks. "Did you think of me so little? You didn't answer a single one of my calls."

"S-sorry," Xenovia shifted awkwardly in front of her, being released only with the apology. "Things have been…hectic."

"I think Xenovia is going to burst," Irina whispered to Dorian. "She's never been able to stand up to Griselda."

"Like an older sister?" Dorian had to resist teasing Xenovia a little at her expense but Irina nodded that his comparison was quite accurate.

"So hectic to prevent even one call?" The angel's tone sounded disappointed which only made Xenovia's guilt worse. "And even after I made sure my number was given to you in Asgard. If the Lilith aid hadn't been so pressing, I could have even made your Thanksgiving Dinner. Well, that is in the past, we must have dinner tonight…and your devil friend shall attend."

"Me?" Kiba found himself the center of attention, Xenovia breathing easy for a brief moment.

"Well of course, you are courting Xenovia, are you not? It is only fitting as her Guardian that I see if her becoming a pagan warrior has affected her judgement."

"Dinner sounds nice," the devil knight answered though his next words made his love pale. "But regardless of your judgement, I care about Xenovia and it won't change that." Griselda turned fully to face him, leaning in until her face was directly in front of his.

"Such a good answer, my time in Kuoh will be more interesting than I imagined."

"Perzeloz!" Volody greeted the demigod whom had held the line against the shadow with him back in Olympus. "How have you been? You zeem to be doing vell for yourzelf."

"Indeed, my responsibilities have increased tenfold," the two shared a brotherly handshake. "Captain of the Guard for Lord Poseidon is quite a step up from my previous duties." The Russian mage noticed the God of the Oceans talking with others in the back.

"You muzt tell me how zat goes. In the meanvhile, I can zhow you a vew new detailz I have learned about the Old Godz…"

"Ah, true comradery growing," Odin rubbed his fake eye while watching the back and forths from his side of the table. "Makes one feel a thousand years younger."

"I suppose," Rossweisse was short and curt with him while providing his folder. "I see you have yet another bodyguard." Sure enough, a blue-haired Valkyrie stood at the door making sure to be mindful of security at all times.

"Oh, don't be that way," he snickered. "Just because you are still cross that I fired you…"

"I am NOT cross," she rounded on him with an expression somewhere between pouting and anger. "But…my services were exemplary and you just…"

"Let you go? Let you go to spend time with your future hubby?" Odin's words froze Rossweisse in her tracks, mouth half-opened as she strived to find words to retort. "I never doubted your services, only your preference of profession." He chuckled to himself at the wordplay.

"You…you!" Rossweisse stammered out before going on a rant at all he had done during her time that she had bottled up for years. Other world leaders gave them a wide berth, hoping not to get pulled in.

"Maybe I should say something," Dorian sweat-dropped upon seeing Rossweisse go off on Odin. "Though this could be good for her to finally get off her chest."

"I would not recommend interrupting," Suramar remarked. "If too much is pent up and not released, like a volcanic mountain, it will explode eventually. The longer you wait, the worse the eruption."

Good comparison.

"You never appreciated my work, had me doing the most mundane of tasks fetching your slippers…!" Rossweisse seemingly had no end to her venting, even Odin was starting to look worried but saw no escape.

"She…can go on quite long, can she not?"

"It's well deserved," the Einherjar had to explain. "She'll stop for the meeting, thank you for all your help since joining."

"I could not call myself Jotunn if I did otherwise," the towering fire giant boomed. Even having shrunk himself down to fit better in the tower, he was a good head over Dorian. "I questioned my Lord's decision to trust your words, we have been deceived before."

"I would not…" Dorian started, only for Suramar to raise a hand asking him to wait.

"But then you offered that piece almost immediately. And you allowed others in beyond myself, that was unexpected. My kind believe you need to earn something for it to truly be yours. "I will become your blade when I prove it, as you are doing so to prove your words."

"Thank you, Suramar. Perhaps after the meeting is over, we can…"

It was a subtle thing, but Dorian suddenly realized that the lighting in the room had dimmed lower than before, making the glow from Suramar's flames look brighter. Breathing deep, he could see his breath recognizing the silence from everything outside the room. The collected congregation of groups turned to the entryway from the Bifrost receptacle which they could hear had just activated.

"They are here," Rias straightened out her uniform while standing tall. "Is this your first time meeting a vampire? These types of environmental disturbances are quite common for them."

"A pure one, yes." He thought of the devil/vampire Ona and their first confrontation on the ice wondering if that had masked such abilities from the natural cold.

Vampires, some legends are true, others complete fiction. They must be invited to enter a building and can't be seen in mirrors though Gasper can due to his human heritage. They don't even have shadows or like running water and, if Gasper's reaction is anything to go by, despise garlic. I heard they are comfiest in their coffins…I wonder if that has anything to do with why he likes the cardboard box even with his newfound confidence.

"I'll go invite them; the Crossroad Tower is officially under my jurisdiction."

Dorian took his leave heading to the Bifrost receptacle with Kiba and Tomoe. Without his invitation, they wouldn't be able to enter the tower proper. The different factions were lined up in their individual seats though only Azazel was actually sitting. He couldn't help noticing how nervous Gasper was looking, with good reason. The vampires arriving were part of the Carmilla Clan while he hailed from Clan Tepes. For all intents and purposes, while they were all vampires, they were far from family.

"He looks so cute, doesn't he?" Tomoe couldn't help chipping in at mention of the young vampire. "Like a puppy learning how to be big. These visitors better not be mean to him."

"Do not be too worried," Kiba remarked as they approached the door. "Gasper-kun has been preparing for this meeting for a long time."

"That's good to hear, considering they didn't even try to accept Rias' invitations until now, it's obvious they want to use his new power for their own purposes. They'll know we know that; I am sure they aren't stupid. With that being said…big smiles now," Dorian pointed to his expression as the two claimed a doorknob each and swung it open. "Carmilla Clan Delegation, you are welcomed to enter the Crossroad Tower in my name of Dorian Held, Tyr."

"As expected, at least you are punctual," the short woman leading the procession stepped forward. The first thought that came to the Einherjar was how much she reminded him of a doll complete with smooth skin and a dress that would not have been out of place on a medieval princess. He had expected pale skin similar to Gasper, however, hers was a color that would have fit on someone recently deceased which contrasted brilliantly with her piercing red eyes. "Lead on."

She less walked and more glided through the entryway being led by Dorian and the two devil Knights followed by a pair of fellow vampires behind her; one man and one woman in old fashioned suits acting as her bodyguards.

No shadows, they are pureblood vampires, no doubt. Not even the slightest reflection in the marble floor either.

After a long awkwardly silent walk, they were before the doorway to the collection of greater powers beyond. Hand resting on the door, Dorian turned to face the young woman whose eyes looked coldly into his own.

"And how may I introduce you as to the meeting, Miss…?"

"I am Elmenhilde Karnstein of the Carmilla Faction," she boomed with a commanding voice exaggerating each pronunciation as if it was of the utmost importance. "But for the duration of our work together, you may call me Elmen."

The vampires arrive at Kuoh emerging out of the cold darkness of their lands. The Greater Alliance stands to speak with them to see the reason for their arrival despite years of isolation. Until next time, I hope everyone stays safe, Reads and Reviews...but most of all Enjoys and has a Happy New Year! :D