Chidoriprime: Happy New Year! Wishing you all the best for 2024!

Hollowreaper 93: Definitely a fun arc to do since it's after the anime and few have read its details. I hope you like the path I choose for it.

Okaze: Ancient enemies in the same room surrounding someone they mistreated for years...whatever makes you say it could go bad? XD

Ragna126: Thank you so much, and happy New Year to you as well! More Kuroka is always welcome ;)

horakthy baraq: Start of the new year felt like the perfect time to pick the story up again :D And indeed, they have to be cautious but not let the vampires get too unreasonable. I know what you mean, Asia has her own personal dragon but you could probably count the number of pages Rassei showed up on 1 two hands XD

GRUndertaker: Happy New Year to you too! :D Sorry for the delay, I usually take a break after an arc to recharge and keep myself from getting burned out. I was working on the story the whole time, but delayed posting to try and make them perfect. I hope you like this one as well! :)

Guest1: Happy New Year! And exactly, after each arc I take some time off, but now am back to posting.

OBSERVER01: It means a lot you liked those portions. Saji tries to be as heroic as the others and deserves some light, and Seekvaira is always fun to write for. Poor Dorian probably wouldn't agree with you on that last part LOL, hopefully he figured out how to turn it off before it was too late XD

avenger3576: I will certainly try. I won't rush things, but as long as work and my writing schedule permits, I am hoping to update every 3 weeks until the end of the current arc.

fanficcyberman: I sent a full reply to you via PM, but that is a funny thought...not even an ancient god seeing those 2 ever changing lol. Hmmm, fire-resistant clothing, a perfect challenge Iggy would gladly take up. Happy New Year to you too man! Your reviews and enjoying Roots for so long is one thing I am very thankful for. The group may have a long way to go, but their home is waiting for them at the end of each adventure :) I hope you like the chapters I have planned just as much. 2024 is starting off great for me, and I hope the same for you and your loved ones. Wishing you all the best, my friend!

TheLycan2026: It's good to be back! :D My apologies for the delay, but I hope you enjoy what I have in store.

And with that...ONTO THE SHOW!

The room of the Greater Alliance Powers was positioned in such a way that brought focus and attention to the seats across from them currently occupied by Elmenhilde Karnstein and her bodyguards. After introducing her to the room and exchanging pleasantries with meeting not one, but two younger sisters of Satans, they had jumped straight into talks.

"Karnstein you say?" Azazel stroked his chin. "The Carmilla Faction must be taking this seriously to send one of its highest-ranked families."

Azazel was well-aware of the hierarchy among vampires, a caste-based system that put even the devils' own to shame. Having existed since ancient times, they were often compared to devils though their people couldn't have been more different. They had fought often until the Great War, at which point the vampire realms went more for isolation, however, still having conflicts with Heaven who were akin to natural enemies. While the devils decided on peace with Heaven and Fallen Angels, the vampires had not even considered it and continued to see each as enemies.

"We are treating this meeting with the utmost importance," the woman whose age could not be determined from appearance replied cordially though with a purveying air of arrogance. "Any who are not should leave this room immediately. I am sure the Tepes Clan would just love to see nothing come about from these talks.

Tepes and Carmilla, Dorian thanked the Allfather internally again for the vital information acquired over the years by Huginn and Muninn. Several hundred years earlier, there had been a great divide between vampire-kind leading to the formation of the opposing houses. Apparently, Tepes saw men as the dominant sex, while Carmilla saw women as the stronger. Such superficial differences baffled Dorian how it could have led to such a conflict, but that was long in the past now.

"Thank you," Elmenhilde nodded to Akeno who had finished serving tea to the party along with Tsubaki.

"Elmenhilde," Rias started as the master to Gasper whom they knew was the center of the talks that day. "I would ask if you can tell us the precise reason for your wanting to meet with us. The Carmilla Faction has avoided contact with us for all this time, and yet now you come openly not just to me, but to all of the gathered allies." Griselda, Azazel, Dorian, Odin and Percelos all nodded affirmatives prompting the vampire-girl to place down the still-steaming cup.

"In short," she started after a brief pause. "We want to borrow Gasper Vladi." You could have heard a pin drop as she made the statement so bluntly. It was known that their sudden interest would involve Gasper, but the young half-vampire still looked shocked that they were so forward about it.

"Your brother-clan exiled and shunned him as did you to the same level," Rias kept up the pressure despite Azazel clearly having questions of his own. "What could have happened to reverse your view to such a degree?"

"Shall we say an…incident occurred recently that has caused the very values of being a vampire to crumble," Elmenhilde explained. "A half-breed Tepes has acquired one of these Sacred Gears, a Longinus."

"A powerful one then," Dorian leaned forward, unable to remain silent. "Which is it?"

The Sephiroth Grail.

"Huh?" Issei heard the whisper in his ear, causing him to shake his head. "What did you say?"

"No one said anything," Asia whispered at his side, concerned for how confused he was looking.

"It is called the Sephiroth Grail."

"The Holy Grail itself?" Azazel could not hold back his surprise with a whistle. Seeing that Issei and the other powers such as the Nine Realms and Olympus looked confused. "The cup used at the last supper and also received the blood of God's son. It's one of the Sacred Relics nearly on par with the True Longinus," he motioned to Hecuba standing guard at the entrance. "Our good father considered it a masterpiece that can even overturn the principal of life."

"It can bring back the dead!?" Poseidon stood up at the table at the notion. "Why has this not been mentioned before?!"

"Mostly because its location has been lost for centuries. Plus using it has rather nasty side effects on the user's psyche, so why would immortal vampires be interested in that?"

"Bringing back the dead is not its only power," Elmenhilde explained further. "It seems capable of manipulating the circumstances in which death occurs. The Tepes are using it to augment their soldiers making it so they won't die by normal means. Even with their heart pierced, a cross in front of them, coffins smashed and the sun burning overhead, their bodies persist through it all. It spits in the face of what it means to be a vampire. They can be killed eventually, but it takes far greater effort and from what we've been able to tell, the Grail is still incomplete."

"A fragmented Sacred Gear, like Saji's?" Sona motioned to her Pawn who made sure to sit up a bit straighter not having expected to be a focus of the meeting for even a moment.

"We can only guess at this point as we've been unable to get close to the wielder. They've abandoned their pride as vampires and openly attack us for the first time in years. Casualties are mounting on both sides and this needs to stop."

"Why not join the Greater Alliance as a whole then?" Odin was the one to ask this time. "We could help negotiate and put a bit more muscle in your stick to make them think twice."

"Out of the question," Elmenhilde's irises burned brighter with restrained anger. The hatred in her gaze and voice at the Tepes' actions was obvious for all to see even while she tried to hold it back behind her sense of propriety. "Vampires must be stopped by vampire means or we become no better than they. To that end," her glance turned to Gasper once more. "We wish to use the power Gasper Vladi has unlocked to bring them to heel."

"So, you wish to use a Tepes from the house of Vladi to fight his own clan?" Rias Gremory asked calmly, but Issei could sense the fury hidden behind her words. She cared about Gasper like a little brother, so to hear them thinking of using him as little more than a weapon after years of ignoring his existence made her blood boil.

"Precisely, we heard much of how this power awoke within him during your little invasion. Georg was a well-known mage even in our lands. For him to be bested so utterly with relative ease is remarkable."

"I had some help," Gasper admitted, recalling Misty's death and reincarnation, Koneko and Hikari nearly following behind her.

"And where did you hear the details of his power?" Dorian became the focus of the room. "The specifics of that battle were not made public beyond the alliance."

"We have our agents just as you have yours," she glanced briefly to the ravens sitting on either side of Odin and Skilja just above Dorian. "For instance, I know how your blood can invoke the traits of ancient draugr. There are not many of them left, perhaps one day you will let me have a taste to see what they were like…"

"That's all I am to you?" Gasper interrupted as her eyes bore into the Einherjar. "A weapon for killing?"

"We prefer to think of you as a valuable ally for stopping this dispute keeping it between our kind using the strength of true vampires. We want to create a lasting peace."

"Peace?" Issei grew worried as Gasper was clearly losing his cool at their callousness. "I was hated from both sides, shunned and feared, preferred to be forgotten. If it weren't for…if I didn't have help, I would never have escaped that place. I would never have met Rias, Issei…Koneko…Mr. Dorian, they're my family now!"

"If you want to see your little friend who helped you escape, say no more. Valerie Tepes is the current wielder of the Sephiroth Grail and the ace causing all of this madness as she too gained an abnormal power like yours. That human element to their lineage seems to allow those gifts from their God which is quite a problem keeping to our traditions."

Valerie? Koneko immediately recognized the name of the childhood friend Gasper had briefly mentioned. It was clear she was quite important to all present, as the mere mention of her name nearly brought the dhampir to tears.

"Valerie?" Gasper stood, slamming his hands onto the table. "Th-that's impossible! She wasn't born with a Gear like I was! If she was…"

If she had one too, we could have both gotten out! Did I leave her behind to suffer a fate like this to be used as a weapon!?

"Dude…" Issei laid a hand on his friend's shoulder; he couldn't think of what else to do.

"Clearly, it manifested sometime after your departure. Enough at this table are familiar that Sacred Gears can materialize later in life." Her gaze to Dorian, Issei and Hecuba was clear enough.

"Heaven was unaware of this," Griselda chimed in, knowing the table would wonder how their detection system failed. "I presume they had some means of shielding her from us, however, I am not familiar with a process to do so. I would have assumed they'd abandon the Longinus and the girl rather than use such a holy relic."

"If they were true vampires, they would have killed her on the spot," Elmenhilde jolted in her seat as an aura of dread emerged from Gasper at those words only calmed by more words from Issei. "Do not be enraged at me young Vladi, we are not the ones using your dear friend as a weapon. Do you not hold any grudge for your exile that led to your death?"

"I have no desire to see anyone hurt," he spoke before Rias which she allowed. "All the names they called me; half-breed, fake, monster…I don't think about those now, I am with people who don't care about that. But, if Valerie is doing this, I know it isn't willingly. She could never do anything to hurt others."

"Your kind detests hybrids," Griselda brought up a point that had been in the back of her mind. "Yet it is common knowledge that this only came about due to how your people revel in capturing humans to use them for your various purposes. Some you ate, others led to these children, are humans mere hobbies to you?"

She sounds a lot like Xenovia and Irina did back when they first arrived, that hatred against the other factions. I can't say I blame her here, but few groups are blameless if you go far enough back. Dorian clenched his hands prepared to step in if things got heated. Keeping the peace was part of the Crossroad's purpose after all.

"Like how devils used to make pacts of a similar nature for good and ill, correct?" Elmenhilde rested her chin on her hands with a smile of arrogance spreading across her lips. "Or angels bribing humans with miracles that never come to serve and believe in them? The supernatural will always exist using humans as a commodity. What of the Olympian gods where it was to serve or be swept away? The Norse had much crueler gods in their youths…"

"You are not wrong," Dorian spoke calmly before Griselda could stand, her fingers itching for a fight. Tension was rising between her constant insults at hybrids like Gasper, and the gaze of hers looking down on everyone around her that never alleviated since entering the room. "Though you must agree that vampires have not taken strides to overturn this…dependency on humans being used in these ways. But if we were to air out all the grievances of our races, we'll be here for a while. The final decisions will lie with Gasper and his master, but I am certain you did not come here expecting him to be given to you just by request?"

Dorian has become a real diplomat, Azazel thought along with Odin and the others in the room. I was expecting to throw my weight around, but he's been picking up the slack. That could have turned ugly with Griselda there.

"Of course, I did not come here empty handed," she snapped for the vampire man to her left who reached into the briefcase he had been carrying. "Please look over this document." She presented the sizeable stack to the Einherjar who read over it quickly thanks to Iggy doing so in his head and relaying the abridged version.

"A full peace agreement exclusively with the Carmilla side joining the Greater Alliance as a full member representing vampire-kind?" The atmosphere tensed in the room as he announced the meaning of the document.

"Queen Carmilla was saddened at our unfortunate relations with the various myths these past many centuries. By her word, she wishes for a truce to be formed. Today's meeting was primarily to secure a means to crush the Tepes, however, should things go favorably, then we can discuss furthering a lasting peace between us."

Bull, Dorian was the one who had to restrain himself this time. It's an ultimatum, clear as day. She's saying either we turn over Gasper, or the animosity between vampires and the rest of the Greater Alliance shall continue. Azazel picked up on it before the rest, a vein on the side of his neck betraying his disdain for how Elmenhilde was handling the situation. He was not alone as it seemed everyone from Rias to Poseidon started looking at the vampire delegation with contempt.

"I believe you have it in the wrong order," Odin finally spoke, his fake eye shimmering in the light. "Normally, peace comes first THEN you ask us favors like turning over a cherished ally. Here you are just saying 'give us what we want or there will be no peace, like children thinking they found a leg up over their parents."

Should have seen that coming, he does love speaking his mind.

"You claim to want peace between all factions equally," Elmenhilde turned back to Dorian, clearly not willing to grace his words with an answer. "If you deny us this, how will that look to the others who aren't so close to your roots and friends? Might appear as though you are instead preferring a little club over true worldwide cooperation."

"Bastards," Issei muttered that none but Kiba heard. "They're trying to use that as a shield against a rejection to handing them Gasper." Griselda looked like she wanted to jump over the table and throttle Elmenhilde. With eyes locked on her, Dorian continued.

"The Crossroads have garnered a good reputation, all are welcome who belong to the Greater Alliance and even under special circumstances, those outside them." He looked to Kuroka who had joined before ever they set foot in Kyoto. "Would you not be worried that a failure to come to an agreement today would more come across as vampires being unreasonable even in the face of defeat? I'd almost think it could leave you more alone than ever."

"You have the makings of a silver tongue," Elmenhilde complimented him with a still-condescending glare. "It's a pity you were not born a vampire or you may be worth something. We are NOT unreasonable, lend us Gasper Vladi and we will ask for naught more and prepare a connection between our people as a truce you so greatly desire. If all goes well, he may make it back."

"MAY make it back?" Issei stood up unable to hold back any longer. "So, you want him for this war of yours, but you can't guarantee he'd make it back safely!?"

He's my friend, my underclassman, if they want to use him without even thinking of his safety…

"You are very loud, servant to Rias Gremory. Do you even have the authority to treat with me? I do not care if you are the Red Dragon Emperor, a mere servant should leave such questions to your superiors." As Issei opened his mouth to argue, Rias got there first.

"Having a truce with your people by using one of my precious servants is something that can't be decided so quickly. Unlike your caste-system and our own ancient traditions, I take their own words into account."

"It is not decided that he will be sacrificed," Elmenhilde kept her calm like a true diplomat. "Our main hope is that this is settled quickly."

"And you lack the power to do that yourselves?" Dorian cut to the quick. "You need a trump card to face a trump card." Elmenhilde shook her head.

"No, this can be settled by our hands with or without you. If you doubt that fact, then feel free to have some accompany him to our domain. You would all be our…honored guests." With that last word, she stood from the table. "That is all I had to say today. I feel fortunate to have met so many noteworthy figures from around the world. Above all else, thank you for allowing a vampire into your territory, Rias Gremory."

"But of course," the Gremory heiress replied, her eyes filled with much more obvious rage. "I am glad that we had this…enlightening meeting. I understand very well of your kind. Do expect a reply shortly of our decision."

"Excellent, I shall be remaining in this city until that response is received, my aide shall provide the address." She did not even flinch at Rias' obvious sarcasm.

"The Tower includes diplomatic housing," Dorian interjected. "It would make it much easier to get ahold of you if you remain. Accommodations have already been prepared." The delegation glanced to one another before looking back.

"I suppose that is acceptable, but seeing your town was in the plans ere we depart. If we have a guide to show us around, we would agree to staying in your accommodations."

"I will have that prepared, Hecuba, can you show them to the diplomat wing."

"Right this way," the red Spartan motioned as the delegation stood and departed the room. She shot Dorian a restrained eye roll once the vampires could no longer see her. The former Spartan leader agreed as much with how underhanded they were being. Hecuba may need to be cordial, but the courtesy would end at the absolute minimum requirements until a decision had been made.

The room sat in silence for several minutes ensuring Elmenhilde and her guards could no longer hear through the sealed doors. It was Xenovia who broke the silence slamming her fist into the table and denting it.

"I tried to expand my expectations of different myths after becoming an Einherjar," she growled. "But those vampires…"

"You have more self-control than you used to," Griselda complimented. "Back when you were with the Church, you would surely have leapt at them with Durandal for such an act." Xenovia looked like she was about to blush at such a compliment.

"It is hard to believe they're the same race as Gaspy," Koneko squeezed his hand under the table reassuringly.

"What will you do?" Sona asked straight to the point. "If we ignore their cooperation, it will hurt our reputation on a global scale. On the other hand, if you send him over, you may lose him to this war of theirs."

"I do not like being manipulated," Rias bristled no longer needing to hide her feelings. "My reputation will survive and is not to be dependent on any but myself. For the moment…"

"I'm going."

"What?" The Gremory heiress stared in surprise at the sudden announcement from the gentle Bishop.

"I'm going!" Gasper repeated with more conviction. "I won't return to their world, never again. But still…I want to save Valerie! If she really is this Sephiroth Grail's wielder, I have to, I'm indebted to her. It was only thanks to her I could escape and come here to all of you with a kind master, senpai, friends, and others I can rely on and trust. If I go there, I can get her out so she can have a happy life too! She is surely not being treated well."

"I've never seen him look so manly," Issei whispered to Dorian with a proud expression prompting the Einherjar to stand.

"I couldn't agree more," Dorian started. "We can get your friend to safety and find out more about what is going on in Romania. I am sure you all remember that is the location that future Rossweisse said this business with the Trihexa started. She couldn't give details, but this may be the break we need to find out."

Hearing how sure her young Bishop was and the growing support of the room, Rias stood up from her seat.

"In that case, we shall go together. I have been wanting to talk with those of the House of Tepes and their king for some time, this will be the perfect opportunity in addition to seeing the situation with my own eyes and ensuring they do not treat you poorly." Issei could not help but smile at the fire burning in Rias' eyes.

"That's right Rias! And I'll go too to…"

"No," she shook her head. "We can't bring too many powerful fighters or things may get tense. That, and if the Khaos Brigade's mysterious leadership makes a move on Kuoh while we are all gone, I trust no one more than you to protect our home. I am expected to go as Gasper's master, but if something happens then I want all of you available as reinforcements and not be caught in any trap."

"So, you think something might happen?" Akeno approached in the role of Rias' Queen. "Would it not be better for us all to go at once then?"

"They would be on high alert if we do. If they believe they have an advantage over us, it'll be easier to investigate their activities. They have not seen my new form, that will make them underestimate me. Even if their agents have told them of its existence, they have no way of knowing the extent of my training since Sairaorg's fight."

"Your brother would be proud, but I still don't like it," Azazel could not hide the concern he had for the kids under him. "There is too much unexplained, this will be bigger than they are letting on. Plus, Elmenhilde's invitation was to the Carmilla Faction, I haven't heard any promises of safety from the Tepes."

"I will take my Knights as guards," Rias continued. "Kiba, Cat, are you both agreeable to this?"

"Of course," Kiba stood up straight without hesitation.

"Vampires find holy energy distasteful, though not to the same degree as devils. My unique form will give us an advantage should they turn hostile."

"Elmen invited me to this, didn't she?" Dorian stepped forward. "Then I can…"

"That won't be possible, at least not right away." Odin interrupted before he could finish. "I am afraid we have another matter that will need your full attention."

"Do you mean the scroll you sent?" Dorian glanced between the leaders who seemed to know what was being referred to, including Azazel.

"Indeed, here," Seekvaira shared a folder that had just been handed to her. "I understand your desire to go, however, delegating duties is just as important to leadership as doing it yourself."

"But…very well," Dorian acquiesced with a frustrated exhalation as he looked at the documents in front of him. "Then we will send Crossroad members as well. Kuroka, Bennia, can you keep Rias and Gasper safe? Perhaps you can get some intel on what is going on over there."

"You got it boss," the blue-haired reaper saluted with two fingers and a grin.

"Of course-nya, though if any try to suck my blood, I will not be kind."

"You won't be alone," Azazel stepped forward next. "If we have different groups traveling together, they may be less nervous as their tradition would see us as separate entities. I can rendezvous at the Carmilla group's HQ while Rias and the Crossroads make for House Tepes directly."

"The more the merrier to keep Gasper safe!" Issei pumped his fists in the air eliciting a sniffle of restrained joyful tears from the dhampir.

"Everyone…thank you," Gasper stood from his desk. "We will save Valerie and get her back here so she can be safe. Thank you."

"I will inform Lord Michael what happened," Irina took the initiative. "The Holy Grail being found in the hands of vampires; this is an unsettling development."

"He may wish to send forces of our own," Griselda cupped her chin. "I will try to dissuade that lest it rile them up before we can get to the bottom of this situation.

"Then it's decided," Rias announced to the room. "Myself, Gasper, Kiba and Catherine shall travel to House Tepes to find his friend. Kuroka and Bennia will act as additional escort while Mr. Azazel visits the Carmilla's castle."

"What about me?" Koneko asked Rias with the beginnings of an upset pout.

"You'll be here to make sure everything is set to accept Valerie when we return," she explained to put her mind at ease. "And if they should try anything…" Koneko didn't need to hear the end, cracking her knuckles at the idea of anyone trying to hurt Gasper or the others.

"Thank you…everyone," Gasper looked happy behind words. "When we save Valerie, all of you have to meet her!" He glanced squarely at Koneko, clearly intending that for her most of all.

"In that case," Dorian turned to the others after having had a chance to look over the document provided. "Can you explain this new matter to me a little more?"

Shortly after…

"You want me to go to that underwater city we discovered?" Dorian was able to ask once he was alone with the other world leaders and processed their explanation. "Now?"

"This is no ordinary city, that much is obvious," Poseidon took the lead as Odin looked on along with Griselda. To his surprise, Diehauser Belial himself had come representing devilkind and Suzaku for both the Shinto Clans and Youkai. "I am…ashamed to say we have not been able to get close. Something protects it."

"Any more details than that?" Those in the room shifted uncomfortably.

"We have lost contact with each team that has attempted to drop down to that depth."

"How?" Dorian asked without expressly stating the obvious question as to how a god of the sea was seemingly stumped by something within his domain. "I thought that your powers underwater…"

"We do not know," Suzaku continued. "Our investigations were making headway creating a magical corridor when suddenly everything went haywire past a certain threshold. Any attempt to extend it further caused it to destabilize with deadly effects."

"Multiple attempts were made," Odin cleared his throat. "They could go deeper, our magic deals with pressure no problem…but they never responded once beyond our sight. It is like the water just swallowed them up."

"It is not water," Despoina's father ominously corrected. "I can command liquid in all its forms, yet whatever fills the oceans past that depth…I do not know what it is, but it is as far from normal ocean water as can be."

"Well, that's not utterly terrifying in the slightest," Ratatoskr muttered to Dorian from the safety of his shoulder. "So, if they're asking you, boss-man, that must mean…"

"They want the Nagalfr to go," Dorian answered plainly, their goal clear as day. "If the shields could withstand the Jabberwocky's attacks that were a threat to ultimate-class fighters, they may be able to deal with whatever is happening down there."

"Precisely ma boy," Odin jumped to his feet and meandered closer. "The ship is huge inside, right?"

"Enormous, Seekvaira just barely finished mapping out the whole thing. We think there may be some time-space magic allowing more rooms inside than should be possible."

"Plenty of room for you two to get lost together in," he coughed to cover up his playful jab. "And plenty for what we have planned."

"And just what is that?"

"A grand expedition, Tyr Odinson," the smug expression of Indra greeted them from the door. "Why so surprised? I thought you preferred acts of cooperation."

"If you're here, then does that mean the Hindu realms have officially joined the Greater Alliance?"

"Bingo," he removed his sunglasses before tucking them into his Hawaiian vest pocket. "There are legends of a region of the sea among my people where not even Makara could carry Varuna to and it was ever deemed cursed. It seems we may have found it."

Another ocean god that can't travel there? What the Hel is this place?

"A team is being formed of each of our allies and will start gathering by morning. Dorian Held, Tyr, will you be our chariot to explore this great mystery?" The Einherjar did not bring up that he could hear Despoina being practically giddy in his mind despite Poseidon's presence nearby.

"I am not sure of taking the Nagalfr from here for an extended period," Dorian mused. "Perhaps it should wait until after the issue in Romania is resolved. And what if it is needed in Kuoh?"

"Your friend Mr. Azazel took care of that; the Tower defenses are stronger than ever and he's installed a holographic system that will make it appear as if the Nagalfr is still here. That should deter any ne're-do-wells while we are away. If your little Roads trick works in this new place, you can travel them to get back here faster, right?"

"That is true, but we know Romania is where the Rossweisse of the future told me the Trihexa business starts. That should take priority."

"There is…one more thing that makes us believe this should be just as important," Odin nodded to one of the ravens on his shoulder. "While we cannot scan deep enough to find our lost teams, we were able to detect a sliver of magic bubbling up from those depths." The Einherjar did not like the look on his face, one possibility popping into his head.

"It's Old God related, isn't it?" The Allfather nodded an affirmative.

"An energy signature we can't make hide nor hair of, but is nearly identical to the same being exuded by that little stalker of yours on a daily basis. Is she here by chance?"

"Not that I can see," Dorian looked around the room to be sure. "But I never know with her, she's been acting odd the last few days."

If I go, she is sure to follow. If this city is linked to her, it's best for that to happen. He nodded an agreement with Odin.

The expedition was set to leave as soon as everyone was in place which was already starting. As they were leaving, Poseidon stopped Dorian unexpectedly with a serious expression. He was often as perverted and carefree as Zeus or Odin, but in such a situation, the side of him needed for more intense situations was on full display.

"May…may I speak with my daughter? I know she is within your mind, or at least an echo of her consciousness."

Despoina?

I'd rather not, however…

As the Greek god of the Ocean was about to assume she'd refused, Despoina swirled into being standing beside Dorian. She was draped in the finery she was accustomed to in Olympus as if nothing had happened. The estranged father and daughter stared at each other until finally one broke the silence.

"I had hoped you would survive the battle," he started.

"So that I could be punished for my crimes?"

"Yes, but I heard you've been residing in Mr. Held's mind. You are not the true Despoina, she is still in Elysium."

"Trying to discredit my existence more than when I was alive?" The intensity in her stare was unwavering.

"No, I…!" It was clear Poseidon was not used to such confrontations despite his age. "I just wanted to let you know that the other gods convened upon hearing that you were here. We decided that no action shall be taken against you." Despoina's frown lessened at those words, the former goddess of mysteries clearly having expected the worst.

"You did? Why?"

"As I just said, you are not her. A clone would not be held accountable for the actions of the original and neither should you. My brother put up quite the argument that you were still a piece of her, but was overruled. You should have heard his curses all the way back to the Land of the Dead. That, and we have heard in full how you have been helping Mr. Held and even were instrumental in expelling Loki from his mind. With all of that, it was decided you may remain where you presently are until Despoina's ichor and aethir are extinguished."

"Excuse me, extinguished!?" Dorian stepped around to the conversation. "What are you talking about?"

"Poseidon, don't…"

"Ichor and aethir are just that, finite," he explained without hesitation. "It is an unheard-of miracle that she's lasted so long without fading. Normally, it persists a few days, weeks at most which is why we did not even consider checking your mind for any remainder." Despoina couldn't look at Dorian as he turned towards her, that expression of true concern he was known for boring right into her soul. The same look that helped her to think how different he was from other men at their first meeting.

"You're…going to fade? We can replenish it somehow, right?" Despoina dropped her attempts to avoid the topic, aiming for complete honesty.

"Even if my body was still accessible, the power within it would be too faded to help. I don't know if it'll be sooner or later, but…yes, I will fade eventually." Dorian noticed her trembling at the thought, incredibly subtle to be barely perceptible as the tremors were across her arm. The Einherjar reached out, his grip stopping a fraction of an inch before touching as she was still intangible while Iggy was elsewhere.

"Since when has that ever stopped us? Just because a way to help doesn't exist in Greek myth, doesn't mean it doesn't exist somewhere. That is part of why the Crossroads is here, for the different powers and factions to work together. We have so many members, I can…"

"You need to focus on making sure the world doesn't get destroyed!" She pulled away, the two ignoring Poseidon's continued presence. "You don't have time to waste on something so insignif…"

"Don't you DARE call yourself that!" Despoina shirked back at his legitimately angry expression. It was that train of thought that led her original self to the decisions at Olympus and he would be damned if that could happen again. "Who knows, maybe this underwater city has something to help."

"It won't," the three jumped as Kassaegtha's voice entered their ears, speaking what was on her mind before fading away. "You didn't find it the first time around, only the Khaos Brigade did. I don't see anything beneficial waiting for you in the dark abyss."

Occult Research Club…

With the vampire meeting behind them, Issei sat in a room of the old school building. Having a moment to breathe, he had decided to let Azazel look at his gauntlet considering how much energy Ddraig used to fight Cao Cao coupled with the odd voices he had heard.

"Voices you say?" The former Governor-General mused as he looked it over. "It's true that Ddraig's gem is a bit dimmer than usual, but he should be right as rain in no time. We can't have you being susceptible to enemies while he's recharging."

"No kidding," Issei muttered recalling how easily he'd been possessed by Unas so recently. "But you say it won't be too long?"

"I wouldn't think so, though it's hard to judge. Your body was mended with flesh from Great Red himself, that is one Hell of a skin graft. That, and the energy Dorian brought back from future you that he used to stabilize your lifeforce…has anything about that come out?"

"Not that I've noticed, but it was after that when I started hearing…something," the Red Dragon Emperor shook his head. "I swear it's a voice I know, but when I try to focus on it I just can't."

"Well, I can't see any negative effects at least," Azazel put the strange scanner back into his bag of mysteries he had started carrying around more and more. "My prescription is to rest while you're holding down the fort here at Kuoh and spend as many sexy nights with your girls as you can."

"Sexy nights…" Issei's thought trailed off as he pictured Rias and Asia intertwined sleeping in his bed. After their confession, even Catherine and Ravel had joined them, though the two still wore attire for sleep though was still quite skimpy. "That is one prescription I WILL adhere to."

"I thought you might, I've noticed you've been a bit calmer in training. Back in the day, you'd rush in without a care in the world. That is all well and noble, but do it against an opponent who is stronger and you'll die. Take something to heart?"

"Yea," Issei admitted. "I acted that way during the fight with Sairaorg and…well, he put it in perspective what could have happened if everyone fought like that. I went too far against his Queen when I shouldn't have. I won't let that happen again."

"Glad to hear it," the older fallen angel had a proud expression on his face. "You are all young and it's normal to not have everything figured out, but the sooner you do it, the longer you can reap the benefits. "I think the oddest part of you trying to one-shot Kuisha was how you didn't even consider using Dress Break."

"Didn't…use…" Issei's face paled as the thought hit his mind that had completely eluded him during the fight. "OH DAMNIT!" Azazel chuckled at his expense.

He's still a pervert just like me, no doubt there, but it seems he has it a bit more under control. It's a minor miracle, I am pretty sure it took me a few centuries to cool down after thinking about Gabriel way too hard.

"Speaking of fighting, sensei, when are you planning to leave for Romania?" Issei asked as he returned to his senses.

"Not right away, Rias and I have to formulate a game plan for how we handle both sides. It'll give some time to chat with that Elmenhilde while she's in the tower."

"I don't like her."

"I doubt anyone really did. You don't need to be so worried; your master has that new form that puts her on par with your own Crimson Cardinal and will have two Knights with her to say nothing of the Crossroad backup. Unless these augmentations from the Sephiroth Grail are God-tier, normal soldiers won't stand a chance."

"That is true, maybe this will lead to something peaceful like Goldie wants. At least then we'd have new allies against the Khaos Brigade." Issei glanced down at his gauntlet with a sigh as Ddraig still slumbered within. "I'll take care of ya, partner, until you're back to full strength.

"Oh! That reminds me," Azazel snapped suddenly as he remembered something. "I heard word from your rival that you may find interesting."

"From Vali?"

"The very same, he'll be joining the expedition that Dorian is taking part in. You know he loves traveling the world and investigating the mysterious, right? Something he got from me no doubt."

"It's hard to picture that guy finding fun in anything other than fighting. Do you have any idea how shocked I was seeing him making googly eyes at Hecuba? Well, his version of googly eyes at least."

"You're telling me, all these years and I don't think I ever saw him show the slightest interest in a woman. Lavinia, I thought for a bit, but she drives him crazy like a big sister more than anything else."

"Lavinia?"

"Long story, I'll share it sometime. Putting his interest in tough women aside, he has been noticing an increased presence of Khaos Brigade teams at mysterious or undocumented sites. Almost like they are looking for something."

"Damn, if those guys got even more power than they have, it'd be bad for us."

"And it may be worse than we thought. You may have noticed that some of Leonardo's monsters were different. Like they just weren't right."

"That is one way to put it," Issei shuddered at seeing the anti-monsters pouring over Lilith. It was as Azazel said, unlike the ones they had encountered in Kyoto, these ones had an aura around them that seemed to unnerve anyone who felt it.

"Well, Vali noticed too and is searching for just where he got ahold of such sinister traits. Long ago, there was a species of dragons that were especially brutal, like the concept of evil was just written into their DNA. They were supposed to have been wiped out to extinction, but clearly that was not the case since their traits showed up in the anti-monsters. The really eerie part is that two regions of the world they lived in were Romania…and deep under the ocean. Between the anti-monsters and these new sightings, no way in Hell it's a coincidence."

"These…evil dragons," Issei thought of the first name to come to mind. "Any of them I would have heard of?"

"Not many would other than maybe history buffs like Dorian, they are pretty obscure. There was the Crescent Circle Dragon, Crom Cruach. The Diabolic Thousand Dragon, Azi Dahaka and the Eclipse Dragon Apophis. Man, there is an old nightmare I haven't thought of in a while, they were incredibly dangerous and killed many angels, devils and fallen in their hay day. Grendel from Beowulf was one of those things, though his story got a lot of details off. Ladon who protected the legendary fruits, but was killed by the original Heracles. Yamata-no-Orochi of course, oh and Nidhoggr who I know for certain would be known by Iggy or her mother considering it was her who ultimately killed him."

"So many names," Issei's head was spinning. "The only one I know is Yamata-no-Orochi from the legends. Wait, so Goldie's girlfriend's mom dropped one of these things?"

"So the legends go, knowing what we do now I am betting Nidhoggr must have found his way into the Road Between Realms as the tale says he choked to death trying to devour her roots yet no dragon was ever slain trying to eat the physical Yggdrasil. Your friend Saji has an evil dragon too, Vritra was one, but he's adorable compared to the others of his kind. Even as mild as he was in comparison, fathe…I mean, the God of the Bible still shattered his soul to prevent him being a future threat, that should tell you something for the rest. Every last one of them needed similarly extreme methods to bring down."

"Were they stronger than Ddraig or Albion?"

"In their primes, not a chance," Azazel continued. "But their methods and guile seldom caused them to be held back by a lack of brute strength. Even those two avoided encountering them as much as possible. I give you that same advice, let's hope they are as dead as they are supposed to be but if you ever face one, BE CAREFUL. They say even touching one can bring misfortune."

"I'll keep that in mind, but if they try to hurt anyone, I'll smash them with everything I have."

You are one of the few people in this world who I may think could actually do that. Those dragons killed so many of us, if I can keep you from needing to see one, I will. Even Tiamat could barely handle one and she is the strongest Dragon King.

"Ddraig and Albion weren't evil dragons, were they?" Issei suddenly asked with a concerned expression. "You say these dragons caused issues where they went, but so did those two. They nearly destroyed Heaven and Hell while fighting. From the point of view of the others, they were pretty evil."

"True, but that happened more out of their selfishness rather than outright malice. If it weren't for the people they've bonded with over the years, they may be close to how they were back then. Keep your chin up when you think of that Issei. Despite all his moans and griping those two give, you and Vali are good influences on them."

"I hope so, not all dragons are bad after all. Old man Tannin looked really cool and acted all refined and dignified. He even has a ton of kids he said he wanted to introduce me to. When I become the Harem-King of Dragons, I'll try to be like him!"

"That's the spirit, get as many wives as you can," Azazel grinned wide. "Once we beat the Khaos Brigade, you'll have all the time in the world for making the largest family. They are definitely plotting something, be on your guard while we're all off gallivanting around the globe. That was Vali's message to you too, he can't have his rival being killed while he's away after all."

"Don't worry, I'll keep Kuoh safe. We all will. And tell Vali that goes for him too, he better not lose to anyo…" Issei's proclamation was interrupted as there was a knock at the door, Rias entering alone.

"Azazel, did Issei pass your examination?" She was clearly concerned with his health, sighing in relief at his nod. "That is good, we will need to start our plans for leaving Japan. It won't be more than a few days."

"Oh, right," he stood up with a smoothing out of his suit. "Can Asia join us? I have something I wanted to go over with her after seeing her improvement with Rassei. She has quite the talent with dragons."

"Of course," the Gremory heiress agreed. "Ophis has been very helpful working with her, I am sure she will be a prime wielder."

"A wielder?" Issei muttered quizzically, though neither was willing to elaborate further before departing for their planning. "What in the world is that about?"

"We will tell you later when we know if it was a success," Rias cupped Issei's face tenderly. "I will miss you."

"Rias…I'll miss you too," he leaned in to kiss her on the lips. "Don't let those vampires do anything and if they do, you call me."

"You'll be the first. Don't go to bed too early, we still have tonight with everyone before then," she winked before leaving with Asia who was reveling in the love between them over the moon that she was part of it.

"Ah, young love," Azazel remarked, Issei paling at the realization that the fallen angel had not left yet. "Reminds me of when I was a few millennia younger."

"YOU DON'T HAVE TO WATCH US!" Issei blurted out, his voice echoing through the halls almost mixing with the incorrigible laugh of Azazel, confusing all who could hear it even next door.

That night…

"Is it just me, or is the moon bigger tonight?"

"It's just you," Koneko snuggled into Gasper's chest as they looked up at the night sky from the roof of the Hyoudou Residence. "Unless they built a few more floors without telling us. Oh, there is Felis," she pointed to a collection of stars above enjoying the feeling of Gasper's chin on her head.

"I don't think there are any for bats," he mused while looking at what constellations he knew.

"There is a bat nebula, but you can't see that without help. Zepar has some equipment we could use."

"W-we shouldn't bother him, I saw Mr. Zepar going into Akeno's room with one of her books."

He's reading her another of those romance novels of hers? That can't be all considering the sounds I hear, though he keeps insisting he's waiting for marriage. What is the line he has that she hasn't crossed yet!?

"Um, are you okay?"

"Y-yes," Koneko coughed to downplay the thoughts in her mind. "Just thinking," she wrapped the half-vampire's hands together across her waist so they held her tight. He was so small, barely the same size as her and yet she felt comfortable like that.

"…I will save her," Gasper asserted in a tone Koneko was starting to hear more often. "You got hurt against Georg; you could have died. I won't give that possibility even a chance of happening with Valerie. I'll bring her back for certain."

"I know you will, and we'll keep her safe. She helped you escape and now we'll do the same for her." She was not prepared as she felt a warm tear fall on her shoulder from Gasper. She tried to pretend she could not tell he was crying from joy, only tilting her head up to look at the stars some more. "You can show off your new wardrobe, she was the one who showed you women's clothes first, right?"

"Yes! Mr. Dorian's kilts will be something she'd love! Did you know they actually have something similar in Romania? I was unaware until I…" Gasper's voice sounded truly overjoyed at the prospect as he trailed off. The nekoshou Rook didn't mind as he went on for the remainder of their time there about all the things they could do after the mission was over. They had the plans, now they just had to carry them out and hope things went right.

Elsewhere in the tower…

"I'm gonna miss this place," Bennia exclaimed while downing another gulp from her cup. "I'm sure Romania is great and all, but nothing beats a good soak before a mission."

The young Reaper, Kiba and Kuroka walked together towards the Crossroad grand bath. With their upcoming travel, they decided to be as rested as possible while discussing contingencies in case things did not go to planned. They each wore only a single thin towel as they were comfortable enough around one another.

"Are you sure you should be having another cup of coffee?" Kiba asked with an awkward expression. "This late at night could make you sleepy during our travel tomorrow."

"Please, this is like drinking water to me." Despite her assertions, the devil Knight could not help but notice her faster pace of talking combined with a slight jitter to her arms. "I'll need this spunk to function."

"You appreciate a place more if you spend time away. That, and it will be enjoyable to work together-nya," Kuroka mewed while stretching in a seductive manner. "Keeping little sis' future lover safe will earn me brownie points."

"I will keep you both safe in addition to Rias and Gasper, you have my word."

"You don't have to be a white knight ALL the time," Bennia patted him on the back. "Protecting you guys is our job too, you need to relax. You can join us on our half of the bath, we don't bite and know you don't perv."

"That is very generous that you trust me that much," Kiba smile to the women. "But I feel that I will relax better all alone with my thoughts…!"

The blonde Knight froze as the door to his half of the baths opened to reveal a pair of women already soaking within the waters. The blue hair with a touch of green immediately gave away Xenovia's presence, however the dark-haired beauty eluded his mind for a moment before realizing it was Tsubaki with her glasses removed. Neither were wearing any towels, the waves barely reaching above their waists to leave their feminine beauty exposed for all to see.

"We were wondering when you would arrive," Xenovia raised a hand to beckon him.

"The water is lovely," Tsubaki imitated the gesture. "It would be better if you join us."

"Have fun, lover boy," Kuroka half pushed Kiba into the room before the door slammed shut behind him.

"Good luck with that," Bennia's giggling could be heard as a symbol became etched on the door. A sure sign of her teleportation mines preventing the knight from seeking an exit. With no escape, he waded into the water though kept his towel on.

"We spoke, and the two of us agreed…"

"…that a night like this would be enjoyable since we do not know how long each of us will be on our respective missions," Xenovia started with Tsubaki finishing the sentence. "You don't need to be afraid; we will not make any unwanted advances."

"Unless you ask of course," Xenovia drifted a little closer trying to lean up against him. She had been overhearing the advice Kuroka often gave Irina late at night and was trying to emulate its use being quite surprised how thin the walls could be in the Crossroads, with Irina's assertions that she couldn't do such things echoing further than she guessed. "This can be a fitting replacement since Griselda had to cancel our dinner together."

"That is still something we must do," Kiba asserted, knowing that everything with the Sephiroth Grail, Underwater City and Vampires had forced Xenovia's guardian to return to Heaven with only a parting farewell.

"Meeting the parents is an important custom," Tsubaki tugged on his arm from the other side. "My clan and I…have not been close in some time."

"The Shinra Clan, perhaps the changes in Kyoto could change that," Kiba thought aloud if only to keep her from frowning as she had. "If that tradition is important to you for me to meet them, I will gladly do so."

"Yuuto…" She clung to him tighter, pressing her chest into him which was clearly felt as he tensed up but smiled serenely.

"Then it's settled! We'll all meet one another's parents when we announce our marriage!" Xenovia blurted out, causing both the others to flush in surprise. "So many from the Church will be arriving for the expedition, I am a bit nervous seeing them all again since I became a pag…an Einherjar."

"Me too," Kiba looked on in thought as the steam rose around them.

It had been a long time since so many of the Church had been near him. He would be leaving for Romania and would only catch a glimpse, but the reminder of his past and lost friends was difficult to ignore. The Knight of Gremory did not let it get to him, instead choosing to soak for as long as he could with the two women he'd grown closer to. An event he could never have imagined himself being in only a few months prior.

Elsewhere…

"Suffice to say, I will not be back for some time," Odin spoke with a hologram of Freyja projected through one of his ravens. "But Asgard is in your very capable hands."

"Do you think this could be it, a place of shared cultures?" His wife asked while pacing back and forth. "If there is a city down that far, it would be older than any recordings we have."

"That is what we'll be finding out," he winked at her confidently. "Perhaps this was where Búri was licked free from his salty prison…"

"…or the site from which the three wells sprang from. Did you not used to bore me to sleep many nights on how Yggdrasil's nutrients may have stemmed from a larger body of water?"

"You WERE listening to me," the Allfather beamed with pride. "I may not have gotten to drink all of the well's knowledge, but I glimpsed a few things as I drank with Mimir. The existence of runes, the temporary path to the Roads…and something going back ages. I need to know; I have to go."

"You and your pursuit of knowledge, can't you be content?"

"Only when I'm with you," he took her holographic hand and kissed it as best he could despite her not actually being there. "I'll watch over both of our new sons."

"Thank you, but don't forget to think of yourself as well. The secret of our forefathers is not worth your life or theirs. It's times like these I wish Dorian was still living in Asgard."

"So that we could protect him from the monsters that come out at night? I know that sentiment, my love, but he would never grow that way. You and I know better than most that for children to thrive, they need to eventually step into the dark without holding someone's hand."

The Vampires deliver their ultimatum, prompting an excursion to their far-off lands as the Crossroad's attention is turned to the bottom of the ocean. Gasper returns to the place of his birth while Dorian seeks out answers to the Old Gods who have followed his every step. Until next time, I hope everyone stays safe, Reads and Reviews…but most of all Enjoys! :D