Fate: Bonds Beyond Humanity

by Apprentice of Life

In a world where all can be real, what does it mean to be human? What is the meaning of humanity? A meeting between a human and a devil will have them discovering the truth while chasing their dreams. My take on the combined worlds of Fate and DxD with characters from other franchises if they can be adapted to it. Harem.

48. Chapter 48

Fate/Bonds Beyond Humanity

…..

48- Preparing for a Meeting

…..

Few times in her life left Rias more nervous than that morning during breakfast. "Here you go, oka-sama." She presented a dish of risotto to the older woman who took her time to enjoy the smell.

"Hmm~ Excellent for the nose but what about the taste?" Iri took a bite with a spoon before humming again with her hands in her cheeks. "Hmm~ hmm~ hmm mmm~ Delicious!" She gave the redhead devil a thumbs up. "I approve. This is truly the quality of a meal worthy of a housewife."

"Can you say that when you are not good at cooking yourself? So much for being a housewife." Maya asked while taking a sip of juice.

"You only say that because you are an even worse cook." Iri took another as Maya gave her a sharp look but said nothing else. "Either way this food is excellent. 8 points on the Shirou Scale."

Shirou's hand moved to cover his face as he moaned in embarrassment. "Mom, what Liz told you?"

Raising her spoon, the matriarch of the Emiya family pointed it to Shirou. "That you are finally taking your position as her Master seriously and expanding your household. And I have to say," she looked at the girls around the table, her eyes landing in Xenovia and Luvia more than any other, "it is nice to see you with so many ladies at your home. Ah, to be in that age~"

"Thank you, my lady." Xenovia replied with an eager nod that had Medusa chuckling.

"You honor me, lady Emiya." Luvia replied with a smile and a bow of her head. "And how is your tea? It is my own blend and I want your opinion."

"Really?" Iri took a sip of the drink and was impressed with the flavor. "Hmm~ So good too. Ah, you three can stop being formal as well. Just call me 'Iri' or 'Mom' if you want."

""We can't do that, oka-sama."" Both Rias and Luvia talked over each other with the blonde deferring to her King soon after. "What we meant to say is that you deserve respect and-"

"And you are sleeping with my son." Shirou facepalmed for what felt like the hundredth time just that morning. "We are practically family already." She then moved to grab Koneko by her waist and wrapped the small devil on her lap. To the Rook's credit she just kept eating. "I am also happy to have someone to spoil while you work on giving me grandchildren."

Maya rolled her eyes. "I think both of them agreed they aren't ready for it." Shirou would be making her favorite dish tonight while Rias' eyes were spinning at the implications. "Give them some time at least. They have been a couple for how long now?"

Irisviel gave Maya a look as she worked on Koneko's hair. "They are responsible enough and I will be there to help. At least they should stop using protection."

"After college!" Rias suddenly said before cleaning her throat before the white haired woman amused eyes. "I mean, we can talk more about this after college, oka-sama." From the smile on her face, Shirou was convinced that his mother wasn't going to give up that easily. His lover obviously was of the same mind. "But why didn't you call that you were coming? We would have been here to receive you."

"Nah, it isn't anything important. Just something from the job." That had Shirou's attention again and he turned to Maya for clarification. Unfortunately for him his mother wasn't done. "Then we heard today was an important day on Kuoh and I couldn't help but pop up." She then pouted, making pigtails with Koneko's hair. "It is just a shame Kiri is busy on Amazon dealing with an infestation."

"We all know this isn't the kind of event he likes to participate in. Or any kind of event for that matter." Maya added while enjoying her meal.

"Wait, dad is doing what?" Shirou shook his head before focusing on Maya again. "And about work-"

Just by his face Maya knew what was the problem. "No, we aren't here to kill anyone. This is the other part of our work; security." She raised her cup again and Liz quickly refilled it. "There is going to be an important meeting here in a few days and we are part of the detail to make sure everything goes smoothly." She then gave Iri a frustrated look. "Originally you weren't supposed to come so early but she insisted."

"And lose the chance to see my son at school?" Koneko's pigtails were done and she finished it with a pair of pink ribbons. She then returned the devil back to her place and moved Medusa on her lap. "I also needed to know if he was enjoying highschool life." By her tone she was satisfied with the developments.

Much to Rias' happiness even as her lover kept focusing on other mathers. "I met one of… dad's fans recently." The words erased Luvia's cheerful look.

"Oh~ one of Kiri's admirers? It is so fun to find one of them." Clearly it happened enough that Iri wasn't surprised by it.

"You just say that because it is one of the few things he can be teased about." Maya gave him a nod and pensive look. "If they are someone worthwhile then we will have no problem recruiting them for our organization."

"Bah, calling Freed worthwhile is an insult to all mankind if I ever heard any." Xenovia commented and Maya looked at her before turning to Shirou.

"Freed Sellzen, the Mad Exorcist? If he is in the area then I shall need to hunt him down immediately."

Shirou saw the determination in Maya's eyes and knew what her intent was. "Don't worry. I got rid of him after he hurt one of my friends."

"Shero is a gentleman like that."

Iri nodded at Luvia's words. "He was always a good boy; getting rid of the trash, taking care of his sister… cooking." She loved how some of the girls shivered and her smile turned impish. "It is good to know that someone like Freed was taken out. Good job, Shirou."

"When you say 'admirers' does that mean your organization employs more of them?" Rias could understand the benefits of such a model; even if most of them were incompetent they would always be loyal.

"The Black Sheath Security Company prides itself on always scouting proper talent or annexing other organizations in the same area." Maya was the one who replied with a charming but fake smile. "Any expert can be accepted if they pass our control of quality tests which include; fitness and psychology." Her smile then turned real. "Many of us are people that had nowhere to go after being rescued from a tragedy or another. I, for example, was rescued by Kiritsugu years ago and have been his Left

Hand woman ever since."

"'Left'?" It was Luvia who asked, something which made Iri giggle.

"Of course she is 'Left' since I am 'Right'."

"Just because you wanted to 'be always right'." Maya pointed out and the albino woman shrugged.

Iri made some final touches on Medusa's hair before letting the goddess go. Instead of sitting back in her place the purple haired girl stood up and began to play with the taller woman's hair which made her giggle.

"Do you mind?" It has been long since she fixed someone else's hair after they did her own.

"Not at all." Iri was happy since that was an activity she hadn't had the chance to partake much since Illya began to walk her own path. She giggled again as Medusa's touch was comforting. "But enough of talking about dull stuff, I want to talk more about expanding our family."

Rias blushed but she was far more balanced in the morning after a good night's rest and some coaching from Shirou. "Oka-sama, please be patient while we conclude our studies. Once I finish college that can be discussed again."

"But you are a devil. Odds are that even if you stop using protection it will take years before you are pregnant." Iri pointed out with a pout but Rias remained firm. Then the woman let out an overly dramatic sigh that had both Shirou and Maya on guard. "Oh well, since you aren't going to give me grandchildren anytime soon I should get to work on the others."

Her gaze shifted to Luvia who blinked in surprise. "Luvia isn't ready for this kind of commitment." Rias spoke quickly but it had no effect. It was clear she needed to bring out the big weapons. "Besides, she just recently Reincarnated and needs some time to adjust."

Obviously she didn't want Luvia to agree to anything and as her Piece, the blonde had no choice but to let out a sigh. "I would gladly join your family oka-sama but unfortunately my King is correct."

"Mou~ Rias, don't be like that." Iri's complaint didn't stop her gaze going around the table for Liz but Shirou wasn't going to allow that.

"Forcing someone to do something they aren't ready is exactly the thing you raised me against." Iri's eyes moved to her son who looked determined. "Especially when they can be tricked to do it." Liz pouted but they both knew he was right, under the right conditions Irisviel could turn the tables by manipulating her just a little.

The right words and the right suggestions would go far since Iri suspected Liz's actual feelings.

"Hmm~ but Shirou, I noticed that you don't mind other girls, neither does Rias." Both winced as Iri's smile turned angelic. "Is there any other girl I don't know?"

"She isn't here." Shirou wasn't going to give names. He was already regretting giving his mother an opening.

But it was an opening she was going to take. "Still that means you don't mind if the girl is ready for such things, riiiiiight~?" He looked at Maya for support but the woman shook her head. Iri was on a roll and there was no stopping. "Then the best I can do is prepare other candidates to give me grandchildren." Her hand swiftly moved to her dress and from there she pulled out her trump card.

Irisviel's hand slammed down like a hammer that had the plates tremble as the girls approached to take a look at what she pulled while Shirou covered his eyes. "Pictures?" Xenovia asked in wonder before noticing something else. "Master's pictures?"

Indeed there were now ten different pictures in the table with Shirou in various states during the ten years he had lived as an Emiya. "Shiro as a child." Rias grasped that at full speed, her eyes spinning and blushing in her face.

With how things were going, Irisviel was pleased. "Just some of my favorite memories. This one is of a week after he arrived at the house and caught him sleeping." He was half covered with his pajamas pulled up. "Wasn't he precious? Think how your children will be; more bright red hair and sleeping peacefully," she raised another picture, "in your lap." Rias quickly snatched it.

His lover was being hypnotized by the sweet words and she was his greatest ally on this. Shirou knew measures needed to be taken. "You would have to stop going to school, there would be no college and we would have to leave Japan. Probably to the Underworld where we won't be able to leave for a while."

The plan worked as Rias snapped back but another front was already under assault. "Shero playing with his sister." Luvia could already see a blonde girl instead of Illya as they would be her children playing. "A hard working boy that likes to invent and a genius girl who exceeds all expectations. Yes, they-"

"Would be high maintenance and you would be too busy to spread your name in the Underworld." Shirou knew exactly how to play with Luvia's pride. "Not only that but you would spend months, maybe years, unable to be promoted from a Low Class devil."

There was no way Luvia would want to remain in that position for as much as she needed to, her pride and ambitions would keep her desires in check. Her future could wait for her dreams to be fulfilled as fast as she can afford it and everybody knew she wanted at least a peerage of her own.

Evidence of her status as a High Class was what she needed most in the Underworld society and a peerage was exactly that. Luvia lowered the pictures with a grimace as the idea played on her mind.

Shirou was about to let out a sigh of relief when he noticed the look of disappointment on Maya's face. He knew that look well, it was too similar to his father's when he failed an exercise or made an obvious mistake. A minimal twitch of her lip, a hard look and how her eyes were fixed on him were some of his father's same habits.

Except that Maya wasn't Kiritsugu and she had less control of her eyes when they strayed from the person she was chastising to the problem in question. It was clear proof she wanted to solve it as fast as possible while the Magus Killer wouldn't care or would be more patient.

Shirou's eyes followed Maya's line of sight and he realized he had been played. 'Shit!'

Irisviel had more pictures and was sitting beside a girl he hadn't considered part of the problem until now. "And this is him at the sports festival; he practiced for weeks to get the jump right after failing during it. Only stopped when he managed to nail it five times in a roll."

"As expected of Master." Xenovia nodded with a small smile as Iri's arm held the girl's to keep her close. The intimate posture was the kind of a mother guiding her child and seemed natural for them. "Always dedicating himself."

"Yes, yes. I was so proud that day." She got closer to Xenovia to whisper and Shirou had to use Reinforcement to make sure he caught whatever it was. "Wouldn't he be a good father?"

'How?!' Because that question played exactly on what Xenovia wanted and Iri was on the full offensive. 'Were Rias and Luvia just distractions? Was Xenovia her target all along?'

Unlike the other girls, Xenovia's dream for the future definitely involved children and since she pledged herself to him Shirou felt he had an obligation to help her. It was something his mother certainly would be up to par once she got the whole story.

And at that point Shirou realized he had no clue when his mother arrived the previous night and that she may have been waiting for him the whole time he was at Azazel's house. 'Enough time for them to talk. Enough time for her to gauge Xenovia and decide that if she asks then I will be hard pressed to refuse.' Xenovia gave up Caliburn for him and he cared for her. 'I AM NOT READY TO BE A FATHER!'

"He would, wouldn't he?" The idea was already taking root in the former Exorcist's mind, just as Iri planned. Shirou gulped hard, preparing himself for what was to come. "But it is too early."

"What?" Iri voiced his own thoughts, not expecting such a subdued response. 'From what I gathered she is the kind of girl to plunge headfirst… I want my grandchildren!' Yet she wouldn't press. "Why too early?" Much, at least.

"Because Master Shirou recommended that I finish highschool in case I change my mind." Xenovia nodded wisely and Shirou looked at her like she was an angel while Iri felt the sting of defeat. "I understand he is looking out for me and while I want to have children it would be best if I am ready to help them in the future." The redhead was dancing in his own mind, the pegasus laughing at how happy he was. "But the fact is he was always such a dedicated person and physically capable… I would be happy to have his children after I graduate from school."

At that Iri smiled as she noticed her son was too busy celebrating to say anything. "I would happily welcome you into the family." It wouldn't be now but she was securing more grandchildren. That was a win for the Irisviel book.

"Are you sure? I can understand that I'm not the most ladylike girl around-"

"Nonsense. You must be strong to have strong babies." They joined hands as promises were made between them. "I am sure Shirou will approve."

"Master is kind really… Maybe that will be the day I won't need to call him Master anymore." Xenovia commented with a blush as she got closer to the older woman. "I also hope you have no problem if I… try to practice before we actually have a child?"

Despite her upbringing in the Church, or perhaps because of it, Iri realized Xenovia was a little pervert by how excited she sounded at the idea. If anything her conspiratory whisper may be because of how she was raising or the respect she had for Shirou. Either way, the mother was pleased to have such an ally.

"Not at all." She saw how Rias was containing herself and Luvia was already stable, Xenovia was her best chance. "After you graduate from school, right?" Earlier than Rias even if not ideal. Iri hoped such development could even push the devil to have children early.

"That is right." Xenovia sounded excited and hopeful, ideas already being drawn to have Shirou alone with her for some moments. 'I need to also acquire condoms until we are ready to have children… Should I talk with him first? Ask where I can get them?' She nodded as that sounded like a great idea.

The blue haired woman didn't realize that was a request Shirou would be too ashamed to deny but she would respect him and Rias since the devil had him first but still Xenovia would talk with them.

Already her eyes shone with a light that had Irisviel grinning, the image of teaching her children how to fight fixed on her mind. Only two people realized the dealings between the two women, one of them because she could read lips and knew Iri well enough to not lower her guard.

Maya watched the events with some pity for Shirou who looked relaxed as he thought everything was under control. 'The fool has no idea.' She wasn't going to tell anything either, he should learn to not lower his guard. Instead she traded looks with Medusa who had a small smile. 'I suppose the goddess also heard everything and is just enjoying the show.' Not her problem, if Iri was happy then Kiritsugu was happy and Maya was happy. "Aren't you all late for school?"

It was the only reprieve she was going to offer and Shirou didn't even know it was too late for it. "That is right! I need to get the bentos in the kitchen." He was so worried about protecting his sanity that almost escaped his mind.

Then he heard a sentence that has scared him many times in his childhood. "Oh, oh I will drive." Iri sounded so excited too.

Memories of dark days poured through Shirou's consciousness and even Liz stopped eating with a haunting look. Old horrors had the maid's stomach turning against itself as the magus felt death closer but never close enough to deliver mercy. Indeed both saw some of the curious faces around the table and felt pity for them, pity and envy.

Shirou shall protect those faces full of innocence. "Mom, I don't think you can." He said it as delicately as possible.

"Why not?" Her question held no malice, only legitimate curiosity. That almost had Shirou faltering.

Almost but not enough. "Because you only know how to drive cars and we have a van now."

"But some of us could go in a car." Iri just wanted to drive with her family, if it was only Shirou and Rias then that would be fine with her.

The redhead magus felt a bolt of depression. "Right… the car… we kind of hit it on a window."

"What? Why?" Iri felt a great deal of concern, Shirou took it since it was better than depression.

Which was great in Liz's book and she moved to support him by pointing at Luvia. "To save her."

"I apologize for that, lady Irisviel. It was my incompetency that demanded such a sacrifice from your son." Luvia bowed her head in repentance. "Give me some time and I shall secure enough funds for a new car post haste."

Rias massaged her eyes at that comment. "You can't go spending money like that anymore, Luvia."

Before that discussion could continue, Iri brushed it off. "Oh, that is fine then." Relief poured from Shirou and Liz much to everyone's, save Maya, confusion. "Wait a minute, why can't I drive a van?"

The horrified looks returned and Maya finally took pity on them. "Because a van is different from a car, Irisviel. It takes a similar but different set of skills to pay attention to a larger vehicle. Not to mention the changes that may impair a bad driver because of angles, the higher wheel and other things." Every word made Iri's pout more pronounced. "Don't blame me, you were the one who said 'I just need to learn how to drive cars'."

She would have added 'badly' but that was a fight that Maya already lost because the rest of the Emiya family refused to make Iri depressed. Instead they had to use mental gymnastics to avoid being in a car with Irisviel behind the wheel.

Grateful for Maya interference, Shirou took the reins from the conversation. "But aunt Maya is right. We better get going or else we will be late for school."

Irisviel's next words surprised everyone. "Oh, then let me get ready. This isn't the kind of dress you show up in a school with." She cupped her chin in a cute pout. "Shame it is summer. My best clothes are always for winter."

"Wait, oka-sama, why are you sounding like you are going to school with us?" Since Shirou was gapping like a fish Rias took over.

She saw the look of panic in her lover's face as dread took hold. Something was amiss and the Heiress of Gremory couldn't remember what, her mind having repressed the subject.

"Isn't 'Parents Visit Day' on Kuoh? I was pretty sure it was today."

Rias began to have a look of panic before grabbing her cell phone and checking the date. "I completely forgot." She surprised herself with how calm she sounded. 'Maybe Grayfia forgot as well?'

Her hope was quickly squashed by Iri. "We were right! I need to remember to thank Sirzechs for the warning. If he hadn't called then we would have missed it."

The redheads traded a look that went over most people's heads. Both remembered what happened the previous year. "Sona is going to have a fit." Shirou felt a new type of dread.

Both knew who else was coming. "Yep." Rias mirrored his feelings.

…..

The day of bringing the parents to school was one Issei usually dreaded. "Oh Asia-chan, you didn't need to make bentos for us. We could have eaten out."

"Let her go, Miki. If our daughter wants to spoil her parents a little, that is her right. Hahaha."

However that was no longer the case as instead of being suffocated by his parents he was just smiling as Asia was the center of attention. "It wouldn't be fair. Usually we eat with our classmates and if you want to join us then you should have some food."

Yes, with Asia around Issei didn't have to worry about judgmental stares or glares like last year. If he behaved well enough and was polite, his parents would be showering the former nun with praises while he would get to enjoy an easy day off.

Indeed Issei knew, thanks to the previous year, that during the day of parents visiting most teachers tend to ignore the usual lesson plans and go for improvised classes to try and have all their students look good.

Mostly it meant no quizzes, no homework, barely any texts, random events that gave plenty of space for the parents to interact and, if he behaves, no extra work. It was not only a day for parents to see Kuoh and how it worked as a school but also an unofficial holiday to its students if they behaved.

'I just need to take it easy and everything is going to be fine.' He told himself, already promising to not do anything perverted with his parents around. 'Just don't need to fall in Matsuda and Motohama ideas, just for today. Not like we got anything last year.'

As far as he knows his friends' parents wouldn't bother to show up again and because of that Matsuda got more bold. Even if his friend wasn't into older women, Issei remembered him trying to 'flirt' with a mother of their classmates. He and Motohama were laughing at their friend the next day since the woman was only indulging him.

That just solidified his reputation as Perverted Baldy but that wasn't a problem for him as the friends held their perversion like badges of honor.

Surely the other two thirds of the pervert trio were already in the classroom which had its tables changed for more space and to take more students both for those who wanted to sit with their parents and for them to work together in whatever activity their teacher decided to apply.

Seeing his friends, Issei turned to his family. "Do you guys want to-"

"We will sit with Asia-chan." Miki's decision didn't surprise Issei. "Are you going to your friends?"

Her son nodded. "Well, since Asia always sits close to Aika I doubt there is going to be much space."

"Don't be so sure, Hyoudou." Aika popped up with her usual pigtails and a woman behind her. She looked like an older version of her daughter with longer black hair but her demeanor seemed more meek. "My dad couldn't come this year so I am sure we can make some space." She turned to the Hyoudou family. "It is good to see you again, Miki-san and Gorou-san."

"Oh, Aika-chan. Saru couldn't come today?" Gorou asked with a small smile.

It was the mother who replied. "Unfortunately my husband is sick. He asked me to take a lot of pictures instead." She said while raising a digital camera.

Upon seeing Aika blush Issei remembered another reason why he liked the parents visiting. 'Not going to tease me today?' Almost like she was reading his thoughts, she threw a glare and threw her tongue at the Pawn who just chuckled.

"Why didn't you call? I would have made my special chicken soup for him." Miki commented as they began to walk to Aika's desk. She then turned to Issei with a flat look. "Don't try anything."

"It wasn't me." Came the automatic defense but Miki just gave her son a gesture to say she was keeping an eye on him before walking again.

"Are you going to be fine, Issei-san?" Asia asked gently and she just gave him a smile.

"Sure thing, it's better if I keep an eye on Matsuda or we are going to have a repeat of last year." Asia tilted her head in confusion and he remembered she wasn't there for that particular disaster. "Just saving my friend from heartbreak."

Assured of Issei's kindness Asia departed and the Pawn moved to greet his best friends only to notice how Matsuda looked exasperated and Motohama didn't even notice he was getting close. "Morning." He greeted but only the bald one replied. "What is wrong with him?"

"Hey, Issei." Matsuda managed to say before a scowl covered his face. "Feh, he's being dumb." A curious look was the reply before he pointed his thumb to some parents. "Apparently it's bad when I show an interest on older woman but when he does-"

"Shut up.." Motohama turned, his face flush and his eyes red from staring fixedly. "Compared with the lady last year my muse is not any MILF but a goddess."

"Eh?" Issei was confused by his friend's zeal.

Only for Motohama to grab him and point to the woman he was admiring. "Look at her, Issei. Her measurements are perfect." He said in a reverential whisper. "Absolutely perfect."

At such a declaration all the Perverted Trio turned to look at a woman dressed in a white and teal summer dress with short sleeves. She had white hair, almost silver, with red eyes like rubies and Issei could understand his friend's admiration.

Saying that she was developed would be an understatement but not only was she great in the breasts department but her figure wasn't one seen everyday unless you were part of the moonlit world.

"And she is a mother." Matsuda commented with some irritation even if his eyes didn't leave the white haired beauty who was talking to a couple of parents. "She is like a model-"

"I saw her first." Motohama announced almost loudly. "You had your shot last year."

"Dude…" Issei began to massage his temples to stave off a headache. "She's someone's mother. Hard to believe she is single." He reminded them both but Motohama looked even more determined. "You need to-"

"And she is too much sand for your truck." Matsuda cut Issei off, still bitter over last year's events. "You think a woman like that would go for a guy like you?"

Motohama looked offended. "You just watch, I will-" Only for someone to poke his side with considerable strength. "What the fuck?"

"Next time you start talking about someone's mother, stay out of his earshot." Shirou had Xenovia by his side and a small glare in his eyes.

The Perverted Trio looked between the white haired woman and the redhead several times. "Bullshit." Motohama challenged without hesitation.

A challenge that Xenovia took with a fierce look of fury. "He was adopted." Her tone had so much hostility that the boy with glasses ended up retreating and almost falling on his desk.

"Makes sense." Issei commented with a shrug as Matsuda just shook his head. "By the way, why are you guys here?" They were in the same year but in different classrooms.

"One of our teachers called in sick today so half of our class was sent here." Shirou saw Iri waving at him so he waved back. 'If aunt Maya was around then mom would be protected. Unfortunately she wants more pictures of Koneko.' The Rook reminded her of a younger Illya a little too much.

"Half?" Issei looked around and let out a sigh of relief at seeing Rin but not Luvia.

Shirou noticed and chuckled. "You really think they would let the two of them together unless necessary?" Rias may have something to do with that. Which actually reminded the magus of something else. "Issei, Rias wants to show her family some of our club activities. Are you available?"

The underlying message was clear as Rias' family also included the actual Lucifer and that meant stuff from the moonlit world. However the offer was an open one. "I wouldn't know what to do with my parents."

"Rin's father has that covered." Xenovia spoke with no subtlety, referring to Tohsaka Tokiomi who, under Rias' instruction, was actively engagingIssei's parents. He would do almost anything to further his family's prospects, even play a mundane individual, in the most elegant way possible. "We just can't get Asia."

In other words she wasn't needed and could also distract Issei's parents. "Sure, I can go."

"What an Occult Club has to show to parents-" Xenovia was still furious with Motohama calling Shirou a liar so her glare was enough to silence him.

Surprisingly to Issei, Shirou wasn't stopping her which may or may not be because the self proclaimed Three Size Scouter was staring at his mother. In reality Xenovia's hostility was all he was willing to submit the boy to if he stayed away from Iri. However should Motohama try anything then the magus would get creative.

"Just show some projects, have some fun, show the place, that kind of stuff." A lot was being unsaid but Shirou was being absolutely honest.

Either way Issei was good enough to tell he was needed. "Well, I'm in-"

A shriek of horror from some kind of banshee covered the school silencing all conversation. A moment of confusion came and went, many questioning where that came from.

"Was that Kaichou?" Issei managed to ask but Shirou landed a hand on his shoulder.

"Don't think about it."

"But-" Once again Motohama was silenced with a glare.

Shirou ignored the other pervert, his haunted look firmly on Issei. "You will probably know later. Until then don't think about it." After a nod he let the Pawn go and departed with Xenovia.

Matsuda watched the blue haired new student walk away. "Hate to see you leave but love watching you go."

"Are you kidding me?" Motohama commented after fixing his glasses. "Do you see how cold she was?."

"Only because you insulted her fiance." Issei had to think for a moment before responding to Matsuda's words.

"What was what now?"

"Yeah, it's a rumor that started a few days ago when everyone saw how close the two are in class." The shaved head boy said with a smile. "She is super disinterested in any other guy but Emiya so everyone thinks they are promised to each other or something." His smile vanished and she scowled. "Feh, just like a pretty boy like him to get a bombshell like her as a fiance."

Considering everything that Issei knew he had no idea of what to say neither he would have time to reply.

"Sit down! Sit down!" Fujimura Taiga walked into the classroom, her eyes jumping around to the many people in the place. "Geez that is a lot of people." Some managed to hear her muttering but she didn't focus on that. "Listen here people; it's not because your parents are around that you can just relax and chill. I wish." She whispered the last part but everyone caught on. "Now we will-"

"Hey Tiger~"

"Hey Iri, how have you been? Anyway, we will… WHAT?! IRISVIEL?!" Suddenly the Tiger of Fuyuki looked more curbed as the white haired woman was waving at her with a smile. Only that the bob haired cut woman looked confused and afraid. "Wahahaha… What are you doing here? I thought you were traveling for business."

"Oh, you know how it is. I wanted to see my son at school." Irisviel hugged Shirou from behind but the redhead didn't react. He was too used to his mother's shenanigans. "And how have you been? I haven't seen you since we had that meeting with your grandfather. Still practicing kendo?"

"Just, you know, helping my students and stuff." The teacher's reactions were amusing for the students who were used to the energetic woman.

"Master, what did your mother do to her?" Xenovia asked as Iri approached the front of the class.

Letting out a sigh, Shirou debated how to reply before whispering back. "Taiga has a good reason to be afraid and embarrassed. I prefer to not think about it."

Respecting his wishes was something Xenovia had no trouble doing especially when her focus returned to a flushing Taiga who suddenly looked to be melting from heat. "Hehehe… I forgot to… drink my coffee! Yeah, that is it." She began to step towards the door, her eyes never leaving the smiling mother. "You guys can… draw something! We are going to have an art contest! I will be back in an hour or so." In other words when the class was over.

Everyone stood there stunned as the Tiger of Fuyuki made a hasty retreat. Nobody knew what to do or say and for a minute there was silence.

The silence was broken when Irisviel stepped up and stood behind the teacher's desk, seamlessly taking over. "Well, you heard your teacher; start with the drawings and don't worry about quality, just try to be creative."

Shirou was the first to take out his materials, some pens and pencils to try and make something in his notebook. Xenovia was the second just to follow his example.

Parents and students just stood there blinking for several seconds as none knew if they should follow the instructions or not. Without a doubt the docent body wouldn't blame them either way.

But Irisviel gave them all a sad look. "Aren't you going to participate?"

Boys felt their heartbeats spike, girls found themselves flushing, husbands had their wills tested and wives held their spines straight like soldiers. Clearly it wasn't a matter of authority for she had none but Irisviel was in control and soon everyone else was picking up paper and pencils.

The Matriarch of the Emiya family smile turned cheerful and it motivated more work as soon everybody, even the parents, were novice artists. Everyone wanted to please her as if she was their own mother or grandmother.

Xenovia watched it all in astonishment as she turned back to her Master. "Your mother truly is a force to be reckoned with."

"You have no idea." Shirou commented not even a little bit surprised by what transpired.

Irisviel then left the table to sit beside her son and friend again. "What are you two going to draw?"

"I don't know." Xenovia never thought of that.

"A sword." Shirou said bluntly and his mother pouted.

"Can you forget about swords for a minute? For me?"

"It is the only thing I have a good chance of drawing."

"You won't know if you don't try." Then she turned to Xenovia. "You as well. Maybe there is an artist in you waiting to come out. If not then you gave your best shot."

Her spirits renewed Xenovia began to draw as Shirou let out a sigh. 'What to draw?' He saw the smile on his mother's face and wanted to legitimately try. She would be happy either way even if he failed. A familiar presence on his mind gave him some inspiration. "Well, maybe if I cheat a bit…"

"Go for it." Irisviel's whisper was prompted by his mumbling.

Once again the redhead let out a sigh as he discretely used Reinforcement to help with his moves. 'The things I do for love.'

Despite Iri remaining beside Shirou, almost all the students moved to ask her to look at their work. She wasn't an artist herself but made sure to praise when she found a picture pretty, complement effort even if not as great, at least give a smile to the image of a giant tentacle monster that confused her and pat the heads of those that needed it.

When Taiga returned from her coffee break she didn't bother to wrestle the control of the classroom back, instead she joined the fun with a drawing of herself dressed in a tiger pajamas that had her and Iri laughing.

At the end of the class when everyone was leaving the white haired mother offered her red haired child a smile. "So? How it went?" She clapped at the image she saw in his notebook only for Shirou to close it. "Shiiiiiiiirou~ it was so pretty." Rubbing his shoulders Iri got the book opened again to a passage of grass, swords and the sun. "Is that your World? It is beautiful."

Since he used just pens and pencil there were few colors but the view itself had a majesty that Iri found proud of. A Reality Marble was a reflection of a person, their true self and what the mother saw was an image of kindness and lethal beauty.

A part of her wondered if her husband's would be similar if he had one. "I wish you had some paint."

"Imagine it with green and gold and you have a better picture." This time he closed his notebook firmly before starting to put away his stuff. "And I think we should go and check with Rias and her brother." A part of him dreaded what was to come but he would face it. 'Best rip the 'bandaid' quickly or it gets worse.'

His mother looked even more cheerful but before anything else she turned to Xenovia. "And you, dear? What did you draw?"

"Ah!" The blue haired girl looked embarrassed before showing her a picture of a sword. A raised eyebrow later had the former Exorcist flushing. "I drew Durandal because I had no idea what to draw."

"It is excellent, dear." It was a mess but Irisviel could see the girl tried her best.

Shirou chose to say nothing and tap Issei's shoulder on their exit. The Pawn nodded and spoke to his parents. "Guys, I gonna go with my friends to-"

"Sure, you can go. Tohsaka-san and his daughter wanted to show some of the facilities around." His mother said quickly.

Tokiomi offered the Pawn his best smile. "Indeed. It seems they didn't get a proper tour the last time they visited Kuoh. Fortunately for them my daughter knows the best places to explore." He approached to 'whisper' conspiratorially. "And the best desserts from the cafeteria. Have you tried the strawberry cheesecake? Kuoh has some of the best chefs in town."

Not usually what the former Head of the Tohsaka would say but he had his orders and the future of his Family was at stake.

"That sounds nice but I need to make sure to watch my blood pressure." Gorou commented but the man in red shook his head.

"A bite will not kill anyone. If it did then I would be five feet under already." Tokiomi said in jest that made Issei's parents laugh. Rin gave the Pawn a thumbs up besides Asia to show they got this.

Accepting the situation for what it was, the Red Dragon Emperor rushed to the door where Shirou, Xenovia and Iri were waiting. "So what is this about? Are we just talking with," he stopped to look around and hesitated with the many students and parents present, "you know?"

"Sirzechs came here to help with Gasper as well." Iri informed the Pawn who flushed at the woman's loveliness. "After the mess with Kokabiel everyone agreed Rias is mature enough to help him control his power."

'Good God- ow- she is beautiful.' Issei couldn't help but think, finally understanding a little what Motohama was about. Unfortunately for him he also felt a great feeling of dread. 'What the hell?'

[That is killing intent, partner, kukukuku.]

Despite all the beatings and hatred he got from the female population of Kuoh, that was the first time Issei felt such open intent of harm. 'I didn't do anything today!'

[Try to find it. If you aren't capable of that much then you may as well roll over and die now.]

From the feeling of dread on his shoulder it wasn't hard to detect the dark glare past Iri as Shirou's eyes carried a clear threat. 'Try to think anything perverted about my mother, I dare you.' The usually kind redhead seemed to say with his spirit alone. 'No one is going to find your body.'

Issei was pretty sure that was all on his head when Iri turned to her son and his dark glare vanished. "We should show them the picture that you drew. I am sure they will love it."

"While I have no problem showing that, I think we should be focusing on the job." His face was blank and relaxed as his mother pouted. Instead of keeping his cool, Shirou let out a sigh. "Once we get home-"

"Yay." Iri embraced her son as they kept walking without missing a step.

"Amazing. Master is able to go from homicidal to loving in a blink of an eye." Xenovia whispered loud enough for only Issei to hear. "Such mental fortitude."

Shivering a little at the memory of the dark glare, the Red Dragon Emperor did his best to ignore the dragon's laugh. "I don't think this is the kind of thing you should admire."

Xenovia chuckled a little. "Perhaps you should be careful how you look at his mother."

"You noticed?" There was some shame there.

But the blue head got closer before whispering. "I'm pretty sure she did too." She hastened her step to join mother and son.

A groan was the best reply Issei could come up with before getting close enough to be heard again. "Why do you need me anyway? I mean, getting Gasper out of the club is great but Asia would be better for this."

Iri smiled and shrugged. "Don't know. Haven't seen Sirzechs today but he said you could help with Gasper's training."

"So you have no clue?" Shirou wasn't surprised as his mother was never one for details. However he was curious. "No idea how we are going to train Gasper, his control is so bad that not only he can activate Forbidden Balor View by accident but usually he gets exhausted after two or three uses."

"Too powerful for the small thing." Iri nodded in understanding. "It really isn't surprising since usually controlling time can be disastrous in the wrong circumstances."

"Wait a minute, you can control time?" Issei almost couldn't believe his ears.

Iri giggled melodically. "No, silly. Didn't Shirou tell you that my skill set is more tailor made for Alchemy? It is my husband who can mess with time."

"As expected of the Magus Killer." Xenovia heard of the man's reputation more than once. "To have such dangerous magic."

"It is still magecraft, Xenovia. My old man can't really mess with time on a big scale. Mostly it just affects his body and he needs to spend days slowed down or else." Shirou added before she got any ideas. "The Heiress who used to live here from the Agares Clan could do it with a boundary field."

At the mention of such magic Irisviel's smile became strained before she recovered. "The strain of messing with time has its own toll. Kiri, Shirou's father, can't use his magecraft as much as he did in his youth because of it." With a finger on her chin, she started to ponder. "Perhaps the sacred gear has a way to mitigate the effects? It was made to counter the Agares, after all."

Already seeing Issei's confusion, Xenovia anticipated his question. "Many sacred gears were made by God to counter devils Powers. Usually it is by using their powers against them or with a straight outta better version of it." She scowled soon after. "Gasper shouldn't be having that much trouble with his sacred gear either. I blame it on his meekness."

"Now, now, Xenovia~ no need to be grumpy." Iri embraced the girl's side which immediately melted away all her hostility. "Gasper is still growing and all men find their courage when they have something to fight for."

"But they won't find anything if they don't go looking for it." Xenovia rationalized as they turned a corner and began to walk up the stairs.

Then Iri hugged Xenovia midstep. "Ah~ You are like an older sister."

"Mom, be careful." Shirou was already there, his hands on her back.

However Iri was focused on the girl in her arms. "And you act like one too. I remember when Illya would drag her brother around to help with his magecraft. Remember that, Shirou?"

"Yes, I do." He let out a breath of relief as the woman balanced herself as Xenovia didn't fight her. Still Shirou remained close, Issei making sure to stay close to the wall. "But can we do this on the third floor?"

"I agree." Xenovia wouldn't harm her Master's mother but she sure wasn't confident with only a foot on the floor.

"Fine, fine." Iri let go of Xenovia and quickly made her way to the top. "But still, it is good that Gasper has someone like you around. Someone who cares so much."

Issei looked at Xenovia weirdly before following the older woman. "If with 'caring' she means 'chasing with a sword' then she is right."

"It is for his own sake." She said with a frown that lasted for a second before everyone was on the third floor. Much like the rest of the school it was full of parents and students. "How are we going to find Rias?"

"Easy, just look for the tall redhead in a Japanese school." Shirou commented much to Xenovia and Issei's surprise. "What? Sirzechs is taller than everyone here."

"I see them." Iri began to wave. "Yoohoo~ Rias~ Sirzechs~ Over here!" Many paid attention to the woman even if their names weren't called. She was that much of a fetching sight. "Come on." She began to walk ahead.

However it took a second for the three students to follow her as they were shocked by the unexpected company besides the Heiress of Gremory.

Besides a smiling Akeno was not just Sirzechs Lucifer, in a similar suit from last year but with greens and reds, but also Zeoticus Gremory, actual Head of the Gremory Clan, dressed in an Elvis kind of suit with whites, blacks and a collar a bit too big, and Azazel the Governor General of Grigori, with a suit similar to the one of the previous day, all black no ties, talking with both red haired men like they were all old friends.

'I don't blame the stress on Rias' face.' Because Shirou could already tell a headache was coming by how his mother approached nonchalantly.

"What is Azazel doing here?" Xenovia was trying not to panic.

Different from Issei who was already panicking. "Do you think they are using the parents' visit to negotiate something important? Is that why I am here?"

"Surprisingly that is plausible." Emiya Shirou let out a sigh and began to approach the group. "With their personalities…" Another sigh escaped, earning him a look of sympathy from his lover that he offered back. "Let's get this over with."

"Sirzechs!" Iri approached Lucifer and gave him a hug. "How have you been? Is Millicas around? Grayfia is hiding somewhere?"

"Hahahaha! It is good to see you too, Iri." They took a step back and he shook his head. "Unfortunately Millicas couldn't come but Grayfia is going to love to see you." He turned to his wife who was behind the group.

"I am here, Lady Emiya." Grayfia seemed to appear out of nowhere. "Huff." And was tackled for a hug.

"Grayfia! How have you been?"

"Fine, thank you for asking. Can you let me go now?" Iri did as requested but her smile only grew larger when she turned to the two gentlemen with inviting smiles.

Sirzechs took it as his cue. "This is my father, Zeoticus Gremory."

"It is an honor to meet you, Lady Emiya." The man extended his hand and Iri giggled when he kissed hers. "To think I would meet the wife of someone so famous and the second in command of his operations. My wife is going to be jealous."

"Why, thank you. Kiri and I did our best to build something our backers would approve of." She smiled at Sirzechs who let out an amused chuckle. "But please, don't call me 'Lady Emiya'. It is already bad enough that I can't get Grayfia to relax a little during work hours."

"Does that count to me as well? Or it is just for friends and family." Azazel couldn't help himself as he threw Rias a knowing grin that had the redhead glaring at him. "Certainly you two will be one soon enough."

"Haha! Nothing would please me more." Zeoticus admitted, his eyes on Shirou before he approached his fellow redhead with a smile. "It would certainly be my pleasure to welcome you all in our family."

"Can we please not have this conversation here? People are staring." Never before Rias regretted being the center of attention like now.

"Come on, Buchou. Don't be like that." Akeno stood beside her King, her tone sweet as candy. "It isn't like this will start any rumors, will it?" Her words just nailed the situation further on Rias' skull.

It was an attitude Iri immediately catched on. "Akeno, sorry but I didn't see you there. How are you, dear?"

"Fantastic, Emiya-san."

Quickly Iri waved the Queen's politeness off. "Please no lady or san here. We are all friends." She turned to Azazel. "You as well, Governor General."

"Then please call me Azazel, or handsome, if you want."

Shirou's eyebrow twitched while Iri giggled. "Sorry but the only handsome men to me are my husband and my boy." She pushed her son forward. "Have you all met him? Shirou, say hi to Sirzechs Lucifer, your father's business partner."

"We met alright, during last year's family visit." They still shook hands while Zeoticus let out a self depreciating chuckle. Because of his daughter's previous engagement he had missed the last one. "It is good to see you again, Shirou."

"You as well, Sirzechs." Being polite then Shirou pulled Xenovia forward, the girl's expression respectful but obviously nervous. "This is Xenovia, my apprentice-"

"Disciple and follower. Almost like a Servant." Akeno added with gusto.

"-in the art of the sword." Shirou refused to miss a beat even if his speech turned more formal. "She is also Durandal's Owner."

"You should have brought her there yesterday. Always a pleasure to meet those who run away from the Church." Azazel offered his hand to the girl but she hesitated and he took it back with a smile. "But to be allowed to leave with Durandal?"

"I just never returned it…" Xenovia couldn't help but say before shaking her head and bowing to her waist. "It's an honor to meet you all." She got up, turned exclusively to Azazel and bowed again. "You as well, Lord Azazel, my apologies for my rudeness but you are not what I expected."

"Hehe. Sure, I don't mind." He offered his hand again and this time the former Exorcist shook it firmly. Azazel chuckled again before turning to the last one of their group. "Hey Ise. How have you been?"

"'How have you been?' What are you doing here? Do you have a kid in school too?" The Pawn then looked more nervous as he looked around with caution. "Please tell me it isn't Vali."

For a millisecond there was a sad look on Azazel's eyes; it vanished too fast for anyone to notice. "Vali in school? Oh I would pay good money for that, hahahaha! No, Ise. I am here on business with my pal here." He gave Sirzechs a side hug which the man didn't mind.

Much to the younger members of their group's shock. "Wait, aren't you guys enemies or something?" Issei asked but confusion wasn't his alone.

"Is the Grigori relationship with the Underworld that good?" Xenovia didn't bother to hide her surprise as Shirou looked between the two leaders of their Factions with wonder. "If Heaven knew that-"

"Heaven does, the Church, most certainly, doesn't." Azazel made it sound like a joke that he, Iri, Sirzechs and Zeoticus were the ones finding it funny.

Akeno abandoned the teasing for a moment. "I thought you were here just to discuss… that." She avoided looking at Azazel, her attention directed to the older Queen present.

Grayfia shook her head but said nothing while Rias began to connect some dots. "This is how you got into contact with Azazel so fast after you knew about Kokabiel, right, onii-sama?"

The way she called him showed Sirzechs she was impressed and pleased. "You are correct, Rias-chan. The ceasefire has been in the process of growing into formal peace talks for a while."

"Before you continue I must point out this isn't the kind of conversation we should have in a crowded area." Grayfia pointed out bluntly. "Wasn't lady Rias about to show us her club?"

"Right. You are right, Grayfia." Zeoticus was even more excited now and quickly began to move to a window. "Should we get going or-"

"Father." Rias grabbed the man before he jumped. "Must I remind you this is the human realm." She made sure to whisper as low as possible.

"That is right, father. Windows here are just for air and sightseeing."

"Oops. Sorry, I forgot wings aren't a human thing." The adults laughed it off while the younger part of their group looked a little unsettled.

"How bad would it be if a devil opened their wings right now?" Issei couldn't help but wonder out loud.

Xenovia looked around before replying. "So many cameras and cellphones would have the secret out in minutes."

"Seconds." Akeno pointed out and Shirou shook his head in exasperation. "Better not think of it."

"Think about what?" The Magician of Gremory asked jokingly. Then his expression turned serious. 'Why is Azazel here?' He knew he wasn't the only one questioning it by how Akeno kept her eyes on the Cadre, never turning her back to him. Loudly he said "Well, unlike most clubs, ours is outside."

Zeoticus catched on and offered Iri his arm. "Then we should get going."

"Of course." She accepted before turning to her son. "Shirou, could you show us the way?"

"Sure but," with so many important figures around, he reminded himself someone was missing, "shouldn't we be looking for Sona as well?"

"She has her own thing going." Rias said with a weak chuckle. The last time she saw Sona was with Serafall giving her a huge hug while people took pictures, the Leviathan in her magic girl suit. "Her own thing…"

Shirou gave his lover a depressed look. "She is being overwhelmed, isn't she?"

"You heard the scream?"

"The whole school heard it. Maybe even the whole campus." Both redheads nodded and sent their best wishes to Sona.

"Okay but why am I here?" Issei finally asked nervously. "I could be with my parents, you know?"

Rias felt bad about it. "Sorry Ise but one of the conditions to begin Gasper training is that you were present."

"It is?"

"You bet it is." Azazel grabbed Issei by the neck and began to mess with his hair. "Without you there is no way that I can help the kid to learn how to use his power. I need back up and you are the best man for the job."

Trying to fight back was useless as Azazel easily held Issei. "Okay, fine. But why?"

"Because you are the Red Dragon Emperor."

"That explains nothing!"

If anything, Issei's reactions were only making the fallen angel more amused. "But it does. You just don't know how yet."

Azazel let him go and Issei breathed a little before speaking again. "Is that why you came here? How are you here in the first place?"

"I gave him permission." Sirzechs said easily.

"And no, I didn't come here to help Rias and her Bishop. That is just a small favor, a gesture of good will if you prefer." Azazel said with a chuckle. "But I am here mostly to inspect the area of our first, official, Peace Meeting." He cupped his chin as the younger devils and humans stared at him. "Or should we call it a Peace Conference?"

"Peace Talks?" Iri offered.

"Peace Gathering?" Sirzechs joined in. "Tch, no wait. That is Serafall's department. If we go naming things she is going to be upset."

"Wait a minute, wait a minute, hold on a fuc- a damn second." Rias waved her hands to get everyone's attention. "You guys are going to have a Peace Meeting?"

"Aham." Azazel replied first, immediately becoming the Heiress' center of attention.

"You as in the Three Factions."

"Yep."

"Here, in Fuyuki? Kuoh to be more precise."

"That is about it, yes."

"Why here?" Took a lot of effort for her to not scream but Rias was holding on nicely. Even Akeno couldn't hide her shock. "Why in the bloody hell you are having a Peace Meeting-"

"Name is pending." Her brother unhelpfully added.

"-here of all places?" Quickly she felt a disturbance in the area and nodded her thanks to Grayfia who made an emergency boundary field. It would keep the noise out and stop eavesdroppers, a good thing since she was getting increasingly louder. "This is devil territory! My territory! Why am I only hearing about this now?!"

"To be fair we decided to do it here because Kokabiel attacked." Sirzechs was more helpful on this one. "There are other factors as well and this is a considerable neutral terrain for the meeting."

"How can it be neutral when Fuyuki has been devil territory for years?" Shirou asked with legitimate curiosity.

"Because while we have a lot of control, humans still rule most of the aspects of the city." Zeoticus surprised everyone by answering. It was easy to forget he was the one who procured Fuyuki for his daughter in the first place. "Since Rias was so interested in coming to Japan and she was quite young, I thought it would be prudent if most of our affairs here followed a more hands off police. I mean, while here she has plenty of authority but she doesn't touch on human affairs unless necessary."

"I should be more active then?" That was news for Rias but her father nodded.

"Oh yeah, not only you should be more active on our business side but also be receiving reports about criminal activity and other stuff. Thanks to Sirzechs' magician, still upset you didn't tell me he was the Magus Killer by the way," the son just smiled as the father grunted, "we usually make sure the mayor's office, town's council and other places of authority always have a direct representative instead of just clients. That helps us keep a grip on things while also expanding our interests by the low price of supporting campaigns and such."

"I knew that but I thought we were always hands off in most cases." That was how she was instructed to take care of Fuyuki and most of her education didn't disagree with that idea.

"We are but usually we have a direct representative on those places for reports and to defend our interests like a Piece and such. Other Clan have other preferences but that is how the Gremory do business." Zeoticus only knew the habits of Bael and SItri. "Still, we all keep a tight hold in small towns with just one Peerage. Fuyuki has two, not even counting the ones in rotation as your guards and they are the ones monitoring most of the entrances and exits." Then he shrugged. "Although that would have changed anyway since Fukuki has such an uncommon ley line and its fast expanding. Didn't see that coming when I bought the place."

Before they got off track Grayfia decided to intervene. "This city is also in Japan and its pantheon doesn't interfere unless provoked. Add other external factors and it was the logical choice."

"Let me guess, Caliburn." Shirou received nods from the maid and the Cadre.

"Got it in one." Azazel said happily. "With Caliburn around Fuyuki is on its way to become a neutral zone managed by devils. Sure you still own the city but we will get official embassies and everything when the deal goes through."

"Also, 'official'?" Xenovia managed to ask where before she was avoiding getting in the middle of the conversation.

Iri giggled a little and replied. "But of course. Don't you think they wouldn't have made a lot of backdoor deals to avoid a war by this point? That is why Sirzechs could just call Azazel about the last crisis. Were they still at odds then Kokabiel would have his war one way or another."

"Or at least a lot of concessions." Azazel added. "But yeah, we are going to have Peace Talks here so while I am here to help with a tough sacred gear, I am also scouting the place." He made a show to look around. "You have my approval. Won't stop me from bringing some of my crew to guard the area during the meeting, of course."

"Of course." There was a lot of unsaid between Sirzechs and Azazel but it flew over most people's heads. "But we should go and help Gasper as quickly as possible. I bet he is excited to finally leave the ORC building."

"Hah, as if." Xenovia commented as the boundary field was dropped and they began to walk. "That boy is a real shut in but once he can control his sacred gear then he won't have any more excuses."

"He will still need training, you know?" While Iri liked Xenovia's attitude and she tried to reign it in a little. Not that it worked as the words fell in deaf ears.

No, if anything the girl got more determined. "Oh he will be training alright. I'll hunt him down until he can't walk."

'Gasper, I'm sorry.' Issei couldn't pray but wished he could.

"Hehe, that is the spirit." Azazel kept looking around and rubbing his chin. "Hmm."

"Something wrong?" Shirou managed to ask as Akeno stayed close to him and far away from Azazel. She wasn't afraid but clearly uncomfortable.

Azazel gave the redhead a glance and Akeno a deep look before replying. "Well, I expected to find one of my siblings around here."

Rias raised an eyebrow. "Do you know how little that narrows it down?"

"Which one?" Akeno whispered, wishing to ask but unable. There was too much anger in her eyes and she didn't want to make the prospects of peace worse.

Shirou did it in her place. "Any one in particular?"

"Depends." The Governor General replied with a shrug.

He wanted the questions to keep going but Shirou knew that game and refused to play it, the magus already realizing it wasn't the one Akeno didn't want to see and Rias even offered a quick smile to reassure her Queen. She appreciated it but still remained in her metaphorical shell.

However, Issei was curious. "Do you have a lot of siblings?"

"Glad someone asked."

"He is still new." Rias added before Azazel continued.

"You see, every angel born from Father's power are siblings so I have thousands of them."

"THOUSANDS!" They got looks but it was Issei so the students of Kuoh went back to their affairs as their parents asked but were told to let go. "That is a big family!"

"It used to be bigger." This time the fallen angel didn't hide his sadness before getting a cheerful grin. "Anyway, it is always great to see them out of work and without throwing spears around. Just wanted to know who they sent here."

When they arrived outside and began to make their trek towards the ORC, Azazel got his answer as a tall blond figure stood in front of Caliburn. Immediately those that didn't know him could tell that the man before the sword wasn't human. His aura, not of power but just his sheer presence, was great in a way everyone could feel.

For all in their group knew Divinity when they felt it and if told that the person before them was a god those unfamiliar with the man would believe it.

Slightly taller than Sirzechs and with hair just as long even if the redhead had more around his face, that man also had noble features. No one could deny the handsomeness of his face even if his green colored eyes carried a sadness that was hard to describe. Instead of twisting his visage that only made him look more endearing.

His appearance and build could be easily called perfect as he was neither too buffed or skinny. Instead it was like his body had the perfect balance to show he was fit and healthy with his presence enhancing that balance further. Calling him human was impossible for that was a man who looked perfect.

Yet such a man, dressed in a white business suit with a gold cross on his back, was practically ignored by the masses. When inside the building the devils and Azazel always demanded attention with their appearance alone. They were always seen as something more even by those who had no aptitude to the moonlit world.

"Well I will be damned. He came personally." Azazel sounded very pleased and skipped towards the man to hug his back. "Brother! I didn't think you would descend for this? How long has it been?"

The smile the man offered was so sincere no one doubted he was happy to see the fallen angel. "It is good to see you again, Azazel." Yet the sadness of his eyes remained even if he looked joyful as well. "Honestly, I was taking any excuse to leave Heaven for a bit. Things are a bit messy."

"Funny, I was thinking the same thing about the Underworld." Sirzechs approached and offered his hand for a shake while Azazel let go of his sibling. "But your brother is right, it has been too long since we saw each other. Most of the time you send your sister to deal with us."

Accepting the handshake seemed as easy to the man as his smile. Yet the sadness still remained. "Things in Heaven are always busy. I hope I didn't offend any of you."

"Of course not." Azazel immediately brushed him off. "We get that you need to stay there but I hope you are taking breaks between work." Concern filled his tone before his joviality returned. "But should we start this meeting now? I mean, most players are present."

"Most but not all. It would be rude to start without them." The blond man's expression became severe at the jest. "Or to make decisions on their behalf."

"I was just joking, Michael." A 'eep' was heard from Xenovia but went ignored. "Seriously, learn to relax once in a while. The world isn't going to stop because you took a break."

"Maybe. But I prefer to not let that happen." The now identified Michael turned to those behind the devil and the fallen angel to offer a genuine smile. "It is a pleasure to meet you all. My name is Michael, acting Chief of Heaven."

"God's Replacement, First of the Seraph's, the Archangel, Right Hand of God, Elder Angel, Older Bro and all around a Stick in the Mud." Azazel couldn't help himself and Michael gave him a small glare. His eyes didn't look angry or annoyed, only sad. "What? Those are your titles."

Michael smiled a little. "If you cared about formalities, you wouldn't have added the last one." Then his attention turned back to the others, mostly the students. "It is a pleasure to meet you all, Xenovia Quarta," who stood to attention, feeling nervous, "Emiya Shirou," who raised a careful eyebrow, "and Hyoudou Issei." Who bowed. Then the angel turned to Iri. "Irisviel, how are you faring? Well, I hope."

Both embraced like old friends. "I told you to call me Iri."

"But your name is Irisviel and you quite like it." After that he turned to Grayfia. "Lady Lucifuge."

"Lord Michael."

Unlike the other introductions there was some tension there that could almost be cut with a knife. Grayfia remained professional and showed no signs of animosity but just how the name was uttered lacked her usual respect. On the other hand Michael's eyes seemed even sadder.

So sad in fact that the gloom seemed to infect the others before Iri intervened. "Is that how you treat someone you haven't seen in years? Show some manners." Her radiant smile managed to earn a small one from the made and an honest one from the angel. "Michael, I didn't know you would come to Fuyuki. I mean, Azazel practically announced he was going to show up with a song."

"I told them the parade was too much." Azazel got in on the joke and Michael was already looking much better. "Still, Iri is right. What made you come here? Just the sword?"

"That and because there are many people I wish to talk to." He looked at Xenovia and she gulped. "However I can see not everyone is here."

"If you give us a minute we can get everybody and at least start things now." Zeoticus suggested with a shrug. "About the witnesses, myself and Irisviel may be enough if you so desire." He offered Michael his hand for a shake. "Zeoticus Gremory, we fought in the Battle of the Cross even if we never saw each other."

Michael immediately looked apologetic. "Ah, sorry for not noticing you sooner. I have many problems in my mind." They shook on it before his eyes returned to Xenovia to then turn to Shirou for a moment. "However I don't have much time before I need to return to Heaven. If you all would allow me, could I talk with Xenovia Quarta and Emiya Shirou? I wouldn't mind waiting for the Talks proper but I owe them a 'thank you' and an apology." His sadness grew. "I also wished to see Asia Argento but she is not around at the moment."

"I don't mind." Shirou could see that Xenovia was too nervous to reply but obviously wouldn't leave if he didn't. "Do you want to go somewhere else? People could show up to look at the sword."

"There is no need to worry about it, Emiya Shirou. While I am here, none not aware of the Truth will approach this area."

"A boundary field?" Shirou smelled nothing so his confusion was clear and understandable.

But it had Azazel grinning. "Nothing so simple. Or perhaps it is simplicity in itself." The Cadre sounded mischievous and Michael gave him a disappointed look. "What you need to understand is that he is 'God'," the look turned into a legitimate glare of frustration, "if he commands that no one sees him, nobody will. There isn't a boundary field active nor anything like that. All he had to do was will it and so it was."

"You know that isn't how it works." Michael said with exasperation. "All you need to know is that no one who doesn't know about the moonlit world will note my presence or yours while I am around." He turned back to Caliburn. "I just wished for some privacy." Shaking his head, Michael made sure to smile again. "However I still want to speak with you two and my time is limited. Would you mind?"

"I already said I have no problems with that." Shirou's elbow poked Xenovia's side to snap her back to reality.

It made the former Exorcist jump but she quickly nodded. "Iwouldn'tmindeither. I mean, sure, I wouldn't mind either."

"We still have to check on Gasper." Rias felt the need to add only for Iri's hands to land on her shoulders.

"Then let's get going. Shirou got this, right?"

"Right. We will get there soon." The redhead lovers traded looks and most of the group began to depart as Michael turned back to the sword.

Azazel approached Rias with a cheerful smile. "Hey, don't worry. If you can bet on someone to backstab you then that wouldn't be Michael."

Rias rolled her eyes. "I know his reputation, a True Angel as he is called. No, I am not worried."

"She just wants to stay around Shirou-kun." Akeno was still subdued but she just couldn't help herself. With so many people looking at her with knowing grins, Rias couldn't help but blush.

A 'click' was heard from the side. "Look at that, my daughter is all grown up." Zeoticus pulled an old fashion camera and took a picture of her. "I am so happy that I managed to come~ Just wish Venelana could have been here."

"Did something happen?" Azazel sounded a little worried but the man waved him away.

"Not at all. We just had some business to take care of and one of us needed to stay." He sent the camera away with a magic circle but was ready to summon it again. "One minor noble will be marrying in a few days and one of us needed to go through the paperwork. It was her turn." And the man sounded far too pleased with that.

Iri pouted a little. "Do you guys still mock marriages?"

"No, that trend is mostly over." Sirzechs replied, his knowing grin still present. "While we may joke around here and there on parodying certain christians traditions, many discovered they liked the marriages."

"But it must still be a good joke to have Lucifer officialize one." Azazel saw how the two older redheads actually squirmed. "Hah! I knew it! Don't let Gabriel hear about that, she is going to be upset. That was always one of her favorite traditions."

…

Back at Caliburn Shirou and Xenovia looked at each other as Michael silently admired the sword. Or what they perceived as admiration at least since neither could read the angel's face. It was a perfect mask that couldn't be deciphered by any mortal as he stood there like a statue of marble.

No, he was even beyond that for the being beside the two students was older than the oldest stone of the planet Earth. He was there before it was even a thought in the mind of the Creator and he only wasn't the eldest because he wasn't there for the first star.

"I am sorry." His voice gained a melody that wasn't there as a golden halo appeared above his head. Quickly Shirou looked around to make sure no one was looking but the supernatural event went ignored. "There are so many apologies that I want to give, so many people that I want to say sorry for because of the truth and lies that were told." Michael turned, his eyes fixed on Xenovia. "But a leader cannot be meek and if I spend all my time apologizing nothing would be accomplished." He smiled sadly again. "Still I must find moments like this when I truly hurt someone and apologize to them."

"You don't need-"

"But I do need to, Xenovia Quarta. Sister Griselda received your letter." The blue haired girl grew silent and looked down even as his tone lacked any reprehension. "She is one of the few people I consider friends that still walk in this world. I know why you left the Church, how much my lie hurt you. It is hard to remember that the actions for the greater good always leave victims, unintentional as they may be."

Xenovia hesitated for a moment before she managed to gather her courage. "Why do it then?" She raised her head and voice firmly. "Why lie? God… God may be dead but true faithful would still be around to fight even with the truth."

"What defines someone's faith?" Michael asked philosophically. "What makes one person 'faithful'? Is their willingness to listen to Father's lessons? Or perhaps just knowing He is there to lend an ear? Does that make them good?" He was not being rhetorical but Xenovia had no response. "Many 'faithful' only had their faith because 'faith' is also believing without seeing. Yet plenty of them would be considered evil for their methods while someone who never prayed a day in their life could be a saint in my eyes."

His tone was respectful and non reproaching as he approached Xenovia with kindness in his eyes and a slow step. Michael patted her head slowly, like a father dotting on his child.

"I have no doubt that you would be one of them, fighting beside me even if Father isn't around. However many need His Light, however fake, to feel safe. That safety turns many evil men good for they feel they are on the right side, even when that backfires."

"The Crusades?" He nodded at her question and took his hand from her head. "Many there… they were real believers, weren't they?"

"Beyond the Crusades there was the Crucifixion before that, before that there were wars, conflicts of many kinds for many reasons. The Witch Trials are another example, people at the time never realized that any evil witch they managed to capture could escape and kill them all if willing. In the end were the innocents who suffered." His perfection worked to his detriment on this for they couldn't see how old the angel really was. "How many times in history good people did bad things because of belief? Too many to count."

Both students looked at each other and at Michael as he let out a heavy depressed sigh. It was like his brilliance was disappearing.

"Many of those times they were led by our believers. True believers that just forgot that love was the first message." The tone was ironic but sad more than anything. "Yes but that doesn't excuse many of their acts. Good can be evil when not guided, be by a God or by one's own conscience." Michael turned back to Caliburn with a somber look. "War also has a way to bring out the worst in people depending on the war being fought and the ones leading."

The Acting God shook his head again and took a deep breath, enjoying the nature in Kuoh being brought to life by the sword.

When he turned again his eyes were still sad but those were the eyes of a warrior. "However, if you want a more practical answer; Father death ended a war but the news would have started a new one. Should all the pantheons know about His demise beyond doubt then new conflicts would quickly spring." He sounded stronger and greater than before, kindness forgotten. "Our numbers would also be diminished for people would be doubting the worth of God because He is dead and not 'why' He died. The conflict would escalate, a World War with the moonlit world involved would start, it would be the Apocalypse without salvation at the end."

Michael stopped when she saw how shaken and terrified his audience looked, Xenovia struggling to breath. Shirou didn't know what to do or say because the scenario played perfectly in his mind and he couldn't disagree with it.

"Sorry, I forgot how young you two are. Unlike most in our world you really look your age." Michael said as sincerely as possible to try and calm them down. "Regardless, I didn't want to frighten any of you. I just wished to explain, Xenovia Quarta, why I felt the need to tell the lie. The Great Lie as some of the gods who know the truth like to say behind my back." The two looked scared again and he immediately regretted his words. "Don't worry, none is certain that Father is dead. It is just a suspicion. I worked hard to keep the System going even if… even if Father is not around anymore."

"Sorry." Xenovia couldn't help herself.

"No, this is my apology, Xenovia Quarta, for you have suffered for my decisions. Yet, no matter how much I want to say I would do things differently if I knew you would stay by our side if you know the truth, I will stand for my actions for I shall not tell any other lie. Just one." Golden wings appeared behind the man's back as his halo grew brighter. However his power wasn't oppressive but inviting. "Instead let me invite you to rejoin the Flock and fight by my side if you so desire. I, Michael, promise to welcome you back with open arms and heart."

This wasn't someone from the Church nor her guardian inviting her back, this was the Acting God Michael himself, the Protector of Heaven and True Angel.

While his golden wings were different from a normal angel's white, they clearly were not the wings of a fallen so he was speaking the absolute truth, free from any kind of treachery. Indeed he revealed them to show he was speaking as an angel of God as much as the Chief of Heaven.

His endorsement wasn't a small thing either even if he presented himself only as an angel for as the Right Hand of God Michael's welcoming would put her at the top of the Church's Hierarchy even if she was only an Exorcist, only the Pope greater.

For a second Xenovia could see herself as an angel fighting beside Michael with Durandal on her hands and wings on her back. She saw herself standing in the front of the fight against all evil and protecting the innocent while spreading the word of God.

Xenovia offered the angel a small smile. "I always wanted that, it sounds like a dream come true… Once upon a time." Her eyes almost shined in happiness as she lowered her head in respect. "My apologies, Lord Michael, I can't take your offer."

The smile the angel gave her had a hint of joy behind it. "May I ask why?"

"If you asked me that a month or so ago, I would take your offer in a heartbeat." Her smile was practically radiant as she turned to Shirou. "But my goal is not just to fight anymore. I shall fight for I believe in God's teaching but I also want to be happy, I want to follow my own path." She dropped to a knee, her eyes not leaving Shirou as he let out a snort. "And the path that I want to follow is following the person who saved me from loneliness, that showed me that I could fight and be happy. I shall forever believe in God but I also want happiness."

"You are making me blush." Shirou scratched the back of his head because he couldn't help it. Yet his smile held no shame but pride as Xenovia was a woman not lost to a sword but her true self; brave, headstrong and ready to take any challenges. "And like I said, you can stay as long as you want."

He offered a hand and she gladly took it to stand by his side. Before Xenovia could be considered beautiful but then, before Shirou's very eyes, it was like her beauty had finally bloomed fully. The girl who was lost found her way and would see it to the end without regrets.

Michael's smile was a paradox of pride, happiness, nostalgia and sadness all in one. "Looks like you helped her more than I could, Emiya Shirou."

"I only showed her the way."

The angel's halo and wings disappeared. "Certainly something Father would approve of. It seems I have more to thank you than I thought."

…

"Open your mouth and say 'aaaaah'."

"Aaaaah."

"Hmmmmmmm, interesting." Azazel studied the former dhampir tongue and fangs carefully with a stick of metal. "Very interesting."

"Do you need to do this?" Rias was tapping her foot on the ground in anxiety as they stood outside of the club room a few meters away.

If he so desired now Gasper could leave the area if he wanted but when he accidentally stopped some leaves from falling down from a tree it was clear he couldn't. His sacred gear was still unstable and Azazel quickly picked up some tools from his suit and began to examine the young devil.

"It is either this or drag him to a lab for more… direct examination."

Gasper shivered and Medusa kindly placed a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry. He isn't planning to hurt you."

"Heavens, no. It would be just laying in a machine, my design by the way, while I examine his soul." Azazel then looked at Medusa with disappointment. "You know, I heard your beauty could compete with Helen of Troy but why are you a kid again?"

"Because I grew weaker after the fight with my now protector." She turned to give a stinky eye to Rias and Akeno. "Where is he, by the way?"

"What? Not happy with us?" Azazel played around but Medusa gave him a flat glance.

"I don't like the idea of standing with so many powerful beings unprotected."

Sirzechs approached to reassure the goddess. "Don't worry Medusa. Even if you don't believe in our intentions, believe that we are duty bound to watch over you while in our care."

"Duty bound, yes. My protector does it because he is kind." Medusa shook his head, patting Gasper's back to calm him down. "I don't distrust you but I trust him."

"Fair enough, I say." Azazel said in acknowledgement before taking the stick out of Gasper's mouth and rubbing his chin. "And you really can't control when you activate Forbidden Balor View?" The blond dhampir shook his head while running to stand behind Medusa. "Hmm."

"Lady Medusa, if I may." Zeoticus earned the goddess attention. "I must ask if your accommodations in our city are fine with you. As the Head of Gremory, if you desire a better home, I shall provide it."

"I am happy living in my protector's residence, thank you very much."

"It would be for him as well, of course." Already Rias began to rub her eyes as she saw where her father was going. "I don't know which manner of residence he has but I can guarantee a whole building with anything you all require."

"Father, please, don't." The Heiress gave her father a small glare. "Shiro's home is ideal even if we are planning to reform it a little."

"I don't know, you guys could use more space for when the family grows." Iri commented from the side.

Akeno giggled at the white haired woman's attitude. "Weren't you the one who chose the house?"

"It was Kiri," her words surprisingly had Zeoticus grow pale in an instant, "but he could always use a bigger house. Especially if you are to move in."

"Oh my~ already planning to have me join your son's harem?"

"Perhaps?" Akeno and Iri smiled, the message was received.

'Lucky bastard.' Issei shook his head, wishing he was anywhere else. "So, how am I going to help Gasper?"

Azazel scratched his cheek a little as Rias glared at him. "Right… things are a little more complicated."

"What do you mean? Is there something wrong?" Rias moved to stay besides her Bishop as the young boy looked afraid.

The Cadre took a moment to consider his words to reassure everyone. "Not wrong, per say. His life isn't in any danger at least." That helped the Heiress and goddess relax a little but not fully. "Damn, I thought this was going to be easier. I am just going to say it; his soul is clashing with the sacred gear."

"That doesn't sound good." Issei stated as Rias hugged her Bishop as everyone else looked confused.

"It isn't and it is kind of uncommon. Maybe that is because Father is dead? That is the first time I found this kind of situation. Then again this is the first time I met a dhampir with a sacred gear." Azazel leaned forward and Gasper took a step back. "The fact he is a hybrid is why he is still alive. Even if vampire hybrids are the easiest to get, the advantages are still considerable. Add a human soul with a sacred gear and you have young Gasper's situation here."

"Can it be solved?" Rias asked immediately after.

"Oh yeah, sure. It will just take a little more set up."

"Why?" Medusa voiced the question of many.

Always happy to speak about his research, Azazel just lamented the lack of presentation. "Why, my dear goddess, because we need to have him use his sacred gear repeatedly until he gets the hang of it." He waited for the question he knew was coming.

It was Irisviel who asked after blinking in surprise. "That sounds a lot like brute force." She found it fascinating how a man who looked like her husband could be the complete opposite.

"Meh, that is kinda how it goes. For a person to get good they need to practice, be they a warrior, a painter, a musician or a sacred gear owner." Azazel shrugged casually and began to stretch his arm to the side. "To get good at a game you need to play it again and again."

'I think that one is my fault.' Still Issei finally began to see how he could help Gasper and summoned the Boosted Gear. "So I have to Boost him until he gets good at using his sacred gear? Sounds easy."

Azazel nodded. "Yeah, you just are thinking of the wrong type of Boosting since that one doesn't produce the raw mana he will need." Everyone was staring and he chuckled. "Come on guys, it isn't that hard. He is a dhampir, a half vampire, and there is a sure fire way to power up a vampire."

"Blood." Sirzechs realized it first. "You want to use Ise's blood to give him mana."

"Wait, Gasper is supposed to drink me?" Not weird since everyone usually helped around with that. "Does it need to be me?"

"Because you are the Red Dragon Emperor and dragon's blood has powerful magical properties." Rias just said evenly.

Azazel was quick to shoot down similar thoughts. "Wow, wow, wow, not so fast. It isn't that simple, remember? That was the original plan but the situation with his soul changed things." His face grew serious, any semblance of the cheerful man evaporating. "For whatever reason his soul is weaker than Forbidden Valor View, or the sacred gear is too strong for him, take you pick. That is why his sacred gear spasms randomly, his soul can't contain it."

"So he isn't strong enough." Zeoticus spoke with understanding. "Well then it is a good thing we have someone with dragon's blood."

"Except that his body isn't strong enough for that either." Rias grew pale at Azazel's words and Medusa stood between him and Issei. The Pawn himself didn't wish to harm the little devil so he took a step away just to make sure. "Relax, he isn't going to die or anything like that, most sacred gears have safeguards for this kind of situation." He began to rub his chin. "If I didn't know any better I would say he has a Longinus of some kind to be acting like this."

"Speak plainly, Azazel. What is going on?" Sirzechs demanded for the peace of mind of many present.

"Well, you know how Issei here is the Red Dragon Emperor? Do you remember what happened with the first ones?" The boy in question shivered at the words. Azazel gave him a look of sympathy but regardless continued. "It is something like that."

"Like a spirit inside Forbidden Balor View is trying to escape and Gasper can't fight it?" Iri approached the boy to pat his head. "But I never heard his sacred gear having something like that."

"Forbidden Balor View is a powerful but exhaustive sacred gear, all who awaked them were strong individuals." Grayfia reminded everyone. "While a rare sacred gear, since it was made to counter the Agares Clan it is no surprise it would be too much for someone so young."

"He awoke his sacred gear in a stressful situation, correct?" Azazel easily believed that because of the boy's demeanor. "Anyway, giving just the Red Dragon Emperor's blood would be risky because it would make his sacred gear spasm more."

Rias frowned. "What would be the side effects?"

"An influx of power that would freeze time in a larger area." Azazel didn't bother to calculate how big. "Sure people like us wouldn't be affected but, low baling here, he would probably get the whole school."

"It would just be a few minutes, right?" Irisviel looked for a silver lining.

"With enough mana for a larger area it would be more than just a few minutes." Grayfia had the patience to do the math. "Assuming the area would be only the school's then at least an hour or so."

"And everyone would check their cell phones, see the lost time and panic. Soon the story would spread out and the moonlit world would be exposed." Sirzechs thought about the situation politically. "It would be an unmitigated disaster."

"Brother, stop it, you are scaring Gasper." The former dhampir was shaking in Rias' arms and she was getting angry. "None of that is going to happen. Sure we need dragon blood to help his training but it doesn't need to be Ise's."

Sirzechs was quick to agree. "It will take some time but we can make the calls."

"That won't be necessary. There is a way for him to use the Red Dragon Emperor's blood safely." Azazel received some glares for the omission until that moment. He just smiled at them. "The problem is the excess of mana but fortunately the other Heiress of Fuyuki has a dragon as well, one that can drain that excess. Can we borrow the boy with the Absorption Line? I wanted to meet him anyway."

"You need to fix your timing, Azazel." Iri pointed out flatly, earning a laugh from the man.

"Sona is also busy…" Rias was sure she would have her hands full with Serafall.

"Come now, Serafall won't mind if you let her come along." Sirzechs commented with a grin that reminded Rias how overbearing the two could be together. "She also hasn't talked with Azazel for a while."

"We should go drink later."

"Oh, oh. I know a cool spot. I just hope Copenhagen is still open." Iri spoke excitedly before brushing it off. "Of course it is. That place is excellent. We also need to get Maya."

Azazel looked much more excited. "She is here? Hell yeah, maybe if she is drunk she is going to give me some attention."

"Not likely~" She already knew the black haired woman wasn't going to drink and just keep an eye on things.

Issei approached his King who managed to calm herself and Gasper. "Buchou, should I call Saji?"

"You have his number?" The Pawn nodded and Rias was relieved. "Great, do it. Say we need his help and it is a matter of life or death."

Medusa shook her head. "Gasper just needs to live among people stronger than him or stay in the club. I doubt he finds this situation a 'matter of life or death'." The little devil nodded his agreement fast enough she stopped his head to not hurt his neck.

Akeno felt safe to approach as the adults talked about going around town. "It is life or death for her. She doesn't want to get an earful from a stressed Sona about everything that is happening."

With no reason to hesitate, Issei picked up his cell phone and made the call. Saji was quick to pick up but the boy was frantic and believed the situation at school was more urgent. He also didn't want to abandon his King in her time of need as from the cell phone everyone could hear the crowd gushing over Serafall.

As there were many students wanting pictures, Saji and others from the Sitri Peerage were trying to calm things while Sona dealt with her sister. Not an easy task for any means for the looks of things. With a skimpy outfit, attractive appearance, positive attitude, cheerful demeanor, Serafall was turning into an idol.

"Give it to me." Medusa requested and Issei found no choice. "Saji Genshirou, this is Medusa."

*The goddess?! Sorry but- Hey, I saw you push! Detention! Look I can't help you guys now-*

"Turn the video feed on, put the volume to the maximum and give me a view of the crowd. I will take care of the rest." Medusa left no room for arguments and Saji scrambled but began to follow the orders.

Everyone watched with bated breath as the purple haired goddess stretched her neck and began to breathe slowly as her aura began to grow. Her Divinity began to fill the area in a gentle fashion and when the image of the crowd's backs appeared she opened her eyes which were glowing amethyst.

"Calm down." The noise and struggles began to seize slowly as many realized the melodious voice which had spoken. Little by little students and parents turned to Saji who was holding the phone above his head. "This is a happy occasion where two sisters are meeting again and you all are causing a ruckus. Return to whatever other activity you wish but leave them alone."

Her command resonated, the members of the Sitri Peerage and Serafall watched stunned as the messy crowd simply began to disperse, chatting amicably or just parting ways with no animosity or rush.

Akeno found the surprise of the devils through the phone funny. "Fufufu, that is a new one. Since when can you lead the masses like that?"

"Most gods can use effigies to communicate with followers. For those that have no omnipresence they are the best way to be in multiple places at once." Medusa turned her focus to Sona who was approaching the phone with a pouting Serafall. "Sona Sitri, we request Saji Genshirou's assistance on a personal matter. Will you let him help us?"

Grateful for Medusa's interference, Sona was happy to nod. *Of course, if it isn't anything dangerous-*

"It is just training and Azazel promises to not allow anything to go wrong."

*Azazel is there?! Sister, how many things have you not told me?*

*Sorry, sorry, I was chatting with my fans-*

*The leader of Grigori is on my territory! I suppose he was invited?* Serafall nodded at the exasperated Sona who turned to the phone again. *Are you at the ORC? Saji will be there shortly. Thank you for controlling the crowd like that.*

Medusa pushed her hair back proudly. "That is something only a true idol could do." It was something her sisters would have said.

*Are you saying I am not-* Medusa ignored the Leviathan, throwing the phone to Issei who barely grabbed it. *Hey, put that goddess back on. She hurt my pride as a magical girl and I won't stand for it.*

"An impressive display of power." Sirzechs swiped his hand over his neck and Grayfia stepped forward to stop Serafall's rant. It wouldn't be easy but the Ultimate Maid had experience with Serafall. "But didn't you say you lost almost all of your powers when you asked for safe haven?"

"I also said that I was recovering. Besides, that was a cheap trick at best." She let out a deep breath and was looking exhausted. "'Charm' still only works on those of weak minds and if they were losing control like that just because of their lust then they are that weak." Serafall began to shout louder through the phone.

Rias remembered how Medusa could control trained warriors with less effort. "Do you need to sit down? Doing that from here must have been hard."

"Doing it at all was hard. Unfortunately my recovery is slower than I wanted it and that was never my Authority." Medusa placed a hand on her own chest, feeling the power of her sisters. "But using a video is more viable than a statue or picture."

"Not surprising since a video is just a portrait that is moving." Azazel commented, studying Medusa with a grin before turning to Sirzechs. "But her attitude is the right one and she was pretty decisive. Michael will approve."

"Approve of what?" Irisviel stepped beside Medusa, her eyes not the same of the doting mother or kind woman. These were the eyes of a cautious individual and when Azazel just smiled they grew more fierce. "I must remind you all that she is a guest at my son's home. I won't allow you to play games with her." She glanced at Sirzechs as well, her stance clear.

Medusa watched Irisviel's attitude and posture, nodding in appreciation. The goddess could feel the sincerity of the mother's heart, similar to her son's. Rias and Akeno both stood beside the pair with determined looks and Issei soon joined them with Zeoticus sheepishly smiling to his son before setting himself behind his daughter.

It didn't matter Sirzechs rank or reasons, he would not be getting his way if it was anything they didn't approve of.

The actual Lucifer waved his hand to calm everyone down. "There is no need to worry, we don't intend to harm her and my question wasn't one of suspicion. If anything I am impressed by her rate of recovery. Especially since she has no followers and has been recovering more passively." He shook his head with a smile. "No, if anything I am pleased since that will help with the Peace Talks."

"It will?" Rias asked with a raised eyebrow but before they could continue, Azazel clapped loudly.

"Explaining stuff is well and good but Vritra's host is going to be here soon and we have work to do." Grayfia nodded at his words since she managed to confirm with Sona that Saji was on the way. "Besides, Gasper needs space to train and I don't think he needs to hear this discussion."

"Why wasn't I informed of this?" Irisviel asked with a frown. Turning to Sirzechs the man showed no reaction at her sharp red eyes. "You asked us to help with security and Kiri asked you more than once to not spring random stuff during an operation."

More than a few eyebrows raised at Iri's attitude but her eyes were firmly on Sirzechs who raised his hands. "Okay, okay, I can see we have a failure of communication here." He pointed to himself and then Azazel repeatedly. "This is not random but something that was raised for the meeting after we got hold of Michael. It is harder to get him on the phone than anyone else. Also nothing has been decided but I need to talk with Medusa about it." He then relaxed as he saw the curiosity on Iri's face. "It won't change anything either, we are still going with Kiritsugu's plan for security with Maya as chief. It is not like Medusa wasn't in town and wouldn't be in the area anyway."

Grayfia stepped forward and bowed to the goddess respectfully. "Be as it may, many opportunities were open because of Kokabiel and this may be a chance not only for peace but for lady Medusa to recover completely." Now the goddess didn't bother to hide her curiosity and wide eyes. "So please listen to what my King has to say."

"Let's get into the club before anything. I find conversations like that better with beverages." Rias said it with a smile and inserted herself as a spectator to that meeting even if she wasn't invited. She turned to look at Akeno who nodded and began to proceed back to the building. "Ise, I will be trusting you with Gasper and Azazel. Don't let him do anything too extreme."

"Yes, Buchou!"

Sirzechs chuckled at his sister's small maneuver but made no comments, he saw no issue if Medusa didn't and the goddess just stepped forward towards the building with Iri right behind. The Emiya Matriarch had positioned herself as a lawyer of sorts, her eyes still focused mostly on Sirzechs for any mischief.

Azazel rubbed his chin as Issei and Gasper approached him, the smaller devil still weary. "Relax, the examination part is over and if you don't want to, I won't even touch you anymore."

Gasper still looked nervous. "Do I really have to drink blood?" Azazel did a double take before he began to laugh. "Eh?"

"It is not funny, 'Ace'." Issei stood before his kouhai protectively, something the former dhampir really appreciated as he wanted to rush back to the club.

"Fufufu, still upset? Come on, I told you that is really my name… is some States." He shrugged as it was obvious Issei wasn't really mad. The brown haired devil just wanted to show he had the blond one's corner. "And you have to admit; a vampire who doesn't drink blood is kinda a funny joke."

"He isn't a vampire, he's a devil." Gasper smiled at Issei's words and the Pawn patted his head. "It isn't like he doesn't drink blood either but he doesn't like to drink in front of strangers."

Dropping into a crouch, Azazel smiled to Gasper "Then I will just stand behind that tree when he needs to. Sounds better?" The Bishop nodded slowly and smiled again. "Perfect. Don't worry about me too much, I will be here just to give advice. Hah, It is even good you need the extra help."

Those words made Gasper curious. "Why?" He hated that his weakness just kept giving the people he cared for trouble.

But the fallen angel looked elated. "Because I will get the chance to study another sacred gear and help Genshirou to reach his true potential."

Surprisingly to Azazel, Issei easily nodded to his words. "He prefers to be called Saji, just so you know."

"I suppose that would be polite too." He chuckled, looking at Gasper again. "By the way, you stopped time an extra five times since the others got inside."

"Eeeeeeeee! I am sorry."

"Calm down, Gasper. Please don't cry."

"Hahaha! This is going to be fun"

"Maybe for you!"

…

Akeno felt a great deal of relief for not being in Azazel's presence anymore, even if he was just outside of the building. It took effort to remain calm when the man spoke about siblings as memories threatened to have her lash out. The Queen managed to keep hold of her bearing and was grateful for Grayfia's help as they prepared the tea.

Now that she could use Medusa's situation and meeting with Sirzechs to occupy her thoughts, Akeno couldn't be more grateful. 'I need to remember to thank Rias for getting me out there.' For those that didn't know her she looked calm but there was a rush to get inside the ORC that had never been there before. 'Why does this meeting need to be here? Couldn't it be in the Underworld or something?'

"Because, as was explained, this is the most relevant and neutral ground possible." Akeno dropped the cup in her hand but Grayfia quickly seized it.

"Did I… speak out loud?"

"No, but your face is easy to read. You were doing a great job before but it is clear that relaxing is giving the chance for the anxiety to catch up with you." Grayfia nodded before finishing putting water for the tea. "Not that I can blame you, knowing your history. However you made the Gremory proud with your control in a high stressful situation."

"Thank you but… I don't feel very accomplished." Akeno offered the silver haired woman a smile.

Grayfia returned it, her hand landing gently on the younger Queen's shoulder. "I understand. Let me tell you something about Azazel that may calm you down." She was happy that Akeno didn't react to the name. "He won't bring him up." Violet eyes grew wide but the pause was short. "Azazel is the kind of man who will fight for what believes in but the thing he values more above many is freedom of choice. He can understand that you suffered and that your family is a sore topic."

She let go and began to set the trail. Akeno was surprised but moved to help the little she could. It didn't take long for Grayfia to continue.

"That being said, don't expect him to not be indirect in his approach." The two traded looks, Grayfia's eyes full of sympathy. "The man is intelligent but can't help himself and that man is his family." She stopped short and smiled again. "And you are ours, so if he is bothering you tell me and I will set him straight."

Took a second for Akeno to realize she wasn't speaking with 'Grayfia the maid'. "Thank you."

Another sincere smile later, the silver haired maid's face grew more severe. "Keep making the Gremory name proud, Himejima Akeno. Now let us go, it is unbecoming of a Queen to let the King wait."

Fixing her school uniform to make sure there were no wrinkles, Akeno followed Grayfia back to the entrance hall of the ORC where everyone else was waiting. Since Rias suggested they drink while talking, the Sirzechs decided to not explain anything until the tea was served. He even joked around his father and Iri, the two men sitting on a couch as the woman sat in a chair beside them.

On another couch Medusa was close to Iri but her focus was in studying Sirzechs to figure out what he had planned for her. The goddess wanted to start the conversation as quickly as possible but refused to request it. Perhaps it was a small childish thought but she wasn't going to break first.

Rias also was trying to divine her brother's intentions but held her head with a hand, her arm on the arm of the couch with two seats of distance from Medusa. The youngest pureblood devil in the hall remained mostly to herself even when Iri tried to rope her into conversation.

Sure she was extremely polite to the mother of her lover but Rias wouldn't lie and say that her curiosity wasn't eating her.

Worse was that her brother knew it and Sirzechs was willing to let her think as much as she wanted.

Zeoticus was having a lot of fun talking with Iri as the two hit it off and were almost acting like old friends. Already they bonded over the fact their children were in a relationship and the man was getting as many details from Iri as he could. Had Rias not hyper focused on figuring out her brother's plans she would be a mess of shame at what Iri was telling her father.

When finally the tea arrived, Medusa couldn't be more grateful. "We have our beverages now so we can talk."

"We haven't taken a sip yet." Sirzechs joked back, ignoring the small bite in her tone. Medusa was too cute when in return she just swallowed all of her tea and kept looking at him. "Fhe, I see you are anxious."

"Curious." She was underselling it and Rias would as well. Immediately the devil invited Akeno to sit beside her, both taking sips of their tea so Sirzechs couldn't use them to stall.

Iri was of the same mind as she received her cup from Grayfia and turned her attention to the Maou after thanking the woman. For her part the maid didn't sit or even had tea, she just stood behind her King ready for anything. It was the perfect position to watch everyone both as a maid and as a bodyguard.

Sirzechs chuckled at Medusa's reponse. "Very well, since we are finally settled, then allow me to present you with this." From his suit the man pulled out a red envelope that had Zeoticus grinning.

"Lucifer or not you are still a Gremory." The father messed with his son's hair a little.

Both Medusa and Iri looked at Rias for an explanation. "It is a tradition that when we want to deliver good news we use a red envelope." The goddess nodded and retrieved the envelope, studying the symbol on it. "That is my brother's personal seal. It means that this is a good thing but still business."

The purple haired goddess looked at the smiling Maou and how he beckoned her to open the letter. That made pretty clear he wasn't going to say anything else and that she should read it.

'Isn't this the first time I get a correspondence?' Medusa did receive books from her favorite store but that was her first true mail. Suddenly her eyes began to shine at the idea which made her even cuter.

Iri had to hold back to not hug the goddess as she opened the letter excitedly and began to read it eagerly.

A raised eyebrow and a look of confusion had many curious. "So, what does it say?" Irisviel asked after just a few seconds.

Medusa looked at the smiling Maou before reading it out loud. "'Lady Medusa, you are cordially invited for the meeting between the Three Factions.'" She held the letter for Sirzechs. "What is the meaning of this?"

"What it looks like, we are inviting you for our meeting in an official capacity."

"Weren't we going to be part of it anyway?" Rias asked her brother cautiously. "We faced Kokabiel. I expected our testimony to be called."

The Maou nodded. "And it will. But Medusa's situation is special; she isn't part of our Factions and a goddess. If she is to join our alliance, obviously she is going to get a seat at the table."

Those words surprised everyone but Grayfia who calmly refilled her King's tea cup.

…

"Heaven owes you a great debt."

"I didn't fix Caliburn for a reward or anything like that. I just didn't didn't want people to keep abusing it."

"That makes your actions even more noteworthy. Even more reason for you to take our thanks and a suitable reward once I think of one."

"I already said you don't need to do it."

Xenovia watched the back and forth between her Master with the Seraph and couldn't help but chuckle. It has been a few minutes since Michael started to offer praises to Shirou but the redhead wasn't interested in whatever reward the angel wanted to give him.

Usually that would be that but Michael was proving himself to be surprisingly stubborn in making Shirou accept a reward of some kind. Caliburn was something precious to him and with how he looked at the sword it was clear the Seraph held it in the highest esteem. If there was someone who disliked the fact it had been broken in the first place it was him.

However the unstoppable force had met the immovable object as Shirou refused each and every suggestion of gifts Michael offered, insisting that it wasn't a job since there were no deals for him to reforge Caliburn and he did it out of his own volition so it would be unethical for him to receive payment..

If anyone told Xenovia that Michael, Archangel and Right Hand of God would pout at being rejected she would ask what they were smoking. Yet she was witnessing just that as the Seraph found himself without arguments and Shirou was too stubborn even for him.

Yet he wasn't the Leader of Angels for nothing and changing tactics was an option he had. "How did you manage to fix Caliburn? I confess that I gave up hope of that even being accomplished due to how many had tried."

Taking a deep breath, Shirou debated the question since the answer could vary between extremely simple or really complicated.

He went with simple, trusting Michael's character. "I have a Reality Marble." The angel's eyes grew wide.

"I see… Thanks for trusting me with this. Neither Azazel or Sirzechs gave up your secret and I have to say… that makes a surprising amount of sense." Michael approached the magus and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry, I won't tell a soul."

"Thank you."

"Not at all. I already said that we owe you a debt."

That was exactly what Shirou wanted to hear. "But if you keep my secret I can consider the debt repaid."

The Mage of Swords expected that to be the end of it but Michael let out a small laugh. "This isn't how this works. The same way you would fix Caliburn because of your principles, I would never reveal your secret due to mine." Shirou cursed under his breath, earning a frown from the angel. "Language."

"Right, sorry." The redhead shook his head as the angel turned back to Caliburn.

"Still, there is more than we owe you, not only about Caliburn." Michael sounded a little depressed and when he looked back at Shirou, his eyes held a deeper sadness. "I spoke with Ariel."

"Ariel?" Xenovia didn't know what made her more curious; the name or the fact Shirou winced at it.

"Is she… Did she recover?" That was the closest thing to hesitation the bluehead had seen from him.

"'Recover' is a strong word. She is coherent but refuses to leave Heaven." At Shirou's look of confusion, Michael knew he needed to explain. "She is afraid that if she leaves then she is going to Fall." The magus nodded in understanding, not surprised in the slightest.

"Excuse me." Xenovia raised her hand like she was in the classroom. "Who is Ariel?"

The two men traded looks and Michael took the lead. "She is an angel. One of the younger ones." He chuckled. "Although that is more for us angels since to you she can be considered old by a few centuries." All humor left him. "One of the last sisters made by Father before his demise, Ariel was supposed to be a Guardian Angel."

"A Guardian Angel? So she should be on people's shoulders?" Shirou couldn't help himself and didn't even flinch at Xenovia's elbow.

"Not on people's shoulders but she is the kind of person who would lend an ear and help when necessary. A Guardian Angel's original function was 'to guide and protect a certain person'. Once upon a time Father wanted an angel for everyone on the planet."

If God still was around then that plan would have happened but unfortunately He wasn't. "Ariel being there was my father's fault." Shirou rubbed the back of his neck with some shame. "The old man was trying to teach me a lesson and that gave her an opportunity to show up on the island."

"Even if the opportunity was presented by the Magus Killer, Ariel shouldn't have taken the bait. That was her mistake and hers alone." Sounded harsh but in reality Michael didn't blame Ariel. She was doing what she was born to do; help Humanity. Defeating a monster was right on that alley. "Did you know she would talk about you? About that Noble Phantasm?" Shirou nodded cautiously. "Why not enforce a Geas on her then? You did so with her bodyguards."

"After all she went through I pitied her." He could still remember the mumbling angel praying to not Fall. Considering God was dead, that made him feel worse. "Ariel just wanted to do the right thing; to protect everyone and solve the threat of the Shapeless Island. Had she not kept attacking after Medusa was saved then I would have loved talking with her."

Michael nodded in understanding. "Unfortunately that wasn't what happened. Never I expected a Noble Phantasm to affect us so much. Muramasa…"

"All it did was bring out the worst of her goals, feeding them until they turned into obsession." With how Ariel was, she never saw Medusa, only the Gorgon. "Had I let her kill Medusa then she wouldn't have been affected. I just couldn't let that happen because no matter how much Ariel would suffer, Medusa suffered more in her prison."

Michael surprised Shirou. "I think you made the right call." He almost couldn't believe what the Seraph said. "If she had killed Medusa, someone that was a victim of her circumstances, that would have made her Fall out of guilt. Swords or not." He smiled kindly. "So as bad things were, they could have been worse. Unfortunately." The angel approached Shirou with a look of resolve. "Your Reality Marble is connected with swords, correct? You still have that Noble Phantasm in a sense."

"Yes, but I don't lend it to anyone." There was no way that Shirou would risk someone's mental health.

A decision Michael approved. "Could you lend it to me?" The redhead was too shocked by the sudden request to comment on it.

"Lord Michael, are you sure?" The risk of the Leader of Angels turning into a fallen angel actually scared Xenovia. "I have seen Muramasa in action, it is powerful but I'm sure you don't need it."

The blond raised a hand and offered the former Exorcist a gentle smile. "It is not a matter of power but that sword may help me with something else. To understand myself." The students gave the angel a look of confusion but he kept smiling. "I just desire to hold it."

"That will already be enough for it to take hold of you." Shirou warned.

"Good. I feared that I would need to spill blood, although I would give it my own. Now that I know I don't need to and that is a relief." Michael was making it clear he wasn't going to budge on it and Shirou decided to take the risk.

Muramasa was Traced without fanfare. "If I feel there is something wrong I am making it disappear."

"I expected no less from you." The confidence behind the angel's eyes was enough to outshine any sadness. "But this is something I need to do." Michael presented his hand, making no effort to take the sword.

Shirou gave it to him and once Muramasa was in his hands Michael revealed his wings once again. Already the magus could tell that differently from Ariel, Michael wasn't affected by the sword, the man taking a few swings with it. While there was some skill behind his strikes, it was like Muramasa was heavier than what he was used to.

"Hmm. I understand." Michael returned the sword to Shirou who released its existence. "A good sword. Adding the power of an angel and maybe it could have killed the Gorgon." Yet the angel looked at his wings again, a sadder look on his eyes before he folded them. "Ariel is recovering but it will take time until she is mentaly prepared to descend from Heaven again."

"That is good. That is good." Shirou looked conflicted regardless.

"But she will recover." Xenovia spoke of noticing the emotions spreading on the magus' face. "And won't feel guilty about hurting anyone. That is a good thing."

Shirou could see what she was doing and smiled. "Yeah, you are right."

Michael smiled again and turned to look at Caliburn one more time. "I need to go soon, there is much to be done before the meeting proper." He glanced at Shirou with a pout before a look of realization filled his face. "Say, if Azazel told me the story right, omitting your Reality Marble of course, you picked a fight with the White Dragon Emperor, right?"

"Please don't remind me of that."

"So you did." Michael sounded pleased. "What do you say about me lending you a Dragon Slaying Sword?" That had Shirou's attention and Xenovia's excitement. "Sounds like something you need."

Shirou gave Michael a deadpan stare. "You aren't going to let me say 'no', are you?"

"You are free to reject it, the same way I am free to keep asking."

"Master, Master, a Dragon Slaying Sword could really help you." Xenovia also wanted to take a look at it.

Not that Shirou wasn't interested either, the smith in him certainly was. "Well, my old man taught me to use all resources at my disposal. But you are just lending it, do you hear me? After I take a look at it my Reality Marble will take care of the rest."

Michael nodded with a bright smile. "I will have it sent to you today through Sirzechs. Even if it is a Holy Sword I don't think he will mind." He then offered a grin. "Tell me, have you ever heard of Ascalon?"

Now Shirou was really interested and Xenovia couldn't stop herself from grinning. "Saint George's sword?! Master, can I use it? Please, please, please please please!"

"Okay, okay. Calm down a little." By the face she was making, Shirou already knew Xenovia would never forgive him if he rejected it.

…

When he got called to help with Gasper's training, Saji didn't know what to expect. On seeing how strong the former dhampir became with some of Ise's blood he quickly understood what he needed to do and Absorption Line got to work.

It was then that things got weird. "So you can only make one tongue?" Azazel asked, his eyebrows raised as Ise trew tennis balls so Gasper could stop them from falling.

"Can we please not call it a tongue?" Saji used it on spars against girls so he got easily embarrassed.

Something that had Azazel rolling his eyes. "Fine, so you can only make one line?"

"Isn't my sacred gear named 'Absorption Line'?" He said while moving his arm up and down. "You know, singular?"

"Oi, don't get cheeky with me." Despite that Azazel chuckled. "You do know that sacred gears grow with the user, right?"

"So?"

"So… why don't you try and make another line?" The look of disbelief on Saji's face had Azazel laughing. "Hahahaha! Oh Heavens, you haven't thought about that, did you?"

"Is that possible?" Saji frowned at his sacred gear but nothing changed.

"It won't be if you don't believe it is." Azazel laid his arm around Saji's neck. "Don't think too hard, just make another line pop from the lizard's mouth."

Immediately Saji got to focus on that, getting distracted and making Gasper's power pulse too much. "Saji what the fuck?" Ise demanded to know as most of the area was frozen in time until the Bishop fell to his knees. The Pawn ran to help the smaller devil as Saji winced. "Gasper, are you alright?"

"Sorry senpai. But I managed to hold it back." With the smile of triumph on his face, Ise didn't blame him for the mistake.

He blamed his fellow Pawn. "Dude, Gasper can't control the power, you are supposed to be absorbing it."

"My bad but this guy was putting weird ideas in my head." He pointed at Azazel with his thumb.

"Hey, hey. I was only trying to help. Didn't your King explain that absorbing too much power could be bad for you?"

"What does that have to do with anything?" Saji remembered the warnings even if most of them lacked an explanation. Sona just said it would be dangerous and he took her word as law.

"Well if you have a second tongue- I am sorry you sensitive baby, line, then you can absorb energy and send it out at the same time." Both Pawns gave Azazel baffled looks and he facepalmed. "Did nobody point out that your sacred gear can send your energy to other people?" Saji nodded and the Cadre was happy he at least knew the basics. "Now don't you think it would be too much work, or leave you too vulnerable, if you only have one line to work with?"

It clicked. "I can make more lines!" Immediately another line sprung from the lizard's mouth.

Ise wasn't impressed. "Okay, cool, he can make more lines. Can we focus on Gasper now?"

"Don't mind me." The little devil hid behind the Pawn, shaking a little.

However, Azazel wasn't done. "Most people wouldn't know about it since the Absorption Line is an extremely dangerous Longinus."

"Aren't all Longinus kinda dangerous by default?" Ise asked nonchalantly and from his hand the gem of his sacred gear began to shine.

[More than normal, partner, since there isn't a cap for how much energy it can absorb.]

"But Kaichou said that was dangerous."

"She certainly didn't want to give you any nightmares because of it." Azazel patted Saji's back hard a few times. "But now you don't need to fear it. Send one line to the ground and keep the other on young Gasper. Once you get the hang of it then you won't have to worry about it ever again."

"I will be even more helpful." With a new boost of confidence, the new line was shot on the ground while the other grew tighter on Gasper's wrist. "Hell yeah! Let's keep going!"

"Slow down you idiot, Gasper is about to pass out." At Ise's warning, Saji stopped as the Red Dragon Emperor helped the Bishop.

"Give him more blood so we can get going." Azazel began walking towards the box with a lot of balls with a grin. "Come on children, I want to see what this small vampire can do. Maybe he can become a cloud of bats, every single one with the ability to stop time?"

"Meep!"

"Too soon?" Azazel joked as Gasper bit Ise's finger and soon mana began to flow through his body. "See, no harm no foul. Now let's get to work."

"Can't we slow down a little?" Ise protested weakly as he joined Azazel.

"Can I drag him to my lab for some tests?" The dry look he received was answer enough. "Then we can't slow down. Depending on what is decided on the Peace Talks then I may not have another chance to work with you." He took a few steps back while juggling a few balls. "We will be launching it higher to give Gasper more time to get used to it! Then, once he manages to stop one a few times, we will start throwing two or three!"

"Roger!" Saji was far more excited now that he didn't need to fear his sacred gear.

However Azazel wanted to talk about it, that was why he made sure he was out of Saji's ear shot. "What did you tell your partner about Absorption Line, Ddraig?"

The dragon hadn't dismissed his jewel since the training began. [Nothing much, certainly not what an uncontrolled Vritra can do.]

Azazel nodded in understanding and then began with a casual question. "Have you ever been to the Caribbean, Issei?" The look of confusion on the student's face was telling. "Do you at least know what the Caribbean is?"

"It's an island, right?" A moment of silence passed by them. "I don't have the best grades."

The Cadre couldn't help but massage his temples and take a long breath. "Go check the internet later, do some research. Already have too much on my plate to teach you Geography." It was not that he didn't have the patience to teach but only when it interested him. "But in modern day the Caribbean can be described as a formation of islands."

"'In modern day'?"

"Hah, catched on to that, did you?" Azazel threw another ball that remained in the air for one second before falling down. "We are aiming for at least seven seconds here! Seven seconds! I am sure Rias will love that reference." Issei avoided wincing since he was the one who told the fallen angel about his King's hobby.

He threw another ball while Issei processed everything and to his credit the Pawn didn't need long to deduce what happened. "You're saying…" He gulped nervously. "That Vritra did that? He made some islands?"

"Close but no cigar. Want to try again?" Azazel chuckled as he threw another ball. "It used to be a single island. Take that as you will." It was amusing for the fallen angel how pale the devil became. "I wasn't there but fortunately someone else was. Right, Ddraig?

[Hmm, it is partially my fault that the island was broken into pieces but Vrita's host was the main responsible. My host at the time was the captain of a ship and we stopped there to resupply.] The dragon's voice was full of nostalgia. [You never would have met a better crew on the seven seas than them, true pirates.]

"Pirates? Your previous partner was a pirate?"

[Don't sound so surprised. I had an amalgamation of partners of all walks of life; officers of the law and criminals alike. But Davey and his crew lived as dragons would; take what you can! Hahahaha!]

"At least tell me you heard about Davy Jones." Issei's neck almost broke with how fast he looked at Azazel, his eyes ready to jump from his head. "But never heard about the Caribbean. To be fair it is on the other side of the globe."

"I watched too much TV when I was a kid, alright!" Issei threw the ball he had been holding for a while. It went a little too high but Gasper managed to catch it. "But Davy Jones, the legendary pirate? Even I heard about him."

While happy that Issei knew about one of his predecessors, Ddraig focused on the story. [Vritra's host at the time was a conqueror who took over the island and ruled it with an iron fist.] By the severity of his tone it was evident that person wasn't a good ruler. [As pirates there are few ports that will receive you and the Caribbean of those days had no contacts with Europe so Davey and his crew were not criminals to them. We were well received, fed and even traded some of our cargo. Then Vritra's host came along to ruin everything.]

A curse left Ddraig's inexistent lips because he remembered having fun that day until everything went downhill. And it went fast.

['Tribute', he said, we owned his tribute from using his land and interacting with his people. Now if there is one thing you have to understand about real pirates is this; we hate taxes.] None commented how Ddraig began to calm himself 'pirate' in the middle of the story. [And that right there was a tax and Davey's response was… properly dragon-like.]

If it was something Ddraig would approve, Issei could guess. "He punched the guy, didn't he?"

[Hah! A punch? He shot the bastard in the knee and told him 'you are only king because I don't care' and went back to drinking. Why bother killing a weakling when we could enjoy the party. We even let the bastard be carried out, that was our mistake.]

"When too much energy is accumulated, the fragment of Vritra's soul begins to act up and the true power of the Evil Dragon can be unleashed." Azazel explained solemnly, already knowing where the story was going. "That is because, unlike the Boosted Gear, Absorption Line only has part of a dragon. It has no intellect or even the ability to properly communicate."

[And when it is left out you can bet that the thing is pissed from being woken up. Even the original Vritra had a better temper.] And coming from another dragon that was saying something. [That was how the bastard became king, he absorbed the power of his warriors and just used it to conquer the place. So he tried to pull that on us but of course Davey and I wouldn't lose to a wimp like that. Our second mistake was not killing him immediately.]

Things began to fall into place soon after for Issei. "He absorbed too much power?"

[Bastard unleashed dozens of tongues and grabbed everyone in sight. Even some of our crew got caught which made things worse because they were protected by Davey's Balance Breaker.]

"Wait, his Balance Breaker protected his crew?"

"Now you are starting to understand why the name is 'Balance Breaker'." Azazel commented with a chuckle. "Some of them are just so powerful and bizarre that no other name would do them justice." He chuckled again at some sort of personal joke.

Still Issei was still trying to wonder what kind of Balance Breaker Davy Jones had. "So he had the Scale Mail around his whole crew?"

[Scale Mail is my Balance Breaker, only my partners can use it. No, Davey's sacred gear was called Flying Dragon Vessel because 'a captain is only as great as their crew and ship'.] Obviously the dragon was fond of that memory. [It was a magnificent piece of art, partner. Our whole ship was covered with my scales and every member of our crew was like a small dragon in their own right.]

"They could even make their ship fly." Azazel spoke a little jokily but it was clearly not a joke.

[Anyway, point is that by seizing one of our crew, Vritra began to build up power fast. Too fast for us to stop and soon the bastard was unleashed.]

"This is the part where I remind you that is only a fragment of the dragon, not the whole thing. No conscious thought, just fury and instinct, almost like Vritra was still fighting Indra."

[We rushed back to the ship and got ready to fight, all hands on deck. It was the second toughest fight of Davey's life, only the White One of that age could compare.] There was a grunt of irritation from Ddraig. [Even as a fragment, Vritra never was a push over and kept absorbing everything to get more power. You think it odd that Azazel told him to send energy to the grounds? At some point he can take it from there too if he tries.]

Azazel shrugged in response. "But it takes time to build up enough energy to be able to do that. Time that most people don't have in a fight. Indeed, the only reason the Caribbean Conqueror ended up unleashing Vritra was because of previous preparation and fear. Mostly fear." He looked at Issei with a severe look. "And by that point he just needed a little nudge and one member of Davy Jones' indulged him."

[They were pirates, usually not the sharpest tool in the box.]

"Hahahaha! Fair, fair." Azazel held back a little more before continuing. "Anyway, compared to Divine Dividing, calling the Absorption Line a Longinus is kind of a stretch. Both have the same power but in a different scale; Divine Dividing robs the power every ten seconds while Absorption Line takes longer to have the same effect if as much." He was not counting their Balance Breakers but the point stood. "However, the Absorption Line is still the 13th Longinus, why is that?"

Only then Issei remembered he was part of the conversation. "Because of Vritra, because he can escape."

"Not escape but you got the idea. Smarter than you give yourself credit for." Azazel found Ise's flushing funny. "13 is considered an unlucky number for many reasons; it was Judas' number in the Last Supper, dates with that number are ideal for witchcraft, to mark certain sights, to calculate the values of certain curses. A number full of meanings, dangerous meanings." The Cadre threw a ball extremely high to distract Saji and Gasper while he pointed at them, at the Pawn. "Those who are Vritra's host have low power and potential for if left alone they will unleash the fragment of the Evil Dragon. Then people will die, including them for unlike Ddraig and Albion, Vritra's fragment won't stop. Can't stop."

Issei was shocked at the words as he looked at Saji with a deep sense of pity and desperation. When thinking about his own situation Hyoudou could only be glad he had the Boosted Gear, besides a Rival that was far stronger than him there were little to no drawbacks and it was an extremely powerful tool.

However Saji's position was basically the reverse as if he were to use the power of his sacred gear to its full potential the consequences could be devastating.

"Can we help him?" Issei finally asked in desperation and Azazel offered him a gentle smile.

"Well, I have a plan but we need to see how the meeting goes first." His smile then gained a mad scientist's mania. "After that, if the problem is Vritra being divided, we just have to patch the dragon back together."

…

"Why?" Medusa asked flatly, her eyes sharp as she studied the man.

Sirzechs did as a good devil would and smiled like a true businessman. "'Why' what exactly, lady Medusa?"

If anything it made the purple haired goddess less impressed. "Why me; a goddess without followers, barely any power, no lands, or anything of value to her name, is being invited to a meeting of Three Factions which may lead to their union? Potentially the most important event in your history?" She immediately raised a hand. "And don't you say something like me being a witness; many here are already invited and my input wouldn't be missed.".

"That is indeed true, this invitation is just for you. Even if all the others are going they are mostly being summoned as they are our subordinates and allies." Sirzechs admitted but many were looking at him skeptically. Such admission still said nothing. "Either way your position is special and so you are officially invited."

"But why?" Medusa was starting to get annoyed and she made an effort to not show it. Her face remained calm, her tone firm. "Stop stalling. I may look like a child and lived most of my existence like a monster but don't you dare pass me as ignorant."

"I would never."

"Then explain."

The demand held no threat and carried no magic to compel the man to talk, none of it would work on Sirzechs anyway. She had no leverage and no power compared to Lucifer.

However she had a weapon many couldn't claim to possess. "Please." Her eyes were doe-like, her hands were together in prayer of hope as she leaned on the table with her upper body, she blinked slowly and made her lip shake a little.

Sirzechs was caught off guard and almost cracked then and there. However his wife was already prepared to relieve him. "He cannot explain, it would violate some of the conditions for the Peace Talks." The woman that the goddess herself bestowed as the Ultimate Maid remained absolutely professional. "One of the parts of the alliance requested that things only be explained during the meeting."

"Grayfia, that sounds ridiculous." Rias pointed out but the woman barely glanced her way. "They want her to go to a meeting and not even tell her why? What is the point? It can't be her presence in Fuyuki, it makes no sense."

Distracted from the cuteness attack, Sirzechs managed to recover. "There is a reason, I just can't say it." He offered them a small smile but not a single woman in the room could take his word at face value. "We have no intentions of expelling her or anything like that and if you read the whole letter then you will see that she doesn't need to go if she doesn't want to. That is the point of an invite."

"May I see it." Medusa gave the letter to Iri who read it thoroughly. "All you are asking is her presence, saying that it is for something important, suggestions of security-"

"I have only one protector and he will already be there."

"More reason for you to go." Sirzechs suggested happily.

Iri pouted at being interrupted but shook her head after finishing the letter. "What are you not telling us?" The man's lips were sealed and she sighed. "Mou. This kind of thing is why Kiri doesn't like to work with you directly."

"Wait, he doesn't?" Sirzechs was the one pouting now.

"Do you realize how unpredictable you can get? We already have enough with our children." Rias could sympathize with the taller woman's plight. The former Einzebern couldn't help herself and massaged her temples. "I get that politics needs secrecy but you should still be telling this stuff to your security. If Kiri was the kind to do it, he would have a fit. Maya for sure will be annoyed."

"I can tell you." Sirzechs surprised everyone and even his father was confused about what kind of game he was playing. Only for the man's posture to change and his eyes become sharper. "But you may not tell Medusa about it."

The one speaking wasn't Sirzechs Gremory who came to visit his sister but Sirzechs Lucifer who ruled the Underworld. Zeoticus began to lean forward on his seat as he watched the mask of the Maou with some caution. While proud of his son's accomplishments, he was unsettled.

And he wasn't the only one as all looked at Lucifer carefully. "Lady Medusa." Even his tone sounded more authoritarian. "As the letter states, this won't compromise your security or position, you have my word. If you go or not, the choice is yours."

"Can you at least tell us which Faction called for her?" Akeno's question surprised many. "It cannot be the devils, there would be no need for secrecy otherwise."

"That leaves two others." Sirzechs offered but crossed his arms and relaxed before smiling again. "Even if you can deduce who requested your presence, I still can't tell their reasons. Looks like you will have to go anyway."

"You want her to go." Irisviel realized but the devil didn't react.

They all realized he couldn't and so Medusa let out a sigh of frustration while finding her resolve. "Very well, I shall go."

All watched the Maou but his reaction was neither positive or negative, he just crossed his legs and nodded. "Good, with that all members of our meeting have confirmed their presence. Should we consider Shirou going as your bodyguard or our guest?"

Medusa waved the question off. "Either way is fine. My protector will act if needed."

"Good to know but I doubt it will be necessary. There will be plenty of guards around before the bodyguards in the room ever will have to do anything." He then let out a confident grin. "Not even counting us, of course. Few opponents would dare to face Lucifer, Michael and Azazel in any circumstance."

"Which brings me to remind you that there are plenty of fools who would try anyway and some who are capable of actually doing damage." Irisviel worked with her husband enough to know that he would approve of her observation. She still let her shoulders drop. "Going to have to call Maya to update the security during the meeting and add another chair for Medusa."

"Sounds simple enough." Sirzechs comment earned him a glare from Iri but she let out a sigh and picked up a phone to make some calls. Since the taller woman would be busy, he turned to his sister. "So, should we go back to class?"

Raising an eyebrow, Rias wasn't ready to let things go. "It was Heaven." The sudden announcement shocked some but she sounded absolutely certain.

"Oh, why do you say that?" Sirzechs didn't look ready to confirm or deny anything.

However, now that Rias chose her course of action she needed to either commit fully or give up. "Azazel would have told us already but his interest in Medusa was in passing while he paid more attention to Shiro and Ise." There was also the fact the man wasn't present for this but her brother could offer other justifications. "It couldn't be us, devils, since she has been in our territory for a year now and nobody made a big deal. On top of that you wouldn't let her be bothered after she saved my life, onii-sama."

Sirzechs nodded, pleased by the deductions. "Still can't confirm anything, but understand that this shall also be a topic broached at the meeting, be Medusa there or not." He looked at the goddess who frowned. "Don't worry, it isn't anything I would disapprove of and the final word is yours. All you have to do is wait for the Peace Talks and everything will be revealed. Anyway, you don't need to leave Fuyuki unless you take the deal."

"Sirzechs-sama, be careful. You almost violated the contract." Grayfia chastised the man who shrugged.

"So there is a contract and I can guess most of the leaders can't speak about certain things until the meeting." Akeno immediately threw the possibility out there and Sirzechs was free to nod, showing that the contract does not affect the contract itself. "Since you can tell Iri, she also is on the contract." The woman laughed nervously but nodded. "And if I have to guess you can tell us what we already know and nothing else, to an extent."

"Correct again." Sirzechs admitted, confirming he couldn't say anything new. "This is a great opportunity for our Factions." He began with a soft smile. "After millenia of war, we are about to make peace, real peace. Most of our talks are going to be public later and the contract isn't applied to those. However, what someone needs to talk to Medusa may not go public, depending how things go." He chuckled and shrugged. "So the less people know, the better. This is for the sake of Peace and I need to respect my future ally request even if you will learn that later when the actual meeting starts."

"I understand." Medusa relaxed more, knowing the whole situation was just due to caution and presented no danger for her. At least none she could see. "Thanks for being honest."

"As much as I can." He nodded, his smile always gentle.

…..

Working at her lab with a lollipop in her mouth, Illyasviel enjoyed the treat as her fingers moved constantly on her most important project to date. Her hands moved like she was conducting a symphony but any musician could tell it was the most complicated piece ever composed if it was real.

The lab where she was in was completely white with many working in various giant tubes, objects, instruments and other kinds of experiments, all under her guidance. Some were volunteers who wished to learn for her but the majority of the workers shared her white hair and red eyes.

Homunculi worked around and with their brethren as some were still growing in their tubes. If anything they were the ones that Illya trusted the most with her experiments but because of the organization she was in the woman knew she had to 'play ball' and accept others.

Not that she minded when she had permission to kick any idiot off her lab but she still found the whole thing annoying. Good for her then she had an excellent assistant who noticed some sweat forming and quickly cleaned it up. She was not only great at getting rid of the annoyances but actually predicted what Illya needed before Illya herself.

"Thanks Sella."

"Of course, Illya-sama." The maid was still as formal as ever and moved little in her mistress' field of vision to not interrupt the delicate procedure.

She didn't need to bother as the many failures got Illya so good at it she spent most of her time playing with her lollipop. 'Humm~ Cherry~' Even then her mind still held that the operation was too important to make mistakes so her eyes never left the giant glass box in front of her.

Playing with her tongue, Illya also moved her indicator to manipulate the wires her brother gave her as a gift. Mana worked to make the movement perfect as muscle kept it stable even as she worked fast. All her fingers moved in this rhythm that could not be broken as her eyes missed no detail.

Threads of silver metal kept going and going as special silk which she made herself transformed before her very eyes as many of her volunteers watched in astonishment. And this wouldn't even be her greatest work once it was done, just part of it and she was still on the schedule even after some delays.

Much like Sella almost everyone in the lab avoided even talking to not disturb what could only be called a work of art. Inside the special glass it looked like something normal but they knew what their leader was making and so didn't dare to even think about interrupting her, doing so would not only earn her ire but of those backing her.

Many couldn't do it without losing their heads after, many who could would hesitate. "Illyasviel von Einzbern!" Some jumped at the woman's voice as her two guards pushed the doors hard enough for them to slam the walls. Illya just played with her lollipop and kept working. "What is the meaning of this?! You took away half of the support you promised!"

The woman was a couple of centimeters taller than Illya and unlike the white haired maiden who was using a lab coat and purple sweater the woman dressed to flaunt all she had. With how her cleavage was exposed it wouldn't be hard to mix her up with a worker of the night.

Despite her clothes the woman acted much like a noble and strode inside the lab confidently, no one dared to step in her way. While her clothes would be scandalous in any court they still were high quality. Her dress was extremely low cut, leaving nothing to imagination with a high slit which barely hid her breasts.

Those that were not homunculi and so less resistant to the appeals of the flesh couldn't help but allow their eyes to wander in her voluptuous breasts which perfectly complemented her figure.

Her glasses, which didn't hide her purple eyes, also gave her an air of an intellectual even as the fury revealed a warrior of some kind. Her brown hair also was tied in many braids suited for a woman of high station with a headset for a bun right at the top that looked like a crown.

The bespectacled woman stopped only when someone stood in her path. "Out of my way, Heracles."

"You are not disturbing Illya's work, Katerea." The muscular man crossed his arms and his glare grew more intense. "What she is doing is too important for you to interrupt." Of all present only he dared to challenge the devil and she didn't like it.

"You think a mere descendant of a hero can stop me?" Mana began to pour around the area in a level that showed the woman wasn't joking. "I am Katerea Leviathan and I will not be-"

"Let her through, Herc." Illya didn't look away from her work even as Sella looked ready to attack. "If we try to stop her something important may break and I don't have the patience to fix it. Say what you want, Katerea, then leave my workshop."

Heracles did as instructed and stepped to the side, still close enough to intervene. "You dare to treat me like I am one of your dolls?!" More power poured over but Illya still didn't turn around. "Look at me when I am talking to you, Einzbern!"

"I am literally building one of the key components for my Faction's operation after I already did a lot for yours." If anything Illya just sounded unimpressed. "So, Leviathan, if you want me to stop, threats are not going to help because they are not relevant enough."

If one would look at the two from profile they could notice that both of them were practically opposites despite the same main color of clothes.

There was no denying that the duo had noble bearings but where Illya was the image of boredom which hid wisdom, Katerea was an almost volatile fury.

From the detached sleeves that exposed her shoulders and reached her wrists, Katerea lit a magic circle before stopping herself and looking at Heracles. The man was still too close and even with the power she was letting out he clearly was going to stop any attempt of an attack.

No, Katerea Leviathan was noble of birth and decided to act as such, retrieving her power and fixing her white long skirt which had an opening revealing her legs. She fixed her hair and while she smiled there was poison in it that still showed her fury.

Not that Illya cared as her fingers kept working around. "Why did you take away some of the warriors from my operation?"

"Five hundred is more than some and I touched no devil. It is your Faction's thing, after all." A spark of energy showed Katerea's irritation but it went mostly ignored. "The Hero Faction is entering the final stages of our preparation, soon we are going to move for real. We can't go around risking our men anymore."

"You are still part of the Khaos Brigade and need to contribute to assisting its other components or else our alliances are pointless." Her smile turned more malicious. "If we don't show support for each other's goals then betray and assassination won't be very far."

"I am still supporting." Her left hand, still connected with strings, was raised and turned into a fist. "Go Old Satan Faction. Kick their asses. Yay." It went back to work as Katerea gritted her teeth. "See, supportive."

"Words are wind and we need numbers." Illya saw things wrong with both sentences but said nothing. "We need the magicians that we were promised to capture and work the-"

"Time Stop idea, yeah, yeah." But she never was that patient and the older woman was irritating her. "Don't know why you want to do it since it won't work against any of the leaders of the Three Factions. Still makes sense if you want to eliminate their guards without many losses but there are a lot of heavy weights there and I wouldn't recommend going forward with it but that is your operation, not mine." Illya played around with the lollipop again, wishing she could stop working to take it off her mouth. "But I don't remember promising to help with this one."

"The payment-"

"Was for other operations and we already did our part. The fact that you are complaining to me means that either Gilgamesh already rejected you or you know that he won't hear of it."

To Illya that meant that Katerea had nothing that Gilgamesh wanted and was running out of cards to play. Their plan to use a certain sacred gear to secure an easier victory was a good one in her opinion but the white haired woman knew they didn't need it per say. Not when the heavy hitters weren't going to be affected by it, just the guards.

But then again there were other things they had prepared and the Old Satan Faction held more power than just Katerea for that particular operation, it was because of such power it was green lit.

The number of trump cards was fundamental when fighting in the moonlit world, double so when the opponents are the leaders of Factions, especially strong ones like the Three Factions of Christianity.

Regardless, both knew all that and yet the Leviathan still showed with demands. Illya just didn't have any interest in them.

"Oh~ But I do have something you want." This time Katerea's words sounded sweet, so sweet that they were believable. Illya stopped moving her fingers and raised her head to show she was listening. "I have news about your precious brother~ I have to say even I am starting to grow interested in the type of man he is becoming~"

Illya's teeth destroyed the lollipop. "Careful, Skank, or you won't leave this place alive."

"So you don't want to hear what you brother did that was so impressive our spies rushed to tell me? He is making the news these days but mostly only with devils. I doubt you will get it if I tell our men to remain silent." She placed her hand over her lips. "Perhaps you don't care about his success? What a cruel sister you are, Illya. Then again that is very human of you."

"From a devil like you? That is a complement." The come back had no bite as they both knew Illya was in check. Everyone in the lab knew it. "Fine; I will send a convent of witches with you, they are more than enough to pull off the ritual."

"How many are those? Thirty or so?" Katerea scoffed at the low numbers. "Odds are they won't even be strong enough to capture the devil we need." She began to pace around, watching some of Illya's assistants with false intrigue. "No, we need more to help against the elite of the Underworld. The five hundred we requested will be enough."

"Rejected. I don't control that many people, Gilgamesh takes care of most of our infantry and Cao Cao is the one commanding most of our sacred gear users." Illya was sure it was common knowledge but she could understand the numbers were uncertain. "I can get you one hundred if you insist on bulk; some good magicians also can summon golems and familiars to help in the fight so you can count that as up to one thousand bodies if you like."

"But with five we would have five thousand~" Katerea touched one of the tubes with an object she couldn't identify no matter how much she studied it. "Come now, I know you have more than just one hundred people. Don't try and push yourself down by saying the men control more than you."

Illya rolled her eyes at the attempt of garner sympathy. 'She thinks I will fall for that? Of course she does. Blind bat with the whole proud devil thing who thinks every scheme she concots is clever even when they are suicidal. Or just plain dumb.' After a moment she decided how she would play that out. "Yes, they do, don't waste time debating that. Not that it matters since I need many magicians to coordinate dozens of rituals and other stuff. Or do you think this is my only workshop?"

"I can ask my colleagues to make some devils available to work for you. You don't need to depend just on homunculus and magicians, Illyasviel." That would also put spies in her labs which she didn't want nor need.

However, to get the conversation going, Illya pretended to consider it. "Two hundred, that is as high as I can go without risking the Hero Faction's interests."

Katerea smiled in victory. "If that is all you can give then it is all I will take."

"So… my brother…" Illya made sure to sound eager and easy to please.

Exactly what the devil wanted. "Some eager men confirmed that he really was the one who restored Caliburn. Rumor has it that his actions alone foiled Kokabiel's plans."

"I already knew that." Illya replied unimpressed but that showed engagement, what the devil wanted. "If anyone could fix Caliburn then only Shirou has enough swords in his brain to do it."

However Katerea knew the woman enough to leave the best for last. "Undoubtedly, as expected of the Magus Killer's son…" She let the title linger but didn't call Emiya on it. Some of her followers looked nervous but Heracles and Sella didn't take their eyes off Katerea. "But what is more impressive is that, by repairing Caliburn, he may have succeeded in poaching an Exorcist from the Church. A girl whose beauty was compared to the stars."

"What?" Disbelief and irritation colored Illya's tone as her shoulders twitched.

And the devil wasn't done. "Oh yes, a story worthy of a fairy tail; the woman knight came to claim the sword but the prince spoke and his words were so moving that the maiden refused to take it." Her tone made it all sound even more grandiose than it was, totally dramatic. "Then she dropped to one knee and swore to follow him for eternity. Usually the roles are reversed but everyone loves a good classic." Illya had not moved for a full minute. "About those two hundred-"

"You will have them. Now go before I change my mind."

The devil's smile went unseen together with the mocking bow of respect. Katerea left under Sella and Heracles' glares. None said another word as the guards escorted their mistress out, the Leviathan feeling proud in her triumph.

Only when the doors closed did someone talk again. "Annoying Skank, come here to interrupt my work." Illya spat the lollipop stick and cracked her neck. "Well, that was a waste of time."

"You shouldn't say that, Illyasviel-sama. Irisviel-sama will be so happy once she hears about Shirou-sama's new paramour." Sella sounded excited herself.

It made Illya wince. "I haven't acknowledged that woman yet!" Her declaration had a little more fervor than she wanted. If her hands weren't literally tied then she would have jumped as well. "As the older sister I will judge that- that girl whoever she is." Sella was the only one who noticed how her mistress was holding back a blush. "I won't accept her if she isn't good enough for my brother."

"Illyasviel-sama… if we consider your standards…" Illya's glare stopped her from finishing that line. "I mean… not many women are up to your standards."

"She shall be judged! Damn it, the Skank forgot to give us a name. That cursed Leviathan, as much of a serpent as her ancestor." Illya cursed a little more under her breath as the homunculi returned to work.

Some of the assistants were still too disturbed by the reveal of Illya's parentage but they were used to her work ethic and returned to their jobs. They knew their boss wouldn't harm them even with her father's reputation but the Magus Killer was still a boogeyman to many in the moonlit world.

Heracles shook his head with a chuckle. "Let your brother enjoy the flowers, Illya. It isn't romantic that he managed to charm a girl from the Church? Would be cooler if she was a nun." His words just made the white haired woman fume and he exchanged a look with Sella. A change of subject was needed and he had questions. "Why send just two hundred? If you found their plan worthwhile you could easily field over five hundred people, more if Gilgamesh and Cao Cao agreed with you. I think their plan is quite good." He crossed his arms with an annoyed scowl. "At least they will get some action."

Illya let out a sigh and turned to look at her colleague. "Herc, the Khaos Brigade is an alliance of ultra convenience. We actually don't want our individual components to succeed." The tall man, and many others in the lab, blink in surprise. "Think about it for a second, let's say that the Old Satan Faction takes over the Underworld; what is their next goal?"

"I… have no idea." Heracles admitted with a shrug.

"They want to conquer the world, or better yet, create a World Order based on the ideas of the Original Satans. That involves human enslavement, no gods and everyone doing whatever they want if they are a devil, pureblood from preference. Heck, even the other supernatural creatures are going to be just servants to the 'superior species'." The last part said in a pompous sarcastic tone. Many looked distressed as Illya just kept working. "And we… want to decimate or contain them." She shrugged. "Pick the goal of any of our Factions and you will see that it goes completely opposite to the others. We shouldn't be allies."

"Then why are we?"

"Because you only have each other." It was Sella speaking so Illya could focus on the job which she nodded in appreciation. "The actual World Order is ruled by too many beings too powerful for you to compete individually. An example is the new Underworld where all Maou are said to be stronger than their predecessor, even if that remains unproven."

"Yep, yep. The truth is that nobody here wants the other to win so we sabotage each other." Illya added with a shrug.

Sella chose to elaborate. "Why do you think each Faction needs justification or payment to help one another?" The tall man still looked confused and the woman thought of a new approach. "Think about the Khaos Brigade like a hydra with bickering heads." Heracles' eyes grew wide with realization and the woman let out a sigh.

"So we're actually enemies pretending to be allies to see who will be the number one?"

"An oversimplification but a correct one, I suppose." Sella was happy that he understood in his own way. "The only thing binding us together is Ophis' existence and her collaboration. Without her and the power she offered the Khaos Brigade wouldn't exist in its current form."

"Not that she even realized that we are just using her. I think only our Faction actually has a plan to deal with Great Red and we don't want to." It was Illya who was more crude with it. "And as enemies, we don't want their plans to work either, the same way they don't want our plans to work." Her maid facepalmed as some of her assistants just stared. "Are you telling me you guys didn't know? Great! Don't stand there and go back to work! I will get a memo or something to make sure our people are on par with the situation. That is supposed to be Cao Cao's department."

"I will talk to him." His colleague was better at explaining this sort of thing. More patience too but Heracles didn't need to say that, Illya knew her faults. "So that is why we aren't really helping this op, huh. Can't they still win?"

A complicated question that Illya dismissed. "Their plan is to kill the leaders and throw the Three Factions back on their old habits so they can seize power. Even without the Time Stop idea they are smart enough to actually have counters for the leaders." She turned to look at Heracles. "You know who I am talking about."

"Yeah, if he is involved then that will be quite a fight." Heracles nodded in understanding with a savage grin. "He is strong enough to face the Gremory even if Katerea isn't. It will probably be easier if they use Ophis- No, wait, that guy would never do that." A natural born fighter, the descendent of the Strongest Greek Hero, quickly shakes his head. "But he is not the problem, Katerea is the weak link."

"And she knows it, you can bet she is going to use Ophis' power and probably die." Illya explained coldly. "While the Old Satan Faction think their leaders are a big deal, they aren't. They are just Ultimate Class devils with little fighting experience against a Super Devil, Michael and Azazel, men who fought wars." She then shrugged, focused back on her work. "No amount of power can challenge a combination of experience and power. Lowballing they all are Ultimate Class devil equivalent, highballing, and we know Sirzechs is stronger than that, they can crush her easily, Ophis or not."

"But Illya-sama, that is why the Old Satan Faction isn't risking everything in that play." Sella reminded Illya with a frown. "If anything they are being cautious in just sending Katerea Leviathan on this mission."

"Feh, that just shows how dispensable she is. Thinking she is some hot shit while having no chance of winning."

"Ophis may give her a chance." The maid tried again.

Illya found the attempt amusing. "Fine, maybe Ophis' power will give her an edge. Not like she will be there on her own or anything stupid like that." Once again her fingers began to work on her project.

Inside the glass box that isolated its contents from everything including mana and air with the exception of the energy being transferred from Illya's fingers through Shirou's gift to produce the intended result.

Forever the older sister will be thankful for them because if she didn't have them she would either end up almost bald. Even if she could accomplish her project without them, they sure spared her a huge headache and saved her hair.

So yes, she would be forever grateful even if her brother wouldn't approve of what she is using them for. The wires were being used for something akin to a common task; wavering silk to create clothing.

It was such a simple thing that many would find the steps she took before beginning to sew her creation wasteful. Most would fail to understand that Illya wasn't just sewing something truly spectacular with silk born out of some of the most rare and powerful materials she could get her hands on.

Much like Shirou, Illya also was able to use alchemy to combine a plethora of ingredients to create something new. But comparing the alchemic skill between them was almost unfair with how far Illya actually was. She was born for it, one way or another, and her studies on it were uninterrupted while her brother showed many interests.

Her focus and the Khaos Brigade's resources managed to help her create something new but old; a proof of concept that couldn't be completed but she planned to adjust its function and make it evolve.

Inside the glass box the strings of silk began to glow in a white celestial light which caught the attention of everyone in the lab as Illya smiled.

Wires moved with inhumane precision, their connection made them look like there were hundreds even if it was just ten for that was how much her fingers could keep up with. They acted as more than fingers, waving and sewing her creation down on the molecular level, transforming her combination of materials perfectly down to the atom.

All stood admired by the radiance that began to cover the lab, knowing what it was but in disbelief since it should have been impossible.

"You did, Illya-sama!" Sella wanted to celebrate more but kept a respectful distance.

"Illya, I can feel its power from here even in that box. It sings to my soul." Heracles felt an orange aura cover him before it disappeared and a teal one took its place. "My sacred gear is retreating and my blood is- is- I can't even describe it!"

"Don't celebrate yet, you two! This is just a small sample of what is to come!" And Illya was right because the white silk of her creation was barely bigger than a sheet of paper. She wanted to do more but her mana was almost spent. "Engage the conservation matter subroutine and power the ritual immediately!" She was reaching her limit and due to a break.

""""Yes, ma'am!"""" Many voices said together as people moved around and placed their hands on panels around the glass box.

Soon magic circles and seals began to power up and surround the new creation with a boundary field that froze it in time.

Only then did Illya let out a breath of relief before smiling proudly. The wires in her fingers let them go and she began to approach the glass, a hand landing on it. "Soon." Sella quickly offered her a towel which Illya took with a grin.

"How soon?" Heracles sounded as excited as her.

"Very soon~ Don't worry~ It won't take that long~" And Illya meant it, confident in her work.

"While the construction of the dress is in the final stages, Illya-sama, I must remind you that we still need a Holy Grail."

"Urh, can't you let me celebrate a little before raining on my parade, Sella?" But she couldn't disagree either and shrugged. "But that is fine, I am sure my father gave my brother one. The one made from Justeaze's body. Once we convince him, it will be all too easy."

"I don't think Shirou-sama can be so easily persuaded. He certainly didn't sound like he approved of your plans before. And that was just with the broad strokes." Illya groaned, once again unable to disagree.

"We could take it from him." Heracles earned himself a deadly glare but waved a hand to pacify Illya. "Hey, we don't need to hurt him or anything. Just get the Grail. Besides, Cao Cao said that if we can't get his Grail, there is another, right?"

"Doesn't matter~" Illya waved both off. "Even without the Grail, even without the whole system, I am sure we can finish our plans." She admired the small piece of white cloth with a proud grin. "Once we have my Dress of Heaven, we won't need Ophis anymore. A new Age of Heroes shall end the Age of the Gods once for all."

…..

First and foremost a couple of news; From now on the P a treon or Pa t reon(don't know if this site will let either of those past) is going to be two chapters ahead to try and garner new supporters. That means if you want some chapters early then you can get two immediately by becoming a supporter on the address at the bottom.

Had to speedrun writing them so this wouldn't be delayed and I think I succeeded all things considered.

Before talking about the chapter a question from the comment section and how mana works from GrandSaberEMIYA: long story short, magic circuits are like a computer's and they have a limit of how much 'electricity' they can pull out.

Also, like when he took the mana of a whole city, they could overheat and then any magi would be in trouble at that point unless they had a lot of circuits of the highest quality or something else to siphon the mana.

Training and habits have Shirou usually run out of mana before overheating but that was raised a couple of times.

Caliburn also isn't worth the cost and not just of its own mana. Think about it and remember what Shirou himself said; it is a defensive sword that only was good offensively because of its owner.

Artoria was a monster that could pick a defensive sword and shoot beams of light with it; the sword had its own power source but Artoria Pendragon had a flipping dragon's core. A dragon's core!

For his own defense Shirou has an armor that can be fixed mid battle and consumes no energy since he made it legitimately and a shroud that has similar functions. For healing he has EM so Caliburn would be eating more mana to be made and more to do its functions.

Even offensively it falls short as Caladbolg doesn't need as much mana for the same effect and Hrunting can chase the target and then explode at Shirou's convenience. Bakuya has an advantage against monsters and a connection with a pegasus that gives it greater power while also costing less.

Caliburn costs more to do more but individually Shirou's kit already covers the sword's main function.

In conclusion, Shirou can Trace Caliburn under certain conditions and even use it, it still wouldn't be worth it. Hope that explains everything… or enough because I am omitting something like how Shirou can Trace it and keep fighting. It was hinted throughout the story but not outright said.

This chapter was a doozy. Lots of you guys wanted Kiritsugu to show up but like Iri said these events are not his thing. He literally will pick a job on the other side of the globe to dodge it and nobody will complain because they care about him so they let him go do his thing.

It was still a very full visit day if I can say so myself, Michael must have been a surprise addition or so I hope since that was convenient and it wasn't like he didn't have to drop by Kuoh sooner or later.

Regardless we also have the adaptation of why Absorption Line is a Longinus, the 13th one at that. Since there is a piece of Vritra's soul there it stands to reason it could act with enough magic power. And Vritra isn't a pushover even as a berserker dragon.

Also we learned a little about one of Ddraig's previous hosts, the legendary Davy Jones, not as much as a historical figure but a myth or maybe not. Indeed he was alluded to before during the Fragment Hunt Arc and is one of the hosts Ddraig remembers fondly.

Another development was the expansion of how the Khaos Brigade cooperates; barely. It also makes sense when you consider their actions on cannon; had the Hero Faction been active on Kuoh then the Peace Talks would have been a blood bath, had Rizevim been more forthcoming perhaps Ophis wouldn't have lost her power or if she did it would have been better used from the get go.

Reality is that in an organization with so many elements it isn't strange they are also at each other's throats and sabotaging what they could. Once one pays attention to their goals it is easy to tell that the Khaos Brigade was always bound to either failure or 'civil war'.

Soo… Dress of Heaven huh? The original is pretty much just a… lets call it a terminal to access the higher functions of the Holy Grail. It can do other stuff, mostly with souls. Illya here is going in reverse, creating the Dress for a specific function to then add a Grail for what she wants it to ultimately do.

Doesn't change the fact it also is the gateway for the Third Magic and capable of Miracles. However the shortcut won't help reach the real Heaven's Feel but will help with Illya's, and by extension the Khaos Brigade, goals.

P a treon

Apprentice of Life or

P a treon . com (slash) ApprenticeofLife

Until next time.