I do not own Fate/stay night or High School DxD.

"'if she had touched me,' he said very softly, 'I would have been hers and not my own, not ever again. I wanted her to touch me but I could not let her. No cat will. We let human beings caress us because it is pleasant enough and calms them – but not her. The price is more than a cat can pay.'" – Peter S. Beagle

The Underworld Trains led us to a familiar setting, of delft blue and royal skies that remained permanent at every hour.

Being creatures borne of darkness, an extended period underneath sunlight proved detrimental to us – it was precisely why I often gathered my servants into our club room. And while Devils of a higher class gained an enhanced resistance, the newly-born were weak, far from gaining the strength necessary to oppose its effects.

"Buchō."

I turned to him, Issei, and the boy was pointing towards an object that hung upon the periphery that enclosed the netherworld.

"How come there's a moon here when you said that there's no sun?" He asked.

Confused as he was, it delighted me to know that he indeed was capable of learning, even seeking out to know of things which he did not understand. Though, he wasn't the brightest nor the most resourceful, he expressed a desire to know more of the situations that he found himself in. More so now than he did several months ago.

I frowned.

"Eh? Did I say something wrong?" He asked.

His confusion was more apparent, pointing dumbly to himself – it put a smile on my lips. He had, somewhat, retained his goofy personality.

I shook my head. "No. Sorry about that, Issei." I said. "There is no sun in the Underworld nor is that moon real. It is only a reproduction, an imitation of the one that appears on Earth."

He blinked. "Someone made that?" His eyes nearly bulged out of their sockets. "How?"

"Demonic Powers." Akeno answered, joining the conversation. "The only limitation that Devils face is imagination. You did create a spell that disrobes women after all."

Issei blushed and looked away while Akeno giggled and prodded the boy further. It was amusing at the very least.

Demonic Power were truly curious, a power without physical limitation. Even a novice such as my Pawn could create a phenomena through sheer imagination. On a grander scale, the same power had birthed countless bloodline abilities, gifting clans with powers that often transcended human logic.

Impossibility became child's play to us very long ago.

Issei sighed. "I don't think I'm gonna use that move anymore." He confessed.

His gaze shifted towards the moon while my own focused on him, worry evading my entirety. Akeno stared at the boy, her half-lidded gaze swarming with distress – an emotion I had only seen a handful of times from her.

Mortality was such a fickle thing, that once it tasted death, it questioned the universe of its existence. Kokabiel had bloodied my servants in more ways than one, and though they tried to hide it, I could feel it.

Terror.

So vivid that it questioned their entirety of whether they were capable, whether they were strong, and whether they were truly alive. And behind those smiles, those facades that they had built for themselves, I knew a passion burned within them.

They seek to become strong.

Koneko – Shirone – nestled herself into Yūto's side, her feline features exposed to all. She purred as he petted along her sensitive ears, his light chuckles conveying his amusement.

It had been many years since we met, but I could count on a single hand the number of times that she was truly herself. She had abandoned her Nekomata heritage, relying more on her Devil abilities – a detrimental habit. But in the latter years, she had come to accept herself, learning to tap into her nature more and more.

But she still has much to learn.

Yūto had changed, his eyes gaining a truth they had failed to convey. His every action expressed care, as if the cat in his grasp was as fragile as glass itself. His desire to not lose anyone again drove him to his limits every day, so much so that I would need to intervene.

It was heartwarming, to see the two friends cast aside their demons and express such trust and faith in each other – a friendship so pure.

I envy them.

I glanced towards Asia, my gaze softening at her sight. She sat by herself, fiddling with her thumbs anxiously. It worried me that she worried about entering the Underworld, but it was necessary. Gasper peeked out from his box, his full attention attracted to the gaming device within his clutches.

Issei leapt to his feet. "Whoa! Is this the Underworld?" He asked. "It's larger than Honshu!"

It indeed was larger than Honshu, it's expanses reaching farther than the eye could see. Even then, in the distance one could find a mountain range that seemingly bordered the territory, but was yet another area within it.

"No. That's just my family's territory." I smirked. "All of it."

His head whipped around. "All of it?" He screamed. "How rich are you, Būcho?"

"Quite." I said. "We're almost there."

As the train descended, I realised that my mind had been preoccupied far more than I realised. The Sitri Clan's territory was quite the distance from ours, but Sōna – who had returned with her peerage – and I had decided to return to Kuoh together.

"Rias." Akeno called. "How long are we going to be here?"

There was a valid reason to why I preferred living on Earth as opposed to the Underworld. While it was undoubtedly my home, it was also a place that I did not love.

The Underworld was a domain of Cardinal Sin, of a hedonism that many enjoyed without limit. Unlike humanity who partook in their desires behind closed doors, Devils acted openly towards them. Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Pride and Envy – the seven deadly sins were prevalent within our society. But that was not what I feared most.

It was my desire, a craving to partake in sin.

As the heiress of nobility, a House gifted the rank of Duke, it was decided that I would marry when I came of age. Devils naturally matured much faster than humans, and soon, it had become increasingly difficult to maintain a hold on desire, to hide from the influence of those around me.

So, I fled.

It may have been the influences of human literature that enforced the idea of sparing my chastity. And that had been accepted, our siblings exercising their authority to send us to Kuoh at the age of thirteen, and allowing us to govern a territory that remained unmanned.

But though we had escaped, our nature whispered to us, beckoning that we partake in debauchery, condoning the thought of dragging that red-haired boy to the dark and –

I shook my head perfervidly, cursing the thought.

"Not for long." I finally replied. "We should be meeting with the others tomorrow. Then, we will return to Kuoh the day after."

Akeno nodded. "And have you considered Azazel-sama's second offer?" She asked.

I looked to her to find a growing frown adorning her soft, delicate features. It worried me, immensely, to know that she abhorred the offer that much.

"Akeno–" I started.

But she interrupted me.

"Regardless of how much I desire to become stronger, I will not go to that man." She whispered vehemently. "Please don't make me do so."

I gazed into her eyes solemnly, finding fear and rage swimming in her violet eyes – a once beautiful, but now broken violet.

An aspect of her true self.

Though it was an offer, one with merit, I did not like it. The idea of my Queen being helped by the man who abandoned her left a bitter taste in my mouth. She would be forced to endure his presence – for my sake – and to relive a past she had forsaken.

I cannot bring myself to see her suffer again.

"I will not force you, Akeno. It is ultimately your decision." I advised. "But you and I know that he's the only person capable of helping you."

She remained silent for several moments, but nodded to my words.

It was my hope that she would face her demons, the very source of her suffering and come out emboldened by the experience. I wished the same for the others, too.

Coming to a sudden halt while screeching in its tracks, I looked outside to find the train stationed within our territory. Sending a glance towards each of my servants, I took note of how poor Asia had fallen of her seat and was being petted by a curious Koneko. Gasper, however, repeatedly poked the flattened Issei with his gaming device.

"We have arrived." I said. "Akeno, if you will?"

"Of course, Buchō." She responded.

I took to my feet and followed after the girl towards the open exit. Strangely, she stepped outside first, but before I could ask, a red object shot into me and caused me to fall in a heap.

"Onee-sama!"

It was a boyish voice that called to me, it's owner vibrating with joy from beneath my chest. I looked down to find a mop of crimson hair.

"Millicas!?" I asked.

His small head bopped up and down, causing a soft smile to spread onto my lips. I embraced my beloved nephew as though my life depended on it and he did the same, his smaller arms attempting to wrap around me.

"Oh, my. This indeed is a sight for sore eyes." A soft voice spoke.

Quiet footsteps reverberated causing Millicas to scurry away with crimson tinted cheeks. I nearly laughed before I remembered my state and forced myself to my feet once more. I shot a curious glance to the side and felt delight at my servants bowing to her.

I followed suit.

Unsurprisingly, I felt a bit of shame in front of the one woman I swore to never disappoint. Throughout all my years and experiences, she was the one I admired most. The one I tried to emulate daily yet failed to match her elegance. The one who wore the face that stared back in the mirror every day, but somehow held an ugliness to it because I had stolen it.

"Though you have taken to hiding yourself from us for extended periods of time, and especially after the recent event…" She continued. "I will always welcome you home, my daughter."

Beautiful was not a word that could describe her. No, she was more.

She tilted her head joyously – another habit I adopted – flaxen hair cascading to the side yet somehow culling even the artificial winds of our territory. I felt warmth dance within my cheeks. Her eyes, clear as crystalline waters, reflected the colours of our world. A smile so demure, so gracious, that it often caused me to forget that she was renowned as the Madame of Extinction.

Venelana Gremory was a Devil of otherworldly comparisons.

But to me, she was just Mom.

I smiled softly. "It is good to see you again, Mother." I said. "You, too, Millicas. Just look at how much you've grown!"

He bowed with practiced ease. "You honour me with your words, Aunty Rias." He confessed.

Mother smirked amusedly. "Your nephew hasn't been able to sit still since we received word that you were returning soon." She informed.

I mirrored her expression. "I figured that would be the case."

"Granny!" Millicas gasped indignantly. "You weren't supposed to tell her that!"

Akeno giggled. "Everyone knows just how much you adore your aunt, Millicas-sama." She said while stepping forward. "We thank you for honouring us with your presence, Venelana-sama." She bowed.

Mother smiled. "It is good to see that you are well, my dear." She said. "All of you. Yūto, Koneko, Gasper, Issei and Asia."

Issei blinked. "Wait, you know us?" He asked.

"Would it not be folly for a mother to not know of the company that her daughter keeps?" She glanced towards me as she said so. She knows. "But of course, you have supported her at the direst of times. For that, you will always have my gratitude."

I had seen it only a handful of times, my mother bowing to someone in a show of complete gratitude and respect. She had done the same to Sōna when she became my first friend. Akeno, too, as her protégé who had learned all she could. And now once again.

"N-No need to bow to me, ma'am!" Issei squeaked in embarrassment. "Buchō has done a lot for me, so I will always have her back. No matter what!"

"I only offer credit where it is due. So, thank you. All of you." Mother smiled towards my peerage. "Now, we have prepared a feast to celebrate your return!"

I followed closely behind my mother.

"This isn't what I was expecting." Venelana said. "Is that what you were thinking, my dear?"

I let out an involuntary squeak before shaking my head fervently – a bad habit I just couldn't let go of.

While her words may be true, it was for me to accept; that being a Devil was now my nature and the Underworld, my home.

"N-No, Lady Venelana." I stammered. Again. "It's simply different from how it is described within the scripture."

Venelana smiled, her lips tilting in amusement. "Were you expecting to see fire and brimstone, and the dirtied souls of mankind being tortured endlessly?" I looked away with a blush. "Well, that is not necessarily incorrect."

I was in a wagon alongside the company of female Devils, the carriage leading us towards the Gremory Household. We had been separated from the boys, the group having been led into another by Rias' nephew, Millicas.

He looks exactly like his father.

Despite my wariness of this realm, Venelana had been very accommodating. From her gestures, to her manner of speech, she expressed honest curiosity and intrigue in the lives which her daughter and servants led.

Like a mother would.

"Asia-chan, while the Underworld indeed houses Devils, it in itself is not Hell." Rias informed. "It is a realm divided into numerous sections, and even within those, Hell is situated in a lower strata."

It made sense – somewhat – seeing as Devils freely traveled to and fro from both realms. If it were the traditional Underworld, as taught by the Church, such freedom would be impossible.

"For over several thousand years, Devils have shared the Underworld with the Fallen Angels. While we would have shared it with them, the Gods of Hell have not set foot in this domain for ages." Venelana added. "Which is honestly an odd thing, but it is nothing to worry yourself about. Many Devils, even I, will never see that realm."

Rias shrugged. "Well, it isn't our realm to govern, after all." She said.

I blinked in surprise. "It isn't!?" I asked. "I'm sorry, but this is news to me!"

Venelana giggled in amusement. "Worry not, my dear. You have much to learn about Devilkind and its history."

It truly was peculiar.

Devils represented the evils of the world, the originators of sin. Their actions and influences led humanity to its current state of sinfulness. However as I was learning, there is always more to the world than we realise.

There was more to Devils than which met the eye.

I see now.

Disbelief was a curious emotion, because it denied that which you could see. But my body did not allow me such leisure, my senses screaming that which I thought was – in actuality – the truth.

That they are the same.

Those manic red eyes were tame, her white locks strewn in with strands of onyx. And though she was smaller, even more jovial, there was no mistaking what Lint Sellzen is.

Do they know?

Michael was not omnipresent, he did not know of every happenstance that occurred in this world. Even with the Holy System within his control.

But there were others, like Metatron, who had abilities unique to himself. His ability of recording every happening was nigh-omnipresent, so he had to know what was happening.

And Michael had been here, too.

Are they allowing this?

"It's nice to meet you, too, Lint." I gestured to the couch. "Please, take a seat."

I studied the girl, watching as her gaze shifted to the ceramic table between us, then the walls around.

She was nervous.

In all honesty, I was amazed. Of how they could be so similar – the same – yet be different people entirely. But I understood why she had asked for me upon seeing her.

I was curious. "Are you related to Freed Sellzen?" I asked.

Empathy was an ability belonging to Angels, and it allowed us to understand the other's emotions extensively. And looking at this girl, I could feel it all.

Sadness. Anger. Spite. Resignation. Admiration?

Crimson eyes focused on me. "Not really, but yes." Her gaze narrowed. "Freed Sellzen was my brother."

I had to wonder why she wanted for us to meet and if Michael truly knew her well enough to allow it.

She was human – at least partly – and susceptible to her nature. It would be natural for her to seek revenge against me.

"It must be difficult." I said. "I am sorry for your loss. I was the one to end his life." I confessed.

Actions oft deliver repercussions.

It was akin to the scales of justice, one could not outweigh the other. Each side suffered with every tilting of the scale, just as how every action had a consequence. And my life had a plentiful of such experiences.

And this would be yet another consequence.

But I found myself surprised, perhaps dumbfounded, when I sensed her fury subside. It had grown as I spoke my words, a confession of my crimes to her. But now, she relayed an understanding one would never expect from a child her age.

"Freed was once the best of us, an exorcist birthed with a purpose. But he chose whither his short life away as a sinner." Lint spoke, her words expressing a burden. "You're not at fault for killing him. Rather, it is my fault as his sister for being unable to save him."

Sibling love was a strange thing. I never had my own sibling, but I had witnessed – even adored – those around me.

Shinji had cared for Sakura, even to the point of worrying that did not have friends and introduced her to me. It was beautiful. But as he descended into madness, mistreating his sister and everyone around him, Sakura would be the first to worry for him. It was painful, too.

Lint smiled a soft, sad smile, one that conveyed her grief and a strange hope that lit a flame within her. It was breathtaking.

Such is a sibling's love.

Impassioned eyes gazed towards me. "Lord Shirō, please allow me this selfish desire before my life expires." She begged. "Please allow me to make amendments for my brother's crimes."

I wonder if Shinji did change after being saved. Could Freed have been saved too?

"I saw you, twice." She continued. "First, you returned with the Cardinal Bishop, and a second, when you descended with Lady Gabriel to reveal the truth." She informed.

Truth had revealed all – the despair, the suffering, and the determined. But there were others, those who suffered in silence yet clung to their belief in Truth.

"I don't know if my brother became that kind of person because he knew, but I want to fight for the right cause."

Lint Sellzen was one of them.

"Your brother's sins are his to pay, Lint. You don't have to act in his stead." I advised. "Older brothers are a strange bunch. They pave a way so that their younger siblings won't have to stumble on an uneven path."

I made my way around the table and knelt beside the jittery girl. Then, I placed a hand on her head and ruffled it in a fashion that I had seen Shinji do to Sakura as she stepped onto the path he had paved for her.

A pathway to our friendship.

"You are your own person, Lint Sellzen. Choose your own path, perhaps one that might make your brother swell with pride or turn green with unadulterated envy." I chuckled softly. "I don't know what kind of person he truly was, but what I do know is that older brothers always wish the best for their younger siblings."

Lint gazed up to me, her widened eyes glistening with tears that had quietly escaped her. I patted her head comfortingly, and in that moment, I wondered.

Would I have been a good older brother?

"Buchō!"

Rias turned, a amused smile adorning her delicate features, as she giggled alongside the rest of the girls. I wondered what they found so amusing until I spotted a blushing Asia.

"We have finally arrived, Issei." Rias gestured. "Welcome to my home."

I had always known that she was from a well-off family, even before becoming a Devil. Her home that was only a short distance from the Academy being proof of that. But after finding out that she was close to royalty, with her brother being the literal Devil, I had come here expecting to see a castle.

"That's supposed to be a castle, right?" I nudged Yūto. "That is a castle, right?"

Yūto chuckled. "I reacted the same way you are now the first time I saw this place." He placed a hand on my shoulder. "But, yes. This is a castle."

There's no way a place this huge could be anything but, you fool.

"Right. So, it is a castle." I whispered. "What's next, succubae for maids - ow?"

Koneko lowered her leg as she passed us. "Pervert."

I pouted indignantly as I nestled my shin. It didn't hurt as much as it would have, to be honest. Maybe Koneko was pulling her punches?

I doubted that.

Gasper chatted animatedly about one thing or the other with Rias' nephew, Millicas. The kid humoured him, even adding to the conversation and extending it for much longer. I was impressed. Kiba and Koneko were together as usual, while the girls followed behind Rias' mother.

After meeting that woman, I had sensed something terrifying about her. Or rather, Ddraig did. He warned me to be careful around her, that there were something about her being extremely dangerous. He had said the same about the Satans, Azazel, Michael, and just about everyone that attended the conference.

Heck, he had said the same about those summoned Ghouls, Devils and Magicians right after they appeared. It was beginning to bug me.

"Hey, are you trying to dupe me again?" I asked.

"Perhaps." The boundless voice responded. "Or maybe you should learn to stay alert."

Ever since our Rating Game against Riser, Ddraig had begun to speak to me, either mentally or through my dreams. While he's usually not terrible to talk to, his single message to me had been very clear from the moment he appeared.

That I am weak.

I noticed several people standing by the grand entrance leading into the home. Even though I had met them before, even shared a joke or two, I clenched my teeth to ignore the instinct that bubbled within my core.

Fear. Excitement. Inferiority. And an innate desire to surpass.

"You are a dragon, boy. Pitiful, but a dragon nonetheless."

"Red Dragon Emperor." Azazel greeted as we approached. "I see that he is awake. Interesting."

I quickly drew my dressed arm behind me, the scales that covered my skin aching in his presence. Azazel smirked, as if he knew, before turning to the others.

"Sirzechs-dono, Gremory-dono. I will take my leave." He nodded his head in respect. "We will meet again, kids."

A dark magic circle transported the man from the vicinity, leaving no evidence of his existence here. Except the filthy stench of a –

Venelana shook her head. "I will never know what that man is thinking." She commented. "Nonetheless, let us commence the festivities."

Oh Father, Devils truly are sinful!

When Lady Venelana mentioned a feast, I had not expected it to become such a grand event. But it seemed that the return of an heiress was quite a roaring affair.

As soon as it began, a number of Devils had arrived at the Household. Some being our peers – President Sōna and her peerage being in attendance too – and others seemingly around the ages of our hosts. But reality soon struck me, proving that this event was never a family friendly affair.

From atop a balcony of the castle, I could see into the capital of their territory. Though it was blanketed with eternal darkness and brightened by the artificial light created by their leaders, I saw it all.

Devils frolicking with each other.

Even as I pried my eyes towards the edge of the balcony where I spotted a bench, the guests were locking lips with one another under the influence of the devil's nectar. Others were on the dance floor, caressing, embracing, humping and gyrating one another joyously, in celebration of the return of their liege.

Father, is this what you saw in Sodom and Gomorrah? Were their actions so vulgar before your eyes, too?

"Asia."

I screamed as I swerved around with my palm raised in a stance that I had been taught recently. Unfortunately, I came face-to-face with an incredibly amused Rias who let out a giggle. No. She outright laughed at my reaction and I prayed so fiercely for the earth to swallow me whole.

"B-B-Buchō! Don't scare me like that!" I squeaked from behind my hands. "I almost attacked you!"

She neared me, placing a soft hand beneath my chin. "You would never hurt me." She whispered. "Would you, Asia?"

I stared into her sapphire eyes, a warmth spreading up to my cheeks. Those eyes held a certain allure to them that I had not noticed before, glowing within the flashing lights and darkness that this realm could never ignore. As the lights danced on her skin, her purity was enhanced and her lips became ever the sweeter, that I found myself drawn to them.

"It is affecting you, isn't it?" A frown marred her perfect visage. "This is exactly why I dislike being home. Come."

Rias dragged me away from the flickering lights and cacophonous performance, and I felt my rationality return. It was as though it were a thief, creeping alongside my sanity the further away I was from the crowd.

We took several turns in the labyrinth that was the Gremory Household, before taking a last one and being led into a room – her room. And the door harshly slammed behind us.

I jumped. "B-Buchō!" I squeaked out.

I turned around timorously, my heart beating into my chest at an excessive pace, and found Rias leaning against the door – and her eyes narrowed towards me. I shivered slightly, unfamiliar with such a gaze being directed towards me, but somehow, I could sense that she was livid.

Just not towards me.

"This is exactly why I dislike this godforsaken place!" She spat furiously, wincing in agony. "Oh, Asia. I didn't mean to frighten you."

I was frightened.

Rias was a picturesque model of a composed individual, one who never acted out of line and a figure that always had a solution for any problem. Her outbursts were rare, even her disappointment never carried ill intent, only worry. But this time, hers wasn't a reaction belonging to the individual that I admired.

It belonged to a Devil.

"I apologise for frightening you, Asia." She sighed. "This place has begun to take its toll on me."

She walked past me, heading towards a velvety couch that matched the crimson theme decorating her room, and took a seat. She patted the cushion beside and beckoned for me to take a seat. I remained standing for several moments before doing as I was requested.

I have nothing to fear.

"The Underworld is not a pleasant nor a healthy place for us young Devils. It holds an influence on every being, enticing us to forsake the morality that many other creatures value – an antithesis of sorts." She spoke. Strangely, her gaze was one of resignation. "Haven't you wondered how Devils manage to exist despite not requiring any form of religion or cult like many other factions do?"

I blinked several times. "N-No…" I whispered.

I have never asked why.

Questioning the nature of Devils – or anything in relation – was a taboo of the highest order. Members of the Church were taught to loathe, to kill Devils, but rarely did any know what made them what they are. However, there was a single constant whenever they were involved.

"Sin." Rias answered. "Sin, specifically the Cardinal Sins, is what sustains us aside from our innate longevity. Even that longevity can only take us so far – a few decades, maybe centuries."

I felt my eyes widen with realisation.

"The Underworld is home to sinners, and everything you can see, even that which you cannot, has been touched by Sin. It influences actions and perceptions in the sense that witnessing an act as innocent as Yūto petting Koneko to be an act fuelled with lust and desire." She continued. "If I had remained here during my fundamental years, I would have become someone not so dissimilar to Yubelluna."

I suppressed a shiver at the memory of that Queen. I did not like her. Regardless of that, a single curiosity echoed within the recesses of my mind.

While Rias was someone I admired, even respected, she wasn't entirely a good person. True to her nature, she was a Devil.

She was a manipulative individual who often influenced simple-minded people like Issei for her gain. She was covetous by wanting all for herself. And she was vain, exhibiting her illustrious beauty to walk a path of exaltation within the Academy.

"Buchō, if it is unadvisable to live without sinning, how do you manage?" I asked. "Especially since you live on the Earth with us?"

But none of those were a Cardinal Sin.

While I did not expect a Devil to wither away if they did not sin and instead rely on their innate capabilities, it must have negative effects on them because Devils were creatures born from sin.

Rias smiled. "I indulge myself in a single one. Sin empowers us, hence the necessity to commit oneself to one." She said. "Riser Phenex overindulged himself with Lust, while Sōna is as gluttonous for knowledge as they come. However, many have no need for that as existing in the Underworld is enough for them."

"I-I see." I acquiesced. "What is your sin, Buchō?"

Rias winked. "It's a secret!" She giggled. "While this may be the case for us Pure-Bloods, Reincarnated Devils have no need to commit to a Cardinal Sin. Something as easy as stealing candy from a child should suffice."

"W-What!" I squeaked, again. "The Commandments strictly for –"

"You're not a human anymore, Asia." Rias interrupted. "Those laws do not apply to you as you are anymore. As far as the Word goes, we are all damned. It is the harsh truth of our existence."

Rias' gaze, though stern, had a hint of sadness to it. A sadness I was not unfamiliar with – one of resignation to a fate that is beyond one's own control.

"I will pray, Buchō!" I stated with certainty. "I will pray for every one of our salvations!"

Her sadness that had dulled her sapphire eyes slowly, but surely, crept away and was replaced what I had come to identify to be the kindness of a Devil. It was marred with a chance of becoming sinister, dark, but a light shone within it. It was hopeful, brave and courageous.

Human.

"I would appreciate that very much, Asia." She smiled. "So very much."

Yes, if I pray, He will forgive us.

I realised that my anxiety was rising the more my finger tapped my elbow. While oftentimes I attempted to obviate the that at all costs, the reality of leading myself towards the subject of my jitteriness was reason enough to trigger my panic.

Admittedly, that wasn't the only reason I was apprehensive.

"Sōna." Rias sighed. "It's only one meeting."

"I have seen more of her within the last few days to survive me years." I hissed. "You have no idea of how it is to live with that damned Levia-tan!"

Magical Girl Levia-tan was a subject of terror. An irritating but lovable – no, inescapable – thorn in my side. I would be damned if she turned me!

She would have to do it over my dead body!

Rias giggled. "You've called her Levia-tan three times in this conversation." She counted. "I'm afraid that she has already broken your resolve."

I shot her a pathetic look. "Kill me now." I begged. "Please."

Her laughter doubled while I tried not to fold over in shame, but hoping that thunder would somehow strike and vaporise me in this instant. Unfortunately, that would be impossible, seeing as we were within the highly protected capital of the Underworld.

Lilith.

It served as the base of operations for Sirzechs Lucifer, one of the pioneers of a more progressive age for Devils. While it wasn't as grand as earthly capitals – or those of other realms – it served its purpose of continually advancing our species in many regards.

Currently, Rias and I were lounged in the lobby of the Head Offices awaiting our meeting with the Four Great Satans. They had summoned us for a matter of great importance. And while I suspected that it related to our missive, it was curious that they would need to relay it to us once again, especially as Sirzechs and Serafall had been in attendance at the gathering the previous night.

Suddenly, two familiar individuals stepped out of the room and walked towards us. Though it had been years since I last saw of them, that period had seen to their growth quite justly.

"Now, this is a surprise!" The man called out. "It's good to see you two again!"

"Cousin!" Rias called walking briskly towards him.

She squealed as they embraced, the giant of a man taking her off her feet and spinning them around as though they were children. It put a small smile to witness them express such happiness.

Eventually, he put her down and turned to me, a hand raised in greeting while offering a joyous grin.

I returned it kindly. "It is good to see you again, Sairaorg." I greeted before turning to the quiet girl. "You too, Seekvaria-chan."

Sairaorg Bael was imposing, standing several heads taller than myself. However, his presence was compassionate, drawing me towards him just as it did when we were younger – a nature ever so perennial.

When I looked back, Rias had already pounced onto the girl, rubbing her cheek against hers like an affectionate feline. It was no secret how clothe the two were, even during our childhood. It was kind of the bespectacled girl to keep contact with us.

Seekvaria smiled despite being smothered. "Rias-chan, Sōna-chan." She greeted. "How long will you be staying?"

"Not long enough I suspect." Sairaorg commented amusedly. "But you will return for the Youth Gathering, yes?"

Rias immediately agreed. "Of course! We wouldn't miss it for the world." She chirped. "Besides, this will be the time I finally defeat you!"

Sairaorg let out a boisterous laughter at the sight of Rias shadowboxing before us and I couldn't help but let out a few chuckles myself.

He caught her punch with an open palm. "That's the spirit, dear cousin! I will patiently wait for that day." He declared before lowering their hands. "Unfortunately, Seekvaria and I must leave."

Rias deflated. "Already?" She muttered. "I'll make sure to visit you before I leave, Seek-chan."

"I would love that, Rias-chan." Seekvaria nodded to Sairaorg. "Let us leave."

Agares and Bael insignias were birthed beneath the two Devils who waved to us before vanishing within a flicker.

It is good to know that his clan accepts him now.

We made our way towards the room that the two exited and knocked, patiently waiting for a call of entry.

"Do you believe that they are suitable candidates for that role?" I asked, turning to my friends.

Ajuka sat to my left and Serafall sat to my right. Falbium, too, was present, and seated to Beelzebub's left. As of late, it was rare of us to convene in one setting, but it delighted me whenever we could do so.

Now more than ever.

"Highly so." Falbium drawled. "Amongst their generation, Sairaorg is the most powerful of their group. While Seekvaria lacks in power, she has the intelligence to contend with her peers."

"She's no slouch either." Serafall huffed. "She genuinely could give my Sō-tan a run for her money."

I nodded in agreement.

While Sairaorg was unquestionably the most powerful amongst his peers – perhaps even those older than him – the Agares heiress had her wits about her alongside her extremely advantageous Power of Time.

However, this was akin to war. Our enemies held no qualms about instigating chaos all over the world, proving how volatile their nature is.

I gestured towards the guards to allow them entry, having sensed them arrive. They stepped into the room and I wondered – again – if the choices we had made for them were fair. But, I steeled my resolve.

It's all for their sake.

I allowed a smile to grace my lips as they withdrew from their bows and stood at attention.

"Rias Gremory and Sōna Sitri, we have an urgent matter to discuss." I stated. "We have received approval from Grauzauberer, thus the preparations are complete. Hence we, as the Four Great Satans, request that you fulfil this duty alongside our allies from the Grigori and Heaven. Do you have any objections?"

Sōna shook her head, taking the lead. "None, Lord Lucifer. We will gladly act on this objective." She said. "However, I do have a question. If you will allow it?"

I expected this. "Of course."

"In consideration to the precarity of our realm, is it advisable to continue as is?" She asked. "While it was expected that some would resist, our people are dangerous elements."

The elephant in the room.

Our revelation of the alliance with Heaven and the Grigori had led to many members of the council expressing their vehement denial. Those who attempted violence had been incarcerated, while others were quelled by our unified stance. However, not all accepted it.

Zekram Bael had gone into hiding and whatever he was plotting certainly will be troublesome.

I let out a sigh. "Heaven revealed their secret and shattered the status quo." I replied. "Do you understand the implications of that?"

War.

It was a bitter truth, a reality that these children would face. Just as we did in the past, so would they suffer for reasons beyond their control.

"It will come." Ajuka informed. "Kokabiel gained his wish – war will come regardless of what we do. But it is our choice to select which sides will ensure our survival. Both as a race and as a pantheon."

The machinations of the Khaos Brigade ensured that. And while the Biblical Pantheon always faced internal conflict, there were several figures that made us invincible.

God, the Four Great Seraphs and the Four Great Satans.

Their existence allowed the longevity of our Faction, but with the death of the most powerful deterrent revealed, chaos would follow.

"It's not a matter of if, rather of when." I added. "Many Pantheons have desired the world in which the Christianity rules. Buy with the absence of the Supreme Being, many Chief Gods will try to usurp us."

It was a terrifying prospect – to us and the rest of the world – one that they expressed through grim visages.

"I-I see." Sōna stammered. "Is that why the allegiance with Grauzauberer and the Wizards of Oz vital?"

Serafall nodded. "Yes. With the Magicians' aid, we can deal with the Khaos Brigade and prepare for what's to come." She said. "Hopefully, there will be others to side with us."

Silence invaded the office as each of us mulled on the gravity of the situation. And though I disliked placing such a burden on the girls, it was an absolute necessity.

There wasn't anyone else we could trust to complete this mission.

"But that is a problem we will deal with. You will have to join the others tomorrow." I advised. "Emiya Shirō and his partner are currently in Kuoh.

Sōna perked up, while Rias gained a tender expression.

It delighted me that they could place their trust in one so dissimilar to them. And that I could place my faith in him, too.

"This is a mission, so no flirting!" Serafall chirped in, giggling much to the girls' dismay. "Weeeeell, maybe if Sō-tan gets a go first, I could let it slide."

Sōna merely covered her face in unadulterated shame and embarrassment while the Leviathan cackled like a mad woman.

Well, she is one after all.

I waved to the girls. "You're dismissed." I smiled. "Good luck. We will await your return."

The girls bowed quickly before turning tail and leaving the room in a rushed manner. I sighed knowing what was to come and raised my hands placatingly.

"Was it necessary to let them know? I believe it was." I turned to Ajuka. "At their age we knew just as much to complete our mission."

He levelled a look. "At their age we weren't preparing for a world war." He sighed. "I suppose that it will give them an incentive to become stronger."

I lowered my arms. "How long do we have?" I asked.

"A few months at most." Ajuka predicted. "The revelation was unexpected so it will take a while for them to prepare."

"Hades?" I asked.

"Unknown." He sighed. "So, the Olympian Gods have decided to make their move."

"It seems so. I haven't been able to contact anyone from their Pantheon." Serafall added. "It's as if they have vanished off the face of the Earth."

"I'm guessing that we'll just have to keep doing what we've been doing?" Falbium asked.

With everything pointing towards a single inescapable future, we could only keep moving forward in the way we always have.

"Yes." I nodded. "We will prepare for the worst."

Shirō-shishō is pretty strange.

Though it had only been a few days, more I learnt about him, the more peculiar he became.

While it wasn't strange to wake up and exercise before sunrise, he always watched it. I suppose that was normal, too, because some exorcists I knew enjoyed that.

But he's talking to a bird!

Shirō was sat by the kitchen table when I walked in. He was dressed in his battle gear – which I think is the coolest thing outfit ever – with a cup of tea before him. But perched on his shoulder was that dove that he introduced as his familiar.

And he was talking to it.

"Is something wrong, Lint?" He asked curiously.

He wasn't even looking in my direction, but that bird had its beady eyes focused on me.

"N-No, it's nothing." Can he see through its eyes? "I'm ready!"

Shirō turned his gaze towards me, his gilded eyes glowing with humour that I couldn't help but look away. He chuckled at my display as he rose to his feet.

He's gigantic!

"Remember to be on your best behaviour, okay?" He advised, an eyebrow raised.

I brightened at that. "Of course, Shishō!" I chirped.

Shirō chuckled. "I have a feeling that you'll get along well with Mirana." He spoke. "Stand here."

Eh? Who's that?

I blinked once only to find myself in an entirely different location. Shirō still had a hand on my shoulder as I glanced around. However, I froze when I took note of the forestry that surrounded the area.

"Relax." Shirō whispered. "We are not where you think we are."

I sighed, allowing my shoulders slump somewhat. The thought of returning to that place petrified me – especially after Shirō's efforts.

There stood a building quite similar to the Sigurd Institute, it's fortified walls and gate manned by several individuals. However, one of the men approached us, with the gate opening before him.

"Good to see you again, Shirō." The man garbed in black greeted. "I take it that this is your partner?"

Shirō tipped his head respectfully. "Tobio-san." He said before gesturing to me. "This is Lint Sellzen."

I noticed Tobio's eyes widen slightly. "I see." He smiled. "Welcome aboard, Lint-chan!"

I bowed quickly. "Thank you for having me!" I said.

Perhaps, his words were true – that the world would not condemn me for my brother's faults.

We followed after Tobio who led us down a paved path in the direction of the innermost building.

Curious, I glanced around, surveying the area and noticed several training areas spread out within the compound. But what truly caught my eyes were the people walking freely.

Fallen Angels.

"Hmm." Shirō hummed. "Is this your first time seeing Fallen Angels?" Shirō asked.

I shifted my gaze towards him and nodded quickly.

While I was one of the few to see Angels, even Miracle Children like Teodoro Legrenzi, I had never seen a Fallen Angel. They were scarce, recluse and under the leadership of a very cautious man.

The man who was currently leaning against the wall of the building we were approaching.

And he smirked. "Yo." He greeted. "I can't remember the last time an Angel visited this place."

Shirō smirked, too. "You're an Angel, Azazel-sama." He quipped.

Azazel shrugged. "The Fallen part makes all the difference." He said. "So, you're the kid that Michael mentioned. Your resemblance truly is uncanny."

I looked away from his strange gaze, shifting nervously on my feet.

"Stranger things have happened." Shirō said. "Are they here yet?"

"They arrived a little while ago. Their peerages are still settling in." Tobio shrugged. "Lavinia should be returning with the heiresses. Did you want to see the others before we leave?"

Shirō shook his head. "Some other time." He confessed.

We waited in what I guessed should be comfortable silence, but I was quite unfamiliar with these people.

Azazel, the Leader of the Grigori, wasn't what I expected him to be. And his right-hand man, Ikuse Tobio didn't seem as frightening as he was in his tales. Even Shirō seemed tame for someone as powerful and reputable as himself.

They're all very dangerous individuals yet they seem normal.

I grinned.

So am I.

Nephilim Institute was a base for research at its core. Even as we patiently waited for the girls, I could sense many different types of energies emanating from within the compound.

Sacred Gears, Mana, Chakra, Holy and Demonic Powers, even Tōki. Grigori was studying the variety of powers and teaching the users to master those skills to their utmost best.

"Curious?" Azazel asked, cracking a single eye open.

I focused a curious gaze on him. "What do you gain from all this?" I asked

Azazel raised an eyebrow. "What does one gain from falling?" He retorted.

I paused.

Before I could even question what he meant, the doors to the main building opened and, amusingly enough, I caught Lint jump from the suddenness of their arrival. I returned my gaze to the entrance.

Though I had seen many of them upon reaching this world, a beautiful woman was always a sight to behold.

Leading the girls was a woman with azure blue eyes and long flowing blonde hair. She was dressed as a stereotypical witch, though her colours were the purest of blues and whites. When she stepped forward, her eyes brightened as she glanced at Tobio for a fleeting moment before turning to us.

Lucky guy.

Rias followed after the woman, her pace not diminishing her elegance in any way. She was dressed in a similar manner but lacking the witch's hat. Her colours, however, were variations of reds and blacks that suited her perfectly.

Sōna's pace was much more sedated. Her violet eyes peered neutrally at every one of us. Strangely enough, she was wearing her school attire – or something close to it at least. The skirt was longer, reaching her shins, and short slit on the side. Prim and proper as if she'd be monitoring students herself this morning.

The blonde woman approached me, offering her hand demurely in greeting. I graced her with a smile before taking in into my own and kissing it.

"Emiya Shirō, a pleasure." I greeted.

"Lavinia Reni at your service, Shirō-kun." She smiled before shooting a look towards Tobio. "You could learn a thing or two about first impressions."

Tobio chuckled. "You snuck into my room the first night we met." He smirked.

Lavinia blushed, pulling her hand away to hide her face from the rest of us. I let out a few chuckles myself as I watched the Magician attack Tobio for his comment.

Rias took that chance to approach and within a moment, I found her standing before me, her arms folded below her chest and her expression haughty. Sōna smirked from her position but chose to keep her thoughts to herself.

"Hello, Rias." I greeted amusedly. "Kaichō." I waved to the bespectacled girl who nodded in return.

Pink dusted her cheeks as she tried looking away. "Hello to you too, Shirō-kun." She whispered. "Have you been well?"

Her eyes kept glancing away from me – towards Lavinia and Tobio, and also Lint.

"Never better." I replied. I nudged Lint who was trying to hide behind me. "This is my partner, Lint."

"Student!" She muffled into my back before peeking around me. "Lint Sellzen, it's nice to meet you." She bowed.

I noticed Rias' reaction, her eyes widening marginally before settling into her usual kind gaze. She smiled at the girl as Sōna joined us.

"Rias Gremory. It's nice to meet you too." She spoke. "This is my friend, Sōna Sitri."

As the girls introduced themselves to each other, Azazel clapped his hands once, drawing our attention to him.

"Ah, the perks of being young." He sighed. "Anyway, you do understand the gravity of this mission, yes?"

We nodded in agreement.

"Good." He nodded before turning to Tobio and Lavinia. "Be careful with those ones over there."

"Of course, Azazel-sama." Lavinia bowed. "After the last event, we have learnt caution."

Azazel waved as he headed back into the building, while Lavinia motioned that we follow her. We descended the stairs towards a wide, paved area.

"There are many paths to Grauzauberer. Some even hide in plain sight." Lavinia started, gesturing that we stop. "Many pass through them without knowing. Just as you did earlier."

She pressed her hands together before spreading them apart, then moving them vertically. A simple, brown door manifested before her, however, it was sealed shut.

"While you may walk through the space, you will not reach the destination. The destination is only reached through one's desire to do so." She reached to the side, her palm open and a key manifested above it. "Your desire to arrive is what creates it. The Key to the Door."

The Door shattered in the presence of the Key, leaving behind a portal that would lead us to Grauzauberer.

"Coming?" Lavinia asked, smiling over her shoulder.

She walked into the portal followed by Tobio. We followed closely behind with me covering the rear. Knowing we were going into an unknown territory, I hoped for the best.

A Door opened to my left, just near the tree that I was sitting under. I quickly shuffled to my feet, making sure that I was presentable enough for our visitors.

Two people walked through, then four more followed behind and I pushed up my spectacles as I approached the group.

There was a light wind that carried my robes as I took quick strides towards the group. They seemed somewhat confused – well, the majority of them – but she gazed at me with a warm smile that often reminded me of all that is good in this world.

"My, look at how much you've grown!" Lavinia said, approaching then pulling me into a hug. "You're so much bigger than the last time I saw you!"

"It's only been a few years, Lavinia-san." I smiled. "It's good to see you again."

Lavinia let go of me, smiling as she did so and took her place beside Tobio. The man nodded to me with a fond smile on his lips.

"I welcome you all to Grauzauberer." I bowed. "My name is Georg Faust, a close aid to Lord Mephisto Pheles. It is an honour to host the representatives of the Biblical Pantheon."

Yes, it is an honour indeed.

Author's Note: And we're BACK, people. It's good to be back after our time apart.

I had a bit of trouble writing this one as it was not initially planned when I drafted up until chapter fifteen, plus I'd lost the first quarter of this draft. Took a bit to retrieve it but we made it. I've been writing since Friday so do pardon me if it's not as polished as the others. I'm still getting back into my groove!

Anyway, I'm happy to announce that someone out there is translating my story into Spanish over on Wattpad. I've been GEEKING since I saw found out LMAO. If there are any Spanish readers here, feel free to read La Espada Del Cielo by DoctorBlackjack, believe. The good person didn't ask to do this but still linked the original story to that, so thank you for that!

Finally, we've reached Grauzauberer and YES, my boy Georg is a member of his ancestor's organisation. I did say I would utilise underused characters, yes? This is it. Lint has joined the fray, Devils aren't all they seem to be and there's something brewing in Mount Olympus. I had to add a few cute but precious moments for the cast right there, so I do hope they are more relatable today than they were yesterday.

AND FINALLY (for real this time) I've watched the first two movies of Heaven's Feel. I can't take MY best girl suffering like that. And you know what guts me the most? That's her life in EVERY route. It's crazy. It's absolutely maddening to know that she suffers so terribly but never shows it to those around her. I love Sakura and I weep for her. She deserves the world.

Anyway, now that's out of the way (lol), if you guys want to interact with me more, I on twitter too @/maybebelladonna.

[03/31 Edit: I've FINALLY finished editing every chapter thus far. I'm back in the game!]

With that out of the way, let's get into two chapters worth of reviews.

To mg1147:

[Yep, I quite liked the varied choice of characters being involved in this plot. DxD has plenty characters that are underused and you can bet that I'll make use of them. In time, Shirō will face his demons and come out a better man than he is today. His truest potential is still hidden, but I have much planned for him. While he might not end up the most powerful, he will rank fairly high up.]

To Primus1661:

[Yes! We already know how they rank amongst themselves with Michael at the top and Uriel as the fourth. There is a reason why they specifically stand above the other Seraphim and that will be explored in time.]

To steel35:

[Someone managed to link me to the VN, but thanks anyway!]

To EXeLL:

[LMAO I can easily see Hugh Jackman tapping into his Wolverine persona just so he can clobber Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool. Now that you mention it, I will make a few omake down the line.]

To Guest (Jay):

[I'm not gonna lie, I was CREASING when you said "DxD operates under Shōnen tropes" LMAOOOO. You're absolutely correct about Shirō. I think we often forget that he's a kid with a grand goal, not the version of him that's become jaded in pursuit of that goal. It is why I have him learning from others, so that he finds himself and becomes the best version of himself.]

To Vantablack Mk.Xi:

[While I appreciate you defending me, it's still not okay to insult others, you know? I can easily ignore when people complain, but I don't mind it because it helps with writing something that I believe we can all enjoy. Anyway, I've always liked the idea of the Heaven Faction. Something as monumental as God dying was just swept under the rug? Nah, we have to see what goes on inside!]

To The Black Kraven:

[We've got plenty of OC here because there isn't much known about the Heaven Faction. But don't worry, while I won't make countless more, I just had to introduce those whom I believe are relevant to Shirō and the main characters. Also, I think I'll have to check that fic lol.]

To TheGrimDragon:

[I'm still SO uncertain about Rin. Truly, I adore her character and her relationship with Shirō, but I also kind of want him to develop on his own? I don't know lol. Time will tell.]

To Guest (Big I for me):

[It is odd, I'll admit that. But I've never enjoyed a straightforward journey, you know? Shirō just has to realise for himself just what it means to be a Hero and the challenges that come with that gallant pursuit.]

To SentinalSlice:

[Thank you! But fair enough lol. Ewald and the other exorcists initiated a rebellion against Heaven after the alliance was created. So, in this story, they did not. They still harbour dislike towards Devils, but they wouldn't betray Heaven's ideal. I'd just LOVE it if Nasu gave us a detailed timeline of EMIYA so we can have an idea of just how old and how powerful the guy is. And yes, Shirō got a power up in this chapter. It's not by much but being a King of a Suit or Peerage does give the person a substantial boost. By how much? We'll just have to see with his next unfortunate victim LMAO. This time in Heaven also serves as a bit of a downtime for him. He'll have to jump back into the fray but things won't be as hectic as his time in Kuoh.]

To Disapared:

[You're absolutely right. While I am not Catholic nor Protestant, I'm just going with what I know or what I've managed to gleam from any book concerning Christianity in any context. Also, there's something I've found odd. There isn't any mention of Islamic faith in DxD. Such a curious thing too. But worry not! I did mention that in this story we will explore other Factions. I just felt the necessity to introduce Shirō's current circle and home base so that we have an idea of what we're working with, not just the fact that he's an Angel now.]

To Server Lock:

[No problem, I understand your worries. I myself am learning a lot about him as a character the more I delve into Nasuverse. I'd probably get all defensive if someone said something off about Kaneki lol.]

To a sanguinary gaurd:

[Dulio naturally has ten wings yes, BUT upon activating his Balance Breaker, he has twelve golden wings like Michael. It is why I had Michael address him directly, calling him his partner and second-in-command. While the others of the Four Great Seraphs still outrank him, Dulio is more of a general on the field. Shirō has twelve silver wings, so he's the right hand.]

To DukeOfWisdom:

[I'd say about seven months prior to the beginning of canon.]

To PsylentFox:

[I get that. My boy deserves a waifu or a few.]

To bwooodlord:

[Oh man, you don't know how happy it makes me to know that someone read my story in ONE SITTING. I've done that before and I get how you feel, so thank you. I really appreciate that. And about God coming back, someone mentioned that unlike God in the real world, the DxD version of him isn't as Omniscient or Omnipotent as the one we know through religion. But I do like the idea of him being involved in one form or the other, so I might implement that into the story in the future. For the time being, we have Michael acting in God's place instead.]

To Guest (?):

[I cackled at that first line LMAO. Cheat skills always have drawbacks in my opinion, and while we could argue that UBW is more natural, every power should have drawbacks. Kind of like how Rhya from Black Clover has COPY MAGIC but can only use ONE copied magic at a time. About the relationship/bond between Shirō and Rias? It will be one of the most important ones down the line. Simply because, as you've stated, their bond will bring the Factions closer considering that they both a royalty in a sense, with Shirō being adopted into the Seraphim and Rias being related to Sirzechs. And yeah, we'll see more of the Heaven's inhabitants' flaws. We already know Gabriel is a prankster at heart and Sariel is a bit of a whiner LMAO. Even one of the Seraphim, Metatron, is said to be obsessed with being a NINJA lol. About Avalon, while it was wielded by Arturia, it isn't necessarily Dragon-borne. But we'll focus on it soon enough, so stay tuned!]

To Dragonfighter11:

[Don't worry, I am starting to see merit in Shirō being with someone. Whether it be Rias, Sōna, Rin or even someone we haven't seen in the story like Brynhild. We'll see how the story goes. And thank you for reading!]

To GnamZero:

[I'm glad that the story hooked you in from the jump! After reading several Fate x DxD fics, I wondered how a Heaven Faction story would turn out.

And about Excalibur, it didn't have as much of an impact on him as it did in the original Fate/stay night, so it's a blade that he recognises as powerful and attaches it to someone he admired.

Of course! Shirō had a massively untapped potential because we saw what he might become in the future, but even then, he was still held back by his human limitations. Now, remove those limiters and give him a surplus of Mana to wield and you have one of the most powerful beings in Heaven. And personally, I don't see him losing any time soon lol.

Shirō is the kind of person to take matters into his own hands, so giving Leonardo off to someone else wouldn't be in character for him. And in this situation, he has people that he trusts to help the boy out in his absence. And yes, they'll have a sibling-like bond in the future. Leonardo will have a more active role in the future, maybe even join Shirō's Suit, but we have to remember that Shirō took him to Heaven to keep him from being involved with the oncoming war. But time will tell!

I also like their relationship too lol. It was something that came to me in the moment when I realised that this could work for them. Shirō being the newest to the family and the odd youngest sibling of the Angels gaining a younger brother.

Most of these characterisations are something I either adopted from what little we know, like in Teodoro's instance, or something I literally came up with on the spot like Sariel, given that he's just a named character and that's about it. No picture. Nothing.

Teodoro seems like a nice enough kid to listen to reason and given that he's said to be a genius and one of the highest-ranking individuals in the church, I think his role as a Queen fits him perfectly.

Lint is one character I actually like despite not knowing much about her and I think she deserves a more active role in the story. Also, given that she's a clone sibling of Freed, I think that'll make for a more compelling relationship between herself and Shirō since he killed her brother. And yes, Shirō retains every weapon in his UBW. Holy or Demonic, they all work to maximum effect in his hands.

About his power affecting him, I'm afraid it is technically possible. As someone who studies the swords history and adopts the previous users' techniques, while it may not incapacitate him, it will affect him psychologically or emotionally because he is different from those people. Each person is unique, has their own quirks, passions and ideals. And seeing as he desires to become a certain kind of person, it would be interesting for him to completely master his power, to the point that he is in control of himself.

In conclusion? It'll be an interesting story for sure. So, stay tuned. And really, thank you for reading!]

To SentinalSlice (again lol):

[Happy belated birthday, man! And those chips and GnamZero are working OVERTIME to get me back on my grind LMAO.]

To Gilgamesh50:

[Kuoh had to be a starting point because he was on a mission there but the story has deviated from canon since. Hope you're still reading the story!]

To ThatIdioticMelody:

[Thank you for reading. And I hope you did manage to study and not have much trouble with your test!]

To M2R:

[You should see me trying to explain Thaumaturgy to my little brother. I'm certain I've fried his brain before, but at least he's loving Fate/Zero right now. I like to believe that he had resigned to his fate lol. What better way to keep tabs on the people he's come to protect than being amongst them?]

To Lovnag:

[True! But the best part about writing a story on here is that you can polish it whenever you want, so do read chapters one and two again. And I'm glad that there are plenty of us who share the same sentiments about the series. Honestly? I believe it has great potential.

You know what? That's a fair argument. If, for instance, Millicas Gremory is said to be a good kid, would it be possible for him to ascend? Or does his inherent nature prevent him from doing so? It's a curious thing and something I'm prepared to find out more about.]

To USSRParrot:

[I hope so too lol. Also, it's great to see you here again. Sorry about dodging Intercessor. I just got so busy with other things and later on, I got inspired to write this one.]

To Jack1nTheBox:

[Fair enough. Admittedly, when I started writing, I didn't have much of an idea how I wanted the story to go. So, I let things kick-off in Kuoh and everything just flowed after that. And yes, the timeline isn't really the same as canon. Especially since Shirō's arrival was about 6 to 7 months prior to the beginning of the canon timeline, hence making it AU. And yeah, Shirō using his UBW was definitely meant to be a hype moment, but the other thing I had in mind was to avoid collateral damage and to heal those who had been injured, a by-product of Avalon being a part of his inner world now. But most of all, Shirō had to obliterate Kokabiel and using something like Balmung would have destroyed parts of the town. So, was it necessary? I believe so. While it's not a full revelation of his power, it's something that is a major part of his power.

Anyway, I appreciate you reading and reviewing. It's always great to know what someone else thinks about certain parts which I even question myself about LMAO.]

To Ask-if-i-like-lemons:

[For real!??? Damn, I didn't know that. But it was just a temporary notice, so there's no harm done.]

To ulttoanova:

[Thank you for loving my story! And yeah, I'll definitely look into other Fate spinoff. I'm currently watching Apocrypha and I'm really enjoying it. I was on my KNEES towards the end of II. Lost Butterfly. I can't take it anymore!]

To TimelessFox2:

[Yes! So, I have about two-three months of break so you best believe we're going to the top from here! Thank you for reading!]

To ivan1305as:

[Honestly? I love the first movies. Shirō, God bless his soul, doesn't deserve to suffer more than this! I'll be watching (or have watched by the time I drop this) the last film.]

To Lawoi:

[I'd really appreciate that!]

To TNoon:

[I'll make sure to check that one too. I'm ready to FULLY immerse myself in Nasuverse right now. And thank you for enjoying my story!]

As always, thank you for reading. It's a blast writing this story for everyone to enjoy and I have more fun interacting with you guys.

Have an enjoyable week ahead, Godspeed.