Chapter 9: Trust

*YAWN*

Walking my way towards school, I had to cover my mouth unless I want to catch flies. Dark rings were present under my eyes, couldn't get much sleep. I mean, can you blame me? Instead of teleporting to Issei's room, I let Rias walked into mine without even noticing her intention to rape me.

The timeline is changing. Big time. I've been thinking on what other possible changes could happen next. If the universe is pulling another one on me like Forcuis' appearance, then the warning I gave to Rias would be useless. In the end, aside from new enemies or major power ups, I got nothing. The only fortune I currently have is that Miho took my reality jumping problem quite well . She was silent throughout my explanation but in the end, she still accepted me after pondering for a few minutes. Our casual chatting over pizza last night soothed my worries greatly.

"Hey, it's him."

"I heard he forced girls to cuddle him."

"I heard they elope after arguing with her parents."

Like I said, that was my only fortune. The rumors definitely spread quickly, their whispers and staring were anything but subtle. I'm not even sure if they're trying to hide it. However, this is the least of my concerns, something as petty as this isn't enough to garner my attention.

"DAISUKEEEEEE!"

I stand corrected, it garners some of my attention.

I turned around and saw that two certain perverts were charging right at me like bulls. Just as they were about to hit me, I lazily sidestepped and they hit ground instead.

"Traitor!" Motohama and Matsuda pointed at me in unison.

It's too early in the morning for me to deal with this shit, "Do I even want to know what that meant?"

"We heard it! You and Akeno Onee-sama are an item!"

Deadpanning, "No, we're not. The rumors were wrong." I caught some students focusing on us. With my honest answers, hopefully the rumors will die down.

"Oh really?" Motohama adjusted his glasses, "Then what were you two doing at the mall yesterday?"

"We, along with the rest of the ORC, went shopping. I thought Issei already told you he'd join me."

"Yeah, he did." Matsuda scoffed, "But people said they saw her happily by your side. Care to explain that!"

"She wanted to see my embarrassed face. Out of all the guys, she said I was the least affected and wanted to try something different." My answer holds some truth, she did say that before. If I say something about pranking one of their school idols, they'll be hunting me down like an animal.

"Liar!" They pointed at me again, "Our benevolent Akeno Onee-sama would never do something like teasing people. She is the perfect example of Yamato Nadeshiko, there's no way she will do that." I can see some spectators nodding their heads in my peripheral vision. I can't help but rub the bridge of my nose and ask myself what did I do to deserve this.

"Then what about that other babe? The one with pink hair?"

As much as I want to leave right now, if I don't at least try to explain myself, it will be the same as calling me guilty. "That was Miho. She's a relative who doesn't like large crowds very much. She can take it, but prefers to hold me to stay calm."

They lean in close with those familiar lewdness on their face, "Think you can introduce us to her?"

"Absolutely not." I instantly denied.

They went on ranting about how unfair life is and pestered me again for an introduction. Frankly, I tuned them out and ignored them along the way. That doesn't mean I'm out of interrogation yet, even after class.

"Hmmm, that's quite the story. You sure have gotten popular, Daisuke-kun." Kiryuu, who is sitting on my table again, commented with a lecherous smile. "I didn't know you are such a playboy."

"Quit twisting my words to suit your delusional fantasies."

"My, my, what a temper. Not in the mood to meet your favorite female friend." She said in mock depression.

"I've already heard enough of this from Motohama and Matsuda, not to mention the whispers from the other students. I didn't get much sleep last night and I'm too tired for this."

"Oh, and what were you doing last night? Having fun with one of the Onee-samas?" She smirked slyly.

Memories of what Rias tried to do to me last night came to my mind. I didn't bother responding and looked to the corner of my eyes. Kiryuu, however, noticed my distinct lack of answer and gained an actual look of shock, "Did you?"

"... No." I answered lamely.

"Oh my God." Suppressing my urge to wince from my headache. "You did. Wow, color me impressed. I didn't think you were the aggressive type." She just sat there and looked at me like I grew a second head.

"Listen, I just helped her out with some issues. You know, occult stuff like that. We didn't do anything scandalous." I tried defending myself as much as possible, but I'm just getting desperate.

"Is that really it?" Kiryuu scrutinized at me.

"Yes."

Before she could say anything else, we heard a loud gasp of pleasant surprise. Taking a look, we saw that Kiba's outside of our classroom. He went over to Issei and Asia first and informed them about something.

So it's time.

"Sorry, Aika. Gotta go, talk to you later."

I stood up from my seat and went over to them, "Hey Kiba. Something up?"

His normal polite smile seems tense today and his eyes showed some gravity, "Yes, Buchou is asking all of us to meet at the club room. There is some urgent matter to be discussed."

"What do you mean?" Issei asked as we went on our way.

"It is better for Buchou to explain it than me."

Issei and Asia were confused but nodded anyway. The walk didn't feel much, but to me it's like all the weight I've been shouldering since waking up in this world has gotten a lot heavier. And it wasn't just that, I can feel the familiar sensation of power and dignity emitted from beyond these doors.

"Daisuke-kun, are you all right?" Kiba gave me a concerned look along with Issei and Asia, "You seem more stressed than usual."

Ugh, can't believe I'm letting this get to me. Shaking my head, a small smile presents itself on my face, "I'll tell you about it later. Right now, let's go in and see Buchou."

They acquiesced and we stepped in. The first thing was everyone else was here, second thing was Grayfia was here as well, third thing was Rias fixed eyes with mine for a few seconds before the maid addresses to her, "Ojou-sama, your entire peerage has gathered. Shall I explain the situation?"

"No, allow me." Rias sighed, "There is som-"

A red magic circle didn't let her finish. Fire blazed from the ground and radiated to us all. Doesn't burn, it is just the by product of his teleportation, a mere esthetic purpose and to exhibit the strength of their household. But it does produce heat and light which made me shield my eyes a little.

"Rias, my love. I have come to meet you." Let's see, blond hair? Check. Blazer? Check. A punchable arrogant face with a 10 meter pole stuck in his ass? Check.

"Riser." Rias spat out like something vile was in her mouth, "I wish I could say the same, but I would be lying."

"As always, your fiery attitude always makes me desire you more." Fire chicken proceeded to walk into Rias' personal space, "Come now, surely you have realized the importance of our union or the future of the next generation will become bleak."

"Guys, what's he talking about?" Issei whispered while keeping a glare fixed on fire chicken, "For some reason, I don't like him."

"Hmm? Have you not mention me to your peerage, Rias?" Apparently Issei's whisper wasn't silent enough.

"I have no need as you are of no importance to me." She scowled with her arms crossed under her bust.

Grayfia walked forwards, "Then allow me to introduce this young man. His name is Raiser Phenex-sama, a pure blood high-class devil, third son of the Phenex Household. And also, Rias Gremory Ojou-sama's fiancee."

...

"EEHH- mughguhuu?"

Issei didn't get the chance for his outburst. I'm standing next to him with my hand covering his mouth, stopping him to make us look embarrassing. Everyone, including fire chicken look at me in curiosity. I just shook my head to tell Issei now's not the time to be freaking out, especially when fire chicken is here. I don't want him to see any weaknesses in Rias' peerage, for her sake and to improve our chances of winning, no matter how small it is.

I freed his mouth when he looked calm enough and gave him a reassuring smile, "My, my. I see you have made a few additions. Were they all once human? It would make sense if he is unaware of my status."

"Yes, they are. And each of them are powerful in their own rights." Rias complimented with a hint of pride.

"I am sure they are." Fire chicken easily dismissed her claim, "Now, what about a civil discussion to settle the agreement. Rias' Queen, go make me quality tea." He sat down on the couch like he owns the place. For a high-class, he sure doesn't have much manners.

"Of course, Riser-sama." Akeno politely said but her facial features were strained and went to do so, whereas the rest of us waited in line at an end of the room.

"How much longer will you be obstinate, my dear Rias? An offspring of two households of nobility and power will certainly be beneficial to the 72 pillars." His mouth said benefit for the devils, but his eyes said benefit for himself as he take glances at the red head beauty's body.

"There is no guarantee will the future of our kind be brighten with our engagement. An offspring can be procreated with members of any of the pillars." Rias calmly argued back.

Akeno returned and placed a cup of tea in front of fire chicken. His facial features showed some annoyance but after a sip, he continued, "This was decided by your brother, Sirzechs-sama himself. He may already have a son but as the daughter of the current head, you have the responsibility to produce the next heir of the Gremory Household."

"You are correct." Fire chicken smiled, "I will marry a suitable partner and give birth to a child."

"Then, it is de-"

"However, the elders have no right to decide my future, only I can decide who I choose as my life partner. And it is certainly not you, Raiser Phenex."

His easygoing smile was now gone and temperature just gone up considerably, "Rias, my dear. I am making efforts in order to be reasonable. However, you must have forgotten I bear the name of the Phenex Household. It would be a disgrace should I fail to return with you as my spouse." He got up, walked to Rias, and held her chin up to lock eyes, "I will definitely bring you back to the underworld with me, even if I have to incinerate your entire peerage."

Everyone got prepared for a fight. Issei's Boosted Gear was summoned, Kiba has drawn his sword, Koneko held up her fists, lightning crackled around Akeno, and Asia tightening her hold on Issei's arm.

"Ha ha."

It came out faintly, but they all heard it.

"Ha ha ha."

It was louder this time, all heads turned to me.

"HAHAHAHAHA!" I threw my head cackled out as everyone just looks at me like I lost it.

"What is so funny brat?" Fire chicken asked out angrily.

"Nothing. I just thought that how much of a joke you are."

Now they really think I lost it. Fire chicken just asked in a slow but threatening tone, "You dare to mock a proud Phenex."

"No, of course not. I dare to mock you, fire chicken."

Fire erupted from his right arm, but not in a wildly manner. It was controlled and with limited spreading. I tried looking at him directly and pretended the flames didn't bother me in the least. It's definitely more than what Miho can make, and I get the feeling that he can go hotter. "You insolent-"

"See, this is what I'm talking. What I see isn't a high-class devil from a noble household, just someone who is throwing a childish temper tantrum because he couldn't get the girl he wants. You're already disgracing your household yourself." I made the most disappointed frown as I could make.

His ignited hand was ready to scorch me to death. My body tensed, if he fires that everyone will get caught!

"Uh-hum." A heavy pressure forced us to turn to the Queen who was silent since she introduced Raiser to us, "Raiser-sama, Hanwei-sama, I am the moderator asked by the head of the Gremory Household himself. Should this escalate more violently, I will not idly stand by." Her sharp gaze is now even sharper as her icy tone demanded submission.

Fire chicken's piercing glare faded and he backed down without delay, "If the strongest Queen has said that, then there is no helping it."

I simply nodded my head and everyone disarmed as the pressure lifted.

"Ojou-sama, your and Riser-sama's families have agreed this engagement for the future of the Gremory, yet you still wish for it to be null and void?"

"Yes."

"Then, as a last resort measure, Sirzechs-sama has offered another way to reach a conclusion." Both high-class focused their attention, "Only matured devils are allowed, but if it is an unofficial match, then both of you may compete. A Rating Game."

Rias' eyes widen and briefly looked at me, but quickly went back to Grayfia, "Do both of you accept?"

"I accept."

"Of course."

"Very well. I will manage the details of the Rating Game and convey the news to both of your families."

Fire chicken briefly inspected us, but there's more lust when he looked at the girls, and hatred for me, "Rias, are these your all of your servants?"

"And what if they are?" Rias glared.

He just smirked arrogantly in response and with a snap of his finger, another flaming magic circle appeared to teleport girls to the club room. Girls is a polite way of saying it, if I really want to be honest, they look like fucking accessories!

"Behold, my full peerage! One with power, experience and beauty. Out of all of your servants, only your Queen has any chance of defeating one of them. Are you still certain you wish to proceed with the Rating Game? It will be nothing more than an entertainment for you to struggle against me." He boasted with his peerage giving the same, albeit slightly less, condescending look.

"About that..." Grayfia cut in, "... as Ojou-sama still lacks maturity and experience, would you accept a period of time to be used for training in order to prepare your servants?"

'Please, please, please...'

"May I use 14 days to prepare for the upcoming game?" Rias asked without hesitation.

"Of course. It is confirmed then. The Rating Game between Rias Gremory-sama and Riser Phenex-sama will be held 14 days from now. The exact time and location will be announced shortly."

'Yes!'

"That is acceptable." Fire chicken agreed easily, "If my dear Rias loses- Rias, why is one of your servants crying?"

Rubbing the bridge of her nose, "It is his dream to become Harem King."

Looking at Issei, he really is crying. I refrained myself from facepalming so hard right now. So much for not showing any weaknesses.

"He's done it. He's got a shitty attitude and I want to punch his stupid handsome face, but he's done it. He's got his own harem!" Issei really let loose the waterworks and none of fire chicken's girls even tried to hide their disgust.

This time, I really did facepalm. OUCH! I think I almost broke my nose!

"Oh, it is only natural for us devils to yearn for passion and debauchery. Let's say we show him a glimpse of ours. Yubelluna, come!" Fire chicken beckon his Queen into his arms and groped her as they went on with a public make out session.

Okay, not gonna lie, I looked disgusted and everyone else did the same. Why did I watch this guy in the anime again? Oh right, because he's going to get his ass kicked!

"Watch and despair as your dream will never become reality." Fire chicken sneered.

I clamped down his shoulder before he could do anything rash, never leaving my bored eyes away from fire chicken, "Is this your hobby or something? Two-timing your so-called fiancee? No wonder my King hates you, you care more about your dolls than her."

His face scrunched up in anger, "What would you know about my harem? You look like you have yet to kiss a woman, much less gaining your own harem."

My expression didn't change, "True, at least I haven't fallen so low to kiss my own little sister."

He almost recoiled back, "What-"

"That is your sister over there, right?" I pointed at Ravel, "She may be cute, but that hardly justifies having your way with her all night long."

Issei's bulging eyes darted from me, to Ravel, and then to fire chicken.

"Having- What nonsense is this!? I would never-"

"I can understand, there's no shame in hiding it. After all, incest between siblings is sometimes needed to preserve your family purity. You already french kissed your Queen in broad daylight, I can only imagine what you will do to her in bed." I nodded sagely.

Ravel's face is practically burning red at this point. Wait, I think her face really is burning a little.

"Enough!" I think he really wants to pummel me, but stopped himself due to Grayfia's presence, "I will not stand for you to spout gibberish. I would burn you slowly as you ash is blown into the wind but now is not the time. This will be settled during the Rating Game. It would not be strange for there to be accidents after all."

He and his Queen went back to the rest of his peerage as a magic circle blazed and then they're gone. Grayfia bowed before doing the same, except her circle was whitish silver.

My hand immediately released Issei's shoulder and I let out a breathe. At least Issei didn't get the shit beaten out of him this time. Realizing that it was still silent, I looked around and saw that everyone was giving me weird looks. All except Rias, she looked at me like she's disappointed.

"Daisuke." She slowly said.

"Yeah?" I nonchalantly responded.

"Why did you intentionally antagonize Riser like that? He would have burned you completely if Grayfia did not stop him in time, you were never the one to start insulting people."

"Two reasons." I raised my index finger, "One, he was really pissing me off and you enjoyed my insults just as much if not, more than I did."

"Fine." She reluctantly agreed, "But that still doesn't mean you can do that."

"Which leads me to two." Raising my middle middle finger, "I wanted to gauge his power level."

"What?" She asked almost dumbly as well as everyone else.

"I know it was risky with multiple negative consequences but he only lost twice in Rating Games. And he lost on purpose because his opponents were close to his family clan. All his wins were without him doing anything, and even if he did, he just relied on his immortality to beat his opponents. He never did went all out before right?"

Rias nodded.

"That's why I provoked him. I wanted to see just how hot he can go and by extension, how much magic or control he has. This was the only time I can think of to get any firsthand information on him. Even if it's just a bit, I needed to see what he can do if we want to stand a chance against him in the Rating Game. Besides, I knew Grayfia-san will stop him if it gets out of hand. Sorry."

Everyone looked shock of my insight, Rias looked at me like she was impressed but shook her head shortly, "I can understand your logic Daisuke. I guess you did think thoroughly of this. But I still do not like how you gain that information by placing yourself in danger."

"Daisuke-kun, as incredible as you are to formulate a plan like that, how did you know we would confront Riser in a Rating Game? You angered him before Grayfia-san could mention it." Kiba questioned.

...

Now all my confidence felt like it went for a vacation. I stood there quietly with my head down as they all keep staring at me. I opened my mouth in attempt to say something, anything. But I couldn't, and closed it. This process repeated a few more times as they started to look worried. My hands clenched tightly and heart beating like crazy. Why is this so much harder than trash talking fire chicken!? I didn't become frozen like this to Miho last night.

I know it's irrational, just explain yourself and everyone will understand. What's so hard about that? Apparently, really hard as I feel myself getting smaller and smaller. My fears of what might happen to me when I first came here resurfaced. What if in the off chance that they'll hate me for keeping this a secret. Almost all of them have nightmarish pasts and me knowing about them without their consent could result in them thinking I betrayed them. 'What if they think I'm just lying to them. What if they sent me to Ajuka and extract every bit of my knowledge I have? What if-'

"Daisuke." My eyes opened. Rias looked at me gently with a low voice like she's seeing me as a scared little animal, "It's okay. You don't have to tell us if you don't want to. I am grateful enough for you to recall bad memories so you can help us. You don't have to push yourself, I won't pry any further than you are comfortable with."

She smiled gently at me. And I saw everyone giving me the same kind smile. I slowly straighten myself to look at them properly this time. They all trust me, Rias, Issei, and Asia smiled like always. Kiba, Koneko, and Akeno even have understanding in their smiles. They know what it's like to remember their past, and they don't want me to do it either.

What was I thinking? I've spent time with them for so long that I know that they're good people already, of course they wouldn't push me into something I wouldn't do. They all trust me, and I have to return that trust.

"Sorry, guess I panicked a little." I scratched the back of my head sheepishly.

"It's okay. You don't need to tell us." Rias assured me once more.

I shook my head, "No, I've been thinking about this for a long time now, not just last night. I want all of you to know, it doesn't haunt me in the way you think it does."

Rias slowly nodded. I took one more glance at everyone and breathed deeply, 'Cast your fears away, hesitate and you die, run away and you die. Show your resolve and fight'. Doesn't work as good as before a fight, but still better than nothing.

"For starters, I don't have amnesia. I never had one." Surprise was etched onto their faces at that revelation, "And as for Kiba's question, I know the future. Buchou's engagement, fire chicken's arrival, the Rating Game and much more. I've known about it for a long time now."

I gave them some time to digest this particular information until Issei spoke up, "Holy shit! Daisuke, you can see the future!?"

"No, I can't. I come from a place where I have seen everyone's future here."

"What do you mean, Daisuke?" Rias asked.

Unintentionally sighing, "First, I need to ask you this. What do any of you know about the multiverse theory?"

"I only know a little." Rias answered, "The theory states the possibility of many other universes besides ours. There is a void know as the Dimensional Gap that lies in between the Underworld, Earth, and Heaven. Sona once wonders the possibilities of other worlds beyond the gap."

"Sona-kaichou is as smart as always. She's right, there are other worlds. And I'm the living proof of it." I thumbed myself.

There were surprised again, better get used to seeing it. All except Issei who was confused. "What if I told you that I come from another universe where Kuoh, angels, devils, youkais, Gods,..." Weird, I didn't get a headache, "... and even Great Red himself originated from a light novel called Highschool DxD."

Multiple of emotions swirled in their eyes. Anger? Sadness? Outrage? I don't know, they just thought about my words. All their lives, they thought they were real, living and breathing, but now I'm implying that they're nothing more than fictional characters.

"Okay, I don't get what you just said, but sounds to me you've got a case of chuunibyou Daisuke." Issei said with a pitying smile.

Well, if that's how you want to play it, "Issei, you recently had a dream about a giant red dragon shortly after you're Boosted Gear matured."

He stepped back, "How the hell did you know that!?"

"That dragon is one of the Two Heavenly Dragons. Yes, he is magnificently powerful." I answered as he had a puzzled look, "He is the spirit that resides in your Boosted Gear for at least several millenniums. I suggest you ask him more about the Boosted Gear since he knows more than you."

I looked at the shocked yet confused Issei, or to be more precise, I looked at his left hand, "I know you can hear me Red One. I won't say your name in respect for Issei to learn about it himself. And I also know you wish to let him get used to the supernatural world, but you two will encounter the White One sooner than you think. It is best if you try to help him as much as possible."

Seconds went by in silence, and I'm starting to feel stupid by saying all of that. Until green light emerged from the back of Issei's hand, "I am surprised. Never in my life have I encountered one so unique such as you."

Issei almost jumped and everyone looked at his hand in awe, it's not everyday you get to see one of the Heavenly Dragons, even if it's just the light.

"What the fuck!? Why's my hand talking!?" Issei swung his hand back and forth like a cockroach just landed on it.

"Issei, chill. He won't hurt you. It's the opposite actually, he wants to help you." I tried calming him.

Eventually he did stop and looked at his hand weirdly, "Who are you?"

"That is a conversation for another time partner. For now, my interest lies in your friend, Daisuke was it?"

I nodded.

"I show myself to few outside of my hosts, and I am grateful for allowing my partner to learn more on his own. However, there is something that concerns me. How much do you know about me?"

It didn't come out as a threat, at least he's not angry, "Not much more than the general knowledge. I know a bit about your past and your abilities. You didn't show yourself much in the anime other than talking to Issei. That's about it."

"I see. I will heed your advice and inform my partner more. You have my thanks."

Raising my eyebrow, "You believe my absurd story? Even I wouldn't believe something like that without undeniable proof."

"My eyes have seen much that would leave most people baffled. I would merely scoff have I heard this prior to my sealing. Many unfathomable actions occur in the world of the supernatural, why must I react to each and every one of them."

"Ah, yes. Being in the Boosted Gear for so long has changed you. Probably should have thought twice before trying to eat the leaders of the three factions."

"Kukuku, in all my years, never once has my host become a devil until now. And now that said host has a companion who knows the future from another reality. I look forward to what happens."

"There will never be a dull moment, that's for sure." I smiled cheekily.

"I hope so. Farewell."

The light vanished as Issei blinked stupidly and touch his hand. I spotted everyone else giving me varying degrees of shock with their mouths hanging open, even the ever stoic Koneko. I might be enjoying this more than necessary. Oh who am I kidding? I'm totally enjoying this, "So, is that enough proof for you?"

Getting out of their stupor, Rias coughed in her hand and resumed, "That would suffice. But there is something I do not understand. Why have you come to this world?" She leaned forward in interest.

I frowned at that, "To be honest, I have absolutely no clue. One night, I was sleeping on my bed. And the next morning, I found myself waking up on a park bench. Tried looking for any clues as to where I am, but I didn't get much until I saw Issei at the park, trying and failing to save him, got killed, you reincarnating me, and now here I am. I do have a few theories, but got nothing to prove it."

Rias frown as well, but hers have sadness in it, "I am so sorry Daisuke. At first I thought you being thrown into the life of a devil was what upsetted you, but now I see you have experienced much more."

Shrugging my shoulders, "Don't worry about it. Complaining or feeling down won't get me back home. Besides it's not so bad." I smiled warmly, "I did get to meet you guys. Being there for me really helped, you know."

I turned so everyone could see me, "I'm sorry for not trusting you." And prostrated myself before them. Once again, earning gasps of shock, "And I'm also sorry for knowing about your pasts. But please believe me, I don't care what you are. I see all of you as my important friends, never feared you because of what was out of your control. You all helped me even when I lied out of fear that you'll judge me. I'm so sorry. So please, give me one last chance. I won't let you down. I promise."

"Oi! Oi! Daisuke, I really don't get what's going on, but you don't have to do that. You still helped us a lot too."

"Ha-Ha-Hanwei-san, I do not mind at all. You have always been kind to everyone. Please get up."

I can hear Issei's and Asia's panicked tone, but I didn't stop. I couldn't stop. They might not think it's a big deal, but to everyone else except Rias and Issei, knowing their hellish past without permission was not to be taken lightly. I would be angry too if our roles were reversed.

The faint sound of footsteps was heard in front of me, "Daisuke-kun." So it's Akeno. "Please look at me."

Doing so, I half expected a hateful scowl or even a slap to the face. But it's the opposite actually, she smiled kindly and extended her hand, "It was never your fault for knowing. You have already proven yourself by helping us, fighting with us, and opening up to us. We may not want to recall our pasts, but something as simple as this would never sever the bond we have made."

Kiba and Koneko nodded without hesitation. I looked back at her hand and then to her face, the smile never even wavered. Finally, I accepted it and slowly got up, "Thank you everyone. I promise with my knowledge and strength, I'll make sure to protect you from anything. Starting with Buchou."

I looked at her, "I know about fire chicken's peerage, his strategies for the Rating Game, and thought of several possible ways to beat him back in my world. Just give me the word and I'll tell you everything."

Rias just stood there, contemplating and even biting her lower lip. She seems conflicted about something until she reached her decision, "Thank you Daisuke, that is very tempting but I do not need it."

"What!?" That wasn't me, it was Issei, "But Buchou, don't you wanna win? You were so dead set on not marrying him and Daisuke's plans are good. Why not take his offer?"

Her face was filled with pride, "I understand that, Issei. However, this is my future on the line. If I defeat Riser with Daisuke's knowledge, it will be nothing more than a hollow victory. It would feel like a farce, not using my own skills, my own intellect to win. This is my chance to prove myself to my parents as well as my Onii-sama that I am worthy. I want to defeat him on my own terms."

I smiled in nostalgia, "You were always proud to a fault, I expected that answer anyway. You hear that guys? Our King turned down such an offer to win with honor. After hearing that, there's no way we can't reciprocate that right."

Realizing what I was doing, they all had fire in their eyes, ready to give more than a 100% for what's to come, "All of us got your back. That is why, even if you've made some mistakes, even if you're doubting yourself, command us to victory. No matter what, we will always believe in you, Rias."

She noticed me calling her given name for the first time and smiled brightly, "Yes. Let's show Riser not to mess with us. We will blow him away!"

Everyone was pumped. Rias told us to go back home, pack up and meet at the northern outskirts of Kuoh tomorrow early morning. They all went back but I still got one more member to inform.

"Gasper." Knocking the door twice, "Can you hear me?"

"Daisuke-senpai! I heard from Buchou's familiar. You're all gonna train right? To help Buchou win." I heard his girly muffled voice though the door.

Wow, that bat works fast, "Yeah, we'll be gone for two weeks. But that's not why I'm here."

"Eh? Why are you here?"

I sighed, "This is gonna be extremely hard to believe, but please listen to me until I finish."

I explained my origins for the third time, this time was much easier. Probably because I can't see his face. He was silent just like Miho, taking in everything I've said. Don't know if he understands it all or not, I talked slow just in case. Again, I apologized about knowing his past, though I vaguely remember something more in the wiki than just the anime.

"I-is that true? You know a-about my past?" He asked.

"Yeah, I'm sorry. I'll make it up to you." I said solemnly.

"I'm jealous of you senpai."

"What? What do you mean?" Out of all the response I thought he would make, this was not one of them.

"You were scared, but you still told everyone your secret. I wish I could be more like you. I can't even help Buchou, I'm so useless."

"You're not useless, and I can prove it." I said gently.

"H-h-how?" He asked almost eagerly.

"You're the most successful devil out of all of us in making contracts. Even when you're too scared to come out, you still find a way to help Rias. You can say that you're useless all you want, but all I see is someone struggling everyday to prove himself anything but useless."

*sniff*

"Gasper?"

"N-no one has told m-me that before. Th-thank you Daisuke-senpai. I-I really wish I could be like y-you." I can hear some hiccups, the guy must be really worried about what others think of him.

"You don't have to be like me. You can be yourself, just be Gasper. Though, sometimes I wish I can try using your Sacred Gear."

"W-why!? This stupid Sacred Gear can only freeze people, I hate it."

"I kinda understand what you mean. But compared to mine that can only make me stronger, you have one that can temporarily stop time and space. You can stop a bomb from exploding, stop an attack aimed at your friends, or even stop an enemy before he even knows you're there."

"I-I never thought of it like that. Do you think I can do all of those?" Gasper asked hopefully.

"Why not? With practice, you can do whatever you want with your gear. It does respond to the user's willpower."

"... Daisuke-senpai."

"Yeah?"

"Will I... ever be confident in the future."

"That is something you have to find out for yourself."

"Bu-but I-"

"And I'll be sure help you every step of the way."

"Huh?"

"You're not alone Gasper. Even in that room, you were never alone. You got me, Buchou, Issei, Kiba, Koneko, Himejima-san, and Asia. We're gonna train until we drop, helping one another to improve ourselves all the way. A scary gear or not, you're one of us, we've already accepted you. Once you learn to accept yourself, then we can train together and make sure you won't freeze your friends anymore. So, don't keep us waiting too long okay."

"... Daisuke-senpai."

"Yeah?"

"I'm sorry for being so scared all the time. I couldn't help Issei-senpai with those fallen angels, and now I can't help Buchou." He said regretfully.

"It doesn't have to be now. If you don't have the courage to fight with us,..." I held my fist towards the door, despite him not being able to see me, "... I'll fight with enough courage for the both of us. Cheer us on, okay?"

"Yes. Good luck, Daisuke-senpai."

A.N.: And here's what everyone thinks of Daisuke's predicament. Don't know when I'll upload another chapter, gonna be busy again. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

Ja Ne