Chapter 14: Aftermath

"I can't believe we won."

Immediately after the game ended, we were teleported to a medical room, getting treated by some of the doctors of the Gremory Household. Asia also pitched in with her Twilight Healing and became tuckered out. All the adrenaline must have left her body when everyone was deemed in good enough condition. She's comfortably snuggling in her hospital bed which was right next to Issei's. Apparently, the medical room we're in is in another dimension, similar to how Rating Game battlefields were constructed. This allows doctors to immediately care for the wounded before confirming they are healthy enough to teleport back to the real world or a better equipped hospital.

"I've been planning this for a while now, you better believe we won." I smirked at Issei who had bandages on his head and torso. My left side and chest had bandages as well, "So, did you guys have fun kicking fire chicken's ass?"

"You bet!" Issei and the others were still in high spirits, "His stupid handsome face is now just plain stupid."

"I am actually quite impressed, Daisuke-kun." Kiba's sitting next to Koneko, smiling happily instead of politeness, "You had much time, but to devise a simple yet effective plan to make use of both our and Riser's abilities? Where did you learn to become so intelligent?"

"Oh yeah, I've never heard how you got so smart either." Issei watched me with interest, sitting cross-legged on his bed, "You could answer most of the questions in class besides Japanese, you even aced our last math test. How'd you do it?"

Koneko and Akeno were silent, but their staring says they're curious as well, "I've always wanted to be a doctor actually." Scratching the back of my head embarrassingly, "Science and math come naturally I guess, it also helps that I apply some of the theories and formulas into my spells. Had to do a lot of exercises though. As for the abilities, I've watched countless animes and fighting scenarios, trying to figure out what's the best way to defeat the opponents."

"What about fighting games?" Koneko asked with a hint of challenge.

"How about I show you next time?"

"You're on."

"Wait, wait, hold up. You got all those crazy ideas from animes? There's that shinigami and ninja you told to me and Kiba. What else is there?"

I smirked teasingly, "What if I tell you I know another version of Dra-M Ball and it's sequel?"

Issei's eyes popped out comically, "Are you serious!?" He calmed down a bit after seeing the Bishop shifting in her sleep, "No way, that can't be it. You're pulling my leg right?"

"Don't you wanna know who could beat Gon Soku with less than ten percent of his power?"

The Pawn flinched back in terror. He looked to be deep in thought before turning excited, "I want all the details, tell me everything you know."

"Maybe next time, I'm still exhausted and hungry. By the way, can we get something besides hospital food? Heard that those aren't the best for your palate."

"Buchou should be back by the time we are discharged, we can leave to eat once she's here." Akeno answered.

"Where is Buchou anyway?" Issei questioned, "Haven't seen her since the game ended."

"Ufufu, thanks to a certain Rook..." She couldn't be more obvious, "... Buchou's injuries were already healed. She had a quick minor check-up before being summoned by the heads of the Gremory and Phenex Households for a meeting. They wish to discuss about the finer details of the Rating Game."

"Let me guess, politic issues?" Akeno nodded her head and I groaned, "It could be messier."

"What do you mean Daisuke-senpai?"

"Yeah, what could be so bad about that?"

"Think about it. This marriage was set up for the future of pure-blooded devils, approved by Lucifer himself." Issei, Kiba, and Koneko nodded, "Many were looking forward to this, there's bound to be some people who would object to cancelling the engagement, even when we already won."

"Wait, they can do that? Then what did we go through all that shit for?"

"Calm down Issei-kun. Fortunately, Lucifer-sama also approved of voiding the engagement should we win. This is just like group members having different opinions as the leader makes the final decision."

"In other words, they're just sore losers. The big bad fire chicken isn't used to receiving a beat down."

Akeno's eyes suddenly twinkled, "Ufufu, speaking of a beat down." She walked over to me with noticeable sways in her hip that even allured me for a few moments, "The way how you utterly tortured Riser was so hot." My eyes went wide the size of dinner plates, mouth gaping open slightly as the others had mixed reactions. The Queen sat next to me and glomped my right, pressing her assets directly onto me, "I didn't know you were an S."

The fuck is going on!? She's never been like this, especially in front of the others. I can feel my face heating and heart pounding, but she didn't stop there. Akeno leaned in close to my ear and whispered, "It made me so fucking wet~"

My body went rigid. I tried saying something to get me out of her grasp when her hand slowly sliding up and down my biceps. Her hand then went to my chest and down to my abdomen- WAIT A FUCKING SECOND! IS SHE FEELING ME UP!?

Kiba's staring at me in stupor, and Issei's rubbing his eyes to check if their broken. They have seen Akeno's teasing, but nothing of this level. It was obvious to them that the Queen has been holding back a lot if she doesn't care about being seen. Turning my admittedly dreaded face to the guys, I silently pleaded with my eyes for help. But the gentleman Knight smiled apologetically, while Issei just shrugged with only a hint of anger.

'Traitors!'

My only salvation left was my fellow Rook, but I immediately hesitated when I saw her. Koneko's face was blank and neutral as usual, but her hand was gripping the bed frame so hard that the metal crushed inwards.

"Koneko-chan, are you okay?" Issei cautiously asked as he debated whether he should back away from her while he still has the chance.

"Peachy."

"You're destroying your bed."

"It's perverted."

"How can your bed-"

"It's perverted." Koneko flatly repeated with a steely tone that demanded no arguments.

Issei wisely shut up.

My mind's going numb. I can't think of any escape routes, Akeno's scent wafted through my nose and she's started rubbing her breasts along my arm, "We can continue this tonight, I will let you treat me as much as you want~"

'Somebody save me!'

"Ahem!"

Rias appeared out of nowhere, stopping Akeno from her seducing. Her arms crossed under her bust and a prominent scowl on her face, "Akeno, what do you think you're doing to MY Rook?" Her voice was full of anger and kinda possessive.

"Ara, ara, Buchou." Akeno just smiled casually to her childhood friend, "I just wanted my daily dose of Daisuke-kun's petting." She grabbed my hand and placed it on top of her head. Due to mind still processing all this, my hand unconsciously moved out of habit.

*CREAK*

I didn't need to look to know that Koneko bent a part of her bed into a deformed shaped. Rias, in turned, scowled even deeper and yanked me away from her grasp, "Daisuke needs to properly rest after so many fights. He doesn't need you to hold him like that."

You say that, but why do I still feel two soft mounds?

"Ara, ara." Akeno latched again. Great, now I'm being sandwiched by two gorgeous girls with big breasts... Wait, hasn't something like this happened before? "It is only natural for a senpai to care for her kohai."

"I'm his master, I can take care of Daisuke better than you."

Both of them gripped my arms harder, glaring at each other until I could sparks between their eyes. No wait, that's just Akeno's static electricity, Rias' eyes are glowing faintly red.

"Excuse me Buchou, but has the heads of both households come to a conclusion?"

They immediately stopped and released me. Thank you Kiba!

"That's right. Although there some slight complications, the engagement is now officially null and void." Rias smiled warmly at us, though I could've sworn her eyes stayed onto me a few moments longer, "Thank you everyone. I was able to earn my freedom because of your help. It was long and hard, but none of you gave up and selflessly fought for my sake. I am glad to have such wonderful servants like you."

"Don't worry about it Buchou. If that yakitori comes back, we'll just kick his ass again."

"So it's finally over."

"Actually, not quite." Rias' smile turned tense, "Due to the elders feeling so confident about Riser's victory, they already decorated the ball room for the wedding. There are plenty of nobles looking forward to the party either for the union between two members of different households, or just wanted to come out of boredom. Hence, Lucifer-sama decided it would we appropriate to re-purpose it to celebrate my first win."

"So it's gonna be a party full of stuck up nobles? Wait a second, do we need to come?"

She nodded.

I groaned, "Do we really have to? I don't even have anything close enough that resembles formal wear."

"I can lend you a tuxedo, we have lots of those and other costumes back at home. As the heiress of the Gremory Household, I will be required to attend many other parties for formalities, business, and such. As my servants, you will be required to attend as well."

I groaned again, "I hate formal stuff. When is it?"

"Tomorrow night. Grayfia will meet us in the club room and teleport us to the Underworld. Try to look as best as you can and don't cause any trouble. You don't have have to interact with the others too much, but I prefer if you could at least make a good impression."

"What about school tomorrow?"

"I already asked Sona to give us extra two days to rest before our training."

"That's good. Thanks."

Issei and the others- minus Asia who was still sleeping -were watching their King animatedly interact with the Rook, more than usual to be precise. Her wide smile never left and her tone was chipper. Rias was even leaning closer into his space as they talk. They could tell that the signs were there and yet Daisuke was too bothered by the mentioned party to notice.

"You think he'll ever notice?" Issei whispered.

"Perhaps, but I highly doubt it will be soon." Kiba whispered back.

"Miho, I'm home."

"Welcome back Hanwei-sama." I glanced at my familiar and blinked. She's wearing a T-shirt that resembles more of a crop top, sleeves and hem rolled back, reveling more of her skin and bellybutton. A mini skirt also exposed her thighs that showed how plump they are, "I assume you emerged victorious."

"Uh... yeah." I shook my head to clear my thoughts, "Kinda tired though. What's for lunch?"

"I prepared your favorite, I have added new ingredients that I think you would enjoy. Would you like to take a bath first?"

"Sure, and thanks."

Pulling out Dream Sword from my pocket dimension, I placed it in my room. Gotta remember to do weapon maintainance on it later. Letting the cool water fall onto me feels nice, but I'm kinda puzzled by Miho's actions today. She doesn't usually expose that much, and there's something about her that's different. Maybe I'm just overthinking things again.

"Hanwei-sama, I'm coming in."

Or maybe not.

Quickly covering my crotch, I did my best to not look back as I heard her entering, "Miho, why are you here?"

"You must be exhausted, so I wish to wash your back to help relieve yourself."

Alarm bells are ringing in my head, "It's okay, I can wash myself."

"But I want to. Am I a hindrance?"

She sounds disappointed. Okay, calm down me. There's nothing wrong about this, just a Salamander who wants to help her friend. Miho's probably doing this because I told her not to participate in the Rating Game. If I deny her again, it might depress her more, "If you insist, then please wash my back."

She proceeded to scrub my back with a sponge, if only that was just it. I could also feel her nipples also lightly brushing me whenever the sponge moves, it just reminds me how big her chest is for it to reach so far. My face is burning up again and my little buddy is getting energetic! Dammit this is torture! I need something to distract me!

'God.'

Ouch! My head hurts and body twitched a little. But it's working.

Sensing my distress, Miho leaned her body onto my back, her troubled face just right next to mine. I can feel everything, especially the two specific pokes! "Hanwei-sama, are you dissatisfied? Your face is red."

'God God God God God God God God God God God God."

"It's really good. Thank you." My fake smile must have worked since she leaned back, "Actually, I'm already pretty hungry. How about we eat now?"

"As you wish."

I got out first and went to my room, immediately clutching my head and rubbing my temples. Never thought it was possible to feel so much pain and excitement at the same time. After recollecting myself, a pleasant aroma entered my nostril and my stomach growled. I got dressed and saw that Miho's already waiting for me. Taking a spoonful of fried rice, "Yum, it's really good. So you added some meat?"

"Yes. There was a sale at the market and I thought it would be nice to buy some. The meat is also good quality."

Don't know when or how she got so good at this stuff but I'm not complaining. I took another bite before I saw her right in front of my face with a sausage in her mouth, "Miho?"

"Hanwei-sama, please enjoy me as dessert." She said with her mouth full.

Miho moved closer to my face, sausage closer to my mouth that made me bewildered. I tried saying something before she grabbed her shirt collar and pulled it under, revealing her huge breasts and erected nipples.

What the fuck is going on!? She's never like this!

I grabbed her shoulders and pushed her back, letting the meat drop to the floor in surprise, "Miho, are you okay? Why are you doing this?"

Miho shrunk back, "Am I unsightly? Does this not please you?" She pushed up her breasts for emphasis.

Deadpanning, "Miho, you're so hot and sexy that I had to train my body to exhaustion everyday to get rid of my lust to fuck you." She looked hopeful but I cut her off, "But that's not what you truly want, is it? I'm grateful that you're trying to help me, but I see you as my important friend and partner. I'll never hurt you, that is a promise."

She frowned, "But, I have read a material that suggests men can feel great pleasure and relief from copulation. I wish to emulate those women and service you."

I smiled softly, "That's just it. I don't want you to emulate other women. You're Miho, I want you to be yourself. You shine at your brightest that way after all."

A blush appeared on her face as she fidgeted, "Really?"

"Absolutely."

"Then, I do not need to refer to the material?"

I pulled her collar back up, "Nope."

"Thank you, Hanwei-sama. I was not sure if I could do some of the poses like in the material."

"It's okay, let's get back to lunch." Another delicious bite of rice eased my nerves. I need to make sure Miho doesn't come across any more porn for both of our sakes, I almost gave in, "Come to think of it, where did you find said material anyway?" I took another spoonful.

"Oh." She got up, walked to a kitchen cabinet and pulled out an erotica, "I found it in here."

*CHOKE**CHOKE**CHOKE*

I forgot about that stupid book!

Snatching the damn thing, I used wind to completely rip it to tiny shreds. Embarrassment flooded me as memories of Issei persuading me to buy hentai came crashing. I couldn't turn to look at my familiar in the eye, "Miho, please do me a favor and pretend you never found that."

"Um, okay?"

It was the night of the party. Miho and I watched the video of the Rating Game last night, and she was actually interested in the fights, but paid the most attention in mine against the Bomb Queen. Although she did look like she was contemplating something after my 2-on-1 fight. I gave her some explanations and advice on how to adapt to the situations as we watched. I don't think I was that good at teaching, but she understood most of it.

But the real highlight was fire chicken's humiliation. I laughed until my stomach started to hurt, and even then I was still laughing. Miho giggled a bit since she didn't have a real grudge against him. She went back to do her own errands while I replayed fire chicken's electrocution over and over again, I even brought popcorn. After that, we went to bed early and I slept like a dead man.

Our daily lives went back to normal, all except me dealing with this infernal necktie!

"I can barely breath in this monkey suit, it's so restricting. Does everyone wear stuff like this?" I left Miho back home. Since the party isn't important to her, she wasn't that bothered. The ORC members were in the club room, waiting for Grayfia to pick us up.

"Yes. I don't think it's so bad, you look handsome." Rias eyed me for several seconds, "But your necktie could use some fixing." She got into my personal space to do so.

Rias is wearing a crimson dress that matches her pony-tailed hair. Akeno's is blacked themed with long gloves, Asia has a light green dress, and Koneko's dress is white with black outline that exposes her shoulders. All of them wore to complement their natural beauty or cuteness respectively, which is why I'm feeling uncomfortable to a gorgeous red head with exposed cleavage so close to me. By the way, Issei and Kiba are wearing the standard black tuxedos while mine is dark blue. I think the blue color is starting to grow on me.

"There, I loosen it up a bit for you. Better?"

"Yeah, thanks." Taking a few deep breathes to relax my body, "Where did you learn how to adjust ties?"

"I used to help with my onii-sama's tie when I was younger. Now that I think about it, he probably messed it on purpose so I would do that."

A silvery magic circle appeared in the middle of the club room, "Good evening everyone. Are you prepared to depart?"

Rias confirmed our dressing one last time and we teleported to a room. Let me tell you this, the room alone is bigger than my apartment space, decorated with paintings, flowers, fancy furniture, and all kinds of other stuff you would expect from rich nobles.

"Ria-tan!"

A red blur came tackling onto the other red. The siscon is practically squeezing Rias in a bear hug, "You looked so cool winning your first Rating Game, even when you're not a mature devil yet. Your onii-chan is so proud of you!"

"Onii-sama!"

I had to cover my mouth with both of my hands, otherwise I'd be laughing and rolling on the ground. Issei and Asia looked baffled by the crazy spectacle of their proud King getting embraced by a weirdo. The others looked amused though as they probably have seen this countless times already. The huggee however, with her face as red as her hair, was completely embarrassed by the hugger. She fruitlessly tried to pry off the hands of a Super Devil.

"I have your match on recording in high definition. It will be preserved for years so we can look back and-ow ow ow."

"Lucifer-sama, it is unbecoming of a Maou to casually act on their personal feelings, especially during in front of other people."

"But Grayfia..." Sirzechs' cheek was pinched hard as he tries to come up with something to save himself, "... I just want to congratulate Ria-tan on her first win."

"Pfftt." I accidentally let out an indignant snort, making heads turn towards me, "Please excuse me, I had something in my throat." I masked my laughs as coughs.

None of them bought it.

Shame filled Rias so much that she had to cover her entire face with her hands. Sirzechs was finally freed as he looked at his little sister's entire peerage. A regal and powerful aura surrounded him as all playfulness was gone, "Greetings, this may be our first meeting for some of you but for the rest, let me reintroduce myself. My name is Sirzechs Lucifer, a Maou of the Underworld, as well as Rias' older brother."

"You're a Maou!? Buchou's older brother!?" Issei panicked being in front of the now identified powerful ruler whereas Asia 'eep' in surprise.

Noticing the rest bowing their heads, Issei, Asia, and I quickly copied to show our respect, "It is an honor to meet you again, Lucifer-sama."

Raising our heads, we noticed two other people behind Sirzechs, a handsome man with crimson hair, and a women who looks nearly identical to my King.

"I am the current head of the Gremory Household, and Rias' father, Zeoticus Gremory."

"And my name is Venelana Gremory, Rias' mother. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

And cue to Issei's perverted smile.

Though friendly at first glace, you can tell how noble all of them carry themselves. Their posture, their tone, all royal enough to know that they're like this for a really long time. They probably should be at least this much if they have so many loyal followers in the Gremory Household. Their auras killed my humorous mood as I try to look as dignified as I can.

Sirzechs walked over to me, "You are Daisuke- no, Hanwei-kun, correct?"

"Yes. It is a great honor to make your acquaintance, Lucifer-sama."

He chuckled, "I apologize for my display earlier but you do not need to be so formal in private. Please call me Sirzechs."

I paused and looked at him in the eye, before discarding all the formal shit and smiled with my hand out, "In that case, nice to meet you Sirzechs-san. Thanks for that by the way, I really hate formalities."

The others stared incredulously at me. Venelana and Grayfia looked at me with a slight disappointing frown, but Zeoticus and Sirzechs just laughed at my display, "You are welcome, Hanwei-kun." He took my hand.

"What do you know? It seems our little Rias has finally found someone who is not completely stiff." The oldest red head scrutinize, looking at me up and down before giving an approving grin, "You will make a fine young man one day. Please take care of Rias for now and ever."

"I intend to Zeoticus-san."

"Please call me otou-san."

"Otou-sama!" Rias yelled indignantly, face blushing a storm yet again. I lost count how many times she's done that already. Maybe this party is worth coming after all.

My mind rewind back to his words. I blinked at what might be words that I have misheard, "Wait. What?"

"Now, now, don't be so hasty. Proper procedures must be followed." Venelana casually told her husband, but somehow he looked frighten and nodded.

"Everyone, the party is about to start. I am sure many are waiting for Rias to make her appearance. Shall we be off?" Sirzechs announced as we all exit the room, "I'm sorry but Hanwei-kun, may I please speak to you in private?"

My friends stopped their tracks and turned to me in worry, most of it was from Rias. I'm surprised but there's something I wanted to talk to him alone as well. I gave her a reassuring smile, "Go, I'll be fine." She was hesitant, but ultimately accepted and went out with the rest.

Now it was just us two. I won't deny it, being someone who can kill me before I could blink unnerves me a little. But then I remembered to steel myself if the future opponents are always like this. "I apologize again for calling you out. Please have a seat." He sat behind his desk as I sat across him, "Firstly, I would like to thank you for helping my sister to break free of her engagement."

I raised an eyebrow, "What do you mean by that? If it's to help Rias, then all of us helped her, not just me."

He chuckled, "Humble as well, there are not many of those nowadays. Yes, all of Rias' peerage members contributed as a whole, but I noticed yours is a little more different." My eyebrow was still raised but I stayed silent, "I do not know if you are aware of it, but you were the key member to attain victory."

Actually I do know, considering what happened in canon.

"You did not just help physically, but also mentally. You were the one who kept the morale high and fixed any situation that could lead to negative consequences. I have heard from my sister that the anti-fire counters were your ideas. The way you had your comrades' trust just proves you could one day become a magnificent King."

A King? I haven't thought that far yet, mostly just about how to survive with all my limbs intact.

"Above all else, you helped rekindled Rias' spirit. She is young and praised with incredible magical powers all her life. It must be because we have spoiled her too much, but she chooses to settle her problems alone to prove herself. Had her fight against Riser lasted any longer, I would be uncertain of the outcome."

Sirzechs smiled kindly, "However, you had saved her from that fate. You took command when the situation arises and helped Rias reminded her of what a peerage truly means in the Gremory Household. For that, I thank you."

I processed everything he just said. He looks sincere enough, but I have my own words to say, "There's something I don't understand."

"What would that be?"

"Why did you set Rias in an arranged marriage? From what I can tell, you're the kind of brother who treasures his little sister's happiness. So why would you do something outrageous as making her marry a man she doesn't love and decide her future for her?"

His face become tired like he remembered something bad, "I will admit, that may not be one of my best decisions. There were multiple reasons, politically and economically wise. But also because I did it for her best interest." He sighed and his faraway look told me this is going to be a complicated story, "The wedding was supposed to be carried out after Rias graduated from college, but it was preponed due to the elders' greed."

That explains her lack of training. She must have betted her growth would be enough to beat him by then.

"At that time, Riser-kun did show how proud he is of his harem. However, most high-class devils and above displayed such attitude. I assumed Rias would understand and accept it as a norm of the devil society. Even otou-sama has a harem managed by okaa-sama."

Huh? Did not see that coming.

"Furthermore, the Phenex Household is an influential and powerful clan. Their immortality and sales of the Phoenix Tears granted them riches and nobility even among all of the 72 pillars."

I think I know where he's going.

"Riser-kun is the third son of the current head. I arranged an engagement with him and Rias to allow her to live comfortably for the rest of her life. If there was anything to happen to me or the Gremory Household, she would be under the protection of the Phenex Household. Not many would dare to stand in their way, and Rias would have lived as a princess in luxury."

"But that back fired when Rias refused to marry fire chicken." Sirzechs looked at me in the eyes, allowing me to put in my own two cents. "She didn't want a husband who would treat her like a trophy wife, disregarding her feelings and sees her as nothing more than the Gremory heir. She wanted someone who she genuinely loves and loves her back. If it wasn't for that, then everything would have been perfect."

He nodded solemnly, "That is correct. By the time I had realized how much Rias opposes this, it was already too late to revoke the engagement. My only method left was to have them settle through a Rating Game." Now his face looks brighter, "Thankfully, she won, and it was because of you. Hanwei-kun, as a Maou, I must remain neutral no matter the outcome. But as a brother, words are not enough to express my gratitude. As long it is within my power, I will do anything to repay you."

I didn't say anything, but judging from the amused smile of his, my face must be pretty surprised, "Anything?"

"Yes. Anything."

What I want the most is to get back home, but I can't just say that I'm from an alternate reality where the people here are anime characters. I'm not naive enough to consider Rias not telling him about my predicament, but Sirzechs would already ask me questions about that by now if he knew. Took me a few minutes, after careful consideration, "Then, I would like to ask you to re-investigate the nekoshou incident."

If he was surprised, then he's insanely good at hiding it, "Might I ask why? That case was closed years ago, it is unusual to bring that up again after so long."

"I've heard of what happened to Koneko's sister. But don't you think it's strange?"

"How so?"

"Kuroka's a reincarnated devil right, so why didn't she mutate into a hideous monster like the rest of the strays? Even now, she still has a perfect nekomata form. Senjutsu may have caused her to go insane, but her devil side should have been affected as well. Plus, she only killed her master before fleeing, no one else. How can a SS-ranked wanted criminal who is drunk on power not cause anymore large scale crimes after that?"

"Are you suggesting she is still sane? If that is true, then it would be a greater offense that she killed her master on purpose."

"It's a possibility. But it just happened all of a sudden right? Kuroka's been using senjutsu for a long time, it wouldn't be strange since she needed some way to protect herself before her reincarnation. If she wanted to kill her master, she would have just done it without drawing attention to herself. That way, she could continue scheming with no interference."

"What could be the reason then?" Sirzechs eyebrows narrowed, the realization is starting to sink in.

"Koneko was there, wasn't she? The only reason I could think of why she did something so horrible is because something even worse could happen. Something bad to her little sister."

"Hanwei-kun, I understand what you are saying. I have considered several possibilities but the elders fear the nekomata's powers and branded her as a criminal. Reopening a case which was closed long ago would cause unease among the devils."

"It would be a different story if there's a loophole, like a certain Rating Game?"

"It is not as simple as you think."

"You said you wanted to repay me right? Well this is what I want, find out if Kuroka has a valid reason for her actions. You of all people, should understand what an older sibling would do for their little sister."

Sirzechs was actually stumped at that. He had another reason for repaying to Hanwei. There are many who would gain the Gremory's heir's good graces. The power, riches, and not to mention her beauty have attracted devils to do whatever it takes to take all of that. He offered 'anything' to see the true character of his sister's second Rook first-hand. Sirzechs did not want to repeat his mistake of ruining his sister's happiness. But now, he was certain her future is safe in his hands.

"I will see what I can do. Do you want to inform the others?"

"No, not yet. Koneko's still traumatized, I don't want to put unnecessary pressure on her or the others until we have some solid proof."

"Very well. It was nice conversing with you Hanwei-kun, but we should probably get going." Smiling and nodding, we head to the door. I don't what this will lead to but I hope I can change something for the better. "One more thing..." I looked back at him, "... have you considered becoming a politician?"

I winced, "Oh please, I hate politics. I'd sooner fall asleep before the meetings end."

He chuckled, "I see. That's quite a shame."

Well, it could be worse. I could be captured and tortured to death, but I'm being tortured with boredom instead. It's only been 30 minutes and I've already run out of stuff to do. The feast is good, a little too fancy for my taste but filling. Looking around the decorated ball room is nice and all, but there's only so much to look at. Don't know the standard number of guests, but there's quite a number of them here, many who were staring at me for some reason. Not sure if trying to talk to them is a good idea.

Now I feel self-conscious, the clothes they're wearing totally outclasses mine, some of them even have gems on the fabric. I'm staying in a corner of the room to make myself as inconspicuous as possible but they're still staring at me. There isn't anything on my face, I already checked. Must be because of my simple tuxedo or something. Whenever I walk to someplace in this huge room, old stares would follow me as I get new ones. The scariest were some of the girls, none of them were even being subtle in staring at my ass.

Even now I can still feel them staring at it.

Haven't seen Rias around, the others are talking to some other people. Issei and Asia are together sampling more of the dishes. I already chatted with them a bit but I prefer to stay away from the nobles, call it a gut feeling and it has never failed me yet.

"You don't have to be so nervous."

Turning around to the source, and to my surprise, it was a girl with glasses wearing a light blue dress that accentuates her cool beauty nature, "Sona-ka- I mean, good evening, Sitri-sama."

She chuckled, "Sona-kaichou is fine. At least when we're speaking like this."

"So this is Rias' strongest piece." To Sona's left was a blond woman with pink eyes, gazing me sharply in a dark blue dress that leaves very little skin. "I am Seekvaira Agares, heiress to the Agares Household which holds the rank of Archduke."

Haven't I seen her in season 3? She didn't leave much of an impression but the Agares clan is supposed to be able to manipulate time, don't want to go against them. She looks like the strict girl type, I bowed politely, "Good evening Agares-sama, my name is Tan Han Wei. It is an honor to make your acquaintance. And did you say strongest piece?"

"Of course. That strength you displayed against Riser was nothing short of high-class. And I thought your name was Daisuke though?" A new person came into the conversation. He's got black hair, violet eyes, and even though he's wearing a classy suit, he's bulging muscles were still promi- Holy shit! Is that who I think it is!?

"Y-yes, that is just my nickname. I'm actually Chinese origin from another country in the human world."

He laughed jubilantly, "I see, my name is Sairaorg Bael. You can call me Sairaorg. Is it fine for me to call you Daisuke as well?" He extended his hand.

I took it. I tried very hard not to wince, I really did. But his casual handshake was enough to hurt my hand. I didn't let go though, no way am I showing my weak side to our future rivals, "I'm fine with it. Can't believe my luck to be noticed by the number 1 rookie of the newest generation."

"Hmm, you have good eyes." He looked at me with challenge, "I look forward to the day where we can trade fists. I can only imagine our fight to be a glorious one."

I smirked, "Likewise, I'm aiming to win it Sairaorg."

"If I may ask Hanwei." Seekvaira coolly said, "Where are you from exactly? Someone of your caliber should have made himself well known in the human world. The Double Burst wielders are powerful but even among them, you seem to be an exception."

Gathering info about the opponent, eh? "I am someone from a small country who moved to Kuoh due to reasons, living my life as an ordinary human until I met Rias-sama shortly after encountering a fallen angel."

"I see."

We exchanged some more small talk after that, though I made sure not to let anything slip. Wasn't all that serious actually, some topics were just normal ones like our daily lives. Apparently, Sairaorg trains at least 12 hours a day while drinking some liquid that facilitates muscle growth, and it also tastes absolutely rancid. Though he just laughs it off saying that hard work always taste bittersweet.

We parted ways in good terms, even Seekvaira smiled a little. Now if only the stares would stop, it's getting kinda creepy. I went to a balcony, gazing at the artificial moon in solitary. Really pretty, it's looks bigger and brighter than its genuine counterpart.

I thought back at the three high-class devils' words, back at the Rating Game. No matter how you look at it, going from low-class to high-class power in a little over a month is too much. My growth rate is high, abnormally high. I was never like this when I was still human. Sure, I can pick up new tricks relatively faster, but this just crazy. And the worst part is, I don't know if this is a good or bad thing. Did my reincarnation change me? Was it my gear? Or another variable I don't know?

"There you are." Standing right next to me was Rias. She looks a bit annoyed, not at me though, "I've been looking for you. What did onii-sama say?"

"He wanted to thank me for helping you. You know, the usual brotherly love."

"He... he didn't say anything embarrassing did he?"

"Nah, he's pretty cool."

She sighed in relief and didn't say anything else. We were just standing there, except Rias' not-so-subtly moving closer to me. Our arms are almost touching. I didn't feel embarrassed, more like confused. Confused about myself, and about her.

"Why didn't you say anything?"

She tensed, "What?"

"You have been monitoring all of us during our training. You're smart, you would have noticed my abnormal growth rate. So, why didn't you say anything?"

She relaxed for some reason, "To be honest, I'm more surprised actually. I knew about your weights and extra training if those new spells were anything to go by. My initial estimate of your full strength was slightly below Akeno's, but you completely exceeded my expectations."

"You noticed too, didn't you. Whatever it is that's accelerating my growth rate, it's definitely not normal even by devil standards. I don't think it has any adverse effects. I still feel like me, and my life force feels unchanged. But I can't help but feel like I'm missing something important."

"Do you think it could be related to whatever before we met?" Her eyebrows furrowed, confused just as much as I am. The 'whatever' she's referring to was my reality jump. Can't openly say it since there might be someone eavesdropping.

"It's the only explanation I can think of. But it does help making fire chicken my punching bag."

"That gave me a small headache afterwards." She rubbed the bridge of her nose.

"What do you mean?"

"Right after the party started, many nobles immediately proposed a trade between Rooks. I declined all of them naturally, but you're strength and skills attracted a lot of attention."

"That explains the stares. I guess it did considering I beat Bomb Queen and beat up fire chicken, but I didn't think it would be that much."

She looked at me with tired eyes, "Not much? Daisuke, you defeated a Knight, Rook, Bishop, the Queen, and you still had enough energy to weaken Riser. When I taught you that charm spell, I didn't think you would weaponized it to such a degree. Many Phenex members were enraged despite Ravel being a non-combatant."

"In my defense, you already weaken fire chicken before I got there. And that spell knocks out only mentally weak opponents."

"A lot were tantalized by your spells and Sacred Gear. From here onward, many will keep an eye on you and have high expectations."

Great, now I got the higher-ups watching me like a hawk. My spells and Sacred Gear, huh? I've been working on becoming an all-rounder, trying out different ideas to find which fits best with my fighting style. After that, I would focus on specializing myself on which I like the most. Kinda like how educational system works without the exams. I know they wanted me bad, just didn't know how bad. But...

"Rias." I called her firmly, "Why did you revive me? At that time, I was just a normal human to you. You couldn't have sensed anything special, and my origins were unknown. I could've been a threat to everyone. So why?"

Her face was blank but her eyes were clear and gentle. I've been reading a little about devils. Rias was able to sense Issei's Boosted Gear because it was a Longinus. He was on the verge of awakening it, weak but still there. That was the reason why she originally thought it was a simple Twice Critical and chopped up the rest as his latent magical potential. This was why she hadn't recruited him in his first year, and also probably the reason why the Grigori took so long to pinpoint it.

Double Burst wasn't enough for Rias to sense it on my deathbed without specialized equipment, nor do I have any supernatural abilities. I've been agonizing why she wanted someone who's not special in her eyes to join her.

Rias smiled, "It's because you saved Issei." My face remained passive. "At that time when my familiar gave him the flyer, it was meant to eavesdrop on their date to find out what Raynare wanted. We couldn't break through her barrier, but we heard your voice to save Issei."

My eyes widen. "I thought you were an ordinary civilian who got caught in by mistake, yet you bravely stood up and fought back." Her voice started to sound... longing? "Any human would be terrified of facing the unknown, but you never wavered. You could have left Issei to his demise but you decided to protect him. Even when she threw spears of light, you ran forward. You managed to distract her long enough for Akeno and I to forcefully enter the barrier. I wanted you as my servant because of your courage and kindness. I wanted you because you're you."

I wasn't sure how much time it took for me to process that. All background noise are muffled as we stared into each other's eyes. All this time, I joined her at first because I would have been hunted down otherwise as a stray. I promised myself to find a way back to my world. That hasn't changed, but now I have a new promise; Once I'm done reuniting with my family, I'll come back and stay, as her servant and as her friend.

I unconsciously found myself smiling, "I think I finally understand why Akeno and the others would fight for you. It's because you acknowledge them as themselves, you wouldn't ask them do to anything they hate. And only ask for their friendship."

"Will you continue to fight for me then?" She asked eagerly.

"Yeah. If there's anyone you hate come close to you, or anyone who caused you grief, I'll be by your side and protect you. After all..." I smiled genuinely, "... you are worth fighting for, Rias-"

My next words came to an abrupt halt as she tackled me into a hug, tightly enveloping me with her whole body. There was another reason why I let everyone take turns pummeling fire chicken: it was to make sure no single individual would gallantly save her like Issei did in cannon. He isn't strong enough yet to do it by himself and make her fall for him. After some time passes, I planned on gradually getting those two together and make them fall in love with each other.

She tighten her hug as I reluctantly hug her back. This means nothing, friends hug all the time. It's not like she's fallen in love with me...

Right?

Guest-Questioner: I see. Well, just keep doing what you can to post if you want. I don't mind. And I don't know if it's Opera's problem.

A.N.: Hey guys! This is the longest chapter I've written. I'm thinking if I should make future chapters longer or not, I want to try writing everyone besides Daisuke's thoughts about the situations. Whatever, I'll think of something. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

Ja Ne