A.N.: Okay, I wasn't planning on writing anymore throwbacks, but I realized that I somehow made most of my chapters Daisuke's POV only again. So, without further ado.

I do not own High-School DxD

Chapter 24: Throwback Part 3

"This might be the biggest event for our son!"

Issei felt really uncomfortable, almost squirming in his living room as his parents moved all over the house. This was unexpected to the pervert really, he didn't think his own parents would have such an exaggerated reaction. This might be embarrassing if someone apart from Asia would see this. The blonde in question was tilting her head in confusion, curiously attempting to infer what her foster parents are doing. In the end, she just looked towards Issei.

"Issei-san, why are otou-sama and okaa-sama so exited?"

"Well, of course we are excited." The father, Gorou Hyoudou inspected the living room for any dust before smiling widely towards the pair.

"After all, our son isn't known to be very popular." The mother, Miki Hyoudou chimed in, checking the oven to ensure the cookies would not be overcooked.

"Kaa-san!" Embarrassed, Issei flushed slightly at the fact that those two are making a big deal of this, he didn't want Asia to hear that. Okay, maybe she already knows about that since they're classmates, but having that said out loud was still a bit mortifying. Seriously, all he did was informing them about a change in his daily routine for the weekend and they went stir crazy.

Asia was still in her '?' mode, puzzled about her foster parents' unusual behavior and thought about what might be the cause of this. She doesn't think it's because she dreamt about her wedding with Issei last night, or that she wrote down possible names for her and Issei's future children in her diary, or that she started standing in front of the mirror every night to rub her breasts in order to make them bigger for Issei. If anyone found out about that, the timid little Asia would die out of embarrassment.

"Tou-san, Kaa-san, Daisuke is just coming over so we can talk about Dra-M Ball. Is that really worth all the fuss?"

""Of course it is!"" They said in unison.

Issei wanted to face palm right now.

Miki turned off the oven, slipped on some mittens, and brought out delectable cookies, the aroma wafting through the air. "Issei, how long has it been since you have someone besides Motohama and Matsuda coming over to play? I mean it, it's always those two perverts."

"You haven't had any close friends since Irina moved away." Gorou walked over to stand in front of his son, "Even I get worried when you couldn't make more. I know you've talked about others before, but this is the first friend since those two you invited over."

Looking away with uneasiness, Issei rubbed the back of his head and found out they're right. It wasn't really easy for the pervert to make friends, especially when he talked about oppai with his fellow perverts since middle school. Since Irina moved, the only person he looked forward hanging out with was the occhan (old man) who got arrested for telling oppai stories to children shortly after meeting him. In hindsight, maybe it all started with that which steered Issei towards the path of perverseness.

"Is Motohama-san and Matsuda-san bad?" Asia asked innocently, "They treat me very nicely whenever I talk to them."

"They are not bad per se." Miki answered, "They just need to learn some self-control. I swear, sometimes I think they ogle even me."

"And the only one who has that pleasure is me!" Gorou replied hotly, "After all, she is my beautiful wife."

"Oh dear. I still remember when you tried to sneak a peek at-"

"Okay!" Issei loudly interrupted, he doesn't need to know about his parents' sex life right now. A hentai character's? Yes. His parents'? Gross. "Just please try not to overreact when Daisuke gets here. I don't want him to have something that he'll laugh at." To be honest, he wasn't sure if the reality jumper would know about all his secrets. Daisuke did say he knows a lot about the supernatural. But about Issei's personal life? That he wasn't sure of.

*Ding Dong*

"Ah, that must be Hanwei-san."

Issei quickly rushed towards the door before his parents could and opened, revealing his friend in his casual wear, "Hey Daisuke."

"Hey Issei. Ready to find out about a transformation beyond Super Dragon 3?"

"You bet. Come on in."

Daisuke took off his shoes and entered, "Ojama shimasu (I'll be disturbing you)."

Before the Pawn could say further, his parents walked up to the ravenette, "Welcome. Your name is Hanwei-kun, was it? May I call you Daisuke as well?"

"Yes. It's nice to meet you, Hyoudou-san." Daisuke bowed.

"Please, call me Gorou. No need to be strangers."

"Ara, what a polite boy. Good afternoon, my name is Miki. Thank you for always taking such good care of our son."

"That's right. He talks about you sometimes during dinner. How is he doing in school by the way? I like to know from another man's perspective."

"His perverted tendencies remain strong." Issei's parents sighed in resignation at the obvious answer. "But he tries hard in school and club. And he's always willing to do his best to help everyone with a smile. Everyone in club likes hanging out with him."

"Ha ha, now that's my boy." Gorou slapped his son's back proudly, "Good to know you're doing well."

"That's right. We were afraid you would always be too distracted staring at your female club members' busoms."

"Tou-san! Kaa-san!" Issei responded in panic. He could see Daisuke's lips twitching which meant that either he's happy or he'll have another laughing fit, "Come on Daisuke, let's head to my room."

"Ah, before that. Here, take these." Miki handed a plate of freshly baked aromatic cookies.

The smell hit Daisuke's nostrils as his eyes suddenly looked hungry. "Thank you very much, Miki-san. I love cookies." Grabbing one, he slowly crunched, savoring the taste delightfully, "Mmm. These might even be better that Akeno's. They're delicious."

The brunette guided Daisuke to his room. Once the guest entered, he looked over the place to find posters of scantily clad voluptuous women, some completely naked. Despite the porn, Daisuke just shrugged like it's normal, "I'm surprised your mom let you decorate your room with these."

Sheepishly scratching his, "Kaa-san said it's fine as long there's no sex in them. Make yourself at home." Issei then went to boot up his computer, searching through the files for his old Dra-M Ball video collection. They're supposed to be mostly similar. Issei wanted to make sure he doesn't get confused about the differences so he can be as pumped as possible for the sequel. He's nearly salivating at the thought of Gon Soku's counterpart's fights. He never thought he get to see the legacy of his childhood hero.

Daisuke placed the plate on a nearby table and took another cookie. Asia came in with a tray of refreshments with her cute baby sprite dragon resting on her shoulder. Setting down the tray to which Daisuke nodded gratefully, Rassei took the chance to fly into Asia's chest to snuggle.

The former nun petted Rassei affectionately, "There there Rassei-kun."

Her response was more snuggling. Asia giggled at the slightly ticklish act of affection. She summons him whenever she has free time to play, sometimes even letting him stay overnight. Young as Rassei may be, he can still be intelligent and pretended to be a stuff animal by staying completely still whenever Issei's parents saw him.

"Hey Rassei. Remember me?"

The dragon looked over to see another male with black hair he hasn't seen in the house before, waving at him. His first thought was to zap him for invading his territory before quickly discarding the idea. Unlike the Pawn, Rassei can tell that this male is far stronger and provoking him would be a bad idea. He doesn't like the thought of another male getting close to his master, but he seems friendly enough. Ultimately, Rassei ignored him and continued to snuggle more.

"Lucky bastard." Issei muttered jealously at the usual sight. He also wanted to hug Asia! Dammit!

Daisuke chuckled, "Say, can I bring Miho over? She's probably just reading another cook book or learning how to use her iphone. Maybe a play date with another familiar is a good way to break her monotone routine."

"That's a nice idea Hanwei-san."

"Miho?" Issei turned his eyes away from the screen to look at Daisuke questioningly, "What if my parents walk in to see a hot girl in my room. They'll probably get a weird idea."

"She's a Salamander remember? She can just stay in her animal form and hide somewhere if they come in."

Issei blinked at that, remembering the time he first seen her in the familiar forest. After seeing Miho in her oppai-full human form for so long, he forgot she could do that. Looking at Rassei, Issei wonders if the dragon has a human form too. The image of a guy being intimate with Asia angered Issei to volcanic proportions before shaking his head to clear his mind. Let's just hope that doesn't happen. "Sure, go ahead."

"Thanks." Daisuke closed his eyes and a seconds later, a blue magic circle appeared on his upper arm.

Clinging in her Salamander form, "How may I serve you, Hanwei-sama?"

"Not today. Just thought you might want to relax and hang out with another familiar." Miho turned to see Rassei who was curiously staring at her.

"Go on Rassei-kun. You can make a new friend." Asia set down her familiar as Miho climbed down, the two walking towards each other.

Miho inspected the young hatchling, she hasn't interacted with other familiars besides Rias'. She doesn't know what to make of him actually, he looks like a potentially strong warrior in the future, but now he's still weak and growing right now.

Rassei remembers this Salamander. She was one of the pretty females always with the black haired male. Her exuding aura shows strength, something all dragons like in the opposite gender. It was different from his master's emotional and mental strength but he still likes it. Rassei lightly roared and flew towards for physical contact. Only to have a tail pushing his head to keep him at bay.

Frowning, Miho doesn't mind people staring at her a little, but touching was a different story. The only male she allowed outside her family to touch was her Hanwei-sama. Miho crawled away to climb back on her master, wrapping around his neck like a necklace.

"Miho, what's wrong?"

"I wish for your presence more, Hanwei-sama."

Daisuke chuckled and petted her. The slightly dejected Rassei flew back to Asia for comfort. As the blonde petted her familiar, she could see Daisuke eyes soften for a second. It kind of reminds her the way how Buchou and Akeno look at Daisuke. Asia has seen this once before but thought she imagined it. Does he like-

"Done." Issei rubbed his hands in anticipation, grinning like a kid celebrating Christmas early, "I've been waiting for this for two days now." He then smiled embarrassingly, "Sorry about my parents earlier. They can get pretty excited sometimes."

"Don't worry about. After all, that's what parents do."

Miho could tell by Daisuke's tone that he was sad. She remembered their talk during their training against the Phenex and nuzzled his cheek in attempt to comfort him.

Asia and Issei also noticed it. Barely, but noticed. Now that Issei thought about it, the dimensional hopper didn't talk about his family before. If they're still alive, then Daisuke will never be able to see them again. So that's why he smiled at his parent's antics. Shit... his lack of thinking made him say something incredibly insensitive. Panicked, Issei bit his inner cheek and quickly thought of a distraction. Donning a perverted smile, he closed in and whispered, "Hey, what do you think of the hentai I recommended? Pretty hot right?"

Overhearing the pervert's question, Miho stopped nuzzling and listened in interest.

The question instantly turned him somber. Daisuke suddenly blushed more than Issei expected, slowly turning his head with blank eyes, "I will never buy another one ever again."

"Wait what? Why?"

"I don't want to talk about it."

"But-"

"I don't want to talk about it." Daisuke repeated with a steely tone.

Issei shrugged confusingly and loaded the videos. At least Daisuke's better now.

Dark clouds drifted through the dark sky, leaving little to no moonlight. Although Rias didn't need it since she has night vision, she couldn't care less as she left from Daisuke's apartment, heartbroken.

What went wrong? She didn't think she would be flat out rejected. She went through the love manual, following it to the letter, made cookies that Daisuke liked so much, and even bought the highest quality of Chinese attire she could get to make him notice her. She wanted not the brief stares at her body, but genuine love from her ravenette Rook.

As bright as she is, Rias knew winning Daisuke's affections wouldn't be easy. He is intelligent, decisive, strong willed. Few of the many qualities that the red head admired which made her fell in love with him. And it was also those very same qualities that made Daisuke not easily swayed by simple seduction. Since he knew harems are common in devil society, that means he is solely interested in one girl... who happens to be not her.

Rias felt horrible, like her heart's been chewed up and spitted back out. Aimlessly wondering through the streets as if the surroundings were completely dead to her, she thought back about all the confessions she received from other boys, both in Kuoh and in the Underworld. Was this what they felt when she rejected them? How do they live with that? How do they handle rejection?

A thought occurred to her. How did Rias Gremory handle rejection? Actually, when was the last time she was denied of something? As far as she could remember, the heiress to the Gremory Household was given anything she wanted whenever she asked for it. There were times she was denied to ensure her safety and future like freedom from her arranged marriage with Riser Phenex. But aside from those, whether it was toys, food, or anime, she got whatever she wanted. It doesn't help that her otou-sama and onii-sama never stopped spoiling her.

Now, it wasn't about politics or largely related to her household. It was just her trying to get her crush.

Before Rias even realized it, she somehow reached bottom of the shrine Akeno lives in. Maybe it was a coincidence? Or maybe she unconsciously came here to find confront from her best friend/love rival. Since she's already here, maybe talking with Akeno would lighten the weight in her heart. One by one, Rias climbed each step slowly towards the front door. A few knocks later, Rias heard Akeno's footsteps as she opened.

While wearing her Shinto priestess attire, mild surprise crossed Akeno's face. The Queen sometimes have sleepovers with her King at night, however this was the first time Rias came unannounced. "Rias." Akeno noticed her sad eyes along with the Tangzhuang, "What's wrong?"

"Sorry Akeno, is it fine if I talk to you about something?"

"Of course. Come in."

Rias entered and quietly made her way to sit in a seiza position. Akeno knew when something was wrong but didn't push it, deciding that letting her talk when she's ready would have a better outcome. Making her way to the kitchen, Akeno brewed some tea and returned to offer it to Rias. She placed it on the table in front of Rias, "Here."

The fragrant scent calmed her a little. Rias gratefully took the drink, "Thank you."

Akeno took the seat opposite to Rias, patiently waiting for her best friend like Rias has done for her whenever she was sad during her childhood. Minutes past as the red head stared at the half-empty cup with a forlorn look. It was until she drank the rest of the tea and began, "I went to see Daisuke earlier." Akeno's eyes widened at the unexpected move. "I wanted to thank him for giving Gasper courage to come out of his room. And I also wanted to tell him how I feel."

Now that really got Akeno's attention as she started to mentally puzzle the pieces together, "And... what did he say?"

Rias' breathed hitched, before breathing deeply, "He said I would always be his friend, and he will always come to my aid even if I hate him."

"... I see. Rias, I'm so sorry."

"No, it's okay. I'm more surprised he could still say that. I always thought I had a chance since we get along so well. He came to save me during our Rating Game, he made everything alright, and he gave me hope to finally defeat Riser. I thought we had something special because he did so much for me without any hesitation. But apparently, I was the only one who thought that."

Pausing to take a deep breath, Rias shook her head almost self deprecatingly, "Turns out it was only Daisuke who is special. He risked his life to help Issei and Asia, so why did I think I was different? Moreover, it seems like he already has someone in his heart. Congratulations Akeno, you win."

The ravenette Queen blinked in surprise before smiling uncertainly, "Um Rias-"

"Maybe it would've been different if I realized my feelings sooner."

"Rias, Daisuke-kun-"

"You two do get along well. But I still can't help regretting over my indecisiveness."

"Rias-"

"Do you think Daisuke will consider having a harem someday? Maybe Issei can help and talk him into-"

Akeno stood up and sat right in front of her best friend, clasping her hands into the red head's, "Rias, I was rejected by Daisuke-kun as well."

"... Eh?" The King was flabbergasted. She was almost positive that Daisuke chose her considering that he learns most of demonic magic basics from Akeno, not to mention the occasional back-and-forth teasing and Akeno's flirting. Akeno was considered to be a beauty with equally beautiful attitude if you ignore her sadistic nature, the number two most popular girl where many males and some females would kill to date. That was why Rias was staring almost stupidly, processing the words very slowly in her brain. "He did?"

The maiden in love nodded in empathy, "Yes. It was just earlier today during our training, he said he likes the current me despite my lineage and that I was my own person. To be honest, I thought he had feelings for you."

Now it was Rias who blinked, thinking how similar those two are for having the same thoughts. Doesn't mean that she wasn't as confused as fuck, "If Daisuke doesn't like either of us... Then who does he like?"

Scrunching her eyebrows in thought, Akeno tried to recall back any interactions that could possibly signify any hint of romance, "I'm not sure, it could be Koneko-chan or Miho-chan. Or it could be another girl from school we haven't met before. Daisuke-kun is friendly with almost everyone, so it is hard to tell."

If Rias was sitting on a chair, she would have slumped by now, "How nice... I can't even tell who the boy of my dreams has feelings for. Just how deluded was I?"

"Rias." Her best friend closed in, purple eyes staring deeply at blue-green ones, "Just because you failed once, that does not mean you should give up. No matter what happens, you are always prideful and persevere to the very end. Daisuke-kun may have rejected me, but I have resolved myself to earn his love, even if it's just a little."

"This is different. Daisuke knows what we're like due to his circumstances, and he's not like any other boys I've seen. What if he doesn't like me because he finds my behavior unattractive." Rias' heart clenched at the memory of her nearly raping Daisuke, "I can't bear him hating me. If whatever friendship we have left is-"

"Rias." Akeno's gaze intensified, staring intently with unwavering yet kind eyes, "We may not have known him that long, but Daisuke-kun is not the type who would sever his bonds like that. He said he'll be there for you even if you hate him right? We must believe in him. After all, he wouldn't have done so much for you if he feels absolutely nothing."

"You're..." Shaking her head to clear her mind, "You're right. I'm sorry Akeno, guess I wasn't thinking straight."

"Since it has come to this." The sadist smiled mischievously, "How about we do a little research on our mysterious little kouhai, like watching his movements, staying close to his side and such? To find out more about his personal life and who he likes."

"Isn't that... stalking?"

"Ufufu, it is not stalking if we do not follow him 24/7, we are just observing as much as we can as close as we can. There is nothing wrong with becoming closer with our crush of course."

Technically, what Akeno said was true. It would be a lie to say that Rias didn't crave deeply to know more about the boy. The red head is still worried about going overboard however. She'll need to make sure to restrain herself and find out how much affection is too much, "You're right. With any luck, we might find out more about his desires. But don't regret if I win him over first."

A competitive spark formed between the two maidens in love as their feminine flames burned ablaze. Akeno answered coolly, "Ufufu, I could say the same. Then tomorrow, Operation: Seek True Love will commence."

Drenched in sweat and exhaustion was Koneko who was drinking mouthfuls of water. The white-haired Rook usually doesn't train this hard but after Freed's capture last night, Daisuke warned them that the big fights are near. With Miho on her right, she sat down on Yuuto's right who was sitting on Gasper's right. While tired, she felt that she should be doing more considering that her fellow Rook and 12 of his clones were still training like crazy. For almost an hour nonstop.

Koneko was starting to think Issei was right to call him a training freak. Either his growth rate has allowed him to keep going or the incoming fight is just that scary. Breathing deeply to alleviate the pain in her lungs and muscles, she saw that the others were staring at him in wonder as well. Behind her was the Pawn lying flat on his back, perspiring all over as Asia healed his sore body.

"Doesn't he... know... what exhaustion... is!?" Issei spat out in between breathes, "Damn it... it's like... he's... showing off!"

"D-don't worry Issei-san. You are working hard as well."

"I suppose it is not an exaggerated description." Yuuto agreed as he watched the male Rook continue training.

A quarter of the clones were refining old spells, another quarter were creating a spinning dome of some sort, as the rest plus original were doing something with balloons on both hands. Or was it water balloons? She hasn't seen any popping for a while now, so she's not sure.

The female Rook clenched her fist in slight envy. She was not as attuned to demonic magic as Daisuke, preferring to get up close and personal instead. Besides, there's a chance that her internal magic might interfere with her nekoshou body and she'll accidentally use senjutsu. Kuroka was a master of both powers after all.

Was this enough though? Everyone has a special flashy power that allowed them an advantage while all she can do was close combat. There's a limit to what physical strength alone can do, and that's if she could even touch her opponent. Daisuke was the same Rook as her until he powered up with both demonic magic and Double Burst, quickly surpassing her in such a short time. At this rate, Koneko will be left behind and become a burden.

Glancing at her blonde senpai who was holding his sword, Koneko thought back about Yuuto's past. His goal was to destroy Excalibur, and he looked really happy when Rapidly was destroyed. If Daisuke didn't help them capture Freed and seize Rapidly, would the avenger continue to pursuit and leave them like her sister, or would he stay? Would she be strong enough to stop him from leaving?

Yuuto felt his sleeve being tugged. He looked down as his kouhai gave him a worried look, "What is wrong Koneko-chan?"

"Yuuto-senpai... You won't leave us right?"

"E-eh?" The box rattled as Gasper peeked, "Yuuto-senpai, you're l-leaving?"

His face tensed for a split second before smiling gently at the youngest members, "Please do not worry. Daisuke-kun has set me straight and promised me a way to fulfill my goal without leaving. As Rias Gremory's Knight, I would not abandon my comrades."

They sighed in relief. That's right, Daisuke has always pulled through, so there's no reason to worry too much about it.

Rias (with her fake glasses on) and Akeno were at the back, watching the rest as they discuss their strategy against Kokabiel. Daisuke already informed them about the important aspects and supplied good ideas as they improve their odds as much as possible. That, and the occasional discussion about any ideas to Daisuke's girl of interest. Their eyes slid to a certain pinkette who was watching her master in awe as usual. Shaking their heads, their thoughts went back to Kokabiel since they can't experience romance if they're dead.

"Buchou, wouldn't transferring Issei's accumulated power to Daisuke-kun would be better?"

"Our wide-ranged magic are more suitable for multiple opponents. Kokabiel's full strength is still unknown to us, we need to keep the element of surprise and transfer the power to him when there is a clear opening."

"Wouldn't Kokabiel roughly estimate how big Issei-kun's power ups are if he has seen them before?"

The King furrowed her brows in worry. This will put Daisuke in a lot of danger if it fails, but they don't have many other choices. As much as it pains her to admit it, the Rook has surpassed everyone including her, putting him as the strongest. This is their best bet to win. But what if-

The sound clones popping reached their ears, drawing everyone's attention to see Daisuke rubbing his temples for a minute before producing two clones again. They weren't grabbing any more balloons but the original held out his hand as four other hands surrounded it.

"I bet he's gonna make a wind canon." Issei speculated.

"I think he will form a wind blade." Yuuto countered.

"... Air fist." Koneko guessed with a hint of excitement.

"Oh! Oh! Maybe senpai will make a tornado!" Gasper's upper body exited completely.

"It is none of those." Miho denied, earning four heads to look at her for the answer. In response, the familiar playfully smiled, "Watch."

Koneko's mood soured a bit at Miho's close relationship with her senpai but continued watching.

The seniors were also curious about Daisuke's newest offensive spell. Akeno in particular, is imagining just how much pain it will give.

As they watched, a sudden light blue gale screeched. The surrounding land chipped as the wind rotated at such compressed force. All of them gaped at the wind force and crazy amount of magic poured into it. Daisuke reeled his hand back and ran towards a large boulder. Said boulder was completely obliterated along with whatever there was several hundred meters behind it, leaving a crater bigger than when Akeno blew up the gym during their Rating Game.

"Anyone else thinks that was so fucking awesome?" Yuuto, Asia, Koneko, Gasper, and Miho raised their hands at Issei's question, "Good, so I wasn't the only one."

"Ufufu, I think I am going to climax."

Ignoring Akeno's predatory gaze at Daisuke, Rias couldn't believe the power behind his newest technique. All previous worries about Daisuke's safety were thrown out of the window and the King decided to stick to the plan. She saw the clones arriving to the original's side and restarted the spell. Wait a second, Daisuke can use that spell multiple times without needing to recharge!

Rias' heart swelled in hope and love as she blushed.

"Are you sure to leave it like that?" Forcuis questioned with a hint of concern. They were nearly at the outskirts of the city, a little more to go before they could teleport out of devil territory without problems. Ever since he found out his group was manipulated by Kokabiel, all of them have a change of views about their superiority complex of their species, but none more so than Raynare. "Did you not wish to apologize to Issei?"

The fallen paused from walking, still holding onto the light rope which is restraining the thrashing Freed. "Do not stick your nose into other people's business."

"From the political aspect, having a non-hostile relationship with the current Sekiryuutei would prove beneficial for us in the future. Azazel-sama did not request you to apologize specifically, so the choice is yours."

Raynare gritted her teeth in anger. She knew that, considering the one who tricked Issei in cold blood was her. Raynare has seen what humans are like, what humans have done. They destroy their own nature, they make scapegoats for their own convenience, they conduct experiments on their own kind. All the dark sides of humans made her disgusted and repulsed to the point even she wouldn't commit. Since as a child, Raynare developed hatred for humans in particular despite knowing a few were good.

And one of them was Issei, it was that reason she decided to kill him quick and painless instead of taking her sweet time making him despair. Throughout the time she spent time with him, Raynare found out about his naive and childish nature, finding him as one of the exceptions. His sweet and awkward attempts to woo her on their date amused her as she felt genuine fun, like a vacation from her missions. She knew she should apologize, but when she saw his face again after some time, she expected anger, betrayal, hatred or something.

Yet there was none of that.

She only saw sadness. His innocence baffled her. How can there be a human who wouldn't want to seek retribution on his murderer? The other human she killed showed agitation and irritation, even if there's no real hatred. Issei was just a human who would bound to commit sooner or later like the adults. So why does she feel so angry when she saw his eyes? Her hand went over the hidden apartment that kept Issei's gift. What is she even angry about?

"Mmmmrrrgghmmmargh!"

Remembering about her captive, Raynare decided to vent some anger out, "Quiet Freed! How is it you have so much energy anyway?"

"Yaimuamerueminoiewaupme."

Clinking her tongue, she walked over to rip the tape off. Hard.

"I said Daisuke-kun was kind enough to feed me cup ramen. And yeeeeoch!"

"Him? That devil actually fed you?"

"He heard my stomach growling and threaten to shove boiling water instead if I let my mouth run. Perhaps that heretic deserves a swift death."

"Freed may be speaking the truth." Forcuis chimed in, glaring at the priest in disdain, "You were unconscious at that time Raynare, however Daisuke, Issei and Asia spared you and the others from Gremory-dono's wrath."

"You two will get yours soon enough." Freed snarled, really wanting to chop his former bosses if he wasn't tied up, "Can't believe you pussied out like fucking bitches. What happened to going wild and slaughter every shitty devils out th-"

A light sword was pointed dangerously close to the priest's neck, courtesy of a scowling Forcuis, "Silence. Your punishment will be delivered once we arrive back at headquarters. Daisuke may be lenient but I am not." Lowering the weapon, "It baffles me as to why Kokabiel accepted you as his subordinate."

"Because of his potential acquired from the Sigurd Institution."

Out of reflex, the two looked up to see their former superior with all ten wings, smiling evilly. The familiar barrier fallen angels used was erected to keep out any outsiders. Shuddering, they glared as hard as they could and formed their respective weapons. Kokabiel continued, "I did not expect to see you again. Azazel must be getting senile for sending such low ranked subordinates as messengers I presume."

""Kokabiel!""

"Yo! Boss man! A little help over here? Bondage isn't really my thing."

One moment Kokabiel was in the air and the next moment, Forcuis and Raynare barely had time to move before a wave of light was hurled, crashing them into the base of a cliff with profuse bleeding. Kokabiel then swung his blade, breaking Freed's restraints, "Thanks a lot boss man."

"Freed, if you were not in the vicinity I would have left you to your fate. Disappoint me again and you will be discarded. Where is Excalibur Rapidly?"

"The red head shitty devil broke it. But I know where two more fragments might be. We'll catch up if we go now."

The Cadre narrowed his eyes in thought, expecting Michael or more powerful subordinates like Vasco Strada to show up. Guess he'll just have to make do until he levels the entire city to force Heaven's and Underworld's hand, "Very well, show me where they are before my patience run thin."

"Wait!" Forcuis called out, wobbling slightly before looking at the traitor in the eyes, "Why did you betray us!? Why would you who was known as one of our great leaders of Grigori, throw away your rights and position just to reignite the war that might kill us all!?"

Raynare painfully clutched her right shoulder watched, wishing to know about the reason as well.

Chuckling in amusement, Kokabiel simply raised his right hand, gathering light energy, "Foot soldiers such as yourselves should not concern for what's to come. After I overthrow Azazel, the fallen angels will reign supreme for eternity. If you wish to know that badly, then do your best to struggle like weaklings you are."

Foot soldiers? Weaklings? Is that all what their former leader thought of them? After everything they've done for Grigori and serving under him just to be deceived!? Forcuis and Raynare boiled in anger, their prides demanding that they have rights to be acknowledged more than just used pawns. Under no circumstances they would allow a traitor to insult their efforts!

A sphere as big as Kokebiel was launched towards, prepared to send the two to death. They widened their eyes in absolute fear, paralyzed by the sudden attack speeding towards them. Forcuis quickly grabbed Raynare's arm to escape but was too late.

Until an almost undetectable shadow slowed down the sphere for them.

An explosion resounded, cracking the walls and surrounding land. Kokabiel frowned in annoyance and slight confusion after the smoke cleared. There was something wrong with his attack, allowing the two to escape. He was tempted to hunt them down but locating the Excalibur fragments was his priority. Besides, what can two injured weaklings do to affect his plans? Even if they somehow recovered and informed Azazel, his plans are nearly in the final phase and too late to be thwarted. With that, Kokabiel and Freed went after Xenovia and Irina.

...

After a few minutes passed to make sure the coast was clear, Tobio Ikuse and Jin emerged from the shadows. Ikuse wiped the sweat from his forehead, "That was close. I was wondering why Kokabiel suddenly change directions, didn't think the messengers would draw him out like that." He patted his Sacred Gear avatar, "Come on Jin, we need to pass the info back to Azazel."

The black dog nodded in affirmation.

Gasper felt pathetic.

Here he was hiding in the club room, watching his friends fight for their town while he was being a coward. Unlike him, Yuuto-senpai was fighting back his past and overcame it. He thought he had changed. After finally gaining the courage to step out of his room and meeting the newest members face to face, Gasper thought he became braver. But he was wrong, this was nothing different compared to what he was, just hiding from danger when everyone else was fighting. He couldn't help Issei-senpai to save Asia-senpai, he couldn't help Buchou to free her from her arranged marriage, and now he couldn't help his friends protect their home.

Self-resentment twisted his heart to the core. Was he going to stay useless for the rest of his life? His childhood friend, Valerie Tepes gave him the chance to leave that castle, leaving her alone back in the country of vampires. Now he's wasting her efforts by leaving more people to fend for themselves. Just why couldn't he go and help? Were the words 'friends' and 'family' meant that little to him? Gasper hugged his knees, tears leaking uncontrollably as he berate himself over and over.

"Devils, fallens, church member, spirit, youkai, vampire," Gasper's eyes snapped open, his pointed ears twitching, thinking that he might have imagined that. "and even humans. What happened before is repeating right in front of your eyes. In the past, various mythologies wouldn't even think of this possibility, but here we are now. While God is dead, our actions brought us together because of what we believe in, and neither you nor anyone else can say otherwise. I wouldn't call it true peace, but it's a start."

The timid Bishop stopped crying for a moment, feeling something else in his heart as he was included in Daisuke-senpai's declaration. Something he liked, something warm and comforting. Wiping his eyes, Gasper continued to look through the window and watch them fight. The sight made his eyes go so wide that he might accidentally activate his gear. Existences of different species working together with no hesitation, trusting each other to back up one another. And it called out to him.

'You can say that you're useless all you want, but all I see is someone struggling everyday to prove himself anything but useless.'

Those words were what started it all, that there was someone who doesn't feel sorry for him but sees the scared kid trying to do his best for everyone. Daisuke-senpai saw through his sad self and gave him hope for what he's unconsciously trying to achieve. He slowly exited his box, tentatively taking a few steps, and managed to walk out of the old school building and into the forested area, hiding behind a tree to get a closer look.

They were doing amazingly well until Kokabiel started using more of his power. They struggled a bit until he saw Daisuke-senpai creating two of the most powerful spells he's ever seen by combining his magic with Buchou's and Akeno-san's. His ears hurt a little from the thunder boom but he couldn't take his eyes away and saw his senpai reaching the Cadre.

Until Gasper's face paled as he saw the attack was halted.

No! Daisuke-senpai was so close! Maybe there was someone who can help him but the rest were either too stunned or too afraid that any careless actions might endanger the ravenette further. Someone! Anyone! Please! Daisuke-senpai fought so hard for everyone's sake! This just can't be the end!

"Sorry fucker, but you got one thing wrong. I'm not just a devil. I'm a human-reincarnated devil. Devils have the magic to achieve their dreams, and humans never give up!"

*CRACK*

"Gaarrrrrgghhhhhh!"

Whether it was his instincts or his human blood's pride, Gasper's body moved before he even knew it. "D-Daisuke-senpai! Please h-hurry and beat him!"

Forbidden Balor View is strong, but it couldn't stop a Cadre-class fallen angel completely. With Kokabiel's body virtually paralyzed, Daisuke-senpai finally managed to strike. Buffeting winds and violent tremors terrified him to no end. By the time the smoke cleared, the warmonger was finally defeated.

"Gasper. You saved me back there, you really showed your manliness proudly. Thank you."

He did it... He did it! Gasper the scared crybaby, actually helped his friends win. Happiness swelled to no end as his senpai and role model flashed him a weak yet grateful smile. He felt like a somebody, he could see hope.

For once in his life, Gasper Vladi felt proud of what he has done.

Sirzechs has never sighed in greater relief in his entire near-immortal life. Okay, maybe there were a few that came close when he was still at war against the Old Satan Faction during his youth, but now was the biggest after the war. His precious little sister contacted him via a magic circle to report the latest incident in Kuoh. It all started with the sentence 'We defeated a stray fallen angel'. The cunning Gremory heiress really knew how to choose her words. If she began with either 'Kokabiel' or 'under attacked', Sirzechs would have mobilized his troops as soon as possible.

While the Maou was highly impressed at her accomplishment, he still felt disappointed that Rias chose to handle the situation herself. Serafall would definitely rush off to freeze Kokabiel solid and the rest of Grigori all because of her So-tan is in danger. Though, he can't say the prospect of that wasn't appealing right now. He understood her reasons for not informing him, but Sirzechs was still terrified of possibly loosing his little sister.

Sitting on his expensive chair in his expensive office, Sirzechs expressed in a serious tone, "I will admit, that is quite a feat. However, I cannot say I approve of your actions. This is unlike any other incidents you have encountered. I know Kokabiel during the Great War, and he is far superior than any strays you could possibly meet."

"I understand that fully onii-sama, but my peerage and I are not weak either. We along with the fallen angels and church agent, managed to successfully avert a crisis which could potentially start a war. Should it happen otherwise, the three factions will face possible extinction and other mythologies will utilize this opportunity to invade us."

"Yes, I am well aware. What I do not understand is where does your confidence originate from? Why choose to resolve this emergency without asking for help? My position may not allow me to come without consequences, but I could still discreetly dispatch reinforcements."

A flash of uneasiness washed over the female red head, "There was already someone who arrived to dissolve the matter. Azazel made contact with Hanwei about two weeks ago and informed he will stop Kokabiel's incitement. However, the Hakuryuukou saw the situation unfit to interrupt as we were doing fine against Kokabiel."

The Lucifer really wanted to bang his head onto the table right now, Azazel was very well known for his randomness. Over the years, he was getting reports about the Grigori collecting Sacred Gear users and that made him wary. At first he assumed Kokabiel's invasion was the will of the Grigori as a whole, but it didn't match up if the Hakuryuukou, under Azazel's orders, was sent to stop him. The Governor General has assured many times he did not want war anymore despite his stockpiling, and so far he has not lied.

He knew Azazel has steered towards the more peaceful approach over the years and won't cause real harm to his little sister's Rook, not knowing the exact reason why. While puzzled, he can't afford to look at a gift horse in the mouth. The Underworld has sustained much damage in terms of life and resources, especially after the war against the Old Satan Faction, and needed much time as well as effort to restore what they can.

Yet Rias didn't inform him of that either. Sirzechs let out a sigh, thinking that maybe he had spoiled his little sister too much when she was younger. He really hoped that Millicans would be a responsible adolescent in the future, "And I can safely assumed you did not notify me of this either to not disturb me or the other Maous?"

She nodded stiffly but willfully, "Yes. And onii-sama, is it true about Heaven's leader? Is God really..."

"Unfortunately yes. That is the true reason why Michael and the other Seraphs have been inactive of any major disturbances in the supernatural world. While not completely reclusive, just enough so their religion is still functioning normally. If any outside force know about their weakness and God's death, other factions may take the opportunity to invade. We may be enemies but devils rely on humans, and humans rely on God, one can't exist without the other. I am sure you are aware that this must remain a secret."

"Yes, onii-sama."

One can't exist without the other, huh? Even though he said that, none of the three factions have made any real effort to form peace. Yet Hanwei-kun stood strong against a Cadre-class fallen angel, proudly declaring what the three factions did to defeat the Two Heavenly Dragons in the past has repeated itself. The more the Maou hears about that young warrior, the more surprises he keeps finding. Maybe it is time for a change for the sake of a new era. Speaking of Hanwei-kun...

"Rias." The older brother spoke slowly, eyes focused to show he wanted to know the truth, "Was the super rookie your source of confidence to defeat Kokabiel?"

"Yes, he was one of them but contributed the most. I have seen his strength as well as his intelligence. As an integral part of my peerage, I know we can overcome any obstacle."

"Perhaps it is not wise to rely on him so much, it would be beneficial to improve your and the rest of your peerage's individual abilities."

The proud look on Rias' face should have assured Sirzechs, but it only made him worry. If this keeps on, they all may see Hanwei-kun as a crutch, their morale support, their pillar. The fact that he brought a perfect victory against Riser-kun may have caused them to see him as someone indomitable. Once he falls, the rest may soon follow. An experience that Sirzechs has seen many times as one of the tactics used in the civil war. Back then, he had to force himself to grow up fast, but Hanwei-kun is still young who should be living peacefully in school. At this rate, he might crack under the pressure.

The younger Gremory merely answered, "Do not worry, all of us train nearly everyday, especially Issei who sees him as his rival. We will ensure our abilities will not fall behind."

Smiling softly, "Very well. I hope none of you slack off just because of one member. And Rias," Sirzechs released his Lucifer persona with a fond smile, "before I became the Maou, I am your older brother first. It is fine to ask for my help sometimes, okay?"

Rias fidgeted, uncomfortable with the brotherly look, "... Okay."

Once the boxes were done moving into her new apartment, Rias felt giddy and slightly mischievous. The banter she had with Daisuke reminded her just how much she missed the times when they hang out without a care in the world, and she would never let it go again. The sense of calmness and absolute joy of spending time with the one you love. Now that Daisuke reassured her that he would never hate her, Rias can be her bold self again and live with her crush.

If you count destroying the wall separating her and her beloved as living together. She was gonna monopolize this to her heart's content until Daisuke falls for her charms, "This would make a good place to hang the curtains, don't you think?"

"Maybe it's being invaded a little?"

Rias gave her love rival a wink, sending a hidden message that she will do anything to take Daisuke for herself.

And Miho pouted.

Byayan: Daisuke and Miho will react interestingly, that's for sure.

A.N.: Hey guys. Sorry about the slow update, but I'm having too much fun playing Pokemon. The next chapter I have in mind will be special so please be content with this throwback first. Speaking of throwbacks, I'll be writing them at the end of every arc to show the hidden scenes. Hope you guys like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

Ja Ne