Chapter 29: Step by Step

"So," Saji started, looking at his black gear while pointing at Gasper, "you just need me to siphon off excess energy from him right?"

"Right." I answered, "Thanks again Saji. Gasper's getting the hang off aiming but still not good at controlling size of the area. He might stop the enemy along with us if he's not careful."

"Quick question though." The student council member raised an eye at me suspiciously, "Was it you who made that earthquake a few days back?"

"And also made a giant crater."

"While wrecking our training ground as a result."

"... Total annihilation."

"It was huge!"

"Our faces were covered with dust."

"Beautiful but highly destructive."

"Oh come on guys! I said I was sorry!"

The rest of the ORC (minus Rias, Akeno, and Yuuto) helpfully provided details about my technique. The conference is approaching and our King needs to discuss with Sirzechs and the others about important stuff. Since the training ground is still not completely repaired, we had to train at the old field behind the old school building for the time being, though stronger techniques were limited.

We're currently in school grounds, at an empty place where no ordinary people can see us. Everyone was interested to see one of the gears from Vritra so we all came to support the dhampir with his training.

"So kaichou's guess was spot on. She would have been pretty livid if anything important broke."

I winced, imagining a pissed off Sona ready to give some spanking, "Sorry."

"Just make sure to not use it on me. Alright, here we go." We stared out in interest as Absorption Line extended to Gasper's head like an alien.

"Okay guys, here's the idea." Walking a short distance away from Gasper, "You're all gonna try to attack me but I can't retaliate. Gasper, focus the area to stop the attacks only without freezing me."

"E-eh! A-are you s-sure?" He shivered nervously, "Wh-what if I miss? What if you get hurt senpai?"

"Don't worry, I'll still dodge or defend myself if you can't make it in time. Besides, I still got Buso and Kaiten. Remember the time when you froze Kokabiel? You were able to do it before by reflex, so now learn to do it anytime you want. Recall your thoughts and feelings at that time, forget about the complicated stuff."

"Fine by me." Issei grabbed a rock and grinned, "This means I can finally hit you without worrying about getting hit back."

"Interesting." Xenovia summoned Durandal from her pocket dimension, "A type of training beneficial for everyone's reflexes. As expected of our training freak."

"... I'm game." Koneko stretched.

"Very well, Hanwei-sama." Miho flared several small fireballs above her palm.

"Um um." Asia fidgeted, shyly raising her hand, "What do I do?"

"Try to hinder my movements with your shields or heal me from afar. This will work on your execution speed."

"Five against one? This should be good to watch." The blonde Pawn commented, "Alright, I'm ready to start anytime."

"Okay..." My eyes turned blue, failing to mimic an eye-smile similar to a certain ninja, "Start!"

I immediately ducked under a rock only for Koneko and Xenovia to go for my legs. Placing my Buso-coated hand on the flat side of Xenovia's blade, I pushed myself into the air. The pair were frozen soon after I'm airborne. Miho threw her flames as Asia made a barrier above me, stopping me from ascending higher. With speed burst activated and wings spread, I bent my back in a limbo.

The Boosted Gear was closing in to my face. I was about to twist my body until we suddenly fell. Confused, I turned around and saw everyone else watching us, "Gasper stopped us both, didn't he?"

"Actually, he stopped your head and Issei's fist. It was unusual to see you two limping in midair like that." Xenovia answered.

Coughing, "That explains why my neck suddenly hurts."

"So-sorry!"

"His area of effect did shrink though. Gya-kun's getting better."

"That's good." I slowly flexed my neck while shaking my aching hand because of touching Durandal, "Keep it up Gasper, let's try again."

"Well what do we have here? Using Absorption Line to drain out excess energy from the vampire? Nice idea."

We all turned to the newcomer. Miho immediately recognized him and heat up, the others became more tense by her action and got ready to fight. Sighing, "Calm down guys, he won't attack us. I thought I said you'll get the answer if you can prove yourself to me at the conference Azazel."

"What can I say?" He smiled cunningly, "Curiosity kills the cat."

Koneko twitched ever so slightly.

"Oh, hey there devil-kun. Good to see you doing well."

"What?" Issei looked around before pointing at himself, "Are you talking to me?"

The fallen chuckled in amusement. An illusionary shroud enveloped him before revealing a hot blonde woman with a deep and sexy voice, "Recognize me now?"

Issei blinked. He blinked again. And he blinked for a third time before dropping to his knees and screamed to the heavens, "WHHHHHHYYYYYY!? WHY DOES THE WORLD TORTURE ME SO!? FIRST GYA-SUKE AND NOW HIM!? WHO ELSE IS DECEIVING ME WITH SUCH CRUELLLLLLLTTTTYYYYYYY!" The pervert bitterly pointed at the disguised Azazel with tearful eyes, "YOU! WHY ARE YOU CROSS DRESSING!?"

Dropping the disguise, "Technically I'm not. It's just a visual and auditory illusion so you won't recognize me like Daisuke."

"DID YOU HAVE TO BE A BEAUTIFUL ONEE-SAMA WITH BIG OPPAI!? CAN'T YOU BECOME SOMETHING ELSE!?"

"One of my past inventions went haywire and I found out what I look like as a woman. After getting wind about how obsessed you are with boobs, I thought it would be a good idea."

"ALL THOSE TIMES STARING AT THE FALSENESS IN FRONT OF ME! I THOUGHT OPPAI COULD BE TRUSTED BUT I WAS WRONG! YOU ARE WRONG! THIS IS WRONG! IT'S ALL WRONG!"

"Definitely worked like a charm too, you never noticed as you kept staring at my chest like the innocent hormonal teenager you are. You didn't suspect a thing even after I said I was 'dangerous'."

"NOOOOOOOOO! THESE DEFILED MEMORIES MUST BE PURGED! PURGED I SAY! PURGED! GIVE ME BACK MY FANTASIES GODDAMMIT!"

"Is this guy really the leader of all fallen angels?" Saji whispered to me, "He's not what I expected."

I know now's not the time to be laughing, but pinching my thigh is barely able to keep me in check, "Pftt. Yup, that's him. Not sure what you would expect after seeing Levia-tan though. There are all sorts of people out there." Clearing my throat, "So what are you here for this time?"

"Finally got some free time so I thought about checking out the Holy Demonic Sword user. He in?"

"Yuuto's busy, he's not here."

"Shame. So now for the main event, I think I finally got your background unveiled. You want to hear it now? Or..."

The Sitri Pawn looked down to see Koneko tugging his sleeve, "What's wrong? Crouch down? Okay but wh-" She covered his ears, giving me a nod. Saji grew more puzzled, "Why are you covering my ears?"

"Saji, can you hear me?"

"What did you say? I can't hear anything."

"Never mind." I turned back to the scientist, "Okay shoot."

"After thinking about it long and hard, I finally pieced them together and found the perfect explanation." Azazel flashed a victory grin, "You're from the future. That explains why you crossed through the dimensional gap, and also how you knew about what's going to happen. You were a human closely associated with the Three Factions and read our history. That's how you know so much."

Azazel stood there, basking in his glory in an almost narcissistic fashion as I pretended to be impressed, "That's actually pretty accurate."

His smile widened, "So then..."

"But still wrong."

"Son of bitch! I really thought I had you!" Azazel sighed, eyeing me with more interest than before, "But I am getting close, that's for sure. While it took most of my free time coming up with that theory, I'm still having fun trying to figure you out."

"To give your ego a boost by solving the recent biggest mystery before the deadline when nobody else can?"

"Of course! You're the roadblock to my perfect mystery-solving record and I'm not throwing in the towel just yet."

I rolled my eyes, "Figures."

"Back to square one then. Sorry about Vali by the way, he probably got too excited to finally see his rival." He turned to leave before remembering something, "Oh, you should give the vampire the Sekiryuutei's blood to drink if controlling his power is the point of your exercise."

"NOOOOOO! Blood is scary!"

"A vampire who is afraid of blood? Whatever, see ya at the conference." Azazel turned his back, gently waving his hand as he walked away.

Saji's ears were finally freed as he looked around us weirdly, "You guys got a connection with Azazel or something?"

"He likes people who interests him. Sorry about the secrecy, it's an inside thing. So Gasper, ready for more training?"

"Y-yes! Whenever you're ready senpai."

"Daisuke, I want you to take Gasper with you on the job. Can you do that for me?"

"No problem Buchou."

"Eh!?" Gasper ducked into his box and closed the lid, "I ha-have to meet n-new people?"

Rias nodded, "You need more exposure to the outside world. Getting used to us is fine, but I want you to be more confident."

"Don't worry, Gasper. All my clients are pretty nice and I'll be with you the whole time. You don't have to come out if you don't want to."

"Um, I'll try my best."

Soon Akeno came and informed us who are our clients for tonight. After Koneko left, I picked up Gasper's box and went to the teleportation circle to meet my first client, "Come on Gasper, Takazuchi-san's an author and Haru's likes listening to stories."

...

Silence. Maybe he's trying to mentally prepare himself? I shrugged, at least it's better than him freaking out. One teleportation later, I found the little guy running up to me in excitement.

"Hi Daisuke-nii you're back! Quick! Quick! I wanna know how Naruto beat Gaara!"

"Settle down Haru, Daisuke-san just arrived." The mother chided her son a little before walking up to me, "Hello again, I'm sorry for not summoning you earlier but our newest book was very popular."

"Congratulations, I've heard a lot of people talking about 'The Magestica of Devil'. Guess you must have made quite a profit."

"What makes you say that?"

Despite the question, she smiled amusingly considering the state of their apartment. It's a lot cleaner like the walls were repainted and newer appliances were bought. The two of them also got plenty of food with how more well nourished they are compared to before.

A snicker escaped my mouth, "Intuition. How's your progress for your new book?"

"It is going well. I do not want to copy ideas too much and decided to work on more originality. You're tips and ideas were enough to help."

"Daisuke-nii," Haru raised up his hand, "why do have that box with you?"

"Hmmm," I smiled playfully and mischievously, "are you sure you want to know? There's no turning back if you do."

"Yes."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes yes."

"Are you really sure?"

"Yes yes yes!"

"In that case, inside is a friend of mine who's trying to build up confidence. He's shy so that's why I'm bringing him with me to talk to different people. While harmless," The word was emphasized so Mina wouldn't panic just in case, "there is something very interesting about him." I leaned in close for suspense as Haru did the same, "He's a vampire."

"Eehhhh!" He staggered back in shock, "You mean like those creatures that come out at night, turn into bats, and suck blood!? So cool!" Throwing his hands up in excitement, Haru closed in to inspect the box closer, "First a devil and now a vampire! Oh oh! Do you also have mermaids, unicorns, trolls, elfs,-"

Right, Mina writes fantasy novels, "Woah slow down. Sorry but I only brought a vampire with me today. If you want to meet a mythical creature that much, next time I'll bring Miho."

"Oh yeah, you said you have a fire breathing Salamander."

"How does he stay inside a box that small?" Mina asked in interest, "Is he a bat right now?"

"No, he's in human form right now. Not sure how it works, we have magic after all. You want to tell them Gasper?"

...

Again with the silence. Did he fall asleep? "How about I open the box and we can see him together?"

"Can I open the box?"

"Sure Haru. But remember, be slow and careful. He's easily scared."

Placing down the box, he excitedly yet gently opened the lid. However, his smile morphed into a confused frown, "Daisuke-nii, are you using your illusions again?"

"Uh, no."

"Is he under all this candy?"

I finally looked down and saw instead of the introvert Bishop, the box was full of sweets, chocolate and other snacks, "Wait a second, if this is full of candy, then where the heck is Gasper?"

"Ah Koneko-chan, good to see you again."

"Good evening, Morisawa-san." Koneko surrendered herself to do the usual routine. It's not like she hates the man, but his tendencies to ask her to cosplay as anime characters or dress in random cute cat uniforms bugged her a little. His eyes can be slightly creepy and perverted during those times but it wasn't so bad. At least he doesn't make physical contact.

"I've been practicing my skills since our last match, this time I will win for sure." Morisawa-san said boldly.

But half of the times were video games which Koneko enjoyed much more. They were challenging each other in Road Punchers 3 with the Rook in the lead. No offense to her client, but Daisuke-senpai and Gya-kun were better gamers and she had tougher times going against them. Morisawa-san is decent and he doesn't mind losing, going against and finding ways to beat strong players was fun in itself. A true gamer.

Koneko nodded and put down her box of sweets, ready to munch on them while gaming. Wanting some sugary delight in her mouth, she opened it.

Gasper was more than a little nervous to meet new people but didn't want to let his senpais down. After withstanding the onslaught of fear to help his friends against Kokabiel, he's grown a little more confident. And with Saji-senpai's help, he's made more improvements.

So that's why he's been shutting his eyes and chanting 'I can do this. Senpai will help me' in his mind over and over again like a mantra while holding onto his sealing tags. The same ones made by Daisuke-senpai to stop him from freezing time. There were at least a dozen of them because of how powerful his gear is.

When the lid opened and light shined onto him, Gasper was naturally confused to see the equally confused Rook. It was just not the Rook he was expecting.

"Gya-kun?"

"Koneko-chan?"

"Hmm? Koneko-chan, did you say something?" Morisawa-san turned around and became petrified, his eyes fixated onto the cross dresser. His hand pointed at him, trembling with a slow and calm voice, "Koneko-chan, who is that?"

"This is Gasper, a friend of mine and he's cross dressing as a girl." That was the longest sentence she thought she would make tonight. Worry and panic oozed in her tone, knowing what her client will do in case she didn't get her point across.

"Ko-koneko-chan, he's starting to scare me." The Bishop shrunk into his box, watching those eyes turning passionate and angry.

"You're saying that such a cute girl as this is a boy? This petite, blond, cute girl? Impossible!" The Rook immediately went to grab his shirt from behind, stopping him from closing in on the in the introvert. Morisawa-san doesn't even notice he's not moving, "Come on little ojou-chan, you don't have to be scared of this old man. Let's have some fun together."

Despite his slightly perverted expression, Gasper's fear and agoraphobia kicked into overdrive, making him see what is worse than it actually is. Quickly slapping all the seals he had onto his forehead, Gasper screamed, "NOOOOOOOO! DAISUKE-SENPAI SAVE MEEEEEEEEEEE!'

After teleporting back to the club house and finding Gasper being consoled by Rias, I gave him soothing head pats and encouragement before returning back to my clients.

"Sorry about that, there was a little mix up. Let's start over. Gasper, this is Takazuchi Mina and her son, Takazuchi Haru. Takazuchi-san is the author that wrote 'The Magestica of Devil' remember?"

"Re-really?" He peeked out from his box, "It was really good. I almost thought it was the real senpai in that book."

Mina smiled motherly, "Thank you Gasper-kun."

"Hi Gasper-san, I'm Haru." The child called out. Gasper seems less tense around him, probably because he's younger. "Is it true that you're a vampire?"

"Ye-yes, but I'm not good at being one."

"I think you're really cool."

"You think I-I'm cool?"

And so, I left those two a little space to talk a little and went to help Mina with house chores while listening to her latest ideas about her new book. She thinks that my opinion is good since my mind can be imaginative and I watched a lot of my world's anime. Though I did regularly check on them in case Gasper gets too excited. I even made a clone to make more suppressant seals to be on the safe side.

After we're done, Mina nodded gratefully, "Thank you as always."

"Your welcome, your story progression and character development is getting better."

"It's not only that, you've helped Haru to smile more. Perhaps it's because he has read my fantasy novels for a while now. There were times he wondered whether mystical beings were real or not."

Chuckling, "Guess Gasper and I solved that mystery huh."

"Although it does peak my curiosity, do Gods and Satans exist as well? Surely you devils have a king to lead you."

"Yeah, we do. It's a long story but I can't give you the details. You know, secrecy and all."

"That is understandable. I think I will take a break after finishing my second book or maybe a little before that. It has been a long time since Haru and I spent some time together as a family. And now we have the money to enjoy higher quality trips."

"Glad to hear that, Takazuchi-san."

"Awesome!" Both of us looked to see Haru in front of a colony of bats who were positioning like soldiers. He raised his hands, "Up." The bats flew up. "Left." They flew left. "Right." And then they flew right. "Circle." The cycle repeated as Haru had fun like a conductor directing an orchestra.

"Let's just hope Haru doesn't grow ambitious enough to go monster catching."

"So why did Akeno-san ask us to come here?" Issei asked.

"You'll fine out soon, so relax. At least you don't have to worry. I don't why I'm here."

"Is there another big change compared to the future you saw?"

"My presence itself already made big changes from the get go. As far as I can tell, your presence here means I shouldn't have interfered anything. Or at least not the first part."

Can't say for certain that Akeno will confess her fears to Issei like in canon unless something big happens, and I'm not compatible with Holy Swords either. So that means Michael has different business with me. That, or Akeno's planning another assault on me like at the pool...

It wasn't long until we reached the top. Standing there was Akeno in her priestess outfit with a smile, "Issei-kun, Daisuke-kun, welcome. I'm sorry for calling you all of a sudden but there is someone who would like to meet you two."

"Good evening." The Pawn stepped back in shock from a blonde guy with 12 golden angel wings and a halo on top of his head. His voice sounds warm and gentle like a mother raising a child. Kinda accurate if you ask me, he looks girlier than Sirzechs. "My name is Michael, leader of the angels."

Issei panicked a bit before bowing down in respect as I followed suit. No way am I risking another war because of my disrespect, don't know him well enough after all.

"While I am here to present Issei Hyoudou-kun with a gift, I would like to see you personally Tan Han Wei-kun." We raised our heads, the angel and I met gazes, "Please tell me, do you truly believe the Three Factions can truly achieve peace? During your battle against a Cadre-class fallen angel with warmongering intentions, you boldly proclaimed a better future among us, leading you to unite and defeat against Kokabiel."

"Please do not be offended when I say this however, devils and fallen angels of old were evil and malicious. We do not trust them in the slightest and waged war. At that time, Kokebiel offered his former subordinates to join him once more. No doubt that fallen angels are the most advantageous should the next Great War be reignited."

"They might have succumbed to their darkest desires and begrudge their enemies, or perhaps they would have deceived and killed you during your intense clash. I might be bias but I believe Xenovia would have less chance to betray you. So this is why I ask, do you truly believe we can achieve genuine peace after millenniums of conflict and hatred? And if yes, will it last or will another war will break out in the future?"

Issei and Akeno looked at me, the latter in particular was a bit worried probably because of her lineage.

"That is true, trusting our enemies would have been very risky. With no definitive proof, I can't be 100% sure they wouldn't backstab us. No matter how good their intentions were, there's always a dark side in them." Then I smiled, "However, the same is true for the reverse. Everyone has a good and bad side in them, what's most important is to have a strong heart to never loose sight of who you are and control those emotions to do what you really wish for."

"When I saw Forcuis and Raynare save Asia. It was then I knew that there was good in them. I took the chance and won. If peace does exist, many people will object to such a big change. But look at the humans, they started out with wars and now they're living in a better era. If they can do it, I'm sure we'll manage. And Michael-sama, please give Azazel a chance, he's different compared to all those times ago. A part of you probably wants to accept him again right? After all, Azazel is your brother."

Although the Archangel's visage didn't change, his face looks somehow more tired. He laughed sheepishly, "I can see why the other leaders have taken a liking to you. Thank you Hanwei-kun, you cleared some of my doubts. You even remind me of..."

"Remind you of what?"

"It's nothing." Issei good naturedly nudged my shoulder while Akeno smiled, though it wasn't ear to ear. "Now Issei Hyoudou-kun, please come with me inside the shrine."

Nervous, the Pawn threw a glance my way which I responded calmly, "Don't worry, you'll be fine. We're right outside if you need anything."

Nodding, Issei and Michael went inside, leaving the two of us alone. The Queen didn't speak, standing there as she's lost in thought. I took a seat on a stair, followed by Akeno who sat next to me and rested her head on my shoulder. The sun was setting, painting the sky in an orange hue. We watched in tranquility, enjoying the scenery on top of a hill.

After a few minutes, "Don't let it get to you. None of us hate or fear you, including me."

She stiffened before schooling her features, "I'm sorry, I did not mean to make you worry. It's just that I cannot help but remembering how vile and wicked fallen angels can be."

"Kokebiel is a prime example of that, but there's a lot of different fallens out there. At least Forcuis and Raynare are trustworthy."

"I am still not convinced though." Akeno gripped my arm tightly, "You never know what is lurking in their minds. Fallens were banned from Heaven for committing treasonous acts, and became no longer restrained to continue their sins. They may help you at first to gain your trust then abandon you when you need help the most."

'Her father, huh...' "Maybe. Not just them, there are people like that all over the world whether they're humans, youkais, or another species. And I want to believe there are good people too helping to make the world a better place."

"Really? Is there really a fallen angel you know who is trustworthy without a doubt?"

"Yeah. It's you."

Akeno snapped her eyes to mine in shock, her mouth agaped before covering it with her hands and tearing up a little, "B-but what if I'm only using you? To get close to you? Or use you... as a sexual outlet?"

That last part made me worry about her, "Akeno-"

"It's true isn't it?" Her left side revealed a crow wing while her right had a bat wing, "Look at me. You find me creepy and repulsive after making your intentions clear you hold no romantic feelings for me, yet I still come after you like a desperate harlot. I'm just a filthy fallen who lusts for you and-"

I hugged her firmly but gently. Her mind is spiraling out of control because of her tumultuous emotions combined with the reminder of her dark past. I need to comfort her before it gets worse, "Akeno, your attempts may scare me a little, but never once I thought of you creepy, repulsive or as a harlot. I told you remember, I like you the way you are and nothing will change that."

A few uncontrollable hiccups sounded, "But not as a love interest..."

Patting her head, I looked deep into her eyes, "Yes, but even though they're over the top, I-" My face was tinted red, "I might have enjoyed your seductions more than I should to be honest."

"... Eh?" She blinked, staring at me blankly as the information was processed in her brain.

"Why do you look so surprised?"

"Nothing. It's just that you are always looking at Miho-chan so I thought you were pure and faithful."

"Trust me, there were a lot of times you made my blood rush downwards without my consent. I'm a healthy and hormonal teenage boy too you know."

"Bu-but, a fallen angel killed you."

"Who was being manipulated by an actual evil fallen."

"I to-touch your body because it feels so good."

"It takes a lot of willpower for me to not touch a body as voluptuous as yours."

"And I masturbate while moaning your name everyday."

"Well it's- wait what?" She flinched a little at my double take. "I mean it's normal to do that while thinking about the person you love. Sorry, I didn't expect that one."

"So," Akeno asked tentatively, her eyes regaining hope in them, "you like my advances?"

"Unfortunately yes, no matter how much my mind tells me not to." I smiled fondly.

Akeno retracted her wings and tightened the hug, tears spilling out of happiness, "Thank you, Daisuke-kun."

Returning the gesture, "Your welcome Akeno. It doesn't matter if you're a fallen, and don't care what you say. Only I can make the decision whether to like or hate someone. And I say: I like you Akeno, from the bottom of my heart."

"Hanwei-kun, I love you."

That's the first time she called me my real name. I inwardly sighed in defeat, don't know if this is the right choice since she might get hurt again because I don't reciprocate her feelings. But seeing her sad and self-deprecating would be worse at the present. I seriously need to set some time to think of a long-term plan to deal with this problem...

After calming down, Akeno nestled into my arm, "What would the other new members think of me?"

"They didn't bring it up even after Kokabiel said it, and their behavior hasn't change around you either. They still accept you for who you are. When you're ready, you can talk to them about it."

"Hopefully that day will arrive soon... My opinion of fallen angels won't change, but I suppose Forcuis and Raynare have earned the benefit of the doubt. By the way Daisuke-kun," The Queens usual seductive smile returned as she drew circles with her finger on my chest. Here comes the part where I fear for myself. "do you want to know what I think?"

Resisting the urge to face palm, "No but you're gonna tell me anyway."

"Ufufu, I think that deep down, you truly do want a harem. Otherwise you wouldn't be so nice to so many girls. You would have told me or Rias to stop seducing you but didn't."

"Well would you listen to me if I told you to stop?"

"Ara ara, you really do know so much about us. But it still makes me happy to see you blush and nervous around me. It means you do see me as a woman and my advances have some effect on you." Akeno pulled back and patted her lap, "Come, you must be tired right? Rest here."

"Are you gonna pull another fast one on me like dropping your breasts on my head or push my face into your womanhood?"

"Ufufu, not this time." I took a mental note on the 'this time' part. "I haven't done much for you outside of training. Please let your onee-san pamper you a little."

Although I'm wary, my senpai doesn't lie so I should be safe for now. Sighing, I moved closer and placed my head on her lap, "Don't know why people in Japan makes a big de- Aaaah, scratch that. This actually feels really nice."

Aside from her nice smell, the fleshes of meat under me were very soft, and I mean very soft. It's like my head was on a cloud, almost as good as when that Baku ate my dreams or when I slept with Miho that night. Now I get why Issei makes a big deal out of this. My entire body relaxed despite only my head is experiencing the softness, my eyelids drooping unconsciously. Wonder if Akeno will be offended if I accidentally fall asleep?

The onee-san donned a warm smile instead of a seductive one, affectionately running her fingers across my head, "I see, so your first lap pillow is from me. Good boy good boy. You have been working hard for a while now. You can relax as much as you want."

My vision became hazier until my eyes finally closed. It feels so weird that the usual sultry Queen I know can be so comforting. Not that I'm complaining.

"When I was a child, kaa-sama used to do this for me whenever I feel down. She always made me better no matter how sad I was."

"Your mom really knows what she's doing. Thanks."

"Ara ara, does this mean I have won over your love? Not even Miho-chan has done this for you."

"No. Miho did do something similar for me with her breasts, but I was too embarrassed and quickly pulled back."

"That's fine. The thought of being your number 2 or having an affair with you excites me more. Like what we are doing right now."

Smiling lopsidedly, "Don't get used to it. Besides, your idea of having an affair is probably you being stripped naked, tied up and gagged while I whip your butt."

"Ufufu~, now you are trying to arouse me on purpose." Her hand stopped patting for a second before resuming, "Hmm, I wonder what Rias would think of this if she saw us now?"

"Most probably she would get angry, jealous, then pinch my cheeks and try to entice me again."

"That sounds about right. Miho-chan gave you your first breast pillow and I gave you your first lap pillow while Rias is still behind."

"My mom gave the latter before when I was a kid but I guess that technically doesn't count."

"Rias would definitely be not happy. I wonder what she will do next?"

"Don't wanna know. Why do you keep talking about... She's here isn't she?"

"Very perceptive of you Daisuke." I fearfully opened my eyes and saw the red head glaring at us with her hands on her hips, a vein visibly throbbing on her forehead. "Seems like you two have gotten closer."

"Ara ara Rias, the early bird gets the worm." Akeno smiled while still stroking my head.

The King grabbed my hand and pulled me into a hug, "I am not behind at all. Did you know?" She smirked, "Daisuke has groped my bare breasts. He gave me my first indescribable jolt of pleasure."

The Queen's aura turned intense, pulling me back to her body, "Ufufu, I am the first girl who he saw naked and received a good look of how big he is."

And so the girls' rivalry gets out of hand as they close in and push their breasts to both sides of my head, bickering all the while I try to not suffocate.

Staying in the same room with the Archangel made Issei nervous, but he doesn't seem bad and Daisuke trusts him so it should be fine.

"This is what I would like to present you with."

Issei saw a Holy Sword, and not just any Holy Sword. A Holy Sword radiating high amounts of holy aura like Durandal.

Okay now he wants to call for help!

"Please do not be alarmed. This is Ascalon, the dragon slaying Holy Sword that underwent rituals so you would not be affected by either of its properties. Your friends might be affected which is why I ask for only us to be here."

"Wait, you want to give this to me?" It was a reasonable question. Issei's a devil and not affiliated with Heaven, so receiving a sword this powerful made him shy and embarrassed, "Are you sure it's okay?"

"Yes, think of this as a gesture of good faith. We already gifted the fallen angels as well and in exchange, we received a number of your friend's Holy Demonic Swords. Do not worry, there is currently no wielder of Ascalon."

"But why me? Why not Kiba, Xenovia or Daisuke? They're much better at swords than me." Issei still remembers the brief sword training he got from the Knight before fighting the yakitori. Buchou said his training ended after a few days after showing very little improvement and to focus in other aspects to help him grow stronger.

Michael's smile appeared slightly sadder, "When I exiled Asia and Xenovia from the church, it filled me with great pain and regret. Those two who were and still are faithful to Father did not deserve such fate." Issei wanted to confirm those words immediately but decided to wait for now. "The moment I heard both were reincarnated into devils, I thought they had fallen to despair and sought revenge to those who wrong them."

"It was never my intention however with our God dead, now the duty of managing the system in heaven falls onto me. Holy rituals, blessings, purification and such have already weakened and I cannot allow it to continue for the sake of many. Followers will question my decision to welcome a nun who can heal devils and possible leaks about God's death would circulate in the church. If we lose anymore believers, our system would collapse and life of denizens in Heaven would be compromised."

The Pawn clenched his fists in rage. He asked Daisuke the reason why someone like Asia was kicked out soon after he revealed his origins but only got the answer after Kokabiel's fight. It was only a little while ago that he found out why he had to wait for so long because he wouldn't understand it unless the secret got out. Michael's answer confirmed the reason. Saving countless people by abandoning one is logical, but Issei still hates the very idea of Asia suffering.

Michael smiled more genuinely this time, "However, when I asked how those two were faring from Lucifer and Rias Gremory, I heard they have grown quite attached to you."

"Attached?" Issei sweat dropped. His cute little Asia might be attached since she often ask for hugs, but Xenovia? She's more like overbearingly grateful, though his eyes did get quite a feast from her oppai.

He nodded, "Yes, I have heard that you try to help Asia as much as possible and Xenovia holds an interest in you. Issei Hyoudou-kun, I have no right to ask you this but please listen to my request. Protect Asia and Xenovia from harm and support them in anyway you can. While Heaven gifts you Ascalon as a sign of goodwill, this is my method to show my apologies. Wield Ascalon and keep them safe."

Staring at the sword and back at the angel, Issei thought about whether he could even use Ascalon to protect himself with his amateurish swordsmanship, not to mention he's still really weak compared to everyone else. The memory of Asia's cold body in his arms on that night snapped him out as he nodded resolutely, "Yes."

Hesitantly grabbing the sword and found out he's still fine, Issei remembered his lessons and made a few test swings but his balance felt off from the inertia of the extra weight in his hand, "Okay, does it have a sheathe?" The Pawn saw Kiba and Daisuke carrying their swords around their waist. It looks cool sometimes but he mostly doesn't want the Holy Sword in his pocket and make a giant hole.

"After the rituals upon Ascalon, you can command your Boosted Gear to assimilate it. That way, you can store and summon it whenever you wish."

"Wait, the Boosted Gear can do that?"

"The Boosted Gear is a part of you and will respond to your thoughts and desires partner. Give it a try."

Hearing Ddraig's voice, the Pawn brought out his gear and imagined for it to happen and after a green flash, the blade portion looked like it merged with his knuckles, forming an almost claw-like weapon.

After Issei retracted the blade inside, light surrounded Michael in preparation to teleport, "Thank you for accepting Ascalon, I hope it will serve you well in battles. Farewell, Issei Hyoudou-kun."

Issei stood there, extending and retracting Ascalon a few more times to get a better feel. This will definitely help him fight that Vali bastard. Sighing, the Pawn took a seat on the ground and looked up in wonder.

"What troubles you partner?"

"Say Ddraig be honest with me. Just how big is the gap between Daisuke and me?"

"His existence is an anomaly. You have only awakened the Boosted Gear a few months prior but, you are currently the weakest Sekiryuutei in history. Comparing you and him would be comparing Heaven and Earth."

"Should've known." Issei drooped his head.

"Are you still thinking about what the Hakuryuukou said? Do not be ashamed of your progress. Even my strongest host could not reach the top."

"It's not that. What you and Vali said were right, I can't compare to Daisuke. I always thought of him as a rival but I haven't really done anything big to prove myself. I'm not strong or smart like him. The only thing I have which is better than his is my love for oppai."

"Partner?"

"Anyone can easily say 'I'm Daisuke's rival' but when it comes down to a fight, there aren't a lot who can go toe to toe with him. Or at least, not a lot who only has a few months of training in the supernatural world."

"So you worry about your self-worth in his eyes. He has acknowledged you as well, did he not?"

"Yeah." Issei grinned, "But people might get the wrong idea if Daisuke accepts someone as weak as me as his rival. He's stronger and has more girls around him."

"Your thoughts are misguided. He is an interesting one and he acknowledges you for a reason. Perhaps humans from his world advance faster or perhaps he is unique with an incredible growth rate. There is still much mystery surrounding his presence in our world. However, he has a positive influence on you."

"Really?"

"Yes. Few of my previous hosts declared another besides the Hakuryuukou as his rival. He might be the push you need to achieve greater power. A rival who does not seek for your death but encourages you to become stronger."

"Can't help but agree with that last one. After getting my ass handed over and over, I definitely want to win for once." Issei got back up and clenched his gauntlet-clad hand a few times, "Let's head back out. Maybe Daisuke can give me some tips about swords."

Feeling reinvigorated, the Pawn exited the shrine, "Hey Daisuke, think you can-"

"What happened to our plan for Daisuke's harem!?" Rias scowled as she pulled Daisuke's right arm.

"Ara ara, it's fine isn't it! You can't always be there to satisfy him!" Akeno countered while pulling the Rooks other arm.

"You always steal whatever that is precious to me! Can't you give him to me!?"

"How selfish can you be Rias! I saw him first remember!"

"Selfish!? I'm not the one who tried to keep him with sweet words and a lap pillow!"

"And yet you get to live with him everyday! You're stealing what's mine!"

Issei stared out in bemusement as Daisuke's arms look like they're ready to come off. The Rook saw Issei and sent a pleading look, begging to be saved.

"Right, you're busy. I'll get back to you later." Issei walked around them, ignoring the despair in his eyes.

Fushes: Thanks for the interesting tidbit I guess?

Rafafalafa: Don't know why you reviewed and read this far if you hate harem anime, but thanks?

Kryptman: Thanks for the review. But the 'church faction' is suppose to protect people. Why would they do that?

AN Guest: Thanks. Wouldn't Daisuke be affected by radiation too if it happens?

Byayan: Thanks lol. Good luck recovering from that.

petru95: Thanks. Wasn't sure if the idea was good or not. I just wrote what I thought Daisuke would most probably do.

AN: Hey guys, no I'm not dead. Hopefully everyone stays indoors and away from the virus. Make sure to wash your hands often, wear masks, cover your mouth when coughing/sneezing, and other stuff you find that could help. Hope you like the chapter. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

PS: Thank you everyone for helping me reach 1000+ followers for my first fanfic.

Ja Ne