Chapter 35: Go to Hell
"-ma! Hanwei-sama! Hanwei-sama!"
I felt someone pushing my side, waking me up in a groggy state but immediately snapped into focus when I saw the look of seriousness and urgency on my familiar's face, "Miho what's wrong?"
"We are abducted to an unknown location." Her eyes darted to the room we're in.
Following her gaze, I saw... an extravagant room with all kinds of fancy furniture? The bed we're on wasn't mine either, it's big enough to fit at least ten people. Everything was too pristine and expensive to look like we're kidnapped. There's even a wide screen TV on the wall to our left.
And then I remembered something in canon, holding the pinkette's hands and smiling apologetically, "Sorry Miho. I forgot to mention that a surprise renovation happened in the original timeline. I didn't think it would happen since the events didn't match up."
"Renovation?" She calmed down, eyeing the new area with a frown and snuggled into my chest, "I don't like this. It does not feel like our territory anymore. Why did this happen?"
"Because more people came moving in and the place became too cramped." I petted her before a thought popped up in my mind, "Wait a second, we're in an apartment. How did they renovate it when there are other occupants living on the floor below us?"
"Hmm... Daisuke?" Rias put her hand in front to cover her yawn and turned to me, "It's still early. Did something happen?"
"The redesigning kinda spooked Miho. Couldn't you at least tell us you're gonna enlarge the place?"
"What?" Rias looked at the room we're in as her eyes slowly grew wider, her head turning around everywhere in wonder and confusion before looking at me, "I have no involvement in this."
"... If you didn't do this, then who did?"
All three of us were vigilant and got off the supersize bed. A table with some packets on top caught my attention. The moment I recognized it... I sliced it to bits with my wind in pure rage.
"Daisuke? What did you find?" Rias grabbed one of the packets herself to inspect it, before she blushed and tried to keep it. Only for me to snatch and destroy it along with the rest.
There's only one person I know stupid enough to put fucking condoms in the room we're in.
We got changed, found where the exit is, walked through the entryway, took the elevator to ground floor, and calmly walked out of the building. We finally got a good look, inclining our head upwards to the sky. What stood in front us was a skyscraper taller than anything else I've seen in my life, dwarfing all the other buildings in town with the height of at least a hundred meters in the air.
The surroundings were also very different from what we remembered. Now there are large entryways, car parks, a luscious garden with well trimmed bushes, and a fountain spouting out crystal clear water.
We stared at the sheer absurdity of what used to be our apartment in silent fury, thoroughly annoyed by the fallen's crazy stunt. We stared, and stared, and stared, and stared until the three of us just COULDN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!
"What-" Miho started.
"-the-" Rias continued.
"-fuck!?" I ended.
"Holy cow! Would you look at that, it's like the whole place had a total makeover." Azazel suddenly appeared behind us, checking out the skyscraper before nodding in satisfaction, "Now this is what VIPs should live in, way better than the dinky old apartment. Whoever built this knows what style is."
Miho threw a large fireball at the fallen, scowling deeply and baring her fangs. Azazel simply ducked as a sprinkler system emerged and put out the embers, "You wretched crow! What has become of our territory!?"
"What are you looking at me for?" He was genuinely confused and offended, "What proof do you have that says I did all this."
I thumbed at the giant golden statue of him behind us.
His facade completely melted away, replaced with his usual childish smile, "Oh yeah, it was me." He leaned away from another fireball, "What are you three getting so annoyed about? I'm practically doing you a favor."
"We put our efforts to seek and maintain our territory up to this day! Our sanctuary where we can rest in peace and safety! Yet you trespassed and ruined the memories we've made in one single night!"
"Azazel, did you move us while we were asleep and changed whatever you liked to suit your needs!? That apartment may be small to you, but we liked the coziness and the way it is!"
"Is that how you knew about my lack of porn stash!? You better not have added anything ridiculous or got rid of our stuff!"
The three of us powered up, ready to maim the dead meat.
He wasn't fazed by our killing intent and continued smiling lackadaisically, "It's not like I changed anything, just upgrading them. It's basically the same as always, but better."
"What about the condoms?"
The smiled grew wider, "That was a personal gift from me, along with some of the best erotica hidden in secret compartments-"
"Girls, I got a plan. Rias, you blast him in the the balls, make sure there's nothing left. Miho, you grab him with your tendrils while he's buffeted by my wind. Distraction with you in the lead-"
"Sirzechs agreed to this."
Rias' brows shot way up, "Onii-sama did what!?"
"I'm not doing this for just shits and giggles you know. Kuoh has become a hotspot for supernatural activities lately and it's also the place where the peace treaty was signed, becoming a historical area for the new era. All of these events can't be a mere coincidence so I built a hotel to welcome and carry out other business. The Three Factions is just the beginning, we're gonna have peace with all of the mythologies."
Rias and Miho's went stiff from the proclaim, turning to me for confirmation. I thought about it for a moment and sighed, "He's gonna start with the Norse mythology soon. I'm not sure about the others but considering from what I saw, it's possible."
Azazel sported a victory grin, "If this guy here says it, then I'm all the more motivated. Let me give you a tour. Normal humans can barely afford to stay for a few nights but you get to live here for free. You can thank me later."
"More people into our territory?" Miho was still furious, "This does not excuse you for your transgression."
"I know how territorial spirits can be so I literally transformed your old apartment into a house. The concrete and wood are the same except supersized and reinforced. I made an entire floor for your own use so no one else will disturb any of you living there."
The temperature around the salamander dwindled a bit, "I suppose that is more acceptable."
"Not to mention of the extra facilities. You'll definitely love it. Sauna, hot spring, indoor pool, cinema, water park, you name it we got everything."
"I swear, if you built a whorehouse in there-"
"Okay, almost everything. I really wanted to add one but Sirzechs wouldn't budge." Azazel answered my indirect question, greatly saddened by the prospect before cheering back up to his annoying self, "And the ones who'll help me keep the place in order are them."
We turned back to the entrance, seeing Forcuis, Raynare, and- Dohnaseek and the other fallens in Season 1!?
Deadpanning at Forcuis, "You knew about this?"
At least he looked sheepish, coughing into his hand a little, "By Azazel-sama's orders, we were to remain silent and surprise you."
"So that is the Aoi Arashi Forcuis spoke of." Kalawarner eyed me lustfully, licking her lips, "I haven't had a young virgin for quite some time."
Rias and Miho immediately stood in front of me, blocking the navy haired fallen's view of me and glared at her, who simply smirked at their possessiveness.
Until I felt a familiar pair of softness on my back as smooth hands covered my eyes, "Ara ara Daisuke-kun, good morning. Guess who?"
"Morning Akeno." I replied, not even bothering to avoid her after sensing her presence. She'll do worst to me if I did, "Isn't it too early for you to make a surprise visit? The sun's barely up."
"Ufufu, I am not visiting. I am moving in."
"Wait what?" My vision returned, turning to see her luggage next to the Queen, "What do you mean moving in?"
"That's Sirzech's idea actually." Azazel answered, "He thinks that cohabitation would strengthen bonds between people. It's part of the reason why I arranged an entire floor for your own use. The whole peerage's coming, Akeno is just early."
"Where is your room I wonder. Our time together will be... intimate~"
A hand grabbed Akeno's before she could caress my cheek, the owner belonging to a very pissed salamander, "Unacceptable! The vixen has worn my tolerance enough! I refuse to allow this succubus anywhere near Hanwei-sama!"
"Relax, your new home is huge and there's more than enough space for everyone. Your own personal room is already bigger than your old apartment." Azazel responded like it's not his problem.
I hurriedly went to hug Miho's back and pet her head, ignoring her hot skin on mine while glaring at the damn old crow. I don't when, I don't know how, but I swear I will have my revenge!
Miho (in her salamander form) was in my arms, her stomach facing up as I gave her belly rubs. Head patting wasn't enough to sooth her this time so I had to get creative. It's working but I don't know for how long, probably until either Rias or Akeno is plotting something again. At least she's calm, lying and snuggling against my torso.
Yuuto and rest arrived soon after breakfast, my clones were helping them unpack. Azazel wasn't kidding when he said we got an entire floor to ourselves, this place could easily accommodate over 30 people. Due to our contribution to establish peace, he personally designed the place suited for royalty. Only Issei and Asia didn't move in but they can teleport here anytime, all of us here used to live without blood-related families so now we're together.
It's literally the dream house of many. The kitchen equipped with the latest cooking instruments, a living room big enough where all of us could sleep together, house plants to keep the air clean and fresh, each bedrooms with personal bathrooms, huge jacuzzis for different genders, a library filled with all sorts of books (and some pornos which I destroyed), an awesome view of Kuoh from a balcony wide enough for us to sunbath, along with other extravagant stuff in here I don't know. Kinda similar to Rias' vacation house.
This place is so huge I had to make clones to memorize the place. The temperature is well regulated at optimum level so we won't feel too cold or too hot no matter the season. We're on the 10th floor apparently, each floor is completely soundproofed so no neighbors could disturb us. This could take some time getting used to, at least I don't have to pay the bills anymore.
Speaking of neighbors, Azazel somehow transferred the old apartment's occupants to a different one in Kuoh and they think they've been living there their whole lives. Even the residents around this hotel thinks it has always been here.
"Holy shit! This place is huge!" Issei exclaimed, his eyes popping out of their sockets while checking out our new home.
"Uwawawawawawa-" Asia kept spinning around to take in the sights until she disoriented herself and Issei had to help her out.
They walked into the living room where we gathered, gaping at the sophistication of the new home. Yuuto smiled awkwardly, "I do admit, I did not think Lucifer-sama would have us live together in such grandness."
"It was Azazel who decorated." Rias sighed, a hand on her head in frustration, "Unlike the Gremory Household which is more medieval, this apartment resembles ones similar to modern times."
"I'm not sure if this place could be called an apartment anymore." Miho turned around as I stroke her back, "From the view here, it's like we're living in a mini castle."
"Uuuu, big places are s-scary." The box shuddered.
Koneko shrugged, "You'll get used to it senpai. The Gremory household is bigger."
"Ufufu, well this is only one floor. I wonder what other facilities this hotel has for us?"
"Knowing Azazel," I deadpanned, "most probably everything which isn't illegal."
"But still this is so much different than I could imagine." Xenovia examined the large area uncomfortably, "This room is already bigger than the church I was raised in."
"It is very big." Asia agreed timidly, "What if we get lost?"
"Apparently," Rias stressed, ready to have an aneurysm, "Azazel installed a map and GPS into our phones for that occasion."
"Wait really?" Issei grabbed his phone and found it, "What the- how did he do that? Did he sneak into my house or something?"
"That is what I would like to know as well. That infuriating Governor General is violating our privacy. Just because he is powerful and an important figure, that doesn't mean he can do whatever he wants."
"The pot is calling the kettle black." Miho jabbed.
"What was that?" Rias narrowed her eyes.
"Nothing!" I quickly switched to scratching my familiar, pacifying her to prevent another fight between them from breaking out.
"You guys think Asia and I can come for sleepovers sometime?" Issei asked hopefully, interested in trying out the facilities.
"If you peek at us I will never forgive you." Koneko threatened, cracking her knuckles for emphasis.
"Koneko-chan..." Issei whined, depressed at the corner of a wall. He didn't say he wasn't going to peek though.
"If you're looking for Raynare, she's on the floor below us with the rest of the fallens. But she's probably busy helping Azazel managing the hotel right now." I said, bringing the pervert's spirits back up.
"Azazel-sensei did say he'll give us a tour later. Maybe we'll find some recreational activities to enjoy." Xenovia suggested.
"That sounds nice." Asia nodded in agreement.
"Muuu. Can I stay h-here instead?" Gasper whined.
"Sure. How about we watch some TV for now. Maybe we'll get reception from different countries." I answered as Yuuto picked up the remote.
"Let's see." The Knight scrutinized at the buttons and pushed.
*press*
The tables disappeared into the floor before reappearing with snacks, drinks and popcorn. The sofas moved back as the living room television expanded into a cinema screen before the curtains automatically closed themselves and the lights dimmed.
He smiled sheepishly, "My apologies. Wrong button."
"Let me try." Koneko received the remote.
*press*
A disco ball came out from the roof, spinning and lighting up the room. Speakers and music players activated, playing disco music while the floor suddenly illuminated lights of different colors like we're in a club or something.
"... That wasn't it."
"Ara ara, may I?"
*press*
Lights, music and furniture were gone, replaced by a heart-shaped bed larger than the one I woke up in. Candles and incense arrived from below. On the bed were condoms and various kinky costumes like a cheerleader outfit, bunny girl attire, police uniform, etc.
"Ufufu, Dai-"
"No." I declined before Akeno could finish her sentence.
"Interesting." Xenovia grabbed one of the packets, "Issei, we can-"
"No!" Issei declined with his cheeks tinted red, covering Asia's innocent eyes.
"Another time then." The bluenette sighed in disappointment and took the remote this time.
*press*
"OI! WHAT THE HELL!?"
Issei dropped into a hole from where he stood, the trapdoor closed itself before blending back into the normal form of the floor.
...
I groaned. Making a shadow clone, I asked Xenovia to press the button again for the trapdoor to reveal itself. The clone jumped in to find out where the Pawn went while I phoned Azazel for an instruction manual for this crazy remote.
"Now, time for the main reason why I called you here." Rias sat elegantly on a chair with the rest of us around her, "During every summer vacation, I go back home to the Underworld."
Miho's tail wagged in unrestrained glee.
"As my servants, you are obliged to accompany me."
And her tail drooped.
"Eh!? We are going to the Underworld?" Xenovia's eyes gleamed in uncertainty, "I have heard the land is surrounded by hell fire with skulls of the dead littered as far as the eye can see."
"Do-don't worry Xenovia-san. The Underworld is actually nicer than we were taught." Asia placated the former church agent.
"Really? How strange, is there more about the Underworld I don't know about."
"There is no ocean but we do have large lakes." Akeno answered, passing cups of tea to everyone, "After so many humans were reincarnated into devils, the Four Great Satans adjusted the environment to be more conducive for the them."
Issei sighed, "Ocean huh... Motohama, Matsuda and I would go to the beach every year to find girls. Guess it'll be different this summer."
"You haven't told them about Raynare?" I asked, rubbing my familiar's tummy.
"It slipped out of my mind." The pervert chuckled nervously and pulled out his phone, "Might as well text them now."
Rias flipped open her notebook, "According to the events and our training, we will be spending most of summer vacation in the Underworld."
"I've been waiting for this actually." All heads turned to me, "This is the only time I know where we can completely focus on training. We've already made it half way through of what I know. And our fights will only get harder from here."
To my surprise, they didn't grimace or look that worried about what I said like they usually do, more like they're angry, "Guys, something wrong?"
"Nothing at all Hanwei-kun." Yuuto answered, "Exactly how long can we train?"
None of them were willing to talk, I'll just have to figure it out later, "Um, if I remember correctly... About three weeks. I heard that Season 3 is really butchered up compared to actual canon in the light novel, so even I'm not sure of what's real or not."
"Three weeks." Issei whispered solemnly.
"In any case," The King continued with hardened eyes, "no matter what it may be, we will train to overcome it together. There were roadblocks and changes in the way but we won't allow any harm to our friends. Now, and forever."
"How about you guys train your senses first?"
Our attention was snapped to Azazel who was sitting cross legged like he owned the place. Oh wait, he actually does.
"Azazel!? How did you get in?" Rias demanded.
"Through the front door like everyone else." He shrugged casually, "If I was an enemy, you guys would be done for."
"I can't believe he infiltrated so easily, almost as if he has no presence." Yuuto commented.
"Trust me, as annoying as it is, you'll get used to it." I deadpanned.
"Let's see what I got." Azazel somehow has Rias' notebook in his hand, "Meeting with the parents blah blah blah, meeting with the other devils yadda yadda yadda. Oh come on, where's the juicy details about a maiden's sexual frustration to fuck Dai-"
"GIVE IT BACK!" Rias' face was as red as her hair, trying and failing to snatch her book back.
The pervert rubbed his chin and grinned at the devil's futile attempts, "So there are descriptive details about you-"
Activating Senpu, I manipulated the wind to trap the book in a wind sphere and gave it back to Rias. She nodded in gratitude before throwing it into her storage. A couple knocks came from the door, drawing our attention. I grabbed the -I dubbed- Crazy Remote and pressed a button, opening the door without needing to get up. Pretty convenient.
Forcuis and Raynare entered, "Greetings everyone."
"You know you two could just waltz in right? It's more fun that way to see their faces." Azazel said to his subordinates.
"We will refrain. Our motive is not to draw their wrath." Forcuis replied blankly.
"Wise decision." Miho stated tensely, "At least there are some who have proper etiquette when entering one's territory."
Azazel whined, "You're still angry? I thought you've chilled out after staying in the sauna for an hour."
"That was that and this is this."
I continued my administrations on Miho, "So what are you two doing here?"
"We're coming with you to oversee your training. As the Sacred Gear expert and war veteran, I'm the best person to help you all out right now. You all will overcome weaknesses you don't even know you have by the time I'm done with you."
"And what about you two?"
"We will be assisting Azazel-sama with his tasks."
"As well as helping me with a certain project." I don't like that look in the Governor General's eyes, the outcome will be destructive, crazy, or both.
"So... We won't get to see each other much?" Issei asked dejectedly.
Raynare smiled apologetically, "We'll see."
"The schedule's a bit tight but I'm sure there's some free time for you if I look hard enough." Azazel shrugged, "Shemhazai will hound my ass if I get in the way of another union between devil and fallen angel."
"There's already a pair of devil and fallen together?" Rias asked in surprise.
"Oh yeah, and they're expecting a kid soon. Don't you two worry, I'm an expert in love. Before long, you won't be able to keep your hands off of each other."
Raynare blushed with a thoughtful grin while Issei was having a minor nosebleed in a daze, until Asia pinched the pervert's cheek in jealousy.
"Don't listen to him. There's a reason why he's still sin-"
"ALRIGHT!" Azazel loudly exclaimed to interrupt my verbal jab, briefly glaring at me, "Make arrangements to add three more people. We're going with you."
I raised an eyebrow in puzzlement, "We're not gonna teleport there?"
"Last time was a special occasion to attend the victory party for our first win in Rating Games. There are proper measures when one journeys into the Underworld for the first time." Rias nodded firmly, "Everyone, we will depart tomorrow night. Pack up light if you want, the Gremory Household will provide any necessities anytime you need."
"Aaah..." I sighed comfortably, my elbows on the edges to relax. The bubbles constantly hitting my back like a massage, "If there is one thing Azazel did right, it's the jacuzzi."
"It is quite relaxing. We should really invite Issei-kun next time." Yuuto commented.
"But e-embarrassing." Gasper sunk deeper to cover his body.
"Gasper, we're all guys. You gotta stop covering yourself like a girl some day. It's not like this is the first time."
"I-I'll try."
"By the way, how do you two like our new home? It's kind of a sudden to get an upgraded place to stay in."
"A little overbearing but we are used to it. My room has enough space for me to practice my sword swings. Aside for the abruptness of the change in environment, I have no problems."
"My room has lots of computer and gaming equipment, but I prefer my box more."
"Did you find any pornos or condoms in your rooms too?"
They smiled rigidly and shook their heads.
"Ugh. Why? Why me? What did I do to deserve this?"
"Perhaps your constant bantering with Azazel-sensei has played some part in it."
"Y-yeah senpai, maybe Azazel-sensei just likes you."
I snorted, "He likes messing with me until I blow my top that's for sure."
Placing my hands behind my head, I submerged further into the bubbling water and cleared my mind. There was a bit of a fuss with Rias, Akeno, and Miho bickering about who's cooking for me until I suggested to settle it with rock paper scissors. Akeno won, much to the other two's dismay. Miho's been behaving well enough so far, she wouldn't suddenly rampage and pick a fight right?
Right?
Getting up, "I'm gonna head out first."
"Hanwei-kun? Is something troubling you?"
"Just making sure nothing is on fire... Or anyone sneaking into my room which will eventually lead to something being set on fire."
They cringed and gave me thumbs up as good luck.
Drying myself and changing into pajamas, I exited the bathroom and went to my room. Before entering, I concentrated my senses for some time and found someone already inside. It speaks volumes that I have to be careful when entering my own room and I can't even punch the intruder away. Though Akeno might actually like it...
And beyond my doors was my pajama-clad familiar reading a book at a table. She noticed and stood up, bowing in my direction, "My apologies for intruding Hanwei-sama, I did not want anyone else to trespass in your room."
"Oh, Miho. It's okay, you're welcome here anytime" I relaxed, relieved that there's no another attempt to seduce me. Upon walking closer, I noticed the same book she's been reading every night, "Still learning to become a maid?"
"Yes." She nodded happily, "There is no guarantee that I will see Grayfia-sensei again when we return to the Underworld, but I would like to keep learning to serve you to the best of my abilities."
I smiled wryly, "You know you don't have to serve me right? Just cooking and helping out with chores is already enough. Don't know about the latter though, this place can keep itself clean if what Azazel said is true."
She shook her head, "No Hanwei-sama, it is my duty as your familiar to serve you. The skills of a maid would help me greatly for that."
"Eh he he..." I sweat dropped, "Did you enjoy the jacuzzi with the other girls?"
Her features turned into one of displeasure, "I would not appear in crowds unless necessary. The attached showers in my room is sufficient."
It could be worse I guess. Walking towards the bed, I sat and patted the spot next to me. Miho followed and sat next to me, leaning her head on my shoulder. We spent a good few minutes in silence with Miho's hand slowly gabbing my own, entwining our fingers together.
"Sor-"
"There is no need for you to apologize Hanwei-sama. We already talked about this before, you are not at fault. I am simply still accustoming myself to human society." She snuggled closer and buried her face into my chest.
That sent a pit of guilt to my core, to make someone change her way of thinking and living environments to human standards after living in the Familiar Forest for so long, "Will you... be able to get along with everyone some day?"
"Yes, we have established our own territories. No problems will arise if no one enters our rooms without permission."
"Or is it that..." I gulped uncertainly, "... you don't want Rias or Akeno getting too close to me."
Miho fleetingly gripped me tighter and didn't say anything else. And when she did, her voice wavered slightly, "I was happy when you brought me to your territory, we were living happily together with just the two of us. And now they keep coming without seeking our approval."
'Oh, this is killing me. Come on Hanwei, man up! Okay... Okay... Okay...' I bit my lower lip, fighting down the savage heartbeat in my chest and the sensation of paralysis. Cupping her face in one hand, I slowly closed in-
"I feel the same as well. If it makes you feel better, please know that you are special to me more than anyone else."
- and kissed her cheek.
My eyes unconsciously shut tight, fearing for a scream or her pushing me away. I waited, and waited, and kept waiting for about a whole minute before slowly reopening my eyes and saw Miho's condition.
She was blankly staring into space, her vision in a haze and face red. Her hand was touching the place where I pecked her. Before long, the temperature around her slowly rose yet for some reason I don't feel hot, and I... smell something sweet?
Still dazed, her hands moved to my cheeks as if they're possessed and leaned closer.
"Wha- Miho?"
No response, her face closed in while her eyes half-closed.
"Miho?"
Before I realized what's happening to her, her lips were close to mine, so very close.
"Mi-"
My heart was pounding and I can feel it pulsing to every inch of my body. The sweet smell grew stronger and my body couldn't fight back. I surrendered to my urges and then, we ki-
*beep*
"What the fuck!?"
"Kyah!?"
Water poured down on us out of nowhere. I used Senpu to push any more water from raining on us. Looking around, I found that the sprinkler system activated, drenching the room wet. The sudden temperature increase around Miho must have triggered the fire sprinkler system.
But I'm not sure if I should be sad about the interruption or not...
The door slammed open as our housemates rushed in. Yuuto sped to the control panel and shut off the sprinklers. Rias shouted in worry, "Daisuke! Miho! What happened!?"
"I-I'm s-so sorry." Miho was snapped out of her trance, shame and guilt all over her features, "This happened because-"
"Of an accident!" I grasped my familiar's hand, waving off everyone's worries and smiling apologetically, "Sorry guys, we were still getting used to the new room. Right Miho?"
"E-e-eh? Um... yes." She nodded weakly.
Technically, it's not a lie. Our old room never had a sprinkler system before. And Miho can extinguish external flames or I can snuff them out with my wind so we didn't need them. This happened because we didn't expect we have sprinklers.
Xenovia dismissed her Durandal, "Is that all? In any case, we are glad you're safe. There was an alarm in the living room saying your room is on fire, so we came here."
This hotel really does have everything.
They all relaxed, though Rias was suspicious yet she remained quiet, "You two should go get dried or you'll catch a cold."
"Yeah, sure."
It is the middle of the night, normal humans have already reached home as the train station we've arrived at is silent. Only the sound of our footsteps permeated.
"So, is a train gonna come out of nowhere and transport us?" I asked curiously, thinking about an anime-style way to travel.
"Yes, but not here." Rias pointed a certain card towards the elevator. It rang and opened, taking us underground, lower than any other floors shown on the panel of buttons.
Once the doors opened, we continued walking along the corridor. Forcuis inspected the secret pathway, "So there are hidden areas only accessible to devils. We were unable to find any of sort during our first visit."
"Of course not. Devils have governed Kuoh Town for a long time. Any secrets here are well blended into society, the fact that humans always come here yet not noticing anything peculiar helped that." Rias explained proudly about her territory, "This is only one of many under my and Sona's surveillance."
A few seconds later, a crimson train came into our view and stopped right in front of us. Proudly displayed on the vehicle was the Gremory Household symbol, "Everyone, all aboard."
*choo*
The interior is what you expect from royalty. Large space, comfy seats, pool table, a bar serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as other stuff. Everyone set their bags and relaxed, mine and Miho's were in my storage. Apparently the more the magic the user has, the larger the space. Not like there's a lot, I only keep Dream Sword, some calligraphy pens, stacks of paper, and some books.
"Oh yeah, Daisuke here."
Speaking of books, Azazel threw me one about Sacred Gears. The Grigory wouldn't give away their secrets so easily, this is just data that Azazel compiled regarding the gears the ORC has, "Thank you Azazel-sensei."
"Finally, you started calling me sensei. It's about time you give me some respect."
"I'll give you respect when you've earned it and not cause any mischief to annoy people for the heck of it."
We took our seats, Miho was at the window on my right and Akeno on my left. Our King is in the VIP room of the train while the rest talked or played some games. Azazel's taking a nap.
Flipping it open, I found all of it with detailed notes about them, including Blades Blacksmith. Azazel asked if there's someone with that gear joining them but I responded with a vague answer, irritating him about something I know and he doesn't which I enjoyed.
"What is this Hanwei-sama?" Miho peered over my shoulder.
"Something to help me understand Double Burst better. It never appeared in the original timeline or at least, not from what I remember. My objective for the training is to unlock Balance Breaker and I'm gonna need all the help I can get."
"Ara ara, diligent as always. What does it entail?"
"Hang on, Azazel's handwriting is a bit messy... here we go. Double Burst works by sending its abilities through the body, strengthening and hastening the natural circulating energy by empowering the molecules and cells to higher levels. It's considered to be one of the strongest gears below Longinus-class since there's theoretically no limit to the multiplier."
"And there's more to that, it power's up the body even when deactivated, slowly increasing the limits to what humans can do. The past wielders even managed to take on high-class devils."
"But Hanwei-sama, is that not what you can already accomplish?"
"That's when the past wielders trained for years to slowly adapt to Double Burst, I managed to do it in over a month. Azazel said something about me being extremely compatible with it, but I still think my growth rate is too high for that sole reason."
"Now for the main event. Apparently, the name of its Balance Breaker is Astral Vector Aura Burst." Miho swat away Akeno's hand from feeling my muscles. "The auras emitted from Double Burst solidifies into a battle avatar with the user inside it, fighting on behalf of him. Both strength and speed are multiplied at once with much more power and efficiency compared to the base state. Huh, reminds me of Susanoo from Naruto Shippuden."
...
"Holy shit! I'm getting my own version of Susa-fucking-noo!?" I nearly salivated at the prospect.
Akeno tilted her head in confusion, "Named after the God of Storms of the Shinto religion? Is it that strong?"
"One of the most OP techniques my eyes ever had the chance to feast upon! I might reach Maou-class if I train hard enough!"
"Say what!?" Issei got from his seat and stared at me bug eyed, "You'll be strong enough to fight Maous!? Daisuke if you keep this up, you're gonna leave me in the dust! I'm gonna need to train my ass off if I want to beat you!"
"Says the guy with a Longinus who can double his power every ten seconds."
"I would be troubled if you forget about me Hanwei-kun." Yuuto smiled wryly, "Please do not forget that Issei-kun is not the only one who has intentions to surpass you."
"That includes me as well Daisuke." Forcuis smirked competitively, "Do not assume power is the only deciding factor in battle. Be consumed by it and your other skills will deteriorate."
"Oh please, who do you think I am? A rookie?"
"T-that's amazing senpai." Gasper piped up, his upper body out of his box with admiration in his eyes, "You'll be as strong as Lucifer-sama."
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves. I said Maous, not Super Devils. Maybe I can go toe to toe with Gods if I'm strong and cunning enough, but I'll leave that for later." I kept reading and found an interesting trivia, startling me, "Hey Issei, listen to this. Apparently, Double Burst is the prototype of Boosted Gear. The former can be considered to be the latter's parent gear."
The Sekiryuutei blinked, glancing at his left hand then at my hands, "Now that you mention it, our gears do have similar powers."
"This can't be a simple coincidence, can it? We met on the same day and got reincarnated together."
"Many lower leveled gears have similar abilities to not only the Longinus, but other more powerful Sacred Gears. However, Double Burst is one of a kind so the chances that you two would meet are slim." Raynare added, and then she looked at me quizzically, "Come to think of it, why were you in your pajamas the first time we met?"
The ORC stiffened.
"I was trying on new clothes until I suddenly remembered a sale in town, so I rushed out without thinking and only realized it halfway." I lied through my teeth.
The fallen was not impressed, "You are more childish than I thought."
The ORC relaxed.
"Give me a break, I'm smart not perfect. It's my first time moving to another country and living alone, I got nervous and messed up."
"Ufufu, you will always be perfect to me Daisuke-kun." Akeno quickly occupied by lap, guiding my hand to her curves and closing in to my face. She doesn't even care if we're in public, "My perfect soulmate."
"A-"
Miho roughly pushed the Queen off of me and occupied my lap, "Please do not be rude to Hanwei-sama."
'Holy shit! I can feel her magnificent ass! Dontgetabonerdontgetabonerdontgetabonerdontgetabonerdontgetabonerdontgetabonerdontgetabonerdont-'
"Ara ara, are you not doing the same? You may be younger than me, but I will not go easy." Akeno smiled yet her eyes spell danger.
"I am special."
"Would you care to explain how?" I can hear a new voice and I'm already dreading the outcome. Peeved, Rias crossed her arms and stared, "Or are you displaying false confidence."
The pinkette coolly matched her gaze before wrapping her arms around my neck, embracing me in hug, "Words are not needed to convey our emotions."
My hands have somehow already snaked around her waist by the time I realized it. Ever since last night, Miho barely showed any anger or sass whenever Rias or Akeno tried to get close to me, even when they slept with us last night. Maybe she's more confident in our relationship now?
Wait a fucking second! Did Miho say emotions!? Does that mean she knows how I feel about her!? Okay, okay, calm down Hanwei. You've been rehearsing for this, just don't panic and confe-
Oh who am I kidding! Miho's soft body is making me dizzy! Koneko was right, I'm a spineless wimp who always chickens out when it comes to love! I'M PANICKING! I'M PANICKING! I'M PANICKING! I'M PANICKING!
"Excuse me Rias-himesama, may I prepare the new members for their arrival?"
Rias flushed in embarrassment, "O-oh yes, please go ahead."
Don't know who that old man is but I'm eternally grateful for the interruption before I blurt out something stupid. Doesn't mean that Miho is getting off of me.
Her face is so close, pink tinting her face and she shyly looked down before meeting my gaze again. Her pink eyes were large, so pretty to look at. The slits were more tame and inviting than feral. The nose was small and cute, makes me want to boop it. Her pink lips were full and luscious, so much softer than they should be.
Is it me or does she look more beautiful than before? I know I've been trying to distract myself from thinking about perverted thoughts but now that I stop to look at Miho properly, she's a drop dead bombshell with a body voluptuous enough to rival Rias' and Akeno's. How did I retain my sanity for months while living with her again?
"What are you waiting for? Kiss her."
My thoughts were snapped out as Azazel's annoying voice reached my ears. I turned and saw the expression on his face that says 'do it!'.
"Ah, young love. I remembered my time as a youthful boy thinking about girls." The old man exclaimed in amusement at the two of us.
I couldn't even muster up a retort, "S-sorry, um-"
"Reynaldo. I am the conductor of this train."
"Reynaldo-san."
"No need for apologies, now may I scan your Evil Piece?"
Miho got off for me to stand up, "Right, go-"
"Actually," The Governor General pulled out something like a passport, handing it towards Reynaldo, "this Rook here is a special case. Here is his ID approved by Sirzechs and Ajuka."
"Special case?" The conductor and most of us here were befuddled. He took my ID, inspecting it with critical eye, "There has not been a case like this in a long time. There are no problems here so you are approved."
"Everyone, please take a look outside the window, we have entered the Underworld."
The newest members got a breathtaking view of the vast land, buildings from older centuries constructed to harmoniously fit with nature and mountains. We were above the clouds, taking in the sights from high up. Walls or some sort of partitions were around the place, those must be different Households of noble devils.
"So this is the devil territory of the Underworld. We fallen angels normally teleport to a gate and after inspection, we may enter as normal." Forcuis commented, watching from a birds eyes view.
"Really?" Xenovia asked in surprise, "It is definitely much different from what I was taught."
"This definitely doesn't look like place for sinners that's for sure. So, when do we reach Rias' home?"
"After we make a certain stop for you Daisuke." The King responded with a serious visage, "We are on our way to Lilith, the capital of Satan territory to meet with Beelzebub-sama. Azazel-sensei and I requested his assistance to find out what is wrong with you."
Almost slipped my mind. After another 10 minutes, we got off and exited, facing a large land with huge castles. Four symbols were on different areas, that's gotta be what represents each Maou's territory. We didn't need to go far because I could sense someone whose power is off the charts staring at me.
"Welcome everyone."
"Lucifer-sama." We bowed including me, don't want to act disrespectful towards him in front of Ajuka after all.
"Yo Sirzechs, Ajuka." Azazel nonchalantly strolled towards them, waving his hand.
"Hello Azazel. Is he the one?" The handsome green haired Beelzebub still has his eyes on me, it's starting to creep me out.
"Yup, that's him alright. You read the report I sent you?"
"Thrice." He replied succinctly before walking towards me.
I didn't even have the chance to greet him as he roughly yanked me up.
"Hanwei-sama!"
My raised hand stopped Miho from attacking, she wouldn't last ten seconds against the Super Devil anyway. I can feel his intense gaze going up and down my body. I'm just gonna assume he's inspecting the Rook Piece inside me instead of undressing me with his eyes.
His frown sent shivers down my spine.
"My apologizes, he can be eccentric when it comes to his research. Well Ajuka, is there anything wrong with Hanwei-kun?"
"More than I could think conceivable. However, I would need to bring him to my laboratory to confirm the diagnosis."
I gulped nervously, "Y-you're not gonna dissect me are you?"
"Rest assured, I have superb anesthetics to ensure you will feel no pain."
Fuck...
AN: Sorry about the late update. I've tried reading the manga more for the genuine canon instead of the shorted version in the anime. That, and video games along with helping out my family took a lot of time for this chapter, not to mention studies... I hope you like the chapter, especially for those who are anime-watchers only. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.
Ja Ne
