Chapter 37: Turn Up the Heat

Okay, okay, let's calm down. In the anime, Rias was wearing a party dress when Issei went to find Koneko. I'm pretty sure right now we're not at that time yet because if there is one thing I know for certain, what Issei did was hilarious and there's no way I'd mistake the moment when I laughed until my guts ripped apart. In other words, we're safe for now...

I also got a good look of Diodora's peerage, there's nothing out of the ordinary to naked eyes. If only I could activate Tenkugan right now and check for any abnormalities, but doing that in the gathering might give the others a hostile impression. Stepping out of line in so many people won't be good for Rias' prominence. Not to mention that a lot of them are staring at me and accusing a High-class without evidence would be a one-way ticket to disaster.

"Hanwei-sama, are you okay?" Miho whispered to my side, worried and confused, "You have been acting strangely."

"Is there something about the future we need to know?" Akeno asked.

"Yes but not now." My eyes fleeted to the fucker's peerage for a moment. Can't let any more problems cloud their minds, but there is one I need to address, "Issei, you remember the Astaroth?"

"Yeah...?"

"Make sure he doesn't get close to Asia no matter what. Don't even let him see her. Stay by her side even if you have to follow her to the bathroom."

"Uh..."

"Overkill I know, but that's only if you think it's necessary. Just make sure that guy is far far away."

"Daisuke-kun are you sure? I have heard that Diodora Astaroth is mildly sheltered but he is gentle and well-mannered."

A small turbulent of wind rotated furiously around my hands but quickly died down before the other peerages could notice. The ORC stared at me, concern all over them as they wonder what could spontaneously agitate me so much.

"Yes, I'm 200% positive."

The Pawn spared a quick glance at Asia who didn't further question my motives, his eyes hardened and nodded, "Got it."

With that, we preceded to mind our own business and try to socialize, and by 'we' and mean 'me'. There's no staring anymore but still some whispers and occasional uneasy peaking at me. That was until Sona's peerage approached us.

The bluenette Rook smiled lazily, "Well well well, who would have thought our schoolmate Daisuke would become so famous. Should I call you Aoi Arashi while we're here?"

"Hey Yura, just call me as you always do. You would feel like having eyes all over you too if you were famous."

"Maybe, I would definitely like a little attention but too much of anything is bad I suppose. I'm almost glad we didn't have the chance to spar, going up against a monster like you would end in a humiliating defeat."

"You don't believe in those exaggerated rumors do you?"

"Any key player who took down Kokabiel is enough to persuade me. Seriously, how do you have so much magic when you're a Rook? I felt the air rippled from wind through the barrier."

I shrugged, "Daily training?"

"Ooohhh, is that your familiar? She's so beautiful." Meguri nearly squealed and went to the tensed salamander, "Hi, I'm Tomoe Meguri, Sona-kaichou's Knight. Nice to meet you. We never had a chance to meet up close but I heard you're pretty strong."

Miho threw a nervous glance my way to which I responded with a nod. The maid-in-training straightened herself and greet her with a dignified bow, "It is nice to meet you. I am a loyal familiar of Hanwei-sama, please call me Miho."

"Wow. That was pretty good, almost like the maids and butlers in kaichou's home."

"So you are a Knight as well." Our resident bluenette smiled in interest, "My name is Xenovia. Rias-buchou's Knight and newest addition to her peerage. I have been meaning to meet the Student Council but was preoccupied with other tasks."

"Really? Let's get along as fellow Knights, right Kiba-kun?"

"Yes, it would be my pleasure."

"Meguri, do not cause such a scene. We are not in school and while socializing with friends is good, we are still from different peerages. You are letting your guard down too much."

"Ara ara, I wish I could say otherwise but she's right. There is a manner of proper conduct needed in front of this formal gathering, and we might face each other in Rating Games someday."

The Queens lightly admonished, taking charge while the Kings are in a meeting. I'm not exactly that social outside my friend group either but there's nothing wrong with trying, "When it comes to that, we'll fight at our best fair and square to prove who's better. After all, rivals are meant to push each other to greater heights."

"You sound like a shonen protagonist. Can't believe you can say all that without getting embarrassed." Kusaka giggled.

"That's normal for Daisuke, he's a bit of a chuunibyou after watching too much anime."

"Shut it Issei."

Asia looked curiously at the other peerages, "What about them? Maybe we can be friends with them too."

Saji hesitated, "I'm not sure, it's like they got this hostile feeling aimed at us."

"Probably because we're together with senpai."

The Kuoh students stared at me like a kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar, "What?"

"Ufufu, you're strong and famous. I know some of Sairaorg-san's peerage members. How about we go and talk to them first Daisuke-kun?"

"You do? Oh right, cousins. Why not Yuuto? He's more polite and handsome than me, he'll make a better first impression."

"I am afraid I would not make as deep of an impression as you will Hanwei-kun. Your words weigh heavier than you think."

"Y-yeah senpai, you're also pretty br-brave."

Their gazes filled with expectation made me sigh. I turned to whichever peerage that appears the most approachable and decided to go to Sairaorg's, it's the only good peerage I know in the anime. Their King is the Bael who earnestly work hard to attain his strength, his peerage has gotta be at least honorable, "Might as well give it a shot."

Akeno strode ahead confidently with me and Miho trailing after her. Our Queen went to their Queen and greeted pleasantly, "It's been a while Kuisha-san, how have you been?"

"I am fine, thank you. Word has it that much has occurred in Kuoh, it must have been difficult."

"Certainly, but we overcome them and emerged victorious."

Not sure when I could cut in but now is a good time as any I guess, "Greetings, my name is Tan Han Wei, Rook of Rias Gremory-sama. Pleased to meet you, you may call me Daisuke like Sairaorg-sama if you wish."

"So you are Daisuke we have heard so much about. Sairaorg-sama is eager to challenge you since your display."

"A Rook you say?" A tall guy with green haired quipped, a little arrogant as he stared at me. If I remember correctly he's from the Buné Household that went extinct. "Are you here just to flaunt your woman around to gain more fame?"

That made me blink in confusion, until I noticed his eyes trailed to the pinkette next to me. I responded calmly, remembering my lessons with Venelana, "No no, of course not. Miho is my salamander familiar, I like having her around. She is not an object to show off."

"Oh ho." He narrowed his gaze, his visage saying he doesn't buy it, "It is hard to believe you hold such affections for a simple familiar."

"The Gremory Houshold is reputed to be affectionate with their servants. As such, I am doing the same with Miho. Is it right for me to assume that Furcas-san also cares about the horses he has tamed?"

Said Knight's lips curved up in interest, "Yes, that is true. He does have a point Ladora."

He snorted, "You talk big, I will give you that."

Could be worse I guess, the rest of Sairaorg's peerage aren't in a talkative mood but they're not very wary of me either. They're all here including... Regulus. It would definitely be fun to go up against him.

"Salutations Aoi Arashi-san." A new voice got my attention, it was a handsome guy I don't recognize wearing a butler uniform, "I am Alivian, Seekvaira Agares-sama's Queen and butler. I have heard much about you."

I smiled, extending a hand and he shook it, "Pleased to meet you, Alivian-san. My name is Tan Han Wei, my friends also call me Daisuke."

"Seekvaira-sama may give out a cold atmosphere but she is kind hearted. When I heard she spoke good things about you, I was surprised she possibly made a new ally."

"Rias-sama did mention that she and Agares-sama are childhood friends so I thought under the serious persona, she also wishes to befriend others. Although she did scare me a little on our first encounter."

Amused, the male Queen smirked, "She is much more than strict and serious, I can vouch for that. May I know whether the rumors concerning you to be true?"

"Somewhat. Although embellished, there is a solid foundation. I will leave the rest up to your imagination. It would not be fun to ruin the surprise yes?"

He snickered, "That is true."

We talked more about normal and devil topics until Alivian went back to his friends. Seems like the others are socializing a little, the only ones who are keeping to themselves are the yanki's and Diodora's peerages. I scanned the latter, remembering that they're as much of a victim to the fucker's messed up fetish as Asia, if not more. I chewed my lower lip, talking to them might draw attention to me and, by extension, Asia. Hell, they're probably already beyond saving at this point.

And yet... not at least trying to help doesn't sit well for me. Diodora's gonna come after us sooner or later anyway. Ugh, this is gonna bite me in the ass, I just know it, "Miho, keep their sights out of Asia if you can. Be conspicuous about it."

The pinkette was bemused but nodded firmly, "Yes, Hanwei-sama."

We walked towards the girl with silver-grey hair in front, she's most probably the Queen. Maybe they didn't feel too friendly with how antsy they are, none of them talked to other groups. I put on my best amiable smile, "Hello."

She hesitated, almost scared, contemplating whether to answer back. Once she decided, "Hello, I did not expect someone as famed and powerful as you would spend your time to chat with me."

There's something about the way she talks makes me wanna kick the fucker's balls harder, "It's not as good as it sounds. I prefer to have peace and quiet. The rumors came to life on their own after I defeat enemies one way or another."

"I see."

...

Well that just happened. Maybe I can get some more info, "How is it to serve Astaroth-sama?" I tried really hard to say that accursed word as naturally as possible, to the point I almost want to puke, "Rias-sama values me for my honesty and work ethic. While I do feel embarrassed some time when I make mishaps, I feel happy to be in her peerage."

"Diodora-sama treats us well. As his servants, we will do our best for him." She replied normally, "Surely Gremory-sama could not be more pleased to have the Aoi Arashi."

"At first I thought so too, to have a strong piece to fight for her. Before I became the Aoi Arashi, Rias-sama found me as a dead human accidentally caught in supernatural activity. Apparently, she saw me doing something selfless and decided to have me."

Could've sworn their eyes glinted, "Maybe it's because of the Gremory Household's affections for their servants, but I like to think she treats her peerage well because she wants to. After learning more about her, I acknowledged Rias-sama as a worthy master. She tries to reach out and help as much as possible."

Her features grew hollow, downcast as if wondering what life is about "... Do you... regret becoming a devil?"

Perhaps there's hope for them yet, "I've thought of the consequences. Running away would brand me as a stray and serving someone who I just met is surreal but no, I don't regret it." I gave Miho a sidelong glance, "It's like getting a job, I meet good people, make new friends, get paid from work, and I have a reason to fight. Don't you feel kinship with your fellow members as well? You're all in this together."

They exchanged looks with each other, unsure as what to feel. The silverette became quiet again with her hands together, backing away slightly. I frowned, maybe that wasn't the right choice of words, "My name is Tan Han Wei by the way."

"... Alicia."

"Well... it was nice talking to you Alicia-san. Maybe we will see each other again."

I gave a small wave and left, feeling mentally exhausted and groaned softly, "What do you think of them?"

"Nothing unusual, albeit with reservation. They do seem to be having a difficult time here. Should we be alert of them?"

"Not yet. I just wanted to talk and maybe try to help however little."

The familiar giggled, "You do tend to voice out when there is trouble. As always, if you need help, I am always by your side."

"Thank you Miho. Since there's one last peerage I haven't met, might as well try. Hopefully, they are more civilized than the King." We headed to the yanki's peerage, "Hello-"

"Fuck off."

"Good chat. Bye."

And then we left. Don't know why I expected anything better. It wasn't a moment longer that I heard laughter from where the Kings are gathered. Saji was really angry for some reason, rushing to his King before Shinra stopped him.

"What's going on?"

"Sona-kaichou anticipated this. The old devils mock her dreams of building a Rating Game school." The Sitri Queen replied me, a few creases on her face, showing displeasure.

"What's so bad about a that? It sounds admirable to me."

"It is a school where even Low-class and newly reincarnated devils can join."

I kneaded the bridge of my nose, "Old devils..."

"We all want to realize kaichou's dream." Saji gritted his teeth in bitterness, "Why do they belittle her like that? She wants to give a chance to all the devils to have a chance to go to school and have fun."

"Probably because they're a bunch of senile old coots who are too afraid of changes after living stagnant in their outdated culture for too long." I blinked, scanning my surroundings for whoever heard me. Fortunately it's only a few of Rias' and Sona's peerage members, "Don't tell buchou I said that."

Issei and Saji stifled their laughs. The former because I indirectly talked back at someone after promising Rias I won't, the latter because he doesn't like the elders. The blond Pawn finally got a hold of himself after a few minutes, "Thanks Daisuke, my lips are sealed. I needed to hear that."

Shinra failed to completely hide her giggle, "As uncouth as that may be, thank you for supporting us."

"You're welcome. I look forward to see you all achieving kaichou's dream."

"Why is it that there's always something important on the line every time we're about to have a big fight!? For once, I just want to have a good spar without having lives/dreams at stake!"

I complained, changing out of my clothes and put on a towel. There were some more etiquette lessons with Venelana until evening and now it's open air bath time.

"Now now Hanwei-kun, there's no need to be angry. As long as Sona-kaichou earns enough credibility, it does not matter if we win our Rating Game."

"Yeah Daisuke you said it yourself, Sona-kaichou's team is pretty strong too. Maybe they'll be fine."

"Maybe, but that doesn't mean I like it." I grumbled, opening the door and found Azazel and Forcuis already in the hot springs.

"Hey." The Governor General drank his cup of sake, "What took you so long?"

"Enjoying my annoying-crow-free time to the fullest."

"Not a bad comeback but I've heard that one before. I'll make sure to pay it back twofold during tomorrow's training."

"Bring it on, I'll make sure you experience the results firsthand once I'm done." I quipped, encouraging Gasper to come in and we wash ourselves. He's working on his confidence since yesterday.

"Quite the confidence Daisuke, might I schedule a duel afterwards."

"No problem Forcuis. So what have you been doing? Hope Azazel hasn't shaved off your sanity too much."

"Paperwork, meetings, and experimenting a new power."

Yuuto and I raised an eyebrow in unison, "What kind of new power?"

He smiled slyly, "It will be revealed, all in due time."

Once I'm sure my body's clean, I dipped into the springs and relaxed. It's about the size of a lake with a good view of the sky, as extravagant as always, "Is it bad to get used to this sort of R&R?"

"Nah, you'll be spending the rest of your life in luxury with your new apartment. So, I've heard the news."

"Yeah, Sona-kaichou isn't to be taken lightly. Her mind is sharper than Rias' whereas Saji and the rest are strong in their own rights. Will you be helping them train as well?"

"With the Sacred Gear wielders of course, but their real trainer is the current 7th ranker of the Rating Games, Rudiger Rosenkreutz."

The other's head quickly snapped at Azazel with bugged out eyes whereas my body lurched forward in surprise, "Wait a second, isn't he the former human who made it to Ultimate-class!?"

"That's right. What? You think Sona would settle for anyone less when I'm your teacher?"

Yuuto smiled shakily, "I did not think much of it but... it does make sense."

Gasper panicked a little, "Y-y-you m-mean we'll fight R-Rudiger-san's disciple?"

Issei broke out in cold sweat, "Oi oi, isn't this really really bad?"

"Oh calm down, have you forgotten who's helping you here?" Azazel thumbed at himself in narcissism, "I got thousands of years of experience, you'll be kicking asses left and right once I'm done with you."

"Fret not, Azazel-sama does not accomplish his goals half-heartedly. I do not believe you will not emerge victorious under his guidance." Forcuis commented.

That seemed to placate them as they went back to relaxing, albeit with slightly more tension.

"That's one thing I can't deny. It actually makes sense, kaichou's members were all previously human. Rudiger-san climbed high up the ranks and will be able to teach them from a human's point of view."

"You got that right, but that's not what I meant by 'news'." He wiggled his eyebrows, "I heard about your sass towards the Gremory Heads and how you're dead set to marry your lizard girlfriend."

"... Salamanders are amphibians." I replied weakly, a full blown blush on my face.

"Hahahaha." He suddenly had his arm around my shoulders, "There's no need to embarrassed Daisuke, I think you're pretty loyal and chivalrous to stick with your ladyfriend despite the odds. I was lucky enough to fuck a salamander once and let me tell you, it was one of the best lay I've had in my life."

I was halfway to push him away before I heard his last sentence. My body subconsciously froze, my mind and heart drifting to Miho's sexy bo-

"Nononononononono! Bad thoughts! Bad thoughts!" I held my breath and completely submerged under the hot water. And it took me almost a minute to resurface as my head was boiling.

"It wasn't easy, they're really picky about finding a good mate but I met one who was so pent-up and snagged-"

"Okay!" I attempted to cover his mouth but he easily tilted his head out of the way, "Just shut your trap already. I don't need your perverted talk defiling my mind."

"If you say so, then I won't ruin the surprise. But here's a word of advice." Azazel invaded my personal space, a sinister smirk plastered below those glinting eyes, "If you don't make a move soon, she'll go in heat and hunt you down, mindlessly as well as mercilessly squeezing every last drop out of your balls and then some."

Although my first instinctual response was to call it bullshit, the memory of Miho's dazed state that night flashed in my mind... I gulped.

Azazel's features returned back to normal and he patted my back, "Good luck with your love life, you're gonna need it if you want to survive. Issei come over here, I got some life lessons for you."

Left alone to think about his words, I released all the tension in my muscles. I'm not much of religious person but my family does believe in and come from Buddhism, praying to our deceased ancestors and all. My family would kill me if I had sex before marriage, they won't hate me but will still be pissed to the core. Besides, as much as I want to experience the pleasure like the hormonal teenager I am, I want to do it with the person I love.

"Haaaaah." Sighing my internal conflicts out, I think none of my opinion would help much. I'm a devil now and I really don't want Miho to hold herself back like this, she's already having it rough with Rias and Akeno. Options were weighed, which one would make her the happiest? Spirits are generally attracted to power and Miho likes me for who I am if what Kiryuu said was true.

Slapping my face, it's decided. If I can unlock Balance Breaker before our training ends, I'll confess to her. No more making excuses, now I'm extra pumped to get stronger!

"Ara ara Miho-chan, did yours grow larger since last time. Can I grope them?"

"S-s-stay away from m-me succubus!"

"Raynare, those are really big. Fallens are known for their sinful bodies but even I find them impressive."

"Fufufu, do you like them Xenovia? I know Ise does."

"Muuu, mine are not as big as yours."

Beyond that wall was the girls' bath and I can hear some... tempting noises. Hope Miho's gotten over her minor trauma from Xenovia's 'assessment', otherwise they'll be boiled like a lobster. Though I can already feel myself quickly heating up at this very moment.

[Boost] [Transfer]

The perverted Sekiryuutei was at the wall, leering at it with all his might but became demoralized, "Damn it, I thought I could get x-ray vision by transferring power to my eyes but all I got were molecules of the wall."

"Issei, I know I said to work on your Transfer techniques but those are our friends over there."

"Don't go playing the innocent card, I bet you wanna peep on Miho. Yuuma-chan's and all those bare oppai are so close and I'll find a way to get a peek no matter what methods I have to use."

"Wanting to peep and actually doing it are two completely separate matters. Besides, Koneko will kill you before you can get a look."

"Have you no dignity whatsoever!? Drawing out my powers to solely fulfill your carnal desires!? Our bout with the white one has left a deep imprint in my mind and soul after you obtained a tremendous amount of power by focusing with your lower half!"

"My desires won't be contained, I've made it this far and I'm not gonna stop now. Not after the blood, sweat, and tears I've made for so long. Not utilizing your power for my needs is nothing short of cowardice and a waste of potential. New doors will open before us by exploring new paths, this is a man's romance."

"Seriously Issei? That would sound noble and inspiring if it wasn't about boobs. Why is it that you grow a backbone only when you feel like sneaking a peek? This will just end up like when the girls from the Kendo Club clobbering you, except way worse."

"I am the mighty Sekiryuutei! Mountains would crumble beneath my feet, oceans would split from my roar! Yet I've been reduced to a mere assistance to debauchery and perverse ideals! This is not the way a proud Heavenly Dragon should act in the face of females!"

"But I'm Issei Hyoudou, a headstrong devil who will one day become the Harem King. If taking risks to reach my goals is necessary, I will gladly do it ten times over."

"Issei I swear, if you so much as take a glimpse of Miho, I will rewire your intestines."

"Oh this ought to be good. Hey Issei, let's start your training right now. If you can selectively not peep on the girls who are gaga over Daisuke, you'll unlock a new power that will take you to greater levels as a pervert."

"Azazel don't encourage him! I've seen the amount of comedic insanity he can do with his libido, you honestly think he can actually pry his eyeballs away from boobs bigger than his head!?"

"My time with humans has taught me that every people is different, yet this is the first host I have met to be such a deviant! Countless battles and scars of pain received from my time with Albion is nothing compared to this humiliation! All logic and intelligence inherited from your ancestors have been discarded as trash the moment you let your third leg take control!"

"Have no fear, for I will accomplish my training without being discovered. This way I can teach Ddraig the wonders of oppai and Daisuke won't turn my insides to mush. Wish me luck sensei, your proud and brave student will overcome this trial and venture into a new world."

The pervert saluted before transferring power into his index finger, poking two holes in the wall for a perfect view.

*stab* *stab*

Until he reeled back in pain and landed on his back, flailing and covering his eyes in agony, "Aaahh! My eyes! I didn't even get to peep! What the hell happened!?"

"Thanks senpai!"

"Welcome Koneko!"

The Governor General looked my way with barely suppressed mirth, "You yelled out loud on purpose to warn them didn't you?"

"Did you expect anything less from me?"

He proceeded to cackle like mad.

Forcuis blinked at the spectacle, slowly turning his head towards Yuuto, "That was almost entertaining to watch. Are you always this lively?"

The Knight smiled wryly, "Not always but often enough."

The next day, Azazel ordered us to gather at the front of the castle at early morning. We inhaled the fresh air and felt the artificial light on us, marking it as the day for our serious training. Aside from my own plans, I don't know what kind of regime specifically for me and Miho to improve, and I'm a bit nervous from what the Governor General has to say. Feels like when the teacher evaluates your grades and tell you what to work on in school.

"Alright, these are your personalized training schedules for you." Azazel handed out papers to each of us as in canon, stating the weaknesses and flaws to overcome.

He even compared Rias to me between the differences of our 'King' aptitude, embarrassing me a little. It was harsh but truthful, reminding her that the leader must have good power and a sharp mind to breakthrough obstacles with not just brute force. The red head was a little depressed but fired up to get started. Akeno and Koneko took Azazel's orders to release their inherited powers much easier than he expected, he shrugged it off when he found the reason and looked at me.

"Last but not least, Daisuke, Miho, I got a teacher for you. He'll be teaching you two so make sure you don't disappoint him."

I raised an eyebrow, "Who's our teacher?"

"That's a surprise, you'll find out soon enough anyway. Miho, you've gotten stronger quite fast but not as much as Daisuke. Familiars do tend to grow and evolve by drawing the aura of their masters, though it is mostly effort and desire from the familiar itself to determine the nature of change. Judging from rate alone, you're on third place, slightly behind Kiba. But that doesn't mean you can afford to slack off or your master will leave you in the dust and you'll be a hindrance."

"Put in as much effort as possible, your teacher will provide you the opportunities for you to unlock Awakening so don't waste them. Other than that, follow whatever else he teaches you, integrate them into your fighting style along with increasing your stats. Now Daisuke, going by your own unique spells, innovative thinking, and power ups, I told your teacher to make sure you have enough free time to work on your own and help you with achieving Balance Breaker. Despite all that, you need the most work as you're a liability."

"... Wait what? What do you mean?"

"Sensei, what are you talking about? Daisuke's been the biggest help out of all of us." Issei furrowed his eyebrows.

"Before any of you object," He held up his hand, stopping the predictable complaints from everyone, "I've watched your fight against the Bomb Queen. The way you acted after retiring her was obvious, you are too afraid to kill."

My muscles slackened, feeling the cold harsh truth to my heart. There was no frivolousness in his eyes, only strictness and I know what he wants me to do. I gritted my teeth in rage and looked away from him, unable to maintain my gaze.

"D-Daisuke?"

"Don't try to sugarcoat it Rias, he needs to know. I had a suspicion when Vali reported to me that Kokabiel managed to stop your attack at the last second, it was only sheer luck that Gasper toughed it out and froze him to give you the final blow. But my suspicion was confirmed during your fight against Vali, you could have slammed that shuriken onto his unguarded back instead of teleporting to his front, prompting me to step in and help. Granted, you probably already know what would happen yet you still didn't finish the fight yourself."

I wanted to scream into his face that there could've been other ways to handle it, but I couldn't. Every word he said hurts, I could have costed everyone's lives if we didn't have last minute backup. I knew that... but I couldn't do it. Somewhere in my mind, I registered Miho's hand grasping my own but was too frustrated to care.

"As it stands, with Khaos Brigade targeting you, you can't be soft hearted to your enemies forever. They're coming at you with the intention to kill and you can't keep relying on help. I know it can be difficult to take a life for the first time, but one of these days you'll wind up dead from hesitating. By the time this training ends, you'll need to-"

"SILENCE!"

Snapping towards the sound in shock, I saw fire tendrils coiling dangerously close around Azazel's neck. The Governor General didn't even flinch and kept his levelheaded stare on us.

"You do not know of what Hanwei-sama has gone through! Utter one more of your insensitive words and you will face decapitation!"

"Go ahead, I'm already prepared for the risks. I know what I'm asking a child to do but this will help him in the future."

"M-Miho-chan, please calm down." Yuuto tried to placate the enraged salamander in vain.

"!" It wasn't until Koneko nudged me out of my stupor, making me realize what was actually happening, "Wh-what? Miho stop!"

"No! He has overstepped his boundaries-!"

I grabbed her hands, ignoring the burns. The familiars features contorted into horror before quickly extinguishing her flames, "H-Hanwei-sama, I-I-I-"

"Please, stop. Do it for me?"

"... As you wish." She lowered her head in shame.

"Hanwei-san!"

"It's only minor burns. Don't worry, I've gotten used to pain." Asia rushed to treat my hands. Everyone else didn't dare to say anything, they were really worried and wanted to know. Feeling the tension rising, I sighed in defeat, "It's not exactly a secret anyway. Long story short... I was a reckless kid back then and got my grandmother killed."

They gasped, their pupils constricted in anxiety, especially those with bad pasts.

"The stoplight turned green and I carelessly rushed halfway across the road without checking. Then out of nowhere, some fucker on a motorcycle was about to hit me. My grandmother pushed me out of the way and knocked me unconscious from the impact, by the time I woke up she was already dead on a hospital bed. I got depressed and blamed myself for her death."

Snorting angrily, "The fucker wasn't even arrested since he took off before anyone could stop him. It was rough, but my friends and family managed to snap me out of my funk. Ever since then, I vowed to never become a burden to anyone else and aspired to become a doctor. It's also one of the reasons why I wanted to go back home, to tell my family that I'm alright and didn't do something asinine like committing suicide. Enemy or not, I don't want to see another life taken away because of me ever again."

...

Azazel pinched the bridge of his nose, groaning like an aged old man, "Well, I can't blame you if you hate me forever. But unless you convert to a support type like Asia, this will come to bite you in the ass sooner or later."

"So what do you want me to do? Hunt down small adorable hell bunnies and butcher them in cold blood?"

"Effective in a short term, but not enough. Your teacher will be the one to take care of that, whether you manage to overcome your emotional barrier is up to you. And whatever your teacher does to you, know that I'll take full responsibility for them."

I deadpanned, "He's not gonna simulate near-death scenarios is he?"

"Whatever doesn't kill you will make you stronger." The fallen pointed towards a mountain, one which is relatively taller and more isolated than the rest, "You'll find him there. Don't worry about getting lost, it's either you find him or he finds you."

"Really? Issei gets a ride to his mountain and we need to fly there ourselves?"

"Huh?"

"You'll find out soon."

"It was his idea, different teachers have different way of teaching. Besides, you'll find something different about that one. That's all I have to say, everyone go work you're asses off."

"Daisuke..."

Miho and I were about to depart when the ORC walked towards me, still concerned over my well-being. I smiled, "It's okay guys, I've come to terms with it a long time ago, it still hurts whenever I remember it but I can't let it get to me forever. I'll make sure to get stronger, so you guys to do the same okay?"

"But... senpai..." Koneko stood in front of me with her cat features were out, her ears and tail drooping in sorrowful empathy, "Are you really okay?"

"I'd be lying if I said yes, we can't change the past but we can learn from it. My family once told me that even when the living have passed on, they don't truly die." Placing a hand on my chest, "The memories you've made with them live on in your heart, and they'll always watch over you."

"When you hit rock bottom, the only way left is up. And last I checked, I'm too stubborn to feel sorry for myself all the time."

They exchanged uneasy looks with themselves, frowns all over them. Rias lightly nodded, "Alright, but if there's anything we can do, please let us know."

Smirking, "Got it."

With extended wings and discharged flames, we flew to our destination. But not before I heard a surprised wail and snickered as Issei was abducted by Tannin.

Didn't take long for us to arrive, we landed somewhere halfway to the top, now all that's left is to find our teacher without so much as a clue. Since there's no active volcano or any other immense heat source, our teacher might be a powerful fire user. If only I could find him with clones, but I want to conserve my magic for training.

Speaking of training, I lifted my arms to inspect my weights. They're a little worn since I wear them on every training sessions but now I can't even feel them anymore, it's almost as if they're not there. I asked Azazel for heavier ones but he told me it's unnecessary. Which leads me to my main problem; I'm hitting a wall.

Actually, I've been hitting it since my fight with Vali. No matter how much I push myself, I still can't go beyond x15 without damaging my body. Kinda ironic, a few months ago I was too worried about my insane growth rate but now I'm growing too slow for my liking. Just hope either my new exercises or my teacher can help me if I need to catch up to Vali. With a new rival like him, I'll need to be able to create one Rasenshuriken at the very least without the potion.

I scanned the surroundings, we got plenty of light for illumination and greenery for fruit, the slope isn't that steep so no need to worry about footing. What's bugging me is the complete silence. Aside from the waterfall in the distance, there's no rustling or animals. Did our teacher pick a devoid area so no one could interrupt us?

Yet there's another problem to worry about. I examined Miho who was still quiet after we left, she's been avoiding my eyesight and making herself as small as possible. Scratching the back of my head, I walked towards her and headpatted, "Miho, what's wrong? If it's about earlier, I'm not mad at what you did."

"... Forgiveness Hanwei-sama. I disobeyed an order and hurt you."

My arms encircled around her, giving her a hug while still stroking her pink locks, "If you're that bothered about it, then don't do it again. Come on, I know you've been looking forward to this training, and I know you're not the type to dwell on it too much. I counting on you to watch my back okay?"

She didn't respond. Slightly nervous, I closed in and touched her forehead with my own, eliciting a surprise shiver. Her face turned pink before finally looking directly at me, smiling shyly with new resolve, "Okay."

"Aaah, there you are."

Both of us immediately entered into battle stances, finding a large man who appears to be in his mid-thirties and is about two meters tall with orange hair that is spiked up. He's wearing a thick coat and carrying a bottle of sake with him but the most defining feature is his highly muscular build. Seriously, this guy has some huge muscles like Sairaorg.

He took a gulp of his drink before grinning, "So you're hime's Rook, the Aoi Arashi. I think your name was pancake? Meh, I'm just gonna call you gaki. And you must be his spitfire of a salamander, Miho. Nice to meet you jou-chan."

Hime? Does he mean Rias? Whoever this guy is, he was good enough to evade my senses like Azazel. His posture is too relaxed, either he's a random guy who is overestimating himself or someone powerful enough who doesn't consider us a threat. And something tells me the former is highly doubtful, "Yes, that would be us. Are you our teacher Azazel informed us about?"

"That's right." He stored his bottle in his pocket dimension, "Alright, show me what you got."

"Not even an introduction? May we know your name at least?"

"I'll tell you when I feel like it."

Cocky isn't he. I activated Tenkugan, gaping in fear at the raging aura around his body. What is he, a fucking volcano!? I whispered, "Don't let your guard down, not even for an instant. Go all out or he'll roast us alive."

"Yes, Hanwei-sama."

A bead of sweat trickled down my jawline, not daring to make any careless movements. Miho and I separated, shifting around his sides to find an opening.

"Playing it safe eh? I'm not exactly a patient guy, but I'll-"

I instantly powered up to max and blasted a gale of wind downwards, producing a smokescreen with the leaves and dirt. Clones manifested around us, launching Shinkuhas everywhere at once, only for them to bounce of his skin with little to no effect. Miho had her tendrils around a dozen trees, pulling them right into where our teacher is yet the bark splintered from impacting on his body. We then combined our attacks as the salamander set the area on fire while I circulate the flames to rise with Senpu, trapping him in a fire tornado.

"A double layer setup with an illusion and smokescreen before attacking? Not bad." The flames were abruptly snuffed out, revealing him with his arms out stretched in perfect condition. He gave us a toothy smile, "But you can do better. RIGHT!"

He leaped at me with speed that normally shouldn't be possible for a man of his size. I quickly defended with Kaiten which was punched through, a clone Shunpo and kicked me out of the way, saving me from his huge fist. The remaining six clones charged to attack in teams of two to the head, legs and back. I was about to join in when-

'What the!?'

My body didn't respond to my will and staggered, every passing second made it harder to breathe. Did he hit me with some sort of spell!? That's impossible! I never took my Tenkugan off of him nor did I sense anything weird!

The giant man tanked or leaned away from the clones but before he could counter, flaming ropes erupted around him and bounded both him along with the clones. Miho snarled, conducting her fire through the tendrils and enveloping him inside a huge explosion. But soon the salamander was down on her knees with ragged breathing, suffering the same symptoms as me.

"Thanks for the sunbath, but I'm already clean." He wiped the soot off, dashing towards Miho.

She barely spun around in time and palmed strike his abdomen, but was blocked by his forearm. The pinkette twirled from a downward punch, extending her binds to swipe his head but missed. Not wanting to give up, she swung her hand down, pirouetted, and spread out her arms, hoping the fast-moving threads could at least hurt him from the intense heat.

Yet his clothes weren't even singed, he opted to tank of weave through her fluid performance. I took a deep breath and dived into the fray with wings extended, Dream Sword in one hand and Supairarudoro in the other. Miho's concussive palm strike was blocked by a knee while he knocked my attacks away. Taking advantage of the momentum, I rotated in midair to give a Shinkuha axe kick to the face.

What stumped me was he smirked evilly and headbutted my foot hard. I forcefully held back a yelp of pain and rotated again, this time with a Getsuga plus drill combo. Before that could happen he stomped his foot into the ground, causing a seismic quake and the shock wave pushed us away from him. That was until he grabbed our arms and hurled us through the air and into a large lake.

It took me a couple of seconds to get my bearings. Producing six clones, we resurfaced and simultaneously activated Senpu, carrying the water around us to make a torrential rising whirlpool. The hydro vortex consumed everything in its path including the orange-haired man. He punched it apart but was caught off guard when Miho emerged in the center.

The salamander's lashes coiled around him in place, her body flaring up to her absolute limit, charring the surrounding trees and ground. With a battle cry, she then emitted a massive blanket of flames, racing towards him while setting a good part of the forest on fire.

"Double up x20!"

This is my second last vial, but he hasn't sustained a single injury since the fight started and I'm gonna show him that we're not half assing anything. Two clones appeared and we coalesced our magic, creating a screeching condensed shuriken capable of slicing the surroundings by indirect contact. Erecting a full-body Buso, I teleported into the flames right in front of him and slammed.

"Futon: Rasenshuriken!"

He was blown off his feet as the spell drove him away. Miho and I smirked when he finally took damage, until he stomped his feet and halted the shuriken. Our jaws dropped in disbelief when his body ignited, catching my strongest offensive spell with his bare burning hands.

"You must be fucking kidding me..."

Our teacher grunted and erupted a volcanic amount of fire, throwing the Rasenshuriken into the sky. An explosion of wind snuffed out the ambient forest fire as Miho and I were buffeted roughly. After giving everything we got, we're too weak to stand and we're still having a hard time to breathe. We were about to lose consciousness from the pain in our lungs when some liquid splashed, restoring us back to full health.

"You're as crazy as they say, good thing I brought Phoenix Tears with me. Congratulations you two, you have officially caught my interest." He plopped down and laughed cheerfully, "My name is Surtr Second, just call me Second. And I'm the one who's gonna whoop your asses into shape. Not literally of course jou-chan."

"Wait a second, of course!" A light bulb popped in my mind as I finally connected the dots. Powerful fire user, orange hair, and someone close enough to casually call Rias hime. I leveled him a stare in awe, "You're Surtr Second, the Ultimate Rook... Sirzechs-san's Rook."

Second grinned devilishly, "Hole in one gaki."

Evan: Nah one familiar is enough for now, don't want to make Miho jealous.

Spice: Okay, thanks. Here's some more.

Guest-Questioner: Agreed, maybe not telling him about solely bad stuff, but in a way to prepare him for the outside world.

petru95: True, I guess that's Venelana's strict way of helping her daughter. There's still more to come.

AN: Daisuke's bad past can't compare to the others but it is mostly true in real life and no, there's no need to talk about it. And now we got a preview of Daisuke's and Miho's new hot shit sensei and yes, they'll learn a lot from him. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

Ja Ne