Chapter 38: How Do I Feel?

"That's it, breathe in and hold. Make sure to use the accessory muscles too, then out."

We did as what Second instructed us to do, relieving the aching in our lungs. Even with the Phoenix Tears, we still needed to sit down and concentrate on catching our breaths. Doing anything which burns energy would distract us from getting rid of the carbon dioxide accumulated in our bodies. Second was also considerate enough to hand us water bottles.

"Gotta hand it to you, you're doing better than I thought. Not just the breathing, but the fact that you two made me use my fire means you're better than most of your peers. But I doubt you can bring jou-chan into Rating Games all the time gaki."

"Dully noted..." I took another deep breath, "At first I thought you did something to us but that wasn't it. The air here is thinner than normal."

"Bingo, I heard you were smart so that means less problems for me."

"The air? That would explain why I had more trouble producing flames."

"And it also explains why I expended more magic to gather more wind. Both of us were weakened due to less oxygen here. But why are you not affected? It can't be as simple as getting used to it, you should have suffocated when you expelled so much fire to fling my Rasenshuriken."

"Damn straight. If I didn't do what I did, that could have hurt me. Alright pay attention, this mountain is about as tall as the others here but different at the same time. There's a few special places in the Underworld because of the climate. For example, you know Tannin? The guy who's tormenting hime's Pawn?"

"Don't you mean training?"

"No, torment. It's funnier that way. He owns a special land where Dragon Apples can grow, that land is the only place left where you can get more fruits." Second squinted his eyes in thought, "I think all of those apples in the human realm are gone so that's why he's here. The Underworld has changed a bit for all the reincarnated devils, but there are still places which are different from Earth."

"And this mountain is one of them. The altitude isn't that high, but there's way less oxygen than normal. The higher you go up, the thinner the atmosphere. This is one of techniques I'm training you: perfecting you're breathing."

"Would that allow me to fight with my flames without harm here?"

"That's right jou-chan, this will be especially important for you. Listen carefully, this breathing technique make use of a specific and concentrated breath pattern which increase your lung capacity, blood flow and overall amount of oxygen in you. By sending the oxygen into every single cell in your body, you'll enhance your physical abilities and mental concentration."

"So, this breathing technique is more like an advanced form of breathing from what I've learned in martial arts. Do all High-class and Ultimate-class learn this?"

"Are you kidding me?" Second snorted out embers from his nostrils, "This training is tougher than what you can expect and you think those pompous devils born with a silver spoon in their mouths would do something like sweating buckets?"

I blinked, "Oh right, sorry. Sometimes I keep forgetting about devil standards."

"The vixen does indeed sweat the minimal amount."

Instantly covering Miho's mouth, I sent a quick look at Sirzechs' Rook to make sure he isn't mad.

"Gahahahaha!" Fortunately, he's more amused than anything, "That old crow did say you and hime don't get along very well, but that is true. Hime already has a good growth rate among nobility, so she doesn't need much training and puts more effort into getting smarter. Even if she doesn't train that much, she'll reach Ultimate-class soon enough."

"How delightful..." The salamander said in a sarcastic yet bothered tone. I gave her a headpat.

"So does this mean Sirzechs-san didn't train much either to reach where he is now?"

"Hell no, danna had a lot going for him as a kid. That's why he wants hime to enjoy her childhood while she can, we just didn't think her group would get involved with terrorists. Anyway, after you learn the first step, you'll learn how to use your senses. You two know about ki and senjutsu right?"

We nodded.

"Think of this as a bastardized version of that. That extra oxygen will be sent to your sensory organs to heighten your perception, and I'm not talking about relying more on hearing or smell. It's like all five senses combined together as one, a combination between conscious perception and gut instinct. Sound vibrations, muscle movement, the enemy's line of sight and stuff like that. As long as you can concentrate, you'll be able to predict your enemies' next move. You'll take more time learning this one but relying too much on your eyes is an amateurish mistake."

Sounds like Ki from Black Clover. Despite spending hours trying to figure out how it works, I've barely made any progress, "Heard that before, will my Tenkugan get in the way of that?"

"Eeehhh." He rubbed his chin in thought, "Shouldn't be a problem, I've never had students before and I didn't bother learning about other devils' abilities that much, so it'll be a trial and error."

"By any chance you can also help me develop my magic and sword skills?"

"You pick up a thing or two after spending at least a hundred years with a former captain swordsman and master magician but don't get your hopes up too high, I tune out most of the crap they say."

"May I know when I can start improving my flames?"

"After you get the basics of the first technique, I'll fill you in about the knowledge while you're at it. Unless you have some advance moves you want to work on by yourself, you'll be spending most of your time with me. Gaki, how much work do you have for your own business?"

I grabbed my notebook from my storage, handing it to him.

Second scanned the contents, flipping page after page through the training section, "Looks complex. You got some theory into these spells, it should work. I think I can get your regime done."

"Alright enough resting, 20 days sounds like a lot of time but in reality it's not, not when you got terrorist asses hounding for you. This place will push your bodies like never before, you'll waste more energy and dehydrate faster. I'm planning to get you to reach the top by the end of your training." He smirked in slight sadistic glee, "Are you ready for your torment?"

Miho and I exchanged glances, eyes hardening and nodded. We answered in tandem, "Yes, Second-shishou."

"Then first, give me laps!"

The training was simple, but torturous. We ran around the mountain at the lower areas while practicing the breathing technique until our feet and lungs begged for mercy, and mercy they received in the form of Phoenix Tears. And then we ran again. Second was behind us this whole time and if we slow down, he'll throw small fireballs and taunt us as slowpokes. The fire didn't have to hit us to get the job done, the depleting already-little oxygen motivated us to run faster to a more hospitable place.

When I showed him our healing tags, he just grinned and made me create four more clones to run while getting the breathing right while Miho had to emit weak flames around herself to encourage her to learn faster or suffocate faster. The moment a clone pops, the memory influx made me nearly trip from the muscle memory of my lungs and Second barked at me to straight away replace the lost clone. Our stamina wouldn't be that big of a problem, but our bodies kept taking the strain after each healing.

We ran and ran and ran and ran some more and I even went delirious from hypoxia at one point because I called Second big foot, who proceeded to literally kick my ass in retribution. I didn't have time to work on my own today since I wouldn't last long without adapting to the environment first. Could I even finish my schedule at this point?

*growl* *growl*

Forget that! Food first, think later!

"Ugh... Arg... Aaahhhh..."

"I have... no excuse for my weakness... My deepest apologies... Hanwei-sama..."

"It's okay Miho... No problem..."

She didn't have any strength left, leaning onto me as a human crutch. I was too exhausted to care about her soft skin and huge breasts pressing onto me, simply focusing on reaching the cottage at the base of the mountain. The moment we arrived, I kicked the door open before the heavenly aroma of a heavenly banquet invaded our nostrils.

"Welcome ba-"

We rushed past the maids and devoured the food like our lives depended on it, not caring about table manners at all.

"Oi! Save some for me!" Second took a seat and grabbed whatever meat before gobbling down with us.

The maids stared at us like we're ravenous beasts, their eyes drifted at plate after plate piling up in morbid fascination.

"What obscene display of eating."

"Are they truly Zeoticus-sama's guests?"

"Shh! They'll hear you."

"More please!" The maids heard our requests and went back to cooking.

Don't know if the maids are that good or we're just too hungry. They have a wide variety of cuisine including japanese food. Ramen, pasta, steak, parfait, we ate everything, feeling the fullness in our stomachs and the nutrients absorbed into our bodies while replenishing our calories. Once we're done filling our bellies, we recovered some energy and sighed in content. Miho however, realized her actions and blushed in embarrassment.

Our teacher burped and guffawed, "Don't worry jou-chan, I won't tell Grayfia-anesan. I'd be more surprised if you didn't eat like that."

The pinkette nodded meekly, "P-please forgive my inappropriateness."

"Didn't think there was a cottage here." I surveyed our temporary abode, quite fancy and conducive, "It's really nice."

"Well make sure to eat up, your body needs all the nourishment it can get to adjust. The atmosphere here is normal so let's take a bath and get to bed, you'll be waking up at dawn tomorrow. And you maids can go back now, thanks for the food."

They bowed in appreciation before teleporting away, which reminds me... I stood up and made my way to the living room with my calligraphy pen in hand.

"Gaki, what are you doing?"

"Making a teleportation circle." I answered without looking back, drawing the formula and array, "If we're gonna come back here after every training, might as well save time by not trekking down in exhaustion."

"You can make those already? No wait, you did teleport when you hit me with that spell of yours. I was never good at that magic since I could already fly real fast."

"And the reason why you didn't carry us here was...?"

He snorted out fire, "Who do you think I am? Bahamut? Transportation is that fish's job, not mine."

Rolling my eyes, "Of course... Done."

After confirming the circle works, we head to the hot springs at the back. I submerged, rejuvenating my body in the familiar hot water once again.

"Aaahhhh, there's nothing like a good bath after a hard day's work." The giant gulped down sake.

"Except you didn't do any work."

"Cheeky brat. But at least now I know why Souji decided to get a student, tormenting is so much fun."

"I'm pretty sure Yuuto described Souji-san's training as mild compared to yours."

"It's not my fault you guys leave yourselves wide open like that, my fire just likes tough targets so much, it hones in on you."

"And here I thought you liked power more than control, I didn't know you were capable of honing in."

I barely managed to dodge his smack to my head. Second blinked in surprise, "When did you start to pick up sensing intent?"

"You've been chasing me all day. When I kept my Tenkugan on you, I monitored you're muscle movement, line of vision, sudden increase in temperature and all that stuff. But that last one was actually a fluke."

"Yeesh, you got more talent than I thought. You ever considered taking the Lucifer title from danna?"

"Nah, I'd rather play video games or hang out instead of working on piles of paperwork."

"Pfft, good one gaki."

"... So, did Venelana-san ask you to keep an eye on me?"

He paused in mid-drink, sighing in exasperation, "Damn you're smart. What gave it away?"

Smiling lazily, "Nothing, it was just a suspicion until you confirmed it."

A vein popped on his forehead, heating up the springs until he calmed down, "I'm starting to think taking on a student is too much of a pain. It didn't start out like that at first until danna's mom found out that I'm training you."

"She and I both know that normal methods aren't enough to change my mind so I thought she might send someone to spy on me."

"Paranoid now aren't you. Didn't have enough faith to believe in a Gremory's kindness."

"I do, it's just that I don't mistake kindness for weakness."

"Seriously gaki? You can think of this but you can't kill some scumbags?"

"Hey! I got my reasons okay! Should I expect anything else from her?"

"Aside from me finding out your tastes, none."

"That's quick of you to admit it, thought you'd try to cover up at least."

"I'm the Ultimate Rook, not the Ultimate Matchmaker. You'll probably figure it out anyway." The senior devil then coughed into his fist uncomfortably, "Yeah so... I'm not good at this mushy stuff but, why not just date hime? In my opinion, she's probably the best girl you can find. Why are you so obsessed about another?"

Obsessed? Is that what everyone thinks of me when it comes to Miho? Don't know when I started becoming so conscious of her, but the earliest I can remember was at that time...

Woah, she smells so nice. Just don't look into her eyes Daisuke, and don't think about her body either. But why is she sniffing me? Whatever, I still need to figure out how to stabilize the fire seal before the Rating Game.

The familiar then rubbed her face against my arm, sighing in content, "Hanwei-sama, may I ask you a question?"

"What is it?"

"What drives you so much to help your friends so much? First was Asia from those fallens, and now is Rias."

"I just don't like seeing the people close to me getting hurt and want to continue our happy days like this."

"It's not that. I wish to know what stems from this all, like what inspired you in the past to become who you are."

My body stiffened, recalling all those bad memories. My saddest moments have brought me down, and it was those very same moments which made me realize how high it is to go up. I unconsciously looked away from her in pain.

Sensing my grieve, Miho separated and frantically waved her arms around, "I'm so sorry! It was merely curiosity, you have no reason to tell me."

"No... It's just..." I scratched the back of my head, "It's okay, I don't have any reason to hide it... I lost someone important to me when I was young, that's why I'll make sure to protect the people I have now."

Then I recounted my past to her, she simply sat there and listened attentively. What made me spill out my whole past so easily like that was beyond me, like the time she's the first to know about my whole dimension-travelling story. It just came out so easily, you know.

"And that's the gist of it. I'm pathetic aren't I?" I chuckled in self-depreciation, "I kept talking about wanting to help people yet in reality, I simply don't want to see people in pain because it reminds me of my old weak self. I'm just selfish."

I couldn't understand why I said that. Was it to receive sympathy and pity? Or was it so she'll yell at me for committing murder? Maybe it's the latter, my family never did that even though it was my all fault grandma died. It would have been so much easier if they've done that in the first place.

"No, you are not selfish." Miho cupped my cheeks, forcing me to face at her, "Hanwei-sama, please look at me."

"I already am."

Shaking her head, she gave me a sad face, "No, you are still dwelling in your suffering. Your mind is in disarray because of your guilt, I can see that your eyes are still hollow. Please leave your worries, and look only at me."

Was I that obvious? I willed my pupils to finally to lock into her own, feeling lost from staring at her pink orbs.

"You are not selfish. It was because of your pain, you can understand everyone else's pain despite not experiencing them. It is what allows you to connect with people and reach out your hand to them. Whatever their reasons may be, you can hear the cries of your friends. You understand my- everyone's efforts to become stronger. It is not selfishness, it is your empathy."

"Empathy...? I-I-... It's nothing compared to everyone else's pain."

Gently prying her hands off my face, I turned away in desperate attempt to escape from reality... Dammit, why am I having episodes now!? I thought I've gotten over most of this!

"When I was a hatchling, my parents once told me that there are things people could not afford to give up on."

Curiosity got the better of me as I looked at Miho again.

"There is always something everyone holds dear in their heart. Whether it may be a person, object, or dreams, we strive forward because losing it forever would mean losing our purpose in life. Although there are many who do not know what is precious to them, their bodies will instinctively move without knowing. This is what my parents called pride."

She closed in on me with a loving smile, "I'm sure if your grandmother was still alive, she would be very happy to see the proud young man you are now. Hanwei-sama, this must be your pride. Your first thought is to help your friends before thinking about anything else including your own pain, and you feel proud because you managed to save them from harm."

"How... how can you be so sure?"

"Because what I see is not one who wallows in despair because of suffering, but one who channels his anger and determination to protect everyone him. After all, you made peace with the kappas because your pride demands it on our first meeting. They were not in pain, yet you reached out to them."

"Pride? I never thought of it that way before."

Her smile widened, elated to know her words got to me somewhat, "As a salamander, I cannot think of a more noble pride. You are strong yet also a normal human who undergoes difficulties in life. There are also secrets and troubles you can not tell me is it? Even if you only need me to listen or you merely wish for me to silently remain by your side, please know I will always be there for you."

*badump badump*

Wait what? Why is my heart beating so fast? Why am I suddenly feeling nervous from looking at Miho? Subconsciously swiveling my vision away from her, I searched for anything that needed my attention.

"Hanwei-sama?"

"Th-thank you Miho, I'm feeling better now." I spoke rigidly, stupidly making myself look like a socially awkward idiot, "Come on, let's get back to training. Fire chicken won't know what hit him."

Ever since that night, I've gotten more and more conscious of Miho. During my first few weeks of joining the ORC, when I felt like I still wasn't truly part of the group, I felt lonely and there was no one I could safely confide to. It was kinda painful to live alone in a different country in a different world without warning, especially when I knew my life and the people around me would be in danger.

Yet, that all changed when I brought Miho back to my apartment as my familiar, I almost thought she was like a pet in her salamander form. She was quite a pain at first, burning anything and everything moving in a humanoid form. Not to mention the countless slip ups when she first started doing chores. It was stressful but fun, especially when I found her sleeping like a baby under a pile of my clothes that one time.

The apartment that once felt hollow and lifeless suddenly became livelier when the pinkette waited for me to come back. All those 'have a good day' and 'welcome back' felt like I've reunited with my family, no matter how little it may be. And the fact that she's a hot girl with the body of a gravure model had absolutely nothing to do with me being attracted to her, no siree... Okay, maybe a little.

Whenever Rias throws herself at me, it feels like she wants to experience the emotion of love itself more than being in love together. I honestly don't think it's bad, but it doesn't click with me somehow. But when it comes to Miho, it feels like everything she does was for my own happiness, as if she wants to make sure I won't ever feel lonely. She sees me for who I am, not just a powerful devil who puts up a brave front.

I thought it would be a simple crush on an attractive girl that would gradually fade away like all the other times... but it never happened. In fact, that feeling grew everyday. The way she talks, the way she smiles, all the little stuff about her sets my heart aflutter. When she's beside me, I feel like everything will work out somehow. A naive thought I know, but I can't describe the feeling in any other way.

"She's more of my type I guess."

"Must be a one specific type." Second downed another mouthful of sake, "It's not my place to get in the way of other people's love life but I still gotta report what I can find back. Orders are orders."

"As much as I want to say 'that's if you can find something', overconfidence will always be my downfall. Do what you gotta do, I won't hold it against you."

"Hmph, you're a lot more mature than you look gaki."

Shrugging, I relaxed for a few more minutes until deciding to hit the hay, the fire giant's clone's mere presence is making the water hotter than usual. Plus I'm still exhausted from training, "I'm heading out first, see you tomorrow shishou."

After changing into my pajamas, I walked to my designated room. However, my bed was already partially occupied by the fire spirit. Her face always look so peaceful and enchanting when she sleeps. Tucking a hair behind her ear, I smiled lovingly at Miho as the sensation of warm happiness bubbled inside me again. Can't imagine what I'll do without her anymore.

I carefully slipped into bed and covered us with a blanket, "Good night Miho."

A few days later:

"Gaaaaahhhhh!"

"Is fleeing with your tail behind your legs your only accomplishment!? You will never become stronger like this! It is about time you fight back!"

"How the hell am I suppose to do that!? You're a huge ass dragon! I'll be dead before I can even get close to you!"

"Excuses are only a hindrance to the path of strong! If you are that frustrated, then hurry up and unlock Balance Breaker!"

A large fireball was launched from the former Dragon King's maw and impacted onto the rocky terrain, exploding the ground as the shock wave sent everything into the air, including rocks, debris and a very sweaty Issei Hyoudou. The Pawn quickly regained back his footing and attempted to hide behind a rock to catch his breath, until a giant claw nearly swiped his head off. He didn't have any more time to dodge as said claw was about to squash him.

Issei's been running for his life since day one of training and this just might be the end for him. He began to sob as his life flashed before his eyes, all the frustration and terror accumulated has traumatized him. Well, if he's gonna die, he thought he might as well at least yell out his last wishes, "I don't wanna die! At least let me touch Yuuma-chan's humongous oppai. I wanna pinch, suck, and poke her nipples on her oppaaaaaaiiiiii!"

The claw stopped at the last moment. Tannin retracted his limb and pitifully stared at his student. They say that people reveal their true inner selves when about to experience death, and that was actually the most sorry excuse of inner self he has laid his eyes upon. Was this generation's Sekiryuutei really that depraved for the female's upper reproductive organs?

Issei felt so small from his teacher's judging gaze. He wasn't sure if the dragon let him live because he was going easy on him or he was just that pathetic as his last wish was for oppai and Tannin didn't want to touch him. Either way he's still alive and yelled in defiance, "Wh-what!? Is it that bad for me to wish for oppai before my death!?"

"Yes."

That landed a huge blow to his already low self esteem, the fact that the immediate answer came from the almighty and authoritative Blaze Meteor Dragon made it worse.

Tannin crossed his arms, sighing in discontent, "Your mind is clouded with thoughts, what is the matter?"

Wincing in surprise, the Pawn sat down cross legged. It was true that he's been thinking about something heavily and - to the surprise of everyone, including him - it wasn't about oppai. It's really getting to him actually, "You know Dai- I mean, Tan Han Wei? The Aoi Arashi?'

"Tales of his feats are becoming popular lately. What about him?"

"Well..." Daisuke did say it wasn't exactly a secret but disclosing about it feels wrong somehow. He'll only tell a little, "He's pretty strong, smart, and determined, but a few days ago I found out he's not as amazing as I thought at first. There's something weighing down on his mind and after hearing what he went through, I thought maybe he's hiding his pain like Kiba."

"We get along pretty well, and he's saved me more times than I could count. He doesn't let all the complicated stuff get to him and I made him my rival. It's just... I can't help but feel like I could have done more to help him." Issei knew Daisuke's problem was more than he could ever imagine. Getting stranded in another dimension away from family was depressing to say the least, "He always acts normal so I never really thought that much about it. He could think of ways to get out of any situation and never give up and become stronger and- and..."

"Aarrrgghhhhh!" The Sekiryuutei shouted while scratching his head in exasperation, "Now I don't know anymore! Here I was thinking that he's fine as usual but now I don't know how much pain he's hiding from us. I know he doesn't want to make us worry but I just can't get it out of my mind. He's probably sulking around right now and I can't do anything about it."

Looking up to the Ultimate-class devil for guidance, "What do I do now ossan?"

Tannin stroked his chin, "So you are saying you saw a moment of weakness in his strong and dignified persona, wishing to help him in case he despairs. Am I correct?"

Issei nodded.

"Well here is my advice. FRETTING OVER USELESS ASSUMPTIONS IS MEANINGLESS!"

And the Pawn recoiled from the loud boom of the dragon's voice.

"Tell me, do you believe Aoi Arashi is the type of man to cower from the trauma he might be experiencing at this moment?"

"N-no. At least, I don't think so."

"Good, I see the courage he displayed is not exaggerated in the rumors. Listen carefully, those who know pain and overcome it can become stronger. You acknowledge him as a rival who can breakthrough whatever obstacle, so do not assume he is weak in mind or heart. Recall back on the time you have spent with him, does he not show any genuine joy to be in Rias-ojousama's peerage?"

Thinking back, Daisuke didn't look very sociable at first but that's normal when meeting people for the first time. Couple with the fact that he joined a bunch of devils who are supposed to be evil in folklore. Yet, he eventually opened up more to everyone and even helped him rescue Asia. Plus, almost dying so soon after reincarnating still made Issei feel really guilty. Slowly but surely, he accepted everyone enough to reveal his secret. If that's not trusting then Issei doesn't know what is.

Not to mention Daisuke having the luxury to laugh like a maniac whenever something funny happens has got to mean he's doing fine right?

"He does look like having fun to me."

"Then there should be no problem, you are simply overthinking it. Understand this boy, dragons are a proud species who chase after their goals, living freely however we want. You are also a dragon, if you wish to help Aoi Arashi, become strong enough to surpass him and attain whatever it is to accomplish that. Discard your worries and use your strength for whatever desires you yearn for. Do you understand?"

Shaking his head back to focus, Issei proclaimed loudly, "Yes, Tannin-ossan! Alright, let's get back to training!"

"How about a lunch break after the pep talk? Don't want to let these go to waste."

The Pawn traced the source of the voice and found a fallen with goods in hand, "Azazel-sensei? What are you doing here?"

"Bringing rations, Raynare thought you might need something tastier since she heard you were staying in the mountain."

Issei practically disappeared and reappeared beside the newcomer, gobbling down his first real meal in days, "Delicious! It's seriously delicious!"

"Quit crying about it. Asia also made food for you by the way, totaling to three full meals. The containers are designed to keep them warm for a while so you can eat them later, you'll need the meat and veggies to keep training. I'll be bringing them everyday, it's the least I can do for separating you lovebirds for so long."

"Delicious! This too! And also this! Everything is delicious!"

The Governor General sweatdropped at the possessed pervert tearing up in joy at the food to the point where he's incapable of paying attention to anything else, "Yare yare, how is his progress so far Tannin?"

"His mind was drifting elsewhere but hopefully now he can concentrate. Although he complains, he diligently executed my orders to the letter. However-"

"It doesn't seem like he's getting stronger as fast as I hoped. Can't be helped, we'll just have to make do with what we can."

"Thanks for the food. By the way sensei, how's Daisuke doing?"

"Much better than you that's for sure, he's surpassing his teacher's expectations with Miho close behind. Though there's still nothing on overcoming his fear of killing."

"Well Daisuke does try to be nice to everyone, I've seen him really angry or annoyed but he never hated anyone before. He didn't even carry a grudge against Yuuma-chan either the first time. Does he really need to kill to get stronger?"

"It's more of a mental block than anything, relying solely on your muscles will get you so far. And it could also serve as a potential catalyst to unlock his Balance Breaker."

"But still, it's hard to imagine Daisuke doing that. Kinda like me resorting to Juggernaut Drive."

"Juggernaut Drive is a power which consumes your sense of self, completely different than killing. The problem is Daisuke has little to no decisiveness when it comes to the final blow. You think making him to get the job done would stir a little hatred but he brushed it off just like that."

Issei thumped his chest merrily, "That sounds like Daisuke and knowing him, he doesn't let trouble bother him and he'll probably surprise everyone with crazy new moves. As his rival, I'm not gonna let him stay in the lead for long."

"Oh, I see." Azazel was slightly relieved that he might not be hated, but he can't be too certain for now, "Good luck with that, I doubt you'll catch up to him anytime soon though. Time to head back, I still got my personal project to do."

As the Governor General departed, Tannin powered up, "Let's continue boy."

The Pawn went to store his remaining food in a safe place until he noticed a letter. Confused, he opened it, and felt like he could take the former Dragon King on. The reason was because inside was a picture of Yuuma-chan in her lacy underwear, posing erotically yet teasingly with her important parts so nearly visible. There was also a note that says 'Come back stronger and you'll receive a better reward'.

The Boosted Gear materialized, shining brightly with perverted energy, "HELL YEAH! BRING IT ON OSSAN!"

"One two three four. One two three four. One two three turn."

"Very good bocchama, you did not step on my foot this time."

"Thanks, Mistellia-san."

At least she's wearing steel toe shoes the whole time, formal dancing feels so weird to me. Second passed a message to us that Venelana wanted to continue my etiquette lessons so I came back to the mansion, just when I finally got the hang of the breathing style. But I can definitely feel the differences with my lungs developing like this. Hope Miho's having a better time with Grayfia.

"Very good, you are improving quickly." Venelana complemented from afar, "Although it appears that your body moves differently from muscle memory, do you have any prior practice to dancing?"

"I was a shaolin wushu practitioner and learned some tai chi. I guess my body gets into it sometimes. That, and I've seen Miho's flexible fighting style which resembles a dance of some sort plenty of times."

"Excellent news, we can conclude your lesson earlier than expected. Mistellia-san, you may return to instruct Millicas."

"Yes, Venelana-sama."

The brunette walked towards me, her hand extended out. Grabbing the hand, we danced to the music as I practiced earlier. I constantly looked at my feet in the beginning to not step on my partner's foot but now I should be good enough not to. Besides, even if I look down now, all I'll see is her cleavage.

"I am surprised you uncovered Second-san's hidden task so soon, you are an intelligent young man indeed."

"Thank you, I was a bit suspicious when the Ultimate Rook himself set time to personally train me. But that wasn't his primary objective was it?"

"Of course not, I would never thwart your training like this, especially when you have a Rating Game soon. Have you given any thoughts to be by Rias' side?"

"Second-shishou trained us like dogs, I barely have the energy to think much about anything."

"Including about the perils which threatens Rias' happiness in the near future?"

That almost made me trip over my feet, "Wh-what? What do you mean?"

The music ended, signifying the end of the dance. Venelana went to sit at a table as I followed her, "Exactly as what I meant. As the important heiress of the Gremory Household, Rias will require a spouse to preserve our lineage. The elders will propose another arrange marriage should they not receive a favorable response soon."

"Oh..."

She analyzed by reactions, intending to elicit something from me, "Did you not anticipate another arrange marriage?"

"To be honest, I thought it is possible but was too busy with everything else. However, I did think it was only a very slim chance."

"Please do explain."

"Well, I asked Sirzechs-san why he would agree to marry off his beloved little sister to someone she doesn't love, and now I highly doubt he would repeat the same mistake. Furthermore, Rias is the heiress of the esteemed Gremory Household. Everyone, including the elders, would want a suitable devil to be her husband. One who is powerful, charismatic and born with a noble blood to lead the household to prosperity."

"Correct, there are many potential suitors who can accomplish that, but all are not accepted by Rias herself."

"However, there is one significant criteria that most devils outside the Gremory family do not have."

Raising an eyebrow, "And that would be?"

"Kindness. Fire- I mean, Riser Phenex frowns on low-class or reincarnated devils despite becoming Rias' fiancé and almost became the next head. I do not know whether he would change his way of thinking later on but someone as young as him would have a very difficult time of doing so without a drastic change. The fact that he was chosen as her fiancé indicates he was the best possible candidate. And even if a kinder devil was chosen, it would not mean much unless he has noble blood."

"Yet a better potential suitor has emerged. The Aoi Arashi may be a reincarnated devil however, the skills and tactics displayed on your Rating Game as well as rumors of your accomplishments would suffice. You are also a part of the heiress' peerage, that already grants you some nobility and authority."

"Except I do not harbor any feelings for her. When worse come to worst, Millicas could inherit the position instead. I do feel bad if that happens, with all the responsibilities and expectations pushed onto him. However, Rias is strong-willed and may find an alternate solution to this problem."

"How certain are you we will not simply force her to agree to another arrange marriage? To a devil who is too powerful to defeat in a Rating Game."

"Devils have low birth rates, so the age gap can be very large in some cases. I know that is not a sufficient deterrent for you to not approve it. However, my prowess in the Rating Game along with Rias stubbornness to only marry someone of her choosing, have spread to the eyes and ears of many. Most would think twice to approach her. In case that is not enough, I along with everyone in her peerage will train to protect her freedom regardless of consequences."

"And what will you do in the situation where she continues to ceaselessly win your affections? Are you willing to let her pursue unrequited love for years if not centuries?"

"I have already made my emotions clear to her but... I can only hope she will find someone else to love. To be honest," Sighing in exasperation, "I never meant to win her love in the first place. My only genuine intentions was to be her friend and help her escape from a loveless marriage. Before I knew it, she has become this smitten and I still don't know how to undo that."

"Rias will be sadden if you do not accept her."

"True. But if I think about it, courting her with no genuine love will result in the same, it will be not much different than her engagement with Riser Phenex. Without love, she will slowly feel hollow and the pain will worsen. It is a temporary solution and you realize this as well Venelana-san. After all, this is the reason why you are endeavoring to convince me so much, all for the sake of your daughter's happiness."

"... You have proven your degree of perception again. I did not wish to resort to this however, Miho-san cannot stay by your side forever."

Furrowing my eyebrows in puzzlement, "Please explain."

"Fire spirits do live a long life but not as much as devils."

My heart began hammering in my chest, realizing what she meant.

"As a salamander, she has traces of dragonic blood in her veins yet it can only allow her to live for so long. Her life force will prolong as she becomes stronger which allows her to live for three millenniums, five at most. That is half of a devil's life expectancy. And the remaining half will only lead to grief and solitude. Are you willing to accept Rias then?"

A bead of sweat trickled down my jawline. I didn't consider this possibility since most of my knowledge about salamanders is from my daily interactions with Miho. Does she know about this? Is this why she didn't say anything?

"Well? I am waiting for your response."

Looks like there's gonna be a change of plans. Sorry mom, dad, everyone. I promise to find a way home after settling this, "No."

Venelana studies my features before sighing in defeat, "May I know why?"

"While I will most certainly grief from losing her, it does not mean I will regret meeting her. This only means I have to cherish the time we have now. And if she agrees, I will do whatever it takes to blitz my way to High-class and receive my own set of Evil Pieces to reincarnate her into a devil."

She smiled melancholy, "I thought that might be your answer. I suppose there is nothing else I can do to change your mind. Very well, you desire to know about your similarities to Sirzechs yes?"

That got my attention, "That's right. But there's still a few weeks before I return to the human realm."

"It is fine, I do not believe my actions will have any effect at this point." An air of nostalgia surrounded her, the brunette gazed through the window before looking back at me, "Back then, before the time Sirzechs claimed the title of Lucifer, there were many influential and powerful women who wish to be betrothed to him due to his feats accomplished during the civil war. However, he refused each and every one of them."

Wait what?

"I cannot disclose too much about another's past but Grayfia-san was born in a position where many devils nowadays do not approve. There were conflicts and arguments with the elders, many declaring Sirzechs had been manipulated but he never yielded. In all my centuries of raising him, I have never witnessed such resolve and determination from him before."

Is she saying what I think she's saying!?

"That young man fought with all his might to be with the one woman who gave him life and joy despite coming from an opposing household. Sirzechs then reincarnated Grayfia-san as his Queen who instantly agreed to swear fealty to him only. There were still many who were suspicious of them but after overcoming many trials together, they earned everyone's trust and became who they are today. It was only recently that they finally attained a stable and peaceful life."

That explains why Millicas was still so young, "Wa-wa-wait. So, when I stood up to you to be with Miho, it was like Sirzechs-san who did the same to be with Grayfia-san...?"

By now, I am pretty sure my face was burning red in embarrassment. Venelana smirked in amusement, "What did else did you assume it to be?"

"I thought it would be what he did to become so formidable to the point he placed himself in the top 10 strongest in the world. Like... like how he didn't waver in the face of stronger enemies. Or... or-or-or how he stared at death in the face without caving into his fears. I didn't think it was love of all things."

"Oh please do not misunderstand Hanwei-san, love can be a much more powerful driving force than you think. Perhaps that may be the reason how you become stronger as well."

There were no words to describe just how flustered I am right now, and the feeling keeps rising. I couldn't say anything back even if I wanted to for some reason, all I could do was avoiding her gaze and fidgeting like a teenage girl.

Venelana giggled at my plight, "That will be all for your etiquette lessons, you may go but remember to practice what you have learned. And here is my final advice," She threw a sly smile at me, "I may have given up on convincing you, but I know my daughter will succeed one day. After all, she takes after both me and my husband."

"I will keep that in mind, thank you for everything Venelana-san." After bowing to her in appreciation, I head towards the library for my new goal.

It's about time I get in-dept knowledge about salamanders.

Guest: No memes

Timefox99: You'll just have to keep reading to find out.

petru95: You're welcome. Don't worry, I've got plenty in store.

AN: Hey guys. Yeah, I planned this all the way from Season 1 and it feels good to finally write it. Other than that, nothing else except more people around my hometown got the fucking virus so don't be surprised if I suddenly disappear someday. Hope you all like it. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.

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