Chapter 48: Different Ways
I like snuggling as much as the next guy but it's getting a bit awkward, especially when everyone else is watching us. And by everyone, I include Sirzechs and the rest of the backup arriving to help us.
"Everyone, I am glad to see you safe." Whether the Maou cares about his little sister and other women hugging me in public, he's doing a great job of not showing it, "Most of Khaos Brigade have been subdued. Although we couldn't find Shalba, we managed to search the shrine for them."
Tied up behind the group was Diodora's peerage and... Hang on, is that Diodora!?
"That piece of shit is still alive?" I pointed at the mangled devil. His face was beaten to the point it was almost unrecognizable, the only thing that gave me clues were the number of criminals and his once-luxurious-now-tattered clothes. He was miserable and had the look of fear when he saw Issei.
"Yes, we found him under some rubble and gave him emergency treatment." Sirzechs answered easily, "Traitor or not, he is still a kin of the current Beelzebub. But rest assured, he will be severely punished and will never cause any more trouble."
"Good riddance." Issei glared at the captive who cried in fear, "That bastard doesn't deserve to see the light of day ever again."
A fabulous yet comedic thought popped into my mind, "Hey Issei, I know I made you worried so an apology is in order, like for example, making this guy your punching bag one last time just for kicks?"
Now the Lucifer broke his calm facade and sighed, "Hanwei-kun, I understand that he has created much trouble to you. However, he is already weak and captured. Any further aggression is morally-"
"He ruined Asia's life as a nun just so he can make her his personal fucktoy until her heart breaks like his entire peerage."
(ㆆ_ㆆ) Sirzechs paused before slowly turning to stare at Diodora while the backup wore features of disgust. The pathetic Astaroth teared up and shook his head, silently begging for the Maou to not approve with his eyes.
The red head turned back to me, smiling cheerfully, "Ah, I just remembered. It is time for our coffee break, right everyone?"
"Yes, Lucifer-sama."
They all turned their backs on us, acting as if they are unable to see or hear anything. I caught the fucker before he could run, slapping a healing tag on him, "Issei, I hereby present to you, fresh meat."
Despite the near uncontrollable excitement, the Pawn still had enough discipline to ask, "Buchou, I've been really patient right? You wouldn't mind letting me go first right?"
"Hm? Oh sure." Rias offhandedly answered before snuggling deeper into my chest.
"Hell yeah!" Issei entered Balance Breaker and-
"Holy shit! Is that a subspecies?"
"Wa-wa-wait! Have mercy! Gyaahhhh!"
"He's got a shield now? And Wolverine claws? Hang on, I need to record this."
"No no no! Not the face! Not the-"
"German suplex? 9 out of 10. If you could bury his upper body then I'll give full marks.
"Uwauwauwauwa! I am going to be sick!"
"Spinning him like a lasso? Clever, though having him puke would be disgusting."
"What are doing with that spike!? No! No- Gaaahhh!"
"Right up the ass eh? Brutal, but he still deserves it. Hey Issei, can I have a turn once you're done?"
"No promises!"
The Pawn proceeded to borrow a healing tag to restart the tormenting. This could take a while. My gaze shifted to the girls still attached to me, "You can let go of me now, I'm not going anywhere."
"In a minute."
"People can see us."
"Don't care."
"We can continue after we get back home."
They finally let go, exchanging glances with each other before giving me sad upturned eyes, "All of us?"
"I'm fine with it since you're this scared, if Miho's fine with it."
The pinkette thought for barely a second, softly answering, "Okay."
"I want my mommy!" Diodora wailed out like a loser, already pissed and shitted himself with some of his limbs angled unnaturally. He continued to whimper while covering himself as much as he could. Definitely a sight for sore eyes.
Issei powered down, hurt from overexertion though completely happy and satisfied, "Okay, I think I'm good... for now."
"Still," I commented unconsciously, impressed by the Pawn's new and enhanced abilities, "I didn't think you'd actually get a subspecies. There's nothing special I could think of for this to happen."
"Perhaps I could explain." Light shined from the red gauntlet, "Partner, do you remember what happened to the Boosted Gear that night after your training with Tannin?"
"Oh yeah, I really wanted Balance Breaker at that time and my gear shut off because you said in was in the middle of a change."
"That's right. At that time, it was undergoing a power up, a phase where something new was developing inside the Boosted Gear. None of the past wielders were reincarnated devils nor experience emotions for... female breasts such as yourself." We could almost see the legendary dragon sniffling. "Along with your desires and diligence to defeat your rival, the result of the power up was your subspecies - Calamity Mail. An excellent accomplishment, partner."
Wait a second... So this whole time, Issei would've gotten a potential subspecies if he waited a little longer to grow instead of fighting Kuroka in canon? All this time, I thought had stolen his spotlight and hindered his growth, guilting me into pushing him harder during training. But what if it's the opposite? Did I underestimate Issei's potential? Whoever or whatever sent me here... Were all the things I've done and caused here... supposed to happen?
"Yes! Finally!" Issei jumped and fist pumped, pointing at me gleefully after acquiring his new power. The sheer sensation of fulfillment swelled up, "I'm finally catching up to you. One of these days, I'll knock you off your throne so don't get too comfortable counting your winning streak."
Well, as long as he's happy, I guess I shouldn't think too much about it.
Most of the Old Maou Faction is wiped out from Khaos Brigade. Now that the descendants are dead or in Vali's case, not interested in reclaiming the Underworld, we won't have to deal with devils anymore, at least for a while. There are still many other species we have to deal with who defected, so that sucks. Millenniums of war won't go away that easy.
"So that's what happened." Azazel grimaced at our report. We're resting in a special VIP relief zone while the casualties are being treated. We sustained a lot of damage yet also took down important figureheads without losing ours, so it's considered a win. "Daisuke, I'm sure you understand just how important you need to stay quiet about what happened."
"You're telling me? Great Red, the apex who stand at the top, agreed to help me. I thought he would roast me for interrupting his nap or something."
"You'll get roasted either way if word about this gets out." His brows narrowed, not viewing my short merrymaking with the dragon as good news, "Forget devils, the entire world will be out breathing down your neck to find out if you can bring Great Red as an ally. Either that, or you'll be experimented to see what makes you tick to attract his attention."
"Fantastic." I drawled in sarcasm, annoyed about gaining another reason why everyone wants to kill/capture me, "At least I can live longer by not dissolving in the Dimensional Gap. Still, I happened to be near where Great Red is and asked for a simple request. I didn't think he'd really listen to me until he dropped me with Vali, and I doubt he'll actually come out of his home to raze everything to the ground upon my request unless he feels like it."
"Doesn't matter whether Great Red brought you to Vali or for a joyride, the fact that he did help you still remains. There's bound to be more than a few power-hungry eggheads who would do whatever it takes to sack you to mind control paradise."
"I will not allow that to happen." Rias stated firmly with no room for refusal, anger blaring, "I nearly lost Daisuke once already. Even if I have to go against the entire world, the pain of losing him is incomparable. No one will once more lay a hand on him in my presence."
"We all agree." An announcement sounded from the familiar in ORC's stead as a whole, "Fools who assume they can harm Hanwei-sama will drown in the pits of despair and regret should they come close to him. We have blundered once, it will never repeat again."
Azazel shut his mouth as I gave him a hard glare before he could comment something stupid about my situation. The girls are still pretty clingy to me, any closer and I would look like I'm wearing them like clothes. Maybe it's because we're already battered, he did keep his remarks to himself for once.
"Tannin-ossan told me he tried to challenge Great Red before but got ignored." Issei gave his own input, slouching on a couch next to Asia, "He said something about Great Red doesn't think he's worthy, and ossan is one of the strongest people I know. You think Great Red somehow knows Daisuke isn't from our world? Or maybe he doesn't like rude people. What do you think Ddraig?"
"Great Red was recorded as the Apocalypse, a dragon who bears the same color as me yet he is still a dragon. Albion and I have never made prior contact with him, perhaps his assistance was because of a mere whim. However...
Raising an eyebrow, "However what?"
"However, there were times when I saw the image of the one who sealed me inside this Sacred Gear from you."
The air stilled, silent enough for a fly to be audible. Heads swiveled to the gauntlet, words of what the legendary Sekiryuutei just said replaying in our minds.
Asia meekly voiced, "B-but wasn't the one who sealed Ddraig-san..."
I shifted my vision to the calm former Seraph, "There's no way you wouldn't suspect something. Why didn't you tell me?"
"And what good would that be? This is only a speculation at best." Azazel pointed at my torso or more specifically, my right side, "When I saw Supra Burst's gold half, the first thing that came to my mind was that old man. It's not uncommon for some Sacred Gears to display characteristics of their creator, but yours is the closest I've seen. Other than a bit of your personality and hybrid status, there's nothing else which gave other connections. You still have headaches whenever God is mentioned right?"
"Ow! Hey go easy, my ki isn't in the best shape right now."
"That proves my point. Besides, if you really were the pompous asshole, I would have the irresistible urge to kick your balls and Michael would have begged for you to come back to Heaven. It's all just a crazy coincidence if you ask me."
"What about your ability to walk on water?"
"Xenovia, I already told you. It's just a magic control exercise, I've seen people run on water if they're fast enough in anime."
Yuuto cocked his head in confusion, "Well then, how is this related to Great Red helping Hanwei-kun?"
"Although his being does remind me of Him, they are far from identical. Albion must have sensed it as well when we fought him. However, I also sense something different from him, something unknown to me. An unknown factor which must have drew Ophis' and Great Red's attention."
"Come to think of it, Great Red acted like he was inspecting me for something. Despite my crazy growth rate as something rare, it's not exactly uncommon. Sirzechs-san and Ajuka-san are Super Devils who are in the top ten while there are other people from different races who have grown much stronger in a short time. Or maybe Great Red was drawn to my dreams as an otherworlder? Remember that Baku incident?"
"Wrong. It is none of those."
My hair instantly on end, my body whirled behind on instinct despite the pain to find someone who isn't supposed to be here. Azazel was already clutching his dagger, ready to enter Balance Breaker with a seemingly playful face while sweating. Everyone who saw our reactions entered into battle positions, albeit with confusion from seeing the newcomer.
Issei awkwardly pointed at her, "Um, who's the little girl?"
"Partner, if you value your life, do not make any sudden moves towards the 'little girl'"
Swallowing a lump down my throat, I watched the goth loli and hoped she isn't having a bad day right now. Judging with my Tenkugan, Great Red was like a vast ocean with endless small rivers pooling in, an entity similar yet superior to Gods like Odin. Comparing to my own powers, it would be a situation where I'm a single drop of water which would disappear the moment I join the ocean. The dragon was calm and curious at first while rowdy and wild when doing his loops, reminding me of a delinquent of some sort.
Now her? She has the same enormous amount of power yet at the same time, feels like it's not there. I don't know how to describe it, but it's like an infinite expansion of energy to the point it covers everything, making it seem like it's nothing. A presence that can't be measured. Probably the closest thing I can imagine is that she's like a ghost, right in front of us in visible form yet completely intangible as if she's air itself. Her empty expression didn't help to make it better either. And now her focus is directly on me.
"Ophis." I whispered out unconsciously. Nonetheless, the silence made my faint voice loud and clear to everyone.
They snapped their eyes wide open, redoubling their vigilance. In our current exhausted state, we can't put up much of a fight, not that we can make a difference otherwise.
"That's Ophis!? The head honcho of Khaos Brigade!? One of the strongest in the universe!? And the guy who wants Daisuke!?"
Before I knew it, everyone got in front of me in defensive position. It was clear that those dead black eyes were zeroed in on me and they weren't gonna let that happen.
"Well well well Ophis. I didn't expect the leader to grace us with your presence." Azazel started a conversation, buying time to figure out whatever plan he could formulate, "You were an old man when we last met. Trying out to be Khaos Brigade's mascot now?"
The Dragon God didn't answer, still watching me, "Aoi Arashi."
Miho growled in challenge, "Do not come near Hanwei-sama."
Again, she had her attention only on me, "Join me. Become my servant."
"Sorry, I'm already Rias' servant so that's a no- And I'm not planning to switch!" I hastily added when Ophis gazed at the red head. Neither fighting nor retreating is an option, she popped out of nowhere and nobody sensed it until she spoke. Great Red was nice when I tried to be casual, the same might be possible with Ophis, "I'm satisfied with my current life and I don't intend on ruining it."
"I can give you whatever you want. Money? Power? Women?"
"Got it. Got it. And I definitely got that."
She tilted her head in confusion and then pulled out a book with the title... 'How to Negotiate 101'!? The heck?
"An isekai portal to an anime world?"
"I'm an anime fan but I'm definitely not a weeb... And I already got it. Do you even understand what you just said?"
"... Land? Food? Alcohol?"
"And she ignores me." My face fell flat, "Do you truly think you can tempt me into joining a terrorist group?"
"Yes." Her arm slowly rose, pointing at me, "I sense great desire like all who joined me. Tell me your wishes and I will grant them. In exchange, swear an oath of obedience to me."
Stiffening, "Is that how you ensnared so many people?"
Ophis nodded.
"Why do you want me so bad? If it's just a powerful soldier, then a lot of other people will work. From what I heard, you even gave incentives to Shalba and Creuserey just for me. Why are you so keen on recruiting me?"
"Because you are bigger than anyone else."
"... You're gonna need to be more descriptive."
"To simplify, do you remember every ant which passes you?"
"No, of course not. There are literally billions of them, who can remember them all?"
"Yes. There are so many of you. Devils, angels, yokais. How can I remember all you? I pick only the ones who can help me."
Is she seriously comparing us to ants? In retrospect, it's not exactly a stretch. The Dragon God is way out of everyone's league.
"And you are bigger than other ants. When I first saw you traversing through my home months ago, I witnessed that you are more special. Too special to let go. However, I lost sight of you as you continued to this realm."
I pointed at the Governor General, "Even more special than this guy?"
"Much more special. Your potential was limitless, almost as if... you are my equal. Another Dragon God."
As much as I want to quip about that absurd claim, there was one part which caught my attention, "Was?"
"After witnessing you up close once more, I can see that your potential is tainted, damaged, and infected. I, do not know why."
The fuck is she talking about? I feel the same as I always do in this world just like back in my home world. Besides, if I really am as great as she thinks I am, I wouldn't have gotten killed by Season 1 Raynare.
"Nonetheless, you still stand above all else. Join Khaos Brigade and defeat Great Red to regain my silence."
"Why don't you just ask him to be more quiet? He's a pretty chill guy when I met him."
"No, he invaded my home, and he is loud. I, do not like him."
"Yeah, sorry. I owe him for helping me so beating him up doesn't sit well for me."
"... Join me and I will grant your desires."
Seems like Ophis is the stubborn type, not to mention she thinks and acts like a child, "If I join you, will you disband Khaos Brigade?"
Gasps echoed across the room as they gaped incredulously for my safety. Worried, Miho gripped my sleeve, "Hanwei-sama?"
"It's okay, I'm just gathering information."
"I, cannot do that." The loli dragon tilted her head again, "More is needed to defeat Great Red."
"You said my potential was similar to yours. Then why do you need a group if we can get rid of Great Red by working together?"
"Ants are weak but together, they are invincible."
Meaning, she's talking about army ants. I've seen some trivia on the net and documentaries with Miho about the amazon rainforests. Army ants work together in large swarms and prey on much larger creatures, eating anything with meat all the way to the bones. In one on one, an ant will always go down. Against a swarm of tiny ferocious crawlies coming at you from everywhere at once? That's a different story. Ophis must have gotten inspiration from those insects during her time in the human world.
"We already took down a part of your faction, aren't you angry about the considerable loss?"
Ophis shook her head, "Losses can be replaced. Join me."
"Daisuke." Azazel piped up from the sidelines, dissatisfied about the situation, "Dragons aren't the type to listen when they get like this and I doubt anything we try can even slow her down. You said there's something you want to talk to her about, still got any plot armor to get us out of this?"
"That reminds me, if I didn't have to become a terrorist, I would have asked Ophis to make you dress and dance like a ballerina in Heaven."
"Pftt." Many of us who were the victims of the fallen's insanity couldn't hold back a chuckle.
"And that also reminds me. Guys, can you let through?" My mate was torn between listening to me and protecting me from the Ouroboros Dragon, especially after what she suffered. I smiled softly, grasping her hands into mine, "We promised to be together forever right? It's okay, I won't disappear again."
Her features were full of conflict. Ultimately, she and the others reluctantly allowed me to step towards Ophis.
"Swear your oath of obedience to me and accept my snake."
"Actually, I got a different proposal. One I think you would gladly take."
"I, am not interested in your proposal. You cannot defeat me either. Your only choice is to surrender and obey."
My heart pounded, gambling everything in this plan. I decided to let my actions do the talking instead. Slowly going into my pocket dimension was my hand, out came from the storage was my secret weapon. After hours of thinking and remembering what I can do about the number two strongest in the universe, this is what I came up with. If this doesn't work, we're absolutely and thoroughly fucked.
"What is that?"
"This, my little Dragon God nemesis, is... a chocolate bar." Raising a hand, I entered into lecture mode, "It's primarily made of cocoa, butter, sugar, and milk. Many crave for this confectionery to the extent that variations of added fruits, nuts, caramel etc also exist. What you see here is the original flavor."
"Daisuke, are you for real!?"
"Not now Issei, I'm trying to negotiate." I retorted before resuming, "Its creation dated back in the 19th century. Back then, there was nothing that could satisfy the taste buds of those who yearn for this sweetness. Now, almost anyone can have them to bring life to those who despaired to normal food. And I, Tan Han Wei, present this to you as an offering."
Ignoring my friends who were giving me crazy looks, I peeled off the wrapper and used my wind to blow the scent so she could smell it.
"... (￣﹃￣)"
In spite of the blank visage, the atmosphere around her began to shift to a brighter tone. I waved the chocolate bar left and right, her head following every motion, and now I have a shit eating grin that could give Azazel's a run for its money, "Uh huh~ uh huh~ Come on, you know you want it. It's sugary, unhealthy, and super tasty~~~"
"... Tasty?"
"Tasty~"
Surrendering to her stomach, Ophis cautiously grabbed the sweetie goodness and gave a few experimental sniffs. While I held back my breath in anticipation, she took a nibble... before straight up inhaling the bar until she bit her fingers. The goth loli went into '?' mode and searched around her hands, wondering where did it all go before extending her arms towards me, silently asking for more.
"Well I do have some extras, though Khaos Brigade is such a pain that I might need them." I playfully teased.
Ophis lowered her head, adorably sad. "I, cannot change that."
"Then how about keeping them away from Kuoh, at the very least?"
"Accepted."
Seeing the twinkling stars in her eyes, I gave her the rest of my two dozen chocolate bars. She peeled them open with gusto and wolfed down, makes me wonder whether Dragon Gods can get cavities. The mighty Infinity Dragon God was now happy and satisfied as if she found enlightenment in her life for the first time.
"Tasty." She licked the remaining chocolate on her fingers, "Aoi Arashi, you have served me well. I, will leave for now."
"One minute. Do you know how I got here? And how I can go back?"
"Unknown." Her '?' mode returned, "I, only saw you briefly and then sought you out."
So much for staying hopeful, "Thanks anyway."
"I, shall await my next offering." With that, Ophis nodded in acknowledgement and teleported away.
Breathing out a sigh of exhaustion, I turned around to find my friends staring at me incredulously, "What?"
"Chocolate? That's how you persuade the Ophis? Why didn't you tell me sooner? We could've planned ahead and get better results."
"It's either she leaves quietly or she'll capture you like food stock. I'm not taking any chances if I were you Azazel."
"Eh good point. At least we're still alive. Now we just gotta make sure no one finds out that you got Great Red and Ophis to bend to your whims. Still, couldn't you have asked her to switch her style to a mature busty woman before she left?"
"Remind me to ask her to give you an atomic wedgie on the next offering."
"Huh, they look... safe at least." I commented with a sweatdrop, watching Alicia and the other girls sitting quietly in their dreary confinement. The hollowed air surrounding them really screams 'depressed emo'. Heard that they surrendered without resistance whatsoever and hardly spoke after getting interrogated for information.
Forcuis and Raynare were standing guard when the ORC came to see them upon my request. They really look so pitiful nobody would think that they're criminals. Fortunately, Diodora is held in a special cell as the ringleader. Ajuka, who was in the Astaroth Household, would have his position questioned no doubt. That little fucker stirred up trouble for a lot of people.
"Hey Alicia, the blonde hair is new. It suits you." Miho tensely whispered the reason she dyed her hair. I strained out a cough, "I mean, artificial colors are so last season. You look beautiful just the way you are."
...
That didn't work...
Asia trailed to in front of the bars, trying to be positive, "Good afternoon, my name is Asia. We came here to help you."
One scowled in hatred, "We know who you are miss goody two shoes, now buzz off."
"Oi!" Responding to the enmity was the Pawn, backing up the startled blonde, "We're here to help you guys. You're being rude."
"Haven't you helped enough?" Another spat out, "Or are here to see us rot as entertainment?"
Irina held her hands in a placating manner, "Wait wait, we're not going to do that. Why are you so mean so suddenly? Can't we talk this out?"
"Are you seriously that dumb? We are stuck here because that little bitch had Diodora-sama's attention and got dragged into this shit."
"But that's why we're here, to give you back your freedom." Xenovia pitched in, a bit louder from agitation, "You can leave-"
"WE HAVE NO PLACE IN THIS WORLD!" Alicia screamed hysterically, flinching us and it wasn't long before they started weeping, "Our deaths are already inevitable... Just end us..."
The sight melted our annoyance, replaced by pity. An anxious Yuuto turned to the fallen, "Azazel-sensei, what kind of punishment are they sentenced to?"
"What that Queen said, death." He replied with a straight face, arms crossed. We had mixed reactions, though the shock and pain was shared among us, "After interrogating them, we found out that they were heavily involved with Diodora's schemes. Many included illegal deals, bribery, and other stuff you guys wouldn't think of in your normal lives. Some were a blow to the Great King and Maous, plus today's endangerment to the VIPs. Diodora was the one pulling the strings but he couldn't have done it without his peerage, don't expect any light punishments from this. Doesn't help that they were the ones who asked for a death penalty."
"So Diodora gets to stay in prison and they die to stop suffering." Raynare summed it up in disgust, "Reminds me why I am glad to be in Grigori."
"No way! How is that fair!? That sick bastard was the one who made them do it."
"I wish I could help Issei, but there are many rules in noble society. As the heiress of the Gremory Household, I can't interfere with the Astaroth Household."
Guess I have my work cut out for me. The people I've met before had some hope or emotion in them, except these girls have instead given up in life. Will the standard talk-no-jutsu work this time?
Tugging my sleeve was Koneko, "Senpai, can you help them?"
Scratching the back of my head, I decided to sit cross legged in front of Alicia and made small talk, "Hey, Miho gave me a quick summary about what you two talked about."
...
"Take a good look at me. I'm at least a bit more trustworthy than Diodora right?"
...
"Or do you want me to show you a replay of Issei beating up that fucker? Don't think I didn't see you almost smiling back then."
"... What is the point of this?"
Knew that would work, "Because you guys been through crazy stuff you didn't deserve-
"Yes, you didn't have to remind us! Now leave!"
"-and I'm thinking a second chance is in order." I resumed without missing beat despite one of them growling at me, "And not a fake one when Diodora got you excommunicated on purpose to welcome you into his peerage. I'm talking about a real one with no bad intentions."
"Why won't you just leave us alone!?" They began crowding together, backing away, "We can't trust you! We can't trust anyone! We won't be deceived again! You don't know what it's like to be lied and raped by the one who said he'll protect us! You don't know anything!"
"You're right. I don't but you do, so what do you want to do?"
"Are you deaf!? Just kill us! We want to die! To stop all this suffering! This whole world could explode for all we care!"
"I meant besides the death wish. Think back when you were little girls, childishly yet cheerfully dreaming to become something grand. There's has to be at least one dream you thought about right? Teacher? Zoo keeper? or maybe a cook?"
"We don't have the right to dream! We were once famous sisters and now we despaired because of that!"
"Then how about thinking about it now? You're gonna have a lot of time once you're free."
"And what can you possibly do!? You may be the great Aoi Arashi but you're still a low-class devil, those stubborn devils won't listen to you."
"Yeah, I can't." My hand swayed to thumb at someone, a shit eating grin on my face, "But this guy can."
All eyes were directed to the Governor General of Grigori, leader of all fallen angels.
Azazel frowned, "Daisuke, what makes you think I'm gonna do something as crazy as risking our relationship with the devils?"
"Because, my good sensei," The shit eating grin grew even more shit eating, relished with the feeling of sweet sweet revenge, "I want to cash in my favor."
Hearing that, Alicia snapped her head up towards me, mouth agape as well as eyes filled with some semblance of life.
On the other hand, Azazel's frown was full of terror, sweat dripping down his head, "Daisuke you can't be serious."
"Oh yes I can. See this smile? It's the smile of euphoric vengeance for all the shit you put me through."
"Don't you want something else? Like the world's best VR game? Or a cloning machine for an unlimited number of your mate?"
"Nah, I want this. So you better hop to it."
"Do you have any idea about the amount of repercussions from this? We just formed this peace and now you want me to put the fallen angels as traitors?"
"Peace means everyone doesn't have to suffer like them, so we're on the road towards that. What are you so bothered about? You always find loopholes to satisfy your crazy insanities."
"Only when it's about my own subordinates, this is outside of my jurisdiction."
"The fact that you're trying to convince me otherwise means you must know some way. Just ask Sirzechs-san and Ajuka-san for help and fabricate a punishment seemingly worse than death."
"Daisuke, it's not that simple."
"Hey Forcuis, Raynare, you wanna hear how Azazel came up with the artificial gears?"
"Alright! Alright! I'll make it work! Just shut up!" The former chuunibyou desperately stopped me from wonderfully telling the tale of Azazel's dark history, furiously glaring at me to which I responded with a cheeky victory smirk, "But you gotta stay quiet about everything about me. I mean it, every last one of them."
I gave the okay gesture, still smiling like a madman. Mentally exhausted, Azazel held his hand in his face and sighed, "I taught you too well."
"As if, this is all me. I can be vindictive when I want to." Switching back my view to the dumbfounded prisoners, "Isn't that great? You'll be set free once they settled the complex stuff."
"Wha-wha-ho-but-but-but- No. No! You're lying!"
"Whether it's a lie or not, you can see it for yourself once your outside bars."
"Is this another trick!? To set us free and then fall us to despair!?"
"Even if that's the case, it'll be hard to do so when you're out in the open fulfilling your dreams."
"Then-but-what if... NO! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S A LIE! IT'S... *huff* *huff* *huff* a lie... Isn't it?"
"Nope." I popped the 'p' sound.
They exchanged looks of disbelief, tinting hope and happiness in them, "We're free...?"
"Yeah, that's what I just said."
"... No backstabbing...? No manipulation...?"
Casually answering, "None at all."
Alicia kept her stare on me. So much has happened to her that she doesn't have the time to organize her feelings, "Why? Why waste an invaluable favor with the Governor General on us? Why tell us to live when we're prepared to die?"
"Because I don't like seeing innocent people getting hurt. Because I know the feeling of that hole in my heart."
Tears of sadness and confusion watered down her face, an emotional turmoil blew up a storm after repressing her pain, "That's only for your own satisfaction!"
"True, though that's how I truly feel. Even more than loud pleas, when I see silent prayers wanting for help, I can't leave them alone."
"Then what are you going to do about my feelings!? After so long, I have given up on life and wanted to end it all, there is nothing for me to hope for anymore! If you won't even allow me that, what am I supposed to do!?"
I closed my eyes, breathed in... and out before reopening them, "How the hell am I supposed to know?"
"Wha-" The Queen recoiled from my unexpected answer, thrown off by the weirdness.
"All your life, you were raised in a church and became a nun. Then Diodora came whispering sweet words to lure you into his peerage. You've been influenced by the stuff around you though now, you decide what you want to do."
"I... decide what I do?" She repeated my words in a trance, as though finding enlightenment for the first time in life.
"Yup, the world's a lot bigger than you think. I learned that when I joined the ORC. This isn't an end, it's a new beginning." Given that I've succeeded in stupefying them, I stood up and admired the newfound life in them.
"Thank you, Hanwei-san."
"You really have a way with words Hanwei-kun."
"Senpai, you were like a shounen protogonist."
"Having revenge against Azazel-sama at the same time was crafty."
"And?"
"And I am pleased to see retribution for his mischief."
"Forcuis, I'm docking your pay for that!"
Rias, Akeno and Koneko drew closer, each planting a kiss on my cheeks. I blushed in embarrassment, surprised by the sudden affection, "What was that for?"
"(✿◠‿◠) For reminding us why we fell for you."
Miho encircled her arms around my neck, her face tinted pink as our noses were so close that they're almost touching, "You were really cool."
"Really? I thought it was kind of cringey."
Giggling, she leaned in to lock our lips.
"Seriously Azazel, when do you have time to make these stuff?"
"When you guys keep finding trouble. Being the genius I am, I prepared this in advance."
"We don't find trouble, trouble finds us." I remarked, sighing in bliss as I felt my ki rejuvenating. The fallen built a specialized room in the hotel for us to heal our injuries and ki after we're exhausted from fights. He said something about our last therapy was too slow after the run-in with Kuroka and Bikou. The whole ORC plus Raynare was here, fatigued in both body and ki from Khaos Brigade's invasion.
The chestnut angel was right in front of us, describing what happened on her side of the battle, with exaggerated hand movements, "-and they just kept coming nonstop, we thought we would be overrun until the valkyries made some sort of Norse magic barrier. It's a bit different than regular magic and it looked colorful. And then-"
While half listening, I felt my mate's soft body on my right. Rias was nestling my left whereas Koneko and Akeno were sitting on my lap. The Queen said she always wanted to try it since she saw the little nekoshou comfortably claiming it as her seat, a bit surreal that Miho still hasn't exploded/set something on fire from this. Issei was in a similar situation with his own girls, his silly expression prominent as he bathed in his paradise.
"- though we quickly lost sight of Odin-sama after he teleported us to the battlefield."
"Actually, Odin searched for me when we got separated. He's not exactly as upstanding and prestigious as you assume."
"What made you say that?"
"He lifted up one of those devils' skirt to peep on her underwear."
"Eep!" Irina blushed profusely.
"And then the anti-pervert magic kicked in and he got his balls slammed."
Wincing in pain was our resident pervert, eliciting a chuckle from his girlfriend.
"Nonetheless, his power was the real deal. His barrier sponged hundreds of attacks and a simple swing of his spear was about what Space Burst could do."
"How strong is that?"
"Oh just the usual God-class: distorting space, cracking canyons open, and giving cartographers migraines from needing to redraw maps so many times."
She paled from thinking about it, giving me nervous peeks.
Asia fidgeted before standing in front of everyone, "Everyone, I'm so sorry for causing trouble. It was scary, but you fought so hard. Thank you for saving me, I am so very grateful."
Xenovia went to hug the little blonde, "Think nothing of it. I am just glad that you are fine."
Irina joined in, "We're in this together and we'll keep fighting for you. All for one and one for all."
The church trio are had their little drama-fest, it was a real twist of events at the last second. Great Red never made any direct interactions with the ORC from what I know, had Asia been teleported to the Dimensional Gap instead of me... Nevertheless, everything turned out well, no need to think about 'what ifs'. I snapped back to reality when the Bishop came.
"Hanwei-san, Buchou-san, thank you." She bowed.
"Like Xenovia said, think nothing of it. I always wanted to try fighting an army anyway." I joked.
Rias let go of me to embrace her into the plentiful chest, "We are family, we'll always come to save you no matter what. Think of me as your older sister, you don't have to call me 'buchou' all the time."
"! Yes, Rias-oneesama!"
"Ain't that emotional. Wonder if you're gonna do this every time you help each other?"
"Azazel! Don't ruin the moment!"
"I'm high right now. There's never been a subspecies of a Scale Mail documented before in history." The scientist thrilled in juvenile elation, "Vali couldn't make it work since his battle lust was similar to a dragon's. Think of the possibilities my young student, imagine Transferring orgasmic pleasure into angels-"
"How long is this treatment gonna take?" I interrupted before the pervert could continue and the more innocent members would faint from embarrassment. The others snickered at our usual banter.
"Another half an hour or so. You'll need this routine for another three days to get back on your feet."
"Surprising that the youkais and senjutsu users aren't suing you for plagiarism. Why didn't Miho and I get this the last time we needed it?"
"You already had a nekoshou nursing you with senjutsu and cuteness though now she has her own ki to worry about. She needed more practice on healing anyway. Besides, ki problems aren't common and there are more of you now." Azazel gave his trademark lunatic smirk, giving me a bad feeling, "How about a little preview of my work while you guys wait?"
"I swear if you're gonna make us read your smutty book in this condition-"
A fanfare blared in the appearing holographic screen. Oh wait, I recognize that.
Aoi Arashi: Majestica of Devil
Lyrics: Azazel and Daisuke
Composer: Sirzechs Lucifer
Choreography: Serafall Leviathan
Author: Takazuchi Mina
Yuuto blinked in astonishment, "Is everyone seeing what I am seeing?"
In the background was carefully orchestrated scenes, starting with me in a battered state. The vision moved slowly as I opened my eyes, fired up and ready to take on what the world has for me, music rocking and synchronizing with the animation. Sirzechs was having the time of his life jamming the music as my voice boomed.
Words alone aren't enough, to make our dreams come true~
I already know, already know that~
To fly~ So free~ Across the sky, now that's what we want~
What we dreamed of~
So go~ What else is stopping you~
Poor~ Weak~ Let them all know~
As long as you stay true~
Follow the instinct inside~ AND GO~
We're running off~ YEEEAAHH~
Head on into our future~
We're gonna take~ Everything~ And make it our own~
I see the version of me~ I hope that I'll one day be~
Go beyond~ Past those fears~
Reach for your hope~
I'll make it through~ Next to you~
Just like the day we met so long ago~
I remember about the time that I met you~
You want a miracle then make it yourself~
"KYAAAHHHH!" Rias was squealing with all her spirit of a fangirl, her eyes turned into hearts and her voice hurting our ears. Guess the hardcore otaku knows an anime song when she hears one. The HD images portraying me like one of those boy band members enhanced that effect, and the other three girls aren't faring much better either.
Haruka Mirai really got me hooked when the Black Bulls teamed up against Vetto, it was the fantastic anime I've been watching before getting thrown into this universe. That episode alone made Black Clover ranked as my top 5 favorites. It started out like a Naruto copy and Asta's voice hurt my ears, yet it wormed into my heart.
To commemorate the final anime I watched before coming here, I decided to imitate Haruka Mirai. It's not exact and I can't remember every line, the english covers on youtube really helped though. Since this is another dimension and after I searched for any similarities online, I wouldn't have to worry about copyrights... or at least that's what I hope.
Most who aren't aware of Rias' japanophile nature were nonplused by her unusual behavior. Raynare pointed at her weirdly, "Is she alright?"
"Ufufu, don't worry. She'll calm down soon."
"Hanwei-sama! Why didn't tell me you can sing!?" The pinkette gushed, loving what she's watching.
Clearing my throat sheepishly, "It's kind of embarrassing and the only songs I can sing are from animes. I'm not that good until I really know the song. The staff also told me to keep it a secret for a surprise."
Koneko grabbed some tissues from out of nowhere and handed to Akeno to wipe her nosebleed.
"Gasper! Why are you having a nosebleed!?"
"Gyah! I-I'm sorry senpai. You just looked really good."
"We got the opening down, now you guys will be playing the part." Azazel rubbed in hands, ecstatic, "Hope none of you get stage fright because your faces will be on every screen in the Underworld."
Issei slack-jawed, "We're gonna be in this too!?"
"No shit. You think the characters are gonna pop out of nowhere? The ownership of this are yours truly and the Gremory Household, the heiress and her peerage are obviously involved in it."
"You mean I get to be the heroine!? KYAAAHHH! I can't believe this! I always wanted to be a part of an anime!"
"It's actually a tokusatsu show but it does resemble a lot like an anime, thanks to the main protagonist."
I soothed Rias with a headpat before she could go into complete meltdown, "Hey, you love it too and you know it. Still, I'm not sure about making a strong introduction of a part of japanese culture to devils. What are we gonna do if they don't like it?"
"Are you kidding me!?" Azazel guffawed, "Unlike earth, war ended not too long ago and we barely have entertainment, they're craving for something new in their lives. Trust me, everyone will eat this up and throw money at us for more."
If Oppai Dragon can get so popular so easily, then I guess anything's possible.
"Perform on stage?" Xenovia uttered hesitantly, "I'm not very keen to this idea, I feel like I may embarrass myself in front of the audience."
"M-me too." The healer squeaked, face stiffened despite not even being on stage, "Do you think I c-can do well?"
"M-m-me th-three." Gasper quaked in his box.
"But isn't this exciting?" Irina beamed, "It would be so much fun. I wish I could join you guys."
"We already prepared the scripts by the way. The plot is about a crime fighting devil in human society AKA Daisuke who finds himself taking on an evil organization and discovered that there are more secrets that he realized." The fallen continued, switching the visuals on the screen to previews of the first few episodes, "We're gonna add bit by bit to fill the mystery. The first season will have 24 episodes at least. We're rating it for adolescents, but I bet devils of all ages will love it."
Raynare saw what Issei's role is and smiled mischievously, "Oh, I am certainly looking forward to see that."
"Ufufu, the story sounds similar to us learning more about Daisuke-kun." Akeno teased affectionately, "Although it is a bit different from what we read in the book."
"Think of it as the refined version of the original. You might want to learn how to deal with crowds sooner than later."
"More than Rias already has when she gets swarmed in public?"
"Along with flash photography and requests for autographs."
"Why are we doing this again?"
"To show the world how awesome I am for making this."
"You're insufferable, you know that?"
"Thank you."
"That wasn't a compliment!"
Sinking into my bed, I let out a sigh of relaxation, "Finally, we're back. It's been a long day." The salamander sat at the edge silently, her atmosphere totally different the moment we were alone. I went to her side, "Miho, what's wrong?"
She remained quiet, opting to hug me. Her down mood made he return the hug and stayed in that position, waiting for her to talk at her pace. A little while later, I could feel her shaking. I gently stroked her head, "It's okay, I'm here for you. I'm not going anywhere."
"I kept fighting for you..."
"I heard what you did. Although everyone was lost in despair, you gave a pep talk to get them back on their feet."
"Your words gave me strength."
"And you never gave up, working together with everyone to win. I'm so proud of you."
"Yes, I believed in your safe return."
...
...
*sob*
Next thing I knew was the wet sensation on my shirt. Her face was buried in my chest, not letting me see her, "Miho?"
"... I'm sorry. I lied. I thought... I thought you were..."
She must have bottled everything up in front of the enemy. To a salamander, it must have been the worse feeling to show weakness in front of everyone, especially when she was the core fighter to beat Shalba. I tightened the hug, "I'm so sorry. I should've noticed your condition right away."
"No... You were already trapped in your own problems..."
"Not anymore. You have my full undivided attention, I'm right here."
"... I... I wanted to break down like the others... I wanted to cry and scream about the unfairness in this world... I was so pretentious for yelling at Rias' and the others' weakness... I fought like a beast who demanded blood... I felt my life had no meaning anymore... But most of all... I couldn't forgive myself for letting death come your way... I am a failure as your mate."
Constantly petting her head, I smiled sadly, "It wasn't your fault, I love you no matter what happens. Just like when you protected me when Second-shishou nearly killed us. That's why, stay with me, forever."
"But..."
I lifted her head so we could see each other directly, wiping her tears, "When I got separated, the first thing on my mind was your safety. Horrible of me to prioritize you over the others, though I can't help it. If I hadn't met you, I would have went into depression from the loneliness."
"What about Rias seeking you for companionship?"
"Rias is really nice and all, but I'd get high blood pressure from her strongly coming at me instead."
"... Hanwei-sama, do you want a harem?"
A blush spread through my visage, "What's this all of a sudden? I thought you hate that idea."
"After experiencing what transpired today, I think I understood how they felt to not be by your side. Their emotions have shown me how much they genuinely love you. That pain of losing you was by far worse than anything else I've ever felt."
"You're the only woman I need. I mean, I'd go crazy too if I saw you with another-"
"Any male foolish enough to approach me will be burned on a stick like barbecue."
Sweatdropping, "... Okay... Radical but... Okay. Still traumatized by your slime incident back in the forest?"
"Quite so."
I then cleared my throat, "Point is, I don't need or want a harem. Besides, we still got that big date."
"Ah." She lit up, recalling the promise, "Of course, our little secret escapade to have fun together."
"Yeah, so don't blame yourself anymore. The whole mess is over, time for a little celebration."
Miho smiled sweetly, deciding to let her worries go, at least for now, "Yes, danna-sama."
*knock**knock*
"Daisuke-senpai?"
"We know this is outside are agreement with Miho-chan..."
"Can we sleep together tonight?"
"Ara, ara." Miho smiled tiredly yet sincerely, using one of the Queen's catchphrases at the sight of the girls' longing. She patted the bed, "I suppose you couldn't stay calm forever. Come."
Relieved, they came crawling as we gathered onto the bed. The three were already in their sleeping wear, latching onto me. My lips curved to a fond grin, "You've been through a lot and fought bravely. I'll spoil you all you want tonight."
"Really!?"
"To a reasonable extent." I corrected, the smile went from fond to wry, hoping that it's not anything lewd.
"Then," They looked at each other and nodded, "Please tell us about your past."
Blinking, "That's it?"
"Ufufu, we know you are a man and can get excited from us, but we think that all we've done is trying to get your attention the perverted way."
"We can take it slow senpai. You already know about us, it's not fair that we don't know about you."
"You only talk about it with Miho, so we thought it might be painful for you."
"It's not painful, more like I don't have a real reason to talk about my former boring yet peaceful life." Taking a glimpse at my mate, I saw her laughing softly and nodded in approval. Whether it is for me or the girls, I'm not so sure, "Why not? The night is still young after all. Let's see, how about a bit of my otaku life? I got inspiration for that song from one of the animes."
Shutting the alarm clock, I opened my eyes to see my mate's. Giving her a good morning kiss, "Good morning, my beautiful mate."
She returned with her own kiss, "A very good morning, danna-sama."
"Mou, how enviable." They pouted from our flirting. Oh right, the five of us slept together.
We got dressed and did our morning routines. Rias, Akeno, and Koneko have some of their belongings here since the agreement was sleeping with me twice a week, though something tells me that they'll get greedy and Miho wouldn't mind much. They stripped naked and changed clothes in front of me so nonchalantly. As the gentlemanly married man, I turned around to not look.
"How are your ki?"
"Hurts only a little. Compared to you and Miho last month, we're doing much better."
"That's good to know. What to you want for breakfast?"
"Maybe omelet rice sounds nice."
After surviving from tough fights, we had an agreement to order food delivery to recover from the exhaustion instead of wasting more energy to make meals. The rich heiress tried to pay for everything at first but my manly pride wouldn't accept that, we decided to split the bill in the end.
By the time we made it to the dining table, we saw food already present. I arched a brow, "Huh, guess Yuuto was one step ahead of us."
Soon, our housemates gathered and we ate. Various dishes were served, including pizza. Weird breakfast but I'm not complaining. The taste was quite different than our usual delivery, and warmer. Still delicious, "Yuuto, which restaurant did you order this from?"
The Knight paused, "I thought Miho-chan or the others cooked this."
This time I paused. Turning to the others, they shook their head in confusion. My view went back to the food, "Then where the heck did this come from?"
"Ex-excuse me."
Standing in the far corner of the room was a woman wearing a maid uniform similar to Miho's. Her badge indicated that she was ranked as a trainee compared to the salamander who was a graduate. My eyes popped out wide as saucers, "Alicia!?"
The silver head girl trembled before getting her act together and bowed, "Good morning, I hope the food is to your liking, Daisuke-sama."
"What are you doing here? Azazel said you and the other girls were free last night."
"I-I thought about your words for a long time and noticed that I am not well versed in much except serving someone. There was nowhere else for me to go. After I heard how much your familiar adored you, I wanted to see what you are like and decided to serve you."
Rias narrowed her gaze in suspicion, "How did you enter into our home? We didn't hear the bell ring."
Presenting a letter with the Grigori symbol, I opened it up with the others peering from my shoulders.
'Hey Daisuke, meet your new maid and housemate. It's nice to have an experienced woman pleasing you. Sorry not sorry. HA!
From your good sensei,
the sinfully handsome Azazel'
Ripping the letter in vengeful anger, I yelled, "AZAZEELLL!"
Flinching from my rage, Alicia fearfully stuttered out, "A-am I a bo-bother?"
Her expression was that of a kicked puppy, dissolving my anger. I quickly pulled myself together, smiling amiably, "No, it's nothing. We can be rough around the edges but I hope we can get along and become friends."
"A-a new housemate? H-hi, I'm Gasper and I like video games."
"Glad to see you doing fine in your new life Alicia-san."
"Yay, I want to show you what Japan has to offer."
Her worries eased up, sighing in relief before walking towards her senpai, "Miho-sama, I-I look forward to be under your guidance."
She shuffled her feet, face red and fingers poking each other... Wait a flying fucking second!
"Then, please take care of me." After that, Alicia scampered away in embarrassment.
Miho tilted her head obliviously, "A strange one. Why was she flustered?"
I facepalmed, 'Great, just what I need. A fucking love rival!'
Guest: Sorry, but I'm not a collector. But I still love Digimon.
dragon20042004x: Thanks for the support.
AN: Sorry for the late update, was busy playing Ys 9, totally love the past few Ys games. Good news, I finally got my vaccine. Bad news, the daily covid cases jumped to 20k.
The next update will be especially late since I got real life stuff to do, if not the update after the next update. By the way, I gave MessyReaper963 permission to write a reaction story to my story, check it out if you want. And I would also like to thank you all as this story has finally hit the 2k follower mark. Not bad for my first story eh? I know I said I'll stop after Season 4 in the prologue but after seeing this much popularity, I might as well keep writing all the way to Shin DxD to find out how far I can go.
Take care everyone. Please leave a review and tell me what you think.
Ja Ne