PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING (you can skip everything else):

So, it's been quite a while since the last update, and this chapter was supposed to come out a lot earlier. However, an idol of my childhood had recently passed away, it was Kazuki Takahashi, the creator of Yu-Gi-Oh. Sure that guy has nothing to do with this story, but it hurt my motivation to write anything at all. He was a huge part of my childhood, you know?

If you really think about it, Vali of High School DxD was most likely inspired by one of his famous characters: the Blue-Eyes White Dragon. If you somehow don't know, just look at Vali's Balance Break/Juggernaut Drive and OG Blue-Eyes' artwork (any of Blue-Eyes' artwork actually) side by side… the resemblance is uncanny.

In any case, just allow a moment of silence before we continue…

Oh, by the way, there is an important interaction between Sonic and Rias that might not seem important at first… but do keep it in mind. It's a foreshadow. You'll know it when you see it I'm sure and if not, when the event eventually does happen, you'll probably think back to this moment anyway. There is also an active Poll on my profile I need votes for, its for a Date A Live story with lemons, so even just a random selection would help it.

From Daku Shirosaki:

Yo! I just got done reading your chapter and gotta say that explains on why that little vision with Knuckles makes sense now. More so since now know why Raiser has the Chaos Emerald. That just makes me all the more excited to see Sonic's reaction to the Chaos Emerald. Things are really heating up in this story, and this is the calm before the storm. But I know later on in the story, things will be more Chaotic than usual. You see on what I did there XD? But anyways great Chapter dude and I can't wait for the Raiser arc to begin!

Stay safe out there and I hope you have a good day or night!

P.S. it's cool dude, just check out my story whenever you have the time. I'm in no rush my guy.

Bakuganman: Not much I can really say about this review except thank you. At the time of this post, you should have the review from me.

From Guest-Questioner:

If this Sonic holds memories of the Dark Gaia incident, wouldn't he technically have,

residual dark magic stored within his very being, if not at least,

because of using the chaos emerald's so much, there was that, 'Dark Sonic"

which came to be, outside of context from Sonic X of a sort, right?

He would at least have~ what, a 1 in the magical strength stuff wouldn't he,

something to think on later I suppose?

Bakuganman: No, because that energy was extracted from him at the end of Unleashed. Dark Sonic is a Dark Super State, two different things but even then, Dark Sonic is not a main series character (this excludes Darkspine Sonic, although they have similarities).

Frol Squidzi Galaxi:

Is that a yugioh and undertale reference I see? hmmm interesting

Bakuganman: I'm surprised someone found the Undertale one. Good eye. 👍

From yasha012 (chapter 17):

Ugh, I'm sorry I've been M.I.A so much lately. I have to be honest that it's probably going to continue, but I promise I'll still read when I can! I don't have a ton to say about this chapter (I blame it on sleepiness lol), but it was good nonetheless!

Bakuganman: Its fine. Drop by when you have time and have good nights sleep. Glad you enjoyed that chapter. Since that's the case, i'm sure you love the next 2 following chapters

From Guest:

Well don't quit on this story just keep updating new chapters.

From Guest (most likely the same person):

What will happen next in the new chapter.

Bakuganman: I don't plan too. I plan to finish the 1st season just before Frontiers comes out. Which to be honest, is looking competent, and Ian did have that interview. Still praying SEGA doesn't screw it up. New chapter also starts now, but can I make a request and ask if you'd stop leaving 'What will happen next?/Where is the next chapter?' type reviews? Not that it bothers me or anything, I'm more than willing to answer if it doesn't spoil plot points, but you can save that for a PM/DM to ask me directly of you wanna know that badly.


Chapter 27: The Phenex Emerges - Part 1

POV - Tails:

The chapter opens up with a beautiful deep blue sky of Mobius, with fluffy white clouds floating around…

VROOOOOOOOOOOOM!

A blue plane suddenly flew across, its engines roaring as it took off at speeds that a normal plane probably couldn't achieve, its logo visible for a mere second as it flew past the camera. It was shown Tails was for the X-th time flying around in his plane, the Tornado 2.

He had a troubled expression on his face even as he focused on keeping the plane steady. He glanced down at the console, which had his Miles Electric mounted in it for a better view. Just like the last time it was seen, it was tracking Sonic, but still no luck.

"I don't get it… where can he be…?" Tails asked himself out loud. He's flown pretty much all over the planet at this point. Several times. It's been almost 5 weeks, and Sonic has not been seen or heard since. Not a peep or even a sighting of him anywhere.

You might think that being a creature of pure speed, that he'd be difficult to spot… actually, that's the reason most people find Sonic anyway. They usually hear wind, hence one of his many nicknames, before actually seeing him or a streak of blue speeding by. At the same time, Sonic has been known to go off on his own and appear randomly. Again, like the wind.

But to Tails… something felt off.

There was no scientific explanation he could give, but it just felt weird. Even if Sonic DOES run off all the time, he would at least return eventually, maybe check in for a few before dashing off again, be it a vacation or his next adventure. The same applied for Sonic directly, where he'd always appear if Tails was in trouble, like when he was surrounded by all those Gaia monsters during the Werehog situation.

Call it their brotherly bond if you want. Most Mobians' referred to it as their "Brother Sense" anyway.

Tails had actually just gotten back from Angel Island, having flown past it… he didn't see Knuckles at his usual spot at his altar, but maybe he was getting a drink or using the bathroom or something. Even guardians need breaks once and a while.

But even with all that said… what about Eggman? If Sonic was gone for a long period of time, why hadn't he taken action? It was so unlike the Doctor to not take such a chance for world domination. And for said scientist, 5 weeks was a long time unless he was recovering some serious heavy losses.

Something wasn't right… and it was really concerning…

BEEP-BEEP-BEEP-BEEEP! BEEP-BEEP-BEEP-BEEEP!

Tails' thoughts were interrupted by his Miles Electric going off… it finally detected something! "Sonic?" Tails asked out loud out of excitement, taking his eyes off the road (er, sky), and looked down as his invention.

Huh… that's strange… there was something he hadn't noticed before, but there was some kind of anomaly a few miles east of here. The words "Anomaly Detected" flashed in all caps and bold letters on the Miles Electric. Looking in that direction, the only thing Tails saw was either open sky or sea… well, except an island in that direction with one of Eggman's many. MANY bases. It wasn't the biggest one either, you could say it was a small hotel by Eggman standards, so it wasn't large enough to see at this distance.

"Hmm… isn't that one of Eggman's abandoned bases?" Tails said, as this was pretty common. When Eggman lost, which was quite often, he'd abandon a base of operations for a new one and set up shop elsewhere.

Actually… Sonic said he was going to collect Chaos Emeralds (which he did, in record time by the way) to go after him, for he threatened the world with another "Master Plan"… how many was that now? 10? 20? 100+?

Still looking in the distance, Tails put on a determined face and turned the wheel, by extension turning the Tornado 2 to the right. With the engines roaring and the propeller buzzing, Tails set off towards the direction of the anomaly. The scene ends with the back of the plane getting smaller as it traveled…

XXX

POV - Sonic:

ZOOOOOM!

As usual, Sonic was going out for a nighttime jog around Kouh Town, then ended it back at Issei's house. He couldn't sleep, so he figured he'd stretch his legs a little. With a hop to the fence then up to the roof, he relaxed on said roof.

Its been an interesting couple days, first the dodgeball match and then the Familiar Forest trip afterwards, though Asia had that little side quest. It seemed out of her character to run off on her own, but then again she seemed like the type of person who was innocently curious.

And seriously, what village was she taking about? Her new pet was also terrified of something when she and him awoke from a nap in the middle of the woods. He wondered why… bad dream maybe?

That's not even the worst part. Speaking of bad dreams, a day after, Issei too got some nightmares, but he claimed he would dreaming about something (hot girls most likely or something along those lines), then he'd hear a loud roar and/or voice call his name. Everything around him would then burn and he'd wake up with pain all over his left arm.

Not only that, Sonic had a bad dream just last night he was calling himself 'Ugly Sonic' at a booth to some poorly animated chipmunks… *shutter*

It was worrying, and its actually been happening for a while. The only reason Sonic learned about it was he caught Issei in the middle of one of those nightmares since the Hedgehog slept on the roof above his bedroom, jumping through the window (which Issei forgot to close that particular night) to see whom was attacking only for the Boosted Teen to be tossing and turning.

The nightmares were making Issei tired at school from lack of sleep, not that he was a straight "A" student by any sense of the imagination, but it would start affecting those grades pretty soon.

Sonic drifted off sometime later. Tomorrow was another day.

XXX

POV - Issei:

When did this happen? How did it happen? More importantly, WHY was it happening?! Issei was dressed in a nice tuxedo, something he wouldn't be caught dead wearing and gasped out loud because of it, and standing by the 2 other members of the Perverted Trio who wore something similar. They were crying, though it wasn't clear if they were tears of joy or sorrow.

"It's not fair, yo!" Cried Matsuda.

"How did he get a wedding before us?" Cried Motohama.

"Wedding? Whose getting...?" Issei asked aloud, but that's when he took in more of the scene around him, being in front an altar. Standing on said altar before him was a bride, holding a banquet of flowers, though her face was covered by her beautiful wedding dress that was either a bit on the smaller side to emphasize all the brides curves and HUGE bust, or maybe that's the way it was tailored.

Not that that was a problem or anything… least, in Issei's regular state of mind. This was happening too quickly!

"Come on, pal," said a very familiar voice behind Issei, who turned around and was even more shocked to see who it belonged too.

"S-Sonic?!" Issei questioned, as the alien too was dressed in a tux of his own, but a smaller size for obvious reasons. The hedgehog even wore matching pants… actual pants! "What the hell…?!"

SHOVE!

"Move it! Don't keep your wife waiting!" Sonic said, using 2 hands to push Issei up the altar.

"Wife?!… DUDE! Look who your talking too!" Issei self-roasted as Sonic continued to push him but Issei was too much in shock to fight back. "Come on, quit playing around! What's going on here? Who's wedding really is this?"

"Silly boy, it's ours" said the bride, lifting up the fabric covering her face. The first thing that was noticed was the long red hair…

"R… Rias…?" Issei asked, now extremely confused. Getting married to Rias?!… well, that's not the worst thing in the world, in fact probably the best thing to happen to him… if only it made sense. Not only that, they were currently in a church. Everyone was here: his parents (who were also crying), Asia, Akeno, Kiba, Koneko, etc; but wouldn't this trigger holy pain or his Devil senses be going off like crazy?

Akeno's Voice: So happy for you, Rias!

Asia's Voice: Um, me too… have a good life...

Koneko's Voice: Don't go too crazy later tonight...

'Is this for real?… Like legit… am I actually marrying her?' Issei thought. He couldn't deny Rias look fantastic in her wedding dress. She was already attractive regardless, but something about the gown made her beauty radiate exponentially.

'Wait… if were getting hitched, that means we'll be making babies… and according to anime, that happens right after wedding night!' Issei thought, thinking about Rias naked being only covered by bedsheets. He then covered his nose from a possible nosebleed.

Strangely, Sonic did not reprimand him for this… maybe he was letting it go since this was Iseei's "special day?"

"You may kiss the bride" said the priest. Rias turned to Issei with her eyes closed and lips puckered, red lipstick glossed over them, waiting for the man of her dreams to seal the deal. She looked really happy. Not that Issei didn't want to kiss her, she looked gorgeous!... He just couldn't find the strength to move.

Then everything burned around him, though their were no screams of pain as if no one seemed to give a shit, leaving Issei alone and stumped in a now black void. "... match made in hell, alright" he said.

[Hot and bothered again now, are we?] A deep powerful male voice suddenly called out, sounding like it was coming from everywhere all at once. [Can't you dream of anything else?] It also sounded annoyed to a degree.

Issei flinched when the voice spoke, having heard the exact same voice for the past few days, and looked around the black void; but saw nothing. "What, your spying on my wet dreams?" He asked.

THAT'S. When an eye opened up before him. A large red eye, the same red color as his Booster Gear had. Not only that, a figure suddenly burst into existence from flames, and in the shape of a VERY LARGE red dragon. Additionally, Issei was also floating in midair somehow, yet while he felt the heat of the swirling fire, he was not hurt by it. This might be because he was a Devil now.

He thought it was Rassei at first, but then remembered the little dragon breathed lightning. Not fire.

[Not like I have much of a choice. After all, I AM inside you.] The Voice/Dragon responded. [Truth is, I've been calling out to you for quite a few years now; even recently whenever you used my power such as against the Fallen Ones. But either my voice never reached you because you weren't strong enough until now, or perhaps your training with that Hedgehog and subsequent friendship with those Devils finally flipped the switch.]

The Hedgehog? The Fallen Ones? The Devils?… That was indirectly mentioning Sonic, the ORC and Raynare, right?… Was this dragon really spying on him?! And being INSIDE him?!… What the fuck did THAT mean! That can be taken out of context in so many different ways!

"Inside me? What are you talking about? I don't understand! At least get me dinner first!" Issei said, mainly out of confusion.

The large dragon either didn't understand the slang, or chose to ignore Issei's comment altogether. [I merely came to say hello, meet my new partner face-to-face, the one I'll be fighting alongside with from now on during this new cycle.] He said.

"P-Parther? N-New Cycle? I still don't know who the hell you are!" Issei just had even more questions.

[You will know soon enough. Just keep getting stronger. I will give you my power at anytime you want. But keep in mind: great power, comes with a great sacrifice…] The moment after the dragon within said that, Issei saw a glow, then felt his Boosted Gear activate all on its own! But it was painful! If he wasn't feeling burning from the fire around him, he felt like his arm was being heated up from the inside! He instinctively grabbed it.

Then he woke up in the middle if the night, now in his boxers and T-shirt while laying down in his bed, also grabbing his arm like he was in the dream, but the pain was now gone. Seeing he wasn't in danger anymore, he sat up in his bed and sighed. These dreams were getting even worse as time continued to pass.

XXX

In school later that morning in homeroom, Issei released a huge yawn while at his desk. He tried going back to sleep after last nights visit to a dragons realm, but he was just lying for awhile before officially going back to sleep. Despite that, he slept in very late and barely made it to school, but thankfully Asia (whom was already fully dressed and ready to go) was kind enough to lend him a hand and get him moving.

"What's eating you, man? You tired?" Asked Matsuda, he and Motohama walking up to the sleepy pervert.

"You have no idea…" said Issei with a tired groan. "Had this crazy dream that kept me up all night."

Immediately, the other 2 perverts reacted. "If by crazy you mean crazy wet dream, then start slipping! Give us the details!" Motohama said, practically ordering Issei.

"It was hot, I'll give you that." Issei answered in a sarcastic tone, for once not in the mood to deal with them right now. Too much has been happening to and around him lately, and it put a mental strain in his brain. "I honestly don't know what to tell ya, things have been… crazy lately." Was all Issei was willing to say on the matter.

It's not like he could tell them he met an alien, was no longer human, almost got blown up in a church, and recently zapped by a baby dragon 4 times in one day. They probably wouldn't believe him, and Issei wasn't willing to demonstrate proof with power he barely knew how to use.

"Oh, now I guess it makes sense why you slept in so late." Said Asia, as Issei always had his alarm go off. In fact, she happened to hear it when she was leaving her room, only to find Issei still out of it. Or as Sonic put it when he was made aware of what happened: 'he booked a Snooze Cruise'.

"Yeah, but I have you to thank for waking me up this morning." Issei thanked Asia, who was sitting behind him.

"Aw, no way!" Both the other males said at the exact same time."Your wake up call is Asia?!" Asked Motohama.

"You get awoken by Shorty?!" Added Matsuda.

Normally Issei would deny such accusations… but he smiled then, which kind of looked like one Sonic would bring up once in a while. Maybe he'll just mess with a little… "I am, its not complicated. We are living together, plus we're in and out of each others rooms all the time." He answered playfully, but Matsuda and Motohama took it seriously.

"Issei's so funny, he'll accidentally walk in sometimes when I'm in the middle of changing." Asia added in a cheerful, which this did happen at times, but she was too innocent to be offended by it. To Issei's credit, it WAS accidental.

"And to top it off, she makes a mean french toast. Ma was praising her for all her hard work." Issei added.

"Oh, stop! Your making me blush!" Asia said, holding her cheeks with a smile on her face from the praise.

Matsuda and Motohama gasped, taking all that out of context. "Why do all the hot chicks flock all over this guy!" Motohama said.

"There's gotta be a catch, its making me go nuts!" Matsuda said. Issei rather enjoyed this. It was like a repeat of his friends meeting Yuma/Raynare only this time there was no memory wipe.

"Say, my good man," Motohama began to say. "Why not spread the love a little? Maybe hook us up with a lady friend?" He said, then bowed and put his hands together as if praying. "OH, GREAT ONE! We are not worthy, but would be elated by your generosity!"

Issei could already think of a few things Sonic would say in response to that. Now that he thought about it, he wondered how the alien would get along with his fellow pervs. He and Sonic got along great, maybe he'll be willing to meet them sometime? Of course the disguise might help, or it might fail and they'll freak out which sounded like it would be funny to see.

He'll debate more about it later. "I don't know. Not much I can really do." Issei told him. 'Not like I can say they're all Devils…' He thought, mainly because his friends would find that hard to believe. The joke of the school was the Queens of Kuoh (Rias and Akeno) were so beautiful that they couldn't be human, but not like anyone would actually believe that.

"If you can set us up, you shall be rewarded accordingly." Motohama added, and his tone peaked Issei's interest. "How does a VIP lounge sound?"

Half of Issei's brain was replaying what Sonic said about saying 'no'. Was this one of those times? Because the other half was telling him: 'VIP? SCORE!' He then shook his head twice to shake the perverted thoughts away. "Um… I'm not sure…" Issei attempted to stay rational.

"Well, there's free food, drinks, and: an excellent view from the window seat." Motohama added again.

It was too much stimulation. Issei could no longer deny them. He quickly pulled up his phone, and sent a text message to a number. "Your in luck, boys. I had the perfect one and mind."

"Really?" Motohama asked, going into pervert mode.

"She had a free day so she's able to met up." Issei said.

"You da man, son!" Matsuda said, he and Motohama getting excited.

"What's she like?" Asked Motohama.

"Well… definitely a virgin…" Issei said, thinking about whom it was he called, but he didn't look excited about it.

"A virgin!" Both Matsuda and Motohama said while clasping each others hands almost like how one would patty-cake.

"Your the best, yo!" Mastuda said.

"So where can we met her?" Asked Motohama.

Issei sweatdropped and answered with: "… Apartment 206."

As for Asia, while she didn't understand most of the conversations carefully selected words, she figured it was just guy talk.

XXX

Later…

Frilly undergarments and the curvy bodies of many female students were seen by all 3 members of the Perverted Trio from within an unmarked locker in the girls locker room. It was in the middle of the aisle as well, so it provided the perfect view with a wide range in both directions.

"Today's the beef day! Those clothes definitely hid those huge party utters!" Said Matsuda.

"So, Mister Hyoudou, is the VIP Lounge up to your standards?" Asked Motohama.

"It's literally the tits!" Issei said, thoroughly enjoying the view, then noted a new girl walking by and going for her locker. "Koneko?" He asked. She then began to change out of her school uniform and into her gym clothes like everyone else was doing. Unaware she was being watched by the opposite sex, she took off her bra to put in a sports counterpart. Issei and the boys, saw everything. "Saving to cranial memory… backup at HD quality completed!" Issei added, enjoying the view a little too much.

The girls began to clear out, heading for P.E. class itself. "Well, gentlemen, looks like the VIP room is… huh?" Motohama said, but they all noticed Koneko stopped right in front of the locker they were using as she too began to leave, her body facing the direction of the exit…

POW!

All 3 males gritted their teeth in fear. Koneko just punched the "VIP room" door without even looking at it, her tiny fist making a dent in the metal as she kept it in place, having used a fraction of her Rook strength.

POW!

Much harder, she punched it again after removing her first fist, only this time aiming more downwards. 2 of the 3 boys groaned, and when then locker fell off (having its hinges broken off due to the door being dented by Koneko's power), they were revealed to be Motohama and Matsuda. They both fell down in pain, Issei being revealed to be hiding behind them.

"Guys? You oka-…" Issei asked, but stopped upon seeing Koneko look straight into the locker right at him. There was only one emotion on her face… unhappy. That was probably the nicest way to describe it. "… Heeeeeeeeey, Koneko! What's uuuuuuuuup!" Issei said, in a cheerfully nervous voice.

All she did was lift up her hands… while cracking her knuckles.

XXX

POV - Normal:

At the end of the day at the club room, Koneko (in normal uniform now) and Issei were late, but the loli Devil then showed up dragging Issei behind her. Not bothering to drag him the rest of the way, she let him go at the door. Issei's face was covered with bumps and was all swollen worse than hell.

Sonic, who was sitting on one of the sofas, sighed. "… What happened?" He asked, although he had a pretty good idea already.

Koneko jumped on the opposite sofa. "VIP lounge." She answered. To be fair, she left the other 2 alone… they had an army to deal with when they were found half-conscious.

"Ara, ara. There was a report some boys were caught in the girls locker room a while ago." Said Akeno and with her statement, it didn't take long for the group to figure out the rest.

"Just hold still, Issei. I'll only take a minute." Asia said, having rushed over to help Issei anyway and heal him with Twilight Healing. Now that Issei appeared in his current state, she understood what all the coded language in class was about.

"Don't push yourself, Asia." Koneko said dryly, obviously still pissed at Issei for the stunt he pulled, and wanted him to suffer a bit more.

"Honestly Issei, I don't understand you sometimes." Rias said while leaning against her desk. She wasn't scolding Issei at the moment, but merely sharing what she felt. "One minute, you're willing to put your life and humanity on the line; then the next one, your such a boy." She continued, as she had observed this from him several times before.

Upon being fully healed, Issei still sat on the floor and turned his neck to look back at Rias. "What? My friends invited me. Didn't want to be rude." Issei said with a smug anime face. All he was missing now was a pair of 'deal with it' glasses.

Sonic reached up to one of his quills with 2 fingers…

*ping* TOSS!

"OW! The fu-…?" Issei felt something prick him on the side of his head. When he reached up to feel it, which he then felt the offending object, he pulled it out to show a blue quill in-between his fingers. He glared at Sonic, only for him to suddenly have a book in front of his face as if he was reading it… how convenient…

It had a weird name by the way… Encyclo-speed-ia…

"Issei! If seeing girls naked is what you want, then…" Asia said, having a puffed up face then looked embarrassed, but then continued but grabbing the helm of her skirt. "Look at me!"

"NO, Asia! That's not it, you got it all wrong!" Issei immediately stopped her (which surprised everyone considering who he was) by waving his hands in defense. Yes, he wanted to see girls naked (who wouldn't?); but Asia was a little different. They were living together so it felt kind of awkward, which was ironic coming from Issei.

"She's only trying to help." Rias said. "Ya know, if its that important to you, all you have to do is ask. I'll show you anything." She offered, not offended or opposed to the topic in question. To no one's surprise really.

"Wait, seriously?!" Issei asked, needing to be sure he heard that and not just imagine it. Sonic was very tempted to toss another quill at him, if not for Rias' next line.

"Of course. I'll show you mine anytime. Not like nothing you haven't seen before, on or off paper." Rias said with a smile, being either very understanding or just flirty.

"Ya know, a real mother would scorn their child…" Sonic said, flatly. Looking at Rias.

"And a real dog would sleep in a dog house." Rias commented back to Sonic, now frowning. She wasn't looking at him, but closing her eyes when she said this.

Like he did with Issei, Sonic pricked a quill out of his hair, and tossed it at Rias. As the quill flew, Rias simply opened her eyes again, though the camera was focused on one of her eyes, where this eye glowed red a second after opening…

*hisssssssss…*

The quill burned up mere second before it could make contact with the Devil Kings flawless white skin. These 2 acts caused both Devil and Mobian to stare at each other. There was always tension between those two, both of whom looked like they kept control of their emotions but at the same time could snap at any moment.

Thankfully, no arguments broke out this time. "Besides, he's already seen me naked… a lot." She said, then gave a cheeky smile and head cock upon saying 'a lot', though this was directed at Issei.

"Yeah, not like it gets old or anything." Issei said with a blushing smile, also rubbing the back of his neck. Again, this would have prompted Sonic to do something to him… it was Asia this time.

YANK!

"JEEZ! ISSEI!" Asia pinched Issei's cheek and pulled in her direction, making Issei stretch quite a bit, and it looked rather painful. Both Sonic and Rias smiled at this, but for 2 different reasons. Akeno also noticed this as well, and while seeing Sonic's reaction to this was normal, Rias' seemed to confirm her earlier theory that perhaps… she liked Issei a little more than a regular servant.

XXX

"I'm sorry Issei, but I don't like it when your face gets that look." Said Asia as she, Issei, Kiba, Sonic and Koneko all left the clubhouse. She apologized for her actions, but didn't like it when Issei made those faces, especially at other girls.

"Looks like what? This is just how my face looks." Issei said.

While walking, Sonic fluffed up his quills with both hands and changed his hairstyle to resemble Issei's minus the 2 locks of hair tied in the back. "Hi, I'm Issei. I wander into VIP lounges cuz I don't wanna be rude." Sonic mimicked Issei's voice to the best if his ability.

Asia couldn't help but giggle, Kiba did smile at the antic, though Koneko remained quiet about it… she had to admit, that was accurate.

Issei stared hard at Sonic for a few seconds. "… I, I don't sound like that!" He said.

"Dude, that's like dead-on." Kiba said.

Issei grumbled, but returned fire at Sonic (minus messing with his own hair). "I'm Sanic! Sanic da Hedgehog! I sink like a rock and run around looking for 7 Easter Eggs!" He said, making fun Sonic's inability to swim and his quest for 7 special items.

Sonic slowly lost his smile, his mood downing, and he stopped walking. Everyone saw this and stopped walking themselves. Issei immediately felt bad, seeing he probably took it a little too far. 'Aw, shit. I'm such a jerk.' He thought. "Hey, bro. I'm…"

"Nah… don't sweat it, Dragon Boy." Sonic said, looking like he was piping back up, but that could either be genuine or it was an act. "I mean, I figured me or at least SOMEONE would've found one by now… underwater, a volcano, a construction zone… ya know, SOMEWHERE!" Sonic continued. "I've been over every inch of this city, and still nothing!… Maybe they were never brought here after all…"

The Devils all feel sorry for the alien, but what more can they do? Asia and Issei believed him, even though he lacked any evidence. It wasn't clear what Akeno thought of them. As for Kiba and Koneko… they were torn on what to believe.

Unlike Rias, who flat-out denied the existence of those Emeralds, Kiba and Koneko wanted to believe Sonic. They really did. He seemed like a decent guy, nice to be around, and quite strong despite his small size kind of like Koneko. He didn't seem like the type of person who would lie either, but near-limitless power stored in seven individual items as opposed to one singular was a concept they simply did not understand, nor could they really grasp.

They continued to walk together for as long as they could, until they had to separate as they had different homes.

XXX

POV - Rias:

Rias watched the others leave from the clubroom window. Issei was quite the strange one, and its not like it gets boring with him around… or even his pet blue dog to a degree, but her thoughts were more on Issei right now.

"Ya know, its funny," Akeno suddenly said, interrupting the Ruined Ones thoughts while also getting her attention. "Despite only becoming a Devil recently, the reviews Issei gets are all very positive." The Queen continued as she straightened out some papers by tapping them gently on the table, having just gone through them all. "Our clients keep saying stuff like: 'this guys so much fun'; 'had a great time, looking forward to seeing him again'; or 'where has this kid been the whole time? He's a riot'." Akeno recalled a few reviews she had just read.

"Yet except for the one he did with you, he's never gotten a pact signed himself… but the customers seem to like him, though technically this would normally be a list of failures for a Devil." Akeno added. "Then there's Sonic. Plenty of clients keep saying they're impressed with the speedy delivery, and have started recommending us more to friends, which is good for business I suppose."

Rias took that information in. This was a first. Like Akeno said, not getting pacts DOES in fact mean mission failed. Getting them delivered was also hard enough, even with Familiars, but both Sonic and Issei had just gotten then tons of more business despite all of that.

Those two just kept throwing her more curveballs with each passing day, don't they?

"… Interesting… it is still a problem though." Rias said, folding her arms.

"Though in his own way, Issei is tryin-" Akeno started but Rias cut her off.

"That's not what I mean…" She said in a low tone. "Your right. He IS trying, but it hasn't been enough. He's still struggling to unleash his powers. He barely beat Raynare on his own, and only because she focused on Sonic first…" Rias said, which was true. Despite the training he does with Sonic on the side, the only time he's shown any potential at all was with Raynare when Asia's life was hanging in the balance. That's not to say Rias wasn't proud of his victory, but it was still a glaring issue.

"Then there was what happened with the Familiars… in theory, he should have been more than enough of a match for the Hydra, if only he knew out to unlock his own power…" Rias added, then closed her eyes. "And yes; maybe the switch in his head flipped with the Slime," she then opened her eyes back up and looked away in the direction of the door. "But I'm concerned that all that and now this on top of it will make him lose confidence in himself… I have to support him. He needs me now more than ever…" Rias finished.

Akeno stared at Rias for a bit longer, then smiled. She also couldn't help but think that last sentence regarding her intentions of support was a bit of projection on the Kings part. Giving Issei something she currently wasn't getting from her fellow Devils back in the Underworld.

"Ara. That's quite assertive of you, isn't it?" Akeno asked, though it could be also interpreted as a statement.

Rias looked back at her Queen. "Is there a point your trying to make?"

"Not really, its just… your sudden commitment to Issei is… fascinating." Akeno said. In the time she had known Rias, yes she wanted to help people, or at least as much she could, but also had a style of letting things work out on their own. The most she'd used to do was maybe a small nudge. Basically, she'd let her peerage and those she asked to join it make their own choices with her rarely getting too deeply involved.

Even when Akeno was given the chance… well, she took it the moment it was offered, but the point still stands.

"I didn't get this much help when I was recruited." Akeno continued. "Kiba and Asia didn't either. And yeah, that was that thing with Koneko, but you've mostly been the laissez-faire type of girl. Letting people make their own choices… ya know, freedom."

Rias knew EXACTLY what she was saying, especially that line about freedom, which was something Sonic had mentioned. Despite the arguments they had, she still sounded much like him.

"Are we back to this again?" Rias asked.

Akeno held her smile before answering after a few seconds. "Don't think none of us haven't noticed the long hours you spend researching dimensional travel."

Rias gritted her teeth, but recovered quickly. She closed her eyes again. "Please. The only reason I agreed to any of this was because of the deal with Issei." She said, reopening her eyes afterward. "As far as I'm concerned, the sooner that stuffed animal finds his way home, the better… I have bigger problems to worry about." Rias added. One of these 'bigger problems' hasn't bothered her in quite some time, but it'd be stupid to think it was just gonna go away.

"… He's helped out Issei allot." Akeno then said not in a playful tone this time, but a soft one. This didn't get a physically reaction from Rias this time, instead more of a mental one. This was very much true. Sonic seemed to inspire Issei to a degree, from learning how to start using his Sacred Gear, step up for himself and even stand up to her a few times. That's the reason he also became a Devil even after warning him of the consequences. "So maybe before he goes… he can help you." Akeno added, maintaining her soft voice.

Rias was allowed a moment to take all that in. "… Don't be ridiculous." She said, in a somewhat depressed tone. "Sonic can't help me. No one can, no one has… no one will." Rias said while looking down. "This is something I have to deal with on my own…"

Akeno looked at Rias in a very concerned way. The Queen could see this was really starting to eat at the redhead, or most likely it has been eating at her for a long time and only now it was becoming very visible. "Rias…"

"I appreciate the concern, Akeno." Rias cut Akeno off again, but did speak honestly and let her know she valued her support. "And I'm flattered my best friend is worrying about me… but I'm still president of this club. Therefore, its my problem to deal with."

Akeno still believed Rias should maybe talk to someone, but the last thing they needed was another argument between themselves like last time. This is the way Rias had always dealt with things, even when it concerned her peerage members both before and after they were offered to be her servants. "… yes, madame President." Akeno said, getting up and giving her a bow. "But with all due respect; just think about it."

Rias did not answer, so whether or not she would think on it was unclear. Regardless, Akeno left the room, leaving Rias alone. With her gone, the King looked out the window just like she did before.

However, not even a full 30 seconds had passed when a light entered the room on the floor. It was a Gremory glyph, but it wasn't her own. It was full of power… power she did not have. Arising from it was what appeared to be a maid, just as busty as she was. That's when Rias' eyes narrowed at this new person.

XXX

POV - Issei:

Back with Issei, he was laying on his bed with his eyes closed and arms behind his head. Sonic was in the room with him actually, but Issei's parents weren't home just yet so it was safe. The Hedgehog was sitting in the rolling chair in Issei's room, reading that same Encyclo-speed-ia book.

"Well, I guess Koneko officially hates my guts." Said Issei, feeling bad for what he did after the fact.

"Gee. I wonder why…" Sonic asked sarcastically and in a dry tone while turning a page slowly.

"Why do I have to be such an ass all the time?" Issei asked aloud.

"That's a really good question…" Sonic kept his dry sarcasm, turning another page.

"Ya know, your negative attitude, is NOT helping!" Issei said, sitting up straight and snapping at Sonic.

"Well maybe if you said 'no' in the first place." Sonic said, lowering his book down so his face can be seen.

"I did at first!" Issei complained. "I tried! But the temptation was too much!"

WHAM!

"ARGH!" Issei's face was then concealed by Sonic's book before it fell off him due to gravity. The pervert rubbed his face to get the pain out, with Sonic giving him a look. "… okay… I deserve that." Issei said.

Sonic then sighed. "Look pal, I don't care if your gonna be yourself, maybe say something stupid at times; but just keep it in your pants once in a while."

"Easy for you to say! You don't even wear pants!" Issei said, then sighed himself. "I need a shower…" Issei then got up and went to a drawer, grabbing a white T-shirt and blue boxers. He grabbed underwear as well of course.

"You do that." Said Sonic, jumping off the bed. "I'm gonna do one last sweep of the town. Maybe I missed something." With that, he opened the window and took off out of it. It was dusk right now, so it shouldn't be an issue for him to go out since it was going to be dark soon anyway. Not that anyone would see him with his speed. Once he hit the ground, he bolted in a flash of blue, of course stirring up some wind in the process.

He was gone before Issei could wish him luck, though he probably already knew.

In any case, Issei took the new set of clothes and went into the bathroom. He then took everything off, and just when he opened to door to the room with the tub in it…

Long blonde hair… back to him in a sitting position… naked…

Asia was in the bath first, and didn't lock the door. Not only that, she happened to turn around at the same time the door was opened…

"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!" No… that wasn't Asia. She just got red and flushed. The actual screamers hands immediately shot down to his privates. "Sorry! Leaving! Leaving now!" Issei turned to leave just like he said…

GRAB.

Before he could get too far, Asia had grabbed his arm, forcing him to stop. "S… Sorry," Issei repeated, though a little calmer. "I wasn't paying attention, I guess I should have knocked or something."

"N-No… I-I'm sorry." Asia apologized herself. "I… should have locked the door first…" She was all flustered, having never seen a man's… ya know. Not even in pictures. Being raised in a church environment, she was taught to not think about such things, at least not until she was married. "But… that's okay!" She stood up, but still did not let Issei go.

Issei did a double-take. It was 'okay'? "Uh, w-whats okay?" He felt the need to ask.

"T-T-This." Asia said. "W-We can make the most of it."

Issei at that point felt his heart skip a beat… she didn't mean what he was thinking she meant, did she? "Make the most of it?" He couldn't help but repeat.

"Y… Yeah… I heard a rule… about Japanese bath culture." Asia said, trying to get the words out as this was not only a bit awkward, but it was also new territory for her.

"Oh… really?…" Issei asked, getting nervous again, his voice almost squeaking. "What kind of rule?"

"That… taking a bath together… brings people closer together." Said Asia. "It helps people get to know each other better."

Issei blushed, just as red as Asia was a second ago. This was Asia speaking… her saying this stuff of all people… she was not seriously going down this road, was she? 'What does she want to know? If I'm a shower or a grower?!' He asked himself. Now technically, Asia wasn't wrong with anything she said; but whether or not she misinterpreted it due to her innocence or knew exactly what it meant was unclear.

*smoosh*

Issei flinched. He felt something, or rather somethings, on his back… things that were squishy and soft.

"I just… want to understand you more, Issei! Get closer to you!" Asia said, meaning every word she said. "Besides, you like seeing people naked, and I can be one of those people!"

'Oh no! No-no-no-no-no-no, say "No" Issei! Say "NOOOOOOO"!' Issei panicked, repeatedly yelling in his head while trying to calm himself, keep his sanity together and not lose it. Not that Asia wasn't his type or anything, in fact the mere thought and feel of Asia right now was titillating. But it was like imagining his own mother naked… it was weird and off-limits.

With a large amount of willpower and tightly shutting his eyes, Issei turned around and gently pushed Asia off of him while gently grabbing her shoulders. "Look, Asia… being naked with someone else is… complicated." Issei tried explaining, also trying not to fantasize about a naked Asia anymore than he's already seen. "I mean, getting in the tub with someone is not the best time to get to know them."

"Here, Asia. I got you a towel like you a…" the door opened again to show Issei's mom was bringing Asia a towel, probably on her request. Of course when this happened, Issei froze up while looking back at his mother while also sweating bullets. This was totally not what it looked like, but the words wouldn't come out.

POV - Sonic:

Several streaks of blue zipped throughout the night streets of Kuoh Town, in-between buildings and along the top and sides of them (going straight over them as well), parks and parking lots, before finally stopping in front of Issei's house.

Nothing. Even after one final sweep, every nook and cranny in this city, to even a quick jog to other continents' in this dimension and looking them over too. Still. Nothing. Not one single Emerald or even a faint energy signature of one of them anywhere!

Could it really be the Chaos Emeralds didn't transport here along with him? It wasn't really out of the realm of possibly, as there had been plenty of times he had transported to another plane of existence and the Emeralds were never in the same place. They always had the habit of appearing when they're needed, like if and when they WANTED to be found, or if by some miracle someone would stumble upon one completely by accident. Of course, this normally set off a chain of events that will get the other six involved in some way, shape or form.

Then again, he's always found away home even without a Chaos Control portal. Looks like this was going to be one of those times. He just hoped he could get back home before Eggman made too big of a mess. And if he couldn't, most likely his friends could hold him off. They did plenty of times before.

As Sonic walked up to the gate of Issei's house, he noted a small package by the front door. It was a package from Amazon. "Huh… they got drones here too?" Sonic asked aloud. Curious, he took a look at the mail… World's End Harem Anime? The heck was that?

Sonic simply sighed. While he didn't know the context of that "story", it was definitely ordered by Issei mainly because it had the word "harem" in it… the kid would constantly go on about becoming the "Harem King".

Figuring he would want it, Sonic picked up the small bag in one arm, put his ear to the door to make sure nobody was there (more specifically Issei's parents), and opened the door to the house without thinking. He didn't expect it to be unlocked, so maybe they forgot to lock up or something.

Regardless, he entered. Locking it as he shut it.

XXX

POV - Issei:

Around the same time just before Sonic returned, Issei was sitting on his bed after finally finishing his bathing after Asia was done… and both of them insisting the scene Miki walked in on was NOT what it appeared to be. He was currently sat in a Buddha-like sitting position, which included the hand and finger positions as well, and his eyes were closed.

"I am not a sex fiend. I am not a perv… I am not a sex fiend. I am not a perv…" He repeated to himself in a calm voice. Though even as he said this, images of a naked Asia did flash by in sexy poses the girl would never probably do. "I won't think of her naked. I won't think of her naked. Dear lord, I won't-…"

PANG!

"DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Issei lost focus and grabbed his head in pain with both hands. He had a 'Devil Migraine' due to beginning to pray. He also fell on the floor. "Owwwwww… I was taking your name in vain, I swear."

Then the humming of a magic circle got his attention, where he then saw the Gremory symbol take shape right in front of his bedroom door, then flash. Someone was coming through… it was Rias herself, which he probably shouldn't be too surprised over. Not only that, she looked upset about something, looking as if she had just gotten away from something that troubled her.

"Rias?… It was an accident, I swear!" Issei said, then really took a good look at her. She didn't just look upset… she looked borderline depressed. "Hey… everything okay?" Issei asked, slowly getting up.

However, Rias then got on top of him. Issei's brain normally would have went to a dirty place, but something about the buxom Devil didn't feel right. Her face, which was closer, screamed desperation. "Issei! This is urgent! You have to take it!" She said.

Issei just lied on the floor, a utterly hot demon literally on top of him right now. He felt his brain malfunction. "T-Take what?" He asked, as 'take it' had a huge pool of what it could mean.

Rias: My virginity… You need to take it now!

"… excuse me?…" Issei squeaked, his pupils now very small and his eyes wide. His mind was going just as fast, if not faster, as Sonic could run… he had to be hallucinating, right? That Holy pain must have knocked a screw loose or something. There was no way a girl, even if THIS girl didn't mind showing anything, would offer her first time to him of all people… yeah, they've been through allot; but its been only about a month!

"It's important! Sleep with me, please!" Rias said. "Here." She then helped him back up, or rather used supernatural Devil strength to lift him up with little difficulty, not as easily as Koneko could but still and impressive feat. "It'd probably be easier if the mood was set right." She said after Issei was on his bed.

A smaller magic circle of the Gremory house appeared over the light switch, and flipped it off, of course turning the lights out. Rias then began to take off her clothes… in the dark. Issei could only watch with stunned silence.

'oooookay… this is actually happening…' he said to himself. 'Like, she really wants her first time to be with me?' He asked himself, then his expression from shock to a pervy smile. 'Probably cuz I'm such a stuuuuuuud…' his expression then shifted again, this time to hold in his perversion. 'Wait, hold on; is this another one of those times where I should say "no"?' He asked himself again, caught between a rock and a hard place.

Because if it WAS one of those times… she wasn't exactly making it easy for him…

"Is this too sudden?" Asked Rias, the only thing keeping her unexposed was a white bra and panties. "Do you not want me?"

"No! It's fine! Your great, your amazing! I mean, I'm sure you will be, I'm sure you are, I mean…" Issei panicked, waving his arms out in defense.

"I've considered many options, Issei… time and time again I've tried… but it seems there's no other way." Rias ranted, still sounding down.

"W-Wait, other way?" Issei caught her words, though not understanding the context of them. Rias did not answer, probably not paying any attention and was walking to the edge of Issei's bed.

"Once it becomes known I've been deflowered... I'll finally be free." She said. "Issei... your the only person I can trust with this. Sure your still lacking in most areas, but you still have tons of potential."

"... Um... thanks?" Issei said, unsure how to respond to that.

"What I need for you doesn't really require skill per say. Just climax when I tell you too." Rias added, which shocked Issei she even said that.

"Uh! That's not how it works...!" Issei told her but again, she didn't appear to listen. She just on top of him again, only this time it felt more intimate. He could do nothing to stop her.

"Issei… your a virgin too right?" Rias asked, as that has been a talking point for Issei for awhile. She was also unclasping her bra at this time.

"Y-Yeah…" Issei answered.

"Well, it might not be perfect but, we'll figure it out." Rias said, finally getting the fabric off and exposing her huge breasts as they bobbed free from containment. Issei, of course having a thing for breasts, couldn't help but lock his eyes on them. Issei could not believe his luck. Not only was this girl offering herself to him, but she was insanely hot! It was a dream come true!…

But… it felt wrong. Don't get him wrong, he'd love to get this on… but it didn't seem right. Rias didn't look happy in the slightest… something was very wrong right now, and it was clearly bothering Rias. While Issei's brain was yelling yes, his heart was screaming no. He could not in good conscience force himself to go through with this.

Rias either saw his hesitation or was nervous herself. "I-It's okay… y-you only have to put yours into mine…" She said, then took one of Issei's hands and placed it on her left boob… this was like last time, only Issei respectfully denied it back then. Immediately, Issei had the urge to squeeze it, but from both nervousness and the wrong feeling he was getting prevented him from doing so.

"If it makes you feel better… I'm nervous too." Rias admitted, her heart beating a little faster.

"Yeah… I feel that…" Issei squeaked out, feeling her heart indeed quicken in its speed… then again, that's not the only thing he was feeling…

"I gave you a time limit before… but take as long as you need…" Rias said, in the shiest yet also sexiest voice and face Issei could never imagine or had seen in porno. Issei was frozen. He couldn't move or think straight. So many different thoughts were running through his head.

*creak!*

Sonic: Hey Issei, you got a packa…

No words were spoken… what could really be said? Sonic had just walked into Issei's room, hand on the knob and his other arm holding the package in it, and Rias and Iseei were in bed together, Rias on top of him and her back facing Sonic. Issei and Rias stared in shock at Sonic, Sonic stared at Issei and Rias… he had no emotion, his face just paused itself.

*creeeeeeeeeak…*

Sonic slowly turned around while also shutting the door behind him with equal speed, leaving the Devils in the dark alone again.

Although the moment was interrupted, Rias looked back down at Issei a few seconds after Sonic left. "Its fine… just a minor setback…" she said, still sounding nervous. "Go ahead, Issei… do whatever you want."

That last sentence was Issei's favorite sentence in the entire world… but he still could not move. "R-Rias…" he said. "I don't think this is a good idea…"

"So your going to deny me?" Asked Rias, sounding hurt.

Issei's eyes widened. That's not what he meant! "No! Its just…!"

"Your not going to help me?" Rias asked.

"NO! I WANT… I MEAN…!" Issei said, as that's not what he meant either!

*knock, knock, knock*

Knocking stopped both teens, forcing them to look at the closed bedroom door in shock. If that was Asia or Issei's mom or dad; or worse, all three… how were going to get out of this?!

"Ya know, there's people trying to sleep here…" came Sonic's voice in a mentally exhausted tone, having gently kicked the door with the back of his foot while leaning on the door with his arms folded, all while still holding the Amazon delivery.

Rias' eyes and facial expression changed from shock to annoyance. This was now the second time the mood was killed. "DO YOU MIND?! WE'RE BUSY RIGHT NOW!" Rias yelled due to her own emotions.

Sonic rubbed a temple with closed eyes and 2 fingers while his free arm remained crossed. "Yeah. I saw that…" he answered dryly.

Another light appeared in Issei's room right at that moment, and again the same symbol as Rias'. Who the hell was coming through now? However when this occurred, Sonic's quills tingled severely. That's when he looked down to the crack under the door and saw the lights. He also felt a VERY strong power.

Rias' and Issei's antics aside, the Hedgehog immediately dropped the package, opened the door again, and entered the room in a defensive stance, intent on protecting Issei and Rias… but color him surprised when he saw the Gremory magic circle, yet the power coming from it was unfamiliar to him.

Rias sighed, and got off Issei and sat next to him… looks like time was up.

"Really, Rias?" Said a female voice from the magic circle that was very calm and collected, yet had nobility. A form finally flashed into existence, revealing it to be a maid, in fact the same maid who appeared to Rias hours ago. As for her full appearance, she wasn't bad looking.

She was a silver-eyed and rather young-looking beautiful woman who wore a blue and white French maid outfit with long sleeves, and a white maid headband over her head; all of which matched perfectly with her back-length silver hair with long braids on each side and tiny blue bows at the ends, while the rest of the hair fell down naturally.

She looked nowhere past her 20s, maybe just a few years older than Rias.

"With a low-born of all things? Your father and Sirzechs will be displeased." The maid continued.

"Uh, Sirzechs?" Issei asked as he straightened himself, never having heard of the name.

"My older brother." Rias said. She looked angry at this point, but it was unknown why.

"You have a brother?" Sonic asked, unaware of this information.

Rias got up off of Issei's bed, her boobs of course flopping around with nothing holding them. "My chastity is mine to give it as I see fit. Its not any else's choice if I decide to share it with someone else." Rias said with resolve in her voice. "And another thing:" she added, hands going to her hips. "I will not tolerate anyone referring to my servants as low-borns. Even if you are my brothers Queen or not, let alone his wife. Issei Hyoudou is one of my honored servants, and you are to treat him with respect in my presence."

The maid did not look insulted or affected in any capacity, remaining fully professional despite being just told off by the Crimson Devil. Though to hear this maid was a Queen, as well as Rias' brothers Queen, was surprising to Sonic and Issei. Akeno was incredibly strong as a Queen herself, so it kinda made sense now why there was such a feeling of power coming from the maid when she spawned in.

"… Noted." The maid simply said, either ignoring Rias' scolding or was used to it as a maid. She then kneeled down to get Rias' clothes, something a maid did anyway. "Regardless, you are the next head to the Gremory house," the maid said, having picked up all the clothes but put the shirt on Rias' back as a form of modesty. "Have some self-respect."

Rias only had her arms folded with the same hard look she gave the maid before. The maid then looked at Issei. "Do pardon the interruption. My name is Grayfia, and I too am in the service of the Gremory Family. Pleased to make your acquaintance." She said, bowing to Issei respectfully, but whether she was doing that because Rias requested it or just for the sake of professionalism was unclear. She did seem genuine about it though, if a little blunt.

Both Sonic and Issei had the same question: if this maid, Grayfia as she just introduced herself, was a maid of the Gremorys', how and why was she so high on the Evil Piece totem pole of being a Queen? The vice versa didn't make much sense either.

"Yeah… hi…" Issei said. 'Dude, she's so pretty! Are all Devils chicks stupidly hot?' He though to himself with a bright expression on his face.

YANK!

However, Rias pinched his cheek the exact same way Asia did back in the club earlier today and even had a similar facial expression, knowing exactly what he was thinking. Sonic would have done it if Rias didn't.

"I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking straight." Rias said, apologizing for her sudden and froward actions. She also looked relieved. "Can we just… ya know, forget this ever happened?" She requested him.

"S-Sure, okay." Was all Issei could really say. He probably was not going to forget this, who would? It was most likely already saved to his 'Spank Bank' subconsciously.

"By the way," Grayfia spoke. "You said his name was Issei?"

"Yes. He is my Pawn." Rias said.

"Hmm… the one possessing the Boosted Gear and the Red Dragon Emperor?" Grayfia asked. She was surprised at this, but her monotone way of speaking made this hard to pick out.

"Ta-daaaa." Issei joked.

Grayfia just kept her attention on Issei, not responding to his joke at all, but THEN shifted her gaze to Sonic. He of course got a bit nervous, not knowing how another Devil would take his appearance. The only reason Sona and her own peerage was okay with it was via his… "friendship"… with Rias. Of course this time, there was nowhere to run. And while he still could, this was a direct servant/Queen of the Gremory clan.

"… that would make this Sonic the Hedgehog, correct?" Grayfia then asked while still keeping an eye in the Mobian in question.

If Sonic and Issei weren't surprised before, they were now. Grayfia knew who he was?! Not only that, she actually referred to him by his full name and his correct species all in one take! Rias of course was the only one to know why. With all the craziness that has been happening to them over an entire month, she neglected to mention that her brother was already aware of Sonic's existence around the same time he took a dip in that fountain.

Of course, it only made sense that he would tell Grayfia or she would've figured it out on her own or via some other method, being a Gremory servant. AKA his maid… AKA-AKA: his wife.

"It does." Rias saw no need to keep the charade up any longer, at least not against someone who clearly knew who he was. If anything, it was one less person to lie too. "However, if that's what your visit was about and if my brother…" Her voice went back to being assertive.

"He has no intention." Grayfia said, already knowing what Rias was going to ask. Sonic and Issei did too, in fact they were quite surprised when they heard it. It appeared at that moment, Rias just had an urge to protect the blue alien from scrutiny.

Rias also surprised herself. Once Grayfia assured nothing would happen, she realized she just defended him on impulse.

"Fine… I'll hear you out. You wouldn't mind if Akeno joins us, do you?" Rias asked the maid.

"The Priestess of Thunder? Not at all." Grayfia said. "After all, its only expected for any Devil to have their Queens by their side at all times."

Sonic slowly raised a finger as if he was raising his hand in a classroom. "… yyyyyyyeah then, *slowly points to Grayfia* shouldn't you be with your hus-?"

POW!

Sonic shut up when Rias elbowed him without taking her eyes off Grayfia. Rather fast and hard. The maid/Queen didn't say anything about the display… it was probably common.

Rias leaned back down to Issei so they were at eye-level. "Sorry to bother you, Issei."

"Your not a bother at all." He said automatically without thinking.

*smooch*

Both boys were genuinely shocked beyond belief when Rias planted a kiss right on the same cheek of Issei's she had just pulled a bit ago. It was only a quick peck, and was more of a thank-you kiss. Rias looked right back into his eyes after performing the gesture.

She looked really happy… happy Issei did not take advantage of her in her moment of emotional weakness and vulnerability. He was a perv, sure… but like Koneko said once before: a sweet perv.

Rias left after keeping her eyes locked on Issei's for 3 more seconds before leaving with Grayfia, the maid triggering her portal again and both girls disappeared within it.

Both Sonic and Issei just stared at the spot the two female Devils vanished in, then just slowly looked in each others direction in very slow motion before sharing a glance with each other. They each had the same question written on their faces:

What in the actual heck/fuck/hell just happened?


And there you have it. Another chapter done, which is now one chapter away from the introduction of Riser Phenex! Along with the eventual Rating Game against him and his team of waifus, but that's not too far either.

Hope you all enjoyed the chapter. I put as much effort into it as I possibly could, considering I'm in a rather sad place right now with the death of Kazuki. Hopefully that didn't effect the quality of this chapter too badly.

In any case, I'll see ya when I see ya. Be sure to tune in when the next chapter drops, things are about to get Chaotic.