In a room in Chaldea, Da Vinci was organizing her notes of recent events. Aside from the chaos of the battle, the summit went well, and Chaldea had successfully established relations with three factions in Issei's world. She was currently waiting on a call from Azazel so that the four of them could discuss their plans moving forward. After a few moments she received the call she was waiting for and answered. "Greetings gentlemen. Glad to see you again," she said as a projection of them appeared in front of her.

"It's good to see you too Ms. Da Vinci," said Michael.

"Please, Da Vinci is fine, or if you're feeling familiar, you can also call me Da Vinci-chan," she said playfully.

Azazel chuckled at Da Vinci's antics as the four started their meeting. "So have you decided on a place for your new base?" asked Sirzechs.

"After discussing with my colleagues and Fujimaru-kun, we've picked a spot in town to have our building. We actually wanted to discuss having a second building as one of our Servants came up with a good idea."

"Oh? And what would that be?" asked Azazel interested.

"We would like a second building for the production of music and shows," said Da Vinci. The others looked amused and wanted her to continue. "Some of our Servants have rather, "unique", appearances. So Miss Crane suggested we have a theater production building either next to or behind the first one so if people see our more strange looking Servants they could write it off as a costume for the studio. It would also be a good source of income in your world."

"An attractive idea. We could develop not only shows for our world but the Underworld as well," said Sirzechs, who was clearly on board with the idea.

"It certainly would be interesting to see various heroes throughout history put on a show, although I think those who know would question our priorities," said Michael.

"Well, they can take it up with the people in question," said Da Vinci. "So, with Chaldea Productions along with Chaldea Innovations, we should have a good enough cover for everyone as well as a good facility to begin new innovations in magic and magecraft."

"I'm looking forward to this," said Azazel with a big smile. "I feel we can make great strides working together."

"It would also help if we developed something to use against the Khaos Brigade," said Michael.

"I have a good feeling that this is the beginning of a bright future for all of us," said Sirzechs.

Da Vinci looked down. A bright future. Maybe not for all of us, she thought as she thought about Fujimaru.

Sirzechs seemed to notice her drop in mood and got her attention. "What's wrong, Da Vinci-chan?"

Sirzechs question snapped her out of her thoughts as she tried to recompose herself. "Sorry, just some internal issues."

"We're here to listen if you need it," said Michael, consolingly.

Da Vinci paused, thinking about whether she should tell them. She promised Fujimaru that she wouldn't say anything, but if these three could help, shouldn't she take whatever she can to save his life? "Before I say anything, you three have to promise not to breathe a word of this to anyone." The three had serious looks and nodded. Da Vinci went on to explain Merlin's prophecy about Issei's death and how Issei has been doing almost nothing about it.

Once she finished explaining, the three had grim looks on, with Azazel looking like he was dealing with a troubled child. "So that's why he was acting weird when we were discussing methods to extend his life. That idiot," said Azazel.

Sirzechs was also mulling over his past conversations with Issei and seemed to understand something as well. "I see. So that's what he meant at that time."

"What do you mean?" asked Da Vinci.

"The first night I stayed at Issei-kun's house we talked a bit about his relationship with Rias, and he said that he would "stay by her side, for what time he has left.". I thought the way he said it was odd and he quickly changed the meaning of it to be about his normal human lifespan, but to think he meant this instead."

"Seems it weighs on his mind, despite saying he isn't bothered by it," said Michael.

"So, what did you have in mind for us to help him?" asked Azazel, trying to get to Da Vinci's point.

"I was wondering if you had any ideas on how to help Fujimaru. Right now, all we can do is try to help him get stronger so that he can avoid such a fate," said Da Vinci.

"That's a good start, but I also think Issei's reasoning is valid to some degree. If we interfere it could inadvertently cause the very incident that he's trying to avoid," said Michael.

"But we can't just do nothing! He deserves more than that!" said Da Vinci emotionally. The others could tell she was serious about this and how much she cared for Issei.

The three were silent for a bit when Sirzechs came up with an idea. "Maybe we're coming at this from the wrong angle. What if instead of focusing on making Issei-kun stronger we focus on giving him more reasons to survive?"

"Reasons to survive? He already has those," said Da Vinci.

"True, but clearly it's not enough if he feels internally hopeless," followed up Azazel. "Even if he is trying to power through with his will alone, if we give him more reasons to keep fighting, to keep protecting, to keep living, it could give him the emotional support he needs to put his all into surviving."

"Of course, we will still be looking for ways to help him grow stronger, but I believe that giving him emotional support will be more effective for him. The stronger his bonds with the people around him are, the stronger he will become through his own effort," finished Sirzechs.

"I see. I guess you do have a point. But we can't let him know that's what we're doing," said Da Vinci.

"I agree. He has been very clear about people meddling in things that don't have anything to do with them. He already scolded me recently when I tried to remodel his house without talking to him first. If he found out we were purposefully trying to create connections for him, an angry conversation would be the least of our worries," said Sirzechs.

"Still, this is only a complicated situation because he cares so deeply about the people around him. So much so that he will forego his own happiness if it keeps them happy. He is truly a selfless person," said Michael.

"He is, but how much of that is how he naturally is and how much is because of his past circumstances?" said Da Vinci sadly.

"What do you mean?" asked Michael. Da Vinci gave an abridged explanation of the Grand Order and Issei's part in it. After she was done the other three mulled over the information. "I see. I knew he had been through a lot, considering his disposition during the meeting, but to think it was something so extreme."

"He did mention having been through worse things than whatever situations he's been in here, but to think it was so dire. It's no wonder he didn't flinch when challenging Riser, or battling Kokabiel and Vali, or even talking to us the way he did during the meeting," said Sirzechs.

"It seems he has fully adopted an attitude of something close to self-sacrifice. He shows some care about his own safety but will ultimately do whatever he has to to keep others safe. That's the kind of man he is," said Azazel.

"It couldn't be helped, but I still feel responsible for him. All his circumstances rest on Chaldea's shoulders and thus become my responsibility. Even if he was always caring, our situation ended up pushing that to the extreme. Some of the Servants even commented on how near the end of it all he had become somewhat desensitized to what was going on around him. Not completely, but some normal people would think it was off that he wasn't affected by some of the things he saw. What he is now, is what we made him to be, and I just want to help him get back some of his own life," said Da Vinci.

"And he should be allowed to, but as things stand right now, he can't rest just yet. All we can do is make things as comfortable for him as possible while we deal with the Khaos Brigade," said Michael.

Da Vinci nodded in confirmation. "I'm sorry. This was supposed to be about our future plans, not about saving Issei. I'm thankful for you all indulging my selfishness."

"It's fine, Da Vinci-chan. Issei is an important part of all our futures. As the Red Dragon Emperor, his very existence holds weight and should be used to help maintain peace in this world. His survival will help others survive as well, and I have a feeling he will be indispensable to us in the future," said Sirzechs.

"Then let's get back on topic. We can worry about Issei after we get our projects squared away," said Azazel. Everyone nodded and they continued the meeting.

Issei was walking around his new house. It had been a few days since it had been remodeled and he still hadn't explored all of it yet. He felt like he was in Chaldea again as he would walk by Servants who had set up shop in some of the rooms. He would walk by some and greet them as they passed each other and was just getting a feel for his new environment. As he was exploring the third floor, he happened to see one of the rooms opened slightly. He peaked in and saw Musashi packing a bag with all the stuff she got during her time here. Issei opened the door and leaned on the doorframe. "So, were you planning on leaving without saying goodbye?" he asked, surprising Musashi and getting a little yelp out of her.

"Ritsu- I mean, Issei. Don't sneak up on me like that," she said trying to regain her composure.

Issei chuckled. "No need to force yourself to call me Issei. Like I said, when it's just us, call me whatever you're comfortable with. Besides, aren't you supposed to be a skilled warrior? Shouldn't you have sensed me?" he teased.

"W-well…" Musashi was looking around the room embarrassed.

Issei stopped leaning on the door and walked in the room, closing the door behind him. "So you're leaving?" he asked, a bit saddened.

Musashi looked down, also with a sad smile. "Yeah. I think it's time I moved on. I'm still on my journey to hone my sword, and even though things have been fun here and I had a great experience, coup attempt included, I believe that I need to keep looking for ways to better my sword."

"I see… Well, I can't argue with that. I think I understand that better than anyone. But don't be a stranger. Come back and visit if you need a break. Our door is always open to you."

Musashi showed a bright smile. "Thanks! I will keep that in mind." She finished packing her things and slung her bag over her shoulder. "Well then, I'll see you around," she said as she made for the door.

Before she could reach it though, Issei stopped her. "Hold on a second." Musashi turned around confused and was taken by surprise when Issei kissed her on the lips.

Her mind went blank for a second before she backed up. "W-w-w-what was that for?!" she asked flustered.

Issei couldn't help but smile mischievously. "I was serious about what I said before. When you feel like settling down, I'll gladly welcome you."

Musashi's face was becoming more flustered. "You know someone might get the wrong idea with you proposing to me in a room all alone," she said trying to mask her embarrassment with humor.

"What's there to misunderstand? Everyone knows I'm trying to get a harem. It's not like they would be surprised by someone else joining. Besides, you were the one who floated the idea to begin with." he said smugly.

"Y-yeah, I know! But I thought we were just having some fun is all!"

"Just some fun, huh?" said Issei, not buying her excuse.

He crept closer to her as she had her back against the door. "H-hey, wait! My heart isn't ready for this!" she protested.

Issei slammed his hand against the door, pinning her between him and the door. "Don't think just because you're leaving means that you'll get away from me," he teased. He could see Musashi was unable to focus and was just waiting for what he would do next, not thinking about the fact that she was stronger than him and could push him away if she wanted to. Issei leaned in and Musashi closed her eyes and got ready for another kiss. But this time Issei planted one on her cheek instead, causing her to snap out of her fluster in confusion. She looked at Issei who had a bright smile. "Sorry, teasing you was too much fun."

Musashi pouted. "That goes far beyond teasing," she said huffily.

"Yeah, well, I just wanted to get my point across. I really do mean it though. I will be waiting for you when you're ready to settle down. And we will always be here when you want a break. This place is your home now."

Musashi showed a slightly surprised look, but it soon changed to a warm smile. "Thank you, Ritsuka. I'll make sure to come back and visit one day."

Musashi opened the door and when she did the other girls were standing outside, surprising the pair. It didn't take a genius to figure out why they were there because they had various expressions ranging from jealous looks to amused ones. From there, chaos broke loose as the girls started fighting over Issei with each other and dragged Musashi in. Issei could tell they were having fun and trying to give Musashi a happy goodbye as they talked with her. I'm glad the girls are getting along, thought Issei. Soon Musashi said her goodbyes to everyone and left to continue her journey. Mash and Asia looked a bit sad, but Issei put a hand on each of their shoulders. "Don't worry. We'll see her again," he said with a smile, getting smiles in return. With her departure everyone now began their preparation for summer vacation.

Happy Halloween everyone! This is the end of Volume 4 and I figured it was good place to end things off. First I would like to give a shoutout to one of my readers StarDracoFire who gave me the idea to do Chaldea Productions. I originally was just gonna do Chaldea industries but after we talked and I thought about it I thought "why not both" and went ahead with that. So now I have more to work with if I wanna do side story stuff. Second, I'm sure people are gonna question why Issei was so forward with Musashi, so the reason I did this ties back to Issei's origin. Since I mentioned in a previous chapter that his origin got rid of some of his shame and he has been building confidence with the girls since he started going out with them I figured that he would be more forward with trying to pick up girls. He hasn't lost his shame (yet) but it seemed like the right combination of circumstances to me. Now for something serious I need to ask all of you. I have been mentioning to some of you that I was gonna do my first Singularity story during the Diodora arc but I forgot that I had actually pushed it back further because at the time I forgot to add Seraph into the story. But I honestly want to get to that story soon just like you guys so I wanna ask you, do I do it during the Diodora arc anyways or do I wait to do it later like I rewrote it? The main difference about when it happens is whether or not Rossweiss is there. If I do it during Diodora then Rossweiss won't be in it, if I do it later which is before they leave for Kyoto then Rossweiss will be a part of the story. I'll let you decide and whichever I see the most of is what I will do. I look forward to your ansewers and the comments as usual. : )