Chapter 17: Respect... and the Ladies

Both rivals were being tended to by Akeno and Tsubaki after being brought to the center. Meanwhile, Momo and Reya took care of repairing the court using magic. The two young men were completely knocked out, their eyes rolled back and bubbles coming from their mouths.

Sona was analyzing everything thoroughly while two particular individuals, Chris and Tsubasa, who might have had some insight, left her speechless, unsure of what to say.

Chris raised her hand as if she were in class.

"Uh… Kaichou. What is Touki?"

Sona sighed, wondering how this girl, who seemed so lost, had managed to discover a way to use Touki through such a trivial routine. Rias had also placed a hand over her face.

"You seriously… seriously have to be joking, Chris-san. You've unlocked something that many supernatural beings spend years training for, or require some kind of special advantage, to even come close to achieving."

"And I still have no idea what you're talking about, Rias…" Chris said, crossing her arms.

"Yukine-san, Touki is the manifestation of one's life force. To put it simply, it's like the Ki from Chinese martial arts stories. By accessing it, an individual can gain enhanced strength, defense, and speed that surpass human limits, sometimes to an absurd degree."

"Ah, I see… I guess that explains why the old man and that idiot are so strong."

"Old man? Idiot?"

"Well… Some friends I met in the other world. Genjuro Kazanari. A man who went out of his way to help me. He saved me from a lot of trouble before I joined the other candidates. Believe it or not, he possesses terrifying strength, he's even capable of fighting against a Symphogear. I honestly think that if our enemies hadn't had the Noise, he could've wiped them out with his fists alone. One time, he stopped a giant boulder with his bare hands."

"Hearing this from you, Yukine-san, and seeing your own abilities firsthand… I find it hard to believe once again."

"If you say so, then he must be an incredibly powerful person."

"More strength than power, Rias. The same case as Issei right now."

"And the one you call an idiot?"

"And the other one was Hibiki Tachibana, one of the candidates… and, well, one of the first people who helped me open up to others. I'd say she was one of my first friends." Never though i had to admit it here "To sum it up, she trained with Genjuro's help and became quite capable of almost the same feats. Her Symphogear helped her with that. The most impressive part? She also reached that level of strength in just a few days."

"Seriously? Yukine-san, I need an explanation. How did you unlock something as advanced as Touki from a simple recreational routine?"

"Ah… I still don't fully understand it myself, but Kaichou, that was never my goal."

"What?"

"My goal was just to create a countermeasure for the double training regimen we planned to impose on Issei."

"A countermeasure?"

"Yes. The way I see it, if you force someone to push twice their usual limits every day, don't you think that with just regular rest, they wouldn't even make it to the middle of the week before losing the motivation or energy to continue improving? Especially someone like Issei, who only wanted to improve for a distant goal that had nothing to do with seeking strength."

"..."

"That's why I believed Issei deserved an equal amount of rest, so his body could gradually adapt to the routine. That way, he wouldn't suffer negative effects, and it wouldn't even feel like a struggle in the first place. It would actually motivate him to keep going. Issei was already in terrible shape from the start, but that was mostly because he never lived for this kind of thing. Staying up late, oversleeping, bad eating habits, and constant distractions kept him from focusing on anything else."

"So those activities...?"

"First… His diet was mostly junk food and barely any real meals. I asked him to eat something more energetic, and if possible, twice as much. That way, he'd have the energy to burn during training. Exploring the town on our way to karaoke helped us find good food spots, and in turn, easy dishes to prepare."

"Second… Aside from his talent for analyzing things through movies, we motivated him with action-packed films, martial arts flicks, and pure adrenaline-rush scenes. The idea was to spark his interest in self-improvement but also to get him to study how those fighters move. I noticed from his first day that Issei is actually really good at imitation."

"Third… With proper rest, he'd have enough energy for an entire day. You might not have noticed, Kaichou, but I'm sure there haven't been any complaints from the teachers about Issei dozing off in class like he usually does."

"That… I hadn't noticed."

"That's right, Kaichou. Issei hasn't just been improving physically, but in many other aspects as well, preparing himself for different areas and adapting in different ways."

"That's a brilliant way of applying it, Yukine-san. And what about his use of his Gear? That was one of the criteria, wasn't it? I doubt the goal was to simply increase its usage whenever possible."

"Well, that was only part of it. The other reason was to get Issei used to the feeling of his Gear being a part of him, just like I did with Ichaival. That way, he could wield it with control. If Issei were as impulsive as Saji, his Gear might have activated at the worst possible moment. When he didn't actually need it. Instead, it should only activate at the most opportune time."

"That's incredible."

"But then, Issei somehow managed to activate Touki by accident." Rias stated.

"It seems so."

"Tsubasa, does all of this hold up?" Sona asked.

"Yes, Kaichou. Adaptability is a great weapon for Issei."

"Not just that, but also motivation. And surprisingly, I wasn't the one who gave him the biggest boost." Chris added with a mischievous smile.

"What do you mean, Yukine-san?"

"It was you, Sona, and almost the entire student council."

"…What?" The mentioned girls looked confused.

"Oh, come on, I can't be the only one who noticed. For demons, you sure don't see much. Issei's dream was practically unfolding right in front of his eyes, and everything he was doing was just so he could spend time with you all. Tsubaki, you helped him with his homework while I was practicing at karaoke. Since you didn't want to sing, you decided to assist him instead, didn't you?"

Tsubaki flinched when she was caught, quickly clearing her throat as she adjusted her glasses.

"I simply preferred to keep his training from falling behind due to his academic responsibilities."

"And yet, despite all your explanations, the main thing Issei understood was that you're an incredibly brilliant person, and he wishes he could rely on your help whenever possible, but without imposing too much. Momo, you recommended the best action movies to him. You like movies, don't you?"

"Well… yeah."

"Your recommendations made him think about all the upcoming releases, and whether you might suggest something unexpected. There are so many, and he needs someone other than me to share his excitement with. He also figured out that you love horror movies from the way you watched them from afar. Reya…"

"Y-Yes?"

"Even though Issei would wake up a little tired after your late-night talks, I thought he was breaking his routine and was about to scold him. But to my surprise, I found out he had been following your workout recommendations, spending almost the entire night exercising while watching movies. He was extremely motivated to talk to you again for more tips. And finally, Tsubasa…"

"Yukine-san, w-what did I even do…?"

"Your race against him. It was a challenge every step of the way. He never wanted to give up. From the sixth day to the last, he saved his energy multiplier just so he could catch up to you. He didn't want to stay behind and just watch you, he wanted to run side by side with you. Even though he ended up crashing headfirst into the mud at the finish line, he was happy that you helped him up before heading to karaoke."

"Y-Yukine-san… H-How do you know all this?"

Chris had an amused smile.

"Issei and I talked before arriving at the academy. I asked him about movies, but after that, he always steered the conversation back to each of you. He enjoyed the routine, but even more than that, he enjoyed spending time with you all. With me, he never talks about anything erotic or sexual. Instead, he always describes your company as wonderful and beautiful girls."

The four girls in question were now embarrassed, avoiding everyone's gaze, especially Sona, who was utterly perplexed at seeing her four companions blushing over the topic.

From everything she had just heard, Akeno couldn't help but feel that Chris was acting like Issei's cupid… and decided to support her in that. She lifted Issei's shirt and was just as surprised by what she saw.

"Oh my… I can already see the results forming. I'd say in a few more weeks, everyone will be able to see his abs fully defined."

Everyone turned in her direction before falling into stunned silence at the comment, while the blush on the previously mentioned girls deepened.

"Akeno!" Rias shouted.

"Oh, come on, Rias, I'm just curious about how it feels."

But the moment her fingers made contact with his skin, Issei jolted.

"No, please. Ticklish!…" Issei looked around, bewildered as everyone stared at him. "Wait, what did I miss?" Beside him, Saji was still recovering but was just as confused. "Or rather, what did we miss? I didn't die, did I?"

Sona approached with a firm expression.

"No, but even though it was impressive, a hit like that could have seriously injured you, Hyoudou-san. Be more careful next time."

Her aura was small but intimidating.

"Y-Yes, Kaichou."

"That said, your performance was excellent with all the training you've done. You should be proud."

Everyone gave him a nod of approval, leaving him blushing but happy as he scratched the back of his neck. Meanwhile, Saji got up from the ground, wincing from the terrible pain all over his body.

"Ouch… Hyoudou, wasn't that a bit too much?"

"Oh… Speaking of too much, Saji."

When Saji turned to see who had called him, his face paled at the sight of his master's overwhelming blue aura, she was angry.

"K-Kaichou…"

"Saji… I hope this has finally humbled your pride, and that this will be the last time you underestimate your opponent. Just because Hyoudou-san is human, you assumed he was weaker, and he used that against you to set a trap. Your excessive pride made you almost fall. Never forget that."

Saji immediately dropped to his knees in a deep bow.

"Y-Yes, Kaichou. I won't forget."

"Good. I suppose that's all for now. You both did a great job showcasing your abilities. You can rest now."

Saji collapsed into a sitting position before noticing Issei's friendly smile.

"What do you want, Hyoudou?"

"Seems like you've got a tough boss. Tell me, what's that Sacred Gear of yours?"

"Um… Give me a second." Saji extended his hand, and a deformed lizard's mouth formed on his palm. Both Issei and Chris were surprised. "Absorption Line. This thread latches onto an enemy and steals their energy for us."

"Damn, I would've lost against that. No doubt about it."

"Nah… Don't boost my ego, you didn't do bad yourself."

Issei got up, dusted himself off, and extended his hand, his red gauntlet gleaming.

"Still, good match, Genshirou-san."

Saji looked at him for a moment before accepting the handshake and pulling himself up with a smile.

"Call me Saji, friend."

"Alright Saji, then call me Issei."

"Okay, Issei."

The others watched happily, relieved that the battle hadn't left them as rivals. At that moment, Chris noticed Momo and Reya approaching the boys.

"Hyoudou-san…" Momo called.

"Y-Yes, Hanakai-san?"

"Now that your test is over… would you like to join us for karaoke this afternoon?"

"J-Join you?"

Both girls nodded.

"We'd consider it a celebration."

"O-Of course, I'd love to."

Reya grabbed Issei's hand and started dragging him along, still stunned by what was happening. But remembering something, he turned back to Saji.

"Hey, Saji. Want to come along?"

"Can I?"

All eyes turned to the president, who simply shrugged before offering a small smile.

"I don't see why not. In fact, I think I have the afternoon off… and karaoke sounds nice."

"Sona?"

"Rias… What about you?"

Rias glanced toward Chris, who didn't seem particularly interested, but was subtly watching from the corner of her eye.

"I think I'll take care of my duties. It's my turn to patrol the territory tonight. The talismans are ready, and we'll do our rounds later. Enjoy yourselves."

Sona nodded in appreciation, and Chris, in a way, started to understand what Sona had said about Rias before. Maybe she wouldn't hold so much resentment, for now.

Tsubasa then approached Chris with a request.

"You should come too, don't you think, Yukine-san?"

"M-Me too?"

"Of course, we want to hear you sing again."

"Hey, all of us going might not be a good idea. Besides, I'm already feeling better to use Ichaival."

"That's exactly why we want to end this outing with one last song from you. It'd be nice to go out with you."

"I'd also like to hear your true song more clearly, Yukine-san." Sona said with an ironic smile, remembering how Chris had been too exhausted when she took care of her and could barely listen.

"W-Well, I-I don't know…"

"Chris."

Issei called out to her with a smile, extending his hand.

"Come on, we deserve this. And besides, I think you'll want to come with us…"

"Oh? And why is that?"

"Because this is a friends' outing. Aren't we?"

Chris was left speechless before letting out a chuckle.

"Heh… You've gotten bolder than I thought. Alright, let's go, idiot. Let's see how long your fame lasts. But first, I want a burger. Too much healthy food for me."

And with that, the student council group and the two humans went out to celebrate at karaoke, giving Chris a peaceful day in this world intertwined with the supernatural, a world so different from her own.

As for Issei, he had earned respect… and the company of ladies.

With a little help from a red-clad cupid.

On the Night of the Same Day

Ryoko's limousine cruised through the shopping district, with Asia sitting beside her, gazing out the window in awe. Her eyes sparkled with wonder at the people and lights, as if she were witnessing another world for the first time…. pure innocence discovering the unknown.

Spending time with the nun and listening to her story only deepened Ryoko's frustration. She cursed the fact that she couldn't bring herself to reveal the terrible truth to someone so devoted in her faith. Nothing but suffering awaited a girl who had only God by her side.

A God that no longer existed.

For now, it was best to keep Asia close. To see where fate would take her and what instructions had been given to her. It was clear she was being used, but if Ryoko could identify the relic's wielder, perhaps she could turn the situation to her advantage, eliminate the threat and claim Asia for herself.

As the limousine stopped at a traffic light, just inches from a crosswalk, a group of students passed by. A quick glance at her device confirmed it, supernatural beings were among them. And within that group, her target.

But Ryoko's composed expression shifted to surprise when her gaze locked onto a familiar face.

What is she doing here?

White twin-tailed hair. Violet eyes. Smiling as she walked alongside those supernatural beings. Only two humans were among them: the girl and the boy surrounded by women and another boy.

And there was no doubt about it.

The girl was the true target.

No one else there was worthy of the bow.

"Ryoko-san, is something wrong?"

She turned back to Asia, taking a slow breath before answering.

"I'm fine, Asia-chan. I just figured out why I'm here."

"If you need to take care of something important, I can get off now."

"No, Asia. What I need to do can wait. You and I will enjoy a much-needed rest at my hotel. Don't worry. Your instructions can wait until tomorrow."

"Thank you, Ryoko-san."

"You're welcome, sweetheart."

As Asia continued gazing out the window, Ryoko answered a call.

"Did you send me a message, Madam?"

"Yes. Do you recognize a school uniform? White with black accents and a red skirt?"

"Yes, Madam. That belongs to Kuoh Academy, the main hotspot for supernatural anomalies."

"Good. Find any records related to a particular student. Let me know if this name is useful: Chris Yukine."

"Understood, Madam."

"Send the information to my computer. If the name doesn't match, look for a girl with white hair and violet eyes. I'll be spending time with our guest."

"Understood, Madam. Have a good night."

"I will."

She smiles as she watches through a mirror the same girl she once used as a puppet. She seems attached to that boy. I think I can use Asia in a different way.

At the same time, the information she needed appeared on her computer screen.

Well, my best bet is on you once again, my dear Chris. You're the only one I can turn to. When we meet again, what will your reaction be? Could it really be you? This is getting interesting.