Hello, SecretArtLotus here! Thanks for reading Chapter 1! I appreciate that there are new readers and I am grateful that old readers are reading this story. This story is truly special to me. This story makes me hone my writing through the years alongside my other stories but this story is next level with how I spent the most time in making this.

I have to say that a lot of this is written while I'm listening to music too. Elvis P. is one inspiring musician because I got to focus and make up new ideas in writing and improving Chapter 1. Fairy Tail music is a treat to listen to when I write too. Other japanese music in the 2000s is the one of the best music I have heard and they helped me write my other stories too. Their influence to inspire is that powerful.

Anyway, I'm rambling. Thank you for tuning in for Chapter 2 of REVIVAL: A PROBLEM DEVIL. I hope you all like it. A quick note; it'll take a bit of time to organize some of the new chapters coming ahead. A lot of retcons will happen. Just a reminder to you all.

Now, I will answer some questions and replies from the review section.

Master Chief Tyler-117: I will be putting the story as Teen. Because there is not a lot of M content in it. But I will make a disclaimer if there is an M content in the future.

justinmll1971: Thank you for reading A Problem Devil, Born when you just started browsing , I hope you will continue to read my progress, and give your thoughts. I've been out of the loop for a long time, so I don't know what sticks and what doesn't for the readers. But I will do my best.

Okay, that's all for now. Now, I gotta organize my thoughts for the upcoming chapter. When you're feeling a buzz these days, you have to get it out. I get it out by writing.

I hope you have a good reading, everyone.

Ja'ne! ArtLotus out!

[Highschool DxD X Mondaiji Tachi Ga Isekai Kara Kuru Sou Desu Yo?]

REVIVAL: A PROBLEM DEVIL

CHAPTER 2: A BROTHER's WORRIES

He did not go all out.

In the battle against Sakamaki Izayoi, he did not unleash his all.

Unknowingly, he compensated for it with his heated passion for battle. Against someone that is giving him trouble for the first time in a long time. Yet, he did not go all out because of two reasons. One, he did not want to kill his blonde opponent. Two, it was not necessary. The former was his primary reason.

Because there were no adversaries that he could list at the top of his head that he could unleash his Power of Destruction at its most critical usage. If there were such adversaries that he needed to kill, extreme measures would be taken. Then and only then, he would surrender himself to the power. This reason also ties in with the second one. Until such an adversary comes, it is not necessary for him. Why? He has not mastered his most advanced form to date. Sirzechs was articulate when it came to creating and mastering his techniques. There is a reason his most advanced technique was the hardest and he still has not fully mastered it after the Devil Civil War.

Whenever he dons the form and exceeds the time, his control will slip and his Power of Destruction will act on its own will. They will not care whether the target is an ally or foe. They will target all when they set their sights on them. He already faced that situation with his fellow Satans when they were up against the old Satans faction in the last war. He had resorted to it as a last act since the old Satans had chosen to kill them instead of surrendering and faced proper punishment for enacting a civil war in the Underworld.

500 years ago.

Devils against Devils.

It was not a pretty sight. It was horrendous. Friends turned foes because of their beliefs in the old Satans and their system for the Underworld.

Their old idealism clashes with their new.

"There it is… Reminiscing about the civil war again…I've been doing that recently, ever since the battle with that boy…"

Sirzechs shakes his head, lying his head against his recliner. He sighed as he relaxed his body after the events that transpired today. In the midst of relaxation, he still cannot get over the fact—he was soundly defeated. By a human, nonetheless.

He had not sensed any kind of magic coming from the blonde nor did he use any to amplify his herculean strength. No.

He, as a human—was born with that herculean strength. His strength that can shatter and destroy his Power of Destruction. Another brand of destruction. Strange, isn't it?

'Herculean' strength may be undermining his strength for now, yet it was a label that suited him. That strength was not the only attribute he was born with. His durability and toughness of his body was on full display during the battle. His entire attire was in tatters and filled with holes. A direct result of his own punches, magic techniques, and his attacks filled with the Power of Destruction making contact. The fabric was shredded into nothingness yet the flesh was truly resilient against any kind of magic he threw. Even his own.

Their clashes throughout the forest made mini earthquake after mini earthquake. They zip through the wide terrain, leaping from one location to another to exchange a flurry of punches and kicks, with the exception of Sirzechs who also attacked with an array of magical techniques. Fireballs, lightning strikes, explosive mines, and so on. He also blasted laser beams, fiery energy wide slashes that had cut clean half of the rows of trees when it went through the area. Massive destruction peppered the forest by a number of techniques mastered by the crimson Satan through the years with his keen intellect and creativity while maximising damage with each added power. Each time his attacks missed their target, it left giant scars on the ground. Wide trenches and deep craters decorated the once green forest. Their battle so far reduced most of the terrain to ruins.

When it comes to Izayoi, he relies mostly on his punches and kicks. Combined with his durable body, and reflexes, it made him a formidable opponent that can act whichever was advantageous to him and provide the most entertainment. Instead of destroying everything with his punches and kicks each time he encountered his opponent's attacks, he deflected them and used the terrain to take the brunt damage when it comes to innumerable projectiles.

An example?

He stabbed both his hands into the ground—lifted a giant portion of the earth and threw it over to the surprised Sirzechs!

He used the uprooted trees nearby to smack Sirzechs once he let his guard down.

He also took a couple of hits to his body courtesy of Sirzechs. Though it did not scratch him, yet it was entertaining to purposefully take hits every now and again. Mostly because it was advantageous to him to catch the crimson Satan with an elbow or knee. Or swiped his feet from underneath to launch him into the rows of trees with a punch to the chest. Apart from that, he also evaded some hits to poke fun at the crimson Satan, even when he had augmented himself with a boost of Demonic Power. For the blonde, it was entertaining and fun.

Unfortunately, it was not as fun to Sirzechs. When he evaded Izayoi a number of times to gain some distance or to buy himself time to heal; the punches that made contact with the ground obliterated the surrounding terrain. Whenever he got hit to his body, he had to heal himself right away. His punches and kicks were painful to the crimson-haired Satan. He has faced opponents that can bring destruction to the surrounding area, and engaged in hand-to-hand combat against them. After facing those kinds of opponents over the years, he determined that they cannot be compared to the herculean strength behind his blonde opponent's punches and kicks. He was in a whole different league than his previous opponents in the past. Sitting in his office right now got him reminding that his opponent was only 15 years old—compared to his past enemies that had hundreds of years' worth of combat experience and had mastered their craft?

Although his blonde opponent can bring destruction through his physical strength. Sirzechs was not called a Satan for nothing. He can bring destruction in various ways besides his own physical strength. His Power of Destruction was key to that. They attributed to the majority of his attacks aside from his magic techniques. He launched numerous types of attacks to his opponent. Whether it was big and fast or small and precision-based, it still detonated a small portion of the forest in a mile radius. However, no matter how many projectiles he launched at his opponent, they would sometimes miss their target because the target intervened on their course and deflected them away to one part of the forest left to engulf nearby forestry into an explosion. When they truly missed after the blonde had evaded, it was sent to another part of the forest, blowing it up as a result.

Their battle was destruction-based. And it made their blood boil—with excitement. They were akin to kindred spirits who found their ideal fight, because their abilities were too destructive for the environment and their surroundings. Ever since the battle started, neither party broke a sweat. Instead of growing fatigue, they were revitalized and invigorated to continue the battle longer and longer. To test their limits.

Their limits could clearly be observed during their clashes that started escalating each time. For all of Sirzechs' strategies that he formulated to gain an advantage, his strategies were deemed meaningless and he found that out early into the battle.

The battle required him to use what he was best at. He did just that. While he may not have gained any traction on that front, his blood continued boiling to fight. He fought with a chip on his shoulder. The wager was completely forgotten. In its place was a thrill to battle and never stopping.

That was it. Because his opponent was unstoppable. The only limitation he could think for the blonde was his inexperience in battle and inability to fly. His inexperience is compensated by his impressive instinct. Knowing where danger lurks or any incoming attack without any warning.

Prior to the battle, Sirzechs tried to avoid killing him with his Power of Destruction at first, as it was deadly to most Devils—until it was rendered ineffective against the body of Sakamaki Izayoi. When he found out the hard way that his attacks were ineffective, he ramped up his usage. Magic techniques other than his own inherent power did not do anything useful other than opening holes in his opponent's attire.

Sakamaki Izayoi was unlike any opponent he ever faced, and he was willing to use his advanced techniques that he mastered against him. He increased the condensity of his Power of Destruction and did not waver in upping them to see promising results. Suffice to say, he did not get the results he wanted, and he was perplexed each time.

It did not make sense. He did not make sense.

Truly.

Sirzechs was familiar with the phrase and deserved to comment about the blonde regarding absurdity. Because he was born with the blood of a Bael and Gremory from his parents. He inherited his mother's Power of Destruction, and his father's Gremory lineage which are specialists that took pride in their superior Demonic Power. The combination made for a terrifying Devil, in the form of Sirzechs Lucifer. He, who defied the boundaries of an ordinary Devil and had surpassed all the expectations set for him, to get to the current point in his story. Moreso, it did not make sense how powerful he had become through his abilities that defied logic of the realm of Devils. In this case, he had only his parents to give his appreciation for. Hence, he was a different breed of a Devil.

And right now, he is wondering how the existence of a single human does not make sense. Throughout the hundred years he lived, he has understood human nature by frequent visits in the Human World. From what he understood of human nature, their core was fragile. They are vulnerable. They are weak in nature. But they demonstrated that they can surpass those weaknesses. It took grit, discipline, and a will to not accept defeat among others. It is somewhat special for him to witness the evolution of humans. They are driven by desire. They built cell towers when their desire is to improve the connectivity between humans and they are able to communicate wirelessly with their smartphones. The invention of supercomputers made computations of various fields and it is one of the main reasons for them to predict any real time natural disaster such as earthquake, tsunami, and storms. Humans can do amazing things even with their limitations and weaknesses.

Out of all the humans he encountered, this particular human in question is demonstrating that the boundaries between him and the supernatural beings of Devils, Fallen Angels, and Angels are almost non-existent.

The realization dawned on him as they exchanged blows.

The blonde can spit out the truth that he is a human like it is a common fact.

Yet, their battle against one another revealed that it is the furthest away than a fact. Not a single human could possibly give problems against Satan in the Underworld. Especially, when the crimson Satan ran out of ways to gain any sort of advantage against the blonde all throughout their battle. Except one.

In the end, he had to opt into using his most advanced form.

He did not use his full power in his form. His conscience forbade him to see the blonde as a target to kill, and it was unnecessary as it was too impulsive to attempt. Yet, he entered into the form—Human-Shaped Aura of Destruction. Upon entering into the form, he only used a set percentage of his power that he could control. Because if he pushed to use more than intended and exceed the time at the same time, he knew tragedy would not be far along and he would be the root cause of it all. Due to his lack of mastery, such incidents will tend to happen if he pushes himself.

It took a considerable amount of years for him to attain a level of control at his current form and he had memorized how long he could last in the form until he could undo the form with deliberate control.

When he first utilized the Aura of Destruction against the old Satans, it took the combined efforts of his fellow Satans to restrain him until he exhausted himself enough to undo the form. It was an exhilarating feeling. But it has its own consequences. It took a heavy toll on him when he first used it. Hundreds of years of training had reduced the toll, and he was gaining control for a longer period of time.

With that, he opted into his Aura of Destruction against his blonde opponent. He only taps into his most advanced form of the Power of Destruction—just for a moment. Just to gain an edge in battle. Just to see—if he can do the impossible, and reveal the incredulity behind the young man who was his opponent.

He was tempted to go deeper into his reserves. Tempted to let loose the energy he had been accumulating throughout the peaceful era ever since the Devil Civil War. The dormant energy that was yet to be released over hundreds of years.

He regained enough sense to vanquish the temptation before the final showdown. Throughout the battle, intense emotions were on the rise. He was calculative in his approach, and his opponent would respond through bulldozing whatever his approaches were. His opponent did not seem to care, merely inputting his insults and mockings to him as he countered almost every attack he received. As time went on, Sirzechs abandoned his approach and went all in on frontal attacks. He relied on his martial arts mostly. When he did this, his opponent applauded and they entered into an exchange of hand-to-hand combat. If there was one thing that he was superior to the blonde. It was his hand-to-hand combat. He had managed to slip past his defenses with sleek moves of the elbows and laid hit upon hit on the blonde. With a boost of Destruction laced in his fists, he started a series of punches and ended it with a strong kick. The end result?

An excited blonde. Unscathed.

The two square off in the forest. Their close quarter combat decimated portions of the greenery in the surroundings and they did not stop. It was then that he realized the look on his opponent. He was bursting with excitement, and so was he. They traded blows after blows. In the middle of their talking, that was when he healed his bruises on his body. Their battle lasted until Sirzechs cloaked himself with his Power of Destruction. It was an inferior version of the Aura of Destruction. The two clashed as Sirzechs zipped through the air but low enough to the ground and Izayoi gave chase. When they exchanged flurries of punches and kicks, they also struck the barrier. Sirzech grabbed a hold of him and in an instant flew to the top of the barrier. As they approached the top, that was when Sirzechs pushed off and blasting a long beam filled with Destruction. The push off caused the blonde's bare heels to touch the top of the barrier. As the beam approached the blonde lifted up his feet and kicked off the surface of the barrier, shattering it, and cleanly deflecting the beam with his forearm on the way towards Sirzechs.

The deflected beam that molded into a sphere by the deflection smashed to the edge of the forest, where the edge of the barrier was fortified, before promptly exploding! The explosion caused a furious gale to spread outwards and a giant earthquake targeting the far reaches of the forest, just beyond the parameters of the broken barrier, into the unsuspecting duo of his wife and fellow Satan at that time.

Afterwards, they descended on the ground across one another, preparing for their last blow. Their passion in battling did not recede, it was at their peak. He entered the Aura of Destruction, but reminded himself to only use what he can control. He knew the battle does not necessitate his recklessness and impulsiveness to overwhelm his sound mind. However since he has not mastered this form, he could not deduce how much power he used in reality. Because the power level fluctuates a lot while he was in the form and stronger he gets, the stronger the fluctuation will become.

One thing that he did not account for in his excitement was the effect of his release when he donned on the Aura of Destruction.

The effect when he entered into that state.

It was a widespread release of an earthquake that could be felt across the Underworld till the Realm of Dead.

He did not realize it until he came to the mansion. He got contacted by his parents when he teleported into his office.

They inquired about his situation before informing the enormous release of Demonic Power and followed subsequently with an earthquake that was felt throughout the city they were in currently. Masses of Devils were on standby outside for an attack even when there were no alarms being sounded. Kids were taken to a protective place with multiple Devils volunteering to safeguard them. His parents were the few Devils that volunteered to care for the kids. His little sister was busy comforting the kids, which left his parents to contact him in a secluded location where his sister was not present. It was luck.

Sirzechs apologized sincerely and he briefly explained the situation without telling the identity of his guest. At the mention of releasing his Aura of Destruction, his mother became worried since it was her genes that gave his Power of Destruction. He reassured her that he did not overdid it. It was merely to test himself against his guest. When his parents inquired about his identity, he apologized that he cannot give a proper answer, however he promised that he will explain everything one day. He then offered to give them a simplified explanation about his situation that constituted a battle between them, at home. He did not want to leave his parents in the dark, since he made a show in displaying his Aura of Destruction all of a sudden. They have known about his most advanced technique ever since he had created it and he knew it would only worry his mother who knew the capacity of using the Bael's clan inherent power. Their discussion at home will soon dissuade her worries.

His parents understood because it was complicated for their son to explain but they were grateful all the same to hear what happened in a lesser capacity. He cannot deceive his parents. His little sister however, will start to ask questions when she gets the opportunity. He only hoped that his tale of training is not as far-fetched to his little sister when he bears the news soon…

Before cutting communication, Sirzechs also reassured his parents that he would inform the guardians of the cities and clear up the situation immediately. After that, he went into communicating with the responsible guardians, overseeing the cities of the Gremory Territory, and distributing the false alarm notice. When he was done, which took a while, he was contacted by his wife, who informed them the false alarm notice had been distributed throughout the city. Afterwards, his wife charmingly added in her passive tone,

"I hope you're aware of the consequences by now, Sirzechs-sama. People are beginning to question your motive in training. For what purpose? Thankfully, people seemed to calm down when their assumptions settled it for them. Training is still training. Even for a Satan."

He thanked for her comment, and he wanted to add a counter yet his wife voiced out.

"Do remember that you choose to enter that form in the beginning. If you did not, it would not cause confusion amongst the masses right now. Unlike Izayoi-sama, he does not possess the Power of Destruction. Nor does he wield any magic. Your counter to shift blame is unbecoming, Sirzechs-sama."

His wife also suggested that he rest his body before cutting off the communication.

He sighed. Her words rang true. He was lost in his excitement, having found someone that can withstand his power was worthwhile. The first opponent that can give him a significant challenge head-on against his power. At the time, it would be disappointing for him to not enter into the form against his blonde opponent, who stood unscathed by his previous attacks. He had to get something out of their battle. In the end, it looks like he got the shorter end of the straw as he was defeated and he had the attention of the Underworld due to his lack of awareness of his form's release. The one good thing to come out was that no one but his wife and his fellow Satan knew about his defeat.

"If everyone were to find out…I cannot imagine the reception…"

Brushing off the thought, Sirzechs contacted Ajuka and Falbium, who were at the capital in Lilith. To explain the release of his form as training, just like the rest of the people who he gave his answer to. Both of his Satan did not look convinced, they soon understood his subtle lies and would distribute news of his training to the entire Underworld and their respective territories to reassure them they were not under attack. They also reprimanded the crimson Satan that they will visit him soon to discuss the real reason behind his training. Sirzechs did not oppose them. He tried. His Satan colleagues had known him. His lies could be seen easily.

Sirzechs raised his hand over his head and watched the limb be engulfed in his crimson energy, flickering and buzzing with activity at his fingertips. His thoughts went to the ending of the battle earlier today. —He recalled vividly what happened after he entered the Aura of Destruction.

He had a hold on the blonde in the air.

His opponent had a hold on him too.

Neither were escaping from their last bout.

It was a while since the last time he became one with his power, or more specifically his power became him.

—It was an overwhelming feeling to enter into the form. He could feel his power augmented several times at the cost of a massive consumption of his Demonic Power to maintain it. His body was buzzing with overwhelming energy and power. His senses were enhanced too. He felt empowered and it felt like a second skin to him. This transformation was only an extension of him. The moment he transformed.

A powerful shockwave shot out from his transformation.

He thought the blonde who was in his hold would suffer through the shockwave since he was the closest. Because he knew his transformation released a shockwave that caused earthquakes once they hit the ground. The release of the shockwave could be reached until the Realm of Dead…

It was more potent now. Because it had been a long time since he had last transformed. Mere Devils would sustain severe blunt trauma if they choose to face on the shockwave.

Sirzechs noticed the blonde merely shielded himself with his hand. After the shockwave had dispersed afterwards, the entire length of his hoodie sleeves had been shredded completely. He only got a knowing smirk from the blonde.

He suppressed the surprise quickly before he focused on the final act of the battle. As his transformation was overwhelming and it had been so long, he had excess energy. Once he used that excess energy, hundreds of Demonic Bullets of Annihilation materialized from the release of his compacted form.

He powered up an ominous sphere in his hand. It shone deep crimson. This was enough. The amount of Demonic Power he put into the sphere was enough to level the whole Gremory Territory.

The blonde only pulled back his fist.

Neither backed off from the confrontation. They embraced it.

And they punched it. Within meters of the blonde, hundreds of demonic crimson spheres flew to him in the air—were vaporised by the backlash shockwave that burst out from the collision—!

The moment he came into contact with his fist, the sphere started destabilizing, much to his surprise. He concentrated to regain control of the sphere and pushed against the blonde. It was not avail when he was steadily being pushed back.

As the sphere began to destabilize again as its form started rippling and arcs of static current juts out from all over the sphere, Sirzechs decided to use one tactic to salvage the situation.

He converted all of the energy he used to maintain his transformation into the sphere of Annihilation. It took a second and his transformation was undone, leaving him without his aura cloak. As he transfers the energy, he releases his hand on the blonde's shoulder and puts it next to his hand on the sphere to maintain control.

On the other hand, the sphere started to enlarge by half a meter in diameter from the influx of energy.

"One last effort, eh? I commend you, Sirzechs Lucifer…"

He heard his opponent's voice before everything spiralled out of control.

He recalled the loss of control a second later.

The crimson sphere escaped from his hands and instantly went downwards in between them. His instinct screamed before a foot laid its mark on his shoulder before he felt the air shifted and him falling. He looked up.

"…but I…—call game!"

He did not have time to block the fist that found its way to his exposed chest. Blood made its way to his throat and his vision was caught by the sight of blood spurting from his chest.

The two of them fell with the sphere hitting the ground first—and exploded!

—Sirzechs felt the explosion grinding his back. He closed his eyes in concentration amidst the pain from his chest. A light cloak of crimson coated his back at the growing pain, before he felt a push on his chest and it made his body fall further. He cupped his hand onto his bleeding chest and his body glowed crimson before he disappeared in the middle of the growing explosion. An explosion occurred which triggered a shock wave that swept the area which bolstered the debris from the first explosion to blow further away with more force.

When he opened his eyes and realized his position within the center of a massive crate, he saw the green skies. He immediately felt tranquility.

"—Tell me, Lucifer…Your ego aside, do you admit your defeat?"

Until reality reared its ugly head.

Today was the day he truly will not forget. A day that will be seared into his mind for eternity.

Their meeting was a fateful encounter, and their battle was already decided by the victor.

Truly. He shall never forget Sakamaki Izayoi in his life.

Sirzechs looked out the window in his office, and summarized his afternoon today.

He has met a most unique individual indeed. A young boy possessing immense potential. Potential he has not seen from a human ever since he reincarnated his Rook, Souji Okita, and Bishop, MacGregor Mathers. His Rook and Bishop's talents were heightened as well as expanded when reincarnated. Their potential as humans to reincarnated Devils were honed to a fine point.

As he sat in his recliner, he wondered about the young boy that had made his first appearance in the Underworld…and his first action?

Defeating Sirzechs Lucifer for a wager. To explore the Underworld when his need arises. For someone like him, it would be a rewarding bargain. Because the Underworld has more land mass than in the Human World. There were no vast oceans to be seen, only a network of lakes connected and stretched through the vast lands of the Underworld.

Besides achieving an action unheard of and unseen by everyone except selected ones, and being on the receiving end of the action, Sirzechs did not know what would become of his young guest in the future but he knew the blonde already had the makings for it. He has the drive to carve a path for himself for the unforeseeable future. In his opinion, he was already prepared to face the challenges. Since he had best one of the strongest Satans in the Underworld, there was very little that could be a challenge for him now, and he was only 15 years old, much to Sirzechs' chagrin.

Sirzechs knows potential and character more than anyone. He was humble to say that he constructed his peerage because of their potential and their characters. From his battle against his young guest, he already assessed that his current inherent abilities already transcended the boundaries of humans, even more so than the legendary heroes of the past…

Sirzechs Lucifer has an inkling that the young blonde has untouched potential never before seen. Where he has not truly discovered the origins of himself. The origins of Sakamaki Izayoi, and what lies behind his individuality. With that, he genuinely believed the blonde has the growth of an individual with aspiration for something far greater than himself, and time will only tell the journey he paved one step at a time.

He cannot wait for the blonde that stood at the end of his path. What will he become? Because right now, the possibilities are endless for the problem child, Sakamaki Izayoi.

Time Skip

"This is the Gremory estate. Sirzechs-sama is waiting in his office. I will take you to him, and show you around throughout our trip, Izayoi-sama."

Grayfia extended her hand to the Gremory mansion behind her while she bowed her head as a greeting to their esteemed guest. The guest in question whistled appreciatively at the Gremory estate, a mansion. The impressive size of the Gremory mansion stretched across acres behind. He could sense the many occupants moving about and he could give an estimate as to how large the mansion was by the occupants residing within. Standing at the center of the front yard, his eyes absorbed the scale of the expansive front yard around him. The layout was a quadrangle with a courtyard in the middle. Two long fountain basins carved from marble stood in between the path leading up to the entrance. Multiple pumps shoot jets of water along the two fountain basins. Rows of flower beds were planted ahead of the fountains and lined up along the path. Seeing the wide and enormous landscape brimming with flower gardens, trees, and hedges trimmed to perfection as the eye can see, he nodded his head in acknowledgement. He was truly impressed.

His day was full of discovery. He recalled the time Grayfia guided both him and Serafall through one of the cities in the Gremory Territory.. The three traveled through the masses who could only stare in surprise and gushed at the appearance of Grayfia and Serafall. Both were known by the masses of Devils. Although he was still garbed in his ruined clothes, the blonde did not mind the questioning stares and pointing fingers at his odd appearance next to both women. Serafall waved to the growing crowd and greeted them with happy smiles. It got to the point that Grayfia had to generate a burst of her Demonic Power from her body, to snap the frenzy crowd starting to accumulate from their appearance. A harsh glare disciplined the crowd and they began giving them space to walk. Grayfia had to keep displaying her Demonic Power as they traveled by foot. The first destination was the tailor store.

He wore a fresh set of clothes. A crimson blazer with a white collared long sleeve tee. A pair of black form fitting trousers. Black loafers. He also had a loose knit tie. The tailors were appreciative of Grayfia's appearance and they got their order from her to replicate his clothing and find a new set of clothing for him in the meantime. The tailors looked impressed by his looks, and he commented that they have good eyes. His honesty gave them a bit of a chuckle before they were delighted to serve him new clothing. His blazer was his idea. He wanted something new in crimson. He accepted the combination of black trousers and loafers given by the tailors. Grayfia suggested wearing the collared long sleeve tee. Serafall gave him the tie that can form a loose knot. One of the tailors asked a question to Grayfia after he had worn his fresh clothing. His ruined clothing was given to the tailors so they could replicate them with their own materials. The estimated time to receive his new clothing will be delivered to them tonight due to Grayfia's appearance.

The tailor apologized to Grayfia for a misunderstanding and he could have sworn it involved a name as he looked at them through the reflection as he checked his appearance in the mirror.

Rias Gremory

He shelved the name in his mind before Grayfia paid the tailors' services with their own type of currency. Though it was strangely similar to the currency in his own world. Grayfia guided him and Serafall to their next destination. To find a magic wand for Serafall. It took a while before they found the store. It was full of cosplay items. Mostly referenced from the animes from his own world. He was impressed throughout his trip. The feel of the city was similar to the modern cities of Japan. Almost as if…it was inspired by Japan. Hence, he did not feel like a fish out of water walking through the city. Majority of the people walking were disguised as humans and some had their Devil wings out. Mostly children who had their devil wings as they wanted to fly next to their parents. Children were believed to be difficult for Devils to reproduce yet he could see it was possible. Grayfia told him that snippet of information when he could see that there were a lot of Devils through their trip. Although difficult, reproduction can be done through effort and planning. He had finished learning about reproduction by his mother and he was not as disgusted as most children would be. He grew to be mature at an early age and the reproduction process was logical to his mind. So he did not pay too much for it. The process happens, when it wants to happen.

Although he had stopped some individuals from forcing it on vulnerable women when he came across them from time to time in alleyways when he visited the city, whether it was in Japan or abroad. The men suffered a couple of broken bones near their reproductive genitals, that was a guarantee. Though he always hid himself enough for them to not recognize him. A couple of pebble throws or cans were enough to land them down in a world of pain and the women were able to escape in time.

He knows what is right and wrong from a young age. Identifying the action and acting upon it were simple for him unlike others who do not want to involve themselves, afraid of being harmed themselves. He did not blame them because the perpetrators were armed and the bystanders would only be reckless to risk their lives. He helped when he could. His mother drilled that lesson to him.

—He could be a monster to destroy the world. He could be selfish and not do anything less he attracted unwanted attention to himself. But he did not. His mother taught him the beauty behind the realism of the world they live in. It was his choice to use what he was born with.

What was the reward of saving people in an unfortunate situation?

Nothing. He was alright with it. He chose to act only.

Although, he liked what he saw when he hurt those that deserved it. Only those that were scum, that he could show himself. Whether he was a child back then or he was starting middle school, he only showed his face to strike those that were a bit too obsessive with their victims. Their reports were meaningless to the authorities when they had been struck by a lot of small items all over their bodies. Tins, pebbles, or the whole dumpster that trapped them under its weight, just by throwing a pebble to it. No one would believe them. There were no cameras either. He walked out of the scene with a satisfying grin.

At the cosplay store, the blonde browsed through a massive collection of various products designating for cosplay purposes. Jersey and other sports accessories were also on sale for cosplay. He was impressed by the store as dozens of people were attracted to cosplaying their favorite characters from their favorite anime. Magical girls, pirates, aliens, ninja, and the others. Grayfia on the other hand was standing at a quiet corner while receiving a call in the form of a magic sigil. He was intrigued by the form of communication, seeing as he saw many people were communicating using the same medium outside in the streets. Many people were fascinated and delighted by the products displayed in the store. None more so than Serafall, whose eyes glittered at the cutesy items, particularly from the sailor moon series because they were displayed front and center in the store. Various of their accessories were displayed on the shelves next to their clothing.

By the end of it, Serafall walked out with a brand new magical wand and two bags filled with cosplay products. It was dark when they came out of the store. He was thankful for the available seats in the store because many male customers had been sitting as they watched their significant others fit their cosplay costumes and accessories. Serafall paid for all of her items since she had taken a liking to them all. Grayfia offered but Serafall did not budge to pay for herself. After purchasing, Serafall realized that it was night and she remembered that her little sister was leaving tonight after dinner. Hence, she bid farewell to him and Grayfia before teleporting back to her home.

"I hope we can meet again, Izayoi-chan!"

Serafall bid with a grin before teleporting away.

Afterwards, Grayfia suggested that they could go to the Gremory estate as intended. He agreed, and they were here. A single teleportation circle, and they were at their destination. It was really handy, he noted.

"Well-kept garden. Though it would be possible when you have butlers and maids using their Demonic Power to do that?"

Izayoi asked as he walked behind Grayfia towards the entrance of the Gremory mansion.

"Only ones that can control their Demonic Power to maintain the hedges, trees, and the surrounding flora. If not, manual labor is required."

"And the Gremory does not have a shortage of manpower for that, does it?"

"Yes, the Gremory House had plenty of them, and they know their jobs in maintaining the estate."

"Credit goes to them. They know how to do it on a scale like this."

As he commented, the double barred doors opened in front of him. He was greeted by a line of maids and butlers to each side. He whistled at their form of greeting when they bowed their heads to Grayfia and him as they walked in between them on a crimson carpet with gold accents. When they reached the end of the line of butlers, Grayfia stood across a butler and maid. They were the head butler and head maid in the mansion. She asked for the whereabouts of her son and if he was maintaining his schedule of the day.

"He is in Sirzechs-sama's office, Grayfia-sama. He just finished his classes for today. On time."

"I see. That is good. Thank you to you both." Grayfia commented to the two who bowed their heads to her for her compliment. "Before we go, I assume Sirzechs-sama has mentioned that he has an esteemed guest that would be visiting?"

"Yes. He mentioned it. —Is he…?" The head butler gestured to Izayoi standing behind Grayfia, who raised his hand as a greeting.

"Yes. However, he is not to be mentioned to anyone besides myself or Sirzechs-sama. Understand? Zeoticus-sama and Venelama-sama included."

"Yes. Sirzechs-sama also mentioned the same thing. We understand, Grayfia-sama." The head butler bowed his head.

"Now, Izayoi-sama. Shall we continue?"

"Lead the way. Although I know where your husband is, it's not my place to strut around like I owned it. That being said, this mansion is really impressive given its size and facilities. Care to show me around as we go?"

"I will omit some places. But yes, I can show you around, Izayoi-sama."

"Thanks." With that, Grayfia walks ahead as Izayoi follows behind her.

When they were far into the hallway, the head butler kept on looking at the blonde as did the head maid.

"A young boy like him, an esteemed guest of Sirzechs-sama…Peculiar indeed. Which clan does he hail from?"

"…The Phenex House? They're known to have blonde hair. But he's not," The head maid trailed. "—like them."

"Yes. Mainly, he does not have the notable blue eyes. That's one of the traits of the Phenex House. His confident disposition is something. A Devil that is young and confident. He and Sirzechs-sama must have known him recently, because I have never seen him before."

"Me too. Considering he is a guest of Sirzechs-sama, he must be important. But I can't help but wonder… —Do you think he might be related to Rias ojou-sama…?"

"Knowing Sirzechs-sama's stance on the matter, as subtle as he was in hiding it, it has affected him. That boy…Sakamaki Izayoi. What is your purpose?"

"Did you see him? Oh my, he looks good." One of the maids giggled amidst her colleagues. "When he smiles, that does it for me. I never seen anyone like him before~"

"You know he's a bit young for you now?"

"So? I can't compliment how he looks without people looking at me wrong?"

"Don't look so crossed with me…Fine, you're right about that…... And yes, I have never seen anyone like him before too."

"Charming, isn't he?" The maid smiled, complimenting their blonde guest as the friend sweatdropped.

"He looks confident and calm walking in." One of the taller butlers commented to his colleague.

"Did you see that he surveyed the whole hall? He even nodded in approval. I worked hard on that." One of the butlers smiled.

"He seemed to garner attention." The head butler looked at his team who were discussing.

"They were taken by him." The head maid shakes her head at her team of maids who begin chatting animatedly about their blonde guest.

"Who would not? We have never seen him before in our life serving the Gremory House. With the current state of peace that the Underworld is in, we have already recognized most of the faces connected to the Gremory House. The Gremory House is one of the most fair amongst the Devils. They do not invite as many enemies with how they do not discriminate against other Devils unlike some. With how Sirzechs-sama is ruling the Underworld alongside the other Satans, the Devils are grateful for how it is striving under their new regime. But I cannot speak for the rest of the Devils."

"Despite all that, I hope it all goes well with him. Even when he looked young, he seemed mature. Whatever endeavor he has with Sirzechs-sama, I hope it is fruitful for both parties."

The head butler nodded his head in agreement before they chastised their respective teams as their chatter began increasing in volume.

Sirzechs's Office

"Grayfia, did you tell him…?"

A nervous Sirzechs glances at his wife standing next to his child, who kept looking at Izayoi with wonder in his eyes. A while ago, he had been looking over himself after he had spent most of his time healing what bruises and sores he experienced from his battle with his blonde opponent. Thankfully, he did not suffer any severe damage. However, he had to suffer the bruises and aches on his torso, shoulders, and arms. Those were the places where he was hit the most. Due to his wife's advice, he chose to not put any weight on his body and only focus on resting. So he forgo wearing his padded shoulder plates and cape, which were added weight. He now wore a white ruffle blouse top and had changed his trousers for a new pair.

"I don't know what you mean, Sirzechs-sama."

Sirzechs stared at his wife who looked at him passively. Their son knocked on the door and opened it after both Grayfia and Izayoi made their entrance. That was when Milicas had looked upon Izayoi and his eyes twinkled. That was when Sirzechs's fear became a reality.

He did not want his son to know what happened. His father, who was quite possibly the strongest Devil in the Underworld, a Super Devil, as Ajuka would surmise his breed, —he did not want his son to know he was beaten and defeated in a battle by a human. Above all, he wanted to be known as the coolest father in his son's eyes. If his son was aware that his coolest father lost a battle that could be won easily, because he was the strongest in the Underworld, it would have a devastating effect on him. His heart could not take it. Hence, his eyes nervously glanced at his son, whose eyes kept twinkling at Izayoi.

"Please tell me you didn't."

"Being the curious child that he is, he asked me during my trip with Serafall-sama and Izayoi-sama. Before you asked how he noticed after I healed you, Milicas told me that he was outside your office when you teleported in that room at that moment. So he knows you were in a fight before. He wanted to ask you, however, he asked me instead. Because you would not answer his inquiries if he asked, would you?"

Sirzechs sighed, his shoulders slumped.

"Can you blame me?"

"Why don't you ask him yourself?" Grayfia stumped Sirzechs with her question. The older redhead looked at his son, and coughed in his hand, gaining his attention. Composing himself, he called his name.

"Milicas."

"So this is your kid. I can see the resemblance already." His little quip caused Sirzechs to chuckle before gesturing to his son.

"Yes. This is my son, Milicas Gremory."

"Oh! Pleased to meet you, Sakamaki-san!" Milicas bowed his head politely and smiled up at him. His mother had described his appearance a bit when she was at the store because he had been star struck by what he heard from his mother, about an individual who fought against his father. However, the outcome of the battle remains a mystery.

Hearing that, he pleaded to his mother to know the outcome. His mother declined. His mother compromised with him instead, and had promised that he would be meeting him soon. By then, he would get the full story. His mood brightened more. Before she ended the call, his mother described his appearance. His prominent trait?

His blonde hair and crimson blazer, which he wore.

As soon as he opened the door to his father's office to ask about the arrival of his mother, he laid his eyes on his father and mother before they fell on the blonde standing near his father. He was the individual that his mother described. His eyes twinkled when the individual looked young himself. His appearance gives him hope that there were young Devils that were as powerful as his father and someday, he could be as strong as his father and this individual.

"You don't have to use my family name. Call me by my first name." Izayoi kneels down on one knee.

"I will!" Milicas nodded his head.

"Did you have any questions for me? You seem star struck earlier."

"Oh! W-Well…" Milicas's eyes shifted back and forth nervously. His shy action made Sirzechs smile and he gestured his hand forward at Izayoi.

"You can ask him, Milicas."

"…Okaa-sama said that you and Otou-sama fought, right? What happened, and who won?"

His question made Sirzechs look at his wife in surprise.

"It is not in my place to say. I can only compromise that he would get the full story from you and our guest."

Grayfia answered when they shared eye contact.

"…I don't know if this is worse than him knowing about it beforehand…" Sirzechs processed this situation. It was good that his son did not know. Yet, that begged the question. His son was bound to know the outcome of the battle. From himself! His train of thoughts soured his mood, and it took a while for him to compose himself.

"Should I entice him, Sirzechs?" Izayoi turned his head to the right, smirking at the crestfallen look on Sirzechs' face.

His eyes twitched at the smirk on his face. He then looked to his son who looked excited to hear about the story. At the sight, he smiled. His fate has been sealed.

"…You can. He's really excited to hear about it."

"Yeah, he's brimming with energy." Izayoi commented as he looked back at Milicas who was rowing back and forth on the sole of his feet as he patiently waited while he kept his hands together in front of him, which is a polite gesture for a young kid. "How did we fight? Hm… before that, you have to hear the beginning before our battle."

"Oh! Yes, please!"

"See, your father invited me to meet in a forest. I don't know what for, but I was fine with it however. When I arrived at the location, for some reason, he was being a bit rude. Even though he was a host, he did not greet me properly. I had to wander around an hour or so before he would properly meet me."

"Oh…" Milicas frowned a bit before looking up at his father for his impolite gesture.

"Sirzechs-sama."

"Wait—I have a valid reason for that!" Sirzechs sweatdropped at the disappointing looks sent his way from his child and wife. Mentally cursing the blonde, he tried salvaging his good graces. "I was testing his patience! He was someone I kept an eye on for a while—for good reasons," He added at the same time his wife narrowed her eyes. "—and I wanted to see his orientation in an unknown location."

"What did you find exactly?" Grayfia questioned.

"Ah…He was unusually calm in the unexpected situation. He did not stray too far from the location. Because he knows where I am…"

"Yep."

"He knows where you hid, Otou-sama?" Milicas asked. His eyes twinkled. He knows that any Devils could mask their presence with their Demonic Power, however it would take greater control of their own energy to do that and a lot of practice was required. For their blonde guest to know where his father hid was impressive to him. His father was talented in his mastery of magic and their family's Power of Destruction. He knew his father had already mastered the invisibility magic to cloak his presence, so it was a surprise to him that he could be detected by their blonde guest.

"I have masked my presence enough that any oblivious Devils would not be able to detect unless they pay attention. Unfortunately, Izayoi found where I was when he arrived at the location yet did not seek me out for some reason."

"Because you're the host, and I'm the invitee. You're the one who invited me, remember?"

"Sirzechs-sama. That is impolite of you." Grayfia chastised her husband who sighed with closed eyes.

"…I admit. That's my mistake."

"Well, he greeted me after 2 hours."

"1." Sirzechs looked pointedly at the blonde.

"Or so."

Izayoi shrugged his shoulders.

"We introduced ourselves, and offered me the opportunity to join his peerage."

"Really?!" Milicas's eyes shone with wonder at his statement. He looked to his father who only had to nod his head to affirm. "Sakamaki-san—I mean, Izayoi-san must be really strong! Oh, wait…" Milicas wore a sheepish look. "You must be, since you fought against Otou-sama."

"You could say that."

"What happened next?"

"I declined his offer."

"Huh?" Milicas cutely moved his head to the side with his mouth opened. Setting his head upright, he asked. "Why?"

"Because I don't want to. It's as simple as that. Would you trust a stranger just because he offered you a position?"

"…That's true. Okaa-sama said to not trust strangers."

"You understand it now. Since I refused, we wager a bet. If I lost, I would join your father's peerage, and If I win, I get to explore the Underworld. What do you think about the wager? Is it fair?"

"Hm…Izayoi-san, isn't it unfair for you…?"

Milicas questioned with a small frown as he contemplated the true fairness behind the wager.

"Why's that?"

"Why would you explore the Underworld? This is where you live, right?" At Milicas's question, Izayoi only smirked. "I know joining Otou-sama's peerage is not for anyone, but why would you have a wager on something you can do easily as exploring the Underworld…?"

"As a human, wouldn't it be interesting to explore another world entirely?" Izayoi answered without hesitation.

Milicas blinked a couple of times before he opened his mouth in shock.

"You're a human?!"

Milicas covered his mouth with his hands when his mother shushed him from the side.

"You're a human, Izayoi-san…?"

Milicas whispered under his hands.

Izayoi nodded his head in response.

"Woah…! Since you're a human…! You must be really strong when Otou-sama wants you to join his peerage!" A moment of realization kicked in for Milicas and his eyes shined with wonder.

"What do you think about the wager now?"

Hearing the question, Milicas thought about it for a second. His face adopted a cute thinking face.

"…Hmm, wouldn't it be easier if you joined Otou-sama's peerage so you could explore the Underworld later?"

"—Now that's where you're wrong. That is what a wager is about. After we made that wager, we had to see who won, right?"

"Oh, that's right! So who won?!"

"For the life of me…" Sirzechs sighed. "This is it…My life today has turned upside down…I should've invited him way sooner. Milicas would be younger, and he would not care too much. The outcome of the battle would change for the better. —Right?"

Can he beat a younger Sakamaki Izayoi in a battle? One that was starting middle school? Somehow, the more he thought about it, the more doubts he had. After battling against the blonde, he understood a bit that his opponent was not a master in hand-to-hand combat and his instincts primarily drove him throughout the battle. Adding to that, his instincts are abnormal for a human in the first place. Because he knows what he can do. He knows how to use his arms and legs to deflect plus counter in an instant when he assumed that it was impossible for humans to possess such a fast reaction time and maneuverability. Although becoming an expert can go a long way, instincts can show its worth if given the time to nurture it. Observing the blonde throughout his battle, he knows the blonde can only grow onwards in terms of nurturing his instincts and his hand-to-hand combat. It was only a matter of time. Even when he was at a disadvantage because he could not deliver any long range attacks, he easily made up with his speed and strength. His athletic build also supported his flexibility in making difficult moves. He had managed to evade numerous spheres fueled by his Power of Destruction with his flexibility alone before he destroyed some and had gained an advantageous position. He blindsided him at some point because of that. He clearly remembered that, yet, he did not want to recall it.

Another thing was Sirzechs had to consider that his blonde opponent had never fought an opponent like him nor anyone that is able to hurt him. Thinking about it made him realize something. If Sakamaki Izayoi can withstand this much of his Power of Destruction at this age, and appear unscathed at the end of it, then…

"Yep…I dug myself a rabbit hole just thinking about this…"

Imagining him losing to a child, especially to one, Sakamaki Izayoi, is way worse than it needs to be.

"Now, after we set our conditions, we begin our fight."

Milicas leaned his head in.

"...We can continue this storytelling another time. It is getting late, you know?"

"Aw…" Milicas adopted a cute frown before looking pleadingly at the blonde to continue the story.

Unphased by the look, the blonde looked at Grayfia standing behind Milias. "Am I wrong?" Izayoi asked as Grayfia put her hand on her child's shoulder.

"It is time for your sleep."

Milicas hung his head down in defeat before his head popped back up. "Well, can I hear about it next time?!"

"As I said, I'll visit to give you the rest of the story."

At his answer, Milicas smiled widely.

"Okay! Thank you, Izayoi-san!"

"But before you go, there's a few things I have to say about your father."

Milicas looked at him.

"Your father was really strong, and he was really sturdy. He was taking it seriously after he did not underestimate me at one point."

"—So he won, right? Right, Otou-sama?"

"Yes—" Before Sirzechs could happily entertain his son with his lie, he was interrupted by Izayoi.

"You'll just have to hear the story next time."

"But I want to hear it now…" Milicas frowned once again.

"You will. You have to be patient."

"Yes, with a bit of patience, you will be rewarded." Grayfia added as Milicas nodded his head in understanding at his mother's words.

"Okay, Okaa-sama. Then, when will I see you again, Izayoi-san?"

"I don't know. Whenever I see you? Is that good with you? I can't promise I'll meet you very soon. Unfortunately, I have my own business to deal with back in my world."

"Oh...You're from the Human World. Where Rias onee-chan goes to school, right?" Milicas looked up at his mother, who subtly nodded her head in response.

"Who's she?"

"Rias onee-chan? She's my auntie! Oh! I just realized, how old are you, Izayoi-san? I'm 9 years old!" Milicas gestured to himself with a smile.

"15."

"Aha! You're the same age as Rias onee-chan!"

"Oh? You don't say."

Milicas nodded his head.

"Yes! Do you want to meet her? She was supposed to leave tonight to the Human World because tomorrow would be her first day of high school. Right, Okaa-sama?"

"Yes, it is. But Rias ojou-sama is unavailable. She is with your grandfather and grandmother right now."

"Oh…that's right. Sorry, Izayoi-san." Milicas smiled sheepishly.

"It's okay. I'm supposed to leave too." Izayoi waved his hand in dismissal.

"Right now?" Milicas looked surprised.

"In just a little bit. The night's still young for me."

"Okay." Milicas closed his mouth when a yawn tried escaping his mouth. "I'm sleepy…"

"Then it's time for your sleep. Here, I'll go with you to your room." Grayfia stepped aside to open the door behind him.

"Okay, Okaa-sama…" Milicas brushed his hand over his eyes, feeling his eyelids were a bit heavy.

"If you'll excuse us, Sirzechs-sama, Izayoi-sama." Grayfia grabbed onto Milicas's hand and they left the room with the young crimson Gremory waving his hand at Izayoi, who waves back. After they closed the door, Izayoi stands up.

"You have a younger sister then?"

"…Yes." Sirzechs answered after a moment of silence.

"Am I sensing hostility?"

Sirzechs smiled as he walked up to his desk and sat against the edge casually, propping his hand on the desk.

"It depends on what kind of question you're asking."

"I'm just curious, is all. It's the least I could do since I'm not the only curious one around here. Am I not allowed to ask about your family when you're prying into mine?"

"…I can understand where you're coming from. But as I said, I only sent my scouts to monitor only when you displayed your power. I am interested in your background, yes, but I know my boundaries. Your mother, on the other hand, is quite calm in response to your extraordinary power. She is not fazed that you possessed such power. Even when that hydroelectric dam was destroyed back then, your mother calmly exited the scene with you in tow. As if you are tourists just arriving at the scene of the crime. I am curious how your mother could be so calm, but I can understand, that's how a mother is, I suppose."

"Nothing gets past her, unfortunately. She likes to be noisy in my business, and I can't really stop her. So I just bear with it."

"I can understand. That is what mothers are."

Sirzechs smiled, recalling his own mother's care over the years. Even when he is grown, his mother would always remind him that she would be there with him when he has troubles. However, he also knows that she can display an intensity like no other when he or his father made a mistake that crossed her. He briefly thought about his wife, who also had a mean streak if anyone dared cross her. The women in his family were not ordinary Devils. They were Devils that should not be crossed. His little sister included.

"Your mother's not going to worry that you're gonna be home late at night?"

"Oh, she'll be waiting for an explanation. I'm not gonna give it to her though. That'll make her fume, no doubt."

"You're really close with your mother?"

"She showed me a new world. Safe to say. From that moment on, I had to accept that she was serious in taking care of me. Though, she has some crappy moments as a mother."

"Does she? I do hope she is not too bothered. What are you going to do until you leave? And when?"

"I'll ring you up when I have to go. You won't mind right?"

"You're my guest."

"Thanks." With that, the blonde walked out of the room, leaving Sirzechs sitting against the desk.

"…Am I doing the right thing…? Hah… I can't think like that—We have enough time to make a change. This change is all we need."

What kind of person would he be if he sacrificed the happiness of a loved one for the sake of their family?

"Hm?"

A glimpse of blonde hair passed by her brother's office.

Blue-green eyes blinked.

Once.

Twice.

A frown curved downwards

"Was that… No, it can't be. Forget it."

Large tresses of crimson hair flow back and forth as the teen shakes her head in denial. A discomforting look on her face. After a pleasant outing with her father and mother, this was the last thing she wanted to think about. The outing was a way for her to get away. Even though the one that gave her away was her own father.

She could not believe that. Yet, she could not deny the engagement. It was already established.

She was distracted during the outing. Because her father was the one that made her life—a nuisance now.

But she suppressed her anger. She had already voiced her disagreement and denial over what happened the first time she heard it. How could she understand what her father did?

He did it for her sake.

Was it?

Better to start early than later?

Was it?

The chances of bearing a Full-Bloodied Devil between Gremory and Phenex would be guaranteed.

Was it?

She saw him. She saw the look on his face when she used her voice on him that time.

He regretted his decision. But he could not pull back on what he declared with the other party. It was finalized.

The outing was a way for her to reconcile a bit with her father after what happened. Her mother helped greatly because she was able to mend the gap between them a bit. She was the bridge that connected them to communicate and have fun as a family. She wanted to invite her brother also to the outing yet he regretfully declined as he had important business to attend—

Was that it?

Something clicked in her mind.

Rias Gremory did not hear someone calling her name until her eyes gained clarity.

"Rias ojou-sama?"

"Huh?"

She turned, facing her sister in-law. Grayfia stood in front of her and looked at her, with a twinge of concern in her eyes.

"Rias ojou-sama? Are you alright?"

"Y-Yes. I'm alright. Maybe I'm just a bit tired from the outing with Otou-sama and Okaa-sama."

Grayfia stared at her sheepish expression.

"Mm. You have been out since early afternoon."

"Yes. It took a while. But the outing was a good way for me to leave without any issues. Heh, it's not that I would be gone for long. I'll visit sometime throughout the year."

Rias smiled. She spoke the truth. The outing did help ease the tension between her and her father. With the help of her mother, the three of them enjoyed the outing together as a family. Her father is a charming individual and when he spoke to the female clerks to buy them food and drinks throughout the trips, he would capture their attention and talk a bit longer than necessary. That was when her mother stepped in, and interrupted the talk between the two. A scary smile offered to her husband. The scene of her mother chastising her father will always be funny, even when she had witnessed it numerous times for years. When she was a child, and noticed her father charming women other than her mother, she asked her mother about it. She still remembered the red bruise on her father's cheek when he got pinched by her mother. Hard.

When she got older, she understood. She also understood the women in her father's polygamous circle. Though, she knows that her father loved her mother the most. This fact made her appreciate the relationship between her parents more. Yes, her father has his other women. Yet he showed the most affection for her mother. It was only when her mother was busy, that he shifted his attention to his other women. This was an established rule for their relationship. If her mother was not busy, and wanted some space for herself to relax, she would give her permission for her father to spend time with his other women. This has been going on for years, and she had been accustomed to it. Her mother was the one responsible for selecting the various women fit for her father. Because her mother has a keen eye for distinguishing character, and ultimately, her mother is the top woman for her father. His wife. Hence, she holds the most power in managing her father's polygamous circle.

Speaking about her father, her fury and anger over her engagement had simmered during their outing together which lasted all afternoon until the early night. She could not bottle up those feelings any longer since she cannot be angry at her father for long.

He admitted that it was his mistake.

Especially that he did not discuss with the family as a whole. Her mother was really disappointed in him at first when she heard about it. Her mother did not give him any attention for a week and asked him to reflect on his mistake. During that week, he did reflect. Because he discussed it with her brother during that time. Her brother vehemently disagreed over his decision to arrange her engagement with one of the Phenex Clans' heirs. Just like her mother, Sirzechs did not communicate with her father for a few days and gave him the cold shoulder unless it was official business for the Gremory Household. He started talking with her father when he reflected. The two talked it over. After which, her mother began talking with her father normally, once he had reflected.

And he did reflect on his action.

Her father knows now.

It took some time until their outing that she was able to talk comfortably with her father without the lingering thoughts of his mistake.

She had accepted that there was no going back.

Unfortunately, the engagement was still in agreement, however she had to move forward. Right now, she has time. Whether it would be enough, or not, she will develop something of a contingency for it. Her efforts on going against the engagement would not be hers solely. She was not alone in this stance.

"I just got home now. There is some time before I have to go. I'll double check on what other belongings I should bring next."

"I understand. Everyone will gather outside later when you're finished. I reckon your peerage is waiting for you?"

"Yes. They're holding down the fort. Akeno and Koneko are familiarizing themselves with the city as we speak. They'll meet up with me at Kuoh Academy after this."

"That's good. Is there anything you need for the trip? Will you need a shower prepared before leaving?" Grayfia spoke as she looked at her sister in-law who had been out on an outing since afternoon and had just arrived.

"That's alright." Rias shakes her head politely. She looked at herself. She wore a black top with a snug brown jacket over it. A plaid skirt and black leggings with brown loafers. She then looked at the watch on her wrist. "I'll take one when I get home. They'll be waiting for me in 30 minutes."

Grayfia nodded her head in understanding.

"Unfortunately, Milicas has already fallen asleep. So he will not attend."

"Really? Aw, he must be really tired today."

"He has to control his Demonic Power first before using his Power of Destruction. As the son of Sirzechs-sama and I, he has much to learn. Yet, he has shown potential."

"Because you and Onii-sama are teaching him from time to time in between his lessons."

"Yes. So far, he has only one complaint. He does not have that much patience. Naturally, he is a child after all. He will learn to develop it with time." Grayfia explained with a small smile. "Contact me when you're done, Rias ojou-sama. I will gather everyone by then."

"Thank you, Grayfia."

Grayfia bowed her head before walking away. She had time to inquire the head butler and maid about their duties today before she would wait for a specific delivery of clothes to the Gremory mansion.

Rias closed the door to her room with a sigh of relief.

She had checked everything and noticed that there was nothing to bring. This meant that she had already brought everything she needed to the Human World, particularly to Kuoh Town.

"Tomorrow…I'll be starting as a First Year, alongside Akeno. Koneko will enroll into the middle school division for two years. Everything is going smoothly."

Rias smiled at the thought of her peerage members. They pledged to join her peerage after she had saved them. The two of them had experienced a terrible tragedy that shook them to their core. Their suffering did not sit right by her. And so, she offered them an opportunity. An opportunity for a better future with her. Because of all the pain they suffered, she wanted nothing more than to offer a helping hand. She felt empathy for them, and acted upon those feelings. She would give shelter to them. A home for them.

They were not entitled to accept her offer at all. She did not have any expectations whatsoever. She just wanted to help them because they were in a rough patch.

But they accepted her.

They became her Queen and her first Rook.

With that, she had now established the foundation of her peerage. Right now, her first Rook was relatively new to her home however she did not want to leave her side. She understood Koneko. She was the one to comfort her in her arms after what happened to her previous master, who was killed by her elder sister, due to being drunk in power. Her brother had claimed that the investigation is still inconclusive however that was the report that was pushed out by the media.

Her Queen. Akeno Himejima. She found her attempting to escape her uncle trying to kill her because he discovered that she has blood ties to a Fallen Angel. Miraculously, she and her father's Bishop managed to save Akeno in time and talked it out with the head of the Himejima clan at the time. Afterwards, Akeno spent time with her in the Gremory mansion and was taught various things to her wonderment. Although Akeno's mother taught her manners befitting a woman, they helped her to know more for her benefit. As time passed, Akeno became her best friend and when she got her Evil Pieces to form a peerage just as she entered Junior High, Akeno did not hesitate to accept being her Queen. Her decision also stems from the fact that she detested her Fallen Angel blood, and wanted to be reincarnated as a Devil. However after reincarnating as a Devil, she still had her Fallen Angel features. This made her depressed but it did not last long. With some help from her mother's soothing and assuring words, Akeno slowly came out of her depression.

"While you may still be a Fallen Angel, you are as close to us as family already. In your situation, it is difficult to get rid of your origins, but this is a new beginning for you. This is where you should discover a new you. Do not let yourself stay in the past, or it will consume your future. We, your family, will always support you, Akeno. Because we are your family now."

Akeno broke down in her and her mother's arms. After that, Akeno's bond with the Gremory House was solidified for eternity.

"It's been roughly 4 years ever since then…"

Rias smiled at the years she had known her best friend. Those years were the ones she treasured a lot since she had a best friend to share her happiness with as a child. Born into the Gremory House, she had expectations and she surpassed most of them. However, in doing so, she rarely got to know any girls her age beyond the superficial surface as the future Gremory heiress. That's when she met Akeno, and she found a best friend in her. Afterwards, she found another best friend in Sona Sitri, and a close friend in her Queen, Tsubaki. Rias Gremory has found friends that she can confide in and spend time with. Trivial and non-trivial stuff were interwoven in their meetings with each other and as growing teenagers, they found a normalcy in their interactions, which became enjoyable moments shared between them. Their outings were an unforgettable pastime and will continue to be so as they journey through high school now.

Rias walked through the corridors for some time until she stopped. Something caught her eye outside of the window next to her. Stepping back, her eye spotted someone walking towards the fountain, in the courtyard at the back of the mansion. Her eyes trailed him.

All she could see was his back. She cannot see his face.

However, she does not know anyone that would be visiting to her knowledge. Her parents had cleared their schedules for her today. All except her brother who had plans today.

"Is it…?"

She shakes her head. It was not Riser Phenex. She recognized him even when she could not see his face. It is all in the way he presents himself, even to his walk. She had not met him yet, however she had watched his battles and she already knew his reputation from her brother. Due to him being a Phenex, it was virtually impossible for him to lose since the Phenex House inherited the power of Immortality, by the legendary creature, the firebird Phoenix. Their power of Immortality allows them to regenerate any damages sustained to them. Even fatal ones. Hence, the reputation surrounding the Phenex House as a whole, was that they were practically guaranteed to win in a Rating Game. One of the heirs of the Phenex House to boost the reputation was the third son of Lord Phenex and Lady Phenex, Riser. He had accumulated a lot of wins in Rating Games and it contributed to their House's reputation. His contribution and the way he carried himself garnered a lot of attention to their House as a whole.

"…Is he related to him…?"

Rias questioned. Her eyes staring at the blonde stranger through the window. It was until the stranger stopped and turned his head halfway. A smirk popped out at the corner of his face.

At this, Rias frowned. It did not sit well with her. He had noticed her.

Her eyes glowed crimson as the figure turned his head back and resumed walking.

She decided then and there.

Forgoing the ongoing fatigue, Rias walked ahead. Her destination was not towards the front courtyard. It was to the back.

The courtyard at the back of the Gremory mansion consists of an open space just in front of the entrance. Ahead of the space was a fountain with flower beds circling it. The fountain in particular narrows down to a pathway towards another fountain sitting in front of the entrance, with similar placement of flower beds around it. Border hedges sit at both sides of the entrance, giving room for people to walk through its curvy walkways. A lot of those hedges and flower gardens can be seen throughout the landscape outside of the mansion.

Opening the doors leading to the back courtyard, Rias walked outside. Her eyes are targeting the fountain ahead. She stared at the fountain and noticed the individual. His action confused her enough that the crimson glow of her eyes faded. She started to walk in an attempt to understand the sight she was seeing.

When she got closer and passed the flower beds surrounding the fountain, she slowed and stopped.

Her eyes trailed the blonde teenager lying on the side of the fountain. His head supported by his arms, cushioning against the marble surface of the fountain.

Was he asleep?

Rias wondered before she looked at his face.

He was young. Possibly as young as her.

A boyish look on his face yet he is a handsome teenager altogether.

A simple smile hanging off his face through his sleep.

As she made her observations silently, she did not notice the individuals standing at the same spot where she was a moment ago, overlooking the fountain down below through the window.

"…So they met."

"Are you sure about this, Sirzechs-sama?"

"I'm not doing anything, you know… All I did was bring him here. What he does is not up to me nor did I ask him to do. There must be a reason that the world bore Sakamaki Izayoi…Just like our meeting earlier, this is as natural as it can get for him to meet her. Is it not?"

"I am worried…"

"I am too…

"…I reckon you're a Gremory?"

"Huh?"

Clarity shone in the teen Gremory's eyes and her train of thoughts were halted. She looked at the blonde teenager and registered his question.

"…Yes…"

She kept her guard up as she answered. Her eyes narrowed a bit.

"I have never seen you before~ What made you come here?

"…I thought you were someone else. Specifically from the Phenex House."

"I don't think I know that House. Right now, all I know is the Gremory House."

This is what made Rias change her stance. Her suspicion rose.

"Maybe the House you're talking about, they're not that important to know on a first hand basis. I just arrived here, you know?"

"You're not native to this territory?"

"You could say that. I'm only here to relax from all that's going on. Since there's a cool breeze here, this is the most relaxing spot."

"Does anyone know you're here?"

"Did you see anyone stopping me? Because they're not. I'm welcomed here."

"By who?"

"Oho~ I have to keep that a secret. Just know that I'm here only to relax with permission. I'm not an idiot with no manners. That'll only spell trouble that I don't want right now. Though I can't say that. Trouble always finds its way to me."

"Are you calling me trouble?"

This was when the blonde moved. He slowly got up from his position and brushed his shoulders. He then faced the teen Gremory, who kept an eye on him as he moved towards her. Her hands slowly set ablaze with the Power of Destruction, starting with her finger. She looked at his head hanging down. His bangs covered his eyes.

"Don't come any closer." She warned as she raised her right hand engulfed with the crimson Destruction, powering up a blast. "I'm warning you…!" As he was a few feet away, she aimed her hand at his head. "Another step…!"

As soon as he stepped forward in spite of her warning, Rias fired! However precise her aim was, her eyes caught him grasping her wrist and moving it up overhead. That caused her to blast the energy filled with the Power of Destruction into the skies. Instantaneously.

"You're trouble? With how beautiful you are, what do you think? Trouble leads men to run away mostly but you're not one I should stay away from, should I?"

His statement caused her breath to hitch, as the cool breeze blew their hair back. Her blue-green eyes stare into his purple.

"Nice to meet you."

"…P-Pleasure to meet you too."

Their similar heights made Rias stare into captivating eyes a bit deeply.

"I know I startled you. It was all in good spirits for a tease~"

"Huh?"

The blonde slowly moves his left hand grasping her right wrist and moves it down in between them. Rias watched him as he positioned his hand underneath her fingers and laid a kiss on top of her hand.

Her face felt warm. Terribly warm.

"I wanted to see how you react with strangers. I see that your family raised you well to know the dangers outside. Good on you for keeping your guard up."

His compliment with a smile further exacerbated her situation. Her heart thumping against her ribcage was the sign. She could feel and hear it.

"We had our pleasantries out of the way, but I don't think we introduced ourselves."

The blonde slowly removed his hand from her fingertips. Her eyes stared down at her hand where his lips lingered a moment ago.

"The name's Sakamaki Izayoi."

"…Rias. …My name is Rias Gremory."

The Gremory teen introduced yet she looked a bit out of sorts staring at him. She regained clarity before she avoided his amused gaze. Her cheeks were strangely warm.

"I'm glad we sort out our misunderstandings before we cause a commotion. I wouldn't mind either way but tonight is a good time to relax before I have to go."

"Huh?" Rias looked at the blonde who shrugged his shoulders and turned around, heading to the same spot he lay on. He began sitting down on the spot and resumed his hands behind his head before lying down on the side of the fountain. "You're leaving…?"

"Yep. I'm just here on a momentary visit."

His answer made her walk up to him and she sat down next to him, legs folded next to her.

"Where will you go back to?"

"…My home is further than you think. —Do you want to visit?"

"Huh? N-No! I was just asking, that's all! It doesn't mean anything…"

"Alright. If you don't mind me relaxing, I like to get some before I go."

"Oh…"

Rias watched him close his eyes and his body relaxed.

"If you have any problems, and you don't want to think about it so much, some shut eye will do wonders for you."

"How can you be so calm about it?"

"It's not the end of the world. Even if you may think it is, whatever that problem is, you're capable of confronting them. It's not the matter of when, but how. Because time is not necessarily on our side."

Rias listened to him.

"Right now, I'm relaxing before I get home and get nagged by my mother. Apparently, I have a curfew…of sorts."

At this, Rias breaks out a small laugh.

"Laugh it all up. Mothers always look out for their children. Can't blame them. So since I know it's inevitable, I better get some rest. I hope she's not cranky today…A bit of alcohol after every success of a business acquisition does not make her level headed as she thinks."

"She must be a hard worker." Rias commented as the blonde nodded. "...…If I have something inevitable for me in the near future, and I can't seem to do anything about it, wh-what should I do…?"

Hearing the trembling in her voice, the blonde opens one eye to glance at her. Her eyes were cast down.

"…I don't know your situation."

Rias glances up at him.

"But if you want to hear my advice; confront them in the way you know how. It's vague, I know. But you'll find a way. Not now, but you'll find it. As I said, it's not the matter of when."

"It's the matter of how."

"Yeah, if all else is not gonna cut it, how will you confront your problem? Thinking about the how can be tough, but this world is not fair to begin with. We're dealt with the cards we have now. All we have to do is confront them one by one."

"...I understand…"

"Whatever your problem is, keep your head high. A frown doesn't suit you, you know? A girl like you can be tough with a smile on her face. —It's not the end of the world if you can do something about it. I assume you're that kind of girl when the going gets tough?"

"…Thank you."

"But a little help is not all bad."

"Huh?"

"If nothing else works, I'm all for it."

"How would you…?"

"I have my ways." A smirk plastered on his face as he responded to her question.

"I hope it's not overconfidence talking." Sarcasm rolled off Rias's tone as she smiled knowingly at the blonde, whose words comforted her…

"You don't know me now, Rias~"

Rias stared at him when he spoke her name.

"…What is your angle? We don't even know each other that well…"

"I don't know about you at all. But, I can see when someone's trouble is catching up to them. You still got your whole life ahead of you, Rias, and you're mulling over it like you don't have much left. So, if I have to intervene on your behalf in order for you to get your life back on track, I'll secure it."

"?!"

His words caused her eyes to widen as the teen Gremory looked down at him.

"I'm not gonna waste your whole life now, Rias."

"Why…?"

"Simple. I don't want to see you cry."

"Huh…?"

Rias watched as the blonde opened his eyes. His eyes connected with hers. He raised his right hand and gently wiped the back of his finger over her cheek, wiping the silent tear falling down.

"Whatever the problem is, you're still crying about it. It's eating inside you."

The Gremory teen looked at his comforting smile.

"…I thought I already shed enough tears about it…" Rias shakes her head to apprehend her weakness.

"If you want them to stop, what are you going to do about it?"

Rias smiled sadly.

"I'm sorry. I don't have the answer to my problem. But I know what I have to do until I confront them."

The blonde nodded his head before resuming to lie down and rest his head against the fountain with his arms tucked behind.

"You can pay upfront now."

"Huh?"

"You think my advice is free?" The blonde raised an eyebrow whilst glancing at her sideways.

"But I thought—!"

"On second thought, this view is already nice as it is. I'll accept your payment."

"Huh?" Rias looks down as the blonde eyeing her cleavage which was exposed to his viewing. "…B…Baka!"

"Oho~"

Rias pinched his cheek and twisted it outward while covering her chest. Her cheeks were redder than they ever were.

"Is it my fault when you're exposing them like that?"

"W-Well, it's rude!"

"You're not helping at all with that, you know?" Izayoi mused with closed eyes. His day had been blessed indeed.

"Baka! —?!"

The jerk motion to hit the blonde on his head caused her body to fall off balance to the left, and she was unprepared to brace herself.

~Chu~

"?!"

Izayoi looked at Rias. Their surprised eyes connected with each other. The blonde had felt the air shifted a bit and he had opened his eyes only to see hers up close. He had grasped her wrist that caused the off balance yet she still fell and their lips awkwardly connected to each other. They both stared at each other for a moment. Neither moved an inch.

Then, Rias moved.

She slowly pulled away her head once she planted her free hand on the ground and stabilized herself. Her other hand was still in the blonde's grasp by her wrist. Her bangs fell to hide a part of her face.

"…That was…a lovely fall."

His comment caused Rias's face to darken considerably. She hid her lips by pulling them back into her mouth and refused to respond for a while… Because her thoughts went haywire!

How was she supposed to respond?!

After that?!

An uncomfortable silence fell between the two teens as they sat by the fountain in the breezy night.

"I believe I can sleep really well tonight…Today's a really good day after all."

Rias stopped her finger from brushing against her lips when she heard his comment. She glanced up at him to see him presumably sleeping with his eyes closed. A minute passed before she realized she stared at him and Rias was about to get up to leave. She felt too embarrassed by the situation and that her first kiss was stolen by the blonde.

A light breeze hit her face.

She recalled his message.

"A light nap wouldn't hurt before I go too…"

After she spent her time today, a rest sounded better in her mind. She glanced at the blonde before she scooted away a bit, giving distance between them. She conjured a light pink pillow from a magic sigil and laid it upon the side of the fountain. She fluffed up the pillow. Before she laid her head against the pillow, she glanced up at the blonde. Then her head gently rested on the pillow. Once she snuggled her head on the pillow, the events of today caught up with her and she felt tired. Her eyes drifted up towards the starry sky overhead. The sight of the twinkling stars made her smile.

"He's right. Someday. Not now. I'll confront my problem, the way I know how. It's not the end of the world now. —It's just the beginning for me…"

She felt her eyelids get heavy.

Rias breathed and her body started to feel relaxed against the grass beneath her. She did not feel the prickling sensation of the grass. The grass had been cut to perfection courtesy of the butlers and maids. As she started to relax and feel comfortable with the light breeze blowing past her, she closed her eyes.

Before her consciousness faded, she had one thought concerning the blonde sleeping next to her.

"...I hope I can meet him again…I…forgot his name…"

To Be Continued…

How is Chapter 2?

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Ja'ne! ArtLotus out!