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Greetings again, my good people! It's me again, back at it with a Neko Dragon update. One that fortunately didn't take me a whole year.

Sorry about lack of updates…

Anyways, with school out of the way now, I should have more time to deliver content for this story, as well as other things, so updates should be a tiny bit more frequent now. No 100% promises, but I'll give it my all!

Also, I decided to move the reviews down at the bottom A/Ns so that they don't clog up the beginning like they did previously.
Besides, I feel like they fit better there.

Unlike other times, I don't have much to say, so let's not waste time and jump right in on the story!

Key:

„Speech"

‚Sacred Gears, Magical items, Group/Organization name, Nicknames, etc.'

„Chants"

‚Thought'

[Ddraig talking out loud]

[Ddraig thinking]

[Ddraig talking to Issei in Issei's mind]

[Figure name]

(Author remarks, rant, whatever)

{[Flashback/Dream Start/End]}

{[Scene Break/Start/End]}

Disclaimer: I don't nor will I ever own Highschool DxD or it's characters. It belongs to Ichiei Ishibumi.

ENJOY!

{[Scene Start]}

The last day was approaching. The final push before the goal was all he had left. All he had to do was survive two more days. The final two days of his training regime. The final two days of his challenge.

Fortunately, for people such as Issei, this wasn't that difficult of a task.

However, the scenery around him had changed, drastically. The mountain he was stranded on had undergone quite the unfortunate transformation.

The green, beautiful, fruit-filled trees in the forests were nothing but a distant memory now. In their place were the incinerated remainders of what was once a lush forest, burned down by what seemed to be an unstoppable inferno.

The craters on the mountain, which happened during training, had only increased in number and grown in depth and size. It was truly a miracle the mountain hadn't crumbled yet.

"Try dodging this!" roared Tannin, a former member of the 'Great Dragon Kings.'

An enormous fireball was launched at Issei, who didn't even make an attempt to move out of its way. "No, dodging isn't fun anymore!" Issei said as he got in a battle stance, the fireball moving towards him ever so swiftly.

[BOOST!] came the sound of Issei's 'Boosted Gears'.

Extending his right hand forward, Issei closed his eyes for a second as a small red orb appeared before his hand.

"Fight fire…" his eyes snapped open, and in one swift motion, he punched the orb towards the fireball that was still moving towards him. "—WITH FIRE!"

The orb expanded in size as Issei hit it. Its size also increased rapidly with every meter it traveled. Eventually, it grew just as big as the fireball created by Tannin!

The fireball and Issei's 'Dragon Shot' collided, exploding in mid-air. The shockwave from the collision was powerful enough to throw both Issei and Tannin back a couple of meters.

"How's that?!" Issei yelled out as he rose his fist up in the air.

However, he had no time to celebrate since another fireball was already traveling towards him.

Determined to try out something different, Issei once again got in a battle stance. As the fireball kept flying towards him, he began to move his hands around in an odd, yet controlled manner.

A large trail of water suddenly appeared out of nowhere, facing the fireball head-on. The fireball's size kept decreasing as the water trail kept moving pushing it back as if having a will of its own.

To Tannin, it was evident Issei that was making these seemingly impossible feats. It seemed that his apprentice had taken his advice on working on his elemental control and was developing it further than before.

"Creative." Tannin slightly nodded his head. "It's been a while since I've seen you use any other element besides fire. I can tell you've improved in that regard, too."

"Have I? I honestly can't tell." Issei breathed out with a bit of struggle.

"You have!" The purple dragon roared out as he landed close to Issei and crossed his arms. "I'm certain – with you on Rias Gremory's side, your victory is assured."

"We've got to win, even if I'm not fighting," The Longinus user said as he once again took a fighting stance. "Anyways, let's continue, Tannin-sama!"

"Good! Your spirit's commendable!" Tannin smirked. "Then, let's see how you fare in hand-to-hand combat!"

And so, the two fired-up fighters began to exchange hits as the sun began to gradually set.

{[Scene Break]}

The two days passed by quickly. Issei's training was over. Riding on Tannin's back, Issei returned to Gremory's main residence after he and Tannin left the mountain they were in.

The moment Issei's legs touched the ground beneath him again, he was reminded of the fatigue he had been suppressing for 20 days now. Finally, it took its toll on his body as his legs grew shaky and just about ready to give in. Still, he didn't want to fall right in front of the entrance. Despite his internal screams and his body pleading for a long, well-deserved rest, he remained standing.

"I'll be going now," Tannin said as he let Issei got off his back. "I'll be attending the Maou-sponsored party. Let's meet again there, Issei, Ddraig."

"Ah, you mean the function?" Issei tilted his head at the mention of the word 'party'. "Yes, let's see each other there, Tannin-sama!"

[Thanks for the help, Tannin.] Ddraig said out loud.

"Ah, yes, thank you for being my trainer!" Issei added as he bowed.

"Don't worry about it, I also had fun." Tannin responded. "Actually, come to think of it… Issei, would you like to make an impression?"

"Huh?" Issei's brow rose. "What do you mean, Tannin-sama?"

"I'll bring you to the party on my back, the same way I brought you down from the mountain." Tannin smirked. "How about it?"

"Are you okay with that?" Issei asked. "I mean, I can go just fine by myself, so-"

"Nonsense!" came Tannin's roar. "You're already making a name for yourself here. Perhaps if you appear on my back you will make a great impression for the guests there, don't you think?"

"Well, I suppose so." Issei rubbed his chin. "But that's only if you're fine with it."

"It's not a problem in the slightest." Tannin shook his head, seeing how he was the one offering. "I'll take my group and come here on the day of the party. I'll contact the Gremory's later just to let them know."

"Understood," Issei nodded. "Thank you, Tannin-sama."

"It's no problem." Tannin said as he turned around. "Then, I'll come here again on the day of the party. Farewell!"

With a flap of his wings, the Ultimate-Class Devil launched himself forward, disappearing into the sky as he flew away with Issei seeing him off with a wave of his hand.

"Hey, Issei-kun," a voice behind Issei called out.

Issei turned around only to be greeted by Kiba's smiling face. He was dressed in his jersey, albeit all tattered.

"Yo, Kiba." Issei greeted him back. "I see you've been working hard."

"I could say the same thing to you," Kiba said. "I don't recall all these muscles."

Issei looked down at himself, just realizing that his body had, indeed, changed slightly. He was still as lean as he was before, but his abs and chest muscles were a bit more defined. His hands had also gotten a bit thicker than they were before. Despite it, his body was still more or less the same as before his training regime began.

Regardless, Kiba's comment made Issei just a bit uncomfortable, prompting him to turn slightly to the side in an attempt not to expose himself that much.

"Uh, thanks." Issei said, feeling self-conscious all of a sudden. "You know, as much as I appreciate it, staring at me that way doesn't strike me as pleasant."

"Ah, s-sorry." Kiba sweatdropped. "I just wanted to say your muscles are even more defined now."

"Speaking of that," Issei scratched the back of his head, "you haven't really changed."

"Yeah, I hardly manage to put on muscle mass," Kiba explained. "I'm jealous."

"Oh, Issei and Kiba," a third voice was suddenly heard. Both Issei and Kiba turned towards the voice, noticing that it was Xenovia approaching them.

"W-What's with that appearance?" Issei asked her as he took a good look at her.

Most of Xenovia's body was wrapped in bandages, and her jersey was also tattered and torn at various places. Whatever it was that she went through, it certainly didn't seem to be pleasant.

"Oh, yeah." Xenovia blinked. "I became like this because I trained, got injured and bandaged myself, and then trained, got injured and bandaged myself again."

"That's fine and all, but just how many times did that happen? You're like a real mummy woman!"

"How rude. I have no intention of being preserved forever, you know?" Xenovia crossed her arms.

"That's not what I meant!"

Kiba simply smiled softly to himself at the exchange.

"Issei-san! Kiba-san, and Xenovia-san too!" yet another voice was heard, revealing itself to be Asia this time. Such a lovely soft voice could only be her, after all.

"Oh, Asia," Issei spoke out as he and the rest turned towards her. "It's been a while."

"I-Issei-san!" Asia suddenly blushed. "P-Please get dressed!"

"U-Uh, yeah, that would be a good idea," Issei felt himself grow even shyer.

"Ah, it seems everyone from the group that went out has returned." one more voice was heard; this time it belonged to Rias. "My, Issei, your physical training has paid off quite well, I see."

"I-It's not that… noticeable." The Nekomata-Dragon hybrid blushed faintly at the attention.

"Now then, everyone. Please come in." The redhead beckoned them. "Once you've taken a shower and changed clothes, we'll meet to report the outcomes of our individual training."

With that, all five of them entered the Gremory residence.

{[Scene Break]}

After Issei, Kiba and Xenovia had taken showers and changed clothes, all of them, alongside the remaining members of Rias' Peerage plus Azazel all gathered together to discuss the results of their training regimes.

Issei was happy to meet them again after these 20 days spent apart from them. It was definitely nice that they had gathered together the way they were, but there was one slight issue Issei had with it…

They were all gathered in his room.

Why? Well, he had no idea either. From what he understood, it was apparently because his room was the easiest one for all of them to gather in. Despite the strangeness, he accepted it for what it was. He was just happy to see all of them again.

As they all sat in Issei's room, everyone gave a detailed account of their training regimes, as well as the results they had achieved.

As he listened to their accounts, one thing became apparent to Issei – he had it much tougher than the others.

Apart from Kiba and Xenovia, everyone else was training in or around the area of the Gremory household, while Issei and the aforementioned two were given separate trainers. Even then, the two [Knights] had the leisure of spending their free time in a villa and a cottage respectfully. Whereas Issei had to scavenge for food, water, and shelter, which made his nights much tougher.

"Was I the only one living without a shelter…?" Issei suddenly asked as the realization struck him.

"Well, initially I had a cottage prepared for you, as well," Azazel started "but I know your limits and your abilities, so I figured it would be better for you to make do with whatever you could find around you."

"So, you mean to tell me that I hunted, cooked wild animals, and slept on rocks all these nights even though I had an alternative I was not informed about?" Issei's brow twitched.

"Pretty much, yes," Azazel shrugged. "But hey, I knew you'd survive. After all, nature is your home, more or less. Besides, living on the edge in such a way helped you get more in touch with your heritage, didn't it?"

"I guess it did, but still…" Issei's brow twitched even harder.

"You still improved, so it all turned out well in the end." Azazel smirked. "That's it for the report meeting. Tomorrow is the party. You're all dismissed for today."

And so, the meeting ended as everyone returned to their respective rooms for a rest.

Except for two, which somehow ended up sharing Issei's bed as the night rolled by.

Issei laid in the middle of the enormous bed in his room as he stared up at the ceiling. On his left was Asia, who had already fallen asleep. On his right, surprisingly, was Xenovia, who seemed to be unable to fall asleep much like he was.

Unlike Asia, she was keeping a fair distance away from Issei as she stared at the ceiling above her.

"What's with you? Can't sleep?" whispered Issei, trying not to wake Asia up.

"Yeah. When I think of it, I'm not used to sleeping with a man yet." Xenovia sighed. "Even if there isn't a sexual meaning to it… I'm tense…"

"Yeah, I can relate. Even I was excited and couldn't sleep the first time I slept together with Buchou and Asia." Issei admitted. "Having boys and girls of the same age sleep in the same room does that, you know?"

"I-I see. So, this is natural, huh?" Xenovia said as she rolled on her side, turning towards Issei. "But Asia is amazing. She seems to be sleeping so peacefully."

"It's because Asia…is always sleeping with me and Buchou at home. She was embarrassed at the beginning, but now she's used to it." Issei explained. "Having Asia lying down next to me gives me great peace of mind. Knowing that she's safe and all." The teen withheld the urge to brush her blond bangs from her round face.

"Issei-san, please don't leave me… Mmmn…" Asia murmured in her sleep.

"Heh, I understand the reason why you and Buchou think that Asia is cute." Xenovia pointed out as she gave a wry smile.

Issei smiled back but didn't say anything.

Before he knew it, his consciousness began to slip away as his eyelids got heavier and heavier. Not too long after, he fell into a deep sleep.

{[Scene Break]}

The next day eventually arrived. The early hours passed uneventful, given that everyone was exhausted from their training. Because of that, most of the members in Rias' Peerage all woke up from their slumbers long after noon, which had come and gone.

The person to wake up last was Issei, who woke two hours before the party would take place. It was at that time that everyone learned how difficult it truly was to wake up a slumbering dragon.

Well, he was more of a hybrid, but that was beside the point.

As the starting hour of the party approached, Issei got dressed up and went outside the Gremory residence to wait for the others who, according to several maids, would need more time.

"Hyoudou?" a voice suddenly called out to him.

Issei turned towards the voice, being greeted by Saji, who was walking towards him while waving his hand.

"Yo, Saji." Issei greeted him back. "Why are you here?"

"Ah, Kaichou will be going to the meeting place along with Rias-senpai and I followed her here," The fellow pawn explained. "So, Kaichou went to meet with Senpai and after that, I inevitably ended up wandering aimlessly around the mansion until I arrived here."

"I see." The youkai-dragon hybrid nodded. "Well, the layout is confusing, so it's just better to just go outside in this case."

Saji nodded in agreement but said nothing. A short, tense silence then followed, before he suddenly spoke out with a serious expression. "The game will be taking place very soon now."

"Yeah, that's true." Issei nodded with a serious expression on his own.

"I trained," The blond clenched his fist in determination.

"As did I," Issei said. "I sparred with a former 'Dragon King' while surviving on a mountain."

"I-Is that so?" Saji responded albeit shocked. "You've had it hard, huh? Well, I also did an extremely hard regime."

"I see." Issei spoke with a smile. "Then, I look forward to seeing you in action."

"Do you remember the time when the Young Devils gathered a month ago?"

"Yeah." The memories flickered in his mind. "What about it?"

"We were serious then…" Saji explained. "M-My… d-dream is to become a teacher!"

"That's commendable..." The white-haired boy trailed off at thought, "What will you teach, though?"

"Kaichou is trying to establish a Rating Game specialty school in the Underworld. It isn't an ordinary school. It's an open school for anyone and that accepts Devils regardless of whether they are High-Class or Low-Class, aristocrat or commoner." Saji explained with a burning drive very apparent in his words.

In Issei's head, it kind of made sense. The single Rating Game School only accepted High-Class Devils from aristocratic families that could afford it. Yet, according to the decision of the current Maous, the games have to be equal for everyone. Although equal, the path to the games would be long and tedious for Low-Class Devil commoners.

Issei looked at Saji's expression. Although his face was flushed red, he seemed serious and sincere. He was looking towards the future he had envisioned.

"Both you and I know that despite being equal, the current school's way of education favors aristocrats and High-Class Devils." Saji expanded further on. "Kaichou has told me that she wants to do something about that. That she wants to teach so that even Low-Class Devils can participate in the games."

Issei said nothing, listening to Saji's determined explanations.

"That's why she'll make a school that anyone can enroll from the Underworld! Kaichou is even studying in the human world as well for the sake of that!" Saji practically yelled out.

No response came from Issei yet.

"To give a chance to the ones who never got into the spotlight! Even if it's just by 1%! Even if it's almost zero! As long as it's not zero, one might be able to become a High-Class Devil!"

"Yes, that's right." Issei responded with a curt nod.

"T-That's why, I will work as a teacher there. I'll study a lot, fight in a lot of games, and store up various things. I'll become a teacher who teaches about [Pawns] with that. Kaichou also said that she wants to help me. Even someone like me may be able to become a school teacher…" Saji raised his fist in the air.

Yet another statement followed by silence from Issei.

"I-I've only done stupid things in the past. I've also caused trouble for my parents and was disliked by the people around me. But, if it's Kaichou, I can see a dream! I will stay by Kaichou's side and help her for life! Kaichou's dream is my dream!" Saji explained as his face lit up from embarrassment once again.

Issei frowned slightly when he heard Saji talking about his dream. He shook his head slightly, hiding his frown so that Saji wouldn't see it.

"Hehehe. I kept the fact that I became a Devil secret from my mother, but even so she cried when I told her about my future dream." Saji scratched the back of his head. "'You, become a teacher!' she said, probably because it doesn't suit me. But it wasn't bad, the relieved face of my mother."

Unlike anything up to this point, this statement of Saji's fell on deaf ears as Issei looked up at the sky, deep in thought.

'Dream…?'

What did he dream for? What did he live for? What did he want to achieve?

It had never occurred to him that he lacked something like this. It had never occurred to him that he still had no idea what exactly did he live for. It was true that he had a sense of purpose when he joined Rias' Peerage. And he had people to protect and spend time with.

He finally had someone to love. More than one, in this case.

Yet, despite all of this, what about his dream? What did he want to achieve?

"Hyoudou?" Saji called out to Issei, snapping him out of his little trance. "You go-"

"I think that's a wonderful goal, Saji." Issei suddenly said, turning his gaze towards Saji. "Become a good teacher."

"A-Ah, yeah." Saji responded, a bit surprised by Issei's absentmindedness. Shrugging it off, he continued. "It's also for the sake of that goal that we have to beat you guys!"

"Then, that's too bad," Issei smirked. "Since we're the ones who are going to win."

"No, it's us," Saji responded, determined. "Since we acted so stupidly before, we have to prove ourselves with our results."

"Give it your best shot, then." Issei's smirk grew bigger as he raised his fist as Saji, holding it before him.

"Yeah, you too!" Saji responded, raising his fist as well, bumping it with Issei's.

A short silence between the two then ensued, only to be broken not even a minute later by a voice behind them.

"Issei, sorry for making you wait." a feminine voice called out from behind them. "Ah, so Saji-kun is here."

Hearing the female voice coming from behind, both Issei and Saji turned towards its owner, only to find Sona, Rias, and the remainder of Rias' Peerage standing behind them all dressed up.

Instead of their usual attire, all the girls had put on dresses and makeup. Though unusual, it did make them even prettier, if it was even possible at this point. In Issei's eyes, every single one of them was akin to a princess.

Rias and Akeno had their hair tied in tidied ponytails, both wore similar long dresses that did well to emphasize their curves. The dresses themselves were simple and didn't have many unnecessary details, if at all. They also looked very alike with the only difference being their colors, with Rias' being red and Akeno's being black.

Asia and Xenovia's hair didn't seem to have been changed much as they looked almost exactly as they were naturally, but more delicate. They were wearing a yellow and a blue dress, respectfully. Although they seemed unfamiliar with wearing dresses, it seemed that they were getting the hang of it as their steps became more and more steady in their approach. It also goes without saying that their dresses suited them.

Koneko didn't seem to have changed her hairstyle either. Although just like Asia and Xenovia, her hair seemed much softer and shinier than usual. She was wearing a short white dress that somehow made her look even cuter than she already did usually, prompting Issei to blush slightly as he looked at her.

Behind Koneko was Gasper, who seemed to be trying to hide from Issei's eyes. And for a good reason, it seemed.

Noticing him fidgeting behind the white-haired catgirl, Issei sighed.

"Et tu, Gasper?" asked Issei.

"I-I wanted to wear a dress too!" Gasper exclaimed as he kept on hiding behind Koneko.

Gasper's dress was somewhat similar to Koneko's, although it had a small flower attached to the chest. The color was mostly the same, albeit darker.

Another sigh escaped Issei's lips as he shook his head. Gasper's crossdressing habits seemed to have not left him.

A bit behind Gasper stood Raynare, who was still either afraid or ashamed to look Issei in the eyes. The fallen angel was staring at the ground beneath her with her bangs hiding her eyes. Still, Issei looked at her, inspecting her as well.

Her hair was barely tampered with, and her dress was similar to Rias and Akeno's. It was a lighter shade of black when compared to Akeno's, making them somewhat distinguishable.

He frowned when he saw her, but didn't say anything. Instead, he focused on the others.

He looked at Koneko, who still seemed to be down. She wasn't frowning, but he felt her sadness through her aura alone. It hurt him to see her like this. However, he was well aware that if he was to get her to open up to him, it'd have to be when it's just the two of them.

Even though he didn't want to, he left her alone, though he cursed himself deep down for doing so.

"Saji. Saji, what's wrong?" Sona's voice was suddenly heard, making Issei and the rest of Rias' Peerage turn towards her.

The dressed-up Sona was standing in front of Saji, who seemed to be frozen in place, muttering something to himself way too quietly for anyone to hear.

Issei stared at the scene before him, eventually smirking as the realization hit him. He said nothing and turned around, looking at the sky again.

The sound of something flying over the garden was heard afterward, followed by a soft tremor. Issei perked up as he knew all too well what that meant.

The arrival of a butler not even a minute later had only confirmed his suspicions.

"Tannin-sama and his family have arrived," the butler announced.

'Just as you promised, Tannin-sama.' Issei thought to himself.

{[Scene Break]}

Following the butler's announcement, Issei and the rest went to the place where Tannin and his Peerage had landed. Arriving at the spot, they were greeted by Tannin and ten other dragons that were about the same size as Tannin himself.

"Good evening, Issei." Tannin greeted Issei as he and the rest arrived. "I arrived, just as I promised."

"Good evening, Tannin-sama." Issei greeted back. "You sure did, thank you for that!"

"While you're all riding on my back, I'll place a special barrier around you so that your hairs and clothes don't get messed up in the wind." Tannin said out of the blue. "Looks are important, especially for women."

"U-Uh, yeah, quite considerate of you, Tannin-sama." Issei said, slightly confused as to where did Tannin's idea suddenly come from.

"Thank you, Tannin. We'll be relying on you until we get to the meeting place." Rias walked forward. "The people of Sitri are also here, is that okay?"

"Ooh, Miss Rias. You're especially beautiful tonight." Tannin complimented her. "It's no problem at all. Please leave everything to me."

Thus, Issei, Rias, and everyone else got on the various dragons' backs. In Issei's case, he received a special seat on Tannin's head as a reward for a job well done on his harsh training.

With a flap of their wings, the dragons took off, flying through the beautiful night sky of the Underworld. As they flew, Issei surveyed the night sky up above and the ground beneath them, taking in the many beautiful sights that the Underworld had to offer.

It had been a while since Issei had last flown above the Underworld. Despite its name and reputation, the Underworld was a beautiful place with many beautiful sights. The artificial night only made the well-structured cities even more astonishing than they already were, given that the lights that were on during the night created a spectacular light show.

[For me to see this scenery from on top of a dragon, it's an experience that can't be described.] Ddraig's voice was suddenly heard as Issei looked below.

Judging by the tone of his voice, Ddraig sounded sad. Then again, it was a given. He once had the body of a dragon, too. Issei was well aware of that, so he only gave a bitter smile as he looked at the sky.

Tannin responded, however.

"Hahahaha, that is an interesting experience, Ddraig. However, there are only three mighty dragons that are still active left, including myself. No, since I was reborn as a Devil, the only real ones remaining are Ophis and Tiamat. The rest have either been sealed or have retired." Tannin explained to Ddraig, seemingly lost in his thoughts.

"Yulong and Midgardsormr never come out onto the surface anymore. And Ddraig, Albion, Fafnir, and Vritra have been sealed into 'Sacred Gears'. In all ages, strong dragons have been suppressed. Strong, uncontrollable dragons are a fearful existence, after all."

Finishing with his explanation, Tannin sighed. Judging by the tone of his voice while he was explaining, one would come under the impression that he was rather lonely.

"Come to think of it, I don't think I ever asked you why did you become a Devil in the first place, Tannin-sama," Issei said as he looked down towards the top of Tannin's head.

"That's true, but I don't blame you." Tannin replied. "We were focusing on making you stronger, after all."

"So, will you tell me?" Issei asked. "The reason for you becoming a Devil, I mean."

"Well, one reason is that, in this era where there aren't any big battles anymore, I thought that I would get to fight various guys if I participated in the Rating Games." Tannin replied seriously. "There's one more reason, however."

"Another reason?" Issei rose his brow.

"I have told you about the dragon apple, have I not?" Tannin asked.

"Yeah, a couple of years back when we were training." Issei nodded. "You did mention that it used to grow on the Earth too, but sudden environmental changes made it go extinct."

"Indeed." Tannin said. "There is a certain race of dragons that can only live by eating that dragon apple. Now, that fruit only grows in the Underworld. But, dragons are hated in the Underworld. They're detested by both Devils and Fallen Angels. There's no way they would give it away for nothing, either."

"I guess that's about right." Issei nodded.

"That's why I became a Devil. The territory that grows the fruit was all made my territory. When you exceed a High-Class devil, you can receive a part of the Underworld from the Maou. I had my eyes on that place." Tannin explained.

"Oh! So that's why there are so many dragons living in your territory!"

"Indeed. Thanks to that, they avoided becoming extinct," Tannin confirmed. "I also performed research on how to artificially grow the dragon apple in my territory successfully. It's a special fruit, so the research takes time. Still, if it allows a future for that race and it's within my abilities, then why not help my fellow dragons?."

Issei nodded as he once again looked at the night sky. He was aware that the dragon apple fruit was growing in Tannin's territory. Although, he had no idea that Tannin was researching a way to grow it artificially as well.

'Going to such lengths for the dragons… no wonder you were a Dragon King, Tannin-sama.' Issei thought to himself.

"I see," Issei said quietly. "You truly are a kind dragon, Tannin-sama."

Hearing his praise, Tannin laughed loudly, almost losing his balance mid-flight.

"I'm still not used to being complimented by you, Issei!" Tannin responded through his laughter. "Do you remember the first time you praised me in such a way? How old were you?"

"Eleven, if I recall." Issei smiled fondly. "Back then I praised you for a very different reason. I had no idea that you were doing such noble things back then." Short, quieter laughter came from both of them as they thought back to their first training sessions from years back.

As their laughter subsided, Tannin cleared his throat. "Remember Issei, the desire for the continuation of one's race is the same among all living beings: for humans, Devils, and dragons." Tannin explained. "I only thought of saving my fellow dragons as well. That is what those with power do for those without."

Issei didn't respond right away. Instead, he thought about Tannin's words for a while. After a couple of seconds, he spoke up in question. "Tannin-sama, what do you think my goal should be?"

"Your goal?" Tannin's brow rose at the unexpected question. "This is not something that I have to decide, you know?"

"I know that, yes." Issei nodded, mostly to himself. "But, hearing you talking about your struggles to help out the dragons in such a way… it made me wonder what should I do, you know?"

"That's a difficult question to answer, Issei. I don't think I'm the right one to ask something like this."

"Why not? You've taught me a lot of things already, Tannin-sama. Helping me out with this shouldn't be much of an issue, right?"

"This is different, Issei," came Tannin's response. "Your goal is something you have to find on your own. You're still young, Issei. You'll find your goal soon enough, I'm certain of it."

It took some time for Issei to answer. "I see," he replied with a nod. "Then, I'll keep seeking it, Tannin-sama. I'll get stronger while at it, as well."

"Good!" Tannin roared proudly. "I'm sure Ryu and Hikari would be happy to hear this as well!"

With their talk over, Issei once again looked towards the night sky. For a while, both he and Tannin kept quiet. Every now and again they'd make small chat about random things, but nothing too important or deep.

Not long after, bright lights began to spread out on the ground below the flying dragons. They were approaching their stop.

As more and more lights appeared beneath them, Issei set his sights on an enormous clearing within the nearing forest. Despite the fact that the field looked smaller when viewed from their high altitude, Issei could tell that the whole town of Kuoh would be able to comfortably fit within the area with some ground to spare. A tall building was located in the clearing, which seemed to be the meeting place for the party, as shown by the other signatures within it.

As Issei looked down, Tannin began to slowly descend towards an area similar to a sports ground. As he descended lower and lower, lights began to blind him, concentrating on him from below. If observed from the side, it would've made Tannin seem like a creature from a monster movie.

Seconds later, Tannin and the rest of his Peerage all landed. As the ground shook upon impact, Tannin spoke out.

"We've arrived."

Issei, the rest of Rias' Peerage, as well as Sona's Peerage got off the dragons' bodies, setting their feet on land for the first time in the past hour or so.

"Then, we'll be going to the waiting space exclusively for large Devils." Tannin said. "Have fun, all of you."

"Thank you, Tannin," Rias said with a smile.

"Thanks for the lift, Tannin-sama!" Issei yelled out.

With a nod from Tannin, the hybrid and his Peerage all flapped their black wings and took off, flying towards a distant area from the sport grounds they were currently in.

Just as Issei was about to ask what they should do next, a well-dressed Devil walked up to Rias and, after a low bow, informed her that their limousine was waiting for them.

"We're going with a limo?" Issei rose his brow.

"The hotel is quite far away. We could walk there, but it would be much faster and much more comfortable to go with the limousine." Rias explained.

And with that, the entire group followed behind than the butler, who Issei learned was actually a hotel employee for their final destination. Eventually, they reached the spot where the limousine was waiting for them. As Issei and the rest all climbed in the expensive-looking limousine, the car's engine roared to life as it began driving them to their destination.

As he sat inside, Issei looked around, taking in the interior of the car. It was much wider on the inside than it appeared on the outside. The exterior of the limo was already quite impressive and expensive-looking, but the interior was even more impressive. It was definitely a vehicle fit for royalty.

All of a sudden, Issei felt something touch his head. As he turned towards the unidentified object, he saw Rias sitting next to him, attempting to comb his spiky hair down.

"Um, Buchou?" Issei rose his brow. "What are you doing?"

"The wind disheveled your hair. Hold still." Rias said as she continued to comb his hair. "I realize that you slept in, Issei, but couldn't you fix your hair a bit?"

"Nothing I can do about it." he shrugged. "It won't stay down no matter what I do. The back of it defies gravity and I've accepted that."

Although she didn't take him seriously at first, it soon became apparent to Rias that Issei wasn't lying. His hair truly wouldn't stay down, no matter how much she tried to comb it. In the end, she sighed and put the comb away. His hair was still styled as it was usually, but if nothing else, at least it wasn't as shaggy as it was a couple of moments ago. Still, it was just as spiky as always.

"Oh yeah, what about Azazel-sensei?" Issei asked.

"He will head here after joining up with Onii-sama and the others on another route," Rias said. "Since they're really close friends, after all…"

He nodded. "I guess they're really hitting it off after the Peace Treaty, huh?"

Rias didn't respond to his question, immediately. Instead, her smiling expression got replaced with a serious one. As she took a breath, she spoke up. "Issei, you couldn't hear because you were on Tannin's head, but just before, I declared war on Sona. I told her that we will beat her for the sake of our dream."

"I know." Issei nodded. "I was a bit too absorbed in the scenery, but I did hear something along those lines while I was sitting on top of Tannin-sama's head."

"Ah, so you heard." Rias blinked, a bit surprised. "Then, you should also know what her dream is, right?"

"Yes, Saji spoke about it while we were waiting for you." he nodded once again. "They want to build a school for the Low-Class Devils so that they can participate in the Rating Games as well."

"Ah, so you learned of that." Rias shook her head slightly. She then smiled. "So, what do you think?"

"Well, it's definitely a noble goal. Under normal circumstances, I'd be rooting for them, since I feel like it'd help others." Issei cupped his chin. "But as we are right now, we can't let them win. After all, we have our own goals, too."

"Yes, that's right." Rias nodded. "We'll defeat them in this game, Issei. I won't back down, even against Sona."

Issei merely nodded but said nothing. He looked at the people sitting in front of him in the limousine, who all seemed to be doing their own thing or talking with each other.

Moments later, the limousine stopped. An employee opened the door from the outside, prompting Rias and the rest to get out of it. As everyone got off, they found themselves in front of an incredibly tall, well-lit building, which Issei assumed to be the hotel.

A different employee walked up to Rias and Sona's Peerages, asking them to follow him.

Entering the hotel, Issei couldn't help but be amazed at the amount of work put into the interior, furniture, and lights surrounding them. It wasn't his first time seeing the Devils outdoing themselves with their buildings, but it was still impressive nevertheless.

After they all confirmed themselves at the front desk, the group boarded the huge elevator that was to take them to the floor where the party was being held.

"It seems the party is on the top floor," Rias said as the elevator moved, smoothly. "Issei, if you're called out by any people from distinguished families, make sure to greet them properly, okay?"

"I know, I know," Issei answered. "I hope it's not the case, though. Large crowds are a bit annoying at times."

"Even if you say that, I'm sure that there will be several who would like to exchange a few words with you," Rias said. "Especially some of the older members of the distinguished families."

"Older members?" Issei's brow rose in question. "Wait a second now, I thought this party was being held for the young Devils?"

"That is the official stance. It's an annual custom. If anything, it's more like a gathering for the members of all the distinguished families to meet." Rias explained with a sigh.

"So, it's a party for the adults?" Issei asked. "Why are we here, then?"

"We, the next family heads, are just extras," Rias grumbled. "Since this is the case, people won't get very excited even once we enter the room. In reality, our fathers have already made reservations at the nearby facilities until the fourth or fifth after-parties. Proof of that is that they arrived at the meeting place separately from us. They probably gathered together before the young Devils arrived and may have already finished their alcohol."

"I see…" Issei slowly nodded as Rias turned away from him.

He then looked over towards Akeno and Kiba, only to see bitter smiles on their faces. As it seemed, it wasn't the first time this had happened.

'No wonder she's annoyed.' Issei thought to himself.

Moments later, the elevator arrived at the top floor of the hotel. As the doors opened, and everyone stepped out, yet another hotel employee greeted them. They leading them through the hallway and to the spacious room, where the party was being held.

The doors at the entrance of the room opened themselves, revealing the large group of youthful Devils gathered around in the enormous room. A giant, fancy-looking chandelier was hanging from the ceiling, adding to the extravagant look of the room. Several huge tables were put at the four ends of the room with a large number of delicacies on them.

As soon as Rias entered through the door, the room got a little bit quieter as majority of the people stopped whatever they were doing previously and turned towards her.

"Oooooh," a collective gasp echoed through the room, slightly deafened by the playing music.

"Princess Rias, you've become more and more beautiful…" one of the Devils said as Rias entered.

"Sirzechs-sama must also be proud." another one added.

Rias walked forward with everyone from her Peerage and the Sitri family following her. While walking behind her, Issei was looking around the room, inspecting the faces of the party attendees. As he expected, most of them were fixated on Rias.

"My, my, she's become even prettier."
"As expected of Sirzechs-sama's sister!"
"To think that Riser was to marry such a pretty woman!"

Those were but small part of the comments that Issei managed to overhear, despite them being almost hushed whispers among small groups of people. Still, it wasn't these comments that made him curious.

"That boy…"
"Isn't that the one who beat Riser?"
"No way… the Sekiryuutei?!"
"He doesn't look that intimidating in person…"

'And she was saying they won't get excited…' The humble boy thought to himself as he overheard himself being mentioned.

"Even more handsome in reality."
"Do you think Rias-sama has already claimed him?"
"Maybe someone else has?"

The next set of whispers made his face redden slightly, but he tried his best to shrug them off, trying not to embarrass himself.

"Uuu, there's so many people…" shrieked Gasper silently, as he gripped the back of Issei's coat.

'Well, at least he isn't trying to run away this time around.' Issei thought as he sweatdropped, seeing Gasper behind him. 'Looks like his training bore fruit, as well.'

"Issei, we're making our rounds of greetings." Rias suddenly called out to him.

"Huh?" Too busy lingering in his thoughts, he was snapped back to reality.

"A couple of the older Devils are interested because you joined my family." Rias explained. "I believe they would like to exchange a couple of words with you."

"Right, sure," Issei nodded. "I'm not too sure if there's really anything to be said, but I got it."

With these words, Rias led Issei around the room back and forth. That time was spent introducing him to various older members of distinguished and noble Devil families. Even though he wasn't exactly willing to go around greeting them, he complied and not create any unnecessary tension. To his surprise, the gentlemanly behavior training that he carried out with Venelana was useful in this 'short' venture of his, as it seemed to leave a good impression in the eyes of the Devils.

'I should say thanks to Venelana-sama the next time I see her.' he thought, as him and Rias continued their round of greetings.

{[Scene Break]}

"Aaah, that took a while." Issei sighed as he took a seat on a chair.

The round of greetings he had to do was, sadly, much longer than what he would've preferred. At the very least, he could sit down because it was over. Alongside him were Asia, Gasper, and Raynare, who all also seemed to be tired for whatever reason.

'Probably mental fatigue.' Issei related as he looked at them.

He then searched for the remaining members of Rias' Peerage. That was, surprisingly, much easier than he thought, considering the room was quite full of people.

Rias and Akeno were at the opposite end of the room, conversing with a couple of female Devils. Kiba was being surrounded by a group of girls, similar to his days in Kuoh Academy. Xenovia was near the tables with delicacies.

However, he couldn't locate Koneko. That concerned him. He kept on looking around, but he didn't see her anywhere. He couldn't smell her either, as it was overpowered by the food and the large group of Devils around them.

"Issei, Asia, Gasper, I've gotten some food, eat up." Xenovia suddenly walked up to them, holding a tray in her hands. The tray had a massive quantity of dishes on it.

"Sorry about that, Xenovia." Issei scratched the back of his head. "I would've gotten up to get some for you all, but walking around and greeting so many people had taken its toll on me."

"No, it's nothing." Xenovia shook her head with a soft smile. "It's the least I could've done."

Saying that, she put the tray on the table close to them. She then grabbed a glass of juice and handed it to Asia.

"It's good for you to have a drink too." Xenovia said as she held the glass in front of Asia's face.

"Thank you very much, Xenovia-san!" Asia gratefully took the glass from Xenovia. "Since it's my first time doing this kind of thing, I was nervous and my throat got dry…"

Issei smiled at the display of friendship that played out in front of him. Afterwards, he grabbed a plate from the tray, ready to dig in.

"Raynare-sama, you should eat something too." Asia turned towards Raynare just after she finished a sip from the juice that Xenovia gave her.

"A-Ah." Raynare jumped up slightly at the mention of her name. "N-No, I'm not hungry Asia, thank you."

"But Raynare-sama, you haven't eaten anything since lunch," Asia argued. "You must eat to restore your energy, I'm sure you're tired just like the rest of us."

"N-No, I'm-"

"You better listen to Asia." Issei interrupted her, not even bothering to look up from his food. "If she's concerned about you, you better fucking appreciate it."

"I…" Raynare tried to speak up but said nothing in the end.

"Better eat up," Issei said, still not looking at Raynare. "It'll be a hassle to carry you back if you faint because of a lack of energy."

"Yeah, Issei is right." Xenovia said, a bit of venom in her voice. "You better appreciate Asia's thoughtfulness and do what she asked you to."

"Y-Yes, of course!" Raynare perked up, immediately looking down afterwards. "P-Please excuse my rudeness."

"Come on now, Raynare-sama." Asia turned towards her with a smile. "There's no need to act so modest. Here, try some of mine."

Issei finally took his eyes off his food and looked towards Asia, who was handing Raynare an extravagant-looking dish.

Raynare was still a thorn in his eyes, no matter how many times he looked at her. Simply seeing her living and breathing in front of him was enough to anger him beyond what he would consider normal. Yet, he suppressed the urge to kill her at every glance. It was too late to shed her blood anyway.

Asia, on the other hand, proved time and time again that she had the heart of an angel.

In front of the ex-nun was the woman that took her life and 'Sacred Gear' away from her not too long ago. And yet, the blond wasn't displaying any anger, sadness, or fear towards her. Instead, she looked out for her like she did for all of her friends in Rias' Peerage.

It was evident that Asia had forgiven Raynare a long time ago. He couldn't understand why, but he knew that it was the case.

When it came to him, he still had no idea whether Raynare was worth forgiving or not. Maybe if more time passed, he'd come to resent her less, or perhaps even forgive her, but for the time being, he was certain of one thing – he still hated her.

"See? It's very good, right?" Asia said as Raynare took a bite off the food Asia had given her.

"Yes! It's very good!" Tears were streaming down Raynare's face. Not tears from sadness, but rather a reaction invoked from her first time trying the Devils' food.

This, Issei could relate to. Devil food was among the best, after all.

While he was focused on Asia and Raynare, a person walked up behind Issei. Issei immediately felt their presence and turned towards the newcomer. It was a short pale girl with dark blue eyes. The most striking part of her was blonde hair, styled in two drill-like twintails. She was dressed in a pink princess-like dress, decorated with frills.

Issei immediately managed to recognize her.

"I-It's been a long time, Issei-sama."

It was Ravel Phenex.

"Ravel," Issei said as he stood up from his chair. "It's really been a while. The last time I saw you was at the 'Rating Game' against your brother."

"Y-Yes, that's correct." she nodded. "Although, I don't remember much of it…"

"No wonder, I'm pretty sure you weren't yourself back then. At least I think so, your eyes didn't seem lively like they usually are."

"Yes, it was all Onii-sama's idea!" Ravel exclaimed. "Jeez, to use such a dirty tactic against you…"

"It's not something I wouldn't expect from him." Issei shrugged. "Ah, no offense."

"None taken," Ravel nodded. "Speaking of offenses, I owe you an apology for everything I said to you during the Rating Game."

"Huh?" Issei's brows furrowed in confusion.

"I… watched the recording of it," Ravel clarified. "The things I said to you were rather harsh. B-But, I never meant any of what I said! It was all due to tampering from Onii-sama, I swear!"

"C-Calm down, I know that's the case." Issei put his hands up to his chest. "I figured it was your brother doing something, it's okay. You don't have to apologize for that."

"Yes, I do!" Ravel argued. "After all, you never did anything bad to me ever since we met those many years ago! So, please forgive me for all the things I've said to you during the Rating Game!"

"Ah, yes, of course." Issei replied instantly. "I know you didn't really mean what you said back then, so there's nothing to apologize for! It's okay, don't worry about it!"

A silence then followed. Issei, however, decided to break it before it could get awkwardly long. "So, is your brother doing well?" he asked.

"Well..." she started slowly, "ever since he lost the Rating Game, he's been in low spirits. It seems that his defeat and having Rias-sama stolen away was a great shock. Since he had always relied on his talent and got cocky because of it, it served as a good lesson for him."

"I see." Issei nodded.

"Not to mention, he had it coming for using me in such a way." Ravel crossed her arms. "You gave him what he deserved, Issei-sama."

"Hahahaha…You're pretty merciless." he laughed. "Then again, even with the mind control thing aside, you were a part of your brother's Peerage, right?"

"About that, I've currently finished trading, and I've now become my mother's servant," The girl responded with. She then continued, knowing Issei might have more questions, "My mother traded away an unused piece she had in exchange for me. Since my mother said that she would trade me again when I found someone whose family I want to become part of, I'm essentially a free [Bishop] now."

"Ah, I see." Issei nodded. He then cupped his chin. "Wait, trading?"

"Yes, don't you know?" Ravel asked. "Trading, according to the rules of the Rating Games, it's possible to exchange pieces between Devils [Kings]. On the condition that they're the same kind of [Piece]."

"Ah, I see." Issei nodded as he put his hands down. "Come to think of it, Sirzechs-sama did mention something about the trading system when I was coming here years back…"

"B-By the way, Issei-sama-" Ravel started, but another voice called out to her, interrupting her.

"Ravel-sama, Danna-sama's friend is calling for you." a voice called out as a presence approached Ravel.

The woman that walked up to Ravel was a bit older with grey eyes and short brown hair. Issei managed to remember her. Although it was with slight difficulty, considering that she was not wearing the attire from the Rating Battle against Riser.

The woman in question was Isabella, one of Riser's [Rooks].

"I understand. I'll be right there." Ravel said as she turned towards Isabella and nodded. She then turned back to Issei. "Issei-sama, the next time we meet, would you like to have some tea with me? A-A-A-And, if it's okay with you, would you like to have a homemade cake p-p-prepared by me?"

"Huh?" Issei's brow rose at the odd question, but he answered regardless. "Yes, of course, I'd like that."

Ravel didn't say anything. Instead, she blushed slightly, raised the hem of her dress, curtsied, and then left, leaving Issei a bit confused.

"Hey, Hyoudou Issei." Isabella spoke out this time.

"Ah, you're Isabella of the Phoenix family, right?" Issei asked as he turned towards her.

"Yes. You gave me a good blow back then." Isabella nodded. "I still remember it."

"Yeah, sorry about that." Issei scratched the back of his head. "I couldn't let you guys win."

"It seems you've become even stronger." Isabella commented as she looked at him. "If nothing else, I'm able to boast about my story."

"That sounds… nice?" Issei smiled awkwardly. "Anyways, are you Ravel's escort?"

"Well, something like that. It was an order from her mother." Isabella explained. "Ever since she returned to her usual self, she wouldn't stop talking about you. She really felt bad for all the things she was forced to do during the Rating Game."

"Well, I already told her that myself, but assure her that there's nothing to apologize for," Issei said almost pleadingly. "Send my regards to Lady Phoenix, as well."

"I will. I'm sure she'd be glad to receive them." Isabella nodded. "Now then, please excuse me now. Please have a good time at the party." With that, she walked away from Issei and disappeared into the crowd.

"Issei-senpai, you surprisingly have a lot of Devil friends…" Gasper spoke out as soon as Isabella left.

"Huh? You think so, Gasper?" asked Issei as he turned towards the dress-wearing vampire. "I don't think I know that many Devils, but I guess I have met several."

"Even so, I'm still impressed, Issei-senpai!" Gasper exclaimed with his eyes gleaming.

Issei laughed in a slight embarrassment but said nothing.

A small shadow suddenly appeared in his peripheral vision, disappearing not a second afterwards. Alerted by it, he quickly turned towards the direction where the shadow was, only to notice Koneko hastily heading out of the room. Although he couldn't see her face clearly, he could tell that she was absorbed in something.

A rather strange feeling then overtook him. A feeling of dread and anxiety that, for whatever reason, seemed eerily familiar to him.

"Asia, Xenovia, Gasper, please wait here," Issei said as he turned towards them briefly.

"Issei-san, what's wrong?" Asia asked. "The Maou-sama's greeting will be starting soon."

"Ah, there's a little acquaintance of mine here that I want to go see," Issei lied. "I'll return in for it!"

"Ah, I see." Xenovia nodded. "Alright. We'll stay here."

Issei simply nodded and walked out of the room, trying not to trigger any suspicion. The moment he walked out, he broke into a sprint, finally reaching the elevators. One of the two elevators had already closed and left, going towards the lower floors.

'She's going out?' Issei asked himself. 'Why?'

Wasting no time, he immediately pressed the button of the second elevator, opening its doors not long after. He boarded it as soon as the doors opened.

Before he could press the button for the ground floor, someone else boarded the elevator alongside him. Turning around, he found out that it was Rias.

"What's wrong?" she asked. "You left so suddenly."

"I saw Koneko-chan suddenly leave as if she was following something," Issei revealed. "I have a bad feeling about this."

"I see, so you were worried." Rias nodded. "I understand, I'll go too."

With that, the doors to the elevator closed. A second later, it began its descend.

{[Scene Break]}

Eventually, the elevator arrived at the first floor. Walking out of it, Issei and Rias saw a couple of Devils standing outside. After describing Koneko to them and asking if they had seen her, they found out that she had been spotted outside.

Releasing the feline ears and tail he hid, Issei tried his best to pick up Koneko's scent. Fortunately for him, it wasn't difficult.

"The forest," His Nekomata ears and tail disappeared as he honed in on her scent. "She went into the forest surrounding the hotel."

"Lead the way," His red-headed "master" said.

With a nod, Issei began to run towards the forest, following the scent trail that Koneko had left. Riasfollowed closely behind him. Albeit, that was with a bit of a struggle because of the dress she was wearing.

The more they ran, the stronger the eerie feeling Issei felt back at the party became. As the feeling grew, so did his tension. Yet he kept on following the scent, going deeper and deeper into the woods.

Something made no sense, though. Issei was able to recognize Koneko's scent, yet there was something else alongside it. Someone's scent, which was similar to Koneko, was also present. Yet, Issei couldn't exactly tell who did it belong to.

And yet, it seemed so familiar…

Suddenly, Issei stopped dead in his tracks. Rias, who failed to notice that, couldn't stop in time and ended up bumping into his back. Just as she was about to say something, Issei turned around, covered her mouth with his hand and pulled her in the shadow of a tree, hiding both of them.

He then removed his hand from Rias' mouth.

"Issei, what are you-" she tried to ask, only to be silenced by him.

"Ssssh!" he hushed quietly as he peeked out from behind the tree. Rias did the same from the other side of the tree, trying her best not to make a noise.

A couple of meters before them was Koneko. She was restlessly turning her head back and forth, as if looking for something or someone. She then noticed something and turned her gaze in its direction. Issei and Rias also looked in the same direction.

"It's been a while, hasn't it?"

A feminine voice was suddenly heard. A voice that sounded oddly familiar to Issei.

A beautiful young woman then appeared without making a sound. She was walking on top of a thick tree branch, several meters away from Koneko. The woman herself was young and beautiful. She had long black hair with split bangs and hazel-gold eyes with cat-like pupils. The back of her hair was tied into two ring-like ponytails, preventing her hair from trailing down her back. On top of her head was an ornately detailed headband. Her voluptuous figure was being covered by a black kimono with yellow obi and a set of golden beads that were wrapped loosely around her waist. Her kimono was open around her shoulders, giving view to her large breasts.

Issei widened his eyes when he saw her, as did Rias.

However, her most prominent feature was the black cat ears on her head and the two black cat tails swaying subtly behind her.

"…Y-..You!" Koneko said as her body began shaking.

"Hello, Shirone," the woman said.

'You've got to be kidding me…' Issei thought to himself as he observed the scene in front of him.

It finally made sense now.

The eerie, yet familiar feeling. The scent that he could recognize, yet not identify. The woman who bore striking resemblance to Koneko. The memories of past events that began playing in his head as he saw her.

As hard as it was to believe, before Koneko stood…

"Kuroka-neesama…"

{[Scene End]}

And that's about it for now, I hope you enjoyed it!

I'm aware that the chapter is much shorter when compared to the last one, but that's because I chose to try and get it over with faster, so that I don't have to make you guys wait as long as I did last time.
I hope that's fine with you!

So, yeah, I've been hyped to get to this part of the story for a while now, since it's pretty focused on Koneko, who just happens to be my favorite girl in DxD.
Now looking forward to Vol. 18 so that I can focus on Irina too, who just happens to be my second favorite. :,^)

Before I close off this chapter properly, let's answer some reviews:

TatsuyaShiva4 – Finna be honest – I have no idea what are you on. Thanks for the review, though, I guess(?)

Nightslayer888 – Thank you! I wasn't exactly gone, but I understand why would you get such an impression. I'll take your advice and spread the chapters around when I get to rewriting them. Thank you for the review!

Percy zoe and artemis fan – Thank you!

Guest – Yes. Pretty sure I mentioned that…? I could've forgotten, now that I think about it… She did get it back though, yes.

Guest P - :^)

XxDragonToothxX – I'm surprised you did that, but I appreciate it nevertheless! Thank you for your continued support!

vanhellsing9000 – I was supposed to add her in the story when the whole Familiar hunting thing was going down, but I never ended up writing it. I don't have anything planned, though, so for now she's still not in.

AcidESP – Thank you, I'm glad you think so. I'll definitely continue it!

I hope this is all of the reviews, I've been having problems with displaying all of them at times. If I've missed anybody – I apologize! It was not intended!

That aside, I sincerely hope you enjoyed the chapter, since this time around I got a lot of help with it.

Which brings us to my gratitude towards a very special person and a good friend of mine:

A massive "Thank You!" to Aerex, a fellow writer on this website, who you've most likely heard of.
In case you haven't – I implore you to check him out and his stuff. His stories are great and I'm sure you'd find something you'd enjoy reading, much like how I did.

Thank you Aerex for Beta reading this chapter for me and fixing my boring writing! I still plan on releasing more chapters, so I hope we'll work together again in the future!

Thank you to Agent of The Divine One as well, for being my second Beta for the story and making sure it's good to go one last time.

You guys are amazing and I thank you for all of your help!

Feel free to point out any typos or mistakes. You help me out greatly by doing so!

Stay safe, practice social distancing, wash your hands, and last but not least…

'Stay awesome!'

- Xeroz/Xerozzuro

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