Co-Written with Otaku-Nation666, a good friend of mine and Demons Anarchy of Pride and the author of many great works like Tokyo Mirage Sesions: Apocalypse, RWBY Riders: Spirit of Legend, High School DxD: Destiny's Play, RWBY: Within Enlightened Heart, RWBY –Apocrypha-, Fabulae Parcae, Fate: Rebellion, Law of the Jungle, and many others.

I highly recommend you guys check them out.

Thanks for helping me with this Otaku, really appreciate it.

This idea was based on the story Holding All the Cards by Drow79(an awesome fic that you all should read), and the mobile game, Fate Grand Order.

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DxD: Grand Order

Chapter 1: Origin

Once again...the endless field of countless blades filled his line of sight. As far as the eye could see, weapons upon weapons littered the ground, stabbed into the earth. They sky overhead was a bloody crimson, as if to reflect the blood that had been spilled in these lands. Once more, he found himself here...overlooking it all...on top of the same hill.

No matter where he looked, there they were.

Swords.

Swords upon swords upon swords.

An endless sea of swords, stretching out in the horizon that stood far out of reach, out of sight. On that hill, at times, he would find her, though he knew that she was gone. Gone forever.

Yet, somehow, unlike the previous times...he felt something he had not felt in a very long time. Something that he had long thought forgotten.

Shirou Emiya...or rather, Counter Guardian EMIYA, felt at peace.

He felt peace in his heart...knowing that he had done something worthwhile...that he had done something truly good from his continuous pursuit in his ideals.

"...yare yare..." the white-haired man sighed. Unlike how he was usually, his red coat had long since been discarded, and his hair, which was usually swept back, was now patted down. When he was like this, were it not for the difference of height, skin, and hair color, it would be next to impossible to tell the difference between him and the other Emiya, Shirou. "I made all of that talk...yet I ended up doing something just as stupid as him." A chuckle escaped him as he leaned back on a blade, buried deep into the ground...HER blade. "Ah, oh well...it was fun, either way."

Tears began to tinkle down his face, cascading past his cheeks.

"Yeah...it was fun...seeing them all again..." He had seen them all before. Again and again countless times. He had seen them so many times that he couldn't even miss them anymore. But not this time. This time...he longed to go back to those days. To the days that he had discarded long ago in pursuit of his ideals.

Rin...

Sakura...

Illya...

Taiga...

Issei...

Saber...

"Hahaha..." he laughed bitterly. "Look at me...I'm so damned pitiful, and yet...I feel so happy all the same..."

Before, he would curse his very existence for following through his tainted ideals. But now...he felt no greater joy in living like this...

And to think...it all started...because of that deal with a "World..."

There hasn't been a time when he had regretted the decisions with every fiber of his being ever since.

Back then, he still thought he could become a Hero of Justice...but Alaya had broken him over and over repeatedly. In the end, he realized that there was no such thing in this world. No Hero of Justice, not even a hero...that title belonged to those who had the strength to become such ideals. He lacked that in every regard.

Because he lacked that, he wasn't able to save anyone...

"...well, not like it matters anymore now..." EMIYA muttered. "Che...I just hope I can get some sleep for once...before I get called up again."

"Heh," an old voice chuckled from behind him. "Sounds like you're getting on in old age, Emiya-kun." The Counter Guardian looked over his shoulder, and found a man dressed in what could only be described as black regal clothing, a cape sitting over his shoulders, sporting a white beard, and hair slicked back, with some of it still sticking outward. "Which is not really surprising. After all, you're even older than I am."

EMIYA's eyes widened considerably, recognizing the old man instantly. "Zelretch..."

"That's my name, don't wear it out." The Dead Apostle chuckled with a cheeky grin.

Mentally, EMIYA sighed. No matter how much time had passed, Zelretch would always be the old troll he had come to known. Honestly, one could've expected more from the magician known as Kaleidoscope. Nevertheless, the man questioned him. "Just what are you even doing here?"

"What?" the old vampire feigned being hurt. "I'm not allowed to see one of the most interesting Magus of the year?"

"Please, the day you were that simple is the day you've officially gone senile," EMIYA retorted. "So just be straight with me."

"Okay, okay..." Zelretch raised his hands in defense while chuckling.

"So...what are you doing here, Kaleidoscope?" EMIYA asked with a stern glare. Knowing the old troll...whenever he popped up...it was always something that involved entertaining him in some way.

Zelretch chuckled. "Just something that aligns with your next job is all."

EMIYA frowned at this, but then found that the world around him was beginning to dissolve in a familiar light, causing him to sigh. So his "employer" was calling for him already? He really can't catch a break, can he?

"Alright...so what exactly am I doing now...?" He questioned. He might as well accept his never ending fate.

"Well, after going through different timelines, I doubt you'll be surprised if you learned about the existence of parallel worlds?" Zelretch asked, earning a scoff from the Counter Guardian. The man before him, a true Magician by all rights, even for the standards of a Dead Apostle, had the power to traverse the worlds of all sorts. The existence of other worlds hardly surprised him at this point, especially after visiting worlds that followed different timelines. He felt his body shudder, recalling his experience with Dark Sakura.

He NEVER wanted to experience that again.

"Well," the vampiric troll stroked his beard. "The task Alaya has given you is certainly an odd one...and it happens to be aligning with my own objectives in that world."

EMIYA quirked an eyebrow. "How do you mean?"

Zelretch grinned wickedly. "Because in the world you're going to," he said with glee. "The Age of Gods has not ended."

"What?!" EMIYA gaped in shock. A world where Gods still walk the Earth? How is that possible?!

Zelretch nodded. "Unfortunately, that world has it's own fair share of problems...problems you and I are going to be dealing with."

The Archer Servant groaned as he palmed his face. Alaya was sending him to a world where the Gods themselves existed? For an existence that represented the collective desire of humanity's instinct to survive, she was one hell of a task master. He paused, however, when he registered the Dead Apostle's words, and slowly turned to him. "...wait, what do you mean, 'you and I?'"

"Just what it sounds like, Emiya-kun!" Zelretch grinned widely. "We're going on a grand quest!"

"..." A moment passed. Then two. Then three. Finally, the Kaleidoscope's words finally sunk into his brain. "...WHAT?!" He's going to be working with this crazy troll?! Hasn't Alaya put him through enough Hell?!

"Yep!" Zelretch nodded with a jovial grin. "You and I are going to be partners in this mission!"

"The hell we are!" EMIYA screeched in both outrage and horror. "There's no way!"

"Ohohoho, you say that now, Emiya-kun!" the troll smirked. "But just wait! You'll be begging to be my partner!"

For the umpteenth time in his life, EMIYA sorely regretted ever making a deal with the "World" if he had to work with one of the most infuriating people he had ever met.

XxXxX DxD/Grand Order XxXxX

"What is the matter, little one?" a rumbling voice echoed in the dark warehouse. The moon barely provided any sort of illumination, despite the holes in the metallic rooftop above them. Many beams were left lying on the ground, as the interior was in a major state of decay. What really made the scene more ominous were the various crimson red splatters on the ground, as well as the many pieces of body parts thrown about. In the center of it all was a towering monstrosity composed of rippling muscle, its skin red, and scars littering its body while wielding a gigantic silver cleaver. Atop it's head was a giant horn, and its fangs were large and overbearing, sharp and jagged. "Why not come out? I want to see the dragon you have with you!"

Hiding from the monster, sitting behind several crates, was a young child, barely even eight years old, with messy brown hair and eyes, which were watery as tears fell from his face, hands clasped over his mouth, as not to let the monster hear the sound of him breathing.

How did this happen? How could things have gone so horribly, horribly wrong?!

Today was supposed to be a good day. Today was Iri-chan's birthday, so he had gone out to buy her a present. Unfortunately, he had gotten mixed up with a bunch of older kids, some of which looked really mean and nasty. They had brought him to an old warehouse, intending to have him cough up the money he had been saving up for his best friend's present.

And then that monster showed up...and killed those teenagers.

It was a gruesome sight, one that just about scarred him for life. He could still hear the screams of horror as the monster cleaved them to bits. Even as they tried to run, the beast easily caught up to and slaughtered them with a single swipe of its blade. As it did so, the monster did not pay attention to the boy, who took that moment of opportunity to run and hide.

And now that monster was looking for him, sniffing the air with hot drool falling from his mouth, looking around while holding that bloodied blade. "Come out, come out, wherever you are~"

The young boy cringed and pulled his legs in closer, making sure he was well hidden. His lungs screamed for oxygen but he dared not breathe lest he give away his location.

The footsteps were coming closer and closer now. He could practically feel the monster's breath down his neck.

'Mama...Papa...' he thought in despair, hoping that someone would save him. 'Somebody...help...!'

He begged and begged. He begged to God. He begged to Amaterasu. He begged to any deity that will hear his pleas.

Then, suddenly, everything became silent. He no longer heard footsteps. He no longer heard the monster's breathing. He no longer heard the sound of metal scraping against the floor.

Did...did the monster actually leave...? Was...was it safe to come out now? Or...or was it a trick to lure him out? The boy couldn't tell. However, his lungs kept screaming at him to breathe. So...taking the risk...the boy released his breath.

Then, the crates were obliterated, and he was thrown aside with the flying debris.

"Gah!" A yelp of pain escaped his lips as he landed harshly on the concrete floor.

"Found you~" The Monster cackled, its long tongue licking the cold, iron blade.

The boy screamed as he began to scamper away. He got up on his feet, and tried to run away. However, the monster proved to be faster, as it too a mighty leap into the air, and landed right in front of him, the ground broke apart upon impact. He fell on his rear, now paralyzed with terror. The monster cackled as it leered down on him, its red eyes glowing fiercely in the dark as if it were burning coal. "I've always wanted to taste a dragon," it said as it let its tongue hang out, twisting and curling. "And just my luck you're so small and tender...hah! Big things do come in small packages!"

'N-no...' the poor child thought, tears and mucus running down his face. 'S-stop...somebody, stop it...!' The creature stood up to its feet, raising it's cleaver. 'Mama...Papa...someone...anyone!' The creature's mouth curled into a sickening grin, and the blade glimmered in the moonlight. 'Somebody, please...!

Then, the knife swung down.

"SOMEBODY SAVE ME!"

*CLANG!*

The blade never came. The sudden clash of metal caused the boy to open his eyes. He saw red. Not red from his blood...but rather...the red of the spear that had blocked the knife with ease. They boy ran his eyes along the length of the spear, taking in every detail. To him, the sight of the weapon seemed...comforting. He then turned towards the person holding the spear in a desire to thank them. The words soon died in his throat as his eyes locked onto the individual. Only one word managed to register in the boy's mind.

"...Beautiful..."

In front of him was a woman, breathtaking at the very sight of her. Her face was set into an impassive stare, yet beneath he found her crimson red eyes bewildered with a quiet and tamed fury. Her hair was dark purple, falling past her shoulders, and was clad in a black and purple bodysuit, wearing what appeared to be shoes made of steel, and on her shoulders were pauldrons. She stood in front of him, barring the monster's advance towards him, with the red spear in her hand halting the sword with ease. In her other hand was another red spear, only it was shorter, and the blade at the tip was significantly wider.

"Nani?!" the monster cried. "Kisama! Who the hell are you?!"

"...I have gone by many names..." The woman stated, her voice melodious and smooth, each word carrying intensity. "But right now...I am your end."

In a swift moment, the woman parried the monster's knife, and swung her second spear, leaving behind a deep gash in the monster's chest. "Graghgh!" the creature gasped as it staggered back, blood spewing from its body. "H-how?! An Oni's skin is thicker than steel!"

"Hmph," the woman snorted. "You think having tough skin will protect you from my spear? You are sorely mistaken."

"Damn you!" The Oni snarled as it wildly swung its knife with the intent of beheading her. The woman simply ducked beneath the strike before sidestepping and stabbing her first spear in the monster's side.

The strike again pierced through its skin, causing blood to spew. The Oni roared in pain and outrage, and swung his giant knife down, only to hit empty air, and his blade breaking the ground apart as it was left buried into the earth. The boy's eyes widened. Where had she gone? He didn't even see her move! He looked around, and to his shock, he found her right above the Oni, both spears brandished. When the Oni realized where she was, he looked up.

A poor mistake, as soon, both spears pierced straight into his eye sockets, destroying the eyeballs within. As a result, the Oni screamed in utter pain, shrieking as he swung his arms around, stumbling through the warehouse while the woman remained on his head. A smirk formed across her face. "Not so tough now, are you big boy?" she said with a teasing tone before she stood up, pulling out one of the spears from his eye. "Don't worry...I'm finishing this boorish fight quickly."

"DAMN YOU!" the Oni screeched. In a futile attempt, he tried to swipe her off, but the woman jumped up, avoiding the strike with ease.

Then, the spear began to glow brilliantly. A sense of familiarity ran through Issei as he watched her eyes glow, and a purple aura dance around her.

Then, two words fell from her lips in a whisper.

"...Gae Bolg."

The purple aura surrounding her flared violently to a bright red, the Crimson light being brightest around the spear itself. The boy felt pressure in the air, making him feel heavy. His eyes were focused on the glowing spear, believing it to be the source of this feeling.

With a single motion, the woman threw the spear down, whistling as it cut through the air. In a matter of seconds later, the red spear struck its target, tearing through its chest and stabbing through the heart. The weapon went clean through and stabbed into the ground behind the Oni.

A second passed. Two, then three.

Then, the Oni fell forward with a thud, creating a small tremor. The boy yelped, as the beast that had nearly killed him was right at his feet, and scampered away. The woman landed right on the ground gracefully into a crouch, right next to her weapon. She gripped the shaft as she stood up, pulling the spear out of the ground and giving it a quick swipe, throwing any blood on it to the ground. "As usual, all bark and no bite," the woman muttered as she turned to look at the beast's corpse. "Still...what was an Oni doing all the way out here in a small city like this?" A troubled frown crossed her features. "What is Yasaka doing?"

"A-Ano..." A young child's voice broke her out of her musings. The woman turned around and looked down, facing a brown haired young boy covered in dirt and blood.

The woman smiled softly. "Are you alright, young one?"

"H-Hai!" The boy nodded nervously.

To his surprise, the spears disappeared, blowing away into what seemed like red mist. The woman approached him, leaving him nervous. What was she going to do? Who was she? Where did she come from? She wasn't going to hurt him, right? After all, she killed the monster that was about to kill him. Thankfully, to his relief, the woman instead bent down to her knees, and patted him on the head. "Everything is alright now, little one," she said gently. "The big scary thing is dead now."

The boy breathed a sigh of relief. His body was trembling. Whether it was from the terror from before or his current sense of relief he did not know. He wrapped his arms around the woman's neck, thanking her over and over again. "Thank you...thank you...!"

The woman was surprised by the action, but she felt a smile form across her face. She patted the boy on the head, letting him pour out his fears. When she had found the Oni, she had seen it searching for someone, possibly its target. She had contemplated whether or not to save the unfortunate victim, but as soon as she saw the child, she knew she had to jump in there. It was a boy, for God's sake. There was no way in Hell she was about to let someone as weak and defenseless, especially one so young, be killed by a monster of the likes of an Oni. She was still confused about the matter, though. Why was an Oni so far from Kyoto? Moreover, what had been speaking about? Something about a dragon?

Ah, oh well...she could question it another time. For now, she had to bring this child back to home to his parents.

XxXxX DxD/Grand Order XxXxX

"...s-so, um, your name is...Scatat?"

The woman giggled. "Close, Issei," she wagged her finger at him. "It's Scathach. Hard to pronounce, I know."

Currently, the woman known as Scathatch, and the boy, Issei Hyoudou, were walking down the street in the commercial district, which led to the boy's house. Currently, the brunette sat atop the stranger's shoulders, his hands sitting atop her head while he peered at the world around him from so high up. It reminded him of the piggy-back rides his mom gave him. "That's too hard..." he said, frowning out of frustration. "C-can I...call you Big Sis instead?"

"Of course you can, little one," Scathach said with a smile. "Though I'm flattered you would call this old woman 'big sister.'"

"You don't like that old, Big Sis," the boy retorted. "My mom looks pretty young, and you look way prettier than she does!"

"Oh really? Well, I'm flattered you think so." Scathach grinned at the compliment. If only the boy knew how long she truly lived.

"Mm." Issei nodded. "You are the prettiest person I ever met!"

The woman giggled. Oh, wasn't he just the cutest? It has been a while since she last interacted with a human like this, a child no less. Still...she had to admit, he felt oddly familiar to her for some reason. She couldn't shake this feeling that...this boy was familiar to her somehow.

"Ne, Big Sis?" Issei called out to her, earning her attention. "W-what was that spear you used? It looked like it was glowing."

Scathach raised a brow. Her spear? Why would he be so interested in it? She ruled it off as childish curiosity, but still…Nevertheless, she decided to humor him. "...It's called Gae Bolg."

"Gay...Bulge?" Issei tilted his head. "That's a weird name."

Sathach giggled. Oh, this boy was so cute. "No, G-A-E B-O-L-G," she corrected, spelling the name of her student's weapon. "It belonged to a student of mine, though I...was given it back after some unsavory circumstances."

Issei wasn't sure what she was referring to, so he decided not to question it. Instead, he asked a question that threw her for a loop. "C-can I...can I see it?"

"Issei, it's not really advised to hand a child a weapon, even if they want to hold it." She replied.

"Please? I wanna see it..."

Scathach sighed, palming her face. She was about to rebuke the child, saying it wasn't meant for children, but she fell prey to the one thing she could never refute.

The dreaded weapon every child had: the Puppy-Dog Eyes.

Issei's eyes dilated as they shimmered with moisture, his mouth set in a quivering lip. He was looking at her with those eyes...begging her to say yes.

Internally, the warrior pouted. '...I hate it when children do that,' she thought with a sigh. She lowered herself down, allowing the boy to hop off safely. Afterwards, she turned. "Alright," she relented. "But only this once. Understand?" Issei nodded. The woman then extended her hand, opening her palm. The next moment, the crimson red spear appeared in her grasp.

The boy's face brightened. The woman slowly handed the weapon out to Issei and he grasped the shaft in his hand.

As soon as he did, the spear began to glow.

Both pairs of eyes widened at the phenomenon taking place. The light seemed to burn in an ethereal manner, curling around Issei's hand. To the child, it brought forth a familiar sense of warmth, comforting almost. However, to Scathach...it was another matter entirely.

Her face displayed a myriad of emotions. Shock. Disbelief. Sorrow. Joy. And realization.

"...it couldn't be..." She whispered. It wasn't possible...unless...

She hadn't realized that tears were spilling down her face. Issei noticed this, and became concerned. "Big Sis?" he called out for her. "Are you okay?"

The woman felt her cheek and noticed it was wet. She quickly wiped her eyes with her sleeve. "Y-yes. I'm fine..."

It was a lie.

She felt happy...happy for the first time in so long. 'Who would have thought...' she thought, overjoyed by this fact. 'That you had left behind a legacy...my dear student?'

She figured that when her student died back so long ago, his bloodline died with him. But here was this child. It was no lie. This boy was...

"...hey, Big Sis?" Scathach blinked, taken out of her thoughts as the young boy tapped his fingers together nervously. "U-um, I know you said that a kid shouldn't hold a weapon, but...d-do you think you can...teach me how to fight?"

The woman was even more surprised by his words. But that surprise was quickly replaced by a nostalgic smile. This was so familiar to her…

"...before I answer that," the woman said as she dismissed Gae Bolg, kneeling down. "Why do you want to fight?"

Issei frowned heavily. "W-when that monster came after me...I felt so weak...I felt like I was going to die any second..." he said, his body shaking from the horrible memories of nearly being killed, and possibly eaten. "But...when I thought about Iri-chan...I thought about the monster going after him too." A dark scowl formed across his face, revealing sharp fangs. "I...couldn't stand the thought of that. I don't want to be weak...I don't want to watch any of my friends die...that's why...! That's why I...!"

His eyes widened when a pair of slender arms wrapped around him. His shuddering stopped, feeling a familiar and gentle embrace around him. "...honestly," Scathach said with a smile. "Children these days...you all grow up so fast."

The woman gently patted his head as he slowly calmed down.

After Issei had calmed down, Scathach, much to his disappointment, pulled away. "I'll teach you," she said. "But, promise me one thing?"

"What is it?"

"First, promise me...that you won't die," the warrior asked, causing Issei's eyes to widen. He found an overwhelming sadness reflected in his eyes, as if reliving a painful time. "I once had a student who died...a boy I held dearly to my heart. I do not wish to lose another student, much less one so young."

"I...I promise!" The boy nodded with resolution. "I promise to stay alive!"

Scathach smiled, bobbing her head. "Alright then," she said as she stood up. "We begin training tomorrow. First things first, let's get you home!"

"Yatta!" Issei cheered. With that, the two resumed their return to the young child's home. "By the way...Big Sis? Can I ask you something?"

"What is it, Issei?"

"...what's Oppai?"

XxXxX DxD/Grand Order XxXxX

(Time Skip - Five Years Later)

"Guh!"

Thirteen-year-old Issei Hyoudou grunted as he was thrown back, feet skidding across the ground. A look of irritation was present on his features as he looked up, and found his attacker charging towards him, spear ready to impale him. Acting quickly, he brought up his own spear, letting metal clash against metal. Sparks began to fly as the two blades grinded against each other. The air quickly became warmer as red electricity danced with violet. The two parted, only to clash again in rapid succession. It was like gold and red were dancing together in a chaotic symphony, one trying to overcome the other. A thrust was sent forward, ripping the fabric of Issei's shirt, creating a shallow gash on his left rib. In response, Issei swiveled around on his feet, swinging his spear, but was met with resistance, instead only able to strike against the shaft of the golden spear.

"Will you just let me hit you?!" Issei growled. His opponent, in response, shrugged off his attack and retaliated with another strike, ramming the butt of his spear into Issei's stomach and knocking the wind out of him, thus causing him to stagger. He then followed up with a quick stab, though the teen recovered in time, side-stepping the thrust before going in for a strike of his own. Unlike last time, the spear hit its mark, albeit only grazing the shoulder. Regardless, however, the boy bared his fangs. "Finally! Another point!"

Sadly, his moment of victory was short lived as his opponent did something unexpected. He bent down, and performed a leg sweep, catching Issei's legs and throwing him to the ground. The teen yelped, and quickly brought up his spear, deflecting the incoming stab that would have impaled through his neck. Instead, the spear was now dangerously close to his head. It also cut through his cheek, creating a small scar that quickly began to bleed. "...two points," his opponent stated. Then, he pulled his spear away, shifting it unto his shoulder and stepping back to allow Issei unto his feet. "That makes my win."

"Che..." the brunette scowled. "That was a cheap shot, Karna." In front of Issei was his opponent, who looked to be older than him by at least four years, bearing messy white hair that nearly covered the right side of his face, and bearing vibrant blue eyes. He wore a red jacket with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows, along with a black tank-top that greatly exposed much of his physique, showing off a well-toned body and a six-pack. He wasn't completely ripped, only enough to grant him quite the allure. He also wore black pants with golden circlets around his anklets. Strangely, his feet were barefoot. "I'll win next time!"

"Now now, Issei," a feminine voice called out, followed by footsteps. "You should know there is no such thing as a fair fight in a battle. Thus, cheap shots are more than allowed."

In response to this, he groaned. "Come on, Big Sis...cut me some slack here!"

The young teen had grown a lot in these past few years. He grew several inches taller and had a bit of muscle on his thin frame from training. His brown hair had grown to be messier slight spikier as he got older. The most notable change about him was his eyes.

His brown eyes had developed a red tint to them. It was hard to say if they were a brownish red or a reddish brown. Scathach, however, had not changed at all. She still looked as beautiful as the day he had met her five years ago. Of course, being older meant that he started to notice a few things...namely how proportionate she was in some areas. His eyes trailed down to her chest, and then to her thighs. "...Issei," Karna called out, noticing his gaze. "You are doing it again."

He blinked, and shook his head. 'Damned hormones...'

Ever since he struck puberty, he couldn't help but stare at the beauty of the fairer sex. God he hoped he wasn't turning into a pervert!

"Well, at least you are improving," Scathach said, folding her arms. "This is the first time you've scored more than three points off of Karna."

It was a training system they had. The first one to get ten points on the other is the winner of the match. Points could be anything; grazes, blows, cuts, pretty much any form of injury inflicted. In all the time that Issei's trained with Scathach and Karna, he was able to only score three at most on the latter. Today was his new record with four points.

Unfortunately, his score with Scathach was still zero, whereas she had fifty, and Karna with twenty-five.

"Yeah..." the teen sighed, scratching the back of his head. "But I still got my ass-whupped."

Scathach frowned in disapproval. "What have I told you about cursing?"

"Come on! I'm thirteen now! I think I'm allowed to curse!"

"Not until you are seventeen, you are."

Karna chuckled. "As usual, Lady Scathach has you whipped."

"Shut it, Karna!" Issei snapped.

The spear master shook head in amusement. Honestly, they were such children. Well, then again, her previous student wasn't any better. So wild and carefree, willing to jump headfirst into the midst of battle before growing to become the Hound of Ireland that was known in legend. Still, she had to admit, to this day, she was utterly amazed by the fact that his blood continued to exist in this world...and in the veins of her newest student. She noticed how similar he was to her student when she first encountered him, but after seeing Gae Bolg react to him, she was certain now. The thought of her new student being his predecessor's descendant brought forth a smile to her face.

In the five years they spent together, she had become something of a mix between an older sister, mother figure, and teacher. Issei had always referred to her as "Big Sis," as he had when he was younger, and had endured her training to the fullest. While he had complained about the wounds, he never once faltered. He was dead set on becoming stronger for the sake of the people he wanted to protect. However, much to her own amusement, he had also gotten a bit more...boyish, in the sense that he was beginning to notice the female body much earlier than most boys his age. She recalled what he had asked her that day, and she still found herself laughing. Really, teaching a child about the wonders of boobs and harems? Oh, how ridiculously fun the world had become!

She had not missed the way he was looking at her...and where he was looking. Hm, maybe she should tease him? Or perhaps train with him in the art of the "Friendship of Thighs" in the future? She shook her head from such thoughts. That sort of thing wasn't until he was older. He is still a child now…

It's hard to believe that it's been five years already. Then again, years mean nothing to someone who is immortal. It's just…these past few years were different than the rest…With Issei, she had…fun…she really enjoyed his presence and company all this time. It was during these five years that she had even forgotten about her wish...

"...by the way, Lady Scathach?" Karna called out to her. She broke away from her thoughts, and found Issei glaring at him with seething eyes, steam pouring off of his head while the descendant of the famed hero and son of Kunti looked at her with a familiar look reflected in his eyes. "May we speak for a moment?"

Scathach nodded, and turned to her pupil. "That will be all for now, Issei," she told him. "Rest up. We resume shortly."

"Thank God...I'll do just that." Issei leaned backwards and fell flat on his back with his arms sprawled out. Meanwhile, Karna and Scathach moved a bit away from the boy to resume their discussion.

"...so, what's this about?"

"I received a call from the Director," Karna answered, his tone serious. "It's about Issei."

Scathach frowned. "I thought I told him that the boy isn't ready," she said in a cold voice. "Until he learns how to control Gae Bolg, as well as have some degree of control over his Sacred Gear, I will not allow him to get involved in the Grand Order's works."

The Grand Order.

An Organization composed of various heroic figures, both living and descendants of them. They are nothing like the Hero Faction of the rumored Khaos Brigade, who calls themselves heroes simply because they were descendants of one and had Sacred Gears. The Grand Order may consist of descendants, but their characters represent what it truly means to be heroic spirits.

Scathach had been a member of this group since around the days it was founded, though she had never considered herself apart of it. Really, it was more along the lines of passing the time. However, in spite of that, the founder of the group had considered her apart of it, and had made her the supervisor of her own group. Strangely, each member was apart of a unit, seven in all, with each member of this unit set into a team or a division. Karna was one such member, apart of the Lancer Unit. Among other members were Iskandar of the Rider Unit, Jacqueline de Circus of the Assassin Unit, Tamamo no Mae of the Caster Unit, and various others.

Due to her having taken on a student, the Order was made aware of Issei's existence as the descendant of Cu Chulainn, the Child of Light and the Hound of Ireland, and had kept a close eye on him. Scathach had immediately made it clear that she would not allow Issei to join the Order until he had mastered Gae Bolg, and learned how to control his Sacred Gear, something she discovered that he wielded about a couple years into their training. Since then, she has also trained him in properly utilizing it.

However, lately the Order has been pretty persistent in having Issei join their ranks. While he may be young and still in training, he held potential. Vast amounts of potential.

"You are correct about that, Lady Scathach..." Karna nodded before his face turned grim. "However...there's been a change of plans."

"What kind of change?"

"...the Hero Faction."

At this, The Immortal Witch's features darkened. Of course. That itself would be a good enough reason why the Order was so persistent.

"...did they find out about Isse?"

Karna nodded. "They're trying to find him as we speak. As you know, the Director and the Hero Faction's leader, Cao Cao, are not on good terms in every sense...and if Issei is to be recruited by them..."

"...We would have a full blown conflict on our hands..." She finished for him.

Scathach didn't know much about the Hero Faction, other than that their numbers also composed of those of Heroic Blood, though to the eyes of the Grand Order's members, they were far from true heroes. Because of their methods, the Grand Order was not pleased with them, and considered them an enemy by all rights. Once, there had been a conflict between Cao Cao and the Director...and that had shown her the terror that was the man known as the Wrought-Iron Magus, whatever the title implied. The sight was forever burned into her mind.

Swords...infinite swords. Unlimited swords. A sky filled with blades, all made with power. Among them was even her student's Gae Bolg. However, that wasn't the only shocking thing either.

After all, very few people have ever masterfully created a replica of the spear that killed Jesus Christ.

She could not believe what she saw at the time. Her leader had successfully forged a replica of the True Longinus.

What happened after that could not even be called a battle. It was a one-sided beatdown.

While it was true the leader of the Hero Faction possessed the most powerful Sacred Gear to ever have existed, he could barely hold a candle to the Director. He not only possessed the powers of his forged Longinus on his side, but the field of countless weapons of legend as well.

In short, fighting him was like fighting a man with an infinite arsenal of weapons...and he knew how to use every last one of them.

Back to the main point, if the Hero Faction ever obtained Issei, it would certainly make things problematic. No doubt that they would do whatever it took to recruit him...even if it meant brainwashing him or threatening the people he loved to force him to cooperate. An irritated sigh escaped her, rubbing her temples. "...can't he wait a bit longer?" Karna did not miss the begging tone in her voice. "As much as I'd like to believe...Issei isn't ready."

"He doesn't have to be," Karna told her. "However, the Director promises that he'll be under your jurisdiction." A smile formed across his face. "After all...he is a Lancer."

Given Issei's skill set and tutelage, it was pretty obvious as to what unit he would be assigned to. Still, Scathach couldn't help but be pleased with that particular arrangement.

"So, I take it he'll be working with Jack and the others?"

Karna nodded. "I should warn you...Herc has been dying to meet him," A sigh escaped the Demi-God, shaking his head in exasperation. "I can already imagine the property damage."

"As can I..." the witch sighed in agreement. Knowing the Greek Demigod descendant, he will be very well asking Issei for a fight every chance they meet.

"Shall I inform Issei?"

"No," Scathach shook her head. "I'll tell him myself."

"Actually," an old voice said. "There won't be a need for that, Scathy~"

The woman tensed before sighing in frustration. She would've guessed for HIM of all people to appear.

"...why in God's name are you here, Zelretch?"

The Dead Apostle casually strolled up to the two Lancers.

"What?" the troll said cheekily with a smirk. "Can't a guy come see his favorite smoking hot spear-wielding badass?"

Scathach rolled her eyes. "As colorful as ever..."

"Why thank you. I aim to please..." he took a bow.

Karna's face remained stoic, in spite of the bizarre behavior of the man in front of them. "I was told that I was only supposed to relay the message to Lady Scathach," he said in confusion. "I was not informed that you would be here, Chief."

"Bah," Zelretch rolled his eyes. "I thought I told you not to call me that! It feels...unprofessional! Anyway, I had intended on letting you and Scathach try and ease the boy into it, but..."

Suddenly, a tremor passed through the ground, followed by a series of explosions not far from where they were.

The Kaleidoscope sighed. "...Iskandar followed you."

XxXxX DxD/Grand Order XxXxX

"HAHAHAHAHAHA! NOW THIS IS WHAT A BATTLE FEELS LIKE!"

"For the love of-! WOULD YOU STOP GIVING COMMENTARY YOU OVERSIZED GIANT?!"

Issei yelled at the newcomer. He had to lean back in order to look the man in the face due to his massive height. His clothes were strained on his heavy muscular frame, showing that he was completely ripped and that he could kill a bear with his bare hands. His skin tone was tanned from exposure to the sun. His fiery red hair was swept back and connected to the beard on his chin. His eyes were dark and held a jovial spark.

Oh, and did he forget to mention the fact that said man was trying to kill him? He jumped back in order to avoid being pulverized into the ground by the massive fist the man swung at him, destroying the ground beneath his feet in on blow. His feet skidded across the ground before he held up his hand. "Okay, then!" he said as a red light danced around his hand. It then solidified, turning into a red bracer with a green jewel in the center. "Even if it's just a Twice Critical...I can at least even the playing field!"

[BOOST!]

He felt power surge through his veins. It was just the pick me up he needed. Utilizing his added strength, he jumped forward faster than he had previously.

He thrust his spear forward, power gathering at the tip. The large man grinned as he reared back his hand, and then thrust it forward as well. Spear met flesh...and a shockwave followed. Issei was nearly blown away from the recoil of his attack, whereas the man stood his ground, a fierce grin on his face. "THAT'S THE SPIRIT!" he roared. "GET STRONGER! GET FASTER! MAKE THIS FIGHT WORTHY OF KINGS, BOY!" The hand that he used to attack with was cut into and bleeding, but he paid it no mind. He was having too much fun in this fight to worry.

Issei quickly retaliated and moved for a quick stab to the man's abdomen. He struck, but it wasn't deep enough.

The boy tried to pull his spear out of the man's body, but found himself unable to. He pulled and pulled, but it wouldn't budge. Was this guy using his own muscles to hold onto his weapon?! All the while, Iskandar bellowed in amused laughter.

"HAHAHA! Nice try boy, but you are going to have to do better than that!"

Growling, Issei's eyes became overwhelmed in red, and Gae Bolg began to glow. "Gae..."

The man's eyes widened, but then his mouth turned into a toothy grin.

"BOLG!"

The bloody spear fluctuated with power before it shot from his hands and through the hulking figure's body.

The force of the blast did not pierce through him, but it did throw him back quite a ways. Issei himself could not handle the recoil, and was flung away also, flying through the air while screaming in pain, steam rising from his hands. He soon managed to reorient himself while in the air, landing on the ground before hissing in pain. "D-dammit..." he said through clenched teeth. "I guess a Boost-powered attack like that isn't a good idea yet..."

He could feel his body screaming from the strain, the blisters already forming on his palms. He swore that he could even feel his bones ache. Nevertheless, he tried to pull himself up. No matter what happened, the battle was far from over.

True enough, the red-haired man before him was on his feet, seemingly unfazed by the attack, though his shirt was completely incinerated. As a result, it revealed his muscular frame, which was nothing short but something that could make a body-builder green with envy. It wasn't as bulky or veined as some body builders, but it wasn't weak or semi-solid either. No, this was muscle formed into perfection. The spear was buried deeper into his stomach, but not all the way through. Scathach was right…he still wasn't ready to use that technique…"Not bad, boy!" the man boomed with laughter. "While you didn't do any damage, you increased the power behind your attack at point blank range! I'd expect nothing less from the heir of the Hound of Chulainn!"

Issei frowned. "Hound of what?"

"Now, let us-!"

"ENOUGH, ISKANDAR."

The man had to step to the side to avoid being skewered by another red spear. Scathach landed in a crouch before ramming the flat end of her weapon in the man's face.

"Gack!" the man cried, holding his face. He glared at the woman. "What in the bloody hell was that for, Lady Scathach?! This fight was just about to get interesting!"

In response, he received another strike, this time to his abdomen. "I will not have you kill my student, especially when he has yet to reach his full potential."

"I wasn't gonna kill the boy," Iskander grumbled, rubbing his stomach. "I was only testing the waters! The boy's got the makings of a King in him!"

"At his current state, he wouldn't survive that little 'test' of yours..." Karna commented wryly as he approached the group. "So either way...you still would've killed him."

Iskandar groaned. "Not you too, Karna..."

"...okay, what the hell is going on?!" Issei voiced his confusion and irritation. It was natural, after all. He was suddenly attacked by some giant of a man who kept spouting off nonsense and was close to blowing him apart! Now his teacher comes in, and she apparently knows him? "Who in the hell is this guy, Big Sis?! Moreover, who's the old goat behind Karna?!"

The old man grinned. "Old goat, eh? If only I had a dollar for every time someone said that."

"Issei," Karna said, gesturing towards Iskandar. "This is Iskandar...a descendant of the famous Alexander the Great. And he," he then turned his attention to the old man behind him. "Is Zelretch, mine and Lady Scathach's employer."

"..." The boy grew silent. He tried to process this news...more so the former than the latter...the guy that tried to bash him to the ground...was the descendant of THE King of Conquerors?! The man who nearly conquered the entire world at one time?!

"...you gotta be shittin' me."

"Language, Issei!"

Zelretch laughed. "No, we are not shitting you, as you so colorfully put it, boyo," he said cheekily. "You are looking at the true heir to the name of the King of Conquerors."

"That is correct!" Iskandar bellowed as he pounded a fist on his chest, not minding the fact that Issei's Gae Bolg was still embedded in his torso. "My name is Iskandar! The descendant of the Macedonian King and the man destined to surpass him! It is good to meet you, descendant of Cu Chulainn!"

A heavy silence passed through the area. No one spoke a word, and the atmosphere suddenly turned tense. Karna grimaced as he dragged a hand down his face, while Scathach's eyes were obscured by her hair. Zelretch sported an amused grin.

Issei, meanwhile, looked like he short-circuited.

"...come again?"

Did...did he hear that right? Him...a descendant of Cu Chulainn? He...he learned from Scathach that he was an Irish Hero, who also went by the name of Setanta. He didn't know why but...he always found stories about him to be his favorites out of everything his sister figure told him.

"Issei my boy," the troll said with relished delight. "You are the last remaining heir of the lineage of Cu Chulainn. How else would you be able to wield Gae Bolg?"

The brown haired boy stared at his hands, then at the red spear in Iskandars body. He...was related to a hero?!...HIM… of all people was the descendant of the Irish Hound…? Scathach NEVER told him anything of the sort!...Then again…it probably explained all the lectures on Celtic Myths he received from her…

"Oh, right..." Iskandar hummed as he tapped the red spear. "I forgot he impaled me with this! Hahahaha, the boy's got some strength!"

Karna sweatdropped. "...you only just now realized the spear in your stomach?"

"Hahaha...! Yes! The boy has potential, though...that attack of his actually forced me back." he laughed as if there was nothing wrong with it. Iskandar was fortunate that Issei had yet to tap into the full power of Gae Bolg. Otherwise the curse from the red spear would've prevented that wound from healing. He pulled out the spear, and threw it back to Issei. The boy caught it with ease, though he stared at his weapon, feeling as if he was holding something that defied explanation.

The reason he could hold it, let alone wield it...was because he was a descendant of a hero...Was that why Scathach accepted his request to learn how to fight from her…?

"You know..." Zelretched hummed, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "I'd thought he'd be a bit more lean and fit, not a emo-looking brat."

Issei's eyes narrowed, steam pouring out of his ears as his face turned red. "Who the hell are you calling emo?!" he snapped angrily. "I'm perfectly normal and sane, thank you! And who the hell are you supposed to me, old man?!"

"As I said earlier," Karna said. "He is-"

"I get that he's Big Sis' boss, I want to know WHO he is!"

He didn't want to hear the fact that he was their boss; he wanted to know who he was and what was so strange about him!

"Oh, now that's just mean, Ise-chan~" Zelretch pouted. "And here I was thinking that we could be friends!"

"...honestly, you old troll," a clam voice spoke out from behind. The group turned, finding the speaker walking right behind Zelretch. "Can't you go one second without pissing someone off?"

The Dead Apostle turned around, his expression lit up in jubilation. "Ah, EMIYA-kun, so nice of you to join us!"

Issei looked at the newcomer, and for a moment, he wondered if the man was a foreigner. He was quite tall, being only a head and a half short of the towering giant that was Iskander. He had tanned skin, dark brown eyes, and snow white hair, which was short and somewhat spiky. He wore a black suit with a red shirt underneath, complete with a black tie with red lines running through it. "Director," Karna said respectfully. "I wasn't aware that you were also coming."

The man called EMIYA sighed. "Well, when I heard that a certain old man decided to give Scathach's brat a visit, I wasn't left with much choice," he said in clear annoyance. "Old goat causes enough trouble as is."

"Oh, that hurts, EMIYA-kun."

The Director of the Grand Order snorted. "As if it did," he said before turning to Issei. "So...your Scathach's brat, eh? You certainly don't look like much." Issei growled at this, though EMIYA didn't seem concerned. "Though, then again, you are only a brat. Not even of age yet."

"Stop calling me that!" The boy snapped. "I am not a brat! I'm thirteen! I'm already a teenager!"

Scathach giggled, casting aside her previous melancholy. "Unfortunately, Issei," she said teasingly. "You aren't fully a teen until you're seventeen!"

"Nonsense!" Iskandar disagreed. "The boy's already a man! He's fought with a King!"

Karna rolled his eyes. "Iskandar, you aren't a King YET," he corrected the burly man. "You are a descendant of one."

"Bah, details!" The descendant of the King of Conquerors waved off the technicality. It was only a matter of time. He was destined to become King and surpass his ancestor.

Issei felt his eyebrow twitch. "Can't somebody just tell me what's going on?!"

"Relax, brat," EMIYA retorted, fueling Issei's anger further. "Keep your panties on." He turned to Zelretch. "Oi, old man...mind bringing us to the main branch?"

"Why, certainly!" Zelretch grinned as he snapped his fingers. Before Issei could argue with the two, they all vanished from the field.

XxXxX DxD/Grand Order XxXxX

"...WHAT THE HELL IS THIS?!"

Issei cried in outrage. Who could blame him? After what he just witnessed...

Rather than the training field, they were now inside some sort of grand hall...no, scratch that. It was far too big to be called a hall. It was more like a gigantic room unto itself. The walls were at least ten meters high, colored a vibrant, almost gold yellow. Equipment was gathered all over the place, almost like it was a giant tech center of some kind. The floor was a black and white checkered pattern, but in the center was a golden marker with some sort of glyph. inside. Sitting on the wall at the very end of the room was a gigantic set of clocks, three in all, each connected to each other with giant pendulums swinging back and forth.

The numbers listed on the clocks' faces were different, most likely depending on the timezone. Nevertheless, it was a marvelous sight...but in Issei's case...he's wondering what the hell just happened.

"Wh-Where are we...?!"

"My office," EMIYA answered. He smirked. "Welcome to the Grand Order, brat."

"O-Office...You mean...YOU MEAN THIS FREAKINGLY HUGE ROOM IS YOUR FREAKING OFFICE?! YOU'RE SHITTIN ME, RIGHT?!" Said brat yelled.

In response, he received a whack to the head, courtesy of Scathach. "Again, language!"

"Yes, brat," EMIYA nodded. "This is my office. Now quit yelling. It's annoying."

Issei grumbled in response. Well excuse him for freaking out like that...when he had experience several shocking things in the span of the past twenty minutes!

"So, what am I even doing here?" he asked. "Moreover, what the hell is this me being a descendant of some hero? A-and what's this Grand Order thing?!"

"...The Grand Order is an organization composed of Heroic Descendants." EMIYA answered calmly. "Our purpose is to protect the world from the forces that wish to disrupt its harmony. In other words, we exist to erase anything that threats the natural balance of the Earth."

"Issei," Karna spoke up. "Have you ever read anything about Devils, Angels, or even Gods?"

"Y-yeah..."

Ever since the Oni attack five years ago, Scathach thought it would be best for him to learn about the the Supernatural world. So she taught him about the Three Factions, various Pantheons such as the Celtic Pantheon, and Youkai.

He knew about the war that was held hundreds of years ago between the Biblical Factions. The Angels and the Devils and the Fallen Angels fought in a three-way war that had nearly brought them close to extinction. Many of the 72 Pillars perished, and many Angels died. Supposedly, even the Voice of God himself died. However...the casualties were much worse than that. Satan, the Progenitor of Devils, and even the Four Great Devils; Lucifer, Beelzebub, Leviathan, and Asmodaeus, had perished in the conflict.

Even God Himself died.

It was a bloody war with no true winner. After so many casualties on every side, the three factions called a ceasefire, unable to withstand any more losses.

Of course, that didn't mean the hostilities had truly come to an end. There were still a great many events happening in the world as a result of tensions. The incident from five years ago was one such event. From what he learned from Scathach, the Oni was apart of a rebellious group of Youkai that wanted to overthrow the current leader, Yasaka. In short, it was a gigantic heap of problems with no clear solution. There were even major conflicts that went on unknown to them.

And that was where the Grand Order came in.

"So...let me get this straight," Issei said, trying to process this information. "This...Grand Order thing is basically one giant group of people who have the blood of heroes in them, and they're against this supernatural terrorist group called the Khaos Brigade."

EMIYA nodded. "Correct."

"And there's this other group of heroes called the Hero Faction, but they're methods are questionable, and because of that, you guys don't get along with them."

"Again, correct. The Hero Faction's numbers comprise only of those who wield Sacred Gears. Few of their members actually have one, and they only seek humans with noteworthy potential. However, unlike most of us here, they are not willing to find a middle or common ground with any other species."

Issei frowned. "Kind of hypocritical, don't you think?" he asked. "I mean, if they're supposed to be "heroes," why are you working for demonic and evil terrorists?"

"Our thoughts exactly, boy!" Iskandar smirked. "And that's why we true heroes are in opposition against them! We don't give a damn who's human and who's not! So long as there is a possibility of peace, we will take it!"

EMIYA nodded in agreement, yet his face remained stern. "However, peace isn't made with petty words alone," he spoke coldly. "In order to obtain peace, action is required. And that...is where we come in."

"So...you guys pretty much intervene and stop those guys from creating even more chaos?"

"In layman terms, yes." Karna nodded.

"...and what does any of this have to do with me?"

"Because brat..." EMIYA responded. "...You are going to be joining the Order."

A second passed. Two, then three.

Finally-

"...EEEEEEEEEEEH?!"

-Chapter 1: END-

Next Time:

"The heck do you mean I'm joining the Order?!"

"Hmhmhm~ I wonder how my Little Sis back in Kyoto is doing? Guess it's time to check up on her!"

"Heh, it's a bit crazy at first, but trust me man, it gets pretty fun shortly afterward!"

"Greetings, Hyoudou-kun. I am Gilgamesh, member of the Archer Unit. It's a pleasure to meet you!"

Chapter 2: The Hound of Chulainn, Reborn! Pierce Through!

"Raaaaaagh...! DDRAIG!"

[DRAGON OVERBOOSTER!]

XXXXX

I have a poll set up to determine which character will be part of Issei's Team in the Grand Order as Archer. Please check it out and vote.