Highschool DxD Fanfiction: Dragonbreak Chronicles

"..."-Conversation

"..."-Thoughts/Telepathy

(...)-Side Note

[...]-Ddraig/Announcer

[...]-Communication(Magic Circle)/Titles/Television

"..."- Akatosh

A/N: Hello, fellow DxD fanfiction readers!

So this is my third, and probably last time I will heavily edit these chapters.

I welcome you to my most prized creation of literature: Dragonbreak Chronicles.

So the question you're probably asking me is: what the hell is Dragonbreak Chronicles, and how it is different from the other DxD fanfictions? Dragonbreak Chronicles is a Alternate Universe, based off on some elements of one of the most influential game series in the gaming industry, the Elder Scrolls, more particularly, Skyrim. Although I will be using heavy elements from the Elder Scrolls series, this fanfic will not be a crossover.

To those who are familiar to Elder Scrolls games, yes, Akatosh is literally the center point of this story (besides Issei). Before putting down reviews saying that this story should be a crossover, let me briefly explain:

I made a OC Dragon God based off on Akatosh, who happens to have the same name and occupation, but the similarities end there. There is no Daedra or Aedra, Aduin, ect ect, thus, there is no reason to classify it as a crossover.

Arc I of the fanfiction will start at the beginning of canon Volume 20 and work it's way up to Volume 21 of the franchise; Although I will be taking quotes and events directly from these two volumes, they will be adjusted with a lot of twist, turns, and tweaks by yours truly.

It is extremely recommended for you guys to read the LN; if you only watch the anime, and refuse to read the LN, then this story is probably not for you, and I completely understand (that is why I gave warning). But if you don't care and still insist, go ahead and enjoy!

Throughout the fanfiction, I will be using japanese honorifics (—san, —chan, —sama, —kun, —dono) in dialogues, to get close as much as possible to the dialogue style of the Light Novels (I am a bit of a fanatic with the DxD LNs, if it isn't obvious already). So, if you're bothered by it, well, that's really on you.

The plot of this fanfiction will be focused in these two questions: What if Issei was given an alternative power that can possibly defeat Trihexa? What will be the price for this power and how will it affect the world of DxD?

The chapters, ideally, can be released monthly. But because my motto is to release more quality than quantity, and reality tends to take me away from typing, the updates can take awhile. During summer vacations, things are bit different.

Reviews and civilized constructive criticism are certainly welcome! Thanks for your cooperation!

Of course, let us not forget, and I will always put this in every chapter: Highschool DxD is owned by Ichiei Ishibumi. I do not own anything, for the exception of my own plot twists, inspirations and the personalities of certain characters!

Enjoy! Don't forget to leave a review!

The Encounter, Arc I

—Please go out with me.

Everything started from that one loving, charming confession from a certain Fallen Angel. This is where Hyoudou Issei, navïe to the supernatural world, got his first taste of blood and death.

—I am Rias Gremory. I am a Devil. And I am your Master. Nice to meet you, Hyoudou Issei-kun. Can I call you Ise?

From his first death, it led him towards a chain of events that will forever change his life. After being pierced by the Fallen Angel known as Raynare, a Pure-Blooded Devil Princess by the name of Rias, reincarnated Hyoudou Issei into a Devil.

Whether or not she helped him out of generosity or greed, it is debatable.

—Ahahahaha! It's impossible! Because she died! That girl is dead, you know? It's not the matter of whether you protect her or not. You couldn't protect her! You couldn't protect her back at evening and even now! You really are a weird boy! It's so amusing!

His first merit was taking down Raynare, and attempting to save Asia, an ex-nun, from having her Sacred Gear taken away. Although it was unfortunate, Asia had already been doomed the moment Raynare took the [Twilight Healing] from her. But then again, because of Rias's generosity, or perhaps her selfishness, she reincarnated Asia into her ranks, allowing the ex-nun the chance to live happily, as a Reincarnated Devil.

During this time, Issei discovered that his Sacred Gear was one of the thirteen longinus that allowed the user the ability to kill Gods. His Sacred Gear was the [Boosted Gear], which holds the legendary [Heavenly Dragon], Y Ddraig Goch.

—Fire bird and Fenghuang! The hellfire of our clan that was praised as being that of a Phoenix! Taste it with your own body and turn into ashes!

He fought with Riser, a High-Class Devil who was engaged to Rias, and won by sacrificing his arm to obtain the imperfect version of [Balance Breaker]. Winning against Riser made Rias realized that Issei was the one who was worthy of her love, and she rewarded her [Pawn] with a kiss on the lips.

—No. I'm living so I can seek my revenge. Holy-sword Excalibur. Destroying that is the reason why I am living.

He encountered the incident involving the possession of Excalibur. During this time, he reunited with Irina and met Xenovia, first as enemies, then as temporary allies who had a common goal. His best friend, Kiba, was driven by revenge to destroy the legendary sword [Excalibur]. Amidst the chaos, Issei did not spare a moment, and engaged with one of the leaders of the Fallen Angels; at the end, he met Vali Lucifer, his rival. Ironically, Xenovia became a Reincarnated Devil after hearing the news of God of the Bible's death.

—Do you think a world without God is wrong? Do you think a world without God would decay? I am sorry to say, but that isn't the case. Both you and I are healthily living like this.

—The world moves even without a God.

He witnessed the signing of the Alliance of the Three Great Powers up close, and one of the first attacks of the [Khaos Brigade], a terrorist organization capable of destruction.

—Ise-san, I love you. I will always stay beside you.

He survived the experience of Juggernaut Drive, and strengthen his relationship with Asia. He was also attacked by the Evil God Loki and Fenrir, when it has or hasn't been 6 months since he reincarnated into a Devil.

—Hyoudou Issei! I won't lose! There is a dream I need to fulfill!

He conquered the Rating Game of the Underworld's Youth and then promoted to a Mid-class Devil.

—…Friend? What's the benefit if I become that?

—I want to confirm.

—Hyoudou Issei. What are you?

At the decisive battle against the Hero-faction, he went through a life and death experience during the monster crises and was resurrected by the power of Ophis and Great Red, which is an unpredictable happening. He then proceeded to defeat the Jabberwocky and Cao Cao in that flow.

—Rias-buchou, Akeno-san, Koneko-chan, Yuuto-senpai, Asia-senpai, Xenovia-senpai, Irina-senpai, Ravel-san, Rossweisse-san, Azazel-sensei, and the Sekiryuutei—Ise-senpai. After all, all of you are my precious comrades…

Then it was the battle against Qlippoth. He received an assault from the Evil Dragon Grendel and witnessed the destruction of the country of Vampires up close.

—Hey, Ise-kun. If I ever get used by them…will you please kill me?

He was there during the hijack of Agreas.

—An angel's kiss! It was because the scene was so beautiful. People would naturally want to kiss like this.

—Everyone, make this become a happy Kuoh Academy. No, I'll do it. So, I'd like everyone to please take care of me.

When the year was about to end, he was present during the Qlippoth's assault of Heaven. He then accepted the challenge from the Church's swordsman as soon as the new year began, and won the challenge…

The Dragon God of Time viewed these accomplishments, and watched as Issei continuously grow his merit; it amused him that this generation's Sekiryuutei sole purpose was obtaining an ultimate harem and become the embodiment of sexual desire.

"I have decided… perhaps, this generation's Sekiryuutei can acomposilsh what the others could not."

The Dragon God made his decision.

From that moment on, Issei's life will switch directions once again.

Whether it's for the better or worse.

-Line Break-

It was during the night before what suppose to be the celebration of Xenovia becoming the Student Council President. Everything was still and quiet throughout the neighborhood, and the air was chilly and dense, which was typical weather for the winter season. Inside the Hyoudou residence however, the warmth of the expensive complex made every room cozy and comfortable, and the residents living inside it can enjoy the sparkling snow lightly dropping onto the ground from the view of the window with a cup of coffee or chocolate on their hands, if given the opportunity.

Issei, was exactly doing just that. Since the house was designed by a designer who is sponsored by Ajuka Beelzebub, who happened to be fond of creating hidden rooms, Issei accidentally stumbled across a hidden bedroom that looked identical to his old room before the house was remodeled. The room contain one queen-size bed, a desk with a desktop with all its necessities and enough room to write, a rolling chair, and a window… which had a amazing view of the scenery outside. Carrying his hot chocolate, Issei welcomed himself in to his new found discovery, and triumphantly sat down on the chair. After a few seconds, he started to feel nostalgic, as he remember when he had posters of his favorite anime shows posted upon his wall, and alarm clocks that had voices of attractive woman and girls that always woke him up.

Before he realized, Issei moved his chair close to window, and dozed off, staring at the white snow. A few days ago, the anti-terrorist team [DxD] had peacefully dispatched the church rebellion, which consisted of Vasco Strada, Teodoro Legrenzi, and Ewald Cristaldi, plus their subordinates. (A/N: Peacefully dispatched, as in both sides did not suffer any casualties).

As he remembered the duel, the words that Vali said to him came across his thoughts, like a terrible flashback:

"It means that there are those who find it painful in what you call peace."

Those words were glued into him ever since.

Even if Issei wanted to forget, with all the events he encountered, it was difficult to not think of Vali's words.

At first, he thought about why did it mattered to him; as long he continues to work on becoming the harem king and protect those he loved, he shouldn't really care about those ideals. But the more he put time into thinking about it, the more his resolve to forget shatters.

"How can I convince those who hate the peace to change their views?" he asked himself.

Of course, he, or anybody he knows, does not know the answer.

Nor was he bothered to research.

He had no idea why that question appeared on his mind. Perhaps, it's due to the fact that the peace that he and his friends earned and work so hard for, will soon be threaten again, knowing that Rizevim would not just run with his tail behind his legs. Rizevim had a slight advantage over them, and at any moment, he will begin his grand plan of creating his utopia using Trihexa and his mass produced army of [Evil Dragons], if he found the location of the legendary beast.

As Issei was contemplating, he thought he felt a presence entering the room; the shiver ran across his back like waves, but he shrugged off the feeling, thinking that it was just his nerves.

However, the said person crept up to him, and surprised him with a hug from behind. Her breasts were grinding against his back, creating a pillow-like sensation that was beyond godly to Issei. Because of the surprise, the blood was rushing through his nose, causing him to bleed.

"Ise~ Whatcha doin'?" the one who was hugging him from behind, was no other than his master, but more importantly, his girlfriend, Rias Gremory. She was certainly in a good mood, having to call his name in a cutesy tone and pulling her face close to his, almost rubbing his check with hers. Her crimson hair was wet and had strong scent of shampoo, and the clothes she weared were a bit revealing, as if she purposely wore them just to excite her perverted boyfriend.

"H-Hey Rias." Issei replied with hint of shyness in his voice, causing him to slightly stutter, as he wiped the blood off his nose with some tissues. Usually, whenever Rias or any other of his female companions surprise Issei with a hug from behind, he would say some barbarous statements about his undying love for 'Oppai'. (A/N: Oppai translates to breasts in english) This time however, he was mentally occupied and couldn't really say something ridiculous.

"...What's wrong? That's not your usual reaction." Rias immediately noticed, and rested her face upon his shoulder. Although she did find his reaction to be a little bit cute, she was disappointed since the atmosphere that he was letting out was a let down. It was as if he wanted to be alone and not be bothered.

"It's nothing. Just… enjoying the view, and drinking some hot chocolate." he sighed, then took another sip from his mug. The chocolate milk was made by his Mother and Asia, so it was no surprise that he found it quite soothing and warm with every sip he took. Asia herself said that she 'made it with love'. It certainly did made Issei's heart skip a beat when he saw her emerald-like eyes beam at his with such tenderness and warmth.

"So, you're in a room by yourself?" she asked suspiciously.

"Yeah." he answered nonchalantly, scratching his face to satisfy the urge to itch. Rias stared at him concernedly, not understanding what was going, or what he was going through. Although she wanted to believe that Issei was just studying, meditating, or just relaxing, his facial expression was smug and tiresome.

"No, there's definitely something wrong. It's written all over your face, and I can tell."

"...It's really nothing, Rias. I swear." he said, but it was almost as if he begging to not pry into his business.

"...We can talk about it."

"I'll tell you another time then. Just... not now." Issei made himself perfectly clear that he was not willing to have the conversation. She wanted to protest against it, but then she realized it's better to leave it alone, and ask another time. She gave up and decided to trust on his word, although it was still strange for her to find him all by himself, and determined to not talk about his troubles.

"...Then, can I stay with you?" she asked shyly, acting like a girl of her age, but she had full confidence that Issei would allow her to stay with him; if not, she'll use her sex appeal to persuade him. She blushed and hold on to him even tighter, as Issei felt her heartbeat through her breasts. He gulped, and his mood switched within a flick. Forgetting the words Vali said to him, Issei shifts his gaze to his red-hair girlfriend with a joyous expression.

"Of course you can!" he shouted excitedly, causing Rias to smile happily, as she shouted a mental 'yay' in her mind. Rias then predicted that Issei was just feeling a bit under the weather because he was simply lonely and had nobody to talk to the entire day. She did find it strange, however, she let it slide.

"Fufufu, what's with the change of mood?" Rias asked. Issei was flustered with embarrassment, narrowing his eyes away from her.

"...Don't tease me."

"But teasing you is one of the best things in the world." Rias smiled playfully. Issei rolled his eyes, causing Rias to giggle.

"So what now?" he curiously asked.

"Since we're alone… what do you think we should do?" the redhead said flirtatiously, tempting Issei to use his wildest imagination. She watched her beloved's eyes widen with sexual desire, and a perverted expression appeared on his face, making him 20 years older than what he is.

The usual atmosphere came back to him, and once again, his mind had nothing but the imagination of glorious busts, thicknesses, and mysterious sides of a woman's body. Issei's eyes beamed towards Rias's breast that were under her pajamas, and his face immediately blushed, but his smile was devilish and playful like. Rias giggled as she watch her boyfriend lose his head over seeing her stark naked.

"You want a peek?" she asked seductively, slowly unbuttoning her shirt one by one.

"Yesssssssss!" he agreed with a 200% approval.

Rias simply unbutton her shirt slowly to add more dramatic effect, but Issei saw it in a different perspective; the buttons on her pajamas were like locks, and everytime she unbuttoned one, the sound of clicking and twisting of hinges can be heard, opening something more scared than a legendary artifact.

Once she finished unbuttoning her shirt, she took it off; in Issei's eyes, the shine of golden light blinded him temporarily, leaving him more anticipated than ever… only a few more seconds before beholding the treasure! When he opened his eyes, he saw something that he had not expected. Rias also took off her pants, revealing a stunning sight to his eyes.

Rias was wearing a bikini; usually, it would excite Issei to see Rias in a lewd swimsuit, however she was only wearing an average two piece. But what made her more appealing and glamorous, was her fidgeting and bashful expression; her shoulders moved side to side, her breast sway with utmost excellency, and her thighs slightly twist and turn.

Overall, she looked cute. If anybody knew the difference between sexy and cute, it was Issei.

Since Rias and Akeno are older than him, Issei usually sees them in an adult way; the two Onee-sans use their sexiness as their attractiveness. However, Asia, Irina, Ravel and Koneko have a more 'cute atmosphere', and Issei sees them as something precious and gentle.

Xenovia was just power-idiot who lack common sense, who happens to have big breast. Well, Irina and Asia are also in same category, since they were raise in the church and lack common sense, but not as much as Xenovia.

In the end, it did not matter, because they were extremely attractive, have big breasts (expect poor Koneko), and they absolutely love him.

Rias coughed, grabbing Issei's attention from his thoughts.

"I brought this because I thought it looked cute on me. The graduation trip is coming soon, so I decided to buy it for I can wear it during the trip to Okinawa. ...I haven't shown it to nobody yet, so… um… I was thinking, maybe you can critique?" she spoke in a low tone, a bit embarrassed on the reasoning why she brought the swimsuit.

"...It's amazing. You look so beautiful, I mean, everything you wear makes you look beautiful." Issei spoke honestly from the bottom of his heart.

"...Really?" she shyly asked to get confirmation.

"Yeah, really." Issei answered without any hesitation.

"Thank you~!" she launched on to him, and hopped on between his legs, leaning her body against his.

Despite crushing his testicles (which the pain was quickly gone because of Rias's 'you know what' was on top of his shaft), Issei immediately overheated upon Rias's actions; to sudden feel the ampleness of her buttocks grinding against his lower abdominal muscles was a pleasure beyond divine for him.

"This is heaven…"

"Ara, ara, 'little Issei' seems to be awoken by my presence." she teased him, running her fingers through his chin. Issei immediately noticed that Rias was using some of the usual dialogue that Akeno used when she was attempting to seduce him. The seductiveness and power of a Pure Blooded Devil 'Onee-san' is a force to be wreck with, and although Issei had numerous experiences with Rias and his lovely female companions, there was only a few times where it escalated into something passionate and lewd.

"R-Rias…" he couldn't help himself but moaned her name in ecstasy. Rias's eyes became lustful, but also sympathetic and a bit sorrowful.

"...I know how lonely it gets, Ise. The time we can spend with each other… is really limited, ever since Qlippoth started their assault. Because you are the Sekiryuutei, and I am the heiress of the House of Gremory, we are always busy, and never find time to appreciate each other… and love one another." Rias emotionally whispered into his ears, as her face gets closer to his. She plucked her lips a few times, and she passionately gazed into his eyes.

"...Ne? Please kiss me, Ise." she closed her eyes, and awaited for the sensation upon her lips that she craved for so long. Issei obliged, and leaned into her soft lips, gently kissing her. When he kissed her, all the switches that were within her brain went on. She kissed back with a little more force, smacking her lips against his, and deeply inhaling his breath. The fact that she was on top of him excited her even more, as she grasped onto his head and pulled him towards her. Feeling a little kinky and daring, Issei moved his tongue inside her mouth, signalizing her to do the same. The tongues intertwined with each other, and the tastebuds gave them the ecstasy and pleasure beyond anything that they had experienced before.

Rias grabbed Issei's hand and pulled it towards her, beyond the fabric, causing him to feel her raw breast. Feeling her body temperature and the ampleness, Issei's mind melted in seconds. Rias finally broke the kiss, as a string of saliva appeared between the two lovers.

The mouth to mouth sensation was wet and hot, leaving the couple begging for more.

Issei's common sense snapped; all the hesitations he had to endure, finally made him more serious than ever before.

This time, unexpectedly, Issei took the lead, and hurled Rias towards the queen size bed. Rias wasn't pushed hard, but she was surprised.

Issei actually pushed her down.

"I-Ise?!" Rias was shocked, and a bit afraid of this new side of him.

"...I'm sorry, Rias. I can't hold on anymore… I want to become a man…!" he declared. Her eyes widen at hearing such a declaration; her heartbeat went from drumming to punching. Her chest ached with such happiness, so much that tears rolled down from her soft, blushing check.

Of course, she hesitated.

She wanted the 'union' to happen after the marriage.

But how could she say no to such determination?

"...You'll take responsibility, r-right?" she asked.

"Yes, absolutely."

That was all she needed.

"...Then take me!"

Issei went in for another kiss, and Rias responded with the same velocity and force.

The kiss lasted even longer than before, setting a new record of three minutes and twenty seconds. As they pulled away from the kiss, they gasped for air, panting and moaning with pleasure.

"...Don't stop Issei! I want us to explore the passionate love that we never got the chance to explore… I feel as if we stopped now, we won't get another opportunity like this soon enough. So… please, let's keep—" Rias expressed her sexual desire to Issei, as she moved her hand towards the place where all the magic happens, the forbidden zone of Issei's body. Just as she was about to pull down his pants and expose his shaft to the open air, heavy footsteps can be heard through the door.

The trespasser heard everything.

"How! How can this be…!" although his vision was blocked by Rias (Rias moved on top of him as they kissed), he clearly recognized that voice and it surprised him.

The one who trespassed into the room was Asia herself.

"Ise-san and Rias-oneesama… to have a secret rendezvous… Unacceptable! Unfair! I also want to be with Ise-san!" Asia protested and pouted, shouting at Rias like a spoiled child who wants its favorite toy back. As Rias was about to retaliate and Issei was about to make excuses, more reinforcements came and saw what was going on.

Akeno, Xenovia, Irina and Koneko saw what seem to be the interruption of their foreplay. Envious, and inspired, they're eyes glistened towards the couple.

"Arara, looks like Asia-chan ruined Rias and Ise-kun's moment." despite saying that, Akeno sadistically licked her index finger in excitement when she saw the affair that was about to commence; luckily, Asia stopped Rias and Issei from doing anything before Akeno had the chance to do something drastic.

"See Irina? If Asia was a bit bolder, she could have taken Issei in one fell swoop! We must follow her example!" Xenovia said to her best friend Irina, as her eyes shone with admiration, praise, and enlightenment.

"Eh?! N-No! It's wrong to take away Ise-kun from Rias! A-Although… it doesn't sound like a bad idea…" Irina blushed furiously at the thought of taking Issei from Rias. For a moment, she imagined herself on top of Issei instead of Rias, and then her wings immediately flicked like crazy, making her erase the thought from her head.

"Ah, so you thought about it? As expected for the lewd self-proclaiming Angel." Xenovia teased, enjoying herself in taking mental notes and boosting her best friend's morale. Irina's face had gotten even redder, and she looked away from the scene.

"...This is very vulgar, Senpai." Koneko harshly remarked, but still look at the couple with wide and determined eyes, taking mental notes for future references.

"I-I'm sorry Rias-sama and Ise-sama!" Ravel, who came to investigate what was happening that caused all the ladies to go inside the room, apologized, although she had nothing to apologize for.

"...Mou!" Rias exploded in anyonace, and pouted heavily.

"You guys are ridiculous! To interrupt me and Ise…!" Rias hopped off of Issei, and stormed towards Asia and Akeno, engaging them into a fierce argument.

This was the everyday occurrence for the Girls' Club of Hell; it was a literal battle for the affections of one man: Hyoudou Issei.

Issei was about to watch the terror and horror unraveled between his female companions, and there was no way stopping them.

"Not this again!" he screamed within his thoughts, knowing how drastic this will end up if doesn't stop them.

"Ara ara, did you know eating him when you find a chance is what you call having an affair? Rias, you shouldn't let your guard down, you know? Besides, it's not like I'm the only one… Asia-san could have pushed you down and take over~"

"I-I-I also want the chance to eat him, whenever I can!" following the example of Akeno, Asia declared towards Rias with blushing cheeks from embarrassment. Rias was taken aback by Asia's declaration and influence, angrily glaring at Akeno for tainting the pureness of Asia's innocence.

"...Asia-senpai, do you even know what you're saying?" Koneko remarked in the sidelines alongside with Ravel. Ravel felt too embarrassed to say anything, so she stood quiet.

"Ooooooo! Asia is taking a stand against the legal wife! Irina, we should definitely— I-Irina?" Xenovia was pumped and over inspired by Asia's stance against Rias, but when she turned toward Irina to discuss her opinion, she found Irina filled with concern.

"Irina, what's wrong?" despite the chatter and arguments, Xenovia was able to project her voice enough that Irina can clear hear.

"It's Ise-kun. He doesn't look so very well…" she said, getting Xenovia's attention.

"Now that you mentioned it, he usually does tries to stop us from getting too chaotic. Ah, maybe he's feeling uncomfortable because he's gone limp since we interrupted him and Rias. Should we take over?"

"W-What are you saying dummy?!"

"It's true, isn't it Irina?"

"...W-Well… anyways, let's check on him." Irina suggested, as she walked towards

Xenovia agreed, as she walked up to him and place her hand over his forehead.

"It doesn't seem like he has a fever. Are you okay, Issei?" Xenovia asked, taking her hand away.

"...It's not that I am sick, I am just sexually frustrated." he sighed, putting his hand over his face in exhaustion. Akeno, Asia, and Rias were still arguing about the incident earlier, and Koneko and Ravel decided to leave the scene hurriedly to not get caught in between Rias and Akeno.

"Come on Xenovia, let's help Ise-kun feel better!" Irina exclaimed happily, as her eyes sparkled with tenderness.

"He's not sick, Irina. He's sexually frustrated."

"E-Eh? W-What does he mean by that?"

"Obviously, he was about to have intercourse with Rias, then we came in. Hm, it does gives us an enormous opportunity over everyone else. Or perhaps you wanted to take advantage of him? You are sure etroic and lewd for an angel."

"M-Mou! That is absolutely ridiculous! Why would you think that in the first place?!There's no way I'll take advantage—"

"You say that, but yesterday you were playing a certain eroge inside that room. If my memory serves me right, the main protagonist was sick, and the heroine had to 'take care' of him. Did it left you an impact when Issei had the Devil Flu, and we cross played as nurses?" Xenovia narrowed her eye towards her best friend in a scheming way. Irina's face became beet red, and she couldn't help herself but to retaliate. (A/N: That room that Xenovia was talking about is the Dimensional Room that Michael gave Irina, which allows her to have sex with Issei without falling).

"Y-Y-You were there as well!"

"Ah, but see? At least I am able to admit it."

"Mouuuu! Darling, Xenovia is bullying me!" Irina cried and faced towards Issei, expecting him to comfort her and resolve the situation.

"It's not like I am in any position to help you, Irina…"

"You're going to abandon your childhood friend?!" she cried.

"N-No…"

"Say Ise, why won't you go with us to the [Ero Room] for tonight? We can have sex there as much as we want."

[What?!]

"Ah shit, they heard Xenovia—"

-Line Break-

After flirting with Rias, stopping the rivalries between his female companions, and finally getting comfortable on his bed (he is now sleeping in his regular room, alongside with the ladies, as usual), Issei felt the liberation of relief on his chest, and sighed deeply in exhaustion.

"It's going to be hard being a Harem King if this is what I have to go through everyday…" he thought to himself.

Rias, Akeno, Asia, Xenovia, Irina, Koneko, and Ravel were already fast asleep, allowing him the time to think.

Well… it's supposed to be like that, but…

"…Suu~ Suu~."

"…Ise-san."

Rias's breathing and Asia's sleep-talking can be heard, but it was an everyday occurrence, so it didn't matter to him.

Akeno in the other hand...

"…Ise-kun…do it more roughly…" Akeno moans his name in her sleep, and she clung on to him, which allowed him to feel her thighs against his crotch.

"…Guu guu…" Xenovia, luckily, pushed herself out of the bed, and hasn't noticed that she was sleeping on the floor.

Irina, Koneko, and Ravel slept in separate rooms from Issei's.

The brunette haired Sekiryuutei could not sleep due to two conditions: one, Akeno's sex appeal is efficiently deadly, for it was impossible to sleep peacefully without resorting to alternative methods of achieving satisfaction (and that itself was difficult, for Issei was to embarrassed to masturbate in front of them, even though they were sleeping), and two, although it was a chilly winter night, their bodies were generating heat, causing Issei to be a bit uncomfortable. When it gets to hot for him, usually, his body will start to itch, adding even more discomfort.

But even so, drowsiness slowly over-accumulated itself, and it was only a matter of time before his eyelids dropped and his conscious state will be shut down, pulling him towards the land of illusions.

"Perhaps I should lower the heat generator tomorrow morning." he thought to himself as he fell asleep.

-Line Break-

Feelings of grotesque emerged within his feverish body, as if the black hand had gripped his intestines, and it's razor sharp claws pierced through the flesh. His soul was aflame by a comfort of an unknown force, watching him with hungry eyes as he slept with the amora of sweat and itchiness. (A/N: To my ES fans, I hope you get the reference *wink*.)

The simulation of wickedness and anxiety was to much for him to stay unconscious; he needed the urge to wake up, and find medication to ease and rid of the unknown culprit that cause him such uncomfortableness.

He attempted, but no avail.

"...Why...I...can't…wake up?" he thought fearfully and tiresomely, as he issued commands to every nerve within his body. When he succeeded in gaining the necessary energy in his blood, he woke up, and stood.

When he arose, his mind was clouded with drowsiness and confusion.

"...It's seems that I am awake. No...wait. This place is— everything is so damn confusing! Is— Is this a lucid dream?" he asked himself in helplessness, unfamiliar with his surroundings. He was aware of the coolness, density and loamy fragrance of the air, and the ground he 'supposedly' slept at was lumpy, as if he were on a bed of earth and rocks. He glance towards the ground, only to find ancient concrete.

"Where the hell am I…?" he asked himself slowly, still feeling the drowsiness, as he stretched his limbs to get the blood flowing.

"This is not Draig's realm, that is for sure. If it was, then this… 'sanctuary', would not exist. He preferred to be around the blazing inferno." Issei remarked, as incepted the concrete in greater detail. After a certain amount of time, he reckoned that he should investigate and explore the environment around him, to get a holding of his surroundings.

He walked around the platform, looking for clues about this strange location he was at.

"...This feels too real to be a lucid dream. I...I feel— M-My head is sort of…"

"There's no need for you to get so worked up, kid."

A voice called out to him, startling the brunette and putting him into high alert.

[Boost!] the iconic red gauntlet appeared in his arm, and Issei turn towards where the voice came from.

"Hello." the strange man greeted him with a friendly smile, and waved at him. Issei immediately scanned the person, and found that this man was no originary human being.

He had two large horns that stick out of his head, his beard consisted of more horns, and his skin was orange.

Most importantly, the man had an aura that was obviously dragon-like.

"Where am I?" Issei asked the stranger, but still kept his guard up, in case of any emergencies.

"This place should be familiar to you. This is where all the past hosts of the [Boosted Gear] resided at, or used too, since they sacrificed their consciences to help you."

"How...How do you know that?"

"I watched through the lens of time and space."

"I don't have time for your bullshit. Tell me where I am at, and how to get out."

"The reason why this place looks different than before, is because of the influence of my powers. Usually, this section of your conscious should be white."

"I don't give a shit—"

"You should. There is no reason to be alarmed, Sekiryuutei."

"You know who I am?"

"Yes, I know who you are. Your name is Hyoudou Issei, son of Hyoudou Gorou and grandson of Hyoudou Juzo—" as the stranger began spewing Issei's father and grandfather's name, he was interrupted by a wave of red aura coming from brunette's ower.

[Boost! (10x)]

[Welsh Dragon Balance Breaker!] the announcer roared in glory as Issei immediately transformed into his scale mail armor.

"That's not normal, knowing my father's and grandfather's name. Who are you, and what is it that you want from me?!" he yelled with anxiety and confusion, not understanding what type of situation he was in, and frustrated because of the man's knowledge about his family.

"More importantly, did you do something to my friends while I was here?!"

"...Ah, it seems we already went off to a bad start already." the stranger chuckled quietly to himself, much to Issei's displeasure.

"I can obviously tell you are a Dragon of some sort. Are you working for Rizevim? Is this some type of illusion?" he commanded the stranger to answer his questions.

"Obviously not. As a matter of fact, I am here inside your consciousness to offer you some assistance in defeating Rizevim." the stranger revealed.

"...Assistance? If your here to offer me some assistance, then you could have just met with me, like a person who has some humanity, instead of going into people's minds without consent! Also, how, when, and why did you decided do this?!" he yelled.

"I entered your soul, right after you were interrupted by Asia and the others. You sense a weird presence as the argument unfolded, correct?"

"...Yes, I did. So that was you, huh?"

"Fufufu, it must have been rough dealing the aftermath."

"...So, can you explain this— this awful feeling?"

"I accidentally gave you an extreme form of STDs while I entered your soul."

"...!"

[Boost!]

"I'm just kidding. I gave you the Dragon Flu."

"THAT DOESN'T CHANGE THE SITUATION!"

"I can understand why you are angry. Going into people's souls is taboo, but it's not like I am here to cause you any harm, Issei. Trust me, I would have met you a long time ago, if I could have. I have to conceal my presence, or else it will attract some unwanted attention towards me. I apologize for the inconvenience, but right now, I need you to analyze the situation you're in." the stranger said.

"Yeah, the situation is right of front of me!"

"Calm down. I can help you cure the Dragon Flu, however the side effects is little distasteful. You'll feel hungover for the rest of the night."

"...So much for a cure huh?"

"Would you rather have a needle struck up your ass again?"

"...Y-You do raise a point."

"Then shut up and listen, alright?" the stranger frowned.

He summoned a pipe through a magic circle, and some herbs. He then smashed the herbs, put into the pipe, and then lit it. The stranger deeply inhaled the smoke, then exhaled, releasing smoke shaped O's out of his mouth.

"That calmed me down a bit. You want a hit of this?" he asked.

"...T-Thanks for the courtesy, but I don't smoke."

"Suit yourself. Anyways, now that we have taken a chill-pill, let's start talking. In exchange for the cure, you have to at least hear me out." the stranger said.

"...Alright, seems reasonable." the young pervert agreed to his negotiation suspiciously, but dismantled his scale mail to make himself more comfortable.

"Excellent. I already prepared the cure. Of course, I added a special ingredient, in able to make it work. It's not like you can actually eat it, because we're inside your conscious, but it will give you my blessing, and it will be enough to aid you… perhaps in the upcoming battle."

"I don't get what you're saying. So I can't eat this?"

"You can, but it won't give you any nutrients, because it isn't real."

"So is the cure not real?"

"...Just eat it." the stranger sighed a bit impatiently. Issei sat down across from the stranger, and took a bowl of the stew. At first, he hesitated, thinking it could have been a trap that allow the stranger to take advantage of him.

"Trust me, Issei. I am not here to hurt you, Please." the stranger begged.

"Alright, alright. But you better start explaining yourself."

"I will." the stranger vowed, convincing Issei to eat the stew.

-Line Break-

"Thanks for the meal, although it did taste like nothing."

"It's only a blessing."

"Right…" Issei sighed as he prepared himself to hear a lecture. He always hated long speeches that dragged on for an unnecessary amount time; he rather prefers explanations that were brief, blunt, and straight to the point.

"Okay, since I kept part of my bargain, you have to keep yours. It is a tradition among Dragons since the ancient times, and breaking this tradition is a taboo." the stranger reminded Issei.

"Ancient times? So you must be old." the brunette remarked.

"I am old as Ophis."

"...You're lying."

"Why so closed-minded? The Dimensions are limitless, there is bound to be another Dragon God somewhere deep within."

"Y-You're...a Dragon God?"

"That, I am. My apologies Issei for the late introduction. My name is Akatosh, Dragon God of Time, and Harbinger of the Stars."

"D-Dragon God of Time…"

"Yes. For many centuries I live peacefully in the [Dimensional Gap], away from the useless rivalry that Ophis and Great Red were currently having."

"...If your a Dragon God, then what you could you possibly need my help with?"

"As I stated before, If I could had handle things into my own matter, then I would have done it."

"...W-Wait, if your a Dragon God, then how come I never heard about you from Ophis or Great Red?"

"I tend to keep away from those two as much as possible. Especially Ophis."

"You have grudge against Ophis?"

"No. ...But I am her younger brother."

"W-Wait, what?! You're Ophis's brother?!"

"Yep."

"...I can't believe you. The way you speak is…"

"The way I speak?"

"Nevermind. So, if you're the Dragon God of Time, can you foresee the future?"

"Unfortunately, that is not how it works. It is more complicated than you think it is. However, I can show you the past."

"What are you going to show me?"

"The story of a man, who was given a title of a Saint, encountering a dragon. Watch closely." with a swift movement of his hand, Akatosh changed the dreaded scenery into something unexpected.

The concrete floors changed into grasslands, and the blasted ceiling that encaved the darkness dissipated. The blue skies appeared, and the sunshine warmed Issei's face a bit too much.

"Are you sure this is a lucid dream?"

-Line Break-

(A/N: You don't really have to read this section. It's more of a bonus rather than plot.)

300 AD

"Help! A Dragon! It's attacking the village!"

"God save us all!"

"Please, my child—"

The cries of peasants can be heard, as the king's army was being slaughtered like Guinea pigs, and their defensive lines were being cut, imitating the edge of the butcher's knife at the pig's neck. The stench of burning corpses can be smelled as far as 5 miles, and the houses are being lit under the ashen, darken skies. The priests tried to use their holy books and crucifixes to repel the beast, only to be terrified by the angry dragon. Some of them prayed, remaining loyal to God, and others sin and ran for their lives, killing and stealing as much as they could.

"Drive back the beast! Shoot the arrow into it's eye!" A mercenary Roman commander by the name of George yelled out the order, and the soldiers who were brave enough did so. But to no avail, as the dragon roared and flew away from it's handiwork of destruction.

After the tragedy, the priests who were caught stealing and rapeing woman, were marked as servants of Lucifer and were beheaded by the executioner's axe. They prayed and begged, but the faithful George and the order of the Catholic Church refuse their cries.

"Think of this as mercy." said George, as the axe cut off one the priest's head. This was mercy in the Catholic Church, as there were other ways to 'purify' the sinner who acted wrong in front of God and his son Jesus.

After ordering the remaining soldiers to repair the church and helped carried the dead bodies to a resting area, George stayed at an inn for the night. Surprisingly the inn survived and was at a decent condition, despite the carnage of the dragon. George thought that God was rewarding him for his good deeds. When he entered the inn after his completing his duties, there were many wenches who are desperately trying to get money. He went up to one of them and said:

"My child. Go to the church and become a holy woman. There is no need for you to do this. Your faith will guide the way if it is strong enough."

"Then you can give me some of your faith through the acts of pleasure of the flesh."

Although George had a tiresome expression, he gave a sermon to the woman and her acquaintances; of course, it was to no avail. He sighed hopelessly at the failed attempt to convince the wenches to stop their sinful acts, and went to his room.

He laid upon the bed that innkeeper gave to him for a day. It was not the most comfortable bed, since the hay can make his back itchy and the pillow feels like bricks, but it didn't matter though, as he was thankful for a roof above his head and food he can eat.

He did his prayer, like any normal follower of the Christian faith.

"Saint Maria, Jesus and the Holy Spirit...please give me your blessings as I and my men hunt down this cursed beast that Satan has laid upon this village. Also, please give the souls who were lost today one last judgment."

George finished his prayer and attempted to sleep.

The candles that were lit suddenly die out as the cold wind blows upon the destruction of the village. George ignored it, as he thought that God was protecting him from any danger.

That cold wind signalizes the dragon's return. Suddenly, multiple knocks on George's door were heard, and his sergeant yelled out his name.

"Commander! The beast is coming back!"

"What!? I don't even have my armor on...oh god...this must be a test from the angels! Prepare yourselves my men! Today we will kill the beast in the name of the Roman Empire and the Catholic Church! Amen!"

[Amen!] The soldiers regain their spirits and prepare their bows and spears. They evacuated the remaining villagers and priests out of the town, and George order his men to fortify their position.

George was a smart commander, even among the Roman Empire. He knew that he needed every resource that he can get to do his job not only as military personnel, but also as a follower of Jesus.

The men did a lot in a short amount of time; it was decision for the kingdom to had hire George and his unit as a temporary army. The king was afraid of the dragon, which made George question his view on Christianity.

The men heard the dragon's roar and prepare themselves, hiding in cover and preparing their deadliest shot.

"Aim at the eye! Use poison to neutralize the heathen! Make sure it feels warm embrace of God!" The faithful George shout out his command and his men happily followed it. They believe that this will wash away their sins for their past battles.

As the dragon approached...it said something.

"Joor! Hi fen dir!" The dragon opened its mouth, and the flames turned cold as ice.

"What is this sorcery!? It can also breath Ice!?"

"Dovah fen alun rel lok ahrk okaaz! Mu los eylok tol rah okmaar los faas do!" It spoke in it's unknown language, making the men puzzled. How come this beast of the devil can develop communication, something only human civilization can do?

"It spoken the words of Lucifer! Kill it!" George fiercely raised his hand as the men shot the arrows and threw their spears. It hit one of his eyes and it roared in pain.

"Ha! We did it-" Just when the men boast of their false victory, the dragon blew them away with it's fire breath.

"Ahhhh—- It bur—"

"Help me Saint—"

"I have a family—-"

The soldiers were obliterated within seconds.

The stench of burning corpses and the screaming of the men on fire terrified George to his bones and spirit, but he was taught that faith is stronger than fear, so it can be used as a weapon against the demon spawns. He stand his position and draw out his sword.

"I will slay the beast myself! I will avenge my fallen comrades!" He ran up to the dragon, only to realize that the difference between sizes was humongous.

When he took some steps back, the dragon laughed.

It was insulting to see something like this. George let his anger get the best of him, and charge the dragon like a idiot. The dragon stomped his feet and sent him flying away from the village.

The remainder of his men tremble in fear.

They die like cowards as the dragon eat them, and burn the already collapsing village to the ground.

Nothing was left….only the smell of misery and flames filled the dead night sky.

-Line Break-

Issei looked unimpressed with the imagery in front of him.

"Although I do process [Ascalon], what does Saint George have to do with me?" the brunette asked.

"But what was his true source of strength? How was he able to kill a dragon with just a holy blade, and a body of mortal?

"I blessed him with my powers, which was enough to kill the dragon, and earn the title of saint.

"And I wish to make the same offering to you, Issei."

[That's quite a proclamation]

"And hello to you, Y Ddraig Goch. Did I awoken you from your slumber?"

[...What is your purpose?] Ddraig directed his question towards the Orange Dragon, and he seemed very alarmed by the fact that a random dragon, that he has never seen before, has appeared in Issei's consciousness. Also, the commotion interrupted his sleep, which made him very annoyed.

"Yes, it is time for me to reveal my purpose. Issei, I have an offering for you to consider."

"In exchange of Ophis's power, I will give you mine."

"My power is known as [Dragonbreak], and it is not different from Ophis's [Dragon Deification], which is now dormant as we speak. Although you could master [Destructive Energy Manipulation] under [Dragon Deification], [Dragonbreak] gives you the power to surpass the level of a [Dragon God]; of

course, with the price of your stamina, and life force."

"Also, [Dragonbreak] gives you another ability…"

"The ability to absorb any Dragon soul, and add more fuel to [Dragonbreak]."

"That is why I consider myself the strongest among the [Dragon Gods]. I can kill Ophis, Great Red, and that other [Dragon God] which I won't mention it's name."

"...[Dragonbreak] seems dandy and all, but why would I give up the power that Ophis bestowed upon me?" Issei complained.

"Of course, the amount of power Ophis gave you is not enough to defeat Six-Hundred and Sixty-six'. I will give you everything that I have to offer in able to defeat the beast, in case Rizevim does somehow awakens it. Think of it as Insurance."

"...and if I refuse?"

"I won't force you. But, in due time, you will change your mind."

"For now, let time continue to run its course. We'll be meeting again soon."

-Line Break-

His lungs were aflamed.

After gaining control of his breathing, he looked down at his bed sheets, and noticed that they were wet from his sweat. It seemed that he was like this for a couple of hours. There was a disgusting, terrible taste of blood and mucus in his mouth, as he had no choice to swallow his spit at the moment. He then licked his lips to soften them, and swallowed more spit due to his sudden dehydration.

He attempted to get up, but was met with resistance; a certain redhead was grabbing onto his arm, not willing to let go. She was deep in sleep, and Issei had no way to move without waking her up.

"…Unyuu." Rias used his arm as a hug pillow, pulling him closer to her. If Issei was not feeling the way he was, he would enjoy the sensation of her body and breast, hugging her back and cuddling more with his girlfriend.

But his thirst for water was so great, he forcefully pushed her down to the hard, cold floor and ran for his life. Rias landed her head on a pillow that was lucky there, so she was unharmed.

But upon impact, Rias instantly woke up and noticed two things:

One, Issei was running.

And two, Issei forcibly pushed her down.

"W-What just happened…?" she asked herself in confusion.

Issei finally made it to the kitchen, and chugged an entire gallon of water.

The taste of the water made his tongue soft again, and the cold liquid runs down his throat, curing him from his dehydration. Before he knew it, there wasn't a single drop of water left in the jug.

The satisfaction quickly turn into regret, since he quickly drank a gallon of water, it gave him hyponatremia. His stomach felt like it was getting tighter, as if somebody was tying a knot in between his stomach. The urge to vomit is rising.

He sprinted again.

He found the nearest unoccupied toilet, closed the door with enough force that the entire hallway echoed, got on his knees, bent over, and started to cough and vomit inside the toilet.

His agonizing sounds can be heard through the silent hallways of the Hyoudou Residence.

[Oi, partner… you alrig—]

"Shut the fuck—" another wave of vomit interrupted him.

Issei never felt this agonized in his entire life.

The puke swaddles down the toilet, green, gray, and flecks of orange. It moves and drifts like the insides of an uncooked egg, as it stubbornly clinging to its own mass, refusing to break up.

After awhile, Rias found him, and she was terrified at the state he was on.

-Line Break-

A few hours had passed.

Issei was on his bed with an icepack on his forehead, and other medical essentials on the side table.

"I never want to go through that again. That shitty dragon was trying to kill me!" he cursed at the supposedly 'Dragon God of Time' for the cause of such pain.

He would rather suffer the symptoms of the Dragon Flu, but what had been done cannot be irreversible.

"What is done, is done. Although I felt like hell, it only lasted for a few hours." he told himself, looking at the positive side of the barrigin.

"Thank goodness…. I was so worried about you Ise!"

Rias rushed towards Issei, and hugged him very tightly. Rias's bust was grinding on Issei's chest, as she burst into tears.

"Arara…. don't cry, ne? I'm okay now, see?"

"*Sniff*…"

"Did Ravel arrived in time?"

"Ravel has gone over to Riser for his rating match against Diehauser Belial-sama."

"I-I see…"

"Ise…" Rias leans in for a kiss, but Issei turned away.

"I wouldn't want you tasting my vomit, now would I?"

"...Then I'll settle for a hug."

"You sure are spoiled aren't you? What if you catch my sickness, huh?"

"At least it's from you than anyone else…" As Rias proceeded to hug the brunette in front of her, Issei felt a weird throb in his heart.

"A-Are you okay, Ise? What's wrong?"

"N-nothing…"

All of the sudden, Rias gets a call from Azazel.

"Azazel-sensei? Why call at this hour?"

[There is a DxD meeting today. Make sure Issei is fully recovered and able to attend the meeting]

"Okay. I'll let him know."

"Who was that?"

"That was Azazel-sense, just reminding me that today is a DxD meeting, and make sure you were fine. Go take a shower, and get dressed if you feel better. But take some medicine before you do."

"Okay, I will."

-Line Break-

The [DxD] team was currently gathered in the VIP room, which was in the upper level of the Hyoudou residence. All the members for the exception of Ravel are present. They firmly focused on the video which was projected onto the screen in front of them. All programs were news about the latest match in the rating games. Text at the bottom said such things like:

[Sudden accident in the Rating Game!?]

[Champion Belial has disappeared during the middle of the match!]

[Phoenix family's third son, eldest daughter and Champion have disappeared together!]

The team confirmed the disappearance of them by replaying the video of the match and continuing watching the news.

Issei, who hasn't spoken a word, has his fist shaking in anger. Just a few hours ago, Ravel was safe and sound; He did not expect this turn of events, and if it wasn't for the meeting, he would immediately go after her. Rias, who is next to him, held his fist, but he still continued to shake.

"So, the whereabouts of Raiser, Ravel and the Champion Diehauser Belial-sama are all unknown right?" Rias asked Azazel.

"Firstly, what can be confirmed is that before the three people disappeared, the game system's emergency program was triggered."

"Originally, in order to respond to any kinds of situations, there was a corresponding set of procedures for professional Rating Games. For example, if the location of the match was destroyed more than was expected, then they would initiate a procedure to repair it." Sona stated.

"So what happened?"

"That aspect is currently being investigated, but one thing which is certain;there is a high possibility that there was improper conduct during the game."

"That's prohibited! Could it be the Champion!?"

"...The managers believes that it's the opposite."

Issei grips Rias's hand tightly to ease down the shaking.

"Ise, I understand. You and I are the same. …For Raiser to have improper conduct, that's impossible. It wasn't easy for him to get over things and stand up again. And he also has Ravel by his side, those siblings would definitely not allow improper conduct."

"Well, then it really is the Champion Belial…right?" Kiba said as he used his hand to support his chin.

"…Azazel-sensei, don't you have any ideas about this?"

Everyone's gaze was directed towards Azazel.

"Is that true?"

Hearing Issei's question, Azazel raised his hands and sighed.

"…I can't say it. But, if it's really as I think, the Phoenix siblings whose whereabouts are unknown shouldn't be as bad as it's being imagined. I'm really sorry that I can't say any more right now, but if you believe in what I've said, then believe that those two are safe."

"Fuck, fuck, fuck! Why did this have to happen!? And what pisses me off the most, is that I cannot do anything, meanwhile Ravel could be going through some trouble! This is bullshit!" Issei thoughts were exploding with hatred.

"…Ise, it's painful right now, but we need to believe in Onii-sama and Azazel-sensei."

"Raiser, Ravel…please, you must be safe." Issei whispered to himself.

End of Chapter 1

A/N: Well, that's the first chapter done. Instead of creating a update chapter, I decided to re-post the first chapter, just to let you guys know how I am doing.

I hope you guys find the changes to your liking.

The majority of the project will be released during summer, possibly July or August. The first chapter was specifically released early as a test, to hear your opinions and criticisms.

At the time of writing this Author's Note, I am going through some tough times in School, because of SATs, State Test, Finals and the School year almost ending. Many curveballs are thrown at me, and because of it, the momentum of Project SLASHDRAGØN has drastically decreased. Literally, it took me a month to edit the first chapter. The release date for the project will unfortunately postpone to July or August.

Sorry for the inconvenience.

Update 5/24/18: If you guys liked the story thus far, I recommend only reading up to chapter 2 for now, as I am still working very hard in completing Project SLASHDRAGØN. At this moment, I am about 60% done on rewriting chapter 3. I also decided to make a tactical decision and only re-write Arc I. If there's any questions, please PM me.