Why does the worst shit always happen to me? Natsuki thought as she, Issei, and Akeno entered the main building of the shrine with the Leader of the Angels.

  Akeno stood in between the two Pawns and Micheal, smiling in her usual manner as Natsuki and Issei looked at Michael wearily.

  And both Pawns flinched, feeling as if their skin was crawling as an unknown aura suddenly appeared in the room, sensing the danger coming from Michael's direction.

  What the hell is going on? Issei thought, confused as to why Akeno was not reacting the same way he and Natsuki were to the aura as she continued to smile.

  It was then, as Micheal held out his hand, that a bright light overtook the room and when it disappeared, Michael was holding a Holy Sword in his grasp.

  The Holy Sword was a European sword with a grey hilt, a red diamond design imprinted on it surrounded by four blue lines that curved slightly and a golden pommel in the shape of a cone-like arrow. The blade was notched three times on both sides near the bottom and the fuller, which reached slightly above the notches, had a golden color and a large pearl on its center, and the rest was colored purple.

  Michael held the sword towards Issei, "This is Ascalon. This Holy Sword has also earned another name; Dragon Slayer."

  "Oh, that's a cool name." Issei replied, unsure of what to make of being so close to a Holy Sword being wielded by an Angel.

  Natsuki's head snapped in Issei's direction, "Are you stupid? Do you have any idea who that sword once belonged to?"

  "Nope." Issei said plainly.

  "It belonged to Saint George!" Natsuki hissed.

  Issei continued to stare at his friend blankly, not knowing anything about Saint George and why Natsuki felt it was important for him to know.

  He was a famous dragon slayer, he was also one of the most venerated saints, heroes, and megalomartyrs in Christianity. Ddraig answered within Issei's mind. You should also study a bit more; it's embarrassing to have a partner who's so ignorant of basic history.

  Shut up! And, what's up with that Dragon Slayer title? I can understand it being important because it's a Holy Sword, but there's no way that this could have killed a dragon, right? Issei thought.

  Not a dragon, but many. A weapon such as this wouldn't have got the title of Dragon Slayer if it wasn't made specifically for slaying my kind. Many of Ascalon's wielders were warriors who specialized in killing dragons. Ddraig explained.

  Warriors specializing in killing dragons, huh. Scary. Doesn't that mean I am also a target of people like that? I'm hating this more and more.

  "Many dragons have fallen to the power contained within this blade, but fear not, Hyoudou Issei, for this weapon was sent unto you from on high." Michael explained further.

  Issei's eyes grew larger, "Seriously? Y-you want to give me a Holy Sword?"

  What the hell?! Natsuki thought, just as shocked as Issei.

  Michael glanced at Issei's left arm, "I am hoping that you can assimilate Ascalon into your [Boosted Gear]."

  "But why me?" Issei asked.

  "I've heard your reputation as the weakest Welsh Dragon host in history and hope that Ascalon will give you the necessary strength in times of tribulation."

  Issei felt like his pride had been thoroughly stepped on, "Weakest in history? Well, it's not for lack of trying, and it still sucks to hear."

  Natsuki let out a snort at Issei dejected expression and had to keep herself from laughing out loud when Issei glared at her, hearing the noise.

  Issei then turned back to the Angel, "But, you still haven't said why you're giving this to me? I mean, it can't just be because I'm weak and you feel bad."

  "This upcoming meeting between the Three Great Powers is an important opportunity for us all to come together." Michael explained, "The closing of the Great War ended large scale fighting but as you know we still have small skirmishes. They are nothing more than useless battles for us to pastorate and feed our egos, but if they are allowed to continue, then all will be brought to ruin."

  "Ruin?" Issei asked, "I thought the battles were small."

  "He means from other forces." Natsuki voiced, "Other powers could use the conflict between Angels, Devils, and Fallen as a chance to attack."

  "She is right; it is not just the forces of Heaven and Hell that exist out in the world. As you all know, we lost our creator, God, during the last war, the Devils also lost the old Maous in battle, and the leaders of the Fallen Angels are reticent. We have all been weakened for some time, which has shown us all that we would be stronger together, that is why this summit will be used to create an alliance between the three sides."

  Sirzechs already told us that this was want the summit is for, but it's still strange to hear the idea coming from someone else, but that still doesn't mean that this will end the way that Sirzechs, Michael, and Azazel want it to. I can't imagine that many of their subjects will be on board with aligning themselves with their sworn enemies. Natsuki thought.

  Michael then lifted up Ascalon again, "This sword is a present from me to the Devil side. Of course, I also sent presents to the Fallen Angel side, and I got a few of the rumored Holy Demonic Swords from the Devil side as well, which our side is incredibly grateful for. Only once have the Three Great Powers aligned themselves for the same purpose. That was during the Great War when they defeated the Red and White Dragons."

  Of course he's proud of that. Ddraig said to himself.

  Eh? What do you mean? Issei asked, but Ddraig did not reply.

  Issei stood up, holding his hand out to take the sword, but flinching and hesitating when he remembered that such swords were dangerous to his kind.

  Akeno spoke up when she saw this, "There were final adjustments done on the sword in this shrine by Maou-sama, Azazel-sama, and Michael-sama's camps. Ceremonies have been performed so even a Devil and one that houses the power of a dragon, can touch it."

  Fearfully, Issei took the Holy Sword that was now floating in midair, but nothing happened. He could feel the holy aura, but no damage or the aura itself flowing into him.

  Partner, focus your consciousness on the [Boosted Gear], I'll follow up after that. Try making the sword in your hand combine with the surge of power from your Sacred Gear. Ddraig told the Devil.

  For the time being, Issei focused on invoking his Sacred Gear, and made the red gauntlet appear. He tried combining the surge of [Boosted Gear] with surge of the Holy Sword, now feeling the holy aura flowing into the gear. It passed through the Sacred Gear and Issei could feel the sensation of energy entering his body, slowly becoming familiar with it, and a sensation as if it is being taken in by Ddraig's power attacks him.

  A flash of red light suddenly overtook Issei's [Boosted Gear], disappearing as quickly as it arrived, and when it did, the gauntlet now existed with a blade growing out of the front portion of the back of Issei's left hand.

  "Incredible." Issei whispered in awe; his eyes locked on his gear's new feature.

  Michael clapped his hands when it became clear that the assimilation was successful, "Good, good. Now we can move onto Natsuki-chan."

  "Me?" Natsuki asked.

  Michael smiled, "Yes, you. I did not only come barring a gift for Issei-kun."

  "I thought the old Church building here in Kuoh would have been my gift; you seemed intent on giving it to me for some reason." Natsuki said.

  "One can't have too many gifts, can they?" Michael asked.

  "Why? Why go out of your way to do that? It's not like you people cared before, so why now? Is it just because of Kokabiel, because he told us that God is dead?"

  "Natsuki, stop." Akeno said strongly, looking at the taller girl admonishingly for the way she was speaking to the Angel leader.

  Michael continued to smile, unbothered by Natsuki's glare, "If that was the case, I would be trying to bribe everyone who heard the secret."

  Natsuki looked at Michael, growing more frustrated, "Sirzechs told me that you saved the orphanage because of my past. So, do you know the truth about me, like he does?"

  "I do." Michael said truthfully.

  "And you won't tell me the truth."

  "And I won't tell you the truth."

  Akeno and Issei looked between the two, wondering what they were alluding to and why it was making Natsuki so angry.

  "In all honesty, Natsuki-chan, I felt pity over how everything went in your life. No mistakes are made when life is created, but you were treated as such, and you will continued to experience that treatment." A sad smile appeared on Michael's face, "And you are right; nothing was done to correct this, which is why I felt the need to come and meet you, and to help the orphanage. You deserved better, and I will do better for others who come along."

  "Is that supposed to make me feel good?" Natsuki asked, glaring at the Angel, "Knowing that you will preserve to do better in the future?"

  "No, I don't expect it to. I only wish to make up for certain wrongs."

  Before Natsuki could ask more questions, Michael held out his hand and a bright golden light once again appeared. In Michael's hand was a sword, but unlike Ascalon, this one radiated a type of pressure that made the air feel suffocating and was not a traditional European sword, but a khopesh.

  The sickle-shaped iron blade of the khopesh was inscribed with a name that Natsuki could see was there but at the same time could not read, looking blurry to her eyes, its point exceptionally sharp and with only one edge. Its pommel and bolster were both made of brass and the bone that sat between the two was made of gold.

  "This is the Sword of Methuselah." Michael stated, "A sword created by God himself and given to Methuselah, son of Enoch, and a descendant of Seth. Methuselah used this very blade to kill nine hundred thousand Demons with a single swing, and it has been passed down through his descendants throughout time."

  Methuselah, the man who lived the longest life, dying at nine hundred and sixty-nine years old. A man from the book of Genesis, I guess I shouldn't be surprised that his story is real. "Would it really be wise to give me such a powerful sword? Especially one that has one of God's names inscribed on it?"

  "So, you are aware of the tale?" Michael asked amused, "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised due to how faithful you once were."

  Natsuki bristled, her expression turning downright murderous as she glared at the Angel, but Micheal was unfazed by it once again.

  "But you are right; God wrote one of his ineffable names upon this Demon Slaying sword. No ordinary man can wield it, the weapon will consume souls of the unrighteous in holy fire for daring. It is a weapon of protection, justice, and wrath, made for the purpose of destroying malevolent beings completely, and I believe that it will be the prefect weapon for you, Natsuki-chan."

  "And you believe that it will accept me?" Natsuki asked.

  "Of course." Michael said, "Who best meets these qualifications then you?"

  Natsuki said nothing as she summoned her Sacred Gear, holding her hand out and allowing the khopesh to float into it from Michael's.

  Lux, are you ready? Natsuki asked as she prepared for the assimilation.

  Whenever you are. Lux replied.

  Natsuki grasped the khopesh and after a few moments, a bright golden light shined from her [Ethereal Domination]'s jewel and when it died down the khopesh was gone.

  Think about the weapon and you should be able to summon it. Lux told Natsuki.

  Natsuki did as the dragon told her and thought about the weapon, forcing it to appear. Unlike with Issei and Ascalon, the Sword of Methuselah did not become fused to her own Sacred Gear, instead showing in her hand.

  I guess this makes sense since Issei has a gauntlet, and I have a necklace. This thing would be next to useless if the blade just appeared out of the bottom of my [Ethereal Domination] or something like that. Natsuki thought as she moved the sword around in her hand.

  There was a heat that seemed to emanate from the bone of the sword, but Natsuki was not bothered by the sensation, even finding it comforting.

  Michael's smile grew, "It's good to see that the assimilation worked, I would not know how to explain this to Sirzechs-kun if you had died today."

  Natsuki looked at Michael wide eyed, "Died? What do you mean died? I thought that a ritual was done on the sword so I could use it?"

  "No, that was only done for Ascalon, as a weapon that has one of the names of God name inscribed on it cannot be felled so easily with magic, not even I have the power to do so. As I said before, the Sword of Methuselah judges all those who seek to wield it, if you were found unworthy, you would have immediately burst into flames, there would not even be ashes left to bury." Michael explained, still smiling at Natsuki.

  "So, you just let me grab a weapon that could have instantly killed me without telling me that?!"

  "I was confident you would succeed, and I was right. No harm was done."

  "No harm was done? How can Heaven have survived this long with such a lackadaisical leader is beyond fucking me." Natsuki growled.

  Again, Michael was unbothered, which only fueled Natsuki's growing anger and annoyance with the Angel. "Now that I have done what I set out to do, I will now take my leave."

  "No wait, hold on!" Issei exclaimed, "Before you go, there was something I really wanted to ask you."

  "My apologies, but I haven't the time, child. I have been here far too long and have not yet finished what has been required of me, but I'll gladly hear you when our paths next cross."

  Issei's expression became serious, "Promise me you won't forget, okay?"

  "Yes, you have my word." Michael said before looking at the other Pawn, "Is there anything else you would like to say?"

  Natsuki looked at the Angel with disgust, "You know what I want to ask you, but you won't tell me. So, I can say that I'm perfectly fine with us never talking again... Michael-sama."

  Michael laughed at this before spreading out his wings, "Farewell, Natsuki-chan, Issei-kun."

  After saying that, Michael's whole body is wrapped by light, disappearing in a bright flash less than a second later.

  "I fucking hate that sparkly bastard." Natsuki said once Michael was gone only for Akeno to immediately slap the back of her head in reprimand.

  An Hour Later

  While Michael had long since left, Natsuki and Issei were still intruding in Akeno's home and shrine, waiting for Rias, and having been given tea by Akeno. Now Natsuki sat in a Japanese style room, holding the Sword of Methuselah, watching as the sunlight coming from the screen doors reflected off the iron of the blade.

  Natsuki still could not read the name that was inscribed on it, still seeing nothing but blurred symbols.

  I don't think I'll ever be able to read the name, even though I own this sword now. Probably because God is-was supposed to be an exceptionally powerful being. Just my fucking luck, huh, five-year-old me would have been over the moon with this. Natsuki thought to herself.

  "I thought you said you were going to use the bathroom." Natsuki turned her head and saw Akeno standing in the doorway.

  "I did." Natsuki replied.

  Akeno walked into the room and pulled the door closed behind her, "That was twenty minutes ago."

  Natsuki shrugged her shoulders before dissipating her new sword, "Guess I got lost."

  Akeno kneeled and sat down next to the taller girl, "Do you want to talk about it?"

  "Talk about what, senpai?" Natsuki asked, being purposefully obtuse.

  Akeno sighed, "If it makes you-"

  "I'm not human." Natsuki blurted out.

  Akeno looked at Natsuki confused, "What?"

  Natsuki closed her eyes and began to spill her feelings, "I... I wasn't human when I died, at least not fully, I was, I am a hybrid. It's what Sirzechs is still keeping hidden from me, why he was so interested in me and made sure to keep an eye on me, not just because of my Sacred Gear."

  "And Michael-sama knows too, that's why you were so upset with him." Akeno stated, realizing what the two had been talking about earlier.

  "Yeah, and like Sirzechs, he won't tell me the truth. According to Sirzechs, it's not in my best interest to know my parentage. I asked Lux but she's not sure what my other half could be, but she knows that its somewhat familiar to pervious hosts she's had and beings she has met."

  Akeno stared at Natsuki firmly, "Maybe you should listen to Sirzechs-sama."

  Natsuki's head snapped in Akeno's direction, staring her in disbelief, "What?"

  Akeno looked away from Natsuki, biting her lip anxiously, "For as long as I've known him, Sirzechs-sama is not the kind of person to obscure the truth without good reason. What if everything regarding your background is dangerous? What if you learn that one of your parents was some horrible, monstrous creature? Ignorance is bliss, you know? You might not like what you find out."

  "I don't care."

  Akeno felt anger surge through her at what she thought to be flippancy from the other girl, she opened her mouth to speak but Natsuki cut her off.

  "It's my life, senpai." Natsuki said, staring at Akeno adamantly, "I shouldn't have knowledge of my parents, of where I come from, and who I am kept from me. And you may be right; I might not like the truth, but that should be for me to decide, not Sirzechs, not Michael, not anyone. I want answers, and if they're not going to give them to me, then I'll figure out myself."

  "I shouldn't be surprised." Akeno said aloud, chuckling weakly, "You're the most stubborn person I have ever met, Natsuki-chan."

  Natsuki laughed for a moment before Akeno spoke again, "Natsuki-chan, do you remember what Kokabiel said during the fight at school?"

  Is she... "About Baraqiel? Akeno-senpai you don't have to-"

  Akeno shook her head, "No, I do. I'm sure you're curious about it, even when you blasted Kokabiel and told him that it wasn't his place to reveal it. That's what you were going to ask me at the pool before we were interrupted, weren't you?"

  Natsuki said nothing to that, not seeing the point in denying what they both knew to be true.

  "That's right; before becoming a Devil, I was originally the half-breed daughter of one of the leaders of the Fallen Angels, Baraqiel, and a human woman."

  For a few moments, the air between them grew thicker and Natsuki watched as Akeno folded in on herself, and she fought the urge to reach over and touch her, to provide Akeno physical comfort.

  The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.

  Akeno's eyes became clouded as she told her story, "My mother was a young shrine maiden, and one day, she found a wounded Fallen Angel and decided to nurse him back to health. She did her job well, the two would then fall in love, and soon enough, I came along."

  Natsuki frowned as she saw how difficult this was becoming for Akeno, "Akeno-senpai, please, you-"

  Akeno reached over and covered Natsuki's mouth with the palm of her hand, startling the younger Devil. Natsuki's eyes widened, surprised by the action and by the expression that was now on Akeno's face.

  After a few seconds, Akeno removed her hand from Natsuki's face and stood up, she silently turned around and began to untie her white kosode, exposing her back to Natsuki. Before Natsuki could question her, Akeno expanded her wings from her back, but unlike usual, the two wings were different from each other; one was the black bat wing of a Devil, and the other was the black raven wing of a Fallen Angel.

  "Woah..." Natsuki murmured, transfixed by the dichotomy between the two appendages.

  "They're dirty wings; the wing of a Devil and the wing of a Fallen Angel. Signs of my heritage that I try to hide." Akeno said, and showing her hatred for the black feathers, grabbed them with her hand. "I grew up hating my Fallen Angel side, and when I met Rias, I jumped at the opportunity to become a Devil when she made me an offer. Maybe it was my half-breed blood, but the results of my transformation were not what I wanted, and instead of becoming a full Devil, I became a garish mixture of both Devil and Fallen. These two pairs of wings, what a better way to show my impure lineage? Such mismatched plumage."

  Hearing that Akeno hated herself so much, that she held so much contempt for the blood that flowed through her veins, left Natsuki floored.

  She... she's just like me. Natsuki thought. She hates herself just for existing. I never knew, Akeno, she's always been so... so confident and self-assured. It just never seemed like it could be possible that she would, that she could ever...

  Akeno turned around to face Natsuki, allowing Natsuki to see the sad and heartbroken smile formed on Akeno's lips and she hated it, she found it just as wrong on the girl's face as the words coming out of her mouth.

  "You know, I've wanted to tell you this for such a long time, but you hate Fallen Angels, right? They were the cause of so much pain for you, Ise-kun, and Asia-chan. And they even killed the three of you because of your Sacred Gears, not to mention their attempt to destroy this city and the people living here. It isn't hard to guess what you think of them."

  Natsuki stood up, "I don't hate Fallen Angels, and even if I did, I could never hate you, Akeno-senpai."

  Akeno's expression went from sadness to surprise at Natsuki's words, having expected Natsuki to agree with her statement.

  She, she doesn't hate me? Akeno thought.

  "I don't care that you're half Fallen Angel, and I don't give a shit that your dad is one of their higher ups. I know you, Akeno-senpai, and you're a good person."

  Akeno huffed as a small, and deprecating smile appeared on her face, "You never know; my apparent congeniality could just be a facade."

  Natsuki scoffed, "You can lie to yourself, but you can't trick me, you are a good person, and being a Fallen Angel doesn't make you tainted or impure."

  "Natsuki-"

  "Am I impure? Am I an abomination for being a half-breed? For not looking entirely Japanese? For being intersex?"

  "Of course not!" Akeno quickly exclaimed, "You'd never be an abomination to me."

  "Then why would you think that I would see you like that just because you're half Fallen?"

  Akeno could not find the words to refute Natsuki's question, only looking away from Natsuki and clenching her fists.

  Natsuki walked closer to Akeno, the two now standing only a few inches apart, "You know, the first time that I saw you, I thought you were the ideal Japanese woman."

  "You did?" Akeno asked, it was not the first time that someone had said something like that to her, but she would not have expected Natsuki to think the same.

  Natsuki nodded her head, "I remember being a first year during, I think the second day of school, seeing you and Rias walking through the yard. You had this calm and dignified aura around you, even as Rias was excitedly talking to you, it made me understand why everyone calls you both the Two Great Onee-Samas. You two definitely play your archetypes well."

  Akeno let out a snort, using her hand to cover her mouth, the reaction making Natsuki happy that Akeno was no longer looking so defeated.

  "Although that opinion did change after Issei and I became Devils, and I really got to know you."

  "And what was your opinion of me after becoming a Devil?"

  Natsuki pondered this for a moment, "In all honesty, I thought you were kind of two faced; someone who hid their sadistic and masochistic tendencies behind a smiling and elegant persona."

  "And that has changed?" Akeno asked, genuinely curious.

  Natsuki snorted, "Fuck no, you're definitely still a sadistic masochistic who doesn't show any mercy or remorse towards the enemies she slays and finding pleasure in their pain. Or did you forget what you did to me at the pool? Or when I woke up after the Rating Game?"

  "I remember you enjoying my actions, both times." Akeno shrugged, smiling playfully at Natsuki.

  "Anyway," Natsuki stressed, ignoring Akeno's giggling, "I also saw how much you care about everyone else in the ORC, and I've seen how you would fight to keep all of us safe. And... and you've never judged me or treated me differently, to you I'm just Sukehiro Natsuki, not Kuoh's Dark Princess, or the koronbo, or lady cock, or even a street rat. So, why would I ever see you as anything other than Himejima Akeno? Being a Fallen doesn't define you, the same way being intersex doesn't define me. You're smart, driven, kind, loving, you're the type of woman that inspires others, you know?"

  After hearing Natsuki's words, Akeno started crying, worrying Natsuki as she watched Akeno smiling while wiping away her tears.

  "Shit, Akeno-senpai, I didn't mean to make you cry-" Natsuki tried to explain.

  "You can stop worrying, Natsuki-chan." Akeno said softly, "When you say such sweet things like that, what's a girl to do?"

  Huh?

  Before Natsuki could process what, Akeno had just said, the older Devil immediately wrapped her arms around Natsuki and leaned completely on her, causing the two to fall onto the ground with Akeno now on top of Natsuki.

  "Akeno-senpai, what the fuck are you doing?" Natsuki asked incredulously.

  Akeno ignored her question, "Can you call me 'Akeno'?"

  Natsuki's eyes widened, "What?"

  "I want you to call me by my name." Akeno explained, "Do you have any idea how much it infuriates me when you speak so casually with Issei, Kiba, Asia, Koneko, and Xenovia? You even call Rias by her name without honorifics sometimes, so why can't you do the same with me? And I mean casually, not just those few times when you're upset."

  Natsuki pursed her lips, "I think this is the first time someone's gotten mad at me for being respectful. Usually, it's the other way around."

  "Please, Natsuki-chan."

  The tone her voice took, combined with the imploring expression, made Natsuki feel uncomfortable. "Fine, Akeno. Are you happy? Can you get off me now?"

  Akeno smiled brightly, leaning down and hugging Natsuki tightly, "I'm so happy, Natsuki."

  For the first time, Natsuki realized that Akeno's voice was not its usual teasing and flirtatious, but she instead sounded like a normal teenage high school girl.

  Wait, Akeno is cute?! Since when?! What the fuck is happening?! Natsuki thought, confused on how their serious conversation led to this.

  As Akeno tightened her hold, Natsuki could feel Akeno's breast pressing against her own, Akeno breathing against her neck, and Akeno's hips lying on top of her own.

  "Okay, Akeno, you really have to get off." Natsuki said, placing her hands on Akeno's hips and gently trying to push her away, but Akeno refused to be moved, using her Queen enhanced strength to cling to and push Natsuki firmly onto the floor.

  Akeno chuckled, a low, dark, and sensual sound that made Natsuki's heart race and her for her entire body to feel like it was on fire. A blush appeared on Akeno's cheeks as she sat up and hovered over Natsuki, she smirked as she moved her hand and dragged a finger against Natsuki's lips. "It feels like little Natsuki has woken up and wants to play."

  When Akeno said this, it felt like water was rushing over Natsuki's head, like there was a suffocating pressure sitting on her chest, barely registering the sensation of Akeno slowly grinding her hips down on Natsuki's growing hardness.

  Akeno blinked when suddenly, Natsuki grabbed her by the shoulders and flipped them over, now laying on her back while Natsuki held her down, kneeling above her.

  "Don't fucking play with me." Natsuki hissed, her eyes flashing gold momentarily.

  Akeno frowned, "I'm not messing with you, Nat-"

  "Yes, you are." Natsuki spat, closing her eyes as she clenched her teeth, "I know you're a flirty person and you like to tease people, but I don't want you to come onto me as a joke. I'm not Issei; I don't appreciate being propositioned just because you think it's funny."

  "I don't do it because I think it's funny."

  Natsuki opened her eyes and raised an eyebrow, "What?"

  "It's different with you." Akeno said, "Issei is one of my cute kouhais, an interesting guy who managed to catch Rias' attention and heart, and I find his perversion amusing, and it's even more amusing when I flirt with him and Rias gets upset. But I flirt with you because I like you and want your attention, so you don't have to be angry and jealous, you mean more to me than Issei."

  Natsuki blushed and was no longer able to meet the older Devil's eye, "I wasn't angry, and I certainly wasn't jealous over Issei of all people."

  Akeno giggled, grinning as she reached up and cupped Natsuki's face with her hands, forcing the younger Devil to look at her again. "You're the one who brought it all up."

  Natsuki rolled her eyes, although she could not deny that Akeno saying that their interactions meant more to Akeno than the ones she had with Issei, made her feel better. "Why are you so irritating?"

  Akeno brushed her thumbs against the apples of Natsuki's cheeks. "Natsuki, I don't flirt with you because I find it amusing, well, it's not entirely the reason."

  "Then why?"

  Akeno huffed, "Is it so hard to believe that I have genuine feelings for you?"

  Natsuki glared at Akeno, "No one would ever want someone like me."

  "Aren't you the one who said that I see you for who you are? Or was that just a lie to make me feel better?"

  "There's a difference between accepting me and wanting to be in a relationship with me."

  "Do you?"

  "Do I what?"

  "Want to be in a relationship with me?"

  Natsuki was quiet for a few moments, unconsciously moving her face closer to Akeno's, the two now sharing one breath. "Akeno-"

  "You two seemed to be having fun." Rias teased as she opened the door and seeing the two girls in the position they were in, finding the whole thing amusing.

  She had arrived at the shrine a few minutes ago and only found Issei in the main tearoom. So, she decided to go looking for her Queen and second Pawn and was not disappointed by what she found.

  Natsuki moved back, causing Akeno's hands to fall from her face as she looked at the redhead. Akeno sat up slightly, not bothering to hide the scowl she was giving Rias, much to said girl's growing amusement.

  Payback's a bitch. Rias thought, satisfied with her revenge after the countless times Akeno teased her about her feelings or purposely interrupted moments between her and Issei.

  "Hey, Buchou, did you find Natsuki and-" Issei began to ask as he walked towards Rias, his eyes widening when he looked over her shoulder. "Holy shit! Damn you, Natsuki! Going after Akeno-senpai's glorious boobs while pretending to use the bathroom! You lucky bastard! I'm so proud of you!"

  Natsuki grabbed the top of Akeno's kosode and pulled it up, covering Akeno as she glared at Issei. "Shut up, you fucking dumbass! That's not what's going on here."

  Issei snorted, "So you just ripped the clothes off all your friends?"

  "Ripped the clothes off? I'm not you, idiot, I don't walk around assaulting girls!"

  This led to the two Pawns arguing with each other, throwing accusations left and right as Rias and Akeno watched. Finally, Akeno rolled her eyes and ended the argument by pushing Natsuki off her, knocking Natsuki to the floor before standing up.

  Rias giggled, "I know from Ise that his assimilation with Ascalon was successful, but was yours with the Sword of Methuselah also?"

  Natsuki pushed herself off the floor and sighed, "Yeah, although I would have liked being told that I might have exploded before I tried."

  "I doubt Michael would have let you try the assimilation if there was a possibility that it would fail." Rias said.

  Natsuki looked at Rias, "You knew?"

  Rias smirked, "I knew."

  Natsuki pursed her lips, "You really are an evil mistress. What did I do in my life to be cursed into being your slave?"

  "Most likely the crime of running your mouth too much." Rias shot back, the smirk never leaving her face.

  "It's weird, I only run my mouth so much while in your presence, Buchou." Natsuki drawled.

  Rias rolled her eyes, "Show me your new toy, Natsuki."

  Natsuki summoned her sword, showing it to Rias who looked at the weapon appraisingly, being able to feel the weight of the sword's power.

  "Good." Rias said, "With this and Ascalon, our Peerage's strength has grown immensely. And I trust you two to use these new weapons responsibly."

  "Yes, Buchou." Issei and Natsuki said in unison.

  Rias then asked her servants questions about their meeting with Michael and after a couple of minutes, Rias sent Natsuki and Issei home, and told Issei to head out without her as she would catch up with him because she wanted to speak to Akeno.

  "Are you angry with me, Akeno?" Rias asked the other girl.

  "Why would I be angry?" Akeno asked as the two stood outside, near the stairs of the shrine.

  "For interrupting you and Natsuki, you seemed pretty angry when I did."

  Akeno glanced towards the sky, "I was certainly annoyed, but I'm not angry with you. I just..."

  "Just what?" Rias asked.

  Akeno lifted a hand to her face, a small blush forming on her cheeks as a soft and tender expression formed on her face. "I think I have feelings for Natsuki."

  Rias eyes grew wide, "Oh..."

  Rias already knew that Akeno liked and lusted after Natsuki since the Rating Game against Riser, but she was surprised to hear her best friend make such a declaration. Rias knew about Akeno's past, and about her feelings towards love, so she did not expect Akeno to ever admit to having genuine romantic feelings for another person.

  "When did you realize that you love Natsuki?"

  Akeno chuckled, "I don't think I love her, Rias. But I-I think I might one day, and the thought scares me just as much as it excites me. She doesn't see me as Baraqiel's daughter or a half-breed or piece of meat to gawk at, she just sees me."

  Rias bumped shoulders with Akeno, smiling at her playfully, "Never thought I'd see the day that Himejima Akeno was swooning over someone. The Underworld must have frozen over while we were gone."

  "I could say the same of you, what happened to the girl who said she would never get married?"

  "That was because I was betrothed to fucking Riser."

  "And is it different now? With Issei?" Akeno asked teasingly.

  Rias blushed, causing Akeno to laugh in response, "I-I-I do-don't want to marry Issei!"

  "I-I-I d-d-don't wa-want t-to ma-mar-marry Issei!" Akeno parroted mockingly.

  "Shut up." Rias growled, shoving Akeno away, her face now as red as her hair as Akeno laughed at her.

  The Next Day

  Natsuki yawned as she watched Gasper use his Sacred Gear, once again feeling the effects of the daytime on her body.

  In the early hours of the morning, so early that the sun had yet to rise, she, Issei, and Asia had come to the school and had taken Gasper to the back of the old school building that housed the ORC clubroom for the younger Devil's training.

  Gasper's eyes flashed purple as he used his [Forbidden Balor View] to stop the volleyball that Natsuki had weakly thrown at him, freezing it in midair before deactivating his gear and letting it fall.

  "Good job, Gasper-kun. You're now able to catch it once every twenty tries now!" Asia said encouragingly.

  I guess this is a huge leap in progress from before when he wasn't able to catch any of the volleyballs and would run from them. Natsuki thought.

  Issei grinned as he took another volleyball that Asia handed him, "Alright, Gasper! Incoming! Ready or not, here we come!"

  Gasper steeled him, "Okay, senpai!"

  But when Issei threw the ball, Gasper was unable to activate his Sacred Gear and the volleyball hit him directly in the face, knocking him off his feet.

  "You okay, Gasper?" Natsuki asked as Gasper sat up while rubbing his nose.

  "Natsuki-senpai, Issei-senpai, I think I'm done for today." Gasper whimpered.

  "Don't let speak like that! We've got a dream to turn into reality here and I can't do it without you! C'mon, Gasper!" Issei shouted, reaching into the metal ball cart, and throwing more volleyballs at Gasper.

  Gasper curled into himself, covering his head with his hands as the volleyballs rained down on him, unable to use [Forbidden Balor View] to stop any of them.

  "Okay, that's enough." Natsuki said as she grabbed one of Issei's arms to keep him from grabbing and throwing anymore volleyballs.

  Issei wrenched his arm out of Natsuki's hand, "Natsuki, don't you see this kind of tough love is necessary?! This is exactly what happened to us when we trained for the Rating Game against that fire chicken, and we came out the other side stronger than ever, so I know the same will happen for Gasper. And besides, if he can't figure out his powers, I'll never see my dream come to fruition!"

  I've already made a list of all the girls with the biggest boobs and figured out each of their schedules down to the minute so I can know the best time they will be alone and when to target them! The only thing stopping me from being able to feel all of them up is Gasper! Issei thought despairingly.

  "You truly are a terrible person." Natsuki said with a shake of her head over why Issei was so intent on helping Gasper.

  "I'm sorry for failing you Issei-senpai!" Gasper cried out, feeling like he was nothing but a failure and was not living up to everyone's expectations.

  Natsuki smacked the back of Issei's head before walking to Gasper and taking a knee into front of his curled-up body. "You don't have to apologize; Issei was the one being stupid. You're still learning, so it's expected you'll make mistakes. I think all of us have had moments when we can't control our powers."

  Gasper wiped his eyes, looking up at Natsuki hopefully, "Really?"

  "Yes, really." Natsuki stated, "So you shouldn't let the setbacks keep you from moving forward, and while Issei's words were wrong, he's trying to get you to do the same thing too. But you shouldn't push yourself too much either, you can tell us if you can't handle something."

  Gasper shook his head, "But I have to get stronger. S-Since I am incomplete both as a human who had a Sacred Gear, and as a vampire, I only cause trouble to everyone, I-I have to control my power more."

  The look on Gasper's face and the way his voice cracked reminded Natsuki painfully of Akeno when the older Devil told Natsuki about her identity.

  Gasper and Akeno were both hybrids born from distinct species before becoming Devils, and both felt doubt in and hated their existences. And unlike Natsuki, who had grown up never knowing the truth of her own heritage, Gasper and Akeno suffered immensely and were ostracized because of it, and unlike Natsuki, felt burdened by it most of the time.

  Natsuki's expression softened, "You don't cause trouble for everyone and you're not incomplete. And you shouldn't listen to anyone who told you that nonsense in the past."

  "But-"

  "But nothing. They were wrong, Gasper, and do you know what the best way to prove people wrong is?"

  Gasper tilted his head, "No, what is it?"

  Natsuki raised her fist and clenched it, "To beat their asses into the fucking dirt."

  Natsuki felt someone slapping the back of her head before she heard Issei screech in her ear. "And you're calling me a terrible person?! When you're teaching him to be a violent brute?!"

  Natsuki turned her head and glared at Issei, but Gasper spoke up before she could say anything to the other Pawn. "I don't want to hurt people, but I want to be strong enough that everyone doesn't have to keep looking out for me."

  Issei pumped his fists and puffed out his chest, "Then get up and keep training! We're all members of the same club, and Rias-Buchou's servants and comrades! So, let's keep getting stronger for the sake of all that! So, bring out more of your power for Team Awesome"!

  Seeing that, Gasper wiped his tears and stood up. "Issei-senpai, Natsuki-senpai, I-I'll do my best! For Team Awesome!"

  "Team Awesome!" Issei declared with a roar.

  "I am not part of this team, and stop saying that I am." Natsuki voiced, knowing what Issei's ultimate goal was with Gasper, but was ignored by the two boys.

  Is this where the inspiring montage comes in? Asia thought amused as she watched the scene in front of her. "Do your best! Ise-san, Natsuki-san, Gasper-kun!"

  "Gasper! Since the bishoujo, Asia-senpai is cheering you on as well, cheer up!"

  "Y-yesssss! Thank you very much, Asia-senpai" Gasper said while Natsuki rolled her eyes before they went back practicing.

  While this was going on, Kiba, Xenovia, and Koneko arrived and began to watch Gasper's training from a couple of feet away, standing next to the old school building.

  "Hey, weren't you supposed to be helping out with Gasper-kun's training?" Kiba asked the other Knight.

  Xenovia sighed before responding, crossing her arms as she looked on, "Every time I tried to help train him, the poor kid would break down crying. He kept saying something about how training him made him feel guilty. Eventually, Natsuki-san said it would probably be best for me to keep my distance when Gasper is training."

  "Natsuki-senpai told me the same thing, but I don't know why. I was being extremely helpful when training Gya-kun." Koneko said, sounding confused by Natsuki's decision.

  Kiba sweat dropped, "I don't think chasing him with garlic and Holy water was very helpful, Koneko-chan."

  Koneko ignored this as she continued to watch her friends, "You know, I've only seen Issei-senpai this happy about training once before."

  "When was that?" Xenovia asked.

  "When we were at the training camp." Koneko answered, "That was when he came up with his perversely perverted joke of a finishing move."

  Xenovia brow furrowed, "You mean he was this excited when he came up with the Dress Break?"

  They then looked at Issei who was watching Gasper with a large smile on his face, his eyes teary as he spoke and his voice full of joy and pride. "Let's make our dreams come true at last, Gasper! Get ready for another hundred!"

  Koneko and Xenovia did not look impressed as they stared at the brown-haired Pawn, knowing that he must have ulterior motives when it came to training Gasper beyond wanting to help Rias, while Kiba slapped his hand against his face, knowing exactly what Issei was planning.

  Why, Issei, why? Kiba thought, feeling embarrassed for being associated with Issei.

  Hours Later

  The members of the Occult Research Club had gathered in their club room just as a large barrier completely enveloped the school. Outside the barrier, Angels, Fallen Angels, and Devil forces surrounded the school, both were measures that would allow no one to enter or leave until the meeting between the Three Great Powers had concluded.

  The location of the meeting would be Kuoh Academy's staff meeting room, and as that day was a holiday and it was late at night, the school was completely empty with the exception of the three groups.

  "It's time for us to go." Rias told her servants as she stood from her desk.

  Rias then looked at the cardboard box in the corner of the room that held her first Bishop inside of it, speaking gently to him. "Gasper, today's conference is important, it would stall negotiations if your Sacred Gear activated during it, so you can't participate. I hope you understand."

  "Y-yes, Buchou." Gasper said, poking his head out of the box.

  Issei walked up to Gasper's box, bending down to hand the younger boy his portable handheld console, "Cheer up, Gasper, you can borrow this while you stay here so you don't get bored. And me and Natsuki got a bunch of snacks you can have."

  Natsuki then stood on Issei's other side holding a box filled with sweets and chips, placing it down next to Gasper before pulling out a brown paper bag from inside it. "We also got you your paper bag, so you can where it if start feeling scared or lonely."

  Gasper looked at the items in awe before looking back at the two Pawns, "Thank Issei-senpai, Natsuki-senpai."

  "Anything for you, buddy." Issei said while Natsuki nodded her head in agreement.

  The rest of the Peerage left the clubroom and began making their way to the staff room while Issei and Natsuki walked a few feet behind the group, having their own conversation.

  "Hey, Natsuki. You don't think it was sad that a video game, a box of junk food, and a paper bag were the best we could do for Gasper?" Issei asked, feeling uneasy about everything.

  "No, it's not enough, no one should be happy with that little." Natsuki admitted, "A kid like Gasper deserves a lot more. But I guess with everything he's been through that this would be a lot for him."

  "I just-I just really want to do something to help him, but I can't think of anything."

  "I don't really know either, but I think we should just keep doing what we're doing, drawing him out of his shell little by little. Gasper seems to respond well to it, I mean, I get the impression from everyone else that Gasper isn't always this open."

  "Maybe you're right." Issei said, but he still could not stop the feeling that they could be doing more for their kouhai.

  After a couple of minutes, the group reached the Kuoh Academy staff room, and the closer they got the more, Natsuki shivered and folded in on herself, understanding immediately why no guards were posted there, leaving the doors unattended.

  "Are you okay, Natsuki-san?" Asia asked, seeing the physical reaction Natsuki was having.

  Natsuki shuddered as she straightened her posture, "I'm fine, Asia. I just... I was just not expecting to feel all that power."

  Rias turned her head, looking the girl sympathetically, "Sorry about that, Natsuki. I know that my brother and the others usually mask their presence, I should have figured that it wouldn't be enough to be blocked by you."

  "I should've figured myself." Natsuki said, regaining her composure.

  "Is it really that bad?" Issei asked.

  "Almost everyone in that room is a fucking monster." Natsuki told him, "Even now when they're hiding their magical energy, they could kill all of us with a finger."

  Is it because they're all gathered together in one place? Because I didn't have this problem when I met Sirzechs, Grayfia, Azazel, and Michael individually. Natsuki thought.

  When they reached the doors, Rias knocked on one of them twice, "Excuse us." Rias then opened one of the doors and walked inside, the rest of the group following her.

  In the middle of the room sat a gorgeous and pompous looking table, and as if surrounding it, were the leaders from each respective faction. The air is enveloped by quietness, and everyone had a serious expression on their faces.

  On the Devil side of the table, sat Sirzechs and Serafall, while Grayfia was on standby beside a cart preparing tea. And behind them, stood Sona Sitri and her Queen, Shinra Tsubaki, the rest of her Peerage notably absent.

  In the middle of the table was the Angel side, headed by Michael and standing behind him, to the surprise of most, was Shidou Irina.

  "Irina?" Xenovia said wide-eyed.

  Irina sneered at her former friend and partner before turning away, refusing to look in Xenovia and the rest of the ORC's direction. Xenovia frowned but did not try to call out to Irina again, seeing it as pointless.

  And finally, on the Fallen Angel corner was Azazel with his twelve wings unfurled, like Sirzechs and Serafall, he was not wearing normal clothing, instead a robe elaborated with ornaments. And when he glanced at Natsuki and Issei, his lips rose up happily.

  Behind Azazel, was the Vanishing Dragon, who smirked when he made eye contact with the other two dragon Sacred Gear wielders in the room. Issei flinched and then glared at Vali while Natsuki briefly met Vali's gaze before looking away with a roll of her eyes.

  This only made Vali's smirk grow wider, finding the difference between Issei and Natsuki to be humorous.

  You've gotten stronger since we last saw each other, Natsuki. Are you that determined to be stronger than me? Vali thought, the idea of Natsuki training intensely since their last meeting, causing a small amount of excitement to fill him. This was only tempered when he remembered that Natsuki's recent boost in strength would not be enough for her to pose a significant threat to him, at least not yet.

  The ORC walked to where Sirzechs and Serafall were sitting, standing behind them and right next to Sona and Tsubaki.

  "Everyone's here." Sirzechs said before introducing Rias and her Peerage, "This is my sister and her family. They are the ones who fought against Kokabiel during his surprise attack a few days ago."

  "A rather impressive feat. I thank each one of you for your hard work." Michael said cordially.

  Azazel smirked, placing his elbow on the table and resting his head against his fist as he looked at the group of young Devils. "Once again, I apologize. It seems one of my boys caused you a bit of trouble."

  Rias' mouth twitched as she fought the urge to scowl, still smiling despite the Governor General's blase attitude towards the Holy Sword debacle.

  Sirzechs cleared his throat, and he addressed the room, "Now that all participants are represented, let this summit commence."