The Dragon of the Phoenix

Issei Hyoudou was sitting on the couch in the Orc (Occult Research Club), his master Rias Gremory, who was the president of the Orc, was working on some papers she had received from the underworld. Things were not going too well between the Gremory Princess and her pawn Issei Hyoudou, since Issei still views her as his master and not someone as his equal. He kept calling her president which deeply hurt Rias heart, especially after the rating game interview when she and Issei were in the sauna alone and Rias was about to offer Issei her virginity, but then he called her president. All Rias wanted was to be closer to Issei and for him to say that he loves her, or at the very least call her by her name.

Issei: I still don't understand what I did wrong. Everything was going so well for me. I just hope that she cools down soon so that we can talk and smooth things over.

Issei silently pondered over what had happened. He knew things between him and Rias were starting to deteriorate, and he wondered where he had gone wrong. As he reflected on his situation, searching for an answer to the problem, Issei noticed a magic circle materialize before him on the coffee table. Just as he was about to speak, Koneko glanced at it and immediately recognized who it was from.

Koneko: Phoenix?

A woman bearing an uncanny resemblance to Ravel appeared. She appeared to be in her early twenties, possessing the same blonde hair and blue eyes. The only difference was that her hair was elegantly styled, adorned with various ornamental pieces.

Ravel: "Mother?!" Ravel was completely taken by surprise, she didn't expect her mother to call.

Issei: 'Ravel's mother? So that means she is the current head of the house of Phoenix, which also makes her Riser's mother. And she's really beautiful.'

???: Hello Ravel. Sorry for the sudden call. I couldn't get any time, so I ended up calling at this hour. In the human world in Japan, It's still school time right?

Ravel: Y-Yes, it certainly is, but why did you call all of a sudden?

Rias walked over to the hologram

Rias: Hello Lady Phoenix. It's been awhile. May I know your reason for calling?

Lady Phoenix: "Indeed, but first I should introduce myself. Everyone, my name is Layla Phoenix, the current matriarch of the Phoenix Family. Is the red dragon emperor, Issei Hyoudou here? If so, may I speak to him?

Issei: Yes Lady Phoenix, I am here, do you need something from me? He responded with a respectful voice.

Layla: Hello to you too. This is our first time meeting like this, isn't it Issei Hyoudou, The Red Dragon Emperor. I apologize for introducing myself like this.

Issei: There's no need to apologize, it's a pleasure to meet you.

Layla: Yes, I thought I should greet you properly. Normally, I would go and greet Rias, who is in charge of the Hyoudou residence where my daughter will be staying while she attends Kuoh Academy, but there were reasons why we couldn't visit.

Rias: It's fine Lady Phoenix, I understand how busy you are.

Layla: Thank you Rias. Now then, Issei Hyoudou I have a request, which I would like for you to complete, if you do not mind?

Issei: What is it, Lady Phoenix...?

Layla: You see, my daughter Ravel, is studying at that school, and I wanted you and Rias both to look after her and protect her from 'weird pests'. Would you please look after her?

Issei: Yes ma'am, you can count on me Lady Phoenix, I will look after her!

Layla: Thank you Issei Hyoudou, oh and one more thing, I had Riser trade with me a while back, after which she is a free bishop, your goal is to be a high class devil right?

Issei: Yes...., wait do you mean? Layla chuckled.

Layla: Indeed, if Ravel so pleases she can be in your peerage once you become a high ranking devil, so I am counting on you to look after her, and who knows maybe she will.....

Ravel:""Mother!" Ravel shouted out of embarrassment and bashfulness. Layla only chuckled at her daughter's plight, then Issei responded.

Issei: You can count on me, I will protect Ravel no matter what, you have nothing to worry about." Ravel blushed while Rias looked at the scene with sadness and slight anger

Layla: Thank you, Issei, and you see around Rias.

Rias: "Of course, Lady Phoenix." The magic circle disappeared, and then Rias all of a sudden decided to go out, which Issei and the other club members present noticed. Issei then asks.

Issei: Are you going somewhere, President?

Rias looked at him with a sad look, Issei flinched. He did not know exactly what happened or why she was still sad.

Issei: Is something wrong, President?

Rias: Issei, I need to know, would you protect me?

Issei: Yeah, of course, I'd die for you, President.

Rias: What about Asia?

Issei: Huh, yeah I'd protect her too.

Rias: And Akeno?

Issei: "Duh, totally. Why wouldn't I? Still, though, why are you asking? Is something up?"

Rias sighed. Akeno and Asia, as well as the majority of the ORC, understood what Rias was getting at. She had a sad look on her face as she asked one final question.

Rias: Ise, tell me.

Issei: Yeah, what?

Rias: What am I to you? How do you see me?

Issei: "Um-"

Rias: Just answer me already!

Issei: Okay, well, let me think. You're the President-

Rias: You idiot! Why can't you understand the way I feel?!

Issei: But, President, if you would just let me-

Akeno: Enough, Issei. It appears that you're too naive to understand Rias' feelings!

Issei: Please, just give me a chance-

Xenovia: Geez, Issei. I know I can be dense sometimes, but even I know how Rias feels. If you're this oblivious, then having kids with you would be a bad idea.

Ddraig observed the tense atmosphere, growing increasingly concerned for Issei's well-being. He understood the turmoil within Issei's emotions and feared that it might awaken something dangerous within him. He could feel the curse of the former users of the gear beginning to awaken, and soon they would try to get him to activate the Juggernaut Drive. Ddraig was going to say something to defend his partner and prevent the selfish actions of the girls from causing any further harm to him. It could trigger a very dangerous situation with Issei.

Meanwhile, Irina firmly advised Issei to remain silent, recognizing that any words he spoke would only exacerbate the situation for everyone involved. She acknowledged Issei's inclination towards perverseness but questioned his obliviousness to Rias's feelings.

As tensions heighten, Koneko can't help but express disappointment in Issei's behavior, unleashing a barrage of hurtful remarks. Ddraig observes the backlash, deeming it excessive despite understanding the others' grievances. But at the same time, they are ignoring Issei's feelings and, more importantly, the trauma he has experienced. If they understood, Ddraig believed the situation would unfold differently. But as of now, they are only showing how little they truly care about his partner and how selfish they all are. Except for that Phoenix girl.

Hoping to find solace in Asia's support, Issei instead faced further disappointment when she criticized him and deemed him worthless. Tearfully, Issei questioned what he had done to deserve such treatment, desperately seeking understanding from those he saw as friends and lovers.

Kiba sighed, feeling uncertain about where to begin in explaining Issei's missteps. Gasper, agreeing with Kiba, voiced his disapproval as well. Issei, emotionally overwhelmed, couldn't comprehend why everyone was turning against him.

Sensing Issei's distress, Ravel approached him with genuine concern. However, before Issei could respond, another voice chimed in. Akeno provided context to Issei's actions, revealing that the complaints they have been getting about his peeping on the Kendo Club has started tarnishing their club's reputation. Rias, acknowledging the impact of Issei's actions, agreed that they could no longer overlook his behavior.

Ravel, passionately defending Issei, struggled to comprehend how they all could treat him as disposable after everything he had done for them. Especially Rias, of all people here, since it was Issei who almost died to earn her freedom and saved her from her arranged marriage with her brother, Riser. She started to berate the other girls for their selfish actions in not appreciating all the good he has done for them. While Issei was in a personal turmoil, the weight of the situation left him feeling physically unwell and overwhelmed by the rejection from those he had considered his friends and peers.

Ddraig: 'I knew that Gremory girl to be selfish, but witnessing everyone, including his childhood friend the so-called angel , not standing by him infuriates me. I am unsure if it weren't for that Phoenix girl showing genuine concern for my partner's well-being, he would have succumbed to the juggernaut drive once more. If it weren't for the fact that I am bound by this sacred gear, I might have already unleashed my flames and incinerated them all!'

Issei, 'Ravel is the only one who has shown that she cares. She never berated me like the others. She has only shown concern for me.' Issei discreetly grabbed Ravel's hand and slightly squeezed it, making her turn her head to face him. She could tell from his face that he was hurting from their words. But before Ravel could say anything, Rias spoke up.

Rias: I acknowledge that Issei rescued me from the forced engagement with your brother. However, it has become increasingly evident that you have not experienced significant personal growth or maturity. Frankly, I am beginning to consider the possibility of being with Riser, despite his tendency to treat us as mere playthings and disregard our emotions. This may sound harsh, Issei, but I deeply regret reincarnating you and including you in my peerage. I believe the time has come for you to depart from the Gremory household because, at this point, you haven't matured. You're still naive and your perversion will only bring shame to the Gremory household and my peerage. I will be trading you off.

The room fell into stunned silence, with Rias herself taken aback by the weight of her words. In a moment of anger and frustration, she had spoken without considering the consequences, and the realization of her actions quickly set in. However, it was too late to retract what had been said. The impact of Rias's outburst triggered a profound transformation within Issei, one that would reshape the course of events and force everyone present to confront the repercussions of their choices.

Issei's Boosted Gear materialized on his left hand.

Ddraig: I strongly advise all of you to evacuate the surrounding areas immediately, and I suggest that you all leave as well.

Rias: "But why, Ddraig?"

Ddraig: "Rias Gremory, you are so selfish and arrogant you don't even realize the mistake you have just made. However, time is running out. You all must leave immediately. I can only restrain him for a short while."

Ravel: Ddraig, what is happening to Ise-sama?

Ddraig: These fools have shattered my partner's heart, and now, because of their actions, a true Dragon will be born. I witnessed all of my partner's thoughts while he was being berated by these women. I can honestly say that you, Ravel Phoenix, provided him with a glimmer of hope. However, the selfish actions of everyone else, especially you, Rias Gremory, have pushed him into this volatile state that I can barely control. Ravel, on behalf of my partner, you should know that he genuinely cares about you and your well-being. I can see that you also care deeply for him. But you must leave now. I know my partner wouldn't want to harm or kill you in his rage, and even now, I can barely contain-

At that moment, Ddraig could no longer contain Issei, and before anyone could react or utter a word, a mighty roar echoed through the air. An explosion of aura erupted from Issei, its impact felt far and wide, spanning across the realms from the underworld to heaven and even reaching into the dimensional gap. The tremendous display of power even caught the attention of a certain red dragon, causing it to halt its flight and turn towards the source of the explosion. The aura's intensity also drew the attention of a short, black-haired girl with a loli-like appearance.

Scene change: Lilith, capital city in the Underworld.

Sirzechs: What is happening in Kouh?!

The doors to Sirzechs' chamber were forcefully thrown open.

Grayfia: My Lord, did you feel that explosion of aura?

Sirzechs: Yes, I did, Grayfia. It originated from Kouh.

Grayfia: Do you think someone is attacking the town?

Sirzechs: I'm not sure, but I have a bad feeling about this. Quickly, contact Serafall and tell her to meet me at Khou Academy. Also, contact Falbium and Ajuka. Tell them to be on high alert and prepare for a possible attack by the Khaos Brigade.

Grayfia: Understood, my lord. Shall we also inform Michael and Azazel?

Sirzechs: Yes, send an urgent message to them, instructing them to rendezvous with Serafall and me at Khou Academy. They must be ready to confront the potential threat that emanates such a menacing evil aura. Let's quickly head to Kouh Academy without delay. Considering the magnitude of the recent aura explosion, I have my doubts that Rias or Sona's peerages combined would last long against whatever they could be facing.

Scene change: Back in the Orc Room

Issei regains control from Dddraig, his head lowered, and his eyes concealed by his hair. As he raises his head, his emerald eyes burn with a furious intensity. In a display of immense power and aura, he activates his balance breaker, causing the ground beneath him to fracture and crumble. The onlookers are struck with fear, witnessing a transformed Issei who is no longer the lovable pervert they knew, but an enraged dragon!



Rias: Issei, what are you doing?

Akeno: Why did you activate your balance breaker? There are no enemies around!

Asia: She's right, Issei. There's no need for this. Please calm down, let's talk.

Unfortunately, the person they're trying to talk to is not Issei but an enraged dragon who has had enough of listening. And what Issei did next surprised everyone!

Ddraig: [Promotions, Welsh Blaster Bishop!]

Everyone was surprised to hear Ddraig's voice call out Welsh Blaster Bishop. But that's not the end of the surprises because Issei then points the cannon at Asia and fires!

Rias: Asia, no!

Akeno: Asia, get out of the way!

Irina: Issei... No!

Xenovia: Issei, don't do it.

5 minutes earlier, outside the old school building.

Sirzechs accompanied by Grayfia arrived at the old school building, stepping out of the teleportation circle. Much to their surprise, two familiar faces were already waiting for them.

Sirzechs: Oh, I'm glad to see you two have already arrived.

Azazel: Well, to be honest, I happened to be in the area when I sensed the explosion of aura. I quickly determined its origin and rushed over here. Michael teleported shortly after.

Sirzechs: I see. So, have you been able to figure out what caused this?

Azazel: Actually, as I was racing here, a few ideas crossed my mind. And when I neared the school, I realized where the aura was emanating from and found its strongest point. I can't help but suspect Issei had something to do with it.

Michael: "Indeed, brother. The aura released has a dark and malevolent feel to it."

Azazel: You noticed it too?

Michael: Yes, there is no mistaking it. It bears the same resemblance to the aura released when someone using the Divine Dividing or Boosted Gear succumbs to anger and activates the Juggernaut Drive."

Upon hearing Michael and Azazel's words, both Sirzechs and Grayfia felt a sense of unease creeping in.

Sirzechs: Grayfia, please go and check on the situation inside with Rias and the others.

Grayfia: Yes, my lord.

Using a teleportation circle, Grayfia disappears to check on the situation in the Orc room and determine if Rias and her Peerage are in need of assistance, as they may be under attack from whatever let out that monstrous aura.

Sirzechs: I have a bad feeling about this. Especially since my little sister might be involved with what is happening to Issei.

Azazel: "We can't jump to conclusions just yet. By the way, wasn't Serafall supposed to be here as well?*

Sirzechs: I'm sure she'll be here soon.

Just as the conversation was about to continue, another teleportation circle materialized, and Serafall, accompanied by her sister Sona, emerged.

Sirzechs: "Serafall, there you are. Where have you been?"

Serafall was about to explain when a loud explosion echoed from the old school building, diverting everyone's attention. They turned to witness Grayfia forming an ice wall in front of Asia. They were shocked, but what stunned everyone was Issei attempting to harm Asia.

Sirzechs: "Rias, what have you done?"

Azazel: "Let's not worry about that now. We need to calm Issei down before he activates the Juggernaut Drive out of rage."

Michael: "Sirzechs, my brother is right. We must calm the young man down, evacuate the humans from the area, and quickly put up a barrier."

Sona: "Don't worry about the students. School ended a while ago, so only the ones here were those in clubs. I already had my Peerage get them out, and Tsubaki and the rest of my peerage have set up a barrier around the academy."

Serafall: Great job, So-tan. I'm proud of you.

Sona blushed slightly at her sister's compliment.

Michael: Well, at least the students won't be in danger now. But we still need to calm Issei down.

Sona: Does anyone know what made Hyoudou so angry and release this aura? And where is Rossweisse?

Azazel: Rossweisse was helping me find ways to restore Issei's lost life force. I asked her to bring an item I've been working on that can temporarily disable a sacred gear user's abilities. I informed her of the situation and asked her to hurry here. As for what triggered Issei's state, I don't know.

Sona: I understand. First, we need to calm Issei down. Then we can find out what happened.

Sirzechs: I agree. Does anyone know how to calm him down?

Serafall: The magical girl has got this.

Serafall began calling out to Issei to get his attention, and it worked. But what happened next, no one could have expected. Issei looked towards her and let out a monstrous roar and a burst of energy that knocked everyone backwards, including Grayfia. Before leaping off the destroyed part of the building that was formerly the meeting room of Orc, Ddraig's voice could be heard calling out: 'Mode change Welsh Sonic Boost Knight'. After that, Issei charged at Serafall with blinding speed, taking her by surprise. She was not expecting this level of speed from him. Issei appeared in front of her, and Ddraig's voice was heard again calling out: 'Mode change Welsh Dragonic Rook'. Serafall's eyes widened, and she immediately jumped back, barely evading the incoming attack from Issei.

Sona ran up to her sister, who looked slightly shaken up from that attack.

Sona: Sister, are you alright?

Serafall: Yes, but that isn't Issei. That blow he aimed at me was delivered with murderous and killing intent. It felt just like when the heavenly dragons were slaughtering our troops during the Great War, showing the same murderous and killing intent.

Sona: What are you saying? That's still Hyoudou under that armor, he's the only one it could be. It's hard to believe that the Hyoudou I've gotten to know would so easily try to kill somebody!

Serafall shook her head.

Serafall: Sona, you are right about it still being Ise-kun underneath that armor. But we aren't fighting Ise-kun or even Ddraig. We are fighting the aspect of Ise-kun's dragon side that has taken over control of his body. To simplify it, we are fighting an enraged and bloodthirsty dragon that won't stop until those who caused all this pain towards him are dead. Even then, he might not stop. He could destroy all of Kuoh, if not a majority of Japan.

Sona: You don't mean...?

Before she could finish what she was going to say, she stopped as she saw Issei stand up from the crater he made on impact with the ground. Only to see an enraged Xenovia charging at him with Durandal in hand, ready to slash at Issei to make him pay for trying to kill Asia.

Serafall: Xenovia, no!!! Stay away

Serafall was unable to finish her warning as Issei swiftly turned around, grabbing Xenovia by the neck and forcefully slamming her into the ground. In a matter of seconds, Issei relentlessly pummeled Xenovia, mercilessly smashing her further into the ground and creating a crater beneath her. The sickening sounds of Xenovia's cries for help filled the air, accompanied by the bone-chilling noise of her bones shattering with each blow. Her blood stained Issei's armor and the surrounding ground, further intensifying the gruesome scene. However, before Issei could continue his merciless assault for more than 15 seconds, Serafall intervened by launching a massive ice projectile, forcefully propelling him away from Xenovia. This brief respite allowed Irina to arrive and witness the horrifying carnage and brutality inflicted upon Xenovia in such a brief span of time. Realizing that Issei was now charging towards her, Irina hastily picked up Xenovia, who looked on the verge of dying. Irina knew she needed to get her away from here and get Xenovia immediate medical attention.

Irina: Oh, Issei, *sniff* What have we done to you?! We turned you into a monster!

Upon spotting Irina making her escape, Issei emitted a low, menacing growl. Gradually reverting to his original Balance Breaker form, he unfurled his wings from his back. However, his attempt to take flight and pursue Irina, along with the barely conscious and injured Xenovia, was immediately stopped by Serafall, who conjured numerous ice chains that tightly ensnared Issei, encasing his entire body and slamming him into the ground. As if that weren't enough, Grayfia jumped in to help restrain him by imprisoning him within an immense mound of ice, rendering him completely immobilized.

Grayfia: This won't hold him for long, and just to keep the ice from melting, I have to keep pouring my magic into it. We need to think of something to calm Issei down.

Serafall: Grayfia, I'll assist you in maintaining the ice prison around Issei. Meanwhile, Sirzechs, Azazel, and Michael, think of a way to break through his rage and restore him to the Issei we all know and love.

Grayfia: Sirzechs Lucifer, you better bring my little brother back to us.

Sirzechs: Rest assured, Grayfia. I will do whatever it takes to restore him, not just for you, but for all of us. In the meantime, I need you and Serafall to maintain the ice confinement as long as possible while we devise a plan.

Serafall: Fear not, for this magical girl stands ready to aid in saving the day.

Grayfia silently nodded in agreement, directing all her focus and magical energy alongside Serafall to keep Issei securely imprisoned within the icy prison.

Michael: So what should we do now? Any ideas, Azazel?

Azazel: I have a plan, and it seems that what I need to carry it out has just arrived.

Suddenly, a teleportation circle materialized, and Rossweisse stepped out, holding a box which she handed to Azazel.

Rossweisse: Azazel, I've brought the item you asked me to retrieve from your lab. Now, could you please explain what's going on and why Issei is causing havoc?

Azazel: "Thank you, Rossweisse. I will explain everything to you later. But for now, I need you to evacuate Irina, Ravel, Rias, and her Peerage from this location."

Rossweisse: Understood, Azazel.

Azazel: Sona, can you take Xenovia to the Sitri hospital in the underworld? She requires immediate medical attention.

Sona: Of course, Sensei. I'll take Xenovia there immediately.

Azazel: Very good.

Sona quickly retrieved Xenovia and teleported them to the underworld hospital. Just as Rossweisse was about to go and evacuate the others, a blonde girl with her hair styled in drill curls and flame-like wings landed near Azazel and the other leaders.

Ravel: Where is Ise-Sama?

Rossweisse: Ravel, come with me. It's not safe here. The leaders can handle this.

Ravel: No, I won't leave Ise-Sama. I want to help him no matter what.

Azazel: Ravel...

Ravel: Azazel-sensei, please listen. Ddraig told me before losing control that Ise-Sama cares about me and wouldn't want to hurt me. He said I'm the only hope Issei has right now.

Sirzechs: Ravel, although that may be true, the Issei who is in front of us now is not-

Ravel: I won't abandon him like Rias and the others did! Issei is probably feeling alone and scared, please let me help him.

Michael: Sirzechs and Azazel, I believe we should let her try to reach him. This girl seems genuine, and she may be the only person who can bring him back from his enraged state. And we don't have many other options besides letting her try to reach him and bring him back to his senses or trying to beat Issei unconscious without killing him in the process before he can activate the Juggernaut Drive. If things get serious, we would have no choice but to kill the poor boy, and I know none of us want that.

Azazel: Fine, if she can bring back my student, I'll put my faith in her.

Sirzechs: Ravel, do you truly believe you can reach him?

Ravel: Yes, I do, Lord Lucifer.

Sirzechs: If that's the case, I'll also trust you. Please bring back my little brother, for everyone's sake. Rossweisse, Ravel will stay here to help calm Issei down. I need you to gather everyone else and take them back to the Hyoudou Residence."

Rossweisse: Understood, Lord Lucifer.

Rossweisse flew off to gather everyone and bring them back to the Hyoudou Mansion.

Suddenly, an explosion is heard. Michael, Sirzechs, and Azazel turn to see Issei holding both Grayfia and Serafall by the neck, even more enraged, slowly choking them.

Sirzechs: Ravel, I'm putting my faith in you. Please save my little brother and prevent him from making a mistake by hurting Grayfia or Serafall.

Ravel: I will, Lord Lucifer.

Azazel: Ravel, before you go, take this.

Ravel: What is it?

Azazel: It's a special collar I made. It's meant to disable a sacred gear user's abilities as soon as it's put on them. If you can calm Issei down enough to put this collar on him, it will end his rampage and keep him from using his sacred gear until it's removed.

Ravel: I understand, Azazel sensei. Leave it to me to bring him back.

Azazel: Good. Now go, bring my foolish student to his senses and save the man you love.

Ravel blushed upon hearing the last thing Azazel said, but she was quickly snapped out of her thoughts by Lord Michael.

Michael: Brother, this is no time for teasing the young girl.

Azazel: Just giving her some extra motivation, Michael. He said that with a cheeky smile on his face.

Michael sighed at his brother's antics but then recomposes himself before speaking

Michael: I have the utmost faith in you, Ravel. If anyone can reach him, it's you.

Ravel: Thank you all for believing in me. I won't let you down.

Back With Issei choking Grayfia and Serafall

Grayfia: "P.. Please..I.. Ise this isn't you, you're a kind boy not a mindless monster...*cough*"

Serafall: "Ise-kun, L..let go please, you're hurting me, you're not a killer... Please don't do this....*cough* cough*"

Issei only looked at them and growled. He was trying to break their necks until he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

Ravel: Issei, stop this now!

Issei loosened his grip on both Serafall and Grayfia. He threw them aside and turned to face Ravel. Meanwhile, Michael and Azazel rushed towards Serafall to ensure her well-being, while Sirzechs hurried to check on his wife. They all watched as Ravel stood her ground, facing down Issei.

Ravel: Ise-sama, it's me, Ravel. I know you must be angered and hurt by what everyone said to you. But it's not true. I haven't left you or hurt you, and the same goes for Grayfia, Serafall, Sirzechs, Michael, and Azazel. We just want to help you and bring you back to your senses. But more than that, I want the Issei I started to fall for to come back, because this isn't you. I want the Issei who always smiled and did his best to cheer everyone up, no matter the situation. I want the man who wears his heart on his sleeve and who is honest to a fault. I want the man I fell in love with-the man I thought only existed in the fairy tales my mother told me as a kid.

While Ravel spoke, Issei looked at her, feeling conflicted. As she slowly approached him, Issei slammed the tail of the balance breaker on the ground, causing her to hesitate. But she remained determined, continuing to move forward, willing to reach the man she loves and save him from his own darkness.

Ravel: Issei, I could see the pain in your eyes when the girls said those hurtful words. And I could feel the sorrow you felt. Their insults cut deeper than any physical attack ever could. They disregarded your feelings and didn't take into account how much their words affected you. Although I may not know the full extent of what you've been through, I've always noticed how you reacted when the girls approached or forced themselves upon you. Despite their advances, you have never once acted inappropriately or forced yourself on anyone. It was clear to me that you were afraid every time they crossed boundaries, as if you were hesitating. Whatever happened to you, I want to support and help you through it.

Suddenly, Issei used the tail of his balance breaker to wrap around Ravel's neck, pulling her closer to him at eye level. Ravel struggled to free herself from the tightening grip of his tail but still tried to reach out to Issei.



Ravel: Ise, please understand that this is not who you are. You're not a monster. I beg you, don't let anger and despair consume you, don't let darkness take over. I love you, and I want to help you overcome all of this. Let me be the one to guide you back towards the light, to burn away the darkness with the flames of the Phoenix. Having you in my life means everything to me, and I want to be there for you. I want to be by your side.

Ravel released her Phoenix wings and wrapped them around Issei to give him the warmth of her wings and to try and reach him.

Scene change: Issei's mindscape

Issei finds himself in a dark void, shrouded in darkness, his body curled into a fetal position, tears streaming down his face. Suddenly, a familiar figure with black wings envelops him, taunting and tormenting him within his own mind.

Raynare: It appears that the red-haired Gremory bitch and her peerage have finally finished what I started, shattering what little of your heart remained.

Issei:.....

Raynare: It's not much fun if you don't respond or put up a fight.'

Issei: ... Just...end it...kill me already.

Raynare: Now, why would I do that, when you still have one last purpose left, a purpose that could be useful to me?

Issei:.....

Raynare: Come on now, you know how this should end. Let's finish it the way it was meant to be, except this time, let your fury and anguish be known to all. Seems you're only good as a trophy to flaunt or a weapon to be used, just like your former master did. Unlike me, I never deceived you, did I?

Issei:.....

Raynare: So why don't we reunite in the afterlife, where we can forge a real connection? Just say the words and let the curse consume you. Then, we can be together forever. After all, nobody else would ever love you like I do. Now, use that love and become my Red Dragon of Domination. Embrace your true monstrous nature and activate the Juggernaut Drive to eliminate all who stand in your way.

Issei: ... Yes, you're right. I am a monster, and monsters are only capable of killing and spreading death.

Raynare: Good, my love. Now, show the world the monster you truly are!

Issei: 'I will become the monster that the world perceives me to be...'

Ravel: Issei, you're not a monster!

Issei: Wait, that voice... It's Ravel.

Ravel: Please, come back to me. I need you in my life. Everyone needs you.

Issei: 'Ravel wants me by her side.'

Raynare: Don't listen to that voice, it speaks nothing but lies!

Ravel: 'I love you.'

Issei: 'Ravel loves me. She wants me in her life, and she doesn't see me as a monster.'

Raynare: 'No, start the chant! Embrace your role as the Dragon of Domination!'

Soon, Issei found himself in the dark void that was starting to be lit up by a warm and comforting fire wrapping around him. The fire took the shape of a phoenix and gave the fallen angel a death glare, intimidating her. The phoenix indicated that it was here to protect Issei, and flames began to surround him and embrace him in a protective golden fire. In a swift instant, it flapped its wings, burning away the rest of the darkness that was encircling and consuming Issei. This made Raynare furious; she was about to take control of the situation until she heard a deep and terrifying growl behind her.

Ddraig: 'So I finally get the pleasure of meeting the Crow who has caused my partner so much pain!'

Issei: 'Ddraig! You're back, I thought you were gone because I couldn't feel you anymore!'

Ddraig: 'Partner, I will explain everything later. But now, you need to leave your mindscape. Because while you were imprisoned inside your own mind by this crow, your Dragon side took over your body and released the wrath of a dragon upon all who gained your attention, including the young Phoenix who was able to break you out of your prison.'

Issei looked at the fire that took the shape of the Phoenix and noticed it looked weaker than it did a few minutes ago. That's when he realized, and he immediately left his mindscape, leaving a frightened fallen angel to deal with a very pissed off dragon.'

Ddraig: 'You have caused my partner so much pain when you were alive, and even in death, you were able to move a portion of your soul inside my partner to continue tormenting him. But that ends now because I will be your final executioner, Fallen Angel. You will now feel the full wrath of an enraged and angered dragon!'

Raynare gulped in fear.

Scene Change, back with Ravel and Issei!

Ravel: '*Cough* *Cough* Ise, please stop. I can't breathe. Just come back to me and stop this; I need you.'

A lone tear went down Ravel's cheek as she started to lose consciousness until she felt Issei's grip on her neck loosen, and he dropped her, causing Ravel to fall to the ground and cough rapidly, able to breathe again. She finally heard Issei's voice, which made her stare at Issei only to see him fall to his knees, and his helmet dematerialized.'

Issei: "Ravel.......!?!",

Ravel was starting to tear up after realizing that the green emerald eyes she saw in the club room, which only showed hate and anger, were no longer present in Issei's eyes. Instead, his normal chocolate brown eyes now showed immediate regret after seeing what he had done to Ravel. Tears were building up in his eyes, making her realize that her Ise was back. She ran up to him and hugged him while crying.

Ravel: Oh, Ise... You came back to me. I thought I had truly lost you forever. *Sobbing*

Issei: "I'm....",

Issei fell unconscious while the rest of the Balance Breaker dematerialized. At the same time, the rest of the leaders ran up to Issei's unconscious form!

Ravel: ISE-SAMA.. Ise-Sama, please! I just got you back, don't leave me!! Grayfia, please help Ise-Sama!!"l

Grayfia sat on the ground next to Issei while Ravel was crying hysterically, still holding Issei's unconscious body.

Grayfia put her hand over Issei's forehead, and a small magical circle floated above his forehead from her hand. After a few minutes, the circle disappeared, and she retracted her hand before speaking to Ravel.

Grayfia: Ravel, he will be alright. He overexerted himself fighting in that state and using the multiple different transformations of the Balance Breaker. He will be alright, but he'll be out for a while.

Ravel: That's great to hear! Ise-Sama will be okay!

Sirzechs: Thank you, Ravel Phoenix, for saving Issei and bringing him back to his senses. But I would still like an explanation of how all this came to be. But we can worry about that later.

Michael: Indeed, all that matters now is making sure Issei properly recovers. That goes for you as well, Ravel. A lot has happened, and I'm sure it was mentally and emotionally exhausting for you.

Ravel nodded at Michael while caressing Issei's cheeks as he slept in her lap.

Azazel: Before anything else, Ravel, I think you should put that collar on him just in case his mental state is still not completely stable. It will prevent him from going back into a berserk state or, even worse, accessing the Juggernaut Drive.

Ravel looked up at Azazel and nodded in agreement. She pulled out the sacred gear neutralizing collar and put it around Issei's neck, snapping it together. Lights appeared from the collar, changing from red to blue to green until it eventually turned white, showing that the collar successfully neutralized Issei's sacred gear and prevented him from accessing it.

Ravel: 'Did it work?'

Azazel: 'Yes, it is working. He is no longer able to access his sacred gear abilities. Although he should still be able to communicate with Ddraig, he won't be able to use any of the abilities of the Boosted Gear as long as the collar is on him.'

Serafall: 'It would be best if we kept that knowledge among those currently here, because we still have to worry about the Khaos Brigade. They would take advantage of the situation knowing that Ise-kun cannot use his sacred gear.'

Michael: 'I agree with Serafall. Keeping this information confined to those who are currently present would be best. Don't you agree, Sirzechs and Azazel?'

Azazel: 'I agree with that decision. The risks posed if the Khaos Brigade found out this information could become catastrophic quickly, especially if they are able to mobilize enough to launch an attack on the alliance with a large force.'

Sirzechs: 'I also agree, but I think it would be best if we took Issei home to rest.'

Ravel: 'Lord Lucifer, I would like to politely request that we do not let Issei go back to his home or the Gremory estate. It wouldn't be good for Issei's recovery if those who hurt him were able to find him or have easy access to him. It would only make the situation worse for Issei after everything they said to him.'

Serafall: I agree with Ravel on this. I suggest having both Issei-kun and Ravel come stay at the Leviathan mansion so that Issei can rest and recover, and we can figure out everything that happened. Ravel can inform us of exactly what happened. It would also be a good idea to have Grayfia stay with him just in case something happens.

Sirzechs: Hmmm, I agree with what you're saying. It would be best to keep the others away from Issei for now until we figure out exactly what happened. And I completely agree with having Grayfia be with him during his recovery. If you're okay with that, Grayfia?

Grayfia: I completely agree with this. Also, I want to make sure my little brother is in a proper state of mind, along with his physical health.

Serafall: Well, it seems that we are all in agreement. I will be taking Ise-kun, Ravel, and Grayfia with me to the Leviathan mansion.

Grayfia picks up Issei's unconscious body, then Ravel stands up. They both head towards Serafall, who has a teleportation circle ready for them. As soon as they both stand next to Serafall and their circle, they teleport away.

Azazel: Sirzechs, I think your sister has royally fucked up. But I have a feeling Rias wasn't alone in this, and I think once the truth comes out, Baraqiel is going to be pissed and ashamed if he finds out his own daughter helped make this mess.

Michael: You're not alone, brother. I feel like my Ace Irina and I need to have a discussion about this and the part she played in making this disastrous situation.

Sirzechs: I agree with both of you on this. It seems like all the women that were close to Issei have a lot of explaining to do. But let's worry about that later. We need to work on fixing the school and adjusting the memories of any humans who might have witnessed this event.

Both Azazel and Michael nod in agreement and begin to fix the damage to the school and change the memories of the humans who could have seen this event.

Scene end