Irises x Dragons (FI) (High School DxD)

[dingbat779]

Author's Notes: This will be my first ever Friend Insert. For those of you unfamiliar with the term it's like a Dungeons & Dragons game with me acting as GM for a friend. Arkos is my incredibly willing subject in this endeavor. She hasn't seen High School DxD so I would please ask those familiar with the setting to put comments in spoilers.

Failure to comply will result in an immediate thread ban. This is not a drill.

For added amusement I'm allowing Arkos to start with a single perk. The powers(and body) of Plutia from Hyperdimension Neptunia.

Is the world ready? Probably not.


Irises x Dragons


The Saga Begins


The hustle and bustle of the city was more subdued early in the morning. Kuoh wasn't a busy city by any means so the number of pedestrians was small. It was also a very Japanese city in that the people tended to ignore strange sights. Sights such as the young girl laying on a stone bench before a decorated fountain. She was a cute little thing with light purplish hair, with a long braid adorned with a pink bow at the back of her hair. She was wearing a dress in pale colors with white stockings. On her feet were a pair of house slippers. Under her head was a pitch black plush bunny with an evil red eye and an eyepatch.


Slowly she woke up. First a tiny yawn as her eyes fluttered open briefly, before she blinked, and realized she was not in her room. She sat up and looked around, fear and confusion waring in her eyes. '...Where the hell am I? I don't recognize this city at all….and how can I see without my glasses? Was I kidnapped or something?' Her thoughts were interrupted when she noticed something in the corner of her vision. The small bunny plush.


'What the? I don't own any plushies like this… and is it just me or does my body feel off? Well.. It's obvious something has happened.. I can see without my glasses and I have no clue of where I am…" With a small yawn she picked up the plush with her right hand and stood up, looking around to see if she could find any landmarks.


The area she was appeared to be a nicely manicured park in the center of a metropolitan area. Salarymen and women, busy with their own affairs, continued on by. Occasionally someone would glance in confusion in her direction before quickly moving on. There didn't seem to be much going on so early in the day.


From the far edge of the park another early morning pedestrian entered. What made her different than the others was her long blonde hair and clearly Caucasian features. She wore a green habit and brown shoes. The young girl pulled a wheeled suitcase behind her. Green eyes shone with confusion and anxiousness. The way she kept checking the map in her free hand said she was lost.


She noticed the fountain behind her, and walked over to figure out how badly she needed to clean up. However when she saw her reflection in the fountain's water, she stopped. Instead of herself, the person she saw was well…her favorite CPU from the neptunia series. Plutia. Instead of herself. Her free hand went to cover her mouth to muffle her sounds of surprise. 'What the? Why the ever-loving depths of hell am I Plutia? ...Well. I don't recognize where I am.. Wait. Have I been ROBed? Sure.. that sounds crazy now that I think of it… but I don't have any better ideas..' Plutia looked to the lost girl. 'Maybe she has some answers?'


Plutia walked in the girl's direction, as she tried to weave and move through the crowd.


"Oooh...Where is it…? Excuse me? Hello…?" The nun tried to get someone's attention with accented English. Her accent identified her as Italian. Despite Japan having English as a second language there just weren't enough people who understood her. The ones who did ducked their heads and pretended they didn't.


She frowned. 'Of course. People are always so fucking selfish no matter where you go it seems.. Why is no-one helping her?' When Plutia got over to the nun she spoke up, in english. "Excuse me? Do you know the name of the city and where this is? I woke up on the bench-" She pointed at the bench she woke up on. "-over there and I don't recognize where I am and I don't know how I got here.." She pouted unconsciously.


The nun appeared taken aback at the other girl's sudden appearance before calming. She smiled tremulously with relief that morphed to confusion. "Ah...You don't know where you are either…? W-well this is Kuoh...I am trying to find my way around too…" She holds up the map. "Unfortunately my map is in Japanese…" The nun hung her head.


She pouted. 'Kuoh huh? So I'm in Japan then? Because the name and her map make me think I'm in Japan.' "Maybe we can try to find a sign it'll have the directions in english on it as well? Oh. By the way my name's Plutia." 'Better to use Plutia's name then end up confusing myself.'


"Oh dear! I haven't introduced myself. My name is Asia Argento. Pleased to meet you," Asia bowed in greeting. She looked around the park one last time before turning to Plutia.


"Where should we go?" She asked. The exit Asia came in through lead to a main thoroughfare. Another exit to the left appeared to lead to a bus terminal. The final exit seemed to head towards an academy in the distance.


"Hmm.. Maybe the bus terminal will have directions in english?" 'Asia? I don't recognize that name from any of the stuff I've read or watched..' She looked around, seeing if she saw anything unusual.


Asia nodded in relief. She might not know Plutia but anything was better than wandering a city alone. The nun walked with Plutia out of the park and to the bus terminal. From what could be seen someone did try to translate the signs into English. The effort was better than most at least.


"Mou...I'm looking for the old Church…" Asia moaned. She started comparing what was on her map to the city map on the wall of the terminal. After several minutes of searching she hung her head in defeat. "Why does this have to be so hard? All they told me is that it was 'Himagawa Street' but didn't tell me where that was…"


A bus approached the terminal while Asia sighed dejectedly.


'Mou? Xal does that whenever I do some friendly teasing with him.. Xal..I miss him.. I am going to punch ROB in the face...' "Who did? And lemme see if I can find anything…" Plutia stood up on her toes to get a better view of the taller girl's map and the terminal's map. "Himagawa street? Lemme see if I can find that." She looked over the map, focusing on the outskirts and then working her way towards the center of the map.


People got off the bus. A few minutes later the bus left after picking up more passengers. The map had the routes clearly spelled out but didn't show the entirety of Kuoh. It gave insight into the main attractions like the shopping district, entertainment, and even the locations of schools and emergency services. There were two elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. Unfortunately that didn't help with Asia's problem.


"I need to be more careful about what I say…" Asia spoke softly to herself.


Plutia glanced at Asia before sighing. "Lemme see if this has the directions to another map." She looked at the map more intently. 'Hmm. She looks like a nun. Maybe she's supposed to rebuild the old church or something? But why would she have to be on guard about what she says then? Something doesn't feel right here..'


Another bus pulls into the terminal. Asia stumbles as a young man steps off the bus and bumps into her. He angrily says something but neither Asia or Plutia understands Japanese. The guy throws his hands up before stalking off.


"My goodness…" Asia patted her chest in fright. It was clear she had a very sheltered upbringing. She tilted her head curiously as she patted her bag. A look of alarm crossed her face as she lifted the flap of her cross body bag.


"My rosary! Where did it go?" The girl looked about in surprise.


Plutia's eyes widened as she looked for the guy who bumped into Asia. 'Did that bastard steal it?' "What does it look like?"


Asia describes it as being a normal rosary. Red beads, white strand, and a silver cross. She was almost in tears at having lost something so important to her. Plutia's eyes danced across the area around her, looking for any trace of the rosary. "I'll find it Asia. I promise."


The guy wore a hood and kept his head down. He walked with a slouch like a thug. Casually pushing his way through the crowd towards the exit. Just beyond him was a cafe just off the main street. His destination appeared to be the cafe. Plutia frowned. 'I don't want to get into a fight.. But he probably has Asia's rosary…' Her eyes flicked to her plush bunny. 'Plutia can voodo right? Or whatever it's called with her dolls and plushies.. It's worth a shot.' She grabbed the bunny's left leg, glared down the thief, and pulled the leg back towards her, so that it would fuck up his stride. 'Please trip please fucking trip.'


The punk's leg jerked back hard enough that his body actually left the ground before crashing down. He let out a groan of pain as contact with the pavement didn't agree with him. His rather spectacular 'trip' drew quite a few stares to his plight. However Asia was staring at Plutia in disbelief.


"Was that magic…?" She wondered aloud.


Plutia shrugged as she tried not to laugh, like her favorite CPU, she was a sadist. "Maybe? Let's go get your Rosary." She walked towards the thief. 'So that works. I wonder if I can use HDD as well?' Once she arrived at the thief she looked down at him. "Do you know where my friend's rosary is? She's lost it and it means a lot to her… And well… you did bump into her…"


The punk was rubbing his leg and scowling. He let out a burst of angry Japanese that might have been profanity. When he tried to stand his leg gave out. Another angry burst of profanity slipped out.


"Oh dear…" Asia hurried over to his side. She didn't seem to care that others might be watching as a pair of rings formed on her fingers. The rings emitted a faint light as she ran her hands a few inches above his leg. He looked confused and alarmed at what she was doing but didn't try to pull away. She sat back with a sigh of relief. He managed to move his leg without pain.


The youth looked vaguely ashamed of himself for his language. He pointed at a spot just under one of the benches at the terminal. Her rosary sat just under the bench where it fell during their collision.


"Thank you so much!" Asia gushed. The thug stood up, shook out his jacket, and walked away trying to look cool. Mission accomplished!


'Huh. So he didn't steal it? Welp. My bad.' Plutia sighed and looked to Asia. "Let's head to that cafe to sit down for a bit. Maybe someone there knows the way?" '...So Asia can heal? What the? ...Did the universe or whatever give me a Compa?'

Asia's stomach growls. She blushes a bit.


"The cafe sounds good...but I don't have any money…" She bit her lip hesitantly. The nun shook her head as if dispelling bad thoughts. "I hope asking is free."


A strange feeling intruded on Plutia's awareness. Dark presence but benign. Clearly not human and it was approaching at a steady pace. Asia didn't seem to notice it though. What could it possibly be?


Plutia's eyes darted around, trying to pick out whatever the hell was causing the feeling. 'The hell is that? Did Plutia didn't have some sort of monster sense in canon last I checked.' She gripped her bunny tight, ready to use it at a moment's notice.


The sensation was triggered by a young man with brown hair and light brown eyes. He didn't seem to be harmful but the presence he exuded was what alerted Plutia. What seemed to draw his attention was the same thing the pedestrians ignored. Asia's public healing after the thug's epic belly flop. Having decided on a course of action he started walking towards the girls with purposeful strides.


She shot a glare at the guy as she subtly moved between him and Asia. "So do you have any idea of where we should go next to figure out where you need to go?"


"Where is it you're trying to go?" The young man asked as he overheard Plutia's remark. Asia yelped and spun around in surprise. To his credit the young man looked chagrined at startling her.


"Ah...ah well...The old Church on Himagawa Street," Asia said. She seemed even more surprised that he spoke English. His accent was nonexistent, strangely enough, and his wording was very precise but perfectly understandable.


"I know where that is. My name's Issei Hyoudou. Pleased to meet ya," Issei smiled.


"Asia Argento," the nun introduced herself.


"Plutia." She introduced herself as she looked the guy over. 'Why does he feel so weird? Better keep a eye on him.'


He waited a beat for a family name but Plutia was like Madonna and Cher. Divas only needed one name.


"Could you take me there now?" Asia asked excitedly. Her gurgling stomach reminded the girl that she was still hungry. She blushed more heavily.


"Why don't we get you something to eat. My treat," Issei smiled while looking over Plutia and Asia. He was making sure they knew the offer was for both of them.


Her stomach also growls. "Sure. Not like I have any money either… that okay with you Asia?" She looked over the man quickly for any signs he wasn't as nice as he seemed.


"Thank you, Mister Hyoudou," Asia smiled.


"Just Issei please…" He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.


The cafe was fairly busy at this hour. Despite all that the waitress found them a booth right away. Issei sat on one side with Asia beside Plutia on the other. The menu was, thankfully, in English and Japanese. Asia never had a hamburger before or french fries. The glass of cola was too sweet. She ordered a plain tea instead.


"What brings you to Kuoh?" Issei asked with all the subtlety of a trainwreck. Asia briefly looked down before picking her head up.


"Oh...I was sent from Rome to the Church here…" Asia plastered a smile on her face.


"It's a little run down," Issei said. Asia's smile became more fixed.


Plutia ordered a bacon cheeseburger, one with nothing but the meat, cheese, and bacon on it. Once she heard Asia she glanced at her and Issei. "I don't know why I'm here.. I woke up on a bench in the park…" '...Hmm. Something's up with Asia.. and what's with the fake smile at the mention of the church? Something is not right here…'


Issei looked concerned as he heard their stories. The expression on Asia's face was obviously fake and Plutia's story was just as worrying. He seemed to come to a decision and nodded firmly.


"I'll show you to the Church, Asia. And if you need a place to stay, Plutia, we can ask my mom. I'm sure she wouldn't mind," he said without hesitation. Asia stared at him as if he were the coolest person she ever saw.


"You're so kind, Issei," Asia smiled.


Plutia frowned. "I'll need to think about it…wouldn't want to impose too much." 'And now I feel paranoid.. And why does he feel so weird? I should ask him later if I can… And Asia is lying her ass off. And doing a crappy job at it.'


"No rush," he backed off.


After lunch it was time to hit the road once more. Issei was as good as his word. He lead them unerringly to Himagawa Street but that was when a new difficulty struck. It was like his steps turned to lead. Pure dread showed in his eyes but he pushed through the sudden discomfort. Asia didn't seem to notice his change of demeanor. An uncomfortable sensation washed over Plutia in much the same way it did for Issei. This was dark in a malicious sense and growing more vile.


The center of the oppressive malice was their destination. A rundown Church that had clearly seen better days. Issei's knees briefly shook just standing in its presence. Plutia could feel a faint trace of divine energy from the building but it was overshadowed by the overwhelming darkness.


Plutia's steps had been slow and consistent ever since the feeling washed over her, and when she looked over the church she frowned. "Something doesn't feel right. It feels like the air itself is dark and filled with hate if I had to describe it." She looked over the church, her hand clasped on the bunny's neck.


"Thank you for helping me get here…" Asia suddenly didn't look like she wanted to be there. She kept gazing at Plutia and Issei with uncertainty. The nun turned her eyes towards the doors of the Church without enthusiasm.


"Yeah...Sure…Are you going to be alright?" Issei asked. Unknown to him one of the doors opened and a gorgeous figure stepped out. Long dark purple hair and dark eyes surveyed the scene with amusement. Her generous figure was wrapped in belts and buckles. Four black angelic wings emerged from her back.


"She will be perfectly fine here, Issei. I know how to take care of people after all," the vile sensation exuding from her was enough to make a person ill. Issei appeared frozen at her appearance.


"Raynare…" He breathed with a mixture of fear and hatred. Asia looked like she wanted to be here even less than before.


Plutia looked over the figure before her glare met their eyes. "I don't know who. Or what the hell you are, but clearly they don't like you. So. Leave." Plutia's glare intensified. "Unless you want end up six feet under." 'How do I go HDD? Should I go HDD? Fuck it I'll choke her and then try to go HDD.' Plutia crushed down on her bunny's neck as she stared down her foe. Then, she tried to go HDD.


"Who are you to talk to m-me...me…" Raynare rubbed her throat in surprise. Issei and Asia were surprised too.


"I knew she could use magic…" Asia whispered.


"Magic like that...She's actually choking a Fallen Angel…?" Issei was surprised.


"You little mage...You think this will hold me long?" Raynare's voice came out from her constricted throat. She manifested a purplish spear of light in her right hand.


"Plutia! Look out!" Issei dived in front of Plutia to try and shield her from Raynare's sudden movement. His attempt at heroism, coupled with the belief she gained, synchronized inside of Plutia.


A pillar of light erupted towards the sky causing all activity to cease. Raynare's spear guttered out and vanished from shock. Issei spun around to look at what happened only for his jaw to drop in amazement. Asia was just as overwhelmed as he.


Within the pillar Plutia slowly rose into the air. Streams of computer code and iris light washed over her form. Her dress vanished to be replaced by pure iris light as she began to twirl in place. Arms and legs lengthened as her body started to grow. Her hair grew out to mid back length as a black corset and bodysuit style outfit appeared. Thigh length boots and elbow length gloves appeared on legs and arms. From her back six diamonds of iris light burst out before turning into crystal affixed to a mechanical device. The plushie vanished in a burst of code to become a chainsword.


"Oh hell…" Raynare muttered.


"So beautiful…" Asia whispered.


"Heh heh heh…" Issei drooled.


Iris Heart smiled as she cracked her weapon. "Now now now. What makes you think I'm just a mage?"


Raynare was obviously not prepared for this.


The universe might not be ready.

 

[dingbat779]

Witness the insanity born from myself and @ForgottonFuture ! (Not literally. That would just be strange)

Fallen Hearts


Raynare stepped back with a look of fear and utter revulsion on her face. The bright aura of good that literally shone off of Iris Heart caused the Fallen physical pain. She tried to shield her eyes but it didn't do any good. With a scream of raw fury she forced herself to stand firm.

"You think this changes anything? I have four other Fallen with me and four score of Exorcists! You're outnumbered!" Raynare snarled spitefully.


Issei's head whipped around from ogling Iris Heart in surprise. He didn't realize there were that many Fallen in Kuoh!


"Oh no...Plutia! Issei! Just go! I...I'll stay…" Asia lowered her head. Raynare started to look smug at Asia's admission.


Iris Heart shook her head. "We may be outnumbered. But I doubt we're outgunned. And I will not let Asia stay with you. She has been nothing but kind to me, and you clearly terrify her. So. Perish and be gone you lonesome worm." With that, Iris Heart swung her weapon, which segmented into a bladed whip, long enough to reach Raynare's face.


Quick as a flash Raynare brought a spear of light up to deflect the chain sword. The sudden speed exhibited by both Goddess and Fallen left Issei and Asia mesmerized. However chain weapons were difficult to block at the best of times. Iris Heart's innate mastery of her weapon made it a losing proposition. The tip snaked around the spear and traced a thin line across Raynare's cheek.


"Damn you…!" She grimaced as the wound briefly smoked. Raynare manifested a shorter spear in her off hand before diving at the hovering Iris Heart with both spears extended.


"No. I believe that will be your fate." Iris Heart launched herself into the air, above Raynare, and swung her weapon once more, this time aiming for the Fallen Angel's back. "What is it you even want with Asia? I doubt it is good, considering how much malice you hold in your pathetic body."


"Yeah! What the hell do you want with Asia?" Issei demanded angrily. The nun simply shrunk in on herself. Raynare twirled both spears as she twisted in midair to deflect the stroke at her back.


"The Church abandoned her. She was excommunicated for healing a Devil. We were the only ones willing to take her in!" Raynare smoothly cast her long spear at Iris Heart's torso before manifesting a new spear and taking a more guarded stance. Asia's face scrunched up painfully at having her shame laid bare.


Iris Heart's free hand shot out, and grabbed the spear before it touched her. "And yet she clearly does not want to go with you." Iris Heart hurled the spear at her foe before charging, blade aimed at the fallen's neck.


Raynare made the spear vanish before it reached her just in time to deflect the stroke at her neck. Fallen Angels lived a very long time so her skill with combat was reflected by that. Without pause Raynare shot straight into the air to get out of close range with Iris Heart. She glowered darkly at the new Goddess.


"I grow tired of this...Dohnaseek, Kalawarner, Mittelt! Get out here and help me already!" Raynare shouted angrily.


"I thought you had it handled," a dapper looking man in a fedora and trenchcoat said as he appeared beside Raynare.


"All this trouble from a newbie? Really?" A woman in a minidress, that did nothing to contain her cleavage, asked in a bored tone.


"Whatever. We'll just kill her and the Devil. If Gremory complains? Well she shouldn't have let her Devil out alone," a blonde haired Gothic lolita smirked.


Men wearing white priests robes and bearing light swords spilled out from the fallen church. Asia tried to hide behind Issei who was also shaking in his shoes.


'So Issei is a Devil? What's the difference between that and a Fallen Angel? Hmm. I am going to make these bastards scream.' Iris Heart backed up a step towards her friends before she, shot out with her blade as fast as she could, willing it to extend so she can cut down as many of the mooks as possible with one attack.


Moments before her blade could make contact a sword of light stopped the chain whip. He was white haired and surprisingly short with crazed eyes and a manic smile.


"My my what a slutty thing you are! I wonder what you would do without your legs?" He laughed.


"Dammit Freed…" Raynare facepalmed.


"Did he just…?" Issei clenched his fists in sudden fury.


Freed darted in with speed even greater than Raynare's with light sword and gun in hand. His erratic seeming movements made keeping track of him difficult. He brought his blade around for Iris Heart's lower back and thighs.


"Pay attention!" Mittelt, the Gothic Lolita, shouted as she dived at the distracted boy. Issei yelped as he frantically scrambled out of the way. He eyed the spot where she landed with trepidation. The reason? Her fist was buried to the wrist in the pavement. The Fallen slowly stood with a smirk.


"Oh man…!" Issei took a sloppy fighting stance.


Iris Heart growled as she twisted away from the attack. "I am not a slut. I am a Goddess, and you are ALL GOING TO DIE SCREAMING!" 'Let's see how powerful my magic is.' She thought as she focused her power on her sword, and her desire for this bastard and all of his fucking friends to die screaming. When her sword was glowing with share energy, she swung, aiming the attack at Freed, the mooks, the 3 Fallen that were not fighting Issei, and the church behind them.


For all of a moment Freed looked excited at her glowing sword before his face dropped. The maniac Exorcist fled the immediate area with all possible haste. Before her swing even completed he was completely out of sight. Raynare and Dohnaseek soared higher in the air but Kalawarner was too slow. Like the remaining Exorcists she was caught flat footed. From the tip of Iris Heart's chain sword a malevolently glowing purple light lashed out catching all within the radius. The humans simply ceased to live as their broken bodies flew through the air and into the shattered ruins of the church.


Kalawarner managed to raise her aura enough to blunt the worst but the attack shredded her top. She stumbled back at the sudden expenditure of energy before falling to her knees. "How...How did she do that…? How!?" The mature Fallen stared in sheer disbelief.


"She's stronger than I expected…" Raynare said to Dohnaseek.


"Our base is destroyed. What do we do now?" The dapper Fallen asked.


"The basement is still intact. The plan can still continue if we kill this damn bitch!" Raynare glared hotly at Iris Heart. Dohnaseek grinned in a bloodthirsty manner.


"Good idea!" He dropped down at Iris Heart as she finished her attack with a spear held overhead.


Meanwhile Issei was having a much rougher time than the Goddess. Mittelt was an expert at combat and he was a newbie Devil. The only reason he lasted so long is because of a red bracer that appeared on his wrist. It possessed a single glowing green jewel in the center.


"What good is a lowly Twice Critical supposed to do? It only doubles your power! Your strength is so pathetic it's worse than useless!" Mittelt taunted him as she continued to try and gut him with her spear. His shirt was torn as were his jeans. By some fluke of providence he wasn't injured but his margin for error continued to shrink.


Asia could only look on in horror.


"Asia. Help Issei! I got these bastards." She twisted out of the way of Dohnaseek's attack before swinging her blade at his neck, as she aimed a quick and powerful kick at his groin.


The Fallen had a look that clearly said he didn't like his choices. He prioritized the blade aimed to behead him as he took the tip of her high heel to the groin. Dohnaseek made a sound half between a wheeze and a sob before frantically throwing himself backwards. Raynare prevented Iris from capitalizing on his downed status by throwing herself back into the fray.


Dohnaseek wasn't exactly anxious to go back into battle with this opponent.


"Help...Issei…?" Asia gawked at Iris Heart. She was a healer not a fighter!


"Ahhh!" Issei cried out in pain as the cleansing power of Mittelt's light spear struck him across the torso. The new Devil writhed in agony as he dropped to his knees.


"Too bad. You were actually getting better but this is where it ends," Mittelt brought up her spear to finish the job.


"Yaaaaaaah!" Asia screamed as she charged the lolita Fallen. Mittelt stared at the oncoming nun with complete confusion. Her confusion was complete as Asia tried to tackle the Fallen to the ground…


...and failed miserably.


"What was that supposed to do?" Mittelt asked in genuine confusion.


"I won't let you hurt Issei!" Asia insisted stubbornly. Mittelt looked from the nun to the kneeling Devil. He kept clenching his jaw and trying to force his body to move through the pain. She shook her head before casually brushing the nun off. However a 'brush off' from Mittelt was still enough to toss Asia to the ground with stunning force. She cried out in pain as her head struck the pavement.


"I keep forgetting how fragile humans are…" Mittelt shrugged her shoulders dismissively before suddenly freezing. A subvocal growl stopped her cold. The Fallen was filled with atavistic dread as she slowly turned to Issei. His eyes were glowing strangely as the bracer on his left wrist turned into a full gauntlet. It had a pair of gold spokes pointing backwards like a 'V' near the elbow.


[Boost!]


Issei blurred forward and socked Mittelt in the jaw with enough force the Fallen actually left the ground. Before she could land, however, his other fist blazed in for a devastating hook punch to her abdomen. The Fallen opened her mouth in a wordless scream of pain as saliva flew out. Issei growled again but he didn't seem to be in the driver's seat. Mittelt would have plenty of reasons to scream soon enough.


Iris Heart moved out of the way of Reynare's charge, before ramming her blade into the angel's back as hard as she could, the goddess's face consumed by a mix of sadistic glee and protective rage. "Die you pathetic worm."


Raynare managed to shift slightly at the last moment. Rather than take her through the heart it instead exited her stomach. A fatal wound for humans but survivable for a supernatural entity. She used the last of her strength to push off of the blade and stagger away but her legs gave out quickly.


Issei's berserker rush still hadn't left his eyes as he continued to use Mittelt's face for a punching bag. With Dohnaseek and Kalawarner down all resistance was neutralized. When the Fallen stopped getting up again the boy calmed only to recoil at the sight of his bloody fists.


"What...what happened…?" Issei stammered. He turned to Asia only to see the nun rubbing her head from the sudden contact with the ground. She stared around her in bemusement at the sheer carnage. A wet cough near his feet said that his playmate was either dying or faking. The blood spatter hinted at the former.


"Plutia…?" Asia sounded so lost.


Iris Heart glared at the two fallen who were not in danger of dying. "Wait just a moment Asia." And with that, she readied her blade to remove their heads. "Any last words?" She asked them.


Dohnaseek stared back defiantly even as his companion, Kalawarner, quivered. He would not give her the satisfaction. A poisonous glare was shot at the other Fallen. The dapper Fallen scoffed.


"I would ask you to stop," a light girl's voice said. Issei turned at the sound with widened eyes.


"B-Buchou?" He stammered.


The girl who spoke had brilliant crimson hair and blue green eyes. She had a figure most girls would kill for and wore a school uniform. There was no mistaking the aura of power she gave off as it easily eclipsed the Fallen. Asia subtly moved closer to Issei to start checking his injuries without taking her eyes off the new arrival. The other thing Iris Heart would notice was how the girl felt similar to Issei.


She was a Devil.


Iris Heart frowned, clearly not amused. "Who the hell are you?" She crossed her arms, cauitous of the new arrival.


"Ah...Plutia…? This is my King, Rias Gremory," Issei introduced her.


"Thank you, Issei. I am the Ruler of this territory," Rias elaborated. She took another look around with a disgusted sigh.


"What a mess…" A young woman said as she approached from the far side. Her black hair was pulled in a high ponytail with interest shining in her violet eyes. She was taller and even more developed than Rias.


"That's Akeno. Her Queen," Issei said in an aside to Iris Heart.


"Oh dear…" Asia muttered in worry.


"Are you just going to stand there and let two of us die?" Dohnaseek found the courage to speak and gestured to the fallen forms of Raynare and Mittelt. Rias' eyes turned cold.


"I remember saying, quite clearly, you were not to operate openly in Kuoh. In the time since you arrived several people were brutally murdered by your Exorcists and Issei was almost killed by Raynare. I find I honestly couldn't care less if they died or not," Rias stated firmly with a tone so cold it left frost over the listeners.


"So that is why he was terrified of her…" Iris Heart sighed. "Let me formally introduce myself. I am Goddess Iris Heart, or, when not transformed, Plutia." With that, she dropped the transformation. As the transformation failed a dizzying sensation of exhaustion swept through her. Neptune would probably make a joke about 'overdrawn at the Share bank.' Even as she pitched forward Plutia was dimly aware of Issei somehow catching her.


"Plutia…? Plutia!" Asia's voice called from far away.


Her eyes fully closed as sleep claimed the newly born Goddess.

 

[dingbat779]

Notes: More insanity from me and @ForgottonFuture you have been warned.

Awakenings


Plutia was laid out on a sinfully comfortable sofa with her head a pillow. The rabbit plushie was laid beside her within reach. Asia sat at the other end of the sofa with knees drawn up to her chest. She kept glancing around the room nervously only to relax whenever her gaze landed on Issei. The brunette sat in a chair nearby with a complicated expression. He looked upset but also confused. His hands clasped and unclasped pensively.


"What a mess…" Rias groaned as she massaged her temples. She sat at a wide desk in front of a viewing window. The faint glow of sunlight said that it was near dusk.


"There wasn't anything we could do," Akeno patted her friend on the shoulder.


"Perhaps not but that doesn't mean someone won't try to blame this on us," Rias shook her head.


"Is Plutia in trouble?" Asia asked softly.


And with that and a small yawn, Plutia found herself dragged back to consciousness. 'So that wasn't a dream.. Knew it.' She looked around. 'Sorry if I scared anyone.."


"Plutia…!" Asia slid down the sofa and hugged the other girl in relief. Issei's pensive expression cleared with a smile. Even Rias and Akeno looked relieved. Plutia simply hugged Asia back.


"She isn't in any trouble. It was a matter of self defense. The Fallen did have an agreement for Asia to join their Faction, but I found out she didn't even agree," Rias was explaining for Plutia's benefit. Judging by Asia and Issei's expressions they already knew.


"Since it wasn't her idea we had some leeway," Akeno said.


"Stupid black winged chicken bastards...." Issei grumbled while making wringing motions with his hands. His King sweated a bit at his vehemence.


Plutia sighed. "Soo. Can someone explain the gist of the whole situation with the supernatural stuff? This is all new to me."


That brought everyone up short. Issei nodded in agreement as he was clearly new to this as well. Rias gave Plutia a disbelieving look before blushing at her rudeness. She coughed lightly in her fist.


"You are a Goddess yet somehow are unaware of the situation? I suppose you must be newly ascended. That doesn't happen nearly as often as it did in the past and even then it was rare," Rias glanced off to one side as if gathering her thoughts. She nodded once.


"The current controlling Factions are referred to as the 'Biblical Factions' comprised of the Angel Faction, Fallen Angel Faction, and the Devil Faction. As you have already guessed we are of the Devil Faction. I will try to remain impartial when explaining the Factions," Rias promised.


Plutia nodded, and got as comfy as she could on the sofa. "Hmmm. What's the difference between Fallen Angels and Devils?" 'She's probably going to be a bit biased… I'll talk to Asia later. See the differences in what they have to say… more info never hurt anyone. Unless your in a lovecraft novel. Then you're screwed. Also. Those 3 factions better not be pulling a shin megami tensei...'


"Fallen Angels are those Angels who fell due to sin that took them away from the teachings of God. They're a diverse group who have multiple leaders but rarely agree on anything. For the most part they're not difficult to get along with but some aren't happy with the current state of the world. There are those who long for when the Factions were still at constant war," Rias glanced at Akeno before turning back to Plutia.


"Devils always existed in the Underworld from the very beginning. Heaven naturally opposed us as the original Devils were barbaric and warlike with no care for cruelty and vice. Many years ago a civil war erupted between the old Devil Faction and the new for control of the Underworld. The new Faction wanted to bring about a kinder, more prosperous, Underworld. They were victorious and chose four new Satans to rule over us. Sirzechs Lucifer is the strongest of the four and my older brother. Next is Ajuka Beelzebub the scientist. Serafall Leviathan is my friend Sona's elder sister and diplomat. Lastly is Falbium Asmodeus the tactician," Rias explained.


"What about reincarnating people into Devils?" Issei asked. He blushed a bit in embarrassment but it was a question he didn't know.


"Devils have extremely low birth rates so they have to reincarnate other races to keep their numbers up." Surprisingly it was Asia who spoke up.


"That's right. Was there anything else?" Rias asked.


Plutia hummed. 'Reincarnation? That sounds… not sure what the term is..' "How does reincarnation work? And what was with the chess stuff Issei called you and.." Plutia gestured to Akeno. "What's your name? I didn't hear it."


"My apologies. My name is Akeno Himejima and I am Rias' Queen," Akeno bowed her head in greeting.


"Reincarnation is performed through the use of the Evil Pieces. I didn't name them," Rias deadpanned. She held up a Knight Chess Piece.


"What this can do is turn someone of another race into a Devil. The Chess motif is important as it also has to do with the powers a Devil gains. Pawn is able to promote to another Class with the permission of their King or if they are in enemy territory. Knight is a Class based around speed and quick reaction times. The Rook is a powerhouse with high strength and great durability. Bishop is the mage with heightened magical power. The Queen Piece combines the aspects of all the Pieces. As King I have only my heritage," Rias laid a hand on her chest modestly.


"Okay… I feel like you're not mentioning something however… Do the others need to obey you or something?" '..I'm probably being paranoid.. But a chess motif kinda implies a level of control over the others in the hands of the player-and-slash-or-the king…' Plutia yawns as she adjusted how she was sitting.


"The only 'control' is what is usually expected between a King and Vassal. If the King is too weak, however, the reincarnated Devil has the potential to go berserk. The system we use strongly discourages such things. My first Bishop is too powerful for me and had to be sealed away. Considering he is normally a shut in this hasn't been as much of a hardship for him," Rias laughed a bit nervously. Akeno looked similarly embarrassed.


Hmmm. "Anything else I should know?" 'Anyways… I'm gonna need to find a place to live… and a stable source of shares…. Plutia yawned. '..Course I kept my chronic sleepiness. Part of the reason I like Plutia is because I could see a bit of myself in her.''


Rias and Akeno exchanged another long look before the redhead slumped. Her friend and Queen looked inordinately amused.


"The important thing is that I am welcoming you into my territory. That should take care of the old busybodies who might complain about your presence. Issei has graciously offered to let you stay at his home. I have already had the work completed to make his home larger so there is more room," Rias smiled.


"Telling my parents they won a contest was the best you could do?" Issei asked.


"It was either that or hypnotize them and Asia was pouting at me," Rias answered without missing a beat.


"Hypnotizing people is wrong," Asia said. Plutia nodded in agreement.


"So you see? Much better idea," Rias chirped. Akeno coughed.


"Aren't you forgetting something?" The dark haired Queen smirked. Rias' smile grew fixed.


"Right. Kalawarner was the only survivor of the Fallen. She chose a unique method of avoiding execution," Rias had a plastic smile on her face. Issei gave an old man giggle while Asia merely nodded.


"Kalawarner chose to become your personal vassal, Plutia," Rias said.


From the next room the busty Fallen emerged dressed in a scandalously cut maid uniform. Low cut peasant blouse with a short skirt to mid thigh complete with a frilly apron. She had a bow at the back of her head.


"Greetings Mistress," Kalawarner bowed low. Issei's perverted giggling only increased.


Plutia sighed, closing her eyes and taking deep breaths to conceal her blush. And to slow down her heartbeat. "Go find something more modest. Please."


Issei looked scandalized at thought of covering her up, but Kalawarner nodded.


"As you wish, Mistress," Kalawarner replied even if she did look a little disappointed.


Akeno lead her from the room to find the woman something else to wear. Asia breathed a sigh of relief not because she was afraid of her, but because the busty Fallen was, well, bustier.


Plutia sighed and rubbed her forehead. "That's a wrinkle I was not expecting to deal with in any way, shape, or form… Anything else I need to know about?" 'For the love of me don't mention anything about school.'


"If you want to go to school you may register, but I can't force you to go. You do look young enough to be in class so truancy officers might be a hassle. That is if you choose to go out during the day," Rias shrugged.


"School isn't that bad. Except when the Kendo Club tries to punish you for peeping...Ahem. Never mind," Issei shut up quickly.


"Why would you do that?" Asia asked in mystification.


"Eh heh heh heh…" Issei had a trapped look on his face. Like he knew exactly what was about to happen. However in clear defiance of his expectations no one hit him. All that happened was that Asia pouted which made him look more miserable. Rias nodded slowly as if cataloguing Asia's technique. Plutia also made a mental note to mimic the pout.


"The same offer is available to you, Asia. You can go to school with Issei as well," Rias smiled. The former nun turned to Rias with sparkling eyes.


"That would be wonderful! Thank the Lord!" Asia clasped her hands. Issei and Rias both flinched. Asia blushed in embarrassment.


"That's...another thing...Light and Holy can severely harm Fallen Angels and Devils. Our souls can be destroyed if we are killed with Holy," Rias said with a pained grimace.


'..That.. doesn't seem fair. I can kinda get it with the Fallen, and even then it depends on what their "sin" was. God in the old testament was a fucking monster in some ways… but why does it do the same to Devils?' Plutia sighed as her thoughts went to the other part of Rias's offer. 'Hmm. School or no school… Go back to that pseudo-hell but get some new friends… ir stay out and have some leeway in how I operate… I need a source of shares after all… Wait. Need to check something.' "Does humanity as a whole know the supernatural exists?"


"The upper echelons in the Church do. They have their own organization comprised of Exorcists who hunt the supernatural. There are a surprising number of people who know about the supernatural world all told," Rias said.


"Supernatural beings rely on humanity to turn their eyes away from the truth," Asia recited from memory.


"Correct. It's not a matter of 'if' humanity discovers us but 'when' and we would rather be on good terms than bad," Rias said.


Plutia nodded. "Seems reasonable…" 'Fucking hell.. Can't decide if I want to take Rias up on her offer… I need to know more about how shit around here works…and my paranoia makes me think there's a catch somewhere..' "How will you handle the whole me and Asia not knowing Japanese thing?"


Asia slumped at being reminded of her lack of Japanese skills.


"In Asia's case I can offer her a position in my Peerage. Devils gain the ability to speak and understand any language. For you....Issei? What are your Japanese and English scores like?" Rias asked her Pawn.


"Pretty good actually...I catch a lot less flak at home if I keep my grades in the upper ninety-percentile," Issei said. Rias seemed shocked at the admission. What was going through her head?


"Issei can help you learn Japanese," Rias decided.


"Sure. Huh I could even use that for extra credit…" Issei tapped his chin.


"Is it okay if I think about it, R-Rias? I'm not sure I want to be a Devil," Asia looked down at her hands. Plutia put her hand on Asia's shoulder in support.


"That's fine, Asia. Take whatever time you need. No matter what you decide you will always have friends here," Rias promised earnestly.


"I can help you with your Japanese too," Issei thumped his chest seriously.


I nod. "I'll be up for learning Japanese.. And going to school. If only so I can get a better understanding of what's going on." 'I am so going to regret that… Now… How am I going to get a source of shares up and going? I'll need one if I want to use HDD... ' Plutia's face became one of deep thought.


The door opened to admit Akeno and Kalawarner again. The maid uniform was more tasteful but still form fitting. She bowed low to Plutia again before straightening.


"Perhaps we should end here. I hope you don't mind but for the time being we will say you are a member of the Occult Research Club. The same club I run," Rias smiled. Asia nodded excitedly.


"I want to join," Asia eagerly jumped at the chance. She turned a hopeful look on her new friend Plutia.


She shrugged. "Sure… any club rules or such?" Plutia looked to Kalawarner. "So. Where is she living?"


"As for club rules all we ask if that you show up. If there is anything you would like to study we will help. The only requirement is if it is a threat to Kuoh that you help us. Since you have already shown an altruistic nature I think we can skip the usual discussion. As for Kalawarner she is your servant. I already explained to the Hyoudou family that she is a maid in service to you," Rias smiles.


"Use me as you like, Mistress," Kalawarner said. Issei keeled over in response. Even Asia swallowed heavily.


Plutia's face simply turned redder then a tomato. "Oh me why.. Ok. Kalawarner? Stop with the sexy maid stuff. I don't want Issei to die of blood loss." She pointed to the devil, whose face was next to a slowly growing pool of blood. "Is he going to be okay?" Plutia asked.


The women in the room all looked to Issei.


"I think he was far from okay even before I got here," Kalawarner said.


Plutia glared at her minion, before making wringing motions with her hands, obviously wanting to start choking her minion. Kalawarner started clutching at her throat and making vague noises for her to stop.


Rias and Asia slumped while Akeno laughed in the background. If only for the insanity levels it was almost like the Hyperdimension. Who knew what the future held for Plutia? Hopefully it wouldn't quite as crazy as this.


Maybe.

 

[dingbat779]

Come forth @ForgottonFuture! You have been summoned!

School Daze


Issei lived in a middle income home in the nicer part of Kuoh with his mom and dad. His parents were kind to the new girls and insisted on being called 'Auntie' and 'Uncle.' There were signs that Issei's perversion might be genetic as his father discreetly gave Kalawarner a once over. At least he wasn't as blatant as his son. The mother simply gave her husband a thump on the shoulder in response. Asia, the precious little cinnamon roll, remained completely oblivious.

Plutia was put up in the guest room with Asia and Kalawarner. There was no way anyone would suggest bunking with Issei. Dinner was an interesting mix of Western and Eastern dishes as Auntie wanted to make them feel welcome. Conversation was made through halting English but just the effort made Asia smile all through the evening.

"I still can't believe how nice everyone is…" Asia smiled as she flopped back on her bedroll.

Plutia for her part yawned as she tried to burrow under her blanket as she felt tired still. "People can be complete and utter crap. People can also be completely nice…. Most fall in the middle, leaning towards crap unfortunately." She whispered as she tried not to yawn yet again. Kalawarner for her part, simply nodded and stayed quiet. 'Hmm. Wonder where I can get more shares.. I'll need those to use HDD, which I need to protect myself and Asia from supernatural assholes… Speaking of the supernatural.. Didn't Rias mention something about Kuoh being her territory. How does that work when in regards to the local government and people? I have so many questions and not enough answers….'

Kalawarner was given a sleeping yukata by Auntie. It was clearly intended for someone with a less generous bust as she was almost spilling out of the top. She tried to be considerate and wore a tank top beneath but her chest still stretched the fabric. The Fallen turned maid stopped fussing and instead laid down. After a few minutes she turned to Plutia with a curious expression.

"How did you do that before? Is that your natural form?" Kalawarner whispered. Asia turned over to face Plutia as well, curious about the answer.

Plutia yawned. "I used faith energy, which I call Shares for ease of reference, to transform… it was instinctual and I am still unsure about the exact specifics of the transformation.. Same if that's my true form or not. I woke up like this-" Plutia gestured to herself. "-but in retrospect being transformed felt like a rush, like it was just… right to be transformed." Plutia shrugged before yawning. "I wish I could tell you more… I don't know much more than you…"

"Like a typical goddess you need faith…" Kalawarner mused to herself.

"You are a goddess…? I was told heathen goddesses were all cruel or lied but you're not like that at all…" Asia looked conflicted. The Fallen snorted.

"Don't believe everything the Church tells you. They don't even follow their own teachings or you would have been congratulated for even having compassion for a Devil," Kalawarner sounded almost kind, as if she were trying to comfort Asia beyond being sarcastic.

"Plutia is a kind goddess," Asia decided. Kalawarner stifled a snort but didn't correct her. At least from her point of view Plutia might be nice, in battle she was brutal. The Fallen shook her head with amusement.

Plutia yawned, which helped cover up her desire to chuckle. She wasn't perfect, and her temper and sadism where something she has decent control of, they're tied together and Iris Heart, probably yet especially her-as-Iris Heart, could be very, very, very cruel when pissed. "Sooo I kinda know the basics of Asia's story… what about you Kalawarner?" Kalawarner shrugged with seeming indifference.

"My life wasn't terrible before this but it wasn't satisfying either. I was only following Raynare because she offered something to do. Much like yourself I enjoy the rush of having someone at my mercy. She offered me an opportunity to indulge myself. Facing you, however, showed me another path…" Kalawarner smirked faintly.

"I don't really get it…" Asia sighed. It was probably for the best that she didn't know of the Fallen's blossoming M tendencies.

Plutia for her part simply sighed and rolled her eyes. "It's okaaay. Anyways for me… eh, besides one or two big "bumps" here and there my life wasn't really that grand before I ascended… I don't even know why and or how I ascended in the first place." Plutia yawned, and burrowed deeper into her blankets, her tone making clear how tired she was getting. While she was aware of the Fallen's new tendencies, she was too tired to give a damn.

With that conversation gave way to sleep. Asia was too tired to continue. Since Kalawarner didn't want to raise her new mistress' ire she decided to sleep too. Morning would come soon enough for everyone.

The next morning there was a great commotion in the hallway. Issei was running late for school. He was calling out for his backpack. Apparently he left it in the laundry room for some reason. Where were his notebooks? At the kitchen table. Why were his shoes under the sofa? Even his mother didn't have an answer for that. Asia sat up on her bedroll with one shoulder of her sleepshirt drooping. She gazed at the door to the guest room with sleepy incomprehension.

Kalawarner didn't just sit idly by. She opened the door, grabbed him by the shoulder, and marched the scatterbrained Devil straight for the front door. Despite his protestations she tossed him out into the morning light.

"Thank you, Kalawarner. Getting him out the door is such a hassle…" Auntie said.

"It was my pleasure," she smiled with amusement.

"Mmm...Too early…" Asia yawned and rolled over.

Plutia for her part had cracked a eye open half a hour ago, decided it was waaay too early, and fell back asleep, cuddling her plushy in her sleep, gently snoring. Kalawarner had to admit, her mistress was super cute.

No one disturbed her for the rest of the morning. Asia was still recovering from jet lag after crossing time zones into Japan. The former nun was still up before Plutia and getting ready for lunch. Before the meal was served Kalawarner entered to wake up her mistress.

"Plutia? You have to wake up. It's time for lunch and you probably don't want to sleep the day away," the buxom Fallen lightly shook her.

Plutia eyes fluttered open, and as she yawned, they had locked onto Kalawarner. "Huuuuuuh? Sleeping is coooommmmfy…" Plutia's left hand started to slowly move towards the neck of her plushy, as the CPU was not waking up well. The Fallen maid gently rested a hand on Plutia's. As much as she probably would have liked the choking this was not the time. Considering she didn't know how the smaller girl would react, Kalawarner volunteered to wake her up ahead of Auntie. Humans didn't handle voodoo choking very well.

"If I wasn't a Fallen you could seriously hurt someone, Plutia," she warned softly.

That managed to wake up Plutia enough that she got up. "...Sorry… I don't handle being woken up well. I always feel grumpy as all hell when someone wakes me up…" She yawns and looks around. "What time is it anyways?"

"It's almost noon. Asia is already awake and sitting down to lunch," Kalawarner said.

Plutia nodded. "Best not to keep her waiting then. Anything planned for today?" Plutia started making her way to the dining room, slowly though as she still wasn't entirely awake yet however.

"Nothing actually. Is there anything you wanted to do? Considering your...condition?" Kalawarner was tactfully alluding to her status as a goddess. Asia looked up from her lunch and waved in greeting. Auntie was nowhere to be seen.

"Auntie had to go to the store to pick up groceries for all of us," Asia explained.

Plutia yawned and nodded. "Ah. And I'm not sure… maybe getting some new clothes? So I have something besides my current clothes…" And with that she sat down and looked to the Fallen Angel that served her. "Kalawarner? Get me some lunch please." The Fallen quickly got her mistress a simple ham sandwich, and as Plutia enjoyed her lunch she looked to Asia. "Soo do you have any plans for today Asia?" 'Small talk…. Greaaaaaat...'

"I don't really know...I found a place to pray earlier but Issei walked by and it gave him a headache. Why would God make it painful for good people to hear prayer?" Asia was apparently looking to start the day with hard questions. Kalawarner grimaced behind the former nun's back at the loaded question.

Plutia for her part shrugged. "Perhaps because his definition of a good person is a bunch of bigoted crap, perhaps he's simply a asshole. I don't know, and I honestly am just going to add it to 'more evidence god is a prick' and 'more things to question him about.' After I punch him in the face for letting the innocent suffer. A god who let's the innocent suffer when they can do something about it is not a good god." Plutia's voice took on a subtle yet deep tone of resentment.

Asia swallowed her sandwich with a loud gulp. She appeared subdued at Plutia's blunt declaration. The gentle girl didn't know what to think as she merely stared at her plate. Kalawarner nodded briefly in the goddess' direction. At least someone completely agreed with her.

"I don't know what happened to hurt you so badly...but…" Asia grimaced as she tried to put her feelings into words. She held the fabric of her habit in both hands in a white knuckled grip. The former nun turned to Plutia with sincerity in her eyes, "...but I'm your friend. I believe in you. Even if...even if you don't believe in God...there must be a plan...so I will just keep on hoping…" Tears started to fall down her cheeks as she tried to make her thoughts known.

Plutia sighed, and got up to hug her friend. "It's okay. People can believe what they want to, as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else. You can believe whatever it is you want to, and we'd still be friends. You were the first person to show me kindness here in Kuoh… it's just I don't think a plan that requires the innocent to suffer for no real reason to be worth following." Plutia sighed, "Anyways onto lighter topics how was this morning?"Asia leaned into the embrace with no signs of pulling away. Kalawarner clucked her tongue before moving Plutia's chair so the other girl didn't have to move.

"We should discuss what you mean by 'faith' and how to accumulate more. You were quite powerful but I notice you aren't in your strongest form now. Is this for conserving energy? Less threatening? I have no idea but we should figure out how you can get more 'shares,'" Kalawarner mentioned. She sat down at the table with her own lunch.

"Iris Heart. My other form's named Iris Heart. And transformation takes shares to do and maintain, and I burned through what few shares I woke up with when I sword-nuked the church. What were you even doing there? As for more shares… I don't know. Idoling or something that generates a lot of PR maybe?" 'There's the option of trying to start my own religion or even my own nation… but those are all long term, require a lot of work… and I still want to go home... That and I don't want to upset Asia.' Plutia tightened the hug, "You okay Asia?"

"Hmmm? Oh...Just enjoying the hug actually…" Asia blushed a bit. "You give warm hugs…" She ducked her head. Kalawarner eyed her for a moment before sighing.

"We were sent to Kuoh to act as an observation party. Observe only. Raynare turned it from observation to...well something else…" She cleared her throat delicately and glanced at Asia significantly. Judging by the tone it wasn't a nice reason. Asia wasn't blind.

"It had to do with my Sacred Gear, didn't it? I'm not sure what you wanted with Twilight Healing. All it does is heal…" Asia sighed.

"All it does is heal? Asia...It heals without a scar. There is nothing it can't heal given enough time. You are still learning and the Church wasn't exactly helping you with that either. I can do a better job of teaching you," Kalawarner said.
"Could you?" Asia perked up with interest.

"As long as Mistress says it's okay," the buxom Fallen replied.

Plutia chuckled. "Yep. You can teach her? And I give warm hugs? Nice… you sure your okay?" 'Thank me that we moved onto lighter topics…' Plutia sighed as a feeling of relief washed over her. "Also. Healing is a really useful power. There's a reason medicine is one of the most important sciences. Because it can save lives, like your healing." Kalawarner notes the questioning tone.

"The more she knows about standard magical healing the more efficient Twilight Healing will be. She should also learn at least a basic barrier if not some combat spells," the Fallen suggested.

"I'm not sure I could hurt someone…" Asia looked down.

"Barriers would help to not only protect you but others as well. Besides wouldn't you like a way to save Issei should he need it?" Kalawarner tempted. The former nun latched onto her words.

"I could save Issei?" She looked amazed. The Fallen smirked as the inexperienced young woman took the bait.

Plutia glared at Kalawarner, realizing what she was doing. "I want you to teach me as well. And have either Issei or me watch you when you teach Asia. Sorry to say, but I don't fully trust you just yet." Her glare softened. "Anyways, sorry for upsetting you Asia…." 'Oh hell I narrowly avoided breaking our friendship there didn't I…'

"I still remember how you helped me...Even when you didn't have to...That told me more about you than anything else," Asia smiled warmly at Plutia. The girl's faith was a powerful force. Kalawarner narrowed her eyes briefly in thought as she looked between them. A light nod showed that she reached a conclusion.
"If you had trusted me immediately I would have been disappointed. You seemed to be smarter than that. I'm glad I was right. I would be glad to have you sit in on our lessons since your divine power could make use of what I teach," Kalawarner folded her arms, pushing up her sizable bust. Plutia's eye twitched slightly, and despite what Kala believed it was not from envy.

"How would I learn? I don't have divine power," Asia protested.

"I have had magicians for students before. The agreements were always mutually beneficial...and quite fun…" She licked her lips in remembrance. Again the innuendo sailed right over the innocent young girl's head drawing a faintly disgruntled sigh from the Fallen. Plutia however simply gave the Fallen angel the stink eye for that.

"Anyways. How about we go do something out on the town or something to relax? Maybe shop for some books? My library's all back home…" Plutia yawned. "Any other ideas?" Asia shook her head.

"I just got here," Asia pointed out unnecessarily.

"I can show you around. There are some places that cater to supernatural beings. If you want research books on the various Factions I can show them to you," Kalawarner shrugged.

Plutia nodded. "That sounds good. More knowledge is always nice..." Plutia finally left the hug with Asia before turning to Kalawarner. "So where's the nearest place like that then?"

"It's on the outskirts of the city. The Gremory Heiress made them set up shop there and not in Kuoh proper," the Fallen said. Asia looked confused.

"Why would she keep them out of Kuoh?" She asked. Kalawarner coughed lightly into her fist.

"Because not all supernatural beings are kind to humans and abuse their general disbelief in the unknown," she stated delicately.

"What does that mean?" Asia still didn't seem to understand what she was saying. Kalawarner sighed as her attempt to be delicate failed.

"What I mean is that, for the most part, Rias protects the city from those who treat humans like toys," Kalawarner said.

"Ah...oh," the nun looked sorry that she asked.

"With that out of the way we should be going. We want to be back before it gets too late," Kalawarner respected Plutia's unspoken wish to avoid distressing Asia too much. She checked to see if her mistress had anything to add.

"Anything I need to know before we head out?" She asked, as she tried not to yawn.

"We will also get you something else to wear. Miss Gremory entrusted me with money for you and Asia. She believed I would not want to anger you by being dishonest. If worse came to worst I would have just used my own money," Kalawarner shrugged.

Their destination was an old warehouse outside of Kuoh. The bus didn't even go that far and instead dropped them off almost three blocks away. It was in a bad part of the city as well. Asia stayed between Plutia and Kalawarner with a nervous look. The Fallen strutted down the street like she owned everything in sight. Was it a trick of the light or was her maid outfit tighter today?

Plutia's own body language was cautious and on guard, and she was not looking at her servant's body. Instead she was looking around, her hand clenched on her plushy in case she needed to use her magic. "Kalawarner. You do know where we are going right?" It was only Plutia's worry about the surrounding area, desire to make sure Asia was okay, and her self control that kept her from blushing.

"They use a barrier to keep out others. Strange that they would have it set to target you too…" Kalawarner shook her head. She stepped between Asia and Plutia before laying a hand on their shoulders. A faint heat pulsed lightly through their chests chasing away the chill of the boundary. With the effect dispelled it merely looked rundown and not threatening. Asia flushed bright red as the Fallen's aura continued to pulse through her.
"Do you...have to keep doing that…" Asia squirmed.

"Until you learn to cycle your own energy I have to do it for you," Kalawarner replied. While there was a part of her that enjoyed making the nun squirm she was carefully dialing it back.

Plutia merely rolled her eyes, enjoying the warm feeling and Asia's squirming while not wanting to upset her. "They probably don't want me to swordnuke them, which I won't." 'Because I don't have enough shares… Hmmm. I wonder if Kala's caused me to regenerate any shares by working for me?' With that the young goddess tried to look within for her shares, while keeping a eye on the world outside.

There was a definite increase in her Share energy. The strongest sources were from the people walking with her. Kalwarner's link was almost a rope while Asia's was half the size. There was another length of Share 'rope' veering off towards the Academy a third as thick as Asia's. It was easy to figure out who else had faith in her, or more likely, in her dominatrix outfit as Iris Heart. Shares were shares even if Issei was a hornball.

"Here we are," Kalawarner drew her out of her thoughts. The place they came to was a dump. It wasn't a disguise or something. The warehouse was truly that dilapidated. Asia looked uncertain of their destination.

"Are we sure a good breeze won't blow it over?" Asia asked. The Fallen snorted indelicately.

"I am quite sure. It looks better inside," she promised while leading them to the door.

Inside the warehouse it was a considerably different place. It looked like a bazaar of the bizarre with all manners of wares. Hawkers called out to customers to draw their attention. There was a surprising number of people of all races in attendance. Plutia could sense the presence of Devils, a couple auras that felt closer to nature, and those comprised of raw magic.

She inched closer to Kala, as she felt uncomfortable with the sheer number of people. "Servant. I feel a couple auras that feel closer to nature, and some comprised of raw magic… what are they?" Plutia whispered as she looked around, keeping a eye on the people around her as well as Asia and her minion.

"The nature auras are yokai while the pure magic could be magicians or fae," Kalawarner said, impressed by her mistress' ability to sense auras. Asia scooted closer to Plutia in response.

"Is that bad…?" The former nun asked worriedly.

"Everyone is under the effect of a truce geas. By willingly walking through the door, of their own volition, no one can start a fight. Old grudges end at the door otherwise the geas will force a punishment," the Fallen said.

Plutia's body language had stiffened subtly at the mention of Fae. 'If these fae are anything like the ones from myth….' "Sounds like a loophole, they can be dicks as soon as they and their targets leave… Asia? Be polite to everyone here." She turned to Kala. "The fae… what are they like?"

"Capricious tricksters. Unless you deliberately offend them, or follow them into their fairy ring, they prefer to act like the modern interpretation because it amuses them," Kalawarner said. "They find Tinkerbell to be particularly amusing." She rolled her eyes. As an ancient she knew full well what the fae could be like. If Asia's little shiver was anything to go by she had an idea of their true nature as well. Plutia inched closer to Kalawarner again, making it clear she knew what the Fae could be like, in her case from the stories she read.

"Yep. Be very polite to everyone here. So anywhere in particular we're heading in here?" Plutia asked, before looking around, with Asia doing the same.

"We're going to a bookseller I know. You want information? He has what you're looking for," she promised.

A Fallen Angel, a neophyte goddess, and a former nun didn't even draw stares from the crowd. The trio were hardly the strangest looking group there after all. Kalawarner lead them to the back of the warehouse where a particularly old man sat. He had on a pair of spectacles perched on a large nose with rheumy eyes peeking out from behind coke bottle lenses. His hair was thick and white. He wore a clergyman's collar.

"Father Elric," Kalawarner greeted him. The old man turned to the shapely Fallen and merely arched an eyebrow.

"What brings one of your kind here?" He asked in a rusty voice.

"None of that, Father. We're all friends here," she cooed. Father Elric looked distinctly unamused. He turned towards Plutia and Asia with a much kinder expression.

"You girls look too nice to be lead astray by this old crow," he chuckled.

"Old crow…?" Asia tilted her head.

"It's a derogatory term for a Fallen Angel," Kalawarner answered. He nodded agreeably.

"Just like I'm an old fossil," he said.

"That you are," she nodded in turn. Asia turned to Plutia in confusion.

"Are they friends or not?" She asked.

Plutia shrugged. "Think so. And she's not leading anyone astray. I kicked her ass, same with her old boss." Plutia had a somewhat similar friendship back home. "Sooo. Servant why did you bring me and Asia here?"

At the mention of the word 'servant' he took another look at Kalawarner. He took in her current state of dress as if seeing her for the first time. His surprisingly sharp gaze looked over Asia before turning to Plutia. The old cleric leaned forward intently. After an indeterminate amount of time he smiled faintly.

"A new goddess in this day and age. How remarkable," he murmured.

"He can tell that at a look?" Asia was impressed.

"I was once a Heresy Examiner for the Church. However a particularly difficult case ended my career. Even now it pains me sometimes but I have grown to live with it. Kalawarner is actually the one who saved me," he smiled faintly. Kalawarner folded her arms under her ample bust.

"Completely by accident and due to an unrelated matter," she turned her head.

"Of course. So the Old Crow rescued me almost...hmmm...forty years ago. I give her a discount on books. I realize she's not 'on the side of the angels' but she's not terrible," he smiled at his own attempt at humor. His smile turned to bemusement as Asia manifested Twilight Healing and held her hands out to him. Kalawarner watched for a moment before laughing into her palm.

"Oooh...This is hard...but...I think...I got it!" Asia beamed happily as she dug a little deeper. For a moment her rings glowed with an iris spark giving Plutia a weird jolt. Kalawarner looked confused at what just happened.

"What the fuck…?" She started to ask. The profanity slipping out in confusion. However her question would remain unanswered as Father Elric started coughing. After several minutes of prolonged coughing a thick ball of something foul landed on the counter. The Fallen quickly burned it away with Light.

"The fuck. Asia what did you just do?" Plutia looked to Asia with concern in her eyes. 'And why did I get a jolt from Twilight Healing?' Plutia turned to Elric. "Are you okay?" Her tone was confused.

"I wanted to heal him. He had something nasty wrapped around his respiratory system and burrowing in his organs," Asia said.

"I...I haven't felt this good in years...As if the hand of death is no longer on my shoulder…" Father Elric smiled as he took a deep breath. His eyes were clearer now and bright blue. Kalawarner glanced between Asia and Plutia again. She tapped her chin thoughtfully before nodding slowly.

"Looks like you won't be dying in the next five minutes," she remarked.

"Indeed. What a miracle. What are your names? My apologies for being so rude," he said with genuine vitality.

"Asia Argento and this is Plutia," Asia introduced herself and her friend. The old cleric nodded slowly. He seemed to know exactly who she was once she mentioned her name. Out of respect for her ordeals he didn't bring up her excommunication.

"If there is anything you need then please ask. My store of books is completely open to you," he gestured to his wares. The old man leaned forward conspiratorially, "Including my special stock."

"Thank you, Father," Asia curtsied. Father Elric waved it away.

"I should be bowing to you. As properly befitting a Holy Maiden. No, don't correct me, I will never see you as anything else," Father Elric said kindly.

"Asia I think you just cured fucking cancer. Anyways Elric, I'd like a general history book on the supernatural world, a history and slash our culture book for each of the abrahamic factions, and a general book on magic." Plutia looked back to Asia. '...No limit to what she can heal with enough time and knowledge? ...If I can get home I am going to ask her to heal the people I care about.' Plutia looked to her servant. "Any books you can recommend to me Kalawarner?"

"Plenty and I know the old man has them," Kalawarner said.

"Let me get a few crates. I will also need to know where to deliver them…" Father Elric stood up to start packing. Kalawarner stepped behind the counter to help him. Asia glanced at her Sacred Gear again but it didn't spark like it did before.

Too many questions and not enough answers. Hopefully the new goddess had enough time to figure this out before the next crisis happened. The crates of books would last them a long time. Judging by how the Father and Fallen were talking it looked as if Plutia and Asia picked up another tutor.

The Wheels of Fate were turning and who knew what would come.

 

[dingbat779]

AN: Another offering from the minds of madness. Me and @ForgottonFuture.

Classes x Classes


No matter where in the multiverse you go there is on truth. There are no shortage of lessons to learn. Even masters acknowledged this as fact. The day one stops learning is the day they die. That didn't always mean learning was fun. School, by its very nature, taught students through rote learning. Regurgitating facts in an attempt to make the endless hours seem productive. That wasn't to say all schooling was bad but that had more to do with individuals than the system as a whole. The other kind of learning was often undertaken through tutors. Those who mastered a subject to a high degree. Depending on the person these could either be highly enjoyable or a dreadful bore.

Kalawarner loved her subject and it shone through. Teaching magic was something she enjoyed greatly. Asia proved to be an apt pupil with the right motivation. The Fallen just had to keep reminding the former nun that she was doing it for Issei. What Asia intended to do when she impressed Issei wasn't very clear. She seemed to think boys and girls talked, hung out together, and maybe held hands.
Filthy degenerates.

The other class she taught was about the various Factions. She gave it to the girls straight and pulled no punches. There wasn't any attempt to paint the Fallen as poor misunderstood sad angels being bullied over their urges. Angels weren't portrayed as high and mighty know-it-alls lording it over existence. The Devils weren't represented purely by their classical interpretation but by their modern face. It seemed almost painful for her at times to deliver the truth so obviously but she endured.

By contrast the classes at Kuoh Academy weren't as enjoyable. The language barrier was still a thing. Issei was kind enough to translate notes for them to read on the class. At least Japanese schools made more sense than others. Instead of the students getting up to go to other classes the teachers came to them. The only time Issei couldn't act as translator was in the locker room. Out of respect (or fear of Iris Heart) he did not try to follow them. His reputation was so poor with the other girls at school it had to been to be believed.

"You should watch out. Issei is bad news," one of the girls informed them seriously. She was a bustier girl in the middle of getting changed. Asia glanced at her bust and pouted. The implications flew right over her head.

"What do you mean?" Asia asked.

"He's a peeping pervert. His friends Matsuda and Motohama are just as bad," she insisted.

"He hasn't peeped on me…" Asia turned to Plutia in confusion.

Plutia shrugged. "We're staying at his place, and he hasn't even tried anything. His Mom seems to have a good head on her shoulders, and he seems to respect her." I'm surprised that I've hadn't heard any comments about my appearance, and how short I am.' "And his friends? What do they look like?" She had managed to change her clothes quickly, and once she was done she yawned. 'Do I need to punish them perhaps?'

The chatty girl introduced herself as Katase. She had long brown hair with the bangs in a hime cut and was unusually intense about her subject. By contrast her pink haired friend, Murayama, was calmer but no less firm.

"The one has a shaved head and the other wears glasses. Their freaky in how they just seem to know a girl's measurements after meeting her once," Murayama shuddered.

"We have to remain vigilant or they will try to peek when we change," Katase patted the shinai she kept next to her locker.

"Do you actually beat them with a wooden sword?" Asia sounded disturbed.

"Better that than let them stare at us uninvited. You should be careful. Even if Issei seemingly behaves around his mom he's still a deviant," Murayama lectured. Asia pouted angrily but it only made her look cuter.

Plutia too pouted, but her eyes held a twinkle of sadism. "He tries anything and I have tricks for dealing with assholes and perverts. Though don't beat them with a stick, if they get brain damage then you could get in trouble." She yawned. "Though doubt they'd be 'interested' in me." Plutia finished up what she needed to do, before looking at Asia. "I'll be heading back to class." And with that she walked towards the door.

"The one with glasses likes flat chested girls," Murayama warned.

"Until I see it for myself could you please not bad mouth Issei to me? He was kind to us when we were lost. He even gave us a place to stay despite no one asking him," Asia gripped her skirt with distress on her face. Without waiting for a reply she spun around and fled the locker room. If she stayed the former nun would have seen the chagrined looks on the other girls' faces.

Asia looked up and down the hallway but couldn't see the so-called Perverted Trio. She huffed once before hurrying to catch up with Plutia.

Sweet release came in the form of the final bell. There was just one more hurdle before Plutia could go home and catch some sleep. It was a club day and Rias had them listed with the Occult Research Club. The Devils in her Peerage went most of the time unless they had assignments. Today Issei would be getting his first job as a Devil. He was so excited he just couldn't stop imagining what it would be.

"Maybe it will be a beautiful woman who needs her groceries carried...Oh maybe it's laundry day…" Issei grinned in a perverted manner.

Plutia, who had slowly walked up to him, bapped him gently on the head. Well more she hit her doll on the head while using her magic. "Issei I'd say for you to get your mind out of the gutter, but I'm starting to wonder if your mind is the gutter." She snarked. "Anyways what's going on?" He rubs his head ruefully but rolls with it anyway. Getting clobbered by a shinai is probably worse than a voodoo noggin knockin'.

"Devils apparently take requests to earn Mana. Mana is used by the Devil to grow in rank. The sooner I get a lot of Mana, and raise my rank, the sooner I can be a Harem King!" Issei pumped his fists excitedly. Asia cut straight through his enjoyment with a simple question.

"Issei? Do you really peep on girls?" Asia asked in such a woebegone voice only a total monster would ignore her plight. Issei froze with pure dread. This was a make or break moment in his life. If he admitted to the truth it would shatter a young girl's faith in him. He glanced at Plutia. It would probably also seal his demise by the chain sword of an uber hotty. Seeing Iris Heart again would be nice but he wanted to live dammit! Thankfully, for him, his mouth moved before his brain or he would spent too much time agonizing over the answer.

"Nope! Never! Nuh uh! N-no more peeping," Issei grinned shakily.

"No more peeping…?" Asia wobbled unsteadily.

"No peeping! Right! That's totally what I said!" Issei turned to Plutia with pleading eyes, "Right?"

Plutia for her part put a finger to her lip and smiled. It was not a nice smile. Then, she looked over her doll, before putting a slight amount of pressure on the throat of the doll. "Don't peep. Or I'll get maaaaaaaaad~" She said, purposely taking on the same tone her namesake used in the games for when she threatened using HDD. If Kalawarner was there, she'd have been smiling a very wide smile. Issei would have recognized it.He rubbed his throat absently. However by Plutia 'not' disagreeing with him it reinforced his dodge.

"That's wonderful, Issei! I knew you were a good person," Asia clasped her hands together. Issei turned a genuinely grateful look Plutia's way. The flow of Shares from him increased. She could sense, dimly, that he didn't care about the threat. What really scared him was hurting Plutia and Asia's feelings.

"Yeah...I can be a good person…" Issei nodded to Asia.

The old dormitory was used for the Occult Research Club. Rias used her family's money to refurbish it and turn it into a tastefully decorated space. The furniture would not have been out of place in a mansion. Issei lead them to the main room and held the door politely. He did have manners after all. Inside was the entirety of Rias' Peerage. The King sat at her desk near the window with Akeno pouring tea. Rias looked up as they entered and smiled in welcome.

"Glad you could join us. Please come in and sit down. You already know Akeno…" Rias gestured to her friend.

"Pleased to see you again," Akeno's eyes lit up with warmth and something deeper. A depth Plutia would recognize indicating a kindred spirit.

"This is my Knight, Yuuto Kiba. He has the ability to create swords of various types," she gestured to a handsome blond boy with blue eyes. He smiled genially in greeting.

"Nice to meet you, Plutia, Asia," he said kindly. Asia waved a little before ducking behind Issei.

"And this is my Rook, Koneko Toujou," Rias indicated a small white haired girl sitting on the sofa. The girl was petite, even smaller than Plutia by a few inches, and stuffing her face with sweets. She looked up and nodded once.

"Ah...Nice to meet you…" Asia sketched a quick bow.

Plutia's eyes flicked from Rias, to Akeno, who got a nod from one sadist to another, to Koneko, who was somehow even shorter than Pluta… and gorging her face with candy. 'Damn my sweet tooth that looks nice.' With that brief thought she hugged Asia quickly and then spoke. "So. What is you do here anyways? I don't really know the cultures of any of the major factions, as Kalawarner's lessons have been mostly history and summaries at that, and I've been trying to read the books on magic I got. And how was your day?"

"For the most part this is a place we can gather without hiding who we are. We act as a support system. Akeno teaches magic to new members but I understand you already have a teacher. The culture of our peoples is very similar to Earth. At least where the Devils are concerned since most of us are reincarnated from humans," Rias indicated her Peerage. Akeno and Koneko briefly nodded after a moment's hesitation. Kiba was quicker to acknowledge.

"As for our day...It was good. The Fallen made a full apology for sending Raynare and now owe us a significant favor. Thank you for that, Plutia," Rias smiled gratefully.

Plutia chuckled. "I was just trying to protect my friends." Quickly her face took on a serious look. "Anyways, I'm just going to set some ground rules for how the club interacts with me, boils down to: Don't order me or Asia around, and don't lie to or try to manipulate me and her." She sighed. "Not that I don't trust you, it's just I have no idea what the supernatural politic- shenanigans is like." She yawned. "Anyways, anything you want to ask or comment on or something?" Rias' Peerage bristled at the commanding tone but Rias showed why she was the King. She merely nodded.

"As you are not of my Peerage I couldn't give you orders regardless. However I will always do my best to keep you up to date on what happens in Kuoh. As long as you do the same for me," Rias said.

Plutia nodded. "So. Any questions or anything like that for me? That includes you Asia, you can ask as well." She smiled, glad she was no longer dealing with normal school stuff.

Asia sat down beside Issei on the love seat across from Koneko. Kalawarner slipped into the room but if it was her intention to be discreet she failed miserably. She was wearing a Kuoh University uniform, which looked similar to the normal uniform, only a size too small with the top three buttons undone. Kiba managed to turn a new shade of red even as he glanced away politely. A loud smack indicated that someone forced Issei's brain to reboot. Asia minutely shaking her hand gave mute testimony to who was responsible. She looked equal parts mortified at her actions and strangely satisfied.

"I suppose I would be most curious about your powers," Rias admitted. What did it say about her life that she was able to ignore the sight?

Plutia for her part shrugged. "My transformation's powered by faith energy, which doesn't have to be religious in nature, and I can use that same energy to super-charge my attacks and magic, as seen with the sword-blast that leveled the church." I yawned. "As Iris Heart, I'm faster, stronger, and all around more powerful. Plus I can fly while transformed, in addition to all of that, I'm unaging in both forms." Plutia yawned once more, giving the gist while not exposing any weaknesses. "Any other questions?" Kalawarner poured Plutia a cup of tea in the meantime.

Rias shared a significant look with Akeno. It was clear just what they were thinking. No matter how well meaning someone was there was always something left unsaid. If you were useful there would be someone to try and use you. The redhead was a Devil so most likely knew this through her own lessons.

"Perhaps a contract would be in order. There would be too many chances of misunderstandings otherwise. I believe you are altruistic, and I hope to never give you a reason to doubt me, but this would be a way to protect both of us," Rias leaned forward earnestly.

"Any contract you make I want to see it," Kalawarner spoke calmly but firmly.

"Of course. I would not wish for anyone to claim we were taking advantage of her," Rias agreed readily. The Fallen looked in her eyes for a long moment before turning to Plutia.

"She is sincere. However I would like to know what this 'contract' would entail," the Fallen turned back to the Gremory Heiress.

"A simple contract stating that should she need assistance I do my best to provide with a reciprocal agreement. Essentially sharing our burdens," Rias said. Kalawarner looked to Plutia.

"Is there anything you would like added?" She asked.

Plutia nodded. "You won't reveal my powers to anyone without asking me and getting my permission." She looked around and smiled. 'Better see if anyone else has any questions… Asia probably wants to ask me why I don't like God..'' "Anyways, anyone else have any questions for me? That includes you as well Asia, Kala."

"A fair deal. I will have the contract drawn up by the end of school tomorrow," Rias smiled.

Before anyone else could speak up Asia proved Plutia right. She held up a hand hesitantly. After a moment of having the floor the former nun turned red.

"Why...Why don't you like God?" Asia asked. Just hearing 'God' was enough to make the young Devils flinch. She looked apologetic as her question was literally painful. Koneko waved it off without concern and Issei merely gave her a thumbs up. Kiba, however, folded his arms so tightly it was like a barricade. He sneered on hearing the name 'God' but refrained from speaking up. Rias looked on his expression with deep sympathy.

Plutia sighed. "A. How can a 'god' who claims to be all powerful and all loving let the innocent suffer, for no discernable reason. B. The very idea of eternal torment for not living up to the fucker's outdated and arbitrary standards. No crime is worth eternal torment, for eventually, no matter how long it takes, the suffering will outweigh every and any sin. C. How can the fucker not care, when their word and creed is used as justification for making the innocent suffer?" She clenched her fists. "There's some more personal reasons tied to before I became a goddess, but they are again, personal." As she spoke, a tone of resentment, well thought out resentment, subtly filled her voice.

Issei only had to look at Asia to have all the reason he needed to not like God. Who took a devout nun, who only followed the teachings as they were written, and cast her out? Hearing the pain behind Plutia's voice only made his hands clench tighter. Kiba's expression softened as if sensing a kindred spirit. He held resentment pertaining to God but didn't appear willing to share his own pain either. Rias' face fell sadly. She looked to her Peerage as if assuring herself they were safe before slumping tiredly. Akeno rubbed her back in soothing circles.

Asia's expression was the most conflicted. Tears welled up in her eyes. She didn't seem to know how to react. Her heart was torn on what to do. Like a woman diving into fire she half tackled Plutia in a hug. Through the tears she tried to apologize but it was unclear just why she was sorry. The connection she made vibrated with pain, sadness, and care. All the things her words were trying to convey.

Plutia let out a meep of surprise as she was glomped, before hugging her friend back. "It's okay Asia.. I believe in letting other people believe whatever they want as long as it doesn't hurt others. And Asia? You've done the opposite of hurting people with your healing." She tightened the hug before getting up. "You're my friend." And with that she ended the hug.

In an effort to move away from the emotionally charged moment Rias cleared her throat. Asia appeared grateful for being given an out.

"Ahem...Right. Have you thought of ways to get 'Shares?'" Rias asked.

"Could try YouTube. She's cute enough," Issei offered.

"Honestly with that stuffed rabbit we could just give out pictures," Kiba chuckled.

"Maybe pose with Koneko?" Issei looked between the two speculatively.

"Cat ear hairbands," Kalawarner smirked. Koneko bristled but subsided as the idea made Rias giggle delightedly.

Plutia couldn't help but chuckle. "Yeah yeah, I'm adorable. I was thinking of just going around and helping people though." '...And if possible… I want to figure out how the Ultradimension CPUs built their nations so fast. I mean Ultra!Noire was only a CPU for what… 2 years at most? And she built Ultra!Lastation in that time frame... And if it's possible for me to get home.. Or at least connected to my earth's internet.' She twirled her fingers through her massive braid in thought.

"If that is what you intend to do. We will draw up a list of our current clients and addresses. That way we won't be stepping on each other's toes," Rias said.

"Essentially Devils do the same thing you are suggesting," Kalawarner explained.

"Which is what I get to do today!" Issei pumped his fist. Rias chuckled indulgently.

"Yes you will, Issei. For today you will be with Koneko," she said. Koneko huffed softly.

"Stuck with the pervert," Koneko stood up. Asia unexpectedly pointed at her.

"He said he won't do that anymore," she insisted. The white haired Rook tilted her head curiously.

"...Okay," she shrugged. Asia deflated. The smaller girl was perfectly willing to take her word for it. Issei sweated a little but screwed his courage to the sticking place.

"Right! Why should I perv when I'm surrounded by beautiful girls, right?" Issei grinned. Kiba smothered a chuckle. Koneko wilted a little.

"This will be a long night…" Koneko mumbled before leading him to the corner of the room. She vanished in a flash of light. When he tried to follow her it didn't work. Rias and Akeno both looked flummoxed.

"Use Boost and then flare your mana when you reach the circle," Kalawarner instructed.

"Uhhh...right!" Issei turned a little red from embarrassment. His Boosted Gear manifested and chimed [Boost]. With that accomplished he was able to use the teleport circle.

"Uhm...What happened?" Asia asked.

"He didn't have enough magic to use the teleport circle," Akeno said. "Which shouldn't be possible even for a new Devil…" She touched her chin thoughtfully.

"He barely had any magic at all even before becoming a Devil. Strange for one who holds one of the Thirteen Longinus'," Kalawarner shook her head.

Plutia looked to Kala. "Hmm? Anyways I'd like the list please Rias, see if there's anyone near Issei's home I can help."

"We can have it ready by the time the contract is ready," Rias promised.

Kalawarner at first didn't understand Plutia's look before realization dawned.

"The Thirteen Longinus are Sacred Gears of such power, that with the right preparation, could kill gods. The Boosted Gear is one as it can allow the bearer to continually double their power. There is another, Divine Dividing, that is the Boosted Gear's counterpart. It is capable of endlessly dividing someone's power," she explained.

Plutia couldn't help but shudder as that made her thoughts to turn to a certain accursed blade that shall not be named. "Huh….. Anyways… If that's everything, then I'll head home if Asia is okay with it. I have some more books to read… maybe do some sparring with Kala." She sighed.

"Of course," Rias nodded.

There wasn't much else to discuss since much of it required a finalized contract. Kalawarner was a bit concerned at just how accommodating the Devils were being but chalked it up to her being young. Rias wasn't even out of high school yet. Asia was starting to do a good impression of Plutia so heading home was probably for the best anyway. There was a stack of books at home waiting for Plutia and some sparring with her temptress Fallen Angel maid.

School was back in session. Hopefully it wouldn't be too painful.

 

[dingbat779]

AN: You did it now @ForgottonFuture I hope you're proud of yourself.


Plutia Actually Does Something


School wasn't too painful. The Pervert Hunters left Plutia and Asia alone. The girls appeared more mystified than anything. Asia's words caused a rather profound shift in their thinking. Whether it took root was anyone's guess. Rias was as good as her word. She had the contract ready and a complete list of Devil clients for Plutia by the end of school. The head of the ORC let Plutia know about the other Peerage in Kuoh. Sona Sitri, head of the Student Council, and the other members were all Devils. Anime trope achieved 'All powerful student council.' It was as much a surprise to Issei as well. No one remembered to tell him that!

"The Student Council is full of Devils, the ORC is full of Devils (Plutia and Asia excluded), and Kala knows more about my Sacred Gear than I do!" Issei rubbed his head with both hands in sudden frustration. Kalawarner arched an eyebrow before turning to Plutia as if asking silent permission. Plutia looked up from her book, stared at Kala, and nodded. She then went back to reading her book, noting down anything that caught her eye in a notebook she had Kalawarner buy. The Fallen nodded gratefully before turning to Issei with fire in her eyes.

"I did not give you permission to call me by such a familiar name. My lady may do so, as may Asia as she is my student, but you have no such privilege," she narrowed her aura in a tight focus right on Issei. He shook with sudden fright as if his instincts were screaming at him to run. His terror rose so high he looked as if one wrong move would shatter him. At first the other members of the ORC were watching curiously but now were beginning to move.
"Wait a minute…!" Rias protested.

"What are you doing…!?" Asia gasped.
Issei clenched his eyes shut suddenly, breaking eye contact, and cutting off the effect. He sat on the sofa trembling but no longer in out of control terror. The perverted Pawn gasped for air with shaky breaths. Kalawarner smiled faintly with approval.

"Very good, Issei. It's hard to beat an opponent who isn't using physical strength. Sometimes you have to think quickly. Closing your eyes against my gaze was a good way to escape. Because the most important you can do against a superior opponent is escape, survive, and rely on your allies," she smirked.

"Wha...wha...what…?" Issei gasped. Asia sat clutching his arm comfortingly.

"I said that only my students may call me that. I was teaching you a lesson," the Fallen explained cheerfully.

"She's good," Akeno giggled.

"This was a test?" Rias demanded.

"Everything is a test. I would not risk my lady's wrath for simple amusement," Kalawarner lowered her head submissively. The Gremory Heir rubbed her forehead.

Plutia chuckled. "Anyways, Kala, please do not frustrate Rias anymore. She's been a good hostess for us." The small goddess yawned. "So. Lemme just figure out where I want to head out.. Kala. I'm thinking we look around where the old church was before I leveled it? See if anyone needs help."

"Devils find people by handing out magical fliers. I know the principle behind it if Rias is okay with us using that method," Kalawarner looked to Rias for permission.

"That is agreeable," Rias sighed.

"If there is anything I can do to make up for taking too many liberties, please ask," Kalawarner said contritely. Rias perked up with a wicked glint in her eye.

"You seem to want to teach. You can continue teaching Issei," she smirked. The Fallen briefly looked chagrined as teaching Issei would bite into her free time. She nodded in agreement regardless.

"We get to learn together, Issei!" Asia beamed.

"That's awesome!" Issei cheered. No one missed where his eyes briefly strayed to on his new teacher's body, but it was better than when he just ogled blankly. Baby steps. Plutia still flicked the top of her doll's head, as she had kept her doll in her lap incase she needed it. Issei winced and rubbed his scalp. He turned to Plutia with a rueful expression. His awareness of magic was improving it seemed. Koneko occasionally flicked nuts at his head. The fact he picked her out over the Rook said his awareness was growing.

Too bad that was the only awareness growing.

There wasn't much to add. Rias called the meeting early but invited her friends to remain if they wanted. Plutia still had things she wanted to do and opted to leave. Her blonde shadow decided to hang back and spend more time with Issei. However her Fallen shadow could not be gotten rid of so easily. Kalawarner looked relieved to be out of the group of teenagers.

"I swear being around them brings the worst out of me," Kalawarner groaned. She laid both hands on her lower back and popped her spine. The motion doing interesting things for her bust, but apparently wasn't done consciously. She was legitimately tired from dealing with them.

Plutia yawned. "Eh.. Issei's easy to tease. Anyways, let's head to where the old church was. What do you know of the area around it?" The small CPU clutched her doll, her books having been transferred to the bag Kalawarner was carrying.

"I know it quite well. The people who live there were resentful of the church's presence. Whoever built it didn't know a thing about planning. When we took up residence we used their spite to fuel our protections. I will admit it was a surprise just how much spite they held," Kalawarner said admiringly.

Plutia nodded as they approached the area. "Any supernaturals of note? And how did they feel about you?" Plutia hummed as she then went into thought. '...Wonder why they have so much spite?'

"None nearby. Rias is careful to allow only those supernatural beings who play well with others. Some don't or just think of humans as a food source. Most supernaturals feel angered at how the Biblical Factions are in charge in the modern era. We are able to cross borders with greater impunity. Most of them are tied to the land they come from. While it doesn't technically weaken them to leave they experience less acceptance," she explained. Kalawarner tilted her head to the side curiously as they reached the site of the old church.

The area was completely leveled. It looked as if nothing was ever there in the first place. She shook her head slowly in wonder.

"My my my...I didn't realize they hated our presence quite this strongly…" Kalawarner gazed on in amazement.

Plutia sighed. "...Did you do anything to them?" She focused on her sense for auras, to see if she could sense anything weird or supernatural. The feeling she received was of great magic buried under the lot. It felt weird like it was trying to pull at her. Without warning it gave a sudden sharp tug. Kalawarner gripped Plutia's shoulder and used her aura to break the connection forcibly.

"Damn it! Those idiots actually left that thing down there? I thought the Fallen would have removed the artifact already," Kalawarner said a word terrible enough it left a sulphurous smell in the air.

Plutia shuddered. "Kala? What the fucking ever hating heights of assholery was that? The fucking hell was it trying to do to me?" Plutia braced herself, if she needed to transform. With a sick sense of dread there was nothing left. A faint trickle of power let her know it was a temporary condition but the sucking presence ripped out her energy.

"That was a cross designed to extract Sacred Gears. The process wasn't without risks as it killed the one who underwent extraction. Your divine power must have triggered the artifact," Kalawarner by reflex was holding Plutia to her side protectively.

Plutia felt her stomach get sick. "Damn thing ate all my shares…." She sighed. "Can we destroy it?" She didn't like the idea that suddenly she couldn't use HDD. 'Reminds of what ASIC did in Re:Birth 2… I don't like it…'

"We might have to as it took your energy. It might not be a good idea to let the other Factions get ahold of this," Kalawarner set Plutia to one side. She held out both hands towards the lot. Golden magic circles appeared before her palms. Words flew from her lips in a beautiful language that Plutia could just barely grasp. With a commanding shout a six foot section of the lot burst upwards in a rain of dirt.

"The wards were still intact. That explains how they managed to miss the basement at least," the Fallen observed. She turned to Pluta "Let me go first." Kalawarner walked towards the stairs cautiously. It was clear she didn't know what to expect.

Plutia for her part stayed behind her servant, her hand clasped around her doll as she tried to relieve her stress through crushing it. "If we destroy it will I get my Shares back?" She looked around to see if anything was going on.

"I have no idea what would happen if we destroyed it but there is a way to extract the stolen energy," her servant promised. Kalawarner continued to step slowly into the gloom before stopping suddenly. A faint purple light pulsed from up ahead. The light felt soothing to Plutia but also very familiar. Her energy was somehow emanating from the light.

Kalawarner's wariness ratcheted up with this revelation. It was clear they were in unfamiliar territory. The closer they got it Plutia could sense Kalawarner's energy from the crystals as well. She had used her own power to break the connection. The Cross must have siphoned off her own power as well. Kala held up a hand as they reached the bottom. Just beyond the door was the source of the light. The room was filled with crystals emerging from the ceiling, growing on the walls, and sprouting from the floor.

"Well this is new," Kalwarner remarked.

Plutia looked at the crystals with apprehension. 'Is..is...ARE THOSE FUCKING SHARE CRYSTALS?' Her gaze flicked from crystal to crystal. "Kala? I think those crystals came from the thing eating my shares….." She paled. '....Aren't Share Crystals energetic as all hell? This place could be a ticking time bomb!!'

"There is too much here for us to collect alone. How dangerous are these crystals…? I sense my energy inside of them but yours as well," Kalawarner stepped into the Danger Room completely. She gazed at the gently pulsing crystals in wonder. Something about them was calling to her. The Fallen shook her head to clear it before she tried touching one. Halfway across the grand room she stopped.

The Cross was completely broken and lay in scattered pieces on the floor. That wasn't what caught her attention however. Laying in a 'nest' of metal was a perfectly smooth oblong crystal twice Plutia's height. It was laid out lengthwise. Within the depths a humanoid shape could be seen.

"Oh Hell…" This was now so far outside of her expertise as to shatter her composure completely. She looked on in mingled curiosity and dread.

Plutia paled as she followed behind. '....Oh shit. Oh shit. Oh fucking shit. CPUs can be born from masses of share energy. Is that a goddamn CPU being born?!!!.' She slowly took a deep breath. "Kalawarner. Are you okay?" Slowly and carefully she used her aura sense, ready to turn it off at a moment's notice.

"I'm fine...What is that…?" Kalawarner asked as she carefully made her way towards the crystal.

At the moment Plutia attempted to sense the figure within the crystal flared with power. Turning from a peaceful glow to a light as blinding as the sun. The Fallen held up a hand in surprise. She exclaimed in shock, "I can't stop moving! My hand is being pulled to the crystal!" Plutia would feel the same inexorable pull. Even turning off her sensing didn't stop the feeling of sheer inevitability. Her greater senses gave the neophyte goddess more information than Kalawarner had. The being inside was calling to them. It was like the passage of time, the rise and fall of the sun, there was nothing to be done.

"Fucking hell I don't want to deal with anything like the end of Shadow of The Colossus!" Referencing one of her favorite video games, Plutia grabbed onto one of the crystal, before using her other hand and the doll to try and drag Kalawarner to her side. "I REFUSE WHATEVER IS GOING ON NEP-IT!" She tried to keep her folding stable as she pulled the Fallen Angel to her.

Kalawarner was merely awestruck by what was going on. That, and she was desperately playing a game of don't touch the Nepping crystals. "Mistress are you okay?!" She tried to pull herself back to Plutia but the force doubled in intensity. The Sharicite Plutia held was starting to heat up to unbearable levels. It wasn't burning her skin but the sensation of pure Shares pushed its way up her arm. Questing, exploring, pushing forward without pause. It connected to her empty reserves and instantly refilled her power. The suddenness caused an ache through her body as it didn't seem to stop.

Plutia's grip was anchored on the crystal as it couldn't be worse then whatever was going on with the big crystal. She clenched her teeth, and drawing on her new found shares to augment her magic, tried to drag Kala to her. 'THE NEPPING HELL IS GOING ON HERE?' Kalawarner had conjured a spear of light and jammed it into a empty spot on the floor as she grasped it, trying to slow her movement

There was a vague sense of aggravation from the Sharicite as the two immortal beings stubbornly refused to give up. Kalawarner made a larger spear, curved backward, to make moving easier. She stumbled causing the tip to jam into a piece of Sharicite in the floor. The spear instantly turned purple eliciting a scream of pure shock from the Fallen. Her eyes flashed brightly once before the woman slumped bonelessly. Plutia felt a sense of contrition as it didn't really seem to want to hurt them. The pressure increased again regardless.

"KALA!" From shock Plutia let go of the crystal, and as she went flying she aimed for her servant. When she caught up to her she latched on tight. "Kala? Kala? Kalawarner I command you to tell me your okay!" The Fallen's eyes fluttered open at her voice.

"Just overwhelmed by sensations...impressions…" She was experiencing sensory overload. With nothing to stop the pull the immortals flew across the room and impacted with the Sharicite cocoon. Surprisingly striking a hard and unyielding surface didn't hurt. Instead the two felt a surge of elation and a cheeky impression of 'oh finally.'

The flare immediately died down with Plutia and Kalawarner sprawled out in the now empty metal nest. Laying between them was a girl who appeared shorter than even Koneko. Her hair was dark black with a purple streak. She was dressed in a dark purple hoodie and teal skirt with black and purple striped leggings. A pair of fluffy black wings twitched on her back. She opened her eyes slowly. Both were as red as Plutia's. The unknown girl yawned as she sat up.

"About time you got here," she chirped. Kalawarner stared at her in stupefaction.

Plutia blinked. Then she blinked again. Then again as her mind realized she could sense her energy and Kala's in the tiny girl. A blush worked its way up her face. "Kala I think the cross spat out a baby." Before Kalawarner could say anything Plutia looked to her aura sense once more. The girl felt to be between eight to ten years old. She was also brimming with energy from Plutia and Kalawarner but more from the Fallen. The Fallen stared at their...uhhh...child. Even in her mind it was hard to swallow.

"Me a mother…?" Kalawarner let out an unhinged chuckle in surprise. The girl looked between the two of them for a moment before seeming to slump. They could barely make out her muttering "Oh Nep I'm the straightman between sadists…"

"Ahem! Right! Hi there! I was born from Shares and the lingering Divine Grace of a Fallen. Meaning I was connected to the Divine System roughly ten minutes ago. I hate exposition fairies so I'll skip it," she nodded once as if that settled everything.

"What the Hell is an 'exposition fairy?' How does she even know about the Divine System?" Kalawarner rubbed her forehead as if to stave off a migraine.

Plutia's brain was more focused on the fact she now had a kid. As a result, the only logical thing to do was to transform and hug her new daughter. Since it was such a good idea she did just that. Iris Heart looked down to the small girl clutched in her arms. "Do you have a name little one? Or should momma name you…" And since Iris Heart amplified Plutia's protective nature… shenanigans were bound to happen.

Kalawarner was staring.

The child happily buried her face in Iris Heart's chest and snuggled. Her wings fluttered lightly with suppressed glee. Kalawarner impulsively touched one of the feathery appendages. The girl beamed as if someone just gave her a tanker truck full of pudding. She sighed contentedly.

"Lucifel. My name is Lucifel," she said happily. The little one glowed briefly and in her place was a slender sixteen year old with bright purple hair wearing a black bodysuit like Nepgear's. Her eyes were the same purple as Kalawarner's and her wings were now regulation sized. "Or you could call me Iris Daughter. The whole 'sister' thing would be hard to explain." The Candidate winked.

"She can transform like Iris Heart...This feeling…" The Fallen looked between the two in thought. Plutia/Iris Heart felt more 'synthetic.' Her Divinity was real but like she received it later. Lucifel/Iris Daughter's felt more 'natural' as if it was her birthright. She wasn't a researcher like Azazel but this was intriguing enough for her.

Iris Heart merely hugged her new daughter. "Can you please de-transform? It's easier to hug you when your smaller little one. Heh, and I wouldn't want you burning through your shares so quickly…. Kalawarner? Try and see if we can take some of these crystals back with us. A power boost may be useful one day." Internally Iris Heart was worried. 'Oh nepping me I've become a parent… what do I do? How am I going to explain this to Rias? At the very least I am keeping my little one happy…'

Kalawarner turned to look at all the crystals and inwardly groaned. Trying to move this much crystal would be a nightmare and it was probably magically unstable. She turned back to Iris Heart and nodded her acquiescence.

"I can manage," she said.

"I can help Kala-momma. Is that okay, Iris-momma?" Lucifel asked. Having transformed back during Kala's introspection.

"If she knows how to move it then I would definitely appreciate the help. Otherwise I would have to ask Azazel and he would want a piece to study," Kalawarner said.

Iris Heart nodded. "That's perfectly fine little one. Just be careful. I'll go up to the surface and see if anyone noticed this." Carefully placing her daughter on the floor, Iris Heart flew to the entrance of the building her sword ready if some...unsavory…. types showed up.

"How do we do this?" Kalawarner asked.

"You touch the Sharicite and will into a smaller shape. Like this," Lucifel touched the nearest crystal and shrunk it down to the size of a deck of cards.

"That's...I was expecting it to be harder…" The Fallen was confused.

"Keep your focus on it or it take your hand off," the little one cautioned.

"Now it's difficult again," Kalawarner sighed but did as her...daughter said. This would take some getting used to but she had a living legacy now. A legacy that might attract the attention of any number of people. The Factions would be salivating for a chance to study her. She wasn't the most motherly person but dammit she wasn't completely heartless. Unknown to her a fragment of Sharicite warped in her hand and melded with her power. The crystal turned into a golden spear radiating with her fury.

"Stop making End Game weapons Kala-mama. We have work to do," Lucifel scolded.

Kalawarner stared at the crystalline spear in her hand in consternation. She couldn't even enjoy the sensation of holding a weapon on untold might without wondering what her child meant. The Fallen shrunk it down to a pendant and put it around her neck. She just hoped tomorrow made a little more sense. With Plutia around it was highly unlikely. A faint smile crossed her lips.

At least she wasn't bored anymore.[/i][/b]

 

[dingbat779]

AN: @ForgottonFuture learns a valuable lesson.

Emergency Meetings


In a place far from Kuoh sat an office. It was easily identifiable as such because of the wide desk and filing cabinets. The only thing that set it apart from others was the white expanse of glass flooring and white furniture. A wide glass window showed a vast expanse of blue sky and clouds. All was peaceful and tranquil. Neptune would have hated how boring it was but the owner of the office liked it well enough. He was unearthly handsome with long blond hair and blue eyes signing some forms on the desk.

"What is this?" He picked his head up as a shimmer passed through the air. His finely tuned senses allowed him to understand the warning. The door at the far end of the office crashed open as a beautiful woman, clearly related to him, rushed in with a look of surprise on her face.

"Michael! The Divine System…!" She burst out.

"I know, Gabriel. I know. Please contact the Devils immediately. I imagine they will be in a similar state," Michael's calm voice calmed his sister's mounting panic. The second highest ranking Angel in Heaven took a breath and let it out slowly.

"Was I reading the signs correctly?" Gabriel asked in a hushed whisper.

"If it was the same thing I read then yes. We must pay a visit to Kuoh immediately," Michael steepled his fingers.

"I will contact the Underworld," she inclined her head before turning to leave. The door shut quietly leaving her brother to his thoughts.

"Why now?" He turned a lost gaze to the window. After all this time…

Michael closed his eyes and sighed.


The office was almost almost a complete polar opposite of the heavenly side. Dark wood and thick carpet made up the decor. The desk was a stately old thing that saw many years of paperwork. However both shared a single commonality. Their occupants enjoyed seeing the sun shine in through the window. The incredibly handsome man seated at the desk rubbed his forehead tiredly. He had deep crimson hair and blue eyes much like a certain Rias Gremory.

"What should we do, Sirzechs? The Angel Faction is requesting permission to enter Kuoh and I don't think they will accept vague promises," the woman in his office held her dark hair in twintails. Purple eyes shone with concern.

"Ask them if they would please wait until we can arrive in Kuoh. We can handle the investigation together, Serafall," Sirzechs said.

"I hope we can put them off for a time. Our sisters should be warned of their interest," Serafall said seriously. Her concern was mainly on how Sona would react to two of the four Satans coming to Kuoh let alone the Angels.

"We need to give them a breather given their recent difficulty with the Fallen. Please inform Azazel that we will not tolerate his desire to satisfy his curiousity. Just phrase it more diplomatically than that please," Sirzechs started searching his desk for migraine medicine. Thinking about what the Governor General of the Grigori would do gave him a headache.

"Azazel isn't that bad," Serafall pouted. Sirzechs favored her with a baleful look.

"Is that so?" He asked mildly.

"I'll ask him to stay out of Kuoh," she relented.

"If he isn't already there…" Sirzechs sighed as he knew the Fallen Leader's personality quite well.

There wasn't much Serafall could say to that.


The streets of Kuoh were quiet this late in the day. School let out hours ago and even the adults were home from work. The setting sun cast a lovely orange glow over the city. However the shadows were growing deeper the closer night approached. Skulking in the darkness was a shadowed figure dressed in concealing colors.

"Not skulking...Sneaking. Skulking sounds like I'm doing something wrong. Then again 'sneaking' is bad too…" The figure muttered as her internal monologue was interrupted.

Trying to get closer to the church would take every last ounce of her cunning. The impressive figure of Iris Heart could be made out in the distance.

"Just two blocks...I just have to make it two blocks...Man and I don't even have a cardboard box…" She muttered before detaching briefly from the dark wall and sprinting quietly down the alley. The figure eyed the fire escape a moment before deciding that would do nicely. As long as she avoided profiling against the rooftop no one should notice her.

"I'm not a n00b afterall," she nodded in approval of her own wisdom and scaled the fire escape with surprising swiftness. The stealthy figure hopped the short distance between rooftops while staying far enough away from the street to avoid detection. Her clothing was a black thigh length hoodie with lavender shoulders, elbows, and highlights. She kept her hair under the hood and a scarf over her lower mouth.

"Now let's see~..." the spy crawled up to the edge of the roof and peered over. She hunkered down and got comfortable.

Iris Heart was floating above the entrance, her gaze flicking from one street to another. She was clearly on guard. "Tch… I'm on edge… what happened was nowhere near subtle… so where's the response?" The goddess mused.

The observer kept her outbursts to herself. Her target for observation was already on a hair trigger. She tried to stay perfectly still. Missions were compromised by such stupid things as shifting uneasily, sneezes, and pure chance. A sweatdrop wormed its way down the back of her neck. Even with the antihistamin she took to avoid sneezing, and emptying her bladder beforehand, there was nothing to save her from random chance. A random crow cawed in the distance.

Iris Heart's glare locked onto where the noise came from, before noticing the spy. Before the spy knew it Iris Heart was rocketing through the air, aimed right at her.

The spy gawked. How did bodacious hotty go from reacting to a crow cawing from behind to heading in her direction? She ducked behind the raised wall and hunkered down in a tiny ball. With any luck the red eyed woman would fly right by her.

Aaaand then she felt someone lightly kick her. "Hello. Now. You're going to answer some questions for me. Like who are you, why are you watching me, and why shouldn't I run you through~" Iris Heart looked down on the spy, a not very nice smile on her face.

The spy dived to the side and rolled to her feet. She tried not to panic as getting up and close and personal with her target was not in the cards. Her hood fell back revealing waves of red-violet hair were revealed. She had a black circular ornament pinning back her bangs with a blue crystal. Her eyes were indigo. To Iris Heart she looked vaguely like Neptune and Nepgear but not. Her figure was more mature. Closer to the Adult Neptune.

"You wanna know who I am? I'm flattered that a goddess wants to know about lil' ol' me. My name's Uranus and I was asked to do a favor for a friend," she smiled but the way her knees shook said she wasn't calm. Iris Heart's passive aura was enough to scare the shit out of her.

Iris Heart frowned as her thoughts started racing. 'Uranus? That was the CPU before Neptune in the games.. And she does look like Neptune and Nepgear… Hmmm.' Iris Heart's free hand grabbed the air, and Uranus felt a slight pressure on her neck. "Now… who is that friend of yours? And what exactly was the favor?" Uranus clutched her neck.

"The...friend...is...Azazel...of the...Grigori…" She managed to squeeze out through her clenched throat. Suddenly Kalawarner's voice intruded.

"Iris Heart! Put her down! That's Azazel's daughter!" The Fallen turned maid would never raise her voice to Iris Heart unless she was desperate.

Iris Heart bristled at being told what to do, but she let Uranus go. "Doing a mission for your father? Such a good daughter you are.. May I ask just what the leader of the Grigori wants with me?" The goddess turned to Kalawarner and whispered in her ears. "You left Lucifel alone? I thought I ordered you to stay with her!?!"

Uranus dropped to her knees desperately sucking in air. Lucifel fluttered down beside her to rub the girl's back. The daughter of Iris and Kalawarner murmured soothingly to her.

"I was only doing what you told me. She suddenly took off for this rooftop and told me to stop you," Kalawarner didn't budge.

"C-crap...it was like the time I told Kokabiel to smile…" Uranus muttered.

"Take your time and just breathe," Lucifel said calmly. Iris Heart did not look comfortable with her daughter so close to someone she didn't know.

"Dad couldn't come here himself because of 'reasons' so I offered to look into the situation myself. I was just trying to help," she shook briefly.

Iris Heart nodded. "Understandable. And again, what does your father want with me and my daughter?" Iris Heart stiffened as she realized what she said. Lucifel looked up to her mother and smiled, calming the worrying goddess slightly. Uranus stared at her in pure shock.

"Didn't Kalawarner tell you? You didn't tell her! Of course you didn't tell her," Uranus jumped from one thought to another. She facepalmed in deep despair.

"This is not the time or place to talk about it. I was going to wait until we were somewhere safe. How did you find out so quickly?" Kalawarner demanded. The younger Fallen subsided.

"Maybe we should leave. This really isn't the place to explain," Kalawarner sighed.

Uranus stood and stretched.

"We can use my apartment. Unless you have a place," she offered.

Iris Heart turned to Kalawarner once more. "Kalawarner? Can we trust her."

Meanwhile Lucifel got up and hugged Iris Heart. "Iris-mama calm down, it's not good for you to be stressed out." Kalawarner muttered under breath about 'she's stressed out?' before subsiding.

"Azazel wouldn't want to inadvertently start a war. Uranus is trustworthy in that she wouldn't want to cause an issue. Why were you hiding anyway?" Kalawarner turned to the teen.

"Dad was very specific. Find out about her and try not to get killed. Since, y'know, the last team sent to Kuoh died messily. You didn't report back so we were blind," Uranus complained.

"The last team picked a fight with Iris Heart," the older Fallen said.

"No one told us anything!" She waved her arms animatedly.

"If someone told you about Iris-mama you would have approached her?" Lucifel tilted her head.

"Yes!" Uranus exclaimed with an aggrieved expression. Kalawarner coughed lightly into her hand to hide the faintest tinge of red.

Iris Heart nodded. "Bring us to your apartment then." Lucifel beamed at successfully calming down her mother.

The apartment was near the center of Kuoh. Uranus brought them in through the balcony window since all of them could fly. She had four wings as expected given who her father was. The inside of the apartment was stacked with gaming gear and manga.

"Got enough junk?" Kalawarner snarked.

"Junk? I got this from my dad! Seriously. Besides this isn't 'junk,'" Uranus flicked a switch on the wall. Runes flashed into existence along the walls and windows. She folded her arms with a smirk.

"What is this…?" Lucifel eyed the markings with interest.

"Anti-scrying wards, techbane, and anti-surveillance. The only devices that can get a signal in here are my own. It's foolproof!" Uranus laughed like a mad scientist. Kala rubbed her face in disbelief.

Iris Heart nodded as her eyes moved over the game consoles, reminding her of the gaming setup she had.. Back home. In a flash of light Plutia de-transformed, and sat down in one of the chairs. Lucifiel cuddled up to her mother, the two small girls fitting on the chair. "So. What do you need to explain."

Uranus proves to be a good hostess by bringing them tea while Kalawarner makes herself comfortable on her sofa. The younger Fallen took a seat after making sure everyone had drinks.

"Uranus is already aware of this but for the most part we've kept it a secret from the younger generation," Kalawarner said.

"A stupid decision really," Uranus commented. Lucifel and Kala stared at her until she fidgeted and subsided.

"It was a stupid decision but I wasn't going to tell the Faction Heads that. I like living thank you," she remarked before turning back to Plutia. "The God that you so despise is dead."

Plutia's face could best be summed up as a mix of rage, sorrow, and happiness. "Well, that's going to break Asia's heart…" She murmured, before frowning. "Dam-" Plutia caught herself. "Darn it. I wanted to interrogate Him and ask why He was so horrible at his job." Lucifel hugged her comfortingly.

"Hey he wasn't terrible at his job," Uranus argued. Kala held up a hand to forestall the younger girl.

"He sacrificed nearly all of his power to seal away a great evil. Unfortunately it left with him with almost no strength left and the war between the Factions killed him. If the truth got out it wouldn't just cause trouble in the supernatural world. The mundane world would tear itself apart. The faithful finding out there was no God, those who despise the church, it would be chaos. Michael is acting as God in His stead so the system hasn't broken down completely," Kala said.

"Yet," Uranus muttered.

Plutia's fingers dug into the arm of the chair. "And by keeping the fact that He is dead a secret you allow the wicked to justify themselves with His name." She sighed, and took a deep breath. "And what does this have to do with my daughter?"

"The Angels don't like it anymore than you do but causing mass hysteria is infinitely worse. Anyway…" Kalawarner turned away a moment as if wrestling with something. Thankfully Uranus remained silent. Both looked dazed by what they were contemplating.

"A-anyway...ahem. I 'felt' the moment Lucifel connected to the Divine System. The system that He created," she turned back to Plutia with a dead serious expression.

Plutia sighed. "And what does it do?" Uranus had a 'did she really just ask that?' look on her face.

"The Divine System is God's controls. Michael is able to use them, as first Angel, but not to the same extent God can. There has been no God connected to the system since He died," Kala glanced over at Lucifel who had the temerity to flash a cheeky grin and wave. Uranus smothered a laugh.

"And until Lucifel was born basically ten minutes ago…" Plutia guessed and sighed, rubbing her forehead.

"Her birth would not have gone unnoticed. The fact that Azazel had someone investigate is proof enough. Everyone is going to want to know where she stands. As her mothers our actions will be scrutinized even more closely. If we cause too much trouble it would only make things difficult for Lucifel in the long run. As much as I hate to say this I'm going to have to start behaving myself," Kalawarner sighed.

"I don't want to make trouble for you, Kala-mama," Lucifel looked distressed.
"You're no trouble, Lucifel," her quick assurance seemed to help.

Plutia merely hugged Lucifel. "Anyone tries to harm you? They can join the dead god in his never ending slumber." Lucifel merely cuddled up to her mother in response. "Also. Lucifel. No messing with the divine system. We don't want to blow up the planet or something dumb like that."

"I'm not the one strangling random people," Lucifel snarked.

There wasn't much to be said about that.

"Yeah...No harm no foul...I won't tell my dad. Let's not start everyone off on the wrong foot, right?" Uranus rubbed her neck in remembrance.

Plutia merely chuckled. "Sorry about that anyways… I was still on edge."

"We need a plan. Lucifel is still too young and inexperienced. She needs us to protect her now more than ever," Kalawarner said. The youngest in the room looked at her mothers trustingly.

Plutia rubbed her forehead. "I'll still be going to school if only to nail down how to speak Japanese. When I'm at school Kala you'll look after Lucifel. If anyone tries to do anything to her? Make them regret it."

"Gladly. However where will we be staying? I'm not sure how we would explain Lucifel to the Hyoudou family," Kala said.

"Can't she put her wings away?" Uranus asked. Lucifel scrunched up her face and stuck her tongue out in concentration. She rotated her shoulders a couple times and made a face like she was heavily constipated. Finally the moment passed as her wings disappeared.

"There! All done," Lucifel beamed. "I did good?" She preened. Uranus buried her face in a throw pillow to smother her sudden fit of laughter. Plutia merely nodded and gave her daughter a pat on the head.

"As for how we explain Lucifel to our hosts… perhaps a part of the truth?" Plutia's eyes flickered from Lucifel to Kala.

Kalawarner nodded in agreement. It would be easier to say that Lucifel was her daughter. Trying to explain her unusual relationship with Plutia would require either hypnotism or lots of vodka. Uranus managed to get her laughter under control.

"I guess it's time to come in our of the cold. If I don't reveal myself now dad would have trouble down the line. Ah well. It was nice being a free agent while it lasted," Uranus shook her head.

If the Fallen Angel woman and teen were right Plutia's task grew even more difficult. She would need to grow stronger and quickly. Clearly the prologue was over and now it was time for the real game to begin.

 

[dingbat779]

AN: In which @ForgottonFuture inflicts massive burn damage.

Concerns of a New Mother


Explaining Lucifel to Auntie Hyoudou wasn't too difficult. The little Fallen was just so adorable the older woman melted. Asia was wrapped around her little finger by the end of dinner. She didn't need hypnotic powers to completely turn the household to her whims. Good thing she was too innocent to do anything with her powers of mental domination.

"Kalawarner and Plutia had a daughter…" Issei mumbled. His poor perverted brain overloaded.

"We didn't tell you so you could have bizarre fantasies. Knock it off already," Kalawarner scolded. She was clearly itching to discipline him but Lucifel gave her sad eyes. The older Fallen wasn't strong enough to resist. Plutia meanwhile was glaring at Issei, clearly figuring how how to punish him without upsetting Lucifel.

"Issei please...This is serious...God was reborn as Lucifel," Asia fretted. She was distressed over finding out God was dead only to meet Him as a Her. Alcohol should have been involved with the big reveal. Getting her drunk might have made it easier.

"God is a girl...Like that American movie 'Dogma'..." Issei snickered.

"What's Dogma?" Lucifel tilted her head cutely.

Plutia shrugged, breaking her death glare. "A movie I haven't seen before." The goddess hugged her daughter.

Lucifel hugged back. "Maybe we can watch it later? With Asia and Issei and Kala-Mama?" She asked.

Plutia bit her lip. "Later. After I've seen it first." Kalawarner nodded. Issei leaned closer to Plutia.

"Good call," he whispered. When Lucifel first mentioned watching Dogma he started shaking his head discreetly.

"I'm not sure how I feel knowing that G-god is dead…" Asia stammered. Lucifel took her hand kindly.

"He died saving the world from a great evil," she said comfortingly. Plutia held her tongue, as to not ruin her daughter's attempt at cheering up Asia.

"Then why are so many atrocities committed in His name? Is it because He's not here to stop them?" Asia squeezed her eyes shut painfully.

"I wasn't really interested in 'God' and all that. People should do the right thing because it's right. Not because they're afraid of punishment," Issei said.

"...And leering at girls without their permission is good?" Kalawarner frowned. She wasn't calling him out on his former behavior. It was just curiousity. Issei flinched as if struck.

"It's not right...I know that now…" Issei nodded.

"Plutia-mama? Is he the purest hearted pervert in the world?" Lucifel asked. Issei visibly paled and sweated. Asia tried to comfort him but that innocent question speared him through. Plutia for her part simply pulled out her bunny and flicked it in the nose, all while glaring at Issei.

"Not sure. Never really met any perverts before all this. But, I do like your idea of doing something with everyone… I've spent a lot of my time here sleeping, reading, or trying to figure out what to do next…." The goddess sighed. "Any ideas?"

"We need to gather strength. At the moment we're safe as no one wants to anger the Satans by entering Kuoh without permission. However that won't remain true for long. We'll step up your training and work on your magic," Kalawarner made sure Plutia and Asia knew she was talking to them.

"Can I join?" Lucifel asked. Kala stroked her hair.

"Of course you may," she said. The little Fallen beamed happily.

"How can I help?" Issei asked. The older Fallen grimaced.

"Sorry, Issei. I can teach you but there is nothing you can do to help. It wouldn't look good if you aided us when you are Rias' Pawn," Kalawarner explained. It would be a political dumpster fire. Plutia sighed. She hates politics.

"Okay…" He slumped dejectedly. Asia wormed her way under his arm eliciting a small smile from the downhearted boy.

Plutia mere gave Issei a pat on the head. "I was thinking we train HDD. If we can make it more efficient I don't need to worry about fainting like the first time I used it… That and I like being Iris Heart." She smiled.

Lucifel perked up. "Mamas I wanna see what I can do as Iris Daughter as well!" Plutia nodded at that.

"She can transform too?" Issei's head jerked up. He remembered what Iris Heart could do. To his credit his eyes didn't instantly glaze at the memory of Iris Heart. He shrunk under Plutia's glare of 'stare at Iris Daughter and you will know pain.'

"Yup!" Lucifel bounced excitedly.

"I guess it makes sense…" Asia managed to work up some enthusiasm.

"We should find a place to practice. Perhaps the Underworld... " Kala mused to herself.

"Like...Hell?" Asia asked.

"The Underworld is a realm like any other. We'll have plenty of space to train. I can get us to the Fallen controlled area," she promised.

"Maybe Rias would let me go!" Issei perked up.

"Maybe…" Kalawarner hedged.

"Would I be able to go?" Asia asked.

"Of course," she agreed.

Plutia hummed in thought. "First I need to talk to Rias. Lucifel would you like to come with me?"

Lucifel nodded and clung to her mother's side. "Kala you're coming with me as well." Plutia started on her way out, Lucifel following her.

Issei and Asia got up to follow them. Kalawarner took up the rear position. She was clearly assessing them if the worst happened. Issei's berserker fury that brought down Mitelt was filed away. It wasn't something to rely on. During the walk she discussed what training he needed. The young man listened attentively as it was clear the subject was important. Asia's role was essentially the same as Compa's. Stay in the back and heal when there are better fighters present. It was unclear just what role Lucifel would fill in combat. She didn't have the same attitude as Peashy so it was doubtful she was melee.

"Oh! Hey guys!" Uranus called to the procession. She was exiting the Occult Research Club building.

Plutia waved. "Hiya Uranus. Just talked to Rias? I'm on my way to do that before training then hopefully relaxing back home."

"My ears are ringing. She wasn't exactly happy to hear I was operating in Kuoh without telling her. If I want to stick around I have to keep her informed on anything Fallen related. Small price to pay considering she could have just kicked me out," Uranus shrugged.

"And being Azazel's daughter your information would be from the source," Kala smirked shrewdly.

"Bingo. Rias is a smart cookie," Uranus smiled.

"Is she in a bad mood?" Issei asked. The Faction Leader's daughter sniffed.

"She's very happy actually. She has a back channel with the Fallen," she explained.

Plutia sighed. "That's good to hear at least." With that she entered the club, Kala and Lucifel at her side. "Rias? I need to speak with you."

"What can I do for you…" Rias trailed off as she caught sight of Lucifel. The young girl waved eliciting a bemused smile and a return wave.

"I'm not surprised that she would sense something...Considering who her brother is anyway," Kalawarner murmured.

"Ahem...what's going on here? Are we suddenly playing host to the Fallen?" Rias looked puzzled.

"Well you see I'm actually-mmph!" Lucifel had her mouth covered by Kalawarner quickly. The older Fallen gave her a slightly exasperated look.

"Tact, dear. Tact. We almost broke Asia, remember?" She asked rhetorically. Asia wobbled unsteadily in the background as if to illustrate her point.

"Sorry Kala-mama," Lucifel pouted.

Plutia rubbed her forehead. "To sum it up, there was a sacred gear extracting thing in the base under the old church, it tried to eat my shares, overloaded, and now the area it was in is covered in crystals. Not the important part. The important part is that much of my shares plus Kalawarner's own energy was enough to create a new goddess, same kind as I am. That's how Lucifel here, my daughter, was born. She's staying with me because where else would she stay… In addition she's somehow managed to link up to the Divine System… so there may be attention focused here. Not sure."

"How could she connect to the Divine System? God controls that…" Rias winced at mentioning 'God.' She was hit with too much information at once and clung to something to steady herself.

"I am in so much trouble for telling so many people-"

Plutia interrupted Kala. "Because the fucker, and Lucifel never use that word, is dead." Asia whimpered in the background. Even as Issei put his arm around her he sent a sharp glare at the back of Plutia's head. Lucifel looked back at Asia, biting her lower lip in distress.

"You may have an issue with 'God' but that does not give you the right to act so heartlessly," Rias stated firmly. Seeing the gentle girl so distressed caused the Devil to see red.

"Yes, God is dead, and Plutia has strong feelings about Him. Can we please calm down?" Kalawarner looked uncomfortable playing the part of peacemaker. Reluctantly, Issei backed down, but Plutia would feel the connection to him fray. Asia's own thread was thinning but it would take more to break her belief.

Plutia for her part facepalmed and shrunk onto herself, her body language making it clear she was upset with herself. "...I really need to get my temper under control around that topic…" She sighed, "Sorry Asia… I'll see if I can get ice cream or something to make up…"

Lucifel hugged her mother tight, clearly trying to cheer up the older goddess. "Anyways, anything else of note Rias that we need to know about?" Plutia asked.

Rias took a deep breath to steady herself.

"At the moment there is nothing. Please, Plutia. Keep a reign on your temper. I know you're a good person but thoughtless words have ruined more than a few friendships," Rias said softly.

Plutia nodded. "Yeah.. uck…. training's gonna be delayed then… I just want to relax and calm down." Plutia sighed, the goddess's body language making it clear how tired she was.

Everyone was tired. Anger was fierce but it often left everyone burned. Asia brushed Plutia's shoulder lightly. She was still feeling hurt but her kind heart didn't like to see a friend so tired. For her sake Issei managed to keep his peace but the bond was tenuous. He was one step from the edge. Lucifel sent waves of love along the connection but she didn't know how to magically make it better.

Hopefully tomorrow would be a better day. As soon as they got home Plutia curled up on the couch and started trying to keep her emotions calm after nearly fucking up two of her friendships, when she doesn't have a lot of friends. Lucifel snuggled up to her mother and hugged her. Plutia's face made it clear she wanted to fix things, but wasn't sure how.

"Talk to them. Tell them what they mean to you. Sometimes the best thing to do is talk," Lucifel brushed her mother's hair with a tender hand. A peculiarly old gesture.

"That works… uck… I'm horrible at dealing with people.." The goddess got up, and looked for Asia and Issei. She was able to find Asia readily enough. The former nun was seated on the couch hugging a throw pillow.

"Plutia…?" Asia looked up as she entered.

"Hey Asia… wanted to say I'm sorry for losing my temper like that… I… you're my friend and I feel horrible for upsetting you…" Plutia sighed, her long braided ponytail seemed to be hiding behind her, a reflection of her upset mood.

"Come here…" Asia set the pillow aside and held her arms open to the repentant goddess. "Why don't you help me understand?" She was opening her heart to really listen.

Plutia hugged her. "...I can have trouble explaining emotional stuff at times.. Would it be ok if you asked questions and I answer?"

"What hurts?" Asia asked softly.

Plutia sighed. "What do you mean? ...Cause to be honest a lot of stuff…"

"Tell whatever you want. You don't have to tell me everything. I just think that maybe you keep too much bottled up inside," Asia stroked her hair.

Plutia hugged Asia tighter. "...I miss my home.. I miss my friends back home… They where basically family..."

"You poor thing…" Asia murmured sympathetically. She nuzzled Plutia's hair comfortingly.

Plutia sighed. "And I looked up myself using the school computers, and I didn't find any news about me vanishing from the states… found nothing about me at all in fact… So now I'm worrying if this is even my world or not, and everything I found points to not." Plutia didn't mention she used her old name for the search, as it didn't matter.

"It might not be the same but I know you have a home here...You don't need to be so strong all the time...We're here if you need a shoulder," Asia spoke soothingly.

Plutia nodded, trying not to cry. "Thanks… It's...I'm just used to being the strong one I guess when it comes to emotional stuff…"

"You were strong for me when we first met. The least I can do is return the favor," she said with a tender smile."

Plutia hugged Asia, while Lucifel hugged the both of them. "Thanks.. Any questions? Again I find it easier to answer questions then it is to well… talk.."

"Can we start over? I feel like you weren't at your best...You were so kind to me when we first met. I guess the stress has been getting to you," Asia offered the olive branch.

"Yeah… it has been getting to me… I have to deal with my studies from Kala, learning Japanese, getting shares, making sure everyone is okay, and I've just never been the best with people… and now I have to keep Lucifel safe as the supernatural world focuses on her… and my temper is not helping…" Plutia sighed. Asia rubbed her back gently.

"You're not alone. Just take it one step at a time. The most important thing I learned is that patience is a virtue," Asia smiled.

Plutia shrugged. "I..I've never been good with being patient." Lucifel hugged her mother. She stayed back to let the two have their moment. It was a good call as her mother really needed to get this off her chest.

"Patient doesn't mean 'doormat' Plutia-mama. It just means taking a little more time to think," Lucifel nodded sagely. Asia giggled and pulled the smaller girl in for a hug too. The little Fallen beamed as she returned the hug.

Lucifel suddenly stiffened in surprise. She turned slowly towards the hallway.

"Someone just teleported into Issei's bedroom," she said.

"Who could it be at this hour?" Asia looked mystified.

"They're not hostile but it is weird…" Lucifel shook her head.

Plutia frowned, got up and grabbed her doll. "How so baby? Asia keep a eye on her please."

"I think it's Rias, but why is she here?" Lucifel would have tried to stand up but Asia tightened her grip. The former nun bit her lip in consternation.

"What is she doing in his bedroom at this hour?" Asia fretted.

Plutia stopped. Her mind was wondering if, well, the idea made her blush. "...I maaaaay have a idea. Lucifel if something happens let me know. If they're doing what I think they are, then we don't want to walk in on them." Lucifel appeared confused before realization dawned. She turned as red as her mother.

"What do you mean? What could they be doing?" Asia asked. Lucifel bit her lip.

"Well…" She drew it out while trying to think of how to answer before stiffening again. "Someone really powerful just showed up. Like really powerful and they're trying to conceal their strength." Her voice came out tense. Asia looked even more worried.

Plutia resisted the urge to swear. "How strong? I don't want to start a fight…."

"Really strong...All I can sense if that they're hiding their full power…" Lucifel's voice was tense. Without warning Asia leaped from the sofa and darted towards the bedroom door. She might have reached it if the small Fallen hadn't snapped her fingers and locked the nun's ankles together.

"Yowch!" Asia yelped as she collided with the ground.

"Do you even have a plan!?" Lucifel asked in a frightened whisper.

Plutia nodded. "Yeah. I'll investigate, choking the strong thing if it's hostile."

Lucifel released her hold on Asia's ankles so the girl could return to the sofa. The former nun didn't look happy about her sudden trip to the floor but at least she didn't alert the invader.

Plutia walked up to the door and pressed a ear to it, listening in on what's going on inside.

"Come along, Rias. You have a meeting with your betrothed tomorrow," a stern woman's voice could be heard.

"...Yes, Grayfia," Rias sounded sullen.

"B-betrothed!?" Issei yelped in shock.

Several moments of silence passed before the woman spoke up again, "You have someone listening at the door. Perhaps you should be more concerned with that." A barely audible sigh of relief could be heard from the living room. Whoever that was apparently left as Lucifel relaxed.

Plutia opened the door and poked her head in. "Everyone okay? The hell was with that woman? Lucifel could tell she was powerful." Issei yelped and jerked his blankets up. She had a brief glimpse of his boxer shorts.

"Ah w-well...Buchou stopped by to talk...I think she wanted to talk...and then a maid appeared! Not sure what that was about...and Buchou is betrothed!? I don't even…" Issei devolved into near incoherence as he was either making the 'curvy' gesture. Maybe he was just panicked?

Plutia sighed and slapped her bunny's nose. "Calm down." He yelped as the voodoo did it's hoodoo.

"Yowch! Okay okay...Plutia…?" He stared at the goddess in bewilderment. Issei looked hesitant to say anything but something was troubling him.

"What's going on? Lucifel sensed Rias and someone else in here…" Plutia sighed.

"Rias said something about wanting me to be her first time...Then Grayfia-san arrived and talked about a betrothal...Do you think she was serious?" Issei couldn't even look at Plutia. His shoulders were hunched defensively as if expecting some recrimination.

Plutia shrugged. "Not sure I don't know her very well. And hopefully not… we'll talk to Rias tomorrow." Issei wilted.

"Hopefully not, huh…? Yeah...that fits…" Issei chuckled hollowly.

Plutia raised a eye brow. "The hopefully not was referring to the betrothal bit. Usually that word is thrown around in arranged marriages…"

"Oh...jumped to conclusions, huh?" He shrugged it off in a self-deprecating way.

Plutia stared at him. "Issei. What's bugging you?"

He seemed to struggle with the question for nearly three minutes. The time crawled by as he sat in his bed with a helpless look. Just when it seemed he wouldn't say anything he came to a decision.

"The first girl who ever asked me out was Yuma. She was so beautiful and kind. Everything I imagined a girlfriend to be. We went out to eat, walked around the city...It was great," Issei's face softened as he spoke. All at once a new tenseness came to his shoulders. He gripped the blanket in both hands.

"...She asked me to die for her. I was so surprised at her question I didn't even notice she transformed...Then a spear was stuck through me by the first girl...I ever really liked…" Issei shook with suppressed feeling.

Plutia hugged her doll and activated her magic. "Oh…. was she one of the bitches I killed?"

"Raynare," he confirmed quietly.

Plutia sighed. "Issei. Raynare was a bitch. I doubt any of the girls you know are like her." The dark thought of 'besides me when I get upset' went unsaid.

"It's just hard to believe anyone would like me. I mean...I'm not exactly handsome...or popular…" Issei was experiencing years of teen drama in a single night.

Plutia sighed. "Issei? Appearance means jack, fucking shit when it comes to people liking you. Popularity often makes you shallow. Also, people should like people for who they are, not what they look like."

"...Asia wouldn't lie...I mean she says she likes me...so I'm not totally hopeless, right?" Issei looked up cautiously.

Plutia nodded. "Yep… Asia's a sweetheart."

Issei smiled faintly. The fraying thread strengthened by her kindness.

"I was promised answers tomorrow. Maybe you should be there too," Issei suggested.

Plutia nodded. "Yeah. Sounds good… I..I already made things up with Asia.."

"Good. Friends shouldn't fight. Are you okay?" Issei asked.

Plutia sighs. "Yeah.. I've been stressed and it's been getting to me.. Sorry for upsetting you…"

"I can't stay mad at you. You just got a daughter and had a lot dumped on your head. Asia was more upset with me for getting angry than at you," he chuckled wryly.

Plutia chuckled in turn. "Anyways, how about all five of us, me, Lucifel, Kala, Asia, and you all do something like watch a movie? Something to calm down with…"

"Sure. Just…" He seemed to realize a very important fact before standing. "...Just let me put on my pants." Issei pulled his blanket up further.

Plutia nodded and yawned, "Yeah. I'll be on the couch with Lucifel and Asia." The goddess left the room, closing the door behind her and making her way to the couch, her posture revealing how tired she was.

"Was is 'that?'" Lucifel blurted out.

"What 'that?'" Asia asked.

"The beast with two backs, coitus, wild monkey…" Kala appeared as if by magic to cover Lucifel's mouth. Asia's face was as red as Rias' hair.

"S-s-s-s-sex!?" Asia's voice came out as a squeak of surprise.

Plutia's glare shot to the door of Issei's room, a frown on her face. "That's not something I'm telling you about till you're older. Kala you can't tell her."

Lucifel looked at her Plutia-mama in confusion. "I found it on the internet. Why are you glaring at Issei's door?" Her expression morphed to one of shock. "I was right!?" She turned bright red at the thought.

"Lucifel...No. Nothing like that happened. Your mother is tired and on a hair trigger. Try not to throw gasoline on the fire," Kalawarner said with poorly hidden amusement. Asia was busy fanning her face and checking her heart rate. It was then that the source of discussion emerged dressed in a sweatshirt and sweatpants.

"...Do I even want to know what happened?" He asked.

Plutia sighed. "No. No you do not… and anyways Lucifel I prefer girls." Plutia looked for the movie collection, her pony-tail swinging with every other step.

Thankfully nothing else world shaking occured. Just friends, on a sofa, watching a movie. By the end Asia was snuggled up against Issei's side sound asleep. Lucifel was situated between her mothers just as tired as the former nun. All in all it was a peaceful end to a tumultuous day.

Devils and Fallen were better able to function at night than humans. The consequence was that they tended to sleep longer in the morning. Issei proved that last part wrong by waking up with the sun. He wanted to investigate just what the hell was going on. Even if it was a Sunday he wanted to be at the Occult Research Club bright and early.

"Ugh...Slow down, Issei. Some of us aren't morning people," Kala grumbled. She finished serving breakfast to Lucifel earning a happy smile from the little one.

"*yawn* That was fun last night…" Asia smiled vaguely. She wasn't awake either.

"Sorry...I have more questions than answer…" Issei forced himself to slow down. He thanked Kalawarner for making pancakes.

Plutia was barely awake, and clearly not happy. It was only the fact that Lucifel would have been sad kept Plutia from choking Issei. "...........Why did we….. Have to get up so early?"

"We need answers for why Rias and Grayfia were here last night," Issei reminded her. Kalawarner's shoulders stiffened. She slowly turned to him.

"Did you just say The Strongest Queen in the Underworld was here!?" Kalawarner's voice rose to an alarming level.

"She said she was a maid…" Issei looked confused.

"She's Sirzechs Lucifer's WIFE and his Queen. She's an Ultimate Class Devil!" The Fallen lectured.

"Oh. That might have been hard to deal with if she was hostile. Good thing she wasn't. Pass the syrup," Lucifel said to Asia. The former nun passed it to her automatically.

"...If she tried to hurt Lucifel or any of you…. she'd die screaming…." Plutia mumbled, fighting to stay awake. Kalawarner twitched.

"Please don't say that in front of her. I am begging you," Kalawarner said with far more seriousness than anyone heard from her.

Plutia nodded, before stumbling. "...I just want more sleep…. Lucifel how are you doing baby?"

"I'm good, Plutia-mama. Kind of excited actually about going with you," Lucifel beamed.

"And Grayfia will not want to create an incident by harming Lucifel," Kala assured Plutia.

"Who would want to hurt a kid?" Issei looked shocked at the thought. Asia nodded emphatically. Lucifel just looked sad with a peculiarly ancient look in her eyes. She smiled faintly.

"As long as people like you exist I have no fear for the future," she said. Plutia nodded.

"Uck… Kala can you get me something to drink please? ...NOT coffee, that'll knock me out….." Plutia yawned. Issei volunteered one of his energy drinks to the cause. Kala shook her head.

"That will just make her crash harder. Try this…" Kalawarner handed Plutia a drink that glowed faintly and smelled like cranberries.

"What is that?" Asia asked.

"Cranberry juice with a touch of vitalizing energy. Nothing too exotic," Kala smirked. Nothing too exotic...right…

"Right…" Lucifel drawled.

Plutia shrugged, and drank it. The effect was immediate. She felt like it gave her the equivalent of a full night's sleep without any side effects. Kalawarner had a sense of self preservation of course.

Issei showed his impatience by helping Kalawarner clean up the kitchen. Asia pitched in and before long the chore was done. He tried to rush for the door only for Lucifel to grab his sleeve. The anxious Devil suddenly froze stock still.

"Freeze, Issei. If you make either of my mothers run, let alone Asia, it would end badly." she warned politely.

Plutia grabbed her doll. "Let's go though. Kala? Keep a eye on Lucifel for me please?"

"Of course. She's my daughter too after all," Kalawarner smiled faintly. Quite the feat to be one of God's mothers. Even if Lucifel wasn't an adorable little cinnamon roll she would have protected her for that alone.

Lucifel let out a relieved breath as the expedition began without injury. She took Plutia and Kalawarner's hands. The little Fallen smiled cheerfully. Plutia gave her a daughter a little kiss on the cheek.

"Hey guys! Where are you going?" Uranus called out.

"How does she keep finding us?" Asia asked in bewilderment.

"I was coming over to visit actually," the Fallen General's daughter explained as she fell in step with the group. Issei took it upon himself to bring her up to speed. By the end of it she looked significantly less sure of this plan.

"You don't have to come," Kalawarner said. It might have been a trick of the light but she almost appeared concerned for Uranus.

"...Rias said I had to be there today. I was hoping you guys knew more than I did. If it wasn't an order by the head of Kuoh I would be running the opposite way," Uranus sighed.

"You're perfectly safe with us. Plutia-mama won't let anything happen," Lucifel beamed trustingly.

General consensus was that it would probably be Plutia's fault if the balloon went up. Asia and Lucifel remained trusting.

"I'll do my best. Whatever the hell is going on I hope it isn't too bad…" Plutia sighed and hugged Lucifel.

No one was there to greet them at the door to the ORC. Issei lead the procession down the hall to the main room and opened the door. On the other side sat Rias on the sofa with the rest of the Peerage standing around. Their expressions were tense. Standing by the wall was a beautiful silver haired woman. Her eyes missed nothing. An eyebrow was raised at the sight of Plutia, Kalawarner, and Uranus. However her mouth opened slightly in surprise as she looked at Lucifel. Asia, luckily or not, was ignored.

"Who are these rabble?" An aristocratic voice demanded haughtily. He was handsome with blond hair verging on gold. His arm was draped arrogantly around Rias' shoulders. The Gremory Heir looked as if she wanted to be anywhere but under his arm.

"This is Lady Plutia, her maid Kalawarner, and their daughter Lucifel. The remaining Fallen is Uranus. Lord Azazel's daughter," Rias said in a frigidly cordial tone.

"A simple group of crows," he scoffed. Grayfia's eyes widened before narrowing sharply. She opened her mouth to speak..

"And the Darwin award goes to this idiot…" Issei muttered under his breath and facepalmed. Grayfia's mouth shut abruptly as the irreverent comment almost startled a laugh out of the stoic Queen.

Riser really should have clued in that something was wrong when Rias's Peerage, previously seething with impotent anger, was even now leaning forward with interest. The unholy light in their eyes should have been a warning. He seemed blithely unaware of the old adage "the more colorful the plumage the more messy your demise." Plutia, Kalawarner, Uranus, and even Lucifel were quite attractive.

"Rabble? Crows? Heh. Your just a spoiled brat by my guess. Now who the hell are you? And why are you holding Rias when she clearly does not want you to touch her?" Plutia was smiling. It was her 'I get to lay a (verbal) beatdown on a idiot' smile. "Actually it doesn't matter. Let her go asshole before I make you let her go."

"You dare? I am her betrothed so therefore it is my right to hold her," Riser declared.

"This is Riser Phenex and he is indeed her betrothed. Please, Lord Riser, remain civil. There is nothing to be gained with rudeness," Grayfia's tone was polite but there was an implied 'or else.' Riser was sharper on the uptake than his previous actions indicated.

"My apologies. I was just taken aback by seeing our enemies so brazenly in Devil territory. Perhaps Rias' kindness, while a respectable trait, allows others to take too many liberties," Riser suggested just shy of insolence. Rias physically pushed him away before fleeing to sit beside Koneko on the loveseat. He bristled indignantly.

Plutia's body language shifted from her slightly sleepy posture to one of well controlled rage. "Let me correct you. First. Last I checked there is a treaty between the three abrahamic factions is there not? That makes them no longer enemies. Secondly. My group, which does not include Uranus, is not a part of The Fallen's faction. While Kala is a fallen angel she does not follow Azazel, Lucifel is only half fallen. And me? I am a goddess. And before you say anything it is not arrogance but fact you racist pig. And an arranged marriage? Disgusting. It ignores the wishes of the bride and treats her as nothing more than a object to be sold. Then again judging by how you don't seem to care about Rias's feelings, I doubt you see her as anything beyond a object for your own amusement."

Riser's face was completely blank by the end of Plutia's tirade. After a minute of processing the sheer amount of vitriol in her statements his face turned a mottled red.

"The number of Pureblood Devils is dwindling. We are trying to save our people. It is hardly my fault our parents saw fit to make this match. You have no say in this matter at all," Riser hissed.

"Yeah but what about Rias, huh? Doesn't she get a say?" Issei challenged angrily.

"As the heir of the Gremory family she must do what is best," Riser said. Rias glowered.

"The agreement was that we would marry after I went to college. You are moving up the timetable," Rias spat.

"Isn't Riser the third child of the Phenex family?" Uranus asked mildly.

"Indeed I am. At least you know that much," Riser preened.

"Then isn't it an insult to marry an heir to someone who doesn't stand to inherit? Unless Rias is the dominant one in the marriage," the Fallen General's daughter smiled beatifically. The room was so silent one could hear a pin drop.

"That is not how it works…" Riser started to say.

"Actually that is precisely how it works. Riser is to marry into the Gremory family," Grayfia clarified. Riser looked a bit pale at having a 'crow's' words confirmed.

Plutia glared down the racist bastard. "Anyways, considering how Rias clearly wants nothing to do with you AND her peerage looks like they want to rip your spine out and beat you to death with it…. I suggest you leave." Plutia's hand wrapped itself around the neck of her doll, yet she was not using her magic. Yet.

"I was tasked to make an offer if Rias was still against the betrothal. A Ratings Game with the stakes being that, should Rias win, the engagement would be dissolved. However if Riser won the marriage would occur immediately," Grayfia stated. Rias looked to her Peerage, her friends, before turning back to Riser. The Phenex still looked a little ill over finding out what his position would be in the marriage.

"I will take that challenge and end this farce of a betrothal," Rias stated firmly without a trace of hesitation.

"What…? Oh the arrangement...Ahem. We will meet in ten days. Make that two weeks. Yes. You have two weeks to train," Riser offered distractedly. His pride was stung by finding out what his role would be, but he couldn't very well back down from the challenge either. It was a matter of family pride. Which Plutia found stupid. Like his racism.

"Fourteen days? That is not exactly a long amount of time… and I know people like you. You've probably already prepared your forces no doubt. Your trying to stack the deck to your favor so you can force Rias to be your bride, no matter what her desires are." Plutia frowned. "Bastards like you only cause pain when you get power…"

"A month then. Yes. A month is good…" Riser seemed to be only partly listening.

"He does have a full Peerage," Kalawarner whispered to Plutia. A full Peerage was sixteen people, King included. Eight Pawns, two Rooks, two Bishops, a Queen, and a King. Rias had Kiba, Koneko, Akeno, and Issei period.

"Do the terms meet with your approval, Lady Rias?" Grayfia asked respectfully.

"A month? Thank you for your kindness, Lord Riser," Rias smirked. She apparently knew something he didn't or at the very least had a plan.

Plutia simply glared at Riser. Anyone who knew her, besides Lucifel, could figure out she was imagining horrible things happening to him based on her small smile and how her doll was still in her grip. "Now please leave Riser. Before you are forced to." Plutia's tone was polite but mocking.

Riser gave her a half hearted glare before vanishing through a teleport circle. The tension in the room lasted for a minute or two longer before the occupants relaxed.

"Okay I have no idea what just happened. Plutia was pushing his buttons but no one stopped her…" Uranus said in wonder.

"The reason was that he started it by being insulting first. We are trying to avoid alienating one of the mothers of the new God," Grayfia gave a significant look to Lucifel. The little Fallen was happily cuddling with Asia. Subtly acting as a shield to the former nun if Riser proved volatile.

"Smart. Unfortunately, based on how he was acting like a racist and sexist piece of shit I am afraid I hate him." Plutia sighed before hugging Asia and Lucifel.

"He didn't like the idea of being second in the relationship either. If he could have dissolved the agreement without making his parents angry he would have," Uranus seemed inordinately amused.

"How do you know so much about Devil politics?" Rias asked.

"As the daughter of the Grigori General I would be a poor heir if I didn't know," Uranus smirked.

"Watching Plutia chew him out was everything I hoped it would be," Akeno sighed happily. Koneko nodded with a satisfied look.

"May her barbs ever be aimed at our enemies," Kiba said with mock piousness.
Faint threads of belief streamed from Rias' Peerage to Plutia. Her actions in defending Rias having engendered affection and camaraderie.

Plutia chuckled."It's not often I get to lay into someone like that… always makes me feel better when I can."

"I am terribly sorry that no one has contacted you formally, Lady Plutia. We would like to perhaps schedule a time to speak with you about your daughter," Grayfia said politely.

"Perhaps. But not right now. I need to make sure my friends are prepared." Plutia frowned, what would they need to speak about her daughter?

Grayfia inclined her head politely before leaving the same way that Riser did. The tension dropped further as the Strongest Queen in the Underworld left.

"A month? How are we going to get a month of training with school?" Issei asked.

"I will talk to the school. We will have to do the assignments but I am certain that won't be a problem," Rias smiled confidently.

"Where would you train?" Asia asked.

"On my family's estate in the Underworld. We have plenty of room," the redhead said.

Plutia sighed. "I'll have Kala speed up her training of Issei.. hmmm. Rias can any of
your peerage use spears?"

"None of us can," Rias shook her head. She got a speculative look in her eyes. "How much do you know about training others, Kalawarner?"

"Probably more than all of us combined," Kalawarner admitted without a trace of conceit.

"Can we borrow your maid to train us?" Rias asked Plutia hopefully.

"If Kala has no problem with it, then yes." Plutia smiled. "I am not sure what Grayfia wanted to talk about pertaining my daughter…. I have never been one for politics."

"The chance of a new God would make a lot of people curious," Rias said.

"Or nervous," Uranus said sardonically.

"I don't mind since Plutia said it was okay. However no crying if you get hurt," Kalawarner grinned.

"I can heal you!" Asia perked up.

"I can train you harder since you won't break," the Fallen tried to reclaim her sadist title.

"You will never break because Twilight Healing heals everything," the former nun beamed. Kalawarner almost looked dejected as Asia ruined her attempts at psychological warfare.

Plutia snickered and yawned. "Anyways.. I'll see if I can do anything for you as well… but first I want to just spend some time with my daughter…"

"You're welcome to come with us," Rias offered.

"What do you have in the Underworld?" Lucifel asked.

"We have cities, and shopping centers, oh and bookstores and manga shops…!" Rias started extolling the virtues of the gamer life. Lucifel's eyes glazed a little but whether from excitement, or the sudden wall of words, was anyone's guess.

Plutia was focused on the manga and bookstores, as well as any video game stuff Rias brought up. "Could be fun… does visiting the underworld sound like a good idea Lucifel?"

"Yeah!" Lucifel nodded.

It wouldn't be all fun and games. The Ratings Game with Riser was on the horizon and Rias was at a major disadvantage. However it looked like the Phenex scion didn't want to win anymore. What would happen next was anyone's guess.

 

[dingbat779]

AN: A Holiday Gift from @ForgottonFuture and me.

Training Montage


Training was just another word for torture in Kalawarner's vocabulary. She was an absolute sadist with her knowledge of anatomy. That being said the results were readily apparent. Kiba, Koneko, Akeno, and Rias were in decent shape before all this began. Decent, but not where they should be, according to Kala.

"You had years to train but it looks like you just half assed everything," Kalawarner told them bluntly. The Peerage was laid out before her after what she called a 'little run.' Kiba and Koneko, the most physically capable, were still able to sit up.

"What about Issei…?" Koneko pointed at the Pawn where he lay, dead to the world.

"He has an excuse for being a human civilian until this point. Does that mean I will go any easier on him?" Kalawarner asked rhetorically. Even Rias found the strength to shake her head no. The Fallen folded her arms under her generous bosom with satisfaction.

Lucifel and Asia were distributing water to the downed Devils. Plutia looked them over, her eyes settling on each of them for a second or so. If any of the devils were paying attention to their sin-sense, they would have noticed Plutia felt a pang of jealousy as she looked over Rias. Makes sense, considering she was taller and bustier then Iris Heart. "So. What's the next part of their training Kala? I don't watch Issei's training, so I'm unsure of where you go from here."

"What Issei needs more than anything else is conditioning. The Boosted Gear can give him the strength he needs but his stamina needs work. Maybe some boxing lessons since he favors his fists," Kalawarner tapped her chin.

Issei picked his head up with a groan.

"Boxing…? Like the Western sport?" Issei showed he possessed a working brain.

"Exactly. We can work on your conditioning through boxing drills. The others already have skills in combat. All they need is a kick in the...rear," Kala glanced at Lucifel before continuing, "...to hone their bodies further."

The location Rias secured for their training was a lovely mansion in the woods of the Gremory Estate. Kalawarner appreciated its relative seclusion as she could make them scream for miles. At least that was the claim. Some chuckled, thinking she was joking, but those familiar with her knew the truth. She was not joking. Period. Plutia was happy with this, for obvious reasons.

"Now. You promised me I would be able to get some training for my HDD, so Kala? What are your plans for that?" The goddess asked, before she gave Lucifel a hug.

"Honestly the same thing as Issei. We need to check your stamina and see how long you can hold it for. After that I'll have a better idea of whether it's purely spiritual, physical, or a mixture of the two," Kalawarner said.

"Are we going through Issei's training?" Lucifel didn't seem to like that idea. Kalawarner chuckled softly.

"No, Lucifel. He only has a month to get in shape. You and your mother have a bit longer than that," Kalawarner assured her. The little Fallen breathed a sigh of relief, missing the look on her mother's face. Kala wasn't being entirely honest. Their grace period was ending. Plutia bought them a much needed extension by insisting on being with Rias for this.

"So I'll transform then." Plutia closed her eye and transformed, relishing in the feeling that the transformation brought. Once it was done, Iris Heart smiled and opened her eyes. "Now now Kala. Let's begin. I wouldn't be surprised if you were looking forward to this~" There was something about her tone that confused Asia and Lucifel.

Lucifel's transformation resulted in Rias' Peerage staring at her in shock. Iris Heart was a bombshell while Iris Daughter was a cutie. She looked closer to their age but lacked the sex appeal of her mother. Upon a closer look Plutia would notice how she resembled a Goddess from Four Goddesses Online, or the Angel Processor with the halos and wings.

"Ahhh...it feels good to stretch my wings a bit…" her voice was soft but there was no hint of that in her eyes. She held a strength of will and conviction enough to stare down the Abyss itself. In her hands appeared a pair of oversized bladed chakram glowing with Divine light. Somehow the Devils weren't harmed by her light.

"Is...is that Holy?" Rias asked with surprise.

"How isn't it burning us?" Kiba looked confused.

Iris Daughter looked surprised at the questions. "Why would I want to hurt you? You're not my enemies." Her tone had a definite 'are you daft?' implied.

Iris Heart chuckled. "Makes sense that the intentions of the user would affect how it acts… Magic is tied to one's will right?" Meanwhile, her thoughts mused in darker places as the fact that it seems most Holy, which seems to come from God, hurts all Devils, no matter what said Devil is like. Confirming some of her biases of Him. "Now Kala dear, how do we start?"

"Honestly? I was thinking that you just concentrate on holding the form. Perhaps fly around and help Lucifel...Iris Daughter I mean...get used to 'HDD,'" Kalawarner said.

Iris Daughter tried to flap her wings and lift off. However she apparently put too much 'oomph' behind the action and soared off into the air with a yelp. Her chakram hit the ground and vanished in motes of light.

"Right. You take care of that…" Kalawarner watched as their daughter zig-zagged across the sky so quickly she was leaving purple contrails. Iris Heart merely chuckled before she took off, flight coming easier to the CPU then it came to her Canidate of a daughter.

Moving quickly, Iris Heart caught Iris Daughter, and with a flare of her magic the CPU kept herself from being sent flying by the force of catching her daughter. "Oh baby, you okay? Your more powerful in basically every way when your transformed." She chuckled out before hugging her daughter. Iris Daughter hugged her mother with a wild look.

"That's one way of putting it! I thought I was going plaid!" Iris Daughter laughed a tinge hysterically.

Iris Heart smiled. "So, do you believe you will be able to control your flight this time sweet daughter?"

Iris Daughter nodded, "Sure...Just uh...hold my hand?" She looked meekly at her mother. Iris Heart did, and after making sure her daughter had control over her flight, descended to the ground once more. Iris Daughter looked to her other mother. "So next you'd have Issei spar with you, but I'm decently sure Iris Mother and I are each stronger than you..."

"I would believe it…" Issei remembered how strong Iris Heart was she destroyed the church so effortlessly.

"He can spar with me," Iris Daughter beamed.

"My pride just died a little but...would you go easy on me?" Issei asked reluctantly.

"Oh no. It's not that simple. You need to improve your stamina with Boosted Gear and Iris Daughter needs a strong opponent. So I want you to use Boost and continue Boosting during the spar," Kalawarner said. Asia was already preparing to heal someone. Probably Issei.

The first Boost turned Issei into a rocket. Apparently he decided taking the initiative was the key to victory. Iris Daughter sidestepped the charge and aimed a sloppy kick at his back. His forward momentum increased so fast he crashed into the forest and kept going.

"Oops…?" The HDD Fallen sweated a little.

[Boost!]

Issei shot out of the forest and tried to nail her with a sloppy haymaker. His target slapped the fist to one side with both hands. He briefly spun in midair before hitting the ground from a wing blow to the back.

"Yowch! That smarts!" Iris Daughter shook her wing.

"Don't use your wings like that! They're fragile. Issei! Use your head! Circle around and find an opening!" Kalawarner barked.

"Okay…" Issei stood up again. He held his fists up in a decent pugilist stance.

The next fifteen minutes was full of thud and blunder. As powerful as Iris Daughter was, and Issei became, it was clear both were amateurs. Their flailing managed to do more damage to the landscape than each other. Kala had to actually deflect blasts of varying power from striking the mansion. The end of the 'fun' came when the Boosted Gear announced [Reset]. Issei's stats plummeted back to normal just as Iris Daughter's fist careened in to take his head off.

"Enough!" Kalawarner barked. The fist stopped just shy of Issei's nose.

"...That was terrifying," Koneko muttered.

"The sheer power? Their destructive might?" Rias asked.

"The major lack of skill," the Rook deadpanned.

Iris Heart chuckled. "It does not seem you inherited my talent for combat… unless… Hmm. Sweetie try seeing how skilled you are with you chakram. I have a theory." The goddess had floated next to Kalawarner, and had enjoyed the bout.

Kalawarner looked to her. "You think her possible, and by extension, your natural skills in combat are tied to your weapons?" Iris Heart nodded.

Iris Daughter shrugged and manifested her Chakram. The glowing blades appeared like normal chakram just with the HDD touch. With surety she lacked before the first Chakram was sent spinning off into the distance. She completed the turn and snapped the second faster than the first. The second Chakram hit the first and sent it ricocheting back to her hand. She snatched it from the air with a twirl, using the momentum, and sent it off again at an even faster rate. After several catches and released she played a successful game of catch. The spinning weapons returned and hooked around her fingers to fast they hummed.

"So...I think my skill with weapons is good enough," Iris Daughter smirked.

Iris Heart nodded. "Seems as I thought. Her talent in combat is tied to her weapons. Hmm. Baby can you dull the edges so if they where to say, hit Issei they wouldn't cut him in half?" The Goddess asked her daughter

Issei nodded rapidly to show his approval any plan that doesn't involve dicing him in two.

"It's okay, Issei. I can heal you," Asia assured him optimistically.

"Even if she cuts me in half?" Issei asked incredulously.

"I won't fail," she clenched her fist with determination.

"...I think she's missing the point...just a hair," Iris Daughter held two fingers maybe a centimeter apart.

The physical training was set for the morning. Magical training would be in the afternoon. Kalawarner's class was only for Plutia, Lucifel, and Asia. Devils used magic differently than Angels and Fallen after all. Plutia for her part did well in the training, as her reading had given her plenty of theoretical knowledge, but this was for applying that. "So Kala, can I ask why your having me use my magic on you?" The goddess asked, seeing as she was currently using her rabbit and her magic to move Kalawarner's limbs.

"I was curious to see if I could resist the effects. Learning to resist your magic would make me stronger in the long run. The added resistance would help to train your magical strength as well," she explained.

Lucifel's talents weren't in manipulation but in raw shaping and creation. She was amusing herself by creating little bunny rabbit figurines marching into battle with turtles. The problem was that her creations tended to start becoming 'real' if she didn't balance her focus. It was cheaper to make constructs rather than actual creatures.

Asia was working on barriers and seals. Her healing was already top notch, boosted as it was by Twilight Healing, so some diversity was nice. A fit of whimsy had Kalawarner teach her a chain bind spell that did shibari ties on the target. Asia's pure mind turned them into simple restraint locks with nothing provocative. The Fallen was so disappointed. Lucifel sent a swarm of flying turtles to buzz her head after that.

She wouldn't mess with Asia's training again. Plutia chuckled. "Makes sense. Hmm. I wonder what I can branch out my magic into… perhaps mimicking some form of necromancy via puppeting a corpse? Or maybe going into weirder territories and turning the target into a doll…" Plutia hummed, her mind abuzz with possibilities. She had a notebook on possible spell ideas, but her handwriting was horrible and even she struggled to read it at times.

"Be careful with necromancy of any form. It could look badly for Lucifel when she eventually meets the Factions," Kalawarner warned.

"Can you raise the dead?" Asia asked Lucifel in the background.

"Life and death is a cycle. Why would I mess with nature itself?" The little Fallen was genuinely mystified. To her it was easy.

"To undo the pain of losing someone you care for.." Plutia muttered aloud, her thoughts focused on her magic, or possibly something else. Kalawarner, due to being used to watching Plutia's body language, noticed she was thinking heavily, on something that was bugging her. Her daughter appeared at her side and hugged the sad goddess.

"I'm sorry for speaking without thinking…" Lucifel said contritely.

Kalawarner let the two have a moment before continuing as if nothing happened.
"Turning someone into a puppet is perfectly fine. It would certainly be amusing to see from a distance," the voluptuous Fallen smirked.

Plutia chuckled, running a hand through her daughter's hair. "Meant more turning the target into a doll like a plush one or a porcelain one… A non-lethal way to incapacitate someone while leaving them unable to hurt anyone else." Plutia yawned, her thoughts turning to the future. 'Such a thing would be very useful when, or well, if I start a nation.'

"We seem to be straying further from your goal of gaining Faith. Learning your powers is important but has anyone really asked what you want to do?" Kalawarner asked.

"If she's the mother of God doesn't that mean she shares Lucifel's?" Asia looked confused.

"Of course I believe in my mom! I believe in both of my moms!" Lucifel exclaimed loyally. She pulled a bemused Kalawarner in for a group hug with Plutia. The little Fallen indicated for Asia to get behind Plutia to join. The former nun giggled and did just that.

Plutia chuckled. "I actually haven't checked to see if my darling little one gave me more shares. I've been focused on other stuff." Plutia closed her eyes and looked within.

As she looked within it appeared to be her CPU Memory. The crystal that turned her into a goddess. There were strands flowing off towards the people who believed in her. A thick rope connected her to Asia. Issei's was half the size of hers. The ones connecting her to Rias and her Peerage were thinner. Even Kalawarner held a strong connection. She couldn't see any hint of Lucifel's...until she specifically thought about her daughter. From on high a solid pillar, as thick at the base of Plutia's Basilicom, encompassed her.

Lucifel clearly loved her mother and her Faith was vast. Plutia smiled. "She does, and by and by baby you give me the most shares. Though… I'm wondering if any of those come from the Abrahamic religions."

"They come from the love and faith of the people. Does it matter what their religion is, Plutia-mama?" Lucifel asked.

Plutia nodded. "Yes, if your getting their faith because of a lie. I hate lying, and so very little does it end up improving things in the long term."

Lucifel jerked back as if slapped. Her eyes filled with tears at the blatant condemnation.

"This faith is mine...I am in charge of the Divine System now...So am I a liar now?" Lucifel choked out a sob. She pushed away and immediately took HDD. With a pained cry she tore off into the sky and rapidly vanished in the distance.

"Lucifel! Dammit! I can't catch her!" Kalawarner looked on helplessly. She was not as fast as her daughter.

"Plutia! You have to catch her!" Asia implored.

Plutia swore at herself, before transforming and hurling herself into the air, going after Lucifel with as much speed as possible. "Me damnit… Why can't I go a single day without hurting someone's heart!?"Tears started to well in Iris Heart's eyes.

Far ahead of her was the purple light of Iris Daughter. Her flight speed was probably the highest of any of the goddesses. At least it seemed that was as she didn't appear to be slowing down. The ground was vanishing beneath them. Trees and mountains gave way to lakes and rivers. Iris Daughter turned to look back with tears streaming before turning resolutely forward.

Iris Heart boosted forward using her shares. "I'M SORRY! LUCIFEL PLEASE! I NEVER WANTED TO IMPLY THAT YOU WHERE A LIAR!" She shouted, tears gushing from her eyes as she cursed herself mentally. 'WHY MUST I FUCKING ALWAYS END UP HURTING THE PEOPLE AROUND ME?' She thought.

Iris Daughter slowed as her glow began to sputter out. She was too exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally to keep up the pace. Rather than pass out in midair she reverted to her standby form. The little Fallen turned to her mother, head down, and shoulders shaking.

"Please help me...Help me to fix things...I have to counter the actions of man and absent minded Angels. I have unlimited love for you but this hurting has to stop. I didn't want to be one of those who added to your pain. Instead I was determined to not let you see how badly each word against God hurt. You needed to be able to vent without recrimination. I...I just couldn't handle it when you saw my honest feelings...bolstered by the true believers…" Lucifel buried her face in her hands and wept.

Iris Heart hugged her daughter as tight as she could without hurting her. "...I...I'm sorry too… I… I'm horrible with dealing with people… whenever I don't think about whatever I'm saying I just end up hurting them…. Lucifel my love for you is the most intense feeling I have. Period. I would NEVER hurt you on purpose. I'll help you fix things. I can't...I can't stand you being hurt. Period." The CPU closed her eyes and tried to stop her tears.

"You were hurt so badly...I know it makes it hard. Please just listen to me and think about who is speaking. Asia, Kala-mama, and I care about you. It's so hard to unlearn the things you were taught by uncaring people. Just remember that the world is a lot bigger than a few small minded individuals. Hate speaks with the loudest voice while love is gentle and abiding," Lucifel buried her face in her mother's chest. Projecting her feelings and words directly to her mother's heart.

Iris Heart tightened the hug. "...It's not just that… and my.. Well.. hate.. Wasn't something I was taught. I found it on my own. I could not, and really… cannot, bring myself to terms with the idea of a all powerful, all knowing, and all kind god letting suffering exist. Letting people suffer forever. Letting people commit horrible acts in His name. Of being hypocritical enough to say one should not be judged for the sins of their ancestors, yet according to lore, punishing humanity for the original sin. And so many other acts of cruelness… And so I came to the conclusion. That He was a liar. That He was not all powerful, that He was not all knowing, and that He was certainly not all kind. Lucifel. I don't judge you for what He did. You're you. Not Him."

"And I won't be like that with the help of those who truly love me. I won't let people suffer if I can stop it," Lucifel promised but then her face fell. "There is a limit though. If I do everything for them they won't grow. All I can do is ensure those acting in my name do so with compassion and honesty." She sighed softly as the events of the day caught up to her.

Iris Heart hugged her, and started flying back to the others, fighting to stay awake. "I love you Lucifel. Never forget that." She yawned, and knew she was likely to collapse from emotional exhaustion as soon as she de-transform.

Kalawarner met them halfway back. The Fallen might not have been fast enough to catch Lucifel, but she still tried. She helped the tired duo back to the mansion on the edge of the Gremory Estate. Her eyes kept track of where they were just in case. Lucifel's berserk flight took her across several territories it seemed. When nothing challenged them on the way back, Kala relaxed.

Rias was waiting when they landed.

"Are you okay?" She asked Lucifel gently.

"Yeah...We had to hash some things out," Lucifel answered tiredly.

The Gremory Heiress looked between the goddess, Fallen, and their daughter. All three appeared to be emotionally strung out. A barely visible tension left her shoulders.

"Akeno is making dinner. After dinner I think you need to get some sleep," Rias said kindly.

Iris Heart placed Lucifel down before she de-transformed, Plutia looking soo tired. Yet she was still standing. "Dinner sounds nice… same with sleep… sorry for the drama Rias…. Hope I can go at least another day without something dramatic happening... " The goddess yawned, before she started to sleepily look inside, not bothering to take in the appearance of the manor. Lucifel followed, and Kala could tell both of them had gotten stuff off of their chest.

Rias looked briefly uncomfortable when she mentioned more drama and muttered a particularly nasty swear word under her breath. Inside the manor the smell of a delicious dinner beckoned all to the dining room. Kalawarner was on high alert because of how Rias' tension was ratcheting up again. The redhead hurried on ahead of them.

"Obscenely powerful Devil straight ahead," Lucifel mumbled sleepily.
"Oh f-" Kalawarner smacked herself in the face, catching herself from further profanities..

There was a new person sitting at the dining room table. She was a pretty dark haired girl with purple eyes and wearing a magical girl outfit in purple and black. The rest of the Devils, and Asia, were eyeing her with a mixture of tension and bemusement.

"...They were flying all over the Underworld. I figured a more personal touch would be less offensive than sending a message," the newcomer said reasonably.

"They're also completely exhausted Lady Serafall. Please let them rest tonight," Rias pleaded. Serafall's expression softened as she took in the exhausted family.

"We can talk whenever they're ready. There's no hurry," she looked Plutia in the eye while stressing the last phrase.

Plutia sleepily nodded. "After we eat. And me, Lucifel, and Kala if she wants some, get some sleep." The goddess yawned, struggling to stay awake when her eyes closed for even a brief couple seconds.

Lucifel hugged her mother, shying away from the powerful stranger. "I'm sorry for any trouble we caused you Ms. Rias." She said to the redhead.

"Oh no trouble at all. Not for me anyway," Rias gave the girl a fond headpat.

Serafall left a card with Kalawarner before excusing herself.

"Call me when it's convenient," Serafall said.

"Perhaps tomorrow. Later on in the day," Kalawarner offered while subtly checking with Plutia.

Plutia nodded before facing Rias. "So what's Akeno making?" She asked

With the tension passed dinner was conducted in peace. By some unspoken agreement no one brought up what happened earlier. Lucifel would have been more appreciative if she wasn't trying to keep her face out of the plate. Once dinner was done, Plutia headed off to the guest room, mumbling to herself about hugging Lucifel and never letting go.

No one really felt like training the next morning. With that being the case Rias declared it was time for a break. Homework wouldn't do itself after all. Skipping out on training for homework seemed to defeat the purpose of a rest day. Lucifel was just happy to not be included in the scholastic endeavors.

"Homework...blech," Lucifel stuck out her tongue.

"More Japanese History…" Asia groaned. Her spoken Japanese was better but the written was a work in progress. She had to translate each word slowly. What should have taken twenty minutes stretched on into an hour.

"You're getting the hang of it," Issei praised. Asia blushed from his kind words.

"Wish the same was true for me. I can read and kinda-speak the stuff but my handwriting is horrible." Plutia muttered, the goddess having already finished her homework for english and math. Those came easy to her, for many reasons.

"What do you think Serafall wants to talk about?" Issei asked. Kala tossed a piece of chalk at his head. He let out a yelp and rubbed the bruised spot.

"That is Serafall-sama to you. Even in private don't forget that. No one missed you leering at her either," Kalawarner scolded mildly.

"It's okay, Issei. I thought she was really pretty too," Asia patted his arm with a blush on her face.
Lucifel and Kalawarner both stared at the blushing girl in shock. Plutia merely chuckled. "I agree on that. Anyways with my luck, probably something stupid."

"Probably want to know my view on Devils," Lucifel shrugged. That probably wasn't too far off the mark actually. All of the Factions would want to know just where the new "God" stood on the issues.

"I don't think Lucifel has anything to worry about. Who wouldn't want to follow someone so cute and nice?" Issei patted Lucifel on the head.

"Pats~!" She chirped happily. Asia cooed over just how cute she was being.

Plutia chuckled. 'Seems Lucifel my love for headpats and physical affection like that.' The CPU hugged her daughter. "Don't see why my baby would have problems with any of the factions. We haven't met any Angels, the ACTUAL members of the Fallen we've met have been nice, and besides Riser same with the devils."

"This would be a good opportunity to talk to her about what you might want," Kalawarner suggested.

"I'll have to think about it…" Lucifel scrunched her face up in thought.

Plutia headpatted her daughter. "Something I would like would be a place to live of my own. For me, Lucifel, and Kala. I would probably less stressed if I had a bed to call my own.. And a room of my own to go to when I need to calm down. Baby you'd like your own room right? Plus I don't like Lucifel having to hide her being related to me."

"My own room…" Lucifel looked pleased with the idea.

"Oh...We probably are taking up too much room at Issei's house…" Asia bit her lip.

"No! We love having you there, seriously!" Issei was immediately in damage control mode. The blonde would not be allowed to feel bad. He would not fail!

"He's actually getting better at reading the room," Kalawarner nodded with approval.

Plutia patted Asia on the back. "It's less a matter of space and more I like my privacy. Though, if I do get my own place Asia I have no problem of getting you a room of your own as well." Plutia smiled.

"Thanks," Asia smiled gratefully at Issei and Plutia.

Serafall arrived after lunch. Their hostess, Rias, showed them to a private room where they could discuss matters. The meeting was just between the Leviathan, Plutia, Kalawarner, and Lucifel. The Ultimate Class Devil looked at the older Fallen curiously.

"I am one of her mothers," Kala said.

"Perfectly understandable. Sorry to come here on such short notice but yesterday certainly shook things up. I am Serafall Leviathan. Pleasure to meet you," she introduced herself.

Plutia nods. "Plutia or Iris Heart. Either works. If your being formal, then Lady Iris Heart. And a pleasure to meet you to."

Lucifel was sat next to her mother, and hugged her. "Lucifel or Iris Daughter." Kalawarner stood just behind her family with a hand on Lucifel's shoulder.

"We can dispense with formalities I think. Our talks will go faster," Serafall smiled kindly.

The four made themselves comfortable around the table. Lucifel sat between her mothers with a happy smile. It was taken every ounce of Serafall's self control to not hug the little cutie. She contented herself with giving the little Fallen a brighter smile.

"What brings you here?" Kala asked politely.

"A wave of power rocked portions of the Underworld in a straight line from the Gremory estate. The Devils who live nearby were concerned and panicked over what it could mean. I volunteered to come before hotter heads prevailed," Serafall said.

"Sorry...I was upset…" Lucifel hung her head sadly.

"As long as you're okay now it's fine," the twintailed woman said kindly.

Plutia sighed. "She is.. I forgot to think through something I said and Lucifel took it badly. We made it up but.. Yeah. Sorry." She rubbed the back of her head. Lucifel hugged her mother once more.

"I'm not here to yell at anyone. I promise," Serafall said.

"That's good to know," Kalawarner said in a reserved tone. Even if she was plainly curious to know just what brought the Devil here besides that.

"My moms' are too polite to ask. Is this because you want to know my views on Devils?" Lucifel asked. Kala muttered something under her breath to the effect of 'am I the only one who understands subtlety?'

"That would be nice," Serafall gestured for Lucifel to continue.

"Whoever you are, wherever you came from, as long as you act with compassion I will accept anyone," Lucifel said. The sincerity in her voice left Serafall struck silent in amazement.

Plutia headpatted Lucifel. "I follow that same line of thought as my daughter."

"Excellent," Serafall chirped pleasantly.

"How long until we have to speak with the Angels?" Kalawarner asked.

"I don't know. They're applying for permission to enter Kuoh as we speak," she replied.

"Is it really such a problem?" Lucifel asked with a puzzled frown.

"Despite the years since the last major conflict, we're technically still at war. We want to stop but the issue is finding terms all of us can agree on," Serafall said.

"Like what?" Lucifel asked.

"Mainly how the Angels use their Light or how the Fallen lack an actual leader. They have their generals but no one is really in charge," she explained.

"And these are the dominant Factions?" The little Fallen facepalmed. Kala smothered a laugh.

Plutia nodded. "If the Light is harmful to even just devils… yeah. I can see why it's a issue. Hopefully relations with normal humans is important as well…. The sooner they know of the supernatural, the better."

"We have been slowly bringing humanity around. During the age of religion it was actually dangerous for us. Humans now are less likely to jump to using nuclear weapons on us. That is something humans have over the supernatural. When truly determined their capacity for violence is staggering," Serafall sighed.

"It's a matter of safety?" Lucifel asked Kalawarner.

"Essentially yes. Some of the older and stronger could survive modern weapons. However the younger of us wouldn't last through military firearms," Kala said.

"And I doubt anyone could survive a nuke to the face." Plutia yawned. "...I doubt talking to the angels will be as nice as this. Anyways. Anything else that needs to be talked about?"

"I admit that part of this is putting our best foot forward. We do want to work with you. What can we do to make the deal sweeter?" Serafall asked.

"Be totally honest with us. Keep us up to date on what's going on. Uhm...Maybe someplace to live? We're staying at a friend's house but it's a little cramped," Lucifel glanced at Plutia and nodded.

"You need money and a place to stay? I'm certain we can come up with something. Would you like to stay in Kuoh?" She asked.

Plutia nodded. "Of course. Our friends are there. I'd also like some more books on magic and history If possible I want the house where the Old Church that Kala worked out of was.." Plutia's motive of keeping the crystals safe was obvious to Kala and Lucifel.

"The place warded against detection? Of course you may have it. We'll buy the land and transfer it to your name. How about enough money to have the sort of house you want built? Our construction teams are the best. We could have it built overnight. Literally," Serafall said.

Details were discussed throughout the afternoon. By the time dinner rolled around an agreement was reached. The house would not be small as the church ground was quite large. Books on a wide variety of subjects, both mundane and esoteric, would be delivered for their library. A tidy sum of money was allocated for any expenses not covered by the initial agreement.

Serafall impulsively embraced Lucifel who returned the hug warmly. She patted the little Fallen on the head and waved goodbye to her mothers. Kalawarner let out a jaw cracking yawn as the door closed.

"If we have to deal with another Faction head so soon I'll scream," the older Fallen groaned.

"Think she would let me call her aunt Serafall?" Lucifel asked.

"As if anyone could say no to that face," Kala ruffled her hair fondly.

Hopefully they wouldn't have to find out how true that was too soon.

 

[dingbat779]

AN: Come forth from the Shadow Realm @ForgottonFuture

Wait, You Mean We Actually Get a Break?


Serafall wasn't joking when she said the Underworld construction crews were the best. By the time the little family returned to Kuoh their new house was built. The Western style mansion would serve as a fine start to Plutia's future Basilicom. A gal had to dream big in this business.

Training was over. Now it was up to Rias and her Peerage to secure victory over Riser. The Devils weren't quite up to inviting the goddess and her family to watch. That was just fine with Plutia. Her family needed to rest more than be trotted out for a photo op. Asia brought up the rear. The only one of the group who was despondent over not getting invited. She wanted to watch Issei pummel more people.

"Didn't you get enough violence?" Kalawarner teased her. Plutia cracked a small smile.

"I-I just want to cheer him on!" Asia protested. No one missed how her eyes tended to glaze when she stared at him too long.

"Blegh...boys. Blegh...girls. I'm too tired to care," Lucifel pouted, having been worked hard by Kala-mama. The littlest of the group needed to be able to defend herself. Kalawarner almost seemed frantic to make sure the little cinnamon roll was safe as possible. Plutia approved, but she didn't want either of them to burn out.

"We'll do some relaxing then baby. Anything in particular you want to do?" She asked her daughter, hugging the small fallen/goddess hybrid as she yawned.

"Lounge around in my pajamas and do nothing," Lucifel leaned into the embrace. Without fail the little girl wore her dresses. She eyed her smaller mother's choice of attire a trifle enviously.

"Okay dear...Come on. Let's see how the Devils did," Kalawarner picked up Lucifel and carried her inside. Asia linked arms with Plutia on the way.

The inside was decorated tastefully but impersonally. It lacked a certain warmth of a home. In time it would change as the residents filled it with memories. The interior was quite spacious. Already Lucifel could spot several places to get in some indoor flying practice. Kala patted her hair as she also saw the potential. The older woman smiled ruefully.

Plutia for her part simply looked around, noticing how the house seemed to have two floors. "The bedrooms are probably on the second floor. And below us is where Lucifel was born… I'll take a look down there later.." Plutia mused to herself as she continued on. The main room served to connect the two floors, as it had a small staircase in the center that led to the upper floor and it was these very stairs Plutia was heading up in search of the bedrooms. "What do you all think of this place?" She asked. However her thoughts were elsewhere. 'The locals hated the old church… how will they respond to this place being built where it used to be?'

"It's so big…" Lucifel gazed in surprise. Her little wings quivered with anticipation.

"There seems to be enough room for all of us," Kala nodded approvingly.

"What am I feeling down below? Like...It's vibrating...and seems to be calling…" Asia looked down towards the hidden chamber.

"That's where I was born. Don't go down there without an escort, okay?" Lucifel went from tired to fully alert in an instant. Asia was visibly startled at just how quickly her demeanor changed.

"Oh I won't! It wouldn't be polite!" Asia protested. The smaller girl calmed so suddenly it was as if she hadn't gotten spooked.

"Great! We'll take you down there sometime," Lucifel chirped.
Kalawarner stood beside Plutia with an inscrutable expression.

"She can feel the Sharicite it seems…" Kala noted.

Plutia shrugged. "Makes sense. The stuff is quite literally crystalized faith… But I do agree with Lucifel. I don't know what would happen if you touch the stuff Asia, so please be careful." Plutia yawned. "The place has quite a bit of room. Hmm. I wonder if it would be possible to make a room for video games… I lost my collection when I first arrived to Kuoh."

"We have the room. I think we may have more room than it seems from outside…" Kalawarner started out of the room musing to herself.

"Is she okay?" Asia asked.

"The Devils added some space expansion spells. We have fifty percent more room on the inside. Though the windows manage to match up and the pipes as well…" Lucifel looked around in bewilderment.

Kalawarner was going to probably going to know how the spells worked by the time she was done. Lucifel figured it out with a guess but didn't understand the mechanics. There was probably something profound to be said but the upshot was more room to spread out. The rest could take care of itself.

"The refrigerator is fully stocked and so are the cupboards…" Asia helped Kalawarner take stock.

"The library is the largest room in the building," Kala reported to Plutia. The goddess smiled at that.

"Zzz…" Lucifel...napped on the loveseat in the living room.

Plutia sat on the loveseat next to her before yawning. She hugged Lucifel tight and laid down, fully intent on taking a nap with her daughter. "Hmm.. Wonder if it would be a waste of shares to transform so Lucifel can cuddle up to me…" She quietly mused to herself.

"That is something we need to discuss. Shares," Kala joined them on the loveseat. Considering just how small Plutia and Lucifel were it was cozy. Asia took a seat in a large armchair.

"My Shares are also Plutia-mama's," Lucifel said sleepily.

"For now, yes. However someday you will need them yourself. Your mother needs to be able to rely on herself," Kala said softly. She could see Plutia's independent streak and agreed with her. It was better if she could rely on herself more.

"Right...gotcha…" Lucifel yawned.

"Since you're in charge of the Divine System does that mean prayers are being answered?" Asia asked curiously. The littlest Fallen opened her eyes again.

"Most prayers were answered before I came. Basically the ratio was twenty percent divine intervention and eighty percent personal effort. Some situations received more intervention, some less, but there was always a component of effort from the supplicant," Lucifel recited as if she were reading it somewhere.

"O-oh...I wasn't doing anything so my prayers weren't heard…" Asia looked down at her hands.

"Your prayer was heard but it wasn't the 'right' prayer. You wanted to be accepted back into the Church. It is, right now, a bad fit for you. There are just too many shady things that a kind person like you shouldn't be involved with. Didn't you find a better place here?" Lucifel asked.

"Yes...Yes I did," Asia agreed readily.

"There we go then," Lucifel laid her head on Plutia's shoulder.

Plutia smiled. "Anyways, getting myself shares of my own is a good idea. When the truth about what happened with your predecessor gets out, unfortunately I would not be surprised if your shares plummeted massively. People can be fickle when it comes to things like faith." Plutia hugged Lucifel. "So any ideas for getting me Shares?"

"Youtube," Lucifel said immediately.

"What would she even do on Youtube? I know she's photogenic but there has to be something else," Kalawarner said.

"Singing? Playing video games? I dunno," Lucifel shrugged. Plutia ruffled her hair at that.

"She could go back to her original idea and help the people," Asia beamed.

"She does have the power for it…" Kala mused.

Plutia hummed in thought. "Helping people could work… and as for the Youtube idea… I honestly have no idea how good of a singing voice I have." The goddess shrugged. "Then again, I could always sing as Iris Heart..."

The sad thing was that Youtube would absolutely love Iris Heart, not for her singing voice, but for the killer body. It would get her Shares in a hurry by appealing to the lowest common denominator. Asia seemed to realize that as her face turned bright red. Lucifel gave her a suspicious look.

"Are you being infected by Issei?" Lucifel asked suspiciously. While Asia sputtered denials Kalawarner laughed.

Plutia chuckled. "We'll table that idea for later then." The goddess looked in the direction of the hidden chamber. "Hmm. We should probably check on the shareicite, make sure the devils didn't accidentally disturb it or break it or anything."

"Can I come?" Asia perked up.

"Just don't touch anything," Kalawarner said.

To be on the safe side Lucifel decided to hold Asia's hand. She seemed really anxious about Asia coming into contact with Sharicite. The hidden chamber was blocked by a secret door. Kalawarner found the latch behind the refrigerator. The Fallen muttered that she was going to have to move the latch. A flash of light and the far wall of the kitchen vanished to reveal the stairs down.

A little bit theatrical like most things Devils did.

"Wow…" Asia breathed as they entered the chamber at the bottom.

The way ahead was blocked by a shimmering violet and gold forcefield of solidified Share energy.

"I don't think anyone could get through there…" Kalawarner made to touch the wall only to fall through.

"...It's not going to keep you out, Kala-mama," Lucifel sighed.

"Now she tells me…" Kala sighed before gasping.

The inside of the Share chamber was different than when they left. All of the refined Sharicite now lined the walls neatly shedding light over the chamber. In the very center of the room was a crystal statue of Plutia and Kalawarner embracing Lucifel.

"It feels so holy here…" Asia murmured.

Plutia smiled. "Makes sense. The crystals are crystalized faith and it's where Lucifel was born."

Twilight Healing appeared on Asia's fingers. The rings of her Sacred Gear pulsed faintly in rhythm with the Sharicite. Lucifel steered the former nun away from the wall.

"What is it doing?" Kala asked.

"My Sacred Gear feels hot…" Asia tried to make it vanish but the rings refused to leave.

"Uhhh...Good question…" Up until this point Lucifel had more knowledge about what was going on. Now it looks like she's as confused as everyone else. Asia opened and closed her hands to relieve the tension that was building.

"Please Lucifel…" Asia implored the younger girl.

Lucifel looked to Plutia for guidance. She was completely lost at sea.

Plutia took a deep breath, her thoughts had been racing as soon as Twilight Healing appeared. "Okay. I have a idea… I think Asia's Sacred Gear might be resonating with the sharicite. Considering they were made by Lucifel's predecessor and this is where Lucifel was born. Asia, besides hot do you feel anything else? And I'm wondering if keeping you away from here might be a good idea. Try heading a bit up the stairs and seeing if that makes Twilight Healing act normally." The goddess then turned to the shareicite and casted out her senses, to see if it was acting up. She received a sense that the Sharicite was waiting. Not reacting so much as 'holding its breath.'

Asia was able to leave the room easily enough. Twilight Healing stopped pulsing and receded. When she came back in the Sacred Gear reappeared. There was a brief flash of bright green light as the Sharicite connected to her aura again. Kalawarner gestured for her to leave the room again and the effects receded. Plutia got the feeling the Sharicite was getting annoyed. Judging by Lucifel's vaguely peeved expression she was feeling the crystals' aggravation.

Plutia sighed, and Kalawarner had to hide a chuckle when she noticed the two goddesses were holding similar expressions. "Okay. The Sharicite is connecting itself to what I assume is Asia's soul, and is trying to do.. Something. Not entirely sure. Could be trying to upgrade Twilight Healing, could be trying to upgrade Asia in some manner. Not sure. Lucifel does that give you any idea of what it's doing?" She asked her daughter.

Lucifel nodded slowly. "I can see it now. Asia doesn't want to become a CPU or 'goddess.' The Sharicite isn't trying to turn her into a Candidate. I wasn't sure until I saw how the Sharicite was reacting to her…"

"What would being a 'Candidate' entail?" Asia asked curiously.

"Hmmm...You would actually be my Candidate. Kind of like my understudy or head angel...Whoa! Her interest just shot up!" Lucifel gawked. Asia blushed.

"And well, Lucifel is my Candidate and daughter." Plutia added on.

"What if I wasn't so pure…? Could I Fall?" Asia asked sheepishly.

"The only way you could fall is if you choose hate over love," Lucifel assured her.

Plutia nodded. "The choice is yours."

"Maybe it wouldn't be so bad…" Asia looked at the crystals almost longingly.

The Sharicite pulsed excitedly in response to her decision. Lucifel and Plutia instantly changed into their HDD Forms as Kalawarner's wings manifested. The youngest laughed as the crystals were as eager as Asia.

"Just step forward and touch the statue," Iris Daughter said.

Asia stepped forward slowly, reverently, treating the situation with gravity. It took all of Iris Daughter's self control not to urge her on faster. Iris Heart for her part hugged her daughter and was ready to swoop in if something bad happened. The former nun was preparing to take a big step after all. When she reached the statue her eyes locked on the image of Lucifel. She laid her hand on the head of the statue. Her Sacred Gears exploded with pure radiance. Asia's head fell back as the sublime feeling filled her. She was obscured by the light for a moment.

The light died down slowly to reveal the change. Oddly enough it looked like she was using the Compile Heart Processor. Around her wrists and ankles were slowly turning gold rings with four green gems on each. They looked like Twilight Healing only larger. Her bodysuit and processor were pale green with gold trim. It was strange but her hair and eyes didn't change color. Aside from the Sharicite symbol there wasn't much of a change. Asia would be happy though as she picked up a couple inches in height (and other places.)

"If she is your Candidate...why is her color scheme different…?" Kalawarner asked carefully.

"She likes green," Iris Daughter shrugged.

"Would I be Green Sister…?" The newest Candidate asked curiously.

Iris Heart shrugged before hugging the new Candidate. "The choice is up to you. Anyways Asia, how do you feel? Transforming can be a bit of a rush." The goddess blinked and adopted an annoyed expression. "I'm going to need to talk to Rias. Again." Her voice made it clear how much she did not want to annoy the heiress.

"I might go with Green Sister. It fits...sort of...but I also feel like I've defied a cosmic joke," Green Sister tilted her head pensively. If Green Heart caught wind of her the original CPUs might find a way to this world. The idea was...amusing. And also terrifying. Plutia did not want Yellow Heart to break her spine.

"Why would you need to talk to Rias?" Kala asked.

Iris Heart started counting, raising a finger each time, crossing her legs as she started to float. "1. She deserves to know the Sharicite can ascend people, 2. She deserves to know Asia's ascended, and 3, If I tell her it lessens the chance of any assholes like Riser from being able to do stupid politics crap to us if the devils find out I was hiding the previous two."

Kalawarner nodded approvingly.

"That was what I hoped you would say," the older woman smiled.

"Mom's learning politics. Very carefully," Iris Daughter teased the new Green Sister.

"Who else would even benefit from this?" GS asked.

"Good question," Kala remarked.

"Honestly? I have to like the person. I know we all smile when we see Asia," ID shrugged.

"And if someone we didn't like tried using it?" Kalawarner asked.

"Hope they're ready to see the afterlife," the youngest said with chilling finality.

Iris Heart shrugged and looked to Kala. "Not matter what it does, well, Kala can you make something to keep others out of here unless we let them in of our own free will? Also we should probably tell Uranus if only to keep any jerks in the Fallen from trying political crap." The goddess looked to the two candidates. "Anyways, I suggest we de-transform, as to not waste shares." The fact that a small chunk of Iris Heart's mind wanted to hug the two candidates and never let go because they were adorable and she wanted to keep them safe was unsaid. Once Iris Heart said that, she dropped the transformation and Plutia landed gently on both feet.

The calculating look in Iris Daughter's eyes should worry anyone familiar with Iris Heart. She changed back but the look didn't disappear. Asia reverted but needed to steady herself. Good thing Kala was watching as the Fallen kept her standing. Even if was funny watching Asia briefly get lost in Kalawarner's cleavage.

"Please don't make Uranus into a Candidate without at least asking her father first," Kalawarner seemed to glean what her daughter was thinking.

"Candidate? Why would I do that?" Lucifel looked confused. Kalawarner started to relax until the younger girl finished. "She would make a better Heart."

Plutia sighed and clapped her hands together, having left her doll in the living room. "Lucifel no. In fact new rule. No letting anyone using the Sharicite without me and Kala's permission." Plutia sighed. 'Last thing I need is Lucifel ascend someone who ends up like Rei or Kurome.' She thought.

"Fiiiine…" Lucifel pouted.

"You don't even really know Uranus yet," Kalawarner reminded her.

"She seems nice," Asia opined. Kala sighed.

"She is nice and very ernst. Somehow she hasn't succumbed to the politicking and backstabbing inherent in Fallen affairs. That being said she is quite clever. Otherwise Azazel wouldn't ask her to perform delicate missions. I agree with Plutia, however. No ascending anyone unless you have our permission," Kala said. At first Lucifel looked excited like her other mama was agreeing. That is until she repeated Plutia's words. Now the littlest was pouting again.

"There there…" Asia patted her head. Her funk was too deep even for headpats.

Plutia sighed and hugged Asia and Lucifel. "It's just to make sure we know who ascends and could probably help keep you from accidentally ascending someone who couldn't handle it. I trust you, but the more failsafes the better when it comes to this kinda thing. Also Kala come here I'm making this a group hug." Kala rolled her eyes as her reputation for sadism was pretty much gone. She joined the group hug without complaint.

The paradigm of the universe fell on its head ahead. Plutia wanted to make sure Asia was actually okay and not just caught up in the moment. There was no such thing as buyer's remorse for this gift after all. Would it operate like the CPU Memories or was Lucifel closer? Outright killing someone who tried to take the crystal would certainly prevent thieves. What about people who were just curious? The Sharicite assured Plutia that no one would get through the barrier.

There was that at least.

"Hello Plutia. Was there something you needed?" Asia asked. The former nun was in the study looking over a book of barriers, wards, and binds. For someone who didn't want to hurt people it was a good choice.

"Yeah. I just wanted to make sure your okay. Ascending is a life changing kind of thing so." Plutia shrugged as she plopped herself down on another chair then the one Asia was on. The study was nearish to the bedrooms, so Plutia guessed she'd probably be using the room a lot in the future. "Any questions or anything for me?"

"I feel great. Also confused. Why did the Sharicite want me so badly? I know Lucifel likes me, but she likes everyone," Asia said.

Plutia looked to Asia. "Your a really good person. If I had to guess a reason? That's it.. So how did your ascension feel? I… can't remember mine." The goddess yawned. 'That… and well I honestly wonder if me becoming Plutia counts as ascension.

"It felt like I was waiting for this moment my entire life. I felt a sense of peace greater than I ever knew before. My other is so much more self assured but I can be that way too. I just have to try. Honestly Green Sister is everything I want to be. She told me, in my heart, I can be her with work. All of my beliefs are so much stronger now and are actively supporting me," Asia spoke wonderingly. '

"Huh. For me there's no real mental divide between me and Iris Heart or anything like that.. The only major difference is when I transform is that the transformation strengthen some parts of my personality and makes it easier to stay calm and focused." Plutia replied. "Anyways, any more questions? While I may be a sadist I do like helping people."

"How are you doing? I guess that's my main question. We haven't had much time to relax. It's been one stressful thing after another," Asia said.

"Well I suppose. Being able to relax is going to be nice." Plutia yawned once more, a look of familiar annoyance on her face. "Might try out my new bed. See how soft it is… Actually have we decided who's room is who's yet? I know we've looked at all four bedrooms as their in the same hallway…"

"Lucifel said that yours was the one closest to the library," Asia giggled before gaining a sly look, "...Is Kalawarner really getting a separate room?" Someone was corrupting the girl and doing an amazing job.

Plutia nodded. "Yeah. I like being able to have someplace I can have just to myself if I need to calm down. That and I don't want to waste a room. And thanks for reminding me. Lucifel's is the one across from mine, while Kala's is next to the study and yours is I think right across the hall from Kala's."

Asia looked obscurely disappointed that Plutia took the insinuation so calmly.

"A quiet place does sound nice. I like having somewhere to meditate and pray in peace. Preferably somewhere I'm not giving everyone in listening distance a migraine," Asia sighed. Prayers from a devout follower were like Devil and Fallen Kryptonite. Lucifel wanted to dig right into the Divine System and fix this mess, but she needed to be patient. For now.

Plutia hummed. "Maybe the sharicite room? The place is basically made of faith and pretty isolated compared to the rest of the place, so prayers might flat out get absorbed into Lucifel's shares…" She mused, the goddess closing her eyes in thought.

"I didn't even think of that...I can go down there now without anyone taking me. There isn't much else beyond Candidate," Asia realized. Well it was somewhat murkier than that. She could upgrade further, gain a Next form, or transcend to something else altogether. The universe seemed to run on shonen logic.

"Yep, only reason I'm not thinking of using it a place for me to be alone is that I like being able to lie down on a bed." Plutia replied before yawning, her eyes sleepily fluttering open.

"I'll let you get some sleep then. I want to expand my repertoire of spells. Twilight Healing isn't only for healing after all. It can also help with casting barriers. Since 'HDD' acts as a force multiplier I want to get as much use out of it as possible," Asia beamed.

Plutia nodded. "A good idea. Do you know where Kala is? I want to talk to her before I go off to take a nap… Oh. By the way, if I act more sleepy in the future don't be worry. I've had to deal with chronic sleepiness most of my life, and it tends to flare up when I'm relaxed." And she wasn't lying, there was a reason she liked her namesake after all.

"She was investigating the practice hall out back," Asia said. She leaned over to hug Plutia warmly. The goddess returned the hug, before heading out to the practise hall.

"Kala? How are you doing?" She asked when she arrived.

The Fallen was running through spear drills using the golden Sharicite spear she acquired. Kala was always careful about showing the spear to others. This was probably the first time since the time she received the weapon that it was being used. Kalawarner ended her current drill slowly.

"I'm doing well. Just getting the feel for my spear. I didn't want to bring it out around the Devils, or even Uranus, as its power is difficult to control," Kalawarner said. The golden crystal spear was also shedding holy light like an arc reactor.

"Yeah. That thing's kinda smiting in the form of a spear with how much light it's giving off. Anything you want to talk about? We haven't really gotten a chance to just sit down and talk."

Kalawarner allowed the spear to shrink down before placing it in her cleavage. The radiance completely shielded by her body.

"To be honest I'm lost. There was a point to my becoming your maid. Mainly because I didn't want to die and because I could tease you relatively safely. Until I realized that you had a hair trigger temper at times," Kalawarner said. Her shoulders sagged a little. "You're also kind to your friends and you genuinely care for people. You're so young and make mistakes like anyone else. Over time I've come to actually care about you." She would never admit it even under pain of torture but they were alone.

Plutia nodded. "Thanks. If your feeling a bit lost well… I've been wanting to spar as Iris Heart. Think you'd be up for that? I'll probably go take a nap either way once I'm done."

"Not the kind of 'lost.' I've become a mother, and from how the other Factions will treat me, consort to a goddess and mother to God. The part I'm stuck on is being a mom. I have no idea what I'm doing and I certainly don't want to pass on some of my hobbies to her," Kalawarner groaned.

Plutia nodded sheepily. "Yeah.. I'm kinda lost on it as well.. I just try to be kind to Lucifel and keep her out of trouble… Hope she didn't inherit my sleepiness."

"We really should talk about what we want to teach her. Even though she's showing signs of maturity beyond her years...We're starting to see the limits," Kala said.

"Well. Math, Science, History, Magic, how to interact with people, and how to take care of herself are all good things to teach her." Plutia yawned. "Wish I had the second to last…"

"Asia is a blessing. When we falter with good things to teach her, Asia can help," Kalawarner sighed with relief.

Plutia nod. "Yeah. Asia's definitely a good role-model for Lucifel… well.. Anything you want to ask me? I wouldn't be surprised if you had questions for me." Plutia blinked. "Also. Now that Issei doesn't live in the same house as us, you can start wearing the maid outfits and such again if you want to, as long as they're not a bad influence on Lucifel."

"You missed seeing me in form fitting maid outfits?" Kalawarner placed her hands behind her head and arched her back coyly. The action causing her bountiful cleavage to strain the front of the suit she wore.

Plutia blushed. "Yes. You looked good in them."

"Nice to know I'm appreciated," she smirked. Kalawarner laid a hand on Plutia's shoulder. "I have to say this has been fun. Unending life gets boring without something to shake it up. I didn't realize just how bored I was becoming before meeting you. Is there anything you want from me? Just ask," she said warmly.

Plutia nodded. "A chance to spar with you as Iris Heart. I'd feel more relaxed if I had a outlet for my sadism. The verbal beatdown on Riser helped but that's not something I can repeat." With a deep breath and a flash of purple light Plutia transformed. Iris Heart grinned as she looked over Kala. "Now now Servant, maybe switch to something that wouldn't get torn to shreds if it gets hit…" She smiled and summoned her sword.

Kalawarner drew her spear in a flash that also changed her outfit. Whether it was an actual combat outfit, or meant for distraction, was up for debate. It looked like bands of black leather wrapped over her torso, crossing her hips, and trailing along her arms and legs. Her waist was covered by a tight dark purple mini skirt. She twirled the spear before assuming an aggressive stance.

"I don't often get a chance to use my fighting clothes," Kalawarner smirked.

Iris Heart chuckled before taking flight, giving her some height on the fallen angel before swinging her weapon and willing it to extend, sending the whip-blade right at Kala. The Fallen also took to the air. Her spear broke into chain segments as she used it to ward off the flexible sword. She twirled the section in her hand and thrust forward. The spear point shot out for just past Iris Heart's neck. Kala pulled back as if telling the chain spear to wrap.

Iris Heart ducked down, before lashing out with her blade again, trying to get the whip-blade to wrap around Kala's legs. As she did this she reached out with her other hand and clenched it, staring right at Kalawarner's neck. The Fallen grit her teeth, summoning her resolve, and threw off the voodoo effect. However the effort wasn't without cost. The whip sword still scored across her legs and throwing the older woman off balance. She spun the chain spear around rapidly in a web of defense to buy herself time to recover. Iris Heart hung back before darting under Kalawarner, coming back up right behind her, where the goddess kicked the Fallen right in the back.

"Ah!" Kalawarner took the kick causing her to tumble forward. She deliberately threw herself into the tumble, briefly spinning rapidly in midair, before sending the chain spear out with the speed of a striking snake. It wasn't the point but the blunt end aimed right for Iris Heart's breastbone.

Iris Heart attempted to catch it, using some of her magic to slow down the spear. Kalawarner focused her will to push through the goddess' magic. The desire to win was growing as the spear glowed with radiant light. Deciding speed was the better part of valor, Iris Heart used her magic to boost how fast her hand went and grabbed onto the blunt end of the spear. Then, she started pulling on it, trying to drag Kala to her. Kalawarner took advantage of the pull and, instead of fighting it, she narrowed her profile and flew through the air leading into a kick for Iris Heart's stomach. Iris Heart responded with a wide kick of her own, trying to deflect Kalawarner's own kick.

The kicks struck with such force as to throw both goddess and Fallen back. Kalawarner panted as the fight was getting her blood pumping. She slowly smiled an unsettling grin like Iris Heart at her best (or worst).

"I haven't had anyone make my pulse pound like you...I might even be falling for you…" Kalawarner's smile widened into a leer moment's before the spear shot out again. The tip vanishing as if the chain weapon turned into a flurry of striking snakes.

Iris Heart was also panting as her heart was pounding. Lashing out with her weapon she deflected any of the attacks that got close to her. "Heh. This is more fun than I thought it was going to be Servant. All the fun of letting out my sadism and the thrill of a challenge. If we can I suggest, no order that we make this a regular thing." Her tone was full of excitement, The goddess condensed her magic into her processor unit to boost her speed before hurling herself into the air and diving at the fallen angel, ready to kick her in the belly.

"Fine by me!" Kalawarner snapped her weapon back swiftly. As the chain recoiled she snapped the length around Iris Heart's leg and attempted to bind her. Iris Heart parried the chain with her sword, a vicious smile adorning her face. The Fallen blurred forward in an attempt to physically grapple with the other woman. Her weapon wrapped around her arm and across her torso like armor.

Iris Heart blurred as she tapped into her shares, lashing out with her hand and leg, attempting to kick and choke the Fallen. "Glad to hear that. Now cry out if you want mercy!"

Kalawarner bent her will again to blunt the effect of the goddess' Force Choke, but it wasn't as effective. She sacrificed some power in her defense to remain mobile. The experienced Fallen brought her wrapped forearm around to solidly block the kick. She made to grab the kicking leg and trap it under her arm. Her breathing was shallow but steady for now. Iris Heart chuckled, before swinging her sword at the fallen's arm. Her heart was pounding, and she could feel herself start to pant again.

"Ha ha ha ha ha…!" Kalawarner managed an excited laugh as the sword bounced off her defending arm. The panting only increased but it wasn't all due to lack of air. If anything she was starting to enjoy the deprivation. She tried to yank Iris Heart down and grapple her to the floor from midair. Iris Heart clenched her hand into a fist, as she kept the choking effect going, before lashing out with a punch to Kalawarner's face.

The simple punch broke the Fallen's concentration. Of all the things she was expecting that wasn't it. The force held in abeyance suddenly constricted her airway. She seized up, clenching onto Iris' leg even more tightly. Kalawarner's eyes were glazing over as she struggled to breath. Iris Heart pushed Kala to the ground and as her heel was pressed down lightly on Kala's stomach, did the goddess unclench her fist and stopped using her magic. "Do you forfeit Servant? My heart is pounding, and it seems like I've won." She smiled, even though she panted from exertion.

"Y-yes…" Kalawarner almost mewed as her chest heaved. The sweet taste of air was intoxicating.

Iris Heart chuckled as her heart rate and breathing slowly returned to normal. "That was amazing if I have to say. I enjoyed it. How about you?"

"I did...mistress…" The Fallen smiled. Getting her to spar again wouldn't be a problem.

Iris Heart chuckled as she moved away from Kala and dropped her transformation, Plutia looking both happy and incredibly tired. Her sword had transformed into her doll. "...That was…. Amazing… I.. don't think I'll be able to make it to my room without falling asleep halfway there.." The goddess yawned. "I order you to carry me to my bed."

Kalawarner stood up slowly. She was so incredibly tired that carrying Plutia would drain the last of her strength. Yet somehow the Fallen managed to do as ordered. Her combat outfit still on full display. She carried the smaller figure into her room and laid her down on the bed. It was at that point her strength fully gave out. Kala collapsed on the bed with a weary groan. Plutia fell asleep as soon as she touched the bed. Lucifel and Asia saw Kala, and poked their heads in to get a idea of what was going on. "Kala-mama what happened?" Lucifel asked.

"...I'll tell you when you're older…" Kalawarner turned away to hide the sudden blush.

"Looks like what happened after Issei sparred with Akeno," Asia blushed too.

Lucifel said something suspiciously like 'my family is full of perverts' before pasting a bright smile on her face. "Sleep well then. I'm not ready to be a big sister yet." She ducked back out again, dragging a giggling Asia after her.

A bit later, Plutia yawned as her eyes fluttered open. "..Damn. The spar took more out of me then I thought it did stamina wise.. adrenaline is one hell of a drug… worth it…" Her eyes drifted to Kala, and the goddess merely sighed before getting up and pulling out the bedroll Kala had used at Issei's place before using her doll to place her in it without waking her up. Yawning once more, the CPU debated going back to sleep or seeing how Lucifel was doing. 'Hmmm. Eh. I'll probably crash till tomorrow next time I go to bed… I'll go see how Lucifel is doing.. Now where is she?' The CPU quietly left her room in search of her daughter.

Lucifel was in the practice hall working on her own skills. She was determined that no one was going to wreck her in melee if she lost the Chakrams. The young Fallen took a more free flowing approach as opposed to Issei's pugilist approach. As soon as Plutia entered she wound down to a stop. Her practice clothes were an oversized t-shirt over a tank top and bicycle shorts.

"Sleep well, Plutia-mama?" Lucifel asked.

Plutia nodded. "Yeah. I'll probably crash till tomorrow next time I fall asleep. Me and Kala's spar took a lot from me. It was fun though…. Even if I was too tired to walk back to my room." She smiled. "So how are you doing?"

"I'm doing well. I started practicing since I had too much pent up energy myself. You weren't awake when the phone rang earlier. Surprise, surprise, we do have a landline. Rias wanted to tell us how the match went," Lucifel stretched languidly.

Plutia nodded. "Ah. Did she tell you? And anything else happen when I was out?"

"Asia left to tend to Rias' Peerage. Even with all the training they were still really banged up. Turns out Riser wasn't kidding about having the regenerative powers of a phoenix. Every time they thought he was defeated he just got back up. Then Riser made the mistake of remarking on Rias' fitness to oversee Kuoh. Issei used 'Balance Breaker' and broke the idiot over his knee. Repeatedly," Lucifel developed a faintly savage smile by the end.

"Idiot can't help but be a bigoted asshat can he? Least Issei got him. I would have payed to see Issei beat him like that. Would have made for some good entertainment…" The CPU shrugged. "Has Uranus or anyone else showed up or passed by while I was out?"

"Well...Uranus is here but I didn't want to wake you up. I kind of...might have forgotten she was here...when I got involved in training," Lucifel laughed nervously.

Plutia facepalmed. 'Seriously. Seriously. Lucifel you are adorable.' The CPU sighed. "Where is she?"

"Skulking around and being a superspy," Uranus said from her perch in the rafters. Lucifel let out a yelp and clutched her chest.

"How long have you been there?" She demanded.

"Long enough. Seriously. I wasn't really sure I could hide from you," Uranus smirked. She waved to Plutia.

Plutia waved back and hugged Lucifel. "Hi Uranus. What's going on?"

"Dad wanted me to extend an invitation to you but I asked him to hold off. He said okay. I had to do something otherwise everyone would want to poke and prod. Lucifel really doesn't need that," Uranus smiled at the younger girl. Lucifel smiled back even if she still looked irked about getting startled.

"Invitation for?" Plutia asked, as she yawned.Lucifel hugged her mother, making sure she stayed awake.

"To meet with him. Faction stuff. Tell me whenever you're ready to schedule something, but it's entirely in your court," Uranus assured Plutia.

"How much is this costing you?" Lucifel asked in concern.

"I'm basically calling on my bond with my dad. The Fallen are really in an uproar," the Fallen girl replied.

Plutia sighed. "Greeaaaaaaaaat. Why. And I talked to Serafall earlier.. Have you heard anything about the non-fallen angels trying to get into Kuoh or planning something? They're the only faction I don't have someone from to talk to about."

"The Fallen felt essentially betrayed by how God made it so easy to Fall. The same freedoms he gave to mortals were denied. Each of us is possessed of a vice. Vices are something Angels aren't supposed to have. Might as well tell you mine. My vice is pride. I might not seem like it but I do like to win," Uranus smirked.

"The fact you tell us how awesome you are kind of gave it away," Lucifel remarked dryly.

"Yeah probably. I was born Fallen so I'm not as angry or hurt. The real reason the Fallen are so divided is because the vices often clash. The Fallen want to know what your intentions are. Are you going to somehow purify us, destroy us, or what?" Uranus shrugged.

"Honestly? It would have to be on a case by case basis. When you try to take a 'one size fits all' approach someone gets shafted," Lucifel shook her head.

"And if they don't want to be purified I see no reason why they should be. Freedom is the right of all sentient beings.." Plutia added on, quoting Optimus Prime. "And have you heard anything about Heaven or whatever they call themselves? Are they up to anything?"

"The Angel Faction is dispatching a representative to speak with you. The Devils flat out said 'no way' to a high ranking Angel. So the rep will probably be from the Church. They're going to want to put their best foot forward so prepare for a lot of whitewash," Uranus sniffed indelicately.

"Lovely...I won't be talking with someone who actually matters…" Lucifel actually growled. The Fallen girl quickly waved her hands.

"I could tell them you want to talk to someone important," she did not want God furious with anyone. Uranus' views were made plain. She couldn't care less about the Faction mess.

Plutia hummed. "Talking to someone up the chain would be useful in getting to know whatever it is they really want. Though. If they insult anyone in the house I am throwing them out wings first. Anyways, any idea of what they want with Lucifel?"

"The Church would want her as a figurehead to lead them on a glorious charge against the 'evils' of the world. Pretty much a grand crusade across the planet. The heads are mostly old farts who don't even know what a cellphone is. However the Angels are the ones who give them their marching orders," Uranus said.

"Uh huh...What if I told the Church to knock it the Hell off?" Lucifel was growing angry at just the thought that someone would declare a religious world war. Uranus smiled kindly.

"Calm yourself lil' cousin. They wouldn't dare go against your orders. Once you're in control of the Divine System it literally is Your Will Be Done. No one wants to be on the wrong side of that," Uranus assured her.

"I won't rule through fear either," Lucifel insisted.

"Then be cute. Be your adorable self. People will go to stupid lengths to make pretty little girls happy," she said.

Plutia's left eye started twitching in rage the moment she heard what the Church would try to do. Because she knew, even without her divinity, she would be 'evil' that the church would try to slay. "Uranus I doubt it would be that easy. There's likely to be assholes who think Lucifel's a liar, or worse… the assholes who use religion as a pretext to be horrible people will rally the idiots around them and try to do something stupid. And if the Church tries to do anything to Lucifel or even start that fucking crusade, then the leaders and anyone who gets in my way will die screaming." Slowly and surely the goddess tried to calm herself down by deep breaths. Lucifel's hugs certainly helped.

"Yeah how do we stop them from just dismissing me?" Lucifel asked. Uranus looked honestly bewildered.

"Right now they might but anyone who hears you speak with believe the Truth in your words. As long as you don't lie no one would doubt your words. That's why people believe an Angel when they appear. Fallen are known deceivers, so are Devils, but an Angel can't lie or they fall. The mechanism was designed by God based on the restrictions He placed on Himself," Uranus said.

"No offense Uranus, but if I designed a system like that? I would probably shoot myself. No one with any common sense would design a system that doesn't allow them to lie. Because lies can range from 'is your steak overdone' to 'does this dress make my butt look big?'. I won't lie because of how Plutia-mama feels, but I also wouldn't speak hurtful truths either," Lucifel said.

"Who said He had any common sense?" Uranus shrugged.

"Not me." Plutia added on, before taking a deep breath. "Thanks for the info Uranus… I'll talk to your later when me and Kala have figured out a time.."

"Take all the time you need. Since we already got the interview out of the way," Uranus smirked playfully. She hopped down from the rafters and gave Plutia a hug, then Lucifel. The capricious Fallen waved as she stepped through the door of the practice hall and disappeared. Lucifel blinked.

"She's smooth…" Lucifel breathed.

Plutia nodded. "Yeah.. I'll probably be going back to bed, my temper's tired me out…" Plutia yawned. "Any questions or anything you want to say before I go back to bed baby?"

"I love you Plutia-mama," Lucifel hugged her tight.

Plutia hugged her daughter tighter. "I love you as well Lucifel. If you ever want to talk or ask me questions I'd be glad to answer." The goddess yawned and started to walk back to her room to sleep away the day.

Lucifel smiled as her mom left the room before slowly turning to the open window. She frowned pensively. Aunt Serafall was sweet and Uranus was fun. Calling her 'cousin' was a kind gesture that touched her deeply. She hoped the Angels made a good first impression. Uranus was, in her own way, as biased as anyone. Kala-mama was the only one who attempted to strip out the bias. She was just born and already had to deal with politics. The thought was there to just let Plutia-mama deal with it but the fallout would be tremendous.

Fun though.

Lucifel giggled as she imagined the strait-laced Angels dealing with Plutia-mama.

A girl could dream.[/b][/i]