Chapter 138 - 48

48- Preparing for a Meeting

…..

Few times in her life left Rias more nervous than that morning during breakfast. "Here you go, oka-sama." She presented a dish of risotto to the older woman who took her time to enjoy the smell.

"Hmm~ Excellent for the nose but what about the taste?" Iri took a bite with a spoon before humming again with her hands in her cheeks. "Hmm~ hmm~ hmm mmm~ Delicious!" She gave the redhead devil a thumbs up. "I approve. This is truly the quality of a meal worthy of a housewife."

"Can you say that when you are not good at cooking yourself? So much for being a housewife." Maya asked while taking a sip of juice.

"You only say that because you are an even worse cook." Iri took another as Maya gave her a sharp look but said nothing else. "Either way this food is excellent. 8 points on the Shirou Scale."

Shirou's hand moved to cover his face as he moaned in embarrassment. "Mom, what Liz told you?"

Raising her spoon, the matriarch of the Emiya family pointed it to Shirou. "That you are finally taking your position as her Master seriously and expanding your household. And I have to say," she looked at the girls around the table, her eyes landing in Xenovia and Luvia more than any other, "it is nice to see you with so many ladies at your home. Ah, to be in that age~"

"Thank you, my lady." Xenovia replied with an eager nod that had Medusa chuckling.

"You honor me, lady Emiya." Luvia replied with a smile and a bow of her head. "And how is your tea? It is my own blend and I want your opinion."

"Really?" Iri took a sip of the drink and was impressed with the flavor. "Hmm~ So good too. Ah, you three can stop being formal as well. Just call me 'Iri' or 'Mom' if you want."

""We can't do that, oka-sama."" Both Rias and Luvia talked over each other with the blonde deferring to her King soon after. "What we meant to say is that you deserve respect and-"

"And you are sleeping with my son." Shirou facepalmed for what felt like the hundredth time just that morning. "We are practically family already." She then moved to grab Koneko by her waist and wrapped the small devil on her lap. To the Rook's credit she just kept eating. "I am also happy to have someone to spoil while you work on giving me grandchildren."

Maya rolled her eyes. "I think both of them agreed they aren't ready for it." Shirou would be making her favorite dish tonight while Rias' eyes were spinning at the implications. "Give them some time at least. They have been a couple for how long now?"

Irisviel gave Maya a look as she worked on Koneko's hair. "They are responsible enough and I will be there to help. At least they should stop using protection."

"After college!" Rias suddenly said before cleaning her throat before the white haired woman amused eyes. "I mean, we can talk more about this after college, oka-sama." From the smile on her face, Shirou was convinced that his mother wasn't going to give up that easily. His lover obviously was of the same mind. "But why didn't you call that you were coming? We would have been here to receive you."

"Nah, it isn't anything important. Just something from the job." That had Shirou's attention again and he turned to Maya for clarification. Unfortunately for him his mother wasn't done. "Then we heard today was an important day on Kuoh and I couldn't help but pop up." She then pouted, making pigtails with Koneko's hair. "It is just a shame Kiri is busy on Amazon dealing with an infestation."

"We all know this isn't the kind of event he likes to participate in. Or any kind of event for that matter." Maya added while enjoying her meal.

"Wait, dad is doing what?" Shirou shook his head before focusing on Maya again. "And about work-"

Just by his face Maya knew what was the problem. "No, we aren't here to kill anyone. This is the other part of our work; security." She raised her cup again and Liz quickly refilled it. "There is going to be an important meeting here in a few days and we are part of the detail to make sure everything goes smoothly." She then gave Iri a frustrated look. "Originally you weren't supposed to come so early but she insisted."

"And lose the chance to see my son at school?" Koneko's pigtails were done and she finished it with a pair of pink ribbons. She then returned the devil back to her place and moved Medusa on her lap. "I also needed to know if he was enjoying highschool life." By her tone she was satisfied with the developments.

Much to Rias' happiness even as her lover kept focusing on other mathers. "I met one of… dad's fans recently." The words erased Luvia's cheerful look.

"Oh~ one of Kiri's admirers? It is so fun to find one of them." Clearly it happened enough that Iri wasn't surprised by it.

"You just say that because it is one of the few things he can be teased about." Maya gave him a nod and pensive look. "If they are someone worthwhile then we will have no problem recruiting them for our organization."

"Bah, calling Freed worthwhile is an insult to all mankind if I ever heard any." Xenovia commented and Maya looked at her before turning to Shirou.

"Freed Sellzen, the Mad Exorcist? If he is in the area then I shall need to hunt him down immediately."

Shirou saw the determination in Maya's eyes and knew what her intent was. "Don't worry. I got rid of him after he hurt one of my friends."

"Shero is a gentleman like that."

Iri nodded at Luvia's words. "He was always a good boy; getting rid of the trash, taking care of his sister… cooking." She loved how some of the girls shivered and her smile turned impish. "It is good to know that someone like Freed was taken out. Good job, Shirou."

"When you say 'admirers' does that mean your organization employs more of them?" Rias could understand the benefits of such a model; even if most of them were incompetent they would always be loyal.

"The Black Sheath Security Company prides itself on always scouting proper talent or annexing other organizations in the same area." Maya was the one who replied with a charming but fake smile. "Any expert can be accepted if they pass our control of quality tests which include; fitness and psychology." Her smile then turned real. "Many of us are people that had nowhere to go after being rescued from a tragedy or another. I, for example, was rescued by Kiritsugu years ago and have been his Left

Hand woman ever since."

"'Left'?" It was Luvia who asked, something which made Iri giggle.

"Of course she is 'Left' since I am 'Right'."

"Just because you wanted to 'be always right'." Maya pointed out and the albino woman shrugged.

Iri made some final touches on Medusa's hair before letting the goddess go. Instead of sitting back in her place the purple haired girl stood up and began to play with the taller woman's hair which made her giggle.

"Do you mind?" It has been long since she fixed someone else's hair after they did her own.

"Not at all." Iri was happy since that was an activity she hadn't had the chance to partake much since Illya began to walk her own path. She giggled again as Medusa's touch was comforting. "But enough of talking about dull stuff, I want to talk more about expanding our family."

Rias blushed but she was far more balanced in the morning after a good night's rest and some coaching from Shirou. "Oka-sama, please be patient while we conclude our studies. Once I finish college that can be discussed again."

"But you are a devil. Odds are that even if you stop using protection it will take years before you are pregnant." Iri pointed out with a pout but Rias remained firm. Then the woman let out an overly dramatic sigh that had both Shirou and Maya on guard. "Oh well, since you aren't going to give me grandchildren anytime soon I should get to work on the others."

Her gaze shifted to Luvia who blinked in surprise. "Luvia isn't ready for this kind of commitment." Rias spoke quickly but it had no effect. It was clear she needed to bring out the big weapons. "Besides, she just recently Reincarnated and needs some time to adjust."

Obviously she didn't want Luvia to agree to anything and as her Piece, the blonde had no choice but to let out a sigh. "I would gladly join your family oka-sama but unfortunately my King is correct."

"Mou~ Rias, don't be like that." Iri's complaint didn't stop her gaze going around the table for Liz but Shirou wasn't going to allow that.

"Forcing someone to do something they aren't ready is exactly the thing you raised me against." Iri's eyes moved to her son who looked determined. "Especially when they can be tricked to do it." Liz pouted but they both knew he was right, under the right conditions Irisviel could turn the tables by manipulating her just a little.

The right words and the right suggestions would go far since Iri suspected Liz's actual feelings.

"Hmm~ but Shirou, I noticed that you don't mind other girls, neither does Rias." Both winced as Iri's smile turned angelic. "Is there any other girl I don't know?"

"She isn't here." Shirou wasn't going to give names. He was already regretting giving his mother an opening.

But it was an opening she was going to take. "Still that means you don't mind if the girl is ready for such things, riiiiiight~?" He looked at Maya for support but the woman shook her head. Iri was on a roll and there was no stopping. "Then the best I can do is prepare other candidates to give me grandchildren." Her hand swiftly moved to her dress and from there she pulled out her trump card.

Irisviel's hand slammed down like a hammer that had the plates tremble as the girls approached to take a look at what she pulled while Shirou covered his eyes. "Pictures?" Xenovia asked in wonder before noticing something else. "Master's pictures?"

Indeed there were now ten different pictures in the table with Shirou in various states during the ten years he had lived as an Emiya. "Shiro as a child." Rias grasped that at full speed, her eyes spinning and blushing in her face.

With how things were going, Irisviel was pleased. "Just some of my favorite memories. This one is of a week after he arrived at the house and caught him sleeping." He was half covered with his pajamas pulled up. "Wasn't he precious? Think how your children will be; more bright red hair and sleeping peacefully," she raised another picture, "in your lap." Rias quickly snatched it.

His lover was being hypnotized by the sweet words and she was his greatest ally on this. Shirou knew measures needed to be taken. "You would have to stop going to school, there would be no college and we would have to leave Japan. Probably to the Underworld where we won't be able to leave for a while."

The plan worked as Rias snapped back but another front was already under assault. "Shero playing with his sister." Luvia could already see a blonde girl instead of Illya as they would be her children playing. "A hard working boy that likes to invent and a genius girl who exceeds all expectations. Yes, they-"

"Would be high maintenance and you would be too busy to spread your name in the Underworld." Shirou knew exactly how to play with Luvia's pride. "Not only that but you would spend months, maybe years, unable to be promoted from a Low Class devil."

There was no way Luvia would want to remain in that position for as much as she needed to, her pride and ambitions would keep her desires in check. Her future could wait for her dreams to be fulfilled as fast as she can afford it and everybody knew she wanted at least a peerage of her own.

Evidence of her status as a High Class was what she needed most in the Underworld society and a peerage was exactly that. Luvia lowered the pictures with a grimace as the idea played on her mind.

Shirou was about to let out a sigh of relief when he noticed the look of disappointment on Maya's face. He knew that look well, it was too similar to his father's when he failed an exercise or made an obvious mistake. A minimal twitch of her lip, a hard look and how her eyes were fixed on him were some of his father's same habits.

Except that Maya wasn't Kiritsugu and she had less control of her eyes when they strayed from the person she was chastising to the problem in question. It was clear proof she wanted to solve it as fast as possible while the Magus Killer wouldn't care or would be more patient.

Shirou's eyes followed Maya's line of sight and he realized he had been played. 'Shit!'

Irisviel had more pictures and was sitting beside a girl he hadn't considered part of the problem until now. "And this is him at the sports festival; he practiced for weeks to get the jump right after failing during it. Only stopped when he managed to nail it five times in a roll."

"As expected of Master." Xenovia nodded with a small smile as Iri's arm held the girl's to keep her close. The intimate posture was the kind of a mother guiding her child and seemed natural for them. "Always dedicating himself."

"Yes, yes. I was so proud that day." She got closer to Xenovia to whisper and Shirou had to use Reinforcement to make sure he caught whatever it was. "Wouldn't he be a good father?"

'How?!' Because that question played exactly on what Xenovia wanted and Iri was on the full offensive. 'Were Rias and Luvia just distractions? Was Xenovia her target all along?'

Unlike the other girls, Xenovia's dream for the future definitely involved children and since she pledged herself to him Shirou felt he had an obligation to help her. It was something his mother certainly would be up to par once she got the whole story.

And at that point Shirou realized he had no clue when his mother arrived the previous night and that she may have been waiting for him the whole time he was at Azazel's house. 'Enough time for them to talk. Enough time for her to gauge Xenovia and decide that if she asks then I will be hard pressed to refuse.' Xenovia gave up Caliburn for him and he cared for her. 'I AM NOT READY TO BE A FATHER!'

"He would, wouldn't he?" The idea was already taking root in the former Exorcist's mind, just as Iri planned. Shirou gulped hard, preparing himself for what was to come. "But it is too early."

"What?" Iri voiced his own thoughts, not expecting such a subdued response. 'From what I gathered she is the kind of girl to plunge headfirst… I want my grandchildren!' Yet she wouldn't press. "Why too early?" Much, at least.

"Because Master Shirou recommended that I finish highschool in case I change my mind." Xenovia nodded wisely and Shirou looked at her like she was an angel while Iri felt the sting of defeat. "I understand he is looking out for me and while I want to have children it would be best if I am ready to help them in the future." The redhead was dancing in his own mind, the pegasus laughing at how happy he was. "But the fact is he was always such a dedicated person and physically capable… I would be happy to have his children after I graduate from school."

At that Iri smiled as she noticed her son was too busy celebrating to say anything. "I would happily welcome you into the family." It wouldn't be now but she was securing more grandchildren. That was a win for the Irisviel book.

"Are you sure? I can understand that I'm not the most ladylike girl around-"

"Nonsense. You must be strong to have strong babies." They joined hands as promises were made between them. "I am sure Shirou will approve."

"Master is kind really… Maybe that will be the day I won't need to call him Master anymore." Xenovia commented with a blush as she got closer to the older woman. "I also hope you have no problem if I… try to practice before we actually have a child?"

Despite her upbringing in the Church, or perhaps because of it, Iri realized Xenovia was a little pervert by how excited she sounded at the idea. If anything her conspiratory whisper may be because of how she was raising or the respect she had for Shirou. Either way, the mother was pleased to have such an ally.

"Not at all." She saw how Rias was containing herself and Luvia was already stable, Xenovia was her best chance. "After you graduate from school, right?" Earlier than Rias even if not ideal. Iri hoped such development could even push the devil to have children early.

"That is right." Xenovia sounded excited and hopeful, ideas already being drawn to have Shirou alone with her for some moments. 'I need to also acquire condoms until we are ready to have children… Should I talk with him first? Ask where I can get them?' She nodded as that sounded like a great idea.

The blue haired woman didn't realize that was a request Shirou would be too ashamed to deny but she would respect him and Rias since the devil had him first but still Xenovia would talk with them.

Already her eyes shone with a light that had Irisviel grinning, the image of teaching her children how to fight fixed on her mind. Only two people realized the dealings between the two women, one of them because she could read lips and knew Iri well enough to not lower her guard.

Maya watched the events with some pity for Shirou who looked relaxed as he thought everything was under control. 'The fool has no idea.' She wasn't going to tell anything either, he should learn to not lower his guard. Instead she traded looks with Medusa who had a small smile. 'I suppose the goddess also heard everything and is just enjoying the show.' Not her problem, if Iri was happy then Kiritsugu was happy and Maya was happy. "Aren't you all late for school?"

It was the only reprieve she was going to offer and Shirou didn't even know it was too late for it. "That is right! I need to get the bentos in the kitchen." He was so worried about protecting his sanity that almost escaped his mind.

Then he heard a sentence that has scared him many times in his childhood. "Oh, oh I will drive." Iri sounded so excited too.

Memories of dark days poured through Shirou's consciousness and even Liz stopped eating with a haunting look. Old horrors had the maid's stomach turning against itself as the magus felt death closer but never close enough to deliver mercy. Indeed both saw some of the curious faces around the table and felt pity for them, pity and envy.

Shirou shall protect those faces full of innocence. "Mom, I don't think you can." He said it as delicately as possible.

"Why not?" Her question held no malice, only legitimate curiosity. That almost had Shirou faltering.

Almost but not enough. "Because you only know how to drive cars and we have a van now."

"But some of us could go in a car." Iri just wanted to drive with her family, if it was only Shirou and Rias then that would be fine with her.

The redhead magus felt a bolt of depression. "Right… the car… we kind of hit it on a window."

"What? Why?" Iri felt a great deal of concern, Shirou took it since it was better than depression.

Which was great in Liz's book and she moved to support him by pointing at Luvia. "To save her."

"I apologize for that, lady Irisviel. It was my incompetency that demanded such a sacrifice from your son." Luvia bowed her head in repentance. "Give me some time and I shall secure enough funds for a new car post haste."

Rias massaged her eyes at that comment. "You can't go spending money like that anymore, Luvia."

Before that discussion could continue, Iri brushed it off. "Oh, that is fine then." Relief poured from Shirou and Liz much to everyone's, save Maya, confusion. "Wait a minute, why can't I drive a van?"

The horrified looks returned and Maya finally took pity on them. "Because a van is different from a car, Irisviel. It takes a similar but different set of skills to pay attention to a larger vehicle. Not to mention the changes that may impair a bad driver because of angles, the higher wheel and other things." Every word made Iri's pout more pronounced. "Don't blame me, you were the one who said 'I just need to learn how to drive cars'."

She would have added 'badly' but that was a fight that Maya already lost because the rest of the Emiya family refused to make Iri depressed. Instead they had to use mental gymnastics to avoid being in a car with Irisviel behind the wheel.

Grateful for Maya interference, Shirou took the reins from the conversation. "But aunt Maya is right. We better get going or else we will be late for school."

Irisviel's next words surprised everyone. "Oh, then let me get ready. This isn't the kind of dress you show up in a school with." She cupped her chin in a cute pout. "Shame it is summer. My best clothes are always for winter."

"Wait, oka-sama, why are you sounding like you are going to school with us?" Since Shirou was gapping like a fish Rias took over.

She saw the look of panic in her lover's face as dread took hold. Something was amiss and the Heiress of Gremory couldn't remember what, her mind having repressed the subject.

"Isn't 'Parents Visit Day' on Kuoh? I was pretty sure it was today."

Rias began to have a look of panic before grabbing her cell phone and checking the date. "I completely forgot." She surprised herself with how calm she sounded. 'Maybe Grayfia forgot as well?'

Her hope was quickly squashed by Iri. "We were right! I need to remember to thank Sirzechs for the warning. If he hadn't called then we would have missed it."

The redheads traded a look that went over most people's heads. Both remembered what happened the previous year. "Sona is going to have a fit." Shirou felt a new type of dread.

Both knew who else was coming. "Yep." Rias mirrored his feelings.

…..

The day of bringing the parents to school was one Issei usually dreaded. "Oh Asia-chan, you didn't need to make bentos for us. We could have eaten out."

"Let her go, Miki. If our daughter wants to spoil her parents a little, that is her right. Hahaha."

However that was no longer the case as instead of being suffocated by his parents he was just smiling as Asia was the center of attention. "It wouldn't be fair. Usually we eat with our classmates and if you want to join us then you should have some food."

Yes, with Asia around Issei didn't have to worry about judgmental stares or glares like last year. If he behaved well enough and was polite, his parents would be showering the former nun with praises while he would get to enjoy an easy day off.

Indeed Issei knew, thanks to the previous year, that during the day of parents visiting most teachers tend to ignore the usual lesson plans and go for improvised classes to try and have all their students look good.

Mostly it meant no quizzes, no homework, barely any texts, random events that gave plenty of space for the parents to interact and, if he behaves, no extra work. It was not only a day for parents to see Kuoh and how it worked as a school but also an unofficial holiday to its students if they behaved.

'I just need to take it easy and everything is going to be fine.' He told himself, already promising to not do anything perverted with his parents around. 'Just don't need to fall in Matsuda and Motohama ideas, just for today. Not like we got anything last year.'

As far as he knows his friends' parents wouldn't bother to show up again and because of that Matsuda got more bold. Even if his friend wasn't into older women, Issei remembered him trying to 'flirt' with a mother of their classmates. He and Motohama were laughing at their friend the next day since the woman was only indulging him.

That just solidified his reputation as Perverted Baldy but that wasn't a problem for him as the friends held their perversion like badges of honor.

Surely the other two thirds of the pervert trio were already in the classroom which had its tables changed for more space and to take more students both for those who wanted to sit with their parents and for them to work together in whatever activity their teacher decided to apply.

Seeing his friends, Issei turned to his family. "Do you guys want to-"

"We will sit with Asia-chan." Miki's decision didn't surprise Issei. "Are you going to your friends?"

Her son nodded. "Well, since Asia always sits close to Aika I doubt there is going to be much space."

"Don't be so sure, Hyoudou." Aika popped up with her usual pigtails and a woman behind her. She looked like an older version of her daughter with longer black hair but her demeanor seemed more meek. "My dad couldn't come this year so I am sure we can make some space." She turned to the Hyoudou family. "It is good to see you again, Miki-san and Gorou-san."

"Oh, Aika-chan. Saru couldn't come today?" Gorou asked with a small smile.

It was the mother who replied. "Unfortunately my husband is sick. He asked me to take a lot of pictures instead." She said while raising a digital camera.

Upon seeing Aika blush Issei remembered another reason why he liked the parents visiting. 'Not going to tease me today?' Almost like she was reading his thoughts, she threw a glare and threw her tongue at the Pawn who just chuckled.

"Why didn't you call? I would have made my special chicken soup for him." Miki commented as they began to walk to Aika's desk. She then turned to Issei with a flat look. "Don't try anything."

"It wasn't me." Came the automatic defense but Miki just gave her son a gesture to say she was keeping an eye on him before walking again.

"Are you going to be fine, Issei-san?" Asia asked gently and she just gave him a smile.

"Sure thing, it's better if I keep an eye on Matsuda or we are going to have a repeat of last year." Asia tilted her head in confusion and he remembered she wasn't there for that particular disaster. "Just saving my friend from heartbreak."

Assured of Issei's kindness Asia departed and the Pawn moved to greet his best friends only to notice how Matsuda looked exasperated and Motohama didn't even notice he was getting close. "Morning." He greeted but only the bald one replied. "What is wrong with him?"

"Hey, Issei." Matsuda managed to say before a scowl covered his face. "Feh, he's being dumb." A curious look was the reply before he pointed his thumb to some parents. "Apparently it's bad when I show an interest on older woman but when he does-"

"Shut up.." Motohama turned, his face flush and his eyes red from staring fixedly. "Compared with the lady last year my muse is not any MILF but a goddess."

"Eh?" Issei was confused by his friend's zeal.

Only for Motohama to grab him and point to the woman he was admiring. "Look at her, Issei. Her measurements are perfect." He said in a reverential whisper. "Absolutely perfect."

At such a declaration all the Perverted Trio turned to look at a woman dressed in a white and teal summer dress with short sleeves. She had white hair, almost silver, with red eyes like rubies and Issei could understand his friend's admiration.

Saying that she was developed would be an understatement but not only was she great in the breasts department but her figure wasn't one seen everyday unless you were part of the moonlit world.

"And she is a mother." Matsuda commented with some irritation even if his eyes didn't leave the white haired beauty who was talking to a couple of parents. "She is like a model-"

"I saw her first." Motohama announced almost loudly. "You had your shot last year."

"Dude…" Issei began to massage his temples to stave off a headache. "She's someone's mother. Hard to believe she is single." He reminded them both but Motohama looked even more determined. "You need to-"

"And she is too much sand for your truck." Matsuda cut Issei off, still bitter over last year's events. "You think a woman like that would go for a guy like you?"

Motohama looked offended. "You just watch, I will-" Only for someone to poke his side with considerable strength. "What the fuck?"

"Next time you start talking about someone's mother, stay out of his earshot." Shirou had Xenovia by his side and a small glare in his eyes.

The Perverted Trio looked between the white haired woman and the redhead several times. "Bullshit." Motohama challenged without hesitation.

A challenge that Xenovia took with a fierce look of fury. "He was adopted." Her tone had so much hostility that the boy with glasses ended up retreating and almost falling on his desk.

"Makes sense." Issei commented with a shrug as Matsuda just shook his head. "By the way, why are you guys here?" They were in the same year but in different classrooms.

"One of our teachers called in sick today so half of our class was sent here." Shirou saw Iri waving at him so he waved back. 'If aunt Maya was around then mom would be protected. Unfortunately she wants more pictures of Koneko.' The Rook reminded her of a younger Illya a little too much.

"Half?" Issei looked around and let out a sigh of relief at seeing Rin but not Luvia.

Shirou noticed and chuckled. "You really think they would let the two of them together unless necessary?" Rias may have something to do with that. Which actually reminded the magus of something else. "Issei, Rias wants to show her family some of our club activities. Are you available?"

The underlying message was clear as Rias' family also included the actual Lucifer and that meant stuff from the moonlit world. However the offer was an open one. "I wouldn't know what to do with my parents."

"Rin's father has that covered." Xenovia spoke with no subtlety, referring to Tohsaka Tokiomi who, under Rias' instruction, was actively engagingIssei's parents. He would do almost anything to further his family's prospects, even play a mundane individual, in the most elegant way possible. "We just can't get Asia."

In other words she wasn't needed and could also distract Issei's parents. "Sure, I can go."

"What an Occult Club has to show to parents-" Xenovia was still furious with Motohama calling Shirou a liar so her glare was enough to silence him.

Surprisingly to Issei, Shirou wasn't stopping her which may or may not be because the self proclaimed Three Size Scouter was staring at his mother. In reality Xenovia's hostility was all he was willing to submit the boy to if he stayed away from Iri. However should Motohama try anything then the magus would get creative.

"Just show some projects, have some fun, show the place, that kind of stuff." A lot was being unsaid but Shirou was being absolutely honest.

Either way Issei was good enough to tell he was needed. "Well, I'm in-"

A shriek of horror from some kind of banshee covered the school silencing all conversation. A moment of confusion came and went, many questioning where that came from.

"Was that Kaichou?" Issei managed to ask but Shirou landed a hand on his shoulder.

"Don't think about it."

"But-" Once again Motohama was silenced with a glare.

Shirou ignored the other pervert, his haunted look firmly on Issei. "You will probably know later. Until then don't think about it." After a nod he let the Pawn go and departed with Xenovia.

Matsuda watched the blue haired new student walk away. "Hate to see you leave but love watching you go."

"Are you kidding me?" Motohama commented after fixing his glasses. "Do you see how cold she was?."

"Only because you insulted her fiance." Issei had to think for a moment before responding to Matsuda's words.

"What was what now?"

"Yeah, it's a rumor that started a few days ago when everyone saw how close the two are in class." The shaved head boy said with a smile. "She is super disinterested in any other guy but Emiya so everyone thinks they are promised to each other or something." His smile vanished and she scowled. "Feh, just like a pretty boy like him to get a bombshell like her as a fiance."

Considering everything that Issei knew he had no idea of what to say neither he would have time to reply.

"Sit down! Sit down!" Fujimura Taiga walked into the classroom, her eyes jumping around to the many people in the place. "Geez that is a lot of people." Some managed to hear her muttering but she didn't focus on that. "Listen here people; it's not because your parents are around that you can just relax and chill. I wish." She whispered the last part but everyone caught on. "Now we will-"

"Hey Tiger~"

"Hey Iri, how have you been? Anyway, we will… WHAT?! IRISVIEL?!" Suddenly the Tiger of Fuyuki looked more curbed as the white haired woman was waving at her with a smile. Only that the bob haired cut woman looked confused and afraid. "Wahahaha… What are you doing here? I thought you were traveling for business."

"Oh, you know how it is. I wanted to see my son at school." Irisviel hugged Shirou from behind but the redhead didn't react. He was too used to his mother's shenanigans. "And how have you been? I haven't seen you since we had that meeting with your grandfather. Still practicing kendo?"

"Just, you know, helping my students and stuff." The teacher's reactions were amusing for the students who were used to the energetic woman.

"Master, what did your mother do to her?" Xenovia asked as Iri approached the front of the class.

Letting out a sigh, Shirou debated how to reply before whispering back. "Taiga has a good reason to be afraid and embarrassed. I prefer to not think about it."

Respecting his wishes was something Xenovia had no trouble doing especially when her focus returned to a flushing Taiga who suddenly looked to be melting from heat. "Hehehe… I forgot to… drink my coffee! Yeah, that is it." She began to step towards the door, her eyes never leaving the smiling mother. "You guys can… draw something! We are going to have an art contest! I will be back in an hour or so." In other words when the class was over.

Everyone stood there stunned as the Tiger of Fuyuki made a hasty retreat. Nobody knew what to do or say and for a minute there was silence.

The silence was broken when Irisviel stepped up and stood behind the teacher's desk, seamlessly taking over. "Well, you heard your teacher; start with the drawings and don't worry about quality, just try to be creative."

Shirou was the first to take out his materials, some pens and pencils to try and make something in his notebook. Xenovia was the second just to follow his example.

Parents and students just stood there blinking for several seconds as none knew if they should follow the instructions or not. Without a doubt the docent body wouldn't blame them either way.

But Irisviel gave them all a sad look. "Aren't you going to participate?"

Boys felt their heartbeats spike, girls found themselves flushing, husbands had their wills tested and wives held their spines straight like soldiers. Clearly it wasn't a matter of authority for she had none but Irisviel was in control and soon everyone else was picking up paper and pencils.

The Matriarch of the Emiya family smile turned cheerful and it motivated more work as soon everybody, even the parents, were novice artists. Everyone wanted to please her as if she was their own mother or grandmother.

Xenovia watched it all in astonishment as she turned back to her Master. "Your mother truly is a force to be reckoned with."

"You have no idea." Shirou commented not even a little bit surprised by what transpired.

Irisviel then left the table to sit beside her son and friend again. "What are you two going to draw?"

"I don't know." Xenovia never thought of that.

"A sword." Shirou said bluntly and his mother pouted.

"Can you forget about swords for a minute? For me?"

"It is the only thing I have a good chance of drawing."

"You won't know if you don't try." Then she turned to Xenovia. "You as well. Maybe there is an artist in you waiting to come out. If not then you gave your best shot."

Her spirits renewed Xenovia began to draw as Shirou let out a sigh. 'What to draw?' He saw the smile on his mother's face and wanted to legitimately try. She would be happy either way even if he failed. A familiar presence on his mind gave him some inspiration. "Well, maybe if I cheat a bit…"

"Go for it." Irisviel's whisper was prompted by his mumbling.

Once again the redhead let out a sigh as he discretely used Reinforcement to help with his moves. 'The things I do for love.'

Despite Iri remaining beside Shirou, almost all the students moved to ask her to look at their work. She wasn't an artist herself but made sure to praise when she found a picture pretty, complement effort even if not as great, at least give a smile to the image of a giant tentacle monster that confused her and pat the heads of those that needed it.

When Taiga returned from her coffee break she didn't bother to wrestle the control of the classroom back, instead she joined the fun with a drawing of herself dressed in a tiger pajamas that had her and Iri laughing.

At the end of the class when everyone was leaving the white haired mother offered her red haired child a smile. "So? How it went?" She clapped at the image she saw in his notebook only for Shirou to close it. "Shiiiiiiiirou~ it was so pretty." Rubbing his shoulders Iri got the book opened again to a passage of grass, swords and the sun. "Is that your World? It is beautiful."

Since he used just pens and pencil there were few colors but the view itself had a majesty that Iri found proud of. A Reality Marble was a reflection of a person, their true self and what the mother saw was an image of kindness and lethal beauty.

A part of her wondered if her husband's would be similar if he had one. "I wish you had some paint."

"Imagine it with green and gold and you have a better picture." This time he closed his notebook firmly before starting to put away his stuff. "And I think we should go and check with Rias and her brother." A part of him dreaded what was to come but he would face it. 'Best rip the 'bandaid' quickly or it gets worse.'

His mother looked even more cheerful but before anything else she turned to Xenovia. "And you, dear? What did you draw?"

"Ah!" The blue haired girl looked embarrassed before showing her a picture of a sword. A raised eyebrow later had the former Exorcist flushing. "I drew Durandal because I had no idea what to draw."

"It is excellent, dear." It was a mess but Irisviel could see the girl tried her best.

Shirou chose to say nothing and tap Issei's shoulder on their exit. The Pawn nodded and spoke to his parents. "Guys, I gonna go with my friends to-"

"Sure, you can go. Tohsaka-san and his daughter wanted to show some of the facilities around." His mother said quickly.

Tokiomi offered the Pawn his best smile. "Indeed. It seems they didn't get a proper tour the last time they visited Kuoh. Fortunately for them my daughter knows the best places to explore." He approached to 'whisper' conspiratorially. "And the best desserts from the cafeteria. Have you tried the strawberry cheesecake? Kuoh has some of the best chefs in town."

Not usually what the former Head of the Tohsaka would say but he had his orders and the future of his Family was at stake.

"That sounds nice but I need to make sure to watch my blood pressure." Gorou commented but the man in red shook his head.

"A bite will not kill anyone. If it did then I would be five feet under already." Tokiomi said in jest that made Issei's parents laugh. Rin gave the Pawn a thumbs up besides Asia to show they got this.

Accepting the situation for what it was, the Red Dragon Emperor rushed to the door where Shirou, Xenovia and Iri were waiting. "So what is this about? Are we just talking with," he stopped to look around and hesitated with the many students and parents present, "you know?"

"Sirzechs came here to help with Gasper as well." Iri informed the Pawn who flushed at the woman's loveliness. "After the mess with Kokabiel everyone agreed Rias is mature enough to help him control his power."

'Good God- ow- she is beautiful.' Issei couldn't help but think, finally understanding a little what Motohama was about. Unfortunately for him he also felt a great feeling of dread. 'What the hell?'

[That is killing intent, partner, kukukuku.]

Despite all the beatings and hatred he got from the female population of Kuoh, that was the first time Issei felt such open intent of harm. 'I didn't do anything today!'

[Try to find it. If you aren't capable of that much then you may as well roll over and die now.]

From the feeling of dread on his shoulder it wasn't hard to detect the dark glare past Iri as Shirou's eyes carried a clear threat. 'Try to think anything perverted about my mother, I dare you.' The usually kind redhead seemed to say with his spirit alone. 'No one is going to find your body.'

Issei was pretty sure that was all on his head when Iri turned to her son and his dark glare vanished. "We should show them the picture that you drew. I am sure they will love it."

"While I have no problem showing that, I think we should be focusing on the job." His face was blank and relaxed as his mother pouted. Instead of keeping his cool, Shirou let out a sigh. "Once we get home-"

"Yay." Iri embraced her son as they kept walking without missing a step.

"Amazing. Master is able to go from homicidal to loving in a blink of an eye." Xenovia whispered loud enough for only Issei to hear. "Such mental fortitude."

Shivering a little at the memory of the dark glare, the Red Dragon Emperor did his best to ignore the dragon's laugh. "I don't think this is the kind of thing you should admire."

Xenovia chuckled a little. "Perhaps you should be careful how you look at his mother."

"You noticed?" There was some shame there.

But the blue head got closer before whispering. "I'm pretty sure she did too." She hastened her step to join mother and son.

A groan was the best reply Issei could come up with before getting close enough to be heard again. "Why do you need me anyway? I mean, getting Gasper out of the club is great but Asia would be better for this."

Iri smiled and shrugged. "Don't know. Haven't seen Sirzechs today but he said you could help with Gasper's training."

"So you have no clue?" Shirou wasn't surprised as his mother was never one for details. However he was curious. "No idea how we are going to train Gasper, his control is so bad that not only he can activate Forbidden Balor View by accident but usually he gets exhausted after two or three uses."

"Too powerful for the small thing." Iri nodded in understanding. "It really isn't surprising since usually controlling time can be disastrous in the wrong circumstances."

"Wait a minute, you can control time?" Issei almost couldn't believe his ears.

Iri giggled melodically. "No, silly. Didn't Shirou tell you that my skill set is more tailor made for Alchemy? It is my husband who can mess with time."

"As expected of the Magus Killer." Xenovia heard of the man's reputation more than once. "To have such dangerous magic."

"It is still magecraft, Xenovia. My old man can't really mess with time on a big scale. Mostly it just affects his body and he needs to spend days slowed down or else." Shirou added before she got any ideas. "The Heiress who used to live here from the Agares Clan could do it with a boundary field."

At the mention of such magic Irisviel's smile became strained before she recovered. "The strain of messing with time has its own toll. Kiri, Shirou's father, can't use his magecraft as much as he did in his youth because of it." With a finger on her chin, she started to ponder. "Perhaps the sacred gear has a way to mitigate the effects? It was made to counter the Agares, after all."

Already seeing Issei's confusion, Xenovia anticipated his question. "Many sacred gears were made by God to counter devils Powers. Usually it is by using their powers against them or with a straight outta better version of it." She scowled soon after. "Gasper shouldn't be having that much trouble with his sacred gear either. I blame it on his meekness."

"Now, now, Xenovia~ no need to be grumpy." Iri embraced the girl's side which immediately melted away all her hostility. "Gasper is still growing and all men find their courage when they have something to fight for."

"But they won't find anything if they don't go looking for it." Xenovia rationalized as they turned a corner and began to walk up the stairs.

Then Iri hugged Xenovia midstep. "Ah~ You are like an older sister."

"Mom, be careful." Shirou was already there, his hands on her back.

However Iri was focused on the girl in her arms. "And you act like one too. I remember when Illya would drag her brother around to help with his magecraft. Remember that, Shirou?"

"Yes, I do." He let out a breath of relief as the woman balanced herself as Xenovia didn't fight her. Still Shirou remained close, Issei making sure to stay close to the wall. "But can we do this on the third floor?"

"I agree." Xenovia wouldn't harm her Master's mother but she sure wasn't confident with only a foot on the floor.

"Fine, fine." Iri let go of Xenovia and quickly made her way to the top. "But still, it is good that Gasper has someone like you around. Someone who cares so much."

Issei looked at Xenovia weirdly before following the older woman. "If with 'caring' she means 'chasing with a sword' then she is right."

"It is for his own sake." She said with a frown that lasted for a second before everyone was on the third floor. Much like the rest of the school it was full of parents and students. "How are we going to find Rias?"

"Easy, just look for the tall redhead in a Japanese school." Shirou commented much to Xenovia and Issei's surprise. "What? Sirzechs is taller than everyone here."

"I see them." Iri began to wave. "Yoohoo~ Rias~ Sirzechs~ Over here!" Many paid attention to the woman even if their names weren't called. She was that much of a fetching sight. "Come on." She began to walk ahead.

However it took a second for the three students to follow her as they were shocked by the unexpected company besides the Heiress of Gremory.

Besides a smiling Akeno was not just Sirzechs Lucifer, in a similar suit from last year but with greens and reds, but also Zeoticus Gremory, actual Head of the Gremory Clan, dressed in an Elvis kind of suit with whites, blacks and a collar a bit too big, and Azazel the Governor General of Grigori, with a suit similar to the one of the previous day, all black no ties, talking with both red haired men like they were all old friends.

'I don't blame the stress on Rias' face.' Because Shirou could already tell a headache was coming by how his mother approached nonchalantly.

"What is Azazel doing here?" Xenovia was trying not to panic.

Different from Issei who was already panicking. "Do you think they are using the parents' visit to negotiate something important? Is that why I am here?"

"Surprisingly that is plausible." Emiya Shirou let out a sigh and began to approach the group. "With their personalities…" Another sigh escaped, earning him a look of sympathy from his lover that he offered back. "Let's get this over with."

"Sirzechs!" Iri approached Lucifer and gave him a hug. "How have you been? Is Millicas around? Grayfia is hiding somewhere?"

"Hahahaha! It is good to see you too, Iri." They took a step back and he shook his head. "Unfortunately Millicas couldn't come but Grayfia is going to love to see you." He turned to his wife who was behind the group.

"I am here, Lady Emiya." Grayfia seemed to appear out of nowhere. "Huff." And was tackled for a hug.

"Grayfia! How have you been?"

"Fine, thank you for asking. Can you let me go now?" Iri did as requested but her smile only grew larger when she turned to the two gentlemen with inviting smiles.

Sirzechs took it as his cue. "This is my father, Zeoticus Gremory."

"It is an honor to meet you, Lady Emiya." The man extended his hand and Iri giggled when he kissed hers. "To think I would meet the wife of someone so famous and the second in command of his operations. My wife is going to be jealous."

"Why, thank you. Kiri and I did our best to build something our backers would approve of." She smiled at Sirzechs who let out an amused chuckle. "But please, don't call me 'Lady Emiya'. It is already bad enough that I can't get Grayfia to relax a little during work hours."

"Does that count to me as well? Or it is just for friends and family." Azazel couldn't help himself as he threw Rias a knowing grin that had the redhead glaring at him. "Certainly you two will be one soon enough."

"Haha! Nothing would please me more." Zeoticus admitted, his eyes on Shirou before he approached his fellow redhead with a smile. "It would certainly be my pleasure to welcome you all in our family."

"Can we please not have this conversation here? People are staring." Never before Rias regretted being the center of attention like now.

"Come on, Buchou. Don't be like that." Akeno stood beside her King, her tone sweet as candy. "It isn't like this will start any rumors, will it?" Her words just nailed the situation further on Rias' skull.

It was an attitude Iri immediately catched on. "Akeno, sorry but I didn't see you there. How are you, dear?"

"Fantastic, Emiya-san."

Quickly Iri waved the Queen's politeness off. "Please no lady or san here. We are all friends." She turned to Azazel. "You as well, Governor General."

"Then please call me Azazel, or handsome, if you want."

Shirou's eyebrow twitched while Iri giggled. "Sorry but the only handsome men to me are my husband and my boy." She pushed her son forward. "Have you all met him? Shirou, say hi to Sirzechs Lucifer, your father's business partner."

"We met alright, during last year's family visit." They still shook hands while Zeoticus let out a self depreciating chuckle. Because of his daughter's previous engagement he had missed the last one. "It is good to see you again, Shirou."

"You as well, Sirzechs." Being polite then Shirou pulled Xenovia forward, the girl's expression respectful but obviously nervous. "This is Xenovia, my apprentice-"

"Disciple and follower. Almost like a Servant." Akeno added with gusto.

"-in the art of the sword." Shirou refused to miss a beat even if his speech turned more formal. "She is also Durandal's Owner."

"You should have brought her there yesterday. Always a pleasure to meet those who run away from the Church." Azazel offered his hand to the girl but she hesitated and he took it back with a smile. "But to be allowed to leave with Durandal?"

"I just never returned it…" Xenovia couldn't help but say before shaking her head and bowing to her waist. "It's an honor to meet you all." She got up, turned exclusively to Azazel and bowed again. "You as well, Lord Azazel, my apologies for my rudeness but you are not what I expected."

"Hehe. Sure, I don't mind." He offered his hand again and this time the former Exorcist shook it firmly. Azazel chuckled again before turning to the last one of their group. "Hey Ise. How have you been?"

"'How have you been?' What are you doing here? Do you have a kid in school too?" The Pawn then looked more nervous as he looked around with caution. "Please tell me it isn't Vali."

For a millisecond there was a sad look on Azazel's eyes; it vanished too fast for anyone to notice. "Vali in school? Oh I would pay good money for that, hahahaha! No, Ise. I am here on business with my pal here." He gave Sirzechs a side hug which the man didn't mind.

Much to the younger members of their group's shock. "Wait, aren't you guys enemies or something?" Issei asked but confusion wasn't his alone.

"Is the Grigori relationship with the Underworld that good?" Xenovia didn't bother to hide her surprise as Shirou looked between the two leaders of their Factions with wonder. "If Heaven knew that-"

"Heaven does, the Church, most certainly, doesn't." Azazel made it sound like a joke that he, Iri, Sirzechs and Zeoticus were the ones finding it funny.

Akeno abandoned the teasing for a moment. "I thought you were here just to discuss… that." She avoided looking at Azazel, her attention directed to the older Queen present.

Grayfia shook her head but said nothing while Rias began to connect some dots. "This is how you got into contact with Azazel so fast after you knew about Kokabiel, right, onii-sama?"

The way she called him showed Sirzechs she was impressed and pleased. "You are correct, Rias-chan. The ceasefire has been in the process of growing into formal peace talks for a while."

"Before you continue I must point out this isn't the kind of conversation we should have in a crowded area." Grayfia pointed out bluntly. "Wasn't lady Rias about to show us her club?"

"Right. You are right, Grayfia." Zeoticus was even more excited now and quickly began to move to a window. "Should we get going or-"

"Father." Rias grabbed the man before he jumped. "Must I remind you this is the human realm." She made sure to whisper as low as possible.

"That is right, father. Windows here are just for air and sightseeing."

"Oops. Sorry, I forgot wings aren't a human thing." The adults laughed it off while the younger part of their group looked a little unsettled.

"How bad would it be if a devil opened their wings right now?" Issei couldn't help but wonder out loud.

Xenovia looked around before replying. "So many cameras and cellphones would have the secret out in minutes."

"Seconds." Akeno pointed out and Shirou shook his head in exasperation. "Better not think of it."

"Think about what?" The Magician of Gremory asked jokingly. Then his expression turned serious. 'Why is Azazel here?' He knew he wasn't the only one questioning it by how Akeno kept her eyes on the Cadre, never turning her back to him. Loudly he said "Well, unlike most clubs, ours is outside."

Zeoticus catched on and offered Iri his arm. "Then we should get going."

"Of course." She accepted before turning to her son. "Shirou, could you show us the way?"

"Sure but," with so many important figures around, he reminded himself someone was missing, "shouldn't we be looking for Sona as well?"

"She has her own thing going." Rias said with a weak chuckle. The last time she saw Sona was with Serafall giving her a huge hug while people took pictures, the Leviathan in her magic girl suit. "Her own thing…"

Shirou gave his lover a depressed look. "She is being overwhelmed, isn't she?"

"You heard the scream?"

"The whole school heard it. Maybe even the whole campus." Both redheads nodded and sent their best wishes to Sona.

"Okay but why am I here?" Issei finally asked nervously. "I could be with my parents, you know?"

Rias felt bad about it. "Sorry Ise but one of the conditions to begin Gasper training is that you were present."

"It is?"

"You bet it is." Azazel grabbed Issei by the neck and began to mess with his hair. "Without you there is no way that I can help the kid to learn how to use his power. I need back up and you are the best man for the job."

Trying to fight back was useless as Azazel easily held Issei. "Okay, fine. But why?"

"Because you are the Red Dragon Emperor."

"That explains nothing!"

If anything, Issei's reactions were only making the fallen angel more amused. "But it does. You just don't know how yet."

Azazel let him go and Issei breathed a little before speaking again. "Is that why you came here? How are you here in the first place?"

"I gave him permission." Sirzechs said easily.

"And no, I didn't come here to help Rias and her Bishop. That is just a small favor, a gesture of good will if you prefer." Azazel said with a chuckle. "But I am here mostly to inspect the area of our first, official, Peace Meeting." He cupped his chin as the younger devils and humans stared at him. "Or should we call it a Peace Conference?"

"Peace Talks?" Iri offered.

"Peace Gathering?" Sirzechs joined in. "Tch, no wait. That is Serafall's department. If we go naming things she is going to be upset."

"Wait a minute, wait a minute, hold on a fuc- a damn second." Rias waved her hands to get everyone's attention. "You guys are going to have a Peace Meeting?"

"Aham." Azazel replied first, immediately becoming the Heiress' center of attention.

"You as in the Three Factions."

"Yep."

"Here, in Fuyuki? Kuoh to be more precise."

"That is about it, yes."

"Why here?" Took a lot of effort for her to not scream but Rias was holding on nicely. Even Akeno couldn't hide her shock. "Why in the bloody hell you are having a Peace Meeting-"

"Name is pending." Her brother unhelpfully added.

"-here of all places?" Quickly she felt a disturbance in the area and nodded her thanks to Grayfia who made an emergency boundary field. It would keep the noise out and stop eavesdroppers, a good thing since she was getting increasingly louder. "This is devil territory! My territory! Why am I only hearing about this now?!"

"To be fair we decided to do it here because Kokabiel attacked." Sirzechs was more helpful on this one. "There are other factors as well and this is a considerable neutral terrain for the meeting."

"How can it be neutral when Fuyuki has been devil territory for years?" Shirou asked with legitimate curiosity.

"Because while we have a lot of control, humans still rule most of the aspects of the city." Zeoticus surprised everyone by answering. It was easy to forget he was the one who procured Fuyuki for his daughter in the first place. "Since Rias was so interested in coming to Japan and she was quite young, I thought it would be prudent if most of our affairs here followed a more hands off police. I mean, while here she has plenty of authority but she doesn't touch on human affairs unless necessary."

"I should be more active then?" That was news for Rias but her father nodded.

"Oh yeah, not only you should be more active on our business side but also be receiving reports about criminal activity and other stuff. Thanks to Sirzechs' magician, still upset you didn't tell me he was the Magus Killer by the way," the son just smiled as the father grunted, "we usually make sure the mayor's office, town's council and other places of authority always have a direct representative instead of just clients. That helps us keep a grip on things while also expanding our interests by the low price of supporting campaigns and such."

"I knew that but I thought we were always hands off in most cases." That was how she was instructed to take care of Fuyuki and most of her education didn't disagree with that idea.

"We are but usually we have a direct representative on those places for reports and to defend our interests like a Piece and such. Other Clan have other preferences but that is how the Gremory do business." Zeoticus only knew the habits of Bael and SItri. "Still, we all keep a tight hold in small towns with just one Peerage. Fuyuki has two, not even counting the ones in rotation as your guards and they are the ones monitoring most of the entrances and exits." Then he shrugged. "Although that would have changed anyway since Fukuki has such an uncommon ley line and its fast expanding. Didn't see that coming when I bought the place."

Before they got off track Grayfia decided to intervene. "This city is also in Japan and its pantheon doesn't interfere unless provoked. Add other external factors and it was the logical choice."

"Let me guess, Caliburn." Shirou received nods from the maid and the Cadre.

"Got it in one." Azazel said happily. "With Caliburn around Fuyuki is on its way to become a neutral zone managed by devils. Sure you still own the city but we will get official embassies and everything when the deal goes through."

"Also, 'official'?" Xenovia managed to ask where before she was avoiding getting in the middle of the conversation.

Iri giggled a little and replied. "But of course. Don't you think they wouldn't have made a lot of backdoor deals to avoid a war by this point? That is why Sirzechs could just call Azazel about the last crisis. Were they still at odds then Kokabiel would have his war one way or another."

"Or at least a lot of concessions." Azazel added. "But yeah, we are going to have Peace Talks here so while I am here to help with a tough sacred gear, I am also scouting the place." He made a show to look around. "You have my approval. Won't stop me from bringing some of my crew to guard the area during the meeting, of course."

"Of course." There was a lot of unsaid between Sirzechs and Azazel but it flew over most people's heads. "But we should go and help Gasper as quickly as possible. I bet he is excited to finally leave the ORC building."

"Hah, as if." Xenovia commented as the boundary field was dropped and they began to walk. "That boy is a real shut in but once he can control his sacred gear then he won't have any more excuses."

"He will still need training, you know?" While Iri liked Xenovia's attitude and she tried to reign it in a little. Not that it worked as the words fell in deaf ears.

No, if anything the girl got more determined. "Oh he will be training alright. I'll hunt him down until he can't walk."

'Gasper, I'm sorry.' Issei couldn't pray but wished he could.

"Hehe, that is the spirit." Azazel kept looking around and rubbing his chin. "Hmm."

"Something wrong?" Shirou managed to ask as Akeno stayed close to him and far away from Azazel. She wasn't afraid but clearly uncomfortable.

Azazel gave the redhead a glance and Akeno a deep look before replying. "Well, I expected to find one of my siblings around here."

Rias raised an eyebrow. "Do you know how little that narrows it down?"

"Which one?" Akeno whispered, wishing to ask but unable. There was too much anger in her eyes and she didn't want to make the prospects of peace worse.

Shirou did it in her place. "Any one in particular?"

"Depends." The Governor General replied with a shrug.

He wanted the questions to keep going but Shirou knew that game and refused to play it, the magus already realizing it wasn't the one Akeno didn't want to see and Rias even offered a quick smile to reassure her Queen. She appreciated it but still remained in her metaphorical shell.

However, Issei was curious. "Do you have a lot of siblings?"

"Glad someone asked."

"He is still new." Rias added before Azazel continued.

"You see, every angel born from Father's power are siblings so I have thousands of them."

"THOUSANDS!" They got looks but it was Issei so the students of Kuoh went back to their affairs as their parents asked but were told to let go. "That is a big family!"

"It used to be bigger." This time the fallen angel didn't hide his sadness before getting a cheerful grin. "Anyway, it is always great to see them out of work and without throwing spears around. Just wanted to know who they sent here."

When they arrived outside and began to make their trek towards the ORC, Azazel got his answer as a tall blond figure stood in front of Caliburn. Immediately those that didn't know him could tell that the man before the sword wasn't human. His aura, not of power but just his sheer presence, was great in a way everyone could feel.

For all in their group knew Divinity when they felt it and if told that the person before them was a god those unfamiliar with the man would believe it.

Slightly taller than Sirzechs and with hair just as long even if the redhead had more around his face, that man also had noble features. No one could deny the handsomeness of his face even if his green colored eyes carried a sadness that was hard to describe. Instead of twisting his visage that only made him look more endearing.

His appearance and build could be easily called perfect as he was neither too buffed or skinny. Instead it was like his body had the perfect balance to show he was fit and healthy with his presence enhancing that balance further. Calling him human was impossible for that was a man who looked perfect.

Yet such a man, dressed in a white business suit with a gold cross on his back, was practically ignored by the masses. When inside the building the devils and Azazel always demanded attention with their appearance alone. They were always seen as something more even by those who had no aptitude to the moonlit world.

"Well I will be damned. He came personally." Azazel sounded very pleased and skipped towards the man to hug his back. "Brother! I didn't think you would descend for this? How long has it been?"

The smile the man offered was so sincere no one doubted he was happy to see the fallen angel. "It is good to see you again, Azazel." Yet the sadness of his eyes remained even if he looked joyful as well. "Honestly, I was taking any excuse to leave Heaven for a bit. Things are a bit messy."

"Funny, I was thinking the same thing about the Underworld." Sirzechs approached and offered his hand for a shake while Azazel let go of his sibling. "But your brother is right, it has been too long since we saw each other. Most of the time you send your sister to deal with us."

Accepting the handshake seemed as easy to the man as his smile. Yet the sadness still remained. "Things in Heaven are always busy. I hope I didn't offend any of you."

"Of course not." Azazel immediately brushed him off. "We get that you need to stay there but I hope you are taking breaks between work." Concern filled his tone before his joviality returned. "But should we start this meeting now? I mean, most players are present."

"Most but not all. It would be rude to start without them." The blond man's expression became severe at the jest. "Or to make decisions on their behalf."

"I was just joking, Michael." A 'eep' was heard from Xenovia but went ignored. "Seriously, learn to relax once in a while. The world isn't going to stop because you took a break."

"Maybe. But I prefer to not let that happen." The now identified Michael turned to those behind the devil and the fallen angel to offer a genuine smile. "It is a pleasure to meet you all. My name is Michael, acting Chief of Heaven."

"God's Replacement, First of the Seraph's, the Archangel, Right Hand of God, Elder Angel, Older Bro and all around a Stick in the Mud." Azazel couldn't help himself and Michael gave him a small glare. His eyes didn't look angry or annoyed, only sad. "What? Those are your titles."

Michael smiled a little. "If you cared about formalities, you wouldn't have added the last one." Then his attention turned back to the others, mostly the students. "It is a pleasure to meet you all, Xenovia Quarta," who stood to attention, feeling nervous, "Emiya Shirou," who raised a careful eyebrow, "and Hyoudou Issei." Who bowed. Then the angel turned to Iri. "Irisviel, how are you faring? Well, I hope."

Both embraced like old friends. "I told you to call me Iri."

"But your name is Irisviel and you quite like it." After that he turned to Grayfia. "Lady Lucifuge."

"Lord Michael."

Unlike the other introductions there was some tension there that could almost be cut with a knife. Grayfia remained professional and showed no signs of animosity but just how the name was uttered lacked her usual respect. On the other hand Michael's eyes seemed even sadder.

So sad in fact that the gloom seemed to infect the others before Iri intervened. "Is that how you treat someone you haven't seen in years? Show some manners." Her radiant smile managed to earn a small one from the made and an honest one from the angel. "Michael, I didn't know you would come to Fuyuki. I mean, Azazel practically announced he was going to show up with a song."

"I told them the parade was too much." Azazel got in on the joke and Michael was already looking much better. "Still, Iri is right. What made you come here? Just the sword?"

"That and because there are many people I wish to talk to." He looked at Xenovia and she gulped. "However I can see not everyone is here."

"If you give us a minute we can get everybody and at least start things now." Zeoticus suggested with a shrug. "About the witnesses, myself and Irisviel may be enough if you so desire." He offered Michael his hand for a shake. "Zeoticus Gremory, we fought in the Battle of the Cross even if we never saw each other."

Michael immediately looked apologetic. "Ah, sorry for not noticing you sooner. I have many problems in my mind." They shook on it before his eyes returned to Xenovia to then turn to Shirou for a moment. "However I don't have much time before I need to return to Heaven. If you all would allow me, could I talk with Xenovia Quarta and Emiya Shirou? I wouldn't mind waiting for the Talks proper but I owe them a 'thank you' and an apology." His sadness grew. "I also wished to see Asia Argento but she is not around at the moment."

"I don't mind." Shirou could see that Xenovia was too nervous to reply but obviously wouldn't leave if he didn't. "Do you want to go somewhere else? People could show up to look at the sword."

"There is no need to worry about it, Emiya Shirou. While I am here, none not aware of the Truth will approach this area."

"A boundary field?" Shirou smelled nothing so his confusion was clear and understandable.

But it had Azazel grinning. "Nothing so simple. Or perhaps it is simplicity in itself." The Cadre sounded mischievous and Michael gave him a disappointed look. "What you need to understand is that he is 'God'," the look turned into a legitimate glare of frustration, "if he commands that no one sees him, nobody will. There isn't a boundary field active nor anything like that. All he had to do was will it and so it was."

"You know that isn't how it works." Michael said with exasperation. "All you need to know is that no one who doesn't know about the moonlit world will note my presence or yours while I am around." He turned back to Caliburn. "I just wished for some privacy." Shaking his head, Michael made sure to smile again. "However I still want to speak with you two and my time is limited. Would you mind?"

"I already said I have no problems with that." Shirou's elbow poked Xenovia's side to snap her back to reality.

It made the former Exorcist jump but she quickly nodded. "Iwouldn'tmindeither. I mean, sure, I wouldn't mind either."

"We still have to check on Gasper." Rias felt the need to add only for Iri's hands to land on her shoulders.

"Then let's get going. Shirou got this, right?"

"Right. We will get there soon." The redhead lovers traded looks and most of the group began to depart as Michael turned back to the sword.

Azazel approached Rias with a cheerful smile. "Hey, don't worry. If you can bet on someone to backstab you then that wouldn't be Michael."

Rias rolled her eyes. "I know his reputation, a True Angel as he is called. No, I am not worried."

"She just wants to stay around Shirou-kun." Akeno was still subdued but she just couldn't help herself. With so many people looking at her with knowing grins, Rias couldn't help but blush.

A 'click' was heard from the side. "Look at that, my daughter is all grown up." Zeoticus pulled an old fashion camera and took a picture of her. "I am so happy that I managed to come~ Just wish Venelana could have been here."

"Did something happen?" Azazel sounded a little worried but the man waved him away.

"Not at all. We just had some business to take care of and one of us needed to stay." He sent the camera away with a magic circle but was ready to summon it again. "One minor noble will be marrying in a few days and one of us needed to go through the paperwork. It was her turn." And the man sounded far too pleased with that.

Iri pouted a little. "Do you guys still mock marriages?"

"No, that trend is mostly over." Sirzechs replied, his knowing grin still present. "While we may joke around here and there on parodying certain christians traditions, many discovered they liked the marriages."

"But it must still be a good joke to have Lucifer officialize one." Azazel saw how the two older redheads actually squirmed. "Hah! I knew it! Don't let Gabriel hear about that, she is going to be upset. That was always one of her favorite traditions."

…

Back at Caliburn Shirou and Xenovia looked at each other as Michael silently admired the sword. Or what they perceived as admiration at least since neither could read the angel's face. It was a perfect mask that couldn't be deciphered by any mortal as he stood there like a statue of marble.

No, he was even beyond that for the being beside the two students was older than the oldest stone of the planet Earth. He was there before it was even a thought in the mind of the Creator and he only wasn't the eldest because he wasn't there for the first star.

"I am sorry." His voice gained a melody that wasn't there as a golden halo appeared above his head. Quickly Shirou looked around to make sure no one was looking but the supernatural event went ignored. "There are so many apologies that I want to give, so many people that I want to say sorry for because of the truth and lies that were told." Michael turned, his eyes fixed on Xenovia. "But a leader cannot be meek and if I spend all my time apologizing nothing would be accomplished." He smiled sadly again. "Still I must find moments like this when I truly hurt someone and apologize to them."

"You don't need-"

"But I do need to, Xenovia Quarta. Sister Griselda received your letter." The blue haired girl grew silent and looked down even as his tone lacked any reprehension. "She is one of the few people I consider friends that still walk in this world. I know why you left the Church, how much my lie hurt you. It is hard to remember that the actions for the greater good always leave victims, unintentional as they may be."

Xenovia hesitated for a moment before she managed to gather her courage. "Why do it then?" She raised her head and voice firmly. "Why lie? God… God may be dead but true faithful would still be around to fight even with the truth."

"What defines someone's faith?" Michael asked philosophically. "What makes one person 'faithful'? Is their willingness to listen to Father's lessons? Or perhaps just knowing He is there to lend an ear? Does that make them good?" He was not being rhetorical but Xenovia had no response. "Many 'faithful' only had their faith because 'faith' is also believing without seeing. Yet plenty of them would be considered evil for their methods while someone who never prayed a day in their life could be a saint in my eyes."

His tone was respectful and non reproaching as he approached Xenovia with kindness in his eyes and a slow step. Michael patted her head slowly, like a father dotting on his child.

"I have no doubt that you would be one of them, fighting beside me even if Father isn't around. However many need His Light, however fake, to feel safe. That safety turns many evil men good for they feel they are on the right side, even when that backfires."

"The Crusades?" He nodded at her question and took his hand from her head. "Many there… they were real believers, weren't they?"

"Beyond the Crusades there was the Crucifixion before that, before that there were wars, conflicts of many kinds for many reasons. The Witch Trials are another example, people at the time never realized that any evil witch they managed to capture could escape and kill them all if willing. In the end were the innocents who suffered." His perfection worked to his detriment on this for they couldn't see how old the angel really was. "How many times in history good people did bad things because of belief? Too many to count."

Both students looked at each other and at Michael as he let out a heavy depressed sigh. It was like his brilliance was disappearing.

"Many of those times they were led by our believers. True believers that just forgot that love was the first message." The tone was ironic but sad more than anything. "Yes but that doesn't excuse many of their acts. Good can be evil when not guided, be by a God or by one's own conscience." Michael turned back to Caliburn with a somber look. "War also has a way to bring out the worst in people depending on the war being fought and the ones leading."

The Acting God shook his head again and took a deep breath, enjoying the nature in Kuoh being brought to life by the sword.

When he turned again his eyes were still sad but those were the eyes of a warrior. "However, if you want a more practical answer; Father death ended a war but the news would have started a new one. Should all the pantheons know about His demise beyond doubt then new conflicts would quickly spring." He sounded stronger and greater than before, kindness forgotten. "Our numbers would also be diminished for people would be doubting the worth of God because He is dead and not 'why' He died. The conflict would escalate, a World War with the moonlit world involved would start, it would be the Apocalypse without salvation at the end."

Michael stopped when she saw how shaken and terrified his audience looked, Xenovia struggling to breath. Shirou didn't know what to do or say because the scenario played perfectly in his mind and he couldn't disagree with it.

"Sorry, I forgot how young you two are. Unlike most in our world you really look your age." Michael said as sincerely as possible to try and calm them down. "Regardless, I didn't want to frighten any of you. I just wished to explain, Xenovia Quarta, why I felt the need to tell the lie. The Great Lie as some of the gods who know the truth like to say behind my back." The two looked scared again and he immediately regretted his words. "Don't worry, none is certain that Father is dead. It is just a suspicion. I worked hard to keep the System going even if… even if Father is not around anymore."

"Sorry." Xenovia couldn't help herself.

"No, this is my apology, Xenovia Quarta, for you have suffered for my decisions. Yet, no matter how much I want to say I would do things differently if I knew you would stay by our side if you know the truth, I will stand for my actions for I shall not tell any other lie. Just one." Golden wings appeared behind the man's back as his halo grew brighter. However his power wasn't oppressive but inviting. "Instead let me invite you to rejoin the Flock and fight by my side if you so desire. I, Michael, promise to welcome you back with open arms and heart."

This wasn't someone from the Church nor her guardian inviting her back, this was the Acting God Michael himself, the Protector of Heaven and True Angel.

While his golden wings were different from a normal angel's white, they clearly were not the wings of a fallen so he was speaking the absolute truth, free from any kind of treachery. Indeed he revealed them to show he was speaking as an angel of God as much as the Chief of Heaven.

His endorsement wasn't a small thing either even if he presented himself only as an angel for as the Right Hand of God Michael's welcoming would put her at the top of the Church's Hierarchy even if she was only an Exorcist, only the Pope greater.

For a second Xenovia could see herself as an angel fighting beside Michael with Durandal on her hands and wings on her back. She saw herself standing in the front of the fight against all evil and protecting the innocent while spreading the word of God.

Xenovia offered the angel a small smile. "I always wanted that, it sounds like a dream come true… Once upon a time." Her eyes almost shined in happiness as she lowered her head in respect. "My apologies, Lord Michael, I can't take your offer."

The smile the angel gave her had a hint of joy behind it. "May I ask why?"

"If you asked me that a month or so ago, I would take your offer in a heartbeat." Her smile was practically radiant as she turned to Shirou. "But my goal is not just to fight anymore. I shall fight for I believe in God's teaching but I also want to be happy, I want to follow my own path." She dropped to a knee, her eyes not leaving Shirou as he let out a snort. "And the path that I want to follow is following the person who saved me from loneliness, that showed me that I could fight and be happy. I shall forever believe in God but I also want happiness."

"You are making me blush." Shirou scratched the back of his head because he couldn't help it. Yet his smile held no shame but pride as Xenovia was a woman not lost to a sword but her true self; brave, headstrong and ready to take any challenges. "And like I said, you can stay as long as you want."

He offered a hand and she gladly took it to stand by his side. Before Xenovia could be considered beautiful but then, before Shirou's very eyes, it was like her beauty had finally bloomed fully. The girl who was lost found her way and would see it to the end without regrets.

Michael's smile was a paradox of pride, happiness, nostalgia and sadness all in one. "Looks like you helped her more than I could, Emiya Shirou."

"I only showed her the way."

The angel's halo and wings disappeared. "Certainly something Father would approve of. It seems I have more to thank you than I thought."

…

"Open your mouth and say 'aaaaah'."

"Aaaaah."

"Hmmmmmmm, interesting." Azazel studied the former dhampir tongue and fangs carefully with a stick of metal. "Very interesting."

"Do you need to do this?" Rias was tapping her foot on the ground in anxiety as they stood outside of the club room a few meters away.

If he so desired now Gasper could leave the area if he wanted but when he accidentally stopped some leaves from falling down from a tree it was clear he couldn't. His sacred gear was still unstable and Azazel quickly picked up some tools from his suit and began to examine the young devil.

"It is either this or drag him to a lab for more… direct examination."

Gasper shivered and Medusa kindly placed a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry. He isn't planning to hurt you."

"Heavens, no. It would be just laying in a machine, my design by the way, while I examine his soul." Azazel then looked at Medusa with disappointment. "You know, I heard your beauty could compete with Helen of Troy but why are you a kid again?"

"Because I grew weaker after the fight with my now protector." She turned to give a stinky eye to Rias and Akeno. "Where is he, by the way?"

"What? Not happy with us?" Azazel played around but Medusa gave him a flat glance.

"I don't like the idea of standing with so many powerful beings unprotected."

Sirzechs approached to reassure the goddess. "Don't worry Medusa. Even if you don't believe in our intentions, believe that we are duty bound to watch over you while in our care."

"Duty bound, yes. My protector does it because he is kind." Medusa shook his head, patting Gasper's back to calm him down. "I don't distrust you but I trust him."

"Fair enough, I say." Azazel said in acknowledgement before taking the stick out of Gasper's mouth and rubbing his chin. "And you really can't control when you activate Forbidden Balor View?" The blond dhampir shook his head while running to stand behind Medusa. "Hmm."

"Lady Medusa, if I may." Zeoticus earned the goddess attention. "I must ask if your accommodations in our city are fine with you. As the Head of Gremory, if you desire a better home, I shall provide it."

"I am happy living in my protector's residence, thank you very much."

"It would be for him as well, of course." Already Rias began to rub her eyes as she saw where her father was going. "I don't know which manner of residence he has but I can guarantee a whole building with anything you all require."

"Father, please, don't." The Heiress gave her father a small glare. "Shiro's home is ideal even if we are planning to reform it a little."

"I don't know, you guys could use more space for when the family grows." Iri commented from the side.

Akeno giggled at the white haired woman's attitude. "Weren't you the one who chose the house?"

"It was Kiri," her words surprisingly had Zeoticus grow pale in an instant, "but he could always use a bigger house. Especially if you are to move in."

"Oh my~ already planning to have me join your son's harem?"

"Perhaps?" Akeno and Iri smiled, the message was received.

'Lucky bastard.' Issei shook his head, wishing he was anywhere else. "So, how am I going to help Gasper?"

Azazel scratched his cheek a little as Rias glared at him. "Right… things are a little more complicated."

"What do you mean? Is there something wrong?" Rias moved to stay besides her Bishop as the young boy looked afraid.

The Cadre took a moment to consider his words to reassure everyone. "Not wrong, per say. His life isn't in any danger at least." That helped the Heiress and goddess relax a little but not fully. "Damn, I thought this was going to be easier. I am just going to say it; his soul is clashing with the sacred gear."

"That doesn't sound good." Issei stated as Rias hugged her Bishop as everyone else looked confused.

"It isn't and it is kind of uncommon. Maybe that is because Father is dead? That is the first time I found this kind of situation. Then again this is the first time I met a dhampir with a sacred gear." Azazel leaned forward and Gasper took a step back. "The fact he is a hybrid is why he is still alive. Even if vampire hybrids are the easiest to get, the advantages are still considerable. Add a human soul with a sacred gear and you have young Gasper's situation here."

"Can it be solved?" Rias asked immediately after.

"Oh yeah, sure. It will just take a little more set up."

"Why?" Medusa voiced the question of many.

Always happy to speak about his research, Azazel just lamented the lack of presentation. "Why, my dear goddess, because we need to have him use his sacred gear repeatedly until he gets the hang of it." He waited for the question he knew was coming.

It was Irisviel who asked after blinking in surprise. "That sounds a lot like brute force." She found it fascinating how a man who looked like her husband could be the complete opposite.

"Meh, that is kinda how it goes. For a person to get good they need to practice, be they a warrior, a painter, a musician or a sacred gear owner." Azazel shrugged casually and began to stretch his arm to the side. "To get good at a game you need to play it again and again."

'I think that one is my fault.' Still Issei finally began to see how he could help Gasper and summoned the Boosted Gear. "So I have to Boost him until he gets good at using his sacred gear? Sounds easy."

Azazel nodded. "Yeah, you just are thinking of the wrong type of Boosting since that one doesn't produce the raw mana he will need." Everyone was staring and he chuckled. "Come on guys, it isn't that hard. He is a dhampir, a half vampire, and there is a sure fire way to power up a vampire."

"Blood." Sirzechs realized it first. "You want to use Ise's blood to give him mana."

"Wait, Gasper is supposed to drink me?" Not weird since everyone usually helped around with that. "Does it need to be me?"

"Because you are the Red Dragon Emperor and dragon's blood has powerful magical properties." Rias just said evenly.

Azazel was quick to shoot down similar thoughts. "Wow, wow, wow, not so fast. It isn't that simple, remember? That was the original plan but the situation with his soul changed things." His face grew serious, any semblance of the cheerful man evaporating. "For whatever reason his soul is weaker than Forbidden Valor View, or the sacred gear is too strong for him, take you pick. That is why his sacred gear spasms randomly, his soul can't contain it."

"So he isn't strong enough." Zeoticus spoke with understanding. "Well then it is a good thing we have someone with dragon's blood."