DxD: Ascension - Redux

Chapter 32: Sairaorg Bael

This chapter marks the beginning of Volume VII: Hero.

Kuoh Academy (BGM: Persona 5 - Wicked Plan)

"Looks like we'll be doing most of our sightseeing on the second day," Aika noted. She, along with Irina, Xenovia, and Asia, was trying to plan out their group's Kyoto trip.
"So what do you guys wanna see?" Irina inquired.
"I was thinking Kiyomizu Temple," Asia suggested.
"How about that golden one?" Xenovia added.
"Oh, you mean Kinkaku-ji. Hard name, right? I remember it because it sounds like kinky." Aika found the temple in their travel magazine. "Yeah, I think we could make that work."
"Man, I can't wait to tour Kyoto with the hottest chicks in class!" Matsuda exclaimed. "Except Kiryuu. I'mma be real, though, it kinda pisses me off that it's all thanks to you, Issei."
"Yeah, but we'll still be in totally different hotel rooms," Issei muttered dejectedly. "And everyone knows hotels are where all the real fun happens!"
Zach leaned back in his chair. "Get your hormones under control, guys. This is Kyoto we're talking about! It's such a beautiful city. I've always wanted to visit, and now I've got my chance."
"Hey!" Aika called. "We need your opinions too, y'know."
"Can it!" Matsuda yelled back. "We're talking about some serious dude business, yo!"
"Oh, is that what you call it? Zach, what are you thinking?"
Zach thought for a moment. "I'm thinking the ideas you girls have come up with already all sound great."
"Alright, then I guess it's settled."
"Oh, right. Hey, Issei, we're visiting Rias's parents before we leave for Kyoto. Just thought I'd let you know, in case you had other plans today."

Underworld, Gremory Manor (BGM: Destiny - Excerpt from "The Ecstasy" (from start to 1:01))

The Occult Research Club arrived at Gremory Manor to find Mr. and Mrs. Gremory already waiting for them outside.
"Welcome," Mr. Gremory greeted them. "It's good to see you all again. Ah, and I see we have some new faces."
Rossweisse bowed. "My name is Rossweisse. I was a Valkyrie serving Lord Odin until Rias recruited me to her team. It's an honor to meet you, sir."
Irina bowed as well, following Rossweisse's example. "And I'm Irina Shidou, an angel working as one of Lord Michael's Brave Saints. I honestly never thought an angel would ever visit the home of an upper-class devil. I am beyond honored."
"The pleasure is ours," Mrs. Gremory assured her. "Why don't you all come inside?"

The Gremory family and company gathered in the dining room. "So, Rossweisse, I've heard you're interested in the Underworld's educational programs?" Mr. Gremory asked.
"Yes. In fact, I was hoping to open a school for Norse Magic in the Gremory domain sometime," Rossweisse explained. "I think it'd be very interesting to try and train some devils into Valkyries."
"Indeed. That sounds like a fascinating endeavor."
Mrs. Gremory sipped her tea. "Speaking of school, don't the second-years at Kuoh Academy have a trip coming up?"
"That's right," Issei confirmed. "It's almost time for us to head to Kyoto!"
"Mm. Rias went on the trip last year. She brought us back tons of souvenirs, including some pickled vegetables that were simply divine!"
"I could bring you some veggies if you want me to," Issei offered.
"I was just making conversation, but that's certainly a sweet offer. Oh, and one last thing: Rias, Sirzechs is in the residential suite if you'd like to visit him."

End BGM

Rias and Issei walked out to the residential suite together, Millicas joining them along the way. The little boy suddenly ran forward. "Dad!" He rushed to his father's side.
"Hey, Zechs," Rias called. "Long time no see."
Sirzechs smiled as he greeted them, Sairaorg Bael at his side. "How'd you know?"
"Mom and Dad told us. How've you been? It's so good to see you again."
"I've been well. There was no need to go out of your way, you know. But I do appreciate it."
"Well, what a surprise," Sairaorg mused. "The Ruin Princess and the Red Dragon Emperor."
"Hi, Sairaorg." Rias hugged her cousin. "I wish you'd told us you were stopping by."
"He came over to discuss the details of one of his upcoming Rating Games- that being his game against you," Sirzechs explained. "And to bring some of that famous fruit from the Bael domain. Anyway. Outside of the usual field requirements, Sairaorg has also requested to remove any complicated rules of battle."
"So you're letting us use all our powers in combat?"
"Exactly," Sairaorg confirmed. "If I can't take your team on at their very best, then I have no business calling myself the heir to the Bael family. And while we're on the topic... Issei. I've been meaning to spar with you. Is now a good time?"
"L-like, now? Uh, sure! I can do this!" Issei nodded. "I think."
"Excellent," said Sirzechs. "I'm excited to see what you both bring to the table."