Chapter 45: Hot Springs and Hard Training!

"So, our first match is against the Sitri family," I said.

Back at the Gremory estate, Azazel-sensei was waiting. We gathered in the spacious living room and filled him in on the young devils' meeting.

"About twenty days until the match…" Azazel muttered, calculating something.

"Training?" I asked.

He nodded. "Obviously. This game's a factor, but so is the Khaos Brigade. Sirzechs doesn't want you young ones involved, and I agree. But the enemy doesn't care about that."

True. The Khaos Brigade won't hold back just because we're rookies. Preparing for a surprise attack is crucial.

"Training starts tomorrow," Azazel said. "I've got menus planned for most of you."

Everyone's eyes turned to me. Why me? Am I the "most"?

Kiba spoke up. "Isn't it unfair for us to get advice from the Fallen Angels' Governor-General?"

Fair point. Other young devils might complain. But Azazel just sighed. "It's fine. I've shared research data with the devils, and the angels are providing backup. It's up to the young devils to push themselves."

Makes sense. If you want to get stronger, you grind.

"Plus, my Vice-Governor Shemhazai's advising the other houses," Azazel added. "His advice might even outshine mine! Haha!"

Don't say stuff that makes us nervous, Sensei!

"Anyway, training starts tomorrow. Rest up today," he said, ending the meeting.

What's my training gonna be? I'm worried.

Then Grayfia appeared. "The hot spring is ready."

Best news ever!

"Paradise," I sighed, soaking in the Gremory estate's hot spring with Kiba and Azazel-sensei.

Azazel was in high spirits, singing, "When I go on a journey~♪"

"As expected of the Gremory family's hot spring," he said. "Fine water."

He's way too comfortable. Always in a yukata—does he just love Japanese culture? As a Japanese guy, that makes me happy.

Kiba and I sat side by side, towels on our heads. But man, Kiba was creepy earlier. Out of nowhere, he said, blushing, "Issei-kun, I'll wash your back."

Sure, there's bonding in the bath, but blushing like that? It gave me chills. Just say it normally, please!

Wait, where's Gasper? He came to the men's bath with us… I spotted him pacing by the entrance. "Gasper, it's a hot spring. Get in!" I said, stepping out to grab him.

"Eek!" he squealed cutely.

A bad feeling hit me, so I tossed him in.

SPLASH!

"Nooo! It's hot! What are you doing?!" Gasper shrieked.

Overdramatic guy. Now he's in, at least.

"Hey, Issei! Watch it! You'll spill my sake!" Azazel yelled.

Oops, forgot he was drinking. My bad.

I slipped back into the water. Azazel leaned in. "So, Issei, you love women's breasts, right?"

"Absolutely!" I said instantly. Boobs are my favorite!

"Ever groped any?" he asked, wiggling his fingers.

"Of course!" I mimed a squeeze with my right hand. Thinking back, I've touched plenty since crossing to this world.

Azazel pointed a finger sideways. "Ever poked a girl's nipple?"

He pushed the air like he was pressing something. I smirked and wagged my finger. "Sensei, you think I haven't?"

"What… you mean…?" Azazel gaped.

"Sensei, I'm the guy who reached Balance Breaker by poking a girl's nipple," I declared.

Azazel froze. Kiba and Gasper looked shocked. Heh, just now realizing my greatness?

Azazel put his hands on my shoulders, looking at me with pity. "Issei… I brought it up, but… I didn't know you were that stupid."

"I worked hard to accept everyone's feelings to reach mine," Kiba said, disappointed. "You did it by… poking a breast? No way…"

What's with these reactions? Did I say something weird?

"Issei-senpai's amazing! Way beyond our expectations!" Gasper said, eyes sparkling.

Thanks, Gasper!

Voices drifted from the women's bath. "Rias, have your breasts grown again?" Akeno asked.

"R-Really? Your touch is a bit lewd, Akeno. And haven't your bra cups changed?" Rias replied.

"My old ones were tight," Akeno said. "Oh? Miu-chan's grown too…"

"Really?" Venelana said.

"N-No way… Why are you both groping me?!" Miu yelped.

"It's not like it'll wear out," Akeno teased.

"This softness, this texture," Rias said. "I'm confident in my chest, but this might beat me."

"Ahh! Akeno-san, not there!" Miu squealed.

"I'm jealous of everyone's figures…" Asia sighed.

"No way, Asia. Look at yours," Xenovia said.

"Hah! Xenovia-san, don't! Issei-san hasn't even…" Asia protested.

"Hmm, Asia's feel nice," Xenovia said. "I get why guys like them."

My nosebleed wouldn't stop. Our girls are too hot! I want to peek. The wall separating the baths—I'd climb it to dive into paradise. Any peepholes?

"Wanna peek?" Azazel asked with a sleazy grin.

"Yes!" I said.

"Bold! That's a man. Peeking at the women's bath is a hot spring tradition. But—" Azazel grabbed my arm and hurled me skyward. "Why not mixed bathing?!"

"Whoa!" My view shifted from the men's to the women's bath.

CRASH!

Ow! Water shot up my nose, stinging like hell. I pushed off the bottom and surfaced, realizing I was in deep trouble.

"Ow…" I muttered.

"M-Miu?" I stammered.

"Huh?" she gasped.

Miu's face was inches from mine, our noses nearly touching. I was practically pinning her. Neither of us could move, locked in a stare.

Her bare, soaking form—her long black hair glistened, and her youthful face looked strangely mature. Sexy, sure, but… beautiful.

"Big brother… staring like that…" Miu whispered.

Snap! What am I thinking? "S-Sorry!" I scrambled up, instantly regretting it.

All the girls' eyes locked onto my lower half.

"Aaah!" My scream echoed through the hot spring.

The next day, we gathered in the Gremory estate's vast garden to hear Azazel-sensei's training plans.

But… "So sleepy…" I mumbled.

"Yeah…" Miu agreed.

We were wiped out. Last night, sharing a bed after the hot spring fiasco, we were too flustered to sleep. No, I didn't touch her—I'd never make my sister cry.

Point is, we're exhausted. I'd dive into a bed if one was here. Miu could've slept, but she said, "I can't sleep while everyone's training!" and dragged herself out.

Don't push yourself, Miu.

By the way, I've got everyone's naked forms saved in my brain. Pure bliss!

Azazel confirmed we were all here. "Two of you are half-dead, but we're set. I'll hand out training menus, but first, bad news."

His heavy tone got my attention. Bad news? "It's not set in stone, still under discussion…" he said hesitantly. Unusual for him.

Rias frowned. "What's wrong?"

Azazel looked at me. "Issei, you might not be able to join the young devils' game."

"What?!" Everyone gasped.

Why me? Because I mouthed off to the elders? "Why can't Issei-kun participate?" Kiba asked.

"Simple. He's too strong," Azazel said.

"What?! That's the reason?!" I protested.

Azazel sighed. "I can't argue against it."

"Why not?!"

"Think about your power. You're Demon Lord-class, maybe stronger than me. No pre-debut young devil can handle you."

Everyone nodded like it made sense. Seriously? You're all okay with this? I'm gonna sulk!

"Also, when you were reincarnated, Ajuka helped, right?" Azazel said.

"Yeah," I admitted.

"Rias couldn't have turned you without Ajuka's aid. Some say that's unfair."

Fair point. Other young devils didn't get Demon Lord help. Ajuka did call it "special."

"…Fine," I said.

"Don't take it too hard," Azazel said. "Even if you miss this, you'll shine in pro games."

Pro games, huh? That's far off. "Without Issei, our strength drops," Azazel said to Rias. "But it's a chance. Win, and your rep will skyrocket."

"True," Rias said. "We'll be at a disadvantage, but a victory will boost our standing."

Smart way to look at it. Man, I wanted to fight…

"Let's move to training," Azazel said. "These menus are long-term. Some will see quick results, others won't. You're all growing—stay on track, and you'll improve. First, Rias."

Rias stepped forward. "Your talent, magic, and physical ability are top-notch," Azazel said. "Live normally, and you'll be a high-class devil candidate by adulthood. But you want strength now, right?"

Rias nodded firmly. "Yes. I want to be a worthy king."

"Then follow this menu," Azazel said, handing her a paper.

Rias looked puzzled. "This is… basic training?"

"Exactly," Azazel said. "You're well-rounded, so basics will boost your power. The issue is your 'king' qualities. A king needs brains and quick thinking to maximize their retainers' strength."

Makes sense. Azazel's thought this through.

"Next, Akeno," Azazel said.

"…Yes," Akeno replied, looking grumpy. She doesn't like Azazel—maybe because of her dad?

Azazel cut straight to it. "Accept the blood in your veins."

Akeno flinched, scowling. "I saw your Rating Game with Phenex," Azazel said. "You've grown, but lightning alone has limits against stronger foes. Combine it with light to become 'Thunderlight.' Otherwise, you'll drag this team down. Accept yourself. That's all I'll say. Go from 'Thunder Priestess' to 'Thunderlight Priestess.'"

Akeno stayed silent, clenching her fists, lips tight. She knows she needs to change. I believe in you, Akeno-san—you'll overcome this.

"Next, Kiba," Azazel said.

"Yes," Kiba replied.

"Maintain Balance Breaker for a full day, then in combat. By the end of this period, aim for a week. I'll coach your Sacred Gear personally. For swordsmanship, you're retraining with your master, right?"

"Yes, from the ground up," Kiba said.

Kiba has a master? Hope they're not as brutal as mine.

"Next, Xenovia," Azazel said. "Master Durandal better. You're being swung around by it. Control it, and your technique will improve."

"Got it. I'll try," Xenovia said.

Azazel's gaze shifted to Gasper. "Next, Gasper."

"Y-Yes!" Gasper squeaked, trembling.

At least he's not hiding in a box—progress? "First, fix that shut-in habit," Azazel said. "Your specs are high, but it holds you back. Overcome it, and you'll shine in games and battles. I've got a 'Shut-In Escape Plan' program for you."

"Yes! I'll go all-out and break through!" Gasper said.

Sounds like he'll actually break. Azazel looked at Miu. "Miu, support Gasper. He's attached to you, so you'll help him feel secure."

"Got it! Let's do this, Gasper-kun!" Miu said.

"Miu-senpai, please guide me!" Gasper replied.

Smart move. Miu's great for Gasper, though can she be strict?

"Next, Asia," Azazel said.

"Yes!" Asia said, pumped.

"Basic training to boost your body and magic. Get better at sending healing aura to distant allies," Azazel said.

Asia's healing range is limited, but she's got the basics down. She'll manage.

"Next, Koneko," Azazel said.

"…Yes," Koneko replied, fired up.

"You're a stellar 'Rook' with great talent," Azazel said. "Your training with Issei has made you formidable."

She did thrash Cerberus. Koneko's power control has improved.

"But Rias's team has offensive heavyweights like Issei, Kiba, and Xenovia," Azazel said.

"…I know," Koneko said, looking frustrated. Was she worried about this?

"Stick to basic training and expose your true self," Azazel said. "Otherwise, you won't grow further."

Koneko stayed silent, her expression grim. Expose herself? Is she hiding something? Best to leave it alone for now.

"Finally, Issei," Azazel said.

My turn. "I struggled with you," he said. "Your magic's average for a low-class devil, but everything else is top-tier. I wondered if you even need my advice."

"Sensei…" I said.

"Don't look so sad," he said. "I've got something. Have you used 'Promotion' since becoming a devil?"

I thought back. "…Not really."

"Thought so. You haven't needed it, but stronger foes are coming. There's no guarantee you won't face someone tougher. Master every tool now. Using devil piece traits will make you a force."

Good point. I forgot about Promotion—never needed it. Should've used it against Kokabiel or Vali.

"Someone's coming…" Azazel muttered, checking his watch.

Who? I felt a presence from the sky. A massive shadow zoomed toward us.

BOOM! It landed with a tremor. A fifteen-meter dragon! "Azazel, bold of you to waltz into devil territory," it said with a grin.

It talks! "Got Sirzechs's permission," Azazel shot back. "Got a problem?"

"Hmph. Fine. This the kid you want me to train?" The dragon pointed at me.

This dragon's my sparring partner? "Issei, meet Tannin, 'Blaze Meteor Dragon,' a former Dragon King turned devil," Azazel said. "He's your trainer."

Tannin—I've heard that name. Ddraig mentioned the six Dragon Kings. Didn't expect to meet one like this. "Issei Hyoudou. Nice to meet you," I said.

"Hmm. First time training a Ddraig host," Tannin said. "Your exploits reached my ears. Quite the resume."

My rep's even with Dragon Kings? Gotta stop freaking out about this.

"Still waiting on the other one?" Azazel muttered.

Another? A magic circle appeared, and Tiamat emerged. "Tia?" I said.

"Hey, Issei," she said. "Fallen Angel Governor called me, so here I am."

Bad feeling. "Sensei, my trainers are…?"

"You got it. Tannin and Tiamat, both Dragon Kings. Train hard," Azazel said.

What?! Two Dragon Kings? Are you trying to kill me?

"Issei-kun, good luck," Kiba said with his smug pretty-boy face. I'll punch you, jerk!

Tannin grabbed me. I couldn't move. "Let's train, Issei Hyoudou. Show me your power."

Sounds familiar! Two Dragon Kings for real? "Rias-jou, can I borrow that mountain?" Tannin asked, pointing.

Buchou, don't agree—save me! "Use it freely," Rias said. "Issei, come back alive."

Don't jinx me! "Big brother, do your best!" Miu cheered.

"Got it!" I can't say no to my sister.

And so, I was thrown into insane training with two Dragon Kings…