Issei was sitting under a tree at school, watching the students pass by as his tumultuous thoughts echoed in his mind.
"Weak, weak, weak..." Issei muttered to himself, his frustration growing with each repetition of the word.
Ddraig intervened, his voice calm and patient. "Issei, calm down. You need to listen."
Issei huffed but eventually took a deep breath, trying to find his inner calm.
"I trained with Azazel, Ddraig. I'm strong now," Issei said, determination echoing in his voice.
Ddraig sighed, knowing Issei still had much to learn about his own strength and the world around him.
"You're still weak, Issei. But the question is: do you want to become strong?" Ddraig asked, his voice laden with meaning.
Issei didn't hesitate to respond. "Of course! I'll do whatever it takes to become stronger."
Ddraig cautioned, his voice serious and solemn. "It won't be easy, Issei. You'll suffer, and you might even die in the process."
Issei ignored the ominous warning, his determination burning brighter than ever. "It doesn't matter. I'm willing to take the risk."
Ddraig felt a mixture of admiration and concern at Issei's determination. "Very well, Issei. Your courage is commendable."
Issei was pleased by Ddraig's praise. It was comforting to hear words of encouragement from his soul partner, especially in such a challenging moment.
"Thank you, Ddraig. I appreciate your words," Issei said, feeling strengthened by his companion's approval.
Ddraig then suggested that Issei go to a safe location where he could rest for a few days after the procedure he was about to undergo.
"Where do you think I should go?" Issei asked, curious to hear Ddraig's suggestion.
Ddraig thought for a moment before responding. "The Gremory family territory would be a suitable choice. There you'll be safe and can receive proper care during your recovery."
Issei agreed with Ddraig's suggestion. "Understood. I'll head to the Gremory family territory as soon as I can."
Issei stood up from under the tree and began to walk across the school grounds, with a newfound sense of purpose and determination. However, Akeno and Rias's words still echoed in his mind, causing a pang of pain in his heart.
Even though he knew Rias was lying about her feelings for Kiba, Issei couldn't ignore the pain of disappointment. He knew he needed to confront Rias about her lies, but that would have to wait until after the procedure.
With a heavy sigh, Issei continued his walk, mentally preparing himself for what lay ahead.
Issei stopped in front of the Occult Research Club, feeling a mix of anxiety and determination pulsing through his veins. With heavy breathing, he stared at the door for a moment before mustering enough courage to knock.
Knock, knock, knock...
"Come in," Rias responded, her voice coming from inside the club.
Issei opened the door and entered the room, his expression serious and determined. Akeno, upon noticing Issei's presence, greeted him with a friendly smile.
"Hello, Issei. How are you?" Akeno asked, her voice soft and welcoming.
Issei responded with a cold greeting, his anger evident in his voice. "I'm fine, thank you."
Akeno perceived Issei's cold tone but chose to ignore it for the time being, focusing on maintaining a light and friendly atmosphere.
"Issei, what brings you here today?" Rias asked, her curiosity evident in her voice.
"I need to talk to you, Rias. Alone." Issei said.
Rias nodded, understanding the seriousness in Issei's voice. "Of course, Issei. Please, have a seat."
Akeno, realizing that the conversation between Rias and Issei would be serious, decided to give them privacy. "I think I'll leave. I don't want to interrupt," she said, starting to get up.
Rias intervened, asking Akeno to stay. "Akeno, please, stay. You're welcome here."
"I know I'm welcome here, but I need to go. Riser is waiting for me," Akeno said casually, trying not to cause any more friction.
Issei clenched his fists with anger at the mention of Riser's name. He felt a mixture of jealousy and frustration, unable to understand why Akeno was still associated with him.
Rias nodded in agreement, although she felt sad about Akeno's departure. "I understand, Akeno. Thank you for coming."
Akeno bid farewell to Rias and Issei with a light wave before preparing to leave. "Goodbye, Rias. Goodbye, Issei."
Rias returned the farewell gesture, her heart heavy with her friend's departure. "Goodbye, Akeno."
Issei bid farewell to Akeno with a cold wave, his anger still present in his expression. "Goodbye, Akeno."
Akeno teleported away, leaving Rias and Issei alone in the Occult Research Club.
When they were alone, Rias turned to Issei, noticing the somber expression on his face. "Issei, what was that? Why did you treat Akeno like that?"
Issei averted his gaze, reluctant to explain his reaction. "I don't like seeing her associated with Riser. He's not a good influence on her."
Rias raised an eyebrow, surprised by Issei's revelation. "Issei, are you jealous?"
Issei shook his head quickly, trying to deny his emotions. "No, of course not. I just don't trust Riser."
Rias sighed, understanding Issei's concerns but also aware that Akeno had her own reasons for being with Riser.
"Issei, there's something you need to know," Rias began, her voice heavy with seriousness. "Akeno is Riser's woman."
Issei scoffed, his anger still present in his voice. "That's none of my business."
Rias nodded in agreement, deciding not to press the issue further. "Alright, Issei. Since you say so. But you wanted to talk to me, what was it?"
Issei sighed, briefly averting his gaze before turning back to Rias. "I need to go back to the underworld."
Rias raised an eyebrow, curious to know the reason behind Issei's decision. "Why, Issei? What's going on?"
Issei looked into Rias's eyes.
"Ddraig is going to help me get stronger. I need a place to recover after the procedure."
Rias smiled, feeling relieved to hear Issei's words. "Issei, that's wonderful! I'm glad to hear that you're striving to become stronger."
Issei returned Rias's smile, feeling a weight being lifted off his shoulders as he saw the genuine concern in her face. "Thank you, Rias. I really appreciate your help."
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