Chapter 2 - Return

Hyoudou residences. 2 months before school starts.

Soundly sleeping inside his bed, A young man's eyes twitch as slowly crimson red eyes revealed itself. Looking around the room he stood up and sat down grasping his head. He felt nauseated akin to drunken state yet the young man knew he hadn't drunk any alcohol before falling asleep. However, his body felt refreshed and reinvigorated, overflowing with youthful energy.

'What's going on!?'

His expression turned confused then to shocked as Memories began to flood into his mind where it showed a glimpse of bliss to despair until numbness while energy started to run through his body as gradually his body became much refined and toned. The young man, Issei, concentrated and controlled the raging energy gushing into his body guiding it through his body ensuring that every part was nourished from the energy.

He felt a sense of change in his sense where it grew sharper and sensitive while the energy was slowly stabilizing becoming still like water. His eyes turned reptilian that contained unfathomable ferocity and power where it felt the embodiment of the one who stood at the highest throne.

Issei continues to grow until everything settles and he manages to full his composure. His power had reached an Ultimate class devil with energy alone yet his control and power varies.

After a few minutes of calling his breath he found himself shocked and sweating like bullets. He did not expect time travel to work without any problem. Issei stood up and looked at the mirror and saw himself younger than before removing his shirt that showed small yet refined muscle seeing the lines. Even his old self his body was never too bulky and settled in a lean physique.

'I can't believe I-I came back!?' He choked as tears fell from his eyes, unable to contain the feeling of relief and hope as well as anticipation to see those that he had failed alive. The memory of them taking their last breath never stops playing inside his mind haunting him without rest.

At this moment, he felt falling into his knees as he was too weak from the overwhelming feeling that his heart was experiencing.

[ Yes partner. This isn't a dream.] The familiar voice came and took him out from his emotional state bringing him back to reality.

'Irene!?' Issei yelled out within his mind fearing that she might have been her old self and was glad she's with him even now.

[ Now, we can change everything. ] Her voice made Issei choke up once more as his body was quivering while his teeth rattle from disbelief. Emotion filled his heart as tears once again began to stream down, having lifted the burden he carried. His regret can now be changed and a voice that he never expected to hear again echoed.

"Issei wake up or the breakfast will get cold!" His mother shouted while Issei pushed aside his emotion and softly smiled, glad that his parents were now alive and well. For thousands of hearts where the people important to him had faded suddenly returned its color fueling his conviction to pave the path of a better future.

Issei regretted countless things and one of them was unable to take his time with his parents into consideration. They died on the day when the outer god came and was unable to save them in time, recalling his being far too occupied in saving people around him.

'We will make those bastards pay!'

He's entire body exuded power while he clenched his hand tightly that it bled yet due to his new physiology had healed immediately as he vividly recalled the events that caused many tragedies to his life. Issei heard footsteps coming on the stairs that his eyes widened.

'Wait!? I'm too emotional!? I can't face them now or they'll start being suspicious so early!' Even for thousands of years from him to temper his emotion does not remove the fact that he was not prepared to see those that died come back to life.

[ Issei, calm down! It wouldn't do any good if you panic. Just relax and control yourself. ] Irene is reassured, helping Issei calm himself preparing to face his mother. He felt the guild of failing them numerous times and pondered what they would tell him? Will they get angry for letting them die?

Even though he knew they wouldn't blame him nor feel those kinds of things, he himself can't accept and continues to fill his heart with guilt. He took a deep breath as he heard the door creak as a woman perk her head through the door.

"Issei, I'm going in. I told you to wake up early but why are you….crying?" Issei finds himself face to face with his mother who despite her age still retains a certain charms especially her motherly demeanor looking at him strangely seeing his eyes slightly red that indicates someone was crying.

She saw the gaze of her son who was known to be an outspoken pervert that didn't miss an opportunity to show his love for the female breast had changed into something more mature containing a sense of grief and sadness, as well as longing and guilt.

It was unusual for her son to act this way. Issei's mother quickly approached him with a worried look then held her hands to his face. Issei flinched from the warmth of her hands and tried to keep his composure, afraid that she'll get suspicious while his mother was worried.

"What's wrong issei? Did something happen?"

As his mother, she knew everything about him and nothing could hide the truth from her about her own son. Seeing his eyes could already indicate something was wrong. Issei held his mother's hand and could only give a reassuring smile and said.

"Hehehe it's embarrassing but don't worry mom I just had a horrible nightmare."

He tried his best to hide his grief with a dry laugh while his mother wasn't fully convinced yet she accepted it nonetheless not wanting to force her son who was clearly troubled by something. She knew his son would tell her when he was finally able to.

"Alright Issei but hurry up or you're going to be late." Her mother, Miki stopped respecting her son's personal space where her motherly intuition told her it was the right decision.

Issei only nodded as he saw his mother closing the door as he plopped on the bed processing everything that had happened. He still had many things needed to be done and enemies to face.

'Seeing the calendar it means that the summer break has just begun giving us at least 2 months to prepare.' Issei knew that it wouldn't take him a long time to reach the peak of this world since even in his immature self manage to contend against Primordial gods. Give him a month to regain his skills and power then he'll give every hell.

[ So what's your plan, issei? ] Issei recalls many events that he wishes to change, for example helping Valerie in hopes of ending her suffering in the hands of her brother but there are many factors needed to consider since his currently an unknown variable with no backing could lead in seeing him as a threat.

As much it pains him, he couldn't fight without causing collateral damage even with his power unless he was able to gain more power from his newly acquired Sacred Gear system that thankfully provided him ideas of what it gave him.

The ability to create, destroy, manipulate sacred gear gives a library of every sacred gear but it is at their most basic form as it is the user that gives it Balance Breaker forms and he doesn't have their soul only their basic power but it would be enough for him to try and make some sacred gear for himself and people important to him. Issei has [ Annihilation Maker ] and could try making monsters using his power for later to help his family and act familiar for him.

'I was thinking of going to Grigori and talking to Azazel since he has influence and background to the supernatural that can help me.'

Azazel was his mentor and uncle figure for him that he trusted the most in helping him prepare the supernatural at the upcoming war against the outer god. Issei recalls the time Azazel taught things to him including perverted ones. Even though most of the time he is laid back, Azazel is a calculative and smart person that knows how to act when time arises.

Though they are weak but believe that there is still a chance in saving everyone. He refuses to give up now and will try, no, he will accomplish his goal!

Unfortunately, that option could become a problem since having both heavenly dragons might shift the balance of power unless he acts as an outsider and his own faction. In which he intends to do in the beginning.

'This is currently the best option we have that could give me a better understanding of my power and the person I could trust.'

Issei can't exactly trust the devil faction for help because it has countless rats including the bastard that led to one of his wife Asia being abandoned by the church.

He had many years to learn in many fields while fighting the outer gods. Issei knew that every action he took would lead to unprecedented results. Therefore needed to see the factors that can influence his goal. Azazel is the best shot while the second option is Yasaka from the Youkai faction but it might bring the shinto gods into the play.

Issei had many alongside Gods and goddesses of every faction during the invasion even Nyx was included who fought and grew affection to him but she sacrificed her life at the moment. He thought it ironic now that she will end up trying to kill him since they are enemies at this point in time but he'll save her this time and won't leave anyone behind.

[ As much as I hate to admit it, I think Azazel is a better option. ] Irene dislikes him since he was a horrible influence on Issei when he was young but can't deny he was a reliable individual.

'Good but it's best to meet him alone since I don't trust the other fallen.' Even if Issei trusts Azazel doesn't mean it includes other fallen angels, especially one associated with Kokabiel.

'There's more things I need to think about and play out but for now I need to get down stairs.'

Issei went to the bathroom to take a bath since his body had been drenching in wear as it had been countless years since he had taken a decent bath and often bathed himself in ponds and lakes. He took off his clothes and looked at the mirror, completely showing his lean and toned body. His old power still needed time to fully adjust to his body.

His overall capability is Ultimate class devil. Issei had combat experience therefore he can easily defeat even stray devils with his human strength. Issei stared at his reflection and how unbelievable seeing his old self was.

'*Sigh* I hate the fact that I was an extreme pervert…." He weakly laughed at himself, finding it embarrassing when trying to recall his former self. Issei does love breasts but now has self control considering he had numerous that it is pointless to look at other women.

[ Hahaha you're right but that's why we fell in love with you.] Irene had been by his side and grown fond of his strange antics in the past. Issei raises an eyebrow and chuckles.

'I don't know if you're being sarcastic or not.'

Issei already lost count how many times he had sighs from his return. He went to take a shower finally having a relaxing bath after so many years. Afterwards, dry himself using magic and got dressed wearing a simple black shirt and shorts. It was strange without any scar and a beard.

[You look ravishing, Issei.] Irene's seductive voice reverb within his mind that made him smirk and said.

'Thanks, Irene.'

[ If I had my body then I would have to pound you.]

'Since Big G said I have control over a sacred system, maybe I can create one with a similar effect of Sephiroth grail.' Issei dislikes the idea of trapping his partner and consorting within his soul. She had a body before that Issei reconstructed but it was eventually destroyed and thankfully her soul remained within him that fortunately saved her from being destroyed completely.

[ You're right. Well test it later.] Irene couldn't miss the opportunity to take his first that she can brag about against the crimson haired heiress. Unexpectedly the said person sneezed unaware what was about to happen but that's a story for another time.

Issei nodded and finished dressing himself and went downstairs to be greeted by his father who awkwardly saw his figure. His son acted strangely according to his wife which made him wary. He could see his son's eyes had changed into a mature one who had seen the truth of the world. He sat down feeling the awkward atmosphere. Issei could only sigh again from gloomy air.

"Did something happen issei? Your mom told me that you were crying earlier?" His father looked at his son who never showed this kind of expression before and felt it was out of place.

"Ah jeez mom makes things awkward. Well, I had horrible dreams that's why you don't need to make it a big deal."

Issei tried his hardest to pretend everything was fine but his parents knew very well that their son was having problems. They could see a burden whenever their gaze met with his. He could have used hypnosis but his conscience didn't allow it.

Not to mention, Issei intuition told him that trying to use his power without proper testing could lead to a disaster considering if his reserve and power was close to ultimate devil then he's parent could turn into a vegetative state.

'I'm sorry mom, dad but I can't involve you with all of this shit just yet.' Issei does plan on telling them but afraid that they'll get in the way at the current moment while his parents look at each other for a moment seemingly talking to each other through their gaze.

"If you say so, Son. But remember whatever happens we will be by your side." His father looked at him straight into his eyes and he nodded.

"I know….thank you, Dad." He then felt his father ruffled his hair and showed a toothy grin.

"Enough of that, eat your food Issei and Jin, you still have work don't you unless you're still planning on buying stash of those magazines that I told you disposed of?" His mother sternly said while his father, Jin shivered and tried to plead to his wife.

"Oh come on, Hun! Hey, son, help me with your mother!" Issei pretended not to hear his words and continued to eat while Jin felt defeated, unable to win against his wife.

"Traitor!" The Hyoudou family was bustling in the morning where Issei slowly felt at home after a long time and before long his father left for his work where he was doctor in a small clinic. He was incredibly happy to taste his parents' food after countless years and treated it as the best meal that he had ever had that was filled with love.

"So mom, can I help you clean the house?" Issei wanted to spend his time with his parents and repay their hospitality that surprised his mother who smiled.

"Are you sure, Son? Wouldn't it be better for you to take some time to clear your head?" He shook his head and said.

"This is the best way to clear my head." Issei reassured her while Miki nodded

"Alright, but don't overwork yourself, Ise." He nodded and Issei helped his mother clean the house and every household chores, enjoying every moment of it and having small talk with mother having genuine joy after countless years. Issei finds an old photo where he saw Irina and himself making him smile.

Memories of their childhood was fresh in his mind and the kiss they shared as who'll as the budding love between the two of them. He placed the photo where it belonged and continued to clean until his mother stopped him.

"I can handle the rest, Ise. Go and read your eromanga." Issei grumbled hearing his mother and thought of burning them later. He looked outside and found it was nearly time for lunch and wanted to suggest cooking.

"What you're about to suggest then I decline. Go and relax, I promise everything is fine, Son and nothing is going to happen." Issei was speechless and weakly laughing, finding that it is true that it was impossible to hide anything from your parents.

"Ah, alright. If you need anything feel free to call me, I'll just get some fresh hair." He left his mother who smiled looking at him with a knowing smile and muttered.

"....has he awakened them." Her words held some worry and looked at the door in which her son had left. Meanwhile, Issei was walking down the streets trying to find a way to clear his mind. He could see the images of city ruins where lifeless corpses were buried in them while monsters mutilate everything.

A sense of nostalgia witnessing the place where he grew up and people walking alongside him unaware of the future. Issei bitterly swallowed the self pity and guilt as he subconsciously acquired survivor's guilt at the trauma of losing everything.

There were some neighbors that greeted him, especially elderly who knew what kind of young man he was. Despite his perverted nature was a kind hearted young man who would help in need even if he denied being kind. Only his classmates knew his perverted side but never who he truly was.

Issei didn't have any particular place to go and wandered looking around the city in order to clear his mind that still had every trauma fresh in his mind. He decided not to test his power at the moment and enjoy the moment of freedom. Eventually, Issei found himself at particular shrine where it belonged to someone important to him.

[ Are you going to meet her since I don't recommend when your emotionally unstable, Partner. ] Irene was afraid that he'll act strange and ended up ruining his chances with her because of some misunderstanding.

'I know, I just wanted to see this place again…' Issei look at the shrine until his sight caught a glimpse of raven haired young woman tied in ponytail wearing a shrine maiden outfit who saw him even at such a far distance and he gave smile filled with the love and affection a man could give to their Eternal Bond that they shared. He could see the memories they shared and moments where they laughed and cried.

'W-Whatever…*Cough*....happens I will always be…*cough*.....by your side and forever….' Issei recalled her last words to him and how he cried in pain where tears of blood flooded his eyes. He was like a madman when killing the minions of the outer gods where his memory was blank and didn't even know what happened at that time even Irene but the moment he regain his consciousness witness the corpse of the monster was annihilated and him hugged her lifeless body tightly trying to feel the remaining warmth that she has until he lost conscious from exhaustion.

His smile lingered for a moment yet made the young woman's heart flutter seemingly as if she knew him despite no memories of meeting him before. She felt as if they knew each other their whole life and her heartbeats were different from her normal excitement.

'W-What is this strange feeling? Who is that person? Why do I feel like I know him but I won't easily forget a face? How strange….should I talk to him?' Her mind was filled with thoughts that she failed to notice before it was too late that he had already left and that moment heart fluttered moving his body on its own moving at a high speed arriving at the bottom of the stairs and looking around even tried to sense him but couldn't find him anymore. She felt desperate to find him and know who he was yet unable to.

"Who are you and…..why is my heart aching…am I crying?" The young woman was none other than Akeno Himejima who was confused from the emotion filling heart and tears flowed down her cheek making her even more perplexed. She was left alone to ponder what had happened while the reason was walking his way back to his home where he joined his mother for lunch.

He sat down looking at the home cooked meal that his mother prepared. Issei couldn't even wait to have another taste of her cooking and took time eating them to fully enjoy the taste of the dishes. They had some small talk until he got back to his bed, taking a moment to recollect the moment he saw Akeno after thousands of years.

'Do you think she knows….' Issei heart pounding where his intuition told him that somehow in some way they were able to have some sort of unexpected effect that influence them subconsciously linking themselves to their future memories.

[ It's possible seeing you've done the impossible before. Perhaps your love for them has allowed you to somehow acquire a subconscious link between them. ] He somehow felt relief that he's not the only one who thinks so and placed his hand on the back of his head and said.

'Still there are many enemies and perhaps even new enemies about to come.'

[ There will, there always will be but now things will be different. ]

'You're right. Tomorrow we'll try and train to see how my new powers are.'

Issei needed time to at least calm himself enough that he won't have problems when fighting his enemy but he was confident that they wouldn't act immediately unless the Outer God acted faster than before. Knowing how complex those entities most likely weren't even affected by the change in the time stream and knew what happened.

He didn't feel any fear nor panic knowing that the God of the Bible would prevent them from attacking, allowing Issei to prepare.

==============

"He has returned…don't you think after millennia it would be a great Idea to introduce ourself?" A regal and mystifying voice could be heard akin to velvet noir.

"His state at that time wouldn't do him any good. The mixture of his blood was not ideal compared to now." An older and more relaxed voice was heard.

"For how long shall we wait? Our power would be vital against them!" The young one spoke in anger trying to reason with the older one who was silent and contempt.

"He is safe, that's all that matters. We will keep him safe." The older one remarked yet a hint of defeat resounded in them.

"Safe? We can't keep this up unless he uses us. Now that he receives the missing parts will eventually awaken us and without guidance then he'll fall. Do not forget what he is." The younger one spoke as if stating facts.

"I know….the only one who could go against the Daemon Sultans permanently." He spoke pausing for brief moment and said.

"We will reveal ourselves once the time is right as the current moment he is unstable. His spirit, soul and body are in a state of disarray forcing him to use us would be a death wish." The younger one fell silent and clicked his tongue.

"Fine…"

============

Issei woke up feeling refreshed having slept without having a nightmare and instead had a beautiful dream of his first date with Akeno. He stood up performing light stretches feeling invigorated with life looking outside seeing it was still dark and perfect to exercise and test his newfound power.

He went to change his clothes into a short and black tank top wearing some running shoes before heading outside as Issei tested his physical prowess running to find a secluded area where his body was rapidly adapting to the changes as he pushed himself running nonstop at full speed akin to Ferrari at full speed that kept going faster as he recalling back his skills using a technique called [ Shundo ] or instantaneous movement that slight strain his human body but ignored the pain as it was nothing compare to the emotional and physical scar that the Outer God did.

"Haah…haa….this body….is….sure…pathetic." Issei found himself deep in the mountains and laid on the ground as he took deep breaths, taking his time to recover.

[ It can't be helped, you may have the energy reserve of an Ultimate Devil doesn't mean your physical prowess would be the same. At the moment, you're still a Human that is slowly becoming a True Dragon God or perhaps it's now different since you have the 72 pillar bloodline of the devil family. ]

'It's a bit overwhelming at the information of their abilities but most of that is basic that gives me more talent in every field due to. Can't say I'll master them but it's worth the try.'

Issei laid on the ground momentarily enjoying the view of the sky peering through the trees before a few minutes later jumped back up and cracked his stiff muscles.

'Alright, let's see if I can still summon you, Irene.' Issei concentrated at his arms trying to sense his energy that churn from his veins to his arms until bright light shone and what revealed was a scaly gauntlet with gems in them. It was a simpler design, appearing more slim than chunky.

"Still got it! How about you, Irene?"

[ I'm fine. Nothing seems to change. How about boosting yourself? ] Issei nodded and activated his weapon like normal where it resounded instantly boosting his power and ended after around a few dozen of boosts reaching around Ultimate class in every aspect not just his reserve.

He then proceeded to execute a flurry of strikes and kicks that shook the air producing a Sonic boom destroying the nearby trees. Issei didn't end his warm up until the boost wore off and watched how the entire area was basically deforested from his warm up alone.

'It is still far from what I used to but this is the start.'