"""Merry Christmas!"""
We raised our glasses in a toast—the Occult Research Club, the Student Council, and all the participants of the event. Kuroka and Le Fay were here, too.
Yes, today is our slightly belated Christmas party.
Long tables were lined up in the spacious Hyoudou residence basement, crowded with all kinds of dishes. There was takeout, of course, but also home-cooked meals made by Mom and the other members.
A few days have passed since the incident in Heaven. We successfully pulled off the Christmas event and finished distributing all the presents.
Naturally, we did the delivery run in full Santa costumes! We even rode on flying reindeer!
(Note: The sight of the ORC members in their cute and erotic Santa outfits has been permanently saved to my brain.)
Alice downed her beer in one go.
"Puhah! Aaah, that brings me back to life! The paperwork has been piling up for days, so this booze tastes amazing!"
"...You have some nerve saying that after dumping all the reports on me. It was incredibly hard work, you know."
"Oh, these fries are delicious!"
"Listen to me!?"
Alice-san, you are my 'Queen', aren't you!? You completely stop functioning when it comes to desk work!
She dumped the entire report on the Heaven disturbance onto me! Is she a demon!?
I'm gonna grope you for this!
...Wait. Speaking of Alice's breasts...
"Alice... don't tell me, you...!"
My finger trembled as I pointed at her chest.
Alice set her beer down on the table and puffed out her chest proudly.
"Fuffuffu... They got bigger again! My bra didn't fit anymore! Look!"
Alice grabbed my hand and pressed it against her chest!
Squish.
A sensation of supreme softness met my fingers!
T-This feeling... she's going commando! No, more importantly, this size is...!
"Alice... Good job!"
"Right!?"
Alice and I shed tears of emotion!
Ah... the growth of Alice's breasts lately is remarkable! At this speed, she'll be in the same class as Xenovia, Irina, and Raynare soon!
Alice blushed slightly as she asked, "...Am I getting closer to Ise's ideal body type?"
Pfft.
Kuh... why did she have to get cute all of a sudden! No, she's always cute, but still!
"Onii-chan, what do you think of this?"
Saying that, Miu in her Santa costume hugged my arm!
It was a strapless outfit, emphasizing her cleavage for all it was worth! And right now, those breasts were pressed against my arm... sandwiching it!
Oh crap... the tears won't stop!
"It's cute! Let's take a picture later! I'm adding it to my treasure collection!"
"Ehehe."
Miu smiled, looking a little bashful.
Ah, my little sister is adorable today as always...
From the Sitri peerage, I could hear voices saying:
"Yep, the Hyoudou siblings are completely a couple."
"Well, they have been for a while now~."
I won't deny it!
Miu is my sister, but she's also my bride! I want to see Miu in a wedding dress again!
Just then, the Church Trio caught my eye. They were chatting happily with the other church members. They were probably discussing the Christmas event or matters of faith, but the moment Griselda-san joined the circle, Xenovia started shrinking back.
As expected, Xenovia can't win against Griselda-san.
...Fafnir, who showed such guts, went into a deep sleep after Asia healed his injuries. He isn't dead, but the damage was massive, so he needs to rest for a while. Apparently, he will wake up eventually.
Asia was relieved to hear that.
During that incident, I saw the true pride of a dragon in Fafnir. He's usually the Panties Dragon King, but I recognized once again that he is truly one of the proud Dragon Kings who steps up when it counts.
Touji-san had to stay behind for observation regarding the poison, so he left the gift distribution to his daughter. Unfortunately, he couldn't attend the party today due to tests.
However, when I spoke to him via communication magic, he told me he had spoken with Yaegaki-san again.
Even if he isn't forgiven, he will live to atone. He told Yaegaki-san of that resolve once more.
I think the current Yaegaki-san is capable of listening to Touji-san's regrets and repentance.
While everyone was enjoying the meal, Rias and Akeno stepped forward.
"There is something we want everyone to hear," they said.
"Ufufu, it might seem sudden at a time like this, but Rias and I decided that Christmas was the perfect timing to announce it."
They nodded to each other, then addressed us.
"—We are announcing the new President and Vice-President of the Occult Research Club."
—!
Announcing it now!?
Not only the ORC members but even the Student Council members seemed surprised. The only one not surprised was Sona.
Rias spoke.
"I founded the ORC and have been President for three years, but I've tried not to leave behind any strict rules for the generations below. I want the members who inherit the club to remember that. It is better for the ORC to be run by the rules of that specific time."
Having said that, Rias cleared her throat.
And finally, she announced the appointments.
"The new President is Asia. The Vice-President is Yuuto."
S-So that's how it is...!
Kiba aside, Asia is the President! This is an unexpected selection!
I and the others were shocked, but Asia herself seemed the most surprised. Or rather, it was so unexpected that her mouth hung open, unable to process the situation!
Rias began to explain her reasons.
"The reason I chose Asia is that I believe she will create the freshest version of the ORC. I thought it would be interesting to see her move the club in a direction different from mine."
Akeno followed Rias, explaining the choice for Vice-President.
"As for Yuuto-kun being Vice-President, part of it was to avoid having two generations of female Presidents and Vice-Presidents in a row. We also thought he could serve as a bridge to the male students. Furthermore, he is the most veteran member among the current second-years, so we considered him well-suited to support Asia-chan."
Kiba as a bridge to the boys... He's so handsome he might just earn their resentment instead...
Well, Kiba knows the ORC's activities best, so he's definitely qualified to support the new President.
Rias shifted her gaze to me.
"I did consider Ise, but you are already busy enough as it is..."
"Yeah. My 'Queen' doesn't do her work, you see..."
I replied with a distant look in my eyes.
As for Alice...
"Ehe☆"
This girl plans to keep slacking off, doesn't she!?
What a piece of work!
In that case, I have no choice—
"Ravel-chaaaaaan! Our paperwork depends on you! I'm counting on you from now on tooooooo!"
I cried, clinging to Ravel!
If Ravel leaves, we're finished! Administratively speaking! The work will never end!
That's why I need Ravel to stay by my side forever or I'll be in trouble!
"A-Ahahaha... Please leave it to me, Ise-sama."
Ravel patted my head with a wry smile.
Anyway, Rias nominating Asia as the new President means she expects her to create an ORC like never before.
Rias asked the two of them.
"So, will you accept?"
"I don't mind. I'm honored."
Kiba accepted readily.
As for Asia...
"I-I-I-I... U-Um... Hauu!"
"Is it... no good?"
"N-No! I just wondered if I was really the right choice... I feel like everyone else is more suitable... And I'm so shy, I'm worried if I can perform the duties properly..."
Well, taking over after Rias would make anyone anxious.
But it won't be a problem.
I placed my hand on Asia's shoulder.
"Don't worry. We'll all support you, Asia. Besides, having Asia as President is cute, so it makes everyone want to support you."
"Oh? Was I not cute?"
Gah! Rias is looking at me with half-lidded eyes!
I frantically shook my head!
"No, Rias is cute enough to be illegal! I want to make you my wife! B-But, the vector of cuteness is different from Asia, or rather..."
Seeing me panic, Rias giggled.
"Ufufu, I know. Thank you, Ise."
She tapped the tip of my nose with her finger.
That smile was somehow maternal...
Hmm, Rias really feels like the "Big Sister" of the school. Even though I'm chronologically older...
Alice spoke to Asia.
"Well, even I managed to be a princess of a country. I used to be shy too, you know? It'll be fine, Asia-san."
"R-Really?"
"No, that's a lie, Asia. Alice! You aren't shy! I heard stories from Maurice-ossan! You tomboy!"
"That was... I just hated studying! Kiri!"
"Alice-san, I don't think you're supposed to say 'Kiri' (sharp look) out loud. Also, the timing seems off..."
Miu slipped in a casual retort.
However, like Alice, Miu encouraged Asia.
"But everyone has a first time, and it's okay to fail, isn't it? Besides, I think you can do it, Asia-san."
Kiba followed up.
"That's right. As Vice-President, I intend to support Asia-san and everyone else."
Xenovia put a hand on Asia's shoulder.
"It's a good opportunity. Why not try it? You might never get another chance to be a club president."
"Yeah, yeah! I'll work extra hard for Asia-san too!"
Irina was in agreement.
"Asia is the President... Somehow, I'm so happy, the tears are coming..."
"Raynare-senpai, crying is an exaggeration. But I think 'President Asia' has a nice ring to it."
"I can do my best for Asia-senpai... for President Asia too!"
"I have no objections either."
Raynare, Koneko-chan, Gasper, and Ravel all seemed to approve.
"I think it's good too! President Asia!"
Saji and the rest of the Sitri group voiced their approval.
"Master! This fried chicken is exquisite!"
Diarmuid was eating his way through the food.
Yeah, you just eat quietly with Kuroka.
Now, with everyone voicing their approval, all that remained was Asia's will.
Asia thought for a moment, then nodded with a smile.
"I-I understand! I humbly accept! I am inexperienced, but please take care of me for the next year!"
"""Yes, President!"""
Everyone answered in unison as Asia bowed.
Thus, the next generation's ORC President and Vice-President were decided.
President: Asia. Vice-President: Kiba.
Once the third term starts, these two will be the center of the club. I wonder how it will turn out...
It's fun just imagining it.
Feeling a little tired, I sat down on a chair in the corner of the room.
I was watching everyone making noise and having fun.
—
"...?"
I felt like a voice just passed through my mind.
This... is similar to that sensation. The one I experienced in that space of drifting rainbow particles when fighting Rizevim.
The Sky Wings' Black Box—a fragment of Ignis's true power.
Originally, the Sky Wings were born mixed with Ignis's power; they represent my potential. So it isn't strange for Ignis's power to manifest, but...
Suddenly, someone hugged me from behind.
It was Ignis, materialized.
"Ufufu~♪ Are you having fun, Issei?"
"I guess. You seem to be having a lot of fun yourself, Ignis."
This Onee-san has been drinking everything from beer to wine to sake. Her face is red, and her tension is sky-high.
Ignis rubbed her cheek against mine.
"Of course! We're in such a fun place. It's a waste not to enjoy it. Besides, everyone's warm feelings are flowing into me~, so Onee-san is high!"
"Isn't that just the alcohol!? You're drunk, aren't you!?"
"I'm fine! I'm a goddess! I don't get drunk! So, I'm gonna do a naked dance~☆ Yay!"
"You are definitely drunk! Hey, stop strippinggggg!"
I'm happy to see a beautiful woman naked, but not right now! That's not the vibe!
I desperately tried to stop Ignis!
"Eeei! I won't let you strip!"
"Fuffuffu, you're naive, Issei!"
Ignis escaped my hold, pushed me onto the floor, and started stripping me! She took my clothes in an instant!
What the hell is she doing!?
"They call this... the Ignis Special!"
"What is that!? That's the first I've heard of it!?"
"I dare say, Onee-san is going to eat Issei up!"
Saying that, Ignis locked my face in a hold! She forcibly pressed her lips against mine!
"""Aaaaaaaaaah!?"""
The women screamed at the sight!
Xenovia rushed over!
Is she going to save me?!
"Teach me this 'Ignis Special' too!"
"You want to learn it!?"
After that, Tiamat dragged the dead-drunk Ignis away, bringing the situation under control.
Once the cleanup was done, the fun banquet came to an end.
The members gathered at the house returned to their respective homes, and we took a break.
...Ignis was fast asleep in Tiamat's room.
That Onee-san... sigh. She really is a Useless Goddess.
After checking on Ignis, I stood alone on the roof of the Hyoudou house.
It was cold at night this time of year... but that was fine, too.
Because today is—
"—It's snow."
I turned toward the voice and found Irina standing there in her pajamas.
I smiled.
"A White Christmas, huh? The weather forecast said sunny with occasional clouds."
Yeah, this is why I came to the roof.
I came to watch the snow falling on the town.
I wonder when it started... I used to not be the type to do this, but now I think gazing blankly at a scene like this isn't so bad.
Irina came to my side and looked up at the snowy sky.
"What should we do about our Christmas promise?"
"Ah, the Santa Raid. Even if it was a childhood promise, it's pretty extreme. Actually, with the power we have now, I'm scared we could actually pull it off."
If it's us right now, we could probably raid Santa and loot the presents.
Well, I don't know where Santa is, though.
As I laughed wryly, Irina murmured.
"Hey, Ise-kun."
"Hmm? What is—"
It happened just as I turned my face toward her.
—Irina's lips pressed against mine.
...
...?
Leaving me frozen, Irina blushed crimson and said, "Umm... An Angel's Kiss. In a situation like this, it's okay, right?"
...W-Well, an Angel smiling in the falling snow is definitely a top-tier situation...
But that was a complete surprise attack...!
Irina continued.
"Actually, this is my second kiss, you know? My first was with you, too, Ise-kun."
"What!? When!?"
"Ufufu, when we were kids. I kissed you while you were sleeping at my house."
Irina smiled mischievously!
Seriously...!? So my first kiss was...!
To think my childhood friend was the culprit... I'm shocked!
For now, I...
"Irina—"
I placed my hand on her shoulder—and pressed my lips to hers.
This time, Irina froze.
"E... I-Ise, kun...?"
"Both times were initiated by you. This time, it's from me."
I said with a grin.
Irina's face turned even redder than before, practically steaming. She traced her lips with her fingertips.
"T-This is... You really are bold, Ise-kun."
"Ahaha... W-Well, I guess so."
"Hey, Ise-kun. ...Can you come with me for a bit?"
"...Eh?"
The place Irina led me to by the hand.
It was—
"U-Um... Irina-san, this is?"
When I asked, Irina fidgeted, her cheeks flushed.
"U-Umm... I-I know this is super fast, but... well, Michael-sama has expectations too... and I thought, with Ise-kun... maybe we could become the bridge between Angels and Devils right now."
We were in that room with the golden doorknob—the Baby-Making Room. Waves of energy similar to holy light were radiating from it, creating an atmosphere that screamed "divine blessing."
I understood why Irina brought me to this room, but...
"N-No... wait, why are these two here? Or rather, were you waiting?"
I pointed at—Asia and Xenovia in their underwear!
They were already in combat mode on the bed!?
What are you doing!?
Xenovia spoke with needless confidence.
"Well, since Irina made up her mind, we decided to make up ours as well."
"...U-Um... I also... want to give birth to Ise-san's... baby!"
Her words were broken and she looked incredibly embarrassed... but for some reason, her eyes showed sheer determination.
Wait, a baby?! Being told that so clearly, I don't know how to respond!
Xenovia dragged me onto the bed!
"We decided on it."
"Decided...? On what...?"
When I asked back, Xenovia nodded once.
And then—
"Though we were born at different times and places—when we are embraced by Issei, we shall be together!"
"Which Romance of the Three Kingdoms is thaaaaaaat!?"
The Oath of the Peach Garden?! What kind of oath are you swearing!?
Are you telling me to take all three of you at once!?
You're all virgins, right?! Isn't the difficulty level way too high for a first time!?
"Ah, if possible, I'd like us to finish together, too."
"That difficulty is way too hiiiiiiiigh!?"
Suddenly, a presence appeared in the room.
She appeared right beside us and said:
"No, if you try hard enough, you can do it! If it's Issei!"
Ignis has arrived! Weren't you sleeping!?
And you're saying something absurd the moment you show up!
"Now, Issei! Let's do it! 4P!"
"Why is your tension so high!? Are you still drunk!?"
I retorted, but Ignis ignored me.
She gently placed her hands on my shoulders and smiled.
"By connecting, the world turns. Understanding each other is important. Right?"
"A-Ah."
"Then let's connect—with our lower bodies."
"This person just said something terrible! Are you really a goddess!?"
"Understanding each other through the body. That is also a form of mutual understanding."
You Useless Goddessssssss!
What you're saying is genuinely awful!
Connecting with lower bodies is totally out! I don't think that's what understanding each other means!
However, my retorts had no hope of getting through in this situation...
"Ise-san... I... want to understand you."
"That's right, Issei. There are things you can understand by connecting."
"Ise-kun! We... understand each other, right? You... understand my feelings, too, right?"
...!
I-If you close in on me with those teary eyes...!
To hell with it!
I care about these three too...!
Seeing my resolve, Ignis smiled.
"In that case, I will take my leave. May the Goddess's blessing be upon the four of you."
Red aura radiated from Ignis's hands, enveloping us.
The warm aura... melted into our hearts—.
It looked like it was going to be a long Holy Night.
[Third Person POV]
Time skips forward a bit.
The New Year arrived, and the third term began at Kuoh Academy.
While Xenovia's student council election campaign and the Occult Research Club led by Asia were starting up, a new turbulence was approaching them.
However, a storm was brewing in a place unrelated to that.
The Underworld—Meifu.
It is the place located in the lower stratum of the Underworld where the souls of the dead are sorted.
A world ruled by the Greek God, Hades.
Someone was stepping into that domain.
<
"Aha♪ There aren't many people who actually stop when told to halt, you know."
A boy in a white hoodie waved his hand horizontally, and the Grim Reaper who tried to stop him vanished.
A High-Class Grim Reaper was erased by a child's single gesture.
The Reapers surrounding the boy shuddered at that fact.
Ignoring the shaken Reapers, the boy continued walking. He was heading for the deepest part of the temple.
Naturally, the one there was—
<
The God of the Realm of the Dead, Hades, looked at the boy with an eerie glint in his eyes.
It was the killing intent of one of the top-class gods in the world. An ordinary person... no, even a powerful warrior would be crushed by that intent, breaking out in a cold sweat.
However, the boy showed a relaxed smile from beneath his hood.
"Hi, Hades, God of the Dead. I'm Asem... but I don't need an introduction, do I? Since you've been peeking at me for a looong time."
The boy—the Otherworldly God Asem—said with a bright smile.
"You got my location from Apophis-kun as one of the conditions for forming a contract, didn't you? spying on me... are you a stalker?"
<
"No way. You see, I came to punish a gloomy grandpa with stalker tendencies."
The moment Asem said that, the murderous intent of the surrounding Reapers swelled. Middle-class, High-class, and even Ultimate-class Reapers readied their weapons, preparing to cut Asem down.
<
"Ahaha♪ It's okay, it's okay♪ You're a grandpa, so I'll go easy on you♪ If I erased you here, I wouldn't be able to convey my danger to the gods of the other factions, right? I'm going to have you be my advertisement, Grandpa."
Hades and Asem laughed pleasantly.
Suddenly, Hades asked.
What is your objective? What does a god from another world intend to do by coming to this one?
"Hmm, you're curious? Then, I'll tell you just a little. —Ruin to the arrogant gods, and reality to the weak who pretend not to know. This world needs to change. Just like the world over there."
At that moment, a black gauntlet appeared on Asem's left hand.
It looked just like—.
"I took a peek at the 『System』 in Heaven the other day, and I used it as a reference♪ Even with Bell's power, clarifying everything about Sacred Gears was difficult. No, really, the God of the Bible possessed amazing technology. The gods of this world are pretty capable, too. Well, putting that aside. —You're okay with being half-killed, right? Stalker-san♪"
A butterfly of ruin flapped its wings in the Realm of the Dead.
[Third Person POV Out]
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