Hunter Among Devils
SP here, I don't know how I managed to post this chapter since I'm busy as ****. Anyway, all credits goes to their respectful owner. Nothing belongs to me except the OCs.
The next morning
Kalawarner P.O.V
I woke up thanks to this alarm clock, each time I heard it the urge to launch a light spear at it increased. I got up and looked at Max, he didn't move and his breathing was faster than it should be. I rolled him so that I could face him. He was feverish and obviously in pain.
"Did you catch something ?" I was slightly surprised by the fact he could become ill from a disease.
"Not sure" he mumbled "but when I got here, they gave me everything I needed to stand up to most of the sickness that roamed. But it's not something usual" he grasped his head "there is something inside me that is making my body react way more than a bacteria or a virus" all of his body was hot to the touch.
"Maybe you caught it when we went to the Familiar Forest yesterday" I suggested and frankly it was the only thing that made sense.
"Could you grab my phone ?" his voice was raspy at best, he had trouble speaking. "Contact... Aria..." he stopped talking and tried to sleep. I looked through his contacts and found this Aria person. I dialed the number.
"Hello Max, what can I help you with ?" a voice came from the other side of the phone. The tone was friendly but nothing more.
"Hum, Aria-san ?" I wanted to make sure it was the correct person.
"Yes, why do you have Max's phone ?" I could hear steel in her voice.
"He is sick and he told me you could help him" Aria didn't say anything
"That shouldn't be possible, his body is resistant to practically any kind of sickness" she said it as I was lying.
"He told me the same thing, but he also said it wasn't a virus or a bacteria from the way his body reacted"
"... Don't hang up, I'll be here" and true to her words a magic circle appeared on the floor and she appeared. "Greetings" she bowed "you must be Kalawarner, Max talked about you" she had a small smile on her face then it became serious "what happened ?" I showed her Max and the state he was in.
"He has a high fever, and had trouble speaking" Aria walked over him, got on the bed and touched his forehead.
"Anything else ?" she didn't look at me and was focused on Max
"We went to the Familiar Forest yesterday but aside nothing that could relate to his state" I didn't talk about his nightmare, because it was between us.
"... Come over here and assist me in scaning his body for anything" she gestured for me to assist her. After a while I was surprised to find something that shouldn't be in his body "There's magic traces over his chest"
"That shouldn't be possible his Deicide organ shouldn't allow magic to enter his body !" she said it like what I was saying didn't make sense.
"Deicide organ ? What is that ? The god slayer organ ?" What was she talking about ? She sighed.
"Those who came from the Outer Rim have shown the ability to negate magic or supernatural phenomena right ?" I nodded "we later discovered that is thanks to an organ that produced this energy capable of those feats, and we named it the Deicide because it has the potential to kill Gods" I let the information sunk in, I realized why they were unknown to everyone but a few people. Their power could not only place humanity at the top but they could also, if they wanted, destroy the supernatural world. I first thought it was only capable of negating magic but it could negate much more actually. Aria's voice brought me out of my thoughts "he must have inhaled magic in big quantities and only shown the consequences now because his body can't fight it anymore, so it's magic poisoning" she got up and walked in the circle "let's not move him around recklessly, I'll go and see what I can do" she disappeared. I was left there for a moment completely lost until yet another voice steered me from my thoughts.
"Guess... she told you..." Max mumbled "now you know why we want to stay hidden... from the world. If they knew... we would be attacked permanently until... our people are extinct. But it's not everyone from back home... it really manifest among the hunters... others have only some of the energy and not an actual organ" he explained the best he could between breaths and grunts of pain.
"Don't push yourself, you'll have the time to explain later on" he nodded, his breathing slowing down.
"When Aria comes back... she'll have what I need to recover... so you should go to school" I was about to protest "or we going to have problems... Nishi is gonna link the dots... Don't worry about me... I'll be fine" he fell asleep, I put my hand his cheek and the contact seemed to appease him. The magic circle glowed again and Aria was back.
"I'll treat him right now" she made him drink something and used some kind spell over his chest. The result was practically instantaneous has he calmed down and his fever receded a good deal. "He should be fine now, you can go. I heard you were a teacher now so you are going to be late" heeding her advice I changed and prepared myself and was about to left, but not before doing something. I kissed Max then left, which made Aria smile.
Later that day, lunch break
"Sensei, is Senpai okay ?" Koneko and I were eating in the tree, the white haired girl upon not seeing Max became worried.
"Yes he is don't worry, he is coming back tomorrow" I reassured her while giving a lollipop like Max did.
"That's good, Senpai is always giving me sweets" she said with a blank face, that girl was hard to figure out. This morning was a bit lonely since I didn't see him in class. But eating with Koneko made it easier. Our peace was disturbed by screaming, we looked in the scream direction and saw Issei running along two of his friends trying to escape the girls who were running after them. Koneko dropped from the tree and walked in Issei's direction. When Issei was in range Koneko punched him in the stomach, and she did the same to his friends while saying "pervert" each time she hit one of them. Seriously this kid was too perverted, and that's how I remembered the first we met after I attacked him he stripped me naked. That could be used as leverage in case he didn't want Max to torture him. However my musings were once again interrupted.
"Walker-sensei, what are you doing up there ?" Nishi had once again found me.
"Koneko was here for lunch not a second ago so I decided to eat with her" he was bothering me now, his very presence annoying me beyond measure. I didn't make myself clear enough did I ?
"Why not eat in the teacher's lounge ? This way we can talk" I had enough.
"Nishi-sensei as I told you the first time I am not interested in talking to you, and I am already seeing someone. So if you would stop bothering me I'll be most thankful" my voice was pure steel as I uttered those words. Nishi didn't show any sign.
"... Such a shame" he said as he left. I looked back at the scene in front of me and Koneko was looking at me, she probably saw and heard the whole thing. Before anything could happen the bell rung and the lessons resumed.
End of the last lesson
"Excuse me Sensei" Kiba came to me "Koneko told us about Max-san so we wanted to pay him a visit. Do you know where he lives ?" I would have said no because it was also my place for now, but they looked worried so I gave Kiba the address.
"Yes he lives here" I handed him a piece of paper where I scrabbled his address.
"Thank you Sensei" he bowed and left. After a while I also left, I wanted to prepare Max something to eat so I went to the market. There I came across someone I didn't except.
"Kalawarner !" Raynare was there, in her Yuuma clothing. She had a basket full of groceries.
"Raynare, I didn't except to find you here. Did HQ sent you on a mission ?" last time I saw her she wasn't see the daylight anytime soon because she changed the orders, and we went along with it.
"Actually, I was sent here as an observer. I give reports of the town activities and I am prohibited from undertaking any actions" she wasn't happy "but at least I'm not caged or anything. But I heard you are stuck as a teacher" she laughed mocking me.
"Say what you want Raynare" I wasn't going to lose my time with her if she was like this.
"Don't be like that, there is also a rumor that you are seeing a human now" I froze, that was bad in more ways than one "The fact you are not denying it, means it it true after all" I messed up, I should have said no "who knows what they will do when it is confirmed" she had bad smirk, so I decided to shut her up.
"This human I'm seeing is the one who helped you escape" Raynare froze, memories hitting her "so I'm not sure you are going to do anything"
"It's that monster ?" I greeted my teeth, Max isn't a monster at all "are you mad ?" Raynare looked as if she was about to panic.
"He is not a monster, he is strong. And wherever you want it or not the only reason you are fine is thanks to him" I reminded her with hate in my voice. Raynare was about to retort when her eyes focused on something behind me.
"There is someone following you" she said, my brain didn't take long to figure out who it was.
"Nishi" I growled. He was harassing me now. I grabbed what I needed, paid for it and waited for Raynare to do the same. After leaving the store we flew off, effectively leaving the despicable teacher behind. We landed on a rooftop after that.
"Another reason humans are despicable I guess" she said, Nishi disgusted me I couldn't disagree with her about Nishi. But not all of them are like that.
"No they are not. Some of them yes but not all of them" Raynare turned in surprise to me.
"My, looks like you changed quite a bit. Before you wouldn't even listen to anything related to humans. Now you defend them" she said, mildly astonished. Looking back I couldn't disagree with what she was saying.
"Things changes, deal with it" I looked toward my next direction, prepared to leave. But Raynare asked me something even more surprising.
"How is Issei doing ?" my mind raced as to why she would ask this. She killed him and Asia, and now she was asking how he was doing.
"... Is fine" I didn't wait any longer and I left, not missing the smile gracing her features
Max's place
General P.O.V
"Rah" Max groaned as he stretched, he felt like a mess this morning but now he felt absolutely awesome. He got out of his bed and saw a note on his table "Have a good recovery, Aria" he chuckled when he saw the P.S "Next time you pull a stunt like that I'm cutting your funds by half". Deciding to thank her later, he put some clothes on, then exited his room and went into the living room. There he checked the hour.
"That late ? So I did waste a day in bed after all" he said to himself "Man, I'm starting to talk to myself now. First sign of craziness" the door bell rang. He wondered who it was because he gave a key to Esdeath, Selene and Kalawarner, meaning the people who knew where he lived. He answered the door and was surprised to find his kohais.
"Good evening Senpai, are you feeling better ?" Kiba was on his door step sporting a smile, Koneko, Issei, and Asia behind him.
"Great in fact, come in" he let them through "Kalawarner gave you my address didn't she ?" Max asked as he closed the door.
"Yes it was her" they stood in the entrance looking around the corridor.
"Nice place Senpai, is it yours ?" Issei asked, the entrance was bigger that his house's.
"Well it's mine as long as I'm on this mission" Max scratched the back of his head as he spoke "well no use standing in the entrance, come in" he invited them. While walking they could see he had a lot of books, pictures and weapons- wait weapons ? Yes they were weapons of all sorts displayed here and there, ranging from knifes to firearms.
"Gulp, do you have a license Senpai ?" Issei asked as Asia was clenching as strongly as she could his sleeve. Kiba looked pretty interested in the blades that were exposed while Koneko was more interested in his book collection.
"A license ? Nope, but I don't really worry that much about the police finding me out or whatever because they don't even know I'm here" he explained opening the door to the living room. There was some kind of armor displayed on the room's side.
"Is that yours Senpai ?" Kiba asked particularly interested in the metal set.
"Yes it is, although I'm not really using it anymore, so it's more like a memento than anything" he said a bit embarrassed. The armor was damaged, some bits were missing but it was shining meaning he took good care of it "On a side note you can call me Max if you want, as long as you add don't the '-san' behind" they chuckled, minus Koneko.
"You have a lot of things" Asia said as took one of the pictures in her hand. There was Max with two people beside him, the three of them were covered in bruises but they were smiling like crazy. Behind was a rough looking man also smiling with a hand patting Max's head "Are those people your friends ?" Asia asked him. The others came to see the picture and more or less had the same smile.
"That was one hell of a time" he said in nostalgic tone "this here" he pointed to the boy on his right, he had a dark shade of blond hair with a black streak, very bright green eyes and the same tanned skin as Max "is my buddy Atos, we more or less grew up together and graduated from being trainees at the same time. We fought all the time for training and sometimes we would end up destroying a lot of stuff ahahaha. And her" he pointed to the girl on his left, she had very tanned skin, blue eyes like the sky and a bright shade of brown hair "her name is Nora and she was as bad as the two of us, we met her at the Training School. She was rough and didn't let anyone step on her which made quite often a mess with the teachers but that was a plus in our book so we invited her in our group, but when we did, she declared herself the new boss which didn't sit well with all of us and it turned in a huge brawl" he paused remembering all that happened. The others could only laugh as he spoke "the picture was taken when we graduated, after they officially let us go, a huge party was thrown and it involved too much alcohol so it turned into a huge mess. That what the picture is about" he took the picture from Asia's hands, looked at it a bit more then put it back in its place. "So you want to drink something ?" he offered them as he went into the kitchen.
"With pleasure" "Thank you" "Gladly" "Thanks" came the simultaneous voices of the devils. He chuckled and brought refreshments.
"So did I miss anything today ?" he asked them as they sat down.
"Aside from Senpai being a pervert, nothing" Koneko said before drinking the juice Max brought.
"Koneko-chan !" Issei cried at his kohai harsh words.
"Remind me to fix that when I'll train you" Max said nonchalantly drinking what was in his cup. Issei looked at him in horror.
"What, don't tell me you didn't think I wouldn't try fixing the biggest flaws first did you ?" he asked in mock amazement. Asia was patting Issei on the back while Kiba was chuckling, Koneko was nodding her Senpai's words. Then the door's entrance was opened. "I'll check it" he wanted to make sure it wasn't Esdeath or the woman might freeze his apartment... again ! Max sighed in relief when he saw Kalawarner, he moved as stealthily as he could and caught her in hug while resting his head on her shoulder. When she felt the embrace she smiled and brought her hand to his face. "Hey, had a good day ?" he kissed her cheek.
"It got better now" she said with a small smile, still a bit disturbed by Nishi following her.
"Oh, then I hope I can make it so you had a good day until tonight" he smiled
"I'm sure you will think of something" she took her heels off, took the grocery bag before Max could "I'm keeping this" Max rose an eyebrow, then shrugged. They crossed the hallway and entered the living room. All, minus Koneko who knew from the interactions at lunch, were surprised to see their teacher and fallen angel.
"Sensei, what are you doing here ?" Issei surprised to see her, couldn't help but shout.
"Issei think for a second, and when you'll find, please don't have the reaction I except you to" Max asked him in a pleading tone. After a few seconds Issei's widened but he didn't say anything, everyone sighed in relief. But what he did earned him what Max was going to do. He walked over grasped both his hands with stars in his eyes.
"Senpai teach me your way" that was the last straw, Max was about to chop him on top of his head but Koneko beat him to it and punched Issei sideways, but holding back not to damage anything, and sent him plummeting in the wall.
"Whenever is he going to learn" Max shook his head "I hope I can fix his brain a bit when I'll get a shot at training him" he said sighing.
"Don't worry I'll help you" she gave him a reassuring smile, like it was going to be an ordeal. Both Koneko and Kiba agreed with their elder, while Asia was healing Issei. "I'll fix something to eat, you are joining us ?" Kalawarner asked her students.
"Unfortunetaly no, I have an another appointment tonight. Good evening" Kiba said as he excused himself.
"Good evening Senpai, Sensei" Koneko bowed and also left. Issei had recovered and he and Asia made to leave.
"Have a good evening" Asia bowed and Issei did the same, then they left. Kalawarner went in the kitchen and started cooking.
"You want me to help ?" Max asked as he peeked but a light spear was held at him, making back down "No help, got the message" Kalawarner sweet smile was disturbing for some reason. So he worked on whatever subject he could to kill time. By the time he finished, Kalawarner also did. She cooked a lot of food and they were going to enjoy it. They started digging in and Max eyes widened "That's good, you didn't tell me you could cook like that" he asked curious.
"You never asked" she said smirking she was about to pick her food when Max did before her.
"Why do you tease me like that " he had a mock hurt face.
"You are way too cheeky for your own good, you know that" he laughed as she smiled, then he fed her the stolen food, which she ate in semi-delight. The rest of the meal had the same atmosphere. After they finished, Max took his shower first, but things didn't go the way he planned.
Max P.O.V (the bathroom is western style)
I was in the water, the shower running and splashing in my ears covering other sounds, plus the fact that my hearing is enhanced compared to others. So I missed the sound of the door being opened and closed. It was only after I cut the shower that I realized Kalawarner was getting in the bath, she came with her back facing me and leaned against me. Her hair was tied in a bun and she smelled really nice. I blushed and could feel her soft skin on my chest.
"It is big enough to fit two people it seems" she said without taking anything else, like she was completely naked and was leaning on a perfectly healthy, yes healthy, teenager.
"Are you teasing me ? Because if you do let me tell you that you succeeded" I told her while trying to supress my blood flow as much as I could.
"Maybe ?" she said in teasing manner and turned and the only thing that kept me from seeing her body in all it's glory was the steam. But her body slumped a bit. Something was wrong after all.
"It was him again ?" I knew it had to be Nishi, this guy harassed her for some reason and for whatever reason she wouldn't tell me, but then again I haven't told her everything about me did I ?
"... Yes, this time he followed me after school" I felt angry, this guy didn't know when to stop and now this ? I am going to punch him square in the jaw and send him flying "But it's okay it doesn't matter, right now I feel good" she let herself completely against my body, closed her eyes and breathed.
She actually fell asleep like that, I found it cute. It was actually once the water started to get cold that she woke up. She got out first, I followed her seconds later. Just before going to sleep I wanted to tell her about my nightmare a bit.
Kalawarner P.O.V
"You see last night, in my dream, I went back to my hometown and I brought you with me" I was happy since he could dream about the two of us "I introduced you to my family, both my brothers and my dad. Selene came back with us" so far it meant that the two of us was possible in his mind "I showed you around the village, some spots that were either beautiful or held some kind of meaning. And one night while we were asleep there was tremor, followed by an earthquake. We got out of my house, and my hometown was attacked by monsters" I saw an emotion in his eyes I had yet to see: fear "they started destroying everything but they were too strong and we were unprepared for the both of them, Selene got hit by falling debris so I grabbed her and you and we ran" he paused, he wasn't sure whether he should stop or not "while we were running away I called out to my family but they didn't answer. Then you said you were going to find them" his hands were trembling, so I interlaced them with my own "someone sneaked up on you and ran a sword through your chest and I couldn't do anything to help you, you just fell into my arms eyes closed not moving" he didn't look at me, I was sure thanks to this that he cared about me more than I thought. So I hugged him.
"I'm here and I am not going anywhere" I reassured him, he looked at me with a small smile.
"I needed some comfort" then I got an idea, I captured his lips, pushed him back so that I could be on top of him.
(Not a lemon, but you know)
We kissed as long as we could only stopping when air was needed, moaning as we kissed. Then I wanted more, I wanted him to feel me even more and to feel him even more. His hands had grabbed my waist, mine grabbed his face as I started once but this time I used my tongue to capture his. He answered by doing the same, and my began feeling the excitement as did his. We kept going and going and going, our tongues trying to capture one another. Then he got more aggressive, his hands slipping in my shirt and caressing my body, inciting me to do the same, letting go of his head I let my hands massage his toned chest. Our bodies kept shifting unable to contain the waves of pleasure coursing them, I kept moving back and forth as I kissed him, no it wasn't kissing anymore. I wanted him to be mine and me his. His hands moved further up my body, eliciting from me another powerful moan as he neared my chest. His hands finally reached my chest as I was dying for him to, he massaged my breasts gently which didn't calm down my excitement. My legs were going to give out on me as I felt pleasure from both my mouth and my breasts. Then one of his hand left my chest, slowly tracing the lines of my body toward my thigh which he started caressing too. My breathing became erratic and I started rubbing my lower body against his. We finally parted, a trail of saliva still hanging between our tongues, my body stopped moving but the urge was still there, and as I sat on him I felt steel hard resistance in his pants. While my own underwear was drenched. Max's hands moved back to my waist and got back up, I wrapped my arms around his neck and we resumed. I wrapped my legs around his legs not ready to let him go, my hands were grabbing his hair while our tongues were making love. I came when his tongue swirled around my mouth, hitting all the sensitive spots. My body finally gave out on me and I slumped over him in complete exhaustion. He was in same condition as I was. I looked at him and for a split I could swear his eyes were red but it was probably my imagination.
"I-" he was about to say something but I shushed him and looked at him. He understood the message: nothing needed to be said. We laid down still wrapped around one another, we kissed a final then drifted to sleep.
The next morning
Upon waking up I saw the sleeping face of my lover, yes lover after yesterday night that is how I'll describe him and me. He was sleeping peacefully, a satisfied expression on his face. I couldn't resist and held him against me. The proximity felt amazingly nice, and before it could rang I destroyed the alarm clock with my spear. I will be the one to wake him up. I nudged him a bit and he steered, his eyes rapidly closing and opening, when I was sure he saw me I kissed him. He kissed back in the same manner.
"Am I dreaming ? Because it's the only reason a beautiful angel would embrace me like this" he snuggled closer to me, like a kid. I found him cute.
"Then you should be happy, because it's real" I rubbed the top of his head, he was going to fall asleep and I didn't mind letting him so but if it wasn't the alarm clock it was the phone.
"Damn it" I cursed, I grabbed it and answered it a bit irrittated "Yes ?"
"Sensei, could you drop by the club this morning and please take Max along with you" it was Rias Gremory, she must have got my number from the administration, I was about to answer when Max started tickling me.
"S-stop, th-this is-n't fu-funny" he tried my best not to laugh, but I wouldn't be able to resist for long "we'll b-be the-there, un-until then" I hung up and laughed Max was supporting playful smile and stopped shortly after I hung up. I catched my breath "Are you jealous that I stopped taking care of you to answer the phone" I asked him but I already knew the answer.
"So, do I have to get up or I can stay in the bed with this angel ?" I was very tempted to say to last offer, but alas we couldn't.
"Sorry we have to go. Rias is calling for the both of us" he was disappointed like I was, but left either way.
At the old school building
General P.O.V
"Hey, slept well ?" Max asked the young devils that were gathered at the entrance of the old school building.
"Well yes, what about the two of you ?" Kiba asked back to his teacher and senpai. Max chuckled.
"My sleep was very nice and good thank you" he chuckled, Kalawarner smiled at the answer. Max looked at Issei who seemed troubled.
"Hey Issei did you spend all night watching stuff you weren't supposed to cause you look both nervous and tired for some reason" Max asked him, Issei turned red
"No I didn't" he shouted extremely loud
"Then why did you shouted as if you were in a uncomfortable position" Max kept pressing the matter while they walked to club's room.
"I-I" Issei didn't know what to come up with at the moment.
"Was it about Asia ?"
"Why would it be about Asia ?" he answered, which made the Blondie pouted.
"Then was it about Buchou ?" Max didn't even had to hear his answer as his body stiffened at the word 'Buchou'.
"N-no" he stuttered.
"So what happened last night-" Max looked at the clubroom warily "there is someone exceptionally strong in the clubroom right now, and it is neither Buchou or Akeno" he said all of sudden Kiba noticed it as well.
"You are right, we weren't able to notice it until now" Kiba readied himself in case.
"Issei knock on the door please" Max order-asked his kohai.
"Why me ?"
"Because I didn't get my answers out of you so now I'll have to wait for Buchou to say it when you could have just told me and didn't waste time" he looked at Issei, the latter could swear the shadow from the Dodge ball match was back, so he executed himself.
"Come in" it was Rias for sure, so they opened the door and saw both 'onee-samas' and someone they didn't know. She had long silver hair, fair skin, silver eyes and was wearing a french maid outfit. Max snapped his fingers after remembering who she was.
"Grayfia Lucifuge, pure blooded devil, the 'Strongest Queen' from Sirzechs Lucifer's peerage. Married to him and have a son. Ex-member of the Old Satan Faction" he recited in a report fashion "On par with the actual Satans regarding demonic power" he added.
"You seem quite knowledgeable for an outsider" her voice was emotionless but could tell she was irritated from being reminded some things. He shrugged.
"Information is key factor in any kind of battlefield after all" he looked at Rias "so what happened".
"Have I your permission to speak openly ?" Grayfia asked but Rias shook her head.
"The reason-" she was interrupted as magic circle appeared on the ground and flames came out of it. The crest seemed familiar to Max but when Kiba said "Phenex" he remembered why. Standing in the middle of the circle was a tall and handsome young man in his early 20's with short blonde hair and dark blue eyes. He was wearing a burgundy blazer and a white shirt underneath.
"Riser has arrived" said the man, addressing himself at the third person.
"Who is this guy ?" Issei asked, Grayfia was about to answer when someone laughed. Max was holding his sides as he gasped for air.
"What's so funny peasant ?" Riser asked.
"Oh man, they told me about you, but I didn't think you were really that full of yourself" he looked up as Raiser sneered at him, but Max previous expression disappeared as he set his gaze on Riser who flinched from the way Max looked at him "Riser Phenex, third child of the Phenex family, pure blooded devil. Inherited the Phenex's immortality and pyrokinesis. Can recover practically from any wounds in a matter of second. Despite his young age as only lost two rating games. However has demonstrated a superiority complex that makes him overly dependent on his gifts more than anything else" everyone in the room looked with dead fish eyes, he practically introduced someone he never met "there was also something on a wedding but I didn't learn what I thought was useless" Rias cringed the word marriage and Riser smirked.
"Well looks like you are quite informed, good for you peasant" he insulted Max again, Kalawarner disliked him a little more each time.
"Sorry but I don't really listen when a fire chicken is speaking to me" he rolled his eyes like it was the most obvious thing. Riser rose his hands fire circling around it, while Max did the same, his Deicide energy accumulating in his palm, his hair rising in the air. Riser was gritting his teeth while Max was smirking the same he did when fighting the Tigrex. Then the fire Riser made was being absorbed in Max's palm.
"Enough" Grayfia stepped forward exuding insane pressure that affected the devils, Max wasn't affected if anything his smirk widened. But a pair of arms around his neck stopped him from going on a rampage, the energy he was charging in his hand vanished, he looked back and saw that it was Kalawarner. He explained to her, that unlike a lot of hunters, his Deicide organ produced a much denser energy making him 'drunk' and the fact he could face beings which he could negate the very existence didn't help. He took a deep breath, then muttered "sorry". He brought a hand up to his forehead and tried to focus on what was happening before him. "Now, Riser-sama is also engaged to the next heir of the Gremory household" Grayfia explained.
"What does that mean ?" Issei asked, not getting where this was going.
"It means Issei that Rias is getting married to the as- guy over there" he corrected himself, if Riser acted the same way he did before and showed his demonic power, this time he would fight Riser Kalawarner or not.
"What ?" Issei shouted. Riser smirked but stopped when Max looked at him, his eyes boring into him. Akeno prepared tea, Riser and Rias sat down. And Riser began playing with Rias' hair, much to her displeasure.
"Guess I know what happened yesterday night now" he chuckled darkly, the symptoms from going in a frenzy were still present so he couldn't really do anything that expressed oneself at the moment. Issei stiffened, the others except Akeno looked at him "come on it's not that hard, arranged marriage between two families from high nobility, how do you break that ? I'll give you a clue, hormonal teenager involved" Rias eyes dropped, Grayfia's narrowed in Max's direction, Akeno sighed and Issei looked away "but since it wasn't canceled I guess you didn't let your hormones speak this time. A man is also being capable of doing what is right, and not taking advantage of the situation from last night was right so good job Issei " Max pat Issei on the back, Issei looked at Max with teary eyes and nodded.
"What a heart moving speech, sadly it won't change the situation" Riser mocked as he started touching Rias' thighs.
"It depends, for instance if you keep getting on my nerves I swear your immortality won't be enough to put you back together when I'm finished with you" his right hand darkened for a moment then it receded. Riser growled at the hunter, Grayfia coughed in her hand so both opponents dropped the matter. Instead Riser got back to groping Rias, but the latter had enough and stood up.
"Enough, I won't marry you so drop it already" her voice didn't let room for discussion.
"I believed your family circumstances didn't allow you to be so selfish"
"I will not bring my family to ruin, but my husband will be my choice" she said with the same resolution as earlier, her back facing Riser
"Listen Rias we need to keep the bloodline of devils pure, and with the rising amount of reincarnated devils we are at risk. Both your brother and father took that decision with the future of devils in mind" the way he said made it think that reincarnated devils were an error.
"This was a rushed decision, so for the final time I won't marry you" she turned back but her chin was caught by Riser.
"And for the final time, this insistence on your end is marching on the Phenex's name" he said in a dangerous tone, every devils of Rias' peerage were ready to jump at Riser "I don't care if I have to incinerate everyone in this room, you will come back to the underworld with me" both Kings flared their demonic powers, Kalawarner feeling it took hold of Max's hand who trembled. The other hand was brought to his right eye who flashed between black and red.
"There is no need for violence" Grayfia interrupted them "as you know I was sent here by orders of Lord Sirzechs, as such there will not disturbance of the peace" both Kings backed out immediately.
"Even I feel fear when hearing something so ominous coming from the 'Strongest Queen'" Riser kept his superior smile.
"My master had a solution acting as a last measure should negotiations fail" said the silver head maid.
"Of course he did, would you care sharing the details" Rias asked the maid
"Sirzechs thought that you could settle the issue through a Rating Game" Max, Kalawarner, and Riser narrowed their eyes while the others widened them.
"And that's how you are put at disadvantage from the beginning" Max remarked dryly
"Why would you say that Senpai ?" Issei asked, not understanding the situation.
"A rating is opposing two kings' peerage, meaning it is opposing 15 pieces to 15 pieces at best" he looked at Issei "starting from you, you cost Rias her eight pawns which brings down her pieces from 15 to 8. Then Rias isn't authorized to participate in Rating Games because her peerage is not complete and because she is too young, while Riser's is since he is able to participate in Rating Games. Do the math Issei" Max looked back at the two kings.
"... Then we are 6 against 15 ?" Issei realizing the problem.
"Then this group is the extent of servants ?" Riser laughed and snapped his fingers. Another circle appeared, and Riser's peerage materialized. Issei was going to cry when he saw that they were all girls but the shadow creeping behind Max's back dissuaded him. But Issei shed a few tears, making Riser wonder why he did.
"This boy's dream is to have a harem" explained Rias. Riser smirked and mentioned for his queen to step forward. Then they started making out, Rias had a disgusted look and Issei blushed.
"There is nothing cool or hot about it" Max said his voice emotionless "he is just playing around with them. He is just doing it for show or for the sensation" his eye was back to normal, but Kalawarner saw a faint glow coming from his pocket. The jewel he got from Zatouji was reacting to his anger.
"Are you jealous perhaps ?" Riser smirked "after someone like you would never be able to have something as splendid as this" he gestured at his peerage. But Riser being the jerk looked behind Max and saw Kalawarner. "What a beauty" he walked over her "how about you come with me"he was going to touch her but a hand grabbed him before he could.
"And on top of being an asshole you're rude and insufferable, " Riser started fuming, literally. The others were backing away very slowly, Kalawarner tried to shake him but it didn't work "did I hit a sensitive nerve ? Don't worry sissy" his manic grin came back and he leaned a bit forward "daddy and mommy will make sure you'll get what you want like the spoiled child that you are" Riser attacked Max launching a huge fireball at him, Max moved a bit to the side so that Kalawarner was behind him and was hit by the flames. Grayfia's reaction was too slow and she couldn't prevent it. She was going to put out the fire when the flames started swirling. She saw a black form standing where the boy had previously been. The fire was being absorbed by a black smoke and after focusing she realized that the smoke was coming from the boy's body. After the flames were completely extinguished, they took in Max appearance. His overall features did not change however they were hazy, hardly defined because of the smoke like matter around his body, his eyes were red, his hair completely upward. He wasn't looking at anything in particular, he was moving back and forth, much like an infant.
"That's all, I thoug-" the words died in Riser's mouth as he was sent through the window by a hand covered in black energy, then Max went after Riser. Grayfia went after them, Kalawarner close behind. Everyone rushed after them soon after. Upon reaching them they saw Grayfia making a barrier around the school building. Riser was floating thanks to his wings of fire, Max was on the ground, the former glaring at the latter but Max didn't glare he just looked with empty eyes. Kalawarner landed her black angel wings still summoned, she made her way toward Max who looked at her.
"You have to stop you can't fight him" Kalawarner was worried, she didn't know how to stop him, but Max tilted his head to the side as if not understanding "even if he attacked you, you said it yourself, he is a pure blooded devil and for now Rias' fiancee. You can't just fight him" they stared at one another, until fire descended on them, Max didn't even look at incoming attack on his back, he held Kalawarner princess style and jumped back. He kept protecting but wouldn't listen to her. The rest of the devils arrived and saw the scene. After landing Max let Kalawarner going down, then shouts came from behind, Kalawarner looked back and the four twins of Riser's peerage dashing toward Max, but he didn't even spared a glance. Instead his eyesight was set on Riser, the pawns were about to attack when he kicked the four of them away at the same time. They were sent plummeting and everybody's eyes widened, Riser's peerage was ready to attack as Riser focused his fire around him, Issei summoned his Sacred Gear, Yuuto his swords and Asia fell into a combat stance.
"That is quite enough" came a voice of pure steel, laced with demonic power. Grayfia's eyes were sharpened and looking at the devils in front of her, no one dared to make a sound as her steps were amplified. She approached the problem, Riser and Max, the former looking at her in fear and the latter still focused "Stop this pointless fight now, if you don't I will be forced to make you" as she spoke her aura got stronger, emphasizing her words. Riser got the message and landed, cutting off his powers, however Max kept looking at the Phenex, Which didn't sit well with Grayfia "Didn't you-" she was cut off by a really disturbing voice.
"Why should I ?" Max's voice was warped "he is so full of himself, while he is nothing special" the energy started receding but very slowly "he is weak, he speaks like someone who has the impression of being at the top of the food chain, while he is actually at the bottom" and since the first since the fight, Max looked at Grayfia instead of Riser, but she regretted it. His eyes made her feel weak, as something humongous was looking at her and she was about to get crushed but Grayfia didn't flinch "I am just disposing of the trash" a laugh was heard, but it was icy sending chills to everyone. Esdeath was walking over them, a sinister look on her face.
"You were the one person I didn't except to say those words" she stopped next to Kalawarner who was lost as to what to do, she looked at Grayfia, both woman radiating killing intent "Why would you stop him ? If he is getting rid of the trash, shouldn't you let him ?" Grayfia wasn't someone easily impressed but today she saw two humans who could stand up to her and defy her. The boy had simply ignored, even though he knew her, while this woman was directly speaking to her.
"Riser-sama is a full blooded devil, and the number of full blooded is decreasing, so I will do what I can to protect him" Esdeath chuckled in a sinister way and a malevolent smirk adorned her features.
"If full blooded devils are decreasing then it just means they are bound to disappear" she looked at Riser making him flinch "if pure blooded are just for show like him then I don't see the problem in killing him" Riser greeted his teeth was about to show this woman he wasn't just for show but Max looked at him.
"Try it you wouldn't last long against her, she's going to wipe the floor with you" he looked at Esdeath "Let's stop, we won't get anything out of this" his voice was back to normal "I am sorry for the mess I made" he bowed in apology, Riser smirked in victory "however next time I see your face, I won't only take your flames but I'll make sure your face stays permanently damage as well" his eyes glowed red when he said it, Riser scorned at Max. "Anyway, don't tell me you came over here just because you felt someone strong ?" he rose an eyebrow and the atmosphere lightened up.
"Of course I did, I knew you were here but I had to know who was the strong presence" Esdeath said while looking at Grayfia, said woman eyed Esdeath. Not a second later Max sat on the ground, grabbing his knees and a dark cloud over his head.
"You would rather find strong opponents than making sure I'm fine" he was sulking, Kalawarner wasn't that surprised since she more or less knew Max and Esdeath had a weird relation but the others were wondering what happened between now and then. Rias cleared her throat.
"About this rating game" all heads turned toward the red head "I accept it" Max perked up hearing Rias accepted, the latter looked at him and nodded, Max understood the message.
After that, the Rating Game was to be held in 10 days. Riser left glaring at Max, Esdeath left as early as Grayfia. Back to the clubroom, Rias announced they were going to train in a cottage she prepared in the mountains.
"Will you join us ?" Rias asked both Max and Kalawarner, nobody seemed surprised by the fact the fact Rias asked them.
"Sure, but do I get to take part in the lessons ?"
"Yes you do" she stand up "then we leave first thing in the morning tomorrow !" she ordered
"Yes Buchou !" the devils shouted. After they left Max went to Rias
"Would it be possible for Kalawarner to be the advisor for this club, it will make things easier" he asked her, she thought about for a moment
"There should be no problems" she wrote something on a paper "well then, I'll see you tomorrow" she was about to leave as well
"Even if it just a bit, I know how you feel about the arranged marriage. I was forced in one too" he said in a compassionate tone, Rias' eyes widened at the information as did Kalawarner's.
"You... were engaged ?" she was surprised, to imagine he would be too.
"But the thing is it sat even less with me, so I was ready to level a whole town. They tried to convince me into it, but I valued my freedom too much for that. So that day I did level a whole town, and it convinced them to drop it" Rias was envious, it wasn't possible for her "So that's why I'll help you so that you'll defeat the flaming chicken" he paused smiling but his smile turned sweetly dangerous "so I hope e you are all going to train hard, right ?" it wasn't a question. Rias nodded, Kalawarner was still thinking about the arranged marriage, and the girl was engaged to.
Back to their place
Kalawarner P.O.V
He was strangely quiet after what happened today, but I didn't know whether it was him going in a frenzy or talking about the arranged marriage that made him act like that. So I tried to ask him directly. We were sitting on the couch, I was looking at him, he was looking at the ceiling.
"So what's bothering you ? It is about you going in a frenzy ?" I hoped it was that, because I didn't like one bit the arranged marriage part.
"Yes and no, the frenzy was unusual. Normally it wouldn't manifest so much as to actually change my body, so I think being in the inner territories and going in the Familiar Forest is starting to affect me" he sighed and looked at his hand "as for the no part, today reminded me some bad stuff I wanted to forget" he didn't go any further than that, it was something sensitive. He needed time, and I understood it hasn't been very long since we met so I could give him. 'Since I didn't tell him everything either' I thought.
"It's okay" I kissed him "take your time" he relaxed and lay down on me.
"Thanks, Selene probably told you already but I'm not at 100 % yet so, I can still breakdown easily" he paused "But I'll get better" he looked up "that is if you give me a little help" he made a cheeky smile.
"Didn't I already told you were too cheeky for your own good" I asked amused, but he smiled nonetheless, I kissed him longer than before.
"Yeah you did" he chuckled "I don't know about you but I'm tired and tomorrow we are up early so the pillow is calling me" he said in thoughtful manner "but then again this one is even better" he snuggled, I pinched his cheek in mild amusement
"Cheeky brat" however this time he didn't give up and started tickling me "S-stop no-t a-again"
"Yes again, what are you gonna do ?" he asked cheekily, I grabbed his face and pulled him in kiss. When we parted he chuckled "You win"
"Of course I do" that was more or less how the day ended, following this we went to sleep, waiting for the next day to come.
Entry file n°1075
The Deicide Organ
Ever since I came across the Outer Rim beings' ability to negate Magic-related matter I was entranced by it. It was what thousands, no millions of creatures looked for all their lifes. After befriending one of the local population, they allowed me to perform an autopsy on one of the corpse. Upon doing it, I discovered that they were roughly speaking the same as humans, they had bones, organs and so on. What surprised me however was the presence of another organ, located in their chest. So far with my magic I had only been able to get bits of information while scanning his body, but this organ didn't exist when I scanned it with my magic. Avoiding precautions, I tried to touch it with my bare hands, next thing I knew there was a third degree burn on my fingers where I touched it. Making sure I wasn't seen, I kept it and bid goodbye to the village's people. I came back to the Underworld and did all the tests I could possibly imagine, and the result was the following: it possessed the ability to negate the existence of Magic, no what differs from the natural logic of things. The ability from the Outer Rim to negate magic was coming from this. I nicknamed it the Deicide Organ, because I suspected that it was so powerful it could slay Gods, much like the Longinus could. And to imagine an entire world could very much be in possession of it gave me shivers. For now I will keep it to myself, but I hope that they never have to raise their swords at us; because if they did we would most likely be destroyed.
