Disclaimer: See Chapter 1.

A/N: Here's my next update. Not much to say, aside from I've decided to do a friend of mine a favor and double update this time. So, if you readers want someone to thank for this, thank King Under the Mountain. He's managed to convince to me to pull out of my jealously hoarded reserve of chapters to post an extra this month.

Anyway, I hope you guys like this chapter.

Read/review/enjoy!

The Bloodstained Omamori

Chapter Thirty Four

The Swing of Things

"Um, thank you for hosting me, Daisuke-nii-sama." The twelve year old girl said to me while bowing her head. "I'll try not to fail you." She basically looked like a younger version of her mother, basically clad in similar clothing. She shuffled back and forth at my side as we stood in front of my home.

I smiled down at her and placed my hand on her head. "No need to be so timid, Kunou-chan. I just want to be your friend. We all do." I crouched down in front of her and placed a hand on her arm, smiling kindly. "Don't hold yourself back, okay. We're all here for each other. If there's anything you want to do, simply ask us and we can set it up."

She smiled shyly and nodded her head, cheeks dusting a faint pink.

I grinned widely at her and stood, going to open the door when Fate crouched down next to Kunou. "We're all friends here, Kunou, so take as long as you need to get comfortable. If you ever feel overwhelmed, there are plenty of us who know what it's like to go somewhere new." She gave the girl a kind smile.

"Thank you…" Kunou whispered shyly and I smiled as I pushed the door open, just in time to see Rin chasing after Kuroka with a heavily pissed expression on her face. She snarled angrily at the Nekoshou while Kuroka simply laughed playfully, a mischievous grin on her face. The two of them circled the couch before they raced down the steps to the basement training room. I blinked in surprise a few times before my shoulders fell in resignation. Kunou cocked her head to the side in confusion. "Daisuke-nii-sama, does that…happen often?"

"More than I'd like to admit…" My heavily resigned and tired voice caused Ena to smile lightly.

"Having trouble controlling your vassals, Heir-sama?" She giggled into her hand, getting me to give her a dry look.

"Ano…" Ravel caught my attention. "That was…Kuroka-sama, yes?"

I nodded to that, an eyebrow arching amusement at the suffix added to Kuroka's name. "Yep. The other was Rin Tohsaka. They are your fellow Bishop and Pawn, Ravel, Kunou." That got the two of them to look to me in surprise, but I sighed heavily and walked inside. "Before we do anything, I need to make sure they don't kill each other. We're meeting the rest of Sona's group tomorrow after school for a more official greeting between Peerages." We walked inside and Fate shut the door behind us. "Ravel, Seishuuin-san, Kunou-chan, stay with me. Fate, could you get the others and tell them to meet me in the living room? I want to make introductions."

She nodded and said, "Try not to let them cause too much damage now." Fate said teasingly as she headed to the stairs.

"I would say that's stopping a tsunami, but with my powers, I probably could…" I muttered under my breath and rolled my shoulders to get the blood flowing. "Well, ladies, shall we?" I said to the girls behind me, getting two polite nods from Kunou and Ravel, while Ena simply gave me a teasing grin. "I'll give you a tour after meeting with everyone. It'll be a group effort so we'll all get to know each other." I lead them to the door downstairs. "The first level of the below ground floors is one I use the most: it's a training area, enchanted to take quite a bit of punishment, so don't hesitate to really cut loose if you're down here."

"Can it withstand Divine power?" Ena asked me as we headed down the steps.

"It wasn't affected when I called on as much as I could. Not sure about a continuous assault, though." We reached the main area just in time to here explosions, playful laughter and enraged growling. When we were able to see what they were doing, I couldn't help but give a deadpan gaze at the two of them. Kuroka was basically dancing circles around Rin while riling her up with lewd comments and harmless prodding. My first Pawn, on the other hand, was like a firecracker, what with the occasional gem exploding as threw it and the orbs firing from her finger.

Of course, in the midst, one of Rin's explosive gems missed Kuroka by the barest of margins and was sent flying towards us. Kunou squeaked in surprise, as she clearly understand what they were; Ravel was about to throw a fireball to intercept it. Ena didn't do a thing, simply watching it with a deceptively sharp gaze.

I rolled my eyes at it and lazily created a defensive seal with a half-hearted twist of my wrist. The gem slammed into my created shield and detonated. The air in front of it shook violently, as did the ground at our feet, but seal held firmly, not moving at all. Ravel and Kunou's eyes widened at the casual use power and I sucked in some air. "Enough!" The bass I unconsciously put in my voice caused even the girls behind me to stand up straight, just as Rin and Kuroka stopped mid-movement. Everyone's instant reaction brought a small smirk out of me, but I quickly dispelled it as I regarded the two of them with a faint glare. "What are the two of the doing?" The incredulity in my tone really sold it, in my opinion. Kuroka opened her mouth to reply, but my raised hand cut her off. "Please keep in mind that we have three newcomers, so keep any off-color comments to a severe limit until they're comfortable." Kuroka pouted at me, though I caught the mischievousness in her gaze.

Rin, on the other hand, cut in and started instantly. "This damn cat was making insinuations that I had to dissuade her of instantly!" She glared at said 'cat', getting nothing but a playful, Cheshire grin.

"What 'insinuation' would cause you to go off the handle like this?" I asked her, a hint of disbelief in my tone.

She opened her mouth to reply, but froze, her cheeks darkening considerably before her mouth clicked shut and she glared darkly at the amused Kuroka. "I will not be repeating it." She said it like it was an imperial decree.

"Oh, I can repeat it if you won't, nya." Kuroka said teasingly as she regarded Rin impishly.

Murder flashed in her eyes as she bared her teeth. "Don't you dare!"

"You know… this is honestly making me curious…" I deadpanned as I watched the two in amusement.

"Daisuke-chin, I can tell you, nya~!" Kuroka lifted a hand and waved it towards me, an eager grin on her face.

Gems fell into Rin's open hand as she refocused all of her rage onto Kuroka. She didn't bother saying a thing, simply rearing back her hand to throw.

"What did I say earlier?" My voice took on a deeper tone, one akin to a superior officer talking to an upstart subordinate. Rin hesitated at my words, turning her attention to me; even Kuroka stood up a little straighter, her gaze focusing intently on me. We locked eyes for a moment and stayed like that for a few moments. Simmering in a silent fury, she lowered her hand and half-relaxed her stance. Nodding to her, I looked to both of them. "I don't care if the two don't agree with one another, or even like each other, but you're both in my Peerage. You're comrades, fellows who will stand next to each other on the field of battle, whose lives will be in each other's hands." I paused and gave the two of them a measuring look. "I won't ask either of you to change for the other, because that's not fair to either of you. All I ask is that you be willing to put your differences aside and accept each other." I paused and crossed my arms. "If that's impossible at the moment, then trust me. Is that fair?"

Kuroka simply shrugged at me, though I could see a glint of lust spike in her gaze. She clearly liked it when I took on a more active leading role.

Rin, on the other hand, studied me closely, her own stance becoming more subdued. She focused on me after I spoke, clearly thinking on what I said. After a few moments, her cheeks dusted pink and she crossed her arms and murmured her assent.

I nodded to them and motioned them forward. "Good. Now that this issue is resolved. Come over here and introduce yourselves to your new kouhai. They've been waiting to meet you, especially after this hilarious meeting I broke up." I smirked at the two of them, severely enjoying Rin exasperated expression as she glared at me. The two of them walked over to us and I turned to motion to the three who stood behind me. "Rin Tohsaka, Kuroka, allow me to introduce you to Ravel Phenex, Ena Seishuuin and Kunou. They're the latest additions to our group. Ravel, Seishuuin-san, Kunou-chan, this is Rin and Kuroka."

Ravel curtsied to the two of them. "It's nice to meet you both."

Rin smirked and looked to me. "She shows me respect, why don't you?"

I gave her a deadpan look, crossing my arms.

Kuroka gave the girl an amused look, stepping forward and ruffling her hair with a mischievous grin. "Look at you, nya. Acting like a grown up when you're still a kid, nya." Her tails began to wave a little more noticeably.

Ravel scowled, or rather pouted, at Kuroka, but held back from saying something.

"Stop teasing her, Kuroka." I said to my first Bishop. "Else I won't step in when Ravel-chan tries to set you on fire. Think of it as evasion practice for you and target practice for her."

Kuroka pouted at me, letting her hand fall from Ravel's head. "Mou, so mean to little old me, nya…"

My second Bishop gave me a grateful smile as she began to fix up her hair.

Ena stepped forward and grinned widely. "Hello! Ena is Ena."

Kuroka and Rin looked to Ena, blinked in unison, before turning to look at me with completely differing expressions. Kuroka's was one of amusement while Rin's was deadpan.

Ena cocked her head to the side, confusion on her face. "What are you all talking about?"

"Nothing." I waved her off for now. I'd rather wait a few days, at least, before letting them fall into my Peerage's insanity.

"A-Ano…" Kunou's soft voice caught all of our attention. She bowed at the waist to them. "Nice to meet the both of you. I am called Kunou." She stood up and waited for a response, shyly twitching as she waited for a response.

Rin walked up to the girl and returned the bow, smiling kindly. "Nice to meet you, Kunou-san. I look forward to working with you." That got a small, hopeful smile from the young Kyuubi.

Kuroka, on the other hand, was staring intently at Kunou, her tail frozen mid-movement. The girl met her gaze and jerked lightly, looking unsure. All of a sudden, my first Bishop turned to me with her hazel eyes wide and demanding. "When you give me babies, they all have to be as cute as Kunou-chin, nya. Are we in agreement, nya?" Her last statement came out more as a demand than the question is clearly meant to be formed as.

I blinked at that, not bothering to hide the amusement in my gaze I took in the blushed embarrassed expressions that both Kunou and Ravel had to Kuroka's blunt statement. "I don't think I can control that, but I'll give it my best shot."

Kuroka poked me on the chest, her eyes maintaining the intensity for a little while longer. After a few moments, she smirked playfully and turned with a flourish, her tails brushing against my chest. "Let us go upstairs, nya. It'll take a while for introductions to be finished, nya."

Rin blinked in genuine shock at the Nekoshou, her mouth falling open. "That…that's the first intelligent thing I've ever heard you say…" The glint of amused mischievousness in her eyes threw off the reaction, getting Kuroka to pout at her.

The rest of the day passed rather quickly with the hectic actions of getting everyone introduced to one another. We did introductions as we ate dinner, as they were all in the kitchen, preparing food as I was getting Rin and Kuroka.

Much to my amusement and pleasure, everyone accepted Kunou instantly when I introduced her, no doubt due to her shy attitude and the adorable way she shuffled back and forth under their stares. Rin was absolutely gleeful when she discovered that Kunou was her fellow Pawn, and my last, since she took up my other four Pawn Pieces. Though she still stuck by me, since Yasaka had basically left her in my care above all else and asked her to trust me. A fact that surprised me to no end, but I simply accepted it.

One thing I found absolutely hilarious was the fact that Koneko and Ravel also hit it off…in the way that they seemed to share a mutual dislike that led to the two trading barbs. I deciphered that part of it came from the former engagement between Rias and Raiser, thus Koneko didn't appreciate another Phenex dropping in on her life, especially if this one had an interest in me similar to hers. Hell, the moment Koneko saw Ravel and her proximity to my side, I could see her proverbial hackles as her tail froze and her eyes narrowed. It also didn't help when I said that Ravel became my second Bishop.

There was one thing I found that shook me a bit. Ena and Akeno seemingly hit it off for some odd reason, as did she, Xenovia and Himari. The latter especially when I said Ena became my other Knight. The three began to talk about different sword styles and in the midst of this talk, I found out that Ena was skilled with several different types of weapons. Hmm, something to test out later…

At the moment, since it was getting later and Kunou looked like she was running on fumes from all of the excitement today. Absently taking the hand that she held out for me take with a faint smile, I looked over my shoulder to everyone else. "It's getting late, so I'm going to show Kunou-chan to her room." I looked to Ravel and Ena, "Are the two of you good? I can show you to your rooms now or someone else…?"

Ena clenched a fist and grinned. "I'm good right now, Heir-sama! Xenovia-san has agreed to a spar with me and I'm eager to start!"

Xenovia nodded resolutely, her gaze sharp with the promise of an impending challenge. "It has been a while since I sparred with someone new. I want to take complete advantage of the situation."

I chuckled lightly and looked to Himari, who deadpanned at the two of them for their exuberance. "Himari, don't let them cause too much destruction."

My first Nekoshou gave me a dry look. "Of course, Daisuke-sama. I'll try to overlook the irony of that coming from you."

"Ha. Ha." I said to her dryly. Then I turned my attention back to Xenovia, "After your spar, I want to talk to you. Can you meet me in my room?"

My kouhai gave me a look, but nodded regardless. "Sure. What about?"

"It's a surprise." I said with a faint smile, getting a nod from her. From the side, I caught a knowing look from Kuroka.

Ravel stood and gave me a kind smile. "I wouldn't mind it. It's been a busy day for me as well."

I nodded to that, "Okay. Follow us then. I need to show Kunou-chan her room."

The Phenex beamed and walked after me. Koneko, on the other hand, frowned severely at the girl's close proximity and hopped off the couch. "I'll go. To keep an eye on the Yakitori Princess." She narrowed her eyes at Ravel.

Ravel's face turned a shade of red in anger. "You stupid Cat! Stop calling me Yakitori!"

"Hey. Hey. Be nice." I gave the two of them a pointed look. "You'll both be in the same grade at Kuoh, so you'll be around one another quite a bit." I smiled slyly at them. "Besides, I don't like it when adorable girls like you two argue."

At that, the two of them simultaneously flushed at my praise. However, upon noticing their similar circumstances, they glare heated at one another. Before they could resume their verbal attacks, Kuroka was suddenly between the two of them, her arms wrapped around their shoulders. "Now, now, Shirone, Ravel-ojou-chan, nya. Daisuke-chin said no arguing, nya. I can show you both to your rooms, nya."

Ravel pouted lightly at that, probably wanting me to show her to her room.

Koneko didn't look as put off as I would've expected. If anything, she seemed to be a little happy as Kuroka held her.

"What do you say we walk together? Kunou-chan's room is on the way anyway." At Ravel's accepting nod, I lifted a hand and waved a good night to everyone else, getting the same responses from everyone in turn as we headed upstairs. As we neared the end of the hall opposite from my own bedroom, I spoke, "I'll do a more in-depth tour of the place after school tomorrow. Also, I received information that the two of you were going to Kuoh, right?"

Kunou and Ravel nodded. The former spoke up first. "Okaa-sama sent the paperwork to Sona-nee-sama and my bags were sent here before we arrived." She explained to me as we neared her room first. "Is it true that your school has a middle school branch to?" She looked up to me, curiosity evident in her gaze.

I nodded to her. "Yeah. I normally have to review paperwork involving that branch, separating the urgent from the…well, not so urgent." I finished with a wry smile, getting a small giggle from the girl. "What of you, Ravel?"

"Yes, Daisuke-sama. Okaa-sama worked it out with Sona-sama. I'm going in as a first year." Ravel answered me dutifully.

Kuroka beamed widely as she hummed lightly. "A first year, nya? That's the year my Shirone is in, nya." She sidled up to her sister. "Neh, neh, Shirone, will you look after my new kouhai, nya? I can't have my fellow Bishop being so lost, nya."

Koneko frowned at her, "Why do I have to help out the Yakitori?"

"Oooh! Stop calling me that!" Ravel retorted heatedly, glaring at Koneko.

"No."

"Muu! I'll get you, yet!"

"Koneko-chan." I caught the girl's attention and gave her a playful look. She blushed at the look and met my gaze. "Will you help Ravel? For me?" Is it nice of me to take advantage of her feelings for me? If it's help someone else who may end up as her friend, then it's probably okay. Probably…

Her cheeks turned a darker red than before. "Since Senpai asked, I'll try my best…"

Kuroka squealed playfully and swept the smaller Nekoshou up into a swinging hug. "Ah, nya! Shirone, you are so cute, nya!"

Ravel grinned victoriously at Koneko's shocked expression.

Kunou giggled at their antics when we stopped at her door. I reached forward and opened the door, revealing her bags sitting off to the side with the bed already made for her. "This is your room, Kunou. You can put your clothes up some other time, so you can get right to bed." She nodded at me and I point to a door on the opposite side of the hallway and two doors down. "There's the bathroom." Kunou looked to where I pointed and seemingly committed it to memory. "My room, if you ever need me for anything, is right down there." I then pointed down to the side of the hallway. "The last door. Anything else you want to know before I let you go?"

Kunou paused and looked down shyly, then shook her head.

"Alright. I'll leave you to your devices then. Get comfortable, alright. This is your room now, you can do whatever you want with it. We're all in this together, so you can rely on any one of us." With that, Kunou nodded and entered her room, shutting the door behind her. I turned and motioned for Ravel to follow me. She did and walked passed one more door and opened. "This is your room, Ravel. Same spiel as Kunou. There's the bathroom, my room is down there and you can do whatever you want with the room. Now, if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. You're a part of the family now."

Ravel nodded resolutely, "I'll try not to let you down, Daisuke-sama!"

I gave her a kind smile and placed a hand on her shoulder, getting her to blush at the contact. "Just do your best, that's all I'll ever ask of you. We're all comrades and share each other's burdens. If anything becomes too difficult, we'll always come to lighten the load. Got it?"

Ravel nodded, her face a pleased flush.

"Now get to bed, Yakitori Princess." Koneko retorted to the girl in her deadpan.

Ravel turned her attention on the girl, a heated glare in place. "Stop it!"

Koneko turned her head to the side, crossing her arms.

Ravel gnashed her teeth and stomped into her room and slammed the door. I arched an eyebrow at the door, then at Koneko, who flushed and bowed her head under my gaze.

Then a small smile appeared on my face as I placed a hand on Koneko's head. "I can tell that the two of you will be the best of friends." My voice came out in wry amusement.

The Rook gave me a disbelieving look, before shaking her head. "Not going to happen."

"I don't know, Shirone, nya… There's two outcomes for people who acted like you and Ravel-chan, nya. Either best friends or lovers, nya…" Kuroka gave Koneko a wry look, her hazel eyes glistening with mischievousness. "I wonder which one you and her end up as, nya."

Koneko's entire face flushed heavily as she threw Kuroka a dirty look.

Deciding to play along, I rubbed my chin with a hum. "That sounds about right, Kuroka. I've seen that quite a few times in my travels as an Exorcist…" Koneko threw me a betrayed look, but flushed an even darker red as I looked her right in the eye. After a few moments, I gave her a light grin and placed my hand on her head, scratching her in that spot she seemed to like. "I still like you, Koneko, so you don't need to get jealous, alright?"

She nodded at me, her cheeks a healthy red color.

Kuroka smiled enigmatically at me, then looked to Koneko. "Neh, Shirone, can Onee-chan spend the night with you, nya? I want to remember the good old days when it was just us, nya."

Koneko looked to her sister for a moment, as if considering her words, then nodded. "Okay, Onee-sama." Then she looked to me. "What about Senpai, though?"

Kuroka threw me a sly smile. "Daisuke-chin will always have a girl in his bed at some point. I'm sure something will happen, nya?" Koneko's expression looked stormy at that as she glared at the ground.

"I'm…not sure how to respond to that…" I said honestly, giving Kuroka a slightly frustrated look.

"You're not supposed to, nya!" She retorted playfully, latching onto her sister. "Let's go, Shirone, nya! We can have a bath together, nya! Sisterly skinship, nya!"

Koneko allowed herself to be dragged away, a ghost of a smile on her lips.

I smiled as I watched the two of them walk away. Koneko's deserved this, after everything that's happened to her.

"Senpai. You wanted to talk with me?" Xenovia said as she walked into my room, still clad in her practice clothes from the spar with Ena. There was a sheen of swear coating her forehead, but her breathing was still even.

I looked up from the papers I had on my desk. There was still some summer homework I had to do so I was finishing the last of it. "Hey, Xenovia. Yeah, just take a seat on the bed. I just need to complete this last sheet."

Instead of doing as I asked, Xenovia walked over to me and peered over my shoulder. "You still haven't your break homework, Senpai?" Her gaze took on a mischievous glint. "Has your reincarnation affected your ability to prioritize? For shame, Senpai." Xenovia gave me this pitiful expression, though I could tell she was joking with me.

"Yes. I'm shirking my responsibilities." I replied in a complete deadpan. "I've decided to abandon all of my duties in order to gather all of the women who are devoted to me and have my way with them, one at a time, and occasionally two at a time." I spoke without changing my tone or looking away from my worksheet. "It shall be glorious, for we shall not see the light of day for weeks as we indulge ourselves in mutual carnal enjoyment."

Xenovia didn't respond as I added the finishing touches to my homework. With one last mark, I put my pencil down and turned around to see her looking to me with a faint blush. "That…was oddly specific, Senpai…"

I paused, blinked in recognition and released a breath. "I'm projecting…"

Her lips curved into a small smile. "That you are Senpai." She paused and grimaced as she lifted her arm. "I need to take a bath. Since I'm here, can I use yours?"

"Sure. Mind if I join you?"

Her smile returned as she nodded a hint eagerly. "Of course, Senpai."

I stood and followed after her, casting some silencing spells onto the room as a whole, as she walked towards the attached bathroom of my room. Stepping into the changing room, I slid a clothes basket over to her. "Just put your clothes in here. I'll give you some of clothes to wear afterwards." She nodded and abruptly pulled off her shirt and shorts, revealing her blue sports bra and white panties.

"Senpai, get my bra?" Xenovia asked, looking her shoulder at me. I reached forward and looked at the strap for a second before undoing it with some effort. When it came loose, she thanked me and took it off, dropping it into the basket followed by her panties. I watched her enter the bath first then began to strip as I heard her turn the water on.

It wasn't much later that we were sitting on stools as Xenovia was washing her arms as I did her back. "How did the spar with Ena go?"

"Incredible. Ena-san was exceptionally skilled with the sword. Honestly, it was like sparring with you, Senpai." Xenovia said seriously, her movements not at all affected by her words. "She was everywhere on the battlefield, boxing me in with her movements." She paused and looked over her shoulder at me. "Did you know she has a replica of your Murakumo?"

I froze, my gaze honing in on her carefully. Then my gaze flickered downwards as I recalled what she had said about being Susanoo's Shrine Maidens. It made sense that he'd give her a replica of my sword if she was able to channel his power, especially if she was here to help me channel his power. "Huh. It seems like I'll have to spar her too. Especially if you give her such praise." I smirked as she blushed at my indirect praise.

Xenovia ducked her head. "It's not that big of a deal, Senpai. Himari gave her a better fight since she didn't charge headlong into the battle like I did…"

"Don't downplay your skills. You did best me in a sword-only duel after all." I gave her a proud smile. "That alone proves how good of a swordswoman you are." I causally boasted with a playful grin.

She gave me a sidelong look, her gaze flickering downwards as a small dusting of pink appeared on her cheeks. "Thanks, Senpai…"

I grabbed her on the shoulder and gently squeezed it reassuringly. "You know I'll always support you. So never hesitate to lean on me."

Senpai looked to me with a wide eyed look and slowly turned around to face me. Her gaze stayed locked onto mine as she carefully grabbed it in one of hers, slowly leaning towards me. Dark yellow eyes trailed along my face, meeting my own eyes and sliding to my lips. It didn't take long for her face to be only a few centimeters from mine. I felt her breath hit my lips, slowly quickening the longer we remained close.

Reader Discretion is Advised

Leaning forward, I captured her lips with my own and cupped her cheek with my free hand. It started off slow, our lips gradually meshing together, breaking apart every few seconds to breath. Then we began to pick up the pace and she moved her body closer to mine, sitting on one of my legs and moving closer to me. She moaned into the kiss as her lips slid along my leg. Releasing my hand, she wrapped her arms around my neck and pressed her body flush against mine. My hand slid from her cheek as I wrapped my arms around her waist.

My erection pressed against her flat, toned stomach as her gasping breaths aggravated me. Her breasts squashed against my chest as she squirmed on my leg, tongue entwining with mine and pressing against one another. Our kiss broke apart and I began to kiss and gently bite her neck, sucking ever so carefully. Her rapid, light breaths were like music to my ears as she bucked against me, hands entwining in my hair and massaging my scalp. This continued for a few moments before I pulled away from her neck and pulled her into another kiss.

Sliding a hand from her waist, I carefully cupped her breast and began to rub and tweak it. Moaning into the kiss, one of the Xenovia's hands slid from my head and went to my hand, guiding it as she buck against me. As her lower lips slid across my leg suddenly, she whined into the kiss and began to kiss me more fervently, to which I replied with just as much passion. I slid my other hand along her leg and squeezed firmly, pushing it up to her waist, then up to her back. Rubbing her back lovely, I gently dug my fingers into her back, which led to her moaning into the kiss even more.

Xenovia gently pulled away from me, our lips connected by a thin line of saliva. She licked her lips and hummed appreciatively. "Hmm. Senpai that felt really good…" Her hips shivered ever so lightly from where she straddled my leg.

I let out a small chuckle. "It has been long coming. But, I'd like to tell you that it's only beginning."

In the midst of her serious expression, Xenovia's flushed face looked furrowed in thought. Her cheeks darkened just a bit more before she nodded resolutely. "There's something I want to try… May I?" It seems my kouhai is the awkward type of lover… Well, it is her first time.

Giving her a playful smile, I shrugged at her. "This is your time, Xenovia. We can do whatever you want."

That piece of news caused a small, pleased smile to appear on her face. She quickly stood up from my leg and crouched in front of me, her dark yellow gaze focusing on my erection. "So this is what Senpai has been hiding… Akeno-senpai was right. It's larger than you expect."

I gave her an exasperated look. "Do you and Akeno set aside time to talk about me and sex?"

Xenovia gave me a wide eyed look. "How did you know?" Then they narrowed in realization. "Hm. Akeno-senpai must've told you…" I palmed my face and shook my head at her. "Though Koneko-chan has been sitting in every so often as well. With Akeno-senpai's narrations and advice, we've considering different ways to attack the situation." She gave a resolute fist bump.

"'Attack the situation'…" I deadpanned at her, before releasing a faint sigh.

She nodded and turned her attention back to my erection. "Now…what was that thing Akeno-senpai said to do…?" Then a look of realization came across her face as she careful wrapped a hand around me. I shivered at the contact, a small shuddering breath escaping me as she held my member. I slid up and down slowly, as if gauging what she should ultimately do. Then with a nod, Xenovia leaned forward and slid her moist tongue along the length of the shaft. A soft breath escaped me as I let my head fall back and closed my eyes.

Her tongue slid all around me, from the length of the shaft, to the head, to taking as much as she could in her mouth. As did so, she continued to slide her hand up and down cautiously. There were so many sensations, so many things she did at once that I couldn't help but lose myself in the pleasure of her intense attention. I was at her mercy and, honestly, enjoying every second of it. She then began to use her second hand, kneading and licking in a mind-numbing tandem. It was meticulous and methodical, though there was the occasional hesitation as I felt her intense gaze looking to me.

Opening my eyes, I looked down just in time to meet her eyes. Xenovia resumed her ministrations, a healthy flush on her cheeks as she didn't break eye contact. It was honestly hypnotizing as I couldn't help but watch her work, her soft, moist tongue caressing the side of my throbbing member. Two hands worked in a careful, but continuous tandem as she slid them up and down. Then she leaned forward and took my length into her mouth, closing her eyes as she tried to take as much as she could in at once.

With a faint grunt, Xenovia moved her head up and down, dragging her soft, wet, lips along my erection. It took a few seconds of slow, careful movements of her head before she managed to find a comfortable rhythm. A throaty groan escaped me as she began to move at a noticeable pace, her tongue still licking and wrapping around me without a care in the world. She moved up and down, slowly at first, before speeding up at a steady pace. Her hands continued to work the shaft as she kept taking me into her mouth.

I grabbed a railing to the side and squeezed it as I rolled my head back, silently reveling in the pleasure. The nonstop contact she kept on me was driving me absolutely crazy; the way her hands and mouth in a careful, but still with the occasional slip-up, no doubt because of her excess saliva, but that only added to how incredible it felt. The slight cloying sensation of her tongue and saliva only served to push me closer and closer to my peak, my climax. Feeling it nearing, I grunted, "Xenovia. I'm-!"

It barely wasn't in time as I suddenly came, causing her to freeze and quickly pull back as I shot into her mouth. She grunted and nearly choked on the excess fluid, but caught herself and pulled back, though there was still some dripping down the side of her mouth. She furrowed her brow in that adorable look of concentration as I clearly swished it around in her mouth before swallowing it. Licking the rest of her chin and lips, she also brushed her thumb along her chin and stuck that in her mouth to get the rest.

"Hm. A little sour, but still isn't bad." Xenovia stated bluntly as she sat back, crossing her arms under her bare bust.

I gave her a dry look, unable to hide the small laugh that escaped me. "Why am I surprised?" I muttered under my breath as I shook my head with a small smile. Sliding off my stool, I crouched in front of Xenovia and looked her right in the eye. She met my gaze with a flushed expression, her eyes locking with mine. Then, with a wry smile, I captured her lips and wrapped my arms around her body, lifting her off the ground as I stood. She froze against me, but didn't fight it as she returned the kiss with just as much fervor as before.

As we kissed, I walked us over to the filled bath and carefully sat down in it. When I submerged us up to our abs, I began to slide my hands along her body, squeezing and grabbing as much as I could. She straddled me completely and did the same, pressing her body flush against mine as we devoured each other. My damp hands slid down her back and squeezed her on the hip, then moved up to her ass. Her own slid along my chest before moving to my arms, squeezing them with her fingers digging into it.

I caressed her toned, lithe form as closely as I could, reveling in how soft and firm she felt, all while she writhed and pressed against my body. It didn't take long for me to lean forward and place her beneath me on the other side of the bath. With some room between our bodies, I placed a hand on her bare stomach and rubbed it lovingly as I slid down to her waist and passed it. My finger reached a small nub and I rubbed it ever so gently. It caused Xenovia to freeze and gasp lightly, her hands grasping my arms for leverage. I smirked at her wide-eyed look, before she leaned forward and hungrily captured my lips.

Sliding my hand over that nub a few times, I smiled into the kiss as I listened to her begging whine. As I gently rubbed her lower lips, I ever so lightly fingered and pushed a lip to the side. Her faint whine pushed my lust into overdrive. Without warning, I pushed my finger in between the lips and inside of her, while accosting her clitoris with thumb. Xenovia suddenly broke the kiss as she released a sudden, surprised gasp and bucked against my hand. We locked eyes once more, her own filled with a mindless lust.

Kissing her once more, I began to move my finger inside of her. Rubbing and curving my finger at intervals, I reveled in her consistent gasps and whines as she squirmed beneath me. Sliding it back and forth, side to side, I searched for the spot that she would react the most to, all while we kissed deeply. I suddenly broke the kiss and began to neck her, lightly biting and sucking once more. The sounds of Xenovia's moans and faint whines were like music to my ears, but the moment I found her sweet spot, the sound of her sudden gasp brought a proud smile to my face.

With a careful enthusiasm, I began to gradually attack her sweet spot, moving my finger with methodical precision. Xenovia bucked and grabbed my hand, urging it to do more. Gentle whispers of 'more' reached my ear as she gritted her teeth and panted underneath my tender care. The whispers grew to a panting call as she used her free hand to pull me into another kiss, as if to project her very needs right into my thoughts with the action. It didn't take much longer for her walls to suddenly constrict around my finger as she let out a soft cry into the kiss.

Her body fell limp from the sudden surge of pleasure as I hovered over her. Panting breaths escaped her as she looked up to me, her eyes clouded over with excess pleasure. Smiling playfully at her, I asked, "Having fun?"

"Mmm…" Xenovia hummed as she looked up to me. "So…this is what Akeno-senpai and Tsubaki-senpai did…" She smiled faintly up to me. "I think I like practicing, Senpai."

I let out a small laugh. "Well, don't relax yet. We have yet to reach the main course." She looked confused for a moment, before realization flashed in her gaze, followed by a subtle lick of her lips. "Yeah. Just follow my lead." I paused and gave her a look. "Are you able to stand?"

Xenovia paused contemplatively, before nodding resolutely.

I got up and sat down on the lip of the bath tub, facing her as she too sat up, the water dripping her form. Her gaze honed in on my member, once again standing at attention. I smirked at her focused gaze and got up out of the tub. Giving her my hand, I helped her stand up and step out of the tub. "Turn around for me." She did as I asked, though she seemed to be a little confused. Wrapping my arm around her, I cupped a breast and placed my other hand on her chin, turning her head to the side in order to kiss her on the lips.

Our lips moved in a slow tandem as she leaned back against me, her hand reaching back to touch my cheek affectionately. Unlike before, this kiss was slow and measured, taking in the taste of her lips as though it were a fine wine. With one last press of her lips, I broke contact and looked to her. "Ready?" Her gaze locked with mine as she nodded once, cheeks colored a deep red. I gently pushed her to lean down and placed my hands on either side of her hips. Her hands fell onto the edge of the bath tub as she looked over her shoulder at me.

Lining myself up with her wet lower lips, I slid the head along the lips and got a shuddering breath from Xenovia. Then, I slowly pushed myself inside of her, spreading her inner walls. Her breath hiked as her back arched and she accepted me into her. I faint groan escaped me as she wrapped around my member tightly, to a painfully pleasurable degree. It had to be from her nonstop physical training, there was no other explanation as to why she was damn tight! I had to stop myself little over halfway into her in order to keep from climaxing immediately. Xenovia, too, was breathing deeply as she adjusted her hips and waist, lifting them as if to allow me easier entry.

"I-I can take it, Senpai." Xenovia said breathily, her gaze meeting mine. "I want this. I've wanted this ever since I fell for you." Her voice, though husky and low, was measured. "So…" She flushed even more as her eyes flickered downwards shyly. "…just take care of me okay?"

I felt my heart pound in my chest at her words and I sighed lightly, before nodding wordlessly and pushing the rest of my length inside of her. A muted gasp escaped her as I fully sheathed myself inside of her. Sliding out slowly, I pushed back into her and began the methodically pumping of my hips. Xenovia didn't move at first, simply allowing me to lead her, but that didn't last long, as she quickly found her own rhythm. She moved her hips in tandem with mine, already finding my tempo.

Leaning forward, I wrapped my arms around her body as I plunged into her. She grabbed my arm and continued to move her hips to accommodate us. The sounds of her gasps and moans were like music to my ears, pushing me closer and closer to my peak. My hand grasped one of her breasts, kneading not so gently as I slowly lost myself to my lust. She placed her hand over mine and moved her fingers over mine, as if guiding the movements for the best way to pleasure her.

Pulling my hips back, I slid myself almost entirely out of her, leaving only the head, before suddenly thrusting my length back into her. Xenovia jerked in surprise, but practically melted under me, her legs basically buckling under our weight. I saw her bite her lip and close her eyes as I continued to thrust with my entire length, again and again. With her legs basically jelly at this point, I bent my legs so that I was now on my knees while plunging myself into her.

Xenovia gasped audibly as her arms went taut, hands denting into the edge of the tub. Her hips rose and fell in time with my thrusts as her walls suddenly wrapped even tighter around me. Her orgasm nearly caused me to do the same, but I soldiered on, continuing to drive into her even as I felt her push me even closer to the edge. Much to my pleasant surprise, I saw my kouhai push herself off the edge of the tub and basically situate herself on my lap, all while continuing to bounce up and down on my lap.

Placing a hand on her hip, I put my free hand to the ground and used it as leverage to keep myself up and moving. Then I moved my legs around so that I was now sitting, rather than on my knees, while still pounding my hips against hers. Closer and closer, I felt my own climaxing nearing. I held Xenovia as we continued. She hopped up and down on me, her movements merciless and not stopping as hr rapid breathless, gasps escaped her.

"Xenovia! I-I…!"

"Inside me, Daisuke! In-!" She cried out loud though gritted teeth, even as she climaxed once again, her walls tightly wrapping around me. With a grunt of my own, I hungrily slid my entire length inside of her. My release came as I held her back against my chest, arms wrapped around her slender frame. She shuddered once more before falling limp against my chest, her head resting on my shoulder. Her chest rose and fell as she breathed in the midst of our after coitus relaxation.

"So… Was it worth the wait?" I asked her, somewhat breathlessly.

Xenovia hummed measuredly, cocking her head upwards on my shoulder to look at my face. "This is definitely something to remember." Her delightful deadpan was even more endearing in the midst of her exhaustion. Then she paused, realization dawning on her face. "You didn't wear a condom…"

"Oh…" It dawned on me as I sheepishly smiled. "Well, it was in the heat of the moment…"

Xenovia narrowed her eyes in contemplation. "I wonder how sex would feel if you wore the condom…" Then her gaze expectantly turned on me.

"Well, if you're curious, there's only one way to figure it out. But, let's dry off and go to the bed first. I'd rather not either of us catch a cold."

A few hours later, I was back in Kyoto, standing the midst of a busy intersection. It was late at night, only a few minutes past one and not long after Xenovia and I had finished. I was feeling a cross between satisfied and a little miffed. Satisfied because I had finally given Xenovia a part of what she wanted and knowing that she'd wish to 'practice' more in the future. And miffed because I had received a message from Amaterasu of all people stating, in the middle of night, mind you, that she wanted to meet me. At a street intersection, when all I wanted to do was to go to sleep with Xenovia in my arms.

Needless to say, I was very confused at which emotion I should show, so I just decided to go with the annoyed stoic look. It did wonders for people avoiding me as I stopped in the middle of the street. Looking around for the Sun Goddess, I wondered why she wanted to meet me this late, let alone why so soon after our previous meeting.

"So, you actually came, Susanoo's Heir. I feared that you had inherited his arrogance as well." A feminine voice, seemingly dripping scorn and distaste, caught my attention and I turned around to meet the source of the voice. In front of me stood a young woman around my age. She had long, light brown hair and bright, sky blue eyes burning with intense emotions. Covering her admittedly well-proportioned, and perky, figure was what looked like an elaborate and extravagant Shrine Maiden uniform, with a fancy headdress. Hanging at her side, from a white rope, was a seemingly ordinary, circular, mirror that sparkled in the moonlight.

That is no ordinary mirror. I thought as I felt the Yasakani no Magatama and Kusanagi pulsate lightly in its presence. Could it be…?

"Well, I did get a message that seemed to come from the Head Goddess of the Shinto Pantheon. The smart thing to do would be to show up." That caused her to look rather smug, regarding me with this annoying superiority that instantly reminded me of Perseus. That sent a surge of cold anger through my chest. "But, if you're here, whoever you are, then I guess it was a mistake." That wiped the smugness off her face.

The girl scowled at me, her eyes taking on a bright yellow glow. "It was no mistake, Susanoo's Heir." She spat out my title as though it were a disease. "It was a message sent under Amaterasu's will! After all, my will is Amaterasu's Will." She then pointed to me. "Just as your will is His Will."

I narrowed my eyes at her, sliding a foot back to ready my stance. "Who are you?" I asked her with warning tone.

She scoffed at me. "You have no right to demand anything of me."

"Look. I just want to get home and sleep. I haven't slept in my own bed after the longest week of my life. Say what you came to here to say and we can each go on our own way." I spoke diplomatically, not really wanting to fight in the midst of all these human civilians.

The girl scowled at me, her fingers seemingly curling in anticipation. "All this time I've wasted searching for you and you wish to just walk away?!" She snarled at me, flames dancing in the palm of her hand. "After you've taken what rightfully belongs to me, you think I'll let you just walk away?!" Suddenly, a crushing presence set onto the surrounding area, causing countless bystanders to fall onto the ground, gasping for air.

It didn't affect me, aside from setting me on edge. I regarded the people around us with a frantic gaze. "What are you doing?! You can't do this around these people! You'll hurt them!" I yelled at her, trying to get her to at least let up on her Presence so the people could away.

"Hiding behind the humans, Susanoo's Heir?" She let out a condescending laugh. "I shouldn't be as surprised as I am. You're probably too weak to even walk."

That caused a flash of anger to race through my body. My strength was my pride and having it stepped on was something I just couldn't let stand. However, the welfare of those around me came first, above all. "You want to fight? Fine. I'll fight you. Let the humans go, then I'll gladly indulge your desire for self-destruction." It was at that instance that I flared my own Power, focused directly on the girl. She frowned as I noticed the sweat form on her brow. We kept this up until she finally let up her intent. With a wave of my hand, I caused a seal to appear next to me. Seconds later, Melusine was standing at my side. "Melusine, get the humans out of the way and somewhere else. If necessary, wipe their memories too."

She frowned and studied me. "Are you sure you're capable of fighting another Heir after Perseus?" I simply turned my gaze to look her right in the eye. It didn't take long for my Familiar's eyes to widen and she smiled lightly. "I see. Then stay safe. I'd hate to join Sona-dono in scolding you." With that, she went to work.

I turned my attention to the other Heir. "You know my name, my title. Before we start this, you should tell me your name. That way I know what to say to Amaterasu-sama after I break her Heir."

The girl growled at me. "Impetuous, aren't you? Fine. I'll tell you who I am. My name is Sachi Hikari. Heir to Amaterasu-Oomikami. And the one who will crush you."

"Sachi Hikari? Got it." In an instant, a sheathed Kusanagi appeared in my left hand. "I'll fight you just as soon as the people are out of the way. Now, while that's being done, tell me why you feel the need to attack me." I didn't so much ask, but demand from her. Threatening innocent people just to fight me didn't sit well with me.

Sachi bared her teeth. "Just like your Patron. Arrogant and proud, just because you're a God. I don't need to tell you anything!" She sounded oddly like a tantrum-throwing child at the last sentence. "I'm just here to take what is rightfully mine." I noticed her gaze flicker to Kusanagi.

"What you think is 'rightfully yours' chose me before I even had an inkling of the Power that I held at my fingertips." I answered evenly, my thumb lightly touching the guard.

"Lies!" Sachi cried out, flames erupting around her. I was glad that the people around her were teleported away by Melusine. "There is no way a noble sword such as that would choose the Heir of that arrogant bastard!"

{I don't like her very much, Daisuke-sama…}

Yasha's more refined voice echoed in my mind. He had grown older and larger during my training with Arturas. I had went into the sword to see him and…was pleasantly surprised to see how he had changed.

I'm sure she'd feel the same…

"Accept it, Hikari-san." I said coldly, allowing the winds around my body to pick up. "Kusanagi and the Murakumo accepted me as their partner and Master. There's nothing you can do to change that."

Sachi snarled at me, baring her white teeth in anger. "Then die!" The Divine Power in her body skyrocketed for an instant before it focused into her two hands, brought together over her head. She threw her hands forward, sending the Divine Flame rocketing towards me. "Taste the Flames of the Sun, Susanoo's Heir!"

I sighed and lifted my right hand. "I have a name." I said loud enough to be heard as I watched the Flames rocketing towards me. Then, seconds before it reached me, I called out. "Use it." Then the Flames slammed into my outstretched, open hand. Power exploded outwards as debris and smoke descended onto my side of the battlefield.

"Daisuke-sama!" Melusine's worried voice called out to me.

"Don't worry." I said softly, my voice being carried on the wind itself. "It'll take more than that flimsy control to harm me."

"Flimsy!" Sachi roared in anger.

"Yes. Flimsy." I replied evenly and waved my hand to the side, willing the wind to push away the debris and smoke. Both Melusine and Sachi froze upon seeing me, unharmed by the Flames.

Melusine gasped, a small smile, proud, smile appearing on her face. "Your armor…you completed it."

Yeah. I completed the Tempest Plate. I was now clad in a set of armor similar in appearance to Issei's and Vali's Scale Mail; mine was a glistening dark brown. Four partially-curved prongs stuck out of my feet, topped with onyx claws; my hands were the same, though my fingers remained more humanoid, allowing me to wield Kusanagi, or the Murakumo with ease. Sticking out from behind my back were ten curved, wing-like protrusions, meant to hold and guard my wings. Attached to my hip was a sheathed Kusanagi, akin to a tail. My legs, from the foot to the knee, were protected by an additional layer of armor, a trio of spikes shooting up and outwards, a similar protection on my arms, from hand to elbow. My head was covered by a sleek black helm with a pair of spikes poking out the back and my face was protected by a smooth guard. A greyish-silver finish decorated the armor where the joints would've separated from each other. Onyx gems decorated the chest plate, the elbows, shoulders and knees.

With a roll of my shoulders, I unfurled my wings and allowed them to fall into place with their position in my armor. The fifth pair, the set that looked most like a pair of bat wings, was covered in black feathers, not unlike Akeno's, but this pair was clearly leaning more towards the Fallen Angel type of wing. As I stood there, completely unharmed by Sachi's Divine Flame, I could feel Yasha's presence in the armor, keeping it stable and strong.

"I'll ask you only once, Hikari-san." My voice came out double-layered, Yasha's own sounded below mine in tone and volume. "Are you sure that this is what you want to do? My patience with you is short and I've yet to test my full capabilities."

Sachi growled angrily at me. "You will not get away from me alive!"

I sighed heavily, shaking my head ruefully. "I have nothing against you, Hikari-san, but I've been holding back quite a bit of rage. If you fight me now, I honestly don't think I can hold back." I warned her gently as I slid an armored foot back, feeling the wind around me pick up suddenly.

"I'll filet you!" More flames erupted from her hands, these even hotter than the first.

I sighed mournfully, shaking my head at her. "If it's fight you want, it's a fight I'll give to you." My body fell into a crouch as I shot forward, the ground beneath my feet exploding outwards. Seconds later, my armored fist violently impacted a floating mirror in front of her face. The mirror held fast underneath my augmented strength. I narrowed my eyes at the mirror, feeling Kusanagi pulsate in response to it. "This…this mirror is the Yata no Kagami."

She answered me by throwing flames at me.

How rude.

I simply sighed heavily and slapped the flames aside with a contemptuous twist of my wrist. Then struck out with another punch. The mirror flew to where my fist was going to land and I noticed her eyes following it closely. Unfortunately for her, I just smirked under my helmet. Lightning flared along the fringes of my armor and my body blurred out of sight, suddenly appearing behind her. My armored fist drilled for the spot between her shoulder blades.

Sachi threw a look over her shoulder a few, scant seconds before my punch landed. A small smirk appeared on her face as the mirror suddenly blocked my blow, causing an explosive shockwave to erupt outwards. I staggered back from the rebound, ducking under a whip of blue flames. She continued her attack, gracefully advancing towards me. The blue flame whip coiled and lashed out continuously and mercilessly. I didn't let it hit me, as a flame that hot would burn through the basic level of my Tempest Plate.

"What is wrong, Susanoo's Heir? Will you not fight back?" She mocked me, smiling cruelly as her whip managed to hit my face plate, cracking it.

I simply narrowed my eyes at her and wordlessly activated Balance Breaker. The face plate repaired itself and I stomped the ground. A pillar of rock erupted from the ground, knocking her off balance. I snuck into her guard and threw a quick punch into her unprotected stomach. The Yata no Kagami blocked the physical strike, but failed to block the explosive winds and raging lightning that broke off from the blow.

Sachi cried out in pain as she was violently thrown back, her clothing scorched and burnt from the impact of my attack. She bounced along the ground and came to a stop, quickly getting to her feet. Eyes narrowed in rage as she conjured more flames and sent them flying towards me.

I rolled my eyes at the predictable attack. Lifting my hand, I blocked the flames and cast an absorption spell. As if it were funneled down a drain, the flames disappeared into the palm of my left hand. "This will be a rather short fight if you keep doing the same thing over and over." The Yata no Kagami blocked all three of my straight punches. As far as I can tell, it only reacts to what she can see or predict. I don't know how it'll react if it blocks Kusanagi, so I'll focus on magic and hand to hand.

"You want different, Susanoo's Heir? Fine, I will give you different." Sachi lowered her arms so that they were resting at her sides. "I wonder how you'll fare with my Divine Power…"

I withheld a tired sigh and muttered under my breath. "It's like dealing with a child."

"Chosen, as she who embodies the Sun,"

Power. Pure, undiluted Power, settled onto the wide open streets around us. I felt my eyes narrow at this. With only the first line of the Invocation she's already risen from the strength of a lower level Middle Class Devil to that of a mid-level High Class Devil? How strong is her compatibility with Amaterasu-sama's power?

"These birth-given flames alight the soul,"

"Shit!" I cursed under my breath. The Power she was giving off was already heavier than Vali's prior to Juggernaut Drive. Shooting forward, I raced across the gap between us and focused magic into the palm of my hand. Suddenly clenching the hand, I focused the power along my entire arm and threw it forward. My spell shot forward, faster than the eye could see, but was stopped by the Yata no Kagami, holding firm.

"And stand against time, uncontested and unattainable,"

Gritting my teeth, I focused my own Power and grasped Kusanagi. "Fine. You want to play with artifacts? I can play that same game." Unsheathing the blade, I willed the blade to change, to evolve into its Divine equivalent. Then I pulled on my connection to Susanoo's Power. The white glow engulfed my body, causing the grey-silver finish on my Tempest Plate to shine white. "Invocation of the Heir." The sky above us flashed in response to my connection to Susanoo's Divine Power.

"That which rests above the very sky,"

"Sorry, girly, but now isn't the time and this isn't that place for an Heir smack down." I lifted the Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi and channeled my Power into it. Within seconds, it brimmed with so much pure, undiluted Divine Power that it began to leak off the blade in waves. "Sleep, Hikari-san." Dispersing into the wind, I appeared in front of the Yata no Kagami and slammed my sword onto it. An explosion shot outwards and I heard Sachi cry out as I was thrown bodily away.

Moments later, I felt a soft hand grabbed mine and pulled me out of the rubble. My armor was gone and my clothing was torn to all hell. As Melusine helped me get out of the rubble of the destroyed street, I checked my body over in order to find any wounds. After a few moments of searching, I felt a large grin appear on my face. "Yeah! It worked! First field test was a complete success!" My reserves weren't even dented as I checked them.

Melusine regarded me with concern. "What are you talking about, Daisuke-sama?"

"My Tempest Plate. It worked just as well as I thought it would." I suddenly pulled her into an embrace, laughing in joy. She didn't reply to me, simply laughing softly and returning the hug.

When I finally pulled away from her, Melusine gave me a pointed look, even though she herself was smiling as well. "As much as I'm glad to hear that your experiment worked. Don't you think we should clean up this mess?" She then motioned to the rather wrecked street and nearly tottering buildings.

"Ah… Yeah. You're right." I sighed heavily, my shoulders falling. "This is going to be a long night." Yeah, I'll focus on the homicidal Heir at a later time.

…That just may come back to bite me in the ass…