Hello, and welcome to the next chapter!
Clarent excalibur; Haha, yeah he's gonna be motivating her quite a bit.
weslyschraepen; I don't know yet, maybe~
OechsnerC; Maybe Gabriel would be interested, we'll be seeing if she does or doesn't in the future. And thanks!
ShadowUzumaki55; She surely is yeah, Zenki's gonna help her in various aspects. Exactly, if it's not broken, it don't need fixing haha. Yeah, it's gonna be difficult based on what happens here. That's Riser for you, he'll be a bit stronger, but as Ravel will say in this chapter, he's still got a bit to go before then.
lord web of life of destiny; Thanks! I'm glad you're enjoying it so far.
Guest; Yeah, that sounds pretty funny for a One Punch Man fic~ Haha, that could be a funny awkward moment between the two of them. Yeah, I could see moments like that happening, Saitama would probably get serious if he managed to dodge a punch from him. Thanks for the suggestions!
BomBashious; I'm sorry you feel like that.
plums; Because he's Zenki's enemy, he's going to be there sometimes, and sometimes he's not.
Skull Flame; Yup, we'll see why in the future. I suppose in ways it can be like that. Yup, he got swamped by cuddles~ They kinda do yeah~
Silver crow; I'm happy you liked it! Haha, seems like he gave her the idea, and it might even be used on him in the future. Zenki definitely got quite happy when seeing that huh~? Of course they do, it's been shown that they are rather affectionate with one another. Riser's got a reason why he is. Bedeze's got his own reasons for doing what he's doing. She will awaken in the near future. Because Tiamat wouldn't want to become like that. Probably we don't know the details of their agreement yet. He knows the general locations, but not the actual locations and coming from a Dragon, they'd be more likely to meet with Zenki than without Tiamat's assistance. Yeah, Kuroka almost got into a situation that could be called scary for her. Yup, Isane's trying her best~ Haha, they surely are, Kunou and Koneko aren't backing down, even Le Fay got into the mix. Yeah, Grayfia's not in the pairing this time. We'll see a progress in their relationship this chapter. Those names look pretty cool to me. Yeah, it's an interesting Sacred Gear, combat wise seems more support than anything but that being on a peerage could be cool. Yup, seems like we've got the clones of them coming into the fight. Maybe he could make one of them a Sacred Gear. Yeah, that could be rather fun~ Maybe he might have something like that in his lab. Yeah, she'd be fun~ That's a good look.
Dxl; Elmenhilde's in the peerage.
Andrew123456; Right now I don't, but maybe in the future I could make a story for that series.
guest; Those stories are nowhere near finished, so it would be years if I did that.
Well, with those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Revelation of the heart!
The night after Grayfia had visited, Zenki thought about what was happening with his and Rias' relationship. Knowing that he'd have to speak to her rather soon, he thought about what he was going to say and what she might say.
As he woke up in the morning, Rias groaned as she hugged Zenki tightly.
Zenki gave a bemused look, and thought that it should be obvious what the answer would be.
However there was something that always stopped the pair from actually speaking about it.
However they didn't have the luxury of waiting around anymore, and had to speak their feelings.
So, he casually nudged her, causing her to stir.
"Rias-chan, wake up~"
Rias groaned "No..." as she shuffled on the bed.
Zenki thought she was rather cute saying something like that.
But she still needed to have a conversation with her, so he nudged her once more.
"Rias-chan, please wake up~"
Rias groaned once more, lifting her head to meet with Zenki's smiling face.
"Zenki...what's going on? I was comfy, sleeping on Zenki's chest."
Zenki gave a light chuckle.
"Actually Rias-chan, I need to speak to you about something important."
"Important? What could it be about?"
Zenki cleared his throat, and began.
"Well, it has to do with our..." As he was going to speak about their possible marriage, he saw that she was looking at her phone, seeing her expression become more serious than it was before. "...something wrong?"
"Oh, I got a message from my parents, it seems that they wish to speak to me about a few matters."
"Ooh right, then you're going to the Underworld?"
Zenki wondered if she was going to see her parents about their wedding. He knew that Grayfia got orders from Sirzechs to speak to him, perhaps Rias' parents also were aware of what was going on, and if that was the case, then he knew they'd have to save their conversation for later.
"Yes, it seems that it is urgent, so I'll be leaving right after breakfast. But, you mentioned that you wished to speak about something important? What is it?"
"Eeh, it's probably best saved until you get back, it might take sometime."
"Oh...alright then, when I get back we'll have a conversation."
Zenki thought that would be for the best.
Their conversation could take a good deal of time, so he didn't want to rush her before she went to go and see her parents, or cause her to worry either.
After that, Rias had left for the Underworld with Akeno, and left Isane in the care of Zenki, who continued her training. This time, he was helping her develop more of her demonic powers than anything else physical, believing she'd be able to do it quite well.
Zenki cupped his hands, and formed some demonic power.
"See this Isane-san?"
"A-Ah, I certainly do! It looks quite beautiful green colour~"
"Yes, that's the colour my demonic tends to be, others can have a variety of colours. It isn't really anything that determines the power or anything, it's just preference more than anything else. But anyway, today we'll be doing demonic power summoning, then training with that."
"Training with demonic power huh? Alright, so I can fire off waves of aura too?"
Zenki showed a light smile.
"No doubt, I'm sure you'd be able to enhance your demonic power with the Boosted Gear, and unleash a large volume of aura at someone. Maybe you'd be able to make a move all your own Isane-san."
"Aah, that sounds awesome Zenki-kun! So, how do I do this like? It isn't complicated, is it?"
Zenki chortled, shaking his head.
"No, it isn't complicated. Actually, this is where your imagination comes in quite handy. Demonic power thrives off imagination after all. It bends to what the user can imagine doing with it. Like take this for example. This sphere of demonic power could change into elements, or a different shape or anything else as long as I can imagine it hard enough and put in the power. Though doing that does require practice, so that's why I'm going to start you off with the easy ones first of all. Simply summoning your power, and using that to control some elements would be good. So Isane-san, put your hands together, and concentrate hard. Feel the wave of aura around your body, imagine a sphere forming in your hand. Maybe close your eyes and imagine that."
Isane nodded, and cupped her hands as Zenki said.
Then she began imagining a sphere in her hand hard. Zenki could see the concentration on her face.
She really was determined to do it, and he thought that it was rather admirable that she was like this.
As she concentrated, a sphere of demonic power appeared, though it wasn't all that big.
"W-What the heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeell!"
Isane yelled when seeing her demonic power.
Zenki placed a finger under his chin.
"It seems that your current demonic power isn't high." Isane felt her head slide down her body, but Zenki gently tilted it upwards. "But, you've got the Longinus Boosted Gear. Even if the current power isn't that strong, when you've boosted your power, you'd be able to create something that could obliterate stronger opponents as you grow. The more you use the Boosted Gear, the easier it will be, and I'm sure you'll come up with some...unique moves. Now we need you to begin manipulating the elements..." Zenki saw some water to the side of them, so he sent off his demonic power, and began controlling the water, allowing it to rise up, and begin dancing to the amusement of Isane. "Like this, Isane-san. I don't expect you to do anything like that right away, but moving the water could be useful, right?"
"Eeh, I'll certainly try Zenki-kun...though I might need some motivation kukuku..."
Zenki rolled his eyes playfully, tugging at his shirt.
"So, if I want results, I have to become naked?"
Isane places her hands together in a prayer like stance, showcasing a large grin on her cute face.
"Y-Yes! That's exactly it!"
"How about, you achieve the ability to move that water, and we can have a naked bath together~"
Isane's face turned crimson immediately, steam came out of her nose, along with excitement filling her face.
"A-ARE YOU KIDDING ME! A NAKED BATH SEEING EVERYTHING?!"
Zenki had to blink at her enthusiasm, she truly was fired up to see him in a state of undress, though he was getting used to her ways and means.
"Right, I think it would be fine if we enjoyed a bath together, later on. Though if you're not wanting to do that then..."
"N-NO! LEAVE IT TO ME ZENKI-KUN! THAT WATER WILL BE DANCING BY THE TIME I'M DONE WITH IT! TO SEE EVERYTHING OF ZENKI-KUN'S! HIS PENIS, AND HIS BUTT AS WELL! I CAN'T WAIT FOR IT! I'M GOING FOR IT ZENKI-KUN!"
Zenki watched as Isane immediately went towards the water, and began using her demonic power on it. To his astonishment, it seemed as if she was able to move it until it would lose form, and she'd try again and again.
She was determined if nothing else, which he was rather happy to see in her performance.
Even if it was quite, unorthodox, she still was trying her hardest to get her reward.
While he watched her, Zenki saw Yumi slowly approaching. Her eyes went towards Isane, who glared hard for her, before turning back to Zenki, and embraced the young boy tightly. Zenki responded by hugging her also, and petted the back of her head.
"Yumi-chan, it seems that you're suddenly cuddly. Is something going on?"
Yumi shook her head.
"No, nothing is happening, I just wanted to hug my King, that's all."
Zenki let out a small laugh.
"Haha, I see. So Yumi-chan, how are the newcomers getting along?"
Asking about the recently released kids from the barrier, Yumi gave a soft smile.
"Though they're getting used to the new technology around them, they're doing quite well. With the others, and our support, they're able to move forward."
Zenki gently stroked the back of her head, while Isane continued glaring on.
But when noticing Zenki looking, she got right back to work, remembering the promise of being able to bathe with Zenki, fully naked. That's the dream for her right now, and she wasn't going to lose that at all.
"Yes, that is the best Yumi-chan. Very soon, Tosca-san and the last child should be free. It's only a matter of time, and when it is to happen. But with the doctors of the Underworld working together with myself, it shouldn't be that long. The child is showing promise, and he'll soon be fully cured."
Yumi placed a hand on Zenki's chest, running her slim fingers down his upper body.
"Zenki-kun, I am...I don't know what to say really. It's amazing that you can do these things."
Zenki waved his hand at the young woman.
"I've got a great manager in Ravel-chan who helps me manage my day. If it wasn't for her, then I'd probably be lost in many things haha. So many things, so little time, she's able to help organize it very well."
"Even then, it was thanks to your genius and the doctors medical knowledge that we're able to live like this at all." Yumi pulled in closer, and pursed her lips. "Thank you, my Zenki-kun."
Yumi's lips overlapped with Zenki's own, while Isane exploded with rage, causing the water to erupt in her face, and wash all over her.
Yumi didn't stop her kiss though, while Zenki glanced at Isane who was drenched head to toe in water.
When the kiss finished, Zenki held Yumi in one arm, while turning to Isane.
"Wow Isane-san, it seems that the water is gone. Did you really get that angry?"
"T-That's because she suddenly kissed you! As if it was nothing at all!"
"Since she's my peerage member, we've done these things before…"
When Zenki tried to convey it as nothing to worry about, Isane immediately put her hands forward, puffing out her chest, and showcased a strong expression on her face.
"B-But, it can't be! Zenki-kuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuun! We haven't even kissed yet! When are we going to kiss?!"
"Fufu, maybe I should save it for some training, it seems to motivate you Isane-san~"
He lightly teased her, seeing Isane's face turning redder by the moment.
But then he looked at the water on her body.
"Isane-san, since the waters gone..."
"N-Noooooooo! Does that mean we don't get to have a bath together?! I was looking forward to it! It was that damn Kiba! She did it because she's the damn Princess of the school!"
Yumi glanced at Isane who sharpened her eyes on the form before her.
But Yumi then turned back to Zenki and snuggled against him, enraging Isane even more.
"Isane-san, Yumi-chan wouldn't do that. But, although you didn't get to do what I had tasked...I was seeing the progression of your control. So, alright. I'll have a naked bath with you Isane-san, if that's what you-"
"YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! LETS DO THIS ZENKI-KUN!"
Isane cheered, thrusting her hands up into the air in a victory cheer.
Yumi glanced at Isane curiously, before looking up at Zenki.
"Zenki-kun, she's very...determined, isn't she?"
"Yeah, I think she's rather charming, don't you Yumi-chan?"
Yumi didn't know about that.
But it did seem that Isane was growing thanks to Zenki, if that was good or bad for Zenki personally, Yumi truly didn't know. Though she was glad that Isane was able to become stronger and stronger as time went on.
Later on, Isane waited in the bath, many perverted thoughts running through her mind. Thinking about what Zenki's body would look like in the water, feeling the warmth of his skin, the feeling of his member…
She wanted it right now.
Even now, she wasn't wearing a towel, she let herself go natural, revealing all for Zenki to see when he arrived.
With the warm water filling her mind with happiness, she couldn't help but wait for Zenki to appear…
Then he did.
Without wearing a towel, Zenki moved closer to Isane.
However, when she looked…
She saw a mysterious cloud of smoke around his private area.
"Z-Zenki-kun! No way, you're doing that, right?!"
"I did say I'd go naked, I never said that I'd not do something like this~"
A disappointed look appeared on Isane's face.
"Z-Zenki-kun..."
Zenki chortled, slipping into the water, and dispelled the fog.
Isane's face brightened up, when she looked down, and saw it.
She saw Zenki's naked body.
Her hands began twitching, her eyes filled to the brim with lust and desire.
Her body heating up to the point where she couldn't contain herself.
"Z-Zenki-kun's penis! It's so close to me right now! Zenki-kun, can I touch it?!"
"Honestly, this is rather embarrassing since we've only known one another intimately like this..."
"No no, don't worry about that Zenki-kun. I wouldn't embarrass you at all~ You can look at me, I don't mind~ Check out my breasts, or my butt~ Either one is fine~ You can even look at my womanhood if you want~ Check out where your...hahahaha~"
Isane couldn't finish as she kept laughing with her perverted nature getting stronger.
Zenki gave her a curious look, as he began sinking back into the water.
"Hey Isane-san, do you feel good about being a Devil?"
"Eh...yeah, totally. It's different to being human. But I've gotten used to the sun by now."
"That's good, it seems that you're growing at a good rate. Being able to use the Boosted Gear like you are. I thought that your imagination would help a good deal, but it seems that you're getting better than I had anticipated. Though that's due to your own hard work Isane-san, I'm sure that Rias-chan would be proud of you."
Isane scratched her cheek sheepishly.
"Y-Yeah, I just don't wanna let anyone down."
Zenki tipped his head right.
"Why would you like anyone down Isane-san? You've done nothing but progress further and further as the days have gone on."
"Maybe, but I'm still not on a level where I can fight strong guys like you can..."
Zenki gave an understanding smile, pulling the young woman close, and allowed her head to rest against his chest. A deep crimson blush erupted on her cheeks, especially due to how she was angled, being able to see Zenki's thing very clearly in the water, she truly was happy right now.
"You haven't been a Devil long, don't sweat the small stuff Isane-san. In time, I'm sure you'll become one of the strongest people on Rias-chan's peerage."
"Y-You think?"
She said with a slightly embarrassed look.
Zenki confirmed it with a nod.
"Longinus Sacred Gears naturally would be able to progress. But you've also been working so hard, so I can see you being able to do many things."
"Hehehe...I'll try even harder Zenki-kun, for rewards like this..."
Isane's arms went around Zenki's body, while rubbing her head against his chest.
He didn't deter her from doing such an action, and merely petted the back of her head as they allowed the steamy water to wash around them, taking in every feeling they had.
The next day, Zenki received a call from Tiamat about the location of one of the Dragon Kings. It was the easiest to find, with it being called the sleeping Dragon. Zenki had an idea on where it was, but thanks to Tiamat, Zenki could have a meeting with him.
So, going towards his basement, Zenki turned to his peerage.
"Thanks to Tiamat-san, I'm able to have a meeting with Midgardsormr, hopefully I'll be able to form a contract with him."
"Hopefully is right."
Ravel added, Asia looking towards her questioningly.
"Why wouldn't Midgardsormr-san form a contract with Zenki-san? Zenki-san's really kind, and wise, and he's already able to get the Heavenly Dragons to be friends. So why couldn't Zenki-san get this Dragon King to become friends with him?"
"It isn't about being friends Asia-sama, it depends if this Dragon King is willing to be part time sealed into Zenki-sama's Artificial Longinus. Hopefully, it will be the case, and then Zenki-sama's research goes forward one more step. But if not, then we'll have to go back to the drawing board and see what other Dragon King's could become a pact partner for Zenki-sama's Artificial Longinus."
"I see...even then, I do believe that Zenki-san will be able to become friends with this Dragon King."
Zenki was glad that Asia had that confidence in him.
Le Fay who was stood nearby Yumi gave a tilted head.
"This is going to be so good for the club..."
Yumi glanced towards her, and saw that Le Fay had stars by her eyes.
She looked very happy, and serious at the same time.
"...It seems that you're quite happy, Le Fay-san."
"Ooh yes, seeing Zenki-sama doing these kind of things makes me happy."
Le Fay showed her happy expressions, while Yumi gave her a curious look.
But ultimately shook her head, watching Zenki with intrigue.
"Then, I'm gonna begin."
Zenki began activating a magical circle on the ground. It was so large that Kuroka who stood in the background looked quite surprised.
"Are you like summoning the Dragon King himself?"
Kuroka's question was met with a shaking head from Ravel.
"It's not like that Kuroka-sama, it's merely going to be a projection."
"If it's going to be a projection, then how can Zenki-chan form a contract with him?"
Ravel went to answer when Koneko chimed in.
"...It's because Senpai is attempting to make a contract with Midgardsormr, if he agrees, then he'll be teleported out of the place he's in and comes here to meet with Zenki-senpai. Though I have heard it is a lazy Dragon. So, the Dragon version of you Onee-sama."
"That's very cheeky Shirone, but I like it~" As she spoke, Ravel produced a letter. "What's this?"
"It's a fan letter from the Undine leader, apparently she wishes to start a fanclub. I didn't read the letter, but a flyer about the Kuroka-sama fanclub came with it, and wished for you to make an appearance from what I can tell."
Ravel said it while smiling to herself.
Kuroka looked ill and took the letter.
Reading it silently to herself, Kuroka put down the letter, shuddering.
"What did the note say?"
Koneko's question was met with a shaking head.
"N-Nothing! She keeps writing me now! She thinks I'm in love with her nyaaaa! She's asking if I'm available next week! I don't wanna date that, can't someone else go and date that girl nyaaaa?!"
Ravel and Koneko snickered together, Kuroka adopted teary eyes while Vali folded her arms.
"Zenki, is a Dragon King what you wish for?"
"It's something I believe would be a good power boost yeah. Though I know it isn't a Heavenly Dragon, I do believe that a Dragon King plus my own power would give a good deal of power to help me in my research. Though as Koneko-chan said, he's supposed to be lazy, so I don't know how this meeting is going to go."
Zenki replied truthfully as they continued watching the circle. For a few moments, nothing happened.
Until a creepy chill began filling the area. The air became heavy with a weird atmosphere that caused Asia to go towards Vali's side, and hold onto her. Vali glanced at Asia, and merely said "It's fine, don't worry." relieving Asia's worries.
The others then saw a Dragon appear. It seemed that the entire body wasn't being shown, but the head was. The hologram was wavy, as if it was under water, which Ravel presumed was due to the location of Midgardsormr.
"Hello, Midgard-"
"...Zzzzzzzzzzzzzz….zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz…."
The Dragon King was asleep.
"O-Oh...he does know the meeting is now, yes?"
Yumi asked Zenki who shrugged his shoulders in uncertainty.
"I don't know, but this Dragon King is known for being lazy." Zenki then placed his hands before him, speaking louder than before. "Excuse me, Midgardsormr-san, will you please wake up?" Nothing happened, so Zenki went a little more louder. "Midgardsormr-san, please wake-"
"GET UP YOU WEIRD DRAGON NYAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"
Kuroka snapped, forcing Midgardsormr up.
"W-What…?" The Dragon's eyes looked around, noticing Zenki stood there. "...Who are you...wait, that green hair...Tiamat did mention someone with green hair calling me...so, what do you want green haired boy…?"
Zenki gave a curious look to the Dragon, before moving forward.
"Yes. Hello, and good day Midgardsormr-san, you see, I've been making something called an Artificial Longinus, based on a number of Longinus I've witnessed in my life before, and I need a power source so..."
"...Zzzzzzz..."
"...Did he just fall asleep?"
Zenki murmured, with Ravel sighing.
"Zenki-sama, this Dragon is very lazy, I'm not sure if this would be the best pact partner."
"Yeah...even then, I still have to try Ravel-chan. If there's a possibility, you shouldn't give up after all."
As he said that, Yumi noticed that Le Fay wrote down exactly what he said. She then looked at the notebook itself, and had various phrases that Zenki had said, along with a Zenki sticker in the corner, something that made Yumi smile ever so lightly.
"I suppose you're right, but since it fell asleep again..."
"Maybe I should fly over to the damn ocean its asleep in and shoot down some of my power. Then it would wake up. Honestly, doing something like this to my King, highly disrespectful."
Vali interrupted, Zenki showing a small smile.
"If it came to that Vali-chan then this Dragon King surely wouldn't want to become my pact partner." Vali shrugged as Zenki moved closer. "Midgardsormr! Get up now!" The Dragon's eyes snapped open while looking startled, as Zenki smiled. "Now that you're awake, please try to stay up just for a little while."
Midgardsormr began yawning, with tired eyes falling upon Zenki.
"...I'll try, but I'm really tired."
Zenki felt like this was more and more less likely that he wasn't going to become pact partners with Midgardsormr, he was very...challenging person to deal with.
"Eeh...yes, anyway. As I was saying about my Artificial Longinus...I'll cut to the chase since it seems you're nodding off again." Midgardsormr began yawning once more. "I want you to become my pact partner!"
"Pact...partner?"
The Dragon said while swaying his head from left to right.
"Right, I want to...for a lack of a better term, wear your power on my body. I promise, it does make sense. By sealing you into my Artificial Longinus and using your power as a power source, then I'd be able to increase my power a good deal, along with..." Midgardsormr's eyes fell closed, with Zenki exhaling slowly. "Honestly, can't even get through a sentence..."
"I'll go and destroy him Zenki, be right back."
Vali went to leave when Zenki grabbed her hand, and pulled her close.
"Don't worry about that Vali-chan." Zenki cleared his throat. "Midgardsormr!" The Dragon's eyes snapped open once more, and yawned. "So, what do you say Midgardsormr-san? Will you join beside me and become my pact partner?"
"...I don't know...it sounds like too much work..."
Zenki's eyebrow twitched while Vali jabbed a finger at him.
"You're a Dragon, you should want to fight powerful enemies. Zenki fights a good deal of powerful enemies, so become his pact partner, or I'll have a fight with you. My name is Vali Lucifer, the Hakuryuukou, become the pact partner of my King, Zenki Astaroth."
Vali's words caused the Dragon King to yawn even more. He seemed to not be bothered in the slightest.
"Even though you are a weird existence like a Lucifer and a Dragon and he's the Beelzebub's son, I'm not like Doggy, I don't want to do things unnecessarily..."
"Doggy? Who's Doggy?"
Asia wondered with Ravel smiling lightly, answering.
"He's probably referring to Fenrir, they're related...brothers at that."
"I don't really know how a humanoid God like Loki makes a Dragon and a wolf though...doesn't make sense to me. Shouldn't he be making at least half humanoid? Unless he changes them to look like these things nyaaa..."
Kuroka wondered with Ravel tilting her head.
"Well actually, the process for how it happened was-"
"Ravel-san, who is Fenrir-san?"
Ravel paused, glanced at Asia, then began explaining.
"He's supposed to have the claws and fangs that can kill even a God's body. It's supposed to be very dangerous. Though the last I heard, he was following his Otou-sama, so I don't know if Fenrir-sama would be interested in making friends with a Devil. But anything is possible. I can imagine Zenki-sama with God slaying claws, along with his own power, it would be a pretty interesting power to have on side."
"Ooh yes, then Zenki-san would be a wolf Devil~"
Asia's sweet voice caused Ravel to smile ever so slightly.
While they talked, Zenki continued with Midgardsormr.
"I know it isn't your concern, and if you don't want to be my pact partner, then I'll accept that. But, is there anything I can do in convincing you to join my side, and become my pact partner? Is there anything that you want?"
Midgardsormr began to think, but Zenki was sure that he already had the answer anyway, but he still had to try.
"Sorry, I don't think there's anything I want other than to sleep, try another Dragon King. Maybe that green Dragon kid that's energetic unlike me...or maybe Doggy, he might join you...can I go now…? I'm so exhausted..."
Zenki showed a dejected look, but ultimately inclined his neck.
"...Yes, you can go now. Sorry to have disturbed you."
The Dragon King bowed his head, and disappeared.
Vali shook her head.
"What a Dragon. Preferring to sleep than fight in amazing battles. There's something wrong with that Dragon."
Zenki let out a small breath.
"It's just how he is Vali-chan, if he doesn't want to become my pact partner, I can't force him to do so."
"Well, you could force him, but that wouldn't be ideal nyaaa~"
Kuroka sang out, with Zenki giving a half smile towards the young woman.
"Back to the drawing board I guess."
Asia pulled closer, placing a hand on his shoulder.
"Zenki-san, I'm sorry that Midgardsormr-san didn't join us."
Zenki waved his hand at Asia.
"I wouldn't worry Asia-chan, I thought that it was a low possibility with the way I've heard this Dragon King being. It's all good~ We'll be able to find other people that wish to become a pact partner with me! Maybe I should go and find the green Dragon, green Dragon and green hair, it would be pretty cool combination between us~"
Asia giggled, thrusting her hand into the air.
"Yes, Zenki-san!"
Seemingly not that bothered, Zenki looked on the more positive side and hoped that eventually, he'd be able to get the cooperation of a Dragon King, and if not a Dragon King, perhaps something even stronger than that.
A day later, Zenki had a Stray Devil to go and deal with that was entering the town, so he went alone, since the others had things they wished to do, Zenki decided to allow them sometime to relax, and allowed him to swiftly take them down.
Le Fay though had tagged along, and was looking on with starry eyes as Zenki approached the Stray Devil. The Stray Devil looked like a giant spider. It had eight wicked looking legs, a face that resembled a human, and webs all around its body, even the legs looked to be sharp like spears.
"Hello, and good day, my name is Zenki-"
"Shut uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuup!"
The Devil snapped at Zenki, and quickly launched a spear like leg towards him which detached from the leg, and regenerated a new leg with the spear like leg going for him.
The spear leg was taller than a house, but Zenki merely flicked his hand, unleashing a bullet of demonic power, shattering the spear in an instant.
Le Fay continued looking on with her starry eyes, as she wrote down a number of things.
"As I was saying. My name is Zenki Astaroth, and I am going to allow you one chance to give yourself up. If not, then I have been tasked with destroying you. So, if you would please surrender then you'd-"
"As if I'd simply give up to a weird green haired bastard like you!"
"Eh, I have an Otou-sama, so I'm not really a bastard..."
"I-I didn't mean it like that! Don't even say weird things like that! Now die with my acid web!"
From the body of the spider like Devil, the web came shooting out to bind and melt Zenki's body.
But Le Fay watched as he disappeared from sight all together.
The spider Devil looked shocked, only to be replaced with a swift upper cut to the face, Zenki appearing before him, and unleashed a volley of demonic power, which overcame the large body of the spider Devil.
Le Fay continued giving starry eyes as the green demonic power ended up killing off the spider Devil without much worry.
"Zenki-sama, that was amazing! So quick!"
Zenki rubbed the back of his head.
"Ah, he wasn't that strong, it was no big deal~ Though Le Fay-san, I am surprised you wished to come with me to this. It wasn't that huge of a deal."
"It is to myself Zenki-sama, this kind of situation was amazing to see. I got to see Zenki-sama laying out a Stray Devil without much worry. It gives me hope that when we confront Onii-sama, that this time we'll..."
Zenki swiftly moved to the right hand side of her, placing a hand on top of her head, and gently petted.
"I'm sorry that we haven't found him yet. They are elusive people. We're exhausting our current searches, and without the proper permission of others territories...it would be difficult finding them. But I am making a request towards the Norse to see if we're allowed to begin examining their lands."
"The Norse, do you think that they'd be there?"
Le Fay posed a question, a question Zenki wasn't sure on how to answer.
"In the past, with Diodora...we found some special metal that was made by some people that occupied territories around there. Though if this man is as smart as I think he is, then he wouldn't be so careless as to stay in a single place for too long. We can't be sure how many factions have agreed to be under this man. So we can't be sure who and who aren't, our enemies."
Le Fay places a finger under her chin.
"It seems quite scary to think that this man is making plans to have factions come together. I wonder what his end goal would be?"
Zenki wished that he knew that as well.
Though he didn't want to worry Le Fay, so he bent down towards her.
"Le Fay-san, I heard you've been wanting to ask me some questions, right?"
Le Fay gained a shy cute expression on her face.
"W-Well, I suppose that I did...b-but I don't want to worry Zenki-sama right now..."
"Nonsense, we're both free right now, so why don't you ask me anything you want? I'll try and answer to the best of my ability."
Le Fay continued poking her fingers together, continuing on with her shyness.
"Y-Yes, Zenki-sama...well, I've got a number of questions I've always wanted to ask...like the exact formula behind the Reverse ability you have been able to use without backlash. Hearing that already made me a fan of Zenki-sama's! But then hearing about Zenki-sama's various exploits, I can't help but be astonished all the more!"
"The secrets behind Reverse huh..."
"I-I'd understand if it's something you don't want getting around, it is a secret after-"
Zenki cut off Le Fay by placing a finger to his own lips and giving off a small wink.
"Alright, but you have to keep it to yourself, okay?"
Le Fay's eyes lit up like diamonds in the sun.
"Z-Zenki-sama! Y-Yes, I'll always keep it a secret!"
"Haha, then I'll explain the special formula behind that particular magic~ Anything else Le Fay-san?"
"Ooh...well, I'd have to think about it...there's so many things I'd like to know...like maybe some anti magic…? I know that your Otou-sama is also an expert on that, but I heard Zenki-sama also developed some anti magic in the past, so that would be interesting to know about...maybe together Zenki-sama, we could even come up with some magic..."
"A magician like you and myself Le Fay-san, I'm sure we'd be able to combine our abilities to come up with a new kind of magic all together~"
Le Fay couldn't help but be enamoured when seeing Zenki's kind expression, and hearing secrets that she was sure he hadn't shared with many people outside of his peerage before, she felt so lucky that she couldn't contain her excitement, Zenki noticing that she was slowly bouncing up and down.
He found her rather adorable to do something like that.
Meanwhile, Ravel was sat down within the living room, seemingly on her computer, and doing a number of things for the peerage. With Zenki being busy dealing with a number of things and the peerage members were doing their own thing right now, Ravel was left to deal with a few papers that needed to be done, though she was completely happy doing it since she knew she excelled in things such as this.
However, while she was dealing with it, she noticed that a flaming circle was appearing on the ground.
Twitching her eyebrow, she waited for the man to appear himself, and that he did, showcasing a smile as he met with his little sister.
"Ah Ravel, it's been a-"
"Onii-sama, you can't just teleport here without any warnings. Haven't you heard about the alarm system that's been set up? It came online today, I did send the data to the Underworld about it..."
"Alarm-"
Before Riser could continue, suddenly many types of weapons pointed at Riser.
Mostly, they were filled with aura, and looked ready to shoot him down. Riser began to panic when seeing that the aura was showcasing aspects of light as well. Riser even saw various different robots coming out, saying "Intruder alert." again and again with flashing lights circulating their heads.
Naturally, it wasn't as powerful as someone like Zenki or Vali, but they did pack a punch if all launched at the same time.
"Holy shit!"
Riser tried to move, but several robots pointed their guns towards him. With aura filling the guns, Riser's eyes began to fall into despair.
Ravel placed a hand on her forehead.
"Onii-sama, honestly." Ravel exhales, and turns to the robots. "Deactivate intruder assault mode, I.D Ravel Phenex." Riser was bewildered as the robots and weapons began to power down after scanning Ravel, leaving Riser safe for the moment. "Now Onii-sama, what's going on?"
"I-It only takes that to power them down? A simple phrase as that?"
"That, along with vocal recognition, and scanning the person that spoke, scanning their DNA, their demonic power, among other things. If it wasn't myself who used my I.D, then they would have been shot at. Even if someone attempted to impersonate myself, it wouldn't work. Zenki-sama was very thorough with his programming after all." Riser paled even more. "Now, what's going on Onii-sama? I've been hearing that you're causing trouble for Zenki-sama and Rias-sama's families as of late."
Riser huffed, folding his arms.
"I wouldn't say that I'm causing trouble, I'm just busy dealing with a number of things Ravel. Please don't worry about that-"
"I am worried when you're causing problems Onii-sama!"
Riser cringed at the yell.
"Let me explain. I'm attempting to make sure that the Devils families stay pure. That's why-"
"That's why you're interfering in things like this, Riser-nii-sama, please remember I care about you when I say this...but, why do you not like the idea of Zenki-sama and Rias-sama being together in an engagement? Is it because you're angry that Zenki-sama got to be engaged to Rias-sama? Or is it because of myself being in Zenki-sama's peerage? I know you've always disliked the idea for...well, even I don't know why, but we're happy in our current situations, so why are you doing this?"
Riser let out a small sigh, sitting down beside Ravel, placing his hands to the side of his head.
"Ravel, it isn't like I am unhappy with this current situation, but I was...Rias is quite the beauty."
"Yes, but there are also other beautiful women. Rias-sama doesn't even see you in that kind of light."
"It's also to do with the Phenex thriving. I wouldn't want to bring shame or let down the Phenex if I can't find a strong wife to wed and keep the bloodline pure."
Ravel didn't know what to believe when it came to Riser speaking these words.
"...Zenki-sama and Rias-sama would keep the bloodline pure though if they decided to have children, and then there's also the next generation through our Onii-sama Riser-nii-sama, so it can't be that kind of reason."
"That's the thing though. If they do. They still could back out at anytime they wish. They have to make a commitment."
"Why do I feel like that even if they did say they're getting married, you'd still be against it? Is it because you're angry at Zenki-sama due to me being in his group? Or is it something more than that? Are you just...jealous of Zenki-sama being engaged to Rias-sama?"
Seeing Riser's face contort angrily, Ravel believed she understood what was going on right now.
Clear as day on his face, she knew she was right in one of her guesses.
"Onii-sama, please think about yourself as well. Move onto something else, all this does is cause others to have to do things that they might not necessarily be ready for. Even involving the Old Devils such as Zekram Bael."
"Oh, the Phenex household also recently received a card from him, for you."
"F-For me? But why?"
Ravel didn't get it.
What would Zekram Bael want with her.
"I don't know, here I brought it."
Ravel became intrigued, and looked at the card Riser produced.
Opening it, she quietly read to herself what it was.
[Dearest Ravel. How have you been in the human world? I've been great myself, being who I am, can be tiring, but if you were with me, then the endless hours would seem like a dream. I've been thinking of you lately, your beautiful blonde hair, and your eyes that look like the sea along with your fantastic breasts that remind me of marshmallows.] Ravel frowned as she continued reading it to herself. [If you like, we could go on a date? My Devil girl who's adorable in many ways, I can't stop thinking about your great body. I'm sorry that time doesn't allow us to be together, but I'm always thinking of you, my delicate Phenex flower. Love from Zekram. P.S, I think we should think about marriage soon, I want you to be Mrs Bael.]
Ending that, was a picture of Zekram and Ravel embracing in a flowery field and in a pose that looked as if they were going to kiss each other, obviously had been messed with so it appeared as if they were together, though she had to give credit for even getting pictures like that of Zekram, but she made a grossed out face when examining it.
"...Kuroka-sama, I know this is you..."
"What?"
Ravel shook her head.
"Just someone I have burn later, no big deal." Riser didn't quite understand, but Ravel dismissed those thoughts for the moment. "A-As I was saying. Riser-nii-sama, please just let this go. I don't want anyone to get hurt. You, or anyone. I care about both sides very much...please, don't make me choose Onii-sama..."
Ravel pleaded, and Riser paused for a few moments.
Seeing the saddened look on his little sisters face, almost caused him to give in.
"...Ravel, I don't have any intentions of hurting you. I've had to begrudgingly accept that you are in love with Zenki. Even though he wouldn't be the guy I'd choose for you."
"If it was up to you, no one would be good enough for me." Riser didn't refute that. "So Onii-sama, if you don't want to hurt me, or make me choose...then please stop this Riser-nii-sama, it will only cause problems for the people I care about, you included."
"But Ravel, I've been training! I could even fight him for the right to marry Rias!"
Ravel overlooked Riser's form and winced.
"...How can I say that he wouldn't be able to overcome Kuroka-sama, never mind someone like Zenki-sama…?" She thought to herself, and let out a breath. "Onii-sama, it's not like I don't believe you've gotten stronger, but Zenki-sama also trains, and for a long time, you neglected to do any kind of training at all."
Riser huffed.
"I thought you'd say something like that. Just keep watching Ravel, I'll show you that Zenki can't beat me." Ravel breathed out her nose. "Ravel, I am sorry about causing you strife, I don't want to do that. That's why I'm hoping that Rias and Zenki simply decide to not be together."
"But, why Rias-sama though? I don't quite understand..."
"You wouldn't understand Ravel, this is..." As she spoke, Isane happened to be walking by, catching Riser's attention. "...wait, who's that Ravel?"
Ravel glanced at Isane who ran a hand through her hair as she went towards the kitchen.
"Oh, that's Isane-sama, she's Rias-sama's new Pawn. She probably was doing a training session Zenki-sama left-"
"Wow, she's really beautiful."
Ravel looked towards her elder brother with a confused face.
"...Are you serious Riser-nii-sama?"
"Naturally, haven't you seen her? She's cute, that long hair, and her breast size."
Ravel shuddered.
"Onii-sama, we were talking about..." Riser stood up, and began walking towards Isane. "W-Wait, Onii-sama!"
Riser seemingly ignored Ravel, and went towards Isane.
Isane's eyes caught the sight of Riser stood there, looking him up and down, then she simply shrugged at the sight before turning back towards her drink.
Though that didn't deter Riser who showed a playboy like expression on his face.
"Aah, hello there, Isane-chan." Isane glanced at him, and cocked her head. "So, I heard you're Rias' new Pawn, it must be amazing to have a master like Rias."
"It's alright, but who the hell are you?"
"Forgive me." Riser bent down and went to take Isane's hand, but she shook him away. "My name is Riser Phenex, the Onii-sama of Ravel Phenex."
"Aah, right. Nice to meet you."
Isane replied before taking a drink.
Riser seemed even more happy with her voice, believing it to be rather beautiful.
"So, since you're a new Devil, want me to show you how Devils truly live?"
"That's alright, I'm learning quite a bit from Zenki-kun and the others."
Riser's eyebrows twitched.
"Z-Zenki…?"
"Yeah, Zenki-kun! He's so damn cute~"
"He's not cute!"
Riser snapped, Ravel slapping her forehead at the sight.
"Eeh? But he is cute! And he's very...gifted if you know what I mean~?" She nudged Riser who frowned even more. "Kuku, seeing Zenki-kun naked is always a treat for the eyes~ I had a bath with him, and saw everything. His penis is amazing! The size and the shape, I didn't get to feel it, but I'm sure that it feels really great!"
Isane finished with a lusty expression on her face, something that Ravel shuddered at, she wasn't used to Isane's...brand of forwardness just yet.
"B-But, I could be too!"
Isane overlooked Riser, who looked on with bags under his eyes.
"Y-You do look quite handsome, but you're more like playboy handsome, and Zenki-kun is more humble handsome if that makes sense?" Riser's eyes began to fall darker and darker into anger while Ravel shook her head. "Sorry, but that's just how it is after all~" Isane giggled perversely, as she pulled backwards."Nice to meet you Onii-sama of Ravel. I've got to go and...think about a number of things now~"
Isane then walked away, leaving Riser bewildered by what had just happened.
Ravel then moved closer, glancing at the fleeting Isane.
"Onii-sama, perhaps I don't need to say this but..."
"Damn that Zenki! Honestly, even getting that beauty! Damn it all to hell!"
Ravel let out a small breath, and simply shook her head at the sight.
He then turned and began walking away.
"Onii-sama, where are you going?"
"One way or another, I'm going to be getting Rias as my wife..."
Ravel rolled her eyes as Riser disappeared in a burst of flames.
But it did make her worry for what Riser was truly going to do. She didn't think he'd be able to beat Zenki in a fight, she didn't want Riser's pride to be wounded, though she also didn't want him to be delusional either.
She knew that she'd have to speak with Zenki about this matter, and hope that he'd be able to sort this out.
Once Zenki returned back home, Ravel took Zenki away to a private area. While some people complained, Zenki could see that Ravel needed to speak, so he quickly smoothed it over with some of his peerage.
Getting to a bedroom of sorts, Zenki was pushed onto the bed by Ravel, who got beside him. Seeing her expression being rather serious, Zenki wondered what was bothering the young woman.
"Whoa, Ravel-chan, where is the fire exactly?"
"Zenki-sama, I just need to speak to you about Onii-sama."
Zenki looked towards her curiously.
"About Riser huh. What's going on with him now?"
"...Zenki-sama, Onii-sama's acting strange. He seems more determined than ever to try and get between you and Rias-sama."
"Yeah, I also heard about that from Grayfia-san the other day. I've been attempting to speak with Rias-chan, but she had to go meet her parents, but I believe she returns tonight from her little trip, so I'll be speaking with her then."
"That's good Zenki-sama. But, I have to warn you, Onii-sama seems to be intent on not backing down. I don't even know what he might try and do. He might even challenge you to become Rias-sama's husband instead of you in the event that you do decide to get married."
Seeing Ravel's worried face, he believed he understood what was going on deep within her fight now.
"Ravel-chan, you're worried about Riser, aren't you?"
Trying to get to the problem quickly, he said that, with Ravel agreeing.
"He's a prideful idiot sometimes. But he's still my Onii-sama. Onii-sama says he's been training, but while I do feel like he's gotten a bit stronger, he thinks it will be enough to fight Zenki-sama and win...he doesn't realize that Zenki-sama also trains and right now, Onii-sama couldn't win..."
Zenki placed a hand on top of Ravel's head, calming the young woman as much as he could.
"Ravel-chan, I'm so sorry about this."
"No...Zenki-sama, it isn't your fault. It's Onii-sama being pushy and childish with wanting what others have. He's been like this for a long time now. But I didn't think that he'd go this far. It's almost as if someone has been feeding his ego..."
"Like Bedeze."
"Bedeze...as in Bedeze Abaddon? What could he be involved with when it comes to Onii-sama?"
Zenki didn't have an answer for her.
He wished that he did so he could ease her troubled heart.
"I heard from Grayfia-san that Riser and Bedeze have been hanging out a good amount of time. I also requested some info about it from Grayfia-san after she left, and apparently they've been meeting up for months now."
"But...why? Why would they even be hanging out? Bedeze-sama and Onii-sama run in different circles, right?"
Ravel didn't get it, she was trying to form any possible connection in her mind, and the only one she could think of was her elder brother Ruval due to him being someone that was a good player in the Rating Games, but even then it didn't make sense as to why Bedeze would take an interest in Riser all of a sudden.
Maybe not even all of a sudden.
Zenki placed a finger under his chin in a thinking position.
"Yes...I don't know either. Something's fishy with it. It feels as if Bedeze has some kind of reason beyond helping Riser...maybe we're just being overly cautious, but with recent events, we can't afford to be careless."
Ravel understood what Zenki was saying.
She also thought about what Riser was truly getting involved with.
"...Zenki-sama, if it comes down to Riser-nii-sama challenging you to a fight..."
"Do you not want me to take it? Because if it is for you Ravel-chan, I wouldn't do it. I don't like the idea of you having to be split down the middle for myself and your Onii-sama. I want to end this as peacefully as I can, for your sake, and for the sake of Rias-chan as well."
Those words caused her to feel at ease within her heart.
She was glad that he was more reasonable than Riser was.
Zenki didn't care about any rivalry or any kind of animosity they had, all he cared about was Ravel and Rias' well being.
Ravel gave a humbling smile.
"I thought that as we got older, Onii-sama would give up this childish fantasy. But he seems more determined than ever before. I don't want anything bad to happen to Onii-sama, but I also don't want Onii-sama to continue doing these things. It only will eventually set Onii-sama up for a fall so big that it might crush him...so Zenki-sama, if it does come down to a fight, please make sure that Onii-sama understands humility. I don't want Onii-sama to continue being arrogant as he is, and if it comes from you, then he could be humbled. Onii-sama views Zenki-sama as a rival, in love and power from what I can gather. If his so-called 'rival' shows him these things, then maybe he'll begin growing as a stronger, emotionally speaking, person."
Hearing the plea of Ravel, Zenki couldn't deny her, and ended up gently petting the top of her head.
"Ravel-chan...it seems that you've been thinking a lot about this."
"Of course...I'd also think about these things due to wanting everyone to be able to move forward."
Zenki pulled closer, and lightly kissed her on the cheek, causing Ravel to blush lightly.
"I'll do anything I can Ravel-chan, if you're alright with it."
"Yes...if it is from Zenki-sama, then I know you can do it. I don't want Onii-sama hurt of course...but if it is to make Onii-sama a better person...I can't believe I'm saying this, but please fight Onii-sama and make sure he understands his actions have consequences."
Zenki nodded at the young woman who leaned up, and hugged Zenki around his neck.
He could feel that she was shaking, so he wrapped his arms around her comfortingly.
"It really has been something weighing on your mind, hasn't it Ravel-chan?" She nodded without saying anything. "As your King, it's my responsibility to make all of my peerage members happy, and seeing one of my peerage members unhappy, makes me feel sad. So, allow me to take your sadness away Ravel-chan, I'll do my best to return Riser to you in the best condition I can give him mentally, alright?"
"Yes, thank you Zenki-sama. You don't know how much this means to me..."
Ravel gave a cute shy expression as she moved closer. Without even thinking, her lips met with Zenki's own in an affectionate manner. Zenki responded quickly by kissing her back, with their lips entangling one another's.
As their kiss deepened, Ravel became more bold, allowing her top to be unbutton, revealing her decently sized chest. Taking Zenki's hand, she placed it on her breast, allowing him to as he likes with them.
"Ravel-chan, what happened to scheduling time like this in?"
He teased as he briefly broke their kiss, returning to kiss her.
Ravel didn't seem to care, and continued taking off her shirt until it was fully off. She then lightly ran her hand down to her skirt, beginning to take it off, while Zenki gently squeezed Ravel's breast, the cute blonde moaning deeply into Zenki's mouth.
Zenki thought that she was rather adorable to do something like that.
He then placed a hand behind Ravel, lowering down towards her butt, something Ravel blushed at even more, as he flipped their positions so she was laying on the bed, breasts showing, and her now undone skirt half way down her legs, revealing her frilly panties.
With a hot flush on her cheeks, Ravel breathed unevenly.
"Z-Zenki-sama...i-if you wanted to...t-then we could also h-have s-sex r-right now..."
Ravel gushed when she said that, Zenki was surprised by her boldness.
But then he simply leaned down and caught her lips a single time, Ravel smiling into their kiss…
But then the door opened, revealing Asia who looked on curiously.
Ravel put her head down on the bed, while Asia's cute face burned red.
"Z-Zenki-san! A-Are you doing things with Ravel-san right now?!"
"Eh, yeah I suppose that we are~"
Asia looked down at her outfit, and quickly began taking it off.
"T-Then please include me Zenki-san!"
Ravel showed a soft hearted smile.
"Seems like next time, I'll have to lock the door with a strong barrier." Breathing out slow, Ravel leaned up and saw Asia becoming fully naked, going towards Zenki, and hugged onto him tightly. "But, if it is now, then we could still have fun, Zenki-sama. Please play with both of us~"
"Y-Yes, please Zenki-san, with Ravel-san and myself~"
Zenki showed a light smile, hugging both Ravel and Asia to his body.
"Alright then, we can play together~"
""Yes!""
Asia and Ravel cheered, and allowed Zenki to play with their breasts for a good while. Though Ravel was disheartened about not being alone, she was alright with Zenki playing with both her, and Asia in the end, it made her forget her worries about Riser for a little while.
Walking towards his lounge late at night, Zenki thought about how to approach the situation with Rias, knowing that she had returned from the time with her parents.
Over the past few years, they had been growing closer, they had been able to spend time learning more about one another, they even felt comfortable enough to have a bath together while naked.
Though their feelings were quite clear, the commitment of marriage was something they both had thought about, and not expressed to one another, due to a number of different reasons. But now they had to decide what they were going to do.
Quickly running a hand through his green hair, Zenki went to approach Rias when she was alone.
He found the young woman casually reading a book with some glasses on.
"Rias-chan, it's rare to see you in glasses."
Rias raised her head, giving off a light smile.
"They help me focus my mind."
"Is there something you're thinking about?"
Rias pursed her lips.
"Nothing in particular. But you know, my parents were acting strange."
Zenki raised an eyebrow.
"Strange how?"
"Well…" She began, looking slightly perplexed. "...honestly, they kept asking about our current relationship, and speaking about if we had children and what we were planning to do next. I was surprised that my parents seemed to care so much about it all of a sudden. When I asked about it, all they said was that we should speak."
"Then Rias-chan, do you have a minute? Well, several minutes I guess. We could talk now."
Rias saw the serious look on his face, so she patted the side of her.
"Please, sit down."
Zenki did as she asked, sitting down nearby her.
She then turned towards him, with a wondering expression on her face, so he began.
"Recently, the Underworld seemingly are growing impatient with our hesitation of marrying one another. It seems that we can't put it off anymore. Even Grayfia-san came around to explain about it. Apparently Riser is also rallying up support with the Old Devils, and wishing for us to make a decision. It seems that your parents also are aware of it, so they asked those kind of questions to you. I've also been receiving some from various people in the Underworld."
Rias exhaled slowly, showing an emotionally charged face that was neither a smile or a frown.
"We've been engaged for a few years now, it's been quite the time. The fact that they wish for us to make this decision now, means we can no longer dismiss the discussion about it between us."
Zenki slowly nods.
"I know you wished to wait until you graduated from high school before we truly spoke about this, but with the Old Devils being so forceful, there are a number of Devil families attempting to take advantage of our hesitation to move forward, including Riser himself, and I've seen that a number of requests, for both yourself, and myself, are being sent through already. I contacted my Tou-chan about it, seems like they've been holding back on it for a while, knowing the situations we've found ourselves in as of late."
Rias threw her head backwards, a small soft smile coming to her face.
"It isn't like I haven't thought about it before, Zenki. I always wondered what it would be like to be your wife."
"I see, and what kind of decision did you make?"
Rias let out a small simple laugh.
"At the beginning, I'll tell you truthfully that I wasn't sure. Of course I always considered you a close friend to me, and valued your opinions, but I didn't know if I loved you as a husband, or I loved you as a close friend to me. As we've grown together, I've come to appreciate the kindness you have for your peerage and for others. I also am glad that you keep doing your best, no matter what happens. For people such as Yumi, and her trapped friends. It's been years, yet you've never given up, not even a single time. Even for Ingvild-san, even though she's sleeping, I see you visit her everyday, sit by her bedside, play her music, and speak to her as if she's awake, it's really wonderful to see such a thing."
Zenki's face curled upwards.
But then it turned downwards ever so slightly.
He knew that this was it, so he had to speak what was inside of his heart.
"Like you, I also didn't know my true feelings for you. Of course, I liked you, you were and still are a great friend for me to converse with. I also think about marriage, and wonder if I'd be a good husband. I recall my Kaa-chan and Tou-chan's relationship, and seeing how they interacted, they truly had this weird dynamic, but it worked for them...however, she died, and seeing what my Tou-chan went through, and still goes through... As you know about me, I think about things from every angle I could, including our marriage...and those thoughts of losing someone enters my mind...losing my wife like Tou-chan did...I know that possibility is low, and gets lower as I grow stronger, but my Tou-chan was amazingly powerful and he still...lost her. So yeah...I guess that's why I held off on speaking about it. But...I can't anymore, and I think...it's alright, if I speak honestly, we can move forward, right?"
Rias believed she understood the reason now.
It wasn't because he didn't like her or anyone, he was someone that couldn't help but think of those negative things as he was someone that looked from all possible angles.
Rias placed a hand over his own, offering a beautiful smile towards him.
"Zenki...thank you for being honest. Hearing what you said, I understand now. Losing your Kaa-chan at such a young age, seeing how your Tou-chan dealt with it, when you're similar, you couldn't help but draw parallels between you both, plus with this threat that seems to want to either kill or recruit you, and doesn't care about harming those you love, I get it..." Rias inhaled slowly, showcasing her resolve. "So, if you're going to be truthful, I'll also be truthful. Zenki...I am jealous of Asia."
Zenki was quite surprised Rias had said that.
"Of Asia-chan? But why?"
Rias placed her feet on the couch, so she had her knees to her chest, leaning her head on them.
"Her relationship with you. I just see how easy it is for Asia to speak her feelings about you, and vice versa, seeing the small gestures of holding one another's hands, seeing how she cuddles against you, seeing her being completely relaxed...yes, those things are something's I can be jealous of. But at the same time, she is a girl I consider my Imouto as well. She might not be apart of my peerage, but she's someone I do genuinely care about, and love. So, seeing Asia being so happy...then the thought of bringing our marriage up, I know she's always wanted to marry you, Zenki. I don't want to take that away from Asia."
"Rias-chan..."
Trying to connect with her, Zenki began.
But Rias shook her head, cutting him off.
"I just...maybe I'm being silly, but I got jealous of that fact. I also know that Zenki fell in love with Asia along time before we even got engaged. Our engagement was something we had to do to starve off the other Devils that wished to marry us. So, I wasn't sure..."
Zenki, understanding Rias' feelings, placed a hand on her head, and gently petted. Rias felt her face flushing at the touch of his hand, along with the kind and adoring eyes that he was giving her at that moment in time.
"You wasn't sure, I wanted to be with you, is that right Rias-chan?"
Rias let out a small laugh, though Zenki could see that she was attempting to conceal her inner sadness. It seemed to be something Rias had been wrestling with for a while, even Zenki had thoughts about what she was speaking about at that moment in time.
"See? Aren't I silly for thinking-"
"Rias-chan, don't say you're silly. It's true...I do love Asia-chan, I have...since I was a child. When I first saw her, she took my breath away, I wasn't able to think much beyond her when I first saw her. I rationalized my thoughts of protecting her, because I wanted to get to know her. But I knew it was wrong, so I tried to fight off those feelings, and keep distance between us. In the end...well you know what happened."
Rias shook her head at what he said, and gently embraced him. His head landed on her breasts, and her fingers smoothly went through his green hair.
"Asia's so happy being under you, Zenki. It's true that I didn't meet her when she was a nun, but she has fun everyday. She loves being in your group."
"Yes...I am glad that I get to be with Asia-chan now, she's brought much happiness into my life, and I hope I've also made her happy." Zenki lifted his head towards Rias, and showed a smile. "But Rias-chan, this isn't about Asia-chan right now. This is about you and I."
Rias felt her face turning redder at the way he looked at her. His hand slid into her own hand, and held onto it while peering into her eyes. The heat of the situation caused Rias to feel more flushed than she was before.
"Zenki..."
"Rias-chan...no, Rias." Rias blushed even more that he just referred to her without any suffixes, it signified a deep closeness. "I know the Old Devils are pushing for this...but screw them."
"Screw them, huh?"
Rias said with a playful smile, but he looked serious.
"Yes, screw what they want. This is about what you and I want Rias. If they don't like it and try to place us in other engagements, I will...eeh...I'll go and knock Zekram Bael out, I'm sure Sairaorg-kun would be all for it as well considering what kind of man Zekram Bael is."
Rias let out a little giggle.
"Maybe so...so, whatever I decide, it will be fine?"
"Yes."
"Even if I decide that I didn't want to marry you?"
"Yes, that's right. I wouldn't force anyone to marry me if they didn't love me, and I'm sure you're the same."
Rias began shedding tears to Zenki's astonishment.
He went to speak, when she pulled in closer.
"Can I be selfish this once, and say I want to marry you?"
"Rias..."
"I do...I do Zenki, I want to be your wife. But..."
"But?"
Rias stuck out her tongue as she smiled humbly.
"Condition is, you officially ask Asia to marry you first. She fell in love with you first, she has the right to go before me. But after her, you can ask me officially, if that's...that's what you want."
Hearing that, he was surprised at first.
But then remembering what she had said before about Asia, it did make sense.
Clutching her hands, he continued to smile, feeling his face reddening up at the kind stare Rias was giving.
"Rias...I understand. Rias, I also...I do really care about you, I do feel romantic emotions for you...it's difficult for me to understand romance, I can build a damn robot that can sing and dance, and destroy things, but when it comes to romance, I'm kind of an idiot. I get that from my Tou-chan, Kaa-chan always said that he was a dunce in romance, and that it was her that took the lead when it came to their relationship. He made things that could resurrect the dead, but he couldn't fathom his feelings, that's what she said to me as a kid."
Rias let out a cute laugh.
"Well, I think you're a bit better than that, Zenki. Like right now, recognizing that simple fact it's something of a mystery to you."
"Yeah...maybe I got a bit of my Kaa-chan in me after all. Because Rias, I also...I also want to marry you."
Rias couldn't contain the happiness she felt.
It was so overpowering that she ended up hugging Zenki tightly, while shedding tears.
Zenki tilted her head up, as Rias smiled up at him.
He then leaned down, and caught her lips with her own.
Rias melted into the kiss between them. Her arms continued to stay around him, while his hands supported her from behind. One hand on her lower back, the other hand running itself through her long red hair.
Rias didn't want the kiss to end.
She had thought about it before, but now she was able to do such a thing like this…
She loved it.
Zenki also couldn't contain the smile on his face as they continued to kiss.
When they broke apart a minute later, Rias collapsed into his chest, as his arm went around her, his other hand gently brushed her face.
"Zenki...my adorable Zenki. This means, we're going to be telling the Underworld. We're really doing this."
"Right, we're doing this."
"Then...you best ask Asia to marry you soon. We'll have to plan the wedding of course, but we can keep the fact that you haven't officially asked me a secret, okay? We'll tell the Underworld that we've agreed to get married, but I want you ask me privately, okay? Something romantic, something beautiful. I'm sure it will be something amazing, Zenki."
"I understand Rias, I'll definitely ask you when I've asked Asia-chan. Now I'll just have to figure out how to ask her..."
"It doesn't have to be right away, weddings take time to plan after all. Even the Underworld will be alright with that."
"Yes, you're right. Thanks Rias, it means a lot to me...and I'm sure Asia-chan would say the same."
Rias shook her head while continuing to smile.
"She loved you first and you loved her first, it's her right to be the first to get married to you, I don't mind being the second in this. Though it doesn't mean that I can't flirt with my new future husband~"
"R-Rias..."
Rias let out a cute laugh, and overlapped her lips with his, and embraced each other on the couch.
Hovering above the young man, her long red hair fell against his face, and her smile grew bigger.
"Zenki, I'll take care of you, if you take care of me. Promise me that, and I'll continue to love you always."
Wrapping his arms around her, the young woman's body fell against his. Her large chest pushed against his own chest, her face neared his own.
"Yes, I'll always take care of you Rias. Anything that ever tries to harm you, and I'll protect you."
Rias shed some happy tears, fully embracing Zenki as they laid down together.
"Then, I'm content, my Zenki."
Their lips naturally came together once more, in a loving embrace.
Though they weren't sure of the future, they were sure of their feelings, and had decided that someday, Zenki would marry her, for right now, they had agreed to the marriage and would be telling the Underworld soon.
For now though, they would continue to embrace one another.
End chapter!
So, Rias and Zenki had a romantic moment this chapter, getting over their thoughts about a number of things, explaining more about why they hadn't had conversations before, so in a way, Riser helped them put that stuff aside and allowed them to become even closer, with Zenki agreeing to properly propose to Rias after he's done so with Asia. Ravel also got quite a bit of high light this chapter, with her dealing with her brother, hypothesizing about Riser's recent behaviour, and what's been going on with him, Riser seemed to also take an interest in Isane, though she dismissed him pretty quickly. Isane also got closer with Zenki, having a bath with him, and her learning more about demonic power. Le Fay and Zenki also got close with him telling her the secrets behind Reverse among other things. Midgardsormr also made an appearance, though as he is, seems like he wouldn't agree to join Zenki in his Artificial Longinus, so he's out, but Zenki's got some other options.
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Zenki's Peerage.
Queen; Vali.
Bishops; Asia, Ingvild (mutation).
Rooks; Koneko, Xenovia.
Knights; Arthur, Yumi.
Pawns; Ravel (2 pieces), Kuroka (3 pieces), Le Fay (2 pieces), Elmenhilde (1 piece).
Zenki; Asia, Koneko, Ravel, Kuroka, Vali (fem), Serafall, Kunou, Le Fay, Xenovia, Yumi, Rias, Isane, Akeno, Irina, Rossweisse, Ingvild, Ophis, Elmenhilde.
