Welcome to the next chapter.
darkjason78; Thanks for the votes.
Valtryek sama; Thanks for the votes. Yeah, it doesn't matter the design, shape, size of a blade, Akira's accustomed to fighting with any type of sword. There was one main plot thread last chapter, the Kuroka/Augusta, the rest like the Vampire bit at the end was a tease for this chapter, and the Iryuka part was a mere acknowledgement that it was happening, as they said they've not decided anything yet, and how that's going to be brought up later on in the story. Augusta will do so when the times right, but with some twists. Yeah, maybe one day he can draw out the holy power of it. Glad you liked it. Thanks for the vote about Yumi.
shephawk; Thanks for the votes. Yeah, Akira will make sure her Sacred Gears safe to use with Azazel's help. Lavinia could do yeah. Yeah, that would be an interesting plot point to do, thanks for the suggestions!
Davidab931; Thanks for the suggestion.
Darkwubs; Thanks for the vote. Thanks, glad you liked it. His name shall be given when the time comes. Yeah, the fights will come as we get towards that part of the story. Perhaps they'll see some Vampires while there. Maybe Riser will see that yeah.
OechsnerC; Thanks very much!
Benny Farr; Thanks for the vote.
batmanuchiha; Thanks for the vote.
Morregen; Thanks! Yeah, Akira managed to help save Kuroka, and is making sure that she'll be treated fairly. Walburga shall be appearing pretty soon~ Glad you liked it, thought it would be cool if he used shadows like that~
wellingtonlucas282; Thanks! Akira learned about Augusta's flames from Lavinia, so he already had knowledge about Incinerate Anthem before they met.
Crimson green flame; Thanks! Thanks for the vote.
ItsDannyz; Thanks for the vote.
ShadowUzumaki55; Yeah, quite the fight huh~? Kuroka did yeah, Augusta simply wont give up. Yeah, right now Akira and Iryuka are going to wait to see if they're compatible then go from there. Glad you liked that part. Thanks for the vote.
Guest 1; Thanks for voting.
Silver crow; Thanks. Yeah, he managed to fight off Augusta long enough for Lavinia to arrive. Kuroka will be cleared quite soon. Yeah, we'll be seeing Valerie fully this chapter. David and Akira will clash. Yeah, that's apart of the misconception about Akira and how the Devils view him currently. Thanks for votes. Kuroka showed her stuff. Akeno seems to be quite excited huh. It wasn't Satanael who contacted Diodora and Zephyrdor, it was someone else. He did yeah, seems like he really wishes Ravel to be in the group. Yeah, Ravel got quite the scare when it came to those like Kuroka coming around. Riser did yeah. Kuroka was intrigued by Akira yeah. Lavinia did yeah, they managed to wound Augusta a good deal. Kuroka saw his good nature, and decided to take a chance on that. Lint will gain it eventually. Yeah, they could appear on Serafall's show. Suzaku will appear soon enough. Thanks for the harem suggestions. The girls will have all the space they'd need. Roygun eventually will do. David and Akira clash this chapter, we'll see what becomes of him in the future. Yeah, he surely is, seems like he's gaining a reputation for himself.
Godofwar01; Lint will eventually get it yeah. Yeah, they'd be cool story ideas to do.
Shadow55; Thanks, yeah I'd like to do stories for those series.
Guest 2; Thanks for voting. Yeah, it would be quite the match between them~
Guest 3; That would be an interesting story to do, and dynamic to explore.
Guest 4; Valerie could be yeah. That would be cool if Akira was. I'm sure Akeno would love that series~
Guest 5; Thanks for voting.
Neonlight01; Thanks for the vote.
Guest 6; Thanks for voting.
Guest 7; Yeah, when Akira was younger he did live in Kuoh. He could have met Isane during that time. Yeah, Isane could be quite like that. Thanks for the suggestions.
Guest 8; Thanks for the vote.
Acehardlight; Thanks for voting.
Blackblaze; Yeah, they could do.
Guest 9; Elmen could do that yeah.
Guest 10; Irina doing that would be pretty funny.
Guest 11; Yeah, those three could be apart of that group that goes after Excalibur. Yeah, I could see Akira being quite like that.
Waifu man; Yeah, that would be an interesting way for them to meet one another. I could see Irina being like that yeah.
Akeno fan; Thanks for the votes. David is pretty strong, we'll see how a fight between them goes this chapter.
Guest 12; Thanks for the votes.
Guest 13; Thanks for voting. He'll gain abilities and powers as the story goes on. Maybe Suzaku could do.
Guest 14; She could be yeah.
With those reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter.
Meeting the Vampires
Standing in a large hall, Akira was dressed head to toe in what would be considered royal garments. He wasn't really used to such things, since for most of his life, he lived in a relatively normal area, or when he was on the run didn't have access to such luxurious clothing.
Today was the day that he was receiving his Evil Pieces.
His eyes glanced back, and saw several people against Akira gaining Evil Pieces, but they were being taken away by security.
"Don't worry about them, Akira."
Diehauser spoke up, Akira shook his head.
"I'm not worried about them, they can think as they like, I don't really mind either way."
Diehauser was glad about that, and bowed his head.
"Then, let us go inside."
Diehauser stood beside him, as they entered the large hall.
He didn't expect many to turn up for him, but he was surprised when he saw that a good few people had in fact turned up.
He saw Rias, her family. Sona, her family. Seekvaira, her family. Latia, her family. Iryuka, her family. Sairaorg, his family. Ravel, her family, along with Rossweisse, Koneko, Akeno, Elmenhilde, Lavinia with Canis in her arms, and Vali, who had been invited, and finally the Maou's themselves, with Serafall happily waving and calling "Aki-chan, I'm here!" with Akira awkwardly waving back towards her.
Azazel wished he could have come, but with situations between the Factions still rather hard, he would be able to watch it later as Akira saw it was being recorded.
Even Riser had turned up together with his family, and though he was still on the fence, he did remember that Akira came for Ravel immediately when she was in danger, and protected her.
"..."
He was surprised, but happy that so many people could attend the ceremony.
What's more, he even saw a young woman with cherry blossom coloured hair, and horns coming out of her head, he knew this woman to be Roygun.
"I didn't think she'd turn up, Uncle."
Diehauser looks towards Roygun, who gives a small wave.
"Yes, I also was surprised. Anyway, it's time to go and get your Evil Pieces."
Akira stepped forward together with Diehauser, walking through the hallway together.
Each side having people he knew, and people he cared for, it felt rather perfect in his eyes.
"I wish Mom and Dad could have been here, to see this."
Akira whispered to himself, but Diehauser caught it, and softly smiled.
"I'm sure they would have been proud of what you've achieved and will achieve."
Akira nods with a fond smile.
"I'm sure they would have been yeah."
Akira continues forward, and reaches the area where Ajuka is stood.
"Well, it seems the day has finally come. I can't wait to see how your power influences these Evil Pieces."
Ajuka seemed excited.
But then Serafall came down, and hugged Akira tightly, while the others watched on with befuddled eyes.
"Aki-chan, don't worry, I'll support you~ Even if Gabriel got in my way, I would have still come for you Aki-chan!"
Akira smiled out "Thank you." as Serafall took his hand, and swayed their connected hands up and down.
Sona looked embarrassed while Rias laughed "It seems that she's rather energetic today." Sona sighed, and wished Serafall would calm down.
But Ajuka then smiled, and said "Please follow everything I say, and this shall be done quickly." to which Akira agreed with happily enough.
Then the ceremony began, it didn't take that long since Ajuka was doing it. Going through the usual encouraging words, Akira performed each task as quickly as possible.
Then a large magical stone came down from the ceiling, Akira knew that it would register him as the King, so he placed his hand onto it, and left an imprint on said stone, before it vanished.
"And that's it, you've been registered as a King."
"Thank you, Ajuka-sama."
Akira smiled, as Serafall pulled out a beautifully decorated box, which seemed to be in the theme of a magical girl.
"Aki-chan, they wouldn't let me become your fiancée right away even though I said I'd send Gabriel after them." Akira sweat dropped at that. "So I settled with doing this. But don't you worry, I'll marry you Aki-chan~"
Akira gave bemused eyes, as he took the box, he didn't really care what it looked like, since it came from Serafall it meant a lot.
"Thank you Serafall-san, I really like it."
Serafall beamed, as she hugged Akira tightly.
The ceremony soon finished, and the after party began, with Akira being congratulated by a good number of people. Ravel spoke first, and said "I'm glad you got them Akira-sama, I'll tell you my answer very soon!" with her parents being aware, and simply nod their head, offering their congratulations towards the young man as well.
Riser didn't say anything, but he didn't say anything negative, which most thought was a positive.
Rias walks past Riser who glances at her, before she turns her head.
"What a joyous day, and we'll be going to Europe soon, are you excited?"
"Yes, I can't wait to go and see what's there~"
Rias lets out a cute giggle, as Akeno comes over.
"Ara, Rias has been talking about it for a good long while now, she can't help but be so excited~ Especially since you're both King's now, which I'm glad for you Akira-kun~"
Akira holds a bemused look as Rias' face turns a tinge of red, before excusing herself.
Akeno does the same thing, and giggles after Rias.
Iryuka sees her chance, and came over, looking over Akira.
"My fiancée, it seems that with your Evil Pieces, you'll have to gain a good deal of strong people."
Akira gave a small smile.
"Yes, I've been thinking about a good few people that could become apart of my peerage. I've asked Ravel-chan and she said she'd tell me pretty soon."
"Ravel...yes, she would be good. Though if she does, I'm sure you'll take care of her."
"I'll make sure Ravel-chan gets the best experience being in my peerage."
Iryuka bows a single time, and leaves, as Latia comes over.
"Well, well, well, it seems that the Old Devils finally have stopped being a nuisance."
"For the time being."
Akira laughed out, with Latia nodding.
"Yes, for the time being. Anyway, I'm glad that they saw sense, I am sure you'll do wonders with those Evil Pieces."
"Thank you, Latia-san, I'll do my best."
Akira bows his head as does Latia, leaving to go and speak with some others.
Akira continued through the hall, speaking to Sairaorg, and they both expressed a desire to fight one another one day with their peerages.
He also met up with Vali who murmured "So you've got a group, can't wait to see its power." while Lavinia claps her hands.
"It's so good that we got to come today, I wouldn't miss this for the world~"
"I'm glad you were here, Lavinia-san, it seems Canis is excited."
"Speaking of, I've thought of some names...but, I haven't made up my mind, Canis doesn't mind though, he's happy enough to wait, aren't you~?"
Lavinia lightly kisses the top of the dogs head, which lets out a bark.
"Yes, he seems happy on waiting~"
Lavinia throws a peace sign, as Vali sighs and walks off, with Lavinia following after exchanging a hug with Akira himself.
Rossweisse also comes over, and folds her arms.
"To think that the boy that saved me all that time ago, now has become a King as well."
"I know, quite the whirlwind huh?"
Rossweisse nods.
"I'll say. I'm sure that you'll do great things with them, give those people that need a home, a good one with you."
"Thank you Rossweisse-san, I'll do my best to help anyone I can."
"I'm sure you will."
Akira softly smiles as she bows and walks off to speak with others.
Sona then approaches, her eyes going towards him in an apologetic manner.
"I'm sorry about Onee-sama, she can be quite forward."
"Ooh, no I don't mind at all~ Don't worry about it~"
Sona gained a more relaxed face.
"I see, then I wish to offer my own congratulations to you as well."
Akira humbly bowed his head.
"Thank you, Sona-san."
Sona waved her hand, and saw Serafall coming, so she bowed as well.
"I have to go! Goodbye!"
Sona ran as Serafall approached.
"Sona-chan! Come here, we have to talk about us wedding Aki-chan together!"
"No, please leave me alone!"
"Sona-chan!"
Serafall gave chase, while Akira watched in amusement.
But then Seekvaira pulls closer, and folds her arms.
"Never a dull moment between them."
Akira laughed.
"You can say that again."
Seekvaira's eyes go towards Akira, and she bows.
"Congratulations on gaining those Evil Pieces."
"Aha, thank you Seekvaira-san."
Seekvaira nods sharply.
"Whatever you do, make sure the decisions are what you think is best."
"Thanks, I'll do my best Seekvaira-san."
Seekvaira nods once more, before leaving to mingle with the others.
More and more people congratulate him, including the Maou's themselves.
But then the person he didn't expect to show up, Roygun herself walks over.
"So, this is the half breed boy. I have to say, you are pretty cute~"
Akira looked as Roygun sent a wink his way.
"T-That's very kind of you..."
"I just called it as I see it. I had been wondering what all this fuss was about, but seeing you up close, it seems that I might have to keep an eye on you." Roygun moves closer, and peers into his eyes. "By the way, I know you've got your Uncle as the Number One, but if you ever need any tips on the Rating Game, I wouldn't mind if you asked me~ I love Rating Games, so passing on such knowledge would be fine for me."
"Y-Yes, that would be great, thank you Roygun-san!"
"Not a problem. Also, nice party~ I'll see you later~"
Roygun happily walks off, leaving Akira to speak with others coming in.
Towards the end, Diehauser came over, and looks towards Akira with wonder.
"Akira, how're you feeling now?"
Akira looks at the box within his hand, then towards his Uncle.
"It's been a long time coming, but I'm glad I finally received them. I'll be able to help a good deal of people now."
"Yes, I'm sure you will."
"Also Uncle, if you don't mind, one day, I'd love to have a real Rating Game between our peerages."
Diehauser gained a soft smile for his nephew, patting his head several times.
"Of course, it would be my honour to have a Rating Game between our groups. I can't wait."
Akira continues to smile, as he peers at his Evil Pieces.
He was happy, over the moon in fact that he finally got his Evil Pieces, and he couldn't wait to begin building his group.
A few days later Akira sat down on the couches within the living room, still going over the different peerage potentials that he had.
As he thought about it, while sat on the couch within the living room, he saw his Longinus and Koneko squaring up to one another.
Elmenhilde sat on the couch and watched with intrigue.
"They really are like cats and dogs, aren't they? Each time they're together, it seems that they want to have a fight with one another."
Elmenhilde mused, so Akira walked closer, and bent down to both of them.
He petted both of their heads.
"Shouldn't we be friends? Koneko-chan? Canis?"
Koneko crinkled her brow, as did the black dog, Akira gave a playful laugh as the door opened.
Stepping inside, was Ravel herself.
She walked closer, and sat before Akira himself, who also sat down. Elmenhilde on one side, the black dog on the other, Koneko looked at the dog, who raised his head towards Koneko who furrowed her brows right back, before moving and sitting on Akira's thighs.
Initial shock came to Akira that she did that, but she seemed shy so he didn't comment beyond a slight tease "I hope my thighs are good for you Koneko-chan." which in turn made the young girl blush lightly, as Akira turned towards Ravel.
"Ravel-san, what a surprise."
"Aah, yes. I'm sorry for coming by unannounced, but I wished to get something off of my chest."
"You love Sairaorg-san and want to marry him?"
Koneko asked with a straight face, Ravel began nodding.
"Yes that's exactly..." Ravel paused, and huffed. "No! I don't!" Koneko turned away with a small smile. "It's about that offer Akira-sama, about us becoming partners, and me joining your group. Akira-sama, your offer, if it is still applicable after you receive your Evil Pieces, then I would like to join your group."
Akira gave a relieved smile, while Koneko and Elmenhilde watch on with semi bewilderment.
"Thank you, you have such kind words. So, if that's your choice, then I'll have to converse with your parents of course, could you help me find a time that would suit them as well please?"
Ravel nods her head.
"Yes of course, I have already set a time if you'd like? It is for one in the afternoon."
"That would be great, thank you Ravel-san. I can make that. Though around three, Rias-chan and Akeno-san invited me to go on a little trip to Europe with them."
Akira smiles, remembering how they did offer him to go, and though he did wish for the others to come, they chose not to go, either being busy in Ravel's case, Elmenhilde not wanting to go back to Europe due to what happened with the Vampires, and finally Koneko was going through a few lessons that Diehauser had set up to help give her more education something Akira was pleased with since she didn't really get the chance before and she was pretty keen as well.
While that was going on, Elmenhilde looks on.
Seeing how Ravel had been offered, she looked at Akira with cute eyes.
"Akira-kun, would you want me in your group?"
Akira's surprised eyes turn towards Elmenhilde.
"I thought you might not want to be a Devil. Because you're proud of your Vampire heritage."
Elmenhilde blinked several times, fixing her gaze upon him.
"W-Well, it would be a change, but I've been through a lot of change recently. If it is by your side Akira-kun, then I think it would be a good deal. I'd follow you wherever, because you are the reason I'm still alive, and get to have these choices."
"If you'd like to join me, I'd like it as well. I was going to ask you now that I've received my Evil Pieces, but now is as good of a time than any to ask you."
Elmenhilde gave shy eyes, trying to hide it with a tough demeanour.
"I-It is something that I might do, if that's something that you think would be good...ahem, yes, I think I might join your group...I haven't decided one way or the other yet, there's plenty of time for me to find my own path to your group I suppose..."
Elmenhilde seemed to be on the fence, while Akira could feel that she was seemingly rather happy.
Koneko looked on, seeing Elmenhilde and Ravel both looking rather determined.
She then pulled on Akira's shirt.
"Koneko-chan?"
"...You could ask me, I might say yes."
It was a cute way to say it, but it was also surprising that Koneko would want it.
"Even you Koneko-chan?"
Koneko nods, as she looks towards his eyes, and sees a gentle spirit within. How he had gone the extra mile for her, and wished to help her as well.
"...You are kind and gentle, I like being around you Akira-san. Everyday, I experience new things...I would be happy...to be with you Akira-san. Even if Onee-sama...speaking of Onee-sama..."
"Aah, that's really sweet Koneko-chan, I'd be honoured if you joined my group. And yeah, Kuroka-san, we've begun uncovering some evidence, and it does seem like he was trying some pretty dodgy stuff. We even found this weird lab that had all sorts of different experiments in it. Though they weren't living, it seems that before we got there, it had been raided. We also found out some of his plans from research and where Kuroka-san directed us, he was intending to experiment on you and her."
"...So, Onee-sama, did do it to protect me?"
"It seems so."
Koneko lowered her brows.
"...Onee-sama, I wonder how she felt during all of this..."
Koneko contemplated, while Akira continued on.
"With this evidence, there's a very real chance that very soon she'll be released, I spoke with her last night, and she seems quite happy with everything, she's being treated well where she is, and has asked to come here when she's aloud out."
"You said when Akira-sama? So, it is a sure thing?"
Ravel questioned, Akira nods.
"We believe so, even the Old Devils can't deny it, the evidence she's shown us, there's no way it could have come from her, like if she planted it to cover herself, there's things that Kuroka-san couldn't replicate of his, like his DNA, among other things."
"...I see, so when she's released, she'll come here..."
Koneko murmured, Akira nods.
"Yes, how do you feel about it?"
Koneko nods slowly, cuddling up to Akira.
"...If you're here too Akira-san...then I'll be fine."
Koneko said it as she hugged him tightly.
Ravel and Elmenhilde looked on. Both thinking things like "She's got the loli thing down...we have to prepare." while also sharing a glance with one another, seeing Koneko being quite dangerous in her own special way.
A little later on, Akira found himself in the Grigori to visit Vali. Though he found Vali to be training hard, so he didn't disturb her, but he was surprised when he found Lavinia, who was waving him over towards her.
So they went to have a drink together, Akira having some coffee.
"Since you received your Evil Pieces, it seems that you've had quite the busy time."
Akira nods, and continues.
"Yes, I've got a lot of things happening recently, I'm also searching for more peerage members, I haven't found a Queen yet. Since it is an important piece, I don't want to make any hasty decisions."
"Hmmm...well, it seems that maybe I'll have to join~"
Akira almost did a spit take.
"Y-You?"
"Hmm, not me?" Akira shakes his head, showing that he'd be perfectly happy with her. "Then maybe I'll think about it, I'd be a good choice, right? Maybe I could become your Queen, the Longinus' being at the head of the group, would be good~ Besides, I'd love to keep my eyes on you, and make sure you don't get into trouble hehe~"
She joked at the end, while Akira thought about the fact that he could have his Queen being Lavinia. He would be quite happy with her being his Queen, and it seemed that she looked rather eager to be his peerage member.
"So Lavinia-san, is something going on? You seem..." He looked over her outfit, and saw her strong eyes. "...ready for battle maybe?"
Lavinia looks down, before nodding and standing to twirl.
"Aah right, I am going to be confronting that old hag. I've found her location, so me, and some fellow magicians along with some agents of the Grigori are going to go and confront her."
Akira gave a concerned look, remembering the strength of the woman and how she would be able to use her powers against Lavinia herself.
"Are you going to be okay? I might be young, but I know a thing or two about fighting magicians as well. I can make their Magic Worthless for you."
"You're so sweet~ But don't worry, this is a thing that we magicians will have to deal with. Though if you don't mind, I do have a request."
"A request?"
She nods, and places her hand out towards him.
She ushered him, so he moved his hand and placed it on top of her own.
"Well, I don't know if I could ask you it or not, but I wouldn't mind if you and I got married~"
"Pft!" Akira did a spit take. "W-What?!"
She releases a small laugh.
"Kidding~ But I'm glad. So I can leave for a little while, and know one of my favourite people is okay~"
"F-Favorite people? Me?"
Lavinia nods, holding up a finger cutely.
"Yup! I have seen how kind and compassionate you are Akira-kun, that girl with the cat ears and tail, you went above and beyond for her, even Va-chan was telling me that you did everything you could for her and Elmen-chan as well."
Akira really did love hearing her speak so openly and casually, it was a cute combination.
Lavinia then takes out what looks like a rose made out of ice.
"What's this for?"
"Wedding present!" Akira face faults. "It's just a gift, for being a good boy, that's all~ I had my Absolute Demise-chan make it for me so don't worry about it melting or anything. Though maybe keep it out of the sun? I think that's probably the best thing to do."
Akira lightly laughs, taking the ice rose, and held it between his fingers.
"This is really lovely, thank you very much."
"Don't worry~ So, I should be off soon, I guess this is goodbye for now~"
Hearing her words, Akira still did have some worry for her.
He knew she was stronger than Augusta by a good deal, but some feeling deep inside worried for her.
"Then...please be careful. Remember, you still have to give a name to my Longinus so I hope to see you again soon, he's been waiting patiently for a name haha."
"Ooh yes, that's right. I've got some names, but I haven't narrowed them down yet to one. Give me sometime to think and I'll get back to you~"
Akira smiled softly, nodding in agreement.
"I'll be waiting~"
Lavinia showcased her gentle smile.
Akira felt worried for her.
But if she wasn't then he couldn't complain either.
Though...he hoped that she would be okay.
As they conversed Satanael looked on from a distance, his eyes going towards the pair of them. Their Longinus', and towards Akira himself. Because he was young...Satanael, thought it would be the best time to make a move now.
When Akira returned to the Underworld, he met up with Ravel, and went towards the Phenex Estate. When seeing her parents, the pair of them sat down before them, while Riser was in the background, watching on.
"Thank you for meeting with me, Lord and Lady Phenex."
Lady Phenex waved her hand, as Lord Phenex nods, and moves closer.
"I'm sure you're also curious about how we're feeling. To tell the truth, when Ravel first mentioned it, I was a bit skeptical. I'm sure you're aware of how others feel about you." Akira nods his head. "However, my wife and I haven't taken to such harsh views of you, simply because we didn't know anything about you. So, we decided to investigate you ourselves, and learn more from people that aren't bias towards or against you."
"I see, then I'm glad you thought about it that way."
Akira was indeed glad, he was used to people either judging him immediately to be a bad person in the Underworld due to being a Devil that has someone from the Churches blood within him, but it seems that for their daughter, they had decided to look into Akira all their own and see what kind of person he was.
"Yes, we have become aware of your recent exploits, like helping out the Nekomata girl, and also managing to fight off a man named Vasco Strada. His power, even has reached my ears, which is no easy feat."
"Haha, yeah, Strada-san is someone that...well, his reasons for allowing us to live, there's some thoughts I've got about it, but I wouldn't know without asking the man himself."
"Yes, I understand. I am also happy that you said that, it shows your humble side and acknowledgement of others with great power."
"Yes, there's many strong people out there. I'm not the strongest yet, but it is a goal of mine to become very strong. And the reason why I asked your daughter to join my group, is because I have seen great potential from her, and her ability to adapt to many situations and I've seen her good heart as well. Of course, other reasons are..."
As Akira spoke, Lord and Lady Phenex listened quietly.
Lord Phenex could hear the merits in his words.
"...Of course, it isn't just myself that would benefit, so I'd like to offer that this would bring together our clans. Ravel-san might not actually be my wife or anything, but a union between our clans of course could happen...but my first priority was to make sure this is what Ravel-san wished for, and she said that she did, so now that I'm here, perhaps we could talk more about it..."
He continued speaking, with Lady Phenex being rather satisfied with what Akira was saying. It was clear to see that while he did care about the future of the Underworld, his thoughts were about Ravel and her happiness, to go this far to explain about their clans being able to come together like this through a union.
Lord Phenex was also satisfied, if they could gain a deal between the Belial and the Phenex, it truly would benefit both sides.
"It seems that you have really thought this through. Ravel means a lot to you?"
"She's my friend, yes she means a lot to me. She was one of the first Devils to want to get to know me, even though she's Pure Blooded, and I wasn't, she still approached me, and asked questions about me, and eventually we became friends."
Lord Phenex stroked his chin.
"While that does sound amazing, and I can certainly see how it would benefit both of our clans, our resources coming together. But, I would like to ask one thing before agreeing."
"Yes sir."
"Ravel's my youngest child, and I'd like for her to pursue her dreams and she's told me, this is one of her dreams. If she went with you, would she be happy?"
"Well, I can't answer that sir, as that would be Ravel-sans to answer. However, I can say that if she does come with me, I'm going to do my best to fulfil each and everyone of my peerages dreams, their goals and pursuits of happiness. So yes, on my end, I'd do my best to make her very happy."
Hearing that, Lord Phenex was quite satisfied, as was Lady Phenex.
"If that's the case, we can go over the details at a later time, but I think this is a meeting and a deal that we all can be happy with. Ravel, this is the path you've decided, you're sure this is what you want to do?"
Ravel nods her head a single time.
"Yes, I have thought it through, and this the path that I think would be best for us to go with."
Lord Phenex smiled.
"I'm glad you said that."
Ravel looked towards Akira, who smiled towards her.
"Seems like that went well enough huh?"
Ravel adopts a small smile on her face, and embraces Akira, who in turn does the same thing right back.
Lord and Lady Phenex watched on, and saw the care between them, something they were happy about.
"There's no point running away."
A chilling voice rang through the area, as a young girl with blonde hair with a beautiful face like a doll, and red eyes that felt piercing, looked at her bleeding arm, and felt pain surging through her. She also felt holy auras shooting towards her, and the boy that easily could be mistaken for a girl she was carrying who had been injured in trying to save her from an attack.
She managed to avoid the attack almost, but did receive a gash on her body, which she cried out at and fell down to the ground.
"Ugh...no...G-Gasper, are you okay?"
The girl, Valerie, called out to her friend. But she didn't get any answer at all. It seemed that Gasper was passed out, from all of the attacks that they had received. She could understand why, he did his best, but against this Exorcist, he wasn't strong enough in fighting.
He had suffered major wounds, and so had she. She could see that she was bleeding quite profusely from her abdomen, and her hands were covered in her friends blood, along with her own. Because Gasper was unconscious, he couldn't do anything, so it was up to her to keep going as much as she could do.
David, the Exorcist chasing after them, together with Freed, moved closer.
"You two have been rather troublesome. One wielding a Sacred Gear that is designed for those that believe in God, and another a girl that just wont quit trying to escape. You can't escape, we are endless, we shall defeat you and your allies."
"Wh...Why don't you leave us alone? We haven't done anything to you people!"
Valerie called out, trying her best to be brave.
But in the sight of the man named David, it was very difficult. His Holy Sword was frightening to a Vampire like her. She could feel desire to kill coming from both of them. But while Freed was crazy, David was more stern and calm, which in of itself, was also a terrifying thing to have to deal with in the first place.
David's eyes scrunched together, his hand tightened on the blade that he had.
"You are guilty of simply existing, against our faith. You Vampire's are as bad, maybe even worse than other Vampire's. I have to eliminate you, in the name of the Lord. Forgive the pain, but it will only last moments."
Valerie panicked.
She tried crawling away, but Freed got in the way.
She looked to her companion Gasper, but he was still out, and was bleeding. She didn't think he would have much longer left, and she was out of options as well, she honestly wasn't entirely sure what she was going to do now.
"You chased us...and we didn't do anything wrong. We wanted to live...why aren't you letting us live?!"
"Because, as I said, you are an existence that shouldn't have happened. Now prepare yourself, it's time to disappear."
David's blade rose high into the air.
Valerie's panic was growing even more.
Every second felt like it was going to be her last.
She was for sure felt like she was going to die…
But then, she saw a flash of darkness, followed by the most brilliant silver hair she had ever seen before…
A little time before that event took place, Rias, Akeno and Akira managed to go towards Europe with a guard in case something was to happen. They were riding horses together through the forest like areas, with Rias showing a soft smile.
"I'm glad you could join us Akira."
Rias said with a smile, Akeno added.
"Ara, yes it is good that we get to spoil you all to ourselves~"
Rias looked at the happy Akeno and gave a bewildered look.
"Yes...that is something we could potentially do. Anyway, this time of year, this part of Europe is the best, you can relax, and have fun. It usually is also free of people that could cause us problems. Though, riding a horse can be difficult, have you done it before?"
"Aah, no I haven't ever done it. Gonna teach me Rias-chan~?"
He playfully spoke, making Rias smile with a tinge of red on her cheeks.
"I don't mind teaching you."
"And then Akira-kun, I'll teach you other things as well ufufu~"
Akeno sang out with a happy expression on her face.
Akira gave her a curious look right back, and then smiled as the trio made their way through the area.
As they did, Rias was giving some tips towards Akira, who in turn really appreciated what she was doing.
They went through different areas, and took in the sites.
Rias seemingly had knowledge of the area, so she was explaining about the different sites that they visited.
Even Akeno was rather happy to hear Rias being in her element.
However, as they did continue on through the area they had entered, Akira sensed something he hadn't sensed in a while.
It was holy power.
More than regular Exorcist's, and something even beyond that.
"...Rias-chan, Akeno-san, I suggest we head back now."
"Hmm, is something wrong?"
Rias asks curiously, having not felt it yet.
But Akira did, and wished to keep them safe.
"There's Exorcists here."
When hearing that, Rias clenched her hands together.
"Here? Usually they don't occupy this portion of Europe..."
"Must be after something, I can tell there's others up ahead. Though I can't sense who they are."
Akeno added after she concentrated and felt the Exorcists up ahead, with Akira looking on with keen eyes.
"...Yes, you're right. I think this chill down my spine...yes, I think this is a...no, two Vampires...being attacked by an Exorcist. The Holy power that I'm sensing is also something very strong, more than an Exorcist would typically have. Perhaps it is some holy weapon..."
Akira moved closer, to see what was going on.
Akeno and Rias followed quickly behind, wondering what was going on.
Akira looks ahead, and into a clearing.
He notices a girl on the ground, afraid as a blade was aimed for her.
Seeing the fear in her eyes, he looked over her and the other, and sensed something surprising.
They had human in them.
Human and Vampire, like he being a human and Devil.
Along with that, seeing the excessive wounds on their bodies, he could see they had been through something truly terrible, something that Akira was worried about.
When seeing that, he summoned his black dog, and dashed forward, grabbing a blade from the shadows.
Before reaching the girls body, Akira blocked the sword, clashing violently, shocking both the Exorcist, and the Vampire girl.
"A Devil boy is here?"
"That's right, now stop your attack at once."
"Sorry, can't do that."
Akira grit his teeth, seeing the holy power from the sword, as the Exorcist, David dug his sword more into Akira's own, trying to overpower the blade. However, Akira was capable of being able to hold his own, and erase the holy aura with his Worthless, something that even surprised David.
The Vampire girl, Valerie on the other hand, covered in her wounds, looked on with bewilderment towards Akira himself.
"Y...You saved...us..."
Akira glanced back, and gave her a smile.
When he did, Valerie was taken aback by the gentleness of the smile.
Akira pushed David back who landed right next to a pissed off Freed, and looked at the Exorcist and his blade, as Rias, Akeno and the guard stuck close by them approached.
"Akira!"
Rias called, Akira waved his hand.
"Take the Vampires away, I've got this."
Rias was troubled on what to do, but Akeno immediately did what Akira said, and helped the Vampire's run away.
Staring at the human before them, then his Holy Sword. It took Akira a few moments, but soon his knowledge of those weapons brought him to the conclusion of what this weapon was before his eyes.
"That sword...it's Galatine."
"You know your weapons well boy." David retorted, brandishing his blade, while staring at Akira, and the dog beside him. "That Longinus however, shouldn't belong in the hands of you...you're a Devil….no, a human...no, you're both." David gripped his blades handle tightly. "I wish to confiscate that power because it belongs to those of the Church only, and also, execute those Vampires behind you."
Akira at David incredulously.
"Sorry, but this Longinus was given to me. I don't want to fight you, so I'd like for us to part ways. The Vampires are with us now."
David shook his head.
"No, I can't leave."
"Hey Teach, I'll deal with this kid. He seems like a weakling anyway."
Freed sang out, showing a dangerous smirk.
Akira scoffed.
"If you think that, then you can't read auras very well."
Freed showed anger, but before he could do anything, the black dog leapt forward, and charged for Freed quickly, like a bullet, smashed his body into Freed's own and sent him flying backwards, with enough force that a tree lost several leaves.
Akira saw the black dog confront Freed, so he was left to confront David.
"While you stand before me, I shall finish the task set for me, even if I have to slay you Longinus wielder. With Galatine beside me, my blade that cannot be destroyed, shall deliver you to a new realm of existence!"
David came at Akira so fast for a human that it was difficult to keep track of him. By no means Strada level, Akira could see the level of speed David had wasn't a joke, and that he would have to be on his wits, before anything could happen.
It was clear he was skilled with a blade, but Akira managed to drop the power of the blade with Worthless, but the swords strength remained as they clashed violently together, so Akira came at David with a series of strikes.
David blocked them expertly, and pushed Akira back, before swinging his sword down.
Gathering the holy aura, he came at Akira with the intent to kill, Akira however summoned blades of black from his shadow, and formed a wall.
"For a Devil, you have sharp skills. But my blade shall exorcise you."
David's sword cut into some of the blades, but the aura of Akira's erased the power of David's so it couldn't get through, at the same time Akira managed to leap up, and around, getting behind David to stab forward.
David bent his sword, and body, blocking the attack fully, before pushing Akira's sword back, using incredible strength to push Akira away fully.
The boy flipped in the air to see that David was already on him, so Akira bent his body forward, adding demonic power to the swing to increase the power that he had, and clashed with David's sword.
The power mixed with David's blade which blocked the majority of the power. Even with Worthless erasing the power of the Holy Sword, creating a crater underneath David's body to the point that David felt his legs shake ever so slightly.
"You little...trying to get one up on me, I cannot allow it."
Not standing for it, he managed to launch Akira back, and quickly dash across the ground.
When he got to Akira, he made a slash of his sword, Akira tried to block the blade, but David used his skills of an Exorcist to create a barrier of holy. Even though it only slowed Akira down for a moment thanks to Worthless, and his black blade, David's sword still managed to cut into his right arm, drawing some flesh blood, and he tried to have the holy power spread through Akira's form.
However, Akira's Worthless kicked in and erased the power before it could do any damage.
"You little..."
"I'm not finished yet Exorcist!"
Akira announces, and prepares to fight.
At the same time, Freed was dealing with the black dog.
"Hah, you can run little dog, but you can't hide. I'll send you, and your Master straight to the depths of hell!"
He took in pleasure as he pulled out a gun, and fired the bullets towards the dog with a swiftness like no other.
But to his shock, the black dog avoided the attacks by zipping in and out of shadows all around him.
"Stay still you little bastard!"
Freed yelled, and saw the dog come out from a shadow, so he swung his sword for the dog.
The dogs sword on its head came out, blocking the attack, and pushed Freed's body back, as his small body slammed into Freed's own.
"What the hell dog?! How did you get so strong huh?!"
The strength of the Longinus sent Freed flying across the ground.
Re-establishing his footing, Freed turned his gun onto the black dog, firing off many bullets towards the dog, but like before, kept dodging or cutting the attacks out of the way of him, either way Freed didn't reach him.
"Stay still! I'm getting pissed off now you little shit!"
The dog flew through a shadow and reappeared below Freed. His blade protruded upwards, and sliced Freed's foot, and leg as he tried to escape, Freed let out a pained cry as his blood stained the ground in red.
Freed grit his teeth as the dog retracted, and landed on the ground.
His eyes stared at Freed and even if he didn't speak, the way Freed saw the dogs eyes, it felt like he was being given a warning to either stop, or the dog himself would have little choice but to cut him down fully.
Freed didn't want to lose to a dog.
So he charged forward.
The dog let out a howl, and vanished from sight via a shadow.
"Screw you dog! I wont die because of you!"
Freed looked to try and find the dog.
But he couldn't.
When he saw a shadow on the ground expand, he thought for sure that the dog would come through, so he thrusted his sword through the shadow.
He pierced the ground instead of his intended target.
"Wait...if it isn't that one then..."
Freed's face turned white as he heard the sound of metal cutting through flesh.
The pain came through a few moments later, seeing the dog had tricked Freed and ended up attacking him from behind, dropping the boy onto the ground with blood beginning to pool around him, staining his clothing in red.
"Damn you...dog..."
Freed croaked out, the surging pain was more than enough to stop him from moving for a little while.
Back with David and Akira, the former remained calm as he kept his blade towards Akira's form, who in turn showed a strong expression on his face. David watches as they clash again, and once more, his holy aura vanishes, allowing Akira's blade to push even further against him.
David pulls back.
"You stopped my holy aura...you are a Belial after all."
David surmised, as he lunged for Akira.
"Yes, and that blade, it's Galatine, a blade that's never been nicked, right?"
Akira tackled him head on, clashing in a myriad of sword slashes. Their blades clashed violently, their auras swelled with David noticing the darkness around the ground was growing more and more as Akira went on.
"Indeed, it's a blade that is going to cleave you down if you don't stop."
"I wont let you Exorcist."
Akira blocked and hit right back towards David. David was very skilled, but Akira held his own against one of the top warriors of the Church, and then caused blades to shoot out of the shadows, all around David and attacked him from every angle that possibly could be attacked from.
"Longinus, Canis Lykaon if I'm not mistaken. I've heard rumours, are you the Champions nephew? The one that's half human, your exploits have reached us within the human world, I was intrigued by you and now I can see that my intrigue has grown more and more."
Even though they moved rapidly, David managed to stop the blades from killing him.
"I'm glad, because I've figured out who you are, David Cerro, right?"
One however managed to scratch his arm, causing him to wince at the feeling as Akira slashed his blade before him, David blocked with his sword, and created a giant shockwave around them both, digging and breaking through the ground to the point that it reduced everything to broken pieces of earth around them.
"Yes...so you know of me do you?"
Metals clanged together, with David pulling away as did Akira, before coming together, and clashed heavily together.
Thanks to his years of training and surviving attacks from foes, Akira could read David's attacks before he was going to be giving them, which made up for the difference in ability in some ways, and blocked the attacks all together from David's own.
"I do yes, I made it a point to learn much about those that are against me, and the power that they wield."
When he tried to come towards Akira's right hand side, Akira blocked and pulled back, but David managed to come in from the other side, and stopped Akira's movements long enough for the blade to come and cut him.
Akira rose blades from the shadows to create a wall added with Worthless to stop the power…
When suddenly David's arm got slashed by the black dog that had cut down Freed.
"Aaah!"
Blood dripped from David's arm, with Akira using this chance to run darkness all around. He used the numbing effect of the darkness blasted David back, pausing his movements long enough for Akira to generate power with his blade.
"This power, is going to stop you!"
Demonic and darkness powers mixed around the blade.
Swelling and surging, the area around Akira became like a black dome, before the darkness fully concentrated across the blade.
"Dark Worthless Slash!"
Akira yelled, and swung his sword down, releasing the mixed energies.
Using his powers together, he released a crescent moon shaped wave of dark and demonic energy powering one another, David's eyes widening at the sight, as he could see Akira put in a lot of power.
His body was still stopped for a short time.
"Damn...damn...damn….!"
David became worried at the sight of the slash coming for him.
Inches away from his form, David finally regained use of his body, and managed to block the attack.
But the holy aura was invalidated, and he saw the blade that never had been nicked in its life, was being pushed back thanks to Akira's power.
Akira exhaled ad David managed to stop the attack of Akira's, but saw that his hand had become bloody from the attack.
"That attack...did more than I had anticipated. And you haven't awakened Balance Breaker yet? That's a dangerous combination indeed. You are too dangerous to allow to live. More over, you attacked and nearly killed Freed."
"He attacked me and my dog so don't even try and turn this on me. I asked you to not attack, but you did. Both of you did."
"Your reputation is preceding itself, rumours have spread of a boy with nullifying powers, with a black dog Longinus. Being able to slay Exorcists, known as the Exorcist Slayer. You even fought Vasco Strada, and lived to tell the tale. You're a monster. One that should die. And you shall die, by my blade."
David threatened Akira, but he remained not fazed by such a threat.
He had been threatened many times, and this was no different either.
David then turned and rushed for Freed.
"Don't you..."
As Akira began, David released an immense holy aura for Akira.
So he was forced to deal with that, clashing with the aura, and caused it to disappear into nothingness thanks to Worthless, but David got to Freed and activated a teleportation circle for them to disappear.
As he did, Akira summoned swords, and one impaled David's abdomen with enough force to draw out some blood, as Akira blocked a holy wave coming for him.
"Goodbye Devil boy, the next time we meet, I shall kill you."
Akira could see something about David.
He was like other Exorcists that had tried to kill him.
He also felt like Vasco and David, were different.
Vasco was a man who believed in himself, and did what he knew was the best course of action.
David was a man that was being corrupted by the thought of being able to do bad things, and his desire to kill Devils.
Once David had gone, Akira looked at his small dog, and bent down.
"Who's a good boy huh? Did you take down that meanie Exorcist~?"
Akira gave a happy voice as he petted the dogs head, which barked up at him happily.
But then he stopped, and turned towards the area the Vampires were, so he walked closer.
When getting there, Rias and Akeno looked relieved.
"Akira, what happened?"
"That David Cerro is a tough guy, the only reason he retreated was because his apprentice was in a bad condition. Otherwise, I think he would have continued attacking, his skills are pretty damn amazing."
Akeno looked relieved that Akira was okay.
Rias on the other hand looked down at the Vampires.
"It seems that even with some healing that we've given them, the holy power of the blades is killing them. Even now..."
Akira rushed closer, and placed his hand on the pairs bodies.
"Worthless!"
Akira used his power, and caused the holy power to be erased from their bodies, while quickly assessing them as well.
When he did that, he could see the pain on Valerie's face was gone, but he saw that Gasper was gone.
Understanding what was going on, Akira bowed his head, as Valerie's weak eyes were on him.
"I'm sorry, but your friend, is deceased. And...even with what I did, the holy power has damaged to enough to the point you'll die within a few minutes at best."
He didn't like delivering such news, but he had to be straight with her.
The girls eyes became teary, turning towards Gasper, who's lifeless body was so close to her own, she leaned across, and whispered "No...Gasper..." as she cried onto her friends body, something that made Rias and Akeno also develop tears in their eyes.
Akira looked towards Rias, who glanced back towards him.
"Rias-chan, there's a way to save them..."
"Yes, I understand. However..."
Rias and Akira quickly discussed which one would reincarnate which Vampire, in the event that's what they wished to do.
They wanted to make sure that the Vampires would have the best possibilities to shine and to live happy lives.
Then they came to a decision, so Akira looked at Valerie, before bending down towards her to explain to her what could happen.
Her weak, teary eyes went up and met with Akira's own as he touched her shoulder.
"I'm so sorry about what happened."
"...We're...really...going to...die?"
It was a cruel reality, but that's what was before them now.
Akira wished something could be different, but this is what they had to do now.
"There's a way to save you...but, it would mean that you become Devils."
"Devils…? Evil...Pieces?"
Akira nods.
"Yes, that's right. Rias-chan, and I have the power to turn you into Devils, it will give you new life."
"Gasper...would live…?"
She croaked out, her energies leaving her more and more.
"Yes, since your friend...Gasper-san recently died, it is still very possible."
"W...Would we...be together…?"
Akira chuckles, nodding.
"Yes, you'll be together often. I've decided that I'd reincarnate you, and Rias-san would do Gasper-san, if that's okay with you? But regardless, you'd still be together, Rias-san and I are very good friends. I know that wouldn't mean much to you since you don't know us, but you have my word you'll be able to be with your friend."
Valerie stared at Akira, who comforted her the best that he could, made her as comfortable as possible.
She didn't know him…
But something about his eyes, gave her comfort.
Like he was speaking truth, and that transmitted very beautifully within his eyes.
Because she couldn't entirely think straight right now, it was hard to know what to do.
But instincts told her...this would be okay.
That Akira wasn't lying.
"...Please...Please save Gasper..."
"We will, we'll save both of you."
Valerie released a single tear as she whispered "Thank you..." before going limp.
Her breathing became shallow, as Akira laid her down.
He took a Bishop Evil Piece out, which was mutated, and laid it down on her chest, before beginning to turn her into a Devil, while Rias did something similar to Gasper at the same time, turning them into their Devils.
As that was going on, Augusta who was recovered from the injuries that she received from Akira and Lavinia respectably, looked over towards Satanael, who in turn held a blade of light within his hand.
"So, the girls searching for me. She'll soon arrive. Are we ready for that?"
Augusta revealed, with Satanael nodding.
"I know, I'm hoping that she does."
Augusta frowned.
"Why, exactly? You do understand her level of abilities, do you not?"
"I do, that's why I've been able to have the situation turn good for us. Be patient, Augusta."
Augusta clicks her tongue.
"Your plan, you think that you're capable of achieving it?"
Satanael's eyebrows furrowed more and more as time went on, his determination growing higher by the moment.
"Of course, I've been planning this for a good long time now, all we have to do is let the pieces fall, and Lavinia...we'll be seeing her very soon. Just keep doing what you're doing then hers, Akira's, and Vali's Longinus' shall be ours for the taking. Then, our real plan can begin."
Augusta showed a wicked smirk on her face, as Satanael's lips curled upwards.
It wasn't an evil smirk exactly, but it showed that his intentions, and now with Lavinia soon approaching, they didn't know what was going to happen next...
End chapter!
So this chapter focused upon Akira meeting Valerie, and turning her into his servant. Also having a fight with David Cerro, and clashing against such a strong opponent.
Along the way, Ravel also has agreed, so she'll be becoming his servant very soon, Elmenhilde, and Koneko also shared that they wish to join the group, so that'll be happening quite soon. Lavinia also seems interested, but for right now, she's off trying to find Augusta, but it seems the old Witch and Satanael have something planned, so we'll see how that goes pretty soon~
Roygun was also introduced, and it seems she's curious about Akira.
Now onto the peerages. It was quite close, but it seems Vali didn't win, but she'll be very close and important as she builds out her team. The peerage has also been complete, and will be shown at the bottom of the chapter. I might change some placements around to fit the characters and their diverse powers a little more, but this is the peerage!
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Akira's peerage.
Queen; Lavinia.
Rooks; Koneko, Xenovia.
Bishops; Kuroka, Valerie (mutated).
Knights; Irina, Lint.
Pawns; Elmenhilde (one piece), Rossweisse (three pieces), Ravel (two pieces), Le Fay (two pieces).
Akira; Vali (fem), Rossweisse, Irina, Elmenhilde, Ravel, Lavinia, Rias, Akeno, Le Fay, Isane, Xenovia, Koneko, Asia, Ophis, Kuroka, Serafall, Valerie, Lint, Iryuka,