Chapter 3

And He Is Honorable

A glowing spear impacted the tree that once held Heathcliff. The attacker, a small blonde girl with pigtails and a gothic dress, floated up to the tree with a curious expression. She inspected the wood around the impact site and pulled her spear free. Claw marks were present on the tree bark, deeply slashing the wood.

"Claws? He didn't have claws." The girl said, scratching her head as she flapped her black bird wings on her back. She floated into the center of the park and slowly scanned the area. She heard the rustling of leaves and gasped lightly, turning to face the noise. A slight red glow appeared behind the leaves before vanishing.

A branch snapped.

A flash of glowing red appeared behind some leaves again. The girl held her spear at the ready, warily watching the trees.

"Mittelt! What's taking you!?" a man in a trench coat with a fedora shouted as he walked into the center of the park. He grew a similar pair of black wings and floated up to Mittelt.

"Dohnaseek! He shouted something about combat and morphing before vanishing into the trees. He left some claw marks on the tree over there. Now I just keep hearing movement and seeing something glow." Mittelt explained as she scanned the trees. Dohnaseek sighed and summoned a spear of his own.

"Dammit. He was just supposed to be a normal kid with a powerful entity in him. Lord Kokabiel wants whatever this kid's carrying in him and we're going to retrieve it!" Dohnaseek growled as he held his spear at the ready. Mittelt nodded and they flew back to back.

"So, you want my power?" A monstrous voice echoed across the park. The two flying individuals tensed up as some branches shook. Dohnaseek threw a spear at the branches. He heard it hit wood and cursed.

"Ha… I can sense everything you do. I can smell you. I can see you. I can hear you. I can even taste you a little…" the voice said with a chuckle. Dohnaseek summoned another spear and threw it at a red glow beyond a patch of leaves. It hit wood again.

"Son of a bitch… he's fast." Dohnaseek sighed as he turned a bit. He then ducked a little as his spear was launched back at him by a powerful force. He couldn't dissipate it before it stabbed his hat and stuck in a tree across the park with the piece of apparel attached.

"Shit! Watch when you throw. If you don't get a hit on him, deactivate the spear." Dohnaseek explained to Mittelt. The girl nodded and gripped her spear tightly.

"How about I give you a chance to leave? If you leave and never bother me again, I might let you live." The voice offered as another branch snapped. Dohnaseek growled.

"Fuck you! We are Fallen Angels and we serve our Leader Kokabiel! He has ordered your death and it shall be done!" Dohnaseek shouted, summoning a spear and watching the shadows. The voice laughed deeply.

"Then you will die."

Mittelt screamed and vanished from Dohnaseek's side. He turned around and saw her hanging by her neck. A black, sticky, rope-like substance was hanging the small Fallen Angel from a tree branch. Dohnaseek growled and threw a spear at the substance. He split the rope and Mittelt fell to the ground coughing.

"Oh God! He's horrifying! A monster! I'm not fighting that thing!" Mittelt screamed as she ripped the substance off of her neck. It started decaying after leaving her skin. She got up and started flying away, leaving a pissed Dohnaseek.

"You stupid bitch! Damn you, kid! Where are you!?" Dohnaseek shouted as he scanned the trees. He heard an echoing laugh that made him visibly shudder.

"I am where you think I am." The voice responded. Dohnaseek turned to his right and threw his spear at the trees. It didn't impact anything and he could see it glowing next to a red glow.

The eerie red glow.

It was an eye. A large, slit pupil eye. It glowed a deep red and blinked sideways at him.

Dohnaseek felt a rush of fear, fear a Fallen Angel should not feel.

"Fine… You live for now! But watch yourself, you monster!" Dohnaseek yelled as he took off after Mittelt. The harrowing laughter echoing from the woods behind him rang in his ears.

[Think we should go after them?] Kiva asked after a moment of silence. Heathcliff watched them go through his improved night vision and watched the barrier around him fall. Night became dark again all around him and he could still see them fleeing.

No, I think I terrified them well enough. As easy as it would be to track them, I doubt I need to. Heathcliff responded in thought. He looked down at himself and chuckled.

His clothing was gone. He was covered in a white, fungal like substance from head to toe that layered, almost looking like bark. His fingers and feet were clawed. His feet could conform to grip the branch he crouched on. Black stripes of the substance ran up the sides of his chest, down the sides of his legs and across the back of his arms. The stripes connected at his shoulders and ran down the sides of his back as well, following the irregular pattern of his flesh.

The stripes converged on the center of his torso and formed a main mass with jagged veins stretching all across his body. The veins converged on his lower back where Kiva was.

Two curved and jagged, black spikes stuck up on either side of him above his shoulders from his back. The spikes were connected to the black stripes that continued across to the base of his neck. His head was dramatically changed, having a sharper and more snake-like head. His face jutted out to a point like a lizard's would, placing his large, glowing red eyes slightly on the sides of his head, but still facing forward. The black stripes continued up his neck and went around his eyes, outlining them before stopping at a set of black spikes on the back of his head, like hair.

He smiled, exposing glistening, sharp, and jagged teeth. He had a long, forked tongue that slithered between his teeth. He snorted through his flattened nostrils and chuckled gain.

"It's been… awhile since I used this form." Heathcliff mumbled, still not used to his bestial voice. He turned and spit on the ground. His spit ignited and burned away.

"Of course… how could I forget fire breathing?" Heathcliff said with a chuckle as he breathed in deeply.

[Try not to burn the park down.] Kiva said with a chuckle. Heathcliff grinned and opened his maw wide, wider than humanly possible, revealing even more teeth along his extended jaw.

Heathcliff roared inhumanly as he released a stream of fire from his mouth. It sprayed across the cobblestone and left blackened marks.

"HAHA! Wonderful!" Heathcliff laughed as he aimed his arm at the opposite tree.

"And of course, my webbing." Heathcliff said as a black, gooey tendril fired from his wrist and connected to the tree with a splat. He gripped the strand and pulled himself to the other tree, hanging by the thread. He released the string and it started to decay as he dropped nimbly onto the tree branch below.

Two presences appeared nearby.

Shit! I can't risk anymore problems today. Heathcliff thought, jumping to another tree entirely with a powerful leap. He retrieved his school bag from the high branches witha web that retracted into his wrist and started leaping through the trees towards home.

Heathcliff stared at his house from across the street. He sat on a branch, watching the singular light on the bottom floor. A shadow passed by it every so often.

Now… was I able to revert this form, or did it dissipate when I ran out of energy or something? Heathcliff thought, looking at his clawed hand.

[It will revert once you give the command.] Kiva answered briefly. Heathcliff nodded, but stayed where he was. The two presences from earlier were nearby, he feared that they followed him.

They're both female… so they can't be the guy and the girl who were flying around earlier. They feel different, but the same kind of off like those two did. Heathcliff thought, glancing to his left. The presences were coming closer.

Suddenly, he couldn't sense them individually.

What the hell? It's like that barrier I couldn't sense through earlier. They disappeared and this spherical barrier replaced them. What the fuck could that be? Heathcliff thought as he crept up into the shadows in a crouch. The singular, sense blocking mass drew closer. He gripped the right side spike and started to pull. The hardened spike started forming a blade as he pulled it out of his flesh. The sharp, jagged, and shiny blade was black with brownish-orange, wavy markings across it.

Mahogany Obsidian swords. I forgot that I could form them off the end of these handles. Heathcliff thought as he drew the short, obsidian sword. It was a double edged blade with small chips in it. The shiny rock glimmered in the moonlight that barely shined through the trees. The mass that was closing in stopped by the tree next to the one Heathcliff was in.

He felt eyes through the barrier.

Heathcliff hissed quietly. They could see him, but he could only sense where they were. Whatever the barrier was it blocked his other senses aside from his sixth that could sense the barrier and their eyes.

Dammit… how are they watching me through the barrier!? FUCK! Heathcliff growled as he glared down at the barrier. He prepared his fire breath as he stashed his bag in the branches with his free hand.

[Don't move. Maybe they'll leave.] Kiva advised. Heathcliff hummed in agreement and stayed still, staring down at where the barrier and eyes were. He knew he was making eye contact. They blinked at looked away every so often when he changed from one to the other.

It was only after Heathcliff calmed down a bit when the barrier split for a second and then reformed. Next to the barrier, appearing from thin air was a small girl with white hair in a Kuoh uniform. She looked up at Heathcliff with a stoic expression.

Who the fuck is she and how did she just appear? Was she inside of that barrier? Heathcliff wondered, narrowing his eyes at the girl. She clicked her tongue in annoyance and bent down to a large rock next to her.

She's not going to throw that at me. Heathcliff thought, watching the girl slowly pry the rock out of the ground.

She threw it at Heathcliff.

With a sharp hiss, Heathcliff caught the rock with his free hand as it headed for his face. He was surprised by the amount of force behind the throw and that girl certainly proved him wrong.

The eyes behind the barrier widened, as if in realization. Heathcliff glanced at the barrier before turning his attention back to the little girl. She scrutinized him before holding her hands up in a catching position.

She wants me to throw it back…? Heathcliff wondered as the girl nodded to the rock in his hand. He shrugged and tossed it back down with about the same amount of force the girl used.

She returned it like a volleyball and Heathcliff hissed in confusion. She nodded to him as it crested up above his head. Heathcliff reached up and smacked it back down, like he had done several times in gym class. It slammed into the dirt where it had been resting before being pried away.

Again, the eyes behind the barrier widened at him. Heathcliff glared at the barrier briefly before turning back to the small girl. She was still staring at him with an expressionless face.

I think they're testing me. Trying to figure out what I am. I think I ought to throw them off a bit. Heathcliff thought as he watched the girl. He slowly sheathed his sword, it deconstructed into his flesh as he placed the spike back on his back. The girl picked up a smaller rock this time and tossed at Heathcliff. He let it hit him in the chest and fall to the ground.

The girl quirked an eyebrow and crossed her arms. She then turned back towards the large rock and threw it at Heathcliff again. He caught it and threw it back after a moment. The girl knocked it back to him like she had before. This time, Heathcliff merely swatted it out of the air with a mighty blow. The rock slammed into the tree opposite of his and landed on the ground with a thud.

How was that? Makes it seem like I don't recognize your tests, eh? Heathcliff thought as he grinned internally. He slithered his tongue between his teeth and hissed quietly. This technically was his territory and decided to act as if they intruded. If he could prove that he's more animal that human, then they might stop testing him for his human intelligence.

The girl watched him as he lightly hissed at her. She nodded randomly and reached into a bag on her back. She pulled out a piece of paper and started to write on it. After a moment, she turned the paper around and showed it to Heathcliff.

"Can you read this?" the paper read. Heathcliff could read perfectly well, he just didn't acknowledge that anything was written there and stayed motionless as he crouched on the branch. The girl eventually shook her head and crumpled the paper up, throwing it at Heathcliff. He caught it in his hand and looked at it. He deiced to lick it and the paper caught fire shortly after his spit mixed on it.

The girl looked surprised as the paper burned in his hand. It quickly turned to ashes and Heathcliff let them fall off of his hand. The girl quirked a curious eyebrow and looked around the tree line. She picked it up and tossed it at Heathcliff. He caught it and looked at her.

The girl made a licking motion to a similar stick. Heathcliff blinked at her and just tossed the stick to the side. The girl groaned quietly and then dropped her stick. She turned to the barrier and shook her head.

The barrier fell.

What the…

[Fuck?]

Rias appeared next to the smaller girl. She was already facing Heathcliff with a curious stare and had her arms crossed under her bust.

She was behind that barrier? How did she do that? Heathcliff wondered. He tilted his head slightly at Rias.

[I've never seen that before. Sure, there were Synergetics who could camouflage themselves like that… but Assassin Types like me could still sense them.] Kiva explained. Heathcliff made a surprised noise.

Wait, your kind was categorized with different types? Heathcliff wondered. Kiva hadn't really spoken about his kind very much, aside from explaining what he could do for Heathcliff.

[Yeah. I'll tell you about it after this situation.] Kiva said. Heathcliff hummed in confirmation as he watched Rias walk up to the tree. He stared down at her and narrowed his eyes. He hissed at her for extra effect.

"Can you understand me?" Rias asked quietly. Heathcliff froze, unsure of how to respond.

Should I be able to understand her? It would tell them I'm intelligent, to a degree. Heathcliff thought as he remained motionless.

[Maybe… see where this goes?] Kiva suggested.

Alright… I'll make it seem like I hear her, in a way. Heathcliff responded. He then tilted his head and blinked at Rias. She hummed in thought.

"Huh… I wonder if it recognizes our language?" Rias wondered to herself. Heathcliff made a light hissing sound that drew her attention.

"Do you understand me? Can you… wave?" Rias wondered. Heathcliff tilted his head at her. She pouted a bit and went back to thinking.

"Koneko, do you think it would understand you?" Rias wondered. The small girl, Koneko, shrugged. Rias waved her over and she looked up at Heathcliff.

Koneko then meowed.

"Hello?" Heathcliff interpreted the meow. He blinked in slight shock.

Shit, I forgot I could interpret animals… but this girl isn't an animal! How can I interpret her!? Heathcliff thought. He heard Kiva laugh.

[Dude, that scared the shit out of me! I don't know what to do or how you can hear her. Maybe she has cats and somehow talks to them? Usually when humans use animal noises it sounds like gibberish to me and you.] Kiva stated. Heathcliff sighed internally as he stared down at Koneko.

She meowed again.

"Can you understand me?" Heathcliff heard. He tilted his head, as if he didn't understand her. Koneko sighed and turned to Rias with a shrug. Heathcliff could understand them perfectly, but he couldn't risk letting anyone else know he was a monster. Especially people he knew.

"I suppose all we can do is leave it alone. It hasn't attacked anyone. It actually defended itself from those two Fallen Angels." Rias muttered to herself. Heathcliff perked up at the mention of those words again.

Fallen Angels? That Doughnut fellow earlier mentioned that he was a Fallen Angel. Aren't those Angels that fell from Heaven because they sinned or something? I haven't brushed up on my Bible reading since Sunday school. Heathcliff thought as watched them. Rias glanced up at him one last time before turning to leave.

"Come on,Koneko. Let's leave it alone. We'll watch to see if it appears again in the future." Rias said, walking away from the followed and the two walked off into the distance. Heathcliff waited around until their presences melded into the rim of his sense with the hundreds of other presences in the distance. Once he was sure they were gone, Heathcliff retrieved his bag and leaped across the street to his house in a singular bound.

"Welcome back you two. Did you find out what those Fallen Angels were after?" Akeno asked as Rias and Koneko entered the clubroom. Rias relaxed on the couch and Akeno handed her a cup of tea.

"Thank you. Ugh… We found the creature they were after. It was very… odd." Rias started. Akeno grew a curious smile and sat down with Koneko on the opposite couch, handing the girl a teacup. Koneko nodded to her and sipped her tea. Akeno took a sip of her own as Rias continued.

"It was a monstrous looking thing with sickly white flesh and a slightly pointed head. It had claws and gripped the branch it sat on like it had four hands. It had these glowing, red, reptilian eyes and a long tongue with sharp teeth." Rias explained, visibly uncomfortable by the memory. Koneko shivered as well.

"Scary. Did it attack you?" Akeno inquired. Rias shook her head.

"No, it only seemed to defend itself. I had Koneko try to play volleyball with the creature using a rock and… oddly enough, it caught the rock like Heathcliff did the other day." Rias explained, recalling the event. Akeno rose a curious eyebrow.

"Really?" Akeno wondered in amazement. Rias nodded with a thoughtful look, setting her tea on the coffee table.

"Uh-huh. I suppose it did that because it's a monster and can easily catch things. It didn't seem to understand us, either. It seemed peaceful enough so we left it alone. I think it might've been scared of us attacking it. Who knows?" Rias wondered with a sigh. Her results seemed inconclusive about the creature. Koneko nodded, agreeing with Rias' words.

"Huh… Did it seem magical at all?" Akeno wondered. Rias thought for a moment.

"No… but it did somehow light some paper on fire by licking it." Rias answered with a sigh. She went back into thought, frustrated with her results of testing the beast. Akeno nodded and Koneko sighed.

"I tried communicating with it by meowing. Didn't work." Koneko said with an embarrassed expression. Akeno giggled and patted Koneko on the head.

"Poor kitty." Akeno teased. Koneko grumbled and sipped her tea. Rias sighed across from them.

"Well, I suppose that's all for that. Let's get back to work…"

The Next Day…

Heathcliff found himself reaching for his phone as he awoke. He turned the alarm off on the device and sighed.

Why am I getting up at ten on a Saturday…? OH SHIT! Heathcliff shot bolt upright in his bed and climbed out. He went over to his closet and sifted through the clothing inside. He pulled out a black flannel and a white t-shirt.

"That ought to work… pants!" Heathcliff exclaimed, pulling open a drawer next to his closet. He pulled out a pair of dark blue jeans and a set of boxers and headed across the hall to the shower. His mother was climbing the stairs when he was about to enter the bathroom.

"Heathcliff, what were you doing in your Combat Morph last night when you came in?" Heathcliff's mother asked, stopping Heathcliff in the hall. He turned towards her and sighed.

"It's a bit of a long story and I don't have much time. Some weirdoes decided to ambush me in the park when I was wandering back to the house. Don't worry, I scared them off." Heathcliff explained briefly. His mother nodded, but was concerned.

"Be careful, Heathcliff. I'd hate for you to get hurt out there." She said with a sigh. Heathcliff nodded and slipped into the bathroom, shutting the door.

"I will!" He called beyond the door. His mother left the hall and he showered quickly. He exited the bathroom with wet hair was already dressed. His flannel sleeves rolled up to his elbows, showing off his scar. He went into his room and put his boots on before heading downstairs. He slipped his phone in his pocket and strapped a nice, silver watch on.

The time read ten thirty in the morning.

"Damn… no time. Shit! Wallet!" Heathcliff growled as he leaped back up the stairs and planted his hand on the opposite wall. He pushed off and landed in his room through the open door. He grabbed a very expensive looking wallet out of a drawer and then ran back into the hall, leaping down the stairs.

"Heath? Are you going to be late for your date with Akeno?" His mother asked as he landed at the base of the staircase.

"Not if I improvise!" Heathcliff called as he ran out the front door, grabbing his key on the way out.

"Have fun!" His mother called as he ran down the street. He waved and vanished around the corner.

Kiva, block my sweat so I don't smell bad and release the heat through yourself, would you? Heathcliff asked as he ran around a corner and through a crosswalk that just changed. Cars honked at him and he flipped them off as he ran past. He weaved through the people on the street and dodged a newspaper stand.

[Already on it.] Kiva responded.

Thanks pal. I don't need to smell like a pig when I meet Akeno. Heathcliff thought with a grin as he ran. He felt the heat he was generating exit through his lower back and he didn't feel a drop of sweat on his skin. He ran through a large street corner with many, many short people crowding it.

Ah fuck… Well, they are really short… Heathcliff thought. He increased his already inhuman speed and leaped over the crowd. He grasped the streetlamp pole and spun around it, launching him towards a less urbanized part of town. The people below him cried out in shock and awe as he landed on the far street.

"Acrobatic stuntman! Pay me no mind!" Heathcliff called as he ran off into the foliage. He slowed down when he saw the temple stairs along the path. A few cars passed by on the remote road as he walked. He arrived at the path to the stairs and started down it. He checked his watch and saw he was five minutes early.

Wonderful. How's my homeostasis looking? Heathcliff wondered.

[Your body has restored homeostasis. I'm releasing my hold on your functions.] Kiva explained. Heathcliff felt some warmth return but a cool breeze fixed that.

"Okay… act natural, Heath. She's hot… this is known, but don't lose your shit." Heathcliff said to himself as he climbed the temple stairs. He reached the top and looked around a bit at the Japanese shrine.

I never understood these. We have some churches in Australia, but no shrines as far as I know. Heathcliff thought, looking around the shrine. He poked a statue.

"Heath!" Akeno called as she came out of the far building. Heathcliff immediately stepped away from the statue and faced her. He was dumbfounded.

Akeno approached in a tight, black t-shirt that conformed to her torso and a short skirt with stockings underneath. Heathcliff stared at her and ran his hand across his hair, fixing it slightly. Akeno stopped in front of him, clasping her hand bag in front of her. She twisted around slightly from side to side. The way she positioned her arms squished her chest together.

"They used to say to me that there is only one God. Clearly that was bullshit because I seem to have found a Goddess." Heathcliff said as he stared into Akeno's eyes. She blushed a bit and giggled.

"Thank you, Heath. But, I'm not a goddess, just a lowly shrine maiden." Akeno said with a bashful smile. Heathcliff chuckled.

"Then may the Lord smite me for my blasphemy because I'm starting to believe in you." Heathcliff said, he then sighed internally.

Oh… oh Christ. That was so stupid sounding… why did I say that? Heathcliff groaned internally, leaving an awkward grin on the outside. As he berated himself, Akeno started giggling.

"My, you're so silly, Heath." Akeno giggled. Heathcliff blinked at her and sighed.

"I'm more dumb than silly, but I'll take it." Heathcliff said with a grin. Akeno shook her head and smiled.

"I think you've got something up there in the clouds." Akeno said, reaching up and poking Heathcliff's nose. He sniffled as she poked him and rubbed his nose.

"I almost sneezed there. I hope I'm not allergic to you, lest I commit suicide." Heathcliff joked. He sighed internally at his terrible joke.

I was never a good comedian… Heathcliff thought as Akeno giggled at him.

"Aw, that's sweet in an odd, self-destructive way." Akeno said with a soft laugh. Heathcliff chuckled dryly.

"Self-destruction! Yay!" Heathcliff deadpanned. Akeno giggled again and they grew silent for a moment.

"So, uh, I have absolutely no idea where to go." Heathcliff admitted with a grin. Akeno sighed in feign annoyance.

"I guess I was wrong. You are dumb." Akeno teased. Heathcliff pouted at her.

"Wow, thanks. I really appreciate that." Heathcliff said sarcastically. Akeno laughed at him and reached her hand out to him.

"Let's walk and figure something out." Akeno said, moving her fingers to encourage Heathcliff. He looked down at her hand, then back to her smiling face.

Oh… I really like this girl. Heathcliff thought, nervously taking Akeno's hand in his. He was surprised when she gripped his hand with bone-crushing strength.

"Lord Almighty, you've got a crazy strong grip on you! Remind me not to piss you off." Heathcliff exclaimed, flexing his hand a bit as Akeno giggled and lessened her grip.

"Sorry. I'll make sure to let you know if you start annoying me." Akeno said with a mischievous grin. Heathcliff sighed.

"Sure ya will. Next thing I know you're kicking my ass." Heathcliff said as they started walking down the stairs. Akeno laughed at him and leaned on his arm as they descended. They fell silent as they started walking into town…

Heathcliff groaned as he sat down on a chair in a clothing store. Akeno had asked him if he'd be kind enough to help her with something. Of course, Heathcliff being himself, agreed without thinking. Now he was stuck, waiting on the other side of the door to the changing room without a clue as to what he was helping with.

I really have to start thinking before I do shit. Heathcliff thought with a sigh. He looked around the store he sat in and quirked an eyebrow.

There's uh… lot more underwear than what I expected. What could she possibly be doing? She brought me in here, zipped around and then told me to wait. Heathcliff thought as he lowered his head and stared at his boots.

[I think she's trying on some sexy underwear for you.] Kiva suggested with a chuckle. Heathcliff snorted quietly.

Yeah, right. I met her two days ago, it'd be pretty weird to try on underwear on your first date and show it to the bloke. I wouldn't complain, though… Heathcliff responded. He heard Kiva laugh before fading away again. He wondered what the creature thought about, and then remembered that the creature didn't really think since it did not have the ability to do so.

Heathcliff waited around for several minutes, glancing at his watch every time the minute didn't go faster. He tapped his boot on the floor, twiddled his thumbs as he leaned on his legs, and whistled the Australian National Anthem. Whole thing. Some wandering shoppers glanced at him curiously as he whistled the tune that they'd probably never heard before.

Huh, now that I think about it, I don't know a goddamn thing about this country. Aside from their extremely weird porn and cartoons. I do know that more and more of the kids here are getting stuck in front of an idiot box and computers, and that they spend less time outside. If I wasn't outside for at least an hour sometimes, then Pa would think I was sick or dying. Heathcliff shook his head, clearing it of memories he'd prefer to think on another day.

"Heath? I didn't bore you to death, did I?" Akeno's voice called from beyond the door. Heathcliff perked up and grinned.

"Nah. I'm quite alive, least I think I am." Heathcliff responded. He heard a giggle before the handle to the door moved.

"Alright, be honest and stare if you have to. What do you think?" Akeno asked as she opened the door and stepped out. She was wearing a long, red and pink dress with some ruffled sleeve ends. She twirled around in it and her hair narrowly missed Heathcliff's face.

"You look absolutely amazing." Heathcliff said, slightly dumbfounded. Akeno smiled at him.

"I can see it in your eyes. You have more to say, right?" Akeno asked with a smirk. Heathcliff nodded in slight embarrassment.

Damn… she sees straight through me, don't she? Heathcliff thought as he looked her up and down. He noticed her hair was still done up and had a thought.

"You know… I wonder how you'd look with your hair down?" Heathcliff wondered, standing up and towering over Akeno a bit. She smiled and tugged on the bow in her hair.

"Before I undo it, do you know how to tie a bow like this?" Akeno asked with a sly grin. Heathcliff nodded.

"I ought to. Mum was pretty adamant about me learning how to make stuff look pretty. Guess it's cause she only had a stupid bloke instead of a pretty little daughter." Heathcliff said with a sigh. Akeno giggled and turned around, pulling on the bow. It became undone and her hair fell freely in a spray as she twirled around again.

Oh my… Jesus… she's even cuter. How is that possible? Heathcliff thought as he stared in awe at Akeno. She blushed and poked him in the chest.

"Well? Say something…" Akeno mumbled. Heathcliff regained his senses and nodded.

"Yeah, yeah… You're even cuter, which is impossible since you were already at the max level. Your hair is just so beautiful. Like a waterfall, shimmering black in the moonlight under the thousands of stars in the outback. Your dress is red like the rocky hills that surround the falls. And your eyes… the captivating… violet flowers dotting the land." Heathcliff explained quietly, pushing a loose strand of Akeno's hair behind her ear. She blushed as he leaned down to look directly into her eyes.

"Looking into the void of which I do not wish to return from. Filled to the brim with power, elegance, and beauty, this is no mere void. It is a realm, one of which lies eternal joy." Heathcliff continued with a smile. Akeno blushed a bit more and shied away a bit.

"For an idiot, you sure have a way with words. Worming your way into my heart…" Akeno mumbled, leaning her forehead on Heathcliff's. He chuckled deeply, lightly running his hand through her hair.

"I prefer slithering, since I'm so smooth." Heathcliff said with a dorky grin. Akeno giggled at yet another terrible joke from the Australian.

"Smooth as sandpaper." Akeno responded with a cheeky smile. Heathcliff feigned shock.

"Oh! Not my pride…" Heathcliff muttered. Akeno giggled at him and gripped the edge of his shirt.

"People are staring at us. I think we ought to make a move." Akeno said as she started to back up, tugging Heathcliff along.

"Huh? What'd ya mean, make a move? Wait, why are you pulling me in here?" Heathcliff wondered as Akeno pulled him into the changing room and shut the door. She giggled as she stuffed her orange ribbon is his shirt pocket and moved him towards the bench.

"Sit." Akeno ordered. Heathcliff, the gullible goof, sat down on the bench.

"So… uh… why am I in here?" Heathcliff asked, rubbing the back of his neck. Akeno shushed him by putting a finger to his lips and pulling her ribbon back out. She then moved her hair to the side and promptly sat down on Heathcliff's lap. This resulted in him freezing up.

"Uh… um… A-Akeno…?" Heathcliff mumbled, blushing furiously. He tried ignoring how her soft thighs and plump butt were resting on top of him.

[This took an interesting turn.] Kiva commented. Heathcliff growled at him internally.

Oy, would you mind leaving me alone for the moment? I don't need your commentary. Heathcliff said. He heard Kiva laugh and then fade away. He sighed as he returned to the situation at hand.

"I want you to put my hair back up, got it? Then we'll be on our way and I'll have some shopping bags for you to carry." Akeno said with a cheeky smile. Heathcliff shook his head and sighed.

"Of course I'll carry them. I'm just wondering why you have to… sit… on me…" Heathcliff trailed off as Akeno ground herself into him.

"You don't mind, do you?" Akeno asked with a seductive smirk. Heathcliff gulped a bit.

"Well… that wasn't really my concern…" Heathcliff answered, glancing off to the side. Akeno giggled playfully as she grinded her hips again. Heathcliff nearly squeaked a bit as she rubbed him.

"Of course you don't, you naughty, naughty boy…" Akeno teased with a playful grin. Heathcliff blushed and sighed in embarrassment.

"Dammit… just give me the ribbon." Heathcliff muttered, holding his hand out. Akeno slipped the ribbon into his hand and he began to gather up her hair.

"Aw, I thought you'd at least enjoy yourself a bit. It's not every day that I decide to sit on my date's lap so he can give me a feel." Akeno said with a teasing grin. Heathcliff blinked at her and boiled as he blushed.

"W-What? Seriously? You think I'm going to grope you?" Heathcliff asked, slightly shocked.

"Well, yes and no. A test if you will. You can touch my body, but if you do something I don't like, then you get punished." Akeno said playfully. Heathcliff chuckled nervously.

"Oh, wonderful. I was certainly looking to die today." Heathcliff muttered. He slowly started to tie Akeno's hair into her long ponytail, doing the bow knot correctly. He finished and let go of her hair. Akeno felt around the knot and smiled back at him.

"Perfect. Now what are you going to do?" Akeno asked, her sweet smile making him blush.

I don't know… I'm not going to grope her. That's just not right. I do feel the strong urge to do so, but… Huh, I kind of just want to hug her. She's so loveable and playful… and she just makes me feel… safe? Weird, I've never felt this way about a girl. This just seems like we're accelerating our relationship way too fast. Are we? Or is she just as into me as I find myself into her? Heathcliff wondered as Akeno patiently waited for him to do something.

I wonder a lot. Let's see if I'm capable of more action than wonder. Heathcliff thought as he placed his hands on Akeno's hips. She giggled as he slowly slid his arms around her waist. He then pulled her into him and rested his chin on her shoulder, the sudden action shocked her slightly. He sighed happily as he inhaled her sweet, natural scent.

"You're just going to cuddle me?" Akeno wondered. Heathcliff nodded slightly.

"Yah… you're relaxing, but playful. You're sweet and savage. A perfect cocktail that'll put me on the floor. The lighting, and the thunder. I just like enjoying you, even when it seems you tempted me to do what any sane bloke would've done. Lucky for me, I'm quite insane." Heathcliff mumbled as he embraced Akeno. She smiled at him and leaned into his grip, placing her hands over his.

"You're quite interesting, Heath. I was right to go out with you. I don't think anyone has made me feel so… intrigued, but also assured. As if everything is going to be alright as long as you're here. Yet, we just barely know each other. It's… interesting." Akeno said, reaching back and placing a hand on Heathcliff's cheek. She pinched him and he groaned softly.

"Goddammit… why did I not see that coming?" Heathcliff muttered as Akeno giggled in his arms. They fell silent for a moment before a knock came at the door.

"Ma'am, are you okay in there?" the store clerk called. Akeno perked up and Heathcliff became absolutely still.

"Yes, I'll be out in a moment." Akeno responded. The woman on the other side hummed and walked away. Heathcliff let out a breath he was holding.

"Don't bring me into one of these again. Gives decent folk the wrong idea." Heathcliff sighed quietly. Akeno giggled and squirmed out of his grasp. Heathcliff maneuvered around her and exited the stall, crashing on the chair where he was before.

"Wait just a moment and we can be on our way." Akeno said as she closed the door. Heathcliff gave her a thumbs up and sighed.

Well, that was odd. I was pretty okay with it, though. I think we grew a bit closer… Heathcliff thought as he took a deep breath. He relaxed in the chair for a moment.

I would've been fine if she hadn't left me with half a bone… Heathcliff thought, glancing down at his pants. He sighed as the door opened again and Akeno strode out, dress in hand.

"Ready?" Akeno asked, poking Heathcliff on the forehead. He nodded and stood up, taking her hand in his as the headed for the counter.

After purchasing Akeno's dress- something Heathcliff did out of kindness with some regret, seeing as how the dress was expensive- the two walked down the nice, market and storefront area. Heathcliff carried Akeno's bag filled with various pieces of clothing, none he dared to look at, in his free hand. She strolled alongside him, leaning on his arm and tracing his scar as she looked around the storefronts.

"Uh, you feeling like lunch?" Heathcliff asked, glancing at a restaurant. Akeno giggled at him and nodded.

"I could eat. Where were you thinking?" Akeno asked, looking up at Heathcliff as they stopped near a fountain.

"Pft… uh… I dunno. I'm not sure how to pronounce half these restaurant names." Heathcliff admitted, shrugging a bit. Akeno laughed at him and pulled him towards one of them.

"Here, this place is good. Come on." Akeno said with a smile, leading Heathcliff into the restaurant. They sat down and were handed menus. Heathcliff opened his and then blinked at it.

Shit… this is some crazy sounding stuff. Lucky for me they made it easy to read. Heathcliff thought, scanning the menu. A glass of water was set down on the table in front of him and he finally took a moment to look at their server.

What in God's fucking name is she…? Heathcliff thought as Rias smiled down at them in a very tight maid outfit. He blinked several times before pinching his nose and sighing.

"Welcome to Kizuha Grill. I'm Rias and I'll be your server today. What can I get you?" Rias asked with a friendly grin. Heathcliff looked up and glanced at Akeno. She was blushing and frowning a bit, she perked up and smiled when she noticed him looking at her. Heathcliff grinned back and then grew annoyed behind his menu.

Great. How much you want to bet she's been following us the whole time, slightly masking her presence? Heathcliff asked in thought, he heard a chuckle.

[I have nothing to bet, but if I did then I'd bet everything she was.] Kiva said. Heathcliff sighed to himself as Akeno awkwardly asked for a cup of tea. Rias smiled wickedly and wrote it down, she then turned to Heathcliff.

"I'm fine with water. But I'd like to have the grilled shrimp appetizer." Heathcliff said with a barely held back sigh. Rias nodded and bustled off to the kitchen. Heathcliff sighed again and reached his hand across the table to Akeno, taking her hand in his.

"Let's try to ignore her. I suppose she decided to follow us?" Heathcliff wondered. Akeno nodded and squeezed his hand.

"Yes. She's either concerned about me or is jealous. I just wish she would've left us alone." Akeno sighed. Heathcliff sighed as well, annoyed with Rias' intrusion.

"I suppose she'll leave us alone if she's satisfied. Or… or…" Heathcliff trailed off with a grin. Akeno quirked an eyebrow and he gestured for her to lean closer.

"We can lose her out in the streets." Heathcliff whispered in Akeno's ear. She grinned and leaned back with a nod. Heathcliff smiled and sipped his water. He accidentally decided to inhale it rather than drink it, so he ultimately started to coughed violently.

"Heath! Are you alright!?" Akeno asked, standing up and leaning over the table to him with concern present in her eyes. He held up a hand and cleared his throat.

"I forgot to drink instead of inhale. Gets me every damn time…" Heathcliff muttered with a cough. He then registered the fact that Akeno was extremely close to him and that her chest was basically in his face. He felt his cheeks flush as he glanced up at Akeno.

"I'm fine, really. Thank you. Don't worry about me, takes more than a sip of water to drown me… Well, I just demonstrated the opposite, but that doesn't matter." Heathcliff said with a grin. Akeno sighed with a slight laugh and sat back down.

"Try not to drown yourself. That's my job, remember?" Akeno asked with a grin. Heathcliff chuckled and held a hand over his throat.

"Yeah, you'd easily strangle me as you hold my head underwater. Thanks Akeno, I can always count on you to brutally murder me." Heathcliff said, grinning dryly. Akeno laughed at him and shook her head.

"Aw, you make it sound less romantic. I'd let you come up to kiss me every so often, but you'd still be starved of air." Akeno giggled, winking at Heathcliff. He sighed at her.

"Oh, of course. Indulge me before you murder me. Sounds better than I imagined I'd go. I was expecting something along the lines of you punching me in the throat and crush my trachea." Heathcliff said with a dry smile. Akeno giggled.

"Oh my, you're being so violent. I love it." Akeno said with a smirk. Heathcliff blinked in surprise.

Uh… does that mean what I think it does? Is she some sadist? Is that why she tortures me? I don't know if I like that… well, if it's balanced with hugs then I'm good. Heathcliff thought as he recovered from his surprise.

"I think I'm just naturally violent, long as someone gives me a damn good reason to be. Mum never liked how many fights I got into. I somehow came out unscathed. Really weird." Heathcliff stated, scratching his chin. Akeno smiled at him.

"Sounds like she was concerned for her little boy." Akeno said teasingly. Heathcliff blushed and looked away.

"Yeah… Mum's always been there. Through thick 'n thin." Heathcliff said with a grin. Akeno smiled sweetly at him.

"Does she know you went out today? Or are you a bad boy? If you're being bad then I'll have to punish you." Akeno said with a cheeky smile. Heathcliff shuddered, whether from fear or anticipation, he didn't know.

"Nah… Mum knows where I am. In fact, she was ecstatic that I was going out with you today. I had to tell her all about my own little goddess that I found." Heathcliff said, grinning at Akeno. She giggled and blushed lightly.

"Aw… so sweet. I bet you exaggerated until her head was spinning." Akeno commented with a giggle. Heathcliff shook his head.

"No, not really. I may have exaggerated a bit, but I described you to her and… Needless to say, she was almost dying to meet you. Literally, she wanted to go speeding down the road and up the temple steps. I had to advise against such a rash action." Heathcliff explained with a chuckle as he remembered his mother's reaction. Akeno laughed.

"Oh my, she sounds excitable. I'd love to meet Mommy King. I'd love to discuss how handsome, kind, and caring her little boy is." Akeno said, smiling warmly at Heathcliff. He blushed and grinned.

"Ah… stop it. I'm the least caring piece of shit you've ever seen. Can't even be bothered to give something a glance sometimes… That actually might be because I'm a lazy dickhead." Heathcliff said, scratching his cheek. Akeno giggled and shook her head.

"For someone who's so lazy, you seem to be expending a lot of energy with me." Akeno commented. Heathcliff nodded.

"Well, duh, I do want you to like me, right?" Heathcliff asked with a grin. Akeno giggled again as Rias came back with a cup of tea.

"Here you are. You're appetizer should be out momentarily!" Rias exclaimed with superfluous excitement as she gave Akeno her tea. Heathcliff nodded and she walked away, he turned to Akeno with a grin.

"She looks pretty silly in that, don't she?" Heathcliff asked. Akeno nodded, suppressing a giggle.

"I don't think they had a size to fit her boobs and that huge butt of hers." Akeno said with a giggle.

"Well, if that's the case then I'm sure that none of them will fit your boobs." Heathcliff said without thinking. He then pinched his nose.

Goddammit Heath! Why are you such a dope? Heathcliff thought as Akeno looked down at her enormous chest.

"Yeah, I doubt it. My bras are super expensive and are usually pretty bland. That's why I usually visit that store we were in, they sell large lingerie sizes." Akeno said nonchalantly. Heathcliff blinked from beyond his nose pinching.

"Oh… I did not expect that." Heathcliff said in surprise. Akeno giggled at him.

"Heath, I don't care if you comment about my body. It's there, there's no denying that. I can comment on yours, can't I?" Akeno wondered. Heathcliff nodded as her statement made sense.

"Yeah… I suppose. It's only logical. Anyway… you mentioned lingerie?" Heathcliff asked with a stupid grin. Akeno blinked at him and then giggled.

"Oh you naughty boy! You just want to know what I'm wearing under this, don't you?" Akeno teased, tugging on her shirt collar. This motion exposed more of her cleavage, making Heathcliff's job that much harder as he blushed.

"Well… I'm not going to stop you from telling me, but that wasn't exactly what I had in mind. I'm genuinely curious what your taste is. I know little to nothing about it." Heathcliff explained. Akeno blinked at him.

"Oh, now I wasn't expecting that. How sweet of you. If you have to know, you pervert… I enjoy the more racy variety of lingerie." Akeno stated, winking at Heathcliff. He felt himself blush again as he glanced away.

"I'm not trying to be perverted… just curious." Heathcliff muttered with a sigh. He rested his arms on the table and hung his head slightly. Akeno giggled and leaned across the table.

"Huh? What-?" Heathcliff cut off when Akeno kissed his forehead and sat back down, leaving her hand on his.

"I know you're not trying to be lewd. I just like teasing you." Akeno said, rubbing his hand. Heathcliff felt blood rushing through his cheeks.

"O-Okay…" Heathcliff mumbled, falling silent. Akeno smiled and continued to hold his hand.

Dammit… I feel so vulnerable. Stop it, brain! Heathcliff shouted internally as he relaxed with Akeno's touch. She continued to smile warmly and rub her thumb over his hand. It was if she knew it reassured him and made him feel better.

"Thanks… Akeno. I'm happy you understand me." Heathcliff mumbled. Akeno smiled at him and patted his hand.

"Of course. Everyone needs someone who understands them. We'll figure each other out. I can't wait to see what little quirks you have so that I can tease you." Akeno said with a cheeky smirk. Heathcliff huffed.

"Course you want that. All I want to know is every little detail about you so that I can weave it into my memory fabric and leave it there for eternity." Heathcliff said, looking deeply into Akeno's eyes. She blushed lightly and gave him a light push on the shoulder. He didn't budge.

"You know exactly what to say to make a girl blush." Akeno said, smiling at Heathcliff. He reveled in her cuteness and cupped her hand in his.

"Every fiber, every layer. Your soft skin, your luscious hair, you're voluptuous body, and of course, your deep violet eyes of pure beauty. All of it ingrained into the fabric of my very being. Every little detail. The way you look into my eyes, the way your hair sways, the way you smile. The little blush on your pale cheeks when I compliment you… Everything." Heathcliff whispered, staring deeply into Akeno's eyes. She blushed a bit more and squirmed in her seat.

"Heath… that's amazing. Thank you." Akeno mumbled, smiling at him. Heathcliff grinned and squeezed her hand.

"I'm gonna make sure of that. Put that up at the top of the priority list." Heathcliff stated as he then noticed Rias returning. It wasn't hard to track the woman as she bustled through the crowded restaurant. She set down a sizzling platter of grilled shrimp of the table and pulled out her order slip.

"Have you decided?" Rias asked with a sweet smile. Heathcliff looked to Akeno and she nodded to him.

"Yep."

After their quiet lunch- which Heathcliff also paid for- him and Akeno walked out of the restaurant, hand in hand once again. Heathcliff felt Rias' presence start to follow them again, something he neglected to notice beforehand.

"I'm surprised you're walking as well as you are with all that food in you." Akeno commented, leaning on Heathcliff's arm. He chuckled and patted his stomach with the hand Akeno's bag was in.

"I've got a hearty appetite. I got to be careful or it'll go straight to my hips!" Heathcliff exclaimed with a slight feminine tone. Akeno started laughing at him and poked his side.

"Sure it will. Are you sure it won't go to your butt?" Akeno asked with a grin.

"Lord I hope not! Oh no, how's my butt look? Okay? Good?" Heathcliff asked with feigned concern. Akeno laughed at him again and shoved him as he tried turning his rear into her.

"Heath! You're butt's fine!" Akeno laughed as Heathcliff made a fool of himself.

I'm going to regret this public embarrassment later… Heathcliff thought as he settled down. Akeno giggled lightly as she leaned into his arm.

"I went a little overboard, didn't I?" Heathcliff wondered as people stared at them. They walked along for a ways before finding a bench to sit on.

"You might have. It was still funny, though." Akeno said with a giggle. Heathcliff rubbed the back of his neck as they sat, awaiting their shadow.

"I'm already regretting my stupidity…" Heathcliff sighed as he felt Rias' presence get closer. He noticed a flash of red hair out of the corner of his eye and leaned down to Akeno's ear.

"She's here. Want to make her wait or dash?" Heathcliff asked, leaning his head on top of Akeno's. She thought for a moment before nodding.

"Dash." Akeno said, preparing herself to start running. Heathcliff put his hand in front of her and grabbed her shopping bag.

Kiva, you know what to do. Heathcliff called in thought.

[Aye, aye Captain.] Kiva responded with a chuckle. Heathcliff sighed and readied himself.

"Now, don't be alarmed, but I'm going to pick you up." Heathcliff whispered. Akeno quirked an eyebrow at him.

"I'm very strong and very fast. Rias won't catch us if I take off." Heathcliff explained. Akeno smiled and nodded. Heathcliff grinned and slipped his arm under her knees and around her back, gripping her firmly.

"Three… two… one… Bingo." Heathcliff whispered. In one fell swoop he lifted Akeno and took off sprinting down an alleyway. Akeno laughed as he sprinted down the alley and turned down another on a dime. He felt Rias' presence jump in surprise and start after them, but Heathcliff was already a long ways ahead of her. He leaped over a small barrier and took off down a deserted street.

Rias' presence stopped for a moment before following again. He was losing her, and fast. Heathcliff grinned as he turned down another deserted alley and found a fence in his way. He found a convenient pile of boxes and slammed one of his boots on a box. He used that as a base and launched himself at the opposite wall. He connected to the opposite wall and pushed off in an easy bound, clearing the fence and landing in a continued sprint.

"Whoa, how did you do that?" Akeno asked, staring at Heathcliff in shock. He continued to breathe through his nose but took a moment to explain himself.

"I did a lot of free-running and such back in Sydney. I even did it with one of my friends on my back. That's why I was able to pull that off." Heathcliff explained between breaths as his muscles steamed and strained themselves. He had amazing stamina thanks to his Synergetic companion, so this was easy for him. His absurd reflexes helped, too.

Heathcliff eventually felt Rias' presence merge into the greater beyond of his sense, meaning he had outrun her completely. He sighed in relief as he skidded to a stop in a deserted street.

"Here we are… milady. Whoa! That was fun!" Heathcliff exclaimed, breathing deeply. He gently set Akeno down and she straightened her clothes.

"Sure was. I'm still impressed with how you jumped that fence. You're just full of surprises." Akeno said, smiling at Heathcliff. He grinned and ran his fingers through her ponytail, straightening the ruffled locks.

"Seems I messed up your hair. Sorry." Heathcliff mumbled as he fixed her hair. Akeno giggled at him.

"It's alright. I figured my hair would get messed up one way or another." Akeno said suggestively, winking at Heathcliff. He blinked for a moment, registering and processing her words.

"Oh… well, I'm not that forward. I mean, it's our first date." Heathcliff said, rubbing the back of his neck and blushing. Akeno giggled and pinched his cheek.

"I'm teasing you. I wasn't expecting you to pound into me on the first date." Akeno said, sticking her tongue out and grinning. Heathcliff gulped.

"Oh… course… Speaking of…" Heathcliff muttered, glancing around the part of town they were in. Akeno looked around and started laughing.

"Oh my! We're in the love hotel district…" Akeno trailed off, glancing sidelong at Heathcliff. He gulped again.

"I did not bring enough cash for this…" Heathcliff muttered. Akeno giggled at him and fell into him, putting her arms around his waist. Heathcliff blinked in surprise but wrapped his arms around her.

"We'll do what we want, when we want. I don't expect you do to as much as you have done already. Thank you, Heath." Akeno muttered into his chest. Heathcliff rubbed her back and chuckled.

"I don't have to be a gentleman? Well, that's not how I was taught." Heathcliff said with a grin. Akeno giggled again. He loved that giggle.

"Really, Heath. I had a lot of fun today. I can't believe how well we meld together…" Akeno mumbled, staring up at him expectantly.

Uh… she seems to be expecting something… Oh? Heathcliff thought as Akeno moved her arms around his neck. Heathcliff found his arms around her waist, lifting her slightly. He saw the sun going behind the buildings and wondered.

How long was I running? I can't even tell… how long were we in the restaurant? Heathcliff wondered as Akeno leaned closer to him. Her nose barely touched his and he grinned.

"Sorry, I'm a little high up here." Heathcliff said as Akeno pouted. He reached down and wrapped his hands behind her knees, lifting her up and placing her legs around his waist. She was now eye level with him as he supported her by wrapping his arms around her.

"Better?" Heathcliff asked with a grin. Akeno smiled and shook her head.

"Oh shut up…" Akeno mumbled as she leaned in, closing her eyes. Heathcliff did the same. His heart pounded, his senses dulled. All that mattered was the woman in his arms, and how her lips started to graze his.

Time stopped for a moment as Heathcliff leaned in. He felt a rush of adrenaline and excitement as he did so.

Then, he captured her lips with his own.

.

.

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Boom. This took forever and I'm uploading it before I head down south for the weekend. I'll be back to do my other stories but, I just really wanted to focus on this one.

Anyway, thanks guys.

See you next time with the King of Symbiosis.