Hello and welcome to another chapter of Dark Slayers Rebirth. Last time, Raynare and her group learned that Vernal was not to be trifled with. The hard way. Vernal's display of power was felt by a lot of important people and Asia was adopted by Sylia. Now it's time for the trip to the Familiar Forest and the meeting with a certain flame broiled devil. Now, let's get to it.
As usual, I own nothing.
AN: I know I said I would use FGO's Tiamat's appearance for this fic. But that was because I didn't know what Tiamat looked like in DxD. So, I'll be using the description provided by DxD Wiki. Her personality however, will be of my own design.
AN2: I'm removing Kuroka's nya's. They're cute, but annoying to write.
AN3: I've decided to call Vernal's outfit the Slayer outfit when she fights.
It was the middle of the night in Kuoh Town. While others were sleeping, one was not. Vernal Angelo, the reincarnation of the Dark Slayer, Vergil Sparda, was dealing with some...annoyances. A few days ago, Vernal unleashed her power on Raynare and her group to rescue her new sister, Asia. While Asia was saved, Vernal's display had the unfortunate side effect of attracting Stray Devils to her. Since then, the white-haired slayer has been dealing with random attacks. Tonight being the latest.
{Play Taste The Blood (Vergil's Combat Theme 1) (DMC3:SE)}
Vernal delivers an upwards slash that cuts a Stray in half. Her stoic expression ever present. As the two half's fall before vanishing into whisp of shadows, Vernal twirls her sword and then sheaths it. She then looks behind her to see more Strays approaching her.
The white-haired slayer slowly turns around to face her foes before dashing forward. Vernal blocks a strike with her sheath before drawing her blade. She then slashes an approaching devil before sweeping the Stray she had occupied off it's feet. Vernal then cleaves her airborne victim with an upwards slash before delivering a downwards slash to another. She then quickly spins around and delivers a Void Slash to a group of Strays.
Vernal eyes the remaining Stray Devils before sheathing her blade. She then enters a stance. The white-haired slayer quickly removes Yamato an inch from it's sheath then fully sheaths it. Much to the Strays confusion, Vernal exits her stance before turning her back on her enemies.
"Judgment." Vernal says softly.
Suddenly, a whirlwind of slashes decimates the remaining devils.
{End OST}
With her enemies gone, Vernal closes her eyes and de-summons Yamato and her slayer outfit. Changing into her black jacket, white shirt, black pants and shoes. The white-haired devil glances behind her before walking away. Disappearing into the night.
Meanwhile in the Underworld, a meeting between four devils is taking place.
One is a handsome who appears to be in his early twenties. He has shoulder length crimson hair and blue-green eyes. All in all, the man looks like a male version of Rias Gremory.
Another devil is a bewitchingly beautiful and attractive young man appearing in his early twenties, with light blue eyes and green hair that is slicked back.
The next devil is a tall man whose head is completely bald and has a goatee on his chin.
The only female devil present is a beautiful girl; looking in her late teens with black hair, tied into twin tails and pink eyes. She also has a child-like body (albeit with large breasts). Oddly enough, the girl is dressed as, what looks like, a magical girl.
These four are Sirzechs Lucifer, Ajuka Beelzebub, Falbium Asmodeus and Serafall Leviathan. The Four Great Satan's of the Underworld. Like most, these four sensed the large power detected in Kuoh Town and were quite alarmed. More so Sirzechs and Serafall, since their little sisters are in Kuoh. The Four Satan's decided to get to the bottom of this development.
"Do we have any information to go on?" Ajuka asks. He then looks towards Sirzechs and Serafall. "Your sisters were in Kuoh at the time of the incident. Have they reported?"
Sirzechs sighs. "From what Rias has told me, the massive power we sensed came from a single devil currently residing in Kuoh."
Ajuka raises an eyebrow. "One devil was able to generate that much power?"
"It's true." Serafall says. "Sona reported the same thing. Our person of interest is a young woman named Vernal Angelo."
Ajuka furrows his eyebrows in thought. "I've never heard of a family of devils by the name Angelo. Seems quite odd for a devil to have a name similar to angel."
"Apparently, miss Angelo was rescuing a former nun, who happens to be Rias' new Bishop." Sirzechs says. "Rias also reported that miss Angelo has been residing in Kuoh for some time without us knowing."
"Any idea how a devil with that kind of power can move around unnoticed?" Falbium asks.
"All I can guess is that she's been suppressing her demonic power until now." Ajuka says. "Is she a threat?"
"Sona reported that Vernal won't act unless provoked." Serafall says. "Her attack on the Fallen that invaded Kuoh was her first act of aggression."
"Right." Sirzechs says with a frown. "Rias also said to approach miss Angelo with caution. Judging by how she decimated Fallen Angel Raynare and her group, I'm inclined to agree."
"Do we have anything on the girls background?" Falbium asks.
Serafall shakes her head. "Not much. She has a human mother, but her father is decreased. Vernal's also the captain of Kuoh's kendo team and club president. Sona said that Vernal was homeschooled but get this. She managed to score second place on the schools entry exam, just behind Sona."
"So, not only is she strong, she's also intelligent." Akuja says.
"Brains and brawn." Falbuim says. "Dangerous combination."
"Her power output exceeds that of a High-Class Devil." Ajuka says. "In fact, I daresay it's on par with a Super-Class."
"Only question now is, what do we do about this?" Falbuim asks. "The kid's put a target on her back. Strays and devils looking to add members for their peerages are gonna be after her. Not to mention the other factions."
"I doubt the Fallen would go after her thanks to miss Angelo's display of power." Sirzechs says. "Her attack was meant as a warning not to approach her. I doubt Azazel would authorize a hit on her."
"And Michael will probably want to monitor the girl." Ajuka says. "So, what's our course of action?"
Serafall folds her arms in thought. "Hmm. Zechs, isn't Grayfia do to visit Rias about Riser?"
Sirzechs expression darkens for a moment before it disappears.
As Lucifer, Sirzechs knows that a union between the Gremory clan and the Phenx clan may lead to powerfull children. But as Rias' older brother, the Crimson Satan knows how badly Rias wants out of her arranged marriage. While Riser was respectful in public, Sirzechs knows of what Riser plans to do to Rias once they are married. Unfortunately, Sirzechs cannot interfere with matters concerning his family now that he's taken the mantel of Lucifer.
"Yes, she is." Sirzechs says.
"Why not have Grayfia meet Vernal while she's in Kuoh?" Serafall asks. "If Rias' new Bishop has been adopted by Vernal's family, chances are that they'll meet anyway."
"Good point." Falbium says.
"Then are we all in agreement?" Sirzechs asks. At his comrade's nod, he continues. "Then that is what we shall do. Now, we have to perform some damage control to keep the other devils from provoking miss Angelo."
In another location in the Underworld, an unknown devil examines the footage taken of Vernal's battle with the Stray Devils before it was cut off during the fight. As he freezes on Vernal's face, the devil grins maliciously.
The next morning at Kuoh Town brought a special surprise to the school. There had been rumors of a new student joining the second years. Out of everyone in one particular class, only Issei Hyoudou knew the truth. Which is why Issei wasn't surprised to see Asia step into the classroom wearing the girls school uniform. Though he was surprised to see Vernal with the former nun. The sight of Vernal had two effects on the class. The girls felt envious of Vernal while most of the guys flinched upon seeing the Ice Queen of Kuoh.
"My name is Asia A. Angelo." Asia says with a beaming smile. "I'm feeling a bit like a fish out of water, but I'm excited to be here."
The class gives various greetings to their new classmate. ...Though two of them had other things to say.
"Shorty's hot!" Matsuda exclaims.
"Bust, 34! Waist, 26! Hips, 35 and look at all that hair!" Motohama exclaims with a gleam in his glasses.
Unfortunately, the two half's of the Perverted Trio had to cut their reverie short thanks to a shinai imbedding itself into the wall behind them. The two pale as the class grows quiet. The class then turns their attention to the one who threw the shinai.
"For the record, I meant to miss." Vernal says calmly. "Next time, keep your thoughts to yourselves."
Matsuda and Motothama quickly nod their heads to the point that they look like they might fall off.
"Murayama. Katase." Vernal says.
The two girls mentioned stand at attention. "Yes, Taicho!"
"Asia has recently been adopted into my family as my little sister." Vernal says as she side glances the green eyed blonde. "I'm entrusting you two to watch over her while in class."
The classroom erupts in shock. "WHAT?!"
"Understood, Taicho!" Murayama says with a salute.
"You can count on us!" Katase says while mimicking her friends gesture.
Vernal nods. She then walks to the door. "Be sure to retrieve my shinai once class is over." Once Vernal reaches the door, she turns to Asia. "I shall see you during lunch, Asia."
Asia gives Vernal a smile and a wave. "See you then, nee-san!"
Vernal nods to her little sister before bowing to the class. She then gives a pointed look to Issei basically telling him "Don't screw up again, or else." Issei flinches before quickly nodding at his sempai. Satisfied, Vernal leaves the room. Leaving the class to get to know their new classmate, while Matsuda and Motohama lament, knowing that their new classmate was off limits thanks to her new big sister.
The next few days went off without any problems. ...Well, there were some.
Issei took Asia around Kuoh to hand out flyers so she could get used to the lay of the land. The brown-haired devil had failed to get a successful contract. Not to mention his encounter with a large man whose wish was to become a magical girl. (Ugh! Scary.) Issei eventually managed to get a successful contract after he and Rias helped an odd par become boyfriend and girlfriend. Though the Pawn did note that half of the time his King seemed out of it. She would have a melancholy look on her face while thinking to herself.
Other than that, Vernal did have to deal with the occasional Stray devil attacks at random times. Though she did note that the attacks seemed to be decreasing for some reason.
School had just ended a while ago and Asia met up with the rest of the ORC. Issei was about to take Asia to hand out flyers as they have been for the past few days, only for Rias to tell the two that they don't have to anymore. Instead, the red-haired devil decided it was time to get her newest peerage members Familiars.
Rias revealed that the woman who gave Issei the flyer during his "date" with Raynare was in fact her Familiar, who true form is a small bat. Akeno had an imp as her Familiar, while Konokeo had a small white kitten named Shiro. Issei didn't care much about Kiba's.
The Kendo Club wasn't meeting today, which meant that Vernal was also present. It seemed that Vernal has become quite addictive to Akeno's tea, cause she's currently sitting on a couch with a cup in hand.
"Familiars are a major part of being a devil." Rias says. "When you're in need, they're always there to back you up."
"That's great. Only problem is we have no idea where we're supposed to get one." Asia says with a small frown.
"That's the next step." Rias says.
Before Rias can continue, everyone hears a knock on the door.
"Come in!" Akeno says.
The door opens to reveal the student body president, Souna Shitori or as the older devils know her as Sona Sitri. Along with her is the student council, otherwise known as her peerage.
"Whoa!" Issei exclaims in shock. "What's she doing here?"
Asia turns towards Issei. "Do you know these people?"
Issei gestures to Sona. "The girl in the middle is Souna Shitori, the student body president." Issei gestures to a young bespectacled woman with long straight black hair that extends all the way down to her knees, with split bangs and brown eyes. "The girl with the glasses right behind her is Tsubaki Shinra. Looks like they brought the rest of the council with them."
"Hello, Sona." Rias says. "What can I do for you?"
"Nothing." Sona says. "I just wanted to congratulate you on increasing the number of your servants."
Issei raises an eyebrow. "Hold on. How does she know that?"
"Because Souna Shitori is really Sona Sitri of the Sitri devil clan." Vernal says. "The student council is actually her peerage."
Issei takes a step back in shoock. "Whoa! Seriously? You mean there are other devils besides us at school?"
Akeno pouts at Vernal. "I wanted to say that."
Sona slightly narrows her eyes at Vernal. "I'm surprised you know that much, Angelo-san. How did you get this information?"
Vernal nonchalantly takes a sip of her tea. "To put your mind at ease, my mother is aware of the supernatural. But that's all I'll say on the matter."
"What exactly is the Ice Queen of Kuoh doing hanging out here?" A young man with short blond hair and grey eyes asks. "I thought you were with the kendo club."
"Rias' new Bishop just happens to be Angelo-san's recently adopted sister." Sona says. "It's best to get your facts, Saji."
The conversation soon dissolved into Issei and Sona's newest Pawn, Saji Genshiro, trying to intimidate one another. Saji continued to belittle Issei due to his reputation as a member of the Perverted Trio, while Issei made threats to keep Saji away from Asia. That argument ended thanks to an energy sword flying pass the two, courtesy of Vernal.
The topic then switched to getting Familiars for the two Kings Pawns. Only problem was that the so-called Familiar Master only sees one group at a time. Rias had then suggested a competition to settle who goes. At first, Sona thought her friend was suggesting a Rating Game, but Rias dismissed that. Though Vernal was curious about the term. As well as the fact that Rias seemed tense when the subject was brought up. Eventually, it was decided that Rias and Sona would settle their matter with sports the next day.
Afterwards, Vernal and Asia made their way home. Sylia had taken to glomping Asia. The former nun wasn't bothered by it though and enjoyed her new mothers affection. Soon after, the three sat down for dinner. Kuroka was present in her cat form as well. Vernal and Sylia had agreed that Kuroka's identity be kept secret for the time being. The Nekoshou woman had taken the name Kuro while in her cat form. Kuroka did enjoy Asia petting her though.
After dinner, Asia went straight to bed. Leaving Vernal, Sylia and Kuroka to talk.
"A Rating Game?" Sylia asks.
Vernal nods. "Yes. Gremory seemed to tense at the topic."
"The term sounds familiar, but I can't seem to remember." Sylia says with a thoughtful expression.
"It's a competition between two Devils with a peerage." Kuroka says. "Along with the Peerage System, Ajuka Beelzebub created Rating Games to measure a Devil's strength which reflects their social standing in the Underworld. Often times, they're used to settle arguments between two devils."
Sylia raises an eyebrow. "You know a lot about this. Have you been in a Rating Game?"
"Nope." Kuroka says. "Never got the chance." Kuroka gains a far-away expression. "The only reason I even became a devil was..." Kuroka shakes her head. "It's nothing. Forget I said anything."
Vernal and Sylia raise an eyebrow at Kuroka's dismissal. Though they ultimately decide to drop it and focus on their previous topic.
"So, you think Lucifer's sister is involved in a Rating Game?" Sylia asks.
"Possibly." Vernal says. "It would explain why she's been so distracted lately. She has a Rating Game approaching and whoever her opponent is worries her."
"It would also explain why she was so desperate to have you in her peerage." Sylia says. "She doesn't think she strong enough to beat her opponent." Sylia closes her eyes for a moment before opening them while smiling. "At any rate, Asia-chan is supposed to be getting a Familiar, right? Have you thought about getting one for yourself?"
"Not really." Vernal says. "I doubt anyone would be qualified for job."
Vernal thinks back to her past life when she was V. Back then she had three Familiar's. The snarky Griffon, the transformable panther Shadow and the hulking behemoth, Nightmare. The three Familiar's served V well up until he rejoined with Urizen. Vernal had no idea if the three demons created from the remnants of her time as Nelo Angelo were still alive.
"Besides, I have high standards." Vernal says. "If I were to choose a Familiar, they would have to be able to match me in battle." Vernal stands up. "I believe we should retire for the night. Gremory and Sitri decided on tennis for their battlefield tomorrow. Not to jinx myself, but I haven't detected any Stray Devils tonight."
"About that, I think to Four Satan's are behind that." Kuroka says. "No doubt they felt your power the night you saved Asia-san. They're probably trying to avoid any more incidents."
Sylia furrows her eyebrows. "If that's the case, they might send an envoy to watch you. Be careful, Vernal."
"...I'll keep that in mind." Vernal says.
The next day was hectic to say the least. Just like they agreed, Rias and Sona battled it out on the tennis field at school with their Queens. Things started out well, until magic got involved. Eventually, the match ended in a draw. Luckily, no one was hurt. Afterwards, the two Kings decided that they would settle things the next day as a team with dodgeball.
That night in the gym was one to remember. The two peerages dived straight into using magic in their game. Luckily, Rias and Sona rented the gym, so no one else was present. Issei surprised everyone by staying up the night before to make team headbands. Unfortunately for the brown-haired devil, his headband didn't afford him any protection from a ball to his. Asia, being the sweet girl that she is, offered to heal him. But she needed to know where the pain came from, which was something Issei politely refused to show. Though Koneko shockingly got revenge by giving Saji the same treatment. Eventually, the match ended in Rias' favor. There was just one thing.
"Angelo-san, how do you intend to join us in the Familiar Forest?" Rias asks. "My transportation circle only allows those of my household to travel."
"Your concern is noted, but unnecessary." Vernal says. "I happened to have a... reliable source tell me where to go. Once there, it's only a matter of following your demonic power."
"...I see." Rias says after a pause. "Well then, shall we go?"
The Familiar Forest was somewhat strange and mystifying. At least, that how Vernal felt when she arrived there.
"Hmm. Curiouser and curiouser." Vernal says as she looks around. "Now then, where's Asia? Hmm?"
Vernal narrows her eyes as she looks to the sky. "This power... Something is approaching. Something powerful."
A loud roar suddenly fills the air. In the distance, Vernal can make out exactly what was approaching. And when she saw it, Vernal couldn't help but let a smirk form on her face. A pale blue Western Dragon with celestial blue scales.
"This may be fun." Vernal says with a small grin.
{Play Rules of Nature by Jamie Christopherson}
The dragon parts it's mouth before launching a large blue fireball at Vernal. The white-haired devil looks at the incoming attack in amusement. Just before the attack can connect, it is snuffed out as Vernal unleashes her power. The dragon pauses as Vernal changes into her slayer outfit. Yamato then appears out of Vernal's outstretched left hand. The dragon stares at it's prey before roaring. Vernal simply looks on, unfazed.
"Who would've guessed I'd have the chance to face a dragon in this life?" Vernal asks with a grin.
The dragon barrels down to ram it's prey. Just before the dragon can come into contact with Vernal, the white-haired slayer jumps into the air. Vernal then lands on the dragon as it takes off. The dragon roars as it tries to shake off Vernal, but the slayer continues to hang on. Vernal unsheathes her sword and dashes all over it's body, slashing the entire time. The dragon roars in pain before finally shaking Vernal off, causing the white-haired devil to make a superhero landing in a nearby clearing.
The dragon circles around and much to Vernal's surprise, the dragon generates lightning from it's wings. Instead of fire, the dragon breathes and electric attack. Vernal's eyes widen before the blast hits it's mark, causing a explosion. The dragon looks on to see what remains of it's prey, only to seemingly look shocked as the dust clears to reveal an empty crater. The dragons shocked look quickly shifts to a pained one as it feels something impaling it's wing. The creature looks to it's left wing to see a blue energy sword sticking out of it from behind. The dragon turns around to see Vernal, with her bangs down but relatively unharmed and her right hand outstretched.
Vernal gives a smirk as she holds her hand up. At the gesture, dozens of energy blades appear above the dragon. The creature looks up just in time for Vernal to swipe her hand down. The blades then rain down on the dragon. The beast roars in pain as the force of Vernal's attack causes it to fall to the ground with a loud thud.
{End OST}
Vernal watches as the dragon crashes on the ground near her. She then swipes her bangs back before walking towards the dragon. Said dragon was already showing signs of healing as it stands up. Vernal stops a few feet away from the dragon. Their eyes lock. Neither displaying any sort of emotion.
"...Shall we continue?" Vernal asks after a pause. "Or have you had enough?"
The dragon stares at Vernal for a moment before closing it's eyes. The dragon then seemingly relaxes as it opens it's eyes.
"No. We're done." The dragon says with a feminine voice. "I thank you for the spar. It has been some time since I've gotten some proper exercise."
"I'd imagine so." Vernal says. "Most of the creature's here are pathetically weak. You however, possess incredible strength. I can hardly imagine someone of your level having a decent challenge here."
The dragon giggles. "My, you are a flatterer. Though I imagine the same can be said for you." The dragon gives a knowing look. "You too haven't had a proper challenge in what seems like years."
Vernal narrows her eye's. "So, you know."
"That this is not your first life?" The dragon asks. "Yes. I am aware. I have lived a long time to be able to recognize an old soul such as yourself."
"And who may I be speaking to?" Vernal asks.
Suddenly, the dragon begins to glow. The size of the dragon starts to decrease and change into a humanoid shape. When the glow fades, Vernal merely raises an eyebrow.
The dragons human shape appears to be a beautiful woman with fair skin, straight and long beautiful pale blue hair, dark blue eyes, pointed ears and a cold atmosphere that radiates from her beauty. Adding on to her large bust. She wears a white short sleeved blouse, a navy-blue skirt and blue flat shoes. She accessorizes with two gold bracelets, a blue choker with a green gem and blue nail polish.
"I am Tiamat." The woman says. "The Chaos Karma Dragon and one of the Five Great Dragon Kings. May I know your name?"
Seeing Tiamat as not a threat at the moment, Vernal de-summons Yamato. "In my old life, I was known as Vergil Sparda, son of the legendary Dark Knight, Sparda. The name I have in this life is Vernal Angelo."
"I see." Tiamat says. She then smiles before propping her head up with her right hand. "Tell me, Vernal Angelo. How would you like a Dragon King as your Familiar?"
"I'd ask what's in it for you?" Vernal says with an eyebrow raised.
"I feel things would be more interesting if we partnered up." Tiamat says. "Truth be told, I've been awaiting your arrival since I felt your power some time ago. I believe the human expression is "Power attracts power." And, as you've said, I've grown quite bored of this place."
Vernal stares at Tiamat for a moment before holding her hand out towards her. A magic circle, bearing the seal of Sparda, then appears under Tiamat. *Ragna the Bloodege's emblem from Blazblue*
"Hear me." Vernal says in a commanding voice. "I, who bear the blood of Sparda. I, who is known as Vernal Angelo command you. From this day forth, you who is known as the Chaos Karma Dragon, shall walk alongside me as my Familiar."
Tiamat looks at the scene before her. She then smiles. "I accept."
Tiamat glows with the same aura as Vernal. Signifying their pact. With their pact made, the magic circle vanishes along with Tiamat's aura.
Tiamat looks at her right hand as she clenches and unclenches it. "Interesting. Besides the established bond between us, I don't feel any different."
"I am aware of how the bond between a devil and a Familiar is established." Vernal says. "I also know that someone of your stature would detests being treated as a servant." Vernal briefly flashes back to when she was forced to serve Mundas as Nelo Angelo. "Something we both can agree on."
"...Well then, glad we're on the same page." Tiamat says with an amused giggle. "I do have my pride as a Dragon King after all."
"Nee-san!"
Vernal and Tiamat turn to face Asia approaching with Rias and the others behind her. Also with the group is an older man who looks like a cosplayer from Pokémon. Which happens to be one of Sylia's favorite shows. Interestingly enough, there was also a small blue dragon in Asia's arms.
"We saw the explosions." Rias says. "What exactly happened here?"
"Just getting acquainted with a new ally." Vernal says as she gestures to Tiamat.
Upon seeing Tiamat, Issei would normally go into perv mode. However, when their eyes lock, Issei freezes up. His body refuses to move and all because of an instinctual fear griping him.
"What's going on?" Issei thinks frantically. "Why the hell am I so scared all of a sudden?!"
Issei's predicament is easily seen by the others present.
"Issei?" Rias asks in concern.
Tiamat steps forward with an amused smile on her face. "Long time no see, Ddraig."
Issei looks at Tiamat in confusion. Suddenly, a green gem appears on Issei's left hand.
"T-Tiamat!" A voice says fearfully. "W-what are you doing here?!"
Tiamat "innocently" puts a hand to her face. "Why Ddraig, you sound frightened. Is something the matter?"
"Wait!" Rias exclaims. "Tiamat?! As in the Chaos Karma Dragon?! One of the Dragon Kings!?"
Vernal glances at Tiamat as she ignores Rias' worry. "I take it you are familiar with the soul inside Hyoudou's Sacred Gear?"
"Oh, Ddraig?" Tiamat asks. "He and I go way back, along with another."
Rias gets over her shock at seeing Tiamat, just to be shocked at the mention of the name of the soul inside her Pawns Sacred Gear.
"Ddraig?" Rias asks. "Then that means that Issei's Sacred Gear isn't a Twice Critical like I originally thought."
"But that would mean...Issei's the new Red Dragon Emperor!" Akeno exclaims in shock. "The new wielder of the Boosted Gear. A Longinus class Sacred Gear capable of killing even the gods!"
Everyone, besides Tiamat, is blown away at Akeno's words. Issei included.
"The pervs really got that kind of power?" Koneko asks skeptically.
"I'm inclined to agree." Vernal says. "Why would such a weapon choose Hyoudou of all people? The boy's only use so far has proven to be as a meat shield."
Issei crashes to the ground in despair. He then bounces back up. "Not cool sempai!"
"What exactly is your relationship with the dragon?" Vernal asks, ignoring Issei.
"Boy! You have to run! NOW!" Ddraig exclaims.
"What's my relationship with Ddraig you ask?" Tiamat asks.
To everyone's surprise, the air around Tiamat becomes heavy as a demonic visage of a dragon appears beside her. The smile on the bluenette's face just added on to the unnerving sight.
"Just that Ddraig here owes me for all the treasure he lost during a pointless fight of his centuries ago." Tiamat says with a smile that promises death. She then directs her gaze at Issei. "A debt that now falls upon you, little boy."
Issei's teeth begin to chatter as sweat runs down his face. And what of Ddraig you ask? The great Red Dragon Emperor was openly weeping.
"I'm sorry!" Ddraig sobs.
Rias suddenly remembers one important clue. She then looks at Vernal. "Wait a moment. Angelo-san, you said the Tiamat-sama is a new ally of yours?"
"Yes. She's been contracted as my Familiar." Vernal says casually.
Rias and her peerage pause for a moment before yelling at the top of their lungs. "WHAT?!"
Later that night, Asia introduced her new Familiar to Vernal. Rassei, a Sprite Dragon. A rare type of dragon as the Familiar Master, the Ash Ketchum wannabe, said. The little dragon apparently hates other males, as demonstrated by it's lightning attack on Issei. The dragon had won points with Vernal with that act alone. Rassei was able to sense a superior dragon in Tiamat and was quite friendly to Vernal. Once home, Rassei was immediately glomped by Sylia. Afterwards was the shock of the Chaos Karma Dragon being her daughters Familiar. Kuroka had strangely disappeared that night.
The next few days became a blur for Vernal. Somehow, Tiamat had "convinced" Rias to hire her as a new teacher. Taking the position of the kendo clubs new advisor under the name Tia Karma. Tiamat had claimed that she refused to sit around the house bored out of her mind. The dragon in disguise was quickly becoming the students favorite teacher with her kind attitude. If only they knew what lies beneath her kind exterior.
It also became more apparent that Rias was seriously bothered by something. Which only told Vernal that her assumptions about the Gremory being in a Rating Game were correct. Not only that, but the day was fast approaching.
After school, Vernal and Tiamat met up to pick up Asia from her club activities. The two had just finished their own meeting and were on their way to the ORC building.
"Are you adjusting well to your new position?" Vernal asks.
"It's actually pretty interesting." Tiamat says. "To be honest, your mother suggested that I become a history teacher. What with my centuries of knowledge. But then she mentioned your kendo club."
"Do you know how to use a blade?" Vernal asks with an eyebrow raised.
"Ufufu. Well, you'll find out soon enough." Tiamat says with a giggle.
Vernal gives a small smirk. "I eagerly look forward to it."
As Vernal reaches for the door to the club room, she suddenly pauses before narrowing her eyes.
"You felt that too I take it?" Vernal asks rhetorically.
"Yes." Tiamat says without her usual humor. "A barrier has been erected around the club room. A powerful one at that." Tiamat closes her eyes. "...The energy around it feels familiar as well."
Vernal side glances Tiamat. "Someone you know?"
After a moment, Tiamat opens her eyes with a smile. "Yes. An old acquaintance. The current Lucifer's wife, Grayfia Lucifuge."
Vernal slightly narrows her eyes. "If she's here, then that means that Gremory's time has run out."
Vernal glances around before summoning Yamato. With a simple tap of the weapons sheath, the barrier around the ORC club's building crumbles. With the barrier gone, Vernal de-summons her sword before she and Tiamat continue into the building.
At the same time, inside the club room, Rias is having an intense conversation with someone. Said someone is a tall and handsome young man in his early 20's with short blond hair and dark blue eyes. His outfit consists of a burgundy blazer with gold embroidery on the right with matching pants and black dress shoes. Underneath his open blazer is a white dress shirt that is not fully buttoned (just one button short), giving a slight view to his chest.
Along with Rias and the young man are Rias' peerage, a beautiful young woman appearing to be in her early twenties with back-length silver hair that features a long braid on each side with small blue bows at the ends, while the rest is let down which ends in twin braids and silver eyes wearing a maid outfit and a bunch of women of varying ages and sizes.
"For the last time Riser! I will NOT marry YOU!" Rias exclaims.
"But my darling, Riser believes your families circumstances are still such that you cannot afford to be so selfish." The male, Riser, says.
"I will NOT bring my family to ruin!" Rias says. "I have no intention of denying you to our name, but let me be clear. My husband will be MY choice."
"You forget, Riser bares the reputation of the house of Phenex." Riser says with an edge in his voice. "Besmirching our name is unacceptable. Riser doesn't care if he has to incinerate everyone in this room. You WILL return to the Underworld with me!"
Riser flares a bit of his power. In retaliation, Rias flares her power as well. The maid looks as though she is about to step in when suddenly, the door opens.
"So, that's why you were so desperate to include me in your peerage."
Everyone turns to the door to see Vernal and Tiamat entering.
Vernal glances around the room before her eyes land on Riser. "If this is supposedly the image of a high-class devil, then it's no wonder you're a dying race."
Riser bristles slightly at Vernal's comment. "What was that?"
The maid looks towards Rias. "Ojou-sama, I was informed that you only have two new additions to your peerage." The woman looks towards Vernal and Tiamat. "Who exactly are these two?"
Rias pinches her nose with a sigh. "These two aren't a part of my peerage, Grayfia. These two are Vernal Angelo and Tiamat-sama. As for why they are here, I can only assume it is to retrieve my new Bishop. Angelo-san is her adoptive older sister."
Grayfia slightly narrows her eyes as she examines Vernal. "So, she is the one Sirzechs-sama spoke of." Grayfia then looks towards Tiamat. Her eyes then widen a fraction in surprise. "Tiamat-sama... Why is she here?"
Before Grayfia can question the Chaos Karma Dragon, Riser decides to be the apparent chauvinistic man-whore he is.
"Vernal Angelo, is it?" Riser asks. His eyes lecherously examining Vernal. "A bit odd of a name for a devil. Though... there can be no denying that you have a certain beauty to you." Riser grins. "Be honored, Riser has deemed you worthy of being his concubine. Once Riser's business here is finished, he shall treat you as if you were royalty."
Rias and her peerage pale slightly at Riser's attempt to court Vernal. Knowing what sort of reaction the white-haired devil will have.
Vernal stares at Riser impassively. The male Phenex, thinking he's won Vernal over, merely continues grinning. That grin is soon wiped off his face and is traded for a look of confusion at the sound of a sword slashing. Followed by a pain in his stomach. Riser looks down to see Yamato piercing his stomach. At that moment, the pain of being impaled registers as Riser screams in agony.
"AAAAAH!" Riser screams.
Riser's scream causes everyone to look upon the scene in shock.
"RISER-SAMA!" Riser's peerage exclaims.
"Oni-sama!" A young blonde with twin-tails exclaims.
"I didn't even see her move!" Kiba thinks. "Let alone summon her sword."
Vernal says nothing as she pulls her sword out of Riser. Said devils stumbles backwards into the arms of his peerage. Vernal closes her eyes, pulls out a handkerchief from her pocket and uses it to clean her blade. With Riser's blood gone, Vernal folds her handkerchief and places it back in her pocket before sheathing her sword with a twirl. She then gives Riser a slight glare.
"Zero to pissed in a moment. My goodness, you have talent." Vernal says coolly.
Riser grits his teeth at Vernal while clutching his wound. He then gasps as he looks at the wound in his stomach.
"It's...not healing?" Riser says dumbfoundedly. "Why is it not healing!?"
Rias, Grayfia and the twin-tailed blonde gasps. Vernal raises an eyebrow as she looks at her sword.
"Interesting." Vernal says. "It seems that Yamato can cut off the famed Phenex regeneration." Vernal looks at Riser's wound. After a few seconds, the wound begins to close up. "Albeit, temporary."
A young girl with blue hair and light brown eyes wearing a white haori with a red obi, which is worn under a red happi coat snarls as she clenches her bo staff. This unknown devil hurt her King. The girl glares at Vernal before charging at her.
"You bitch!" The girl exclaims. "How dare you hurt Riser-sama!"
The girl lunges at Vernal, only for the white-haired devil to lazily sidestep her attack.
"It's passed your bedtime, little girl." Vernal says.
Vernal uses her sheath to bat the blue haired girl on the back of her head. She lands face first on a wall.
The other devils present look upon the scene with various levels of shock. Grayfia however simply narrows her eyes.
"A weapon that can disable the Phenex clans regeneration?" Grayfia thinks. "It appears Sirzechs-sama's warning was right."
Vernal looks back at the blue haired devil before scoffing as a member of Riser's peerage helps her fellow peerage member. "Pathetic." Vernal then looks towards Akeno. "Himejima."
"Y-yes?" Akeno stutters.
Vernal glances at a teapot on the table. "Is that tea still warm?"
"...Yes, it is." Akeno says after a pause.
Vernal walks to an empty sofa with Tiamat following her. "Two cups."
"Of course." Akeno says with a small bow.
As Vernal and Tiamat sit down, Riser growls at feeling ignored. His servants try to help him up, but the blond swats them away in his anger. He then glares at Vernal as Akeno serves her and Taimat, who gives a grateful nod, their tea.
"Who do you think you are attacking a member of the Phenex family?!" Riser exclaims.
Vernal sips her tea. "That's none of your concern." Vernal turns her attention to Rias. "Now, I heard most of the situation at hand. To summarize, you are trapped in an arranged marriage with this fool over here. You had a feeling it would come down to a Rating Game and so you've been trying to gather powerful servants for your peerage. ...Because you know you would lose otherwise."
Rias bites her lip in anger and frustration. As much as she wants to deny it, Vernal was right in her assumption. Seeing Rias' expression was all Vernal needed to see.
"I fail to see how this arranged marriage could possibly be seen as a... contribution to the Gremory's family." Vernal says after taking another sip of her tea. "I personally think whatever fools thought this arrangement was anything of good fortune are completely delusional. In fact, if what Gremory has to say about not bringing ruin to her house, she is in the right in not marrying Riser. From what I can see so far from this pompous fool, Riser will most likely ruin the House of Gremory if he is ever married into it. Ultimately, the Gremory clan will fall in this arrangement because of him."
Rias stares at Vernal dumbfoundedly. "Did... Did you just insult my father?"
"So, he's the idiot of the family then?" Vernal asks. "Well, looks like you and your brother got off well."
Grayfia looks as though she is about to scold Vernal on insulting the family she serves. Seeing this, Tiamat shakes her head, telling Grayfia not to. The white-haired maid frowns, but ultimately relents. She then turns her attention to Rias.
"At any rate, I shall inform Sirzechs-sama about your decision." Grayfia says. "As agreed, you will have two weeks to train your peerage for your Rating game against Riser-sama. If you win, the marriage shall be annulled. Lose however and the marriage shall continue as scheduled."
Rias narrows her eyes as she gives a light nod. She then turns her glare towards Riser. "Make no mistake, Riser, we will annihilate you."
Riser scoffs with a grin as he joins the rest of his servants. "I look forward to it, dear. Riser will see you at the game."
A bright light envelopes Riser and his peerage. Just before he and his servants teleport, he gives a glare at Vernal, who ignores him in favor of her tea.
With Riser gone, the atmosphere around the club room becomes less tense.
"You really think we can beat that yakitori in two weeks, Bucho?" Koneko asks.
"I know we can." Rias says with determination. "And to make sure that happens..." Rias looks towards Vernal. "Angelo-san, I'm calling in that favor."
Vernal raises an eyebrow. "Go on."
Rias pauses for a moment before bowing at Vernal. A sight that shocks her peerage. "In preparation for our Rating Game with Riser, I ask that you train us."
Vernal stares at Rias for a moment before drinking the rest of her tea. She then places her teacup on the table before locking eyes with Rias.
"...I accept." Vernal says.
And done! To tell the truth, I was working on this chapter before I had to take that break in favor of my health. So to recap, the Four Maou are taking a cautious action towards Vernal, while said devil is bust dealing with Strays. Asia is getting settled in. Both at school and being Vernal's new little sister. Even taking the Angelo name. Rias and Sona have their competition to see who gets to go to the Familiar Forest, with Rias winning as in cannon. Vernal accompanies Rias and her peerage and after a brief fight, gains Tiamat as her Familiar and becomes the kendo clubs advisor. Quick note; Tiamat's personality is based on Miya Asuma's from Sekirei. Then skip forward to the meeting with Riser where Vernal embarrasses him and his peerage. Rias is given two weeks to train for her upcoming Rating Game and cashes in on her favor by asking Vernal to train them.
Now, I've read comments about how many of you don't like the fact that Vergil is female in this fic. Sorry that's not to your liking, but this is how it is.
Anyway, next update will be Master of Uzushio. And thank you D'nnome for the dialogue used between Vernal and Riser.
Also, recently, I've been reading a few fanfics and have come up with a few new ones. Two, oddly enough, are Harry Potter crossovers. One's a crossover with Pokémon, while the other was inspired by FunahoMisaki's The Android Potter fic. Another idea was inspired by Reon-D-Anibis' story THE SHINOBI HUNTER.
Until next time, ja nee!