"Samael." Gin bowed his head in greeting after he had appeared in the principal's office to report on his investigation in Gehenna. "My search has finally brought…" the demon trailed off as he spotted his master standing in front of the tall windows, which he was using as a mirror to adjust his tie and jacket. "Well?" the headmaster turned his head slightly towards his secretary and arched an eyebrow. "I am all ears, Gin." The secretary's eyes almost popped out, but he willed his brain to finally formulate the burning question. "Sir, is that a smile on your face?" "I smile quite often, in case you haven't noticed." the demon continued unconcerned, running his fingers through his hair, putting them to place. "Oh, I have noticed. I just did not think it could get any scarier…" Gin shook his head in disbelief, then chuckled. Finally, his master turned towards him and approached. "Your report, Gin. Or you will get the opportunity to see just how scary it can get." he reminded the secretary with a pointed look.
"Now, that is an opportunity I am willing to pass." the secretary remarked in an amused voice. "I was merely… Samael! Your attire, the cologne… Satan's Flames! You have a date!" an exclamation escaped his lips as he finally recognized that strangely familiar scent that lingered in the office. And this time, he knew he was not just imagining that blush on the headmaster's cheeks. The principal exhaled audibly and folded his arms across his chest, the familiar annoyed expression replacing the unsettling fond one. Before his master could share any details, though, Gin put his hand to his chin, rubbing it in thought, then smirked. "Ah, now it all comes together… must be that girl. Pardon my bluntness, Sire, but I would have never guessed that you of all people would break your own Academy rules. For a principal to date his young student, a freshman at that… you sure surprise me, Samael." the secretary grinned suggestively. His mind was set - he would thoroughly enjoy this scarce opportunity to interrogate his master and hopefully even make him sweat a little.
"She is a 25-years old college student. One would assume that, as my best spy, you would have noticed that little detail by now." The demon lord emphasized with a smug smirk, but Gin's grin just grew wider. True, Thea was an adult, but she was still a student of the True Cross Academy, which was enough to make his master's actions controversial enough to be questioned by some individuals. Still, that would not prevent Gin from enjoying himself a little more on Samael's expense. "But of course, she is a medicine student." Samael nodded in confirmation and Gin continued. "Quite capable at that - at the top of her school year." another nod from his master followed. "Playing at a doctor with you..." he arched his eyebrows meaningfully and nearly burst into laughter as he saw his master almost nod again - he stopped somewhere in the middle of the gesture and pinned Gin with another irritated glare. "Keep sprouting further suggestive nonsense on that topic and you will need her very real doctor skills." Unfortunately, the threat seemed to have no effect whatsoever on his prying friend.
"Oh, come now, Samael. Surely you would not begrudge your life-long servant and - I hope I do not flatter myself - friend, a little more information on such an interesting topic?" Gin put his hand on the headmaster's shoulder. "I mean, you have just progressed from stalking to dating. What does the poor lady owe the sudden change to?" he clapped him enthusiastically. "Listen Gin - and I am going to put it in your 'spy' jargon to make sure you understand. The only 'progress' here is the one from observation to direct investigation." his master said with that self-important demeanor of his. "Well, to put it in 'spy' jargon, your actions have already become too direct to be called an 'investigation'. Try infiltration." Gin winked mischievously, while he could almost feel the daggers Samael was raining at him with that intense stare hidden behind the nonchalant mask. "Nevertheless, I have an investigation to run. There is something I need to verify." "Might that be a hypothesis regarding her bra size?" the secretary joked further.
"She captured me." Samael said after a short pause and the secretary's lips curled up again. "No need to state the obvious." "In a binding circle, Gin." his master cut in dryly before Gin could remark anything else. "So? It is not the first time you have been put under a restrictive spell. And it is not like you couldn't have broken it with a snap of your fingers, either." A sour grimace appeared on Samael's face and at that moment, Gin's eyes widened in astonishment. "You could break it, right?" "Most probably, but with a considerable effort on my part. Maybe a few hours of work…" his master admitted earnestly, and Gin's mind started racing. "But… that should be impossible. I have done my job, Samael - her power level is slightly above average at best." "Calm down, I have no doubts about the thoroughness of your work, Gin." his master assured him, then continued, walking around the room with hands clasped behind his back.
"However, that is not all, I am afraid." he continued lamentably. "It would seem that her aura alone was strong enough to inflict significant burns on my body… Burns, which I was unable to heal instantly. In fact, she had to take care of that." "Hold on, I will skip the part where she somehow managed to injure you. But she healed you as well? Don't tell me… that you two have a contract?!" Gin exclaimed in disbelief - Samael loved to make deals and wagers, but binding himself in a contract? Impossible, he no longer benefited from such measures. The Lord of Time shook his head. "Tsk… Don't be absurd. No. No contract, no rituals and no familiars involved - that goes both for her healing and for the binding circle." "Satan's flames…" Gin breathed out, fairly impressed. "Indeed. Now, the real puzzle is the inconsistency of her powers." the headmaster tapped a finger on his lips in thought. "Care to elaborate?" the secretary inclined his head, his attention completely captured.
"The first time she healed me, it took her about fifteen minutes to dispose of just my tiredness and replenish a small portion of my energy. Two nights ago, she healed the serious burns I was unable to heal in a matter of a minute or two. Not to mention that she trapped me in that circle of hers without even breaking a sweat." Samael exhaled, his brows furrowing in thought. "I see what you mean. So, the time at the hospital…" "Yes. I assumed that my younger half-brother was the one who dealt most of the damage to the Riders while Thea just happened to finish them off. Now... well, things have just gotten a lot more interesting…" The Lord of Time grinned almost predatory. Gin just chuckled. "You sure picked yourself a charming little thing, Samael. No wonder she managed to keep your attention until now. However, have you considered the fact that she might be well aware of her 'inconsistently strong' power?" He shot his master a meaningful glance, but Samael shook his head almost instantly. "Nobody is such a good actor, Gin. No, she is no spy."
"Might I remind you of the 'Antwerp incident', master?" the secretary remarked mockingly, as he remembered the night he had to escort his poisoned, dazed master to safety after his 'romantic evening' with the 'definitely-not-a-spy' lady. Well, technically, his master was right - she was no spy, merely a sly demon-hunter on her holy quest to purge all demons from Assiah. And she sure had done her research and had hit just the right spot with that special chocolate box. Looking back, she would have made a splendid companion - shame the hunter had chosen the wrong side, thus meeting her doom by Gin's very own hands.
"How very kind of you to bring that up… Honestly, I cannot even look at rum pralines since then…" Samael cracked a smile, then shivered slightly. "Nevertheless, this is a completely different situation. She is different." "Oh, my apologies. Perhaps this time, you will get some poisoned home-made cookies instead." Gin remarked sarcastically and for some reason, the Lord of Time cleared his throat at that notion, completely failing at covering the slight blush. "That reminds me…" the secretary continued in a smug voice "What is with that muffin-ploy you had pulled on the poor girl?" Samael's eyes widened at that remark and Gin continued with that annoying grin of his. "Why so surprised? You said it yourself, I am your best spy - it is only natural that I caught up with all the events in Assiah upon my return…" "The muffins were an accident, Gin." the headmaster grimaced, still completely irritated by the fact that it had been his oversight that had caused last night's unfortunate series of events.
"Ah, of course, an 'accident'. So, you also just 'happened' to lend her your limousine?" The headmaster massaged the bridge of his nose and exhaled. "No, I did not lend her my limousine. She… kind of… borrowed it. My chauffeur is still trying to figure out how she got the keys from him." Samael smirked, shaking his head and this time, Gin could not hold the laughter anymore. "Oh, by my Demon's Heart! I see… I thought that something did not quite add up. So, it seems that the charming blonde lady has already stolen two things from you, dear master." The Lord of Time looked at the chuckling secretary with a confusion written all over his face. "Two things?" "But of course. She stole your car… and your heart!" Gin said dramatically, while his hand formed into a fist and he clutched it to his chest. The look Samael gave him was simply priceless and Gin was already well aware of the punishment-assignment that was forming in his master's head that very moment. He didn't care. It was all well worth it.
The demon lord leaned on his huge wooden desk, folded his arms and lifted his chin. "All right, enough of this foolishness, Gin. I have places to be. What news do you have for me?" "Oh, very well… I would not want to keep you from your 'investigation', master." Gin threw his hands up as if giving up, using the 'master' title in his usual mocking way, then finally reported. "And, considering what has been said, you might just be pleased with the results of my investigation. I was able to locate Miss Heilbrunn's bag, or rather, what was left of it. A small miracle, really..." he fished something out of the pocket of his jacket, then outstretched his hand towards the headmaster. "Here. A little something your lady is probably missing. And you can now… give it to her." Gin said smugly, unable to keep his tongue from sprouting further suggestive nonsense. "You old pervert." Samael said, his lips twitching slightly as he fought the smirk, then he snatched the small, scorched item from his spy's hand, eying it curiously. "Oh my. A sheep-shaped USB. No doubt as to who it belongs to… Just where does she get these things from, anyway?" the Lord of Time thought in amusement as he regarded the device, unknowingly offering Gin another chance to glance at that disturbingly fond smile. "I assume it is intact?" he eyed the secretary, who nodded. "Indeed. You were correct, there does not seem to be any information of value to our kin. However, it contains quite extensive research on what I understood as the regenerative abilities of a human body, and many other study notes which might be of value to Miss Heilbrunn."
The principal's eyes sparkled, and a victorious grin spread on his face. "Just the excuse I needed to drop by… Perfect." "What about Abaddon's Apocalypse Riders and their search?" the demon inquired further on the mission. Gin's cheerful mood faded slightly, and he assumed his usual matter-of-factly demeanor. "On one hand, my search in that area is still not at its end, I am afraid. On the other hand, their search does not seem to progress, either. I prepared a list of locations in Abaddon's realm which have already been searched through. Maybe you would be able to puzzle out some connection between the specific territories or at least the general direction of the search. For now, the Riders are pushing onward with the investigation, so I assume that whatever it is they are after, they have not found it just yet." the secretary summarized briefly, then pulled a folder containing detailed territory maps out of his case and put them on the headmaster's desk. "There is one more thing that concerns me, though." Gin admitted and he could already see his master's curiosity spike. "Something has changed about their movement during the last week… ah, let me see… that would be almost two days in Assiah. Some searching units were pulled back and are concentrating here and here." he pointed at the marked circles. "The oddity comes from the fact that other demons are joining them as well whereas before, only the Raiders were involved in the whole movement. I am not sure about the reason behind this occurrence, but I would be very vigilant, Samael."
His master nodded thoughtfully, then spoke. "I see your point. Very well, Gin. You will continue this investigation in Gehenna and keep me posted about the progress." "Of course." the secretary bowed his head. "Additionally…" Samael snapped his fingers and a box with about fifteen folders appeared on his desk. "... I would appreciate your help with another investigation I have running. I gather that you are already well informed about the invasion from two days ago?" he arched an eyebrow questioningly and the secretary nodded. "Of course. And I gather that your investigation team still hasn't found the connection between the students?" The demon confirmed with a displeased expression on his face and put his hand on the box. "Then you know what you need to do. We are missing something important, Gin. I just know it. Another pair of eyes - spy's eyes - might be just the thing this investigation needs."
OoO
'N-no, I'm … I'm still not done sssspeaking to that head-idiot-master-demon! He didn't even … take me to a proper date, yet he k-keeps stealing kisses! That's not faaair… that's not how it should be done!' The Lord of Time closed his eyes and exhaled - Thea's words still rang fresh in his memory. Oh, he was sure that she would probably not remember much from her alcohol-encouraged voicemail, but he… he spent the whole night thinking about them. About her. And as always, her words had a particularly strong and contrasting effect on him. On one hand, the demon found himself delighted, thrilled even that Thea truly seemed to be interested in him. Why on Earth would he be in such high spirits because of that idea, he could not phantom. He simply was. Maybe it had something to do with the reciprocity - the simple fact that she returned his interest in the most intriguing and irresistible way. On the other hand, his charming blonde lady had a point when she reminded him about his uncharacteristically ungentlemanly behavior. Being accused of stealing kisses gnawed on him more than he liked to admit to himself. "Head-idiot-master-demon, hmm? After this night, you will take that back, you charming little brat." the demon grinned victoriously, flipping the little USB in his hand, as he pushed the entrance door of the university dormitories open. At least this one time, he would walk in like normal people do and not through the windows.
When Mephisto entered the elevator, he could see a young man rushing towards him, waving, so the demon held the door open for him. "Ah, thank you!" the man said a little out of breath. "You are welcome. Which floor?" "Fifth, please." Mephisto inclined his head politely but eyed the man suspiciously - the man looked too well-groomed in comparison to the other people who were rushing through the dormitories. In addition, he clutched a big pink heart shaped chocolate box in one hand and tickets to movies in the other. "What a coincidence." the demon said curiously and pushed the number five. "Ah, yes. So, a date, huh?" came a question once the elevator closed. "Indeed." the demon said carefully. "I see your girl likes sweets." the young man grinned, pointing at the little sack of confectionery Mephisto was holding in his hand together with a white rose. "Mine loves them, even though she's too shy to admit it. And then, Thea practically lives off them…" a low chuckle filled the elevator as the man shook his head lamentably.
Had the young man had any sense of self-preservation, he would have felt the sudden change of atmosphere. He would have seen the cold, doom-promising stare behind the curious, forest-green eyes; the vicious, predatory grin behind the composed, nonchalant smile. And he would have run for his life. "Thea, you say? As the blonde from room no. 519?" Mephisto voiced a careful inquiry, just to make absolutely sure before taking any action. "That's right! So, you know her? Oh, wait a minute, are you…" the young man asked curiously, but could not finish the sentence, for the time had stopped. "No. You wait." the demon's lips curled into a dangerous smile, revealing his sharp fangs, every fiber in his body strangely tense. "It would appear that Thea has caught the interest of other individuals, as well. Now, that is… not entirely surprising…" he pondered while making a conscious effort to suppress the rising irritation. The demon just itched to grab the young man and leave him to cool his delusional, enamored head in the frozen Siberian tundra.
"Well, you have an exquisite taste, young man, I give you that much… Still, don't tell me that you are her suitor." The demon lord tilted his head as he regarded the daring man with a most annoyed expression. "I mean, strawberry-filled chocolate-hearts? Oh please, according to my intel, strawberry is probably the only filling in the world she dislikes." he snorted with an apparent distaste. "And what do we have here? My, my, movie tickets? A keen observer should know that she prefers a good book over a movie, not to mention a thriller." the demon shook his head mockingly. "Tsk, amateur. The hell shall freeze before I let the likes of you even try to court her." Mephisto nodded to himself, then grinned widely, patting the man frozen in time at the shoulder in an almost apologetic way. "You should be thankful, young man. You see, I am actually doing you a favor. Trust me, you would only embarrass yourself. Next time do your research. Auf Wiedersehen." the demon waved his hand dismissively at the man, then stepped out of the elevator confidently and knocked on Thea's door.
"Finally! Toshi… oh, Mephisto?" came Ayami's surprised voice as she opened the door. "Good evening, Ayami." the demon smiled friendly, then inquired cautiously. "I hope I am not intruding?" "Ah… uhm, actually… I think…. Never mind. Come in, come in." the raven-haired girl waved for the slightly confused visitor to step in. "I am just a little surprised, because I was expecting Toshiro. Oh seriously, that guy is late again…" she shook her head in apparent displeasure, completely oblivious to the demon's dumbstruck expression. Mephisto did not have a very good memory when it came to faces, but he could remember names almost instantly - and that name certainly did ring a bell, for Ayami never missed a chance to speak about this particular person. He cleared his throat carefully. "Do you mean Toshiro - your boyfriend?" "Yes, him. We are going to the movies tonight, but he promised to drop by and pick me up." Ayami confirmed and the demon closed his eyes as the realization dawned on him. "Thea was right all along - I truly am head-idiot-master-demon." the demon muttered a silent curse, then pushed the gnawing grain of embarrassment away from his thoughts. "Ah, patience. I am sure he will be here soon. The time… flows differently when you are looking forward to something." the demon's lips curled into a smile as he uttered a short incantation, allowing the time in the elevator to flow naturally again.
Shortly after, a knock on the door sounded and Ayami rushed to open it. There stood Toshiro - the young man, who had been mercifully spared riding frozen in time in the dormitory elevator. "Hi babe. Sorry I'm late, but… I… he…" he trailed off and scratched his head in puzzlement as he spotted Mephisto standing behind his girlfriend. "It's OK, Toshiro. Now come in already." Ayami smiled brightly, then introduced both her guests properly. While the men shook their hands, came Thea's voice from the small kitchenette. A voice that sounded surprisingly… less musical than usual to Mephisto's sensitive ears. "Ayami? Is Toshiro here already? Do you guys also want a cocoa?" she called out from the kitchen, and the demon silenced the sudden urge to rush to her and find out the reason behind that sad, solemn undertone. Ayami turned towards the men. "Ah, I have to pass, cause I am watching my weight - but you guys must not miss an opportunity to taste her cocoa! I mean it." she looked at them in all seriousness. "Well, then I'd love one, if it isn't too much trouble." Mephisto smiled at Ayami and Toshiro just shrugged. "I guess." "Two more, Thea." Ayami called back and led the guests to her room where they all seated themselves. Mephisto did not need his demonic senses to tell him that the atmosphere felt positively tense.
"So, how is she doing?" Toshiro leaned closer to Ayami, moderating his voice to a whisper. Ayami sighed and shifted nervously in her place. "Not good… Not good at all." "Is Thea that unwell after yesterday's camping?" Mephisto asked curiously - he did not expect that she would not be well by now. "Oh, I wish it was the hangover… that reminds me, Toshiro, did you get the chocolate?" Ayami asked, leaving the demon in a state of a slight panic. "Has anything happened to her? No, that should not be the case. Do not overthink this again!" Mephisto's mind was racing while the young man put the heart-shaped chocolate box on the small table in front of them. "Of course, I wouldn't forget something so important." Ayami raised an eyebrow at that and grinned. "Chocolate hearts?" "Well, it was the last one I was able to grab on such a short notice!" "I guess, but… nooo! Toshirooo, you bought the strawberry collection." Ayami's palm met her forehead with a loud smack and Toshiro looked at her in puzzlement. "What?!" he whispered, completely confused. "Thea does not really favor that particular flavor. She loves strawberries, but strawberry filling, that is just pink chemical paste - or so she says. Hazelnuts. You can never go wrong with hazelnuts." Mephisto cut in smoothly, leaning on his entwined hands, earning himself a smug look of appreciation from Thea's roommate. "True that."
"Ayami, what is the matter with Thea?" the demon inquired, no longer able to hold back his curiosity, and, surprisingly, rising nervousness. "Oh, right…" she gulped nervously, flicked her eyes between them and the kitchenette, then continued in an even quieter voice. "You see… Thea's studies… she cannot finish them." The demon's eyes widened in surprise. "You know that someone stole her bag, right?" When Mephisto nodded at the story he knew as Thea's cover-up version, Ayami went on. "Well, she had all the important things inside - her wallet, IDs, her laptop, and unfortunately, the notes and her backup USB, too... The police still haven't found it and Thea was not able to rewrite two years worth of work in a week. I mean, of course she was unable to write it, that's just impossible!" Ayami buried her head in her hands in frustration. "How curious... Thea has never mentioned how important that rucksack, or rather, its contents were to her. Had I known, I could have sent Gin a lot sooner to search for it... Well, no matter, this can still be resolved." The demon nodded to himself, his mind already working on resolving this unpleasant issue. "Has she not raised a request for a deadline extension?" Mephisto inclined his head. "Of course she has. But… just a few hours ago, her request was denied." Ayami exhaled while Mephisto arched an eyebrow. "Denied? That is quite unexpected, given the circumstances. Has she…" "Yes, of course she has also tried to appeal against that decision." the raven-haired girl interrupted, her frustration rising.
"I'm sorry… It's just that… I'm so angry! You see, short after that, Thea received a call from professor Isao - he apologized profoundly, but he explained that although the decision not to grant her an exception was quite harsh, it was still 'well within the university rules and the board's competences'. And finally, he admitted that there was a certain 'pressure from other parties' to prevent Thea from receiving the exception. I mean, what the hell, right?!" she threw up her hands in a silent outrage. The Lord of Time furrowed his brows in thought and his expression darkened. "Other parties, is it? How very intriguing. Just who might be powerful enough to pull the strings to affect the board decision and simultaneously wish for Thea to fail her studies?" he stroked his beard in an intense thought, going through the list of potential suspects. "I don't get it… getting a deadline extension is not unheard of. True, students do not request it that often, but when they do, it always gets approved." Toshiro shook his head and took his girlfriend's hands into his, trying to comfort her. Unfortunately, the gesture did not seem to calm her down at all - she tended to be quite overprotective of her friend. "But that just doesn't make sense! She was on the top of the class! You do not want to lose someone…" Ayami stopped abruptly, as Thea entered the room with a tray of hot cocoa in her hands.
"Hi guys. The cocoa's… Si-, Mephisto?!" Thea gaped at the demon who was casually sitting on Ayami's couch, then tripped over the carpet. Fortunately, her unexpected visitor moved with his inhuman speed and slowed the time down just enough to catch the blonde and the falling tray. "Careful there. It would be a shame for that splendidly-smelling cocoa to go to waste." Mephisto said smoothly, holding Thea with the tray in place. "Nice reflexes!" Toshiro whistled in acknowledgement and Ayami agreed enthusiastically. Her mouth opening and closing, Thea couldn't muster a coherent sentence. "Ah… Thank you." she finally managed to squeeze out of herself. "Don't mention it, dear." Mephisto offered her a smile, while internally fighting a particularly displeased feeling. The smile on her face was but a ghost of her usually beaming face, and her blood-shot eyes hinted on recent crying. He did not like that resigned, defeated expression on her a bit, especially when he now also understood the reasons behind it. And despite his unwritten rule not to meddle in the affairs of mortals (too much), the demon was more than willing to make an exception. As much as he didn't like to admit it, this whole situation was partially his responsibility - had he paid more attention to Abaddon, the whole incident in the Tokyo university hospital could have been avoided in the first place. "Well, good thing that I just happen to have the means to make everything right again. I shall look into the 'other parties' later…" he smiled triumphantly, a plan of actions already forming in his head.
Thea gulped nervously, looking into the forest-green eyes of the very person she both longed and feared to see at that moment. "I knew I felt his powers spike for a moment somewhere around here! Damn, I'm getting good at this! …Only… I'm not good at all… In fact, I'm a failure, a university drop-out… Not to mention last night!" Thea sulked, remembering the embarrassing photos Ayami had thrown into her face as soon as her headache had subsided a little. "Oh no… Oh no, this cannot be happening! Not now! What in the world is he even doing here?! I'm not ready to face him yet…" Thea's heart started beating like a drum in a sudden rush of panic. After all, her studies were over. All those years, all her efforts, sleepless nights, everything - denied to her in one email and an apologetic phone call. Just because she had tried to save her friend by the only means she had had at hand at that time. Oh, she did not regret her decision, but that did not make it any easier for her to look at all her classmates and friends who would soon become doctors and start their internships while she… She was not even sure what kind of future was waiting for someone like her. Her dream was shattered, yet she was positive she could still play it cool at least in front of Ayami and Toshiro. But certainly not in front of him. "Don't panic. Just do not panic. Wait a minute… Maybe I can still pull this off! He still doesn't know… It's cool. Stay cool."
"It's nice to see you, Mephisto. Do you also want some cocoa or was this one for you?" she asked as jovially as she could, forcing her best smile. The demon winced at that terrible theatrical performance. "Oh Gin, you couldn't be more wrong. Her? A spy? Please, she cannot even fake a smile." he lamented, half-assuring himself of Thea's intentions. "Ah, this one would be mine." he pointed at one of the mugs which was topped with creme, some marshmallows and chocolate-sprinkles - it looked just as heavenly as her cake had. "But let me add a little something first before we 'sweeten our day', all right?" Mephisto winked mischievously, then took the tray from Thea's hands and put it on the table. "What do you mean?" the blonde inclined her head in confusion. "I understand that the deadline for the submission of your thesis is closing in, correct?" he glanced at Ayami and Toshiro, catching them in the middle of furious gesturing at his person, apparently trying to make him stop from venturing any further in that topic.
Thea's gasp was the only sound in the room. "Ayami?! Y-you… You told him?!" she cried out, shooting a desperate, accusative glance towards her friend. "But… Why would you… I…" clenching her fists, the blonde fought the rush of fresh tears, trying to keep them from falling. She would not embarrass herself any further. Ayami clasped her hands in apology "Sorryyy… I really didn't mean to, it's just… he looked so worried!" she pointed at Mephisto. "Worried?!" the demon arched an eyebrow. "Now, that is just preposterous." he thought, then met his eyes with Thea's, noticing the slight blush that appeared on her face. She exhaled audibly and the determined look was back on her face once again - just how he liked it. "I am sorry, too. Look everyone, I appreciate the concern, I really do. There are... worse things than this... At least everyone's alive and healthy and… and I'll deal with it. I'll think of something... I just need some time to process all of this and start somewhere…" "Concern…" the demon mused again, regarding the blonde with a surprised expression. "That might just be… a fitting emotion, I suppose. Just how can she always tell my mood so easily? Not to mention the swiftness and the way she copes with such a difficult life situation. Always an optimist, I see. Splendid."
The Lord of Time stepped closer and took Thea's hands into his - he would make sure that there was one less difficult situation for Thea to deal with. "Then I suggest you start with this." his lips curled up as he revealed the little, slightly scorched USB-sheep. The blonde's eyes almost popped out at the sight and her breath caught in her throat. "Mephisto… t-that's… is that really…?" she met his eyes and he nodded encouragingly. "What is it?" Ayami and Toshiro appeared right next to them, trying to take a look. "Huh? A little sheep-badge?" came Toshiro's puzzled question and Ayami shook her head. "No, that's her USB-stick!" "It would appear that the USB-stick was not in your bag at the time it was stolen from you. The school-staff has found it in the library, in one of the study rooms. I believe you meet there with your study-group at the weekends." Mephisto's eyes played as he added a little something to their cover-up story. "Thea! That's fantastic!" Ayami called out, hugging her tightly, then switched to squeezing her boyfriend for a change. Cheers filled the small room, only to be interrupted by Thea's harsh tone. "Everybody shut it! Do. Not. Even. Breathe!" she finished in a whisper, then ran off to her room, leaving the trio in a state of absolute stupor.
Mephisto was the first one to recover from it - he chuckled and followed his charming lady to her room, where she was already furiously typing at the borrowed laptop, searching through the contents of the USB-stick. "Mephisto…" "Yes?" "It's really here… All of it…" Thea breathed heavily, unable to believe it. "Yes, it would appear so." he nodded with a smirk of amusement on his lips. "And… you can see it too, right?" she gulped, and the demon put his hands on her shoulders reassuringly. "As clear as day, dear." The blonde gulped, her heart beating like a hummingbird from all that excitement. And soon, the demon's heart matched its pace, as he found himself with Thea standing on her tiptoes and wrapped around his neck in a tight embrace. "Thank you so much, Mephisto! …So, it's true! You demons really can make one's deepest desires come true." she giggled, her face still buried in Mephisto's neck. The demon grinned widely and brushed away the girl's golden locks, whispering in her ear secretively. "Oh dear, you have no idea. But, this is neither the right time, nor the proper place to fulfill them." The blonde's startled, beetroot-red face made him chuckle again - she was obviously trying to come up with some smart answer, but failed miserably, so she just chuckled with tears in her eyes. "You'd better hurry up and upload the thesis while there is still some time left." he released the hug and winked, mischief playing in his eyes.
Thea nodded and swiftly turned towards the laptop, hypnotizing it to work faster by the sheer look of utmost determination. Soon after that, Ayami and Toshiro finally appeared in her room to check on the progress. "OK… all right… It could still use some polishing, but all in all..." "Oh, to hell with that! No one cares. Just upload the thing already!" Ayami stepped in, rolling her eyes at her friend's perfectionism. "No!" Thea cried out a little louder than she intended, startling everyone once again. "I mean… Not to hell… Not again." she giggled and Mephisto's sonorous laugh joined hers, as they shared the internal joke. "Well, I always thought that Thea is a little weird, but they obviously share the same sense of humor. Thank Goodness for that!" Ayami thought with relief, completely thrilled with how her 'shipping' efforts turned out. Oh, they were not there just yet, but as unlikely as the relationship between those two seemed to be, she had a good eye for chemistry. Why on Earth would they still keep such a distance from each-other was a true mystery to her.
"It's done." Thea breathed out once she had double-checked that all the contents were properly uploaded. "Time to sweeten our day!" she said cheerfully and rushed off for the cocoa." "Pfff… someone has her priorities straight. And just like that, she moves on…" Mephisto smirked. "Oh, that reminds me…" Toshiro handed the strawberry chocolate box to Thea. "Thank you very much for your help with my thesis - I submitted it just yesterday. The German research papers you translated for me were a big help for my research." he finished with a bow. "You are welcome, Toshiro!" Thea beamed at him and started opening it, successfully camouflaging the slight wince at the strawberry flavor. "Please, have some. I'll fetch crisps and I might just have some gummy bears stored on the shelf. I'll…" "Thea, wait." Ayami stepped in. "We are going to the movies. Date night, remember?" "Oooh, right! Sure… Sorry for keeping you." the blonde smiled nervously.
"Now, that reminds me…" Mephisto cut in smoothly, bringing up a small sack of hazelnut bonbons and a rose as white as snow. "Thea, I know that your day has already been quite eventful. Still, would you care for dinner?" "Oh my God, it's happening!" Ayami screamed inwardly, unknowingly crushing Toshiro's hand in the process. Thea took the rose carefully, her eyes wide open. "Mephisto… it's beautiful." she smiled fondly from behind the rose as she was smelling it. "Quite unexpected, but sure! I'll gladly join you for dinner. Just give me a sec, I need to get ready." she said, noticing that she was wearing her pajamas bottom, two different socks and a very old, two sizes too big sweatshirt." "Whoa, whoa, girl! Hold your horses, you are coming with me first!" Ayami interrupted, grabbing her surprised roommate at the arm and pushing her to her room. "Please, excuse us for a moment. Oh, and do not forget the cocoa!" she smiled, leaving the confused men behind. One of them was no mere mortal, though, and so he used his enhanced demon hearing to eavesdrop a little - just to make sure there was no further trouble Thea might be facing. He was certainly skilled enough to do so while also having a small talk over a cup of cocoa with Toshiro. Or so he thought. "Dear Lord… Thea's cocoa is just… out of this world! She made it with real cocoa, too! And the heavenly combination of chocolate, cream and marshmallows…" The demon was practically melting, his eavesdropping activity completely forgotten, as the cocoa demanded his full attention.
"W-wait… Ayami! What is going on? I thought you were in a hurry, so let me just grab my things and…" Thea protested. "Yeah, that's the problem. Seriously girl, don't tell me you were planning to go like this." Ayami fixed her friend with a displeased look, unable to process how Thea could be ignorant enough to put on dark jeans and a simple white tank top T-shirt for such an occasion. "Uhm… yeah?" "Like hell you are wearing those plain jeans to your first date! That's a tailored cotton-cashmere Armani suit he's wearing in case you haven't noticed!" Ayami scolded her oblivious friend. "A what?" "Sheesh… OK, let me think…" her eyes shone brightly as she entered her fashion-mode. After a few minutes of protests, Thea ended up in Ayami's dark-blue dress, and Ayami also fished herself something more elegant out of the huge, seemingly bottomless closet. "Ayamiii… this is ridiculous! I can't possibly go out like this." the blonde gulped nervously, looking herself up and down. "Why not?" "Well, first of all, I do not wear dresses. It's weird. And second, it's just too short. I mean, I might be slim enough to fit into your clothes, but I am still about twenty centimetres taller than you. This is embarrassing…." Thea mumbled. "Oh please, what are you, a teenager? So it is a little revealing. It still looks decent on you, just slightly provocative - exactly the thing you need." Ayami grinned widely and put a necklace on Thea's neck. "And here is a little something to go with that dress. The earrings, too. It's a set." "Fine… just put my grandma's earrings into the box on my nightstand. I would hate to lose those." Thea finally agreed to the outfit.
"God, I am so nervous…" the blonde gulped and started walking around the small room anxiously. "It will be fine, trust me." Ayami tried to reassure her friend. "I… I don't know. It's just that… this is my first date after a year or so…" "Exactly!" the raven-haired roommate took hold of Thea's shoulders. "That is why it's gonna be just fine. You have already been through this. This is not your first date. He is not your first. Got it?" The blonde's mind was racing, almost catching up to the pace of her heart. "Well, maybe Ayami has a point. I already have some experience, so this should not bother me so much. Only… it does! Because he is my first. My first demon, that is. God, it sounds crazy even when I just think about it! Why would he even want to date me? Is it some kind of a ploy? Does he mean it? He did kiss me… But then again… Aaaargh, I cannot tell anymooore!" her panic spiked. "Thea, calm down. He's obviously interested in you. I can tell." Ayami held the blonde's gaze until she nodded. "Perfect. Now get your butt out there, cause I really want to make it to that movie." she ushered the girl out of her room. The Lord of Time almost choked on his delicious cocoa as something even more attention-demanding emerged. The blonde stood in the door looking at him just a little shyly, the navy-blue dress emphasizing her beautiful hour-glass figure, revealing just enough skin to provoke, yet still remain decent. "Satan's mercy be upon me…" he gulped, pulling slightly at his tie. "Verdammt, I am trying to be a gentleman tonight, you know? You oblivious, foolish… charming little daredevil."
OoO
"Mein schönes Fräulein, darf ichs wagen meinen Arm und Geleit Euch anzutragen?" Mephisto's lips curled up as he offered Thea his hand for escort once they left the dorms. He was half-expecting her to refuse it with the following passage of Faust, and also because she always acted so independently, so he was surprised when she accepted it with a smug smirk. "What? Did you honestly think I would refuse?" she asked and the demon started seriously considering that her peculiar abilities also included mind-reading. "Well, not tonight. You can thank Ayami for making me wear a dress and high-heels…" the blonde grimaced a little uncomfortably. "Not a fan?" the demon chuckled at her boldness, fully enjoying the closeness and silently thanking Ayami for her splendid fashion-taste. "Not really… But I guess that nothing says that you have reached the top of the food chain more than willingly putting on clothes and shoes which completely immobilize you in the need of running or fighting… I'm telling you, people completely ignore the most basic… ah, sorry, I got a little carried away... " the blonde blushed furiously at the terribly unromantic topic she has just ventured into. "Pfff…" low chuckles sounded from her left side. "No worries, dear. After all, you are not a mere human and I… well, let's just say that I am positively more dangerous than anything we might encounter tonight." he winked mischievously, earning himself the girl's beautiful, melodious laugh.
"Have I mentioned that you look heavenly beautiful tonight, dear?" Mephisto inclined his head, getting a beautiful blush from Thea. "Why, thank you. You too look… hellishly handsome." she giggled at the little word play. "Uhm… Sir, I mean Mephisto…?" Thea looked at him questioningly. "I believe that the first-name basis would be only appropriate for our date night, wouldn't you say?" Mephisto said encouragingly. "Agreed. Wait… so this really is a date? I mean… a date-date? No other purpose to this, just… a date? And if so, why? I mean, out of blue like this…? she questioned, throwing the demon off balance again. "What kind of question is that? Honestly now, what does it look like this is?" he pondered, his eye twitching nervously. "But of course, dear." Thea blushed - just how was she supposed to explain to him how strange and unbelievable this whole situation was? Spending the evening with a man she was interested in would be exciting enough, but when she added the 'headmaster slash powerful demon lord'-part to it, the word 'exciting' could not possibly cover it. "After all, you were the one who asked for it - as charmingly as insistently." the demon interrupted her musings with a broad grin. "What? I…" she started, completely flustered, only to be interrupted by… her own voice coming from the demon's phone? Mephisto's eyes were practically beaming with amusement as he played Thea's voice mail to her. 'Youuu big liar! Whyyyyy…. Why did you s-say you liked my cake?! I know the truth… it was in… inedi… oh man… it was baaaad… As was the rest of my food. We had to… had to throw it all awayyyy… Is that why you… why you did not wanna kiss me again? 'Cause I… I burnt both you and the… the cake? I knew it... I… I am such a failure…' He could see Thea's eyes widen in terror and face burn with heat of embarrassment. She truly couldn't mask even the basic emotions - and he liked her just that way.
"Oh God… Mephisto, I… yesterday was… oh man…" the blonde stuttered, burying her head into her hands. She was sure that had Mephisto been a mere mortal, he would have run away from her crazy, unlady-like persona instead of asking her out. The Lord of Time was sure that had he been a mortal, the Heavens would have been preparing a special place in Hell to cast him into for that particular act of torture. 'A-and here I thought… you promised! You promised the other day, t-that you will answer aaaall of my qeust-questions. Thoroughly! A-and you… kissed me on my hand and then… nothing? You… you demon! You…' "All right, I have heard enough. Turn it off, turn it off!" Thea said pleadingly, trying to reach the cell phone, silently grateful that they have been walking through an empty alley out of anyone's earshot. "Not a chance, the best part is only about to come." Mephisto grinned devilishly, his fangs flashing as he held the phone up, away from the girl's reach. Thea tried to reach up, even jumped a little, but to no avail - the demon was simply too tall. 'N-no, I'm … I'm still not done sssspeaking to that head-idiot-master-demon! He didn't even … take me to a proper date, yet he k-keeps stealing kisses! That's not faaair… that's not how it should be done!' "You teasing, kiss-stealing demon!" she puffed, the heat in her cheeks rising with every word coming out of the device. "Can't help it, you make it too easy for me, dear." he tapped her nose with a finger, silently fighting the cuteness-overload.
"Oh really? Fine, let's play by your rules then." Mephisto had to bend down as Thea pulled at his tie, meeting her lips with his. The kiss was chaste and swift, but felt absolutely sweet to the demon. "That was for the garden." she said with a determined, slightly hazed look, then took the demon's face in both hands and another, a tad more intense kiss followed. "Dear Lord, I should have stolen more of these…" The demon clasped the cell phone swiftly, then exhaled and allowed the pleasantly thrilling feeling to spread in his chest. The exhilarating sensation was over soon. Too soon. "That was for the night you barged into my room. T-there… now we are even, so…" a hand suddenly buried into her golden locks and another rested gently on her cheek, as the demon claimed her lips passionately. He was surprised how much he missed that peculiar warm feeling, not to mention the intoxicating smell of honey and cinnamon. After a few delightful seconds, he broke the kiss reluctantly and regarded the girl's flushed face - she was absolutely breathtaking. And out of breath, too. "That was for the Warding room." he grinned broadly. Then, he suddenly tensed as he regarded the blonde more closely. "My ward… it's gone! Again. But how? It was here just a moment ago." his mind was racing, unable to comprehend the protective spell's absence.
"Seriously?" the blonde laughed in disbelief, interrupting the demon's slightly panicked thoughts. "That was a peck on the cheek! You can't possibly compare those two! Not fair at all." "I am a demon, dear. This is as fair as I am willing to play it. If you have any objections, then perhaps you can try and get even again." he winked playfully, slipping back to his usual nonchalant demeanor. "You know, maybe I will…" Thea smiled a little flirty. "I think I'll start with… taking you to that dinner." she whispered into his ear, then burst out with laughter. "My treat!" "Actually, Thea…" the demon started, but before he could object any further, the blonde pulled at his hand enthusiastically, taking the lead. "I know! There is a very good place just a few blocks away where they make the best noodles!" "Noodles?" "Yes. You like noodles, don't you?" she smiled and the demon's eyes widened. "I do… How do you know?" he asked curiously - after all, he never told her. "Well, why else would you be running around the Academy slurping them while you could have a nice meal at a restaurant or some of the fancy meals at the school cafeteria?" she giggled as if it was completely obvious.
Mephisto ran his fingers through his hair, trying to mask the slight blush on his face - she could be so attentive. He simply couldn't believe it. Everything turned out so unexpectedly different when she was included. He had the whole evening planned-out perfectly, including the reservation in a high-class restaurant. After all, this was not his first romantic rendezvous, and as a gentleman he proudly considered himself to be, he knew exactly what women expected from a proper date, and especially from a man of his standing. Or so he had thought… The demon had realized that showering Thea with flowers, expensive gifts and extravagant outings was probably not the way, but he surely had not expected… well, this. "How very observant of you, dear. Very well, lead the way." he said, excited for what the night might yet bring.
OoO
"Thea… it's fantastic!" Mephisto fawned all over, the noodles practically melting in his mouth as the unlikely duo was enjoying the dinner at the local stand. "I know, right? I am so happy you like them. So, uhm… how was your day?" Mephisto paused, completely taken back by that surprising question. "How was… my day?" he wondered. While it was a perfectly normal conversation topic, nobody really asked him that. He was a demon lord - beings tended to give him completely different questions. Like 'What do you plan to do with the Son of Satan?' or 'Do you really think you can get away with this, you filthy demon?' or perhaps 'When is this torture going to end?'. "Mephisto? Are you all right?" Thea pulled him out of his thoughts. "Ah, my apologies - it was a particularly busy day. You see, my car got stolen…" the demon smirked, holding Thea's gaze expectantly. "No way! How did that happen? Have the police found it yet?" she asked and Mephisto had to do his best not to burst out with laughter - she truly didn't remember much of the night's events. "Yes, my limousine was returned to me today, containing only minor scratches from some bushes here and there. Apparently, a student of the True Cross Academy decided to 'borrow' it without my consent." he exhaled, shaking his head lamentably. "Seriously?! A student? Wow… what a nerve!" "Indeed… Then again, the student took it in order to save the lives of her fellow students. Apparently, they were dying of hunger, so it was perfectly justified - or so I hear…" "Dying of hunger? What kind of a lame excuse is that? Is that girl for real?" Thea chuckled and rolled her eyes, obviously unconvinced, and the Lord of Time failed to hold the laugh inside. "Oh, very much so. Although, I too sometimes wonder…" the demon's fangs flashed as a broad grin spread on his face.
Suddenly, the girl's brows furrowed in thought and she regarded Mephisto quizzically. "Wait a moment… Nooo…" she said with a hint of a smile, refusing to believe her suspicion. "Yes." "Noooo…" the smile was replaced by an abashed expression and the demon just leaned in closer with his trademark smirk. "Yes." "God noooo. No… noooo… no?" came a flustered, nervous voice from behind the hands Thea was using to cover her red face. "Oh yes." Mephisto finished, showering Thea with a series of the most embarrassing photos of her life. Just how many of those did her classmates take, anyway?! "Mephisto, I… I am so sorry! I wish I could explain but… I swear I am not like that… Most of the time, that is… I don't go around drinking and stealing cars or suits or… anything!" she finished, completely flustered. "Are you sure about that, dear?" the demon fixed her with an amused look and tapped with his finger on his lips as if in thought. "If I remember correctly, you are already in possession of two of my cloaks - apart from my suit, that is. Are you starting a collection, perhaps?" he leaned on one hand, watching the girl's face go ashen-white as he scrolled through some further pictures of her in his white principal's uniform. "Hey, I just haven't got the opportunity to return those yet! Don't get any weird ideas, OK?!" "Oh, but I don't mind at all. However, if you'll continue, I might just end up with nothing to wear. Unless that was your intention in the first place…" he pushed again, unable to stop himself - she was just so teasable!
Thea was slowly, but surely dying of embarrassment inside. "Aaargh… just what did I expect from a date with a demon?! This is a torture, that's what it is! That's right - he's torturing me and he's having the time of his life while at it. Not that the teasing isn't kind of fun… But he's having all the fun at my expense! I have to do something!" she pouted, completely shamefaced. "That's just ridiculous! You gave me those cloaks yourself, remember? You make it sound like I am some kind of a creepy stalker, yet you are the one sneaking into an innocent girl's room at nights." she humphed and puffed up her cheeks. "Ah, but I was not sneaking in, I got an invitation from the very same innocent and particularly eager girl, remember?" the demon waved his phone in front of Thea, producing the cursed SMS she must have sent by mistake when she had been half-asleep. "Great, Thea. Just great! Keep offering him one good opportunity after another… Dammit, he is just too good at this!" "Fine, point taken. Now, do you want your girl to die of embarrassment right on the first date? Because if it is possible to die of such a cause, I might be very near it…" she looked at him pointedly - she was simply no match for him and she bet that if the demon wanted, he could probably keep doing this for the whole day without even breaking a sweat. "What can I say, it's the playful demon's nature you are always so successful at bringing out…" he winked, poking her nose again. "Still, my apologies for teasing you so much." "Oh please, you are having the time of your life." she rolled her eyes, but smiled. "That I certainly am, my dear." the demon grinned, then kissed her hand gently, trying to convey the earnestness behind the last claim. He truly was having the time of his life, but it was not only thanks to all the teasing. It has been some time since he had enjoyed a conversation with such a spark while also remaining completely at ease.
"Well, me too... " Thea mumbled with flushed cheeks, then smiled. "So, you said your day sure was busy, and I do not mean to pry into that. However, what does a demon lord do in his free time?" "Ah… you know, the usual - watching movies, reading some… literature." "Wow, that was awfully general even for him. That must mean… time for me to dig in deeper. Hihihi." Thea thought, already looking forward to what she might uncover. "Some literature?" she arched an eyebrow. "Well, what kind of literature?" "I enjoy the classics, as well as the modern pieces." the demon answered cryptically, unsure about how Thea would react to his otaku-persona. The girl just grinned mischievously, then pinned him with as suggestive a look as she could muster. "You know, the more you beat around the bush, the more I am getting the feeling that you are into something reeeealy scandalous." The demon's eye twitched and he adjusted his tie to gain some time. "That depends. I admit to have a weak spot for German literature - as you might already have noticed. As for the newer literature… Would you be familiar with the works of Mizuho Kusanagi, Hiro Fujiwara, Nakaba Suzuki or Arina Tanemura, per any chance?" the demon leaned on his hand in expectation, taking the safest path to answer Thea's question. It was a matter of a simple, calculated logic, really - she would either not know the names of his favorite manga authors, thus enabling him to move on to a different topic or she would recognize the individuals and enjoy the conversation about their work. Judging from her beautifully beaming expression and sparkling eyes, the demon has just found another common ground. "Oh my God, Mephisto! You too read manga? I can't believe it! Oh, what do you think of the last volume of Akatsuki no Yona? Do you watch anime, too? And when you do, do you usually prefer the Japanese or the dubbed version? No, wait - do you also go to the comic-cons? And what about…" A sonorous laugh interrupted Thea's enthusiastic question-assault. "Dear Lord, is she real?" the demon kept looking at the blonde in silent wonder and prepared himself for another thrilling conversation.
OoO
"It's fine. I already said that this is my treat." Thea said when the demon tried to stop her from settling the bill for their dinner. "And I already said that although I truly do appreciate the offer, it is the gentleman's place to pay for dinner." he winked, attempting to persuade the stubborn blonde. "Mephisto, you know I like that gentleman personality of yours, but I've got this." "Now I do." The Lord of Time smirked inwardly, then regarded her with a hint of frustration - letting the lady pay was out of question. "Thea, be reasonable. You are still a student and I…" Thea just rolled her eyes and waved him off. "Yeah, yeah. I know who you are, Mephisto. But that does not mean I will take advantage of it." she looked him in the eyes pointedly. "Besides, you are completely missing the point." "Oh?" the demon arched his eyebrows questioningly and folded his hands. "Care to enlighten me?"
"This is not about the money…" she blushed, brushing off her unruly golden locks and came right back at him with all the arguments which seemed just so obvious to her. "You saved my thesis. My whole studies - years of tremendous work, my aspiration and dream. Trust me, this is the least I can do to return the favor I never even asked for. I imagine getting the USB from Hell was no trivial matter. Also, you already turned up with a gorgeous rose and a sack of Mozartkugeln! Besides… I just want to do something nice for you. When was the last time anyone treated you to something delicious, hm?" Mephisto's mouth fell open, but he couldn't get a sound out of it. The blonde took it as a clear victory for her and rushed off to settle the bill, leaving the demon with his confused thoughts. "Goodness me… What has just happened? Has she just won an argument with me?!" he buried the fingers of his hand into his hair in disbelief. And just like that, Mephisto - the mighty Lord of Time, the wealthy principal of the prestigious True Cross Academy, the exemplary gentleman of every social gathering - got treated to his date-dinner by a young, completely oblivious medicine student…
"All right! Let's go." Thea said cheerfully, then noticed her date's horrified expression. "Oh, come ooon. It's just noodles - nothing I couldn't afford. Moreover, I don't work just to pay for my bills, you know?" she folded her hands. "Sometimes, it is nice just to treat yourself to something delicious. For example, I could never say no to cinnamon rolls or muffins. And…" "You work?" a question interrupted the blonde's list of all the irresistible treats. "Ah, yes, of course I work." Thea blinked away the initial confusion, only for it to settle on Mephisto's face. "Well, congratulations! To think I have just let her pay… I was under the impression that her parents have been supporting her studies. Apparently, that assumption was flawed. I should have expected that much…" he winced at the unpleasant memory of meeting Thea's parents. "When does she even have time for a job? … It's settled then. No more lost arguments with her." the demon decided with an adamant resolve, then started inquiring.
"My, my. Aren't you a busy-bee. Considering all the activities you are involved in, one would think that you too possess time-altering abilities." he rubbed his beard meaningfully, making the girl chuckle. "Oh, I wish I had those. I used to work on the weekends, but since I have started studying at your Academy, I had to move it to the evenings and nights. But it's actually better that way - my focus spikes at night." "I see… May I know what it is you do for a living?" the demon inclined his head curiously. "Well, it's really flexible, but basically - I help my fellow students. Some of them I teach German and English. I also translate foreign research papers, so the students could use the material for their papers, thesis or research in general - much as I did for Toshiro just recently. But that was a favor, of course. Oh, and if they decide to write anything in English, I proofread the texts and make corrections for them. That kind of stuff…" she finished with a smile, earning a look of honest appreciation from Mephisto. "Now that is quite commendable, dear. It sounds like a lot of intense and precise work with very specific terminology." he said, trying to venture deeper in the interesting topic. "Oh, it sure is! You see…" Thea picked up on the topic as they were strolling through the night streets towards the Wadakura fountain park.
OoO
"Let me see… OK, I think that you actually enjoy movies with a lot of drama and unexpected events. I bet you even watch romantic pieces!" Thea grinned, continuing their guessing game. The absence of a flik to her forehead from the demon marked her assumption as correct. "She is too good at this…" the demon remarked inwardly, disappointed with the overall score 13:4 for Thea. At least he was certain about Thea's favorite movie genre - thanks to Ayami. "Very well, my turn. I would say… fantasy. And comedy. Definitely comedy." "Wow, that was so confident! Right you are." she giggled while Mephisto fought the strange feeling that he had been cheating in the game. Cheating and still losing… He would definitely need to do better. Losing in this game meant receiving a flick to the forehead - which was already red enough after thirteen wrong guesses.
A cheerful voice interrupted the demon's musings. "For me, there is enough drama in the real world, so when I finally decide to watch a movie, I want to dive into a world of imagination. Or just relax and see something funny. Just as the last time when I was late with my thesis, I wanted to cheer myself up a little and watched… ah, uhm… a comedy." she grinned innocently, but the damage was already done and the demon's interest spiked. "A comedy? Well, Thea. Which comedy?" he leaned in closer, fixing her with that uncompromising look of his. "Uhm… an older German one. And that's all I say to it! It's too embarrassing and you wouldn't know it, anyway." she covered her already red face, unknowingly encouraging the demon to dig in deeper. "Embarrassing, you say? Well, I am all ears." "No way, you are going to laugh." blonde locks rustled as Thea shook her head. "That is quite likely. It is a comedy, after all." he grinned, his eyes playing mischievously. "Come now. I too admitted watching movies with angel-demon topics. True, it was for educational purposes only, but I would lie if I claimed I had not enjoyed them." he said, attempting to lure the answer out of the girl by pointing out that he had already offered a similarly detailed answer in return.
His plan worked just wonderfully and Thea finally exhaled, pulling the hands away from her face. "Fine… Der Schuh des Manitu…" she blurted out at a deadly speed, then dared to lift her look up enough to face the demon. "Nooo." his lips curled into a smirk. "Yes…" nodded. "Noooo." the demon put a hand on his mouth, the smirk widening into a grin. "Well… yes." Thea scratched her head nervously. "Dear Lord, no way!" Mephisto started laughing all over, leaning with his hands on his knees. "Yeah, yeah. It's out, OK? I knew you would laugh! Aaarg, seriously…" Thea's hands found their way back to her beetroot-colored face. "I can't believe anyone would still remember that one!" the demon brushed a tear away from his eye, then lifted the girl's chin. "I happen to find that one most enjoyable." he grinned and the girl's eyes widened. "Really?" she questioned suspiciously, but the demon just nodded earnestly. "Pfff… who would have thought? You know, everyone says that Germans have no sense of humor, but that is just so wrong! That comedy is absolutely hilarious!" she giggled. "I couldn't agree more. Still, why do you like it so much?" the demon inquired. "Well, there are many reasons. First of all, take the main antagonist. Now that I think about it, he actually kind of reminds me of you." Thea tapped her finger on her lips. "Oh?" Mephisto arched one eyebrow in question. "Well, sure. I mean, he is the villain, but he is such a gentleman, too! And his companions…" the girl continued chatting enthusiastically while the demon tried to slow his heartbeat down to some reasonable pace.
OoO
"A party?" Thea gaped at the beautifully ornamented invitation card Mephisto has just handed to her. After their long, but too short night walk through the parks, the demon walked her back to her dorms. "That is correct." he nodded in confirmation. "Every year in August, I host a prestigious ball for all students, staff and partners of the True Cross Academy. I would be most honored if you attended it with me." Mephisto looked at the blonde in expectation. "Of course, Mephisto. It would be my pleasure." the girl smiled, producing a small lady-like bow, holding her skirts half seriously, half mockingly. The demon chuckled at that gesture, then kissed her hand, secretly producing a protective ward. "Splendid. Well, it is about time I departed for tonight. It has been lovely, dear." he said and, having seen the expectant look in the blonde's eyes, pulled her closer and showered his charming little lady with soft kisses. The blonde breathed out with a smile, nuzzling the demon sweetly, unknowingly tempting him to do much more than simply kissing her.
"No! You are a gentleman tonight, remember? … Well, perhaps if…" "I am afraid I truly need to depart now." the demon said huskily, slowly pulling away from the girl. "Unless… Hast du noch einen letzten Wunsch?" he held her gaze meaningfully. Thea's face beamed suddenly, and the demon had to gulp to calm his rising desire down. "Oh my God! Is that a Manitu reference?" she giggled and decided to reply with the follow-up quote from the embarrassing comedy. "Sure! Das Lied aus der Superperforator-Werbung!" Thea clasped her hands, absolutely destroying the demon's innuendo and passionate mood, but also bringing him to a heartfelt laughter. "When will I finally learn? - No jumping to conclusions with this little daredevil!" he shook his head and ran his fingers through his hair. "Very well, time to shine…" The demon racked his brain for the song she had asked him to perform, found it and finally, did his very best to do the silly commercial song - feeling just as silly, but also happy all the way through it. When his performance ended, Thea started clapping enthusiastically. And, on her third clap, the Lord of Time teleported her straight to the main gate of her dormitories, then left for his Academy.
OoO
Thea was lying in her bed, surrounded by her plush companions, unable to drift into sleep. How could she possibly sleep now, anyway? There were too many emotions and thoughts floating in her mind persistently. "Did that really happen?" the girl shook her head in disbelief. "A date… A real date-date. With the headmaster, at that!" she covered her face in embarrassment, then her eyes widened in a sudden rush of panic. "Wait a moment… with the headmaster? What about the demon part?!" a realization dawned on her. "No way… I completely disregarded the demon part, didn't I? Seriously… more concerned about him being the headmaster than him being a demon… I mean, I have known him for a few months, but still…" she pondered, surprised by her own actions. "Why do I feel at such ease around him?" A silent chuckle escaped her lips - the lips which were kissed so wonderfully tonight. "I really do like him, huh?" she blushed, all the pleasant memories from the night rushing through her head. She couldn't remember the last time she had had such a great time. "I am dating Mephisto…" she thought. In secrecy, for now - as they both agreed during the date. After all, it was for the best that they kept their unusual relationship at a professional level while at the Academy. Still, she was dating Mephisto! Her headmaster and a demon lord of some kind. But more importantly, she was dating an interesting, handsome man with a great sense of humor and a wonderful taste for sweets… She smiled and bit into another delicious Mozartkugel.
OoO
It was already late night when Gin's master stopped by to check on his progress with the invasion investigation. The demon lord's steps were brisk and that disturbingly fond smile on his face was positively betraying his great mood. "So, how did your 'investigation' go?" Gin grinned, looking up from the stacks of papers he was going through at the moment. Mephisto almost missed a step at that question. "My investigation! No way… Don't tell me… I completely forgot about investigating the reason behind the inconsistent level of her power." the demon realized in shock. It was unbelievable how much attention his charming lady managed to steal from him. "Well, judging from her beaming face and burning cheeks when you two parted, I would say splendidly." The secretary continued when he had not received any answer. Mephisto smirked - so, the spy was around, undoubtedly waiting for a chance to take another look at Thea when she would arrive at the dorms. Her powers must have spiked interest in Gin, as well.
"So, what do you think? Any hypothesis?" the demon lord arched an eyebrow, receiving a smug grin in return. "B-cup. Definitely B-cup." the demon secretary said smugly. "My, my. Looks like I am not keeping you busy enough considering that you have enough time to wonder about things that are absolutely not your business. Perhaps you would be interested in joining team seventeen on their mission in Alaska?" the headmaster pinned him with an amused, devilish look, fully aware of Gin's aversion to cold and snow. "To the point then…" Gin shivered - just hearing about that place helped his head cool down. "Not much has changed, really. Miss Heilbrunn had some trouble keeping her aura suppressed, but I would attribute that little struggle to one particularly disturbing external element." Gin's eyes played. "Seeing the lady safely home - that is just so like you… " the secretary mused on. "But of course. If you were half the gentleman I am, you too would understand the importance of a safe escort or the courtesy of a protection ward." "A protection ward?" Gin's brows furrowed in confusion. "There was none on her, Samael…" the secretary finished and Mephisto's good spirits resolved like a mist.
OoO
Disclaimer: Blue Exorcists belongs to Kazue Katō. Please, do not re-post or publish my story without my consent.
Author's note: Hi everyone! :) I am happy to post yet another chapter of my Ardent Exorcist series. In case you would like to better understand the movie reference I used, perhaps you should check out this video (at your own risk :D): /I_wc3DfgQvs . It is an older and absolutely hilarious and embarrassing German comedy I remembered when writing this chapter and I just HAD to mention it somewhere :D Just as the 99 Luftballons and other songs which are probably older than I am :D Anyway, stay tuned for upcoming chapters!
P.S. Your feedback is much appreciated. I am always looking forward to your thoughts and insights ^^