Welcome to the first chapter of the new story!
For more details, please check out the bottom!
For now, its time for the chapter to get underway!
Chapter 1
Within a beautifully decorated dining area, a lone maid is waiting for a certain young man to appear. The maid in question is a beautiful young woman who looked to be in her early twenties with silver hair that came down her back, 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 she has a set of red eyes.
Her name is Grayfia.
As time ticked on, she eventually heard the sounds of feet coming down the large staircase to the left hand side of the house.
When she heard "Hello Sakuya-chan, good morning." she could see the young man entering.
The young man in question looked to be around the age of 11 years old and being the average height of a child that age, having mixed hairs of blonde and black that ran down to the nape of his neck, bangs that framed his face, one long black bang going down the middle of his face, with heterochromatic eyes where his right eye is gold and his left eye is black and he has pointed ears.
His face looked innocent and unassuming, yet a hint of mischievousness was written on his face and a sense of pride. On his body, he wore a long coat that had the symbol of a black Dragon on the back.
This young man's name is Ryuma.
"Ryuma-sama, my name is Grayfia, not Sakuya."
The young man laughed lightly in a playful manner, as he bypassed Grayfia, and went towards the table. His eyes glanced back at the maid, and bowed his head, she did the same thing.
"My, a banana themed breakfast. Even banana milkshake. Grayfia-chan, you're too kind to me."
"You wont consider me kind after I give you the schedule for the day."
Ryuma continued to laugh.
"That's fine. So what's on the schedule for today?"
"You have a Rating Game with Roygun-sama commencing in one hour."
"A Rating Game huh? Since when was this decided?"
"She contacted here this morning, one of here peerage members has come down with an illness, and because you always put yourself up as substitute for any Rating Game, then you're able to go towards that one, correct?"
"A chance to fight, hell yeah I'm up for it."
Grayfia nods her head, and continues on.
"You have a meeting with the Old Devils, at one in the afternoon. Sona Sitri-sama has also been asked to be watched by you, rather her Onee-sama has decided to put you on guard duty and Sona-sama has agreed. Then at four, there is a request from some Youkai that wish to have a ride on your back in your large Dragon form. Then after at six, some contracts that you will have to do. I shall list them in order..."
Ryuma took a glance at Grayfia, taking a bite out of a banana that he was given for breakfast.
When she finished, she bowed her head.
"Then, after that, you may train."
"Haha, who knew that the world of Devils would be filled with such stuff. All I wanted was the Evil Pieces to go into Rating Games and dominate it. Well, it isn't like it is super bad, I suppose for someone like me it is a necessity to get the contract done to get to the fighting stuff. By the way Grayfia-chan, I hope those reports you give back to those old bastards are good ones."
"I can assure you, that all reports given by me paint you in a good light."
"That's reassuring. I wouldn't be bothering with the Old Devils if I didn't want to go into Rating Games. I don't really care about politics, I want to have some fun~"
"Indeed, you're quite the honest Dragon with your feelings." Grayfia looked at the time, then turned back to Ryuma. "Then please finish your meal, and we shall be going."
Ryuma cocks his head right.
"Don't you get bored with watching over me? I'm sure you must have things you'd rather be doing."
"I can't say that I do, because it would be a lie. Each day brings new and interesting sights to my eyes. I even learn more about the nature of your being, which intrigues me."
"I'm glad I'm intriguing to you." He chuckled out, and stretched his arms. "Aah, a Rating Game, with the second ranked in the entire games, I hope it is a good fight~"
Ryuma practically inhaled the food, and jumped up from the seat, before grabbing his things, then heading out together with Grayfia who dutifully followed him around.
[Two Pawns, retired!]
An announcement rang through the ears of everyone around. Those in the field itself, and those that were watching said match taking place.
"D-Damn...that kid finished them off with a single blast!"
"Of course, its that Dragon kid..."
"Even then, we're gonna defeat him, and take the prize!"
"Yeah, lets finish the Dragon!"
Four people appeared from the shadows, their eyes displaying hostility and rebellious spirits.
"Aah, four opponents before me. Just how I like it. Show me your willingness to fight and I will answer with the power I have inside of me! Show me your ambition and I'll answer with my own Devils!"
Standing on a field that looked to have been decimated, with flames, and rubble scattered everywhere, was the Dragon boy who had excited eyes, looking at the four enemies before him.
Standing beside him, was a young woman with long cherry blossom pink hair, and horns protruding from her head. Having a slim waist, and a beautiful face, along with a curvaceous figure, the young woman who's name is Roygun Belphegor directed her eyes down towards the younger man.
"My, it seem that they're going to be going for a tactic like this? They are trying to weaken me down."
"Get going then, do not concern yourselves with these, I shall demolish them for this Rating Game."
"My, you have such a cute way of speaking Ryuma-kun. Are you going to be okay handling these big bad four all by yourself? They do come from a good peerages, you know?"
"The peerages has displayed some power, its good for me to witness with my own eyes and experience with my own body. I am glad it was two peerages vs your own, a good game indeed. If you want to go and win this Rating Game, then by all means. I am going to be having fun with these four individuals. I hope they show some fighting spirit."
Roygun casually waved her hand, and began extending her wings. Flying off into the air, one of the enemies turned towards her, and yelled "I don't think so!" and tried to pull out what looked like some magic to fire off.
But before they could, Ryuma placed his fist out, and charged it with an immense Dragon aura that surrounded his entire arm. Allowing the power to swirl to a point on his knuckles, he announced "Did you forget I was here?" and then slammed his fist into the ground.
Generating a huge shockwave, the enemies cried as the ground below them was obliterated, and they were flung off of their feet and on to the broken mess of a ground. Cracks appeared across most of the terrain that happened to make up the Rating Game field, even from over a mile away, it was something that the crowd loved to see, and Roygun especially was thrilled to see such a sight as well.
[Wow! Look at the size of that power from someone so young! It seems Roygun-sama made a good substitute for one of her peerage members after all!]
The announcer yelled out excitedly, the crowds roared with the same excitement running through them.
One of the enemies was caught up in the giant shockwave, and the announcer happily said [One Pawn, retired.] as Ryuma took a few steps forward. Extending his large wings behind him, that of Dragon wings, and how deep black they looked within the lights in the area.
"What the hell kid?!"
"I got him!"
One Pawn rushed towards him, wielding a blade that seemed to light up with flames. Upon seeing that, Ryuma gave a happy stare, before tightening his fist, which quietly, but relentlessly released a beautiful golden and black aura, matching his hair colour.
"You have a warriors pride in your eyes, I hope the challenge is good!"
Ryuma shot down as the man swing his sword for Ryuma. The young man dodged left, then thrusted his fist out, the sword the man had he used to block the attack, but from the punch, a large crack appeared in the middle of the sword.
Then Ryuma thrusted his head out, and bit right through the metal with changing his normal teeth to Dragon teeth. He also swallowed the flames from the blade as if they didn't bother him, neutralizing them within his stomach with his own Dragon fire.
"What the..."
"Not bad, but too direct."
Ryuma opened his mouth, and from that, beautiful golden and black flames released in a strong burst. Like a flamethrower, the flames encompassed the man who tried to move out of the way, but didn't have the chance, and ended up being covered completely, until the retirement light was able to be shined.
[One Pawn, retired!]
The two left standing looked surprised to see such a child being capable of handling adults in the way that he was. But Ryuma remained calm, and turned to the last two that were standing, his eyebrows raising ever so slightly.
"So, a magician and a fist fighter left. I heard the Rook from this team was pretty good, enough to be a High Class Devil in terms of power with the magicians support, and said magician beside you also had good support. I hope to see this battle through to the end, don't disappoint now."
Thrusting his arms and legs out, black scales erupted across his skin, turning him into a miniature Dragon. Though small, he was still looking deadly as the Rook facing him gathered demonic power around his hands, aided by the Bishop to his right, increasing his powers.
"Little Dragon boy, it seems that you have chosen to keep on this field with me. I am delighted to fight such a foe. Fighting a Dragon child such as yourself, I am honoured."
"Someone with pride is someone that I like fighting. Give a good show to the crowd, and most of all, give me your best shot. I wont ask for any more than that from you."
The Rook smirked, and launched himself forward. Moving at relatively fast speeds, he came towards the right of Ryuma, who raised his fist, and blocked the strong attack. The floor dented from the impact, but Ryuma didn't even flinch, and repelled the man's fist, before sending his own out.
The Rook defended with his arms across his body, taking the full impact. But the man's body began to shake ever so slightly, before he pulled out his hand, and released a burst of demonic power to try and destroy the stance of Ryuma.
Ryuma responded with his flames, clashing violently together, and created an area of absolute power between them.
[The Rook and Bishop combo seems to be fighting against the untamable Dragon boy! Lets see how this clash goes, shall we?!]
Ryuma exhaled more, and released a burst of fire, that collapsed the enemies attack, before dashing through the explosion. Not allowing any opportunity to be missed, he got before his opponent, and swung his fist out, filled with his Dragon aura that was building more and more.
"Nggh..."
Taking the attack with his arm, Ryuma's fist broke the man's arm, as Ryuma saw that his fist dug itself into the young man's body. He saw the fist exploding with power, and caused some scratches to appear on his scales, but nothing major happened.
Ryuma looked delighted, and pulled his body back.
The man held his broken arm, but still looked determined to fight on.
"You have a strong will as a warrior, even when you know that you're not going to be able to win, you still stand your ground and take up arms. You have my respect."
"Coming from a Dragon, that is quite the honour."
Ryuma showed a strong expression on his face, his eyes displaying delight at the thought of fighting the new enemies.
"Now, shall we finish this?"
"Yes, let us continue."
The man rushed Ryuma and came in from the right. The Bishop gave all of their power to the Rook, to increase the attack as much as possible, Ryuma did the same thing with increasing the Dragon aura around his fist, allowing it to swell and surge like an ocean.
Then, he came at the Rook, who did the same thing, colliding their fists together, and excitedly swapped blows with one another. Digging their respective fists into one another, their powers erupted into a huge explosion that could be seen even from where Roygun was fighting in her own match.
The shockwave generated caused the entire field to shake and the viewers also shook with anticipation to what was happening.
A few seconds, and nothing was said, not even the announcer said anything.
But then…
[The Bishop, and Rook have been retired! Whoa! This is one exciting match! This boy is going to be a beast when he's an adult! No, he already is! Haha, Roygun-sama truly did pick a good replacement for her peerage member after all!]
Emerging from the smoke, was an uninjured Ryuma, who looked down at his hand, and saw the deep scratches within his scales. Not enough to cause him to bleed, but it was something that he was rather excited to witness.
"Not bad at all Devil-san. Come back when you've grown in strength, we can do battle again."
Ryuma then smiled, and sat down on the ground, humming away until he heard the final announcement.
[Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand! Roygun-sama's victory over the opposing King has been officially confirmed! The Winner is Roygun-sama!]
Roars of excitement came from the crowds observing, while Ryuma chuckled "That was fun." to himself.
A small time later, within a dressing room of sorts, Ryuma got changed after some of his outfit had been torn during the fight itself. Getting into a combination of a shirt with a black Dragon on the front, and pants that nicely fitted his form, he grabbed his stuff, and began to leave, when the door opened.
Roygun entered the area, and she gave a beaming smile towards the young man.
"What an amazing display Ryuma-kun, the crowd was really riled up when you were fighting. I think they were excited for everything that was going on with you. You're developing a fan following and there's many that wish to meet you right now."
"I'm not trying to win any popularity contests."
"That is also apart of the charm, don't you see?"
Roygun wondered, with Ryuma tilting his head towards the right.
"Charm, it seems important to the Devils, but I don't think much about it. I merely cared about fighting and winning the fight. If people desire to see more of that, then I'd happily accommodate them. If I can please people, and do as I desire, I think that would be a good thing, correct?"
Roygun thought that was a pretty good way to go about it.
She then pulled closer, and patted his face.
"Its also because of this adorable face that you have, you send the girls hearts wild."
"Is that so? Then if that's the case, I'd be able to find potential lovers, for the future."
Roygun slowly nods, but then does a spit take, not expecting him to say that.
"A-A potential lover, is that something you desire?"
"Of course. Being young, I have plenty of time to find my lover, or lovers. What's the word...ah, yes, harems. Dragons naturally gather strong people to them, and also I have seen harems being formed in various ways and means. For the time being, I will research and decide what would be the best for me personally."
Roygun had to admire how honest he was with his desires, a pure Dragon in a sense of what he wished for and didn't want to stop with anything in the way.
"Well, it seems you've got it figured out~"
"Not everything of course, but I have decided that for the moment, that's my desire. To find lovers, to become able to have a peerage, and participate in Rating Games, become its champion, and then also challenge the strongest beings in this world. If there's a tiny bit of Devil within me, then I might as well gain some of those Evil Pieces."
"Ooh, when you participate, I wonder what you and your peerage will do together?"
Roygun asked, genuinely curious.
"I prefer fighting alone, but I also am aware that having comrades is something that one would strive for as well. Plus, if I gain strong enough peerage members, fufu think of the battles we could have with other strong groups."
"Ufufu, you're quite the honest boy."
She giggled out, Ryuma cocked an eyebrow up, before smiling strongly.
"Roygun-san, impressive displays of power and beauty on the battlefield, quite a sight to behold. It made me excited to see what else you're capable of doing."
Complimenting her like that, was Ryuma's way of saying that he actually found the person rather likeable.
Roygun placed a hand to her face, and whispered "My, such a charmer." as Ryuma gave a strong smile right back.
"By the way, can I turn into my chibi Dragon form and sleep on your lap sometime?"
Roygun blinked, looking at the young man who was giving off a sweet expression.
Roygun placed a hand on her chest and announced "Of course you can!" proceeding to hug him into her chest, her soft bosom against his cheeks, and though he tried to keep a composed expression, the part of him that still felt attraction to females caused a small blush to appear on his cheeks.
Leaving the dressing room, Ryuma, who was eating a banana, was bombarded by a legion of screaming fans, that kept chanting his name. Most of them were females, but he did have male supporters, and he could see the excitement on their faces.
"Ryuma-sama!"
"Over here!"
"Please, come this way!"
Ryuma looked at them, perplexed, and then tilted his head towards Roygun.
"These, are the fans?"
"Yes, that's correct. They think you're adorable, so they have come here to help you out and support you."
"Support me, huh." His eyes shifted to the fans, and looked over each of them curiously. "I believe this would be a good idea to greet them. They would benefit and I would as well, isn't that what you'd say Roygun-san?"
"Yes, that's right. Its good to address the fans happily, and allow them to support you as they are in turn happy to see someone they find awesome, amazing, and how you progress in your different ways and means. They gain courage from watching you overcome adversity and wish to emulate you Ryuma-kun. You see?"
"They...gain courage from and wish to emulate me, huh."
Roygun nods, and continues as she looks to the fans.
"Yes, that's right. They think you're really inspirational."
Ryuma looked over the fans, and then towards Roygun.
She nods, so he turns his eyes back towards the people waving and cheering.
"I see. I'm unaccustomed to such things, but there could be merit to greeting people." He casually walks over towards the crowds, and sees a few different girls trying to push forward. "Nice seeing you, your name is Ravel, isn't it? I've seen you before a few times."
"Yes, you remembered! Its Ravel Phenex, and I thought your fight in the Rating Game was amazing!"
Ryuma looked towards the newly named Ravel, and saw that she was giving off a strong smile.
Responding to that, Ryuma cocked an eyebrow upwards.
"Phenex, regeneration abilities, yes?"
"Y-Yes, that's right."
Ravel answered shyly, poking a finger to her face in the same adorably shy manner.
"I see, then are you interested in fighting?"
Roygun lightly laughed, and thought "That boy has such a quest for strong opponents." as Ravel tilted her head.
"Erm...w-well, I mean...fighting could be something I would like..."
"I can see fiery passion in your eyes. If you have a desire to grow in strength, contact me. I wouldn't mind fighting and training a Phenex. I am curious if my powers would be able to out speed a regeneration like yours. I hope to find out one day."
"W-Well, th-thank you very much! C-Could you sign this please?"
"Yes, making it out to Ravel Phenex, correct?" Ravel nods strongly. "To Ravel Phenex, from Ryuma."
Ravel took it, and held it close to her chest with a small smile.
As he said it, Grayfia cut through the crowd, and bowed her body to Ryuma, who did the same thing right back.
"Ryuma-sama, the match was a good one. I particularly liked your fight against the Rook and Bishop combination."
"Ah, thank you Sakuya-chan." He teased the name to her, Grayfia raised a brow. "Grayfia-chan." Grayfia nods. "Are we set for the next meetings?"
"Yes, I am ready to leave when you are ready."
"I am..." He looked to the crowd, and thought about what Roygun said. "Grayfia-chan, being an inspiration, to people, that's good, isn't it?"
"Yes, that's right."
"I see, then I shall instill this inspiration into others, and turn them into great warriors!"
Roygun snickered, while Grayfia gave a curious stare, she really did find him quite the unique boy indeed.
A while later, Ryuma was escorting around a young girl around his age, with her eyes displaying a seriousness to her. She went by Sona Sitri, and she seemed to have a goal in mind, a few goals in mind at that.
Ryuma didn't say anything, while escorting Sona around to various shops, instead looking out for different threats. Though because they were in the Underworld, he doubted anyone would be stupid enough, because of Sona's older sister, Serafall.
Ryuma frequently went to different places, together with Sona in order to keep her sister from doing anything.
Grayfia was also in the background, simply following after him. He and she didn't say anything, as they both knew the reasons why she was doing this. It didn't matter to Ryuma, he really didn't even think about it as he could care less what the Old Devils thought about him. As long as he got what he desired, he didn't think about the Old Devils ideas about him.
Sona however then began speaking up.
"So, after me, do you have Rias today?"
"No, she's currently on some trip with her Onii-sama. I'm free of watching over her for the time being. I am sure she shall be coming back soon enough and wanting to ride me." Sona did a spit take, Ryuma gained a teasing smile on his face, seeing the cute expression appear on Sona due to being shy about such situations. "I was talking about having her ride me when I'm in my Dragon form. What were you thinking about Sona Sitri?"
Sona embarrassedly blushed, trying to hide it as she turned her head towards the right.
"I-I, that's because of Onee-sama and her weird thoughts, I was...a-anyway, so Rias has you do that?"
"Yes, she has me do that, plus also check for camels."
Sona places a hand to her forehead with an exasperated sigh.
"She doesn't?"
"She does, she has a deep fear of camels, and when she knows they could be there, she has me remove them so she doesn't become worried."
Sona resisted the urge to laugh.
Ryuma then continued with a bow of his head.
"Your Onee-sama has given me much money to secure your happiness. I'm not entirely sure on how to appeal to many peoples desires and wants, but if you have any suggestions for any actions I could to do make your life a little more entertaining, then let me know. You have me for the next three hours, I suggest doing as you would want to with me."
Despite his Evil Dragon side, Sona sensed a nobility to him and any task he would do to his best ability, even the mundane ones. Also, how he articulated his words, and how he was able to speak in a manner that some would say would be similar to a noble themselves, it was clear that while he loved battles, there was more to him than that.
"Yes, I am sorry. I understand escorting me around probably isn't that interesting to you."
"Studying the behaviour of Devils, it is something I find intriguing so I'm not wasting my time. Besides, you also intrigue me personally."
Sona was caught off guard by that.
"In what ways?"
"You have an intellect that I am most intrigued with. Despite my desires for fighting, I do enjoy other things such as exploration, and would like playing games of different kinds. I am up for all challenges, and you're definitely a challenge to figure out. Sometimes I can tell what you're thinking, other times, I cannot. So that is a challenge in of itself."
"Well, if that's the case, then I am happy to hear that. You in turn also intrigue me. Like, you're Devil, right?"
"Not like you, or even half Devil either. I am a tiny bit Devil, I have enough in me to gain Evil Pieces, kinda like those within the Underworld that are Devil with human heritage, think of me like that, but the reverse."
"I see, that's intriguing. So what about your Mother?"
"I can tell you one thing about her. Don't piss my Mom off, she is a sweet and gentle woman, but when she's mad, she becomes scary."
Sona grimaced as she turned a corner, and so did Ryuma, with Grayfia soon following.
"I was able to watch your match, with you fighting against that team with Roygun-san. I was impressed to say the least."
"My, thank you. I aim to please."
"I was impressed to see that you aren't simply someone that fights with instincts alone. That you had plans to fight different enemies, and took them on while supporting the King, in Roygun-san."
"It would be meaningless fighting if tactics also didn't come into play. I like getting the most out of my fights. A battle isn't just physical. It is also the mental aspect of it. If you're only experiencing half, then you're only enjoying half of the battle."
Sona found that quite the profound thing to say, and she found herself agreeing with what he was saying.
"Yes, you're right about that. Though I'm not into fighting as much as you, the fact that we have strategic games such as Rating Games, I would like to see how I am able to handle it and keep going from there."
"Heh, I have witnessed your mind before Sona Sitri, I would love to go into battle against you and see what kind of tactics you'd come up against me with. I am sure that you would think of someway's on how to weaken my body or my spirit, right Sona Sitri?"
"Perhaps, maybe one day we will be able to have a Rating Game battle."
Ryuma went to nod, when he saw a young man with clanging jewelry on.
He walked to Sona and gave a cocky stare right towards her.
"Hey Sona. What are you doing anyway?"
Sona stared at the young man with a dismissive look.
"Zephyrdor, I am not in the mood for one of your diatribes."
"Heh, using such words Sona, you think you're so smart. Just wait until we're older, then I'll show you how smart you are, you arrogant little girl."
"I am not interested in your mindless drivel, I have other things to do, so if you'll excuse me."
Sona gave an unimpressed look, and went to leave, when Zephyrdor growled "I am not finished!" and tried to grab her arm with a semi deranged look in his eyes…
"You grab her arm, I break yours you little cretin."
Zephyrdor paused at the threat, and felt a chill go down his spine.
He turned his eyes towards Ryuma who looked annoyed.
"Little Dragon boy, pretending to be a Devil when you're filth."
"Little Devil boy, pretending to be noble when you're actually scum."
Sona felt the corners of her mouth raise upwards, Zephyrdor tightened his hand.
"What did you say filth?"
"Are you hard of hearing as well as stupid? Sona Sitri wants you to leave, and certainly not touch her." Ryuma pulled forward, and showed a twistingly scary grin that made Zephyrdor feel fear. "So take my advice, and leave, right now."
"A-And if I d-d-don't?"
Ryuma glanced to Sona, who gave a single nod, so Ryuma cleared his throat.
Then, a change with his body happened, where he began growing, his body turned from human shape, to that of a large black ten metres tall Dragon that had a majestic black scales, a large wingspan, with a swirling golden and black aura all around his form.
Zephyrdor began sweating profusely, as he breathed out flames that covered the skies, only sending more worries to Zephyrdor who placed a hand on his chest, as Ryuma bent down, and came eye to eye with a shaking Zephyrdor.
Breathing heavily, his eyes narrowing to a point that Zephydor wanted to run, flames casually escaping his mouth to make him look even more terrifying to Zephyrdor.
Grayfia watched on, and keenly observed what was going on.
"You know the saying that you shouldn't piss off Dragons? I'll show you why that is if you don't leave her alone."
Zephyrdor felt panic within him, sweating profusely, shaking at the sight of the large hulking form of a Dragon, and turned away, shooting down the street as fast as he could.
Ryuma turned back to his human form, light heartedly laughing at the sight before him.
Sona held slight amusement in her eyes, while Ryuma twisted his neck side to side.
"Going around, throwing his weight around, its to clearly cover up the fact that he was threatened by your intelligence, and wanted to show his supposed superiority with threats."
"Yes, that does seem to be the case. Regardless, thank you for doing that, he can be quite the nuisance, especially when we're in school."
"Not a problem. Those kind of people piss me off. All bark, and no bite. Now Sona Sitri, what else do you have on your agenda?"
"Hm, yes. Then I suppose we could go and get something to eat. If you don't mind, I have some other topics to discuss."
"If that's what you want, I can't complain."
Like that, Sona and Ryuma along with Grayfia began walking along, Grayfia watched the interactions between the two of them, and could see that despite their different ways of speaking, they could carry long conversations with one another, and have meaningful conversations.
A small time later, a young woman with long black hair, and sitting down within an office, wearing a magical girls outfit, which contrasted with the heavy duty papers that were showing different types of missions, requests, things of that nature.
Swaying side to side, the young woman suddenly heard a tapping at the window.
The young woman's name is Serafall, and she runs a hand through her long black hair at the sound.
She turned to see that at the window, there was a chibi majestic looking black Dragon.
Around the size of cat, her eyes became gleeful.
"My little Dragon-kun has returned to me~"
She giddily opened the window, and allowed him to fly inside.
He then went towards her desk, so she did the same thing.
Sitting down, she watched as he landed on her lap, patted it with his small hands, and curls up before settling down on said lap, letting out a happy sound.
"My little Dragon, have you been a good boy?"
"Yes. I wish to sleep on your lap, is that fine?"
"Hehe, of course~ You're so adorable, I wanna cuddle!"
Serafall stroked the top of his head, something he snuggled against.
Serafall cooed at the sight.
"Though you're an Evil Dragon, you're actually a sweetie Dragon~ Its okay, I understand, you love sleeping on my lap~"
"Yes...it is a very good place to take a nap. I'm not entirely sure why, but whenever I am in this form to sleep, I feel the desire to go and find a woman's lap. They are the softest, and nice to rest on. Perhaps it is because Dragons generally dislike males of other races, though I myself am so so on males depends on who they are, but the idea of sleeping on a woman's lap fills me with relief, and allows me to settle my heart."
"Kuku, that's something you'll understand when you're older Ryuma-kun~"
"Is that so?"
Serafall nods her head happily.
"Yes, that's right Ryuma-kun~ Trust me, you'll understand later on in life, and women will become much more important other than fighting opponents, you know?" Serafall poked his cheek. "So Ryuma-kun, any luck with those Old Devils?"
"They shall come around. Then I can begin building my strong team."
"Awww, you're so cute Ryuma-kun~ You look happy right now, do you want to take a nap~? I will even sing to you, I know you love it, don't you Ryuma-kun~?"
"Yes, that would be good. Singing soothes a Dragons heart."
"Then you can sleep as much as you want~ But remember to also take care of Sona-chan, okay?"
Serafall said with a semi serious expression, Ryuma glanced up at her from her lap, nodded a single time, before curling into a ball to relax.
"Yes, I'll take care of her."
"Then have a good sleep Dragon-kun~"
"Also, you have to leave Sona Sitri alone for two weeks. She told me to tell you."
Serafall's face dropped and she shook her head.
"No, I can't! She is precious and I love her! If I don't get in a cuddle, things might happen to me!"
"You can cuddle me, its of no concern."
Serafall gasped, and grinned, petting his head over and over again with a delighted expression on her face.
He yawned, snuggling against her lap, and soon fell asleep.
As he did, she casually stroked his head while thinking "How adorable, Ryuma-kun." and was satisfied by what was going on.
Not much time passed, and Grayfia soon came into the room.
She looked towards the sleeping Ryuma, and the waving Serafall.
She walked over, and casually lifted the chibi Dragon up to her face.
He yawned and opened his eyes, meeting the stare of a no nonsense Grayfia.
"Ryuma-sama, you have duties to attend to."
"I got tired, and found my way to Serafall-sama's lap."
"I see. Sleeping is also important, I shall allocate time for that later. For now, you have some duties to attend to."
"Okay, then I'm ready Grayfia-chan...actually, I think its time to go and fight that Hydra you were telling me about that was causing problems."
"If that is your wish, then that duty can be done now."
"Yes, let us go Grayfia-chan."
Grayfia held Ryuma close to her chest, and walked out with Serafall giving a bemused expression.
After finally finishing most things off for the time being, he was able to finally go towards a location that he desired. A place where he would be able to fight a strong creature, a Hydra itself that he knew breathed deadly poison that would even kill its master.
"Ryuma-sama, this Hydra, it seems to be coming closer."
"Good, soon we shall have a good battle. Having good strength and poison abilities. I thought it would be a good match. Maybe I should tame it, would keep me on my toes."
"I see, then that is your desire, then I shall begin making preparations."
"Hehe, thank you Grayfia-chan."
Ryuma and Grayfia continued walking through a forest.
As they did, they could see a haze of purple in the air, a miasma that was unsettling to those that would be frightened if they were caught in it. But for Ryuma, it held no consequences and he thought it would be good since it meant driving other people away so they wouldn't interfere with the fight at hand.
However, when they made it to the beast, around the same time, Ryuma saw a sight of someone of interest.
It was a girl with silver hair that came down her neck and rested on her shoulders, a cute face that Ryuma would describe as adorable and also appearing to want to be taken seriously at the same time. She held fierce looking eyes, Ryuma was taken by that, as it was a look he liked to see in fighting opponents.
She turned towards him when noticing his presence, and waved a hand in his direction.
"You should leave, I'm about to deal with this Hydra."
"Funny, because I was going to do the same thing."
The young girl paused, and shook her head.
"This is my fight."
Ryuma twitched his brow.
"I got the official notice, so you can hold back for now. I'll deal with this."
The girl didn't accept it, and pulled towards Ryuma.
Briefly glancing at Grayfia, unaware of who she was, even if she felt the presence of Grayfia and the incredible power, she turned back to Ryuma, and caused her lips to develop a small unhappy expression.
"Though you might have, I can take it from here. I don't care about the rewards, I merely wish to fight this enemy."
He could hear the conviction that she held, and the deep desire to have a fight with the Hydra.
He liked that about her already, and wished to know more, how deep her desires went when it came to fighting. He could also sense a good deal of power from her, so he wished to also fight against her to test the depths of her powers.
Responding to that, Ryuma thrusted his fist forward, giving off a strong smile on his face.
"I'm afraid right now, I am going to be fighting the Hydra. I don't care for rewards either, but a Hydra is a pretty strong creature, one I wish to fight and tame for myself. Though, if you're so determined, you could always fight me for the right to fight the Hydra?"
When he offered the challenge to the girl, she was slightly taken aback.
But then she held her eyes filled with determination and showed a strong resolve.
"A fight is it? Alright, if that's how it is. What's your name?"
"Ryuma, yours?"
"Vali Lucifer."
When he heard that, Ryuma paused and then his face lit up, while Grayfia gave a surprised look on her face.
"Shit, did you really say Lucifer?"
"I didn't stutter."
Rather than be worried about this turn of events, Ryuma showed a gleeful smile on his face, and turned his excitement up even more.
"Haha, I get a chance to fight a Lucifer, a genuine Lucifer. Hear that Grayfia-chan?"
"Yes, it seems quite surprising, even I am curious as to what could happen next."
Ryuma became pumped up, and showed a strong smile on his face.
"Alright Vali, prepare to face me."
"Yes, so what's your background huh? I would like to know what I'm fighting."
"Would take a little to get into. Suffice to say, I'm a Dragon."
Vali's ears perked at that, while Grayfia looked between them.
"A Dragon you say? A humanoid shaped Dragon. Just my luck to run into such a being here."
"Indeed, and my luck to run into one of the surviving Lucifer's in existence. Vali, come at me, and don't think of holding back."
"Good, I was about to say the same to you!"
Vali spread her Devil wings, and came at Ryuma, shooting off balls of demonic energy that threatened to reach his body.
He didn't hold back, and challenged his Dragon aura into his fist, firing it off, and matching the power of Vali's, blow for blow, creating a huge wave of aura between them that shattered the trees surrounding them.
"Not bad, Vali. This power I'm sensing, it is exciting!"
Ryuma rushed forward, his fist tightened and swung for her. Vali responded by nailing his fist with her own. The fists colliding generated a shockwave between them, pushing the other back, with Ryuma twirling and kicking the ground so hard that it erupted into different chunks, leaving the ground unstable, and came flying up towards Vali at the same time.
Vali calmly released demonic power, crushing the attack that came for her, and then saw Ryuma chuckling.
"Something you find funny?"
"No, this isn't a funny matter, this is something more than that. I am having a blast doing this fight, I want it to keep going, the laugh reflects that."
"Then lets get to it."
Ryuma didn't have to be told twice, unleashing a destructive Dragon aura, and caused it to fire for Vali.
Vali grimaced at the sight, unleashing her own demonic aura, but the Dragon aura came too quickly, she was unable to fully stop the attack, and blasted her backwards.
Vali, to Ryuma's delight, didn't stop, twirling in the air, and then landed on the mismatched ground he had destroyed beforehand.
Vali responded to that by flying directly before her, and swung a fist for him. He raised his unscaled arm, and blocked the impact. He could feel she amped her fist up with demonic power, something that did intrigue him a good deal.
"Demonic power at your age, it is better than what I've seen in other Devil children of your age. Then again, you are a Lucifer, so that's something that should be obvious."
Pushing her back, he opened his mouth, and breathed a small wave of fire to see what she would do, Vali in turn cupped her hands, and unleashed the demonic power, clashing with the bright gold and black flame before her, before generating an explosion that pushed her back ever so slightly.
Ryuma didn't let her have time to breathe, being on her with a fist going for her. Vali repelled it by blasting him several times at close range. Because he didn't dodge it, she assumed that he would be hurt from the power.
But to her surprise, when he emerged from the smoke, she saw that he had black scales across his body, and that he didn't have a scratch on him.
"A little more than that Vali!"
Vali looked in shock as he nailed her in the chest with his Dragon arm. The fist felt so powerful that she spat out bile. But as she was hit, she had managed to blast him in the face, concentrating her demonic power as much as possible to increase the damage as much as she could do.
The resulting damage was the scratches across his Dragon scales, and Vali was sent flying into the air.
"Even when she was hit, this girl didn't stop trying to fight me. She is good, I love this fight. I'll have to keep fighting her, and seeing what else this Lucifer girl can really do. But, it seems that the more we fight, the more I understand that its hiding within her, something that she has neglected to use. I wonder if she even knows about it? Either way, lets see if I can bring it out of her."
Flipping in the air, Vali turned her hands down and went to release demonic power, when he already came at her.
His fist flew for her, so she retreated backwards, putting enough distance between them, to shoot her demonic power at him over and over, ramping up the power that she had each time.
"Enjoy this, Dragon boy."
Seeing the incoming powers, he inhaled deeply.
"Your demonic power is indeed impressive, I am excited to see if my flames can destroy your demonic powers!"
The flames he built up inside of his being, then released towards the attacks. Vali watched as the insane levels of fire swept through the area. Catching one attack after another, and destroying them, creating small explosions each time that they collided.
Vali did see the flames taking hits and chunks off from her power, but they pressed forward, and she could feel the flames from a distance, the heat of it was enough to cause most to feel uneasy, to the point that she could feel it within her body and she felt as if the heat alone would cause her to pass out.
But she persevered, and placed her hands out, creating a large thick barrier of her aura to tank the attack.
Thanks to her previous attacks, the flames were weakened enough for Vali to hold onto the barrier, and stop the flames from reaching her.
When the flames dyed down, she saw that he had a toothy grin on his face.
"Are you able to continue?"
Ryuma asked, Vali chuckled a single moment before nodding.
"I can keep going for as long as you can."
"I like the attitude, Vali Lucifer! Lets keep going!"
Ryuma focused his energy into his fists, while Vali did the same thing, before leaping at one another, clashing violently with one another...
After the fight was over, Vali panted, while Ryuma was smiling gleefully. That fight was one of the best he had in a good long while. During the fight, and even now after it, he felt something inside of himself that was rather warm, and he really liked it.
"This feeling inside of me..." Ryuma placed a hand over his heart. "Heh...the passion in her eyes, the deep desire for strength, and the noble expressions she has and pride but not cockiness either, a perfect balance of what I love so much. Usually one could swing into cockiness which pisses me off, but this level of confidence in ones abilities, and understanding the opponents abilities as well, yes she is a good opponent to face. My body is reacting in a pleasant manner, I want to see more of her, and push each other to our limits, this could be the one for me."
Ryuma watched Vali gain her breath back, while he himself looked her up and down.
Nodding to himself, he walked over.
"You can have the Hydra, I've had my fun with you."
Vali blinked in surprise.
"You were adamant before."
"Because I didn't fight a Lucifer before, one my age, that is going to continue growing stronger and stronger." He replied with a grin. "The fight was good, but I'm disappointed you didn't use it."
"Use, what?"
Vali asked, Ryuma turned to Grayfia, who nods.
"Yes, I also sensed it."
Ryuma turned back to Vali, and cocked an eyebrow up.
"That gear inside of you. I can feel the presence of the White Dragon. Albion, is in you. A Dragon, a Lucifer, what kind of existence are you Vali? Now, I'm feeling even more intrigued about you, and want to know even more."
Vali stroked her chin in wonder.
"White Dragon...Albion...heh, I wonder if Azazel will know more about it?"
"If you're with Azazel, I presume you're with the Grigori?"
"I live at the Grigori."
"I see, that's how it is. So, it seems I've found a worthy person to fight after all, someone my age. Its rare meeting someone my age that can actually fight against me. I wish it wasn't so, but that's how it is."
"Yes, its the same for me. I came recently to the Grigori, and all of the opponents are adults. It is something that I feel regret over since I wish to also find someone that could give me a good challenge."
Ryuma pulls out what looks like to be a leaflet, and tosses it towards her.
Vali catches it within her hand, and looks over it.
"A summoning circle."
"If you want to fight again, call anytime. I'll certainly be up for it. Also, I'd have to see a bit more, but I think you truly could be a worthy companion beside me."
"Companion?"
Vali asks, Ryuma nods and explains.
"Yes, I am going to eventually be building a group with those Evil Pieces."
"But you're a Dragon."
"Takes a while to explain, but basically, I have enough Devil in me that I have the ability to use Evil Pieces." Vali slowly nods, as he continues. "So, if you're ever interested, I'd happily think about taking you on my side. I want strong companions beside me, and you certainly fit the bill."
Grayfia walks over, and whispers in his ear.
He nods, and bows his head respectfully to Vali, then gives a playful wink.
"You have my respect, Vali Lucifer... Vali-chan. Hope to see you again."
With that, he walks away, together with Grayfia, Vali looked on curiously then smirked to herself, glad that she could have a fight like that.
When returning back to his residence for the evening, Ryuma collapsed on the couch, while Grayfia stood to the right hand side.
"You can sit, if you like? You don't always have to be on duty around me, relax."
"I am still on duty, though thank you for the consideration, I shall relax."
Ryuma watched Grayfia sit close by, his eyes drifting towards the television.
"That Lucifer girl, its best if the Underworld don't know about her. An existence like hers would probably cause the old bastards to become nervous, like they did with me, and might cause trouble. The Hakuryuukou who is also a Lucifer, that girl is very intriguing to me Grayfia-chan, and very frightening to those up above, and they don't exactly handle new things with power well, you know?"
Grayfia understood what he was saying, Ryuma was looking out for Vali's safety in his own way, and bowed her head.
"Yes, I also agree, it shall be our secret for the time being. Though I will inform Sirzechs-sama."
"Understandable, Sirzechs-san knowing will be fine." Ryuma cracked his knuckles. "I've been in the Underworld for a while lately Grayfia-chan, lets go on a vacation somewhere interesting. Perhaps Kyoto, I would like to see the various Youkai there. I heard there is the leader of the fox Youkai, and other Youkai stationed around that area, and she is supposed to be very strong, maybe she will be a good fight."
"Kyoto, I understand. Shall I make arrangements?"
"Hmmm, yes, make the arrangements, thank you. If nothing else I would like to explore the Japan that my Mother is so fond of." Ryuma showed a smile, as he stretched his body. "So Grayfia-chan, hear from the old bastards?"
Grayfia was amused when Ryuma called the Old Devils, old bastards, but she refrained from showing it on her face.
"It seems the recent Rating Game is impressing them. The Maou's certainly seem to like you Ryuma-sama. Serafall-sama in particular."
"Yeah, she is an odd one, but I find her intriguing, and her lap is good to sleep on." He replied truthfully. "Soon, those Evil Pieces shall be mine, then off to the Rating Games."
"When you are of age."
Grayfia added, Ryuma nods.
"Right, gives me time to prepare my group. Maybe one day I could convince Sirzechs-san to enter the Rating Games so we can have the best fight between our groups. In fact, any of the Maou's would be good to take on. Say, got any ideas for the group?"
"I think someone with good organizational skills would be good. Perhaps a healer."
"Good thinking. Need a healer to keep the fight going, and someone to take care of the organizing would be good." He joyfully said, then a thought came to him, so he fully faced the maid. "...Say, did my Father ever get back to me?"
"No, I regret to inform you that he never replied."
Ryuma lowered his face for a few moments.
Grayfia could see in those moments, a small sad look was appearing on his face, her heart went out to him when seeing that.
But that was soon replaced with a smirk, Grayfia understanding the reason for such a look on his face.
"He's probably off doing his usual training, the sign of a dedicated Dragon. Ah well, it doesn't matter anyway."
"Yes, you're certainly right, Ryuma-sama. It doesn't matter, you have done tremendous things on your own merit."
He appreciated her words.
"Your words are kind, Grayfia-chan." Grayfia looked on as he showed a smirk. "I'm going to bed. Today has been a good day, fighting and training. Grayfia-chan, I'll see you in the morning."
"Yes. Good night." Grayfia watched him begin moving towards the exit of the room, when she called out. "One more thing, Ryuma-sama."
He pauses, and turns towards her.
"Yes?"
Grayfia paused herself, and thought of how best to say it.
Then she bowed her head.
"Rias-sama has an appointment with you tomorrow. Please remember to be on time."
"Hehe, right. Night Sakuya Izayoi-chan."
Grayfia bows once more, but then widens her eyes when realizing what name he called her, and turns to the playfully snickering Ryuma.
"Grayfia."
She corrects, with Ryuma bowing his head.
"Then, good night Grayfia-chan~"
Grayfia nods, and Ryuma goes off upstairs.
As he did, he thought about his Father, and his Mother.
"Father...I'll show you one day. I'll become the strongest Dragon, stronger than Ophis, and stronger than Great Red...and stronger than you. Then you'll see, I'm worthy of being a Dragon, a true Evil Dragon...you shall see my worth and merit." He looked down into his shirt, and saw a necklace draping from his neck, a smile appearing. "Mom, I will become the strongest, I promise you...I'll have the strongest group... You always said a key to strength is finding those precious to you and protecting them, I think I am beginning to understand, Mom. A group of my own, maybe it could be precious to me...heh, they shall be amazing, the strongest group in history. I wonder who I should begin with...that Vali-chan is certainly a good choice, she could be my right hand, and Grayfia-chan...I wonder if she would, maybe Sona Sitri, she's very smart...hahaha, so many choices, its time to begin seeking strong allies for me."
Adopting a determined look, he strived to do his best, and become the strongest Dragon he could possibly be.
But first, he had to improve his strength and become able to challenge many foes, and also, to gather the best team around him.
End chapter!
So, this is the start of the story! For those unaware or didn't know about the previous poll, Ryuma is the son of Crom Cruach, and their relationship, there is something going on that shall be explored as the story goes on. The same for his Mother, and what she is exactly and where she is right now in the story.
As with most Evil Dragons, he's got quite the battle happy kind of persona, where he will fight anyone that he thinks is interesting, but also some other sides to him like a noble side, and respects those he believes are worthy of it, regardless of if they have power or not, such as Grayfia who he respects for a few reasons, despite her essentially being someone that watches over him due to the Underworld not being sure about him.
Speaking of Grayfia, usually I don't put her in the harems for obvious reasons, Sirzechs, Millicas and things like that, but this time, I think a relationship between Ryuma and Grayfia would be an interesting one to explore. So yeah, if you're interested in that, please vote away!
So, now, Sacred Gears as some have asked about since the end of the poll.
People have suggested to me about Aeon Balor, due to the relationship that Crom has with the Evil God Balor, and the irony of that Sacred Gear being within his own child. Even having Gasper on his peerage would be interesting to explore with Crom and all.
Regardless if he has a Sacred Gear or not, he will be very strong due to the genes of his parents, and his own training, so I thought I would put it to a vote if he should have one. If you'd like to see him have one or not, and if you have any suggestions on what Sacred Gear he could possibly have then feel free to suggestion. The ones I think would fit Ryuma the best will be put into a vote next time, if him having a Sacred Gear wins this vote!
So, yeah, that's it for now. If you're interested, please vote, and peerage suggestions always welcome!
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!