Slayer Cross: No doubt, he'll be lucky if Dorian gets to him first XD You are welcome, first time for everything lol.
Jwebb96: Get your torches and pitchforks here... ;)
StraxyX: I will admit, I was fond of their chemistry in canon which sort of just fell away as she became more and more obsessed with Issei. They compliment each other well and considering neither are exactly the best at socializing are adorable together.
Grimraven V: Thank you very much!
FateBurn: Thank you, there may be a delay to the next chapter as the arc needs planned and mapped but I hope not too long
fanficcyberman: Having the relationships grow naturally was one of my biggest hopes for this story compared to the rushed nature of the canon. It means a lot you have liked it. Yep, Irina represents Michael, who trusts no other but her. As for the other spots...time will tell ;)
bevim23: I will thank you lol, you the readers are what makes writing this so much more enjoyable!
ahsoei: Precisely, Issei will still be a main character, but I found they went to him to do everything just way too much in canon. With so many other characters it makes sense to split their resources. Of course, always more DorianXRose fluff around the corner ;)
GunBlade2019: I am so glad you do, and totally agree on Diodora who is a walking devil cliche lol. I most certainly will!
The Chaos Phoenix: That I cannot give away ;) I will say that romance will start being more of a factor within the next 2-3 arcs...but how he will handle it if more women are drawn to him must remain hidden. Thank you! I hope to never disappoint.
DJDrake: He can see the future, get him! XD Fluff for now...explosions later...
Parched: You have no idea how much that means to hear you say that. Makes the time spent fashioning the story and chatting with fans so worth it :D
OBSERVER01: Need a nice slice of life every now and then, agreed. If only he knew the tree he was barking up (pun intended) with Thrud and the Valkyries
naruto: Thank you, and yes that will be a staple going forward. If a character is shown once, you can bet I'll try to find a way they will repay the favor later
ranchboy1: Thanks, that is quite an image of Thrud. I am a fan of Star Trek so I got that reference and laughed more than I should have XD Not to worry, not everyone is invincible, but neither will a character get belittled just to make the MC look better in a forced way. You've no idea how many times that has happened in show I liked where it was clear they just wanted a damsel in distress which Thrud is decidedly not :D
PasiveNox: Thanks
Mackdaddy3ful: Never feel bad, the story isn't going anywhere and it means more that you've been enjoying it for so long. I feel the same about having a large cast so not just the MC should be getting the spotlight, I saw MCs as more the ones who help the others to break their limits or step outside their comfort zone but not to carry the story to the detriment of others. Akeno looking at Dorian? He's a goner for sure lol XD. Indeed, Kuroka is one of the funner characters to write for. Her personality seems so simple yet (unlike a lot of shows) has real reason she acts the way she does. I hope to never disappoint as I move forward.
And with that...ONTO THE SHOW!
"Oh it is so wonderful to see you again Irina!" Mrs. Hyoudou embraced the former neighbor of theirs and childhood friend to Issei.
"Such a small world," her husband remarked from behind a paper he was reading.
"I am also enrolling at Kuoh Academy," Irina let them know as she pulled back from the hug. "It's all been approved and I start first thing after summer break."
Breakfast that morning had been far more active as both houses awoke to their newest member. Once all were assembled, formal introductions went around though few needed one as it was hard to forget her inclusion during the Kokabiel fight and defending those that were paralyzed at the Peace Summit. She could hardly hold back tears upon seeing Xenovia again, despite knowing she was now an Einherjar and no longer following the church, Irina embraced her. Xenovia reciprocated the gesture, clearly feeling both awkward and relieved all at once that she held no animosity for her choice.
"You thought she was a boy the whole time?" Dorian asked Issei unbelieving as she made her rounds to the other members. He was clearly trying to keep from laughing as best he could, barely succeeding.
"She didn't look like THAT when we were five!" Issei retorted, cheeks red in embarrassment. "That was before I learned the bountiful wonder and perfection that is women's breasts!"
Dorian groaned but wasn't backing down, "You had to learn it? I would have thought you were born with it the way you act."
"It was all thanks to the old geezer," he started, ignoring Dorian's jab.
"Old Geezer?"
"Yea, it must have been a little while after Irina moved away, me and a bunch of the other kids used to see this old man after classes. He would tell us the best stories on how wonderful those bouncing jumblies were!"
Issei did not notice as Dorian slowly shuffled a little further away with each word.
"How soft they could be, yet firm…the way they just mold with your hands and make the woman cry out. He told us everything and how you could never have enough, unlike most things in this world, breasts never got old and you never tired of their presence!"
"…I think you should have stayed FAARRR from this old man," Dorian had ceased his retreat, nearly having entered the next room. "And this was after Elementary School?"
"I never did find out what happened to him, when we changed grades he just disappeared," the Red Dragon Emperor lamented, feeling a wave of nostalgia. "You wouldn't understand."
"I think I appreciate the female form just fine," Dorian countered, his eye twitching the slightest amount at Issei's insinuation. His declaration of Rossweisse's own beautiful features during his inebriated bout with Ragnar back in Asgard ran through his head. "There is a vast difference between that and being completely obsessed."
"That's because you had no teacher!" Issei was suddenly in his face, eyes wide as they had entered his domain. "Mr. Azazel can teach us both while we move forward as men!"
"And that is where your harem dream came from I imagine?"
"Of course, I'll have as many bouncing beauties around me as I can handle! The largest harem the devil world has ever seen!"
"Isn't that pretty…shallow?"
"Not at all! Rias said that high class devils can have loads of servants who do everything they command. Once I am that strong, I'll propose to every cute girl I meet and…"
Dorian's fist clenched a little tighter at those words as he spun to leave, breaking Issei out of his explanation with a confused expression on his face. He'd known what a pervert Issei was since the day they met, even hearing about his desire for a harem, yet not how serious it was. He was truly obsessed with collecting as many wives as possible.
"Goldie…?" Before he could ask further, Issei spotted the time, half-ejecting himself from the room. "Oh crap, I still have to finish that assignment!"
So quantity is all you care about and not the individual? I saw how you spoke to Akeno, how can you be so kind yet fail to see the absolutely selfish and insensitive nature of such a wish? To be unfaithful to each one in search of the next…I need some air.
Fortunately, the Hyoudou residence's renovations had been as extensive as their own and he had room to make sure the others didn't see his fouled mood. At least, he thought that for a few moments.
"A-are you alright Dorian?"
The fuming Einherjar had rounded the corner, not spotting the former nun Asia across the room. She had been late coming downstairs to greet Irina, a moment she had been looking forward to since the reborn angel was Issei's oldest friend she knew of. Her green eyes almost resembling Thrud's were drooped with worry, able to see the frustration on Dorian's face he dare not reveal the reason for.
So far, she's the only one who has shown real affection for him, he thought, not yet aware of Rias' harbored feelings.
"I'm fine Asia," he quickly warped his features to as close to normalcy as he could, smiling cheerily at her. "It's just…pretty overwhelming getting so many new faces at once. Everything is changing so fast."
"I know that feeling," she empathized. "When I became a devil I didn't know what to do, everything was different. If it wasn't for him I would have been lost a second time."
"…Issei?" She nodded sheepishly.
"H-he is such a kind man, the first I met since being exiled. He saved my life, my very soul even when becoming a devil. I owe him for all of it; I-I even think he is…"
"All that, even with his…interests?" Dorian let loose a short chuckle to show they were just having a conversation and divert from how perplexed he was by Issei.
"He…yes," her face lit up bright red as she glanced in every direction but Dorian's. "Whatever he may want in the future, right now I am with him. And I couldn't be happier."
Such faith in him? Well, she has known him longer than I. I'll give him a chance, who know, he might surprise me.
"Fearless leader!" He heard the unmistakable cry of Bennia from the kitchen. "You better get in here and enjoy breakfast or we'll start asking Irina about your days in England! I hear it's a jolly good time!"
"Oh no!" Dorian grabbed Asia's hand without thinking, running together with a terrified yet still serene smile on his lips shared by her. "We've got to hurry, if they get her to spill the beans on the time I dressed up as a reindeer…!"
Kuoh Town Countryside, a few hours later...
"Is this the place?" Kiba asked, glancing around a wide open field that had been cleared for the match.
"Precisely," Kiyome remarked with an assertive step. They had arrived at her home not far from Kuoh Town where very few lived. The assembled group, including Rias, Kiba and Akeno plus Xenovia and Aella, looked on with Xenovia's eyes widening at the sight.
It was a massive western-style mansion that could have housed hundreds comfortably. If it weren't for recently having taken up residence in the Crossroads Tower and the renovated Hyoudou house, the azure-haired Einherjar would have thought it was the largest home she had ever seen.
"And she lives in such a place by herself most times?" She asked, remembering Kiyome's assertions on the way there. Apparently her family, being famous monster tamers, was traveling quite often. The Abe heiress had virtually no contact with her father until the letter came regarding the engagement plans.
The group stepped off the carriage that had brought them to the estate. Kiyome had showed her lineup for tamed beasts she had selected as the match would be separated into three rounds upon land, sea and air. The first on land was a Yuki-onna on par with a yeti more than the beautiful maidens of legend. Unfortunately for Kiba, this one grew hearts in her eyes at first glance of his golden hair.
For the sea it was a mermaid inverted from most stories where the upper portion was that of a fish with legs of a beautiful woman though admittedly had little combat experience. The poor thing looked like it could barely swim, flopping around in the shallow waters barely moving. Her final creature of the air was a bird man by the name of Takahashi, her faithful bodyguard. Despite the title, he looked more like a normal high school student albeit with a beak for a mouth, wings on his arms and a prominent cockscomb on his head.
"The snow girl is a good choice," Ratatoskr complimented, having accompanied them imagining the fights could be a good show. Though he was not a fan of the transformation they went through during puberty from beautiful woman to the hulking yeti-like forms they held the rest of their lives, he had to admit their ferocity in battle and powers were impressive.
"We thought a hydra could fill that role," Hecuba informed with a defeated expression. "Alas they are not so easy to tame and even the best-behaved was too unpredictable."
"We can make due, she looks like a tough hairy girl. The fish and bird-boy on the other hand…"
"I am no boy!" Takahashi stomped his foot at the insult. "When I was your age..." He didn't finish the sentence as Rat let out an uncontrolled laugh, clearly amused by the lack of knowledge at his true age surpassing all present combined.
"I thought bird men were legendary creatures native to Easter Island," Xenovia mused, her training at the Church on potential enemies coming back to her.
"An ancestor of mine was rescued by the Abe family," the once-more polite bird explained. "We have served them ever since."
"But, aren't you a Nagoya Cochin bird man?" Ratatoskr pointed out upon recognizing the shape of his cockscomb and plumage. The Abe bodyguard froze, turning hesitantly towards the impromptu coach.
"What is your point?"
"Well, you can't very well be a beast of the air if you can't fly."
"He can't fly?" Kiba glanced up flatly attempting to maintain his knightly composure. Cochin chickens were known for being incapable of flight due to their abnormal size. The fact the supernatural being standing before him was related to such an animal caused the blonde knight to raise an eyebrow.
The beast-races truly do come in all types.
"I am still a bird!" Takahashi broke first. "I will defend my lady's honor, protect her right to choice and…"
The sound of giddy laughter interrupted him as not far in the distance they could see Aella spinning through the air like a kid smiling widely. Koneko was clinging to her back clearly feeling uncomfortable yet could not turn down the innocent harpy's request for fun. She banked and weaved around the nearby trees, inadvertently showing off her skills honed since first breaking through her egg.
"Yea, I think I rest my case," Ratatoskr asserted, no one challenged. Takahashi relented, putting Kiyome's victory and freedom from the marriage above his own pride as was befitting his love for her."
"But what about the beast of the sea?" Kiba finally spoke up, already formulating ideas in his mind despite having no knowledge of his opponent's beasts.
"That," Hecuba stood up proudly, motioning towards the second carriage with an additional passenger who had not yet departed. "Was a choice not from my homeland, rather an exchange student staying in Olympus as part of the cooperation with the Nine Realms. When she heard we were coming to Midgard to face a famous beast tamer she insisted on joining us…"
Not Long After…
With preparations complete, Kiba stood tall and ready as a summoning circle started forming amidst the field. Kiyome's father would arrive at any moment. To lend credibility to her claim, the brunette was standing pressed up against Kiba's side gripping an arm lovingly.
"You okay there?" Ratatoskr poked Xenovia's cheek. She was clearly scowling daggers at Kiyome from behind her back. If looks could kill the match would be long over.
"I am…fine," she replied after a moment of actually having to think about it. "This is merely a ruse to break her out of a hollow marriage." She looked to Rias in the distance watching the materializing guest with great interest, no doubt remembering her own engagement recently broken off by Issei. "I have yet to see the Gremory knight show true affection towards any woman."
"Ya know if you are serious about nabbing him you'll have to start calling him by his first name right?"
Yuuto-kun…going that far would be considered very personal in Japan wouldn't it?
"Yuuto is complicated," the two turned as Akeno continued their conversation while they'd been unaware she could hear. "As long as I've known him he's never seen himself as a man, more of a sword in the shape of one."
"The ladies of Kuoh will be heartbroken," Rat remarked, sidestepping Xenovia's shoulder slap.
"He has been livelier since we fought Kokabiel, but I'm not certain he knows how to think of himself any other way. I certainly hope he learns such a thing from someone." Her sideway glance towards the fledgling Einherjar was as obvious as it was potent.
The approval of friends, I read such a thing is highly sought after when pursuing a significant other.
The magic completed, revealing a tall burly man with stern sharpened features standing before them. He wore w rustic vest, horned helmet and thick pants denoting the world of power and strength he just came from. Having fought and worked to his position over the many years he felt he knew what was best for all those around him. Such a challenge to his decisions was unheard of and it showed in his eyes as they narrowed squarely on Kiba.
"That is Asgardian attire," Ratatoskr whistled impressed. "Does their family actually travel that far in search of beasts to tame? If he got ahold of a troll we may be in for a world of hurt unless you have a bow with an arrow the size of a ballista bolt."
"So, you are the impetuous lad who seeks to court my daughter?" He boomed, voice echoing through the air unhindered by his impressive grey mustache.
"I am," he answered simply. Playing the role of a love-struck youth was not in Kiba's repertoire.
"That is right father!" Kiyome gripped his arm tighter to emphasize her conviction. "My boyfriend, Yuuto Kiba-kun."
Xenovia's aura flared, threatening to blow her companion resting atop it clean off though he managed to hold his footing somehow.
"I never imagined you would make such a move," her father lowered his head with closed eyes. "I do everything I can to better you and this family and this is how you repay me? I am ashamed that you think so little of our legacy."
"Don't talk to her like that," everyone was surprised, Rias most of all, when Kiba snapped back. "Just because one does not wish to follow a path ordained for them does not mean they do not care." The young knight channeled all he had wanted to say when his king was in a similar situation, the words flowing forth at long last. "I have no doubt Kiyome will be a splendid head of your family, but for the moment she is still in high school. Did you ever consider that what she wants for herself can be exactly what your family needs?"
A silence hung over the field, all who knew Kiba were stunned as was Kiyome, blushing slightly at the proclamation despite the deception. Her father raised an eyebrow, an almost proud grin forming on his lips.
"I see you aren't one to back down. Very well, show to me the power of those words through action…our battle for my daughter's future begins now!"
Crossroads Tower Library…
"Seven heads, ten horns, and a chimera of at least half a dozen species…they don't need to mention it by name necessarily."
Rossweisse muttered to herself as she scanned through the various books found within the Crossroad's Tower library. Nestled securely on the fourth floor, the shelves had been filled by tomes and other assorted materials donated by the various member mythologies most notably Olympus and Asgard. With the day to herself and Dorian training below with Thrud, the silver-haired Valkyrie decided to relax the best way she knew how, by studying. She had been looking through the oldest books they had using the nightmarish beast carved upon Dorian's shield as a reference.
With a physical description I don't need a name, it HAS to have appeared before. Evidence exists for everything, I am sure of it! If only I'd had this information years ago.
"Hello, is anyone in here?"
Rossweisse jumped at the words, nearly knocking over the nearby lamp she had been using. Their newest member, Irina Shidou, peeked her head inside with an ever present sheepish smile hoping she hadn't interrupted.
"Oh, it's just me," she placated her worries. "Please come in, sorry I was working."
"Working? But isn't it a day off?" She chuckled slightly at the contradiction.
"It is a…side project. Please don't mention it to anyone," she half-attempted to cover the book she was reading but the angel of Heaven got a good look, eyes lighting up with recognition.
"Revelation 13:1? I haven't read that in so long. Are you trying to brush up on the history of the other factions?"
"Admittedly…no," Rossweisse sighed in defeat, finally closing the book. "It was personal research that I've been working on for a long time, on that." She motioned over towards Dorian's wooden shield, the creature fully displayed with its mismatched qualities of numerous animals, seven terrifying heads and crowns atop them. Irina shuddered at the image.
"The Beast from the Sea? Why would you want to know about that? I hated that part anytime my father would read it; it was so terrifying when I was little."
It still is a little bit, if such a thing existed did God know about it?
"When I was in school I heard legends of such a creature existing in Nordic tales as well. Since joining the Crossroads it seems there are versions in Egyptian, Olympian and now Catholic as well. I wrote an essay theorizing its actual existence but could find no hard evidence of it. I didn't even know what it could look like, no one did. Not even scripts discussing the Old Gods before they left beyond the Dimensional Gap dating back to before known myths had information on it. I couldn't publish the essay without true sources so I never did. I even came up with this intriguing seal idea…" She thought back to the especially thick binder that had been gathering dust on her shelf back home now residing within her refurbished room in the tower.
"Wait," Irina was confused. "If no one knows what it looks like then what is that?" She pointed to the immaculate shield.
"That…was a gift, from Dorian. He just saw it in a dream, apparently he has for some time," she clarified at her new teammate's confused expression. "I wish I knew how."
"I don't recall him mentioning any dreams like that back in England. Has he been doing okay?" She asked with a hint of worry at the apparent dreams her second childhood friend was having, coming to the crux of her reason for seeking out Rossweisse.
"Why would you ask me?"
"Well, he'd never tell me, wouldn't want me to worry. But you two seem very close…"
Rossweisse's race turned a soft shade of pink.
"I think he's happy, he seemed to be when we…when we last spoke on the topic," she avoided mentioning the day spent on the bench or shopping. "He has a lot on his mind but, he is doing well."
"Then why haven't you asked him about this?"
"NO!" Rossweisse's outburst caused Irina to jump. "I couldn't do that; he used to talk on what nightmares they were. I do not wish to bring them up just to satisfy my own curiosity. It is an interest of my own, nothing more. It is not worth making him think on it more than he already does."
He's lucky to have someone who thinks about his well-being so much, the angel sighed, remembering how Dorian worried about her in a similar way when she knew him years earlier. She had kept her ties to the Excalibur project secret, yet he had still seen the stress that it had left on her.
"In that case," she slumped into the chair next to Rossweisse. "I can help too! If this thing is mentioned in Revelations I'm your woman. Few know the Bible as well as I do. We'll have more information than we know what to do with!"
"Irina…" Rossweisse smiled, welcoming the company. "Thank you, I have been trying to interpret verses one through ten; if you look at eleven through sixteen I would be very grateful."
At the Abe Estate…
"That is one hairy bitch!"
Ratatoskr looked on at the first chosen monster of Kiyome's father. They met in the field for a battle on land first with Kiba summoning Christie, Kiyome's Yuki-onna roaring menacingly at her opponent. They had hope; until he called forth his own Yuki-onna nearly twice the size of Kiyome's covered in scars and injuries from a hundred battles won over the many years.
"Stephanie," Kiyome introduced. "That is Christie's big sister."
"Bit of an understatement!" Ratatoskr quipped. "We would have been in better shape if he HAD brought a troll!"
"Stephanie, start drumming!"
At her master's command, the behemoth yeti starting slamming her stomach again and again releasing a shockwave that forced Kiba and Christie to plant their feet. Kiba had been given a rundown of their chosen monster's abilities. Drumming was a powerful technique of Yuki-onnas which amped them up, increasing the force behind their blows with each pound.
Christie cannot hope to match her sister's power; Kiba knew at once, his mind awash with strategies. We will need speed and tactics if we hope to win.
"Christie!" He yelled out, being the only one permitted to speak to the monster's during the match. "Form two ice clones!"
His monster turned with a wink, sending a shiver up his spine as she complied with his command. Using a power unique to those raised in the Japanese Alps of which even her sister could not perform, another Christie split from the first and then another. Hoping to take advantage of the relatively passive state for drumming, all three split off to surround and converge upon their elder sister.
"Too naïve, Stephanie use the Frozen Death Stick!" The hulking monster reached behind its back, pulling something out of a pouch on her back.
"A banana?" Kiba muttered as Stephanie chucked the object high, freezing it solid instantly with a burst of ice from her mouth. Kiba realized her plan in an instant as Christie veered off from charging her sister, instead aiming for the irresistible delectable falling back down to the Earth.
Yuki-onna are truly so similar to their primate brethren they are susceptible to even that? But what could entice her more to draw focus back to the fight and…?
"Her eyes are drawn to the same place as myself and her master!" Kiba turned, perplexed as he saw Xenovia shout above the battle with eyes locked squarely on his own.
He was confused, uncertain as to what she meant until he looked 's look bored through him, reminding the Gremory knight of how she did back in the locker room while cleaning the pool. Even then, Kiba may not have realized her meaning were it not for that similar look he had seen his king Rias and Asia give Issei on more than one occasion.
That is how Tosca and Tsubaki looked at me; perhaps…perhaps Hecuba was right. I am a sword, but that need not be all that I am. He shouted the only command he could think of in such a short time that could work.
"If you remain focused on the battle and win, I'll eat an entire hand of bananas with you!"
Christie and her clones ceased their pursuit of the lone banana, the enticement shattered at the declaration behind her. Her eyes turned from hearts to flames as the original spring boarded off the nearest duplicate into an aerial lunge, fists clenched toward her big sister below as her clones followed. With her full fury, Christie brought her fists down just as both copies collided with Stephanie. Before the explosion of smoke engulfed them, the hulking sibling had slammed both hands together to create an immense shockwave. As the mist obscured them, a new explosion sent it dispersing in all directions and forcing Kiba as well as his opponent and all spectators scrambling to brace themselves. It did have the added effect of revealing the outcome of the clash.
Christie was laying face-up, Stephanie cradling the clearly unconscious body while stroking her head proudly. The Yuki-onna, years more experienced and far stronger than her younger sister, was nursing a broken arm. Despite the immense difference in their strength and skill, Christie had managed to noticeably wound her in their brief exchange, and Stephanie could not have been prouder. Despite her best efforts, Christie had been defeated.
I should still share that meal with her, she certainly earned it.
"With that, Mr. Abe wins round one!" Rias declared as Kiyome's hopes plummeted, Kiba was shocked as well, dreading what other monstrosities her father had in store. "Next we move on to the battle at sea!"
Not far…
The next portion of the battle would take place on the other side of the primary mansion. On that front, an Olympic-sized swimming pool had been constructed. Everyone had been given a chance to change in the likely event of collateral splash damage. Mr. Abe and Kiba had both donned standard swim trunks while the women had each chosen attires that would have made Issei jealous at his lack of inclusion in the day's events.
Akeno and Rias had matching swimsuits that showed off a lot of skin in colors of black and red respectively. Kiyome's was of similar make but had blue frills and a skirt to maintain an expected level of modesty. Xenovia chose a more form-fitting design used by professional swimmers though had selected one with a bit more skin if only to gauge Kiba's preference. Based on the additional second or two his eyes lingered on her she got the idea she'd found a winner. Aella, being unwilling to slip into anything else due to her hatred of water, had a dull blue single-piece suit.
"I will choose him," Mr. Abe called out from atop a horse he had used to traverse the field, refusing to dismount. With a flash of lightning, his desired beast of the sea materialized.
It was very similar to Kiyome's first choice only rather than a tuna with human feet his was a great white with hulking muscular legs. As soon as it appeared, the shark-species of mermaid leapt into the pool doing laps over and over for it was common knowledge that sharks had to keep moving to breath and his chosen monster was no exception.
"Who do you choose?" He tightened his grip on the reigns threateningly.
"That would be me."
Xenovia and Rias shared a smirk of satisfaction, Kiyome's father turned; looking quite confused as a beautiful woman with black and scarlet colored hair emerged from the rear of the manor. Her skin was a deep tan with shining purple eyes and a serene smile resting on her face. She was dressed in a long hoop-skirt nearly dragging the ground. It reminded Kiyome of the southern belle look which was so popular in upper western society.
"And who are you?" Mr. Abe raised an eyebrow of suspicion.
"I hail from the northern seas Lord Abe where your name is quite well known, my name is Hafga."
Hafga curtsied politely, lifting her skirt slightly to reveal her feet, or rather what she had in place of feet. A series of tentacles and arms similar to that of an octopus emerged from her skirt revealing her identity.
Ratatoskr whistled, motioning as if to slide up sunglasses he did not have, having been unable to do so when first introduced.
"A kraken?" Kiyome's eyes lit up having known one more stand-in awaited, however had been unaware of the new girl's exact species. Krakens were known as one of the stronger and rarer monster-races of the world. Hecuba had been amazed when calling allies in Olympus that the young girl had overheard their request and offered to help. Being of the line of the first of her family, Hafgufa, she was as close to royalty as her people had and was an honored guest of Olympus.
"This day just keeps getting better and better," he nudged Xenovia's expressionless face who was clearly having none of his antics. "Shark vs Kraken…they could make a movie out of this!"
"To face a legend such as you will be a great honor," she smiled wide, revealing rows of razor-sharp fangs. With a look of pure delight she tore off her skirt, fully revealing the mass of octopus-like arms and that her dress was in fact an ornate skin-tight swimsuit once the frills were removed. Crouching down, the young descendant of myths dove into the water, hardly disturbing the surface as she gracefully submerged within.
"And…..BEGIN!" Rias called out with a loud clap of her hands.
The water exploded from the pool as the two combatants propelled like missiles towards each other.
"Lock up his teeth!"
At Kiba's command, Hafga extended her arms, seizing the approaching opponent by his maw, stopping the rows of teeth from reaching her at the last moment. With her free appendages, she seized his legs though barely held on as he struggled with his incredible strength holding back the snapping jaws. Barbs punctured the shark's skin and bit deep, causing him to release a roar of pain.
"You've fought stronger than her!" Kiyome's father berated his immobilized creature. "Corkscrew dive!"
His beast suddenly ceased its thrashing; turning into a barrel roll that seemed harmless at first but after a few seconds soon had the monster spinning like a power drill. Hafga held on as best she could, however even her barbs gave out and the kraken-girl was thrown clear to spiral through the waves.
"Ramming speed!"
Hafga had no time to rest as the shark sped her way as was the tactic of the megalodons that were its ancestors, battering her until she could no longer move. Hafga was thrown clear, recovering fast as she was strong for her kind, however had little skill at tactics and strategy. That burden fell to Kiba on land.
"Hafga, use a smokescreen! Stick to the dark portions and try to stay towards his right side!"
A cloud of black ink erupted from the kraken-maiden, blinding the charging enemy and causing him to fly past, missing her entirely. He did not let up, however, coming about hard to charge her again. Hafga dodged once more yet took a blow to her arm. She cried out beneath the waves as the bubbles carried her scream of pain to the surface.
Just a bit longer, please hold out Hafga, Kiba thought, praying he wasn't asking too much of her as she dodged again and again unable to muster any form of offensive. Kiba's heart plummeted as Hafga stopped to catch her breath just as the great white charged again.
"FULL POWER!"
The shark-mermaid sped onward, mixing his ramming speed with the corkscrew to act as a drill seeking to pierce through the exhausted kraken. He grew nearer and nearer, finally colliding directly into her midsection. All parties gasped in surprise but none more than the Abe Patriarch upon realizing the attack had done virtually no damage. His prized sea-beast had struck Hafga at her center of mass with no force behind him; even now Hafga was tenderly embracing the immobilized shark all the while pulling him slowly through the pool.
"Shhh," she comforted the half-asleep beast. "Do not be afraid, I've got you. The venom from my barbs will paralyze your movements for several hours but is only temporary. I will not eat you, and I can keep you moving to get oxygen. You wont die here."
"What? How?" Kiyome's father boomed much to her joy, unable to hold back a smile.
"Certain Kraken have a very potent neurotoxin within their barbs meant to immobilize prey. Kiba had her use her smokescreen to force your monster to overexert itself, spreading the poison faster." Xenovia read from the encyclopedia in her head, it felt satisfying to educate the experienced tamer on the reason for his defeat.
"But that poison is incredibly rare! The odds of her having it are…"
"Astronomical?" Hafga teased with a toothy grin, reveling in his lack of knowledge of her family lineage. "I believe this is over is it not? I suggest moving onto your last little fight while I make sure your prized beast doesn't die from lack of oxygen."
"A carnivorous sea monster with a gentle heart of gold," Ratatoskr paused as they started stepping away from the pool, raising an eyebrow at the submerged woman. "You ever get that feeling of regret when you find out something existed you never knew...but totally did it for you?"
"Winner, Kiba Yuuto!" Rias called out with Akeno, Xenovia and Aella giving out a cheer from the stands. Kiyome did the same, soaking in the look her father was giving, his mouth flopping open and closed like his many aquatic creatures. "Our final match shall take place in the mountains for a fight amid the skies!"
Crossroads Tower…
"And the four Satan titles?" Thrud asked Dorian as they encircled each other slowly.
"Beelzebub, Leviathan, Lucifer and…Asmodeus?"
"Correct!" Thor's daughter called out.
She swung at him with a speed that would have been too fast to see for a normal person. For Dorian, however he realized she was holding back per their training rules. If they were going to the Rating Game Gathering shortly as spectators, they needed to know as much as possible. The two had developed a regimen to help him improve his body and knowledge. Thrud would ask a question, if he answered correctly she would restrain her power to a point he could keep up and learn her techniques while preventing a humiliating thrashing. Conversely, if he got it wrong then her next strike would be full power. On top of that, he could not use his Sacred Gear as Thrud was quite intent on improving his base state.
"You can't be over-relying on that thing, what would happen if it gets damaged or sealed?" She said prior to beginning, not even allowing him to keep the 9-pointed star charm Rossweisse had made him due to its defensive properties.
"I wonder how Aella is doing," Dorian ducked beneath her blow, rolling to the only opening available as Thrud had hoped. He was improving at seeing opportunities in a fast-paced engagement. "I had no idea harpies were considered tamable beasts outside of Olympus."
"In certain circles," Thrud confirmed, side-stepping a high kick of Dorian's. "The practice of beast-taming was created long before learning the languages of the monster-races. Afterwards, they act more like a team but are not treated as glorified pets as they once were. Considering how much she fought at Olympus I am sure she'll be fine in a controlled competitive situation."
Dorian stumbled as Thrud caught him in the chest; even holding back as she was, he missed the clear signs of her attack. She knew something was off, though he revealed the reason for it before she had a chance to wonder.
"Speaking of Olympus," he spoke up softly, recovering from the blow. "I wanted to thank you."
"Me? What for?"
"When you said I was overthinking it with Rose, back when I was worried about how Elysium could be skewing how I felt…"
That's right, I told him to not overthink things and miss growing closer to Rossweisse. Even so, they have made progress. If it weren't for the situations that seem to follow us they'd probably have ten kids by now. She stifled a laugh.
"Things have been going so well that I just wanted to thank you for that. If it weren't for you I may have never gotten as close as I have."
She's never had a boyfriend before, they aren't official yet but that title of hers is all but gone now. What was it I said? Think with the heart not the head? Is that why I'm not as happy for her as I should be?
"You're welcome," she held her composure as she lined up another question. "Name the major families participating in the upcoming gathering."
"Gremory," he blurted out the first obvious answer. "Sitri, Agares, Glasya-Labolas, Astaroth and Belial."
"Incorrect!" Thrud cleared the distance in an instant. With her full swing minus magic augmentation, she buried her elbow into Dorian's face.
Did I go too far? She thought out of worry, realizing she had mixed some of her frustration into the blow. She was surprised upon realizing Dorian was still standing, she peeked around her elbow, eyes widening in surprise.
Dorian had raised his open-palms in time, one intercepting her punch and the second creating a means to cushion her blow behind the first. Smoke rose from his hand that had caught her punch and he was clearly in pain, but regardless he had successfully stopped her attack despite the power she put behind it.
He was able to block that much?
"Bael….Bael!" He called out, realizing his error. "They are the last family!" Only upon shouting his updated answer did the truth also catch up to him, seeing Thrud just as surprised as he. "Did…did I just…?"
He never finished, in a moment of Déjà vu Dorian found himself seized by the wrist, hurtled head over heels before being slammed into the ground of the training field. The formerly elated Einherjar was pinned down by Thrud sitting on his back with a hand twisted back causing immense pain with any movement. After several moments he ceased his struggles, knowing without his Gear or seals he was utterly bested.
"You did well," Thrud muttered under her breath so low he barely heard her before releasing her captive. "You pass; we can get back to it tomorrow for more lessons. I need to hit the showers and have…other training to do later today." Hopping back up and sliding her shoes back on, the daughter of thunder made her way upstairs, leaving Dorian behind quite confused.
What happened? I've never blocked an attack from her without Iggy's help before, but she got so…cold towards the end. I hope everything is alright, maybe later I can ask.
Dorian jumped out of his skin, nearly slamming his head off the nearby wall as he turned, seeing a familiar decapitated head floating by from a portal.
"Bennia!? Don't DO that," he repeated for doubtlessly the hundredth time. "How long have you been there?"
"Long enough to know our fearless leader could use a pick-me up." Her arm emerged from the portal, offering a cookies and ice cream bar to him. Once certain it was not a trap or prank Dorian accepted, taking a satisfying bite much to Bennia's joy. "You may want to hear the next part; I come bearing updates from Xenovia on her mission helping that cute Gremory knight."
The Mountains near Kuoh…
"We will ride atop our beasts of the air and join them in battle," Kiyome's father commanded with no room for argument. "The last to be slain, knocked out or to touch the ground will be named the victor! I will not give up my daughter, our family's future so easily boy!"
"I think the last to be slain sort of defeats the purpose," Ratatoskr could not help but point out.
The combatants and their audience had withdrawn to the mountains nearby where no one could witness the fight. The predominately flat terrain left ample room for aerial combat with the mountains as the sole obstacle. Kiyome found herself gripping her hands tightly in anticipation hoping beyond hope that Kiba would be victorious. Holding her composure nearby was Xenovia, her stare focused and determined as she was more than familiar with the Gremory knight's flexibility in combat.
The battle-hardened beast tamer reared back on his horse as a summoning circle brought forth the chosen monster. Before him appeared an ominous looking bird nearly the size of an old sailing vessel thankfully on the smaller end of the spectrum. It was a Roc, legendary giant birds first discussed in Persian mythology. Their size was the talk of tales with whispers of small homes being built upon their back or diets of elephants, truly, none present had laid eyes on one the gargantuan size now standing before them. To Kiba's shock and amazement, Kiyome's father did not leave his horse to mount his beast, rather with a kick to the hindquarters; he rode his horse atop his monstrous bird. It was quite an imposing sight, the giant of a man sat on his horse rearing back menacingly from the Roc's back.
"*Caw* We fly," Aella knelt before Kiba with her back to him, giving him approval to climb on.
"But…" Kiba could not help but notice that Aella was noticeably shorter than he, just a touch over Koneko in height. "Aren't I too heavy for you?" He blinked several times as the harpy matron let out a series of high pitched chirps that were unmistakably laughs.
"Have carried far heavier than you. *squawk* You weigh less than chicks attempting to escape nest before they are ready."
With reddened cheeks, unable to look her in the eye, Kiba climbed upon Aella's back looking like the most awkward piggyback imaginable. The knight locked his arm around her neck gripping one another for dear life as his legs closed around her waist. As Aella assured him, she stood up to her full height acting as if he wasn't even there. She had a quiver strapped sideways to her back, a pristine bow gripped securely in a taloned foot while hopping up and down enthusiastically on the other.
"And….BEGIN!" Rias announced loudly.
With a quick tap of the side of his Roc with a cane Kiba missed, Kiyome's father gave the silent commands. His giant bird opened its maw wide, releasing a ball of fire from deep within. Too fast for the fiery projectile, Aella took to the skies leaving the scorched ground beneath her as the attack impacted harmlessly. In retaliation, she nocked and fired a pair of arrows simultaneously each finding their mark only to snap upon striking the Roc's reinforced skin.
"No good," Xenovia analyzed from the ground. "A Roc's flesh is far too thick for standard arrows to punch through."
"And harpies have no additional magic or poisons like the Kraken," Kiyome continued if only to keep calm as the situation looked more dire. "I hope she can think of something."
*Squawk* "I can't think of anything!" Aella called out, firing arrow after arrow as she weaved into the mountain crags nearby to avoid another blast which blew out a portion of the side of a cliff. Her speed and maneuverability were impeccable but with no effective offense it became little more than a cat and mouse chase.
There must be something, the Roc is much larger and stronger than Aella but she holds maneuverability. That may be our only advantage, we don't necessarily have to fight…
"Aella, get us closer to the cliffs," Kiba pointed, awkwardly trying to hold on, towards a rock formation above, realizing the longer the fight dragged on the lower their chances grew.
With a nod she banked upward, their quarry following behind firing again and again. The last shot veered far too close, singing the sleeves of Kiba's summer clothes. Not far ahead, as Aella guessed correctly to where Kiba was referring, was a small opening between two peaks far too small for the Roc to squeeze through. Silently, he whispered his plan into her ear, the harpy smiling like a giddy schoolgirl.
Like a thread of silk through the needle, Aella zipped through the opening gracefully to shoot out the other side.
"You underestimate the might of my beast," Kiyome's father glared as his Roc sailed towards the opening.
Between the speed of their approach and fortitude of the giant bird's strength, the pair barreled through the opening. The rocks shattering as he showed the power behind his strongest creature's wings. The rock formation was reduced to powder as they smashed through blinding them for a single moment, but that moment was all they needed. As the smoke cleared, Mr. Abe's eyes went wide at the realization that Aella had swung around and was making a b-line right for him.
"FIRE!" At Kiba's command the harpy loosed her final arrow with precision accuracy.
The bolt pierced the reigns, causing the rider to lose his grip. Were that all they did he would have maintained balance easily, however without room to maneuver there was no dodging Aella who slammed into the Roc's starboard wing and held on. The moment she made contact, Kiba kicked off her back flying towards Kiyome's father. With devil wings unfurling, Kiba soared across the gap, tackling him and sending both sailing over the side. Somehow the horse remained on the back, neighing as it raced to catch its rider but proving a moment too slow.
"KIBA!" Xenovia called out.
Father!" Kiyome shouted similarly as the group rushed towards their battle.
"Foolish boy!" He roared as they fell together. "You wish for death so badly? If you were more in line with us you could be a wondrous match for my daughter!"
She is your daughter, but she is also a young woman, Kiba recalled words similarly spoken by Hecuba to himself. He didn't know why they came to him in that moment.
"This conviction is shared by her!" Kiba screamed to drown out the wind from their fall. "She cares for your family but is a young woman; there is no need to rush her life!"
"It is too late for that," Mr. Abe muttered to be drowned out by the rushing wind. "I win this time."
With a thunderous blow from his cane, he struck one of Kiba's wings, bending it painfully and cracking his weapon in half to send Rias' knight soaring off ahead of him towards the ground below. At their current pace Kiba would land first for sure. There was no salvation from above as per Kiba's instructions, Aella was presently attempting to hogtie the Roc who was thrashing back with no openings to save its master.
I have survived worse, but that boy is dead for sure. Even if he lived he'll never walk the same again after a fall like that. I am sure Kiyome will forgive me in t…
A red seal bearing the symbol of the Gremory Clan emerged beneath the contemplating tamer. Barely a foot before he would have struck the Earth, gravity was inverted by Rias' Queen. Akeno lowered down from above, devil wings flapping in the air and her sisterly smile ever present.
"That would be the match," she giggled slightly while touching down, bowing politely to older man as he staggered to his feet.
"I suppose you saved that whelp as well?" He grumbled. "If he accepts this defeat gracefully I might even consider giving him a look over after that display."
"Oh, our Yuuto hasn't hit the ground yet."
"What? That is impossible, he fell faster than me, I knocked him down the mountainside right over…"
"Kiba! Oh please tell me you're alright!" To her father's shock, Kiyome and Xenovia were looking up the cliff with faces full of restrained worry. It seemed Kiyome's deception was looking more and more authentic by the moment.
"Hang in there kid!" Ratatoskr called up from atop Xenovia's head. "The babe brigade will have you down in a jiffy!"
Barely twenty feet up dangling above was none other than his young opponent. A long and ornate sword radiating holy and devil energy was held in his hand buried deep into the rock. After he had fallen free of his enemy, it had been simple to summon his balance breaker, saving his fall.
"And the first to strike the ground is Mr. Abe! The victory goes to Kiba. I am sure he will accept a gracious defeat from yourself sir…once he finds a way to get down that is."
It took several minutes for the Roc and harpy to realize the match was over, ending their delaying tactic quarrel above and moving to help their respective partners. Both looked at each other in silence as they were lowered down, finally on solid ground again. Kiyome's father approached Kiba standing tall, towering over the battered young man. As the tension peaked, he finally reached out with a hand for a shake.
"I yield," he admitted as Kiba extended his to meet. "Your determination on my daughter's behalf is admirable. Her decisions may have more weight than I thought."
"I told you father," the brunette stepped up to him, equally overshadowed by his height as Kiba was. "I will lead our family and make you proud, but not yet. I need time to just…be me, a normal girl if only for a bit longer."
As father and daughter reconciled, returning to the house together, the blonde devil sensed movement form his side as Xenovia approached.
"Your strategies were sound," Xenovia complimented. "Quickly made on the fly and well thought out. That will be an admirable trait in our years together."
"Xenovia…" Kiba started. He had planned to tell her that he was ill-suited to such a relationship, how he was a sword and that while he was flattered things could not work between them. All his arguments fell away once more as his eyes locked onto hers, looking at him with such admiration beyond that of his sword skills. "Perhaps…we could train together when time allows. Your skills are just as great as mine."
So the interest may be there? Perhaps I will not have to update my list after all.
"Well done Kiba," Rias complimented, having held back to give them a moment. "You performed admirably and netted a successful contract. Not only that, but you have given us a greater chance of victory in the Rating Game ahead."
"How so?" Kiba asked with a confused twist of his head.
"I'll explain later, for now I'll send word on our victory as Kiyome said she had an idea on how to properly thank us for the assistance…"
Abe Estate Locker Rooms…
"And she has access to these all the time?" Bennia sighed as she stepped out of her robe into the moist air.
"Of course, normally it's reserved just for the family but as a thank you for helping her out of the engagement Kiyome has given each of us free reign when we visit." Rias unhooked her bra, laying her carefully folded clothes into a nearby locker.
Over a dozen other women did the same across the room. When Kiyome gave Rias' peerage full access to her estate's hot spring and bath she decided to share the wealth. It had been Xenovia's allies whom had eased their victory; in thanks she extended the permission to them as well. For good measure, to even the debt owed for forming the barrier during Kokabiel's battle, even Sona's peerage had arrived to enjoy the evening in comfort. Already the bespectacled Sona was undressed yet still carrying a book, were it not for her queen she would doubtless have brought it in with her.
While mild chaos ruled with the playful girls of Sona's servants mingling with the Valkyrie trio, Rossweisse remained ever the model of propriety, taking her time stepping out of her business suit. Thrud was far ahead of her, coiling a towel around herself for the wash ahead.
"Very different from Olympus isn't it?" She remarked while letting her hair down.
"Indeed, the modern look is quite a departure," her childhood friend eyed the architecture with curiosity. "It is smaller as a result but should be more than large enough to accommodate everyone."
"And it's not as 'open," she adored the look on Rossweisse's face as she realized her meaning. "The boys will have to go without."
"Th-that is to be expected!" She sheepishly answered, quickly slipping a towel around herself almost the moment her bra and panties were discarded.
"I'm sure it won't stop Issei," Koneko added her opinion flatly. "He's probably planning something perverted, he always is. Then of course that Azazel is here too…those two ar the worst."
"We'll be prepared," Xenovia stretched before heading into the baths. "Plus Dorian and Kiba would not allow such actions easily.
"Unless Ratatoskr does something nefarious again," Herja joked as she slid off the last of her garments. "Do you think seeing twenty girls in their underwear was enough for our leader?"
Herja had no idea what she had started, turning around she found that the eyes of everyone in the room were focused on her. With a sudden lurch they were in front of her, eyes boring into hers as Akeno was the first to speak their minds.
"Your pristine Einherjar having partaken of such an act? You MUST tell us the whole story."
Men's side…
"That would be a whole plethora of bathing beauties just on the other side of that wall," Azazel enticed them, leaning back on his side of the wide room set aside for the men. He was referring to Issei and Dorian in particular, though spoke just loud enough so Sona's pawn Saji caught his words as well. "Seems like it'd be a shame to leave such a sight unseen."
"I couldn't agree more sensei!" Issei's eyes were full of stars, pumping his fists in enthusiasm. "Not just Rias and Asia but Akeno and Koneko too, plus the others. Just think of the girls over there with their breasts bare for the world to…"
"You take ONE step towards that wall…" Dorian threatened, a rune shimmering in the water causing a patch of ice to creep towards the Red Dragon Emperor threateningly. He had positioned himself between Issei and Saji, only trusting Gasper and Kiba to be on the other side who was leaning back in the blissfully warm waters.
"You can't say you haven't thought of the same thing," Azazel teased, glancing at the Einherjar out of the corner of his eye. "Your Valkyries are in there as well are they not?"
"Is that all you think about?" Dorian was growing exasperated, being hard to relax under the belief Issei would take the opportunity to peek on the women just behind the wall. "Just soak and enjoy yourself."
"Sona is over there," Saji sighed like a love-struck puppy. "She is the reason I became a devil, and I'd do it again in an instant."
"Those heiresses sure have a way of drawing their pawns to them," Azazel chuckled at the similarity between the two. "Both head over heels for their masters and growing impressive in power for them. How is your own Gear coming along?"
"Just fine!" Saji asserted, standing up in the bath to shake his fists at the sky. "I won't lose to anyone for Sona and that includes you Issei! My perversion is just as great as yours, but you lack focus, I know Sona is the only woman I want to have children with."
"Vritra is one hell of a dragon to have on your side; it's too bad his consciousness was fractured before you got your portion. Talk to me later and I can help you out with that if you want more power to serve your master. As for you, any luck with your harem kid?"
"I-I have not," Issei answered truthfully. "Asia and I have grown close, but I'm afraid I'm still far off from being a high-tier devil to bring in the cute servants." He glared to Dorian out of the corner of his eyes which Azazel noticed, clearly blaming him in part for his lack of progress.
"The kid has been defending maidenly virtues since he got here," Ratatoskr informed, floating on his back through the water. "No perversion allowed here…much to my chagrin though I am working on it."
"Not a fan of harems?" The Grigori leader finally moved on to Dorian with a smirk and wink. "Surely you must recognize the perks of having so many women around you."
"In the way you mean…of course," Dorian admitted. As much as he despised Issei's way of thinking he was still a man with a, hopefully, healthy interest in the fairer sex. "But to go actively looking for many just for the sake of numbers…"
It makes sense many can fall in love with one, he recalled Thrud's teaching of the Devil royalty. Rias' father apparently became vastly popular yet only ever loved his wife, her mother. He had many wives but only had any children with her. She even managed the harem herself as a kind of manager. Vidar had many companions, he recalled the jovial god back in the Nine Realms seldom not being followed by several women though he had yet to take any as a wife. But if you go out looking for a harem from the outset, you are planning to be unfaithful to those who come first just to surround yourself with women. All of Odin's children beyond Baldur he had before marrying Freyja, though his current outings skirt that line very sharply…
"As long as the women are okay with it in the end, does the starting intent really matter?"
"The intent matters most," Dorian muttered, surprised by the conversation he was having with a major political leader.
"So if another set of eyes fall on you other than your fellow teacher…you wouldn't consider it even should the feelings be mutual because she came second?"
Dorian leaned back into the baths, refusing to answer as he looked up at the ceiling. He would cross that bridge if he ever came to it.
As if that would ever happen, he tried to convince himself. Flashes of Rossweisse passed through his mind, bringing a smile to his lips. The days training with her and Thrud still joyful to him whether in Asgard or Kuoh.
"I suppose this is okay," Gasper muttered sheepishly. He was working on being more assertive and sure with himself, even coming out to the springs was a huge step beyond his cardboard box. All the same though, he sunk his head partially underwater when Issei and Azazel started their back and forth.
"But you Issei my boy!" Azazel stated loudly, clearly meant for every man present. "You have much to learn of how to please women; you've groped Rias' breasts have you not?"
"With these very hands!" Issei proclaimed proudly.
"Well, there is more than just groping, have you ever pushed in a nipple before?" Issei's face went wide as if he had just been given the secret to eternal happiness.
"That shocks you?" Ratatoskr held back a laugh, fist-bumping the Occult Research Club advisor who was a man after his own heart. "That is pleasing your lady 101 right there, even Dorian probably knew about that one."
Glancing over, Ratatoskr found no answer but got the reaction he'd been looking for. His friend and traveling partner had laid a hot towel over his face to try in vain to hide the flushed red cheeks. Gasper had sunk beneath the waves once more while Kiba looked terribly uncomfortable yet all the same kept his ears trained for a piece of advice or two that could be usable for the future. The conversations between the two mutual perverts made the passing of time as slow as possible.
Women's side…
"It is so nice to meet you all," Irina completed her introductions to Sona's peerage. "I pray we will have a wonderful school year together."
"Don't pray too hard," Sona muttered only half in jest as she and Tsubaki soaked beside one another. "Things could get complicated if you consecrated the water with us all in it."
"A congratulations on a hard won fight," Rias tilted a glass of tea towards Aella and Hafga. The former refused to go near the water while the latter had sunken down to her neck and was basking in the heat. "To our good Kiba as well!" She shouted loud enough for him to hear on the other side of the wall.
"It was my duty to serve," was Kiba's only reply from beyond. She could practically sense the aura of frustration bleeding through the wall emanating from her red dragon pawn.
"A-and to our new teacher," Asia chirped in sweetly, motioning to Rossweisse.
"You don't have to," the silver Valkyrie blushed as a round of applause traveled the room. "I hope to be up to the task to prepare everyone for the years ahead as I was."
"We'll be sure to remain diligent for the upcoming break," Rias assured her. "I am sure we can find time to keep up on our studies while training."
"Training?" Asia was confused.
"Why for the Rating Game," Rias smiled. "I'll be heading out tomorrow morning for the Underworld, Sona too, and you are all coming with me."
"President…" Asia smiled, knowing Issei would feel the same that she wouldn't leave them behind as she traveled home. "I've never seen your home."
"It is an opportunity all around," she turned towards Rossweisse who was wiping down her smooth legs. "Perhaps you could join us."
"We hope to make it truly," she assured the Gremory heiress politely. "Though we cannot participate in the fights, attending such events would go a long way to improve cooperation between us."
"Not so dissimilar from what prompted the Olympic Games," Hecuba voiced as she squeezed the last bit of water from her hair, stretching her toned yet feminine frame with a satisfied sigh.
"It sounds similar to our competitions which determined the strongest young warriors," Thrud pointed out to a nodding Rossweisse. "Perhaps we can merge them together someday, I wonder if Heaven has an equivalent…"
"They certainly grow them big in Asgard," Akeno giggled, eyes glancing slightly lower than they should have when looking at Rossweisse who subtly slid further into the water. "Are you bigger or the President? It is hard to tell though I win in either case."
"Th-that is hardly the point!" Rias and Rossweisse blurted out almost in unison at the sudden turn the Japanese beauty had taken, crossing their arms to subtly block her vision. Nevertheless, the two glanced towards one another now wondering the same thing once the idea was put out there. Rossweisse stood up a bit to reposition herself which only made Akeno raise her eyebrows wider.
"Though it seems your other assets are more impressive than all of ours."
"Oh that is just unfair!" They heard a familiar ethereal-squirrel call out from the other side upon hearing the question. "Well TWO can play at that game. Issei, Dorian, stand up and compare. I'm surprised either of you can walk with those! I saw you in the back too Mr. Knight, don't be shy."
The women's side of the bath fell utterly silent.
"Rat! What are you doing?" Dorian muttered in harsh whispers though his every word was heard.
"Hey, if they want to talk willy nilly about how stacked and divine they are when we can't see a thing it's only fair we do the same. I can start describing it, give the ladies and your Valkyrie a taste of what they're mis…"
A loud splash sent a ripple through the calm waters as the eternal struggle between man and squirrel commenced. Gasper and Kiba dodged to one side, Azazel, Saji and Issei to the other. The women inched closer, pressing up against the thick bamboo wall to listen in. Momo and Ruruka of Sona's team glanced at one another, each being more than a little fond of Saji and hoping for any chance to learn more of his features through were disappointed he was not mentioned. They did not see Tsubaki looking up as well despite remaining back to hold her composure. Only Sona saw her Queen's cheeks redden as she played it off with an adjustment of her fogged- up glasses at Rat's inclusion of Kiba. The blue-haired Tsubasa Yura did the same as the others of her peerage, still recalling how grizzled Dorian looked in her eyes after his incredible fights he had participated in.
"Can't you behave even one day!?" They could hear what sounded like Dorian choking his friend out while wrestling.
"Can't YOU try living a little for once? You already said once her breasts were made by the gods and based on what we just heard her hips and beyond are just as godly! Your rooms are right next to each other, just sneak in one night and ask her for a good…"
The girls jumped back as a loud thump struck the wall leaving a comically accurate imprint of the incorrigible squirrel. A final plop of water signaled the victor of the struggle as Dorian could be heard panting heavily from the other side.
"KO I suppose," Bennia chuckled, being one of the few to not inch closer. She and Koneko were soaking together as Aella had dared to soak her talons but no more on the far side of the bath.
"She should believe in herself more," Thrud sighed as the commotion died down and the girls returned to their conversations. She especially watched as Rossweisse slowly lowered back down to talk with Rias, a serene smile as she seemed to be growing more comfortable around them. "In everything, I knew she'd be fine as a teacher."
"You've known her long?" Akeno asked as she slid down beside her, finally wiping down her body now that she was content with the entertaining chaos she had sewn. "You would know her and her…preferences better than anyone, like Rias and I."
"I do," she admitted. "We've looked out for each other since we were little girls. She had it harder than I, so I always felt…"
"Like you needed to watch out for her? I suppose that could make sharing more complicated." The two exchanged a look of mutual understanding before her voice lowered. "I have been improving in my spare time like you said."
"Good to hear, Holy and Nordic lightning really aren't so different. Keep up those routines I showed you and you'll be wielding it with greater proficiency in no time."
"I'll tell Koneko the same; she has been working even harder than I. I worry sometimes she may go too far. Zepar told me of how difficult Sage Arts can be compared to other forms of magic even for those naturally adept like her people."
"Zepar? When did you speak with him since our training?" Akeno looked uncomfortable, but replied all the same having formed a sisterly bond with the indomitable Valkyrie-Goddess."
"He…may be the Grigori contact I have been speaking with, for updated reports on our relations." She clarified, seeing the smug grin spreading across Thrud's face.
"I won't say a word," she reassured with a wink. "Do you need help washing your back?"
"Please," Akeno turned, sliding her long hair to the side to allow Thrud to scrub softly with a towel. "And I can do the same for you when finished.
"So I hear your knight was rather dashing," Bennia grinned as if she too had become a devil to Xenovia not far away. "Feeling up to crossing swords?"
"He only gives further reason he would be an exceptional father figure," Xenovia acquiesced. "He invited me for sword practice at the Occult Research Club whenever I wish. His training of the Red Dragon Emperor in the usage of Ascalon is progressing slowly I hear. A new point of view will help him and give me a chance to grow closer…I may have another chance shortly."
"Mmmmm, the blonde one," Hafga almost growled, licking her lips as she looked to the wall as if she knew exactly where he was on the other side. "Nobility, I hear it was quite delectable when my kind lurked in the shallow waters of the north. He commanded me so well in the fight, his flavor would be exquisite…if we still did such things," she quickly added with a giggle upon seeing Bennia and Aella's terrified expressions. As subtly as they could, they shifted a few feet further away in the water.
The interesting people we meet in this profession, Bennia sighed, suddenly deciding to keep an eye on the tentacles submerged beneath the water. I would have been bored to tears staying in Olympus.
Crossroad Tower, the next day…
"It was great seeing you again Aella," Hecuba embraced her harpy friend as they prepared to see her and Hafga off. "Don't forget to write."
"*Squawk*, Never will forget Spartan," she smiled innocently up at her. "My flock will ever be there to help."
"It is quite appreciated Commander Held to allow us to see your Roads," Hafga remarked politely. She had her hands folded in front across her lap, skirt back in place to obscure the octopus arms hidden beneath. "You do not have to, the match against Mr. Abe and time in the spring was more than worth the trip."
"It's the least I can do; the Roads are much faster than waiting for a pick-up. From here we should be back at Olympus in a few minutes at most from their point of view. Plus we have plenty of time with the summer break, there is no rush."
"I cannot wait to see your home!" Irina gushed, having been invited to see Olympus as well. "Though none can compare to the brilliance of Heaven, it must be lovely indeed!"
"Um…thanks," Hecuba replied, uncertain how to take her unintendedly backhanded compliment.
"Don't burn anything down while we're gone," Dorian called back to Thrud and Rose with his normal cheerful smile. "I'll be home as quick as I…"
"Nonsense!" Hafga interrupted. "We must celebrate the victory; you absolutely must stay for a feast at least."
"…as quickly as is allowed," Dorian quickly corrected, fully remembering the feasts of Olympus during his last stay.
"Take a load off," Bennia motioned for him to get going. "We'll hold down the fort."
With a nod, Dorian summoned Laerad Ragnarok to his arm, with a twist of his wrist the swirling teal portal materialized welcomingly. "Ladies first," he bowed politely to a curtsying Hafga and Aella scurrying behind her inside excited beyond words. With a final wave he followed behind, Ratatoskr atop his shoulder the whole way.
"You aren't going too?" Xenovia turned to Bennia quizzically.
"I uh…don't really have a desire to step anywhere NEAR my old boss. I doubt he'd 'grace' the halls of Olympus with his presence, but I'm not taking that chance. There's more important stuff to do here like watching the paint dry, I hear that grass is pretty interesting when growing or…"
The nearby table started beeping furiously at the assembled women, signaling a message was coming through. It was a system reserved for their incoming missions; Thrud quickly approached the intercom, recognizing it was coming from a devil channel. In a flash, a beam of light shot forth constructing itself into the shape of a young man though with devils it was difficult to tell. He looked quite gentle, being a small build coming up shorter than Thrud. He had dark green hair cut short not even reaching his shoulders with gold eyes barely visible through squinted eyes. He was clearly royalty, wearing a very expensive suit overlaid with a furred shoulder mantle that Rossweisse didn't want to try and guess from what animal.
"Greetings good members of the Crossroads," the young devil bowed politely as he spoke. "I was informed of your incredible prowess and skill along with a certain level of discretion in regards to tasks you perform for the various powers."
"That is us," Thrud answered simply, ignoring Bennia leaning over towards Rossweisse just out of view of the projector.
"Likes laying it on thick don't he?" The reaper whispered to a nodding Rossweisse.
"It is my hope that I could employ your services. I will be participating in the upcoming gathering of the most prestigious and skilled of my people. Regrettably, I have heard of others befalling attacks en route and am seeking protective services until I arrive. Would such a contract be possible?"
"Of course," Thrud took the lead once more with Dorian having already departed. "When will you be heading to the Underworld?"
"With utmost haste, today if possible."
"Then you are in luck, I am available to see you there," she remained as diplomatic as she could. "Can you meet us at the tower?"
"Us?" The young devil tilted his head to the side as if perplexed.
"Of course, myself and the others accompanying us down to Hell." The daughter of Thor motioned to the side for Bennia and Rossweisse to step into frame.
Their future employer eyed the two up and down, his eyes opening a bit wider which made Rossweisse's uneasy for some reason. After a moment they closed again and his smile widened.
"Of course, the more the merrier for the utmost protection, perhaps the rest of your honored force may join us once we are safely at the gathering. I can be there within the hour."
This is the perfect opportunity for that invitation Dorian was looking for, what a look of surprise he'll have by the time he returns from Olympus.
"We'll be ready, and whom shall we be escorting down to Hell?"
"Astaroth," the benefactor replied quickly with a sternness to his voice. "You will be escorting the heir to the Astaroth family, my name is Diodora."
The Crossroads divide, hoping to reunite in Hell for the upcoming event of the season for young devils. Dorian escorts their allies home as Thrud does the same for a new benefactor. Reunions and introductions in Olympus and the Gates of Hell await next time. There may be a delay until the next chapter as it will kick off the next full arc, though I hope not too long. Until then, I hope everyone Reads and Reviews...but most of all Enjoys! :D
