The Storm Master 567: Thanks. Yeah, my intention with Rias is to have her take inspiration from Forte/Bass from Megaman NT. Plus her being a power type and a otaku means she'd probably go along with it.
Tohka123: Thanks.
BlueBlade87: Thanks. Ise and Saji will get stronger as I intend to have them trained by Tannin as well as making a move towards the same direction Kazu did at the start. As for Kazu's peerage, I do have several ideas for members but probably won't include Kazu's friends as they don't have Sacred Gears and Kazu doesn't want them getting involved in the supernatural.
Raidentensho: Well, the only reason I used the angels from Evangelion is cause that's the largest amount of angel names I know without confusing things up by using the Seraphs. i do have two weapons planned for Kazu to get later on as well though. I was thinking for Saji to go more Dragon Slayer for the Rating Game especially as Zirnitra and Ise is going to help them.
FateBurn: Thanks.
Stratos263: Kazu should do alright with his training, when I decide what he'll be doing.
Doctor Lecter Sith: Thanks. I'll take that suggestion in mind. As for Gabriel and Griselda, I was thinking maybe Gabriel would but its still early days with both of them.
Zarathustra: I will admit I do tend to vary which one I update. As for the OC, most of the series/ animes exist as just that rather then being crossovers so while the general idea is alright, D. Gray man is just an anime which is where Yu got the inspiration that turned his Staring Blue into Mugen. I'll keep him in mind for the future.
Orphee: Thanks. I figured to have a female scientist type to match up to Azazel and Ajuka. Yeah, I think they will become fans of Kazu's TV show and Le Fay will become his contracted magician somehow.
Lezaroth: Thanks. I will admit that it seems a bit obvious for someone who just awakened supernatural powers to take inspiration from what they know.
Khan Zodd: I have not decided what would happen when Crom Cruach shows up or how they would act around each other.
desdelor97: Thanks, I will work hard to continue this.
Orpheus: Glad that you enjoyed them. That sounds good and considering Kazu will have a better reputation then Issei does I can see Baraqiel being understandable about him.
Orphee: Yes but that's more cause you can't just expect someone to change how they act overnight as I figure they might fall back onto thinking such at times.
...
"" - Speech
'' - Thoughts
[] - Sacred Gear
[] - Albion
{} - Metatron
...
The respective leaders of the three factions sat in Azazel home in Kuoh, glasses of wine set on the coffee table between them as Azazel asked curiously "So how did the other Seraph take it when you and Gabriel told them about Kazu?"
"Uriel and Raphael both wish they could have knew about him and even Gabriel wishes she'd got to him first. Sariel is still amazed at Metatron's work in stabilising Kazu-kun's body between the powers." Michael answered with a soft smile, recalling how the other Seraph had revealed that Metatron had managed to avoid Kazuhiko suffering any issues from his hybrid nature.
"Ajuka said the same about how its impressive this body is okay with the balancing act Metatron and Albion had to do." Sirzechs replied with a forlorn smile, taking a large sip of his glass as Azazel smirked "Still depressed about ruining your sister's chances with him?"
"I... Yeah." Sirzechs admitted dropping his head as he continued, "I assumed even after how she recruited him there was a chance but... well, finding out about his mother as well as the attack on him only makes what Rias did worse and I didn't help with trying to make such a blatant attempt either."
"Uriel and Raphael were both eager to see Metatron and Kazuhiko-kun but with their duties in Heaven they can't really leave. They and the other Seraphs want Kazuhiko-kun to come to visit Heaven but at least the pictures that Sariel took for her research are at least appeasing them for now " Michael spoke with a soft chuckle at how his fellow Seraph would question Sariel and Gabriel when they had returned to Heaven to find out more about the young Draphalem, the latter more as she was living with him.
"He has also made good strides with his Angelic magic as well" Michael added, Sirzechs and Azazel looking pleased at hearing that as the latter spoke "Shemhazai was pissed at me for hiding Kazuhiko-kun's information and Baraqiel, well, I'm not really sure what to make of his reaction as he seemed rather conflicted with his daughter in such a precarious position. Kalawarner's glowing review of him obviously helped although now I've got a few of my Sacred Gear users taking the same concept as Kazuhiko-kun did for themselves."
"That is a rather ingenious idea though. I mean humans are amazingly creative so there could be a style that works well with whatever powers they have." Michael spoke impressed, Sirzechs chuckling as he added "Rias has been asking for manga as well so she could learn techniques a character Kazuhiko-kun suggested to her. Ravel is already stronger then she originally was according to the reports from the last stray they fought."
"I think we'll see a new generation of stronger people when Kazuhiko-kun's way of thinking finally spreads." Azazel spoke with an amused smile, taking a sip of his own drink.
...
"You're returning to the Underworld?" Seraphina asked with an eager tone, Rias nodding as she sat at the enlarged kitchen table, the rest of the ORC were there along with the other members of the Yuuki household.
"I'm returning home now that the summer holidays have started. I do this every year... although this year will be special..." Rias explained, taking a sip of her tea before continuing "This summer will be my and Sona's time to participate in the Young Devil Gathering which is a series of Rating Games between newly of age Devils."
"So, when you said you'd be returning you meant we'll be going as well." Kazuhiko spoke with a sigh, Rias flushing as she nodded before adding "Of course, Seraphina-san, Kalawarner-san and the others can come along as well. Otou-sama and Okaa-sama are happy to allow you to stay with us as well."
"Ah, sorry but I've got to head back to Tokyo for a mission." Yu spoke up with a shake of his hand, smirking at Kazuhiko as he added "Be sure to send me videos of what happens, Kaz."
"Will do, Yu." Kazuhiko replied with a smile before glancing to Asia as he asked "What about you Asia-san?"
"I'd l-like to come... I'm nervous about going to hell while alive b-but... I-I thought I'd like to go there without the intention of dying!" Asia spoke nervously, Gabriel smiling serenely as she correct the young blonde "You won't be dying, Asia-san. It will merely be a normal visit."
"I've had like to come as well but work will not let me take time off at this time. They're worried about losing a big contract." Kazuhiko's father spoke disappointed, having surprised the whole room with his wish to accompany them. The sound of the doorbell got the man to move to answer it as Astrid spoke up "I will be assisting with Azazel-sama so I shall be going as well."
"I'll come as well. Can't stay here without my favourite experi-pillow. I mean pillow. Plus I can help with what training you'll be doing." Matsu spoke up, quickly changing what she was gonna say when Kazuhiko's gaze had locked onto her own.
"I will have to return to my parents' estate." Ravel spoke disappointed, perking up as she remembered something, "But I will see you Kazuhiko-sama at some of the events going on. And will try to visit if I can... as your manager, of course."
"That's alright Ravel-san. You deserve the break as much as the rest of us." Kazuhiko replied, missing Kalawarner, Seraphina and Matsu's joint smirks at each other at the tsundere blonde's cheeks reddening.
"There's a certain irony in setting foot in the same world as those who have been sent to hell as divine punishment." Xenovia mused to herself before Rias explained "We will spend the remainder of the summer holidays there until after the 20th of August. It seems like we'll be returning here at the end of the month. The plan is to train and attend various kinds of events at the Underworld along with the Young Devil Gathering."
"Looks like I'll have to contact Takeshi and Kensuke about not being available over the summer." Kazuhiko spoke to himself with a sigh. His friends hadn't made any plans for the summer yet but they normally went to the pool or some convention that was held in town.
"I'm also going to the Underworld." Azazel spoke up surprising several people in the room, not including Kazuhiko and the others who heard the doorbell, at his sudden appearance.
"W-Where did you come in from?" Rias asked, blinking in surprise only for Azazel to answer calmly "Hmm? Isn't it normally from the front door?"
"...I didn't even feel your presence." Kiba spoke honestly, Azazel smirking as he replied "That's just lack of training. I just came in normally. More importantly, you're returning to the underworld, right? Then, I'll go too. I'm your teacher, after all."
Azazel then pulled out a notepad from his pocket, flipping through a few pages before reading aloud "The schedule for the Underworld is... first, a visit to Rias' parents, and the introduction of the servant Devils to the current head of the family. After that, there's your training over there. I'm mainly going along with you for your training. While you're all at the Gremory house, I'll be meeting with Sirzechs so Matsu will take over at that time. Geez, so troublesome."
Azazel sighed once he finished, Kazuhiko frowning at how the Governor seemed to seriously find it bothersome and if it wasn't for Astrid and Kalawarner's working under him the fallen angel wouldn't do much of his important duties.
"Then, Azazel... Sensei, you'll be accompanying us, right? Shall we make the travel reservations for you?" Rias asked, getting a nod from Azazel as he answered "Yes, please do. It'll be my first time entering the Underworld through the Devil's route. I'm looking forwards to it, especially since I normally use the route on the Fallen Angel's side."
...
The day that the group was going to the Underworld found them walking into the nearest train station, each of the students dressed in their summer uniforms while Kalawarner, Matsu and Azazel were dressed like teachers to fit in. Ravel had left that morning by means of a magic circle.
The group stopped in front of the small elevator that looked to only hold five people at most, Rias entering first as she spoke "This will take us down to our station. Kazu, Xenovia, Mittelt and Asia please come in."
"So the station is under this one." Kazuhiko mused, getting a nod from Rias as the quintet stood in the elevator before she turned to Akeno and Kiba as she spoke "Akeno, Yuuto please bring down the others afterwards."
"Yes Buchou." The pair replied together with a nod, the elevator doors closing soon after.
The elevator was rather packed as they had their luggage with them, Kazuhiko looking on interested as Rias took a card from her skirt pocket and pressed it against the electronic panel which triggered some king of electronic sound.
The elevator then started to go down, surprising everyone except Kazuhiko and Rias, the latter who giggled as she explained to the others "Like Kazu-kun said earlier the station has a secret level which is exclusively for devils."
"A-Amazing. So the people in this town don't know about it." Asia asked, Rias nodding as she continued "Ordinary humans can't arrive here even if they struggle their whole lives. Areas for the exclusive-use of devils are hidden within the town in this way."
"Wouldn't do for some innocent to accidentally wander into it." Kazuhiko pointed out, Rias nodding as she agreed "That's right."
"Go ahead." Rias urged once the doors opened, Kazuhiko taking the lead and tugging along his wheeled suitcase as he found himself looking around the huge cave they were in which had the structure of a station platform before remembering to summon Blaire, who had decided to stay in her wolf form for the trip.
They had to wait several minutes before the rest of their group joined them, Rias and Akeno taking the lead as the former spoke "Now that all of us are here, we'll walk to platform three."
Seraphina smiled to Kazuhiko as she gently took hold of his hand, enjoying the warmth from it as he offered her a warm smile and gently squeezed her hand back. Seraphina ignored the jealous looks from Akeno and Rias, Kalawarner and Matsu sharing a smirk while Xenovia looked on interested.
The train they were approaching had many devil-representing patterns carved into it along with both Gremory and Sirzech's pattern, Rias clearing up any chance for confusion as she declared "It's a train owned by the Gremory family."
[Impressive.] Albion mused, Kazuhiko mentally nodded as he followed the others onto the train so they could begin their trip.
...
The sound of the train's whistle signalled the its departure, Rias had gone to sit in the first train car while everyone else was in the middle car. Kazuhiko, Seraphina and Kalawarner were sitting together facing away from the train's motion, rather snugly with Kazuhiko sitting in the middle, while Xenovia and Akeno took the seats opposite them and Blaire was curled up on the floor between them. Asia, Mittelt and Astrid were sitting on the other side with Gasper and Kiba, Koneko and Matsu were sitting on the seats behind Akeno. Azazel was sitting at the end of the car, asleep already.
"How long till we get there?" Kazuhiko asked after several minutes, glancing out of the window to see the dark tunnel they were in as Akeno answered "We'll arrive in about an hour. Since it seems that this train passes through the dimensional barrier using official means before it eventually arrives at the Underworld."
"I would have thought that we could just jump with a magic circle and enter the Underworld like that." Seraphina asked curiously, Akeno smiling as she answered "Usually that's fine, but if Kazu-kun and the other new household devils don't enter at least once by the official route there will be punishments for illegally entering. That's why this time we have to complete the official entry procedure."
"Really?" Kazuhiko asked surprised, looking to Akeno as he added "So what about when we had to go to Rias' freedom party in the Underworld."
"That was a special case because we used Sirzechs-sama's back-door magic circle to travel there. Of course, we couldn't do such a thing twice." Akeno answered with a smile, Kazuhiko nodding in understanding with a relieved sigh.
"Well..." Matsu started sheepishly, drawing most of the carriage's attention to her as Kazuhiko asked "What did you do Matsu-san?"
"I... may have put a backdoor of my own in so I could link into some of the Underworld systems." Matsu babbled out, jaws dropping at hearing that while Kazuhiko blurted out "What!?"
"Only the TV stations and the Stray Devil monitoring system, I enjoy watching the Rating Games." Matsu explained, smiling innocently as she added "I even plugged a few holes in their systems to stop others from hacking in."
"You know how much trouble that could cause, don't you Matsu?" Kalawarner asked with a raised eyebrow, Seraphina sighing as she asked "Please tell me that the Maou know about this now, Matsu-san?"
"Of course..." Matsu answered, with a simple nod, "I also secured the Church's and Grigori systems to avoid favouritism."
"Please tell me this was after the treaty, Matsu-san?" Kazuhiko asked exasperated, Matsu smiling teasingly as she countered "Don't ask questions you don't want the answer to, Kazu-tan."
"Well, it looks like you're having an interesting conversation." Rias spoke up with an interested look towards Matsu who shrugged and replied "Just explaining how I get my information, Ria-tan."
"Please don't call me that." Rias requested with a grimace, jumping at the voice from behind her "Princess Rias. Communication with your servants is fine, but isn't an example of procedure also good?"
The owner was an elderly man who was dressed as a train conductor with a dandy white beard. Rias blushed as she stammered "I-I'm sorry…"
"Ho-ho-ho. For the little princess to be embarrassed over a simple nickname… It does warm my old heart." The elderly man chuckled warmly, making Rias' face darken further. He turned to the others, taking his hat off and bowing his head to the group as he continued "Nice to meet you, all of the princess' new servant devils and friends. I am Reynaldo, the conductor of the Gremory private train, pleased to make your acquaintance."
Kazuhiko, Mittelt and Xenovia stood up and bowed in response to the polite greeting as each introduced themselves.
"Nice to meet you as well. I'm Rias Gremory-sama's [Pawn], Yuuki Kazuhiko."
"I'm Mittelt, her [Bishop]. Please treat me well."
"I'm Xenovia. [Knight]. Please treat me well from now on."
Reynaldo took out a unique machine, pointing it towards the trio to capture their image on the monitor as he explained "This is a machine from the Devil world that checks and compares you. The fact that this train is formally entering the Underworld is important and therefore all modes of transport require inspection. It would be a serious matter in the case that there is some fabrication. In the current time, it would be quite serious if someone occupied the train."
"So that tells you we are who we say we are then." Kalawarner asked curiously as the machine was directed at her and Seraphina, Reynaldo nodding as Rias spoke with a smile "Your records give your piece designation, and when transmitted it is registered as data in the Underworld, even guests who aren't formally linked. That's why they check it with this machine. There's no problem. Since everyone here is who they say they are."
The machine let out a 'BI-BI!' alarm for a moment before changing to a 'PIKON' to signal the checking passing whatever checks it needed to do for each person it was directed at.
"Princess, with this both the checking and the formalities for the entry of the new faces here are finished. Now you can all rest and relax until we arrive at the scheduled station. There are also beds to sleep in and places where you can have a meal, so please use them until we reach our destination." Reynaldo spoke with a pleasant smile.
"Thank you, Reynaldo. Is Azazel next?" Rias asked as she looked towards where the Governor of the fallen angels were sleeping as she added "… What nerve that guy has, sleeping in the train of a race that were his enemies till just the other day."
"Ho-ho-ho. The Governor of the Fallen Angels really is peaceful." Reynaldo laughed pleasantly as he moved to perform the check on the man.
…
Forth minutes had passed after the train had departed, the group killing time by playing cards or other games as the announcement was heard in the car.
[We will momentarily be breaking through the dimensional wall. We will momentarily be breaking through the dimensional wall.]
"Try looking outside." Rias suggested to the first time travellers. She'd originally had to sit in the front train car due to being a high-class devil, but she had migrated to the car the rest of them were in after feeling lonely.
Kazuhiko finished issuing his pokemon's next attack with a knowing smirk before turning to look out of the window, Rias crying out a "No~!" just as the scenery changed from the darkness before to purple sky and…
"Mountains! And trees too! Hahahaha! Amazing!" Mittelt babbled excitedly as she looked out of the window. Seraphina and Kalawarner looking impressed at the landscape while Asia looked amazed.
"I-It's fine if you open the window now." Rias murmured slightly depressed at losing against Kazuhiko, Seraphina deciding to do just that and letting the wind into the car.
"It's different from the human world." Kazuhiko murmured as he took a breath, noticing that the temperature seemed perfect as well as he leant to look out of the window with Seraphina who added "That black hole is the dimensional tunnel?"
"Looks like it." Kazuhiko replied before turning his attention to the abundance of nature around them.
"This area is already within Gremory territory." Rias spoke proudly, "Everything including these train tracks we've been running on is part of my family's territory."
"How large is the Gremory's territory?" Seraphina asked as she and Kazuhiko pulled their heads inside, Kiba appearing from over a seat to answer it "If I remember correctly, it's about the size of Honshu in Japan."
"Honshu…?" Kazuhiko asked surprised, Rias and Kiba nodding as Matsu mused "That is fairly big but the Underworld's surface has no oceans, right?"
"That's right. The Underworld has the same amount of surface area as the human world, but the population here isn't the same as the human world. Even with Devils, Fallen Angels and other races, it isn't that high. And since there are no oceans, the land is also spacious." Rias clarified with a nod of agreement to Matsu before adding "Even if you say it's the size of Honshu, it mostly unused space consisting of forest and mountains."
Kazuhiko glanced to see Xenovia had turned to Kiba to talk about swords of the Underworld, Asia looking confused as Mittelt explained what Rias meant about the size of the Gremory territory with Matsu's help.
"That's right." Rias spoke up, clapping her hands together as if she remembered something, "Kazu-kun, Mittelt, Xenovia. Since part of my territory will be given to you all later, please tell me what places you want."
"We can have our own territory?" Kazuhiko asked surprised, Rias nodding as she answered "You're all the servant devils of the next family head. Living in my territory as part of the Gremory group is permitted. Akeno, Yuuto, Koneko and even Gasper all possess land within my territory."
With a sound and a flick of Rias' wrist, a map appeared in the air with magic and then expanded to show the map of the Gremory territory as Rias spoke with a pleasant smile "The red areas are places that have already been taken, so they're no good, but anywhere else is okay. Now then, please point at the land you like and I'll give it to you."
"Hmm…" Kazuhiko thought aloud as he looked over the map before settling on an area that was abundant with nature, including lakes and mountains as he spoke "I'll have this area."
…
[We will soon be arriving at the Gremory main residence. We will soon be arriving at the Gremory main residence. Everyone, thank you for riding this train.] The announcement was heard ten minutes later, Mittelt eagerly sticking her head out of the window to look at their final destination before commenting "Woah! There's loads of people waiting for us."
"We're almost there Mittelt, close the window." Rias replied, not addressing the point about the loads of people as the blonde fallen angel closed the window with a nod. The group started to prepare to disembark as the train started to slow down, Azazel and Astrid not making move as Kazuhiko asked "Are you both not getting off?"
"Yeah, I plan to keep going through Gremory territory like this and go to the Maou's territory. I have a meeting with Sirzechs and the others there. A so-called 'invitation'. Since it faces the main residence of the Gremorys, I'll come after I go see them and finish my greetings." Azazel explained, Astrid nodding in agreement as she added "As Azazel-sama's assistant, I should go to ensure nothing gets forgotten."
"Oi, Astrid... I'm not that irresponsible." Azazel retorted, Astrid giving him a knowing look as Azazel turned his gaze away and Matsu snickered.
"See you both later then, Azazel-san, Astrid-san." Kazuhiko replied, Rias quick to add "Say hi to my brother for me, Azazel."
Azazel waved a hand in response as those getting off prepared to leave the stopped train.
""Welcome home, Rias-ojou-sama!"" The large gathering of people bellowed, fireworks being set off along with guns being fired into the sky. Kazuhiko stared surprised at the orchestra band that had started up before Seraphina nudged him to see a soldier atop of a creature flying in the sky while waving a flag.
Mittlets and Asia stuck close to Kazuhiko and Seraphina at the unexpected crowd, Kiba and the original ORC members looking accustomed to the whole spectical while Xenovia blinked her eyes in confusion and Matsu and Kalawarner looked around curiously.
"Hiii... So many people..." Gasper cried terrified, clinging to Kazuhiko's back.
""Welcome back, Rias-ojou-sama."" The butlers and maids amongst them greeted when Rias approached them, smiling welcoming as she replied "Thank you, everyone. I'm home. I've returned."
Appearing out of the crowd was Grayfia who greeted Rias "Welcome back, Ojou-sama. You have arrived early. Above all, it's good that you were safe while travelling. Now then, all family members and guests, please board the carriage. We'll be going to the main residence with this."
Grayfia lead the group towards a gorgeous looking carriage that was attached to a supernatural horse that was larger then normal human ones. Kazuhiko guessed that their baggage would be brought up separately as it was all still on the train.
"I will go with the servants. Since Mittelt seems anxious as its her first time. Asia you can come with me as well, if you prefer." Rias spoke, Asia nodding softly and offering her thanks as Grayfia spoke "Understood. I've prepared a few vehicles, so please board whichever pleases you."
Kazuhiko and Matsu joined Asia, Xenovia, Mittelt, Rias and Grayfia in the first carriage, the loli blonde [Bishop] taking to sitting on Kazuhiko's lap so they had the room, and the others were going to get into the next one. The carriage moved at a comfortable pace as they travelled along the path, Mittelt looking out of the window and signalling to things before a huge structure burst into her and Kazuhiko's view.
"Buchou, what is that huge castle?" Mittelt asked shocked, Rias smiling pleasantly as she answered "That's the main residences of one of my homes."
"Isn't it a bit large for what... 5 or six people and your staff?" Kazuhiko asked, Grayfia concealing a faint smile as she answered "Homes in the Underworld are a show of status for the Pillar families so show the assets of the family off in usual."
"Right..." Kazuhiko muttered with a slight frown. It seemed like Pillar families seemed more like pureblood wizards in Harry Potter in regards to their homes and especially as he recalled that Rias was originally in arranged marriage with Riser.
"We seem to have arrived." Rias spoke, breaking Kazuhiko from drawing more parallels as he looked out of the window to see a magnificently modelled fountain and a large garden as the carriage door was opened by a butler who made a bow. Rias got out first, followed shortly by Grayfia and then the others, Kazuhiko noticing that the second carriage had arrived as well as Seraphina and Kalawarner stepped out of that carriage first.
The maids and butlers stood in line on both sides, making a path between them which a red carpet stretched out towards the huge castle before them. The gates opening with a slight noise as Grayfia made a slight bow and spoke "Ojou-sama, and all the members of her group and guests. Please, advance forward."
At Grayfia's urging the group started to walk with Rias in the lead and Akeno on her right. They had only moved a few feet before a small silhouette broke out of the line of maids and hugged Rias while calling "Rias-nee-sama! Welcome back!"
"Millicas! I'm back. You're gotten big, haven't you?" Rias replied, hugging back the red haired boy.
"I didn't know she had a younger sibling..." Seraphina spoke softly to Kazuhiko, who shrugged in response as Rias introduced the boy "This child is Millicas Gremory. He's the son of my brother: Sirzechs Lucifer-sama. He's my nephew."
"Come on, Millicas. Greet them. These are new friends of mine." Rias gently urged, Millicas smiling as he spoke politely "Yes. I am Millicas Gremory. Nice to meet you all."
"Thank you for the polite greeting. I'm Yuuki Kazuhiko." Kazuhiko replied with a light smile, the others soon providing their own greetings to the boy before Rias explained to those unaware "Because only the person himself who succeeded the title of Maou can retain the name, so this child is a Gremory even though he's my brother's son. He's also next in line for family head after me."
{It's nice to see that Grayfia-san and Sirzechs-san's son is so polite.} Metatron spoke with a smile, Kazuhiko mentally agreeing as Rias spoke "Come on, let's go into the residence."
Millicas held Rias' hand as they walked, Kazuhiko finding Gasper stuck to his back still due to the large crowd. They pasted through the huge gate and then continued as the inner castle gates opened one by one to allow them entrance.
When they arrived at what seemed like the entry hall, Kazuhiko looked around to take in his new surroundings. There was a large set of stairs in front which led to the second floor and a huge chandelier on the ceiling.
"Ojou-sama, I'd like to show everyone to their rooms at once." Grayfia spoke up, raising her hand and signalling for some maids to gather with the group.
"You're right, I have to go greet mother and father after coming home as well." Rias spoke with a hum, Grayfia soon to point out "The master is out at present. He's expected to return by this evening. He said that he would meet together with you while dining with everyone together at supper."
"I see, I understand, Grayfia. Then, I suppose we'll let everyone rest in their respective rooms for now. Has the baggage been carried in already?" Rias asked getting a nod from Grayfia who answered "Yes. There should be no problem with using your room right now."
Kazuhiko rested a hand on Mittelt's shoulder at noticing she was looking unsteady, Seraphina doing the same for Asia as both silently agreed that a break would be for the best right now.
"Ara Rias. So you've returned." Venelana spoke as she descended the stairs, Rias smiling as she replied "Mother. I've returned home."
Venelana's gaze swept over the group before resting on Kazuhiko as she offered a gentle smile and spoke "It's nice to see you again, Kazuhiko-kun."
"You as well, Gremory-san." Kazuhiko replied with a bow of his head.
...
Several hours had passed since their arrival and the group were currently in the dining room, a extravagant meal piled high on top of expensive-looking plates. Kazuhiko wasn't sure where to start as it all looked incredibly delicious and smelled great. Sitting along with the Gremory group was Venelana, Zeoticus and Millicas.
Kazuhiko had been surprised to see a false moon floating in the dark sky and more so when he learnt that it had been created by magic to help reincarnated devils adjust. The flow of time was the same as the human world as well which made him relax that he'd only be gone as long as his father was expecting him to be.
"Please enjoy yourselves without holding back." Zeoticus spoke, signalling the beginning of dinner. The table was a huge oblong and the chairs were covered in expensive looking ornaments while an extravagant chandelier on the ceiling about it.
'Its like this place doesn't do normal sizes...' Kazuhiko thought drily, recalling how huge his canopy bed in his room was. The room actually seemed to be more fit to call it an apartment as it had everything a normal apartment had.
Seraphina and Kalawarner had agreed that the room was perfect for the three of them to share and even suggested to Xenovia, Asia and Mittelt to share another next door just in case. Grayfia had made the arrangements after it had been explained to her.
Shaking his head to focus on the meal in front of him, Kazuhiko picked up the knife and fork and made a start on his meal. The brunet's eyes lingered around the room to see Rias, Akeno, Kiba and Seraphina eating gracefully. Asia, Mittelt and Xenovia were having trouble but was still doing okay. Millicas was eating like a little prince should, obviously having been raised to do such, and Gasper was eating with watery eyes that were squeezed shut which was understandable after the rough day. Kalawarner and Matsu were fairly relaxed and even winked at him when they caught his gaze while Blaire, having turned back to her human form, was eating rather mechanically, her gaze shifting around as if on alert for something bad to happen. Koneko hadn't started eating at all which brought some concern from the brunet as she normally would be the one to dig right in. Her white haired girl's gaze locked onto his only to avert them as he raised a questioning eyebrow to her. Azazel and Astrid hadn't made it for the meal, suggesting that the meeting had lasted a long time.
Zeoticus dabbed his mouth with a napkin before clearing his throat and addressing the group cheerfully "Members of Rias' group and guests, please think of this place as your home. Having just come to the Underworld, you're in an environment you don't understand. If there's something you want, please say so to the housemaids without reserve. They'll prepare it right away."
"By the way, Yuuki Kazuhiko." Zeoticus spoke, turning to Kazuhko who raised an eyebrow as he asked "Yes?"
"Has your father been well?" Zeoticus asked, Kazuhiko wondering what he was trying to lead to as he replied "He's been fine. Would have liked to come along if not for his own work."
"Ah. That's a shame. It's rare to have someone like him who can be so bluntly honest despite knowing my title." Zeoticus spoke with disappointment, perking up as he added "I imagine a souvenir wouldn't go a miss."
Before Kazuhiko could rebuke, Zeoticus had rang a hand bell beside him and drawn a butler to immediately approach and ask "What is your order, master?"
"Yes. Prepare a castle for Yuuki Kazuhiko's father." Zeoticus answered, Kazuhiko about to speak up only for the butler to ask as if it was normal "Yes. Shall it be Western-style? Or Japanese-style?"
"Dear, since the land in Japan is too small, it's impossible for someone like Yuuki-san to have a castle." Venelana rebuked with a frown, Rias quick to add "Father. Doing something like that will just trouble Yuuki-san."
"I see." Zeoticus spoke with a deep nod, Kazuhiko sighing as he rubbed his forehead to dissuade the headache that was threatening to form.
"Yuuki Kazuhiko." Zeoticus spoke up, Kazuhiko looking over to him curious to what crazy thing he was going to try next only for Zeoticus to suddenly let out a yelp and jolting in his seat before looking to Venelana who wore a look that threatened trouble if he did what she thought he was going to do.
"You... You may treat this place like your home as well." Zeoticus spoke as he regained his composure, coughing into his hand as he added "That includes all of you, guests included, as you are as good as part of our family."
Venelana relaxed at hearing that, a peaceful smile on her lips, as she turned her attention to Kazuhiko and asked "Will you be staying here for a while?"
"Yeah. While Rias...sama is here. Unless Matsu-san has something important she needs me to do." Kazuhiko answered, Venelana nodding in understanding and not caring for the hesitation for his honorific in regards to Rias as she glanced to Matsu for a moment before replying "I see. That's perfect. If you would be agreeable to it, I would like to talk to you later about some potential lessons that may help you in the future."
"Lessons...?" Kazuhiko questioned with a raised eyebrow before frowning as he realised what she meant. Venelana noted the change instantly as Kazuhiko wiped his mouth with the napkin before adding "I'm only a Mid-Class Devil and don't have time or the reason to learn how to mingle with a bunch of speciests and racists."
"K-Kazu?" Rias blurted shocked, Kazuhiko added "Excuse me but I've lost my appetite."
With that Kazuhiko got up and left the room, Venelana silently cursing herself as she closed her eyes while Zeoticus grimaced at the comment which he knew was true amongst a good portion of the Pillar Lords. Rias looked shocked at the brunet walking out before turning her attention to her parents and trying to word what she wanted to say only to fail.
...
Kazuhiko strode purposefully down the corridor as he navigated his way towards one of the training rooms. He needed to blow off some steam, especially after what Venelana had insinuated that he would have to play nice with a group of old men who would constantly look down on him for being a Draphalem.
{I'm sure she wasn't suggesting you cosy up to them, Kazu...} Metatron spoke softly, Kazuhiko taking a calming breathe as he mentally replied 'It's not that... It's just that she thinks me learning to act in a proper manner is going to change how they'll sneer about me behind my back about being a hybrid.'
[I agree that it would be a waste of time to placate a bunch of weaklings who hide behind their status.] Albion pointed out.
Entering the large training room, Kazuhiko moved over to the rack of training weapons before grabbing a sword as he spoke "Can we spar, Metatron?"
{Of course, Kazu.} Metatron spoke in an understanding tone, Kazuhiko releasing a ball of [Mist Flames] for her to mold into her image. Metatron plucked the practice sword from Kazuhiko's grasp before hopping back to give themselves some space.
"Shi." Kazuhiko spoke, the serpent dragon popping its head out of the inside pocket of his school jacket and taking on the form of an identical practice sword.
{Ready?} Metatron asked, Kazuhiko nodding once he moved closer to the middle of the room. The pair started off slowly to warm up before starting to move quicker, Metatron always seeming to keep the upper hand against her host as she practically danced to dodge of block Kazuhiko's strikes. She knew that Kazuhiko needed to burn off his anger at what Venelana had tried to do before she came to apologise.
...
Seraphina and Kalawarner talked quietly as they walked back to their shared room with Kazuhiko. Dinner after Kazuhiko left had been more subdued especially in regards to Rias' parents.
"I can't believe Gremory-san would drop the ball like that." Seraphina spoke with a sigh, Kalawarner nodding in agreement as she added "She did practically make it vague enough to seem that she wanted him trained up to handle high society."
"You're right. if she had been more upfront he'd probably would have accepted learning the devil alphabet and dancing." Seraphina spoke with a nod, opening the door and entering their share room only to come to a stop at the sight before him. Kalawarner coming to a stop next to the bluenette, licking her lips at the sight.
Before them was nude Kazuhiko, having only a towel wrapped around his waist and one atop of his head which he was working to dry his hair. The two young women shared a look, Kalawarner smirking lustfully while Seraphina was blushing but with a hungry look in her eyes, before sharing a nod.
Kalawarner moved to lock the door before subtly casting a silencing barrier over the room while Seraphina had moved towards Kazuhiko, surprising him with a hungry kiss as he pulled the towel off his head.
"Come on, you two. Let's go somewhere more comfortable." Kalawarner spoke, grabbing Kazuhiko's arm on the one side while Seraphina grabbed the other and both pulled him into the bedroom. Any attempt of Kazuhiko to ask what was going on was cut off by one of the two beauties sealing his lips with their own.
...
The next morning saw the residents of Gremory Manor shocked as Kazuhiko tiredly slump into his seat at the breakfast table, a slight limp to his walk and eyes barely open. Seraphina and Kalawarner, on the other hand, had looked pretty much glowing with smug smiles on their lips and also had the slight limp as they joined a few minutes afterwards.
"Are you alright, Kazu-kun?" Asia asked innocently, watching the brunet sip at a cup of tea that Seraphina had fixed for him amongst making up her own breakfast. A sleepy nod was her response and Akeno and Rias couldn't help to find themselves on guard about Seraphina's and Kalawarner's smug looks to each other as the former replied "It's alright, Asia-chan. Kazu-kun just didn't get much sleep last night."
Venelana and Zeoticus shared a knowing look at that while Rias frowned in concern for her [Pawn] only for her eyes to go wide as Matsu perversely chuckled "Doesn't seem to have affected either of you."
"Ara?" Akeno spoke surprised, staring at Kazuhiko in a new light before giving envious looks to the two young women sitting on either side of Kazuhiko while Yuuto's face a mixture of surprise and bewilderment as he realised the sly topic and Gasper looking confused. Xenovia frowned as she tried to figure out what had happened, Koneko wrinkled her nose and Mittelt rolled her eyes as Kalawarner waved her off as she countered "Oh, Kazu-kun gave us wonderfully deep massages so we'd drift right to sleep."
"I bet he did." Rias grumbled quietly, half envious and half scandalised at the very fact the trio had sex in her parents' home.
[Kukukuku... Good thing that barrier was up otherwise you might have got complains about the noise.] Albion chuckled, Kazuhiko mind still trying to recover from the fact he'd lost his virginity in a threesome as Matsu spoke up "I'll have to see about getting my own massage at some point then. Maybe drag Xeno-tan along."
"Maybe some point in the future..." Kazuhiko spoke up in between mouthful of breakfast, feeling more awake after the cup of tea as he glanced to where Xenovia seemed to think that it was just an innocent matter. Matsu grinned pleased at hearing that, sure that Kazuhiko's mind was still half asleep.
"I'm sorry about yesterday evening, Kazuhiko-kun." Venelana started, Kazuhiko turning his full attention to her as she continued "I was hoping to help you prepare for when you earned the chance to take part in the High Class examination and didn't explain myself fully to you."
"I should apologize as well for flying off the handle without more information, Gremory-san." Kazuhiko replied with a small bow of his head. Venelana smiled brightly at hearing that, deciding to not press the decision now as she turned to Rias and asked "What are your plans for today, Rias?"
"Well, I was going to take the others on a sight see around." Rias answered with a smile, Venelana and Zeoticus smiling in understanding.
...
Author's Note
Here's the next chapter although its a bit short as I didn't want to jump into the Young Devil Gathering without having to finish it halfway through. The reason I didn't write a lemon in is due to not being good at it and I didn't think it would fit in with the rest of the chapter. Not sure if there is anything else I should mention so will leave it like this for now.