Chapter 28
Xenovia and Rika returned to the Vatican with Irina's corpse to deliver their report of their failed mission, and Rika to raise holy hell onto them for lying about God's death.
As for the Devils living in the human world, they were given one order by their masters before setting off to the meeting.
Rest and relax. And they did just that, by lounging around within the Old School building, waiting for their masters to return.
"I still can't believe Ise-kun and Raynare-chan are dead," Asia said sadly. The death of her two closets friends still pained her. As did the killing of Diadora. Something she had a horrible nightmare of last night.
So, frightened she was to dream of that moment again she refused to sleep. Which explained the dark circles under her eyes.
"Were all saddened by it Asia-chan, but we can't let it get us down," Kiba reassured. With Rias and Asumoto attending the emergency meeting, he had to be the man of the building to make sure the spirits weren't down. "Issei-kun wouldn't want us to be sad. He'd tell us to keep on smiling."
Koneko nodded at Kiba's words. "How's your arm?" she asked.
At the question, Kiba looked his right limb and flexed it.
It felt cold… lifeless…
But strong!
Stronger than his normal arm.
That's what it felt like for Kiba's new robotic arm.
After the scolding Asumoto dished out on Rias last night, she had ordered everyone to go home and for Kiba to go to the Underworld with her to see if he could get a new arm to replace the one he lost.
He really had to thank Azazel and Beelzebub for working together on making this new limb for him on such short notice.
He shut his eyes as the imagery of the Underworld came back to mind.
The land was burning, cities were in ruins, and bodies lay everywhere. Kiba shuttered at the thought of being in the Underworld at the time of the attack. It must have been horrible to see your homeland invaded and friends get cut down before you.
Friends…
His friends from the past had told him to not seek revenge no more. A little too late to say that now, he thought gloomily.
He still wished for revenge on Valper. No — it wasn't revenge he wanted — but justice! He wanted to deliver justice to the madman to prevent any more children from going through what he experienced.
"Do you think Asumoto's plan will work?" Gasper asked.
"He said it would," replied Koneko while taking a big bite out of the sweet she had in her hands. "It won't be easy but can be done."
"It will be done," corrected Kuroka, who was sprawled across the sofa next to her sister. "You think the Satans or Fallen Angel leaders can't wipe a whole town's memory of people? They aren't known for their powers for a reason."
"I'm more worried about Asumoto-senpai! The way he treated Buchou was so mean!" squealed Gasper.
"If you ask me, your master got what she deserved kid. Oh, don't give me those looks! You know Asu-kun's right, but you don't wanna agree with him. If your master hadn't changed the plan none of this would have happened! The Red Dragon Emperor and that Church girl could still be alive."
"It's nobody's fault," replied Kiba with a sigh. "Kokabiel was beyond our league. He was just too strong for us."
"Actually Kiba, Kuroka-san is right," said Ruruko from the corner while reading a book. "I think the original plan could have worked if Rias-sama had just stuck to it instead of believing she had the power to harm Kokabiel."
"At least someone agrees with me," Kuroka said. "Even the Priestess of Thunder had a better chance of killing him than she did. Twice her attacks had hit him and twice she managed to wound him."
"Speaking of Akeno, where is she?" Kiba asked, while looking around the room for any sign of the ponytailed girl.
The day after Kokabiel's attack - now named the One Day War - was a day of recovery and mourning for all in the Devil and Fallen Angel society. Thousands died in Khaos Brigades attack and thousands more had lost relatives... and needed to figure out who would be the heir of the families who lost the current leaders.
After the meeting, Asumoto sat with Akeno at a café in the Underworld and talked to her of what had been discussed.
"Azazel, along with the other Fallen leaders were given the task of wiping the whole town's memory of Issei Hyoudou, Yura Tsubasa, Momo Monika, and Raynare," he said to her.
"I'm sure that was a daunting task," replied the priestess.
"For them? Akeno, I bet your father would do the whole task with one arm and both wings tied behind his back." His words caused a giggle to escape Akeno's lips.
Of course, her father would do something like that.
After a long silence Akeno asked the question she had been waiting for. "So… who died?"
Asumoto sighed as he brushed a few strands away from his eyes. "The list goes on and on. Thousands perished on both sides. The Gremory manor lost a quarter of their staff. Riser Phenex's Knight Karlamine. Maou Falbium Asmodeus. So many nobles were killed that theirs too many to count but among the dead are Seekvaira's father Lord Agares, Lord and Lady Amon, Lady Barbatos, Lord Zepar."
"And Khaos Brigade?"
Asumoto clicked his tongue. "A bunch of fools believing they could take back what they lost. We already know Kokabiel and Creuserey Asmodeus died, and that Katerea was wounded. What I just learned today was that Shalba Beelzebub escaped. Sirzechs said he ordered the Old Satans to retreat when Lucifer prepared to unleash his full might upon them. However, during the conflict, Shalba managed to assault the Beal territory and destroy half the manor, along with Sairaorg's father."
Violet eyes widened in surprise.
The Lord of Bael was slain!? She wasn't expecting to hear the family known as the "Great King" to suffer casualties, considering they were the creators of the Power of Destruction
"Serves him right…"
Akeno stared in shock at Asumoto when hearing him whisper that.
"He was a vile arrogant man Akeno. Like Diadora, he deserved to die. He was hostile toward the Gremory family. He had the nerve to insult me right in front of Rias and Sirzechs!? Their lucky I didn't attack him on sight!"
After a moment to regain his bearings he continued.
"Along with erasing the Hyoudou's minds of Issei, Azazel suggested they hypnotize them into believing they lived in Kyoto which they'll ask the Youkai Faction for help with. I'm sure you're wondering what will happen to the old Hyoudou housel. Well… it was given to the Fallen Angels and transformed into their new base of operation in the human world."
"Who's going to replace Maou Asmodeus?"
"The first Head of the House of Bael, Zekram."
Akeno nearly choked on her tea the answer she was given. Zekram Bael was said to have greater influence than the current Four — Three Great Satans. He was even the de facto leader of the Devils after the death of the original Four Great Satans. To choose him as the replacement of Falbium was ludicrous! If he was to be a Satan, then who was to take up the mantle as Lord of the Bael family!?
"You should have seen the reactions. The whole room erupted into chaos at the suggestion. Many said three Satans were good enough. But the current Satans said Zekram would become the next Asmodeus, leader of Military Affairs. As for the new clan head. I think you can guess who it will be."
Akeno nodded slowly, eyes lowering to star at her beverage. Those poor people, Sairaorg, Seekvaira, and so many others were parent less. But if their houses were to survive, then they would have to take up the mantle as head of their respective homes.
"Funny thing is; Sairaorg was leader for only a minute."
Akeno looked confused at her friend's words, who cracked a grin and leaned forward.
"Get this. Sairaorg accepted the offer, and his first act was to return his mother to the Bael House to have her properly care of. Then he quite the job and handed it off to his younger half-brother Magdaran. Hehe. Oh man everyone looked so shocked at Sairaorg's actions. He went on this long speech about how he still much to learn and that his brother would make a better leader. Which received a standing ovation. When Magdaran became head, he ordered all his father's supports who survived the battle to be exiled. And that he would do his best to try reconnecting the family bond the Bael and Gremory's once had. You know, despite my dislike for how Devils are, Zekram explained it the best to me after the meeting. "The future of the Underworld is in capable hands. Help this new generation make it lost Asumoto. Those where his exact words to me."
Akeno smiled. The founder of the Bael clan was right; the Underworld would be in good hands in the future. And Asumoto wouldn't be alone in helping it last. She would be by his side.
"What do you think will happen with Rika?" she asked.
The last time she had seen the Exorcist, she was boarding private jet with Xenovia, and the casket of Irina... back to the Vatican. The Church had by now undoubtedly exiled both for their failure on their mission and the truth about God. If not, then at least they wouldn't experience the same fate she did after losing her mother.
"I don't know. But it's obvious both the Church and the Underworld blame Azazel for not stopping Kokabiel. Some are going as far as to call for his death. In my opinion; both are to blame. Azazel let Kokabiel run freely, and the Church didn't handle the stealing of their Excalibur's seriously."
Akeno hummed. Asumoto was right. Blame could be solely cast upon the researcher for causing this whole issue, because he didn't lead his organization properly - which Kokabiel had used to his advantage, to fuel a hostile takeover of Grigori.
As for the Church, they would need to send someone to represent their faction to give a reason as to how they allowed the swords to be stolen.
"I doubt killing Azazel will solve issues," Akeno said with a shake of her head, her ponytail swishing side to side at the motion. "He's a smart and powerful man. As well as Grigori's Governor General."
"Former Governor General," a voice spoke in.
The two looked to find Tobio enter the cafe. It was quite a surprise to see Grigori's top fighter, let alone a human, be here.
"What do you mean?" asked Akeno her cousin after hugging him.
"He resigned."
Silence filled the empty café and then.
"You're kidding…" gasped Asumoto, refusing to believe it.
But Tobio shook his head.
"He sent a letter of resignation, along with a formal apology to all the Faction leaders."
Now this shocked Akeno. She was sure others were surprised as well by Azazel's leaving.
"Who's leading now?"
"He chose your father. Its Vice-governor is Tamiel."
So now Baraqiel was the leader and Tamiel second in command. Did that mean Akeno would be called Daughter of the Governor General now? She was fine with the Priestess of Thunder.
At least Azazel left Grigori - what was left of it - in good hands.
How many Fallen Angels were still loyal to Azazel? How many more died in the One Day War or are with Hazael's army?
Speaking of Hazael: "Any word on my brother?"
"That is what Azazel is sending my team out to do. Gather information on Hazael and locate his whereabouts to launch an attack on him before his attack on Heaven can commence."
"What of the White Dragon Emperor's fate?" Akeno asked. That had been her next question to ask before Tobio showed up.
"He's being restrained by the strongest seals created by the Devil and Fallen leaders in the lowest level of Cocytus. Those seals will keep him captive and drain his energy constantly. Guards are to patrol his cell every day and night. They´re hoping to question him for any information regarding Khaos Brigade."
Wow… all of that just to keep the White Dragon Emperor from escaping. They weren't pulling punches in keeping him locked up.
"I doubt he'll be able to escape, even without all that keeping him locked up, since I heard you crushed almost every bone in his body to restrain him."
Akeno giggled, as lewd thoughts of her cousin snapping Vali like a toothpick flashed through her mind.
"It is necessary," Tobio said seriously. "Vali was said to be the strongest wielder of Albion. Azazel even said I personally had to be the one to stop him since I was the only one who could beat him. Anyway, I must go now to locate Hazael. I'll see you around Akeno. You as well Asumoto-san."
The high schools waved farewell to the Sacred Gear wielder and were once again left alone to their thoughts.
Akeno´s thoughts in particular were focused on the young man sitting next to her... and her feelings for him. Feelings that he obviously returned. So much was clear by now.
But... she was a Shinto Priest and he was a Devil... a reincarnated Shinto himself, but still a Devil. Could a relationship between them work out?
She remembered her father and her mother... Issei and Raynare. Would they end up like them?
`No,´ she told herself. Her mother died because others could just not accept them being together. Raynare and Issei did because of Kokabiel. But there was one thing she swore to herself in this moment, then it was to never give in to people like that - like Suou and Kokabiel. To never let them have their way.
She wanted Asumoto - so what was standing in her way? And if someone had a problem with it, they would have to deal with both of them... and her uncle and everyone else standing on their side.
"Asumoto," she said, "I have a question... would you go on a date with me?"
Again, silence filled the café. Silver eyes stared into violet as Asumoto blinked owlishly at the priestess. A great deal of surprise was on the Devil's face at being asked that.
Outwardly Akeno looked calm, but her thoughts were running rampant.
'I shouldn't have said that! What will he think of me!? Does he really like me!?'
Then he smiled.
"I would love to Akeno-chan."
Her eyes widened, her heartbeat fastened, the corner of her lips tugged upwards into a smile. The fear in her mind being washed over by joyful one.
'He said yes! He said yes! I'm gonna go on a date with Asumoto!'
"If," he added, "your father—hmph...!"
Akeno closed his lips with her hand, a wide smile upon her face.
"Ara. Ara. There's no need to tell my dad or uncle what I can or can't do~ Ufufuf."
She leaned toward the samurai, her eyes filling with joy.
"Meet me at the bottom of the stairway to my shrine tomorrow at 11."
Despite Asumoto wanting to share his ideas, he couldn't bring himself to tell the priestess. Especially with how happy she looked right now. So instead, he nodded vigorously and would tell her their plan tomorrow.
Akeno giggled again. "See you tomorrow Asu-kun~" With a cute wink she disappeared in a flutter of feathers.
Asumoto looked at the empty space were Akeno had just been. He couldn't believe what he was going to happen tomorrow, a date with Akeno Himejima!
"Hehe. Well, I hope you two youngsters have fun," chuckled the cashier joyfully.
Asumoto smiled. "Yes, will have lots of."
Rika walked the halls of the Vatican, Xenovia following along with Irina's casket. They had just arrived in Vatican City and would tell their leaders of what happened.
Rika ordered the agents met at the airport in Japan to speak to no one of what happened until the Pope said otherwise. She believed Kokabiel told the truth, but she needed to know from the Church itself. If they exiled her for learning the truth, then her faith in the church was lost.
She could always convert to Shintoism. At least they didn't have to deal with the whole world.
Reaching the doors that had the leaders she ordered to speak with, she pushed them open and went inside.
The gathered group of Exorcists with the room held the title Father or Mother. Three among them were known to the Japanese Exorcist. There was her superior and master - Father Dulio Gesualdo , the strongest Exorcist. Xenovia's master - the calm but deadly Mother Griselda Quarta. And the previous wielder of Durandal and only human to best Kokabiel - Father Vasco Strada.
"Sister Quarta, Saint Moritsugu, welcome back to the home of god," Vasco greeted.
This isn't God's house, Rika though.
"What has happened?" one of the Exorcist asked. "Where are the swords and what of Irina Shidou?"
Xenovia lowered her faze, which didn't go unnoticed by the gathered leaders. But Rika stood tall. Ready to tell them.
"We failed."
A long silence fell upon them. Dulio and Griselda shared worried looks.
"We failed to retrieve the swords and lost our own. Valper has them all and escaped with them."
"You let him escape!?" yelled one of the Exorcist Rika didn't know by name.
"We tried to stop him but too many of Kokabiel's men where in our way. Speaking of which; he's dead, along with the Red Dragon Emperor, whom he killed with this cursed dagger dipped in Samael's blood!"
From her robes Rika drew the dagger Irina killed herself with.
"It's was also used as Irina's suicide tool!"
"What!?" gasped Dulio.
"Irina committed suicide..." whispered Griselda. Horrified to hear one if their tip fighters did such a thing. Why?
"And worse," Rika continued, "is that Valper learned a horrible truth. One Kokabiel revealed. God is dead!"
Her words echoed like bells chiming in the towers. Ringing through the heads of all gathered.
"You... know?" a female Exorcist whispered.
"We did not seek the answer," Xenovia added. "It was Kokabiel who said it! He purposely told us!"
"Told you? You've both learned a secret no one must know! You should be both exiled, for failing the mission and learn the truth!"
"Peace Mother Paris," Dulio said with a wave of his name, "let them tell us what happened."
"We already heard what needs to be said!" she spat in anger. "They lost all our swords!"
"Which you should have kept locked away!" retorted Rika angrily. "Instead of keeping them safe, you send them off on a suicide mission with just two Exorcists! Two! I went along at the last minute under Dulio's orders! It's because the Church leaders that we've lost all the Excalibur's and many Exorcists!"
Mother Paris looked livid. "Go! Get out and never return! You have said enough! We will not have witches dwell with-..."
"That. Is. Enough."
Everyone turned and gasped at the newcomer.
Descending the steps was the second in command of all Church forces.
"The Archbishop..." Xenovia whispered in awe at being in his presence.
"Archbishop, these girls-"
"I am well aware of what was said Mother Paris," the Archbishop said with a wave of the hand. "However, I believe we must hear what happened on their mission. From beginning to end."
Reaching the bottom of the stairs, he looked at the two young Exorcists. Eyes twinkling with wisdom.
"Saint Rika, Sister Quarta, start over and tell us what exactly happened on your mission," he ordered calmly.
And so, they did. Staring with arriving in Kuoh to Kokabiel's attack and the deaths that occurred. When finished the Archbishop sighed.
"A tragic event that is. Irina Shidou will be missed. Her parents will not be happy. Nor his Holiness for the loss of the swords and escape of Valper It is I who is to blame for the loss of Excalibur. I sent the swords in hopes of luring Valper out and give you an advantage. A plan I see now was a grave mistake."
"What is The Order Valper mentioned?" Vasco asking.
"I'm not sure," Rika answered with a shrug. "But they must be stopped at all cost. More importantly what's going to happen to us?"
The Archbishop looked at the two girls. Then to the casket of Irina. Then back to them.
"Here is my answer."
Azazel plopped onto the couch with a sigh, drink in hand as he watched the sun began to set. The task of erasing Issei Hyoudou, Sona's servants, Raynare and Irina from everyone's mind had been long and tiring. But he, along with all of Grigori, did it
When Sirzechs asked if they could perform this task, the new Governor General - Baraqiel - had accepted it without question.
They first started with the school by erasing everyone's memory of the four school students and delete information on them in the school records. After that daunting task came the parents of the children who attended the school, after that was the citizens at the restaurants who knew Issei, then the neighbors of the Hyoudou residence, those perverted friends who used to hang out with Issei.
And then came the Hyoudou family itself. This one was very easy. Thanks to the help of Raynare's team, who grieved for their fallen friend, erased Issei's parent's minds of ever having a son and any relatives memories of the boy. The Fallen even went a step further by having them hypnotized into believing they lived in Kyoto - which, thanks to the help of the Youkai Faction, was set up quickly.
"I've sent Slash Dog and his team to search for him. We have to stop him before he attacks Heaven. I'll be honest with you Baraqiel, your son is the strongest enemy we have faced so far."
"Stronger than even the White Dragon Emperor?" Baraqiel asked, a hint of worry in his serious tone.
"You're his father. You've faced him. You remember the power he displayed against Sirzechs in our capture. I'm sure if Vali and Hazael fought, your son would triumph over him. Sure, the Divide Divine can cut power in half. But, as strong as Vali is, it would probably have little effect on Hazael. If we are to defeat him, then we have to use the magic draining machine used to capture him. Problem is, I don't remember where I put it. I hope it wasn't destroyed in the revolt. I don't wanna go through the process of building another one."
"If a new one must be made then so be it. We cannot waste time trying to attack our old base to try finding something used along ago. Perhaps a new one with the aid of Beelzebub may prove just as effective. My son is a menace who must be stopped, no matter the cost."
A long silence fell between the two Cadre before Azazel spoke again. "You know, even those two Satan descendants are still leading the Old Satan Faction. I still believe we hold the advantage over them. Kokabiel is dead, one Satan is dead, and the fourth descendant is in captivity."
"Fourth?"
"Oh yeah! I almost forgot about that," Azazel realized with a snap of the finger. "I suppose I should tell you this, along with the Satans who Vali really is."
What did the White Dragon Emperor have to do with a Satan being in…
Violet opened wide once he made the connection. Azazael nodding slowly at his friend's realization. "Azazael… are you telling me the White Dragon Emperor is the descendent of…"
"He is," Azazel said in a serious tone. "Vali is Lucifer's great grandson!"
It was crazy enough to know they had the White Dragon Emperor within their ranks before his betrayal. But to know he was also the descendent of Lucifer was on a completely different level of insane, given they had just currently fought the Old Satan Faction.
"Do you think will get answers from him?"
"I can only hope so…" Azazel said before sipping his sake. This Japanese alcohol was amazing! If only Shemhazai was still alive, he could have shared this with him.
Shemhazai…
His best friend and advisor. He was a brilliant man and didn't deserved to die. Especially when his human wife was going to have a baby. That poor child would grow up never knowing who it's father was, and the wife would be devastated to hear of her lover's demise.
"This is all my fault Baraqiel," the former governor general said. His friend would say otherwise, but it was true. Sure, he made many mistakes in the past but none of them resulted in the deaths of thousands.
The Church and Hell were right to blame him for this whole affair. It was his fault that so many parents, children, relatives, and friends died, because of his laxed leadership in this time of peace. They died, not being able to see a new day. A brighter future.
"The Fallen Angels always fuck everything up," he murmured while taking a swing of the sake. "If I had led this organization like I did in the war, then Kokabiel wouldn't have gotten away with his coup d'etat and we could have avoided bloodshed."
"Kokabiel covered his tracks too well," Baraqiel said, while placing a comforting hand on the former governor general's shoulder. "None of us were aware of what he was up to."
"Yeah - because I let him have to much freedom. He kept talking about wanting to restart war and I always thought it was just him bitching. But no — he was serious about it and he finally got his war and killed the Red Dragon Emperor, along with many of our own people and two Devil Servants."
More pain began to fill Azazael at mentioned Issei Hyoudou.
He saw so much protentional in that boy and had been looking forward to spending some bonding time after the war. Instead he goes insane after watching Raynare die and soon follows suit by having Samael's curse run through his body.
How had Kokabiel even obtained Samael's curse? He thought. That monster had been locked away in the deepest parts of Cocytus fore good reasons and the only one besides him to know where it resides was…
Hades…
The grip on the bottle began to tighten causing cracks to appear. Had Kokabiel gone to Hades to tell him where it was!? Had Hades aided them behind the scenes!?
He and Sirzechs would have to pay the God of death a visit once everything in the Underworld was under control.
"Governor General."
"I'm not Governor General anymore," Azazael said with a wave of the hand and sigh to release his pent-up anger. "I'm no longer the supreme leader. That title belongs to you now Baraqiel."
"I know that. But why did you choose me? Are you sure making me Governor General was wise?" the serious Fallen asked while taking a seat next to his friend.
"Of course it was," the researcher answered without pause. " If Shemhazai wasn't slain by your son, he would have been the new Governor General and you Vice Governor. With so few Cadre remaining, I feel you are the only one I can trust to lead what remains of us into a new era of peace. You are a strong leader and good father my old friend."
"Hardly," Baraqiel said as he opened his eyes to show sadness within them. "I've failed as father and husband not once, but twice. I failed to protect both wives and my children hate me."
"What happened with Shuri is my fault," Azazel countered. "I thought you could be back in time before something happened to her. And Akeno still loves you. She knows the truth and is trying to reconcile with you. Give it time my friend, and she will come to see you as her father once more. In fact, if you really want to make amends with her you should spend some time with her before this time of calmness is broken by Khaos Brigade."
Baraqiel was quiet as he thought over Azazel's words. It would be nice to finally spend a whole day with his daughter to reconnect with her and not have to worry about a war.
With his mind made up he decided tomorrow he would go see his her.
Asumoto leaned against a tree as he waited for the shrine maiden to join him.
Today had been forecasted to be hot but a bit windy so he chose dark blue pants with a red button shirt.
When he told Rias of the date, the whole room exploded with excitement to see the two finally get together. Even though his relationship with his master was strained a little due to her actions from the battle, and being the cause of her parents scolding her, she nevertheless was beaming with excited at the news. Bombarding him with thousands of questions at what he was going to do together with Akeno, to which he said she would be told after the date.
It'd be nice to try having a normal day for once. He thought while watching clouds flow by. No clients, no battles, nothing supernatural... no people he knew dying, he added painfully. His only plan being his date with Akeno…
A smile tugged at his lips.
It surprised him when she suddenly asked him out, but the thought of getting to know her more did excite him.
Sure, he knew she was a Fallen hybrid - daughter to Baraqiel - niece to Iwamatsu, an amazing cook and tea brewer, proficient in magic, smart, kind, and flirty. And a combined sado-masochist, another part of his mind added sardonically. But that was not all about her. There was still so much else he didn't know of her, and she of him.
Well... today would change that.
"Asumoto-kun!"
He heard a voice, followed by hasty footsteps coming from the stairway.
Akeno was finally ready.
Turning his attention to the ravenette he saw her hop down the last two steps.
The outfit she chose today was…
"Wow…" was all Asumoto could say.
He had seen the ravenette in many causal clothes during the weekends, but he'd never seen her look as pretty as she was now.
A white sundress with butterflies concealed the curvy figure she was known for. Around her neck was a necklace with a cyan crystal that glittered in the sun's rays. On her feet where matching sandals that showed her painted toenails, which where colored blue. But the most noticeable thing was that she had her hair down.
Asumoto knew it was long from the ponytail she wore it in. But he never expected it to end just an inch above the floor! Was it her hair that took so long for her to get ready? It didn't matter now, she was here and today they would have fun.
"W-why are you staring at me like that? I'm getting nervous Asu-kun," Akeno said as a shade of red crossed her cheeks. "Do you…"
"Sorry!" he blurted out while smacking himself for staring too long. "I'm sorry for staring. But you look absolutely beautiful today!"
Akeno, blushed more at the comment but was beaming with joy as well.
So, what does my adorable Asu-kun have planned for today?"
A tingly sensation ran through the reincarnated Devils body at being called adorable. He was called cute things by Rias many times. But never felt anything from it, since he didn't have feels for the Pureblood. Akeno however, could get a rise out of him since he actually liked her.
He smiled at her question, like a child getting a treat and said: "you'll have to wait and see."
Akeno blushed at the boy's words. "Oh ok. I hope it's fun."
"Why would you ask that? You don't like surprises?"
"No - I do. It's just… I've never been on a date before. This is my first time."
The smile dropped from the brunette's face.
He wasn't expecting to hear this was her first date. The way she looked like, nearly every boy she met should have been interested in her. He could not imagine that she had never been asked. So obviously she had never accepted. Why? Had no boy ever met her expectations? He suddenly remembered all the problems Akeno had; the death of her mother, being hunted down and nearly killed by her own former clan, her hatred for her father, for the Fallen Angels, for herself. It was most likely that it had something to do with that. He decided not to bring the topic up.
Then his smile return. But it was gentler this time.
"Don't you worry, Akeno-chan. I planned everything yesterday. Will have loads of fun. In fact, you're the first girl I've ever dated too."
Taking the blushing girls hand, which only made her blush more, he leads the priestess into town to a restaurant for lunch.
Akeno had been a little concerned going here due to how expensive the prices were. Until Asumoto reminded her in a hushed tone that Devils had unlimited cash. As they waited for their food Akeno ask one last thing from the meeting.
"What happened to the Astaroth family?"
The answer was when they heard their youngest son had joined Khaos Brigade, they were furious. Well... Lord Astaroth was at least. His wife had was sobbing at the crimes her little boy committed. In response to Diodora's actions, Lord Astaroth handed over portions of their territory to each house who lost their previous leaders. All they have left was their manor and sizable acre of land.
With that out of the way, the two began asking questions about each other, wondering what else they liked or disliked. For the other customers it was quite adorable seeing the two react to each other's answers.
Like Akeno having her own Youtube channel, named The Yamato Nadeshiko which was about her sharing Japanese traditional performing arts.
Or Asumoto saying he loved history, which surprised Akeno a lot.
"Oh? I didn't know you where a history buff." Excitement filling her to know something new about him.
Asumoto smiled at her words, " Because that's the only class we don't have together. I'm a huge lover of history. Weather it's our culture, the world, or even the supernatural."
"Maybe you could give a lesson on America or India." The Yamato Nadeshiko said with a smile.
"I would be delighted to do so."
No sooner had he said that their food arrived.
"You know I got a driver's licenses," Akeno said after enjoying a bite of her meal, prompting Asumoto to quirk a brow at her.
"Oh? But can't you just…" He trailed off on his sentence. But Akeno already knew what he was asking which she giggled at.
"Well this was before I accepted my other side. Back then I only considered myself a human and nothing more," she said in a low voice, so nobody could hear what they were talking about.
"A human with immense spiritual powers and fighting abilities that many Devils and Fallen were afraid of," Asumoto commented, which received a frown form Akeno.
"Sorry," he said before taking a sip of his drink. "So, driver's license huh?"
"Yup! You know, maybe we could do drive date someday. That would be fun," she added with a smile.
Drive date huh? That would be nice. A drive along the cost, or through the forests. Normal the guy would do the driving, but since Akeno had the license, it would be the other way around.
"Wait. If you have a car? Where do you even keep it? You live in a shrine atop a flight of stairs?"
"Well… I guess I left it at home when I moved here."
The shrug and "oopsies" expression by the priestess had the couple laughing.
Twenty minutes later, with full stomachs, they left to browse the shops and then enjoy the local aquarium.
"That's a funny looking fish!" Akeno laughed while pointing to a pufferfish who had just inflated itself.
This hadn't been the first time for her to going to an aquarium. But it had been the first to see a thousand different fish in one tank. This was filled with so many colored ones.
Pufferfish, Angelfish, Clownfish, so many filled the tank. Even an Octopus and Manta Ray.
Both of them were enjoying their time together. At least as much as they were able to. It didn´t change that they both had gone through terrible things during the last day. People who they knew, who were their friends, had died. To tell the truth both of them were still stressed and tired mentally.
It would take some time before they fully recovered what all what happened.
But still they both felt happy.
"Akeno," Asumoto said while leaving the aquarium, "how are you liking the date?"
"I love it!" she exclaimed with a smile, while sandwiching the arm she was clinging to between her breasts.
"Oh? Even more than our stalkers?"
Akeno quirked a brow at his question and looking to where he motioned his head. It was brief, but she saw a certain red head and blonde duck behind a corner.
"Ara. Ara. Rias and Asia are spying on us." She giggled, taking note of their silly disguises. Rias had a green cap and coat, along with shades, giving her the look of a cop undercover. As for Asia, all she had was a pair of glasses.
"They must be jealous that I'm with such a strong handsome man.~ Ufuf," she said, while leaning on Asumoto's shoulder and shooting a wink and stick her tongue out teasingly at the two Devils.
Rias could feel her fingers tightly clench the wall she was hiding behind. A look of fury and jealously etched on her beautiful face, at the teasing look Akeno sent her way.
"B-Buchou, maybe we should stop…" Asia timidly said, afraid she would blow something up. Despite her protest of not wishing to spy on the two, Rias had managed to persuade her to see what they would do.
Inhaling a deep breath to calm herself the redhead replied to her servant: "Not a chance Asia. I wanna see what these two are going to do."
"B-but they know we are stalking them."
"It's supervising," corrected Rias. "We are making sure they have a fun day and that Asumoto doesn't hurt Akeno-chan."
"But—..."
Suddenly something zoomed by them so fast, it knocked the hat off Rias and snatch her sunglasses.
She looked at the thing, to see it was Izumi.
"Hey!" her yell caused many to look at her and then to the red-tailed hawk that snatched her glasses. Some were in awe, while others laughed.
Suddenly she realized Izumi was a distraction to allow her servant to slip away. Before she could turn her attention to the couple, Izumi came back, blocked her vision and flapped her wings wildly at the redhead, screeching at her.
Damn that samurai! She cursed when seeing her Queen shoot a cheeky smile her way, before running off with his date.
The two teens ran a whole block down the street until stopping to catch their breaths. When they did they looked to one another and laughed.
"Y-You are so mean Asu-kun!" The ravenette said through giggles, "Using Izumi-chan as a distraction like that."
"Hahaha. Well…well it's rude to stalk someone on a date Akeno-chan."
When they regained their bearings Asumoto spoke, "Akeno-chan - I know I shouldn't ask this, but why did you choose today for our date? I'm not saying I'm not enjoying our date. I love it. But the Underworlds still reeling after Kokabiel's attack. What if we are interrupted and I'm needed for something important?"
"I know that," said Akeno, as she pulled Asumoto closer to her. "But after that battle… after what happened to the others… to Issei… I realized I couldn't keep waiting to ask you out on a date." She turned to hug him tightly, concern filling her eyes. "I like you Asumoto and I'm scared to lose you. I've lost my mother… Raynare-chan… Issei-kun… I don't know what I'd do if you died! I can't let you die. I won't let you die! Not like with Raynare! I stood just there and I... I couldn´t do anything."
Asumoto was quick to act upon the girl's actions. He returned the hug and apologized.
"Okay Akeno-chan, I am sorry that I brought up something like that. Our date is supposed to be happy after all. We should make sure that the rest of it will be fun."
Which it was.
They traveled to the downtown area to browser the fancier shops for Akeno, which brightened her mood greatly.
Currently Asumoto was sitting outside the changing room, waiting for his date to come out and show him one of the many outfits she had found and taken in with her.
One was a cute short skirt with a tank top, another was a dark blue shirt and white short shorts with an adorable violet fedora.
And with each question of how she looked Asumoto would say the same thing; "Anything you wear is cute." Every time this, in one or the other variation.
And each time she heard that, she would giggle cutely. This was it was going on for some time.
When they finally departed the stores, Asumoto's arms were loaded with bags of clothes.
The day was almost over and so was the date
There was just one last thing left to do.
The couple made their way to the hill with the old Susanoo shrine atop it. And upon reaching the peek, they sat against a tree and snuggled together to watch the sun set.
"It's so beautiful," Akeno said happily. All day the smile she wore never faltered. She had been pumped with excitement when today came and that excitement turned to happiness, with at last finally being able to go on a date with the man she loved and being showed how a date worked.
She had been brimming with happiness. Happiness she hadn't felt since before losing her mother.
It was good to feel the emotion again.
"Asumoto-kun, you really know how to treat a girl."
"Father always said to treat a woman with respect," the samurai replied as he adjusted his posture to let her lay on his shoulder, one arm around her waist.
"Then your father was a good man. He raised you well."
The couple sat in silence watching the sun set... it's light casting a pretty orange in the sky.
Once the last of its light fell behind the horizon, Akeno spoke up.
"See Asu-kun, nothing interrupted our date," she said, while taking hold of his hand. But Asumoto didn't answer. She looked to see if he had fallen asleep, but found he was looking off into the distance, seeming to reminisce about something. "Asu-kun?"
The silver eyes warrior blinked out of his stupor and looked at Akeno. Concern came across the girl's face, as she asked if something was bothering him.
Asumoto stay silent for a whole minute, pondering on if he should tell what he was thinking about. He could tell her tomorrow but the look she gave was making it hard not to tell her now.
With a sigh he answered the priestess.
"It's about Valper, he knows something about the murder of my family. It has to be that group he's in league with."
"The Order? Asu… are you sure?"
"No doubt about it. They must be the group that massacred my clan." He growled the last part.
"If it is the Order then maybe you should tell the others who you really are," Akeno said, while positioned herself to look at him. "You've already told me the clan you belong to. So maybe it's time to tell them."
"I don't know Akeno. I told you my name because I trust you."
"And you don't trust the others? You don't trust Tsubaki? They've shown they are good people. Even Rias. You can't distrust her for one mistake. Everyone makes mistakes." She creased his cheek gently. "You helped me so let us help you."
Asumoto averted his eyes from the beauty. For three years he kept secrets from Rias. But once Valper revealed to the Order he was alive, they would surely began to hunt him down and harm his friends.
His friends who he helped many times in the last few months. His friends that showed compassion for him, even if they knew little to nothing about him. Would they even trust him after revealing his past? Only Rias, Tsubaki, and Akeno knew what happened to him and, from the times being around his fellow Devils, didn't ask questions about him. Had Rias not told her peerage? Or had she gone behind his back and told then anyway and order them to not tell him that she did?
He wasn't sure what but sitting around thinking wouldn't do anything.
Perhaps it was time to finally shed some light on who he really was. The Order would come for him and he would need all the help he could get in defeating them and seek revenge for his clan.
With his choice made, he agreed to Akeno's words, to which she hugged him for it.
Asumoto suggested they could walk home, but she insisted on just teleporting back her shrine. Of course this was so he wouldn't have to keep carrying her clothes around. But he didn't say anything to it.
With a flash of her wings, the Devil and Fallen Angel were outside the shrine.
Asumoto looked to the sky, the stars twinkled within them. He closed his eyes listening to the wind blow pass him, chirping of the crickets, the rustling of the trees, and the steady beating of his own heart.
"Tonight is so peaceful," he thought aloud.
"It is," Akeno agreed while taking the bags from him and setting them in front of her door to take in, once he left. "Asumoto, thank you for this wonderful date. I always wondered what my first date would be like and now that I've experienced it… I hope we can do more."
"I would love to have another date," Asumoto said with a smile. "You know Akeno, before I go theirs something I wanna give you."
"Not before I give you something first. I've been waiting all day to give this special thing for you," she said with a sweet smile. "Put your hands out and close your eyes."
Asumoto obeyed and waiting for—...
Something touched his lips.
It was soft, and… gentle.
Peeking an eye open, he found Akeno kissing him.
Heh. She beat me to it, he thought as she pulled away, a faint blush upon her cheeks.
"Was that your first kiss?"
"Yup," Akeno replied, face seeming to glow with happiness at this point. "I guess that could be considered your second kiss."
"Second?"
"Rias kissed you in the Rating Game," reminded the Miko with a hint of jealously.
"Ah yes… the good luck kiss on the cheek." That kiss had been very quick and not really thought of during the moment but thinking back on it, he was now a little surprised that she had done such a thing.
"However…" Asumoto pulled Akeno closer to him, eyes filling a bit of lust, "she never kissed me on the lips~" Then he passionately kissed the ravenette.
"Oh Asu~ Ufufuf~" She snaked her arms around his neck and leaned forward to give him one last kiss goodbye before he—...
"Akeno!?"
She stopped in her action and turned to the familiar voice. She and Asumoto turned to the voice to see...
"Dad!?"
"Azazel!?"
The new governor general was standing there in shock at what he just witnessed. While the former was trying to hold in his laughter at the expression his friend was making.
"Why are you here?" Akeno asked - not in anger, but surprise.
"I… I wanted to spend time with you in hopes of trying to reconnect. But you weren't home. So I went all over the town searching for you. And now I find you kissing the Queen of Rias in front of your home? What is going on?" Baraqiel said.
Akeno blinked at her father's words. He had been trying to find her to reconnect with her? Thinking of that sounded so sweet of him to do. It would help her overcome the awkwardness she previously felt around him when she forgave him weeks ago.
Then a sly smile crept upon her face as she clung onto Asumoto. "I just got back from a date with Asu-kun~ He was so romantic~"
At that moment Azazael burst with laughter. He was laughing so hard he was clutching his sides and trying not to fall.
"Hahaha! You hear that Baraqiel!? Your daughter went on a date!? You should be proud of her! Oh I can't wait to see Iwamatsu's expression! Hahaha!"
The color in Baraqiel's face drained as his eyes went wide in shock, and knees began to quiver. He heard exactly what his daughter said but was finding it very difficult to form words to her reply.
"My… my baby girl… went on a date with… a boy?"
"Ara. Ara. Is papa not happy I'm dating a man? Would you I rather date women~?"
Poor Baraqiel looked like he was going to faint, and Azazel laughed harder.
"Valper, you return. I had feared you would not."
"Ney, Grand Master. My loyalty is to only the Order," Valper said as he knelt before the man who spoke, eyes refusing to look up unless told otherwise.
After he escaped Kuoh he planned to make haste to the tell the Grand Master of what happened. But the desire to know what else would happen in the battle peaked his interest. So, thanks to the magician, was able to watch from afar to see what had been going on and boy, was he surprised at what he witnessed.
"I am not talking of loyalty, my friend. I was concerned for your survival."
"Do not fret. My mission was successful," Valper said as he unveiled the Holy Swords within the clothes he carried them in causing many to whisper in awe.
"The Church was easy pick. Those fools sent their two remaining swords right to us." He chuckled.
"So they have. But tell us what happened in your mission."
And so he did. Valper explained I'm great detail the battle and the deaths of those he witnessed. When he finished more whispers and murmurs filled the chamber.
"So... our Lord in Heaven has been dead all this time. Kokabiel has bit the dust. Along with the Red Dragon Emperor..." muttered the Grand Master while stroking his beard, who also was the only calm one at the news revealed by Valper. "This will serve us well."
It will indeed. However, theirs one more thing you must know my brother's." A wide smile crept upon Valper's face. "The Shinto clan we killed three ago is not all gone. One last clansman remains and he's a servant of Rias Gremory."
Silence filled the chamber before the shuffling of feet was heard.
"One still lives as a Devil," Grand Master said. "Captain Clifford, gathered our men! Our search for the true Holy Sword begins a new!"
End
And now we begin a new arc! And at last Akeno and Asumoto's relationship grows.
If you liked it remember to review.