Hope everyone enjoys the latest chapter! ^.^
"Awaaaaahh!" Issei lets out a loud yawn shamelessly "Didn't get enough sleep?" Rias tease from the right and receive a soft glare in return "No, I did not. Had to study" he replies and grunts in misery "It can't be that bad" "Says the girl who was comfortably sleeping in the bed while I was sited at the desk working my brain out!" "That's good, you need to improve your grades, Issei… Do try to do good on this Quiz today" Rias said, giving a supportive smile.
Issei blinks then a small smile form on his lip, his eyes glows in gratitude. Even though he knows how his reputation is seen in Kuoh Academy, how low his grade can be at times, how he would cause trouble. It was utterly opposite compare to Rias's reputation and grade, she was almost perfect in everyway and she still stands by him and support him with that smile. "Thanks… Rias" Issei whispers and turns forward, seeing the school up ahead.
As expected, the moment the two steps in the courtyard they are immediately the center of attention. Issei smile nervously wen seeing all the dark glares he is receiving from the boys and girls. 'Seems like after all these months they still don't accept me and Rias's relationship' 'Who cares what they think' Ddraig inserts in, awake for once 'I guess' Issei reply and shrugs. Rias wears her usual dazzling smile that makes boys weak in their knees and leaves the girls at awe. Rias blinks when seeing a certain two student standing at the distance "Aren't those your friends, Issei?" she points out and Issei turn to the direction to see familiar faces "Matsuda and Motohama…" he said the name with slight disdain which surprises the Gremory.
"I know they aren't the best of friends, but they are still your friends, Issei" Rias speaks, softly "I guess you're right, but I really can't be bother dealing with their antics… I've gotten beat up more times than I can count because of them" he replies, moving his sight back to the school building. "I have Nawin, Yuuto, Xenovia, Asia, Kokoro, Elise, and the rest as friends along with you. I'm perfectly content with that" "My… What wise words from you, Issei" Rias tease and gets a grin from the Hyoudou "Thanks to you!"
The couple notice Asia, Koneko, and Gasper sited on one of the benches that littered around the courtyard. "Morning, you three" Issei speaks, letting their presence be known and the young group turn to them "Morning, Issei-kun, Buchou!" Asia greets brightly "Morning…" Koneko utters out softly, clearly still a bit sleepy while Gasper waves.
"Morning, Asia, Koneko, Gasper" Rias smile at her friends then turns Asia specifically "Has Nawin and Akeno returned, Asia?" "No," the blonde reply, shaking her head sadly "They haven't arrived at home yet… I'm getting a bit worried, Buchou" she admits truthfully. Koneko place a hand on the blonde's shoulder, giving it a comforting squeeze, which earn a thankful smile from the girl. "Don't worry," Issei said with positive tone "They'll be back today, for sure!" "Definitely, I did receive a text from Akeno saying that would be the case" Rias informs and immediately Asia's expression brightens "Really?!" "Yes, so don't worry" "Alright!" the blonde replies with a smile returning on her face.
The group start hearing commotion coming from the gate and turn to see Senna and Momo entering the courtyard. Both holds that bright smile on their faces that seems to draw awe and attention from the students. "That Bright Sibling name totally fits them" Issei state and all nod in agreement, watching the sibling make their way to them. Senna grins when seeing the five and give an enthusiastic wave "Morning!" she exclaims and was about to run toward the group when three tall girls stop in front of her, creating a blockage.
Senna blinks and looks up since the three girls are about a head taller then her. The girl in the middle looks to be the leader of the group with her deathly serious expression and piercing blue eyes that intimidate Senna a bit. The girl has long, luscious, and wavy platinum blonde hair with red strands running near the ends. Tan complexion with an hourglass body that would make most girl envy along with her sizable D-cup breast. Even with her cold expression, her beauteous is unquestionable. Both girls at the sides looks to be twin with their familiarity features. Almost matching faces shape. Light violet eyes and long black hair that reach to the waist. Pale complexion with a slender and lean figure.
"H-hello?" Senna greets the three with a bashful smile while Momo stops beside, looking caution when seeing the girl in the middle silently glaring at her sister while the other two are just silently giggling. "Oh my god is them…" "The delinquents" "Ivory and her friends" "Oh no… What's going to happen to Momo-chan and Senna-chan?" whispers upon whispers enters the ears of the devils that could hear it.
Ivory takes a few steps forward to stop right in front of the sibling, hands rested in the black leather jacket's pockets that she wears over the school uniform. "Do us all a favor and get rid of that annoying smiles… It pissed me off and the name Bright Sibling is rubbish" she states in deep, smooth, British tone. "U-um…" Senna stutters, not really equipped to deal with this kind of situation before, so Momo steps in "Look… We don't want any trouble and what are you trying to say exactly?" she asks, her expression turn serious and cold that matches with Ivory. The group are surprise to see this from the usually calm, kind, and well-mannered girl, they didn't think she could pull off such a serious expression.
A smirk form on Ivory's face "Well… Don't you have guts, unlike your pathetic little sister" she states and irk Momo, but she doesn't do anything and instead glares harsher at the taller individual. Issei steps forward when seeing Ivory's glare hardens that even made Momo flinch slightly, but she didn't back down. "No, Issei" Rias whispers to him "What? And let them get beat up?!" "What are you going to do? Hit her?" she retorts and receive silence from the Hyoudou.
"Whao there!" Xenovia slides in between Ivory and Momo which makes the group sigh in relief along with Momo and Senna. "You really starting a fight this earlier?" the Knight question, bringing both arms up and Ivory's expression didn't lesson "I'm just teaching those two to know their place and don't get a big head just because they are the talk of the school currently, Quarta" "Well," Xenovia looks back at the slightly shaken girls "I'm positive you got your message across, so can we just continue on with our day?" she ask, returning sight to the blonde.
Ivory stare hard at the Knight with such intense that the Quarta has her guard ready incase swings start being taken. Ivory stare lesson and turns around, walking away. The twin sends them a teasing wink and giggles before following their friend. Xenovia sigh and turn to the sibling "You guys alright?" she asks "Yeah, thanks" Momo reply, sighing in relief that no fight was started "T-thank, Xenovia-chan" Senna smile in gratitude and brings her right hand to her chest, breathing in relief.
"That girl was scary" Senna state, indicating to Ivory "Yeah, she isn't someone you want to mess with" Issei state, stopping next to them with Rias. "You know her?" Momo ask "Hard not to… I saw her once when I was walking to fetch some stuff in a convenient store and I saw her beat up a group of gangs singlehandedly when they were pestering her" he informs and surprise the girls.
"Not someone even you want to mess with, Xenovia" Kokoro joins them with Elise. "Morning!" the Princess greets and the other respond with a smile. Xenovia return to Kokoro, holding a skeptical look "What do you mean exactly by that?" "She is part of the Fight Club and I've seen first hand what she's capable of, so if it were to come down to a normal fight… She would whoop your ass" the Queen state, carefully indicating nothing involving supernatural powers with Senna and Momo close by.
"Perhaps you shouldn't have said those words, Kokoro" Elise points out when seeing Xenovia's eyes gleam in challenge. "I like to see her try" the Knight reply, crossing her arms "Other time, Xenovia… You will get a chance, right now isn't the time" Rias state in authoritative tone "Fine…" Xenovia utters begrudgingly, turning her head to the side and huff in annoyance. Rias turn to the clock that's displaying in front of the building "It's almost time for class… We should all head in" she states and start making way to the building and the rest follow soundlessly.
Time Skip: Lunch Break
"That quiz was not as hard as I thought it would be" Issei state in relief, walking out of the classroom with the rest "Yeah, you did great!" Senna exclaims "You must have studied hard" Misako notes "Yeah, slept quite late last night… Actually" Issei admits with a chuckle, scratching the back of his head. "For once you aren't the dumbest in the class, congratulations" Riser comment, giving a slow and mocking clap "That title goes to that weird bold-headed person" Elise state and gets a chuckle from others and especially from Issei "You mean Matsuda and yeah, he was pretty bad" "He barely got any questions correct and was sweating up like bullets… Embarrassing" Kokoro harshly state.
Issei grins when seeing Rias walking down the stairs and stop by the second floor. He departs from the group to run to her "Hey, Rias! Gonna go to the cafeteria for lunch?" he questions, stopping in front of the Gremroy. She turns to him and smile "No, you and the rest can go have lunch… I'll be heading to the Occult Building" "Huh?" Issei blinks in confusion by the sudden announcement "Why? Do you want to eat there instead? We can j—" "No," she interjects firmly, silencing the Hyoudou "I'd like to have lunch alone today, Issei" she states in a tone that leaves no more discussion.
Issei just nod dumbly "A-alright" he replies and watch her descent down the stairs, disappearing from the view. "What's that about?" Xenovia ask, stopping beside the Hyoudou with the rest "Don't know… She wanted to have lunch alone in the Occult building" he replies in honest. Senna tilt her head "Maybe she is studying for that test?" she asserts "Yeah! That could be it" Misako nods "Yeah… Perhaps" Issei turns to the girls with a smile, though inside he wasn't totally convinced with that being the case. Riser shrugs and start descending the stairs "Just leave her be… I'm sure she has a good reason" he states "He's right, I'm sure she just wants to be left alone for now. Let's head to the cafeteria before it gets too crowded" Kokoro advise. The group nod in agreement and heads down the stairs to the ground floor.
Occult Building
Rias drops the bento box on her desk before taking a sit on the large leather chair. Sighing in relief of finally getting away from all the students, she looks around at the dim lit room, then moves close to the table and rest her arms on it. "Now," she flicks her fingers and a bright crimson light glows on the desk before it dissipates to reveal a familiar ancient looking book.
Rias opens the plastic lid of the bento box and toss it away. The lid erupts into crimson flames and incinerate into nothingness. Rias turn to the book and see the title written in the brown, rough leather front "Ancient Mastery Seals" she whispers, looking at the book she bought at the last day in Shigemi.
Rias reach out for a slice of hard-boiled egg and brings it to her mouth while using the other hand to open the book. She chews on the egg and looks at the contents page that shows all kinds of type of seals in sections of the book. The Gremory's eyes scan at all the category until it lands in 'Curse seals'. A picture of Asia appears in her mind. "Page Seventy" she utters and flips through the pages until it reaches the select number. The page isn't clear white but dark brown and slightly wrinkled, showing its aged but fortunately all the text is still very readable.
Rias start going through the pages until she catches something involving eyes or vision. Her right arm reaches out to grab a tamagoyaki and brings it to her mouth, taking in the Japanese omelet in one bite as her eyes continue to examine through the pages. Rias suddenly stop at the page titled 'Curse To Sightless' and she start reading through it. "It's a forbidden dark magic…" she utters out, not surprised "Requires tremendous amount of mana and masterful control to perform. An unskilled user performing could either permanently blind the target or kill them…" Rias whispers and flinches when looking down to see a drawn picture of a man's eyes exploding from the socket to illustrate the result and danger of the technique not being performed by a skilled individual.
An image of Asia's head appears over the picture suddenly creeps into Rias's mind and she quickly push it away, not wanting that horrifying image anywhere near her. Rias takes a deep breath and exhales before continues reading, hoping to find something that could help her reverse the curse, anything for her to help the young blonde girl. She continues to read through the history of how the spell was made. Created by an evil sorcerer that punished his foes by blindness instead of death, finding it gratifying to himself to see his enemy helpless without sight.
Rias pause when a big word 'Lift the Curse' appears in her sight and shockingly, there's not much text underneath it which garners worry in the pit of her stomach. "There's only two ways to truly lift the curse. One of them being incredibly risky than the other. The first way is very simple and the safest. The user who placed the curse can undo it with ease" Rias reads out and scowl "Of course that would be the easiest solution." She continues reading "The second way is impossible if the victim were to be a devil." Rias halts and her expression turn to dread, but she continues reading on "To get rid of this curse is to entirely bath themselves in a holy water infuse with the holy mana of Angels. The Curse To Sightless ultimately is that the Caster pours in the dark and corrupt mana into the victim's eyes, blinding their sight and forcibly shutting their eyelids. If the victims try to force their eyes to open an unimaginable pain erupts from their eyes and could permanently damage it."
Silence fills the room as Rias sits still on the chair like a stone, her wide eyes staring at the page, her mouth slightly agape. The Gremory's brain is currently racing wild, but she quickly snaps back to begin reading more but her eyes set on a blank space, signaling there's nothing left for the book to offer. Rias release her hands from the book and brings to her forehead, her elbows drop on the table. "Damn it" she quietly cusses through gritting teeth "Damn you, Sayomi Dracul… Damn you to Hollow Hell."
After taking a few minutes to calm herself, Rias slowly remove her hands from the forehead and clench it together, making it a place for her chin to rest. Rias stare forward to the entrance door, her gaze so hard and intense that the door could snap open at any second. "It's suicidal to have Asia bath in holy water… And needing Holy Mana inject into it… She would disappear into dust in seconds."
Rias investigates the book and sees more information at the side. "The second method is impossible for Devils, but even then, it is a dangerous method for Angels or Fallen Angels. The victim must bath in the pure water for twenty-four hours straight. They must be completely submerged in the water and never let themselves out to disrupt the process. If the victims got out of the process, then the two mana could clash in violent and aggressive manner. The corrupt mana would fight back relentlessly and would ultimately overwhelm the holy mana, then would consume it to make it even stronger which could lead to the victim losing their sight permanently because the curse would become too strong and that is a mercy result. There's a plausible chance that the mana in their eyes becomes too much to contain that it could cause their whole head to explode… Effectively killing the victim."
The look of speechless cross on Rias's face from what she just read. "Submerge in a holy water infuse with holy mana for twenty-four will even hurt Angels! Holy water alone is like a calm acid and blessing it with Holy Mana just activates it to its full potential and would burn normal devils in less than seconds. Forgot the word 'risky'. This is downright suicidal!" Rias cuss in annoyance, clenching both hands tightly into a fist.
Rias inhales and exhales, opening her eyes to stare at the page once more. "Is this why Azazel still hasn't come up with a solution for Asia? I have no doubt he has come across this method and I don't blame him for not bringing it up. Sayomi Dracul… She knew exactly what she was doing" Rias utters with venom in tone "The only true way is for her to undo the curse…" a bitter chuckle comes from the Gremory "Both ways are suicidal."
Seeing nothing left in the page to help with Asia's case, Rias begin flipping through pages to find something that involve the mark on Nawin's neck. Scanning through a dozen of pages, Rias finally stop at one that is titled 'Draconic Mark' written on top in a big red font, almost looking like it's been written in blood. Anxious start creeping into Rias when she takes a quick look at the whole page and see there's not much information containing about mark, the writing doesn't even reach a full page.
"Draconic Mark… Created by none other than the Dragon God itself, Ophis" Rias starts reading "Very few has ever been granted this mark. The full potential and usage behind this mark is still unknown to this day. I have only known and heard about this mark by an individual who I have come across in my journey." Rias is surprise to hear the actual thought of the author in the book which makes her think this topic is really one of a kind in this book. "I promised this man to never unveil his identity in the book, instead focus on the mark. He wanted this cursed mark to be known, to know just what kind of mark this is… How dangerous it is. He told me everything he has experienced when gifted the mark. He told me about its ungodly power, it's incredible healing prowess. But, there's also the other side of it, the bad side, like everything in the world. He told me about its tainted power that slowly corrode the victim's mind, its uncontrollable and luring power that tries to seduce the user to used more of it, its evil intent of trying to take over the victim's mind."
Rias silently gulps and continues reading. "The man who told me all of this shows that sign. He was gentle but also unstable and would abruptly snapped at me or the bystanders when he was staying in my house for temporary shelter. The man was almost paranoid, he was never calm when staying with me. His eyes would dart everywhere lots of time, like he was scared that someone would suddenly appeared and take him away. Some night he would let out an anguish scream that would wake me up. And I've seen it, seen the mark glow in this ominous purple aura. Like a venomous poison, injecting its dark power into the man's mind to give him those nightmares." The more Rias reads in, the more horrified she finds the mark to be and the feeling of worry start creeping into her. Worry for her dear friend.
"I am a Master of Sealing Arts and tried to aid the man by putting a restraining seal around the mark, but it proved fruitless. The Draconic Mark has already ensnarled the man and all I could do was ease the pain with healing magic when the mark ever activated, trying to take over the man but he always puts on a fight even through at the end of those sessions he would immediately passed out due to exhaustion. Then, after a month of staying in my care, the man decided to leave. I knew this decision was made because he finally figured it out that I couldn't help him. I-i—" Rias notes the writing suddenly breaks, like the author was having a hard time writing the next sentense, but he continues on writing in that beautiful handwriting.
"The day he announces his departure. I saw it in his eyes… I saw the lost, hopelessness, and regret in them. I knew… I knew he was going away... Going away to end his life." Rias's heart skip a beat, cold sweat drips from her forehead. Her wide eyes stare at the sentence, reading it again in her mind like a broken tape-recorder. Rias tries to read on and sees only few sentences are left "All I can say for the victim that's cursed by this mark is that they have approximately a year to figured out a way to remove it. The man told me he had it for over a year and the mark keeps getting worse as time goes by. And if the victim continues to use the mark's tempting power, it will start gaining more influence on the victim's mind. That is all I have left to say about this evil and cursed mark…" Rias reads the final sentence and can just feel the venom and disgust coming from the Author by his writing.
The Gremory slowly drops back to the chair, her eyes stare up at the ceiling with many conflicted emotions running in them. "What the hell can I do?" is the words that leaves the Gremory's mouth.
Cafeteria
Everyone in the table stare at the pouting Hyoudou. Watching him playing with his food before bringing it to his mouth and slowly chews it, making it look like a chore to do. His expression looks depress and his eyes stare at the white table, not hearing the conversation that others are having. "Alright," Riser drops the folk "I've had enough" he said and swing his right hand forward to smack the back of the depressed boy's head.
Issei's head snap forward and his forehead smash right at the table. Many in the group burst into chuckle and giggle at this. And the gesture seems to work when Issei snap his head back up and glare at the smirking Phenex. "Finally, that wacked the stupid depression out of you" Riser state, grabbing his fork "Stop being down at something so stupid… You're making the rest feel awkward" he points and Issei turn around to see many are indeed haven't even finish half of their food because of him.
Seeing how selfish he was being, Issei puts on a smile "Sorry everyone," he quickly apologizes "You better be," Xenovia reply and start digging into her lunch along with the rest. "If you are worried then just ask Rias what is wrong after school, Issei" Momo suggest and receive a nod "Yeah, you're right. Now, let's eat!" Issei reply with a grin and start gobbling down his food, making the others chuckle.
For a couple of minutes, the group continues eating their lunch while chatting with each other about various topic. "Hey everyone!" a male student suddenly burst into the cafeteria, catching attention from all inside "There's a fight going on at the courtyard!" he exclaims, and lots get out of their seats except for few that weren't interesting, along with the devil's group. They remain sited and not looking amused by the news. Misako sigh, shaking her head "Why is eve—" "Oh! I see they are picking a fight with Nawin Makasha! He's back" another student barge in and informs.
Immediately, Senna, Akame, Misako, Koneko, and Asia shoot out of their seats and bolts to the courtyard and not a second later the rest of the group quickly follow suits.
Courtyard
The group slowly push out of the sea of students to see the scene in front, right at the center of the courtyard. Two tall and dark blonde haired brothers stand there, the taller one's physic is that of a trained wrestler and very imposing while the shorter one is more slim and lean built. Their eyes are emerald green with pale complexion. The right one is slightly shorter than the left, making a chance that he is the younger brother.
Standing a few meters away from them is Nawin with Akeno on his right, holding his arm. The Makasha has a look of stoic as always while the Himejima next to him doesn't hide the look of annoyance in her expression and eyes. Both are unaffected by the glares their getting from the brothers. Specially Nawin while the younger brother was giving Akeno a fond look.
"Aren't those two the transferred students from UK?" Kokoro points out "Yeah… I thought they looked familiar" Momo nods, remembering seeing the blondes sited on her row. "They look tough, should we do something?" Senna ask, worrying for the Makasha's safety "No," Issei smirk, crossing his arms "Trust me, Nawin has handled much tougher challenge" "Well, those idiots sure picked a wrong time… Nawin-senpai just got back and I doubt he is in the mood for this" Xenovia state, shaking her head at the brothers.
"What is the meaning of this?" Akeno question in her soothing tone, but annoyance can be heard in it "You've been ignoring my little brother" the older blonde reply in a deep and serious tone that almost is comical by the answer he just gave. Akeno blinks while Nawin roll his eyes, seeing where this is going. "Are you the person who's been sending me those chocolates and love letters?" Akeno question, looking at the younger blonde, and a smile form on his face "Yes! You never replied to them! I was starting to get depress" he reply in hurtful tone.
'The reason I never replied is because I throw them away' Akeno notes, shaking her head and look straight at the boy's eyes "Look, let me make it clear to you and the rest of the people here" Akeno speaks up so everyone that is watching in the courtyard can hear "I'm taken, and I have absolutely no care to anyone of you advancements and flirts. So, do yourselves a favor and stop wasting time by sending the love letters and gifts!"
Many male students look heartbroken by the announcement. Especially the young blonde boy, who looked devastated. The boy's expression suddenly turns into rage and he direct it straight to Nawin, glaring at him. Without a word spoken, he dashes toward the Makasha and roars, sending a right fist. To the surprise of many, Akeno shoots her free arm out and catches the blonde's fist with ease.
The boy is utterly shock when seeing Akeno is the one that stop his assault. The Himejima grips the boy's tightly and further surprising everyone by throwing him over her shoulder like he is a pillow. The blonde comes crashing down behind them, knocking the wind out of his lungs by landing harshly on the back.
Akeno snap her head forward when seeing the older brother takes a step forward. He halts when meeting eyes with her. His heart starts beating rapidly when seeing the raw killing intent coming from the Himejima's violet eyes, it was so intense that he is forced to take a few steps back in fear. "Leave me and my love alone" she warns in a dark tone and start walking to the building with Nawin, who looks amused by the whole scene that just transpired.
The students that all witnessed the scene just stare at the couple in speechless and shock. Watching the always calm and elegant Akeno Himejima just throw a person over like he was nothing and can strike fear at the larger brother by simply glaring at him. The girl students start having even more admiration to the Himejima while the boys start developing fear at her but also more interest.
Asia breaks out of the group and runs to the couple. "Onii-chan! Akeno-chan!" she exclaims, and Nawin kneel and catch the blonde with a hug. "Hey, Asia" he whispers, holding the girl tightly and gently stroke her hair.
Akeno smile looking at the two then turns up to see the rest of the group stopping in front of them. "Welcome back, Akeno-senpai!" Issei exclaims with a grin "Thanks, Issei." Xenovia smirk "Entertaining show you put there, Akeno" "Huh, it was a long trip and I really wasn't in the mood" "No one can blame you" Yuuto reply in understanding tone. Nawin slowly release the hug and give Asia a kiss on the forehead before standing up to look at the rest.
"Yo, Nawin! Finally, back aye, buddy" Issei said with a smirk "Yeah, glad to be back, honestly" Nawin reply, rubbing the back of his neck and sigh in exhaustion. He was about to continue but halt when seeing certain sisters standing next to Misako. "Senna, Momo" Nawin utters out, unable to hide the shock in his tone and face by this unexpected reunion. With a smile on her face, Senna makes way toward the Makasha. Asia, sensing the movement quietly step to the side of her brother to not get in the way.
"It's finally good to see you again, Nawin-kun," Senna said, stopping in front of the black-haired boy "The feeling is mutual… It's a great surprise to see you again, Senna and you too, Momo" Nawin turns to the older sister, giving her a smile which she returns with her own. "My sister really wanted to see you again. She was bummed out when finding out you weren't in school when we arrived here." Senna blushes a bit when Momo reveals that while the rest stay quiet and just smile at the scene. Nawin release a chuckle and brings his right arm up for a handshake "Well, sorry to keep a friend waiting" he utters, and the girl's smile widen when hearing the word 'friend' came from his mouth. Senna brings her own arm up and softly grasp Nawin's warm hand then shakes it "It's fine. I'm just glad to see a friend again…"
Time Skip
"Awww! We can't hang?" Senna pouts deeply, her head hangs low and disappointment shows clear on her face. Currently the young girl along with her sister, Akame, Misako, Wendy, and Nawin are standing in the courtyard. The school just finished and lots of students are exiting the building and begin leaving through the courtyard while others are getting prepared to head to their afterschool clubs.
Nawin gives an apologetic smile "I'm sorry but I have a club activity today, so I won't be able to hangout with you" he informs and Senna once again pouts while Momo gives a curious look "What club do you join, Nawin-san?" "The Occult Club that's run by Rias. It's an exclusive club so only selected individuals can join" he said and adds in the last part to give a hint to the sibling that they can't freely join. "Alright," Senna nods to herself and regain that bright smile "We can hangout another time then!" "Of course, how about Friday?" he suggests "Friday? Why not the weekend?" Senna question, blinking and tilt her head "This weekend I'll be busy with some personal matters" "Oh, I see" she replies with a nod, 'It must be about Akeno's birthday! He's probably going to go fetch her gift.'
"You are also part of the Occult club, Akame?" Momo ask and receive a nod "Yes, I'm in both Kendo and Occult club" "Wow, you must be busy" "I don't mind it" Akame reply with a shrug, standing beside her king. "We have to go now" Nawin starts, looking at Senna and Momo before turning to Misako and Wendy "You four have fun and I'll see you all tomorrow" he said and turns around to head to the Occult building with Akame.
Misako turns to the sibling "Shall we go to my place?" she suggests "Sounds good! Let's go" Senna replies, grinning in excitement. The four girls start walking down the stairs and head to the gate. Misako glance to the right to look at Nawin and Akame one more time before focusing back to her friends.
Occult Building
"So," Issei drops on the couch, sited next to Kokoro "Why did the contract took so long, Senpai?" he ask, turning to the Himejima, who is comfortably sited on a couch placed at the other side. Akeno takes a sip of tea that she prepared and place it down on the table before looking up to see everyone staring at her, waiting for an answer.
"Well," Akeno starts "We ran into some issues… The contract was called by a Major of a small town not far from here named Sengoni. His son was murdered by a fully matured Succubus." "Succubus?!" Elise exclaims in surprise "They are a very cunning and dangerous creatures" "You are correct, that's why even Nawin-kun was having a hard time tracking her down. The succubus we were hunting was smart. She used her mind control ability to lead us into death ends. Brain washing civilians to giving us false leads" "So, what did you two do to catch it?" Xenovia question. "Nawin-kun used himself as bait" Rias speaks, turning to Akeno "You are certainly correct, Rias" "Wow, nice one, Rias!" Issei praise his lover, who smile in response before turning back to the Himejima "Succubus loves their victims being an attractive person. So, Nawin-kun was the perfect bait" "And did he killed or captured her?" Yuuto ask "The Mayor ordered us to avenge his son and keep his town safe, so it was killed" Akeno answers.
The door suddenly opens, and the group turn to see Akame entering follow by Nawin, who shuts the door behind and takes a sit on the couch next to his lover while Akame stood by his side, like a Knight guarding their King. "Was the battle with the Succubus challenging, Nawin?" Riser asks "I'd caught her off-guard. The whole time we spend in town I never used my power to indicate myself of a big threat, so she probably thought I was just a harmless detective and came out to get me. She noticed when stopping in front of me, sensing my mana and figured out that I was a devil, but before she got the chance to escaped I took care of her" he replies, calmly.
"Well," Rias grasps her hands together and offer the two a smile "The important thing is that you two got back safe and you completed the contract. Well done" "Thanks, Rias" Akeno reply with a smile while Nawin simply closes his eyes and nod. "Do you have anything planned for us, Buchou?" Asia asks, tilting her head "No, there's nothing that are in need of our attention" Rias replies, taking off her glasses and place it on the desk "To be truthful… It's going to be a quiet couple of months for all of us."
"I have no complaints" Nawin speak up, laying his head down on the couch and release a soft sigh "After what we all been through. Events after events, battles after battles… I think we all deserve a long break and just focus on completing contract and attending school." "With all this free time in your hands, it would be a perfect time to catch up with some manga and games, right?" Akeno question, turning to her beloved "True, and hopefully Rias won't steal anymore of my manga" Nawin comment, turning to the blushing Gremory while the others chuckle in amuse.
"Well," Rias speaks, catching everyone's attention "Let's not forgot we are near midterm, so there will be long exams for us in a month or two time." "Oh god," both Issei and Riser immediately groans "Gonna have to study hard for that" Ravel comment, smirking at the two boys dismay. "You boys better study or it'll affect your grades and you might end up being pulled back while the rest moves up to the next Year" Kokoro state, looking straight at Issei and Riser "Why are you only saying that to us?!" Issei reply, offended "Because Yuuto and Nawin-senpai actually have good grades" Xenovia points out.
Issei turns to his best friend "Hey, Nawin… Can you do me a favor?" the Makasha opens his eyes and turn "That would be?" "Stop being good at everything… It's making me look bad" he replies and many laughs. "Anyway," Rias smile at all her friends "That's all for today's meeting. There's really not much to discuss other than welcoming back Nawin and Akeno from their contract."
Time Skip: Night
"Hey, Azazel! Get your ass off the couch and help gather the plates. You ate with us" Yao's voice suddenly booms from the house "I'm full… I need to relax, or I might throw up, Yao" a groaning voice reply "Perhaps a little lightning send to your stomach shall help you digest the food quicker?" Akeno's soothing and chilling voice joins in "Ehh! Alright, I'll help."
The back door of the house opens and Sairis jumps out, landing on the soft grass of the backyard. Nawin steps out of the house and quickly shuts the door to not let the mosquitos in. "Well," he smiles, kneeling to pet the young Pomsky on the head "Go do your business, Sairis" he utters, and she barks back to him then turns around to head deeper into the yard. Nawin stands up and walk near to two large trees planted on the right side of the yard. A black hammock is tied between the trees, using it as stands. Nawin takes a sit on the hammock and lays completely down on it, proceeding to stare at the starry sky night.
The Makasha sigh in content when feeling the cool breeze blow past him. After a minute of just enjoying the view, he looks down at the necklace, staring at the mini red colored broadsword laid on his chest. "Guess it's time…" he utters and gently picks up the mini sword then start adding his mana into it. The broadsword starts glowing brightly for a few seconds then it dims.
"Hello?" a voice comes from the sword, it glows when the voice speaks. A small smile form on Nawin's face when hearing the familiar fierce and smooth voice "Hello… Erza" he greets "… Well, well, if it isn't the Black Flash" Erza's reply and Nawin can just picture a big smirk on her face by the tone she's using. He chuckles "Good to hear from you again" "Yes, it's been a while. How have you been? From what I've been hearing, you have been quite busy" "You heard right, but I rather not discussed about that" "Understandable. So, not like I don't mind, in fact I'm glad that you called, but what is the reason?"
Nawin looks up the sky "I was wondering if we can meet up?" "Hahaha, you sure picked a good time because I and Jellal just finished our bounty yesterday, so we are free for the time being" "Perfect, can we meet in Vesarima on Friday night?" "No problem. Why exactly do you want this meeting?" "I need your help with something. You and Jellal have been all over the underworld, right? Being bounty hunters would send you guys to all kinds of places, so you must be familiar with the lands" "You think correct" "Great, that's what I need to hear. I'll tell you the reason for this meeting when we meet in person" "Alright then. Is that all?" "Yes, see you, Erza" "Sounds great, can't wait to see you again, Nawin" with that said the light around the red broadsword disappears, signaling the connection is cut.
Nawin drops the sword back on his chest and continue to relax on the hammock for several minutes until he hears footsteps from the side. Nawin turn and smile when seeing Saris happily skipping her way back to him. "You done, girl?" he asks, dropping his legs to the ground to sit on the hammock. The Pomsky barks and is pick up by the Makasha and place on his lap. Sairis barks and stands up, leaning its paws on Nawin's chest and proceeds to lick his chin, allowing a chuckle to escape from the boy's mouth.
"Yeah, it's good that we get to spend some time together, girl" Nawin reply and softly stroke the Pomsky on its head. 'Seems like Asia and Mom has been taking good care of her' Nawin notes, feeling the soft and clean fur on his hand, showing that its been daily and carefully groomed.
Nawin hears another footstep coming from the front, causing him to look up and see Rias walking out of the shadows, dressed in a sleeveless white nightgown. Nawin raise an eyebrow "Isn't it a bit early for a nightgown?" "I just showered, plus it's comfortable to wear" Rias reply with a smile, though the Makasha quickly notice that it's a bit forced, telling him that something is wrong. Nawin slowly gets off the hammock and stands up, holding Siris on his right arm.
Rias stare at the Makasha's attire. He is dressed in a long-sleeve brown button shirt and just as she expected, he leaves a few buttons open to expose his chest and for the bottom, he wears long gray sweatpants. "Do you always have to look good?" Rias asks with a smile, but this one is more normal like she's trying to settle the air around them. "I'm not trying to" Nawin reply in honest, shrugging.
"So," he starts, looking the Gremory in the eyes "Is there a reason you are here?" "There actually is…" she answers with hesitant and lets out a shaky sigh. "What's wrong, Rias?" Nawin asks, seeing the tenseness in the Gremory's shoulder. Rias looks up at the person she considers a brother, staring him straight in the eyes "Nawin… There's something important I want to discuss."
Next Chapter: Catching Up, Meeting With The Hunters!