Hope you all enjoy the latest chapter, Readers! ^.^
The radiant yellow sun shines brightly on the town of Kuoh, casting lights on the roads and buildings. It's near noon, and the prestigious Kuoh Academy will ring its bell for lunch at any given moment. However, there's two individual that are missing, two popular individuals that every student noticed have not entered the school early this morning. Those two individuals are Rias Gremory and Akeno Himejima.
Heading to the west side at the edge of Kuoh. Shows a large abandoned house built in the middle of a dense forest, away from civilization, shielding from the sun's bright light by the tree's leaves. By appearance, the house exudes an ominous aura around it. Like a dangerous creature lurks inside it. A sound of shattering sudden booms out of the house followed by thudding footsteps.
"Well, this wasn't how I imagined my morning to be..." a deadpan voice remarks, a voice belonging to no other than Rias Gremory, who currently finds herself ensnared by a spider web that's glued onto a wooden wall. Her shining turquoise eyes watch a voluptuous young woman with long black hair striding towards her. However, this woman isn't walking on standard human feet; instead, her whole lower body was a gigantic eighth legged thing that resembles that of a widow spider.
The spider woman gets right in the Gremory's face, hissing and glaring at her with hatred in those red eyes. "You stupid pureblood devil! I'll enjoy eating an heiress such as you, Rias Gremory" she screeches, her razor-sharp teeth bare "Sorry," Rias wears a smirk "The only one that gets to eat me is my lover" she replies, which serve to anger the stray devil.
Before the spider woman can sink her teeth on the Gremory's flesh, an explosion erupts from the right that makes her snap her head in the direction. Pill of planks and pieces of furniture is sent flying away and emerging from the dust is Akeno "Ara, ara, what a naughty joke, Rias" she teases, giggling and gets a response of a wink from her best friend. The stray devil hiss and extends her mouth hideously wide to fire out spider webs to the Himejima.
Akeno lifts her right arm and discharges a short range lightning blast that vaporizes the webs with ease. "Akeno," Rias calls out "Yes?" "It's nearing lunch time so we should wrap this up. We spent much time hunting her down" "It's already noon? Explains why I miss Nawin-kun so much" "You always do when he's not with you" "Ufufufu, true, but he got back late last night and was tired, so we didn't get much time to catch up" "Yeah, same with Issei" Rias nod "He just passed out the moment he hits the bed. Then, us two had to leave earlier this morning, so I didn't even get to chat with him… I'm wondering if he's even in school. Good chance that's he is sleeping in bed sti—" "SHUT UP!" the stray devil shrieks in anger, glaring at the Gremory then to the Himejima "You bitches dare ignore me!"
"Oh?" Akeno finally turns her head to the spider woman "Sorry if you feel so left out," she apologizes which serve to enrage the woman more. With a screech, the stray devil charge toward the Himejima with killing intent. Akeno flicks her wrist to rain down thunder strikes from above, but the stray proves to be considerably agile and starts hopping around, avoiding all the deathly bolts. When in range, the stray devil brings one of its feet forward, kicking the Himejima with much force that it sends her blasting onto the wall, bouncing off it then collapse face-first onto the ground.
The stray grin menacingly and slowly returns to the Gremory "Now you're next!" she shouts and laughs, but the laughter is cut short when she spots the look of unimpressed plastered on her opponent's face. "You may not have faced anyone like Akeno," Rias starts "But what you just did serves to excite her more" "What the hell a—" the stray is interrupted when hearing a sound from behind. She turns and is surprised to see Akeno slowly raising up to her feet, yellow lightning aura crack into life and flows around her "Ara, ara," her head snap up to show those glowing yellow eyes "I hope you have more because I'll be disappointed" she states with a sinister grin that causes cold sweat to roll down the stray's face.
"You, crazy bitch!" the spider woman shouts and thrust two of her sharp legs forward, intending to impale the Himejima. Akeno grin and brings both her arms up in the precise time and catches the feets "G-grhh, let go!" the stray cries, pulling back but couldn't budge from the tight grip "Sure," Akeno reply and release the feet which cause the stray to stumble back a bit. A crimson blast burst from the side and heads underneath the spider woman, passing through her eight legs and utterly vaporizing all of them into nothingness.
"Kyaaaaaa!" a loud shriek erupts in the quiet house followed by a loud thud of the stray's legless body dropped on the ground. "Y-you," the stray manages to utter out through the pain, biting her lip so hard to stop screaming in anguish to the point blood start leaking out. She glares harshly at the right, watching the heiress walking towards her "You think a simple web is going to hold me?" Rias question, raising an eyebrow "As the Princess of the Gremory clan I wield the Power of Destruction… The power that can wipe and destroy anything in existence" she states, stopping a few feet away from the stray, crossing her arms underneath her chest.
Akeno stops beside her friends, staring at the grimacing stray. "Curse you two," the stray spat in hatred "You are wanted for massacring the village of Vilgrant," Rias retorts, her eyes sharpen to coldness "You slathered men, women, and children… You are the one that deserves to be cursed" "Hehehe, I enjoyed seeing their terrified faces when I ate them," the stray state, grinning in bloodlust.
Rias's fingers twitch at the comment while Akeno's expression darkens. Both girls extend their right arm up and discharge their signature attack. Rias releasing a blast of destruction while Akeno unloads a beam of lightning. With both attacks hitting her, the stray stood no chance, and all she can do is screech in rage as her body slowly disintegrates into nothingness by the blasts.
Seeing there's nothing left of the stray, Rias and Akeno dispel their attack, lowering their arm to the side. "Huh," the Gremory sighs, shaking her head "Good thing we were informed about this stray before she could repeat what happened in Vilgrant here" "Yeah," Akeno nods. "Thankfully we don't have any eyewitnesses from the human," "Indeed," Rias smile in relief "That would be trouble, but not something a little mind erase can't fix."
Rias reach into the skirt's pocket to pull out her phone, tapping the screen to open the display to check on the time "We got a few minutes before lunch starts" "Then lets head to the Academy," Akeno comments, ready to activate the teleportation. Rias returns her phone into the pocket "Before that," she asserts, sniffing herself then Akeno, which earns her a weird look from the other girl "Let's head to the Occult building and have a quick shower... Also, a change to a new uniform before we are seen on the campus" "Ara, ara, worry about your reputation of being perfect damaged?" Akeno teases and gets a smirk from the Gremory "A bit, but you wouldn't want Nawin-kun to catch that stanch on you, would you?" "Touché" Akeno reply before summoning the teleportation and the two disappears in crimson sparkles.
Hyoudou's Household
Snoring loudly on the bed with his arms and legs spread to the sides like a baby is Issei Hyoudou, still asleep after an exhausting journey. The blanket no longer covers him because of it all the twirling around he created while in slumber, now it hangs by the right edge of the bed. The blinds on the windows are lifted open, but even the sunlight entering the room hasn't woken up the snoozing boy.
A sudden knock on the window emits in the room and cause the Hyoudou's face to twitch but is unsuccessful to wake him up. Instead, he rolls over and continues snoring. The knock repeats, and this time it is louder which successfully gets a groan out from the boy on the bed, but still not to get him to open his eyes.
The window's glass suddenly shatters by the third hard knock, and instantly, Issei snaps his eyes open and shoots up to his feet, summoning the boosted gear on his right hand in alertness. "Who's that!" he shouts, eyes snap to the window, and it widens considerably when it is met with a familiar intimidating dark figure standing on the roof, looking at him those glowing yellow orbs with slit pupils. A big smile breaks out of Issei's face "Hunter-sensei!" he exclaims, jumping out of the bed while the boosted gear shatters into red shards and disappears from existence. The Hyoudou utterly ignores that his teacher just broke his window glass because of how happy and excited he is at seeing her once again, a situation he honestly didn't expect to happen.
Hunter catches this and raise an eyebrow in amuse but decided to not comment about it since her time is limited. "How you feeling?" she questions, her tone is as stoic as possible that would give Nawin a run for his money, so Issei finds it impossible to tell if she really cares for his wellbeing or is just being courtesy and ask. "Well," Issei scratch the back of his head, grinning sheepishly "I feel quite exhausted. You were right about it taking a huge toll on my body when I unleashed that stored power in my eye" "I hope you used it for a good purpose, Issei" Hunter insert, her eyes scanning the Hyoudou's eyes. "Of course, I did!" he exclaims, trying to match stares with the Archdevil "Nawin was hurt and his life was at risk! I unleashed it to save my best friend!" "… Very well."
Issei takes a deep breath, calming down. He looks at the floor to see the shattered glass sprinkle around, just in front of him "Did you honestly have to break my window?" he questions, returning his head up "I knocked three times. It was clear you weren't waking up unless I take drastic action" "I get that b—" "Enough," Hunter cuts in, not interested in small talks, and Issei immediately gets the message, zipping his mouth shut to listen.
"I didn't come here to chitchat. I came here to check on you and the other reason being to warn you" Hunter starts, turning her head to look at the horizon "W-what's the warning?" Issei asks, having a bad feeling "I've spotted the Akumi roaming near Clayborg… A village that I've heard you passed by a couple of days ago" she reveals.
Issei freeze in shock, cold sweats start producing around his forehead. The picture of Kitomi and her crazed gold slit eyes appear in his mind followed by her partner, the woman who shares a resemblance with Akeno. Hunter returns her head forward and sees her student's scared expression. "They are tailing you, but they are taking their sweet time which means capturing you isn't an urgent assignment… Not yet" she states, making Issei looks up, staring her in the eyes "But, that won't last forever and Issei when they do come for you with the full intent they will succeed in capturing you. It's only a matter of when."
"B-but you can stop them, right?" Issei questions in desperate "I can't always be by your side protecting you," Hunter retorts in honest "And let's not forget to take in consideration of other members. Those two we encountered aren't the only ones out there. I may be able to face those two, but if more joins in then even I won't be able to stop them. Some SS-class criminals wield power that can match with us Archdevils" "What are you trying to say then?" Issei shouts, emotions going wild "That there's nothing I can do? That I just have to wait until I get taken by them?" "No, I'm telling you to grow the hell up and continue training, and stop acting, so pathatic" Hunter retorts.
"Right now, you wouldn't even give my right arm a challenge," Hunter declare and the comment cause rage to burn inside the Hyoudou. Summoning the boosted gear, Issei leaps forward and swing the gauntlet forward to the Archdevil's face. Hunter draws her right arm up and swipes the gauntlet away with so much force it shatters while sending Issei blasting back inside, colliding into the wall before dropping to his knees.
"That's me trying to control my power so I wouldn't accidentally end up killing your sorry ass," Hunter assert, staring down at the panting Hyoudou, watching him gripping his shaking right arm, gritting his teeth in pain "Well, I don't care how much you hold back!" he shouts, snapping his head up to show the glowing emerald eyes burning in determination "I'll just train my ass off until I can hit you and until I can beat all the Akumi!"
Hearing this brings a smirk on Hunter's face, "I like the sound of that…" she whispers, confusing the Hyoudou as his eyes slowly revert to brown, his expression calms "W-what?" "You got the guts and fire, Issei" she states, turning around to have her back facing "I am still on a mission for Sirzech, but when the time comes I will plan on continue training you" "Y-you will?" Issei stands up, a grin makes way to his face "You mean I am really officially your student?" "That is how it goes" she replies and hears the Hyoudou cheering from behind, jumping around in joy.
Hunter glances back and pauses when noticing a picture frame placed on a stand beside the bed. It's the picture that was taken in the occult building on the day Xenovia joined Rias's peerage. The Archdevil's slit pupils narrow when her sight sets on the view of a happy Issei slinging his arm around the grumpy Nawin. She scans the Makasha's face then moves down to look at his neck, staring at the Draconic Mark.
"There's one more matter," the Archdevil speaks up, stopping the celebrating Hyoudou as he lands back on the ground, blinking and turns to her "Yeah?" "Keep caution around Nawin Makasha" she advises. Hearing this caught Issei wholly off-guard and before he could inquire more, Hunter disappears in yellow sparkles, indicating she has teleported to the underworld.
Issei stood still, looking out of the window and taking in the bright view of the neighborhood. Hunter's last words reply in his mind like a recorder "What does she mean by that?" he utters, unable to hide this bad and ominous feeling creeping in the back of his mind.
Kuoh Academy
Lunch has just begun, and many students are already in the cafeteria to fetch the food being served. Many are content to just eat in the loud and cluttering assembly. One person that's not ideal for that kind of environment is Nawin, who is currently sited on one of the many stone tables set on the school's ground. However, he wasn't alone. With him are Akame, Misako, Wendy, Senna, and Momo who have all decided to join him while the rest didn't bring in their lunch so are forced to eat in the cafeteria.
Nawin took a seat on the left bench with Akame and Misako occupied the sides while Senna, Momo, and Wendy made space on the opposite side. All have their lunch boxes out and currently eating in a much more peaceful environment that they will not obtain in the noisy cafeteria.
"Man," Senna shakes her head, sighing "It's anxious whenever I watch Riser, and the Teacher starts arguing… I swear there's going to be a fistfight one day" "If that comes to past I will be more worried for the Teacher" Momo inserts, chewing on some salad "Riser seems like a tough guy and has experience in fighting" "He does," Akame assert while cutting a large slice of steak and brings it to her mouth.
Momo takes notice of the crazy amount of cooked meat in Akame's lunch box. The plastic box is utterly filled with a piece of steak, three sausages, two chicken wings, and a piece of cut loin. "Akame," she calls out in a gentle tone "Hmm?" the Knight perk, glancing at her "Is it good to eat that much… Meat? Now that I've noticed you always have meat for lunch" she comments.
Akame shrugs, swallowing the slice of steak "It gives me strength and are delicious, so I eat as much as I want" "There are lots of protein in there," Momo notes, studying the lunch box. "If you are worried about Akeno not having greens in her eating routine then know that she tends to have those as shakes, Momo" Nawin informs "Ah, I see."
"She's just a big fan of MEAT!" Senna exclaims with a saucy smirk, indicating a sexual undertone behind the comment which everyone catches and garner chuckles around the table while Akame sends a playful glare at the giggling girl. "N-nawin," Wendy softly calls out "Yeah?" "What i-is your gift for Akeno?" she questions and immediately, the rest of the girls turn to the Makasha, very curious by the mysterious gift that he hasn't uttered a word about. Nawin wears a warm smile "Sorry, Wendy, but I prefer to keep that a secret until the birthday" "Aww," Senna pouts, not like being kept in the dark while Wendy smile in understanding "It's ok."
Misako nibbles on some sweet buns that her mother had prepared for her. She sneaks a glance to the right, watching the Makasha quietly and modestly eating his lunch with eyes closed. Misako starts blushing a bit, her heart rate increases slightly and is forced to look away. The pink-haired girl moves forward only to catch Wendy staring and gives knowing smile, furthering embarrassing her. Misako turns to the right and lets out a soft gasp at the scene unfolding in the distance.
Nawin slowly opens his eyes when hearing the gasp "Something wrong?" he questions, turning his head toward the Ichiru "U-um there seems to be a fight starting… Xenovia-chan is involved" she answers, and immediately, everyone's eyes move toward the front of the school to examine the scene.
Standing just outside of the main building of the Academy is Xenovia with Yuuto by her side while on the other end is Ivory with the twins behind her. Xenovia is openly glaring at the platinum-haired beauty, who responded with a compose and collective eyes, not taking threat or concern by the fierce expression she is receiving. Some students that are outside already taking notice of the scene and are whispering around, anxious that the two girls may come to blows.
"Xenovia…" Yuuto whispers, feeling the anger generating from his friend's body "Calm down… It's not worth fighting over it. At least not in the middle of school, it will only cause trouble" "Aww," one of the twins jumps in, smirking tauntingly "Need your boyfriend to pick your fight?" "Ivory is right; you really are feeble" the other one continues. Xenovia growls, her eyes glint in rage "A hothead, aren't you?" Ivory remarks and that set the Quarta off.
Charging forward, Xenovia screams and rakes her right arm forward, aiming it at the taller girl's face. Ivory counter by casually lifting her right arm out of the jacket's pocket to catch the incoming fist, then with the strength that surprise many, she pulls Xenovia up and tosses her over, dropping her to the ground from behind. Grunting, the Quarta shoots up to her feet and about to continue when a voice interrupts her "Stop," those deep and calm voice makes itself known.
Xenovia turns to see Nawin standing by the side with Akame next to him. "S-senpai," she utters "Don't let yourself be agitated by such weak provokes, Xenovia" he replies, "You're better than that." Hearing those words coming from a man she respects promptly sets Xenovia to relax, clearing the anger in her body and lets out a sigh "Yeah… You're right," she said, opening her eyes and gives a smile "Thanks, Senpai" "No problem."
Nawin turns when feeling an eye staring holes at him and sees it coming from Ivory. "Let me advice you and your friends not to provoke my friends during school" he asserts "If you want to settle your differences away from school then be my guess, but not during school time." Ivory's finger twitches by the tone the Makasha used when addressing her, talking to her like she's some child.
Ivory takes a few rapid steps forward and when in range fire a right jab to the Makasha. Nawin sees this coming and raises his right arm to catch the girl's fist in his palm, clapping his fingers around her hand to keep it in place. Everyone around stare in shock, surprise the girl would strike the Makasha, who holds a reputation of being an excellent and skilled fighter in the school.
The tranquil brown eyes clash with the cold blue eyes while the sounds of skin crushing against one another are the only thing heard in the speechless scenario. Ivory suddenly pulls a move that catches Nawin off-guard, she brings her other hand out of her pockets and places it on his chest, pushing him forward while sliding her left leg under his to send him off his footing.
The two comes crashing down on the grass ground. Nawin lands on the back with Ivory mounting above him. He looks up with a look of slight surprise when examining the platinum-haired girl's left fist is resting inches above from his face. Everyone that is watching is speechless, witnessing a delinquent able to get the higher ground against the Dark Prince.
Not even a second later, Ivory feels a tight grip clump down her right shoulder, and before she can counter, the person harshly pulls her off the Makasha. The tall girl is sent barreling away, but she quickly regains footing by backflipping and lands on feet, slowing standing back up. She stares forward, seeing Akame was the one that pulled her away. The Knight gives a warning glare at the platinum-haired girl before turning around to help her King up to his feet.
Nawin gives a nod of appreciation to Akame before releasing her hand and shifts to Ivory "Not bad," he compliments, which surprise many and earns a raise of the eyebrow from the delinquent. Deciding not to give a reply, Ivory turns around, stuffing her hands back in the jacket's pocket, and walks away with the twins quickly following her, but not before the two turns around to give a wink at the Makasha.
In the distance, sitting on the edge of the tallest building in the area that shows an entire view of Kuoh Academy. The person sited on the top is Noel, who just watched the whole scene unfold with calculative eyes. His sight moves away from Nawin Makasha to the departing Ivory "Hmm," he hums in a melodic tone "I sense tremendous potential in her and even though it was a fluke… She did get the upper hand against Nawin Makasha, so there is talent in her."
Noel's body starts withering away into white feathers; his gold eyes shine "Should keep her in mind. I need to be attentive on this assignment, or I'll risk angering Mistress Sayomi" he notes before completely disappearing into feathers that glide through the air.
Time Skip
The moment the last bell of the day rings at the Academy. Inside the Senior Year Three classroom, the room teacher just left and leaves the door open wide on his way out. The first to shoot up from their desk is Rias, and she immediately bolts to Nawin, snatching his right wrist and pulls him up. Then, he is drag out of the classroom in a rapid speed that leaves everyone inside dumbfounded.
At the end of the hallway, Rias release Nawin's wrist and grins, turning around to only be met with a dark glare from the boy. "What the hell…" he slowly utters, but the Gremory didn't flinch by the tone or the glare and instead beams with a joyful grin on her face. "Now, Nawin-kun, don't be upset!" she starts, wiggling her index finger in front of his face "What I need you to do next is be a good Little brother and find a way to distract Akeno for a while" "Why?" "Because I am gathering everyone to Issei's house so we can lay out the plan for this weekend surprise birthday!" "Why today?" "Because during the next days we all need to head out and start getting decorations and other stuff along with ordering a custom cake, so its best we start now and not run into any a headache or risk forgetting something in the later dates." "I am glad you are taking her birthday seriously" Nawin admits with a faint smile "Of course I will! She's like my sister" Rias reply with a big grin.
"But," she continues "I also need you at Issei's house since you will play a big part of the plan" "Fine, just let me call, Mom" "Why?" "She can be the on to keep Akeno distracted. The two are bonding well together with cooking and Akeno never decline a new lesson from Mom" "Wow," Rias utters, slightly surprise "She must really love cooking," "Yeah, and she's always excited to cook me the latest dish she learned from Mom" "Hehe, that's sweet." "Mhm-hmm" Nawin hums, tapping on his mother's contact and hold the phone to his ear.
Nawin waits for her to pick up and while doing so, he leans to the side and scan inside the classroom, seeing Akeno done putting away her textbooks in her bag and now heading to his desk to do the same for him which cause a warm smile to form on his lip. The line finally picks up, and a familiar warm and caring tone greets Nawin "Hey, sweetheart" "Hey, Mom," Nawin reply with a smile "I need a favor, but before telling you I got to know if you are currently free?" "I am just sitting in the living room and watching some Netflix" "Alright, so I want you to call Akeno for another one of the cooking lessons you are teaching her" "Ok, I don't mind doing that since we always have a good time and I love teaching her, but can I ask why this request all of a sudden?" "Rias is holding a meeting plan for Akeno's birthday, so I along with the rest have to attend. Since this birthday is being a surprise one means Akeno have to be—" "Completely oblivious to everything involving it," Yao finish "Understood, leave it to me" "Thanks Mom," "No problem!" with that she quickly hangs up to no doubt contact Akeno.
Rias and Nawin peek inside the classroom and sees Akeno picking up the Makasha's bag and was about to turn around toward the door but pause when her phone suddenly rings. She reaches to her schoolbag and pulls the phone out, pressing answer then brings it to her ear. "Hello?" "Ah, Yao, what do I owe the pleasure" "Oh, you want to teach a special dish today?" "One of Nawin-kun's favorite meal?" Akeno repeats, her eyes sparkles, clearly excited.
Rias giggles at this, finding it adorable while Nawin smile affectionately, finding it very heartwarming to see the Himejima caring so much for him to go as far being this excited to learn to cook him his favorite dish. "Of course!" Akeno nods, grinning "I'll head home immediately! Do you want me to pick up any ingredients along the way?" "… Just some mince beef?" "Understood, I'll stop by a grocery store and pick those up. See you in a few minutes."
Rias and Nawin quickly and quietly head back to the hallway to wait for the Himejima to pop out from the classroom. Not even a minute later she exits the room and turn to them, smiling brightly "What was the rush, Rias?" she question, looking at her friend "Oh, I just wanted to ask Nawin-kun if he got the latest issue of a manga I wanted to read" "I see," Akeno nods then turns to her lover, giving a loving smile that's only reserved for him "Nawin-kun, I'll be heading home early today for another cooking lessons from your Mother. I hope you don't mind" "We can hang out later, so don't worry" Nawin waves away, offering a reassure smile "Go enjoy yourself, I know how much you enjoy learning new recipes from Mom."
Akeno walks forward to give the Makasha a quick kiss while handing over his bag. "See you later!" she said before turning around and elegantly walks toward the staircase at the other end of the hallway. "Wow, that actually went well" Rias comment, impressed "I was honestly worried it would be a challenge considering she's always by your side" "I know her well" Nawin replies and start walking forward "Come on, let's go fetch the rest" "Right!"
Time Skip: Hyoudou's Household
"What the hell…" Riser utters, eyebrow twitches in annoyance at what he sees while the rest in the living room watch at the scene with entertainment. The group just arrived at the house and entered the living room then the next thing to greet them is Issei snoozing on the couch in the living room, snoring loudly.
"He really must be exhausted," Rias notes, and watches Elise takes the Hyoudou's jaw and start moving it up and down. "Hey guys," she mimics Issei's voice while moving his mouth in sync. The act causes lots to burst out giggling or chuckling. "No, that's not Hyoudou," Riser state, smirking and moves the Princess's hands away to take his turn "It's more like," Riser quietly hums, trying to warm his throat to mimic the Hyoudou "Boobies!" he exclaims, snapping the sleeping boy's jaws up and down.
"Ahahahaha!" everyone burst out laughing. All the loud laughter immediately sets Issei awake, and he screams when the first thing to greet his vision is the smirking face of Riser. "What the hell!" he shouts, slapping the Phenex's hand away from his jaw and jumps over the couch, landing behind it "I am not into you!" he yells, pointing "The hell you talking about!" Riser retorts, disgust by the comment "Like hell I'll ever kiss you! I'd rather die than do that" "Well the feeling is mutual!"
"A-alright," Rias tries to compose herself, able to turn the laughter into giggles "Stop fighting you two" she affirms, "Yeah, just kiss and makeup" Kokoro suggest with a smirk and immediately gets a glare from both boys "Like hell!" they shout in union and returns to glaring at one another. Nawin shakes his head, sighing in a headache "Always on each other's throat" he whispers "Always?" Senna asks, tilting her head "Always" Akame confirm.
Rias claps her hands to gain everyone's attention "Listen up, we should get to the reason why I brought us all here" "Yeah," Issei scratch his head, looking at the pool of people in his house "What's going on?" "The reason why we are all here is that I want to go through the planning for this Saturday. This Saturday being Akeno's birthday of course" "Oh, right," Issei slowly nods while getting an unimpressed look from his Queen "He already has forgotten," She state, shaking her head.
"I hope the plan won't be excessively complicated?" Ravel question "Not at all," Rias reassures "The plan is rather simple, but what I want to discuss is all of us taking part on buying the necessary things over the next days until the due date." Xenovia nod "So we need to get the decorations," "The foods," Momo insert "The desserts," Misako adds with a big grin, "And the cake," Yuuto finish while Rias nod along "Exactly."
"Best thing to do is everyone split into groups to receives all these essentials during the weekdays" Nawin advises, crossing his arms and comfortably leans back on the wall "That will make things easier," Rias agrees and begins scanning everyone in the room. Cutely sticking her tongue out, the Gremory starts formulating groups in her mind that will be suited for each task.
After a minute, Rias roll her tongue back and smirk "Got it, here's the plan!" she shouts and abruptly points at Misako, causing the poor girl to squeak in surprise "Misako, you shall oversee decorations!" 'Oh boy,' from behind, Nawin sweatdrops a bit, knowing the taste of the Ichiru by being in her room several times 'Hopefully she won't go full cuteness and able to balance it with the birthday theme.' "Elise, Wendy, and Ravel-chan! You three will be accompanying Misako with the task" Rias informs, and the two girls give nods while the young Phenex doesn't look at all thrill by the plan "Why am I in a group with people I am not affiliated well with?" she asks boldly "Because the group needs your elegant taste, Ravel-chan" Rais reply sweetly, giving a wink "You can make this birthday party look royally" she state.
Riser silently chuckle when witnessing the Gremory playing with his sister, trying to sweet talk her into agreeing with the plan. A significant prideful smirk form on Ravel's face "Ah, I see, if that is the case then I will be delighted to lend my hands since you three will sorely need it" she states. From behind, the group can spot Koneko silently doing a gagging motion which causes many to quietly sniggers though the young Phenex didn't catch that, too busy in her little world.
Smirking in victory, Rias tends to look for the next person in charge for foods category, but before she could open her mouth, someone cuts in. "Akame shall be in charge of the foods," Nawin inserts "Oh," Rias blinks then nod "Alright, I trust in your decision, Nawin-kun." "The people that will be joining her are Senna, Momo, Xenovia, and Kokoro" "Sounds good," Senna nods vigorously, showing excitement "We won't let you down" Momo assert "Yeah, we'll throw in the best dishes" Xenovia insert "Leave it to us," Kokoro assert, casually giving a thump up.
"Start listing all the dishes that should be there and when Friday comes you girls go fetch all the ingredients and leave it at my house. When Saturday rolls around then come over and begin cooking, also, my Mom will lend you all a hand, so bring her in on the plan, got it?" "Understood," Akame nods. "Moreover," Nawin leans close to his Knight and whispers "Put some variety and not just meat, alright?" he advises and pulls back to see a fluster look on the Knight before she nods "I-I'll keep a reminder."
Seeing that is handled, Rias turn to the rest "For desserts," She smiles sweetly when turning to a certain Rook "Koneko-chan, you shall be overseeing that" "Mhm-hmm," the young girl gives an adorable salute "Joining you in this task shall be Asia-chan, Gasper-kun, and Wendy-chan." "Huh," Riser snickers "Leave the desserts to all the young and cute ones, ain't that sweet of you, Rias" he teases and gets a blank stare in return "Want to join them?" "Oh, don't even think about it," he retorts with a glare "Good," Rias smirk "Then zip it" she instructs which cause Issei to chuckle in glee.
"Now," Rias claps her hands then rest them on her hip "That leaves you three," she moves to Issei, Yuuto, then Riser "You boys shall be in charge of helping the girls carrying all these stuff. Each of you shall split into the three groups and do your dues on aiding" "Really," Issei groan "Lifting work" "We don't really have much to contribute in those categories" Yuuto notes in honest "You make us sound pathetic" Riser insert, not liking it one bit. "Wait," Issei blinks and turns to the last male in this room "What about Nawin? What is his role in this?" "He and I will be dealing with the cake" Rias answers "Since both of us knows Akeno best, we shall head to the bakery to see what cake would suit her perfectly" "You two are the most logical people here to fetch the correct cake for Akeno-senpai" Yuuto state, agreeing with his King's plan.
Rias grin and turn to everyone "So, all of you know your roles?" she asks "Yep/Yes!" all reply either with their voices or a nod "Good, now let's get to work!"
Capital of Fallen Angel Faction: Grago
As always, Grago, the Capital of the faction of Fallen Angel is loomed under the gritty and dark sky with dense gray clouds hovering over the city of stable buildings. Cold rains currently befall in the Capital, which is common around these parts of the land.
Heading more in-depth into the high-technological city shows a tall skyscraper build right in the center of the Capital. The two hundred meters tall skyscraper holds a hundred floors. Hundreds of bright windows can be seen in the far distance while a fair share of other windows remains dark, meaning the rooms or offices are not currently in use. Red and purple neon lights strips are drawn on the center of the building, the word written on it is 'Regime' and at the bottom of those letters is a massive and bright display that shows the current time and latest news that's happening in Grego.
This spectacle building is called 'Blades Eye,' a place where the most powerful and wealthiest family resides. Governments, Generals, and selected Captains also have their living space in this building, but some only lives here if they felt like it, with their central homes being elsewhere for private basis. This building is also known for having the Leader of the Fallen Angel, Azazel living and working here.
In the highest level of the Blades Eye's is a whole floor that belongs to Azazel. A place where he lives, works, and sleeps. One of the elevators is currently heading up, its destination is the hundredth floor, more explicitly leading to the Fallen Angel's Leader's office.
The office of Azazel is a spacious and shadowy room that's only brightened by a single large silver magic light hovering still at the center of the ceiling. Many bookcases placed at the sides, leaning on the dark gray painted walls. A blood-red carpet is set over the floor. A long black metal table is laid at the center of the room with many things cluttering on it. Computers, papers, and empty cups are littered on the table. Behind the desk, at the back of the room shows a astonish clear view of Grago through the massive transparent mirror.
Sited on a large, comfy leather chair is Azazel, who currently holds a black pen on his right hand, using it to sign some documents laid in front of him. This task comes to a halt when a notification beep rings from one of the computers that force the Fallen Angel to shift and look at the security feed camera on the elevator that shows his visitor, displaying on the computer's screen. Recognizing who it is, Azazel reaches his left arm out to hit the enter button, allowing the guest in.
The elevator's door opens in front of the room, casting brilliant lights in to brighten the dark room a bit before returning to normal when the doors shut. Azazel finishes the last documents before placing the pen down and looks up at his visitor. The guest is a tall, middle-aged, gruff-looking man with short black hair that matches with his beard. Even though this man is middle-aged, he possesses a muscular and durable body. The man holds a serious expression on his face, just judging by that expression anyone can tell this man is a veteran and experienced warrior, not someone anyone wants to mess with.
The man stops in front of the desk then slowly opens his eyes to reveal two bright violet orbs that match perfectly with another person's eyes that Azazel knows very well. "Azazel…" the man greets in a deep and rough voice "Hello, Baraqiel" the other replies with a faint smile, leaning back on the chair for relaxation "Didn't expect a visit from you. Usually, you would announce in advance when you are coming over" "Yes, but this visit isn't work-related" "Ah, I see."
Azazel rests his left leg over the right, getting entirely comfortable on the chair "I always enjoy your visits. So, what is this about? Rarely do we ever discuss none work-related topic in my office. Usually, that's reserve at the bar" he states and gets a chuckle out of the other man "Indeed, but this matter does carry some importance" "Go ahead," "It's…" Baraqiel halts, trying to find the right words and this does not go missed by Azazel, his eyes slowly narrow, sensing this discussing is leading to something much more severe than he expected.
"Akeno's birthday is coming up" Baraqiel starts, uttering the name of his estranged daughter "Yes," Azazel replies, softly, staring at the digital calendar on his desk "It's this Saturday," "I've got her a gift and contemplating on personally delivering it to her" Baraqiel notifies. "What?!" Azazel sits up; his relax expression change to alarm "You don't need me to tell you that this is a bad idea, Baraqiel! You know what happened last time!" "I—" "No," Baraqiel is taken off-guard by Azazel cutting in so strongly "You aren't ruining this birthday, especially this one" "What do you mean?" "Akeno is content and happy with her life with now. She's open for another birthday and is excited for one. I've been watching all her friends working hard to prep for the birthday and all of that work will go to waste the moment you show up within her sight" "I am her father," "Baraqiel, I know this has been hard on you, but the fact doesn't change that she hates you and I do still blame myself for that" "It's not your fault," "It doesn't change the fact I still feel guilty and in some part responsible for what happened" Azazel firmly assert.
Taking a deep breath, Azazel looks up, staring at one of his oldest friends in the eyes "Let Nawin and the others do their job and throw Akeno the special birthday she sorely needs, Baraqiel" "Nawin?" Baraqiel's expression hardens when repeating that name "That godson of yours" he comments in a stern tone "What of him?" Azazel questions, his eyes steadily narrow "I don't lie to you, Azazel so I'll be frank… I don't trust that boy, and I believe he is a danger to my daughter" he comments in honest.
Azazel remains calm and slowly opens his mouth "What did he do to make you think this way?" "I've seen the footage of the summit meetings a month ago… I've seen what he became, I've seen him almost attacked Akeno" "He wasn't himself" "It doesn't change the fact that he is dangerous and I do not take anything carelessly when it involves my daughter's safety" "Then why haven't you done anything about it?" Azazel questions, looking right in his friend's eyes "Why haven't you personally visited Akeno and tell her this" "… Because I know she would choose him over me" "For a good reason," Azazel adds "You are defending him because he's your godson, I get it, Azazel" "No… you don't get it, Baraqiel."
Azazel stands back and pushes the chair away, his expression morph to anger "I'm going to make this clear to you, Baraqiel. You're not going to Akeno's birthday and what you'll do is hand me over that present. I'll do you a favor and deliver it to her myself, saying it is from you, but that's it, that's all you are going to do involving her birthday. My godson, the one that you just claimed is endangering your daughter just risked his life to receives a gift for your daughter!" he informs with raise voice, stunning the other man "And I am not about to let you ruin that because of your selfish reason! You will get a chance in the future to make amends with her, but it ain't going to be this Saturday."
Baraqiel can only stare with wide eyes at Azazel in silence. He is shocked to see his friend being so against the idea of reconciling since in the past he would always encouraged it. He is shocked to hear that Nawin would risk his life to obtain a present for his daughter. The guilty father is stunned to silence.
Azazel exhales and lowers his head to stare at the desk, "Very well," he looks up when finally getting some response from the man in front "I'll do as you advise," "I didn't mean to be harsh, Baraqiel" Azazel quickly inserts. "I know," the other man gives a reassuring smile "I see you are looking out for her best interests," "I am," "I should also apologize for my comments on your godson… However, did he really risk his life just for a gift?" "He did," Azazel confirms with a smile "The reckless boy traveled through dangerous places to fetch the Lightning Gemstone and got ice shards impaled through his chest and stomach for all the trouble. That's the short version by the way," "I see… Guess he really cares for Akeno" "Trust me, Baraqiel" Azazel assert in confidence "That boy is Akeno's world and you hating him would do you absolutely no good on trying to reconcile with her" "I understand, but I can't give the final judgement until I meet the boy" "You will get your chance in the future that I assure."
Azazel suddenly wears a bright smile "Also, come on! He's my godson, of course, he would be an awesome and smart kid" "He being your godson is what I'm worried about" Baraqiel grunts "He could be some kind of sick pervert" "Wow," Azazel brings his right hand to his chest "That hurts," "At least from what I've seen of him he isn't one of those" "Oh trust me, he isn't" Azazel release his chest and chuckle "His mother will definitely make certain of that" "Yao?" Baraqiel ask, a smile form on his lip when uttering the name "Yeah," "How is she doing?" "She's well. Content with the retiring life" "Glad to hear… It's been so long since I've last met with her" "It sure has…"
Baraqiel turns around, having discussed everything he wanted and is now ready to exit "We'll catch a drink on Friday and I'll hand you over the gift, sounds good?" he questions, glancing back "Sure," Azazel nod "That sounds great," "Alright." Baraqiel heads to the elevator and stops in front, reaching for the button to open the doors, but he halts when inches away from pressing it and return his right arm down.
"Azazel…" Baraqiel calls out, his tone somber and the other Fallen Angel in the room instantly knows where this is going "Yes?" "How… How is she? How is Ka—" "She's fine," Azazel cuts in, knowing this is an extremely sensitive subject for the Father "She's healthy and most importantly alive… My spy network regularly keeps tabs on her" "I see… That's a relief to hear."
Azazel watches his friend call the elevator and enters it, seeing the door shut. "Huh," Azazel exhales, rubbing his head "I do hope you reconcile with Akeno soon, Baraqiel" he utters, sad for his friend who has been through a lot in life "She's two of the only family member you have left in this life and… The one that's you'll likely be able to reach."
Feeling his mood has dropped so drastically, Azazel moves his eyes to a specific photo on his desk. A picture he would turn to when he's in either a foul or sad mood. Seeing this photo makes a smile form on the old man's face. The picture shows a several months old Nawin being cradled on Gabriel's arms, who's staring down at the baby and making a kissing face while beside her is Azazel himself; he too is making a funny expression to get a burst of laughter out of the ball of sunshine in the beautiful Angel's arms. The two was successful with the picture showing a baby Nawin laughing while clapping his hands together in amusement. Standing on the other side is Yao and Jonathan, both were laughing at the scene that the godparents are making while staring at their first born with endless love in their eyes.
Hello Readers! I just want to inform you all that the next chapter won't be uploaded by the end of this week because I'll be out of the country for five days for family reasons. I promise I'll get the next chapter uploaded by the end of next week! See you all later ^-^
Next Chapter: Akeno's Birthday Arrive!