[Twinleaf Town (Daytime) - Pokémon Diamond & Pearl Music]
I open my eyes, and a familiar ceiling is in front of me.
Hmm… So that was a dream.
Looks like I had a good dream which also happened to be a weird dream. It was good at the start. I get to be the strongest hero. It was good until then, but after that…
My heart is beating fast. Anyone will if they have the same dream. I'm also breathing faster.
I lift my upper body upright, and wipe the sweat on my forehead with my hand. Wow. So much sweat. I'm shocked at the unexpected amount of sweat I have.
At the same time, I realized that I used my left arm to wipe it.
That last scene…that red Dragon…I can't come to believe it since it had too much fantasy taste in it.
There's nothing wrong with my left arm that turned into that of a monster's arm at the end of my dream.
But I do understand that there is something possessed in this arm.
I look at the clock. It's 4:30am… It's still a bit early.
I take a deep breath and then went back inside my bed—. No, that isn't it!
I remember now! It's time! I got out of the bed and got ready.
When I look outside from the window, there is a red haired beauty, Rias Gremory-buchou, who is wearing a red jersey and is standing at the gate.
She is a senior and the school idol at the high school I go to. She is also the president of the Occult Research Club that I am in, and her real identity is a Devil.
She looks this way with her blue eyes after she realizes that I'm looking at her.
—Hurry up.
She moves her lips like that while smiling.
"I'm coming now!"
I changed into a jersey from my pajamas immediately, and left the room to do the morning training.
I'm now heavily breathing out of tiredness.
"Hey, start running faster. Or else I will add extra more 10km of running."
I'm running in the residential area while losing my breath.
Rias-buchou who is behind me while riding a bicycle fires me up without hesitation. You are strict like always.
About a month ago, I happen to be reincarnated as a Devil from a human. I became Rias-buchou, Rias Gremory-sama's servant Devil.
Devils are beings that are summoned by humans, who then grant their wishes in exchange of receiving a price from them. They happen to do those kinds of works on daily basis. Rias-buchou is no exception.
I have been working daily as a servant Devil of Rias-buchou and am walking towards my goal, one step at a time.
What's my goal? To get more popular!
"I'm going to become more popular…"
Those words slipped out from my mouth while I'm running.
"That's right, and for that you need to start from daily basic training. You have to become stronger, even by a bit."
Yes, Rias-buchou. I know that.
I'm currently a newborn Devil, but if I make achievements and get promoted, then I can receive a peerage. If that happens, I can have my own servants just like Rias-buchou. That's right! I'm going to get lots of servants, and I'm going to make my dream come true!
For that, I need to get stronger just like Rias-buchou said. Strength is absolute in the world of Devils. Simply put, the stronger you are, the easier you can aim higher.
Well, you can rise up with knowledge, trading skills, and other kind of skills, but I have average talent in those areas at the moment.
It's true that I'm intelligent, but I still have lots of things left for me to learn.
So nothing will start unless I increase my stamina. That's why I'm currently doing this training every day.
But Rias-buchou is a very strict instructor.
"For my servant to be weak is something I can't forgive."
So she shows no mercy for my morning training.
She makes me run 10km, and after that makes me do 100 Push-Ups, Sit-Ups, and Squats. It's for every single day. That workout is only supposed to be for Saitama! (Reference from One Punch Man)
Devils are the residence of night that unleashes their powers during night. I thought that it's better to train at night rather than in the morning, but apparently that isn't the case. According to Rias-buchou, training while being under the sunlight that we are weak against makes us mentally stronger as well.
I have been suffering from muscular pain every day, but getting used to it is a scary thing and it doesn't hurt like it has in the beginning.
Lately, I have been able to do them quite easily. It's a proof that I have been improving daily. After all, I'm in a good state in physical education class. My short sprint record has shortened, and it isn't that tiring to do long distance sprint any more.
"Ha-ha…"
I stopped running when I arrive at the park that happens to be the goal. I'm sweating from all over my body…
"Good job. Now, we'll move on to the Push-Ups."
Rias-buchou's smile is so dazzling.
"Your ability has a meaning when your basics are high."
"Yes…65…"
I started doing push-ups at the park after I completed the morning marathon.
Rias-buchou is sitting on my back. My arms are crying in pain, because she's quite heavy.
Her butt is literally on me… Wow, that sounded very wrong….
WHIP!
"Ow!"
I had my butt slapped by Rias-buchou… That really hurts, Rias-buchou…
"Go on faster, you are slowing down."
"…68…69…70…"
I continue without talking.
"You are very quiet today. You seem to have grown, Aki."
Buchou says it while smiling. I can't talk, because of my tiredness.
"Hmm, it should be about time that she gets here…"
"Huh? Who's coming?"
When I ask her, I hear a familiar voice that then says, "Excuse me".
When I look to the direction from where the voice came from while staying in the push-up posture—.
"Aki-san, Buchou-san! I'm sorry for being late…hauu!"
The blonde haired girl—Asia, trips over.
"Aki-san, here's your tea."
"Sure, thanks."
I'm taking a break while sipping the tea Asia gives me. After that, I did the Sit-Ups, and Squats, so my whole body is hurting all over.
"Asia, why are you here?"
When I ask, the blonde beauty's cheek becomes red.
"I heard that Aki-san and Buchou-san are doing training here every morning…so I also wanted to be of help to Aki-san as well. Though I was only able to prepare tea today."
Asia… You are such a wonderful girl! I'm deeply moved!
"Uuu, Asia! I'm deeply moved by your kindness Asia! I never expected that there would be a day when a girl would say that to me!"
I drink the tea in a sip while crying out with joy.
Asia is a former Sister who has a blonde hair and green eyes. "Former" means that she isn't a Sister any more. Right now she is a Devil of the Gremory group.
Last month, she was involved in a particular incident, and as a result a Fallen Angel killed her. Asia died, but thanks to Rias-buchou's power, she was reincarnated as a Devil and is here with us right now.
Also, the Fallen Angels are the evil Angels mentioned in the bible and novels. I think their trait is their black wings.
They are the archenemies of Devils and are always fighting with them. Last month, I was also involved in their fight. That time, I realized how weak I was, so I started to train like this to get stronger. I don't want Asia to go through that sadness ever again.
And our master, Rias-buchou, seems to be thinking about something while drinking black tea with milk.
"What's wrong, Buchou?"
When I ask her, she comes back to her senses and makes a cough.
"No, it's nothing. More than that, it's good timing. I decided to have it done today, so let's head over to your house now."
Huh? Why? My house? Good timing? What are we going to do at my house?
"It's about time that the luggage arrives."
I will come to know what she means 10 minutes later.
"…This is?"
My eyebrows are twitching after seeing the boxes that are placed front of the entrance of my home.
What is this? These boxes don't even have the name of the sender. I have a mysterious feeling about this. There aren't any bombs inside them, right…?
Rias-buchou then says it to me who am making a confused face.
"Now then, Aki. Carry these to the room."
"Huh? Carry? I have to carry these to…my house?"
"Yes, these belongings belong to Asia. Carrying this is what a gentleman would do, right?"
Huh?
"These are Asia's belongings!"
I'm in deep shock, but Rias-buchou then says something even more shocking.
"Yes, from today, Asia will be living in your house."
A Family meeting...
Among all the famous meetings, conferences, and assemblies of the world, it's among the top ranks for the place of negotiations.
The words of the parents, who hold the authorities, have the big factor to decide the outcome. The way we, the children, negotiate will be the key to this.
But my parents who are supposed to have the authority are down on their knees when they are in front of Rias-buchou.
Maybe Rias-buchou's eyes, which have a power that can't be seen with their eyes, are making them act that way.
"Okaa-sama, Otou-sama, because of this situation, will you allow Asia Argento to home stay here?"
Rias-buchou gives a reckless order to my parents while saying it elegantly and cheerfully.
The two of them whispers in each other's ears while staring at Asia.
…Huh, they are also looking at me.
My dad makes a single cough and then asks Asia a question.
"Asia…-san, was it?"
"Yes, Aki-san's Otou-sama."
Asia responds back with a nervous face.
"Otou-sama… I don't know how to put it, but having beautiful foreign girls to call me "Otou-sama" repeatedly sure does ring a bell to my heart…in a good way."
It seems like my dad is getting emotional.
Getting called "Otou-sama" by two young beautiful girls will obviously make him happy.
Even I'm confident that I will get emotional if two beautiful girls call me "Onii-chan"
"Otou-san!"
My mom pokes my dad. My dad comes back to his senses.
"Ahem! Even if you want to home stay, our son is also in this house. It's unfortunate, but isn't it better for you to stay in a house where there is a girl? If something happens, I would be too ashamed."
My dad is right. We should prevent anything bad from happening.
So it will be better to make her home stay in a house where there is also a girl. Even my mom is agreeing to it right beside him, saying "Yes, that's right".
If a beautiful blonde girl stays with me, a boy, you won't know what might happen. It will become a worldwide problem. My parents probably wanted to say that.
I won't do anything! But this is for the best…
By the way, I haven't told them that Asia and I are Devils, and that a Fallen Angel used Asia. Even if I tell them, they won't believe me, and it's better for my mom and dad to not get involved with a Devil.
We left out lots of stuff when we explain the situation to them with things we made up included in it.
Rias-buchou doesn't seem to be affected by my parent's refusal and continues to negotiate with a smile.
"Then how about if Asia becomes your daughter, then?"
What do you mean with that profound word…Rias-buchou…?
"What do you mean?"
"Otou-sama, Asia believes in Aki very much. So much. It's the same for me as well. Aki is very straight forward, but he is not a fool, and he is also intelligent. He has such a burning soul that he would walk towards any obstacle and would try to overcome it. Both Asia and I are drawn to that part of Aki. Especially Asia. Isn't that right, Asia?"
"Yes! Aki-san saved me by risking his life. He is my life savior. He also helps me very much at school. Even in class, he…"
Then Asia starts to explain how I'm helping her out at school every day happily while putting on a big smile.
She even tells them minor things and over-exaggerates them.
…I'm so embarrassed that I want to run away from this place.
My parents are like, "Oh, our Aki did?" and "For him to be useful to others", and they seem like they aren't dissatisfied with what they are hearing. Well, any parent will be happy if their child is being praised.
Then Rias-buchou gives them the final push.
"How about if this home stay is also a bride training, then?"
[Bride?]
What is that? Dad, mom and I shout out very loudly. Asia is like, "?", and is putting on a confused look.
Tears.
Then there are loads of tears flowing out of dad's eyes. He then speaks while wiping his tears.
"…Since Aki is not very popular, I was sure that I would never see my grandchildren. I was always depressed that I had to worry about Aki living by himself even after I get very old…"
What…? Otou-sama suddenly started to speak his thoughts… Rather, what's with that irresponsible future map that you created for your own son?
My mom is wiping her tears beside him. Wait, you are crying too?
"I also thought that Aki would never get a bride. It's because he's Aki. He is my unpopular son. I tried raising him so he would become popular and useful in the society, but that all turned out to be a waste since he turned out this way. If I could go back to the past, I would convince my younger self. By telling myself that "Be careful since that son of yours will turn out to be unpopular"."
I don't even know what to say anymore…
My dad holds Asia's hand.
"Asia-san! He's an unpopular son like this, but can I leave him to you?"
"You are wrong… Aki-san isn't that unpopular. He's a very wonderful person."
Asia doesn't realize what my dad is getting at, and smiles.
My mom, who saw that, broke down by crying out loud. What is this? What drama am I watching?
"Rias-san! We will look after Asia Argento-san in this house!"
I see Rias-buchou smile after hearing my dad's approval.
"Thank you very much, Otou-sama. Aki. I will leave Asia's care to you from now on. Asia, you will be staying with Aki at his home. So make sure not to be impolite. Get along with Aki's parents."
"Is it really alright? Won't it…be a burden…if I stay…?"
Rias-buchou says it to Asia who is confused.
"To get familiar with the Japanese culture and lifestyle, it's best to stay with the people from that country. When I asked you, "Who do you want to live with the most within our club members?" you did say Aki without a second thought, right?"
Oh I see, so that's the reason. Asia is staying at Rias-buchou's place. She's borrowing one of the rooms in the old school building that me, Rias-buchou, and Asia goes to.
"Yes. I indeed said that, but…"
"It's fine, Asia-san! Get used to Japan at our house! You might stay here permanently after all!"
Dad, you really are trying to make Asia my wife huh…
"See, even Otou-sama is saying this."
Asia who was confused finally smiles when she sees Rias-buchou smiling.
"I understand, Buchou-san. There were things I didn't quite understand, but I will be in your care, Aki-san, Aki-san's Otou-sama and Okaa-sama."
…You've been perfectly deceived, dad, mom… Surely, the thing about my "bride" is a perfect blow to them…
Like this, it's decided that Asia will be living with me under the same house.
"…Bride, huh."
I got very anxious at Rias-buchou who was making a sad face at that time.
Few days later since Asia started living at my house.
"The weather is good today. Aki-san, we are playing softball for physical education today. It's my first time, so I'm excited."
Asia is walking towards the school happily. I'm walking next to her.
I never thought that a day would come when I will be able to walk to school every day with a friend.
The students who go to the same schools as us are looking at us with intense eyes.
"Why is Asia-san walking from the same direction as Akita…?"
"Impossible…what's going on…?"
"It must be some kind of mistake, not just Rias-oneesama, but even Asia-san…"
Just like that, I can hear the scream-like words from other students. Well, that's natural. This situation will seem impossible for anyone who knows me.
I, who was just an unpopular student, am now suddenly getting along with the school idols. I'm also walking to school with the new blonde student every day that everyone has been talking about since her arrival. From other people's view, this is an unbelievable situation.
There were some students who confessed to Asia because they were like "If Akita can, so can I!", but they were rejected immediately.
Because of that, there are those who hold a grudge against me. Even now, there are people looking at me with eyes filled with hatred.
Other guys must think I'm playing around with the beauty's body. Though, it's not as simple as they think, but that's okay.
Fufu. This is fun in its own way. Even if it's a misunderstanding, they think I'm popular. The students are getting jealous.
I'm still going to rise higher! Fuhahahaha!
"Was there something that looks funny?"
Oh. Asia looks at my face with a worried look. When a beauty's face is right in front of me, it makes me blush… Looks like I'm still young.
"No, it's nothing. By the way Asia, are there any problems at school? Are you getting along with other girls?"
Those are the things I'm most concerned about.
She is a former sister who had just transferred to our school. Since her lifestyle was far different from ours, she might feel lost in school life.
At times like that, I will definitely help her, however what's most important is for her to be supported by other girls. I think she is getting along with the girls from the Occult Research Club, but I'm concerned about her interaction with the other classmates. I don't think she is getting bullied for not being used to this lifestyle… But I can't stop myself from being worried about it.
Nothing like that is happening within my sight, but she might be bullied when I'm not there.
However Asia makes a smile that comes from the bottom of her heart that then rejects my concern about her.
"Everyone is very kind towards me. They are teaching me a lot of things so I would get familiar with Japan. I also made lots of friends. I was also invited to go shopping with them."
That's good to hear. Looks like her relationship with the other classmates is going well. Now, one of my concerns is gone.
While talking about that, we arrive at school, and then went towards the class.
Now with the problem of Asia's school life settled, the remaining problem is—
"Asia-chan! Good morning!"
"Good morning, Asia-san. Your blonde hair is shining today as well."
As soon as we arrive in the class, the guy with olive brown hair Makoto, and the guy wearing glasses Maes, approaches Asia. These two are my friends. They are famous for being unpopular, along with me.
"Good morning Makoto-san, Maes-san."
The two of them gets emotional after getting greeted by Asia.
"This is great, isn't it, Maes-kun?"
"That's right, Makoto-kun. Getting greeted by someone popular in the morning."
…Like usual, they feel happy with minor things. But until recently I was probably the same as them.
Fufufu, having this much confidence sure does change people—.
TAP!
"Huh?"
When I was acting cool, Maes taps my shoulder.
"What do you want?"
I asked him.
"Aki-kun. I heard about it."
"Heard what."
"I hear that you walk to school with Asia-chan every day, right?"
"What about it?"
"That's weird. Why? Why do you two come to the school from the same direction? I wonder why?"
Hmm. I don't know where he heard it from, but it looks like he heard the rumors about Asia and me as well.
I lift my lips and put on a smirk. I then say it.
"Listen, Makoto, Maes. There is a wall between you two and me that you guys definitely can't overcome. This can't be helped."
"What are you getting all proud of?"
"That's right, Aki. Just because you get along with Asia-chan doesn't mean that you're popular-"
I then give a finishing blow. I also put on an expression of victory.
"I live with Asia. We live in the same house. Right, Asia?"
"Yes. I am being taken care of at Aki-san's house."
[!]
Both of them got quiet after seeing Asia answer with a smile. It looks like they are speechless.
Fuhahahaha! Hahahaha!
I won!
"It's a lie…"
Makoto denies it. He's even crying. They are tears of jealousy. Fuhahaha!
"Impossible… Aki is living with a cute blonde in the same house…? That can't be…the law of this world will collapse…"
Maes fixes the position of his glasses with his shaking hand.
He's also trembling even though he's desperately trying to act calm.
"Then do you even get woken up by Asia-chan in the morning?"
That's Makoto's question, huh…
"Asia, looks like I made you wake me up today as well."
"Because Aki-san is such a sleepy head. Ufufu."
Makoto drops on the floor.
"Does she even refill the plates for you…?"
This time, Maes asks.
"Mom also praised that you are a thoughtful girl, Asia."
"Oh my…you are making me blush."
Asia blushes while putting her hand on her cheek.
I looked at her with confidence, and looked at her while putting on a smile.
Seeing that, Maes glares right at me through his glasses and it looks like he's about to shed tears of blood.
Man, having my friends being jealous of me sure is scary. Seriously, life sure can be turned upside down with a single change.
Just being friendly with one idol is enough for guys to get a happy life.
Yes, even if everyone in the class will come to hate me, I'm all right as long as Asia is on my side.
But, that's not good. My aim is to get a peerage and become a great Devil, and then gain lots of servants.
Then I have to become a guy that is popular. But it seems like I won't be able to get popular…
"Aki! You actually know lots of idols, don't you? Rias-senpai! Akeno-senpai! They are the "Two Great Onee-samas" of our academy, you know? Then our school's small idol, Toujou Koneko-chan, and now the cute blonde that just transferred, Asia-chan! This is wrong! It's so unfair that I'm about to break!"
Makoto whines while holding his head down. Cry as much as you want, my friend.
Just like he said, I'm getting along with several idols lately.
I walk to school with Asia. And it seems like Rias and Akeno adore me as well…
Yes. I'm in the winners' group now. Definitely in a winner's group. This might be the best point of my life. I'll have to enjoy it so that I don't regret it afterwards.
While I'm thinking about that, Maes fixes his glasses calmly.
"Aki, I don't think introducing an idol to us will be a bad thing. No, I mean, please introduce us to someone. Please, I beg you."
Maes says it while putting his face close to mine. He says it with a low tone, however it has so much intensity to it.
But introducing… The only idols I talk to are the ones Makoto just mentioned.
In other words, I don't have any connections with other idols. Rather, they don't even take me seriously.
It's a harsh reality. It means that I don't have ties with human idols. The idols I get along with are all Devils… Well, even though they are Devils, they are all cute so it's not a problem.
Hmm? Yes, that's right. Well, it's not like I don't know someone. There is one person that I know of.
I took my mobile phone out and check for the name. Yes, I have it. This should be okay.
"Hold on a sec."
I made my two friends and Asia wait here for a bit, and then went to the corner of the room so I can get an approval from the said person.
We talked for a few minutes, but it seems like that person is okay with it. That's good.
"Well, I found one person that's okay with meeting you guys. That person will also bring friends as well. This is the number of the person I can introduce you guys to. Contact that person through mail first. That way, you guys will feel happier."
"Thank you!"
Makoto who was down on the floor until a moment ago grabs my mobile phone.
Hey, that's a quick change! Until a second ago he was crying, this guy truly is weird…
The two of them copies the number into their phones.
"Thank you so much, Aki-sama! I will never forget this debt!"
"Yes, let's go hang out together later! Just you wait!"
The two of them are giving a good smile. It seems like they are experiencing happiness, or rather, the inside of their head is on party-mode.
"So, what kind of person is she? She's an idol right?"
Makoto asks about the person I just introduced. I answer while scratching my cheek.
"Umm… she's a "maiden". That, I'm sure of."
"Maiden…wonderful…that's really wonderful, Aki-kun!"
"Man, we just can't thank you enough Aki-sensei."
These guys are just weird. They keep on changing their attitudes. No, I would also have been like them if I haven't met with Rias-buchou and Asia.
I'm sorry for having all the fun, guys. Makoto asks me once again with a smiley face.
"Oh Aki-kun. By the way, why is "Mil-tan" called Mill-tan?"
I will like for you guys to ask him yourself. Even I don't know the reason.
That night.
I'm pedaling my bike in the residential area.
"Oryaaaaaa!"
I pedal my bike with all my strength.
When we reached the designated area, Asia who is sitting behind me puts the leaflet into the mailbox.
"It's done."
"Okay."
I started pedaling my bicycle again after I confirm that Asia is sitting behind me.
The leaflet we just put in that house is a convenient item used to summon us Devils. Normally, you need to draw a magic-circle to summon a Devil, but in this century, there aren't that many humans who are willing to draw a magic-circle to summon Devils.
More like there aren't that many humans who believe in Devils in the current era. I also didn't until recently.
Therefore, the Devil's society that was in a tight situation created a leaflet with a magic-circle on it that can summon Devils more easily.
Each Devil stamps on their own personal magic-circle onto the leaflet, and just like ordinary advertisements, they write an advertisement phrase on it.
This leaflet is nothing to those that are satisfied with their lifestyles, but to those that are craving for something, it has a magic cast on it so they will want to use it.
We appear in front of humans who will become our contractors through the magic-circle. We grant their wish in exchange for a price. That's how it works. So this is the current method used to summon Devils.
And handing this leaflet out is the first job of the servant Devils. This became a customary practice for a temporarily time. We use a Devil's portable device to find humans with a strong greed, and put the leaflet into their mailbox and then move onto the next location. Repeating this is a Devil's job.
Well, I have finished the job of handing out leaflets already. The reason why I am doing this is—.
"…Aki-san, is it really alright? To help me hand out the leaflets…"
"Yes, it's not a problem."
Yes, I'm assisting Asia in handing out the leaflets. So like this, I continue to pedal the bicycle.
"Asia, you don't know how to get on a bike right? Then someone has to ride the bike for you."
"Uu, I'm sorry. I never had a chance to get on a bike… But if it's walking…"
"I can't let you do that even more. I'm worried about you, Asia."
That's my true feeling. It's not about whether she can ride a bicycle or not, but more of the fact that I can't let Asia run around in unfamiliar environment.
She had just come to Japan from Northern Europe last month. She doesn't know that much about Japanese culture.
She gained the ability to understand Japanese by becoming a Devil, but it's a different story if it is to adapt to this lifestyle. I'm teaching her from the basics, but there are still many things that make me worry about her.
On top of that, Asia is kind to anyone and doesn't know how the world goes around. You won't know what kind of bad things will fall down onto her.
So I ended up proposing to Rias-buchou after thinking about it.
"I will help Asia with handing out the leaflets!"
Rias-buchou gladly accepted my request. Thank you very much, Rias-buchou!
Like that, I'm supporting Asia. So I have been going around the residential area at night on my bicycle together with her.
"Look Asia. That's a shrine. We're Devils, so we can't enter it."
I talked about a certain shrine when we went pass it.
"Yes. Devils aren't allowed to go to places where spirits gather and the local God lives, yes? It's hard for me to understand Japanese "Shinto Gods" because I'm a Christian…"
It will be hard for her, who has been raised under one religion, to understand the Japanese culture. That's what Rias-buchou told me.
So I started to teach Asia the things about the places we live in and so on while we hand out the leaflets.
"Ah! Over there… It's closed now but that bakery shop sells good bread. You want to go buy some next time?"
"Yes! Japanese breads are sweet, so I love them!"
Even a normal conversation is fun. Spending time with people that you care about... That's the best!
I always wanted to ride a bicycle with someone like her sitting behind me like this.
"Aki-san, have you watched the film "Roman Holiday"?"
Asia asks me.
Roman Holiday? I think it's a film.
"It's an old film right? No, sorry. I haven't watched it."
"Is that so—"
Asia sounds a bit sad to my answer.
"But what about that film?"
"…It's always have been my admiration. It was just like this… However they were riding a bike in the film. Even so I… Ufufu."
Huh? She sounds really happy right now. She is strongly holding me with her arms that are across my hips.
I'm not really sure, but If Asia is happy then that will be good enough for me.
The wind tonight also feels good.
"We are back!"
Asia and I had finished handing out the leaflets and returned to the clubroom.
The unused old school building located behind the school. One of the rooms on the third floor is the room for the Occult Research Club and also the gathering place for the Gremory group.
"Ara ara, good work. I will make some green tea now."
The first one to welcome us back is the vice-president of our club as well as the staff officer of Rias-buchou, Himejima Akeno. She is my senior who is a third year student and is a Japanese girl with long silky black hair who is always smiling. She is also a person with a ponytail hairstyle that is rare among the current teens.
Along with Rias-buchou, she is called one of the "Two Great Onee-samas" of our school and she is popular among both boys and girls and has the popularity of an idol.
"Hey, how was the date at night?"
The guy who is sending out a smile at me is Kiba Yuuto, the handsome guy. He is the Handsome-prince who has captured the hearts of most of the girls in our school. He is the enemy of all boys since he is handsome.
"That wasn't a date..."
I told Kiba.
"…Alone with her late at night…it is a date…"
The one who just said that to me is the small build first year student, Toujou Koneko. At first glance, she only looks like a grade school student but because she's a little girl, she is popular in our academy for being our school mascot.
Asia and I walk towards Rias-buchou, who is sitting on the sofa. Our King, Rias-buchou... Even tonight, your crimson hair is beautiful like always.
"Buchou. We are back."
I reported to her, but Rias-buchou is looking towards a certain direction while being dazed. Is she thinking about something? She even makes a deep sigh.
Asia who is next to me also looks in the direction Rias-buchou is looking towards.
"Buchou, we are back!"
This time, I raised my voice. Rias-buchou heard me and came back to her senses.
"I'm sorry. I was dazed for a bit. Good work, Aki, Asia."
Lately, I think that Rias-buchou is thinking about something often. When she orders us to do something, she does it with elegance like usual, but other than that, her mind goes off to somewhere. I think the number of times she has sighed increased as well.
She possibly has some serious concerns that we won't possibly be able to understand. Well, she is a High-class Devil, after all.
So these are the members of the Occult Research Club and also the members of the Gremory group. Other than me, everyone else is very popular at school. Well, I'm known for being unpopular. Hahaha, I feel like apologizing since I feel I'm in a wrong place.
Rias-buchou then says it after confirming that Asia and I have arrived.
"Now then, I will have Asia make her début as a Devil starting tonight."
Oh! Seriously?
"Huh?"
I say it to Asia who is puzzled.
"Asia, you will be having your actual début as a Devil from tonight! You are going to the contractors place through the magic-circle!"
"Me?"
Asia points to herself while panicking.
"Right, Buchou?"
Rias-buchou nods to my question.
"Yes. Handing out the leaflets will end today. If I let it go on forever, it seems like the date between you two will continue even further."
… Please stop bullying your servants, Rias-buchou. I'm feeling a bit embarrassed if Rias-buchou says that to me.
Like the same time as my debut, Rias-buchou draws the magic-circle of the Gremory-clan on Asia's palm. Thanks to that, you will be able to transport through the magic-circle.
"Akeno, check whether Asia has enough demonic-power to transport through the magic-circle."
"Yes, Buchou."
Akeno put her hand on Asia's forehead after Rias-buchou orders her. A faint light appears from her fingertips, and it seems like she is reading something.
"We had the incident with Aki before, so we need to check properly. Though I don't think there will be a same problem."
I feel down after hearing Rias-buchou's worry.
That's right. My debut as a Devil was awful. To use the magic-circle, you need a little bit of demonic-power. But I didn't even have that little bit of demonic-power at all.
Thanks to that, I couldn't transport through the magic-circle and I have to use a bicycle to go to the client that is something no one done before. Even now, I have to visit the clients by bicycle. This is hard to endure…
"Buchou, it's okay. There's no problem at all. More like, she has the most demonic-power after Buchou and me. Her potential capacity for her demonic-power is very good."
Rias-buchou smiles at Akeno's report...
"That's good news. She can use her power as a [Bishop] to the fullest."
The [Bishop] Rias-buchou just mentioned is Asia's role as a Devil.
The current Devils have rules that are based on the game of chess of the human's world for their servants. The Devil who is a master is a [King], and below them are the [Queen], the [Rooks], the [Bishops], the [Knights], and the [Pawns].
The [Evil Piece] system is used by higher-class devils to gain lower class devil servants.
Previously, Rias-buchou and others told me that long time ago, many Devils died against the War with God and the Fallen Angels, and this system was created to increase the forces of the Devils with having only small amount of servants in order to keep the balance against the other factions.
Each piece has its own traits that boost up the ability of a servant Devil.
Of course, by having Rias-buchou as our leader who is also our master, we also have certain roles.
Akeno is a [Queen], Kiba is a [Knight], Koneko is a [Rook], Asia is a [Bishop], and I am a [Pawn]!
At first glance, [Pawn] seems weak, but depending on the way you use it, it can even take down a [King]! That's what Rias-buchou told me! I have to believe that since I am aiming to become the "Strongest Pawn".
Going back to the topic, since Asia has a high demonic-power, she has no problem transporting through the magic-circle.
Yes, looks like Asia began from a good start. I'm also satisfied with that.
Then Asia will also get along with her client and—.
Then I started to feel uneasy.
…What will happen to Asia who is kind to anyone and who doesn't know how the world goes around when someone with lots of greed summons her…?
Case 1
"Oh, what a cute Devil-san! Oh Yes! Please show me your panties! Please also show me your breasts!"
A pervert.
…That's bad.
Case 2
"Beautiful Devil-chan! Let me grope your oppai as much as I want in exchange for my life!"
That is a pervert who is worse compared to the previous one.
…That's really bad.
Case 3
"I will give you my life, so let me have sex with you till the night ends!"
That is the worst kind of pervert!
…That's just the worst!
"Aki, are you crying?"
Rias-buchou looks into my face with a worried look.
"Buchou, no. It's a no!"
I shake my head to the side while having tears flow out of my eyes.
It's a no. That's right, no! It's Asia that we are talking about! There's no way Asia is able to decline when some guy she hasn't met asks her a lecherous order!
Asia who is serious and passionate to her work will try to accomplish her work even by sacrificing her own body!
"Buchou! I feel uneasy if Asia goes alone! If Asia! I can't stand it if some weirdo asks some sick wish to Asia!"
Rias-buchou seems a bit troubled after I approached her while crying.
"Aki, a request which is too lecherous for the Devils they summoned doesn't come to the servant Devils of the Gremory-clan. There are humans who request those kinds of wishes, so there are Devils who take those clients as their profession and requests like that goes to them. The jobs we take are safe, you know? Even Devils have areas that they are professional at."
"Buchou, you are telling the truth right? That's the truth, right? But still, I feel super uneasy!"
Rias-buchou sighs after seeing me so worried about it.
"Alright. For a short time, I'll put you with Asia to support her. Are you satisfied with that?"
"Thank you very much! Asia! Let me handle the perverts! Asia, you can just make the contract normally!"
"Yes."
I take Asia's hand, and make a sigh of relief.
Asia herself looks worried that she is causing trouble for me, but that's okay. I need to protect Asia. I even made a promise with Rias-buchou, and I'm also worried about Asia.
I might be over protective towards her, but I want to look after her until she says, "I can do it by myself!".
You have to do these kinds of things until they get annoyed with you. I will protect Asia even if it makes her hate me.
"So then, if a request comes, Asia, you will transport through the magic-circle by taking Aki with you."
"Yes, I understand. Buchou."
After she confirms it, the big magic-circle on the floor glows.
Akeno who is in charge of the magic-circle starts to read the Devil's letters that appeared in a section of the magic-circle.
"Ara ara, there is a client trying to summon us, who wants to wish something that even Asia-chan can handle."
Hearing Akeno's report, Rias-buchou smiles.
"That's very convenient. Asia can supply the demonic-power needed for teleporting through the magic-circle, and she can also support Aki who lacks demonic-power as well. Let's do it then."
Hmm, I was the one who is supposed to help her, but it looks like I'm the one needing the help… That's okay. I just need to watch over Asia doing her first job!
"Let's go, Asia!"
"Yes, Aki-san!"
Asia and I went towards the center of the magic-circle after getting our spirits up.
I returned home late at night with Asia.
Asia finished her first job safely. Unlike my debut, it went smoothly.
"I'm sorry, I will take the bath first then."
Saying that, Asia heads towards the bathroom. She can't stop smiling because she has accomplished her first job.
I also went to my room to rest. Ah, both my mind and body is worn, just like every night.
After Asia finished her job, we went back to the clubroom and reported to Rias-buchou, and finished our job as a Devil for the night. I have concerns for Rias-buchou who had a sad face…
Being concerned about Rias-buchou is good, but it will be my turn to have a bath after Asia is done.
Using the same bath a girl was in… No, stop thinking about that!
No, no! I shake my head very hard and tried to get rid of the thoughts.
I need to protect Asia! I can't become a pervert.
Perverts are the worst kind of people for girls like Asia.
Yes! To get rid of my thoughts I will sit while crossing my legs! I sat on the floor and closed my eyes to calm my spirit.
I'm not lecherous. I'm not a pervert. I'm a being that protects Asia. I'm living with Asia but I don't want to think of bad thoughts. Namu namu namu...
Ouch! Then I got a headache! Oh Yes! Why am I praying? I'm a Devil! I will take damage if I pray! I almost terminated myself on my own!
Damn it! What am I doing? Wait, what am I doing in my own room…?
FLASH
Then the floor on my room glows. The light is forming into a circular shape, and a familiar symbol appears on it.
—This is the mark of our group!
This is the Gremory group's magic-circle. Who is it? I mean, why my room? Is someone trying to teleport to my room?
The magic-circle makes a big glow that lit up the whole room, and a person appears from it.
It's the silhouette of a girl. A girl with crimson hair…
"Buchou…?"
The one that appears from the magic-circle is none other than Rias-buchou. But why is she in my room?
She seems to have the face of those cornered. Her expression is the same as the one she had back in the clubroom.
Rias-buchou approaches me soon as she sees me. Then she says a shocking thing to me.
"Make love to me."
…Excuse me? My mind went blank because of the sudden thing. What did she say just now? Did I go deaf?
Rias-buchou says it again to make sure I heard it since I have a confused look.
"I want you to take my virginity. Immediately."
Rias-buchou's Japanese is stimulating as always.