Wacko12: I am not aware of that class of magic existing in DxD, I hadn't planned on anything named that.
Gan315: Indeed :D I knew this chapter had to be big, their first time together being a big deal lol. It won't be the last and will allow the romance elements to move forward ;) I sent a full reply to your review via PM, thank you again..and yes...ALL the fluff! XD
Jackejsh: At long last :D
FateBurn: Thank you.
Ronmr: And at last they had a way to vent that tension, I won't be showing every time lol, but after this they can start being more comfortable with this stuff.
runelt99: MvP squirrel ensuring they aren't interrupted ;) He'll totally take all the credit for Dorian making the first move. XD
God of war: LOL, at long last.
Terrence Johnny Stanford: Hip hip, hooray! Hip hip, hooray! Hip hip...!
J0ker981: I swear I didn't realize the chapter number until recently LOL. I always knew it would occur in the Kyoto arc...it was only about a month ago I realized what chapter I was closing in on...
reality deviant: Perhaps someday later. The idea is they must get over their respective shortcomings before that happens. Like how Dorian had to get past the physical connection between he and Rossweisse, Issei will have to get past the emotional side of the women he loves rather than always striving for more to add to his harem.
King0fP0wers: Well, Thrud was rooting for them to hook up thinking it would make them turning down her feelings easier...we'll see how well that goes ;)
Spectrvs: As always, your in-depth reviews are so touching and appreciated you are still enjoying it! I have sent a full reply to your PM. All the manly hugs! :D
Natalie Jarrett: That truly puts my mind at ease, this is my first love scene I've ever written so I hoped it came across right. Cringe is what I feared lol. I am so glad you found it too and hope I never disappoint ;)
WinterRuneWolf: LOL, if those two had entered the room, no one would have ever found the bodies. As for a more in-depth love scene...hmmmm, I won't show EVERY time they are intimate, but I will keep that in mind the request for even more details.
ahsoei: Damn indeed :D
TheCarlosInferno: Haha, the ultimate magical getaway ;)
theLawbringer: I swear to god I didn't XD XD I always knew I wanted the love scene in the Kyoto Arc, I probably noticed when it would fall on about a month or so before lol. And...I have no idea what that means XD XD I am guessing that is a reference to something? Though I can totally picture Thrud busting down a door.
fanficcyberman: Exactly, I wanted to build up that polar opposite yet heading in the same direction aspect between Issei and Dorian. Notice what?...I have no idea what you are talking about *glances left and right nervously* And thank you :D That is exactly the tone I was hoping for with the love scene. Sure there is sex and what comes with it...but what matters most are the feelings between them :)
trexboy164: Everything you wanted? :D :D :D High praise indeed :D Not to worry, I dunno if I will show EVERY first love scene, but Kiba, Issei and everyone else will have their time growing as I keep writing. Rat pop up in between Dorian and Rose? Oh god...the mental image...it's not going away! XD XD
Reinhard King of Heavens: Starting a relationship can be hard...maintaining it even harder ;) And true :) Ratatoskr best squirrel MVP ;)
SantoryuSekai: Thank you!
RimuruTempest: We are in total agreement. If the MC is likable and the development properly fleshed out with every girl then there is no issue with a larger genre imo. I have plans for Dorian and hope I have the skill to see them through. Love is never easy. And Thank you :D I am so glad you enjoyed it.
And with that...ONTO THE SHOW!
Rossweisse yawned as she stretched out across her enormous featherbed. Still adjusting to the light shining through the blinds, she awaited her eyes to focus. A soft smile crossed her lips remembering what was surely the best dream the previous night. She'd had it before, but never so vibrantly, Kyoto was truly a magical city. She stretched again with a satisfying moan, it felt wonderful.
I could stay like this forever, she sighed with absolute joy. But I shouldn't be long, I can get up and wake…DORIAN?
The silver Valkyrie froze, seeing none other than the thought of her affections laying across from her. His eyes were open gazing into hers waiting for her to notice. As soon as they met, he planted a quick peck on her lips.
"Good morning sleepyhead."
"It was…all real?"
"I certainly hope so," he joked while subtly pinching himself. "I think I've been put into enough illusions for one lifetime. How are you feeling? I didn't know if I was…"
"Wonderful," she answered honestly, they were both first timers after all and his initial awkwardness and inexperience were not held against him. "I can't believe we-, I never thought we would…"
"I am sorry I waited so long," he caressed her cheek before risking a stroke down her smooth side. "I'm not lying to myself anymore. What's wrong?"
"I-I was just thinking," Rossweisse sat up, bringing the sheets with her to remain barely covered. "Th-there are certain traditions that would normally have been upheld b-before we…"
Dorian's eyes widened at what she was inferring to. Marriage was quite important per Norse tradition, a fact that had escaped his thoughts when he approached her room. They had eluded her as well, the two lost in each other the entire night. Even with the knowledge of what had been ignored, the two could not stop smiling, it felt right regardless of everything else.
"I should have asked your parent's blessing? That we be official first?" Rossweisse nodded, taking his hand to show that in her eyes it did not matter, but as ever she was thinking of the future. It was part of what he adored about her. Her grandmother had already voiced her approval long ago, though in this case the true permission would fall upon her parents he had not yet met. "I can't undo what I did, nor would I want to, but maybe this can help."
Fumbling for his pants, Dorian hopped back into them as his fingers shifted through the pockets thanking himself that he had brought it since purchasing at the souvenir shop the previous day. Having discovered the small box, he brought it up between them with an awkward yet heartfelt smile.
"I was planning to give this to you after we got back home, but this is more important. I never expected just how much."
"What is it?…oh, Dorian," she sighed as he opened the box revealing a silver ring within. It wasn't real silver but was more expensive for a souvenir than he was willing to admit lest he invoke her wrath for a 'frivolous' expenditures.
The band was etched with the silhouette of a horse racing around its surface, the remainder of which was smooth with no other flair or extravagance. It was simple, meaningful, from the heart and possibly most important, barely within the budget she had helped design for him.
"I saw this yesterday and, well, better late than never getting your name's meaning right." He chuckled as he gently took her left hand to place the ring upon. Rossweisse; White Steed. "It's not a proper ring, but maybe as a promise?"
"A promise?" Her eyes lit up as it slid on perfectly, a bead of sweat running down Dorian's face thankful it fit.
"That I will always be there for you," he squeezed her hand once the ring was on nestled beside the legendary draupnir given by Lady Freyja at her birthday on her index finger. Despite the infinitely greater worth and beauty of the dwarven ring, she could not take her eyes off the silver band. "I promise, I'm not going anywhere."
At least until I can get something a bit more appropriate, it's a bit hard to top a fabled self-replicating ring.
Rossweisse looked as if she was doing her best to hold back tears, the sentiment more important to her than even Dorian realized. Her greatest uncertainty was obsessing too much on her studies to overcome the failings that prevented her from becoming head of her family. Focusing so much that never once had a boy shown interest in her as she had never gone out to do the things over Valkyries had. In that moment, those worries no longer weighed upon her, for that had been exactly what led her to Dorian. She thought back to finding the dead young man in the burning building, at that moment she would never have imagined ending up where she now sat…in the same bed in every meaning of the word.
"We have some time," she checked the clock. "Maybe we could…" A loud knock at the door interrupted their tender moment, with a quick glance she warned Dorian to hide. Making a panicked jump, he dove behind the bed to avoid detection. "Wh-who is it?" She quickly grabbed the closest shirt realizing she was still completely naked.
"Team meeting!" Azazel's voice called out. "May I come in?"
"N-No!" Rossweisse rushed to the door as she heard him jostle the knob. Instead, she opened it herself once the shirt was on and covering the necessities just enough to see her fellow teacher on the trip. "D-did something happen?" She flipped her hair to work out as much of the bedhead as possible.
"We have an idea where the next affected shrine was, no Yasaka, but it can be like a treasure hunt to the next. The trip will be starting sooner than…" He looked her up and down, an incorrigible smile spreading across his lips. "You can have time to change though. I had no idea you slept as such."
"I do not judge YOUR sleeping arrangement," her proper nature returned as she played off her disheveled state. "A shirt can be efficient and ensure the minimum amount of required laundry."
"I don't doubt that, sometimes I wear nothing at all," he admitted with a renewed smirk. "But last time I checked, your tracksuits were all red. I'll give you twenty minutes," with that he ducked out of the door leaving behind a final wink, closing it himself as a certain squirrel followed the man who was a kindred spirit.
Rossweisse looked down slowly as if what she saw would surely kill her on sight once confirmed. Internally she chanted it wasn't true, but that wouldn't alter reality. Sure enough, the tracksuit shirt that she had grabbed so hastily and wore in front of Azazel was a dark shade of blue.
Kyoto Station Train…
Small wisps of smoke billowed out of Rossweisse and Dorian's ears at the understanding that Azazel and Ratatoskr knew everything. They sat in the train en route to their first stop in utter silence. With only two days left to tour Kyoto, everyone was even more vibrant, with the exception of Motohama and Matsuda.
"Are you dorks okay?" Aika asked her bespectacled foe. "You've been way too quiet."
"Nothing!" The pair blurted out in unison, their eyes briefly panning over Ratatoskr who only looked to them with a squeak. Even that was enough to keep them far from him and Dorian for the remainder of the day. Despite both remembering what had occurred the previous night, each were certain it had to be a shared dream or hallucination.
"You look tense," Suzaku pointed out to Dorian, snapping him out of his blank stare. "Long night?"
"In a good way," he replied more coyly than intended. "What happened yesterday, those voices I heard?"
"Our gods spoke to you, not something done lightly," she explained as Kunou inched subtly closer. "I think it may be best if the young princess and I do the shrine-channeling for the duration."
"Is it dangerous?"
"Possibly," her mood darkened slightly as her thoughts became mixed. "In the past, false heads of the family who tried to speak to the gods or interface with the Ley Lines ended…poorly if they were deemed unfit. I surmise it is why Yasaka was kidnapped, none of the heroes would have been able to wield energies even if they could somehow sense them."
"I will keep that in mind," Dorian gulped at the dread in her eyes. "What is our first stop today?"
"Tenryuu-ji!" Kunou interrupted having to use all her will to keep her tail from appearing with a proud wag clearly trying to impress them with her knowledge. "Be ready to learn when we arrive, I promised to be your guide and that's what I'm going to do!"
"You are just as your mother said," Suzaku giggled at her enthusiasm, drawing a pouting frown from the young fox.
"And what is THAT supposed to mean?"
"She brags about you in her way," she smiled in such a way that defused even Kunou's temper. "Her little princess, maybe one day I'll have a proper girl just like you."
"Stop saying s-such odd things!" She blurted out, clearly uncertain what to think. The Shinto Clans were still believed to have been responsible for the attack that killed her father. All the same, she found herself sitting with one with such pleasant conversation.
"It is good to see her like this," Kari admitted to Dorian, the aura of trust he seemed to exhume infecting even her cold demeanor. "She doesn't get to act her age nearly enough."
"She'll be leading in her own right someday," Dorian agreed while leaning back into the seat. "She should have time to be a kid."
Kari nodded with his statement while still eyeing him. "We WILL find my lady's mother, whatever happens. After our less than courteous attack I would not have blamed you leaving us be."
"It happens more than you'd think," he tried to make her laugh but could not see any change through her mask. "I try not to hold grudges; you get more wrinkles that way. Besides, if we can get both sides to the table, maybe even joining the alliance…"
"Kari! Tell this woman to stop teasing me!" Kunou called for her guard, Suzaku barely able to hide her enjoyment through her polite smile. With a sigh and subtle wave farewell, she departed the prevent the outbreak of further hostilities.
Dorian leaned back a bit, glancing over at Rossweisse having moved across the car to check on the other students. Their eyes met with a flickering smile between them, Dorian grinning like a kid the entire time. That is, until he spotted Ratatoskr's smug expression inches from his face, deflating the euphoria.
"Come on boss-man," Ratatoskr whispered in his ear. "Don't be down, you finally got into that Valkyrie's armor plates AND did so in a way to make poets worldwide weep with joy! I knew you had it in you!"
"Please don't," he begged as his long-time friend patted him on the back. "A gentleman doesn't talk about this stuff!"
"You can talk with me, I'm your best man…or I'd better be on the big day," he winked at the not-so subtle request. "Any secrets divulged of your nightly escapades or our favorite teacher's most sensitive spots…"
"They are cute together, aren't they?" Asia asked across the way as Dorian vigorously started trying to wring Ratatoskr's neck.
"I'm surprised he has so much energy," Issei nodded, taking a small pleasure despite their truce in seeing Dorian flustered. "He didn't return last night, must have been patrolling all over the hotel."
"It let us have some time alone," Asia snuggled closer. "I know I shouldn't be greedy, but I can't remember the last time it was just us."
"You could never be greedy Asia," he said with absolute honesty. "You're such a wonderful person, healing even devils because you felt it was the right thing to do."
Some time with each of them, they would like that. Issei thought as he contemplated her remarks. I've made such progress with Asia, but the President has been back home all this time. She knows I want a harem and hasn't seemed to mind sharing Asia every night. I can't back down! When we get back I will…
"Issei," Kiba approached from the back car, their classes not yet split up for the day. "Are you ready if we need to fight?" He motioned towards Asia knowing she held the promotion contract.
"I'm good to go man," he assured his fellow devil. "Asia can promote me at a moment's notice if we find these hero bastards. We'll rescue that sexy…" he paused, glancing to Asia before recomposing himself, still in his previous mindset. What about you and Cat?"
"She assured me that she is prepared," Kiba glanced over at their new peerage member reading in the corner. "She has calmed her mind since joining us, when like that her sword skills are among the best I've ever seen."
"Geez, high praise."
"It is well-earned. My class will continue the normal schedule while yours follows the affected shrines, we'll meet up at Arashiyama. Mr. Azazel made the excuse that we are having a free-for all day to account for our shifting schedule. No one seems to mind."
"No reason to," Issei pointed out. "Gives them a greater sense of freedom, if I didn't know about the shit going on in the background, I'd be happy too, we'll be ready!"
He thought about his returned potential; the other Boosted Gear spirits had claimed it was the full power of the Red Dragon Emperor. If that were the case, just how powerful would he become now that it had inexplicably come back to him? Maybe even being able to promote to queen, or use his Juggernaut Drive without nearly killing himself.
Or making the President cry.
"That is good to hear. I must admit I never expected to meet one of Akeno's family on this trip." The three glanced to Suzaku sitting near Dorian across from Kunou, the two clearly uneasy around one another.
"No kidding, I didn't even hear she had a cousin." Issei admitted. "I knew she wasn't on good terms with her relatives but didn't even think about the human side of the family tree."
"She has…a lot on her mind," Kiba admitted, knowing Akeno far longer than Issei did. "As you have learned, she tries to shoulder much of her burden despite all of our attempts to help. You are a lucky guy Issei, having such a loving family."
"Your family too now, we live in the same house, right?" They both shared a laugh between comrades. "Everything is more complicated than it seems, isn't it?" Issei noted with a nod of agreement from his friend. "Oh, this is our stop, break a leg man!" The two clasped hands together tightly. "We'll have fun AND save the day all in one go!"
The Underworld…
"I despise that man," Venelana let her composure slip just a moment at the frustrating situation. "This…Moloch has been totally unflinching; he seems to be enjoying this."
The team were together in a nearby control room for the trains turned into a headquarters for their containment of the terrorists. With their recent action, the original title of protesters had been cast aside. For the most part, it appeared that they were treating the captives well enough and no deaths had occurred. Zeoticus was soon to arrive with a veritable army surrounding the area, weapons aimed at the train cars beyond. Despite the overwhelming force, they dared not make a move yet lest even a single loss of life occur. The rest of Rias' Peerage and Thrud were among them, resting on the sofas for the battle to come talking among each other.
"He isn't afraid," Rias pointed out. Her expression was cold and focused staring at the far-off trains even though she could not see their foe. "I don't think he even cares about what he's doing."
"Precisely," Grayfia agreed, internally proud of Rias' observation. "He demands that which is impossible yet has no fervor of most who use such tactics to force change. It is as if he has accepted whether he wins or lose and cares not for the outcome."
"Have you found his family ties?"
"Unfortunately, not. There is no record of a 'Moloch' in any of the 72 pillar family trees. He must be using an alias."
"Any hint as to his class of power?" Rias was already developing tactics for the battle sure to come.
"He broke through the barriers protecting the main car," Venelana answered for her maid and daughter-in law. "That was made to be troublesome for even an Ultimate-Class devil."
An Ultimate…so either he or one of his men is quite powerful. We've faced higher than that before. She recalled the confrontation with Loki, a literal God and Kokabiel whom held a Satan-Class power. Even Kokabiel was stronger than that bringing back the bitter taste of requiring Vali's aid to win.
"The patrols shift guard rotations every few hours," Venelana pointed out. "That is when they will be most vulnerable. Your father has already decreed no further discussions with them. I worry for the lives that will be lost. That monster, claiming our people have suffered enough while killing despite our low numbers."
"I can take out a few of them," Thrud promised. "Whatever I can do, send me in with the troops."
"I imagine there will be plenty of that to go around," Akeno assured her. "Koneko and I will show you the results of our training."
"That would be appreciated my dear," Venelana bowed. "Tomorrow the last of our forces will arrive, when that happens, I am sure Zeoticus will attack. If I'd known this would have gone so far, I would never have sent for you."
"Don't think that way," Rias looked over the map for different avenues. "If I am to lead our family and more when I am older, I need to get used to situations like this."
"Not yet," her mother frowned. "You have such responsibility ahead of you, these should be your peaceful days. Even that marriage arrangement to Riser came far sooner than I would have liked. You should be with your friends, enjoying yourselves, getting closer to those you care for."
Rias snapped back to her mother, the incorrigible smile breaking through both fully aware to whom she referred. Venelana could embarrass her with a glance despite her best intentions. With a sigh of defeat, she leaned back.
"I had my luxury of peace," she started. "I got to spend so much time in Kuoh, enjoy my school days, I'll be starting college next year and working with the family full time not long after. My servants…my friends, this is their chance."
"Your time isn't done yet," she laid a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "You will take over for us, I have no doubt of that and Millicas will learn the best from you. But nothing says you can't have someone at your side. He was still calling you President at the dinner."
"I told him he doesn't need to, but he does all the same. And he still talks about a harem, but aren't I enough for him?"
"Give him time dear, you would not believe what I had to go through for your father. Oh, I remember when we first started seeing each other, he still used my title…"
What are you thinking Issei? What am I thinking? She only half-listened to her mother's words of wisdom on her parent's past she had told before. This is not the time for this! Maybe later…
"Lady Gremory," A shadow seemed to envelope the room, coalescing before the family matron into the shape of a tall voluptuous woman. She bore a black high-collared cloak, her face akin to that of a lion with a mane of dark hair before shifting into a more humanoid shape. "Your venerable husband sends word of their impending arrival."
"Oh, he loves his titles," she giggled internally before forming a stern expression to greet Zeoticus' Bishop and fellow lover. "Welcome Nergal, what word do you bring?"
"They have no hope of victory, but even with our best estimates we fear the loss of life to exceed a third of all those held hostage. Even using all our strength without restraint from the start will not be swift enough a strike."
"We won't let that happen," Rias stood tall at her mother's downward glance at the grim news, her crimson hair whipping in the wind. "We are the Gremory family! How can we inspire change if we let those trapped in the old ways get away with such an act?" Her mother and Grayfia looked to each other across the room, sharing a proud glance at the young woman having grown up so much. "We have everything we need right here," she motioned to her peerage, those remaining standing up proudly ready for whatever command was given. "There is this other passage I see here, Gasper, can I count on you?"
"Of course!" The young vampire snapped to attention, she never imagined he could have such a look in his eye. He had voiced his concern for the hostages within and was willing to do what he could to help. He was growing into quite the man.
"Thank goodness, now what we will do is..."
Within the Trains…
"They have us surrounded?" Moloch asked one of the High-Class devils he commanded to follow him. His name was unimportant.
"Utterly my lord," he bowed with absolute devotion. "More Gremory soldiers arrive and are taking up positions around us. I surmise they may be bold enough to strike by tomorrow."
"Perfect," a sly smile stretched across his lips. All had gone as he had seen, the new Satans being far too predictable with their efforts to ensure the safety of their citizens. "Those who cannot be useful have no place," he looked out over the train at the huddled mass of devils, not one of them above middle-Class. They were either sleeping uneasily or glancing warily at his men, the businessman he so enjoyed toying with was nursing the wound on the teen who had dared to try and strike him. In his eyes, the boy was ALMOST a real devil. "So many to be brought low by a few dozen of my men. If they only attacked at once all but I would most likely be slain, yet they cower to preserve their insignificant lives, worthless. They are nothing like our people of old, they are so…small."
"And how are you better?" The businessman snapped, surprising the old devil. He'd clearly been pushed to the breaking point to no longer fear what he could do. "Power does not equate to greatness or superiority."
"But it is a good start," he retorted with a twirl. The meaning behind what we do matters little, it is our achievements that prove our worth. What have you done? An eight hour day, maybe a brat or two spawned if you were so unfortunate? You think they will carrying on your name but they turn out to be worthless in the end, trust one who has experience in such matters."
He stepped back as the devil tried to punch him, getting cracked in the back of the head by one of his men for good measure.
"A child then? So predictable. I was leading armies, witnessing the golden age of our kind. It was such a rush...until it was no longer," he sighed. "I once said I would never tire of that rush but longevity makes liars of us all. I was content with just sitting back and relaxing for the rest of eternity."
"So why didn't you?" He wiped the splatter of blood from his mouth from being forced into the metal floor.
"I found something worth fighting for beyond the comforts of home," he sneered before turning towards the front car. "You have your simple reasons now, but in time mark my words, it will mean as little as the dirt beneath your nails. In time, you will need to shake the pillars of this world to even feel alive."
"You are the last one fighting, Katerea gave up on the fight," his follower hissed as he passed by. "That leaves you as the only True Devil."
"That goes without saying even before she did so," he flipped his hand arrogantly. "What of our other pieces?"
"They are in position and communications have been cut; they await only your orders."
"Not yet, if they move now then the gnats will swarm. Let us wait until they are buzzing around this corpse…then we can make our move."
"As you command," he bowed before turning to continue his patrol.
There is no point to this world, not anymore. The missing spots have been filled in, questions answered and naught of interest is to be found. He recalled the story he had heard only a few weeks past by an associate, Ophis appearing again alongside a strange girl who even the leaders trembled at the mention of. So, an old god actually remained behind, she may know where the rest of her kind fled to or even if gods of other worlds exist. Oh, what a wonderful possibility that there are places that may not be so dull, and I'll get to travel to and burn every single one of them.
Kyoto, Tenryu-ji…
"Tenryu-ji, Dragon of the Sky Temple," Issei muttered to himself as he entered the famous landmark. "Does that have anything to do with you by chance?
[I believe I fought here once.] Ddraig replied within his mind. [It reminds me of something, but I am unsure what. I recall fighting over the old site Danrin-ji with a past wielder…then nothing.]
The original temple? Dorian overheard their conversation. I wonder if he played some role in its destruction resulting in Tenryu-ji being built.
You have difficulty remembering? Iggy's gentle voice played alongside them, the two linked as fellow Sacred Gear spirits. Me too, maybe something happens as part of the process to becoming Sacred Gears. I don't even remember how it happened with me.
[You just woke up at the moment of the Einherjar's birth?] She nodded internally. [Then he is likely your first wielder, but even in that case, you should remember your life before. Your mother accepting you as her daughter but no recollection of giving birth is…odd. She didn't seem like the type to lay a seed when we knew her.]
You mentioned that before, that you knew Yggdrasil?
[Ha,] Ddraig let out a bellowing laugh. [She was an incredible woman. Back in those days she wandered the Earth, which she called Midgard, before taking root in those Roads of hers. Would you believe Albion REFUSED to fight in her presence? He was such a softie when she was around, I'm amazed he let Vali fight your host at all.]
"Ahem!" Kunou interrupted Dorian who had been glancing up listening to the conversation in his and Issei's mind. The young youkai tapped her feet angrily, apparently having been talking of the history of the area to which he missed. "If you already know so much to ignore me, maybe you can tell me of when the updated temple was built?"
Dorian stared like a deer caught in headlights. Knowing Kunou would be their guide, he had left the tour pamphlet at the front entrance after paying the fee. Classmates around snickered at his misfortune.
"The loli is ripping Dorian apart," Matsuda teased. Motohama was staring at Kunou more intently than the rest, glasses growing foggy before getting gut checked by Aika Kiryuu's elbow, snapping him back to reality.
"How did we manage to get such an adorable guide!" Aika hugged Kunou tightly, the youkai princess trying to free herself restraining the desire to hit the student with fox fire.
"Release me!" She commanded, her bodyguards contemplating advancing from the shadows. "Who the heck are you, you peasant?"
"Oh, you even complain like a princess!" There was no stopping the bespectacled girl until Issei finally pulled her off.
"This is Kunou," the Red Dragon Emperor tried to calm the pair down. "She…is an acquaintance of the President's family! When she heard we were staying in the hotel she agreed to guide us on the trip."
Smooth, Dorian made a sliding motion with his hand subtly to express his approval of the explanation.
"That makes sense," Aika believed the cover story. "I know a lot about the area too!"
"Is that so?" Kunou stared her down in challenge, a new foe to replace Dorian in Aika's eyes had appeared. Then I suppose you'd know all about the teaching hall?"
"With artwork done by Suzuki Shonen?" She fired back immediately, resulting in a twitch of Kunou's left eye.
The pair went back and forth as the class toured the grounds vising the grounds, ancient corridors, and statues of Gautama Buddha himself before ending up at the Sogen Pond. Noted as a place of special scenic beauty, Kunou did not stop explaining all she knew. Despite the rivalry with Aika's knowledge, the proud smile of accomplishment endured the entire time. Both Kari and Dorian felt a little better, seeing true enjoyment and passion in the young girl's eyes. It was clear she herself had never been there, relating stories she had heard with the enthusiasm of someone her age, all the same she did her best educating the class. No one could have guessed the uncertainty behind her words, still concerned for the safety of her mother.
The garden surrounding the pond was beautiful, drawing groups to take pictures. Red leaves and shifting oranges adorned the trees signaling autumn's full force. Dorian found the scenery breathtaking, even though he had seen much of Japanese culture through Kuoh Town, the ancient ambiance of Tenryu-ji had him in awe. He barely noticed Suzaku disappear, communing with the Ley Lines in search of their next target. Surprisingly, Kunou did not demand to follow or watch her, being engrossed in her tour guide duties. It seemed she started to trust the Shinto leader just a little bit more.
"Look at how big the carp grow!" Irina called out, the group eyeing the fish swimming about hypnotically within their clear depths. "Oh, I would love to have a pond just like this."
"I bet I could catch one," Kuroka's eyes went wide at their sight. "They'd make quite the meal…I am of course joking," she quickly added at seeing Irina and Asia's horrified expressions.
So many wonders, Dorian thought as they reached the Teaching Room, Aika content to allow Kunou to take over without complaint. The young Einherjar's mind was utterly entranced as he looked up at the ceiling with awe. High above, a grand mural depicting an Eastern-style serpent dragon opened up before them. The first thought to Dorian was how it reminded him of Midgardsormr only more unknown and mysterious. Its eyes gazed upon them as if judging the worth of all who entered that room.
"Unryuu-zu," Kunou explained. "The image of the Cloud Dragon! They say no matter where you look upon it, he will stare right back at you watching the Six Directions!"
"That is strangely accurate," Dorian admitted, shuffling from one end of the room to the other with his neck craned upward. True to form, no matter where he stood, the dragon watched. "I wonder how many actual dragons are like this," he thought of those at the Dragon Mountain training Riser. Most in Tannin's entourage were Western Dragons like Rassei, making Dorian believe the others must be very rare."
[Rare indeed] Ddraig's thoughts filled their minds educating he and Issei. [And all are as mysterious in their ways. Vritra in his true form as you saw against Loki is one such, Yu-Long is another.]
Maybe it has something to do with their status, Dorian hypothesized, realizing most of those who called themselves Dragon Kings aside from Tiamat and Fafnir were Eastern serpents. I'd love a photo of that, he frowned upon seeing the "No Photography" sign plastered to the walls instead being content with purchasing a recreation model and painting from the nearby gift shop.
Upon reaching the end of the tour and coming back outside, Suzaku was waiting for them clearly with more information. When the others meandered away, she dared to draw closer.
"It was redirected as we thought, Togetsukyou is the next in the line of collapse."
"Thank goodness, that is not far," Dorian pulled out the map. "It will not be suspicious for us to head there next."
"We can get there fastest through the Bamboo Path!" Kunou rushed ahead with a sprint which the others easily kept up with. "Everyone!" She called out to the class, claiming their attention immediately. "Togetsukyou is just this way! Those who make it through first can ride the rickshaws!"
"Everyone in an orderly line, please!" Rossweisse tried to maintain some semblance of order as the students eagerly surged forward. None had ridden on a rickshaw, a two-wheeled cart pulled by additional guides, before. She had some success, the large mass of students finally pointed in the right direction. She rushed ahead, Dorian losing sight of her in the crowd.
"Come on nya," Kuroka pulled on the Einherjar's arm, dragging him ahead of the others with a coy smile forming on her lips. "I've haven't ridden a rickshaw in years. It can be quite romantic if the driver isn't so talkative."
Is she…actually enjoying herself? Dorian mused, swearing he could see true enjoyment behind her usual promiscuous expression. He was even more surprised by Irina giving a thumbs up, glad to see her joining in. I consider Asgard, and to a lesser extent the tower, as my home. Could Kyoto be where her heart is?
Near Togetsukyou…
"How can they limit our trips to just four days?" Aika Kiryuu sighed as she leaned back in her seat. The class had just rounded off their latest stop and were resting in a quaint Tofu Shop recommended by their cute guide. "There is too much to see."
"And do," Motohama scrolled through his camera beside her, his food almost forgotten. "Now, I can show you everything if you PROMISE not to hit me."
"Just shut up and show me the…hey these are pretty good," she had to admit as he showed the film. He was suspiciously not scrolling past the halfway point of the saved photos, but she let it slide just for once. "See what happens when you focus on something OTHER than what's in that dirty head of yours?"
"Don't get too used to this," he replied with an adjustment of his glasses. "Once your eyes are no longer affixed on us, we'll be back to the goal of all men!"
"Promises, promises," she teased with a gleam in her eye. The scene unnerved those around who knew them best, it was almost like they were getting along.
"Hey, Kiba!" Issei called his friend over as the second half of the class entered the shop. Their paths crossed for the next few monuments, so it was the perfect time to get back together and catch up before they diverged again. "We saved you guys a seat!"
"Thank you," the blonde knight offered the first seat to Catherine, claiming the second with Xenovia on his right. "You got to visit Tenryuu-ji already? We may be seeing it later."
"Is it true the mural follows you everywhere?" Catherine asked, eyes sparkling from their day together. The group could not help but notice she was covered with charms, souvenirs, and hair clips from head to toe. Clearly, she had gone overboard on the keepsakes for their trip, not having been able to buy personal effects of her own in years. She looked as happy as a kid in a candy store and the others couldn't have been happier for her.
"It did!" Xenovia scooched closer to regale her with the stories. "It was as if the dragon itself was still there!"
"Aren't you going to have any tofu?" Kunou asked while the others conversed, leaning over at Dorian's plate which was suspiciously devoid of the region's staple food, instead filled with sushi rolls, one of the few other foods offered.
"I…" he paused, feeling awkward at her disappointed expression. "I've never had a taste for tofu before." He found it rather bland with questionable texture but knew better than to go into that level of detail around someone who was fond of it.
"That's because you never had it here before!" She announced louder than expected, snatching two squares from her plate, and slamming them onto his. "This is a delicacy here; it would be rude not to try it!" Her expression removed any chance at arguing. "Try the sauce if it's too bland for your plebian tastes."
Dorian acquiesced to her wishes, dipping the squares in the dish that had been provided. Despite her seemingly annoyed tone, Kunou was smiling at the chance to recommend the food of her home to outsiders. He hoped to keep her smiling like that as long as he could. There was a moment of awkward silence as he chewed the first square, even Kari leaning over to gauge his reaction.
"…It's good," he final gave the verdict surprised at its squishy nature. The mushy texture he was normally used to seemed to be gone, though the spicy sauce burned the roof of his mouth. "It's fresher than I've had before."
"As it should be! Tofu is meant to be eaten immediately; the fragrance is carefully cultured along with flavor. You won't find it better anywhere else, not even the devil hotels!"
"Okay, okay," he chuckled a bit while eating the second cube. "You won me over, I surrender." She seemed to accept that answer, turning to finish her own meal with a satisfied grin. Even Kari looked thankful for his attitude. "There really is something about this city that is so peaceful."
"Well, autumn in Arashiyama is always quite relaxing," a familiar voice pointed out as the group turned to the back of the shop. "I am glad to see you are in agreement!"
"Mr. Azazel?" Issei asked as they spotted the teacher meant to be back at the hotel. "What are you doing here?"
"…and drinking sake in the middle of the day?" Dorian added with a glare at the cup in his hands.
"I asked him the same!" Rossweisse chastised him, the young Valkyrie beside him having located her coworker only just before their arrival. Her frustration was evident as she had recently discovered the shop as the hangout where Azazel often disappeared to when meant to be going over work. "How can you not see how irresponsible you are acting? In front of the students no less!" The group feared the vein in her forehead was on the verge of popping.
"I was working diligently as ever," he tried to talk her down. "Looking over the various potential shrines was hard. I deserved a nice break." The students in the know looked dead-panned at the fallen angel, clearly disbelieving of his statement of working considering his current position. "You may join me Ms. Rossweisse, tell me all about the lucky man!" He motioned towards the glistening silver promise ring adorned upon her finger, the rest of the class only now noticing it as sweat slowly dripped down her and Dorian's brow.
"No way," Motohama and Matsuda started restrained sobbing. "Our silver beauty has been tainted by the false words of another!? Did she have that when we got here?"
"Good for her," Aika smirked evilly, reveling in the pair's sobs while looking ever so subtly towards Dorian. "He must be quite some guy."
"Tell…about him? I-I will do no such thing!" Rossweisse slammed her fist into the table leaving a dent and worrying even Azazel as she eyed the students nearby. "That is private information! We aren't here to talk about me, we are here about YOU!" In her embarrassment, she reached for the glass she had been given of water, instead scooping up Azazel's second helping of sake he had been saving for later.
"Wai…!" It was too late as she downed the entire cup in a single gulp as elegantly as was possible. Dorian immediately paled at the act, knowing what was to follow.
"Yhu need to bee mure reshponsible," she slurred her words as she slumped onto the stool beside him, a monumental task considering how she swayed left and right. "They are lhooking upsh to yu…"
"She's drunk from one cup?" Issei and Azazel gasped in unison. Neither had seen her in such a state, the Grigori leader having missed her display when previously visiting Asgard.
"Am noth!" She assured them as she poured another from the bottle on the table and drank it instantly. "I ushed to drik all the tyme when I was that old geezurs bodyguard. He whas the reason why…why I couln't get a buyfrid. But now…bud now…"
"Rossweisse…" Dorian stepped forward hoping to calm her, expecting the tirade against her former employer to make the room shake. He was surprised to his very core when she glanced up, face warping in a smile so wholesome that the entire room risked being blinded by its purity.
"Bud now I found him," she leaned over, wrapping an arm about Azazel's neck and pulling him close. The older fallen angel looked almost worried for his safety. "The man I luv, he says such kind werds, appreziates what I doo and does such…such…" She gushed like a schoolgirl, placing her hands on her cheeks as if too embarrassed to say more but unable to stop herself. "Oh, iv only you knew…you'd haf someone for yerself too!"
"Well…I…" Azazel stuttered, blindsided by the sudden reversal of their relationship statuses. "I suppose it has been a while since I pursued the fairer sex," he glanced towards the students dumbfounded watching the exchange. "This guy must be a lucky man," he made sure to refrain from making eye contact with Dorian.
"HE IZ!" She squeezed Azazel's neck all the tighter. "He got me this," she showed off the silver ring. "And not efen at a 100-yes shop. All the other Valkyrieeesss can shuck it!"
"That is great to hear, but you need to restrain yourself," Azazel finally motioned to the students. "You all go enjoy the area, I'll make sure she gets the rainbows out of her system. Once we are ready to go, we'll gather everyone up."
"I'll help," Dorian offered trying to sound as professional as possible. "You did ask me to assist when needed." He ordered several cups of coffee hoping to counteract Rossweisse's drunkenness.
"Sho many frinds," she slurred before letting out a drunken laughter that shook the room. "Waiter, ten more bottlessh!" The poor man behind the counter looked conflicted if he should comply.
Ten? That's even more than last time! At least she's in a better mood, has she become a happy drunk?
Issei and most of the class slipped out towards Togetsukyou with downturned heads embarrassed for their teacher. The perverted duo were close behind lamenting their lost chances with the silver beauty that never truly existed, the heartwarming smile sealing the deal that whoever she spoke of was legitimate. Only Dorian, Azazel, and the members of the Crossroads; Hecuba, Kuroka, Irina and Xenovia stayed out of concern for their fellow teammate.
"Yhou came bak!" She cried as if only then realizing it was Dorian at her side, gripping him in a powerful hug rubbing her cheek against his. "Let's stay like this furever, we cad go back too the hodel and…"
"Okay Rose," he tried to remain calm under the watchful eyes of everyone who pondered the meaning of her words as to what he does to her. "But first you need to drink this," he offered her a cup of coffee, slipping in some medicine Thrud had showed could help. She took it without question, as with the sake cups that came before she swallowed the contents instantly releasing a whiff of steam at the heat she ignored.
Boy I wish Thrud were here now, she's seen Rose like this far more than I. With any luck the day is a little less active than the last if the previous time she got drunk is any indicator of how long she needs to detox.
"ANOTHUR!" She shouted, raising the cup to slam it into the ground narrowly stopped by Hecuba who scooped it to safety, the inebriated Valkyrie suddenly confused why her hand was now empty.
"How long will she be like this?" Irina asked as Rossweisse continued to affectionately rub Dorian's face while trying to kiss him.
"A while probably," he sighed. "You all can go on with the others, I hear the bridge is quite a sight."
"And leave you to her nefarious devices?" Xenovia smirked, holding out a hand to prevent Rossweisse from tipping over. "I am glad to see her so happy; she has something to be joyful about instead of bitter."
That makes two of us.
"Something MUCH more to be happy about," Kuroka teased as she leaned up right into Dorian's face and taking a series of short sniffs. "There is a scent that is…oddly absent from you both since yesterday. Whatever have you two been up to?"
"Exprezing true luv!" Rossweisse detached from Dorian only to claim Kuroka as her next victim. "Oh iv onlee you knew. Your eers are so fluvvy! Throod would love to pat them…" She proceeded to start rubbing the spot on her head where Kuroka's ears would have been had she not been concealing them for the trip.
"Expressing eh?" Kuroka sat down, putting an arm around her Valkyrie teammate as if they were lifelong drinking buddies. Irina and Hecuba's mouths had dropped open, even Xenovia looking at Dorian as their imaginations worked overtime to translate her words. "Do you have details to share…!"
Kuroka's ears shot up at the same time as Azazel's eyes before Rossweisse had a chance to spill the beans any further. Even Dorian felt a tingling sensation in the air, something was wrong.
"Do you feel that?" Dorian jumped to his feet, rushing out the door as the others gave chase with curious expressions. "Something isn't right, it's like…"
"Like a great power nearby suddenly shifted," Suzaku finished for him. The Shinto Clan Head had been outside the tofu shop looking towards the bridge leading across the river. "I believe your class has grown noticeably smaller.
Sure enough, among the group that had set out across the river, only those without supernatural powers were continuing along the path. Issei, Kunou, Kari, Asia, Kiba and Catherine had utterly disappeared.
"No!" Azazel shouted out first, the emotion in his voice betraying his former aloofness. Despite his laidback assertions, he cared for all the children and took his duties watching them seriously. "The Hero Brigade have access to tha…?" Mid-sentence, the Grigori leader faded away like one lost in a fog, disappearing just as surely as the others.
"Mr. Azazel, what happened?" Dorian demanded as he rushed forward, fingers slipping through empty air where their teacher had been. His worry at the missing friends grew by the moment as it was clear there was no sign of any of them. "Where are they?"
The Gremory and youkai teammates disappear into a trap, their guard momentarily down during their trip. Next time, the students make their first encounter with the powers behind the Hero Faction's efforts. A bit of a short chapter, but I hope everyone like the set up for the coming battle. Until then, I hope everyone stays safe, Reads and Reviews, but most of all Enjoys! :D