Chapter 23.
The past lays before us in everything.
The Sinful was like always upon entering it empty. The Swede was back behind the counter of the bar in her hostess uniform. Upon seeing me she shakes a bit. I slowly moved to her and allowed her to summon her list. I say in apology to her for Friday.
"I'm sorry for terrorizing you on Thursday night and Friday morning. It was not my intention. I have people who are relying on me for this money."
Freya looks surprised that her nightmare was apologizing. She stops shaking completely. Before she turned a bit sorry.
"Your strange Gorgan. Wu told me you didn't mean it and that you killed the monster that took Rodger. I accept the apology. These people you do this for are lucky to have you. Yen or Lilith?"
I slowly started getting the heads placing them on the bar.
"Mainly Lilith, but six heads are Yen. Please tell your king I'm not interested in reincarnation since I can see the question. It's impossible for me to do that."
Freya sighed before growing curious. We began to count heads. The money wasn't bad. It was not bad for five hunts even with the shares being split. When the last head is paid out the pawn checked off the name before she pulled something out for me. It's a scroll. I recognized the seal on it thanks to my lessons.
It's the seal of House Agares. Freya said with a downcast eye.
"This was delivered to my king today. She gave implicit instructions to all of us that upon seeing you we are to give this to you."
I slowly take the scroll and then put it in my pocket spell with all my money that I have raised. Before thanking the Swede.
"I will read it when I have a chance. I plan to be here more this week. Have a good Sunday."
It was short and sweet. Freya watched me leave but asked a final question.
"You a pureblood Gorgan? You feel like one."
I don't turn back to her but say.
"Perhaps."
I left the bar with the intention there of making them wonder. Because I want to see them freak when they are wrong.
The house when I entered was mostly silent. I moved towards the front room and that's where I see the cats. Shirone is on Kuroka's lap on the couch. Shirone looks beaten down verbally and Kuroka has a stern face. I get close enough to them I hear the end of it.
"Pappy was the best Shirone. He would be devastated to hear what you have said nya. He never hurt you and it's only this monster that my mate will take care of for what he did to you."
Shirone deflated more than ever. I don't want to interrupt this. Before the white cat sadly said.
"I am sorry nya. You're right nya. I was just so angry at him getting away with it I focused on them nya. Please let me have him nya. He's strong like pappy nya. I will do anything to have a mate that strong nya. Rias-sama told me what he fought nya."
Kuroka shakes her head. She knows I'm here by senjutsu. Known by the twitch of her right ear my way.
"You called him many cruel things nya. He told me them and how you immediately turned down his apology nya. The lying to his face was the last straw. You can't easily have him nya. You burned that chance badly."
Shirone tears up there. They began to fall. She snuggles deeply into her sister and her ears droop. Her tail was now on her lap.
"Convince him please nya. I truly am sorry nya. He scared me Friday, but I saw the real him again nya. Like Monday when I lied nya. He's strong and I want a strong mate that can protect me nya. I'll do anything to earn that nya."
The pure desperation that voice held. They had switched. Shirone was the one desperate for that. While Kuroka was not as desperate. Kuroka looked increasingly hurt seeing her sister sad. Sis con. I don't like Shirone at all and this whole sadness is her fault and problem. But this could be worse later on. Kuroka softly spoke again.
"He will not take you as you are. Your racism is disgusting nya. Its so warped. You are like the things he hates in the people that abuse us nya. Get rid of that completely. I will try to help you there, but he has already very likely decided nya. Why not go after the other human? She is strong too nya."
Shirone was silent before saying.
"The dragon is strong nya. But she's not him nya. He's a noble son that can be the prince pappy told tales of to me nya. I wanted him first when he said he'd get rid of the creep nya. When he scared me Monday I saw the brave knight protecting Rias-sama from Riser-baka nya. I want a prince and knight like that nya. Please Gregor-sama forgive me nya."
She must have heard me. I entered the room and say to the cats.
"I can't. Not easily. I didn't care about the insults to me. I cared about the fact you said people like my friend deserve the abuse strays put on them. I cared about the fact you lied about apologizing to me to my face and so blatantly. How can I be sure you are being honest here and not lying again to get what you want? I'm not a prince or a knight. I'm a man that wants my world better and is willing to be the change I want."
Shirone droops more than ever. She lets out a whimper and her sister hugs her. Shirone cries.
"I am sorry nya. I mean it for real nya. Please let me show it nya. You're a real knight because you brought my sister back to me despite everything I did nya. I want a real knight like that nya. I'll leave the racist things behind nya. Please forgive me nya!"
She was so sad with many tears falling down her face. I'm not into that. But I see Kuroka's begging me to try to be kind to her equally broken sister. The apology was genuine. I let it go for Kuroka. I sat next to them, and I say to this cat girl.
"You are forgiven. You as of this moment are welcome to come to the house whenever you want. As for me and you that's a hill you have to climb on your own. I will give you a chance. Don't throw it away."
Kuroka promised me something very good for that. Her eyes take on a gleaming note. Shirone stopped crying hearing that and she has her ears perk up to their limits. She looked at me finally and her gold eyes hold her pure happiness that this was over. Then she grew determined to prove herself to me.
"Thank you Gregor-sama nya! You're truly a prince nya! Kiba-kun has competition at the school nya. I will show you I'm a changed person nya. I will earn my mate nya!"
That last part was said with stars in her eyes, and I internally roll mine. Kuroka gets that and she beams at me. I'll give this cat a chance. Not a big one but with Kuroka as my queen I want her to be happier than myself. She gets that and her upper tail squeezes my hand in thanks. I pull out the money for Kuroka with her shares. Kuroka beams and takes it. Shirone just looks at me in a star struck way like Ravel did Issei. All for getting real forgiveness. They really are similar. I tell them with a small smile.
"Go have fun. I have a busy day tomorrow. On Tuesday we can all do something fun together. I'll ask everyone for ideas tomorrow."
Kuroka picked up her still star struck sister and nodded taking her money with her tails. She does kiss my cheek as I stand up getting a hiss from the white cat. That just amused Kuroka more and she bid me goodbye.
"We will nya. I have a few ideas. You seen the backyard yet nya?"
I guess immediately.
"There's a pool isn't there."
She smiled big and looked very keen. As did Shirone. Kuroka answered while she moved towards the front door setting Shirone down.
"There is. I propose that nya. But you will need swimming clothes. We can go tomorrow after your thing nya. Come along Shirone. We can get you something tonight nya."
Evil queen. Shirone chased after her sister fast and the two went to enjoy themselves. I sighed because I knew that thing and the white cat would be trouble. Damn nekoshou with their strength fetish. I don't even want to understand that. Koriel unhelpfully cuts in saying it's probably an evolutionary thing. I tell her to fuck off. Leading us to argue as we go up the stairs. Alex joined in agreement with Koriel.
I don't hear anything else about in the house and I want to kinda relax. There must be good books in the library because it is vast.
I entered and found Kiryuu reading on the far side with her carapace on the table beside her. I just let her read while I looked at books on a nearby shelf. I found an interesting book on a criminal case that occurred during the early days of the Civil War. When the underworld was basically in total anarchy.
It was a fascinating read, and I learned a bit about the pre new kings devil society and it's even more backwards then now. That's really saying something. I was not impressed with how the criminal investigation went and because it was sloppy. However the case was handled as well as it could be handled with the issues there. The case was kept here in the library because it was a Gremory that solved it and the solver was a name I had heard before. I put it together immediately. It's a sister to Rias's father.
It shows where Rias got her name. I'm so intrigued by the book and that makes me miss someone walking towards me. Before sitting down next to me at the table I'm at. I look up and I see Rias. She looks like I did that morning. Bags under her eyes and not the most beautiful I have seen her. She was wearing a red shirt and jeans that looked well worn. I raised an eyebrow at her but said in a bit of worry.
"Hello Ria. I'm surprised you're here. I heard you trained hard yesterday."
Rias was silent for a second before she nods.
"You put that much effort into helping me, yet I have not done as much. I will be doing more of it. I want us ready and it's really just me that needs help. Everyone else has kept up. I was in my hole and now looking back everyone tried to help me escape it. I want you to see I'm not weak."
That was apparently hard for her to admit at the end with the attempts her peerage had made. Along with the very poorly hidden belief that she is weak. I set my book down. Before I get up and then pull her with me surprising her. We left the library and I catch Kiryuu smirking at me. Damn perfect recall pervert.
I tell her as we move down the stairs towards the basement.
"Rias you're not weak. That's the pig nobility talking. I don't think you are weak."
That seems to embolden her. When we reached the basement I get out the dueling swords and I give her one. She looked confused but I smile and say to her.
"We will practice together. I will teach you a sword style that can help you. What have the others been teaching you?"
Rias smiles that supernova smile. The one I realized is only for me. She began to take a stance and I immediately started working with her. I had grown to like the sword. The hunts had shown me that. Rias and I started dueling. Each one is a good practice for Rias. She has talent because she picked things up quickly. Especially when I point out a problem that she immediately fixes and never repeats. We duel and she started seeing openings after the fifth dual. We were going till she was tapped.
It's in our seventh dual that Rias got a hit on me. On my right arm. That look she got was something I'll remember forever. The pride and joy there plus her supernova smile leads me to say.
"It's just practice Rias. You're picking this up fast. Just have to build up endurance. You did better than Issari did when she started. You learn faster too so don't say you're stupid either."
Rias grew happier hearing that and seeing I'm being truthful. She grew competitive and then raised her sword in challenge. I smiled and we duel again. Our swords clanged and clashed. We kept dueling and this is something that we equally enjoyed.
The duals continue and Rias slowly starts winning more of them. I kept her and myself on our feet until Rias finally collapsed after her last fight where I tapped her right foot. She was breathing heavily from it, but I immediately started to help her up. Rias was exhausted from the duels. I tell her with pride.
"You did great Ria. Want me to carry you up the stairs?"
Rias beams and blushes but nods cutely. I let her lean on me before taking her sword and putting it on its holder in my armory. Along with mine. I then picked up Rias which gets an eep from her but carrying a boltgun in armor and weightlifting has helped. I carry her up the stairs easily. Rias snuggles into my chest enjoying this. The house is still silent when we hit the top floor.
Rias smiles up into my face before she looks down bashful and with a bigger blush. I continue up the stairs towards her room saying to her as we enter.
"Koneko and I have buried the hatchet totally. Would you and the rest of your peerage like to move in here halfway through this week?"
That gets me the most beautiful smile I have ever seen out of Rias. Tears entered her eyes and she nodded vigorously. Before she says while I set her on the bed.
"I would love that Gregor-kun. We all would. Thank you for giving me this. Hope and you. I want to be with you. My Lord of Iron."
She was looking at me with pure love. I saw something happen in that moment. I give her a title.
"I think I can have that with you my Crimson Princess of Ruin."
She was confused by that but I'm not. Because the evidence of it is near her hands. Red balls of demonic energy were popping out of Rias's hands. She looked down and was amazed at the fact she had the thing that everyone said she didn't have. Rias looked at her hands in awe struck amazement. Before they disappeared. I have a theory on why this happened. Rias was in pure joy with this.
"I have it. I have it."
I take a hand and I say while smiling real and not my trademark.
"It might never have shown itself because you doubted yourself so much. Don't do that anymore Ria. I don't. I want to believe in you as much as you believe in me."
Rias was crying tears of joy knowing she has the power of destruction. She thought about summoning them again and they appeared. Small balls that went zap before disappearing. She was so happy she broke decorum again. She kissed me full on the lips and there are fireworks everywhere for us both. Rias fell away from the kiss, and she looked up at me with her eyes in pure happiness.
I get it completely now. Why Issei fought so hard for her despite everything. The spoiled nature. The jealousy. The fact she treated him that way after he couldn't say it and turned everyone else against him. That was his Rias. My Rias has all of that stuff except the spoiled nature. That part that made me feel like we couldn't work. We can. We both doubted ourselves too much and we built up each other. The bricks are no longer duty. But the beginning of love totally. I would tear Riser apart for her. I would fight the galaxy for her.
That look must have been clear on my face because Rias says with pure joy.
"You will say it one day fully. I will say it now. I love you Gregor Astaroth. I will never doubt myself again."
I break it this time. Kissing her cheek. She smiled at me and then she looked at me. And I her. She sadly broke our moment there by checking the clock. She frowned but said.
"I need to get back to the dorms."
I shake my head.
"Stay. You're here anyway and you can introduce me to Sona tomorrow. My letter says I'd be meeting her. Tips so I don't anger her?"
That gets a thankful smile from Rias. Along with her telling me said tips. We talked until she yawned cutely and then I let Rias sleep. She murmured goodnight and I shut her door. As I was going back to my room I saw Murayama with an incredibly happy face coming up the stairs. She smiles telling me Katase was now happy that her friend was staying in Kuoh thanks to me. Along with Katase wanting to see the place tomorrow.
I approved it. Told Murayama that I will get the test at Kuoh done fast tomorrow then we can do perhaps do something to help her with sword work. She blinked curiously there, and I just keep my new almost permanent new facial feature. Hate my dad for it but it is fun seeing people get frustrated over it. Murayama just shakes her head.
"That damn smile smirk is going to get you in trouble Gregor-kun. What's this thing?"
I continue the smile smirk before leaving the first crumb.
"I'd like you to imagine a place Murayama-chan that is a planet city. Consider that when we talk again about it after I'm done with the school. Ask Kiryuu-chan about a person called Sanguinius. You might get it."
Kiryuu was extremely down bad for Sanguinius. Kuroka was a big fan of Sanguinius too but her favorite primarch was Lion because of the cat name. That amused me and I also teased her that he had angel birds. Getting hissing there. Murayama was not understanding my words but she just bumped me in annoyance. We had been moving towards her room where Murayama stopped before she smiled at me and then said with a look of pure smiles.
"Thank you again Gregor-kun. I really appreciate what you did for me."
I smiled real there.
"Im happy to help Murayama-chan. Despite whatever answer you give your welcome in my circle. I don't need repayment. Have a good night Murayama-chan."
I said the end because she yawned midway through the conversation. She nodded in thanks and then entered her room before closing the door. I feel tired myself still feeling the crash from Friday. I had enough energy left to set an alarm. Then I did crash when I hit the bed after a quick shower.
It was a dreamless night with no form of purpose. Until the end of it where an eye seemed to be looking for something. I can't tell what the eye was from, but it felt curious rather than hostile. The moment it passed was when I woke.
That alarm was loud enough to wake me up. There was a groan next to me. Before two tails slapped me across the face. That woke me up fully making me jump out of bed. Kuroka groaned again.
"Turn off alarm nya. Was in good dream."
I do so and that brings a sigh of relief. Then Kuroka went immediately back to sleep. I gently went to shower taking my clothes with me for the day. It was quick and one of the things that Rias said that Sona disapproved of was extreme unprofessional appearances. I looked very good in my own opinion in a black shirt and jeans that were well maintained. I tip toed past a sleeping Kuroka who was snoring the biggest snot bubbles I have seen yet for her.
Closing the door, I go past the other rooms and down the stairs. I don't see Rias. I do see Maéva who is making breakfast of an egg omelet, and she just hums her church hymns. I ask her.
"Have you seen Lady Gremory Maéva?"
Maéva used one of her mechadendrites to point to the basement in answering the question. I thanked her.
"Thank you Maéva."
The maid just continues her work with a pride that she didn't have at the beginning of being here. I left her to her work and go downstairs to see where Rias is. She was not holding her sword, which is what I thought she would be doing since we excelled at that. She was in the chapel to the Machine God. Kneeling before the altar and her head was bowed before the cog. I'm extremely surprised. But the reason is shown when she spoke in a whisper.
"Thank you Machine God. For my brave Lord of Iron. For giving me the thing, I have long wanted. I believe in you who has brought me the best thing on this planet to me. I accept you fully. I want to believe in you that gave me this."
I feel her join the faith. The Machine God tells me he did help her. By giving her the boost to activate the power of destruction finally. It I was told was always there but doubt and an accident in childhood had prevented it fully appearing. I am curious why because my theory was that her bitch grandfather and his tutor did something.
My patron says no they didn't do anything besides corrupting her knowledge which I am fixing. The reason was an injury that had blocked her special demonic energy pathways that purebloods have for clan abilities. It went unnoticed because the injury was so incredibly small but it was enough to block it. The Machine God wanted this person I would be with to have this that was denied to her by such a silly thing. He likes Rias despite her uneducated ideas. Because she had gained something from Maéva and Kiba. A love of the stars. He had that incorporated into his ideas. Because I inspired that. Rias finally felt me behind her, and she rose before turning to me.
Her face was pure joy. She saw me fully now. As the Omnissiah. She rushed to me and hugged me violently while she asked.
"Please let us have our real marriage in this chapel. I can deal with the public one in front of the Morning Star, but I want the real one here. You are a miracle I don't deserve."
I pat Rias and comfort her.
"We can do that Ria. I don't acknowledge the original Lucifer for me. I am a Mechanist. I would like just to do vows between us since I'm not too big on spreading the faith. We probably will need a bigger room for our peerages and my stupid gecko friend."
Rias snorts at that but agreed.
"I will allow her there. Just to see the nobles get mad at her. My dad and my mom along with Heniya will like that because they always hated the rumors and mudslinging they did. The only one who would object is Diehauser. But only because he's so stuffy."
Wait a minute. Diehauser. The Diehauser! The Emperor of the Games! That Diehauser! What the fuck! Rias misinterpreted my eyes going wide as fanboying over Diehauser.
"Yeah he and Heniya are seeing each other. It's an open secret for the family because they are all but married. They aren't officially married only because Diehauser is from the lowest ranks of the pillars and that would be seen as reaching above his status. I like him because he tried to help me too. I think they would be great together officially. Diehauser is technically GKF by way of his dad but he pillow talks with Heniya. He helps in his own way."
Holy cog oil. Diehauser is with Rias's sister. She is number three in the games. He's number one. Yet still can't marry her. That's bullshit! Diehauser is a fucking beast and a half! He should be able to marry Heniya. Fuck the pillars even more! Rias is pleased I'm that angry for her sister.
"He's accepted it. Unofficially he and Heniya have a civil marriage. But it's not a Star marriage so any baby is technically a bastard. Why there isn't one. It hurts them both because Diehauser is very much a good man. Heniya escaped the law because of the games and her status as heiress. Diehauser has convinced his family he's asexual. The only one who knows from there is his cousin Cleria. She understands because she had a thing she is very private about. Only Heniya knows what that is. Cleria is in Heniya's peerage as a mutation bishop."
Cleria is alive! That means that her lover might still be alive too. That might be why she understands. Oh, fuck I need to talk with her at some point. The king pieces. Another way to fuck the GKF. I smiled evilness there because Diehauser deserves his waifu. Publicly. Rias shivered again in that way that really proves that Akeno has corrupted her. I finally ask there.
"How much has Akeno gotten to you?"
Rias blushed nervously. Before finger poking.
"I like the trust thing. Not so much the pain."
Ok that's significantly better than what I thought. It makes more sense with what she promised me at the park. I don't want to inflict wrath on people I'm near and close to.
"I don't know if I'm built that way. But I will try it with you so long as we never do anything that hurts you. Just don't be too disappointed in me if it doesn't work out."
Rias beams there and she nodded.
"I won't ever be. I know you worry about wrath. I'm not into masochist stuff. Just the total trust you have with your partner. That's what I like despite Akeno insisting that the other stuff enhances it. She's been trying to convince me of that for a long time. I don't think I'm that way either."
I never did that with Kate. She nor I were that way. Her likes were interesting but not that dark. Mine weren't bad either. It would be another new experience on top of the hundreds so far. I just hold Rias's hand as we went up the stairs. Telling her.
"I will have to do research and not from her. She says I'm kind of sadistic, but I think that's more intertwined with my wrath. Why I won't do anything that hurts you."
Rias understands.
"It won't ever be that. She's tried corrupting Koneko and I for a while. Neither of us really like the sadistic side. Koneko just wants to be a princess. I want the perfect husband that will never hurt me. Akeno is a weirdo."
That I can agree on. She's just weird. Glad that doesn't run in my side of the family. Just weird scientific flirting which I get. Being indirect in it with complex ideas that you and the other person get is fun. Inflicting pain on your partner is not my cup of tea. Or Rias's thank the Machine God. I was so worried about that.
Rias just pats my hand reassuringly. We upon getting to the kitchen eat and when we are done Rias does her portal to the ORC building.
It was the same as always but there was Shirone. She was sitting on a couch doodling, and I want to wince seeing it's a picture of the two of us. Her older and me there with my chainaxe on my hip. Rias looked amused at the picture. Shirone froze seeing me. Before badly trying to hide her doodle. I noticed that she in the picture was in a wedding dress, and I was in plate armor.
Rias just pulled me past a sweating Shirone who was just very nervous. I don't comment on that. We exit the building five minutes later. Rias giggled there at my discomfort from Shirone. She doesn't say anything thankfully. Just leading me to the school. It truly is well maintained, and Rias tells me what is in each building. I'm only half listening still disturbed by Shirone. We entered the front courtyard and that's where a small line of people is gathered. Mostly boys and I'm very unimpressed because most are perverts. Openly pervertedly giggling how they will be able to get a harem of women. Dude you fucks have good luck with that. I wish I was not there. The boys started getting mad at me. Because I was with Rias.
Two actually tried to challenge me. I raised an eyebrow unimpressed because they were trying to act macho. Saying that they could beat up a weakling like me. I don't do anything because they signed their own death warrants. Because behind them is Sona. Also unimpressed and also very peeved because the boys were in very unprofessional clothes with anime stuff I'm pretty sure is hentai. As is Sona. She spoke as one was about to punch me.
"You're both disqualified. Get off the school property. You have till the count of three."
The secondary dude froze and shakes. The first was a plain idiot because he stopped his punch and turned on Sona. Saying to her face proves how much of an idiot he is.
"And what makes you think you have any authority flat girl."
Rias winced there as did the smarter boys and the few girls. Sona got the tic mark. Before her eyes settled in on the two.
"The student council president. The one who does the approvals along with the principal. Get off the property or I will call the police. One."
That made the second dude run. Because Sona was extremely scary for regular humans which is what they are. The first dude shook realizing he fucked up. Sona continued looking unimpressed and continued the count down.
"Two."
That had devil presence and pressure pulsing behind her and that sends the dude running. The nearby boys and girls shake. I don't and that makes Sona watch me. An interesting look enters her eye seeing Rias so close to me. Before Sona looks at the rest of the applicants.
"Kuoh Academy is the best school in the city. We have high standards, and you are expected to follow them. Anyone else feel like trying something?"
That got furious nods of no from everyone. Sona just continues to watch them and then moved away from the group towards the school. I like her. I say that to Rias. Rias looks at me like I'm kind of crazy, but I know what Sona is. My mood kindred. She too doesn't put up with bullshit and it's so nice. Cain is right mood kindred make everything better. The other applicants all looked at me like I was crazy with how I'm smiling finally finding a real one and not gear based. Rias doesn't get it.
"You must really like her."
There was jealousy there but not much. I just replied as the line moved forward.
"She's something I have not had in a while Rias."
Rias tilted her head in question, and I answered with a big smile.
"Mood kindred. It's wonderful when you find them regardless of what their relationship to you is."
Rias asked what a mood kindred was. I explained and my explanation gets through to her and a few others in the line. One of the boys says he has that too with his aunt. They both really like reading crime books. Rias was wondering who her mood kindred is. The ones who don't get it look at me like I'm insane. But wisely don't say anything. The line kept moving orderly and I like Sona more than ever by beautiful order.
Rias left me at the door to the test room where I take the exam and I just snicker internally at how I remembered so much of this. The answers were difficult but manageable. When I am finished I hand my test in. It took half an hour and when I find Rias waiting for me she was next to Sona. She was talking with a curious voice that is nice to hear. The conversation stopped seeing me and Sona gestures to me to follow. I do along with Rias. The trip was to an office that was close to the center of the building.
Upon us entering the office wards go up immediately and Sona turned her eyes on me fully. Looking me up and down. She tilted her glasses off her violet eyes and after a moment she spoke.
"You're a devil. One I have never seen or heard of before. Rias has been cryptic of who you are so I will ask. What and who's peerage do you belong to?"
I say to her with a serious face and no attempts to lie.
"None. I'm not reincarnated. That doesn't work for me. As for being a devil I'm half."
Sona doesn't believe me. She grew hard assed, and she demanded now.
"Who's peerage. I don't need more problems with a potential situation coming up. You are not leaving till I get an answer. Rias behind me. Now."
Rias got ready to obey and I just opened a pocket spell and remove a letter. Presenting it to Sona. Sona takes it in disbelief that I think I can get away with not telling her. But paled seeing the seal. She opened the letter and reads. Her face went slightly pale but given its Grayfia it's relatable. The letter was given to me on Saturday. To sell my story. Rias stays silent and finally Sona looked up from the letter and she is back in control. She then folded the letter and returned it to me.
I take it and Sona looked me up and down again before she spoke.
"Apologies Heir Astaroth."
I just shrugged and replied.
"I'm not offended Heiress Sitri. You're looking after the school and being the students' greatest advocate. My situation is complex. Please allow my test results to speak for themselves instead of instantly approving me now that you know."
Sona was interested in why. Rias huffs and explains.
"Gregor-kun believes in hard work and hates handouts."
Sona took a new look there. I smile.
"Time raised in the human world. I hope we can get along Heiress Sitri. My peerage is incomplete, and they will have strict orders to not cause trouble for you. I will also along with my cousin be controlling a potential problem student."
Sona looked pleased that I understood order keeping and was pleased more by me saying I will help with a problem student. She relaxed. Like actually relaxed. Her shoulders and chest were not puffed out. Her eyes were not hard anymore and her face muscles relaxed into a face that is extremely pretty. Rias grabbed my hand cutely in jealousy. That got a raised eyebrow from Sona along with a tiny smile. She then schooled her face into a blank one.
"I see. The request will be honored. I admit that I am interested in you more Heir Astaroth. You're unknown and nothing at all like your uncle I know. He's… difficult let's just say. You seem like a person I can get along with. I assume you will be recruiting from the students for your peerage?"
I tilted my head in a slight yes. Sona frowned at the response which I explained.
"Yes and no. I have two pieces and a very likely third incoming. One is a new student here while the other is a bit older and won't be in the school. My possible third is also a student but she has the right to back out before the acceptance at any time. I do not plan to recruit from the school much."
That got curious looks from Sona. Rias smiled and she just squeezed my hand and got closer. Sona notes the interaction and she said to me and Rias.
"I see. So, this is why you have been so happy Rias. You found a better out. I hope you two have discussed it together.
I smiled and squeezed Rias back when she doubts.
"We have I am committed to this Heiress Sitri. Rias will be treated well."
Rias looked at me with fondness and then her eyes grew wide, and she bounced up and down fast. She let go of my hand and said in a fast string of words for Sona.
"I have it Sona! I have it!"
Sona was amused by the sudden outburst by Rias and was about to ask what it is when Rias showed her power of destruction. The red balls snap crack for a second before they disappear again. Sona was wide eyed there at the reveal. Before she smiled wide there for Rias proving they are true friends like the other place. Rias then grabbed my arm, and she smiled her supernova smile. I just let my possible betrothed be happy. Sona smiled at this and replied.
"That's wonderful Rias! The nobles can't insult you anymore and your parents will be ecstatic! They always believed that you had it. What finally made it appear?"
The question made Rias smile wide. Before saying.
"Faith in myself thanks to my Gregor-kun. He believes in me like I do him."
Sona smiled amused by the answer and her violet eyes turned on me. Then she turned back to both of us.
"I'm so happy for you Rias. Heir Astaroth I am eager to get to know you more than ever. Would you perhaps be interested in a game of chess today?"
Rias grew incredibly worried there while I shake my head.
"I don't know if I can. I have a very busy schedule with things and time is extremely valuable as of late. Perhaps when I do have more time."
That answer calmed Rias and disappointed Sona. Getting why with being an heiress.
"Let me know when you do have the time. And no Rias I'm not trying to steal him from you."
Rias looked bashful and I just squeezed her hand reassuringly. Saying to Sona.
"She told me of that. Partly why I said no. But I really do have limited time. I have many things to do and only so much time. Given what Rias has shared with me about my possible rival I need things done."
Sona wasn't offended. She understood completely being an heiress and her face took a nasty look remembering Riser. She, however, surprised Rias by saying happy and a bit worried.
"He's a pig who's even more upset as of late. He was gloating furiously about becoming the new heir to House Phenex, but his brother survived his scandal. He's now firmly and undeniably the Heir. Riser is beyond pissed. The party this weekend was horrible with I and Heiress Agares hearing him bitch nonstop about it. I don't know what will happen, but Rias I think he might attempt to bully you again soon."
I grew angry there. No one bullies Rias. Not fucking degenerate nobles or fire turkeys. Wrath shows. Rias looks incredibly worried now. Sona saw my sin and she seems to like me more than ever by a small smile. I will step up hunting again. Do a half break day tomorrow because pissed off people do unreasonable things. If Riser comes and makes my Ria cry.
I imagine cutting his head off with a roaring great chainaxe. Blasting his body to pieces with a boltgun. I'll show him who the better immortal is. Oh, that's good. I unconsciously tightened my arm around Rias. That makes her happy and that breaks me out of a fantasy of me using an over charged plasma gun on him. Sona was silent before saying.
"I like him Rias. Much better than Diodora. I am eager to get to know you more Heir Astaroth."
I replied back with my smile smirk.
"Just call me Gregor. I'm not really formal. I will be proper for appearances but your Rias's friend and seem like a person I can get along with."
Sona nodded her head before turning back to being her hard ass self and replies with a face with a frown.
"I will do so when proper. I have more tests to oversee. It was good to meet you Heir Astaroth. Your using the name Mason for your public name?"
I nod as the wards come down and we moved out of the office and out into the hall.
"I am. I will let you go President Shitori. I apologize for taking up your time."
Sona accepted the apology before she escorted us to the entrance of the school. Before she departed to work the last few groups of people. Rias snuggled into my arms, and I glared down two boys who were undressing her with their eyes. My look makes the first shake. The second doesn't shake as much but he averts his eyes. That makes me happier. We continue to the ORC building with Rias not leaving my side. She said when we entered the building.
"Thank you for defending my honor Gregor-kun."
I give Rias a real smile and then I grow serious.
"He bully's you call me. I refuse to let him treat you like that just because he's a pissy bitch. And don't get mad at me please. I might do it again."
Rias squeezed my hand in understanding.
"Together. I'll double my training too. I won't condemn you for trying to help me. I was upset because you looked horrible when I saw you. Not my handsome one. But I asked myself if I could do that for you. Like how you did for me. I found that answer. If you do that again please be careful. Don't kill yourself. For me."
I worry a lot now because Riser is being silent and why is because he failed at his desire to be heir. He's getting ready for something. I can't hunt long today because of Grayfia tomorrow. Rias and I go up the stairs and upon entering the ORC room i again find Shirone. Still doodling and it's worse. There in her doodle is her and I with five kids surrounding us all with her ears and tails. And my hair. What's worse Akeno is there too holding in a massive laugh. I glare at her while Shirone froze again seeing Rias and me. Before she once again tried to hide the doodle badly. Rias is amused and she simply remarks to her rook.
"Your really sold on him aren't you Koneko."
Shirone shivers badly causing her ears and tail to flop out from the illusion. She just looked at me and her eyes hold stars once more. Why is Kuroka the reasonable horny one while Shirone is the starstruck horny one? Akeno began to fufu there getting a massive blush from Shirone. She stammered out.
"Strong mate nya. Gallant prince nya."
I get ready to sigh. Akeno stopped Fufufus and teased me now.
"Two cat girls Lex. You are a menace and must be stopped. What's next your going to seduce Lady Leviathan?"
I shiver violently as does Shirone. Both of us for vastly different reasons. Me because that's terrifying, and I'm not built for that. Shirone probably because Serafall was improper. Rias humphed. Akeno Fufufu up again and I hate her so much. I instead teased her.
"You rat bat shouldn't be talking with your date coming up with a weird dragon girl. She wants many people in that so don't talk."
Shirone shot back at Akeno who went wide eyed.
"Dragon girl hordes nya. My prince won't nya!"
Rias joins in too finally getting vengeance on Akeno.
"Have fun there Akeno. I'm sure we'll see your gecko terrorize the school. While my Lord of Iron remains pure!"
The cat and redhead snicker together against their friend. Akeno takes the insult and just smiled before teasing back.
"Lex is boring. My little Kohai will make school fun. Enjoy boring you two."
I'm not boring. I'm plenty fun.
"No game night for you Keno. You're just uncultured. Btw your invited Rias and Akeno to what's likely a pool party tomorrow. Just be classy please."
Rias grew excited about a party. Akeno beams and Shirone gets ready to say something. Rias smiled and opened a portal for me before saying.
"We would love to join! I have to prepare! Akeno tell me which suit I have is the best!"
I'm about to say don't worry about it when Akeno shoves me through the portal, and I land ass first on the front hall floor. It closed before I could say anything. I sighed. Getting up. I don't see anyone in the kitchen. I peek into the front room and don't see Maéva watching soaps. I also don't hear anything unusual. That's broken when I see Issari coming up the basement stairs in a happy mood.
She seeing me raised an eyebrow. I just sighed.
"Got shoved through a portal here by your senpai. I am done with the test. You just get here?"
Issari snorted at the explanation. Before she falls into step with me. We go up the stairs together and she replies.
"Yes. No one is downstairs so I came up. Hope you get in. Would suck if you didn't. You are telling Murayama-chan today?"
I responded with a head bob. The two of us checked the library and that's where we found them. Murayama and Kiryuu. Kiryuu was reading a book while Murayama was studying another with intense interest. They were sitting together by the fireplace near the entrance to the second floor of the library. I approached them with Issari following along. Murayama saw me first and she got up off the couch and softly approached us. Kiryuu was very deep in her book, so we moved away from her to let her study.
Murayama once on the other side of the library smiles seeing me and asked.
"Your test went well Gregor-kun?"
I smile smirk before answering.
"I think so. I believe I'm in but will see. You have a good morning so far?"
Murayama nodded her head vigorously.
"I have! I found a book that mentions a sword style that is similar to mine. I want to see if it will work for me."
She began to explain the style and I asked the origin. It I learned was a devil one from a now dead minor house. She showed me the book and I admit it's a good style for duals. Issari is not impressed. She said a bit disdainfully.
"Ours are better. This one has too many holes that can be exploited by a trained person."
I raised an eyebrow there. Murayama does too. I remark for Issari.
"Other styles have validity as well. Knowledge should never be limited Skitarii. Stagnation is the way of the pus one. Innovative and adaptable thinking is our creed as much as Iron and Blood. Murayama-chan should choose what works best for her."
Issari takes the scolding. She deflated. She hates Chaos. Murayama is just weirded out there. Issari replied sadly.
"Yes Alpha. I just see too many holes and Murayama-chan might become your knight. I want my friend to be safe."
I soften there getting the social dragon thinking. Murayama smiled there before hugging Issari. That got said pervert happier. I tell an honest opinion of the style.
"It's a dueling style Issari. We use space marine stuff. Yes there are too many holes if Murayama was fighting a space marine. Even you and I with our gear and their styles would die to one. There was a reason they were called the angels of death. But last I checked there are no space marines here."
Issari nodded her head in acknowledgement. Murayama asked.
"Space marine? What's a space marine?"
I smiled and answered.
"A very strong opponent. Things that are very different from humans. Remember that stuff I asked you to think about?"
Murayama frowns and that's when Kiryuu joined in. Having walked over to us with a book under her arm.
"I still find it amazing about them. They really were that powerful? To be able to conquer that many places?"
I and Issari smiled. Murayama was still confused. Before she said in that confusion.
"What does a planet city have to do with these space marines?"
I answered while summoning the anvil along with Koriel. The sight of her makes Murayama freeze.
"Everything. In a far away place on the world we now stand on was that planet city. Terra. The center of an Imperium of Man. An Imperium that lasted for an extremely long time. Thanks in part to said space marines."
The tale began.
After three hours of questioning and explaining Murayama is utter amazement. To know that place. The warp. Why I am a Mechanist. Kiryuu enjoys this too because she got to gush about Sanguinius. Issari gets to boast about the sisters of battle and Celestine. I just relax and let the new member into the circle. Murayama was just awestruck by the very end. She looks at Koriel again and so many things fall into place for her. The possibilities are endless from my story. She finally said.
"I want to know everything. I want to know about Knights. I like Gundam but these sound so cool! Can you make those!"
I shake my head no. But say to make a disappointed Murayama feel better.
"Not with the anvil. But I can make a forge to make those eventually. I want a knight too. Wish I could use a titan."
That made Murayama interested in those. To describe the god machines. That humbles Murayama. More so learning that there were legions of them. I hope we won't need those. Murayama bounced up and she proclaimed.
"I will pilot a knight! Show the world a real knight come again! For my eventual king! Let me do that for you!"
I smile and reply to Murayama.
"Pilot it for yourself. I just want Mars. You are committed or still thinking?"
The swordswoman thought for a moment. Before she answered.
"I am almost certain. I want to be your knight. My noble King."
The hearts are there. Real hearts. I sighed there while Issari snickered. Murayama is at least not Shirone. Kiryuu said happy.
"He is noble. I heard from the Bad Cat we are having a party thing tomorrow. That true?"
Everyone perks up there. I nod.
"We have a pool in the backyard and Kiryuu, Murayama we will have Rias and her peerage moving in on Wednesday. Katase is welcome for the party. I plan to do more hunting today. Issari I need the solo runs because of Riser. So, enjoy yourself."
Issari whined. But money from her shares makes her happy. Kiryuu huffed wanting money. Murayama looks amazed at the amount of money there. Issari fist pumped when she said that she has her new pc. And an Xbox. Murayama asked why that? The two perverts smiled together and then began explaining Alistair. I let the three of them talk.
Kuroka entered the library, and she was dressed in her typical clothes. Murayama looks up from the conversation and dropped her mouth to the floor getting snickers from Kiryuu. Issari just woofed. I rolled my eyes and my queen just smirked and comes over to us before putting an arm over my shoulder. I just ask.
"They ok with you?"
Kuroka nods and she winked at Murayama. That makes Murayama fall over twitching with a nosebleed. Getting snickers from the perverts. Kuroka smiles there and said.
"Still got it nya. They are fine with me. Kalawarna was suspicious of me for a second but that went away immediately nya. She is amazed you're a noble. Conner was very surprised. While the French girl just shrugged saying she kinda thought you were that way. The fallen are scared of you nya."
That's amusing. But I'm curious.
"Did you get names for them? The fallen?"
Kuroka nods and Murayama got up before whispering something furiously to Issari. Issari smiled and whispered back. I ignored them and gave a look to Kuroka. She finally answered.
"Mittelt and Raynare. Both are two wing fallen nya."
Raynare. That doesn't make sense. Why would she run? She supposedly has a hard on for Azazel. Mittelt is a sadistic little witch. But both are from his cadre. I have a bad feeling about them. Kuroka read my mind and said to me.
"I remembered you mentioning one of them. Hit them with truth spells startling Kala nya. I demanded from them if they were spying. They are truthful about their intentions nya. Conner shrugged and said he did the same and figured I would too."
Wow a Raynare that is not evil. I mean it happens but that is still weird. Mittelt is still short. But a Raynare that would possibly not have killed Issari. I will watch her. I prepare to get shopping done with Kuroka. Telling her I will be solo today. She shrugged and we left together outside the library. Murayama whispered quickly to the perverts and the three closed ranks. I don't want to know. I do, however, hear a few words.
"Understand the meaning of life now."
Kuroka just kissed my cheek. She is still the Bad Cat.
An. Hello there. Been a while since one of these but things have been busy on this end. I quickly would like to say thank you for this getting past three hundred followers and closer on favorites. For the kind guest that was asking about that possible story idea i havent and would be curious to hear the pitch. My dms are always open there. Again thank you everyone.