Welcome to the next chapter of The Twin Dragons, but before starting. Let us answer some reviews:
Reairnyt: This is not NTR, this is a remake of the original The Twin Dragons since I thought that there a lot of things that I could improve on. I explained all of this in the summary and my profile.
Trason9: I didn't skip the Excalibur Arc.
Altair95: Correct, this is the start of the Excalibur Arc. Kuroka is being Kuroka and teasing her intended mate as much as possible. Raynare and Rias are having their usual argument with one another, without the two of them being love rivals in love with the same person. Saji was introduced and has started to show his distaste for Kazuki. Sona did show a cute side of herself following her embarrassment in performing that ritual for him. You have to love anime mothers who embarrass their children by showing all of their friends their embarrassing photos. Near the end, we did see the introduction of the Exorcist Trio.
Streetlife34: Thanks. Well, I'm still thinking about it, but I did do it before because Kazuki would be an angel and his brother a devil, in addition to matching Divine Dividing. I think that it was due to that special room Heaven created, but I did come up with an idea about that too. Well, I said that it was just a thought that came to mind and wanted to bring up, I haven't decided anything permanent.
Arondight888: Well, I haven't decided anything yet, it was just an idea. I know, but I can't add them all to Kazuki since he already has enough added to his harem.
Anonymous: Thanks. Yes, this is the start of the Excalibur Arc, I'd say the original Naruto, Sasuke mode since Shippuden Sasuke became a total savage. We did get an earlier introduction to Xenovia and Irina, a true rival for Kazuki's affection. There will be also the third Exorcist who will be coming with them during the battle for the Excalibur Fragments.
Noble6117: Well, wait no longer.
Shallot the savior: I'm redoing the Twin Dragons.
The Ball Tournament
Tomorrow morning, Kazuki had found himself standing in the middle of the practice field reserved by the Kendo Club in preparation for the Ball Tournament. It was a competition between all the classes, genders, and clubs of Kuoh whether or not their clubs were sports-based. The Kendo Club members male or female were standing at an assigned position practicing baseball dressed in their PE uniforms.
Both Asia and Raynare who visited the Kendo Club almost all the time were now considered as members of their club practiced with them as well.
"Yuuto-kun has been acting weird since seeing that photo," Kazuki thought back to Kiba's current mental state he was in after seeing that old photo of him, Irina, and Issei. "Could it be due to that sword…a holy sword?"
"Kazuki-kun, catch!"
A male Kendo Club holding the bat announced hitting the baseball in his direction.
Kazuki despite being distracted was able to catch it using the baseball glove out of reflex.
"Well, as long as nothing serious happens, then he might return to normal."
Kazuki stated before throwing the baseball back towards another person around him, who managed to catch it in their hands.
"Alright, now Asia-chan!"
"R-Right."
Asia despite not being the most athletically inclined was excited for participating in the sports events ahead of them and was prepared for the glove in her hands. Next, the batter held the baseball bad in his hands, before he launched it in her direction. But, despite her vigor about the event, it passed through her hands and went under her legs rolling behind her.
"Retrieve it, Asia-chan!"
Katase called out.
"Y-Yes!"
Asia said running after the baseball that rolled behind her.
Kazuki let a slight laugh escape from his mouth seeing that before thinking about the people they'd be faced with during the Ball Tournament.
"I'm sure we can handle going up against the other club normal members. But, I don't think that it'll be easier for our normal members to take on both the Occult Research Club and Student Council, which consist of devils."
Kazuki noted as all the club members continued to practice with one another in baseball before taking a break as their club advisor stood in front of them. Kaito leaned in front of them wearing his usual comforting smile, making them consider the man as their grandfather.
"Alright, I know we're all preparing for the Ball Tournament, but don't forget that above seeking to win to contest. Never forgot to show the spirit that you have all being cultivating since joining Kendo Club. Because I didn't train the kind of students who would become arrogant because of winning or disappointed after losing."
[Right, Kaito-sensei!]
All the club members agreed and exclaimed after hearing those words from their instructor.
"Could I speak with you for a moment Asia-san?"
Kaito called out to Asia who seemed nervous using his hand.
"Uh, is this about me missing the catch?"
Asia asked nervously.
"Somewhat, but I'm not going to lecture you for missing one catch. I just wanted to give some honest advice."
Kaito noted causing Asia to turn to Kazuki for confirmation who made a reassuring smile.
"Don't be nervous around him, Asia-chan. Kaito-sensei is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. Even if one of the members messed on the first day, he pulled them aside and worked with them in a manner that fits them. He had to help me a lot when I was starting out learning Kendo."
Kazuki replied placing a comforting hand on her head.
"Okay, if Kazuki-san says that, then I'll believe him."
Asia said with more vigor before running over to Kaito to help a baseball and a wooden bat in his hands, then as he stated he started giving Asia some advice about playing baseball. The blonde nun didn't make a single perplexed look on her face as she listened to all the advice that was being given to her.
"Well, Kaito-san is one of the best instructors that I've ever met. Even in Grigori, there would be few instructors to go into this much detail training sacred gear users aside from Azazel-sama, Shemhazai-sama, or Barakiel-sama who trained some of the organization's best fighters."
Raynare stated sitting on the ground beside Kazuki.
"Yea, he's the best teacher here in my opinion. He's the greatest teacher a guy wanting to learn martial arts could begin to ask for."
'It is faint, but I believe that the kendo that you're using has some reminiscence to actual swordsmanship. It was supple but the manner that you held your sword and the posture that you took seems different from actual kendo and instead of old swordsmanship.'
Kazuki recalled the words that Arthur told him during his training alongside the other members of the Vali Team, which made him think about the kind of swordsmanship that Kaito instructed him in. His sights couldn't help, but turn to face the person they considered to be a grandfather-figure teaching a foreign student about baseball.
"It's not that I doubt Kaito-sensei, but where did he come from exactly?"
Kazuki wondered.
Thinking back, after he started Kendo Club, their first advisor wasn't that active in teaching them all about Kendo or cared that he entered the club despite his condition. All of them were told that he was a tournament winner, but he didn't appear to take an interest in teaching the less skilled. It was then that he was reassigned and Kaito was assigned to be their advisor and that the moment it all changed.
He took the time to instruct them all using several different methods. But, Kaito didn't share much aside from telling them that his family ran a dojo when he was a child, but it closed down due to financial issues.
"Now, that I think about it, he gives us advice in our life, but he never talks about his past."
Kazuki thought wondering if something happened in his life that he couldn't talk about.
"Kazuki!"
His thoughts were interrupted as Kaito called out to him after talking to Asia who seemed more confident than she did beforehand. Kazuki noted that she was wearing more of an ecstatic smile than when all of them started their practice for the Ball Tournament.
"Is there something wrong, Kaito-sensei?"
"No, not at all, but I was thinking that I'm at the age where I wanted to pass something down to someone."
Kaito replied wearing a cheery smile.
"Are you dying or something?"
Kazuki lightly joked but was worried at the same time after hearing those words.
"No, of course not. This old man still has some life, but I still can't pass the feeling of wanting to pass down at least something to a remarkable student. I love all of the Kendo members as I would my own grandchildren, but it isn't something that would benefit them much."
Kazuki heard his words and couldn't refute them, since Kaito wasn't the kind of person to show favoritism and he does teach them whatever benefits them the most. Besides, he was also curious about whatever he wanted him to learn from him.
"So, when are we starting this lesson?"
"It'll be after the Ball Tournament. It won't be different from the private lessons that occurred after the others left, but this one is something that neither Yuuma-san nor Asia-san can attend. I don't believe that it'll take all that long considering you're a fast learner. So, that'll be all until then."
"Alright, Kaito-san."
Kazuki nodded his head leaving Kaito to venture back to other business.
"So, how's Kaito-sensei's favorite student?"
A male kendo member asked wrapping his arm around Kazuki.
"Come on, you know Kaito-sensei isn't the kind of person who has a favorite."
Kazuki countered.
"Yea yea, I know that. I was just joking. So, do you think that our club has a chance to win?"
"Yea, I think we have a good chance," Kazuki openly, but internally. "I know that it depends on the line-up, but if we end up going up against the Student Council or Occult Research Club, which consists of devils with far higher physical stats than a normal human then that could be some trouble. But, we'll need to handle that when it comes toward us as opponents."
"We don't need to be worried since we have Kazuki-kun on our side."
Murayama brought up cheerfully.
"Right, Kazuki-kun is our secret weapon against all the events!"
Katase added feeling the same amount of faith as her.
"Right, so do your duty captain."
"When was it announced that I was the captain?"
"We all decided that before you arrived."
The club member unwrapped his arm from around Kazuki's shoulder replied smirking while holding up his hand.
"I have no say in that decision do I?"
[Nope!]
All the members replied happily at the same time.
"I didn't think so. Well, since I'm the de facto captain, then let's strive to win in the most honorable way!"
Kazuki announced smiling.
[Right!]
All of them announced as Kaito watched from the sidelines smiling at them all.
"Kazuki truly does have the making of a strong-willed leader even before I started teaching them all Kendo. Well, considering who he is, it doesn't surprise me. If I can pass down this one last lesson to him, then I can leave here knowing that I did my best to support his growth."
Kaito stated before walking from the students he's groomed since the first time he met them.
Later that night, the Occult Research Club members all gathered in front of an abandoned warehouse located in a deserted area in Kuoh Town. Of course, Rias received word that a stray devil appeared in the location and had their members were sent to handle the situation. They stood in front of the entrance leading inside of the room in a careful fashion.
"Alright, everyone, the stray devil is housed inside of this building."
Rias explained.
"Buchou, is there any information regarding this one?"
Issei questioned.
"No, aside from being a previous Knight from their former master and went on a rampage after betraying them. In several reports, it appears that this one tricks young men and adults using the visage of an innocent girl who needs assistance before killing them. However, there have never been reports of bodies, which is why their exact location hasn't been found until now."
Rias explained as Akeno continued.
"However, the incident reports and causalities caught up to her this time, allowing the Underworld to make out their exact location."
Akeno replied in her usual 'Onee-sama' personality.
"In this situation, the battlefield isn't as widened meaning all of us won't be able to attack and work together as a single unit. Meaning, this time, Ise, Koneko, and Kiba will the ones fighting this time. If Akeno or I were to fire off our magic attacks and end up missing the opponent, then the building might end up coming down. Both Kiba and Koneko can fight in spaces such as this. And Ise too has become experienced in fighting in spaces similar to these as well."
"Well, wouldn't that mean that I can't fire off my Dragon Shot?"
"Akeno and I will form a barrier around the inside of the building nothing like that will happen. And while we make the barrier, the three of you will be fighting against the stray devil. But, since this one here is a former Knight, it'll be faster than an average stray, so this plan will be reliant on Yuuto."
Hearing the explanation from Rias, the members all stood in front of one another staring at Kiba who remained in the same position wearing a vacant look.
"Yuuto?"
"Huh, right, I understand."
Kiba answered 'returning' to his usual demeanor.
Moments later, while Rias and Akeno were busy setting up the barrier, the three ventured inside the abandoned warehouse. Inside, there were various boxes and the building didn't look all that worn down meaning that it hasn't been abandoned for that long or the stray devil repaired some of it. All three of them looked around to locate their intended target.
"Koneko-chan you find the stray devil?"
Issei questioned.
Koneko seemed to look around the warehouse where there were several places where the stray devil could hide, but she could find them based on their scent.
"…there."
Koneko pointed to a certain area where there was a well, where there seemed to be a shadow hiding behind the wall after being noticed.
Issei and Kiba activated their sacred gears; the former bringing out Boosted Gear and the latter brought out a demonic sword in his hands. All three approached the wall where the stray devil was hiding cautiously, with the stray devil pocking their head out.
From behind the wall, was a light green-haired young girl dressed in a cute white dress who looked a little older than Koneko and pink eyes as she innocently looked at them.
"Um, is there a problem Onii-samas?"
The stray devil asked innocently.
Issei almost felt taken about by the innocent-sounding question but recalled the previous time that he had met a beautiful stray devil who turned out to be a monster.
"I'm not going to fall for that? Boosted Gear!"
[Boost!]
"Uh, this Onii-sama is being a meanie," the stray devil spoke once again innocently before tilting her head to the side and smiling creepily. "I just wanted to give Onii-sama a big hug and kiss."
It was then that Issei's grim premonition came true, the normal-looking girl transformed into a spider-like creature with elongated ears right before their very eyes. In a matter of seconds, the stray moved at an enhanced speed that could only be possible by a Knight and started scaling around the walls.
"Tsk, she really is fast."
After clinging to the walls, the stray devil started moving from different locations at high-speed making it difficult to perceive where she's been. Neither of them could move at the stray stayed on the walls of ceilings making it hard for them to attack it. Having jumped one more time, the spider devil turned around and spewed a web toward the three of them. Issei, Kiba, and Koneko avoided it, but as soon as it touched the ground it melted into the ground.
"Great we can't attack it like this. Kiba, do have a lead on it?!"
Issei asked, but Kiba still looked to have been wearing a vacant look on his face.
"Kiba!"
Issei called again catching his attention this time, causing him to clenched his demonic sword in his hand.
After looking at the spider devil, Kiba started forward, but he wasn't as focused as he normally would be and the moment that it noticed it stop. He propelled himself forward toward the spider devil the moment she had stopped moving, but his technique or speed wasn't as polished as usual. As such, Kiba only managed to land a nonfatal slash on the spider devil's arm.
"Kiba, what the hell?!"
Issei called out confused since Kiba would normally be the person who's at the top of his game.
"Huh?"
Kiba was almost stumped about his own actions unable to believe this was all he could do. In the past, he never had the slightest issue with cutting off a stray's arm before even without getting serious about it.
"Hehehe, this handsome Onii-sama messed up~"
The Spider Devil made a move toward Kiba who still seemed caught in a slump. After seeing this, Koneko moved forward to assist him, however, the Spider Devil spat another acidic spiderweb in her direction. She was unable to avoid it, causing the spiderweb to melt through her sleeves and burn her skin. It would have been worse, but as a Rook, it didn't burn her the most.
"Koneko-chan!"
Issei moved to grab onto Koneko who faltered on the ground in pain.
"K-Koneko-chan?!"
Kiba turned around but was soon pushed on the ground by the Spider Devil who attempted to sink her fangs into him. However, he managed to force her back using his demonic sword, causing him to struggle to push the devil back to almost no avail.
"Hold on, Kiba! Boosted Gear!"
[Explosion!]
Issei released the stored power that he builds up since entering the battle against the Spider Devil, granting him greater power than he could wield before. Knowing that he couldn't fire off a Dragon Shot because Kiba was too close to the Spider Devil, Issei instead charged forward for the stray and punched her away from him. At almost the same time, he released a Dragon Shot that forced her through the walls of the building.
"Are you alright?"
"Y-Yea."
Kiba after replying to Issei got up from the ground.
"Y-You're mean, O-Onii-samas hurt me!"
After getting the Spider Devil attempted to get back up, but stopped after sensing a strong demonic power behind her causing her to turn to see Rias standing behind her. Rias covered herself in a red almost crimson aura which terrified the Spider Devil. But, before she could make a single move, she summoned her Power of Destruction in her palms and released it on the stunned devil eliminating her.
"Ah, Koneko-chan are you alright?"
"…I'm fine. It was nothing but a small wound to me."
Koneko replied placing her hand on the location where she was injured by the Spider Devil's acidic webbing.
"Well, we'll get Asia-chan to…."
Slap!
Everyone in the abandoned warehouse flinched after hearing a slapping sound resonating across the walls of the almost eerily quiet building. Both Issei and Koneko turned around to witness Rias' hand moving after she finished slapping Kiba across the cheek leaving behind a red mark. Kiba didn't give a single reaction about this and stood in the same spot wearing a vacant look. It was a surprise seeing him of all people among the good receiving that kind of treatment since he was as loyal as Akeno.
"How is it? Did you wake up," Rias asked wearing the most serious look that Issei had seen her wear. "Yuuto, do you realize that Koneko got hurt because you weren't focused on the opponent. If it had been a more serious hit, then she could have been seriously wounded."
"I apologize," Kiba said as he turned to bow to Koneko, but his eyes still seemed as vacant before as he tried to muster a genuine response. But, since the battle is over with, can I leave?"
Kiba despite requesting to leave, instead turned around walking toward the warehouse's exit giving off the kind of presence that said he didn't want to be followed or stopped. Rias, Akeno, Koneko, and Issei started as their Knight who wouldn't show this kind of cold and despondent demeanor walked off. Rias wasn't even able to come up with a single response and instead sighed sadly.
"Jeez, what happened with our usual cool-headed Knight?"
Issei questioned confused about the entire thing as Kiba walked outside of the warehouse.
All of them were worried about the sudden change in their usual level-headed and kindly Knight, but there wasn't even the slightest hint that he wanted to talk about it.
"He's been acting weird lately."
Issei, Kazuki, and Asia walked down the halls of the Old School Building leading to the Occult Research Room to meet up Rias and the others. Issei was called by Rias to come for some reason during lunch, Kazuki, on the other hand, wanted to come to talk to Kiba for a bit and Asia because of Kazuki. He recalled last night that Issei brought home Koneko who was hurt, although the wound was superficial, it and Kiba's demeanor did bother him.
"Yea, I don't know what's gotten into him. It was the first time that I've seen Buchou slap him too."
Issei added worriedly about his fellow peerage member.
Since the Rating Game against Riser, Issei has almost gotten over Kiba being more popular with women, if not a little bit, and seeing him as a trusted comrade.
"Uh, I hope that there's nothing wrong with Kiba-san."
Asia also sounded worried since Kiba was one of the people she befriended.
"Raynare-san has been acting weird too. She didn't even want to come either."
Kazuki thought thinking about the reaction Raynare had after he asked her and about how she was getting a little too focused on training. It didn't take him long to realize that she was still weaker compared to the others as a result of the Familiar Forest Incident. But, Kazuki couldn't understand what was wrong with Kiba.
"Actually, now that I think about it. I don't know much about either Akeno-senpai's past or Yuuto-kun's pasts. I did hear about Koneko-chan's past after a long time, but she was more or less hesitant about talking about it even now that I know about it. I can't really tell her that I met her older sister, who is pretending to be a cat in my house. Ah, everyone is going through their own things. Well, I'll deal with what's in front of me now."
Soon enough, all three of them reached the door leading into the Occult Research Club. After walking past the doors, Issei noticed that the club moments weren't the only ones there. Standing in the club room was also Sona and Saji, the newest pawn aside from Ruruko. Issei was surprised to hear that Sona was a High-Class Devil and heiress like Rias. From his perception, she was just the third most popular girl in Kuoh Academy, Souna Shitori, the Student Council President who was more popular with girls than boys.
He had also heard that the Student Council and Occult Research Club shared control over the school, the former had control in the daytime and the latter had nighttime control.
He couldn't help admit that she was quite beautiful herself, but if he mentioned her breasts weren't close to Rias, Akeno, or even her Vice President, Tsubaki, then Kazuki said he'd punch him.
"Hello, Hyoudou-kun," Sona greeted him before noticing Kazuki and Asia too, seeing Kazuki caused her cheeks to turn red. She was thinking about the previous incident in draining his dragon power with that lewd method. "O-Oh, Kazuki-kun and Asia-san. I wasn't expecting you two here."
"Ah, I had some business here anyway. But, I think that can wait for a moment."
Kazuki was having a genuine conversation with Sona, he couldn't help noticing that her pawn, Saji was sending a not so conspicuous glare in his direction. Most of the people in the room could see that Saji was glaring toward him for some reason.
"Don't think that you can talk casually to Kaichou. She is the Sitri Clan heiress."
Saji tried speaking up for some reason that caused Kazuki to tilt his head, in addition to most of the people inside of the club room.
"I'm well aware of that. I've known about the supernatural since my first-year here."
Kazuki pointed out causing Saji's words to lose their strength as he stared back at him losing momentum inside his attempt at acting prideful.
"Saji, don't be rude to Kazuki-kun," Sona said sounding harsher and serious than usual causing Saji to relent as he felt a cold sensation from her eyes. "I came here to introduce my new pawn. So, Saji introduces yourself."
"Right, Kaichou," Saji added before speaking. "My name is Genshirou Saji, a second-year and pawn. I'm also the secretary of the Student Council. You all get to have a peaceful school life because of Kaichou and us, the Sitri who work during the daytime. It won't be bad for you to remember that you know?"
Saji spoke up with confidence and arrogance causing most of the people in the room to stare at him oddly, while Sona sighed and placed her hand on her forehead.
"Oooh, the same year as me and also the same Pawn as me!"
Issei ignoring what Saji previously said out loud and was excited to see that there was another Pawn in the same year as himself. However, Saji didn't have the same reaction as he sighed from irritation.
"You damaged my pride by saying that. For you, one of the Perverted Trio, to be the same pawn as me."
Saji spoke in arrogance causing Issei to stare at him wearing an annoyed expression.
"Wh-What was thought? I thought that I found someone that I could relate to, but no," Issei said as he started to step forward in front of Saji. "But, I guess I was wrong!"
"Do you want to go," Saji said stepping forward as if to accept the challenge. "I'll have you know that I was strong enough to consume four pawn pieces."
"Saji," Sona spoke harshly causing Saji to shutter again. "The reason that we came here was to make your debut as a new servant and introduce you to Rias' servant who happened to be the same pawn. Since you seem to take quite a pride in being my servant, then don't do anything to shame me. Besides…."
Sona stopped before turning to face Issei before speaking again.
"Hyoudou-kun confused eight pawn pieces twice the amount of yours," Sona revealed much to his surprise and shock as she continued. "He even defeated the third son of the Phenex Household so that isn't for show. So, Saji you're unable to defeat him as it stands now."
"E-Eight pawn pieces?! Wait, this is the one who had defeated that Phenex heir. I thought that it was either Kiba or Himejima-senpai who rescued Rias-senpai."
"Hyoudou-kun, my servant doesn't have much experience as you, so he still has some rude attitude in him," Sona replied bowing her head lightly. "If it's alright, can you please try and get along with him?"
"Don't worry about that Sona-senpai. Both of them are too much alike for them not to get along."
"We have nothing common!"
"Yea, don't compare me to this pervert!"
Both Issei and Saji replied glaring toward Kazuki.
"Ise."
"Saji."
Both Rias and Sona sighed speaking to their pawns.
""Right, Buchou/Kaichou.""
"Yea, these two are noticing alike."
Kazuki uttered under his breath, then glanced to the side causing both of them to glare in his direction wearing a similar annoyed look.
"Yes. We should be able to all get along."
Asia spoke like the angel she was radiating nothing less than a kind demeanor.
Having both heard and seen Asia, Saji's expression switched into a much happier demeanor different from what he wore when talking to both Kazuki and Issei. Seeing that change in demeanor, in addition to seeing him start to approach Asia who seemed a little uncomfortable.
"If it's Asia-san, then I am…!"
Before Saji could reach Asia and grab onto her hand, Kazuki gently moved Asia to the side, causing her to blush lightly from the light contact from him.
"Wh-Why are you keeping the blonde Bishoujo to yourself?"
"Asia-chan doesn't belong to anyone," Kazuki replied seriously causing Saji to shutter under the pressure behind his eyes. "And I don't like it when people talk like that about Asia-chan. Got it, Saji-kun?"
"I-I G-Got it."
Saji replied terrified about the threatening feeling that he felt behind his voice as he walked back from away Asia.
"Ufufu, Kazuki-kun sure is protective of Asia-chan."
Akeno pointed out as she laughed lightly, which caused Asia to smile as she hugged onto Kazuki's arm.
"That's Kazuki-san."
Asia spoke as if admiring him.
"Hahaha, it looks that you got scared off by my little brother!"
Issei mused as he sent a cocky smirk as Saji glared at him.
"Who cares about that? It's better than being talked down to by one of the Perverted Trio!"
"What was that?!"
Both pawns started glaring at one another with intense expressions almost as if they two met their match. Before long, the two of them grabbed onto one another's hands more forcefully outside of the usual handshake between friends or comrades.
"Hahaha! Please look after me, Saji-kun!"
Issei said as he squeezed Saji's hand as tight as possible causing the blonde pawn to groan from man.
"Yes! Yes! Let's get along Hyoudou-kun! You truly are a brute keeping the two Great Onee-samas and mascot all to yourself! I wish that divine punishment falls upon you when you're struck by lightning on the way home!"
Saji recovered as he squeezed Issei's hand as equally tight with their Kings staring at their pawn wearing a look on their faces and sighed almost as the two were dealing with actual children.
"You must have a hard time."
"You too."
Both Rias and Sona said watching as their respective pawns were having what seemed to be a contest. Amid all that, Kazuki had signaled toward Kiba who was watching the entire time to follow him outside. Seeing nothing the matter with it, Kiba did as requested as Kazuki asked that Asia wait there for him to return, which she agreed to without hesitation.
Outside of the Occult Research Club room, Kazuki stood by as Kiba remained to the side without uttering a word to him, which wasn't normal. Kazuki wasn't surprised since Kiba likely assumed that it was about what happened last night where Koneko ended up getting wounded. Both remained silent until the blonde knight asked.
"Aren't you going to lecture me about what happened last night?"
Kiba asked believing that was the reason that Kazuki called him out to talk alone.
"Huh, I thought you'd never speak up," Kazuki attempted to joke around before waving it off. "I'm not naive enough to believe that it's possible to keep your comrades from getting injured. But, even though I'm not the Club President or your King, but I am your friend, right? We did start talking to one another after the entire male school popular hated us."
"…."
Kiba didn't give a single response. But, those words did resonate with him since Kazuki was the first person that he ended up having a natural conversation in school aside from the Occult Research Club members.
"You've been acting weird after seeing that photo of me, Iri-chan, Touji-san, and Nii-san," Kazuki brought up, but Kiba remained silent about the entire thing. "Does it have something to do with that 'holy sword'?"
Hearing Kazuki brings up that topic caused a reaction from Kiba for the first time as he turned in his direction with a more intense expression.
"How did…?"
"This isn't the first that a holy sword was brought up, you know. I watched the entire match between Riser and his peerage against you all, remember. Karlamine-san mentioned a holy sword and mentioned there was someone who bared a resemblance to…."
"Could you please drop it, Kazuki-kun?"
Kiba requested a little more coldly than Kazuki was expecting from him.
He didn't wait for a single response from him as Kiba walked past him, then returned to the club room causing a light sigh to escape from his mouth.
"I guess that I ended up stepping on a landmine there, huh," Kazuki asked himself as he scratched his cheek and thought about his previous words. "It might've been two landmines though. On one end, I can guess that Yuuto-kun must have had some bad experience with a holy sword user if he's reacting like this from mentioning it. And I guess that his reaction from there being someone who looks almost like him could mean that…."
Kazuki more than anyone could guess that that meant, but before he could finish both Sona and Saji followed by Asia who walked behind them came out of the club room.
"Well, we're done with our business here. I'll see you later, Kazuki-kun."
Sona said as waving her hand as she walked past him, which Kazuki returned with a smile and wave of his.
"Ah, yea. I'll see you later."
Kazuki said walked off with Saji giving him one final look before walking off.
"It's like dealing with Nii-san."
Kazuki sighed as he narrowed his eyes lightly more irritated than mad.
"Kazuki-san," Asia tugged at his shirt catching his attention. "Did you talk to Kiba-san?"
"Yea."
"Is he alright?"
Asia said worried about Kiba, which was a feeling that he could understand and resonate with since those were his feelings on the matter at hand. But, without Kiba talking about what happened, then all he could do was come up with different guesses about what was wrong.
"I don't know. He's not really talking about it," Kazuki replied not wanting to lie to Asia of all people. "It looks as if he doesn't want to talk about it right now. So, as his friends, then we'll be there for him when he does want to talk about it, right?"
"Right!"
Asia replied cheerfully and smiling, causing him to pet the blonde nun's head.
"But, first things first, we should all get ourselves prepared for the Sports Festival."
"Yes!"
Asia once again spoke energetically.
BANG! BANG!
[Tsukmoto-kun from the Manga Research Club, Hashioka-sensei is calling you. So could you please report to the teacher's room immediately.]
From there, the Sports Festival arrived, with the signal for the entire event and announcement echoing all across the entire school building. Almost all the students also heard the weather broadcast about the rainy weather in the evening, but the students hoped that it wouldn't ruin the tournament. All of the members of the Kendo Club gathered at their assigned places dressed in their gym uniforms including Asia and Raynare.
Speaking of those two—
"Nnnn, Raynare-san. T-To much…."
"Bare with it Asia-san."
Raynare was assisting Asia in stretching for the Ball Tournament, both of them had been doing various stretches that caught the attention of the male students. She knew that Asia wasn't the most physical among their group, so she wanted to ensure that she was prepared for anything. There was a new addition to their being a none club member around them.
"Uh, Kazuki-kun, who's this girl?"
Katase questioned pointing at the familiar blonde with drill curls.
Standing beside Kazuki, who had finished stretching was Ravel dressed in normal attire different from her usual formal and princess one. It was notable that these clothes were borrowed from Asia, who was almost the same height and build as Ravel, albeit her breasts were a little bigger. Although different from her confident nature, the younger blonde looked nervous.
"Ah, this is Ravel," Kazuki introduced placing a comforting on top of Ravel's head causing her to blush a lot more deeper. "Her father is a business partner of Rias-senpai's father, I met Ravel-san one time in the club room with her brother who came for a conversation. Since then, she has become interested in the school here and wanted to see the events here for herself. I already told Kaito-sensei that she would be here and he said that it was fine."
Kazuki came up with a plausible response for them, which wasn't wrong except for a couple of details that he left out since, of course, neither of his classmates knew about the supernatural. At least, to his knowledge.
"Y-Yes, I talked to Kazu-sama once and he mentioned that the school was having a Ball Tournament. And I was curious about the event, then came to see it for myself."
Ravel replied nervously fidgeting around because of the stares from the students.
It didn't take him long to realize that she hadn't interacted with humans that often if not at all, aside from possibly whatever requests she received as a devil. But, those people already knew about devils.
"Wow, she's so cute. She looks almost like a princess."
"I didn't think that Kazuki-kun knew another foreign girl aside from Asia-chan."
Both Katase and Murayama replied as they noticed Ravel still fidgeting around and found her reaction cute.
Amid all the attention that she was getting from the students, Ravel took Kazuki by his hand, then started leading him to another location. He showed no resistance about the entire thing and simply followed her.
Soon enough, Ravel led him to a stop devoid of other students, then realize she was still holding his hand before immediately letting him go.
"I-I'm sorry for showing that kind of side, but I'm not used to dealing with normal humans."
Ravel apologized as she could still the feeling of his hand on hers.
"That's fine. But, I can't help finding that side cute," Kazuki said causing her cheeks to turn redder. "I was the one who ended up inviting you here since you said that you were interested in normal schools."
"I-I did since I was interested in," Ravel replied pointing her index fingers together, avoiding his gaze. "S-So, what does this Ball Tournament entail?"
Ravel asked wanting to switch to another topic.
"Our entire school will be competing against one another in different sports activities between all classes, genders, and clubs. First, will be the classes, then gender and the last will be the clubs. Our class will be doing a baseball game between another class."
"I see," Ravel said understanding the concept, but found something odd to her. "But, wouldn't your club be faced off against either Rias-sama's or Sona-sama's clubs, which consist of their peerages? And most of the people in your club include humans aside from that fallen angel."
"Oh, I thought about an idea to deal with either of them if that comes up and I worked out the entire thing with my fellow club members. Our club also has a good trainer acting as our advisor."
Kazuki confidently replied as Ravel wondered about what plan he had in mind, there was something that came to her mind afterward.
"Ah, I wanted to tell you that Ajuka-sama received the magic flute. There have been previous reports that Kojirou has done jobs as a hired assassin for various people. But, there haven't been reports of him resurfacing after your confrontation with him in the Familiar Forest, Kazu-sama. Uh, Kazu-sama, do you mind if I speak my mind about something?"
"Not at all. You've gone above and beyond to help me, Ravel-san."
"W-Well, ahem," Ravel started before coughing in her hand and speaking. "Well, before you said that he went through all the trouble of kidnapping Asia-sama for someone. But, that begs the question of who'd go through the trouble of hiring someone who has a past for terrorizing or harassing women using his modified slime. So, there's to be some connection between Asia-sama and whoever hired him unless he's someone who wanted her for her sacred gear."
Kazuki could hear that Ravel was going through the entire situation and possibilities about whoever hired Kojirou to kidnap Asia, then bring her back. He did guess that it would have to be someone who knew about Asia.
"It was something that crossed my mind, but the only people that Asia-chan knew in the past were the people of the church. So, there shouldn't be anyone among them who'd hire a reincarnated devil to bring her back," Kazuki thought before coming up with something. "Wait…."
"Huh?"
Ravel starred at Kazuki who went through.
His mind went back to the conversation that he had with Asia a couple of months ago about her past life inside the Church about how she was excommunicated.
"Why was there a devil near a church in the first place. Was it a stray devil who didn't turn into a monster unable to control their powers, but even they know that it's suicide to go near the church? And a priest happened to be in the same area to see Asia-chan healing them. There was even killing intent aimed at me before leaving from that engagement party. And someone is hired to take Asia-chan. There are too many situations linked to one another to be just a coincident."
Kazuki thought before noticing the worried look on Ravel's face.
"Did you think about something, Kazu-sama?"
"Yea. Ravel-san, do you think that you could come up with a list of the people at the engagement party?"
"Um," Ravel replied thinking about it. "Yes, I could have it done in a couple of minutes at most."
"H-Huh."
For the first time talking to Ravel, Kazuki was surprised about that sudden response since there seemed to have been several other devils there. But, Ravel apparently remembered them all and could come up with a list of their names in a couple of minutes.
"Oi, is that Kazuki?"
"Oh, great?"
Kazuki sighed as he heard a familiar voice calling out to him, then turned to see Matsuda and Motohama walking toward them.
"I thought that you'd be with the Kendo Club right now. But, you're here with…whoa."
Matsuda stopped after noticing Ravel standing beside him.
Both he and Motohama started getting uncomfortably close to Ravel as she started stepping back not liking the attention she was receiving.
"Kazuki, you bastard where'd you find this girl from. She looks young, but she has the body of a woman."
"Her three sizes are…gah!"
BANG! BANG!
Kazuki punched both Matsuda and Motohama on their heads knocking them down to the ground.
"Right, if you do decide to come here, then you might have a run-in with these two. And there's no teacher and/or student who would be mad as you for hitting or slapping them."
"Well, if I did, then I know that Kazu-sama would defend me from them."
Ravel spoke under her breath smiling lightly, then started walking back to the same area as the others.
Once the Ball Tournament matches proceeded onward from there, Kazuki and his class won the Baseball Match against that other class. Later, it was the gender tournament where both Sona and Rias had their match with one another in a Tennis Match. Both Saji and Issei, of course, cheered for their respective Kings, but it got intense in the end as the pawns argued with each other.
The Tennis Match itself was intense near the end as neither of their rackets was designed to handle the strength of two pure-blooded heiresses and end up breaking. As such, their match ended in a draw.
Soon after, it was the match between the clubs, which proceeded until it was finally time for the Kendo Club to go up against their opponent in Dodgeball. But, Kazuki found himself inside an odd situation as Asia stood in front of him, dressed a little different in their gym uniform.
"Uh, Asia-chan," Kazuki called out to the blonde nun who smiled at him. "Why're you dressed in bloomers?"
Kazuki had noticed that instead of the common shorts that the other female members were dressed in, Asia was dressed in bloomers instead. It wasn't that they looked bad on her, Kazuki didn't want to admit out loud that, but he did get a good look at her white legs and thighs, which he did find appealing.
"Um, Kiryuu-san said that it was proper attire for playing dodgeball. I asked Ise-san about it and he said that…."
Asia replied fidgeting in place.
"I'm might kill those two later."
Kazuki wondered to himself, not liking that two of the biggest perverts in their school were giving Asia the wrong lessons about what to wear.
"Do that not look good on me?"
"N-No, of course, Asia-chan would look good in bloomers? But, I don't think that it would be a good idea to follow advice from Aika and Nii-san too much."
"Why, not…?"
"Well, those two have perverted minds and might end up…."
"Getting our pure Asia-chan into doing something perverse too."
"Yes, we don't want Asia-chan to change from this."
Both Murayama and Katase interjected placing their hands around a dumbfounded Asia.
"Well, it still doesn't change the fact that Asia-san looks adorable. Right, Kazuki-kun."
Raynare added as she went behind Asia, then looked to almost present the blonde nun in front of him.
"Y-Yea."
Kazuki said glancing to the side unable to lie in front of Asia, which made her happier and smiled.
"But, I was surprised to see the Phenex Household princess here," Raynare pointed out, noticing that Ravel was sitting on the sidelines waiting for the match to start. "It seems that she's taken an interest in a certain someone."
Kazuki could hear that Raynare was teasing him based on the amount of time he's known her.
"C-Come on, Ravel-san just wanted to see what one of the school events were like here at Kuoh Academy."
Kazuki said looking away from Raynare.
"Oh, did you sound a little…?"
[Members of the Occult Research Club and the Kendo Club. Please gather at the ground.]
"Well, that's us. Everyone let's gather together!"
Kazuki called out to the other Kendo Club members who were gathered in the team. He could see that the team around him became energetic about his call.
[Right, Captain!]
"Let's go them the spirit raised and fortified by Kaito-sensei!"
[Yea!]
Making that declaration, all the Kendo Club members gathered together on the court where the Occult Research Club members stood wearing headbands on their foreheads. Kazuki guessed that was the item that Issei made a night prior looking forward to the Ball Tournament.
"Alright, looks like you'll be the wall who stands before us, Kazuki."
Rias declared showing as much confidence and competitive spirit as always.
"It appears so, Rias-senpai. But, don't think that this will be a match our side plans on losing."
Kazuki replied confidently wearing a smirk.
"Kyaa! Our White Knight is so cool!"
"We want to cheer for our 'Two Great Onee-samas', but Kazuki-kun is too cool~"
"Please do your best Kazuki-kyun~"
Ravel who was sitting on the sidelines was almost confused, but also a little impressed about the sheer amount of support that Kazuki was receiving from the female students at least. In her hands was already a full list with all the people who attended the Engagement Celebration for Riser's and Rias' marriage before it was canceled.
"I didn't tell why Kazu-sama wanted this list at first, but after thinking about it. Could whoever hires Kojirou be on this list? Kazu-sama must have thought about something that made him think back to then. Well, first things first, I'll watch the match here, then ask later."
Ravel thought to herself as she got comfortable enough to watch the Dodgeball Match between both the Kendo Club and Occult Research Club. Once both the teams retrieved their dodgeballs, the first one to make their first move was the Occult Research Club (except for Kiba who looked to be still lost in thought). Rias, Akeno, Koneko, and Issei aimed their dodgeballs toward the normal humans.
"I thought that'd be the case," Kazuki thought smirking before announcing. "Alright, as we practiced!"
[Right!]
The four members who were targeted held up their dodgeballs in defense, which caused them to bound off theirs and forced them back a little. One of them who Koneko targeted was almost pushed back to the ground, causing Kazuki to be glad that he told them if Koneko targeted them, to ensure their hands were in front of their face. All of them looked stunned about what happened, their attention became more alert.
As Occult Research Club's dodgeballs were landing on the ground, the blockers tossed their dodgeballs to their group consisting of Kazuki, Raynare, Katase, and Murayama. At the same time, all four of them went for one on their opposing team's side, in particular.
""This is for all womankind!""
Both Katase and Murayama shouted with renewed vigor and a fire in their eyes as both tossed their dodgeball as hard as possible toward Issei.
"W-What, wait?!"
Issei shouted confused about becoming the main target dodging the first dodgeball from Murayama, then the one aimed at Katase. But, was unable to avoid the one that Kazuki ended up hitting at his face, which was the most open spot based on where he went. After seeing Issei taken out, the female students in the crowd felt as if that was a victory for all of them.
"Sorry, Nii-san. But, you were kinda one of the weakest links on that side."
Kazuki said before saying a light prayer for his brother out of reflex, but he regretted it after noticing that Issei had a sudden headache.
"Here it comes, Princess!"
"Bring it on!"
Raynare said with renewed vigor as she seemed to launch the dodgeball at Rias, who seemed prepared. But, it was instead aimed at Akeno who seemed surprised herself, but still managed to avoid it.
"Tch, and here I went to the trouble of getting all hyped up in wanting to hit that princess."
"I see that Kazuki has planned through this entire thing."
Rias said feeling surprised about this.
"Unlike Nii-san, I always like to plan things ahead of time," Kazuki declared out loud before pointing toward them. "I planned for facing the Occult Research Club and Student Council with the people standing behind me. So, we the Kendo Club will be showing our fighting spirit!"
[Right!]
"Alright, then we'll respond in kind!"
Rias shouted energetically, then picked up the balls prepared to launch the dodgeballs, then aimed.
"Alright, Raynare, Murayama, and Katase as we planned," Kazuki said as the three of them lined up together as Rias threw the dodgeball. "Camel Defense!"
"W-What?"
Rias seemed stunned after hearing that name enough to stop moving as both Murayama and Katase ducked and avoided the dodgeball, then caught it. After catching it, Raynare tossed it at Rias who still seemed stunned after hearing the name 'Camel Defense'. She couldn't avoid it, causing the dodgeball to smack against Rias' face thus knocking her out of the game.
"Hahahaha, I got her!"
Raynare laughed almost manically out loud feeling happier that she ended up knocking out Rias.
"You sound happier than I thought you would."
Kazuki laughed wryly after seeing how excited Raynare was, then later three of their members were pelted with a total of three dodgeballs, which came from Koneko.
"…I won't be taken out that easy, Kazuki-senpai."
Koneko declared as she held another dodgeball in her hand.
"Ara, how did Kazuki-kun know about that?"
Akeno wondered amused about the fact that Kazuki knew about Rias' one weakness, but guessed that it must've come out during a conversation he had with Sona. Rias walked off the field, feeling conflicted as the word 'camel' was brought up here of all places.
"I-I also want to contribute as well."
Asia declared as she picked up, then tossed a dodgeball as hard as possible. It flew in the direction of Kiba, who would have dodged if he was in his right state of mind, but he instead got hit in the head. After realizing that he's been taken out, Kiba walked to the side with Rias and Issei who were also taken out.
"Alright, then let's start the final struggle."
[Right!]
All the remaining members of both the Kendo Club and Occult Research Club were caught in an intense struggle with one another. In the end, the victors were the Kendo Club.
"That was amazing, Kazu-sama!"
Ravel said as she, Kazuki, Raynare, Asia were gathered in a single spot where there weren't any other students around them. She, who watched the entire Dodgeball Match was surprised to see how Kazuki led all the normal humans in a contest and won again an entire group filled with devils. And it ended up in the Kendo Club winning in the Ball Tournament for clubs.
But, it did start raining after the tournament was finished causing all the other students to return home before it started getting worse.
"I never thought that you could even lead a group of humans into winning against a devil team."
"Well, it wasn't like it was a Rating Game. If it was, then things would have become awkward."
Kazuki joked knowing that he never would drag a group of normal humans in that situation.
"Well, it was amazing nonetheless. I have a lot to tell Okaa-sama after returning home," Ravel said before pulling out the list that she wrote for Kazuki. "Also, I wrote down the names like you asked, Kazu-sama."
"Ah, thank you. I hope that it wasn't too difficult."
"Not at all. I memorized all the people who attended without many issues."
"That's some amazing recall. I didn't even focus on most of the people around me."
"Oh, what's this? A list of potential maidservants for your harem?"
At the mention of the word 'maidservants', Kazuki flushed lightly as he turned his attention from Raynare who was wearing a mischievous smile.
"O-Oh course not. It's a list of suspects who could have hired Kojirou. I think whoever it was, was at the party celebrating the Rias-senpai's and Riser's previous engagement."
"What makes you think that?"
Raynare questioned confused about why a high-class devil would hire a stray devil.
"Well, before we left. I think that someone aimed killing intent at me before leaving with the others."
Hearing those words surprised Asia, Raynare, and Ravel since it would be surprising to hear that someone in the entire room has animosity for him. Asia, of course, was worried since it meant that there was a high-class devil in that room who hired someone to kidnap her.
"Well, we'll find out who that person is," Kazuki said placing a comforting hand on Asia's head as she smiled from the comfort. "And I won't let them mess with your life anymore."
"…Kazuki-san."
Asia spoke feeling safer around him.
"Well, Kazu-sama. I enjoyed our time together, but I believe that I should…."
"Ah, Koneko-chan?"
Kazuki turned to see Koneko walking up to them, who then turned to Ravel with her deadpan stare.
"W-What?"
"…don't cause trouble for Kazuki-senpai, Yakitori-hime."
Koneko spoke coldly before walking away leaving Ravel and the others there confused.
"W-What was that?! That's a rude thing to say to someone you've never even met," Ravel called out to Koneko, but was ignored causing the blonde-haired devil to release enough heat to the point of the rain nearby burning to nothing. "Don't ignore me! I am a proud member of the Phenex Household, not some chicken!"
Despite saying that she was going to leave, Ravel instead started approaching the departing Koneko who didn't even appear to give her a single response.
"What just happened?"
Kazuki asked not understanding the reason behind Koneko's sudden harsh words to Ravel.
"Ah."
Raynare said amused about the sudden occurrence.
"What's wrong, Yuuto?"
All three of them heard a conversation between Rias and Kiba who remained standing in the pouring rain.
"You've been distant from everyone since the meeting we had at Ise's home. And you've been underperforming a lot in several things since then like during the elimination of that stray devil. You've never been like this Yuuto."
"The Ball Tournament is finished and we won't be practicing anymore," Kiba replied almost like a ghost without a single shred of emotions behind his words. "I'm a bit tired too, so I won't be able to attend the usual after school activities or requests tonight either. I apologize for my previous behavior…it seems like I'm feeling too well. I'll go home and rest."
Kiba turned around without letting Rias even get a single response.
After noticing this, Issei ran out into the rain without an umbrella, then grabbed onto Kiba's shoulder from behind a little irritated about his reaction toward Rias. Kazuki who retrieved his umbrella from another space alongside a confused Raynare started walking out into the rain with Asia sharing one with him.
"Kiba, you've been acting weird. Even I'm started to get worried about you."
"That's none of your business," Kiba said brushing Issei's hand off his shoulder then turned to him wearing a faux smile. "There shouldn't be a problem, right? I think it's normal for devils to live how they want. Well, I think I'm at fault this time for talking back to my master this time."
Kiba seemed to shrug his shoulders, but every single response and gesture he made didn't even appear to have the slightest emotion behind them.
"What's with all this bad attitude all of a sudden," Issei asked angrily. "After all that we went through working as a team against Riser and started becoming a team. I thought that we were going to start covering for one another's weak points! We're supposed to be comrades, right?!"
Issei shouted out loud, but hearing the word 'comrades' seemed to shake something inside of Kiba's head.
"Comrades, huh," Kiba spoke faintly as the images of several people started to resonate in his head before one of them a blonde girl caused him to narrow his eyes. "You're always burning no matter the situation, Ise-kun. But, there are times in seeing you and Kazuki-kun interacting with one another that I feel jealous."
"Huh, about what?"
"You get to interact with your sibling," Kiba spoke words that surprised the people standing there aside from Rias who seemed to have realized something. "Since that time after seeing that photo, I started to remember that one basic thing that has driven to fighting until this point."
"You're the reason for fighting?"
Issei questioned back as Kiba showed Issei a more serious question different from the usual one that he showed thus far to where it could be called his true face.
"I've lived up until this point so that I could seek my revenge against the holy sword, Excalibur. My desire to see it destroyed for myself is my reason for fighting."
Kiba replied in the strongest tone that Issei and the others have heard from him before, then started walking off in the rain without caring about the rain soaking his uniform.
Everyone there could only watch as Kiba left them there showing the absolute desire not to be bothered.
"So, that's the reason."
After Rias realized the reason behind Kiba's sudden change in demeanor, then felt like berating herself for not at all realizing that was the reason. Raynare after hearing the name realized the connection since she heard about it herself from Azazel during a discussion.
"Buchou, what did Kiba mean about this Excalibur? I know that I heard about it in games and such, but…."
"Ise, it might be best that we all talk about this back at your room. I never thought that this would be brought up in this place of all things. It looks like things will start getting complicated."
"Buchou, what Kiba said about having a sibling? Is it true?"
"Yes, I haven't heard anything from her. But, Kiba does have a younger sister," Rias said before turning towards Issei and Kazuki before looking on sadly. "A younger twin sister, in fact."
Both Issei and Kazuki looked shocked about those words. Kazuki guessed that Kiba did have a sibling, but never did it cross his mind that it was a twin sister.
"This appears to be the location."
Meanwhile, in another part of Kuoh Town, where the abandoned church was located, where the battle took place between the fallen angels and former exorcists between the devils of the town. Standing there was both Xenovia and Irina who were dressed in white hooded robes that kept the rain from touching them. On the Xenovia's back was what appeared to be a massive double-edged sword wrapped in cloth inscribed with different writings.
Both of them seemed to be examining the entire area of the church, which seemed almost worn down from either time or the battle that occurred.
"Didn't our informant mention that the Hakuryuukou got involved in the battle as well?"
Irina pointed out fidgeting around lightly.
"It appears so. Until we get a clear profile on the Hakuryuukou's intentions, we should consider him as a potential that we might need to overcome. At the same time, we need to also be careful as all the past Sekiryuutei and Hakuryuukou, more so the men have sought after several kinds of women to make them their own."
Xenovia spoke seriously causing Irina to become worried.
"Uh, but I don't want to become the woman of anyone aside from my Kazu-chan! Uh, I know that he, his brother, and parents still live in the same house, but I haven't prepared myself to see Kazu-chan! I'm so excited that I don't even know what I'm going to tell him first. I decided that I want to him the moment that school ends, no later than that. It was a cruel fate that we were separated from one another, but it's because of God's boundless love that we get this chance to reunite with one another. Oh, Lord!"
Irina declared in the church as she placed her hands together and started praying.
"Well, I see that Iri-chan is as energetic as always."
A sudden voice caught their attention.
Entering the abandoned church was a young woman with blonde hair that came from the hooded cloak she was wearing. Sheathed beside her waist was a European sword. Seeing her caused Xenovia to narrow her eyes a bit after noticing her presence.
"Ah, it's good to see you again, Mari-chan!"
Irina cheerfully said as she approached the blonde-haired exorcist as the two pressed their hands together.
"Good evening, Xenovia."
She peeked and greeted Xenovia who didn't seem enthusiastic about her presence, but then recalled Griselda's words to her before departing.
"Good evening, Mariah."
Xenovia replied bowing her head lightly.
"Ah, I guess that Sister Griselda got to you, right," Mariah seemed to tease as she looked around. "Yes, I thought that this would be the first place that both of you checked out. Since there seemed to have been an incident with the fallen angels here, as well. So have you found anything out?"
"No, nothing is remaining her aside from the destroyed ideals and walls either before or after the battle. But, Irina and I found a location where we can rest for the night build by the ones who occupied this building."
"That's good. Well, I have bad news to inform you two," Mariah spoke. "Before arriving here, I sensed that there was a battle between whoever was using an Excalibur Fragment and another unknown person. But, the moment that I arrived there, it appears as if I was too late to see either of them. It also looks that one of our own was also killed in action as well. I ensured that his remains were sent back to the Church to be buried."
Having said those words, the three of them seemed to have taken a moment of silence for their lost brethren and comrade in arms. Moments later, Mariah reached in her pockets, then fished out what seemed to be a photo.
"Also, I checked him to see if there was any intelligence that he managed to gain to ensure his sacrifice wasn't in vain. And to see if he found out anything new," Maria said holding out the photo. "I don't know who the person in this photo is, but it appears as if he was someone who gained his attention."
After holding up the photo, both Xenovia and Irina leaned in to see who was in the photo with the brunette almost immediately recognizing who the person was.
"Wah!"
Irina shouted out loud catching Xenovia and Mariah by surprise.
"What's the matter, Irina?"
Xenovia questioned out loud.
"T-That's my Kazu-chan."
Irina pointed out realizing that the photograph was of Kazuki leaving school.
"You mean your childhood friend and crush?"
Maria questioned looking at the photo again.
"Y-Yes," Irina said blushing at the 'childhood crush' part, but took the photo off her hands. "He, of course, looks a lot different from the last time that I saw him and he appears to have been working out. But, this is without a doubt by Kazu-chan. I wouldn't forget his face. But, why would Kazu-chan be of suspicion of any kind?"
Irina started sounding worried about what this might mean.
"Could he have become a devil?"
Xenovia asked.
"No," Irina replied immediately shocking even Irina. "Kazu-chan wouldn't become a devil! He's even still wearing the cross that I gave him and I'm still wearing his! Don't assume that my Kazu-chan would ever become a devil!"
"O-Okay."
Even Xenovia seemed taken aback about the words that left Irina's mouth.
"You shouldn't mess with a girl's childhood crush, Xenovia," Mariah said as she placed a hand on her face. "Ah, but if that were the case, then that would make an amazing drama."
"I-I'm sorry that I spoke up like that, but I wouldn't make sense for Kazu-chan to become a devil since Kazu-chan was an avid believer like me. And I wouldn't be able to bear that after separating from my Kazu-chan, then I'd be forced into fighting my Kazu-chan."
Irina said as she felt her heart hurting from just the thought of fighting against her Kazu-chan.
"Well, I never thought that I'd hear his name that many times in a single sitting. Well, we should get rested for the mission tomorrow. We'll need to make contact with the leader in charge of this town at some point."
Mariah said as she walked forward, but Xenovia looked at her back and brought up a question.
"Maria. Sister Griselda said that you finished with a mission right after agreeing to take this one instead of taking some time to rest," Xenovia brought up causing Mariah to stop walking. "Might I ask the reason?"
"You should know about my past right, Xenovia, Iri-chan," Mariah said reaching for her cloak's hand using both of her hands. "Before the officials could even finish explaining the entire assignment to me. Among all of the people that I've brought to justice this far, this one means the most to me. How could I say no since I've been wanting to meet the one responsible for murdering my older brother and my closest friends all that time ago? And…."
Revealing her beautiful face that could be said to belong to a genuine princess, blonde hair tied on the right side of her hair and blue eyes that stared back at them smiling faintly.
"I don't think that I can wait to bring the man who took the last family that I had from me to justice. Nor do I think, I'll end uphold myself back from impaling him with the very sword that he slandered and killed them all for."
Xenovia and Irina could sense the intense words from Mariah who turned back around and stared at the roof with a hand placed on her cross.
"I hope that you're all watching this. I'll make things right and bring down Valper Galilei," Mariah thought holding her cross tighter than before. "Even if I die at the hands of Kokabiel, the Cadre backing him. I'll ensure that you'll all be avenged, Isaiah, Tosca, everyone."
A/N: And there goes the next chapter of The Twin Dragons, well this was the start of the Ball Tournament and there were a lot of preparations. In this one, I made it so that Rias slaps Kiba for Koneko getting hurt because both she of all people being made over the tournament was a bit petty. Rias has always been said that she cares about her servants and should be able to tell when they're acting out of the norm.
Well, it appears that Kaito, his Kendo Instructor wants to pass down something to Kazuki, which he feels will assist him. I know that some might not agree, but I do love the concept that I did in the original Twin Dragons about Koneko seeing Kazuki as more of an older brother figure. But, seeing her and Ravel still have their own arguments even then is always fun.
All three female Exorcists have arrived in Kuoh and it looks as if things will start picking up from there.
Issei's Harem: Rias, Akeno, Koneko, Xenovia, Lucia, Tsubasa, Kiyome, Aika, Elmenhilde, Yasaka, Kunou, Bennia, Roygun, Ingvild.
Kazuki's Harem: Sona, Raynare, Asia, Irina, Lucina, Mariah, Kuroka, Ophis, Rossweisse, Ravel, Le Fay, Gabriel, Jeanne, Lint, Tiamat, Lilith.