The gentle breeze rustled the petals of the Sakura trees, scattering a soft pink snowfall over the group gathered beneath them. The ORC members had set up their lunch outside near the clubroom, the shade of the trees providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the spring afternoon.
Leo leaned back against the trunk of one tree, his bento balanced in his lap. Rias sat close to him, her arm looped through his as she wore a blissful smile. Issei sprawled out on the grass nearby, staring wistfully up at the sky.
"I wish Ann was here," Issei sighed, poking at his lunch.
Koneko, seated on the edge of the blanket, paused mid-bite to glance at him. "Surprised someone like you got a girlfriend," she said flatly, though the hint of a smirk tugged at her lips.
Issei sat up, his cheeks puffing indignantly. "Hey! I've changed, okay? I'm not as pervy as I used to be."
Kiba chuckled from his spot, gracefully picking at his bento. "So, you're saying you're still pervy, just… less so?"
"Exactly!" Issei said before realizing what he agreed to. "Wait, no! I mean—"
"Perv," Koneko interjected, her stoic mask hiding her amusement.
Issei groaned, flopping back onto the blanket. "At least I'm not like Matsuda and Motohama. All they do is try to peep on the kendo girls or flip through dirty mags. I'm better than that!"
Before anyone could respond, a softball came hurtling out of nowhere and smacked Leo square in the side of the head. The impact caused him to spill his juice all over his uniform.
"Ah, crap," Leo muttered, wiping at the mess while the rest of the group froze in surprise.
"Leo!" Rias cried, immediately clutching his arm. "Are you okay?"
Asia quickly crouched next to him, her hands glowing faintly with healing magic. "Does it hurt? Let me see!"
Leo waved them off with a chuckle, brushing the sticky juice from his shirt. "I'm fine, seriously. That didn't even hurt." He glanced over to see a softball team member running toward them, bowing and shouting apologies.
With a sigh, Leo picked up the ball and tossed it back to her with an easy flick of his wrist. The girl caught it and bowed profusely again before running back to her game.
Akeno, sitting cross-legged a few feet away, tilted her head with a mischievous smile. "Leo, you're so good at handling tough situations. I wonder… when are you going to ask me out next?"
Leo, mid-sip of a new juice box, did a dramatic spit take, coughing and looking at Akeno in wide-eyed surprise. "Wait, what?!"
Issei burst out laughing while Kiba smirked, watching the scene unfold with amusement. "She got you good," Kiba said, shaking his head.
"Akeno!" Rias huffed, tightening her grip on Leo's arm. "Give the poor boy a break. He's not used to girls hitting on him, let alone this much attention."
Her tone was protective, but there was a teasing lilt in her voice. "Besides," she added with a knowing look at Leo, "the idea of having more than one girlfriend would probably shock him to his core."
Leo chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Actually, Sona mentioned something about harems being normal in devil society…" He trailed off, shrugging. "I mean, who wouldn't be opposed to having more than one person to love and cherish?"
Rias raised an eyebrow, though her expression was thoughtful rather than annoyed. "If that's something you wanted, Leo," she said slowly, "I would respect it. I'd still love you regardless." Her voice softened, her sapphire eyes locking with his. "All I'd ask is that you show me the same love and care you'd give anyone else."
Leo blinked, startled by her sincerity. "Rias…"
Before he could respond, Akeno giggled and leaned forward. "In that case, I'd be happy to be your mistress," she teased, her violet eyes sparkling. "You know, the one you sneak away to see in secret…"
Leo's face turned bright red as his imagination betrayed him, conjuring up the scenario all too vividly. "Akeno! Don't say stuff like that!"
Issei howled with laughter, clutching his stomach. "Oh, man! She got you good again!"
Even Koneko chimed in, smirking as she took another bite of her snack. "Perv."
Leo sighed, his shoulders slumping. "You're not wrong," he muttered sheepishly.
Despite the teasing, the group soon returned to their easy camaraderie. Laughter and lighthearted chatter filled the space beneath the sakura trees, the petals drifting lazily around them. Even Rias relaxed, her head resting on Leo's shoulder as she enjoyed the warmth of the moment.
When the school bell finally rang, signaling the end of lunch, the group reluctantly began to pack up their things. As they stood and dusted themselves off, Issei stretched dramatically.
"That was a good lunch," he said with a grin. "But next time, I'm bringing Ann. I need backup against all of you."
Leo chuckled, slinging his bag over his shoulder. "Good luck with that, man."
Rias looped her arm through Leo's as they walked back toward the school, her smile content and her heart lighter than it had been in days.
"I'm ready!" Asia said cheerfully. Leo stood up and slid his satchel over his shoulder with his own smile.
"We're off to distribute flyers." Issei said as he also stood up to join the two. As the three walked towards the door, Rias called out to them.
"Hold on." Rias said. They stop and turn to face her curiously, she leaned forwards in her chair. "This'll be the last week you have to distribute flyers." Rias stated before standing from her seat.
Issei looks at her confused. Are we in trouble? He thought, Rias as if reading his thoughts smirked at him.
"As I've said before, you were doing this as part of your training. Distributing flyers is actually a familiar's job." Rias explained.
"Then we're done distributing flyers?" Issei asked hopeful since he'd get more time to spend with Ann. Leo chuckled and set his satchel on the coffee table.
"So, that must mean we're getting familiar's then, right?" Asked Leo. Rias smiles and nods her head.
She brings up her left hand and in a puff of smoke, a small bat appears hovering over her open palm. She smiles at Rias before turning to face the others.
"This is my familiar. You've met her previously, Leo." Said Rias. Leo stepped towards the bat and examined the little creature.
"I think I'd remember meeting a cute little bat, Rias. I can't recall meeting this little guy." Leo says smiling towards the small creature with wings. The bat makes a small noise before another puff of smoke revealing a familiar looking woman.
It was the cosplayer woman that had gave him a flyer that ultimately saved his and Issei's lives.
"Oh! So you're that pretty woman from before! You saved our lives, we'd be dead.. so thank you." Leo said smiling towards her.
The woman's face flushes red from the praise before quickly transforming back into her bat form. The small bat flaps her wings a few times and perches her-self on his right shoulder before nuzzling him against his cheek.
"So, this little lady saved our lives? Man, am I ever thankful you ran into her." Issei said breathing a sigh of relief.
Rias looked at her familiar curiously, she's never seen her act this way with others before. Akeno giggled before stepping forwards with a smile.
"This is mine." Akeno said as she pointed at the floor.
They all look to see a green square like summoning spell appears, it expands a little bit before revealing a small little green creature. He raises his arms in the air while looking at Akeno.
Issei and Asia are blown away by the two vastly different familiar's they've seen so far. Leo kneels down to his level and smirks at the little guy.
"Whoa... what are you little guy?" Leo asks awestruck. The little creature looks up at Leo and holds his arms up while trying to jump on him but he can't jump high enough. Leo smiles and holds out his hand, the little creature slowly climbs onto his palm and sits before raising his small arms in victory making little happy noises.
"Dude, is that an imp?" Issei asks looking at the small green guy in Leo's hand. Leo shrugs his shoulders unsure and holds out his finger to the Imp. He raises one of his arms out and lightly tap's his pointer finger, almost like he gave Leo a fist bump.
"Oh my, what a naughty boy you are." Akeno says looking at her familiar. Leo feels something pulling his right sleeve. Turning, he sees Koneko holding a small white cat. The samll bundle of white fur has two small bells wrapped around her neck.
"This is Shiro." Koneko says quietly, but her mouth is curved upwards in a small smile as she looks down at the small cat.
"May I pet her?" Leo asks. Koneko nods her head, Leo reaches his free hand down to the small kitten and gently rubs her belly. The cat responds and purrs loudly and nuzzles her head against his knuckles. As he pulls his hand away, Shiro suddenly jumps out of Koneko's grasp and lands on top of Leo's head.
"Um... I have a question." Leo said while keeping still so Shiro doesn't fall off his head. Rias and Akeno giggle at his reaction.
"What is it, Leo?" Rias asked curiously as she looked at all the familiars surrounding him.
"So, are familiar's always this friendly? Not that I'm complaining... I've always liked animals. Ah, shit. I mean-" Leo stutters unsure if he offended the familiars by calling them animals, everyone except Asia and Issei laugh at his reaction.
"To answer your first question, no. But they seem to like you, which is good. Familiar's are either monsters or supernatural beings, calling them animal's aren't insults as you think since some have animal like appearances." Akeno explained. The three newbies absorbed the new info, with Leo being stiff so Shiro doesn't fall still.
"Got it. Um, sorry Koneko. I didn't think she'd just jump onto my head." Leo apologized. Koneko smiled up at him.
"It's fine. She seems to like you." Koneko said.
Leo slowly moves his head so he's facing Kiba who is the last one to show his familiar, the young blonde knight smiled towards them.
"Mine is pretty badass." Kiba said but Issei waved him off not interested in seeing his familiar.
"I don't want to see yours." Issei said. Kiba chuckled and shook his head.
"Oh, come on. Why do you gotta hate man." Kiba said with a slightly defeated aura hanging over him. Leo moves with grace and slaps Issei on the back of his head for being rude.
"Don't listen to him, me and Asia would love to see your familiar. Isn't that right, Asia?" Leo asked slowly turning his head to face her. The small blonde haired woman nods her head happily.
"I would very much like to see it." Asia said sweetly.
Kiba holds out his right arm and the sound of something fluttering and screeching fills the room, a bald eagle perches on his arm and looks around the room observing the people with in.
"Badass, right?" Kiba asked with a proud smirk. Leo chuckles and nods his head looking at the majestic bird.
"Badass is an understatement. I might be a little biased since I came from there, not that any of you guy's aren't badass either. You're all really awesome in my eyes." Leo says looking over each familiar that's on him. They all make happy noises before their masters de-summon them and in a flash of smoke they all disappear.
"Now that you've seen what types of familiar's you could possibly get also, just know they are a basic thing for us devils. They can assist you, deliver messages, and even find things." Rias explains.
"Um, how do you get a familiar?" Asia asks quietly.
"That is..." Rias speaks up but a sudden knock at the door interrupts her.
"Come in!" Akeno calls out inviting who ever knocked inside with them. They all turn to see both doors swing open with Momo and Reya holding open the doors. Sona leads the way in with Tusbaki on her right and a unfamiliar young man on her left.
"Please excuse us." Sona said with a polite smile. Issei reeled back in shock seeing the student council in the ORC.
"Sh-She is..." Issei trails off in shock, unable to form words. Asia gently pulls on Leo's sleeve and whispers.
"Um, who is she?" Asia asks.
"The one in the magenta glasses is Sona, she's the student council president. Her right hand woman, is the one in the blue glasses, she's Tsubaki Shinra, she's the vice president. I pretty much know all of them except the boy on their left." Leo said while looking at the only person he doesn't know. He walks forwards and bows slightly towards them.
"It's always lovely to see you ladies." Said Leo. Each girl in the student council slightly blushes, Sona's smile widens slightly seeing her fiancé.
"It's wonderful to see you, Leo. It's unfortunate that I can't have you in my peerage, Rias is lucky she held out with her pieces for as long as she did." Sona said readjusting her glasses with a smirk. Rias giggles and stands next to Leo.
"I am very lucky to have him." Rias said.
Leo looked at each member of the student council before focusing his gaze back on Sona, he nodded with a small smile. "I'm just fortunate that she revived me. If she only revived Issei, than we wouldn't be speaking right now."
Sona looked at him concerned before her eyes glanced over at Rias, she had a somber smile thinking back to how she first met Leo. The red haired beauty, mouthed, I'll tell you later.
Sona nodded her head and turned her gaze to the other new members of the ORC, her eyes studied them briefly before turning back to Rias who regained her friendly smile.
"So, what brings all of you here?" Rias asked curious as to why her childhood friend suddenly visited.
"Just a greeting, since both of us have some new servants." Sona said.
Issei looked at the student council wide eyed from the sudden revelation. "Servants?! Don't tell me..."
Leo turned to his friend with a smile and held out his hand towards Sona. "Her real name is Sona Sitri. She's the king of her own peerage."
"You forgot one tiny piece of information, Leo. She's also the heiress apparent of the high-class Sitri family." Akeno added. Issei slowly turned to face Akeno with a pale face.
"Y-Your telling me... I could have gotten my ass kicked by her before?! Oh, thank everything that is holy that Leo came to Kuoh when he did." Issei said as he gave his thanks to the holy spirt, unfortunately for him a sharp pain filled his head causing him to yelp at the pain.
The young man Sona had brought with them this time spoke up, he had a small smug smile.
"Rias, you didn't tell him about us? It's strange he wouldn't notice fellow devils, though." He said in arrogance.
Leo clenched his jaw, his fingers twitching at his side as he listened to the stranger's overly confident, borderline condescending tone. Every word dripped with self-importance, as if the world owed this person something just for existing.
Alright, Leo, breathe, he thought, forcing his shoulders to relax. It's just an introduction. No need to lose your cool over a few inflated words.
He exhaled slowly, changing his once happy expression to a more neutral one.
"Saji, the two families do not meddle in each other's affairs. It's no surprise that Issei is unaware." Sona said calmly.
The stranger, now named Saji looked at Sona surprised. Leo looked the young man over and noticed he's around Issei's size but a little leaner.
"You're the guy who recently joined the student council as the secretary. Uh, Class 2-C's..." Issei trailed off as he tried to remember, Sona held out her hand infront of him with a small smile.
"Saji Genshirou, my pawn." Sona introduced the newest member of her household. Rias motioned with her hand towards her three newest members.
"This is my pawn, Issei Hyoudou, my bishop, Asia Argento, and my rook, Leo Young." Rias said, her voice full of pride.
"Oh, you're a pawn too? And we're also in the same grade!" Issei says cheerfully, happy that he's not the only pawn around. Saji lets out a small amused chuckle before gazing at the three with arrogance.
"Just so everyone knows, I was worth four pawn pieces when I joined President Sona's peerage. Guess not everyone can say the same."
His gaze flickered to Issei, and the smirk widened. "Especially not someone who used to be part of the perverted trio."
Issei stiffened, his hands curling into fists at his sides. "Hey! I've been working my ass off to change, alright?" he snapped, glaring at Saji.
"Sure you have," Saji replied mockingly, crossing his arms. "But a reputation like that doesn't just disappear. I mean, come on. How do you even look people in the eye after that?"
Issei opened his mouth to retort, but Leo stepped forward, his expression calm but his eyes flashing with annoyance.
"Saji," Leo said, his tone steady but edged, "you might want to tone it down a notch. You're representing Sona. What you say and do reflects on her. Or do you just like making your King look bad?"
The room's once friendly atmosphere shifted to one more confrontational. The two King's shared a glance before turning to their newest members.
Saji's face flushed, embarrassed by the subtle reprimand. But instead of backing down, he lashed out. "Oh, look at you, playing the hero," he sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "You're just a glorified meathead. I've heard the rumors about you, Leo. Everyone has. You beat on women, you're worse than the perverted trio, and didn't you assault a girl on your first day at Kuoh?"
The room fell into stunned silence, the weight of the accusations hanging in the air like a leaden fog.
Rias's sapphire eyes narrowed, her grip tightening on Leo's arm. "Saji!" she snapped, her voice sharp with anger.
Sona's usually calm demeanor cracked, her hands clenching into fists. "Enough, Saji!" she said coldly, her voice cutting through the tension.
Akeno's usual playful smile was gone, replaced by a faint frown. "That's going too far," she murmured, her voice uncharacteristically serious.
Even Kiba, ever the gentleman, had a faint glare in his eyes. "You shouldn't speak about things you don't understand," he said evenly, though his tone held a dangerous edge.
Koneko crossed her arms, her stoic expression turning icy. "Liar," she muttered flatly, her voice like steel.
Issei, however, didn't hold back. He stepped forward, his voice shaking with fury. "You don't know a damn thing about Leo!" he shouted. "He's not just my best friend—he's like a brother to me. And he's ten times the man you'll ever be!"
Saji's smug voice continued to drone on, but Leo barely heard it. The words "assaulted a girl" echoed in his mind like a gong, triggering a sudden, sharp pain in his head. His vision blurred, and the world around him fell away as he was pulled into a memory he hadn't realized he'd forgotten.
Leo found himself seated at a long table in a dimly lit room. The atmosphere was suffocating, the air thick with anger and judgment. Around him sat adults with hardened faces, their eyes burning with disgust as they hurled insults at him.
"You're a disgrace!"
"How could you do something so vile?"
"You should be locked away!"
Leo's heart pounded as he tried to defend himself, but every attempt was drowned out by the venomous accusations.
To his left, a family sat in silence. Their faces were obscured, blurred like a faded photograph, but he could make out their shapes—a large man, a curvaceous woman with two small children in her lap, and a boy sitting beside the man.
Before Leo could process the scene, a police officer slammed him against the table, the cold bite of handcuffs snapping around his wrists. He winced as the officer yanked him up by his hair, the world spinning as the voices faded into a dull roar.
Leo's breath hitched as he snapped back to the present, Saji's voice cutting through his haze.
"…and let's not forget, you don't even have parents. What kind of loser doesn't have anyone to care about them?"
Leo froze, the word "parents" reverberating in his mind. Do I have parents? he wondered. Are they alive? Dead? Did they abandon me after the accident? The questions swirled, feeding the fire of his rage.
His hands curled into fists as his blood boiled. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself, but it was no use. His body trembled with barely contained fury as he turned toward Saji, his eyes blazing.
"You don't know a damn thing about me," Leo said, his voice low and dangerous. He stepped closer, each word dripping with barely restrained anger. "You think running your mouth makes you look strong? It doesn't. It makes you look pathetic. And for the record, Issei is worth eight pawn pieces. That's twice as much as you."
Saji's smug expression faltered, but Leo didn't stop.
"I'm walking out of here before I do something we'll both regret," Leo growled, his voice shaking with suppressed emotion.
He brushed past the group, his shoulder colliding with Saji's as he stormed toward the door. Just as he reached it, he turned back, his glare icy.
"Remember, Saji," he said coldly. "What you say reflects on Sona. And right now, you're making her look like a fool."
With that, he yanked the door open and disappeared into the hallway, leaving the room in stunned silence.
A few hours have passed since Leo left the old school building. His mind trying to understand the few pieces of his past that he has, engrossed in thought he accidently bumps into someone.
"Shit, I'm sorry..." Leo said, looking down at the person it's Koneko who holds a worried expression as her eyes peer up at him.
"Rias and Sona decided on a tennis match, to see who get's familiar's first." Koneko said.
Leo nodded his head and leaned against the wall. "When are they playing?"
"In a few minutes. There's already a large crowd." Koneko said pointing out a nearby window. Leo pushes off the wall and peers outside to see different male and female students gathered around the tennis courts.
"Come on, we can walk together." Koneko said as she gently grabbed his sleeve before walking down the hallway.
Leo looked down at Koneko's hand and let a small smirk grace his face. "Sorry for leaving earlier, I should probably apologize to Rias and Sona also." Leo said as he sighed.
Koneko glanced at him over her shoulder with concern. "Are you okay? That was pretty intense, with what happened in the clubroom." Koneko said.
Leo gives her a small smile. "It's nothing I can't handle. I've been public enemy since day one after all." Leo said.
The two come to stop near the edge of the crowd but have a good view of the tennis court. Rias and Akeno can be seen stood on one side while Tsubaki and Sona on the other.
"Let's go Rias, Akeno!" Issei shouted from the crowd. Leo chuckled quietly at his antics, glancing to his right Koneko still held onto his sleeve while looking at the four queens of Kuoh.
"Come on Sona! Please win for me!" Saji shouted, looking up Leo saw the newest member of the student council sitting on the fence that outlines the court.
Rias's eyes scan the crowd for a specific person, her eyes travel from left to right till hers and Leo's eyes meet. She smiles in relief and turns to Akeno with a fire lit in her eyes.
"Akeno, let's win this match." Rias said. Akeno nods with a serious smile as she takes her position near the net.
"Got it, no mercy!" Akeno said getting into a stance waiting for the match to begin.
Leo's gaze travels around and he sees groups of girls on one side, while the boys are pressed up against the fence with lustful smiles looking at the four great beauties.
"I don't think I've seen this many people at a tennis match before." Kiba said approaching the two. Leo points towards the guys that are pressed up against the fence.
"Pretty sure they're here for more than just tennis." Leo said. Kiba and Koneko looked and saw all the lustful stares, Koneko shook her head at how perverted the males are at the school.
"Perverts.." Koneko muttered. Kiba offered an awkward chuckle and looked back at the match.
Sona serves the ball beginning the match. The two teams go back and fourth for a little bit before it gets more chaotic.
"I think they might be getting too fired up." Koneko stated.
Sona put magic into her swing making the ball bounce unnaturally scoring the first set of points.
"It's a magic ball!"
"Magic ball?!"
"It's amazing!"
Voices shout praise towards the student council president for scoring the first set of points with her special move.
"Hopeful they don't get too out of hand with magic." Leo said looking around at all the shocked people.
"The crowd just thinks it's a magic ball." Kiba stated.
Koneko sighed. "Thank goodness people are so oblivious."
Rias infuses the ball with magic before hitting it, the ball speeds and zig-zags around with a red trail before hitting the ground before Sona could stop it.
"You can say that again. I'm glad they think it's just a magic ball." Leo said.
"Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to be stopping them." Kiba stated with an awkward smile.
"At least it was normal tennis for, what? two minutes? Longer than I expected them to last." Leo says smirking. Kiba chuckled and nodded his head in agreement.
"No kidding."
"We don't have to worry too much. Rias and Sona will handle the crowd after the match." Koneko says.
The match keeps going back and fourth, since neither side wanted to give in, ultimately ending in a draw.
2 Hours Later...
"Their match wouldn't just end, so..." Koneko trails off while holding up two destroyed tennis rackets.
"A team match, then?" Issei asks while sitting next to Koneko. Kiba closes a book he was reading with a smile.
"Rias and Akeno are discussing the matter with the student council right now." Kiba explained.
The door to the club room opened revealing the two people in question. Both had small smiles on their faces as they joined the conversation.
"We decided on dodgeball. The match is tomorrow night at the gym, so, let's do our best for Issei, Asia and Leo.!" Rias said cheerfully. The red haired beauty hooks her arm around Leo as she takes a seat next to him.
"Right!" Everyone said in unison.
"Thank you very much!" Asia said bowing to them, Issei pumped his fist with a inferno of determination in his eyes.
"We're gonna kick their asses. Especially, Saji. No one talks shit to Leo!" Issei declared, Koneko nodded her head in agreement.
Leo gave everyone a smile and bowed his head thankfully. " Said Leo. Rias tightened her grip on his arm looked at him with worry.
"Leo, what Saji said was unacceptable. Me and Sona came up with a punishment for him since he disrespected you." Rias said quietly.
"What'd you two decide?" Leo asked curious, Akeno broke out into a giggle and licked one of her fingers.
"Let's just say... me and Saji, are gonna get REAL close."
Leo looked up to see Akeno in a day-dream like state with a huge blush on her face, the faint crackles of lightning around her fingertips.
Leo glanced at Rias who was smiling at him, she laid her head against his shoulder and sighed in content.
"Nobody disrespects my Leo..." Rias muttered quietly.
The room was dark, the only light coming from the faint glow of the moon filtering through the curtains. Leo lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to let the day's thoughts drift away. As his eyes closed, a chill swept over him, pulling him from the warmth of his blankets.
When he opened his eyes again, the world around him had changed.
The Ancestral Realm
Snow fell gently from the starless sky, each flake catching the light of a small fire crackling in the center of an open clearing. The flames danced, casting long shadows over the endless expanse of frost and ice.
Seated around the fire were two imposing figures. Ragnar Lothbrok, clad in furs and chainmail, his piercing eyes gleaming like the flames themselves, leaned casually against a wooden log. Across from him sat the Berserker, a hulking, primal man with long green hair that flowed like a river of moss. His lightning-blue eyes crackled with intensity, and his lips curled in a predatory grin as he stared into the fire.
Leo stumbled forward, his breath visible in the frigid air. Ragnar noticed him first and raised a hand.
"Ah, there he is," Ragnar said, his tone warm despite the icy surroundings. He gestured to an open spot near the fire. "Come, boy. Sit. The fire won't bite… much."
Leo hesitated before settling onto a flat rock near Ragnar, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Why am I here again?" he asked, glancing between the two men.
Ragnar leaned forward, poking the fire with a stick. "Because you've remembered something, haven't you? Something big."
Leo's fists clenched in his lap. He exhaled sharply, the breath misting in the cold air. "Yeah," he muttered. "But it's like I only got pieces. I still don't know the whole picture. I don't even know who I really am."
The Berserker let out a deep, rumbling chuckle that shook the air around them. He reached for a large stick, shoving it into the fire, causing the flames to roar briefly before settling. "You want the whole picture, boy?" he said, his voice low and gravelly. "Good. Only fools are satisfied with scraps. But don't let the frustration blind you. Some puzzles are best solved with patience… and a blade."
Leo raised an eyebrow, unsure if that was meant to be reassuring or terrifying.
Ragnar smirked. "What the Berserker means is that clarity comes in time. Your memories are tied to your strength. The more you grow, the more you'll uncover."
Ragnar leaned back, crossing his arms as a mischievous glint entered his eye. "But there's something else you should know about the Berserker blood in you, Leo. A little quirk, let's call it."
Leo tilted his head. "A quirk?"
The Berserker chuckled again, leaning forward, his eyes gleaming with a wild light. "It draws women to you," he said bluntly. "Like moths to a flame."
Leo blinked, his face heating despite the cold air. "Wait—what?!"
Ragnar nodded, clearly enjoying Leo's discomfort. "The Berserker blood carries an aura of strength, boy. It makes hearts beat faster, sets eyes lingering a little longer. But…" He raised a finger, his tone turning serious. "It's not a free pass. You still have to put in the effort. You can't rely on it like some charm. You must be worthy of their affection."
Leo frowned, his mind racing. "So… what if the only reason Sona or Rias—or anyone, really—likes me is because of this Berserker thing? What if it's not real?"
The Berserker reached across the fire, his massive hand pressing against Leo's chest. His touch was firm but not rough, and his glowing eyes locked onto Leo's.
"People gravitate toward the strong," the Berserker said, his voice steady but fierce. "But strength alone doesn't hold them. What keeps them close is this." He tapped Leo's chest firmly. "A good heart. And boy, you've got one. Even if you're as clueless as a newborn bear."
Leo swallowed, his heart steadying under the Berserker's weighty words.
The Berserker leaned back, his grin returning. "Now, enough moping. I hear you'll be getting yourself a familiar soon." He let out a low chuckle, baring his teeth. "Tame something worthy of you. A beast that could tear apart your enemies… or chew on them for fun. Either way, make me proud."
Leo couldn't help but let out a small laugh, shaking his head. "You're something else, you know that?"
Ragnar clapped him on the back, nearly knocking him forward into the fire. "That's the spirit. Don't overthink it, boy. Just keep moving forward. You're not defined by your past. You're defined by what you do now."
As Leo stared into the fire, It crackled as Leo sat back, the icy air doing little to cool the simmering anger in his chest. The memory of Saji's words echoed in his mind, each insult carving deeper into his already frayed nerves. He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply.
"Damn that guy," Leo muttered, his voice low but sharp. "The things he said… I just wanted to knock that smug look off his face."
Across the fire, Ragnar leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. His piercing eyes studied Leo with a mixture of curiosity and understanding. "Ah, you're stewing over that loudmouth pup, aren't you?" he asked, a small smirk tugging at his lips. "The one who can't keep his words in check?"
Leo nodded, his jaw tightening. "Yeah. He doesn't know me. Hell, I barely know me. But he talked like he knew everything about my life. And the things he said… they're not true, but they could be. What if—"
Before Leo could finish, the Berserker let out a low, rumbling laugh. "Boy," he said, his voice carrying the weight of a thousand battles, "you're letting the bark of a mongrel shake you. Why waste your energy on words that hold no teeth?"
Leo glanced up, meeting the Berserker's glowing blue eyes. "It's not just the words," he admitted. "It's the fact that… some of it hit close to home. I don't even know if I have parents, or if they left me. I don't even know who I was before Kuoh. It's like he threw a dart at a board, and it hit dead center."
Ragnar leaned back with a thoughtful expression, tossing a stick into the fire. "You're angry because what he said made you doubt yourself," he said, his tone measured but firm. "Doubt is a nasty thing. It sneaks in through cracks, worms its way into your mind, and before you know it, you're questioning everything about yourself."
He fixed Leo with a serious look. "But listen to me, boy. Saji's words don't define you. You do. And the truth? It'll come to you, piece by piece, like a storm clearing to reveal the stars. Until then, don't let some arrogant pup rattle you. If he keeps barking…" Ragnar's smirk returned, this time sharper. "…kick him in the teeth."
Leo couldn't help but chuckle, despite himself. "You really think that'll solve it?"
"Not always," Ragnar admitted, shrugging. "But it's damn satisfying when it does."
The Berserker leaned forward, resting his massive arms on his knees. "Ragnar is right about one thing," he said, his tone steady and deliberate. "Doubt will eat you alive if you let it. But anger, boy—that's a blade you need to sharpen, not let it rust in your gut."
Leo frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"
The Berserker's lips curled into a predatory grin. "It means anger can be your greatest ally—or your worst enemy. If you carry it like a sack of stones, it'll weigh you down until you break. But if you forge it, shape it, it becomes a weapon. A weapon to cut through the lies others tell about you—and the ones you tell yourself."
He jabbed a finger at Leo, his voice growing more intense. "Saji's words cut deep because you allowed them to. But the truth is, you're here. Breathing. Fighting. And from what I see, you've got a heart stronger than most. That's why people like him hate you—because they're not you."
Leo let their words sink in, staring into the fire as it crackled and popped. "So, what? I just ignore it? Let him keep running his mouth?"
Ragnar shook his head, his expression softening. "No, boy. You don't ignore it. You take it in, let it sting, then let it go. Words only have as much power as you give them. And if he keeps pushing? Well…" He grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "There's no harm in reminding him that lions don't lose sleep over barking dogs."
The Berserker laughed, a deep, booming sound that echoed through the snow-covered realm. "I like that. But if you need to remind him with your fists," he said, leaning forward with a glint in his eye, "do it properly. No cheap shots. Make it a fight worth remembering."
Leo smirked, shaking his head. "You two have a funny way of giving advice, you know that?"
Ragnar's smirk softened into a knowing smile. "You'll understand one day. The world is full of men like Saji—men who talk big to make themselves feel bigger. But you're not like them, Leo. You're built differently. You've got a fire in you, boy. Let it guide you, not burn you."
The Berserker stood, his massive frame casting a shadow over the fire. He placed a hand on Leo's shoulder, the weight of it both grounding and reassuring. "You're angry because you care," he said, his voice low but steady. "That's no weakness, boy. It's proof you're alive. But don't let your anger consume you. Shape it, control it. And the next time someone like Saji crosses your path…" He grinned, baring his teeth. "…show them why wolves don't answer to jackals."
Leo nodded slowly, the tension in his chest easing as he let their words sink in. For the first time since Saji's tirade, he felt lighter—more in control.
As the snow began to fall heavier, Ragnar clapped him on the back. "You've got this, boy. You're stronger than you think."
"And smarter than you let on," the Berserker added with a wry smile.
Leo chuckled, standing as the fire dimmed. "I'll keep that in mind."
The ancestral realm began to fade, the snow swirling into darkness as the warmth of the fire gave way to the quiet of his room. But their words stayed with him, carving themselves into his heart like runes of strength and resolve.
The ORC currently sit in the gym doing some basic stretches getting ready for their upcoming match of dodgeball. Leo sits on the floor with his leg's in the split formation, with Koneko slowly adding pressure to his back making all the knots and stiff parts crack.
Akeno can be seen helping Asia with her stretches next to them, while, Rias, Issei and Kiba practice throwing the ball back and fourth.
"Could you press harder on my lower back? It's been hurting me since I woke up." Leo said.
Koneko nods her head and slides her hands down his back. She adds some of her rook strength as she pushes, causing a loud crack to come from his back. Leo glances at Koneko over his shoulder with a smile of relief.
"That feels so much better... thanks."
The two switch with Leo now pressing on her back making sure she's more flexible.
15 Minutes later...
Each member switched off for warm-ups before the time arrived that the student council would be arriving. Issei pulls out something from his bag that sits near the benches and hands them out evenly.
"Headbands?" Rias asks looking down at the headband in her hands.
It's a plain white headband, but it has red letters sewn into it spelling out "Occult Research Club"
"Oh my, they look lovely!" Akeno says cheerfully.
Issei smiles at the praise. "I made them overnight."
Leo tied the headband around his head with a smirk. "Pull an all nighter?"
Issei nodded his head.
"Yeah, Rias and Akeno have worked so hard for us.. so I thought..." Issei trailed off and rubs the back of his neck. "Koneko and Kiba today as well. So I thought I'd do at least something for everyone." Issei said.
The young brown haired man looked around at all their expressions and nervously looked down at his headband. "Ah, are they too lame?" Issei asked.
Leo chuckled and threw his arm over his shoulder. "Hell no. I've always wanted to cosplay as Soma Yukihira."
Issei flinches at hearing that and looks over at him surprised. "How'd you know that name?"
Leo chuckled. "I remember you recommended me some anime to watch, so in my free time I've been watching some."
"When the hell do you get free time?!" Issei exclaimed. Leo laughed and winked at Issei.
"That's a trade secret." Leo said.
The other members laughed at the two friend's antics. Rias slowly wrapped the headband around her head before pulling her hair through covering the back part.
"They're really wonderful, Issei." Rias said smiling at him.
"Yeah, they're badass!" Kiba exclaimed as he put his on. One by one everyone put on their headbands. Issei rubbed the back of his head bashfully.
"Oh no, it's nothing much." Issei said.
"Thank you for waiting." A feminine voice called out to them. They all turn to see the entrance doors open revealing their opponents for the night, the student council. Sona leads the charge by walking them in, with Tsubaki on her right.
A brief discussion happened between the two teams, since there's a uneven number of people on both sides, a few people would have to sit out. Leo and Momo both decided to be the referee the match and keep track of the scores.
"It's lovely to see you again, Momo." Leo said standing next to the white haired beauty.
Momo's face slightly flushed at the compliment, she smiled sweetly towards him. "It's good to see you also, Leo. Especially with what happened the last time we saw one another." Momo said, her voice carried worry.
"Don't worry about me. Saji's just got a big mouth and bad aim—he missed my ego completely. Besides, if words could kill, I'd have been dead a long time ago." Leo said flashing Momo a reassuring grin.
Momo smiles before turning her attention to the dodgeball court, she brings a whistle up to her lips before blowing in it.
"Let the match begin!" Momo shouted.
The blue haired rook of Sona's peerage, Tsubasa holds the ball. She looks around before her gaze falls on Koneko, she cocks her arm back before letting the ball cannon forwards with her rook strength.
The small white haired rook tries to react and lean backwards, unfortunately the ball bounced off the floor and skimmed her on the stomach and going up her body before flying behind her.
"Out!" Momo shouted while holding up a red flag on the Gremory side of the court. Issei winced slightly from seeing that ball.
"Oh right on the tit." Issei said.
Koneko sighs. "It's no problem, I need a drink anyway."
Leo meets her halfway and hands her a cool bottle of water and towel.
"Here. This should help you cool off."
Koneko takes the towel from him and wipes her head with it. "Thank you, Leo."
The young man nods before rejoining Momo's side to ref the match.
Tsubaki now has the ball. Then pulls her arm back as a purple aura surrounds her.
"Grief of memories!" Tsubaki shouted as she shot the ball forwards.
The magically enhanced ball unnaturally moves around the room before speeding towards Rias. The red haired king, braces herself and easily catches the ball. Parts of her magenta training uniform tear and fall off from the impact.
"Not bad. You caught Tsubaki's full-power ball." Sona said, her voice dripping with praise but also taunting.
"Who do you think I am?" Rias said before throwing the ball back aiming for Sona.
The student council president's eyes widen seeing the ball speeding towards her. Rias's eyes suddenly glow red while she watches the ball, a red magic circle appears infront of it and collides with the ball.
The ball morphs before shooting off like a comet with a trail of fire. The sudden change of force causes the ball to change it's target, it speeds towards a brown haired girl that's tied in twin tails, Sona's other pawn, Ruruko.
She holds her hands out infront of her to try and stop it, but the force is too strong and blows her backwards. The fire trail causes her clothes to catch flame and burn away leaving her nude.
Leo takes off his shirt and grabs a larger towel before jogging towards her. Ruruko covers her womanhood with one hand and her breasts with her other as she slowly and awkwardly walks towards Leo.
The young man hands her both items and stands infront of her before turning his back so she has some privacy.
"I'll cover you, so, you can cover up." Leo said.
"Thanks a bunch Leo! You're a serious life saver." Rururko exclaimed before quickly wrapping the towel around her lower half and putting his shirt on.
The brown haired girl taps him on the shoulder giving him the signal she's covered up, turning he gives her a smile before jogging over to join Momo once again.
"Out!" Leo said holding a green flag on the student council side.
A few more normal eliminations later and all hell broke loose like at the tennis match. The four queens of Kuoh used nothing but magic attacks to eliminate people. Flashes of red, blue, yellow and purple make a strobe light effect slightly hurting Leo's eyes.
"Man, didn't they learn a thing from the tennis match earlier?" Leo asked quietly. Momo giggled before also shielding her eyes.
"Sona and Rias are childhood friends, so this must be the competitiveness of them." Momo said.
Tsubaki unleashed her grief of memories attack and shattered the nearby window sending the dodgeball into the woods. The faint sound of trees falling reach the court, causing Asia and Issei to slightly pale at being hit by it.
"Dodgeball is a very scary sport!" Asia shouted in fear. Issei began to tremble lightly seeing all the magic going on around them.
"I don't know what sport we're playing anymore, but this sure as shit isn't dodgeball!"
Sona noticing Issei's lack of focus, throws her specialty ball summoning a small blue magic circle in her palm and throwing the ball. The ball speeds towards him with a blue hue, Issei notices it a little too late before he begins to run.
He runs all over the court thinking he finally dodged it but it's a heat seeking ball that keeps following him.
"Issei, dodge it!" Rias shouts, the young man dives out of the way and watches as it speeds over him.
"I did it!" Issei shouted in victory but didn't see the ball come to a full stop and turn to speed at him again. He turns and notices it with wide eyes and begins running again, this time in zig-zag patterns.
"You've gotta be kidding me!" Issei shouted as he slid under it but unfortunately it slowly gained on him. He jumps avoiding it for the third time, before looking around for the ball.
Suddenly, men all around the world winced in pain. The ball slammed Issei in the nuts, he instantly goes stiff and covers the area before falling to the ground groaning.
"Ooo, that's a bitch." Leo said before jogging onto the court. He reaches Issei's side and kneels beside him. "Take some deep breaths, the pain will pass."
Issei shakily raised his head and spoke in a breathless voice. "My pork and beans..." Issei said.
Asia kneeled beside Leo and held out her hands summoning her twilight healing rings. "I'll use Twilight Healing, so please show me where you're injured." Asia said, her voice holding nothing but concern for Issei.
Issei's eyes widen slightly as he quickly sat up but still covered his manhood. "No, I can't do that."
"But I can't really heal unless I see the affected area..." Asia said looking down where Issei is clutching. Issei quickly stands up but his legs are crossed together with his knees touching, he's hunched over as he gives her a shaky smile.
"Affected area? It's the genital area! I can't!" Issei exclaimed. "I really can't! Please, don't force me!"
Leo laughed as he stood up next to Issei, he slung his friends arm over his shoulder and helped him off the court and towards the benches.
"Take a breather for a bit. I'll get you a some water." Leo said.
15 Minutes Later...
The match had came to an end, with the ORC being the victors. Asia and the now recovered Issei jump for joy. Leo holds out his hand towards Momo with a smile on his face.
"Thanks' for helping me referee the match. I was really just following your example." Leo said.
Momo giggled and gently shook his hand. "It was no problem, I had fun regardless of who won. It was a great, to take a break from student council duties."
Leo nodded his head in agreement. "It was nice, I enjoyed watching everyone getting the chance to be normal high-schoolers for a change."
Momo turned to see her peerage members walking towards the exit, she gave Leo a farewell before joining them at the door.
"Wait up, Sona." Leo called out as he jogged towards her. The student council president turned with a smile and stopped in the doorway.
"What do you need?" Sona asked.
"I was just wondering, if tomorrow, you'd like to have a match of chess during lunch? Or maybe, possibly we could eat together?" Leo asked, his voice radiating hope.
Sona's face heated up but the smile never left her face.
"I would love nothing more." Sona said.
Leo's smile grew. "O-Okay. It's a date."
Sona Sitri's heart skipped a beat, her breath caught in her throat. "D-D-Date?" Sona repeated.
Leo nodded his head. "Yeah, I mean. I... would you like it to be a date?"
Sona cleared her throat and readjusted her glasses.
"Yes. Very much so, in fact. I'll see you as soon as lunch begins, don't be late." Sona said before leaving with her peerage.
"Cheers!" Issei shouts leading the toast to their victory, Leo stands at the end of the coffee table with a smile on his face as he takes a sip of his juice.
"The Occult Research Club has marvelously defeated the student council! You all made it happen!" Rias exclaimed in pride as her eyes traveld around the room.
"I feel bad that I was eliminated." Issei said.
Kiba holding one of the headbands turns to him with a smile. "You made this and raised everyone's spirit, so Issei, you played a part in it!"
"Agreed!" Akeno said, her voice radiating warmth.
"You did great!" Asia said.
Koneko smiled at the young man and gave him an approving nod. Leo gave him a small golf like clap.
"Now, there's no time to waste. Let's go get familiars." Rias said setting her drink on her desk.
Akeno walks over to the summoning area and starts the teleportation circle, causing the room to gain a red hue.
"Right now?" Asia asked.
"We can only meet him when there's a full moon." Rias explained. Leo walks towards her and stands beside her.
"Him?" Leo questioned.
Rias gently took his hand into hers and interlaced their fingers.
"The familiar master."
In a flash of red, every member of the ORC teleport away from the human realm.
The Familiar Forest
Leo's eyes were blinded by red light, but he still felt Rias's hand tightly held against his. As the light dimmed, Leo looks around in wonder.
The air was thick with the scent of pine, damp earth, and something unplaceable—a faint metallic tang that hinted at the magical creatures who called the forest home. It was cool and crisp, carrying with it the faint whispers of unseen creatures, like a constant, ethereal hum that set the hairs on the back of your neck on end.
"This place looks like it was ripped straight out of a horror movie." Leo said.
Issei looked around feeling uneasy, sweat drips down the side of his head. Asia stood close beside both him and Leo with a worried look.
"Wh-Where are we?" Issei questioned looking up at the red sky.
"The forest where familiars are created." Akeno explained.
Kiba pats Issei on the shoulder trying to ease his worry. "Don't worry. We got our familiars here as well."
Issei looked around with a pale face, a nervous sweat broke out and began to drip down the back of his neck causing a chill to run up his spine.
"Oh, I'm cool... I mean, besides the fact that I just pissed myself.." Issei said.
"Yeah, it's really freaky." Asia added.
The young blonde haired girl gripped the back of Issei's blazer and looked around with a nervous expression.
"Gotta catch 'em all!" A masculine voice shouted out.
Issei and Asia flinched and looked up. Leo followed their gaze and saw a middle aged man with his hat on backwards with a wide grin.
"Who the hell is that?" Leo quietly asked. Rias giggled at his reaction and gave his hand a tight squeeze.
"Wh-Who's there?!" Issei called out.
The older man smirked down at the group and pointed his thumb at himself. "I'm the familiar master, Zatuji."
"That's the guy?" Issei asked confused. Asia's grip tightened on Issei's blazer as she looked up at the strange man.
"Oh, wow..." Asia said.
"If your goal is to find familiar's galore, you've come at the right time, that's for sure! The full moon is out to help you decide, and I'll be the one to act as your guide!" Zatuji said.
Akeno giggled at the familiar masters antics and looked at her confused juniors. "If you can't tell, Zatuji, is obsessed with making things rhyme."
"So, he's a mix of Ash Ketchum and Dr. Seuss?" Leo asked quietly. Rias and Akeno giggled and noticed the resemblance.
"Dude, I totally see it." Issei said with a smirk, Koneko nodded her head in agreement. The familiar master let out a laugh and kept on with his rhyming spiel.
"Now, how can I help you? Tell me all your wants and desires, a strong one? A fast one? One that sets fires?" Zatuji asked with a friendly smile.
"Okay, these rhymes... are starting to grow on me." Leo said with a small smile. Issei suddenly adopted a rosy face as a perverted smile graced his face.
"Do you by chance have any hot familiars with big ol tig-o's? Who are really into nerdy white guys?"
Leo facepalmed at his friends antics, luckily Zatuji didn't get angry just slightly annoyed.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk. This is why amateurs always annoy. If you're seeking something more than a toy, utilize your other head, my boy! To find the familiar who will be the best fit, look for best personality, don't look for best tit." Zatuji said disappointed.
Asia now getting over the initial shock and her fear, stepped forwards and clasped her hands together. She adopted a hopeful smile while looking up at the familiar master.
"Um. I would like one that's really cute and fun to be around." Asia said.
Zatuji snapped his fingers and gave the young girl a large smile.
"Fun? Done and done!"
"Thank you so much!" Asia said beaming. Issei let his shoulders drop as a depressed aura hung over him.
"No fair dude..." Issei said depressingly.
"How do I know if a familiar is the right fit for me?" Leo asked. The familiar master gave him a genuine smile as he hopped down off the branch he was standing on.
"A familiar is more than a beast or a friend, It's a bond of magic, a path with no end. You'll know it is right when your souls intertwine, when their strength and your heart align with the divine."
Leo nodded his head and thought about what kind of familiar he wants. Something magical? Something Royal? Something Loyal? More and more questions popped up in his head but he pushed them aside. Zatuji stepped towards Leo and placed a hand on his shoulder surprising everyone.
"Do not seek with your mind, for the bond is unseen. It's found in the places where courage convenes. When you stand face-to-face, you'll feel it inside, a connection unyielding, a partner with pride."
The familiar master stepped back and motioned for them to follow.
30 Minutes Later...
The familiar master had lead the group to a large lake, small little spirits can be seen floating around the surface of the water. Leo stepped towards the waters edge and looked into the water, his reflection stared back at him but he looked past it to see a pair of eyes staring right back at him.
"This lake is awesome, righteous and right. At the bottom, you'll find magical sprites." Zatuji explained. Leo stepped back away from the water feeling a little creeped out by what was staring at him.
"Yes! A Magical Sprite! We just hit the familiar jackpot!" Issei pumped his fist, the young man began to fantasize about the type of sprite that would reveal herself to them. Suddenly, beams of light began to converge on the edge where Leo had looked down. Leo lightly slaps him on the back of the head.
"Down boy, it's a familiar not a sex doll." Leo said. Issei turned to him with a quivering bottom lip as he grabs Leo by the collar.
"But what if she's hot?! Your telling me if she were to fall in love with me, we couldn't be together?!" Issei asks while shaking Leo.
"W-What about A-Ann?! S-Speak with her before you d-do something you regret!" Leo says as he's being shook back and fourth. Rias chuckles at the sight.
"Remember, devil's can have harems.." Rias said.
Leo gave the smirking girl a deadpanned look and pry's Issei's hands off his collar. "Not helping babe."
Issei points to Rias with a wide smile on his face. "See! Rias gets it!"
The young man began to jump for joy at one of his many fantasies.
"She'll emerge with nothing but a see-through dress, with long hair, enough to tie me up! Then she'll pull me under and we'll make sweet soggy love!"
Issei starts to breathe heavily at the thought. Leo and Koneko share a look, the young man steps forwards and starts to rapidly slap his friend trying to beat the horny out of him.
"No! Bad horny! Begone, by the pimp hand!" Leo said.
Issei was too busy daydreaming about a sexy sprite to really feel anything.
Koneko nodded her head in approval. "Nice..."
"Whoa! Check out the lake!" Kiba called out. Leo still holding Issei by the collar turned his head to look. Issei turned his dazed expression towards the lake.
Slowly a feminine silhouette began to form before revealing a woman with her back turned to them. She had long flowing blonde hair, but the ends were curled up. She wore a medium sized pink dress that went down to her thighs but exposed her calves and feet. The dress, gave a nice outline to her plump butt.
The sight caused Issei to blush as one of his deepest fantasies were slowly becoming true. They all watched with bated breath as the sprite turned around revealing herself.
A loud roar escaped her as she flexed her muscular arms. Luckily one of her twin drills covered one of her breasts, the sprite was wearing something akin to a toga from Greek times.
Issei reeled back seeing the muscular woman before him. Zatuji chuckled quietly and spoke in a proud tone.
"That's Udine." Zatuji said.
"Udine, huh? She's got one hell of a body. I need her workout routine." Leo said. The others chuckled at his small joke, Issei was still in a bit of shock and looked the muscular sprite up and down.
"No, no, no, that's a fighter who came to bathe no matter how you look at her!" Issei said flabbergasted.
"Undine are rare water sprites with mega watt power. A familiar like that would make your enemies cower." Zatuji said.
Issei turned towards everyone with a scared expression and pointed towards the Undine. "Your fuckin kiddin me right?! She looks like she could pick me up and break me in half!"
The young man fell to the ground depressed that one of his many fantasies have been crushed, forever engraving Undine into his mind. Leo sighed at his friend and rejoined Rias's side and took her hand into his.
Zatuji glanced at Asia and Leo with a curious gaze.
"Either of you, are you looking to destroy?"
Asia shook her head and looked up at the sprite with a kind smile. "She looks very nice, but I would like to look a little longer."
Leo gently released Rias's hand and stood infront of her, and inspected her. The Undine floated down to meet Leo and looked at him curiously before a large smile broke out on her face. She grabbed the young man by the head and buried his face in her breasts.
This sent a wave of shock through everyone, especially the familiar master.
"This is a hell of a greeting..." Leo said but his voice was muffled from being smothered in her breasts. The Udine let out small cute noises, the smile on her face was wide as a red hue on her face. Leo gently pried himself away from her and gave her a smile.
"You're pretty strong, that's for sure. At the same time, I'm not sure if I'd be a useful master for you. I'm a physical fighter, you're more magic oriented, aren't you?" Leo asked, the Udine's smile dropped and slowly nodded. Tears began to well up in the corner of her eyes at the thought of him leaving without forming a pact with her.
"A rare thing indeed, your aura's unique, a power so strong, yet tender, not bleak. The creatures here sense it, your heart like the sun, drawing them near, for they know you're the one. The blood in your veins tells tales of old, of warriors mighty, and hearts made of gold. Your presence commands, yet it soothes like the sky, to familiars, a beacon—they flock, and they sigh." Zatuji said. He grinned knowingly, spreading his arms towards the surrounding forest.
"You'll not need to chase; they'll come to your side, for power and kindness can never hide. But beware, young one, of those who seek greed, for a bond forged in falsehood will never succeed."
Leo smiled kindly at the Udine before him, he reached out his hand and gently patted her on the head. "I'm sorry, but I need to make some considerations before hand. But I won't rule you out."
The Udine's expression lit up as she hugged Leo once again, Leo chuckled and gently patted her on the back.
Rias watched the scene before her even more curious about Leo's past and family lineage.
10 Minutes Later...
The Familiar Forest pulsed with an otherworldly energy, its thick canopy filtering the fading sunlight into patches of dim green and gold. The ORC moved cautiously through the dense underbrush, their senses sharp, knowing this place held creatures as unpredictable as the magic that lingered in the air.
Leo walked near the front of the group, his sharp gaze scanning for any signs of familiars. "Feels a little too quiet," he muttered.
Akeno's soft laugh followed. "A quiet before chaos, perhaps? This forest has a way of surprising people."
Before anyone could respond, something wet and slimy splattered onto Koneko's shoulder.
"...Slime," she said flatly, looking down at the green blob now wriggling against her jacket.
Seconds later, the trees seemed to come alive as more blobs of green goo fell, landing on everyone.
"What the hell is this?!" Issei shouted, pulling at his shirt as the slime began eating away at it.
"It's dissolving clothes!" Rias exclaimed, struggling to pull the goo from her blouse, only for the fabric to melt faster.
Akeno brushed some slime off her arm, her lips curling into a wicked smile. "Well, this is… revealing."
Asia squeaked, her hands fumbling to hold together what remained of her dress. "Oh no, this is so embarrassing!"
Leo barely had time to react before a massive glob landed squarely on him. Within moments, his shirt and pants were gone, leaving him completely bare.
he air grew still as everyone turned to look at Leo. The tension was palpable, the forest around them eerily silent except for the faint squelch of the retreating slime.
Koneko's usually impassive face betrayed the slightest blush, her golden eyes flicking up and down his form. "...I've seen worse," she said simply
Akeno's smile turned downright predatory as she let her eyes linger unabashedly. "Oh my, Leo-. I didn't know you were hiding that under your clothes." Her tone dripped with playful innuendo, her gaze making no effort to be subtle.
Asia, meanwhile, turned bright red, her hands clamped tightly over her face as if that could erase the image from her mind. "L-Leo! This is so improper!" she stammered, peeking through her fingers despite herself.
Rias's usually composed demeanor cracked as her cheeks burned a deep crimson. Her lips parted, but no sound came out at first. Finally, she managed, "Leo! At least… cover yourself!"
Leo looked down at his exposed form, then back up at them, his expression calm and unbothered. "It's just a body," he said with a shrug. "We're all adults here, aren't we?"
Issei, who had been busy fending off his own slime attack, finally turned and froze. His eyes widened, and then he let out a low whistle.
"Damn, Leo," he said, smirking. "No wonder Rias picked you. You're making the rest of us look bad!"
Kiba, leaning casually against a tree as he assessed the scene, chuckled softly. "You're setting a high bar, Leo. Maybe you should consider modeling—if the devil gig doesn't work out."
Leo sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You two are enjoying this way too much."
Issei crossed his arms, still grinning. "Come on, man. You've got the looks, the body—hell, even the aura. The rest of us have to try, and you just… exist."
Kiba nodded in mock seriousness. "It's a tough standard, but we'll survive."
Issei's attention was suddenly drawn back to the slime. He crouched down, watching as a blob squirmed across the ground. His eyes lit up with excitement. "This slime is amazing! I'm making it my familiar."
"What?" Leo asked, his calm demeanor cracking as he frowned at Issei.
"You heard me," Issei said, pulling a jar from his bag. "A slime that dissolves clothes? It's perfect. I could change the world with this."
Rias's glare was ice cold as she stepped forward. "Issei, if you even think about keeping that thing, I'll destroy it myself."
"But Rias!" Issei whined, holding the jar protectively. "Think of the possibilities!"
Koneko rolled her eyes. "You're pathetic," she said, her monotone voice cutting through the tension.
Akeno giggled, stepping closer to Leo. "I think the slime has already chosen its favorite," she teased, her eyes flicking up and down his form.
Rias sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Akeno, you're not helping."
After the slime finally slithered away, the group began to regroup. Leo casually grabbed a large leaf and held it in front of himself, though his composure remained unshaken.
Rias approached him, her tone soft but firm. "Are you seriously not embarrassed?"
Leo smirked. "It's nothing you haven't seen before," he replied, his tone laced with confidence. "But if it makes you feel better, I'll cover up."
Akeno leaned closer, her voice low and teasing. "You should be careful, Leo. If you're too comfortable like this, someone might get ideas."
Leo raised an eyebrow, his smirk deepening. "Let them. I can handle it."
Issei, meanwhile, sulked as Rias confiscated his jar. "Man, this trip isn't going the way I planned…"
Kiba clapped a hand on his shoulder. "Cheer up, Issei. At least you have Ann."
"Yeah," Issei grumbled. "But Ann wouldn't let me keep the slime either…"
Before anyone could respond, a low, guttural growl rolled through the air like thunder.
"What was that?" Koneko asked, her golden eyes narrowing.
The growl came again, closer this time, reverberating through the ground.
Then, without warning, a massive shape burst from the shadows. A bear—no, a monster—towered over them, its black-and-gray fur shimmering with an almost metallic sheen. Its glowing blue eyes locked onto the group, radiating intelligence and power.
"Move!" Leo shouted, shoving Asia and Koneko to the side just as the bear lunged.
Its massive paw slammed into Leo, sending him flying backward into a tree with a sickening crack. The force of the impact knocked the wind out of him, and before he could recover, the bear was upon him. Its teeth latched onto his arm—not to maim, but to drag him deeper into the forest.
"Leo!" Rias screamed, crimson energy flaring in her hands.
"Stay back!" Leo called, his voice strained as he struggled against the bear's grip. "This… is my fight."
The world blurred as Leo was dragged through the underbrush, branches scraping his skin and rocks bruising his sides. Finally, the bear tossed him into a clearing, the moonlight illuminating the beast's towering form.
Leo struggled to his feet, clutching his throbbing ribs as he faced the creature. Blood trickled down his forehead, and his breathing was labored, but his resolve burned brighter than ever.
The bear's voice rumbled like an earthquake, deep and commanding. "You smell of Ragnar's bloodline."
Leo froze, his eyes narrowing. "Who the hell are you? How do you know that name?"
The bear stepped closer, its massive frame casting a long shadow. "I am Bjorn, son of Ursulf, sworn companion to Ragnar Lothbrok. I fought by his side, and I watched as he earned my loyalty with strength and spirit."
Leo clenched his fists, his body trembling with a mix of adrenaline and pain. "If you knew Ragnar, then you know I'm his descendant."
Bjorn's glowing eyes narrowed. "Blood alone means nothing, cub. You must prove yourself worthy. Show me your strength… or perish."
Bjorn roared, the sound shaking the trees as he charged. Leo barely had time to brace himself before the bear's paw struck him square in the chest, sending him flying backward. He crashed through two trees, splinters embedding themselves into his skin as he hit the ground with a painful thud.
Coughing, Leo forced himself to his feet, his vision swimming. "You hit like a freight train," he muttered, spitting blood onto the forest floor.
Bjorn growled, pacing like a predator sizing up its prey. "Strength is not measured by words. Stand, fight, and show me what burns within you."
Leo grinned despite the pain. "Fine. Let's see if you can handle me."
He lunged forward, throwing a series of punches at Bjorn's massive frame. His blows landed with force, but the bear barely flinched, swiping at him with claws that tore through his skin and left shallow gashes across his chest.
Bjorn retaliated, his massive paw slamming into Leo's side and sending him tumbling across the ground. The young man groaned as he rolled to a stop, his body battered and bleeding.
"Is this all Ragnar's bloodline can offer?" Bjorn taunted, his voice dripping with disappointment.
Leo pushed himself up, his hands trembling as he steadied himself. "You think… I'm done?" he rasped, a wild smile spreading across his face. "I'm just getting started."
Fueled by determination, Leo charged again, his movements sharper and more deliberate. He ducked under Bjorn's massive swipe, delivering a powerful kick to the bear's side that made it stagger.
Bjorn rumbled with approval. "Good. You fight with spirit. But spirit alone is not enough!"
The bear reared up on its hind legs and slammed both paws down, shaking the ground and creating a shockwave that knocked Leo off balance. Bjorn followed up by grabbing him in his massive jaws and tossing him into another tree.
Leo hit the ground hard, his vision darkening at the edges. Every inch of his body screamed in pain, but something deep within him refused to give in.
He laughed, a low, almost manic sound that echoed through the clearing. "You're tough," he said, his voice hoarse. "But I've fought too hard to go down now."
Bjorn paused, his glowing eyes narrowing as he watched Leo stand once more, bloodied but unbroken.
"You… enjoy this," Bjorn said, his tone almost amused.
Leo grinned, his teeth stained red. "What can I say? I like a good fight."
Bjorn charged again, but this time, Leo met him head-on. He dodged the bear's swipe and drove his shoulder into its chest, pushing it back a few steps. The two clashed repeatedly, the forest trembling with the force of their battle.
Finally, Bjorn stepped back, his chest heaving as he regarded Leo with a newfound respect.
"You have strength," the bear said. "And resolve. You fight not for glory, but to prove yourself. That is the spirit of Ragnar's bloodline."
Leo wiped the blood from his mouth, his body swaying but his gaze steady. "Does that mean I pass your test?"
Bjorn nodded, his massive frame lowering slightly in a gesture of respect. "You are worthy. From this day forth, I am yours to command. But know this, cub: our bond is forged in battle and blood. Together, we will create a legacy worthy of your ancestors."
As the rest of the ORC arrived, their faces a mix of awe and concern, Leo turned to them with a tired grin.
"Meet Bjorn," he said, his voice weak but filled with pride. "My new familiar."
Bjorn rumbled a low chuckle, his glowing eyes shifting to Rias and the others. "I am more than a familiar. I am his guardian, his storm… and his friend."
The group stared in stunned silence, the weight of the moment settling over them as the bond between man and beast was forged.