Mizuki glanced at her daughter, all ready for their flight to Tokyo, dressed in a black shirt under a thin red coat with fur trims and short jeans covering down to her knees. Casual wear, all things considered, and along the lines of what she usually wore when she left the house.
"Got everything ready?" Akane asked, zipping up her bag.
"Just need a few things…" Mizuki responded, returning her gaze back at the bag.
"Say, should we be bringing this little?" Her daughter questioned, pointing at the lack of clothes and other sundries. "I mean, we're gonna be there for months, right?"
"No worries there." She shook her head with a smile. "We can go get what we need after we arrive."
"This is just an excuse to drag me out to the shops with you, isn't it?" Akane accused with an amused smile.
"Maybe~"
"Always in a roundabout way. You could've just straight up asked, you know." She shrugged. "I wouldn't have turned you down."
Mizuki smiled as she sifted through her bag again, checking to see if she forgot anything. Akane waited for her, leaning against the wall as she blankly looked at… nothing. Mizuki frowned, then grimaced as she realizes what had come over her again.
There it was, eyes searching for something that Mizuki wasn't able to find even if she pushed her abilities to the limit looking. There was nothing to sense, nothing to hear or smell- what the hell is Akane looking for? What is she doing?
Mizuki sighed in frustration, pulling her daughter's attention.
"What's up?" Akane asked.
"Nothing, nothing…" Mizuki muttered. "Say, how about you wait for me in the cab? There's a couple of other things I wanna take so I'll be there in a minute."
"I can help you pack if you want." She offered.
"No, it's fine." The mother declined. "Thanks, honey."
Akane shrugged and took her bag, leaving Mizuki alone in the house.
Well, not quite.
Mizuki went into her room, closing the door behind her before opening the secret armory behind the bookcase. She scanned over the dimly lit room, biting her lips as she noticed one of her weapons was missing.
So that intense holy energy she felt near her daughter wasn't her imagination. Akane had somehow discovered this place. But how had she managed to hide the gun and its energy so quickly? Keeping the ambient energy of a magical instrument hidden with your own magic requires incredible mana control, and Akane is definitely just a beginner.
And she didn't take any of this old junk, no, her daughter just had to grab Angel's Sorrow, her strongest holy weapon. If that won't get the alarm bells of the filth in Kuoh ringing she doesn't know what will. But that just brought her back to her first thought, how did Akane even get into here?
Had she been suspicious of her before? Could she feel something was off? Had it all just been sheer bad luck on her count and Akane found this place on accident?
"Wonderful, just great. This is exactly what I needed." Mizuki growled, cursing under her breath. "Fan-fuckin'-tastic..."
Mizuki felt a knot in her stomach, cursing under her breath.
What could she do now? How did she even begin to explain everything? What will her daughter think if she knew her mother was a cold-blooded murderer who'd killed innocent people for a living? All she can do now is brace herself for when Akane starts asking questions.
For as many people as she had killed, for as many times as she'd danced with death, Mizuki had never been more terrified. Imagining losing her daughter's love made the hardened veteran shake.
Akane had been the light of her life since the day she was born, Akane was the driving force behind Mizuki facing each day. What could she do if her daughter ever came to reject her, hate her?
She shook her head, ridding herself of the morose thoughts. Thinking about hypotheticals rarely helped- she'll just act like she always has while waiting for the inevitable.
She took her suit and gathered a suite of weapons. A sword, a sniper rifle, and the twin to Angel's Sorrow: Demon's Rage. This much should be enough. Even if she was nowhere near as powerful as she'd been in her prime, her skills had never dulled. She was still plenty capable of killing someone or something dozens of times stronger and faster than her with just these arms and her own skill.
Mizuki shut the secret armory and slid open the door to the front garden, her eyes locking on something nearby.
"Here." She said, putting the weapons down. "That's all I need. When can I expect them?"
Something flickered, and a man in a suit appeared out of thin air, a Tojo pin in his chest.
"They should be there before you arrive." The agent replied as a few other men deactivated their invisibility.
"...You guys are quick."
"We wouldn't survive otherwise." He responded with a shrug. "Anything else?"
"Naw, that's all I need." Mizuki waved, taking her personal bag. "Send Daigo my regards wouldya?"
Mizuki walked out of the house, taking on an easy smile as she spotted her daughter.
If she's going to Devil territory, then she'll damn well be prepared for any nastiness. Those filths are bloodthirsty and unpredictable as it is, but for them to be so close to her beautiful daughter? Who knows what they'd do to drag Akane into one of their peerages.
Glorified slavery was all that was.
Daigo had better keep his damn word, otherwise, he'll have to deal with a new war.
(Akane)
Resting my elbow on the arm of the chair, I glance out the window next to me, thousands of meters above the ground as the plane takes us from Kansai to Kanto, Tokyo Airport. My mother next to me quietly reads some shounen manga, flipping the page every now and then.
The past few days after the fight have been quieter. I didn't encounter any other strays nor did I get in any fights with the local delinquents. I actually spent the time refining my magic some more, refusing to go further than the paladin until I find a sure way to kill it without using the overpowered Revolver.
So I didn't level up, but I did rank up both Ice Magic and Mana Control. I created another pure magic skill called Magic Push, which does exactly as the name suggests. It pushes away targets and dazes for a second or two. That depends on the enemy of course; it does jack shit to the paladin or even knights.
[Mana Control: Magic Push] – Skill
Unleash a wave of magic that pushes targets away, sometimes even stunning them for a few seconds. Distance and Force relies on Mana Control Rank and total Level
Costs 250 MP
I'm pretty satisfied though. Both skills are at adept, which means I'm probably able to hide my magic from the devils if they're even going to try to recruit or interact with me. After all, I'm supposedly a very important individual from what that letter said.
If this D.D person is as strong as they implied, then I don't think Rias and Sona will be stupid enough to piss him off. The devils are weak from two wars, but the Yakuza aren't. Sure, they've suffered wars before, but humans are far easier to recruit; unlike devils. Of course, this is all under the assumption that the Yakuza are even strong enough to oppose the devils.
Which is why I can't rest easy just yet. It's good to know that someone like Ryuji Goda, a yakuza, is so strong I'm not even able to see his stats. That means they're threatening at the least. Still, though, I'm going to Kanto, and that's Tojo Clan turf, not Omi. The Omi Alliance won't be able to set foot there unless the Tojo allows it.
...Does that mean my mother has connections with the Tojo too? I mean, my father was a Tojo Yakuza, but from what I know he was just a grunt. I doubt that'd get Mizuki an in with anything further up the ladder.
Still, the more I think about it, the more sense it makes. The initials in that letter are D.D, and the only Yakuza I could think of that would fit is Daigo Dojima, the sixth chairman of the Tojo Clan. We're going to Kanto, and a patriarch is going to be there to guard me.
I know the two organizations are considered allies, but sending an Omi patriarch and his family to Kuoh seems too much. Not only does it sound like a violation of trust, but it also might put the devils on edge. It could be seen as sending a message that says "Both Clans are watching."
If it's a Tojo patriarch, then the devils won't be as nervous, and there shouldn't be any rise in tension between the two Yakuza factions. If that's the case, then my mom knows Dojima personally. How, though? If I remember correctly, my mother lived most of her life in Osaka and Kiyoraha, both of which are in Kansai.
And she was apparently an assassin that wanted to destroy both factions. What changed? How did she turn from an enemy to a close ally? Is it related to my father? Is my dad really just a regular Tojo grunt? If not, then...
I turn my gaze to my mother, my eyes narrowing slightly.
Did he really die from a car crash, or is this just another lie?
Regardless, I'd still rather depend on myself. Having someone protecting me is nice and all, but it's better to not even need protection to begin with. It's essentially just insurance for now, though I doubt it'll be a good idea to rely on them overmuch.
Then there's the three Fallen and that Koki- whatever his name was. All of which are a threat for now, and while they're most likely still going target the devils and Issei for his Sacred Gear as I lay low… it could be a good opportunity to get some good REP with them if I helped fend them off. Like it or not, I need more connections if I want to survive in this fucked up world. I have a head start with how I turned out to be a pseudo Yakuza heiress, however, I've got to build up more. The Yokai, Devils, and Fallen are my best bets right now.
The Yokai because I found it weird how they're not at war with the Yakuza – though that's still an assumption for now. I can't know if they're engaged in a cold war behind our backs – so they might have a positive relationship with them. I don't want to have to rely on magic alone, and Ki sounds like it would be cool to learn.
The Devils only because it would be easy to befriend Rias and her peerage, the same with Sona. I have a golden opportunity to help with her marriage fiasco after all. I'd be stupid if didn't act on that. Having Sirzechs and/or Serafall's backing in my pocket would be bound to be useful.
The Fallen would be the most difficult of the three, though being on good terms with Azazel ought to be something I strive for. He's mad for certain, but that doesn't make him any less of a genius. I know he made some artificial Sacred Gears at some point, and I want to know how he does that. Making my own overpowered weapons sounds fun.
Friends in high places and all that. But for now, baby steps; I haven't even met the devils yet.
"Nervous?" My mother asks me with a smile, putting her manga down.
"...A bit," I answer truthfully. "The only time I've been in Kanto was when we went to Kamurocho for Hana's birthday a few years ago."
"Bah, it's all the same." Mizuki shrugs. "The only real difference is size. Kuoh is much bigger than Kamurocho, and it's not as bright. But hey, I'm sure it'll be fine~"
"You went there before?" I raise a brow.
"A couple of times. It's where I met your father." She smiles wistfully. "My handsome prince~ Oh how I miss him".
"I can understand handsome – somehow – but prince?" I deadpan. "Dad always looked like he was about to crack someone's skull because they looked at him funny. There's nothing princely about him."
"W-well, that's what you think!" She pouts. "He might look rough on the outside, but he's gentle and kind on the inside."
"I know that, Kaa-san. He's my father." I respond, crossing my arms. "You just have to admit that he doesn't look like it."
"Nope, he's definitely your father alright." My mother shakes her head. "You have the exact same glare. Maybe it's the eyes…"
"We share eye color. That's it." I note. "I still think I look more like you than him."
"Obviously. You're half me after all." She smiles. "I'm just saying that you resemble Tatsu's resting bitch face when you're angry, which is basically all the time."
"Being saddled with the likes of you does that."
"Y-you'll understand what I mean eventually." Mizuki's smile falters as she nods, patting my head. "Once you find someone you like."
"Hmm…"
I really doubt that.
"Anyway, I'm sure you'll like it in Kuoh. After all, there's a surprise waiting for you at the Airport." My mother grins.
"A surprise?" I look at her, feeling interested. "What kind?"
"Wouldn't be much of a surprise if I told you now would it?"
"Isn't it counterproductive to even mention that there's a surprise?" I point out, making her pause for a bit before replying.
"No, it just makes you excited for it."
"And if it's not as good as you make it out to be?" I say. "I'd rather not get disappointed, to be honest."
"Stop being so pessimistic! It's a good surprise, okay?"
"...Fair enough." I shrug. "We'll just have to wait and see then."
I doubt it's anything that worthwhile, but she seems pretty excited about it. Well, more… relieved now that I give her a better look. She still looks a tiny bit nervous. She's really scared of devils for a "Legendary Assassin". Here I thought she'd show a bit of backbone.
I can't be all that judgmental though. Who knows what she went through before she had me. Something about that letter implied that my mother dislikes or is scared of them, which I assume meant the devils.
I'm supposed to be the scared one knowing the insane shit that happens in Kuoh every other Tuesday, but hey, maybe the Yakuza will put a stop to all of this. Who knows, maybe they already swept through the entire town and got rid of the fallen.
I'd really like it if that's the case.
(Sona)
Rereading the letter, the Sitri Heiress frowned slightly, alone in the student council office with her Queen. School is about to start again. Nothing too interesting in itself, but at least it'd keep her away from the underworld for a bit. As prim and proper as she can be, devil politics are still exhausting.
However, something's obviously different this year. She didn't expect a letter directly from Serafall and Sirzechs to be sent to her and Rias, giving them warnings about certain individuals.
The two heiresses had heard of new students being completely off-limits. Rias assured her that that was just a rumor, but Sona knew better. After all, Kuoh isn't theirs, it's the Tojo Clan's turf. Sirzechs merely borrowed the area for their education.
The Crimson Satan tried to convince Rias to continue her schooling in the Underworld, but everyone who knew him was well aware that he lacks the ability to say "No" to his little sister. Rias was adamant about studying in Japan, Kuoh specifically for whatever reason.
Sona volunteered to go along with her for a couple of reasons. One: She's admittedly interested in human culture in general, and living along with them seemed fascinating. Two: She knew Rias needed babysitting due to her lack of self-awareness. And three…
Well, she wanted a break away from the underworld and away from Serafall in particular. Home was stressful enough as it was- Sona had no desire for her sister to be watching her every step.
Lord Sirzechs managed to convince the Tojo Chairman to temporarily lend them Kuoh until they finished college, which would only take a few years. Daigo Dojima agreed as a gesture of goodwill because like the New Satans, he hates unnecessary bloodshed.
They spent one year in Kuoh already, and it had been a surprisingly quiet one. Rias had a lot more self-restraint than Sona gave her credit for. She did study human culture, so maybe that was it.
However, that self-restraint might be put to the test from what this letter implied.
Two new students will be coming to Kuoh, and both are equally important to the Tojo Clan.
Akane Amamiya, daughter of Tatsu Amamiya, the Immortal Dragon and one of the most powerful humans to have ever graced the Earth.
And Haruka Sawamura, a former idol and the adoptive daughter of Kazuma Kiryu, the Fourth Chairman of the Tojo Clan and the strongest wielder of the Azure Dragon Sacred Gear.
Daughters of people who earned the title of Dragon, the most respected title amongst the Yakuza.
This Akane, though... She seemed interesting. Yokai ancestry? Those were admittedly rare, and her own heritage is almost nonexistent at this point.
Both are extremely important to the Tojo Clan. A single scratch might be enough to spark a war with them. The big red "DO NOT PROVOKE" in the letter should be plenty enough of a warning.
Rias seemed not that worried, simply shrugging and saying something along the lines of "Doesn't mean we can't be friends with them". Sona could only resignedly resolve herself to keep her friend from doing anything stupid.
If she tries to invite them to her peerage, it would become a disaster, whether they gave their consent or not. The Amamiya girl's mother harbored an intense hatred towards devilkind and Kazuma doesn't want Haruka to get involved with the supernatural at all.
Disrespecting their wishes isn't so much stepping on the Tojo's toes as it is kicking them in the crotch. Sona will not have Rias do anything so risky and stupid due to her devil pride and arrogance. She might not show it in the traditional way, but it was insufferable even to her.
So on top of keeping an eye on the two new girls, Sona will have to do the same for Rias.
Sona sighed tiredly. She'd come here to take a breather, not work more.
"Tsubaki, have the students arrived yet?" Sona questioned her Queen, who nodded.
"Just recently. Sawamura-san will be coming here in a few hours to collect her uniform."
"And Amamiya?"
"She just landed in Tokyo Airport. She'll be arriving in Kuoh soon."
"I see." Sona nodded. "Is there anything else I should be made aware of?"
"Actually…" Tsubaki started, making the Sitri Heiress pause. "Someone else arrived in Kuoh recently, only two hours ago, but he quickly made his way to Tokyo Airport.'
"And that is?"
Tsubaki put a picture on the desk; a middle-aged man wearing an unbuttoned maroon pinstripe jacket, black dress shirt, and black slacks. Sona recognized the man, who wouldn't? He's made waves across the underworld and was the owner of a very successful business.
Sona had never met him personally, but she was aware of his intellect and strength. The man was nothing compared to her sister of course, though that doesn't discern his ability. He's a wielder of an especially powerful Sacred Gear.
Unfortunately, while he's not in any faction in particular, opting to remain independent, he's close to the Tojo, which makes things significantly more complicated. They're not in a position to complain about new arrivals like this...
"Why is he here?" Sona asked with a thoughtful frown.
"As far as I know, he's very close to Sawamura-san and Amamiya-san," Tsubaki said. "I didn't expect him to come, though."
Neither did Sona if she's being honest.
She resisted a groan, feeling a headache coming.
Great, another thing to worry about. As if the two pseudo heiresses and that crazy yakuza weren't enough.
Now the Vermilion Bird had decided to grace them with his presence.
(Akane)
"What exactly are we looking for?" I sigh, my mother scanning the crowded airport with squinted eyes.
"Gimme a few minutes." She responds, clicking his tongue in annoyance. "Where the hell is he…?"
The flight didn't take long, only around an hour and a half, but I never liked planes, to begin with. Stuffy, uncomfortable, and the god damn kids crying in the back. Even first-class seats didn't help. I almost went off on the little shit behind me for constantly kicking the back of my seat.
Tiny bastard. Anyone under 10 years old should be fucking banned from planes.
We didn't take much with us, so we got a pass to take our bags aboard. I approve of this decision in all honesty, way better than having to wait an hour for luggage because of the workers' incompetence.
So we made it to the main gate, but we've been dithering here for around twenty minutes now, my mother's looking for someone from what I can see, but she refuses to tell me who, and I'm too annoyed to think over who it might be either.
I just want to lie down and take a nap.
"Ah, there he is!" Mizuki smiles widely, waving at someone in the distance. "Over here, Shun-kun!"
"Shun-kun?" I parrot in confusion, then my eyebrows shoot up in surprise as I see my uncle approaching with a wave.
Out of everyone, I didn't expect him and I don't know why. It should've been obvious.
Shun Akiyama, practically my mom and dad's best friend, and someone I looked up to. The owner of Sky Finance, a very successful Credit Company in Kamurocho with a newly opened branch in Sotenbori.
He's someone I'd known since I was small, he always played a big role in my life, especially after my father's passing when Mizuki just... shut down for a few months. I probably would've turned out ten times worse if he wasn't there for me.
In a way, he's kind of a father figure to me as well.
...And I still feel nothing towards him, just some respect I guess. This Sociopath Trait is effective as all hell. It's a bit horrifying. All the memories I have regarding my family just don't matter to me any more.
The effects this Gamer powers have on the human brain are morbidly fascinating.
"Surprise!" Mizuki whispers to me.
"That's the surprise?" I question.
"Yo!" He greets casually. "Mizuki-san, Akane-chan. It's been a while, hasn't it?"
"Three years, you lazy ass." My mother pointed at him, poking his chest. "We haven't seen you in three damn years. Where have you been?!"
"O-oh you know, busy job and all that."
I snort audibly, almost laughing at the absurdity of the statement. I've never seen him busy in my entire life.
"You mean Hana-chan was busy." My mother deadpans. "All you do is sleep on the couch and do nothing."
"You know I also own a cabaret club, right?" He retorts, eyebrow raised.
"Nobody goes to cabaret clubs anymore, Oji-san." I shrug. "Everyone uses free porn nowadays, or just stays in their rooms playing eroge."
"Well, those are… censored…?"
We stare at him silently, forcing him to sigh in defeat.
"Hey, I was busy, alright?" He insists. "Cut it out already."
"Sure, if you take those off our hands like the good gentleman you are." Mizuki grins, patting his shoulder and pointing at our bags. "C'mon now, we don't have all day."
As he goes to take my bag I shrug and give it to him. He obviously doesn't mind the ordeal, there's a relaxed smile on his face as he leads us out of the airport. After a short while, I frown a little as I think over this whole situation. I slow my pace, pursing my lips a bit as I finally notice something off about this.
Akiyama knew my mom and dad for a long time before I was even born. My mom is a legendary hit-woman and my dad is possibly a high-ranking Yakuza, so what would that make him? I don't think for a second that he's a regular human.
It doesn't make sense. Why would my mother, who knew about the devils, drag a random regular civilian to Kuoh? Not to mention someone as close to both of us as Shun?
My eyes narrow, widening a second later as I use Observe on him.
Name: Shun Akiyama
Title: Lifeline of Kamurocho
HP - 500,000
MP - 250,000
SP - 340,000
Race - Human
LVL - 731
STR - 4075
END - 5510
DEX - 6780
INT - 2800
WIS - 2750
CHA - 3870
LUK - 1550
Thoughts about you – Secretly his favorite niece, will protect you with his life
Reputation - 100
Affection - 20
Obedience - 20
Loyalty - 60
I fucking called it. I knew he wasn't a normal guy!
Holy hell his stats are high as fuck though. More than a thousand in everything? Just what did he go through? What pushed him to get so powerful? I mean, he's no Yakuza, and I'm pretty sure he's not in any faction in general.
Unless there's some hidden faction I don't know about. It's possible.
At least his REP and Loyalty levels are very high. He does like me then, and while I never doubted it, it's still good to know that what I saw wasn't an act. He'll 'protect me with his life' which is all I ask for anyway.
What's this favorite niece crap though? I thought I'm his only niece?
"Akane-chan?" He calls out, shaking me out of my thoughts. "Are you alright?"
"S-sorry, I zoned out for a second there." I quickly response, hoping he didn't sense the Observe spell.
"Clearly." He chuckles. "I'll load the bags in the back. You can get inside."
"Inside-?" I pause as I finally notice the red sports car in front of me. "...Right."
I should stop letting high stats surprise or shock me. It's DxD, a lot of people are stupidly powerful here, reality-shattering kinds of strength even. But with what I have I know I'll catch up eventually.
I have some political power, close allies that are probably willing to help me train and get stronger, and meta-knowledge to some degree. Adding the Gamer to all of that and you could be forgiven for accusing me of playing on easy mode. A few years as an estimate would probably be generous if I was to make it my goal to conquer all the realms, something I can actually manage if I play my cards right.
I just need to keep playing the good girl for now. This is definitely easier in the long run, which makes it the most logical decision.
After all, you're far less likely to be betrayed by the 'good' side than the bad side.
"Home sweet home!" Mizuki celebrates, rushing inside the new house as my uncle parks the car.
Akiyama steps out of his fancy vehicle, stood next to me as I scan over the outside of the sizeable house.
"So?" He asks. "Whatcha think?"
"It's a lot smaller than I thought," I answer bluntly, making him sigh.
"Bad, then?"
"I didn't say that." I cross my arms. "Knowing Kaa-san, she'd have bought a mansion here too. I kinda prefer this to be honest."
"Right?" He chuckled.
It's a two-story house with a European design, a far cry from our old Japanese-styled mansion back in Kiyoraha. I've always preferred this look anyway, and the mansion was just too big. We only really used a handful rooms.
Still, a two-story house for two people only is big. Unless…
"Are you going to be living here with us?" I ask Akiyama.
He shakes his head. "Nope. I have an apartment a few blocks away. Why do you ask?"
"So I know when to leave the house when you and Kaa-san decide to fool around." I tease with a smirk, making him stumble.
"Woah, it's not like that, Akane-chan, I promise." He shivers, but a tiny blush was present on his face. Caught him off guard~ "Please don't even joke about that."
"Sure, sure." I shrug, patting him on the back before whispering quietly. "Just know that you have my blessing."
He groans at my needling as I follow my mother inside, looking around the place. There's no missing furniture, everything seems to be already taken care of. A kitchen, living room with a huge TV, two guest rooms and a bathroom. My mother was nowhere to be seen, she probably went up the stairs.
"Damn, she went off on the interior," I say with surprise. "Really didn't hold back. How much did all of this cost?"
"Well, Mizuki-san wanted to make your stay here comfortable," Akiyama said. "She cares deeply about you after all."
"I suppose…"
Suddenly a ringing noise sounds out, prompting us both to pause as Akiyama pulls out his phone. He frowns slightly and answers it and I leave him to his call. It's the polite thing to do I guess.
I go up the stairs, there's a hallway with multiple rooms connected to it. Three bedrooms with a bathroom for each, and a trap door leading to an attic above, I think. One of the bedrooms had a door open, and inside it was my mother face first on the bed.
And here she is acting like a child again.
"What are you doing?" I question her, already expecting a silly answer.
"Bed is comfy…" She mumbles. "You should join me~"
"No thanks, still have to go pick up my uniform from the school." I sigh. "Maybe later."
She gasps, looking at me in surprise. "So you will?!"
"Will what?"
"Sleep with me?!"
I pause, looking at her silently for a few seconds before shrugging. "Sure, why not. I guess I owe you for getting your hopes up last time."
"...I feel like you're insinuating something and I don't like it." She narrows her eyes.
"You're imagining things." I wave it off. "I'm leaving now. Gotta get that uniform."
"Wait, I'll come with you." She says, but I stop here.
"Nah, it's fine. You're probably still tired from the flight." I shake my head. I don't think it's wise to get her near devils now. "I'll be quick about it."
"B-but-"
"It's fine." I insist, making her frown in worry. "I'm old enough to take care of myself, it's just an errand after all."
As I go downstairs, I spot my uncle just finishing his call.
"Thanks, I… guess I owe you one." He sighs, a grimace visible on his face. "I'll meet up with him soon. Thank you, Saejima-san."
I frown slightly. Saejima? I feel like I've heard that name from somewhere…
Oh right, my mother talked about him once. A friend of hers and Akiyama I think.
"Oh, Akane-chan." He spots me and smiles. "Done looking around?"
"Yup, I'll head out to the academy now," I inform him. "We can continue sightseeing once I get back."
"Sounds like a plan." He smiles. "I'll stay here with your mother. Gotta talk to her about something."
"Sure, just don't get too frisky, alright?" I smirk.
"We won't." He rubs the back of his neck with an exasperated sigh. "It's important stuff, I promise."
"Right, important adult stuff." My smirk widens.
"No no, none of that." He insists, a little flustered. "Can you please stop teasing your forty-year-old uncle?"
"Sure, sure. Just remember to use protection." I say casually, opening the front door. I whisper the next sentence loud enough for him to hear. "Though, I wouldn't mind a surprise sibling."
"Oh for the love of-!"
I close the door behind me, giggling at his reaction. I knew he had the hots for my mom for a while, not anymore I'm pretty sure, but those feelings existed at some point. He wasn't lying when he said he didn't see her that way – their relationship is more like that between siblings now – but if my teasing works, then why should I stop?
If they somehow get together, then good for them? I don't really care enough to keep it from happening. It'd be pretty weird to call him father though. I'll just stick with Oji-san since that's what I'm used to.
I'm entertaining this idea way too much, but it's just too funny. I'm half hoping it happens just to tease them about it until the end of time.
I'll never let my mother live it down.
(Akiyama)
As his niece departed, Shun sighed deeply. She's grown a lot bolder compared to the last time he saw her, a lot calmer too. It had been three years though, Akane likely just matured a lot during that period.
Even then, something was… odd about her.
Her magic felt stronger, more refined even when she tried to hide it. Such skill at her age considering she'd never trained before is incredible. He'd be very proud of her, but it was concerning seeing as she's not supposed to be involved with the supernatural at all.
It was Tatsu's final request. Keep his daughter out of it.
Shun frowned, glancing at Mizuki descending down the stairs, looking equally worried. "Mizuki-san, did you-"
"No." She denied the incoming question. "She's self-taught. I doubt she knows that I noticed."
"Self-taught?" Shun repeated. "When did she awaken her magic?"
"...A few days ago," Mizuki answered, her voice quiet.
"What?!" His eyes widened. "A few days were enough for her to be that good? Are you sure?"
"I live with her, Shun." She scowled. "I know her like the back of my fucking hand. I'm aware of everything that goes around my home."
"Right, right, sorry." He sighed. "Just… this is insane, Mizuki-san. It usually takes months for even prodigies to even get close to that level, and Akane-chan did that in only a few days?"
"I-I know. It's unbelievable." She agrees. "I… don't like it, Shun-kun. At any other time, I'd be proud, but something is wrong."
"Wrong?" Shun frowned. "What do you mean?"
"Did- did you notice how she zones out sometimes?" Mizuki questioned. "How lifeless she looks? She looks so focused- as if she's calculating everything in her field of vision. It's not normal, right?"
Shun paused, his eyes narrowing in thought as he recalled that look. Indeed, his niece did seem a little weird to him before they left the airport. He gave her a passing glance but noticed that she was… looking at something. It's not simply staring off into space- she looked like she was reading something.
What was that look? What was she looking at? She tried being subtle about it, but it was noticeable. It looked weird and he wrote it off as her still being tired or sleepy from the flight, but thinking about it now…
It was unnatural.
"What caused that?" He got straight to the point. "Was it the magic?"
"I don't know." She sighed in frustration. "I tried to do everything in my power, but... nothing. I didn't find anything at all."
"I see…" He nodded. "If that's the case then I think we should help her."
Mizuki tilted her head, "How?"
"Teach her magic." He said, making her freeze. "Teach her how to use weapons, how to fight-"
"NO!" Mizuki cut him off with an angry yell. "We will NOT teach her anything of the sort! I don't want her having anything to do with the supernatural, Shun. I won't disregard Tatsu's wishes like that."
"Mizuki-san, I'm afraid we don't have a choice anymore." He replied calmly. "We both know she'll get involved with or without our help."
Mizuki bit her lip, her arms shaking. She knew he was right, as much as she hated to admit it. Shun understood her feelings clearly, but staying stubborn about this could only result in tragedy for them. Akane needed to understand her magic, she needs to grow strong. Strong enough to hold her own and not get trampled by the forces of the supernatural.
He didn't want her to get in contact with them any more than she did, but what uncle would he be if he left his niece to the wolves without offering a guiding hand? He knew Tatsu would understand. Buried under all those scowls and threats, the man was one of the most reasonable people he'd known.
"I know Tatsu-san didn't want her to get involved, but that's not possible now." He soothed. "So, we'll do the next best thing."
"... And that is?" She asked, but they both know the answer to that.
"Help her get ready." He said. "On her own, she was able to master her magic to that degree in such a short amount of time, but with our help, well, she might even surpass the old you."
She didn't answer, a grimace plastered over her face, as if she was still unconvinced.
"If Akane-chan can't lead a normal life, then we'll make sure she gets so strong that no one can get in her way." Shun continued. "That way, she can live the life she chooses, and no one will be able to threaten her."
"... Alright." Mizuki nodded. "Just… just give me some time to think about this, okay? S-she already knows I'm not 'normal'. I don't want her asking questions now- I'm not ready."
"What do you mean by that?" Shun blinked in confusion, internally relieved that Mizuki saw the bigger picture. "Akane-chan knows?"
"She found my secret armory." She said, making him still. "She even stole one of my guns."
"Ahh…" He grimaced. "That complicates things."
"Right?" Mizuki chuckled mirthlessly. "A cold-blooded murderer for a mother. What a joke."
"You're not like that anymore." He stated.
"Doesn't change the fact that I killed a lot of innocent people." She sighed in defeat. "But we've been down this road a hundred times already. Let's just drop it."
"Right…" Shun relented and dropped the subject, knowing nothing he could say will make her feel better. "By the way, I got a call from Saejima-san just now."
"Good or bad news?"
"... 'I don't know'-news." He admitted, scratching his cheek. "How does having his Kyodai here sound like?"
Mizuki froze, eyes wide in terror as she slowly turned to look at him. Shun flinched but understood her feelings clearly. Even he didn't expect this turn of events; he genuinely thought that Daigo was smarter than this.
"Eh?"
"Yeah, Daigo-san…"
Shun explained to her what Saejima told him, Mizuki's face paling further with each passing word.
Or maybe this was all part of some master plan he has. Regardless, such a nonsensical choice left the two reeling, and the blood vessel in Mizuki's forehead almost popping made it clear that she was not happy with that decision.
"Daigo did WHAT?!"
(Akane)
I gaze at the gates of Kuoh Academy, scanning the outside as I try to get a feel of it with my magic senses. I can feel subtle magical energies as if they're forming a wall or something around the school. Are those maybe barriers?
That would make sense. Obviously, the Satans wouldn't want any kind of surprise attack on their sisters' school. I'll be honest though, I don't feel exactly safe either; who knows what those barriers can do? I could have decreased stats inside them for all I know.
I don't know how barriers and wards work yet though, so I'll keep my judgment to myself for now. In all fairness, I wouldn't voice my concerns about this to any of the devils right now - I'd rather stay 'ignorant' for the time being. My mother already knows otherwise I'm pretty sure, but she's on my side in any case.
Play dumb and gather as much info as I can. It's a pretty basic plan.
... I'm still a bit nervous though. This is the place where almost the entirety of DxD takes place, which means I need to be ready, ready for mad Devils, Fallen, Angels, the Church, Dragons, and a million other things. I have the Gamer and my meta-knowledge, but any mistake here might get me killed.
"At least the Yakuza are at my back," I murmur. "I'll take solace in that…"
I go through the gate, immediately heading towards the main building. It didn't take long for my senses to pick up something- weird and… dark feeling? It feels strange. I don't know how to explain what dark energy feels like, it just feels that way. Is that what the mana of devils feel like? Or is it something else entirely?
It's not on campus though. It's further ahead, and it's staying in one place. What is that?
Well, whatever it is, I'm not getting close to it. It's creeping me out.
I shake my head at the sensation and enter the main building, looking around for a teacher or another student. I feel something a few floors above and head towards it. On my way up the stairs, I accidentally bump into someone, tripping them up.
The student yelps as she almost stumbles down the stairs, I but react quickly enough to stop their fall by grabbing their collar, my strength making it easy to hold her in place. She regains her balance and looks at me with a surprised look.
They have warm brown eyes, black hair styled in a small ponytail, and a cute yet very familiar face. She wore a half-zipped up white hoodie over a red shirt, short jeans with black tights underneath, and in her hands was the Kuoh uniform.
A new student I think. I feel like I've seen her before...
"Are you okay?" I ask, feigning concern. Good first impressions are important, even to background characters. "That could've been a pretty bad fall."
"A-ah, yes, thank you." She nods, bowing apologetically. "I'm sorry. I wasn't looking, I should've paid more attention."
"It's fine. I'm partly at fault anyway." I shrug, then change the subject. "Are you a new student here?"
"Yes, I just arrived today." She nods again.
"Right, can you tell me where you got that?" I point at the uniform. "I'm a new student too, and this place is pretty confusing."
"Oh, just above us. Go left after the stairs and you'll see the student council office on your right." The girl says.
"Thanks." I smile politely. "I'll see you tomorrow then."
"I hope so." She smiles back. "Thank you again for saving me."
I wave and head up the stairs, following the directions given to me by the girl. Thankfully, they made it obvious enough and put up a sign that says "Student Council Office". I'd rather not have to open every door in the hallway to find which room I need. I knock on the door, and sure enough, someone answers.
"Come in." A voice calls out from inside, prompting me to open the door.
I slide it open, spotting someone I'm fairly familiar with, but I was still stopped in place. Do you know how characters in anime usually look beautiful to an unbelievable degree? Flawless even?
Well, even with this world's over-the-top beauty levels, Sona is a notch above that. I wasn't expecting her to look like this, thinking that I've seen the best already. Turns out I'm wrong.
If I were a normal person, I'd chalk it up as being maybe makeup or something, but knowing that she's a devil…
Well, the person next to her, who is also a devil, looks almost as good. I forgot her name, but I know she's Sona's Queen. She has a Sacred Gear too, Mirror Alice I think? I don't know, it's a pretty decent Sacred Gear from what I remember.
... Now I feel sort of self-conscious when I'm around them. I know I'm beautiful, but the difference is vast. I need to up that Charisma stat or I won't be happy with how I look at this rate.
Damn Devils…
I was about to introduce myself and say why I'm here, but Sona beats me to the punch.
"Ah…" Sona adjusts her glasses. "Akane Amamiya-san yes? I presume you're here for the school's uniform?"
"Yes," I reply simply.
"Of course." Sona nods and glances at her assistant/friend/slave. "Tsubaki will take your measurements now, then we'll give you the uniform."
"Uh, here?" I ask in concern. "Isn't there a changing room we can go to first?"
"Rest assured, you don't need to take off your clothes." She says as Tsubaki gets closer. "Please don't move."
I listen to her but subtly cast Observe as I make sure I'm hiding my magic. I don't think they've noticed, and if they did, they didn't show it. I'm confident in my skill though.
Name: Sona Sitri
Title: Heiress of the Sitri Clan
HP – 80,000
MP – 100,000
SP – 60,000
Race – Pure-Blooded Devil
LVL - 145
STR - 461
END - 443
DEX - 501
INT -610
WIS - 582
CHA - 504
LUK - 301
Thoughts about you – Someone not to be provoked, will be far more lenient with you
Reputation - 0
Affection - 0
Obedience - 5
Loyalty - -100
Name: Tsubaki Shinra
Title: Vice President of Kuoh Academy
HP – 25,000
MP – 70,000
SP – 15,000
Race – Reincarnated Devil (Human)
LVL - 111
STR - 294
END - 311
DEX - 345
INT - 445
WIS - 420
CHA - 450
LUK - 207
Thoughts about you – Important figure, will treat you with respect and care
Reputation - 0
Affection - 0
Obedience - 5
Loyalty - -100
Wow, okay, way higher than what I have. I expected 300 as the max stat for Sona, not 600, damn. My highest stat isn't even at 500 yet, and my physical stats are a joke compared to hers. She could probably one-shot me if she wanted to.
I frown slightly.
Now I'm self-conscious in the power department too. Jeez...
Tsubaki steps closer, picking up a length of tailor's tape from the sofa. As she takes my measurements, I oblige her, slightly more uncomfortable to be in a room with two women who could annihilate me in half a second flat.
"Oh I'm sorry, I realized I haven't introduced myself yet." Sona clears her throat. "My name is Souna Shitori, a third-year student and the president of the student council. The one taking your measurements is Tsubaki Shinra, another third-year student, and the vice president. It's a pleasure to meet you, Amamiya-san."
"The pleasure's all mine," I respond as politely as I can.
"We hope you'll enjoy your stay here, as well as excel in your studies." She says almost robotically.
"I was the top student in my past school." I shrug. At least academically. Definitely not good at following the rules. "I'm sure I'll be fine."
"You'll find that Kuoh Academy is very little like your old school." Sona continues. "We expect the best of the best, and nothing short of that."
I resist a smirk, opting to smile politely instead. I wonder how in the hell Issei got in here if that was the case? Come on, you can't be telling me that that dumbass or his friends were smart enough to get into Kuoh. They were either aware of Issei's Boosted Gear, which I doubt, or she's bullshitting to get me scared and actually try.
"I appreciate the warning, but I'm good," I respond confidently. "I wouldn't be here if I didn't expect a difficult school year."
5 Reputation with Sona Sitri [5/100]
"Fair enough." She smiles. "I sincerely hope you perform exceptionally well starting tomorrow. I'm looking forward to seeing your progress."
Right, right, more nice words to get my guard down. The oldest trick in the book. I'm not dumb enough to fall for this, I'm definitely never going to lower my guard near devils. Only an idiot would do that.
Tsubaki moves away from me and nods to herself. "We have spare uniforms with your measurements. I'll get them right away. A few minutes please."
"Alright."
Tsubaki walks past me and out of the room, leaving me here alone with Sona. We wait in comfortable silence, and after a few minutes, Tsubaki returns with the uniform, handing it to me.
I grimace slightly at the skirt, because on top of me not liking skirts, this one looks terrible. Way too short...
Yeah, I'm not wearing that, especially with those dumb perverts in the same school.
"Any questions?" Tsubaki asks.
"Can I… not wear this?" I hold the skirt. "I prefer regular pants or shorts, and this one is too short for me."
"I'm afraid that's all we have." Tsubaki shakes her head. "We can't have you break the dress code. It might raise some issues."
I was about to insist, but Sona interjects. "Very well. If you're uncomfortable with it, we can't rightly force you to wear it."
Oh thank god.
"But-"
"Tsubaki, bring Amamiya-san a pair of pants." Sona cut her off with a glare. "And be quick about it."
The vice president nods and quickly leaves once more.
"I apologize. We're usually strict about the dress code, but we can't force anyone to wear anything they're uncomfortable with." The devil heiress shakes her head. "I hope you don't hold it against her."
Yeah, that's bullshit. She just doesn't want to get on my bad side.
"No, it's alright," I reply, hiding a smirk. "I can see where she's coming from."
I saw Sona panic for a split second there, treating me as if I'm glass. The lenient comment Observe showed wasn't kidding, it's hilarious. I don't know why Tsubaki didn't share the same mentality regarding me, but seeing these two panic was funny.
They might be far stronger than me – for now – but I might as well have them at gunpoint. I can literally start a war if I wanted.
Being in control, even if 'unknowingly', feels amazing.
Tsubaki returns and hands over the pants, making me smile. "Thanks, I appreciate it."
"Any time." She nods politely, sparing Sona a worried glance.
I turn back to the Sitri heiress. "Thank you for your hospitality. I'll see you tomorrow."
She nods with a smile, watching me leave the room. I got the uniform, scouted the devil's power levels, and half-tested how much I can push Sona. She's a stickler to the rules, so bending them for a stranger should be somewhat of an indication. I'll subtly keep pushing to see how much I can get out of her, while also farming reputation with her and Rias.
I wonder if I can get away with skipping classes?
"So how was the school?" My mother asks, brushing my hair.
"Huge," I answer simply. "Maybe twice as big as the one in Kiyoraha."
She hums in response. "Is that good or bad?"
"Depends." I shrug. "Good if I want to hide a body, bad because I'm probably going to get lost hiding said body."
My mother chuckles. "Always a violent answer from you~"
"I picked it up from someone." I snark. "Her name starts with M and ends with -izuki."
"Hey, I don't pick fights." She defends herself. "You do. You always do for some reason."
"Whatever." I scoff.
"None of that here, by the way." Mizuki keeps going. "We're in a new town, so keep your temper in check. Everyone knows the "One-Eyed Oni" in Kiyoraha, but not here."
I blush and scowl at the nickname. "You know I hate being called that."
"Then stop acting like an Oni and start being nice to people." She sighs. "I'm serious, Akane. You can go overboard sometimes, and I don't want you getting in trouble."
"You know I don't start any fight unprovoked," I reply. "I hit people who deserve it or to defend myself. I won't go around shaking people down just because I can."
"You broke someone's hand because he winked at you!"
"He caught me at a bad time." I shrug. "Also, he said something rude, so he falls under 'people who deserve it'."
"Okay, okay look. Can you at least stop going overboard?!" Mizuki groans in despair. . "I know money isn't a concern, but the hospital bills are too much!"
"...I'll try" I scratch my cheek with a sigh of resignation. "I'll hold back a bit from now on, happy?"
"Yes, very much." Mizuki nods in approval, putting the hairbrush away before hugging me from behind. "Hehe, you smell nice~"
I roll my eyes and open my stats, specifically the skill window for Mana Control and Ice Magic. The jump of requirements from Apprentice to Adept was pretty big, but from Adept to Journeyman is… yeah, simply grinding in the same five waves over and over will take a long damn time.
[Mana Control: Adept] – Mastery Skill
Spend 468,750 MP, deal 93,750 Magic Damage, and Evolve 1 Magic Skill to progress to next Rank. Progress to Journeyman Rank [5142/468,750] [7413/93,750] [0/1]
[Ice Magic Control: Adept] – Mastery Skill
Deal 187,500 Ice Damage and Create or Learn 4 Adept Level Ice Spells to progress to next Rank. Progress to Journeyman Rank [7234/187,500] [1/4]
Those are a lot of numbers, and I also have no idea what evolving a magic skill means. I guess I'll just have to experiment a lot more. Seeing that hiding and sneaking is gonna be a tad difficult in this place, I'll have to be more careful when I use the dungeon skill to grind.
I wonder what qualifies as an adept ice spell though…
I grin in excitement as ideas begin to form inside my head. I love coming up with new spells~
(Akiyama)
Bracing himself, Shun Akiyama walked straight into the dark and quiet warehouse, sighing deeply. Of course, he had to deal with this. Some might say that he's making a big deal out of nothing, and they would correct in a way… but Shun isn't exactly best friends with him.
Hell, Mizuki knows him better than Shun does, and while yes, he was considered a friend, it's best to keep him at arm's length. You just don't get comfortable with the Mad Dog unless your name is Taiga Saejima or Kazuma Kiryu.
Shun stopped, spotting the Patriarch of the strongest Tojo Family sitting on a pile of lumber, blankly staring back at him. The One-Eyed Hannya grinned widely, prompting a smile to bloom on Shun's face.
"Yo." Shun greeted. "Long time no see, eh?"
The Mad Dog of Shimano's smirk merely widened in response.
"Goro Majima-san."
You know I had to introduce the mad dog soon
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