Draconis: Anyway. Let's get started.
Kenshin: Glad to finally have that lemon off your plate?
Draconis: Sorta. I'd put it off for over a year or so. Sorry.
Issei and Raynare: It's cool.
Draconis: Anyway..
Dragon of the Elements
Chapter 115
A Divine Problem.
(start)
Kenshin was walking around Kuoh Academy with a bored expression, when suddenly he heard Sona's voice shout out. "For the last time NO!"
"Huh?" Kenshin looked over seeing Sona arguing with what he perceived as a devil youth. He approached. "Excuse me. What's going on here?"
"Kenshin?" Sona said turning toward him.
"Hey Sona." Kenshin said with a smile, patting her on the back.
"You, you're Lord Kuroshi! You threatened my father's life!" The devil responded angrily.
"I threaten a lot of people's lives, you're going to have to be more specific." Kenshin said with a bored tone
"I am the son of Lord Barbatos!" He shouted back.
"Oh...that asshole. Dude it wasn't a real threat. I was just educating the council on what a threat actually was, since they didn't seem to get it." Kenshin said. "So, what's your business with Sona?"
"He was my former fiancee." Sona said with a scoff.
"Wait." Kenshin said turning to her. "This is the guy you basically emasculated?"
"More or less." Sona shrugged.
"You!" The Barbatos heir thrust his hand at Sona, only to have his wrist gripped tightly by Kenshin.
"Now listen here you little punk." Kenshin growled. "She did nothing offensive to you other than say words. You wanna risk war with the Sitri? Cause I will gladly support them in that endeavor...also...I have a marriage contract with her as well, and I've actually beaten Sona in chess. So she's MINE." He said throwing the Barbatos heir back.
"D-Damn you!" He said as he warped away.
Kenshin turned to Sona who was smiling with a blush. "Is everything OK?"
Sona giggled, which was uncommon for her and smiled. "Couldn't be better. Thanks for defending my honor darling."
"Darling?" Kenshin said curiously.
Sona walked up to Kenshin and wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug. "Do you not like it?" She asked.
"I-It's not that." Kenshin chuckled. "It...It will just take some getting used to."
"OK." Sona smiled before pulling him into a kiss.
"Aaaawwwwww~!"
The two immediately separated looking over to see Serafall smiling at them with a blush. "O-Onee-Sama? !" Sona said, embarrassed.
"Heya Levia-tan." Kenshin waved.
"Hiya Kenshin-Chan, Sona-Tan!" Serafall said hugging them both.
"O-Onee-Sama please let go!" Sona complained.
To her surprise, Serafall complied and even said. "Hey, So-Tan, can you give me and Kenshin-Chan a moment alone?"
Kenshin and Sona blinked, the latter saying. "Um...sure Onee-Sama, is everything alright?"
"Of course. I just wanna talk to Kenshin-Chan alone is all." Serafall smiled.
"Oh, well." Sona smiled back. "See you tomorrow Kenshin."
"See ya." Kenshin waved as Sona disappeared. "What's up?" He said looking back down at Serafall.
"Thank you for protecting So-Tan for me." Serafall said, looking up at him with a grateful smile.
"Anytime, don't forget, I love you both." Kenshin said kissing Serafall on the cheek.
"I'm glad." Serafall said before looking away. "Kenshin-Chan...are you disappointed in us?"
"Eh?" Kenshin said.
"In Sirzechs-Chan, Ajuka-Chan, Falbium-Chan and I...you know...as the Satans." Serafall said.
"Oh..." Kenshin let out a sigh as he smiled. "What I said, wasn't out of disappointment. I just wish you four would stick up for yourselves. I mean even though she needed me, Alice wouldn't allow a rival faction to oppose her. Like Zeoticus probably told you...I just don't get why the Great King Faction is a thing." Kenshin said.
Serafall hugged him tighter. "So, just stand up for ourselves huh?"
"Yeah...after all, that baby you want so much is gonna need a strong mother and father." Kenshin said with a smile.
"!" Serafall gasped looking up at Kenshin with a wide eyed blush. "You remembered that conversation from Mundus Magicus, in Draco's bar?"
"Hey, we might have both been hammered to hell, but I've got five spirits in me to remind me of what I did." Kenshin smiled nuzzling his nose into Serafall's hair. "Let me know the place and time, Sera-Chan...and I'll give it my best shot."
Serafall pulled away only to kiss Kenshin deeply. "Mmm..." She moaned into Kenshin's lips.
"Mmm..." Kenshin responded by wrapping his arms around Serafall's waist and lifting her up.
"Mmm? !" Serafall moaned in surprise before their lips parted, she laid her head against his chest with a smile. "I love you."
"Hmm..." Kenshin nudged his cheek against Serafall's head with a smile. "I love you too Sera-Chan."
"Sera-Chan...I like that." Serafall looked up into Kenshin's eyes with a smile. "Call me that from now on."
"It's a deal." Kenshin said with his eyes closed smiling back.
Serafall stepped back with a blushing smile. "I...gotta go."
"OK." Kenshin smiled back. "OK, don't be a stranger Sera-Chan. You're always welcome at my house...when I build it." Kenshin laughed.
"Hehehehe." Serafall giggled as she started to disappear into a teleportation circle. She let out a sigh as she reappeared in the Underworld.
"How did it go?" She turned to see Sirzechs.
"It went great~!" Serafall said crossing her arms behind her head. "Kenshin-Chan isn't disappointed, he just wants us to stick up for ourselves. He even told me he loved me~!"
Sirzechs smiled and let out a relieved sigh. "I see..." He said. "That's good." He turned away and thought. "Kenshin...I know you're frustrated with the council, please just give us time."
(break)
New Years Day.
"So, he really did that?" Issei asked. "He destroyed their bodies in front of you?"
"Yeah...I mean...I woulda cremated them now that I think about it, but what Lord Bael did, didn't even leave dust behind to put into urns." Kenshin said with a sigh. "Took everything I had not to strike him. As I was leaving I overheard Sirzechs saying if I had punched him, I woulda blown his head clean off."
"Man...that sucks. I'm sorry." Issei said with a wince.
"..." Kenshin let out a sigh before having his arm hugged by Rias who was right next to him. "It's fine Rias. I'll deal with them on my own time." He said rubbing his cheek against her head, making her giggle.
"Mrrnn..." Negi who was walking behind them, donned a jealous look and came up and grabbed his other arm. Kenshin smiled at her too and kissed her on the forehead.
"..." Akeno couldn't help giggling at the display between the three. "This was going to happen no matter what, but it's still so cute seeing those two fight over Kenshin-kun's attention the past few days since Christmas." She thought.
"..." Issei couldn't help feeling a little jealous as they approached the torii gates. However a familiar figure was there waiting for them. A girl with short blonde hair, a shapely figure and showing her ears and tails. "Oh! Heya Kunou-Chan."
"Good thing we threw up the barrier so no one can see us." Kenshin thought.
Kunou smiled in her true form. "Heya yourself Issei-Sama." Kunou said before coming over to them.
"We came to pay our respects." Issei said with a smile.
"Oh I know." Kunou giggled. "I'm sure the main god here, Ukanomitama will definitely be happy." The group proceeded up the stairs.
Issei, Kiba, Xenovia, and Granberia were all dressed normally. Kunou turned her head toward Erubetie. "You know we could have found a waterproof kimono for you." Kunou said.
"Oh no, that's quite alright." Erubetie waved her off with a smile.
"..." Tamamo, Granberia, Alma and from within Kenshin, Undine all glanced at Erubetie. "That...was a genuine smile." They all thought.
"You seem pretty happy there Erubetie-Sama." Kunou said with a smile.
"Well, lately, I've been talking with the other demon lords and Kenshin to help reduce the pollution in Makai, they all really seem rather accepting."
"Well...that's good." Everyone looked up, seeing Yasaka greeting them with a smile. Rias stepped forward, bowing respectfully. She was wearing a beautiful, elegant kimono, while Kenshin was wearing one that resembled his grandfather's.
Rias smiled at her. "Yasaka-Sama, I had always wanted to greet you." She said brushing her braided hair to the side. "However with the hectic nature of my peerage's last visit, coupled with our last visit to save Kenshin I couldn't."
"Oh don't worry about it, you've traveled so far, welcome." Yasaka said.
Kenshin stepped forward. "I know you must have heard a report of the Hero Faction assisting us." He said bowing forward. "Apparently they're working for Sakra now, but know I have my eye on them."
Yasaka nodded with a smile. "Of course Kenshin. I trust your judgment."
"Thank you Yasaka, I won't disappoint you." Kenshin said bowing respectfully. "That said. We'd be here with Azazel as well, but he tied a few too many on with the other faction leaders."
"Oh? Do you have pictures of this?" Yasaka said with an interested look as Issei stared at Yasaka's chest with barely restrained perversion.
"I do actually." Kenshin said taking out his phone. "This is Azazel, dancing with Zeus, both their shirts off. Here's Michael and I beating Odin for being a pervert and reaching for Serafall's backside."
"Who's the man in the red suit?" Yasaka asked.
"Oh that's Sirzechs playing his character Satan Red. Getting scolded by his drunk wife..." Kenshin paused to smile.
"Hm?" Yasaka said curiously.
"Oh, it's nothing, it's just Sirzechs' wife Grayfia has been going through a lot lately, so I was just relieved to see her having a little fun." Kenshin said.
"Yes." Rias said with a smile. "Azazel and the other Gods invited her. Saying it was that time of year and we should all unwind a bit and ring in the new year. Which really helped her out." Rias said.
"Uh huh, I'll do my best to welcome you!" Kunou said before looking around. "Phis didn't come?"
Kenshin and Issei recalled a day when Kunou visited them in her diminutive state before the events at Auros Academy, to ask about a shrine in the area. Phis, was actually Ophis. The two had actually hit it off rather well and the two introduced her as a dragon girl named 'Phis'"
"Ah...r-right...Phis said that she should stay home, she has a cold. So she's resting. She really wanted to see Kunou though." Issei said.
"..." Kenshin rolled his eyes at Issei. "We can't bring Ophis out in the open like this, and that's the best you could come up with?" Kenshin thought. "Seriously we should just tell Yasaka and Kunou who Ophis really is at this point."
"I've heard that a dragon's cold is quite debilitating. I'll go prepare a special Kyoto remedy, just wait a moment!" Kunou said running off toward the shrine. Yasaka looked back with a pleased giggle. "Ufufu. Sekiryuutei-Sama, Kenshin you two have seemed to have gotten closer to my Kunou in different ways. This is really fortunate." She said.
"Well." Tamamo stepped forward with a smile. "She did show up in what we'd call her sealed state. It would give Kenshin some proper experience on how to deal with children. Thanks for accepting that tip by the way."
"Mmhmhm. I'm helping raise the next potential Demon Queen. I don't mind~! I'd have loved to have someone to help raise Kunou, but..." She glanced away.
"I know... I'm sorry." Tamamo said patting her friend on the shoulder with a smile.
"Yes." Yasaka said.
"Huh, what's up?" Issei asked.
"Kunou's father...wasn't exactly healthy...I fell in love with him while I nursed him back to health...but when I professed the want to have a kit with him...he accepted, but he never told me...that he was due to die soon to a disease." Yasaka said with a sad glance away.
Issei stepped forward and embraced Yasaka. "I'm sure he wanted to give you what you always wanted, Yasaka-Sama."
"Hmn..." Yasaka wrapped her arms around Issei, hugging him back. "Yes, I'm sure...and I'll always be grateful."
"..." Kenshin and Tamamo both shared a glance and a smile at this, but Kenshin immediately snickered and Tamamo giggled behind her fan as Yasaka brought herself closer to Issei, her scent overpowering his senses. "I've helped you all in the past with the assault on the underworld. Even though Kunou's already an adult that I kept in a childlike appearance to dote on. Could you wait a bit longer? If not..I could come live with you." Yasaka said. "Kunou has pestered me more than once about having siblings. ...Not to mention that I haven't had a young man's bareskin in a while." Yasaka paused as she glanced at Kenshin and Tamamo. "And if I recall it's been even longer for you Tamamo."
"!" Kenshin's eyes widened with a blush, but Tamamo waved herself with her fan.
"All in due time Yasaka-Chan." Tamamo giggled.
Yasaka's slender, delicate white fingers slid across Issei's chin. Her attractive gaze and provocative voice served to turn him on even more. "It's only the start of the new year and this woman has already captivated me!"
However, this was broken up by Kunou rushing over and breaking it up. "Okaa-Sama! Your joke has gone far enough! I got him first!"
"Technically Yasaka got him first..." Kenshin, Yukari, Miyuki, Hikari and Alma thought.
Yasaka giggled as Kunou, in her true form latched onto Issei's shoulder and nibbled into it.
"Hahaha, truly an obsessive child. You certainly have feminine charm." Yasaka said before turning toward Kenshin. "Well, seeing is my daughter wants the Sekiryuutei, would you want to take me on?"
"U-Uhm..." Kenshin said with a nervous smile as Tamamo glared at him from behind.
"Hahahaha, relax Tamamo, I'm only joking!" Yasaka laughed.
"Better be." Tamamo growled, her tails starting to coil around Kenshin. "Unless he actually wants you. I won't let you do about that."
"Aah haa...so you wanna be the only fox in his life." Yasaka said with a knowing glance.
"..." Tamamo turned away with a blush. "Sharing Issei with your daughter is one thing...but..."
Yasaka appeared in front of Tamamo and embraced her, whispering in her ear. "Will you relax Tamamo, aside from Amaterasu-Sama. No other fox has the power to take anything away from you, and she ain't interested in much these days."
"I see...thank you Yasaka. I know it's in our nature to tease." Tamamo said as the two separated.
"Haa...even in Kyoto, I can't relax." Rias said with a small facepalm. "Even one of the women interested in Issei came on to my Kenshin."
"Excuse you? I know I've been dead for awhile, but when exactly did he become yours?" Negi asked with a glower.
"Uhh, when you GAVE him to me after that night in Mundus Magicus awhile back? !" Rias shouted.
"I wasn't expecting to be revived and saved by Kenshin! Now that I'm back he's as much mine as he is yours!" Negi snapped back.
"Oh really? ! Let's test that theory then!" Rias said forming an orb of destruction magic above her hand.
Negi smirked, forming an orb of thousands of light arrows. "My mana sickness is getting weaker every day. Let's see who's stronger."
"..." Kenshin brought his hands down on both of their asses.
"A-Aaahnnn? !" Rias and Negi both gasped.
"No violence in Kyoto unless we're being attacked." Kenshin scolded making Rias and especially Negi blush in embarrassment.
"R-Right. I should know, not to use magic right now" Negi said.
"You're just lucky that Kunou and I laid a barrier over Kyoto that completely dampened all magic." Yasaka smiled.
"Just please...if you're jealous, keep me out of it." Kenshin said as he walked forward.
"I...I'm just feeling left out because of all the attention he pays to the others." Rias said after Kenshin left.
"I...I haven't truly been with him in a year and change..." Negi said as both she and Rias displayed a depressed look.
Yasaka giggled. "I see."
"But Chief. Didn't you request that he show us love?" Akeno asked as a tease.
"I...I know I did, but...still..." Rias said poking her fingers together.
"He still loves you." Yasaka smiled.
"Eh?" Rias said.
"Everytime I saw him look at you before, it was with eyes of endearment." Yasaka giggled. "Make no mistake. That man wants you to be his."
Rias paused as she smiled with a blush. "Right. I should have known that." Rias turned to Negi. "I'm sorry Negi-San. I was-"
"No don't worry." Negi said with a smile. "In a group as big as this. It'll be hard for him to get to everyone. Just...please...when I want a moment with him..."
"Hmhm, sure, as long as you afford me the same thing." Rias said with a wink.
"Sure, hell there will probably be times we can have him together!" Negi laughed.
"Hahahaha! Now you're thinking like a devil!" Rias laughed.
Setsuna and Konoka watched this in the back with matching, awkward smiles. "Kono-Chan, it might be awkward to get Kenshin with us in the future if that's what you want." Setsuna said.
"Aaah, I'm fine with that." Konoka giggled. "Ken-kun deserves to be happy and we're a part of that."
"Yes." Setsuna smiled as she knelt toward Konoka as they walked.
"Mmmh." Konoka smiled as well as they walked forward.
"Anyway, gossip aside. I will be sending Kunou-Chan to your academy soon." Yasaka said.
"Eh?" Kenshin and Issei both said.
"Of course, there is no reason for me to refuse it." Rias said.
"Really?" Kenshin asked.
"For real?" Issei said.
"Yeah!" Kunou said looking up at Issei with a smile. "It's about time for me to start learning about the human world. I asked mother and she said it was OK as long as the Kenshin-Sama's legal wife-sama was OK with it."
"Yes, she will be in the same year as Koneko and Ravel." Rias said. "She joins in the spring."
"Oh...well...look forward to having ya." Issei said.
"Still...Kunou was our tour guide during our trip." Yukari said stroking her chin.
"Ahh, that won't be a problem." Raynare said. "If we can't erase their memories, we can edit them. We'll just have them remember Kunou in her true form." She said with a smile.
"Aaah, thanks Raynare." Issei said with a smile.
"Of course!" Raynare replied back, giggling.
"I'm sure O...phis will be happy to see you Kunou-Chan." Issei said.
"Uh huh! I'm excited to see Phis again!"
Kenshin rolled his eyes again, this time Yasaka noticed. "What is it?" Yasaka asked.
Kenshin stepped forward and whispered into Yasaka's ear. "Phis is actually Ophis, you know, THAT Ophis." He said. "Don't worry she's no threat, she's living with us much like Kunou will be." Kenshin said.
"Oh, I see." Yasaka whispered back. "You're sure about this?"
"Ophis maybe strong but she's also naïve. We're her friends now so she won't do anything, she understands the concept of friends and considers Kunou-Chan as such." Kenshin said. "She considers Issei and I as friends. "She'll be fine."
"OK, I'll trust you." Yasaka said.
As the group made their way up the Fushimi Inari Taisha, they were greeted by a familiar sight. "Ara? Rias, Kenshin, I hadn't known you were coming here too."
They saw Sona and her peerage standing ahead of them, everyone was wearing kimonos except for Bennia who was wearing a jacket.
"Didn't feel like wearing one either huh?" Granberia said before being hugged by Alma who wore an incredibly showy kimono which exposed an exceptional amount of cleavage. "Aaah! Get offa me!" Granberia shouted.
"So mean~!" Alma giggled behind her hand.
Xenovia and Kenshin had a stare down with Momo and Saji. "You know I'm not gonna lose to you Saji, right?"
"Heh! This coming from a guy who's already lost to Issei and I once?" Saji asked with a smirk.
"Heh!" Kenshin smirked back. "I've gotten stronger since then, but then again, this isn't about strength."
"That it ain't." Saji said before extending his hand toward Kenshin. "May the best man win."
Kenshin shook Saji's hand. "Indeed. Good luck."
"Good luck to you too." Saji said.
Meanwhile Momo and Xenovia stared each other down even more. "I won't lose to you Xenovia-San."
"That's a bold declaration, because I will definitely win." Xenovia said before shaking hands with Momo. Only to have Kenshin's arm wrap around her, making her blush.
"We're not gonna lose to them, are we Xenovia?" Kenshin asked.
Xenovia blushed and smiled. "Definitely not."
Sona's group walked down the hill, not before Sona paused to kiss Kenshin on the cheek. "Love you darling~" She whispered in his ear as she walked away.
Rias glowered in jealously while Negi giggled. Kenshin turned to her and smiled. "Rias, relax, you're still my number one."
"Yes, while I was jealous about it, if Kenshin wants you, let him want you." Negi said.
"Hmn." Rias smiled back.
Sona paused as her peerage proceeded down the steps. "Momo, Saji."
"Yes?" Momo and Saji both replied.
"Please excuse that moment between Kenshin and I. I love him sure, but I'm rooting for you both." She said with a smile. "Kenshin will understand, so please, give it all you got." Sona said.
"Yes, Sona!" Momo and Saji said pumping their fists.
At the same time, Irina wrapped her arms around Issei's arm as they proceeded up the stairs. "Hum, Kyoto is nice this time of year Darling." She said
Kenshin chuckled at this before Xenovia wrapped her arms around his arm. "Xenovia?"
"Darling." Issei thought. "She has completely changed her attitude, she will sometimes call me darling...and if there was any opportunity and she's become more clingy than before!" Issei thought. "She's learning how to cook, planning to take baths with me. Any opportunity available, she'd sneak into my bed at night. I mean it makes me happy, but hearing her call me darling is enough to make my body go numb!" Issei thought.
"What is it honey?" Xenovia said smiling up at Kenshin.
"!" Kenshin's face went bright red at this. "H-Honey?"
"Is there anything wrong with that Honey?" Xenovia said as she and Irina shared a bright smile.
"S-Say. Irina..." Issei said.
"What is it~ Darling?" Irina said with a sweet tone.
"Why...are you calling me Darling/Honey?" Issei and Kenshin said.
Xenovia and Irina both let out sighs. "Annoying you certainly are. Kenshn-kun, Issei-kun. Hee hee.
"So..I've become Honey/Darling?" Kenshin and Issei thought.
Kenshin smiled. "Ok Xenovia, call me Honey all you want, but let's keep it in private matters"
Xenovia smiled back. "Sounds good to me Honey."
Issei smiled at Irina as well. "So I'm Darling now?"
Irina giggled. "Of course!"
"Well my condition is the same as Kenshin's, only in private." Issei said.
Irina clapped her hands together happily. "Alright~! I can accept that Darling~!" She said before assuming a praying position. "Please lord! Let the forbidden love between Issei-kun and I continue! Even if there's an obstacle between between us, there will be no problems as long as we have love!" Irina said.
"Wow, her eyes are even sparkling." Kenshin and Issei thought.
"That reminds me, I haven't prayed yet." Xenovia said.
"Neither have I!" Asia said.
"Ah, dear Lord!" Irina, Xenovia and Asia all shouted aloud.
"What a devoted prayer! I also need to try!" Kunou said.
"Hahaha, everyone is rather interesting." Yasaka said as she and Kunou imitated the Church Trio.
"Hahaha..." Kenshin and Issei both chuckled as they witnessed the five of them pray to various gods.
Everyone reached the peak of the Fushimi Inari Taisha. Issei and Kenshin both knelt and clapped their hands together. "?" Kenshin glanced, seeing Yukari and Miyuki kneeling next to him. "Huh?"
"We want the same thing as you." Yukari smiled.
"Yeah!" Miyuki giggled.
"Alright." Kenshin smiled back.
"Please let everyone return OK out of all this." Kenshin, Yukari and Miyuki all said.
"Please let everyone be healthy...then let me make my harem in peace!" The Kuroshi Tsuki siblings all laughed softly as Yukari and Miyuki gently bopped Issei on the head. They even heard a teasing lie from Koneko. "When you wish, you need to give your own address and given name to the god, otherwise he'd probably ignore you, do you understand, Gya-kun?"
"Eh? ! I didn't know that Koneko-Chan! I need to do it again!" Gasper said.
"Oh Koneko." Kenshin smiled.
"Wh-What was that for?" Issei asked.
"Oh no reason." Miyuki giggled.
"Yeah, we just felt you needed a bop on the head bro." Yukari smiled.
"Bro?" Issei said.
Miyuki and Yukari both embraced Issei. "You may be a pervert, but." Miyuki said.
"Kenshin obviously sees you as his brother, so we will too, just don't get too grabby OK?" Yukari said.
"Heheheh! You got a deal, Yukari-San, Miyuki-San!" Issei said hugging them both back.
"Mmm." Yukari and Miyuki both smiled and even went as far as to kiss Issei on both of his cheeks.
Kenshin smiled at this as well. He turned to see Ravel, with both of her eyes sparkling. "I'm really looking forward to the school trip! Although Kyoto in winter is nice. I also wanna have a good tour during autumn."
Kunou smiled and patted Ravel's head. "I'll make sure to give you and everyone else a great tour."
Ravel beamed at this. "I'm looking forward to it."
"I made a wish...I hope that Fafnir-San can recover quickly." Asia said.
Kenshin stared at her. "Yeah...I guess despite my presence, Fafnir still took on a lot of damage from Rizevim.
"This year, I will definitely have Kenshin's children." Xenovia said.
Kenshin wrapped his arm around Xenovia's waist. "We'll see Xenovia-Chan, we'll see."
"Mmhmhm, I was half joking. I was hoping to have a smooth election with you. Though I don't know if God will grant the wishes of a devil." Xenovia said.
"Well, do we wanna win through our own strength right?" Kenshin asked with a smile.
"Of course!" Xenovia said with a confident smile. "Victory or defeat, it's only meaningful if you put in your best effort."
"Right!" Kenshin said pumping his fist up with hers.
"Well, wish me good luck." Xenovia said as she inched her face closer to Kenshin's, clasping both his cheeks with both her hands.
"OK." Kenshin smiled as he wrapped his arms around Xenovia's waist, meeting her lips in a short, sweet kiss.
"Thank you." Xenovia said with a smile.
"Of course Xenovia." Kenshin said hugging her tightly.
"Mmmh..." Xenovia smiled as they separated.
"..." Kenshin smiled at Xenovia. Rias could be heard sighing behind them. "It seems it won't be as easy as last year." Rias said.
"Ara, let's hope you can take the lead from the other girls. I'm looking forward to it you know." Akeno smiled, cupping her cheek.
"Heh, like that'll happen, right Miyuki?" Yukari asked with a smirk.
"Right!" Miyuki said pumping her fist upward.
(break)
After the winter holiday
Asia sat at what was formally Rias' desk, Asia, the new club leader was oblivious. Kenshin was nowhere to be found either.
"Hey Asia." Yukari said.
"Ding dong, anybody home?" Miyuki asked.
"Chief Asia...!" Issei said.
Asia's eyes widened a bit as she realized she was being called out to. "A-Aah! S-Sorry I didn't know you were trying to get my attention!"
"Well, it is only the beginning." Issei said.
"Yeah..." Yukari and Miyuki both said.
"Well how about we right down what our ambitions are?" Kiba suggested. "Because Former Chief Rias is no longer here, we should decide our own direction."
"Where are Ch-...er Rias-San and Akeno-San anyway?" Issei said. "Not gonna lie, it feels a little lonely without them around."
"They said they might stop by if they were interested. Like Former President Sona and Shinra-San, they went to the third year classrooms to chat." Koneko said.
"Rias basically handed everything over to us. She said that if she comes here, then she could easily affect the new arrangement, so she's waiting until we settled down, to decide when she would come back." Kiba said.
"That and Xenovia and Kenshin are basically leaving the club as well to run for Student Council President and Vice President." Miyuki said.
"So...that means, Chief Rias and Akeno-san...as well as Xenovia-San and Kenshin-Senpai will hardly ever come, and then the former two will graduate." Gasper said with a lonely expression.
"Gya-kun, you're too pessimistic." Koneko said patting Gasper on the head. "And don't forget, you always have Valerie-San waiting for you at home."
Kiba and Gasper had actually moved into different apartments in the Gremory owned complex. So Kiba was on his own, which suited him fine, as he could spend time alone with Tsubaki, while Gasper and Valerie lived together. "I know that, but...I guess I'm just too used to them all being here, especially Chief Rias and Akeno-San." Gasper said.
Ravel took a sip of the red tea she had served everyone. While commenting. "Well, it's not like the Kuoh Academy's university and high school divisions are far away. It's just a walk away if we need some advice."
"Rias-oneesama's graduation is one thing, the first who have joined us are another thing, and both will be happening soon. I feel that one year passes by very quickly. I mean I came here in spring of last year." Asia said gazing at Rias' former chair, but she wasn't mentally prepared. Issei, Yukari, Miyuki, Ravel, Kiba, Sextum who was using her ice magic to chill some ice cream before serving it to Koneko, Gasper, Miyuki and Asia with a smile told her not to pressure herself..
"In a few months, I'll also become a third year student and the new first year students will also be starting? So we should be confirming our new members." Asia said.
Koneko held up her left hand. "There are five new members."
"Eh? Who?" Ravel asked.
"Le Fay-San, Bennia-San, Raynare-San, Setsuna-San and Konoka-San and Negi-San" Ravel said.
"Negi, Setsuna and Konoka already took the entrance exams. Negi will be with us starting next year, while Konoka and Setsuna will be second years with Koneko, Ravel, Kazumi and Gasper." Yukari said.
"Well honestly...doing things as we have been sounds fine." Miyuki said as Issei fantasized about Le Fay and Bennia in the Kuoh uniform. "If it ain't broke don't fix it. Just change things as we go if we need to."
"Yes, that sounds very feasible." Kiba nodded.
"Even if the leadership has changed, my feelings toward the Occult Research Club haven't changed. I did anything I could for Rias and Akeno-San, now I'll do the same for Chief Asia!" Issei thought.
"Knock Knock!" The doors swung open and in walked Xenovia, Irina, Kiryuu and Kenshin, the latter at the front.
"We picked Xenovia's victory dress for the election." Kiryuu said.
"Hoo, cool right?" Xenovia asked, wearing fine clothing like that of the Medieval European aristocracy, however it seemed to be in a male's style.
"Eh." Kenshin said. "Yeah, it's meant for a guy, but she pulls it off quite well. Secchan can do the same."
"Well, I wanted Xenovia to suit her new clothes and it does carry the feeling of a president, right? If she was wearing this while standing in front of the school gates, the female students would all be screaming." Kiryuu said
"Ah, should I be saying 'Andre' and carry Kenshin in my arms." Xenovia wondered.
"Oh please sweep me off my feet Kaichou-Chan." Kenshin said with a grin, his hands interlocked behind his head making everyone laugh.
"Well the clothes make the man just as the saddle makes a horse as they say." Irina said.
"Irina-San...I think you're a little wrong." Asia said.
Issei pulled Kiryuu to the side. "Ara ara, regarding everything, if Xenovia were to use magic to bewitch everyone, then she would be invincible."
"Yeah, but her powers can't be used on normal students." Issei said before pausing. "Wait...I know you're in the loop about magic, but..."
"Kiryuu's one of my regulars." Xenovia said, having heard them talking.
"Yeah, some time back in December I got a flier back near the station back before the alpha over there disappeared back to the magic world." Kiryuu was cut off for a bit.
"That's actually a magic world laid on a different dimension on Mars." Kenshin said.
"Really? You're a Martain?" Kiryuu said with a curious look.
"Pretty much." Kenshin, Yukari and Miyuki all shrugged.
"Anyway, I ended up summoned Xenovia and ended up having a chat, in the end. Rias also ended up appearing. What surprised me the most was later when Murayama, Katase and I all watched Kenshin over there going to town on that blonde bitch, by the way Kenshin, how do you deal with losing limbs?"
"You get used to it after awhile, as strange as that sounds." Kenshin shrugged again. "Anyway, as I understand it, you know about what we're trying to do?"
"Yes, you guys really don't have it easy huh?" Kiryuu said. "Also a friend of yours bumped into me the other day."
"Lemme guess, tan skin, raven black hair?" Kenshin asked.
"Yeah actually." Kiryuu asked. "She asked if I wanted to learn how to defend myself."
"Yeah, she's legit. Now they you know about us. There's a chance you'll bump into rouge devils and the like. She's a half demon and a great marksman." Kenshin said. "It's ultimately up to you."
"Hrm...I see." Kiryuu said. "Well, I think that Xenovia and Kenshin don't have any problems so, they really don't need any makeup or strange costumes, but we could take come pictures of them working together."
"Well, no matter what I'm gonna win against Hanakai." Xenovia said.
"Well I can't help you since I'm now the President of the Club, but I'll support you as a friend." Asia said.
"Aaah, such a passionate friendship." Irina said as the three clap their hands together.
"Amen!" The three exclaim at the same time.
"Well, that's why I said I'll assist Xenovia and Kenshin. You guys of the new Occult Research Club need to work hard. Come on you three." Kiryuu said.
"Hmn." Kenshin threw out a clone stencil and activated it. "Stay here." He said to it before leaving.
"Next, I wait until the Occult Research Club has settled down from its initial period as I need to return to the Underworld for awhile." Ravel said.
"Oh right. You need to temporarily return as a member of her brother's peerage." Kiba said.
"Mother was concerned that Onii-Sama's peerage wasn't full as was I, so she traded me back to him." Ravel said. "So I'll be back to join the game."
"I thought Raiser told you that your participation wasn't needed." Kenshin's clone said.
"Kenshin, you know about Raiser's return match?" Issei asked.
"Yeah, he's getting a shot at the title." Kenshin's clone said. "Diehauser Belial himself. I don't like his chances, but I think this will be a good announcement that he's back."
"Eeh? ! Really? ! When did you find out?" Issei asked.
"I happened along a conversation between Ravel and Raiser." Kenshin's clone shrugged.
Issei paused, thinking about how Raiser gave up a spot of a member of his harem so he could get Ravel back. "Say is it possible to have last minute trades?"
"Well, basically trades which happen after a match is decided need to fulfill certain conditions to be recognized. So it often leads to cancellations. If the trade happens after the match was agreed upon, if the trader was indecisive, or there was constant changes in strategy, a whole peerage could change hands in ten minutes."
"Wow really?" Kenshin's clone said, writing that down to leave as a note to the real him.
"Well, while that's true and all, this time it was because Onii-Sama's peerage wasn't full. I was originally a member of his peerage in the past, so the scores of the game aren't largely affected. It was decided by the side predicted to win, and various other conditions."
"How far ahead is he currently anyway?" Issei said. "I forget."
Koneko spoke up. "He seems to be around 3500 points. Even the top ten who are ranked over 3000 are called unknowns."
"Jeez, so the gap is that big? No wonder he's been the champion for a long time." Issei thought.
"What about Raiser?" Miyuki asked.
"He's an official competitor, how does he stack up?" Yukari asked.
"...Not even 2000 points. That said he's still considered as one of the promising young competitors." Ravel said.
"More than 1500? ! That's ridiculous! He'll get worked for sure!" Issei thought.
"Normally speaking a game with such a large difference wouldn't be held. It's basically an exhibition match for Raiser's return." Kiba said.
"Every so often, it's a special even known as Emperor Belial's Ten Matches and one of his opponents happens to be Onii-Sama." Ravel said.
"Ahh, right. I do recall Rias saying something that recording it would be essential." Kenshin said.
"Well because of the various combinations you don't typically see." Ravel said.
"So...it's all just one giant flex by Diehauser Belial then?" Miyuki said with a bored expression.
"I...guess you could say that, but...anyway...it's a great honor for Onii-Sama, as well as our family in whole, even if it's an exhibition, to be selected as one of Emperor Belial's opponents, it makes us very happy. There's no reason for us to refuse." Ravel said puffing her chest out proudly, only to have Kenshin's clone embarrass her by petting her head with a smile.
"Cute." Kenshin's clone smiled.
"A-Ahem." Ravel cleared her throat, waving off her blush, but noticed Koneko didn't react all that jealously, just a bit of a pout. "Hmm...did she finally make her move? Well that's good I guess." She thought. "A-Anyway, I'll be returning to the lands of the Phenex."
Suddenly the doors to the room opened. Rias, Akeno, Azazel as well as Sona's peerage. Kenshin's clone stared at this before making a handsign.
Kenshin looked up from their planning for the election. "Xenovia, Irina, we're needed in the clubroom. Kiryuu take five, go grab a snack, or I can send Mana in here to speak with you."
"Alright." Kiryuu nodded as the three warped away.
Kenshin, Irina and Xenovia all appear in the room as well. "What's up Azazel?" Kenshin asked as he and Rias summoned their peerages.
"Though...it's the start of a new school term, I regret to say that there is some bad news, it's not the worst, but I should at least tell you first." Azazel said
"Not the worst of bad news..." Issei drawled.
"Azazel, who are you trying to fool?" Yukari asked.
"Seriously." Hikari sighed.
"The past few months have been nothing but a series of fans and shits." Evangeline grunted.
"Some of the Church's followers, in particular the warriors under it's control are rebelling." Azazel said.
"Aah, I remember." Granberia said.
"Didn't the warriors of the church have a problem with the alliance from the beginning?" Alma asked.
"I mean it's a legitimate gripe, that their services were lessening in need since the youkai and even the vampires are moving toward a peace treaty, but..." Chachamaru said.
"But it's also the same as getting laid off from your job." Evangeline scoffed.
"Yes, but...think about it from their end Evangeline-San. Their way of life has been taken from them. They were trained from birth to fight against evil." Xenovia said. "I was once like them until I became a devil. They aren't sure how to live their lives now, they feel helpless and this is the only thing they know how to do."
"Oh, so you condone their actions?" Evangeline asked.
"Of course I don't." Xenovia growled. "If we're going toward peace why would I?"
Before the two could argue further. Azazel cut in again. "It's fine, Evangeline, Xenovia. In fact most of them have already been quelled. The cadre class leaders who were behind it have all been arrested"
"I'm sensing a but...with a load of shit and a fan." Kazumi glowered.
"Three of the rebel leaders are on the run. Currently there are many soldiers who are still following them." Azazel said.
Sona cleared her throat. "Three of them are his Eminence Cardinal Bishop Teodoro Legrenzi, His Emnience Cardinal Priest Vasco Strada, and His Eminence Cardinal Deacon Ewald Cristaldi."
"Uuuugggghh..." Kenshin groaned pinching the bridge of his nose.
"What is it Kenshin?" Rias asked.
"Just great, one of the three rebels just so happens to be Xenovia's predecessor as the wielder of Durandal." Kenshin facepalmed.
"I mean...you're right, but how did you know that?" Azazel asked.
Kenshin ignored him for a bit and turned to Xenovia. "The reason I've been putting off helping you train is that I've been researching previous wielders of Durandal." Kenshin explained. "One of the people that came up was Vasco Strada. They say he came close to equaling or surpassing Roland."
"Though he's already eighty seven years old." Irina said.
"That doesn't matter. Even to humans a master is still a master. That doesn't leave the body." Yukari said shaking her head.
"Yeah...I have to agree with Yukari." Issei said with a bit of a sweat. "He's that old and still has the energy to rebel?"
"Yes..." Xenovia said. "We should forget his age, he's still a living legend, and his body has barely aged."
"Hrm...That would be because he still kept himself in shape to wield Durandal." Kenshin said.
Xenovia nodded at this. "Yes. I would imagine so."
"Yeah, even if he looks older now, he's not weak, he's still just as strong. In World War II he fought against Kokabiel and in the end we were at a disadvantage." Azazel said.
"Wait...World War II?" Hikari said staring at Azazel.
"Not that World War II." Azazel said with a sigh. After the BIG ONE, the three factions war, we'd have skirmishes here and there. Since they involved Heaven and at least the Underworld we'd call these World Wars." Azazel said. "After the Three Factions War I was fucking tired of it. The second one was because Kokabiel was an idiot and I had to act as the Governor General."
"Well, maybe it's because you're a workaholic." Hikari said approaching him, whipping around to his back. "Maybe you just need to relax a bit." She said rubbing Azazel's back.
"Understandable. What father would want to kill his own child? Punishing them by falling sure, but still." Kenshin nodded ignoring his mother's antics.
"!" Azazel resisted the urge to let out a groan
"Wait, Kokabiel had trouble with a human?" Issei thought. "I know he had trouble with Kenshin earlier, but he was powering that seal and all. I'm pretty sure if Kokabiel was taking that battle seriously, all of us, even Vali would have gotten bodied." Issei thought.
"Anyway." Azazel said pushing Hikari to his side, but not before wrapping his arm around her waist. This brought a smile to the Kuroshi Tsuki siblings faces and especially Hikari's, which didn't go unnoticed by Azazel who smiled at her before frowning. "That reminds me, wasn't he up to become an Ace of the Four Great Seraphs?"
"Yes, Uriel-Sama and Raphael-Sama, both requested his Eminence Strada, but he refused. He said he wanted to return to the Lord when he died." Irina answered.
"Um...may I step in here?" Asia asked with a nervous smile. "During my time with the church, I met his Eminence Strada once, he seemed like an honest and friendly person."
"So wouldn't he understand the path the church is taking to end conflict?" Miyuki asked.
"Haa...Personally. I really don't want to run into Cristaldi-Sensei...he was our mentor after all." Irina said.
"..." Xenovia put on a complicated expression, same as Irina. "I know. I was also under his care, he taught me how to fight against devils and vampires."
"He was able to control three Excaliburs at once after all." Irina said.
"Yeah, even we at the Grigori were wary of him, we even thought it would be impossible to control all six...Vasco and Ewald are basically titans with armies at their backs. It wouldn't be a lie to say half the church was in rebellion." Azazel said
"So that's what Michael-Sama meant by rebels." Issei and Kenshin both said.
"They are blessed with talent, they can even kill the highest class of devils. These people are extremely rare that they become legends, even to devils and they're still alive now." Sona said.
"They want this head?" Kenshin grunted. "Come get it, can't do much more than what's already been done to me."
Azazel glanced at Kenshin, before continuing. "Teodoro Legrenzi is the youngest, yet his position as a Cardinal Bishop is a special case."
"I've never seen him. It was said even within the higher ups he's a mysterious person."
"Indeed." Xenovia said.
"I've also only heard his name, but never actually seen him in person. Not even Sister Griselda has seen him, I think." Irina said with a pondering look.
"We've interrogated the people we've captured, and unfortunately...their target is here." Azazel said. "They're hoping to find us, but they didn't want to just talk."
"..." Everyone's tension was increasing by the second, even Negi, Konoka, and Setsuna who were listening in through Kenshin.
Azazel smiled wryly. "Come on though, all of you have been through many life and death situations, but this situation should have zero casualties. Hell even though there were injuries in the rebellion at the Vactican, no one died, Reincarnated angels came and did their best, in this incident, ultimately there were many warriors who were distress and their long standing resentment burst out."
"Well, no one died, that's truly lucky, but it might happen again." Issei said.
"Yes." Kenshin, Sona, Rias and everyone else nodded, but Sona paused to sigh.
"It's still possible that this turns into a full scale war." Sona said before glancing at Kenshin. "Sorry Kenshin, but your conflict with Lord Bael doesn't do us any favors."
"I know." Kenshin said with his eyes closed. "I'm sorry."
"The terrorists may also capitalize on this and make their move." Sona continued. "The defeat of either side would be favorable."
"Yeah, we need to be wary. This whole incident was started by Rizevim." Azazel said. "Or so it's said that he encouraged this. In this term of rebellion that man is truly the Devil...his father. If it's related to incitement and encouragement no one equals him. Overly cautious isn't a thing with him is what Sona said.
"Tch...so Rizevim is sending the church after us through lies?" Kenshin scoffed. "Give me a fucking break."
"...Though...having said that. Kuoh Academy seems to be a fated ground for holy swords." Saji said, before seeing Kiba's expression change. "S-Sorry Kiba, I shouldn't have-" He was cut off as Kiba laughed.
"It's fine, I've come to terms with it. I won't lead my life by my hatred of holy swords to live. I have something more important now." Kiba said, casting a smile at Tsubaki who blushed, but also smiled.
Azazel smiled as well. "The fate of the holy swords is not necessarily a joke or superficial. This is a good opportunity. Xenovia, Irina and Kiba, wielders of holy swords should strive to surpass their predecessors. If the opportunity comes, you should go all out. Since you're taking on the name of DxD., this is the least you can do, use your skill against the enemy."
"Surpass our predecessors." Xenovia said before Kenshin's hand slapped down on her shoulder.
Kenshin smiled. "I know you can do it Xenovia"
"!" Xenovia blushed, but smiled. "Thank you Kenshin."
"Listen everyone. We should treat this action by the church rebels as the same as with Qlippoth. Don't let your guard down."
"Right!" Everyone said. With this said, the meeting was concluded and club activities were ended.
(break)
In Makai.
The Dark Goddess, Alipheese the First was passing through a plain, when she paused to shiver. "Damn, why is it so cold?" Alipheese wondered.
"S-Same." Kanon said walking with all her vines wrapped around her.
"I think it feels OK, but I see how uncomfortable you all feel." Kanade said.
"That's because you're a slime, but eventually it gets too cold for even you." Minagi said before wrapping her arms around herself. "Mom damn it! I'm fucking freezing!"
"I am too." Saja whined.
"Seriously...I know it's the latter part of winter, but still." Hiruko said with a glower.
"That's because a certain goddess is dying."
"? !" Alipheese and the five Ancestral Youkai that were with her all glared as Yama appeared from a portal that appeared in front of them.
"Haha, relax Alipheese." Yama laughed.
"What do you want?" Alipheese hissed. "You have a lot of guts to appear in front of me and my daughters without Ilias."
"I'm not alone." Yama said forming a handsign as a coffin erupted from the ground, the front falling off.
"? !" Alipheese and the Ancestors all gasped.
"Heheh." Yama smirked as three sixes appeared on his eyes and forehead.
"HOW DARE YOU DESECRATE RAGNAROK'S GRAVE!" Alipheese screamed angrily.
"Aah ah ah." Yama said wagging his finger. "I have a control apparatus on him...a perfected one. He's asleep right now."
"..." Alipheese went silent.
"Mother?" Kanade asked.
"...God damn it..." Alipheese growled. "What do you want?"
"Hm?" Yama said holding his hand over his ear.
"WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU WANT FROM ME? !" Alipheese screamed again.
"...I want you to fight Kenshin Kuroshi...kill him and I'll give Ragnarok back." Yama said.
"W-What?" Alipheese said with wide eyes. "Kill Ragnarok's reincarnation...h-he'd never..."
"Then live forever without him." Yama said with a smirk. "Just think about it Alipheese. Also...to add onto this...Ilias is dying because she's sealed into the Tsurugi no Kami.
"What? God's Sword...there's no way!" Alipheese said
"But she is." Yama said with a cruel smirk. "Ilias is dying, because Forbesii sealed her with a seal powerful enough to affect this mortal plain as it filters her mana out." Yama said, "Also...you should know that the seal binding her are causing Makai and the Divine Realms to die." Yama said.
"!" Alipheese's eyes widened. "W-What? !"
"Oh struck a nerve did I?" Yama asked with a smirk. "I found out that if you're dying...Makai and the Divine Realms will burn in Ilias' light, but the reverse? Both will be swallowed by darkness. What you're feeling now is the imbalance. Ilias' light is waning, so there's little warmth for her angels or your youkai. So I have to ask...if this continues...what happens? I mean obviously the plant youkai are the first to go."
"!" Kanon scowled at Yama.
"What?" Yama mocked. "The lack of sunlight is hardly anything good for your kind...then the reptiles, birds and slimes will go." He said making Saja and Kanade bristle in anger. "The Scylla or tentacled demons won't make it either...and the last to go would be the beast demons that Tamamo reigns over and the Succubi and Incubi, being the most human like will go."
"..." Having pissed off all the ancestors and Alipheese, the Dark Goddess. "You talk like you're trying to save both realms. If they are in such imbalance, why not kill me yourself, cowardly Shinigami?"
"Because I'm not trying to save them. The Divine Realms, Makai. I care little for what happens to them. I'm just orchestrating a movie as it were." Yama said with a smirk. "Face it Alipheese, you have to do this."
"So you're asking me to kill myself?" Alipheese glowered.
"Or lower yourself to whatever level of power Ilias is at right now." Yama said. "While also finding a way to free her from the Tsurugi no Kami so her power isn't being drained out anymore."
"..." Alipheese bowed her head forward, her bangs shadowing her eyes.
"Now do you see what dire straits you face?" Yama asked with a smirk. "Either you die or weaken yourself, or kill Ragnarok's reincarnation, free Ilias and enslave her..." Yama said as he walked away.
"Wait!" Alipheese bellowed.
"What?" Yama said as he turned his head to her with a callous smirk.
"I...If I do this...will Makai return to normal? Will my children be able to live in freedom again?" Alipheese growled.
"If you kill Kenshin and capture Ilias, sure. I don't care what happens to these worlds anyway, my City of Souls will still be safe." Yama said
"Damn you...you don't plan on giving Ragnarok back at all do you?" Alipheese asked.
"If you do the job, I will most certainly give him back. He's little more than a bodyguard to me." Yama said. "So...for Makai's and your own sakes...you better do it." Yama said as he walked into the portal
"Mother..." Saja said.
"Damn it..." Alipheese cursed. "If I do this...I kill Ragnarok's reincarnation and break Tamamo's heart. I saw at first glance how much she cared for him, yet if I don't...Makai will be swallowed by my darkness."
"There's also how Ragnarok would feel about this." Hiruko said with a sad look. "We all cared about him, but you loved him."
"I know..." Alipheese said with a sigh. "But...what that bastard said holds some truth. If Ilias' power continues to wane, it's only a matter of time."
(break)
Meanwhile.
The next day.
"Haaaaa!"
"Hyyyaaaaa!"
Both Kiba and Xenovia were training with Kenshin who used Angel Halo and Shiroi Tengoku to block them
"Nice moves." Heinrich complimented.
"Yeah well I know how to fight these two, so that helps." Kenshin thought.
"Haaaaa!" Xenovia yelled, slashing down at Kenshin.
"Hmn." Kenshin smirked and dodged the slash, kicking her in the ribs toward Kiba.
"Eh? !" Kiba said. "It was so fast!"
"Worry about yourself, when in danger." Kenshin said grabbing Kiba by the face and slamming him to the ground. "Trust your ally to be OK. Grieve after when they aren't, being injured or dead."
Kiba kicked Kenshin off of him and appeared a distance away, with Xenovia appearing beside him. "So...how was that?" Xenovia asked.
Kenshin casted away his swords and clapped with a smile. "Your teamwork is great." He said before frowning. "Though I feel like you two worry too much. Kiba, you showed it when I kicked Xenovia away."
"I know, but I can't help it." Kiba said.
"I know, there are times when even I can't help it, but even then...I still trust Yukari with my life." Kenshin said before turning to Xenovia. "Are you OK?"
"Yeah, just a little sore." Xenovia said.
"Do you two want to continue?" Kenshin asked.
"Yes!" Kiba shouted.
"Please help us get stronger Kenshin!" Xenovia said readying EX Durandal.
Kenshin closed his eyes with a smirk. "That's what I like to hear." He said as Angel Halo appeared in his hand. "Now COME ON!"
Kiba and Xenovia both rushed him, Kenshin already in his Subspecies Balance Breaker, Abyssal Dragon of the Elements. He blocked Xenovia's slash and kicked Kiba away. "Heh!" Kenshin smirked as he started running, driving Xenovia back.
"W-Wha? !" Xenovia gasped.
"What? You two did ask me not to hold back." Kenshin said as he slashed Angel Halo backward before pointing it at them, "Stop holding back! You want to be able to take on the likes of those Priests, prove you're ready!"
"Haaa!" Kiba yelled, slashing his Sword of Betrayer at him.
"Hmn." Kenshin defended with Shiroi Tengoku. "Knives of Heavenly Fire!"
"Aaaagghh!" Kiba shouted as he was driven back.
"Death Sword Chaos Star!" Kenshin and Xenovia both shouted before jumping backward.
"Nice form Xenovia." Kenshin said.
Xenovia nodded with a smirk. "I've been watching you."
"Oh, so you're a copycat hm?" Kenshin said.
"Not at all, don't people usually imitate the best? !" Xenovia said as she slashed down at him.
Kenshin held Angel Halo against her Ex Durandal with a smirk. "Good point Xeno-Chan!" Kenshin said. "!" Kenshin's eyes widened as Kiba appeared next to him, swinging Garm into his stomach, knocking him back.
"Thanks for the distraction Xenovia." Kiba said.
"You're welcome." Xenovia said brushing her blue hair to the side.
A power exploded out of the woods Kenshin was driven into, as a figure landed in front of them. "Hahahahaha!"
"!" Kiba and Xenovia's eyes both widened in shock as Kenshin landed in front of them, smirking.
"Come on, you wanted me to be at my strongest outside of the Vessel of the Elements." Kenshin said. "Come on!" Xenovia and Kiba both dove at Kenshin who blocked with Angel Halo. "Heh...holy shit, you two are strong." Kenshin said as he was driven back, before digging his heels in, slashing Angel Halo downward, splitting them apart. Kenshin dove for Kiba. "Heavenly Demon Revival!"
"Ghhh!" Kiba growled, but nodded.
"Haaa!" Xenovia slashed down at him with Ex Durandal.
Kenshin used his tails to throw out a substitution stencil and activated it to block her.
"You think a clone can hold me off? !" Xenovia shouted.
"No, but I also know you won't release Ex Durandal's full power with Kiba right in front of me." Kenshin said. "Hrrmmm!" He charged forward, planting Kiba into a tree before turning and meeting Xenovia's Ex Durandal which had just sliced through his clone.
"Grrh..." Xenovia growled.
"Come on! You know Strada's probably gonna have you in his sights if we meet him and those other priests on the battlefield!" Kenshin said as he started pushing Xenovia back.
"Ghh! I-I know! That why I asked for this!" Xenovia said.
"Then come on! Release that sword's full power and put me on my ass!" Kenshin shouted.
"HAAAAA! !" Xenovia roared, pushing Ex Durandal forward, slashing Kenshin backward, an explosion of power erupting from it. When the smoke cleared, Kenshin was on his back.
Xenovia cautiously lowered her sword and approached the downed Kenshin. "Haaaa!" She saw Kiba leap toward him and slash down at him with the Garm. "Kiba! Wait we've..."
(clang!)
The Garm met Angel Halo as Kenshin pushed against Kiba. "Never conclude that your opponent is down because they're on their back Xenovia!" Kenshin said as he forced himself back up to a standing base. "You have the same problem as her Kiba. You refuse to use the Garm's full power." Kenshin said, growling as Kiba tried to shove him backward.
"If I do...I accept it's curse." Kiba said.
"Siegfried found a way around it, so why can't you?" Kenshin asked. "He was just a human after all."
"Krrh..." Kiba growled as Kenshin shoved him back.
"I mean come on! If curses could kill me, I'd already be dead!" Kenshin said. "Trust yourself to make it out of it OK!"
"Haaaa!" A red aura burst out around Kiba, making Kenshin smirk.
"That's the way!" Kenshin said before being slashed backward.
"Hah...haa..." Kiba panted.
"Kiba are you OK?" Xenovia said landing right next to him.
"I'm fine, but controlling Garm's curse is tiring." Kiba said.
"Well then...let's see how you deal with THIS!" The two looked over to see Kenshin lifting Angel Halo skyward
"? !" Xenovia's eyes widened. "He's using that against us? !"
"The Quadruple Giga?" Kiba asked.
"Yeah, get ready!" Xenovia said readying Ex Durandal.
"Right!" Kiba said.
"They think I'm using the Quadruple Giga?" Kenshin thought. "Heh, you two may be strong...but that's a bit much. This is a Katensho." However...as he was slashing he felt something flare to life inside him. "Wait...this is...!" Kenshin threw Angel Halo to his side and used Shundou to appear in front Kiba and Xenovia, taking the Katensho to his back.
"Kenshin!/Kenshin-kun!" Xenovia and Kiba both shouted.
"Heh..." Kenshin said with a tired smirk. "That wasn't...the Quadruple Giga...I'd never use that against friends, in training...it was just a Katensho."
"Then...why did you...!" Kiba stopped as Kenshin opened his eyes.
"I believe these two gilded eyes of mine should answer your question." Kenshin said before falling forward.
Kenshin! Kenshin-kun!" Xenovia and Kiba shouted, catching him. "He went into the Demigod State?" Kiba said.
"So, he was protecting us?" Xenovia said as they lifted Kenshin up.
"Yeah, I don't think he was expecting it." Kiba said.
They took Kenshin into the clubroom where Rias, Issei and others were waiting. "What happened?" Rias asked with a worried look.
"Well, Xenovia and I asked Kenshin to help us train and he suggested a one vs two sparring match." Kiba said.
"Wow, you two fucked Kenshin up this much?" Issei asked.
"No." Xenovia said shaking her head.
"No?" Irina said with Raynare nodding.
"Kenshin controlled the entire match, but when he went to launch a Katensho at us. He suddenly appeared in front of us and took the blow himself. Very shortly afterward, he revealed that he'd gone into his Demigod State." Kiba said
"? !" Everyone let out a gasp.
"Hrnnn..." Kenshin grunted as his eyes opened as he sat up.
"Kenshin, are you OK? !" Yukari asked.
"I'm fine Yukari, just a little sore." Kenshin grunted. "Are both my eyes still gold?"
"Um...yeah." Miyuki said nervously.
"Haa...I see." Kenshin sighed.
"Kenshin-kun...I could..." Akeno began to suggest but was cut off by Kenshin.
"Akeno, I can't just keep coming to you every time this flares up." Kenshin said. "We both have our own lives to live and this has already happened twice since then."
"I know...but still..." Akeno said with a hurt expression. "I want to be able to help you."
Kenshin smiled at her. "I know, but I can't go around, pulling you away from your studies. I appreciate everything you do for me, but I don't want to hold you back from living your own life."
"I know..." Akeno said holding her hand over her heart. "Thank you Kenshin-kun, but please don't hesitate to ask for my help."
"Or mine." Rias said. "Though I can't do the things Akeno can...I can help you in other ways!" Rias said.
"Relax Rias." Kenshin smiled. "Though I do need a favor." He said turning to Yukari and Miyuki.
"What's up?" Yukari said with an interested look.
"Call Evangeline here." Kenshin said.
"Huh?" Miyuki said checking her phone for the time. "She'd probably be asleep right now Onii-Chan."
"I don't care. Tell her it's urgent." Kenshin said.
Minutes later Evangeline appeared in her Yukihime form with a frustrated look. "Damn it Kenshin, what do you want? If it's for a fuck buddy, let me wake up a bit." She said making Rias, Akeno, Koneko, Miyuki, Xenovia, Irina, Sextum, and Asia all blush while Raynare just laughed. .
"Relax, this isn't a booty call." Kenshin said. "I need you to do something for me."
"Hm?" Evangeline said, looking interested.
"Dana. Call her for me." Kenshin said.
"!" Evangeline immediately scowled. "You want me to call that old hag?"
"I do..." Kenshin said opening his eyes revealing his golden irises to her
"I see..." Evangeline said. "You're in that state and don't know why...so you're hoping that hag might help you out."
"She was the first person that pointed out that I had the power shelled away." Kenshin said pointing a thumb at his chest.
"Haa..." Evangeline let out a weary sigh. "Alright..I'll call her."
"Thank you Evangeline. I'm sorry for the trouble." Kenshin said.
"It's fine, I'll just charge you for it later." Evangeline said with a smirk.
"Of course you will." Kenshin said with a wry smirk as Evangeline went into a focused state.
Suddenly a portal opened and Dana dove out, tackle hugging Evangeline. "Aaagh!" Evangeline shouted.
"Kitty!" Dana said.
"Get offa me!" Evangeline said swatting her away.
"So this is Dana?" Rias asked.
"Yeah...Dana." Kenshin said.
"Huh?" Dana said. "Oh, I see you awakened your hidden power."
"Yeah." Kenshin said, "I've awakened it a few times."
"I see, so that's why Kitty called me." Dana said.
Evangeline turned to Rias. "Say anything and I kill you." Evangeline said.
Rias smirked. "Bring it on."
"..." Kenshin glared at Evangeline before turning to Dana. "Come on, I need to speak with you."
"Alright fine." Dana said as she opened a portal behind her. "Let's go."
"Sure." Kenshin said as he walked toward it.
"Hold on!"
The two turned to see Yukari and Evangeline both having their hands extended. "I'm coming too!"
"Of course, everyone can come if they want to." Dana said.
"OK, I'm coming." Koneko said.
"So am I." Miyuki and
"Everyone...if you come with me, it would leave Kuoh's defenses weakened." Kenshin said.
"Oh we won't be gone that long." Dana said with a laugh.
"Fine." Kenshin said with a gruff sigh as he and everyone walked into Dana's portal.
"So this is the home of Master's Master." Negi said looking around.
"Yes. Also, nice to meet you Negi Springfield." Dana said.
"Oh yes." Negi bowed respectfully. "Nice to meet you too Dana-Sama."
"Oh, aren't you just the sweetest little cinnamon bun." Dana laughed.
"Um...excuse me?" Negi asked.
"Ugh...Negi for the love of god don't compliment her." Kenshin and Evangeline both facepalmed.
"Eh, why?" Negi said.
"Because this." Kenshin said as Dana's arm tore through his stomach.
"? !" Rias and Negi both gasped. "You BITCH!" They both screamed.
"Calm down!" Kenshin scolded as he got back up much to Negi's shock. "She is a bitch, but she's a sadistic one. Everytime I come here, she tests out my regeneration."
"Hahaha, it's still as good as ever Kenshin." Dana laughed, twirling her parasol.
"Glad to hear it." Kenshin grunted.
"So what seems to be the problem? You awakened your hidden power, train it." Dana said.
"The problem is that I can't turn it the fuck off!" Kenshin shouted.
"But why would you want to?"
Everyone looked over, seeing a boy with green and black hair, wearing green and black robes. "? !" Dana gasped, her eyes wide with horror.
"And just who the hell are you?" Kenshin asked in disinterest.
"Hahahaha, you're just as disrespectful as Azazel told me you would be." He laughed.
"Azazel?" Kenshin said before his head was shoved down, not by Dana, but by Hikari.
"Please forgive my son, he doesn't know who you are!" Hikari said with a nervous smile.
"M-Mom? ! What the hell? !" Kenshin shouted.
"I gotta ask the same Mom, what's up?" Yukari and Miyuki both asked.
"I am Shiva, the God of Destruction." Shiva introduced.
"? !" Kenshin's Yukari's and Miyuki's eyes all widened. "O...Oh." They all said.
"Hahahahaha." Shiva laughed. "I expected that reaction. Though I'm surprised you know who I am Ms Tsuki."
"Yeah, well Azazel and I talk a lot." Hikari said with an abashed smile.
"Ah, so I must have come up." Shiva laughed.
"Ok...so what's up? Why don't I want to be locking the Demigod State up?" Kenshin asked.
"Because you'd be preventing yourself from improving it." Shiva said before glancing at Yukari. "I'm looking at you too dragoness."
"Grh..." Kenshin grunted. "Well, an unneeded side effect of this is that plant life grows all around me.
"So?" Shiva asked.
"I live among humans. I can't have plants growing all around me with humans around." Kenshin said.
"Aaah, I see...that would present a problem." Shiva said. "In any case, consult the former head of your clans responsible for those adorable ears on your head."
"?" Kenshin looked up at the ears on his head.
"However, I would advise unsealing to train it everyday." Shiva said.
"Yeah." Kenshin nodded.
"Also." Shiva turned to Issei, making him step back nervously. "I sense you're close to a similar form. Keep up the good work."
"Eh? I'm close to unlocking something like the Demigod State?" Issei asked.
"Well not exactly like it, but your body was carved from Great Red's flesh just as his was, Ophis' mana making up your own." Shiva said.
"Oh, I see." Issei said.
"And me?" Yukari asked.
"It's harder for you to get to, but when your brother transferred the power to you in Heaven. He implanted it within you. Though I feel he can only do this with fellow elementalists. So the only other person he can implant the power in is you." Shiva said pointing at Miyuki. "Though do be careful with this. The power is intense. The only reason your sister didn't have trouble with it is because of her experience."
"I see." Yukari nodded.
"Wait, what about me?" Granberia asked.
"In theory it's possible, but it would be the hardest for you to unlock if Kenshin transferred the power to you...unless you made your own contract with the Yonseirei." Shiva said. "They are the catalyst for it."
Granberia closed her eyes and nodded. "I see."
"Anyway, that's all I wanted to say." Shiva said. "Don't expect another visit from me unless it's urgent." He said before a thought came to mind. "Oh and Kenshin is it?"
"Yeah?" Kenshin asked.
"Try to work on getting a handle on your emotions while in that form. We gods were all young once and had trouble getting control of our power, your mind is occupied with whatever it is you might be feeling at the time, so your body is forced to take on the strain of controlling it." Shiva advised. "If you manage that, a whole other realm of power awaits, with training of course."
"I see what you're saying, thanks for your advice." Kenshin nodded.
"Well I must be going." Shiva said as he warped away.
"Boy, I don't know what you did to get on HIS radar, but leave me out of it!" Dana shouted.
"I didn't do anything out of the ordinary!" Kenshin shouted back
"Fine then." Dana said. "Get out of here." She said.
(break)
"So that's how it is huh?"
"Yeah. You made the seal, would it work that way?"
Kenshin and Draco sat across from each other, both of them having a mug of ale. The folder Draco had given him back on Mundus Magicus on the table between them.(1 )
"Hrm..." Draco stroked his chin in thought. "Though I agree it's too much of a red flag to walk around with plants growing around you. I do kinda agree with Shiva."
"I do too, but for now I gotta lock it up." Kenshin said.
"Hrm..." Draco nodded. "Well in theory, sure. Shiva was right to have you consult me. Your Demigod State at it's base is yours and the Spirits powers merging with the Great Red flesh of your body and Ophis' mana, causing an overflow. That's why having that Fallen Angel girl suck it out worked, but only as a very temporary basis."
"I see. So sealing it up would work?" Kenshin asked.
"Yeah, but understand that the sealbearer must be exceptionally strong as well. Just because I slouched after Ragnarok died doesn't mean I'm still not strong myself." Draco said.
"OK, I'll call Yuka-" Kenshin was cut off.
"No. while I agree she's strong and can go into the state as well, if you really want this to work. You might wanna throw your best at it." Draco said.
"Tamamo?" Kenshin asked.
"I still don't know how you got her to be your Queen piece but yeah." Draco said.
"If I knew, I'd tell ya. I guess I just got lucky." Kenshin said before opening a communication circle. "Tamamo, could you come to where I am?"
"OK." Tamamo said as she warped into the VIP room. Draco and Kenshin explained what they were going to do. "Hmn...I see. To be honest I was confused when you two came back and Ragnarok felt weaker." Tamamo said thumbing through the folder. "But, didn't it bother you?"
"Nah, Ragnarok and I bathed together a lot so seeing him exposed wasn't really an issue." Draco said.
"Wait, what?" Kenshin said. Tamamo handed him the folder. "Wait, this is an all over seal?"
"Pretty much." Tamamo and Draco nodded. "On the front anyway." Draco added.
"Hrm..." Kenshin crossed his arms. "Alright, let's get this over with. I don't really have much of a choice."
"I'll come too, We've only done this with two other people. So I'll help Tamamo draw the seal." Draco said.
(Chapter end)
Draconis: Had to find a stopping point somewhere.
Issei: Did you really have to tease Kenshin and Yasaka?
Draconis: That was just me having a little fun. I'll do that from time to time. Anyway, next time, more Volume 19
Footnote
( 1 ) The folder for the seal that's going to be put on Kenshin, the Malak Seal was given to him in the Rossweisse chapter in the side stories compilation.
Draconis678 out.