Fate/Bonds Beyond Humanity

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92- Asgardian Impressions

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Akeno didn't know what to do with herself after her performance because too many things happened the very second her song ended. Between her duties, her competition, the rush to get to it and her father's presence it was fair to say a lot of things were happening at once and too fast for most people.

Understandably she felt more than a little overwhelmed.

First came a wave of relief as she realized that her performance was over which suddenly shifted to dread when she managed to notice something disrupting her senses beside her father.

Baraqiel's presence was a whole story in and off itself but got completely sidelined for the presence of an old man with an eyepatch who held a penetrating stare even if he just had one eye.

Rossweisse's presence brought her little relief when Akeno managed to realize Odin was present and as Queen of Gremory she wanted nothing more to call Rias in that moment. Yet she couldn't, not only bringing out a magic circle in front of an audience was a bad idea, her phone was with Shirou for safekeeping.

Then there was the applause as the world finally caught up with her fast and panicking thoughts. She barely heard the judges words and offers of sponsors from the agent which were quickly just down by the veteran actress. Clearly the woman was enchanted by Akeno's performance like everyone else but managed to remain professional if barely.

After that the ravenhead had to deal with her fellow competitors, some who wanted to congratulate her and others who requested pictures or autographs. If Odin wasn't around, Akeno would be feeling quite embarrassed in that moment but with the god's surprise visit she couldn't think about anything else.

"Medusa wants you to stay around for the applause and prizes… Mostly the applause." Shirou had informed her with a bashful smile, finding Akeno just as she had managed to dodge the other competitors and staff.

Who also wanted to know more about the future idol because they were sure the ravenhead would be someone famous someday.

Nevertheless her thoughts went back to the competition if just partially. She had received her goddess orders and as a priestess she couldn't deny her words. "Call Rias?"
The redhead gave her a thumbs up and rushed out of the backstage before anyone noticed he was there. Fortunately the ravenhead knew he would get in contact with Rias at the earliest opportunity if he hadn't done so already.

Regardless there was little Akeno could do but stay put until the closing ceremony which came far too quickly for her tastes. Then again most songs there were less than four minutes or so with the longest going a bit too long and reaching five minutes on the dot.

When it was all over the judges called everyone back and as everyone expected Akeno was declared the winner. Sure there were some critics, both the veteran actress and her idol coworker harped on how much of a mess the ravenhead looked like. Out of all competitors she was the only one who could be called unprepared.

Didn't matter because her show had been the best one by far. "Raw talent." The supposed profissional idol had called, bittersweetly dismissing all of Akeno's efforts.

Jealousy was an ugly thing but she hid most of it well so few noticed and nobody was willing to call her out on it. Certainly not the ravenhead who was in a hurry to get out, Odin's presence on the corner of her vision where he sat beside Medusa basically tempting her with a catastrophe.

Which left her mostly ignoring the speeches and the agent offering to help her get into the business proper but most of them chalked her silence to nerves which only left them to give her the competition's prize: a commemorative plaque, several coupons from sponsors and the opportunity to participate in one of the teather's plays.

Lackluster as those rewards were, it was an amateur's competition. The real prize was prestige that came with victory. That and whatever boost of fame one could get when the show eventually ended on the net.

Akeno was quick to share the prize with the other competitors, the coupons flying from her hands faster than she could distribute them when one of the girls asked for an authorgraph which had the ravenhead signing them all.

That done she was quick to run away towards the bathroom before exiting from a widow upon noticing several of the girls had followed her. She had to lock up the place with magic and used her wings to make her escape but she was successful. She also had to be cautious as while the night had already started someone could catch sight of her.

Eventually she made her way back to the minivan where Shirou quickly offered her a bag with a change of clothes while Medusa distracted Odin. "They are deciding where to go. You can change there."

"Can I go with her? I can watch her back in case the bathroom is too full." Mage and hybrid looked at the Valkyrie with a mixture of understanding and pity. "Please?"

Rossweisse did her best and managed to not beg but that was a rare opportunity for her to escape her god for a few minutes. "Sure. Come on." Akeno sprinted at a relatively normal speed with the silver haired woman in tow. Soon enough they arrived at a random apartment complex after jumping over a wall. "There must be a poll house or something-"
"Storage." The older woman found the place with a short glance around. "Or maybe we should look for a pool house. That may be a bit too tight." Yet she wanted to stall even if just a little bit.

It was rare that Odin managed to get himself another bodyguard even if for a short while so the woman was confident Baraqiel could watch his back. Sure enough the Valkyrie knew her duty and wished to fulfill it but since an opportunity to escape her boss presented itself she was going to take it no matter how short her freedom was.

Which only made Akeno pity her more, especially because she couldn't fulfill her request. "I feel that letting Medusa-sama and Odin-sama in each other's company without supervision is a terrible ideal."

The Valkyrie groaned as the hybrid marched to the small storage. "I know… I know…"

Quickly as lightning Akeno changed her mismatched clothing into a black top, a purple jacket and white jeans. 'You aren't the only one trying to avoid someone.' The ravenhead thought after tying her hair back into her usual ponytail. 'Maybe I wouldn't mind speaking with my father again today… if Odin wasn't around… Bringing my family's issues into a potential hotmess isn't the best idea.'

After convincing herself of that fact the woman exited the storage and nodded to the Valkyrie before both made their way back to the group where they found Medusa and Odin trading barbs with each other.

"No! I refuse! That sort of unsavory environment isn't proper for an idol!"
"I disagree. Several 'idols' can be found in the right places. Especially at night."
"Ladies of the night aren't idols." At least they didn't fall on her purview.
"Disagree again." The Old Man of the North laughed at the goddess' irritation. "Come on, Medusa. I just want to savor some of the drinks Fuyuki has to offer. So far the Japanese sake… has been lacking."
Shirou tried to intervene. "Most sake is quite similar to each other. I doubt you will find anything better here. Our city isn't necessarily known for its nightlife."
"Maybe but every town has its own flavor and I already found some gems in a bar or two when I went looking hard enough."

Baraqiel grunted before adding. "Azazel gave me a list of recommendations." Medusa began glaring at him, freezing the Cadre. He owned her too much to wish her displeasure but his brother gave him the job of tending to the god so he was going to do it despite possible consequences. "Some of them are already open."
"Shouldn't we be celebrating my priestess' success?" The purple haired woman intervened with folded arms and raising her head. "Regardless of the purpose of your visit, you are interfering with my business in my territory."

'Weren't we going to rendezvous with Rias and the others?' Akeno thought as she began to slow down her steps. Still better than Rossweisse who could only go slower if she started to crawl.

Odin suddenly turned to the two young women with a playful grin. "And isn't she a grown woman? She should be ready to celebrate properly."
"I believe alcohol isn't necessary for a proper celebration." Baraqiel intervened for his daughter's sake and despite his professional behavior or Odin's potential displeasure he wouldn't bend or that.

However nobody needed to care about the latter since the god only laughed in amusement. "Shouldn't we ask the victor what she wishes for a reward." Everyone followed his line of sight to a flustered Akeno. "So dear, ready for some cups? Or perhaps you want a more childish reward?"

Violet eyes shifted between her goddess, the god, Shirou and her father before settling on the deity from the North. "I want… something sweet…"

"Plenty of good drinks are of the sweet kind."

Once again Akeno's eyes shifted between everyone's present but she ended up settling on Rossweisse. "Any suggestions?" It was a cry for help even if it didn't sound like one.

Fortunately the Valkyrie got the message. "We saw plenty of bars in Japan already. Maybe something different?"
"Ah, betrayal. I didn't miss it." Odin commented knowing he was about to be outvoted.

Medusa nailed the metaphorical coffin with a nod and a confident smile. "Yes. Something sweet but not from a tavern. That sounds nice."

As a compromise, Shirou began to suggest, "Maybe we could get some dinner. It is already past six."

"Nah, night is young and the girl already asked for something sweet." Odin intervened again.

"Lord Odin-"
"Only if Baraqiel pays from his own pocket." The Aesir suddenly added, interrupting the Cadre with an amused smirk. "Come on now. Shouldn't a father be paying to celebrate his daughter's success? Certainly something special is warranted."
Akeno and Baraqiel traded glances before she lowered her head and he glanced to the side without knowing what to say.

Nevertheless it wasn't a proposition he disagreed with.

A few minutes later the group had made their way towards Fuyuki's shopping center and into an ice cream parlor where they all sat in a round table with enough space for everyone even if Baraqiel had to work and contain his larger frame.

To make things more amicable Shirou tried to use a positional trick by having Medusa and Odin sitting next to each other. It was the idea that confrontations and discussions starting by literal opposite sides usually affected perspectives.

A trick Odin noticed and was pleased with while Medusa glared at him with irritation even if she accepted the offer and sat beside the older god. Akeno took the seat beside her goddess with Shirou sitting beside her opposite to the retired King of Asgard. Rossweisse sat beside the redhead, looking slightly uncomfortable even if less so than Baraqiel.

Who was sitting right in front of his daughter. "So," he cleared his throat, "what everyone wants?" Even if the question was for the table, his eyes never left Akeno.

That was as close as he ever got to his daughter since the incident and he couldn't help but remember the love of his life. Himejima Shuri was a stunning woman; had she been around she and their daughter could pass by twins if they tried. Not a one to one comparison as Baraqiel could see the differences.

Both the subtle and the obvious ones like how his daughter held a little less elegance and maturity than Shuri but compensated it with a natural charm typical of an angel but to a greater degree because of her status as a True Hybrid.

He knew already that to the eyes of any other man she would be irresistible which made him want to hug her more and protect her from any harm. Alas he couldn't, not only was she avoiding his eyes but the Fallen of Lightning also found himself unable to try and approach her.

'My daughter is already a grown woman… Time sure is cruel.' Yes, Baraqiel didn't regret Falling for his siblings but the time he lost with Akeno was something he couldn't get back. 'Shuri… I am so sorry…'

While the fallen angel was struggling with his personal issues, their order had arrived in the hands of a waitress with long brown hair dressed in a maid-like pink and yellow outfit, the name of the parlor, Gluttony Sin, on her chest.

"Here we go; a banana split for the growing girl," Medusa accepted her order without a word or taking her eyes from Odin, "a bowl of chocolate, tart and strawberry from the young lady," Akeno took hers with a smile, "a vanilla milkshake for the young man."
"Thank you." Shirou took his cup with a smile of gratitude.

The lady smiled back before moving to Rossweisse, "A special six flavors cone for this stunning young woman. I have to say, I love your hair. Did you dye it?"
The Valkyrie fixed her hair behind her left ear with a flattered smile. "No, it is natural. Runs in the family."
"Oh, that is sweet." The maid retorted with some surprise before purring while delivering the next order. "A bowl with cream, mint and chips to this handsome gentleman."
'Smooth but also not.' Several on the table thought as Baraqiel looked at the woman then at his daughter who only gave him a glance before her eyes fell back on her bowl.

The Cadre knew the woman was flirting with him, he wasn't a fool and certainly was old enough to understand how the game was played. If his siblings were to be believed his time of mourning had already long passed and it would be reasonable for him to date again.

Once again he looked at Akeno and was reminded of Shuri, of how long it took for him to find someone he could love with all his heart. Her face, her smell, her taste, her demeanor, her personality, her voice, Baraqiel loved every part of her to the point one of his sisters joked he was cursed with love.

"My thanks." Perhaps it was because there were nights he wished his wife haunted him that he couldn't help but still feel a ghost on his shoulder. It was not there, no spirit would dare to try and haunt a Cadre who could get rid of them all too easily.

Yet if it was Shuri, he would let her stay as long as she wished even if she hated him.

Nevertheless the waitress didn't notice the conflict within Baraqiel and just let his food down before moving to the last one on the table. Apparently an old man missing an eye and a gentle smile full of mischief. Odd and eccentric to be sure, wearing a black fedora with a trim of gold and equally flamboyant outfit she wouldn't forget him anytime soon.

However something assaulted her senses when she got close to the table, an instinct warning her that everyone there was dangerous and that the older man was the most dangerous of all.

Yet her brain couldn't process that sixth sense that she developed upon being closer to a certain area of the town almost ten years ago. She wasn't the only one with it and most of them weren't aware of the magic potential they could have if explored.

All she got from that extra sense was a wariness resulting in her wanting to make sure the old man before her was well served and left without complaints, something she already did for all customers anyway even if at a smaller scale.

"And to this good sir a milkshake of chocolate." The cup was the same size as Shirou's but of a different color. Then the woman 'whispered' conspiratorially. "I also added extra syrup, just for you."
"Hohoho. Much kindness to you my dear." Raising a cane from somewhere beneath the table, she saw the gold and white wood with the head of a crow shine for a second. Then she blinked, noticing everyone at the table was looking at the old man with several expressions. "Know that free kindness isn't easily forgotten. Have a happy day and a happy life."
Thinking the old man was just being polite, the waitress smiled at them all before departing. "You all need something, just to call."

Six steps later and Rossweisse didn't hesitate to create a silencing rune which Medusa was quick to take advantage of. "What was that?"
"Just a minor Blessing. Nothing much." He then covered his mouth with his cane. "Or are you telling me you can't do that yet?" The purple haired girl grumbled and he laughed. "Hahaha! See? It was good that I decided to drop by. You need some lessons in godhood urgently."
"Is that why you are here, Lord Odin? To give my goddess lessons?" Akeno asked carefully before taking a spoonful of her ice cream.
The retired King shrugged. "Just another day of work. I was going to drop by anyway so giving her some tips isn't any trouble."
"You aren't going to do what you did with me, are you?" Shirou asked just as carefully as Akeno. If Odin was really there to help, the redhead didn't want to antagonize him.

"Well, since the Greeks aren't sending anyone anytime soon-"

"Over my dead body." Medusa utterly refused to learn anything from that Pantheon.

"-and the Shinto aren't coming back to teach their 'newest member', I don't mind parting with some of my knowledge." He concluded while tasting his drink. A second later the Old Man of the North began clicking his tongue. "Beh, not good."
"Something wrong?" Shirou asked immediately before sipping his own milkshake. His eyes grew wide before he hummed. "Better than I thought. Too much sugar but..."
Baraqiel shook his head. "Sugar is more than normal in this sort of food. Even if processed."
Rossweisse quickly tasted her ice cream before pointing her spoon at her god. "Lord Odin is just complaining because it isn't alcohol."
Despite not looking offended, he retorted, "I can live without alcohol," before taking another sip.

"Could have fooled me."

"What was that, Valkyrie Who Never Had a Boyfriend?"
"Wah!" Rossweisse threw her head backwards as if punched.

Which made Medusa ask. "Is there some tradition we aren't aware of? You seem to poke on her relationship status a bit too much…"
"And she shouldn't be so affected by it…" Akeno added once her goddess was finished.

Odin let out a chuckle of amusement as Shirou massaged the silver haired beauty's back. "It is because of her grandmother. You see, dear old Gondul put in her head-"
"Lord Odin, please stop!" Flushing so much some people could think her blood was boiling, Rossweisse tried to reach the old man who just leaned back. It was only to tease her, the table was too big unless she jumped on it. "Please, please, please stop."
"Alright. Alright. Kukuku." The Aesir took another sip before relaxing on his chair.

Medusa watched him with a frown before asking, "Is there anything specific you want to see while you are here?"
She decided to try and play the good host because, despite not liking the older god's attitude, the purple haired deity couldn't deny the retired king had helped her in a time of need.

In other words the former Gorgon saw herself in his debt and didn't like it one bit.
Another sip of his drink later, the older god placed his cut on the table before opening it. "Oh, there is a lot. I suppose you don't want to partake in anything that can happen during the night?" He questioned while adding mead to his milkshake. Once the cup was almost overflowing he closed it again and took another sip. "Much better." Raising the wine skin in Shirou's direction, he asked. "Want some? Not that I have anything against ice cream but it can be sort of bland."
"This explosiveness of favor is bland for you?" The younger goddess questioned while her protector looked at the wine skin pensively.

"Sure. I have ice back home."
"You know what I mean."
"And so do you."

After thinking for a moment Shirou retorted, "No, thanks. I sort of like it like this." He commented before sipping some more of his milkshake. "Sure it is a little artificial but the sugar is just right. This place is a good store."

"Right. I completely agree." Baraqiel added to keep the conversation going. "Not the best ice cream I ever had but easily one of the top ten. Last one was… ah, it was back in Switzerland. Pity I can't visit that store anymore."
"Something happened?" Akeno surprised everyone by asking.

For a moment her father stayed silent but a second later he recovered, happy for the interaction. "It closed down a few years ago. A shame too, best ice cream I ever had in Eternity."
"Hmm." Rossweisse enjoyed her own bowl, trying to imagine something better and failing.

However, while everyone got sidetracked, Medusa never lost focus. "Anything else or you need Azazel to show you the town? If so, I can just leave."

Considering they had already called Rias, it was only a matter of time before she and Azazel dropped by to collect their friends while the Governor General of the Grigori entertained the All Father of the North the goddess trusted everything would be fine.
"Don't be like that. I know you had a bad experience with our… peers in Greece, but I really do want to see how you are doing." Odin chuckled and ran a hand over his beard. "Understand that it has been a long time since a major god has been recognized by a major Pantheon."

"Am I a major goddess?" Medusa asked back and the man paused, listening to her words. "Sure I am not under Amaterasu's supervision but I barely hold any land and my faithful are few."
"More than a few, even if they are devils and their souls can't amount to much." He took another sip of his drink, humming patiently. "But perhaps you are right. You lead no one and your Domain is shared with many greater gods," another glare went in his direction but the Aesir ignored it, "so calling you a major goddess in the proper sense is incorrect. Yet you are the first goddess to actually rise this high without being a derivative or just changing her name."
"Lady Medusa, in a sense you are a new player in the game." Baraqiel clarified once he noticed the confusion. "A game which hasn't changed in a millenia."
"That can't be right." Shirou questioned with a frown. "That makes it sound like there hasn't been a new religion or something like that in years but…"

More calm after her previous excitement, Rossweisse explained. "But those either have no gods to gain power, can be considered another form of old gods or are just practices more than Faith." The Valkyrie waved her spoon in her god's direction. "For instance, for a while Christianity actually benefited Lord Odin who was compared to God. Ragnarok also was considered an adaptation of the Apocalypse."
Baraqiel hummed in approval. "Lady Medusa probably also gain some benefits from the Greek Pantheon-"
"No." The goddess cut them off. "Zeus never allowed it and my Legends from those parts only see me as a monster."
"A monster who faced a hero and then became the Owl Lady's shield." Odin reminded them of Medusa's tale. "Without direct adoration from their side, the only thing that her Legends can give are capabilities and weaknesses."
Shirou nodded in understanding since he was the last one to travel inside Medusa's Lair and was by default the last person on the planet who could, relatively, easily face her in combat since Shapeless Island was lost to the sea.

"Thankfully her Legend stops people from forgetting her." The Old Man of the North pointed out. "At the very least her name wasn't lost and her Domain over snakes remained tied-"
"If you are insinuating the Greeks were doing me a favor- That Zeus-"
"Not Zeus." Akeno said, looking at Shirou and remembering the story he told of how he saw Medusa's past.

'Athena's mirror made from the sisters' treasure.' The redhead nodded and while nobody else understood what the hybrid was talking about, Medusa did.

'Whatever plans Athena has, I won't take part. I am no longer a goddess of those lands.' Her place, her new home, was Fuyuki and she was happier for it. "Well, as you can see, I am doing fine." She directed her attention to the other deity who was just finishing his spiked milkshake. Then a smug look grew in her face. "My priestess managed to put up quite a show that enchanted the crowd and I also managed to see many aspiring idols. A good day. Yes, it was a good day indeed."

Akeno blushed and tried to shrink in her seat to escape the gazes from the table. Especially her father's eyes who stayed a bit too long.

"It was fun." Shirou said suddenly to help her out. "Most songs were decent."
"Hmph, don't be so gentle, my Champion. Even if not to your tastes, you know good music and we all know most groups there were barely passable."
"Isn't that sort of cruel to say, Lady Medusa?" Rossweisse asked whilst trying to not offend the purple haired deity.

Who waved her off. "It was the spirit that counted. Skill can be improved but having a good attitude isn't something you just teach." Her fist shook with excitement. "Now, after facing the overwhelming power of my priestess they will either make or break as idols!"

"Don't act like that was planned. You were halfway from cursing them."
"Of course it was planned." To avoid answering any more questions she took a huge mouthful of her banana slip. Even if the ice cream covered her mouth, she couldn't hide her smile.

And so Odin laughed again. "That is how a god does it." He raised his empty cut to her. "Do whatever and justify nothing. Especially when you are your own boss."
"Lord Odin, please don't be a bad influence." Rossweisse started begging again. "Asgard can't get in a war because you started teaching the wrong lessons. That will be a disaster."
"Pft. As if. If we were going to get into a war because of my shenanigans then it would have happened already."
The silver haired woman slammed her hands on the table and pointed at her god. "So you know that what you do is wrong!"

"You just realized that now?" If he wasn't a god then he would have died of laughter when the woman dropped back into her seat with a depressed cloud above her head. She felt Shirou's gentle hand on her shoulder and offered him a smile before glaring at her god. "Hahaha! Don't look at me like that. I always get us out of any mess before the thing devolves too much."
"That wasn't what happened in Budapest! Or Barcelona! Or-"
"I get it, I get. You truly lack the proper adventure spirit to enjoy our escapades!"
"You make it sound like you throw yourselves into danger on purpose…" Baraqiel observed while his eyes shifted between Aesir and Valkyrie.

The latter who only looked more depressed as Akeno turned to Medusa. "Medusa-sama… you are a kind goddess. I never am going to complain about becoming an idol again."
"Neither should you." The purple haired deity while sampling her food again.

Which gave Odin space to turn and ask, "What about followers?", pretty much ignoring his Valkyrie who looked ready to slam her head on the table. Only her own ice cream thwarted that fate, its sweetness helping her deal with her god's antics. "Are you getting a steady number? Are they all devils? Since you are, albeit extremely technically, part of the Shinto Faction, is their afterlife benefiting you?"
There was a curiosity shining through the Aesir eye, one mixed with excitement, intrigue and unbounded by a wisdom rarely seen in anyone short of a god. It was a nice reminder to everyone on the table that Odin was also a God of Knowledge and wise beyond his peers for few deities could compete with his mind.

Medusa's situation was an oddity, something not necessarily new but extremely uncommon as she never shed her original name nor traded a Pantheon for another. Effectively being a goddess of Japan was the first time she was properly growing into a deity. The first time she was being venerated in her proper, if young and incomplete, form.

Perhaps, because she was incomplete, she only made him more curious.

However she wasn't willing to play his game, not fully at least. "I don't think any god would freely admit how many followers they had." She replied with a smirk. "That would be tantamount to telling you how far my reach extends and even if on Earth it is quite small, I do have a reach."
With a nod, the god could only concede that, "Your 'shadow' is large because of the Underworld." Then he offered a smirk of his own. "Yet those flames are temporary. Do you, or do you not have access to the Shinto's resources?"

"... Admittedly I need to speak with them about some details." Which was an admission that while welcomed in Japan, she was more of a free agent than anything. "Regardless, none of my followers have died so far. Thankfully." None that could go to an afterlife at least.

For a second she debated raising the issue of devils' souls but refrained. Odin may play nice but she wasn't going to give him too much.

Retired as he may be, who was King always kept their majesty.
"Then we shall go back to that later. What about a temple?" He shifted his line of questioning.

To one that Medusa had no problems sharing. "Several temples in my homage were raised in the Underworld after the invasion." Basically telling him she had a strong support with devils. Not any news but it was an answer to his question. "Last I checked I have eight already standing, the main one in Gremory Territory."

"Considering your affiliations, that is expected." Said the god.

The goddess nodded in agreement. "Things are… unfortunately different here on Earth. While Fuyuki was made the capital of my Faith, my Major Temple still remains incomplete."
"That isn't necessarily fair." Shirou observed with a grimace while the two deities turned their attention to him. "The building is standing and in use. Didn't see any problems last time we were there."
"But it is missing my statue!" Medusa did her best to not sound petulant or aggressive. She failed. "It is the most important detail!"
"My goddess… It is a giant statue the size of a building made of PURE GOLD!" The High Priestess both reminded those who knew while also informing their visitors about the piece in question. "Making it alone isn't cheap and needs lots of materials. Even magic can't speed that up because gold is a super conductor." Her eyes began growing wide with frustration and past madness. "And the paperwork, for all the stars, the paperwork is a nightmare. Moving it into Fuyuki in a way the population won't find everything weird and ask questions alone is building mountains of work for everyone involved."
"I think a giant statue is going to get questions regardless…" Rossweisse pointed out and then watched as Akeno turned her neck towards her slowly with a haunted expression. "Or not. Depends of how big the religion is. Is she going to be wearing a Japanese or a Greek outfit?"
"I already modeled with a kimono." Medusa informed, playing with her hair proudly. "Unfortunately the artist has to age me up a bit."
"Maybe you should model for it again? You sort of grew up a little since then. That could help." Shirou suggested making the goddess pause and Akeno look at him with hope if just because another round of modeling would mean more time to prepare for when the statue arrived.

The purple haired deity took a second before shaking her head. "If we remodel everytime I change a little, the statue will never get done. And I want my statue."
Her priestess' shoulders dropped. "Can't we just build it in the Underworld." 'Getting the permits in that case would be easy! Hell, we could raise the statue in a day instead of building it from the ground up!'

The problem wasn't just the paper trail, which needed to be properly filled in case someone started asking questions, but assembling the statue itself promised to be a challenge unlike few others.

"How big is it going to be?" Odin finally asked, his tone laced with interest.
Medusa pointed to the window, better yet, a random apartment. "Bigger than that."
Both Rossweisse and Baraqiel flinched thinking about the cost and how hard it would be to maintain such a statue and how many would want to know who had the money to raise it up. If curiosity alone is able to give Medusa some followers then her number was assured to swell in size once it was completed.

Alas it was still an expensive endeavor and both bodyguards felt dread imagining how such a thing could be acceptable.

"Nice."

'Of course Lord Odin approves.' Rossweisse lamented as Shirou tapped her arm. "Yes?"

Pointing at the god, he asked, "Does he have a statue like that back in Asgard?"
The Valkyrie shook her head. "Not in Asgard and not a statue." She smiled at the Mage's curious expression. The tilt of his head was cute in her eyes. "Sure every god back home has another territory or another they control with Longhouses where their most powerful and loyal retainers can gather at any time."
"The Major Temples, the center of their power." Baraqiel elaborated for the Mage and his daughter's sake.

"Pretty much like Medusa's temple but without the gold statue?" Shirou questioned, his eyes back on the Valkyrie.

But it was Odin who replied, "Who said I don't have some gold statues of myself? Back in the good old days my followers offered me all sorts of gifts, including proper representations of my magnificence." The Aesir chuckled while reminiscing. "Those were the days when the mighty vikings went up and down showing who are the strongest people… And the strongest gods."
"Careful Odin, your head is getting a bit too big." Medusa quipped and the god shrugged.

"It is what it is. Our people were the strongest, the most informed and capable. The seas of Europe were our oister even if the Romans had the land." The retired King of Asgard caressed his chin as he had a thought. "Caliburn is around here, right? If we can, I wish to take a look at that old blade again."
"You met Artoria?" Shirou asked with surprise as the Sword of Selection showed him nothing about Odin in its story.

Odin studied the magus with an indescribable expression. "Oh yes. My people were running around her 'kingdom'," he said with a snort, "before Camelot was built and a little bit after. Then again, when I met her that sword had already been broken… I wonder if she would be able to face me with it."
"When did you two meet?"
"When she had the balls to tell a god to 'get your people out of here or else'." Odin let out a full belly laugh before slapping the table. "Excalibur was strong but she knew a fight between us would only end in my win. Yet she still got to my face and demanded I get whatever was left of my people out of Britain. Frey was laughing about that for weeks later."

"Not that you lost anything. Your people got back there to sack again way later." Shirou commented without judgment. It was just how things were back in the day.

"Heh. Well, what can I say? The treasures got better after a few years. And the blood of my people still flows in their kings and queens. Even if they don't pray to me, if they did, I would hear."

Baraqiel looked slightly uncomfortable at the declaration. 'Not just in Britain but all over the globe, the vikings spread their roots far and wide. It isn't a surprise Odin likes to travel.'

After that conversation died down a little as people kept eating their lunch. Boredom soon began to settle on the god's face which wasn't a good sign.

So Akeno acted quickly, "Lord Odin, if I may ask…" He waved a hand, giving her permission. "About your temple, is it a palace or-"
"It is a magnificent tower at the top of a mountain with a huge crow nest on the last floor where you could observe everything for miles and miles. And when the sun rises just right it is possible to see the light dancing as when it is reflected by the snow making it look like there are multiple suns all over the place. It is a unique vision, exactly as I intended when I made it."

A peaceful smile grew on the god's face as the memory played around his head for a while. His Major Temple wasn't just for his followers but also for himself and the Aesir was more comfortable there than in Asgard most days.

"And why didn't you make a giant statue?" Medusa suddenly wondered, knowing that Odin also appreciated that sort of aesthetic choice which confounded everyone else on the table.
The older deity spun his cane before pointing it to the younger one. "Because it didn't fit the scenery."
"The crows would use it as a perch." Rossweisse commented and for the first time her god glared at her. The silver haired woman immediately looked to the side, trying to avoid his gaze.

"Why not in Asgard then?" Medusa went to her rescue and to satiate her curiosity.

"... Asgard is a hub of gods, much like Mount Olympus. Politics stops everyone from decorating everything however they want." King or not, they all were gods and there was a delicate balance needed to keep their Pantheon stable. Loyalty could only go so far if people started putting each other down. "If I were to make my statue there, every god would have to get one or two. Some would be smaller, rank and importance would be considered, but then it would start a fight, someone would demand better material and honestly it would be a huge waste of time." Raising his mead again, he offered it to Medusa who quickly covered her banana split with her arms to stop him from pouring on it. "That is the advantage of not really belonging to a Pantheon, I suppose, freedom to decor as you like… Unless your name is Zeus."

"Grr…" Ignoring the name of the Greek King of the Gods, Medusa hummed in agreement. "It has its advantages. And disadvantages. Information, or the lack of thereof, is the main one."

She had so many questions which could be easily answered if other gods decided to indulge her yet the Shinto Pantheon refused to return to Earth even to greet their supposed new member.

A Japanese goddess she had become, with the right permissions and impressions, but she was still an outsider and almost as isolated as she was when living with her sisters in Shapeless Island.

"Is it that different in a Pantheon?" Which was why she was indulging Odin so much. He at least was teaching her some stuff.

"Have you ever met a god without an ego?" The Aesir questioned back and she frowned. "Let me tell them that it is impossible; to be a god is to be above everything and everyone. Without an ego to understand that, you cannot call yourself a god." He grinned. "Now imagine dozens or so divas papering each other and walking around like they own the place."
"Lord Odin! You are exaggerating!" Rossweisse was quick to defend the rest of the North Pantheon. "Lady Medusa, I don't know fully how the gods work but-"
"Ego is a big part of it." The Goddess of Snakes assured without a drop of hesitation. "But that isn't all of it because I imagine that a big Pantheon like the Norse not having several strong personalities." Her eyes began to shine as she stared at Odin. "The Aesir are almost all warriors in one way or another. Going to war is harder than starting one but each of them are ready to start a brawl whenever they want." Upon seeing more amusement on the older deity's face, she corrected, "Or so the stories say."

The All Father of the Aesir shrugged. "Not all of us are famous and some of us have the right sort of fame."

"Don't you mean the 'wrong sort of fame'?" Akeno blurted out without thinking.
"Huhuhu, most of our followers during our glory days were warriors, proper warriors."
Baraqiel nodded in agreement, "Akeno," he tasted her name on his lips slowly, waiting for any negative reaction, "before the world was as connected as it is, vikings were one of the few people who traveled around everywhere through the sea." Upon seeing no negative reaction from her, only a guarded curiosity he could understand, the Cadre continued. "During those days there were all manner of monsters around and while most Pantheons could watch over their lands, explorers needed to be ready to fight and die wherever they went."
"And some monsters looked very human." Odin added with a grin. "Make no mistake, my people got into a lot of fights, started a couple of wars too. It would be fair to claim we were monsters a lot of those times." Rossweisse hissed as Shirou raised an eyebrow. "But be sure that no matter who punched first, we liked winning. And even when we lost, we made sure the other side bleed."
It was a fact the sole fallen angel present had to concede. "Most of Europe has a drop of two of viking blood in their veins for that very reason, at least those closer to the coast. While they didn't have a figure like an Augustus or Genghis Khan or even an Iskandar to lead their people into 'a glorious conquest'," he commented and many noticed that indeed nobody could name a Hero from the North out of the top of their head unless they were killing a monster or two, "For several decades they were a dominant power and many of them were among those who most chipped the Roman Empire after its division in two."

The Valkyrie then said, "But that was also when we started losing ground."
"Were you there, Rossweisse-san?" Baraqiel questioned and she shook her head.

"No, no. I wasn't even close to being born yet. But my grandmother was and I always liked History."
"Most liked shoved your nose in a book and forgot to enjoy your youth." Odin added and everyone heard the silver haired woman hissing. "What? You may be young but the time to enjoy stuff was there back in school when you didn't have a single shred of responsibility." The Valkyrie began to flush but stayed quiet for the moment. "Leaving it didn't help either. Never saw you even talking to a guy in your free time."

"Because I barely get any free time with your shenanigans, Lord Odin!" After that declaration the silver haired woman took a deep breath. 'Stay calm, Rossweisse. Stay calm. Just one more year. One more year and you can ask for a transfer with a bonus.'

Unfortunately for her, he wasn't done. "That is a sad excuse. Woman, I am a god." Odin reminded them and just as she opened her mouth, the Aesir added, "I was the King of my Pantheon and even if I am retired it would take more than a random idiot with a magical knife to even scratch me." Then he pointed at her. "Every time I tell you to have some fun or let loose, you just reject it. Don't blame me if you end up dying a virgin."
Then he waved his hand at her, giving her permission to talk. "My job is to watch over you, Lord Odin. Even if you don't need to, people worry for you back home. Lady Frigg certainly would be upset if I just up and abandoned you."

"Should we be here for this?" Shirou tried to interject but went ignored.
"I am not asking you to stop doing your job, just that you try to have some fun. Focus on the job, focus on career, focus on work. That is the greatest mistake of this age." The Aesir shook his head with disappointment. "Then enjoy things when? When your body can't keep up anymore? Look at this poor thing," he waved to Rossweisse again, "so young and barely knows shit."
"For the record, I agree with him." Medusa's interjection caught the Valkyrie. "Improving your living conditions by getting a good job isn't inherently wrong but just cutting everything off to work isn't the best idea. Say, Rossweisse, when was the last time you spoke with your family?"
"Oh no, don't worry about that. She speaks with her family all the time. Especially her grandmother." Odin revealed which had the silver haired woman blushing. "Like I said, I give her enough time to wind down and relax-"
"By disappearing without warning!"
"-she is the one who doesn't get a hint. And I mean, a hint!" He began laughing, remembering an amusing story. "There was this time we were taking a stroll-"
"Bar hopping!"
"-when a bonafide prince appeared suddenly out of nowhere claiming to have fallen in love with her beauty."

"Ohh~" Medusa was definitely interested and the rest of the table leaned forward to better hear the story.

Except for the subject of it. "Please Lord Odin…"

Her plea was heard and promptly ignored. "Oh yes, he saw her when we were leaving the hotel that day and took the whole afternoon to set up a huge heart of roses to declare his love." With magic he drew the scene on the table making his bodyguard blush further. "He wasn't even asking to marry her or anything, just one night. I checked later and he had no bad intentions, our dear Valkyrie really managed to captivate him."
"Fufufu. And what did she do?" Akeno asked with far more amusement than she should. Enough that Rossweisse looked at her like she had been betrayed.

"She said 'I am sorry but I can't marry you' with the longest stutter before running for the hills. Only later we learned he was the prince of that nation and he legitimately started a search for her to try and apologize. A true Cinderella story in real life." A couple of chuckles escaped the table, even from those who pitied the woman. "I bet he really wanted that date…"

Rosweisse slammed her head on the table in a half bow. "Please Lord Odin, have mercy."
"Fine, fine. I am a merciful god." He joked before laughing again. "Maybe I should tell you that time she took a sip of gin and-"
Bluish white mana flared in the Valkyrie's hands before she slammed them on the table. "Lord Odin, that is inappropriate!"
"Everybody speaks about their screw ups at work. Right fellas?" The Aesir questioned.

"Right." And Medusa agreed immediately, mirth dancing in her eyes.

"Yes, absolutely." Akeno said next while wishing to hear more stories.

"Hey, don't feel bad. He just caught you off guard." Shirou commented gently, trying to cheer her up.

Only Baraqiel showed real sympathy when saying, "Rossweisse-san, it could have been worse. At least Lord Odin didn't take any pictures." He shivered, remembering one of his sisters had several ones which she could use as blackmail on him or Shemhazai. 'Not that Benemune would do anything similar but…'

After the conversation died down again, Shirou focused on Odin to ask, "So, where do you want to go now?" just as everybody finished their food.

The Old Man of the North watched him with his lone eye which shone like a sapphire for a moment. "Are you sure you are going to ask me that?" He asked with a chuckle. "Don't you all want to keep me here as you wait until the Scapegoat and Gremory girl show up?"
"We did call, yes. But they can track us." Shirou offered a shrug. "Besides, you didn't like the ice cream anyway."
The idea of leaving a visit of any sort bored, bothered the Mage in the exact wrong way to not be irritating but still annoying enough he needed to do something. Surprise or not, Odin was visiting Medusa and offering sound advice between the playful banter so the redhead wanted the old god to be comfortable.

Problem was the sort of comfort the Aesir wanted. "So does anyone here besides the adults even go into a bar? Medusa, have you?"

"I have enjoyed the random wine or sake now and then." The purple haired deity admitted without trouble. Since she grew up enough to look like a teenager almost into adulthood, nobody would find it odd regardless. "But no, I haven't tried any sort of bars as of yet."
"Do you want to? I learned the best way to know a city's prosperity is through bars. The cleaner and the more festive, the better the town is doing."
"Seriously?" The Goddess of Snakes could swear he was trying to pull her leg but the old man looked honest for the first time since she met. "Regardless, that isn't a proper environment for an idol so can't say I am really interested."

With that reply, the god turned back to Shirou. "As you can see, she isn't interested and I do want to spend some time with you all."
"Do you want to see Medusa-sama's temple?" Asked Akeno with some excitement. "The one in Fuyuki is more geared towards Japanese tradition and it is a marvel to behold."
"Let me guess, during the day when we can see all it can offer and the few followers she managed to gain in the town?"
"You didn't need to say 'few'." Medusa protested with a pout.

Odin replied with, "I call them how I see them. And you already admitted the growth around here is subpar at best."
"I said no such thing!"
"You did, just not with those words." The Aesir said with obvious confidence and Medusa found herself frowning. "But as you can see, I probably will have to wait for Azazel anyway before enjoying the nightlife around Fuyuki. Heard it is pretty basic unless you are involved with the moonlit world so I guess the Scapegoat must know the ins and outs around here by this point."

'That is odd. Since when has Lord Odin been that considerate?' Rossweisse questioned but kept her mouth shut as to not being dragged around by her god for just a few minutes longer.

Akeno, understanding her goddess mulling anger, tried to change the subject. "Sorry that we can't be better hosts."
"You are decent enough." Said Odin instantly before his eye fixed itself on her choker. The Serpent Eye. "But there is some stuff I want to talk about with my apprentice for a day regardless."
"Didn't we talk enough before the invasion?" The Mage of Swords remembered distinctively almost every question the god asked about how he used the runes to bind Medusa's power and create Akeno's Noble Gear.

Helped by the fact that Odin was wise enough to get the gist of the process without going too deep into detail. In fact, if he was inclined for it, Shirou didn't doubt the former King of Asgard would be capable of creating something similar to his Noble Gear. Maybe even going a step further and making sacred gears of his own.

Yet that wasn't his vocation.

God of Magic and War he could be, Odin wasn't known for Artifact making or anything similar, outsourcing them to skilled dwarfs and even giants despite the latter race being a known enemy of Asgard.

Creating spells and even Primeval Runes was one thing but forging weapons was so far from the All Father's periphery that even if he understood Shirou's process in full he would never be able to create anything remotely close.

Despite being a god.

"Anyway, where are they?" Questioned the Aesir with a pensive frown. "It has been an hour? Aren't they panicking that there is a god in town?"
"Maybe. But they trust us to keep you entertained until someone can get here." The redhead revealed with a grin. "What is wrong? Do you like people running around like headless chickens?"
"It is a hobby."
"An evil hobby." Akeno muttered before forcing out a smile and pulling out her phone. After a quick message followed by its reply she said, "Hmm, Buchou said she is waiting for us outside the mall with Azazel. Do you wish to go now, Odin-sama?"

Throwing a look in her direction, Odin couldn't help but snort. "How considerate. Sure, why not? Let's see what Azazel has in store for the night before we get together again in the morning."
"'We'? Why do I feel you are including everyone in this table on this 'we'." Medusa questioned with a raised eyebrow. "Both my Champion and High Priestess have school tomorrow."
"Are you saying school is more important than entertaining a god?" Odin asked back with amusement.

""Education is important."" Shirou and Rossweisse said at the same time before looking at each other to then look at the Old Man of the North with mutual disappointment..

Which had the Aesir frowning before he smiled slightly. "Hey girly, why don't you and the Mage go on a date?"
"Huh?" Immediately Rossweisse turned to her god like a deer in the headlights.

"What?" And she wasn't the only one as Akeno also found herself getting caught off guard.

Something her father noticed but could say nothing as Shirou spoke first. "If you keep bullying her, sooner or later she is going to quit on you."
"This isn't bullying. This is offering a chance for her to gain some experience. Hahaha!" There was something on his expression, an interest that wasn't there the last time the redhead met the Aesir. He had something in mind which nobody could divine. "Besides, with how many Valkyries gave up on me before, the fact she is here is even more impressive. Don't you think, Medusa?"
Failing to see the older god's intent, the younger deity decided to answer honestly. "My Champion does have experience and as a gentleman he would be an excellent first date."
"I just- I mean, I can't-" Rossweisse stuttered a few more words.

Before Medusa took pity on her. "Give it a try. Don't need to be anything definitive. Just a casual outing."
Cleaning her throat, Akeno gave Shirou a sharp look which stopped him from replying. "A casual outing between representatives of two gods." The hybrid quickly controlled herself upon noticing how hard the silver haired woman was blushing. Adding her typical smile for good measure, she pointed out that, "Offering something like that makes it look like you want something, Odin-sama."
"I do want something!" His thumb pointed to his bodyguard. "That someone replace the stick in her-"
"Lord Odin." Baraqiel interrupted politely but firmly. "I would request that you watch what you say. We are in the presence of Lady Medusa and I doubt she likes such crass language."
The goddess in question raised an eyebrow but she knew the fallen angel was using her only as an excuse since his real purpose was to protect his daughter and end that particular discussion.

'Oho?' Especially because Akeno looked quite frustrated from what Medusa could perceive. "Fufufu. Indeed, indeed. Please control your words whilst in my presence, Odin."
"Kukuku." A single glance told the god all he needed to know and both reached an understanding. "Fine, if little Rossweisse here doesn't want a break for a date tonight-" He enjoyed the Valkyrie little squirm as she tried to hide her face. "-what about if we all meet again tomorrow? Baraqiel certainly wants to spend a little more time with his daughter."
Immediately both True Hybrid and Cadre found themselves cowed by the Aesir's words. Sure they managed to spend some time together but there were things still to be said. Their eyes met and the Fallen of Lightning was the first move, avoiding a confrontation they knew needed to happen.

So did Medusa who decided to force things a little, "I wouldn't mind. But it would be for the best if the devils were also included. This is still their territory."
"Wasn't this your city?" Odin asked with legitimate confusion.
"Why cannot be both? The state isn't bound to religion." 'Yet.' Because she was going to convert every devil eventually. Or at least try.

Shirou was the first to stand up, raising a hand to call the waitress. "What are you doing?" Baraqiel asked with a glare.

One full of hostility which surprised the redhead since it wasn't present there before. "Getting the bill?" He was already removing a wallet from his pocket.

Only for the Cadre to quickly wipe out a credit card of his own. "Nonsense. This was both a celebration for my daughter as well as Lord Odin's lunch. I should be the one paying."
The magus replied with some disbelief. "Don't worry. I can pay just fine. Was already planning to do it anyway."
"But it isn't necessary. I have the necessary funds. Azazel designed a small budget to keep Lord Odin entertained as well."
"Then save it for later. Better safe than sorry and all that."
"I understand you also want to pay for your goddess but as the senior officer here, I should be the one taking care of this."

Shirou started to find himself slightly frustrated. "Shouldn't that be the other way around? And if I was part of the Grigori?"

"... I am still your elder. Let me pay."
"No, let me pay. It is the least I can do."
"It is the least I can do!"

For a moment the two men glared at each other and those on the table could swear there were sparks of rage between them.

Leaning closer to the God of Wisdom, Medusa questioned. "What is going on?"

"Kukuku. Baraqiel is finally showing some Father Energy at perceiving his daughter's intentions and knowing her intended is sort of a playboy."
"Shirou isn't… There is nothing I can say that can defend him, is it?" The Goddess of Snakes realized that while the women in his life had no problem with his situation, he indeed could be called a playboy.

Despite lacking the attitude, the moniker was understandable.

Then Medusa noticed the waitress quickly getting closer and snapped her fingers with a small dose of her Divinity behind the gesture, surprising both Odin and Rossweisse who felt the Valkyrie's rune fall apart.

The Aesir inspected the smug goddess, 'Since when did her magic reach that level? Rossweisse is no slouch. Her skill, while significantly shorter of my own, is the real deal. She graduated from Freya's academy with honors for Yggdrasil's sake! That stingy goddess doesn't give that sort of praise to anyone.'

Suddenly the purple haired deity wasn't just an oddity but also a danger or at least someone the Old Man of the North could no longer ignore. A good thing he was already there to study her even if that wasn't his main goal.

'A simple Goddess of Snakes shouldn't be able to do that…' Concluded the King of Asgard as a storm hid behind his lonely eye. 'She is someone's Counterpart, that much is obvious, and with that sort of skill there is no doubt that whoever the Original Goddess was, she was powerful.'

Curiosity began to pour into his being, the same curiosity that in his youth drove the god to seek all manners of knowledge to the point that later in life he dared to hang himself from the World Tree, Yggdrasil.

Despite that familiar impulse rearing its head, the Aesir quickly reined it in. 'No matter. Her identity isn't irrelevant.' Concluded the retired King of Asgard, dismissing that line of thought.

No, Odin had other plans, far more relevant plans than a goddess who managed to learn the basics of his magic system via observations alone. Either that or she overpowered Rossweisse's small rune which was certainly possible. He only didn't judge so because of how the Valkyrie was staring at the younger deity.

Regardless of the Aesir's musings, the waitress finally arrived at their earshot. "Would you-"
""The bill, please."" Baraqiel and Shirou said at the same time and then glared at each other before both raised their cards. ""Credit!""

Much to her credit the waitress barely reacted to their outburst. Other than a smile and a nod, she did little else besides getting the machine.

Which led to the two men staring at each other in challenge which had Medusa giggling while Akeno didn't know how to react. Odin also did his best to stay quiet whilst trusting that something amusing was about to happen.
But before things could escalate, "Why don't you pay, handsome?" The waitress offered while pointing the small machine towards Baraqiel.

She also was leaning forward a little, trying to draw his attention towards her modest chest but the Cadre barely paid attention, focusing instead on just approaching his card to the machine and throwing a look of superiority towards Shirou.

Who gave him a stare and a huff but said nothing before turning to the others. "So, are we ready to go or does anyone want to check something at the mall?"
Odin pointed to himself. "Shouldn't you be asking me?" He questioned in a playful tone.

The redhead shrugged. "I am asking in general. If you want to go meet with the others already, great. I don't want to keep anyone waiting." He then motioned to Akeno. "But we should be celebrating her win as well. Whatever Akeno says goes."
"Oh my~ Are you sure about that, Shirou-kun?" The hybrid questioned while holding her cheek, trying to hide her blush. Making Baraqiel look like he swallowed a sour lemon. "Are you forgetting that imagination is my greatest asset?"

"Medusa also wants our newest idol rewarded for an excellent performance. Don't you?" Shirou questioned the deity who looked between her priestess and the other god.

"Indeed. I want to make sure Akeno knows how much I appreciate the effort she put in today. However I don't think we should leave Odin unsupervised." The purple haired goddess ignored the mocking look of offense on the Aesir's face and Rossweisse nod of agreement. "Let's first leave him with Azazel, then we can decide what we will do."

Akeno looked between her father and Shirou, the former who looked more subdued once the bill had been paid. He too was waiting to know what she wanted to do and she had much to say. Yet her goddess was right, priorities came first and both as a High Priestess and Queen of Gremory, she should make sure Odin met her King and uncle quickly.

With that in mind the ravenhead could only say. "So, shall we see how stressed Rias got with this surprise visit?"

Baraqiel flinched, Odin laughed and Rossweisse held her breath for a moment before releasing a deep sigh. "Yes, we should ask forgiveness too…"
"For a harmless prank? Woman, you are boring." The Aesir declared while standing up from his seat.

A few minutes later they found themselves outside where they caught sight of Rias, Luvia and Azazel standing close to a limousine which was pulsing with magic. Between the barriers on the luxurious car there was a spell to deflect normal people's attention, same with those close to it.

Something necessary because the limousine they had was at least twice the size of a normal car. "Odin! Why didn't you call?!" Azazel suddenly called, all smiles and a tad of flamboyance.

Immediately Shirou and Akeno noticed how he looked like he had dressed up in a hurry and the attempts to look himself slightly more presentable only highlighted that there was something wrong.

"Hmhmhmhm. Didn't you get the memo? I am sure the guide you provided made a couple of calls when he thought I wasn't looking." The Aesir joked while Baraqiel's face grew so stoic he could be compared to a stone carving. "Either way, we were just doing a favor to this big lug. Weren't we, Rossweisse?"

"He he he… "The Valkyrie could only force out a laugh as her god poked her temporary coworker on the ribs with his elbow.

Technically speaking he wasn't lying as Baraqiel wanted to really see Akeno's performance so it could be said that Odin did him a favor quickly flying into Fuyuki while ignoring every single protocol.

Sure it was annoying but so long it was for a good cause the Old Man of the North could do as he pleased while having some fun at everyone else's expense.

Like the Heiress of Gremory who nevertheless met the Aesir in the eye. "While I am sure my Queen is grateful for that act of charity, must I remind you there are protocols to be followed." Rias' blue eyes shifted to her best friend for a second, unsure if she was telling the truth or only doing lip service. "Fuyuki is hardly equipped to receive a god of your esteem. We would love some time to prepare, if you wouldn't mind."
Rossweisse shook her head already anticipating what her god was about to say. "Bah. There is no need. No point in visiting a town if they are going to bend backwards to make me comfortable." It was hardly the first time someone tried to make Odin feel some shame or regret and it never worked. "I want to taste Fuyuki's essence. What makes this little corner of the planet tick, do you know what I am saying?"

Rias and Luvia traded looks before their gaze shifted towards the others. Shirou and Medusa both nodded, indicating that Odin's words were expected. It was a simple signal but one that told them there was no way to change the old god's mind.

And that he would have fun at their expense.

Fortunately Azazel also wasn't surprised. "Odin, Odin, Odin. You know this isn't fair. I can't get anything done around here with you jumping about. Now I am going to have to party it up all night." His words surprised everyone but the Aesir who laughed. "If you had called, and I mean you and not Baraqiel, I could have cleared my agenda."
"Sure, sure. I am sorry. I forgot that I am the only one retired here. Hahahaha!" The god retorted with good humor. "But don't worry too much. A man like you have to know what is fun around here. Let's just go around and find a good bar, like old times."
"Like when you were dodging your wife?" Finally they saw a small twitch on Odin's face. Whatever Azazel was referring to, it wasn't good. "I'm kidding. I'm kidding. Come on, man. It has been centuries already."
For a moment a chill ran through everybody's spine as the Aesir's lone eye glared at the Scapegoat with an intensity so strong that they all would never forget. Sure there wasn't any hostility, and he wasn't using his power, but that look was just plain dangerous. Enough so that Shirou felt himself sweat and Akeno stopped breathing.

Then like it had come, it was gone. "Bwahahaha. I had completely forgotten about that. Now you owe me a few good cups! I want to forget it again!"
"My pleasure." Azazel opened the limousine's door. "Hop on in. There aren't any parties tonight and tomorrow is Monday but I know a bar with a buffet that is just," he kissed his fingers, "divine."
"I am going to hold you to that." Odin moved closer to the car with Rossweisse in tow.
Which gave Baraqiel a second to look at his daughter, "Akeno… Mayhaps we could… talk a little later?"
The True Hybrid looked at her sire with a conflicted expression before raising her chin with eyes full of determination. "What do you say about us having this conversation after Odin-sama departs?" The ravenhead's offer surprised both Rias and Shirou but the latter just smiled with pride. A smile Medusa shared. "I wouldn't want to… I don't want anyone interrupting us…"
"Of course! I mean." Baraqiel took a moment to clear his throat and adjust his posture. "Thank you, Akeno." He offered her a sincere smile, one which she returned. "We will talk, I promise. No, I swear in Father's name that I am not leaving this town until-"
"Why don't they come with us?" Odin suddenly interrupted with a gentle grin. "Between the Mage of Swords, Medusa, the Scapegoat the Gremory girl and this sad excuse of a Valkyrie," Rossweisse let out a sigh of exasperation and acceptance, "there is nothing to worry about. Hell, call her team if that is going to make your prudes feel better.."
Rias raised an eyebrow when the god referred to her peerage. "Unfortunately, Lord Odin, that isn't how things work. Protocol demands-"
"Bah. Forget about protocol."
"Lord Odin?!" Rossweisse snapped from her apathy with shock at her god's words. No, his whole attitude was off putting to the Valkyrie.

Something Shirou understood. 'In the Poetic Edda, Odin is revered as someone cautious. Did retirement make him careless?'

Medusa rolled her eyes before mustering a retort. "Didn't we agree that the entertainment you want is not the sort I endorse?"
"Are you really going to separate a father and daughter about to reconcile?" Odin shot back with a smirk making the younger deity hiss.
Baraqiel then stepped forward to say, "Lord Odin, while I appreciate your consideration, I would prefer to have this conversation and in private where Akeno and I can take our time."
"Not to be rude but there are private rooms where we are going. Probably." The Aesir offered.

Yet the Fallen of Lightning wasn't moved. "Nevertheless I prefer to keep my priorities straight. I should not focus on my daughter while protecting you."

Protocols existed for a reason and from time to time someone was stupid enough to try to take out a god causing a potential incident. Negligence wouldn't be forgiven either because even if Odin decided to ignore it Asgard wouldn't.
"Like I need protection." The Aesir looked around and knew he was beaten regardless. There wasn't a single argument which would change anyone's minds. "Fine but Medusa better remember we are touring Fuyuki tomorrow."
"As if I could forget." The purple haired deity replied while crossing her arms. "I will be there so behave."
"Hahahaha! You are too young to tell me to behave!" His piece said the Old Man of the North took a seat in the limo which prompted his bodyguards to do the same.

Azazel looked satisfied with that turn of events and saluted Shirou before turning to Rias. "So I will be seeing you tomorrow?"
"Probably. Nobody in the Watchers has enough clearance to take this sort of responsibility." The pureblood devil clicked her tongue and glared at Odin who stared back with amusement. He knew exactly what he was doing; giving her more work. "We still need to organize the others. Also, tomorrow is Monday-"

"Pity it isn't a Wednesday." The Aesir mused, Rossweisse holding back a groan inside the limo.

"-so we need to prepare everything. You really caught us with our pants down."
"Believe, you would know if I caught anyone with their pants down. Hahahaha!" Declared the Aesir without shame. "But fine. Go do whatever paperwork you need to do. I know that tomorrow Medusa and I are going to look around so I suppose everybody here is going to be present anyway."

"Most likely." Because the Watchers just weren't strong enough to guard a god, Rias Peerage would have no choice but to work protecting the old man.

God or not, so long there was a risk of someone attacking a deity then whoever was serving as a host had the duty of protecting them otherwise inviting war on their doors. Their power was irrelevant, it was a matter of showing respect to a VIP by protecting them while also making sure nobody could blame the faction for lowering their guard.

Pretty much it was all about deniability: so long the Underworld offered their best to protect their visitor even if by some miracle Odin was attacked Asgard and their allies wouldn't be able to complain.

Especially because when someone attacked a god either they were insane and irrelevant.

It had been millenia since anyone heard about a god departing an ally territory harmed. Unsatisfied maybe but never harmed unless on purpose from training or something else.

As Heiress of Gremory, Rias wanted to keep the streak going. "We shall see each other tomorrow then, Lord Odin."
"Kukukuku." With a last chuckle the deity rested on the limo until he, Rossweisse, Azazel and Baraqiel departed.

For the moment an attache of soldiers from the Grigori would work as the detail watching over Odin, an apology from Azazel for failing on sounding the alarm about the Aesir's arrival in a timely fashion.

However that wouldn't be true the following day or any other that the retired King of Asgard was in Fuyuki. It was devil territory and that meant the Second Owner had to see to the god's safety or risk insulting them. Rias in that case since Sona was unavailable and Seekvaira was a temporary replacement.

Worse, with how the situation was because of the invasion, the only personnel the Princess of Ruin had to work with was her peerage, her lover and his allies.

Yet none of that was on the pureblood devil's mind since, as soon as the limo left the mall's parking lot, she turned to Akeno and asked, "How are you doing?"
The Queen smiled shyly, playing with her hands. "Today has been a long day."
"But it wasn't bad, right?" Her goddess asked with a gentle smile which had the ravenhead nodding slightly.

Nonetheless, Rias wasn't fully convinced. "Sorry that I didn't warn you about your father. I just learned they were here a few hours ago."
"Azazel dropped that and Odin's bombshell on us first thing on that meeting." Luvia didn't know all the details but Rias filled her in while they waited for the group to leave the mall. "I believe it is fair to say we all were caught off guard."
Medusa's expression grew full of guilt. "I am sorry. I didn't expect Odin to show up."
Shirou patted her head with a warm smile. "To be fair, nobody expected Odin." For a second he and the goddess traded looks as he noticed how tall she got. While it wasn't uncomfortable, his eyes shifted to the King and Queen of Gremory. "What are we going to do now? You made it sound like you are going to be following him the whole day."
"'You'?" His lover asked with an amusing smirk, already guessing what he was thinking. The magus didn't surprise her.

His hand still resting on Medusa's head he said, "Sure. Those two rapscallions need a chaperone. Who knows what sort of mess Odin will drag our resident goddess without the devils around to protect her."

"Someone has been practicing being a smart ass."

"Hmph, you make it sound like you have any sort of choice." The purple haired woman declared smugly. "You are my Champion, and way better bodyguard than a Valkyrie and a Cadre." The last one he wanted to contest but she placed a hand on his chest, interrupting him. "Besides, I think Odin has something in mind."
That confused the Mage. "'Something'?"
"You think he is planning something nefarious, Lady Medusa?" Luvia questioned before anyone else could.
After pondering the question, Medusa answered. "Maybe? I don't know much about him as a god. The Legends about him are missing several important details." She began to wonder. "But the main problem? He is too much of a prankster for me to take anything he is saying in good faith."

"Well, he is one of the greatest advocates for peace among the gods so he gets the benefit of the doubt." Rias reminded them before turning to Akeno. "So, in what capacity are you going? Or you want to stay out of this?"
"'What capacity'?" The True Hybrid questioned after shrugging off her surprise.

Her best friend nodded as all eyes landed on her. "Are you coming as my Queen or as a Priestess of Medusa?"

"High Priestess of Medusa." The goddess pointed out with no small amount of pride.

"Rias, is this really necessary?" Shirou questioned without missing a beat. "Actually, do we all need to go? It is just Odin and he-"
"Politics, Shero. Politics and optics." Luvia pointed out, summarizing the situation. "We can't be seen slacking off. That will be detrimental for our King and us. In fact, if Lady Medusa had a more stabilized position in Fuyuki, it would be recommended that she also send some forces to protect Lord Odin." Then she let out a sigh. "Regardless, it is hard to believe that an old man like that is the Father of Runes. He is just so…"

"Annoying?" Medusa suggested.

"Undignified… I can feel his power but-"
"He is an old god. The sort that lived through hundreds of battles and led his people for longer than most civilizations, outlasting even his original followers." Rias reminded everyone, her eyes never leaving Akeno who looked undecided. It was rare for her to see so much conflict on the ravenhead's face. "Look, if you want, we can have you coordinate our peerage and watch the city."
"No, I am going." The hybrid said with all the courage she could muster. "My father's presence won't hamper me in any way." She then turned to the goddess who smiled. "Trust me on that, Medusa-sama."
"Of course. You are my High Priestess. With you and my Champion, we shall have nothing to worry about when it comes to Odin."
Despite her Queen working as a priestess on that occasion, Rias only felt relief that the ravenhead didn't have a drop of hesitation on her. "Then we better get the others ready for tomorrow." Then her excitement died and she let out a sigh. "We can't have any breaks, can't we?"
"The World stops for no one." Shirou commented while massaging her back. "Pity we are skipping classes again, aren't we?"
"Oh, don't act like Xenovia won't love that." She then clicked her tongue. "Although… working as security can be more boring than any class… I just hope they can act somewhat professionally since we won't be there to keep them in check."
…..

The previous day truly waited for no one and Rias Peerage had to move quickly to prepare themselves. While the group's coordination wasn't perfect it was still excellent so all the King needed was give everyone their orders.

Security could be an easy job or a hard job depending on what was being guarded but since the whole situation was mostly a formality because of Odin's status, they only needed to make sure everybody woke up early and showed up to replace the fallen angels guarding the Aesir.

Effectively they only needed to watch over the Old Man of the North for a few hours so it wasn't a hard job.

"Huuuh…"

"Are you alright, Ise-san?" Asia, wearing their school uniform for summer, questioned the Pawn as they sat down on a rooftop watching the city below.

"Huh? Just bored." Letting out another groan the Red Dragon Emperor stretched his arms before laying down on an apartment's rooftop. "Damn, waiting for something to happen is so boring."

Tell me you are at least paying attention, Ise.* Kiba's voice came from the spell both in the Pawn and Bishop's ears. *This job is important and Buchou is counting on us.*

The brown haired man sat down on the roof with his legs crossed. "I know but it is just soooo boring." Both him and Asia were in the shade of a water box above the residence with a clear line of sight to the busiest street of Fuyuki. "Couldn't we just be down there with the others? Bet they are having a blast right now. Anything better than sitting on a roof" He mumbled the last part.

Which everyone else heard anyway. *And how do you expect us to react when danger comes on sight if we can't see it?!* Xenovia questioned through the spell loud enough both devils winced. The young man could already guess others suffered the same fate, especially Gasper who was the bluehead's partner for that operation. *In this formation we all are in position to drop by the moment something goes wrong! So long everybody pays attention!*

"Xenovia-san, maybe you are overreacting a bit?" Asia asked gently while sweating profusely.

Nevertheless nobody from Rias Peerage could disagree with their Bishop, the knight was reacting harshly and behaving more like a taskmaster than their friend but the blond herself understood where she was coming from.

Because Shirou and Rias entrusted the bluehead with the leadership over the peerage which excluded only Akeno and Luvia who were with Rias tailing Odin and Medusa wherever the gods went.

It was a logical choice since Xenovia was a former Exorcist with training for this sort of operations which included vigilance and stalking. A person like that was the best leader for missions like those because they were the ones who could judge any potential threat and make the best decisions to deal with them.

Rias could have done the same herself, albeit in a less professional manner than the bluehead as her training in those areas was limited, but not while she was busy entertaining Odin.

So Xenovia got the job and she wanted it done well. *We can't lower our guard. Look, even Liz is ready for anything and you know how she is usually low on energy.*

Having trouble believing the former Exorcist, Ise jumped to his feet and went to the edge of the roof where he could look down and see the whole street. Since it was Monday morning, most people were already at work or school so the area wasn't necessarily full. And after a few seconds he located the pair of Koneko and Leysritt sitting on a bench.

Eating crepes. "They are having lunch!"

Part of our disguise.* The homunculus pointed out between bites.

Our disguise.* Koneko agreed, pretty much doing the same thing.

To be fair, people would find it odd if they were just sitting around and doing nothing in front of a snack bar.*

"Easy for you to say that, Kiba. Aren't you and Ravel hanging out in some store?" Indeed they were which had the Daughter of Phenex chuckling in mockery as the older Knight was left without words. "Meanwhile, Asia and I are cooking on the rooftop. Cooking! Why the hell are we on a rooftop? Devils hate the Sun!"
*Fufu. Hate is a strong word…* Ravel couldn't help but mocking him a little.

Skill issue.*

"Even you, Liz-sensei?" Ise was surprised to find himself betrayed at her words.

Yet Xenovia elaborated, *Ise, you are our best flier.* She was with Gasper in a cybercafe a few blocks from the restaurant where Odin insisted on having lunch. Apparently the wine there was from a rare blend he wanted to try out. *That is the best position for you since you can either fly down as quickly as possible with your Balance Breaker to either rain down death on our enemies or take Asia to heal anyone who needs it.*

Ise grunted before thinking, 'I haven't tried to use it since…'

Also you can't stop making faces.* Koneko argued and even if she couldn't see it, she knew the Pawn had a scowl.

Before he could reply or really be offended, Kiba added, *She means you can't blend in with the crowd, Ise.*

"Just because we are dressed for school?!" It was true that only Ise and Asia were wearing Kuoh's uniform for a very simple reason: Ise's parents.

Unlike everyone else who lived at Shirou's and didn't need to worry about appearances, the Pawn and Bishop pair needed to fool the former parents so they didn't suspect they would be skipping classes that day.

Literally skipped it on Ise's side as, unlike every other devil, he doesn't have a familiar to send to school and pretend to be him. Even Asia's little dragon, Rassei, could wear a magic disguise of hers and not say a word while pretending to have a cold. He was certainly smart enough to do it.

That would be the excuse Rias would use on Ise's card, he had a spell of sickness and missed one day of class. Similar excuses were lined up for Shirou, Liz and Xenovia while the school wouldn't look too deeply into them because of who they worked for. If anything the excuses were for other teachers and students to not question the abstinences.

Which could be avoided if the Watchers of Fuyuki were fully staffed but several of them were recalled to the Underworld as a crisis began to grow on the Frontier and the Satans needed more hands to stop the mess.

Basically Fuyuki's silent protectors were working with just a skeleton crew whose only task was to watch and report. Even the fallen angels were having difficulties sparing extra personnel because of the invasion.

Fortunately Sona Peerage was still around to pick up some of the slack so the troubles were minimal and they would work with Rin in the background..

"Urgh. Can't we just get something up here?" Ise complained while going back to the water box to sit in the shade. "I'm so bored that I could count clouds."

You better not start.* Xenovia warned. *Your task while up there is also as our watchtower. Pay attention. Can you imagine if someone got past you because you took a nap? It would be embarrassing.*

Xenovia-senpai, please calm down.* Gasper requested gently.

He is right. No need to work ourselves up.* Ravel commented. *This is all a formality anyway. We don't need a watchtower or anything like that. Send… Ise and Asia to one of the stores so they don't get bored and call it a job. Not like anyone is going to complain.*

By the growl from her throat, the former Exorcist didn't like the suggestion. *And if anything happens?*

There are two gods, Onee-sama, her Queen and a Mage down there. Not to mention Azazel and Baraqiel the, and I quote hundreds of History books in this, Strongest of the Grigori. Who would be insane enough to start anything.*

Ise may have problems with Riser and how he tried to force their King into a marriage but he was starting to like Ravel. "What she said! Come on, Xenovia. What is the worst that can happen?"

You jinxed us.* Liz suddenly said.

"What? Is that a thing?"

"Oh no, Ise-san…" Suddenly Asia grew worried and began looking around the city, trying to find a threat.

Only for Kiba to say, *No, it isn't.* Instantly calming her down.

It is.* Insisted the homunculus with a serious tone.

Since when?* Ravel questioned with obvious skepticism.

Always.*

Yes, he jinxed us.* Koneko agreed with her fellow glutton.

"Is it, or isn't something?" Asia suddenly asked and a new voice joined the chat.

Can you all lower your tone? I am trying to hear Lord Odin.* Luvia hissed on her communicator spell. Since Akeno would be tending Medusa, she was designated as Rias' second in command for the operation.

Also because her background as a magus prompted her to try and get whatever scraps of knowledge the retired King of Asgard sent her way. Besides that she was there as extra muscle and taking charge of communications for her King allowing the Gremory Heiress to focus on their illustrious visitor.

Regardless that meant even if she didn't reply immediately or at all Luvia had an ear on every bit of conversation which made her grow increasingly annoyed. *Focus on your tasks and use the spell only if necessary.*

"Easy for you to say. You're getting to hang out while we cook to death!"

He could almost see the roll of her eyes. *Stop being dramatic. I am just as bored as you, standing around and doing nothing.*

... You are getting some lessons in runes if anything.* Kiba pointed out.

With how Lord Odin 'teaches', the whole thing could be a prank. But I am trying to figure things out from Rossweisse's reactions- Oh, Lord Odin. No, no. Nothing wrong. I assure you. Just gossip between coworkers, you know how that is.*

Asia watched Ise roll his eyes at the dismissive tone of her fellow blonde. "Maybe Irina-san should have come with us?"

The extra help was offered by the angel herself however Irina was denied by Caren who said, "While you were righteous in offering assistance, this is a matter of politics. We shall not act without Lord Michael's orders or if it isn't an emergency. Also, you have classes, get to them."

Kotomine probably would agree with the argument so nobody bothered calling him.

"Hehe. Yeah, maybe if Irina was here she could tell us some stories. Like the time Xenovia demolished a bathroom on a mission."

Oho. Is that how you wanna play? Because I bet you have a lot of embarrassing stories as well!*

Xenovia-senpai, don't shout on the street. Please.* Nobody knew if Gasper was embarrassed or fearful.

"Try me!" Challenged the Pawn. "I'm Hyoudou Issei, future Harem King! Nothing you find will affect me. Nothing!"
That sort of boldness demanded only one answer. *Even if I ask your parents?*

Immediately the Pawn grew pale. "That isn't fair."

All is fair in love and war.*

The Red Dragon could do little but admit defeat. "Can't we just stay somewhere else? You guys are in the town with stuff to do while we just… hang out on roofs. There is nothing here but birds and poop."

A grunt left Xenovia's throat before Kiba said, *Ravel and I can watch over the next location while Ise and Asia take a break.*

Speak for yourself. I don't want to waste over an hour on a rooftop.*

So are we admitting it is a waste then?* Gasper questioned innocently.

Offended, the former Exorcist retorted. *What a bird knows of strategy anyway?*

Stupid bird.* Koneko said it for the sake of saying it.

This 'bird' knows more about war and strategy than any of you. I was raised as a proud member of the Clan Phenex and led my brother's peerage in several Rating Games. My education in combat and strategy surpasses even-*

I have completed dozens of missions for the Church and was raised by one of their greatest fighters, Griselda Quarta. Maybe you heard about Florence's Butcher? Dozens of Stray dead by one woman. Yeah, that was her!*

That is her accomplishment, not yours!*

At least Ravel took out the phone to pretend she was on a call…*

Xenovia-senpai did the same thing.*

Ise groaned before going limp while trying to ignore the two women fighting. "Who knew tailing a god would be so… boring."
"I think it is fun." The Pawn turned to the Bishop with wide eyes.

'Please don't tell me Asia is turning into another Akeno. Please don't. God, I know that you're dead, that I'm a devil and… Just don't, please!'

Her smile was gentle as a breeze and held no type of malice or playfulness, instead representing an innocent sweetness that left no room for any sort of teasing. However that smile alone only made the Red Dragon Emperor more confused as he tried to understand what she said.

"Everyone is so much happier, more animated." Asia suddenly said while looking at Fuyuki into the distance. "Everything is much… better now." Ise's expression fell a little before he stood up and gave the former nun a hug. "Ise?!"

Yet all it did was prompt him to pat her head. "You are a good person, Asia." She blinked twice in surprise before choosing to say nothing and lean on his touch. 'I totally forgot this is the first time we all 'hang out' after the invasion. Usually everyone is just… doing their own thing.'

Although they were separated with each watching over a different section of the area, that was the first time Rias Peerage worked together on something after returning to Fuyuki. During the first few days they had been busy learning what the Watchers had done while replacing them and later they all just had their own stuff to do.

Even their meetings in the ORC were mostly just to eat together before going to make deals or reconnect with their clients. Curiously Ise was the only one who had no troubles in getting his clients to call him again as most of them saw him as good company.

Yet nobody managed to break Azazel's record when it came to number of requests or payments as nobody could be as extravagant as the Governor General of the Grigori but he didn't mind the lunches, the toys, games or whatever they wanted to pay him with.

Regardless the point was that when acting as a group Rias Peerage always was missing one or two people and nobody wanted to talk about the invasion. At least not out loud and if Ise was a little more paranoid he would suspect they just didn't want to talk with him about it.

Not even Asia but she still slipped in his room every couple of nights when he was 'sleeping'. When asked why she was doing it, the blonde told him, "You help with my nightmares. You keep them away."

He didn't need to ask what the nightmares were about and made sure to remain perfectly still whenever she showed up. Thanks to that he learned Asia was quite the hugger in her sleep, usually claiming his arm as a pillow even when bringing her own.

Ise then stretched his arms above his head before saying, "Maybe we should take a nap?"

Xenovia immediately stopped bickering with Ravel. *What about being vigilant you didn't understand?*

"Eh~ Not going to happen. Fuyuki is too peaceful. Everything 's going to be just fine." The Red Dragon Emperor said. "The worst thing that can happen is a pigeon fly by and poop on Odin 's clothes. Think that starts a war?"

Jinxed us again.* Liz chipped in.

Double jinx from the perv.* Koneko added.

An amused Kiba chuckled. *So, Ravel and I are going to the rooftop? Give Ise and Asia a break?*

Why can't Gasper and the Exorcist do it?* The Daughter of Phenex complained.

Because we are faster than her and Ise is faster than us.* One Knight said to the other bluntly. *Ise also is strong enough to carry Asia anywhere while Xenovia's hands are full with swords when she uses her Noble Gear and Gasper… needs more muscles.*

Only the Pawn witnessed Asia tilting her head. "Am I heavy?"

"No, no. Kiba is just exaggerating. Ain't that right?" Ise quickly asked while putting a finger on his ear to strengthen the spell.

Since his mana control was still subpar everyone suddenly felt like a needle had struck their earlobes. *Dammit, Ise.*

Couldn't you just let us finish?*

"When were you finishing?" The Pawn retorted with a wince as both him and Asia were also victims of his rush. "That conversation looked to be going nowhere fast."

Perv has a point.*

"Koneko-chan, when are you-"

When you stop being a perv.*

That isn't going to happen anytime soon.* Xenovia pointed out with a chuckle before her voice grew serious again. *You win, Kiba. You and Ravel can replace them so they can rest a little. But just a little. I want them back as a watchtower in the formation after the next.*

*Yes, ma'am yes.* The older Knight said much like a soldier would.

Can't we just trade Kiba and the dragon?* The shortest Knight offered as a compromise. Or a last ditch effort.

It was Gasper who replied, *No, no, no. Ise-senpai needs to stay close to Asia-senpai!*

I agree.* Liz added immediately.

And Xenovia, trying to keep the Pawn and Bishop pair going as a good wingwoman despite actually being in Irina's corner, was quick to offer a proper excuse. *Ise is still our fastest flier. So even if he is going to be ground level, Asia can get wherever she needs to go.*

We are on Earth…* Ravel retorted in disbelief before growing quiet.

In an old furniture store where the Knights were free to look through the window, Kiba was making signs with his hands to cut the Daughter of Phenex's train of thought. He was wearing a gray buttoned up shirt and jeans while she was wearing a sports skirt and pink blouse with a ribbon while holding a tennis racket bag.

Inside said bag were the Married Twins, a poorly thought out disguise since the only place with a tennis court in the city was Kuoh Academy and there she was, outside school on a Monday inside pretty much an antique shop pretending to be a normal teenager.

Fortunately nobody bothered to ask questions as they would be the first students to skip class, either in college or school. She didn't care either way, the education from her Clan covered almost all topics so her only reason to go to Kuoh was because her King liked the idea.

Nevertheless that was irrelevant since the young woman was too busy trying to read Kiba's lips for his silent message. The young man noticed he was speaking a little too quickly and began to mumble slowly.

'We need to keep Ise and Asia together… Is that it?' Of course she knew about the former nun's flame for the Red Dragon Emperor and could easily admit he wasn't that bad looking. 'Gah, how does a Holy Maiden fall in love with a pervert?!' Which was her main problem.

Still, she understood her fellow Knight's intent and suspected the bluehead was cooperating with him, meaning they would find any and all excuses to keep them together. Worse yet, Ravel couldn't see a solution to escape such a conundrum. Her best chance to not get stuck on a rooftop for the next hour or so was to deal with Ise's annoyance.

However that was pretty much out of question since the Pawn wasn't just dealing with the boredom of watching over but also spending most of his time going between Sun and shade, whenever the latter was available.

As far as weakness went, the Sun wasn't the worst thing for devils. Most of the time it just did little more than inflict some lethargy and a bout of weakness. Even long exposure beneath the Great Star would do no damage but still be enough to grate someone's nerves.

Despite that, someone needed to be the watchtower, even if it was just for formality's sake. They couldn't risk provoking Asgard. 'Odin may be a laid back god but that Valkyrie of his looks competent.'

Both Xenovia and Akeno vouched for Rossweisse, Shirou did too but Ravel ignored his opinion about everything except swords. The silver haired woman was considered a friend by several from Rias Peerage yet Ravel wasn't going to underestimate that woman's sense of duty.

She was Odin's bodyguard first and foremost and if the devils didn't do their best she could report any irregularities to Asgard bringing down an international incident even if nothing went wrong in their outing.

Because Odin was the All Father of the North.

Didn't matter if the man was retired, he was still considering someone utmost important for his faction.

Looking at the still struggling Kiba trying to silently ask her to accept the proposal, Ravel heard Xenovia say, *Just a few more minutes, Ise. They will probably move soon.* The blue haired knight commented. *Odin definitively looks excited to explore a few extra parts of the town. Then we will go to Medusa's temple and probably converge there.*

Are they still eating? That can take a while.*

Kiba stopped signaling Ravel to turn towards the window and look at the restaurant on the other side of the street. "Everyone but Odin-sama is eating. Also, he is trying to trick Medusa into getting more mead."
*Easier to pull out a tooth.* Koneko commented. *She really doesn't want that thing even after saying it tasted so good… And I mean sooooooo good…*

I wanna a sip.* Liz commented.

Me too… Sorta…* The Red Dragon Emperor added.

"Hmph, who wouldn't want some Asgardian mead? Their alcohol is considered the best for a reason." Even Ravel couldn't help but lick her lips at the thought of sampling the legendary drink.

Maybe Luvia-san can get some-*

Lord Odin is very reserved with his mead. Unfortunately.* By her tone it was clear the Rook had tried and failed to secure some for herself. And by the cackle they also heard, she made no attempt to disguise their conversation. *Are you sure only Lady Medusa and Shero can have it?*

Whatever the god's answer, the other devils didn't hear but they noted how she told them that Odin wasn't as reserved as he appeared. 'Why would he want to share a drink with the Mage of Swords?'

It was odd, odd enough that the newest Knight of Gremory couldn't help but find it suspicious. She also understood why the temporary second in command of their peerage brought attention to that action.

"Do you think Odin-sama wants something with Shirou?" Kiba whispered in her ears, hoping the noble woman could shed some light in the situation.

"Maybe he is just showing courtesy since he is his student in a fashion…" Yet such justification sounded hollow even to herself. 'The Noble Gears? No, if Odin wanted a new weapon or armor he could go to the dwarves. Even if the ones who made his spear are no longer around there must be a few who inherited their skills…'

Unsure what he could want, she could only speculate and that was even taking into account she was trying to guess the intentions of a god. It was folly, even for devils, to try and understand the divine when they were feeling capricious. And few were more capricious than the Old Man of the North.

Ravel remembered reading a story about him a long time ago when she was still being educated about the World. It was a tale to warn her to not mess or try to trick the gods, Odin in particular.

'There was once a king with his army preparing for a day of battle. As followers of their gods, they all knew an offering was needed if they wanted to win the next day.' She remembered the story very well as it stuck with her. Better yet it struck a nerve because of the sort of story it was. 'To make sure of their victory, the king suggested an offering to Odin despite knowing what it meant; one of the warband had to die.'

Because rituals for certain gods involved repeating one of their feats or offering their favorite food to pay the price. Odin wasn't known for eating, in fact there were Legends he never ate and instead gave his food to wolves beneath his table. It certainly justified why he had nothing besides drinks in the restaurant.

Still the Daughter of Phenex didn't ponder that, focused on the tale. 'One particular feat is known by all when talking about Odin; his hanging and resurrection. Of course normal men didn't come back after dying…' She thought darkly. 'Each man drew straws with the intent of killing the person who ended with the shorter one and that was the king himself… However, despite making the suggestion, he didn't want to die…'

Perhaps there was trickery involved or the man was confident that he wouldn't be chosen or the real reason for his surprise and fear was lost through the sands of time. Facts stayed the same, the king and potentially the one who was more invested in their future battle had to die so the warband could achieve victory.

'The method would be hanging but he would be granted the mercy of being stabbed in the heart by a spear representing Gungnir. Yet the man didn't want to die and so his group hatched a plan.'

In other words the men wanted to do the ritual without paying the price while trying to keep whatever profit, whatever Blessings, Odin could give.

Worst even, the plan was surprisingly simple and the fools truly believed it would work.

'A frail rope and a stick instead of a spear. One should have wondered if Odin wouldn't be insulted for such debasing of his symbols.'

The ritual of his hanging, the sacrifice to Yggdrasil, was one of the most important acts Odin had ever done. It was the very thing that gave him basic knowledge of runes which allowed the god to create a new sort of magic. His spear was also a weapon of Legend and one of the finest weapons ever conceived.

Reducing them in any manner was an insult and pretending the ritual was going to work only made things worse. Perhaps none of the men there were true believers or perhaps they thought their god wasn't paying attention. While the story was relatively famous, there was no way to say for certain.

Time wore down the tale quite a bit as well, some changes and inconsistencies appeared through the ages; in a few they were a group of sailors trying to get home, others it was just a routine sacrifice after a battle and another one gave no justification at all.

But the main point always remained, the leader who was usually presented as a king was supposed to die for Odin yet the man was afraid so his men decided to try tricking the God of Wisdom.

Which led to the king's ultimate end.

'When the time came, the noose around the man's neck grew tight and he couldn't free himself. His men didn't notice his predicament and stabbed his heart with the stick which turned into a real spear.' From thinking they outsmarted a god to their leader's demise, Ravel could only imagine the shock of those men at the sight of blood. 'And so it ended the folly of those who thought who could cheat Odin. A lesson of mortality and a reminder to not provoke the One Eyed God.'

Another detail one of her instructors pointed out when the Knight was younger, just a couple of years back and before she joined brother's peerage, was that at any point the King of Asgard could have sent a Valkyrie to either warn the men or stop them.

Visions and messages from gods to their believers weren't odd and Asgard never minded contacting their followers. Either with a warning, punishment or whatever idea the god could have in that time. Because Odin knew, there was no way a god wouldn't feel one of their greatest feats being invoked and defiled.

Yet he did no such things and instead he allowed them to carry on with their plan until the very end, just making sure the end would be appropriate for the ritual they were invoking and not the farce they tried to use.

The ritual was completed, the offering accepted and a lesson taught.

'Odin always has his due.' Ravel thought with a shiver. 'If he wants something at all, at least. So long nobody picks a fight or makes any promises, I doubt the Old Man of the North will throw the first punch. He is known as a benevolent god…'

Politically speaking the blonde couldn't fathom anything the Aesir wanted that he wouldn't get with a treaty or a deal of some sort. Since both the Underworld and the Grigori wanted an alliance with Asgard anyway, there was no reason for trickery either. Such thoughts helped her relax a little even if she would prefer to stay as far away from Odin as possible.

"Done with thinking?" Kiba suddenly asked, snapping Ravel out of her thoughts. She looked at him and found his smile a little off putting.

Enough to make her take a step back before she took another forward and cleared her throat. "I wasn't lost in my thoughts."
"Sure you weren't. You stopped paying attention to our discussion five minutes ago." Once he said that the younger Knight noticed that there wasn't a single noise in her ear.

But that wasn't enough for her to believe, "I see… Maybe I lost myself in thought for a minute or so."

"Five and thirty four but who's counting?" Obviously him but his smile said otherwise. Or forced him to say otherwise if she tried. "Anyway, let 's go. We are replacing Ise and Asia."
That completely snapped Ravel back into the game. "Oh no, we-"
"Already agreed." Kiba chuckled good naturedly. Yet his fellow Knight felt a sort of innocent malice beneath it. "You can't complain, you nodded when I asked."
"But I was-"
"And you wouldn't want to bother Buchou to sort this out, would you?" That silenced her immediately but he kept going. "Ise and Asia also need a break and it will be good for them to eat their lunch in peace. Even if they have food, which Asia prepared with all her heart yesterday, it would be better to eat it beneath a nice shade instead of a hot rooftop, don't you think? Hmm, hmm, hmm."

Ravel felt truly and utterly cornered. "It isn't very chivalrous of you to force a woman to do such tasks."
"As Buchou would say; I am a devil. Playing dirty is in our playbook." He chuckled again before adding. "Besides, it won't be that bad. At least for you, you can heal from anything."
"Power of Immortality doesn't deal with migraines or the effects of the Sun, no matter how small." It was still a weakness and while her healing ability was beyond anyone else's in her family she still suffered damage. "You can't be asking me-"
"It is just a couple of hours." Kiba's expression dropped a little. "And they had been there for longer already. Let's just trade places a little." His smile soon returned, if a bit sheepish. "Also, it took a lot to convince Xenovia to let us take their place so please don't make all that work go waste."
Grumbling something beneath her breath, the smaller blonde fixed the bag on her arm and rolled her eyes. "Fine, fine, fine! We are going!" She wanted to curse out loud at the idea of long exposure beneath the sun but her upbring stopped her. "Why couldn't that bastard want a tour of the Underworld instead. It is way better than boring Earth."
"We both know that is a lie."
"It is not. Our purple skies are the best."
"But here, we have stars."
"A star is the problem. Huh." She looked away as if offended as they left the store. "Besides, if you travel around enough, you will also see the stars of the Underworld." Ravel said playfully, earning a look of confusion. "You never flew around our world, did you?"
"You remember I am native from Earth, right? Reincarnated devil and such."
"Feh. Then you should explore the Gremory Territory some more when you have the chance. If it is half as charming as the Phenex, then there will be plenty for you to look at."
"Hoh. Why don't you tell me what the Phenex Territory looks like?" The taller Knight offered it as an olive branch. "Not the cities but the land. The most untamed parts. I heard that your Clan got the most troublesome area they could find during the division back when the Underworld started being inhabited."
A scowl grew on Ravel's face as they walked towards the tallest building in the area. Since it was day, flying was out of the question. "Because of our Phoenix Tears, my ancestors thought there would be no harm if our land was… inhospitable as it is." She clicked her tongue with frustration. "Random lava pools, man-eater plants, some crystals that can be of value if they weren't frail and mining wasn't extremely dangerous. Yes, even for the Phenex."

"Hmm…"
"Then there is also the random fire geysers, the burning forest," a forest that burned by itself with stone trees taller than most apartments, "there is a mountain where a crystal blue water drops and reaches a small meadow, the only green in our Territory. We get our water from there."

"Sounds fascinating. Maybe I should visit someday."
"Maybe. Make sure Onee-sama is going and I will gladly give everyone a tour."
At least while they talked Ravel didn't complain about having to deal with the Sun even if she ended up extracting several promises from the older Knight to try and coach Rias into visiting her Clan.

He would do his best without them either way since the young man was interested in how different the Phenex Territory sounded compared to the Gremory's and Earth.

"Who goes to a restaurant to just drink?" Medusa questioned her fellow god who chuckled. "You know what I mean!"
"I do, my dear, I do. But it is a… peckish habit of mine." Odin, still dressed like a gentleman in purple and gold, informed the younger deity. "It's nothing against the restaurant or any foodstuff from Japan… Or anywhere for that matter. I just have a habit of eating in private and that is that."

Rias hummed after hearing that. "Sounds like a waste." The Heiress of Gremory was wearing another version of her school uniform with red instead of white. The skirt was also slightly longer, a more formal outfit. "You travel to so many exotic places and can't even enjoy the food."

"The drinks are enough for a god such as I. Perk of being the All Father." He laughed before turning to his personal bodyguard who looked exasperated. "Don't look at me like that, girly. I have nothing against you enjoying your food."
"I would feel much better if I didn't have to pay for my food every time! Even Lord Azazel paid for Baraqiel's dish!"
Azazel, in his classic buttoned up shirt, jacket and jeans combo, somehow managed to look ashamed of the fact. "Being fair… he is my brother."
"No, no. Let the woman vent." Rias said after a chuckle.

While not obligated by anyone, everyone ended up paying for their subordinates' meals, Medusa, sporting a summer dress and an undershirt to hide her growing chest, even pulling out a small purse in the shape of a snake to pay for Shirou and Akeno's when Rias insisted on paying for Luvia.

However, not everything went smoothly because Odin didn't care about how Rossweisse, in her preferred gray suit, was going to pay or if she was even going to eat. Just watching how she looked at the prices was enough for everyone to know she didn't have enough for anything.

"Didn't the Mage of Swords pay for your meal anyway?" True enough Shirou, wearing a black jacket, red shirt and jeans, refused to let Medusa pay for him and upon seeing the silver haired woman despair didn't hesitate to offer to pay for her meal as well. While the Valkyrie tried to refuse, her eyes were shining at the idea of eating good food and so the magus insisted. "You can even consider the debt between you two paid in this case."

"Considering she saved me from a very complicated situation I wouldn't say I repaid anything." Shirou decided to say out loud just to change the subject.

Yet Rossweisse was still upset. "At least give me a raise. I have been working with you for three years. Didn't I earn something?"
"The pleasure of my company." Odin replied confidently and the silver haired woman could only sigh in despair and resignation.

Luvia wearing her battledress, and Akeno, sporting a practical black kimono, shared a look before the former though. 'In moments like this, I am glad Rias is the one owning my soul.'

While the latter also looked at her father with a raised eyebrow, silently questioning him, 'Is that usual?'

Discreetly, and with a huge smile that his daughter was by his side for the whole day, the man nodded. 'Since I began working with Rossweisse, I noticed that she usually skips meals and walks around with the same if not similar clothes everyday.' Sure they were clean and the woman always looked pristine, if not divine, when on duty but that was due to magic. The Cadre could tell runes were weaved at every corner of her outfit for several purposes. 'Should I bring this up with Azazel?'

Who soon noticed several pairs of eyes on him but shrugged them off. 'There is a reason, actually several, why the post of Odin's bodyguard isn't actually that coveted. Besides the harassment and long hours, there is also the issue of salary. Asgard isn't poor by any means but they wanted Odin there so his bodyguard's paychecks aren't the best to try and motivate him to return.' In fact the man actually spent little even with himself and most Valkyries could deal with being short on money. But many of them gave up because the old man was a pervert and the only reason Rossweisse was lasting that long was because he wasn't trying to get her and actively pushed the woman to try and find male company somewhere else. 'Was that story about her grandmother being terrified for real?' Whoever she was, the Scapegoat really wanted to meet the woman who could make even the Old Man of the North pause with caution. "Well, where now, Odin?"

"Yes, yes. Tell us where we should go." Medusa added dismissively. Or at least pretending to be dismissive. "But if I can offer a suggestion… Shall we go to my temple?"

"Hmm. A little early on the tour, if you want my opinion." The Aesir rebutted before shrugging. "But sure, why not? I haven't seen the inside of a Japanese temple just yet."
"Then maybe Medusa's shouldn't be the first one." The goddess glared at her Champion and he chuckled nervously. "Just saying. You did add a little flair from Greece in there. From the outside it is mostly Japanese but with its own bathhouse, the gallery, the mirror room…"
"All worthwhile features, Shirou-kun." Akeno was quick to say. "As a Goddess of Beauty, our lady must work with self care."
"But a mirror room…"
Baraqiel felt his curiosity grow. "What exactly constitutes a 'mirror room'? Is it like a fun house?"

Nobody knew who he was questioning but a proud goddess quickly said, "No sense. The goal of the mirror room is to bring several beauties together so they can share their tricks and skills."
"So like a dressing room?" Rossweisse asked for clarification but the deity glared at her.
"Of course not! The goal is not to shove make up in your face. Sure you can do that but my mirror room is more about skin and hair care." She pointed at her cheeks first, "To see what can make you shine more," she brushed her hair with both hands making her purple looks shine like a prism that captured the attention of some in the street, "how to give luster to your hair. Techniques that were improved and perfected over the ages to make one more appealing. And it isn't exclusive to women either. Reports are already coming from Underworld that a few devils are using the mirror room to show caretaking magic to each other."
"Huh. And devils need that?" Baraqiel asked with mirth, wondering if these were still the enemies he faced over the eons.
"Some like to look better, especially those with more exotic appearances."
"Not everyone is born with perfect genes or the proper upbringing to know how to take care of oneself." Akeno added to the explanation. "There are plenty of devils who still need to spend days without a proper bath because of the lack of water or just trusting in magic to fix everything. That is unsustainable but necessary regardless for most."
Luvia nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Magic can't fix everything, especially without the proper steps." She brushed her hair away with a confident air. "There is a reason why not every magus can stand in the front line. We must maximize the yield of our bodies to make sure our own magic doesn't turn on us."

"Someone is feeling like bragging today." Rias joked to her Rook who made a pose with a hand on her waist and lifted her dress enough to show her white boots, earning a small applause from Odin, Rossweisse and Baraqiel.

And also Medusa who immediately said next. "There are, of course, sparring rings on the Underworld's temples as well. A tradition I plan to bring to Fuyuki one day."

"Hmm, bold but worthless." Odin spoke with some bitterness. "Unfortunately the age of warriors is long gone. Now people fight not with their bodies and spirits but with cheap tricks. And no, I am not talking about guns." He added the second he saw Azazel was about to open his mouth. "The days of honor are long gone and buried. Most people do not even bother to learn how to defend themselves. A pity in truth."
When he saw that the Aesir was finished, the Scapegoat replied. "Combat only took new forms for most people. In fact, plenty struggle with their jobs and-"
"Boring." The god interrupted petulantly. "Don't take me out of context, I know about the dangers of paperwork… But I miss the time where people got stuff done. If I wanted to hear about bureaucracy or the 'modern dangers' I would have stayed back home."
"It isn't that simple." Shirou cut in without thinking.
"Maybe, but I am a god." The Aesir reminded the Mage with humor. "I have seen more than any human on Earth and know more than anybody in this town can comprehend. Present company included." He let out a deep sigh. "That is why I find the times, this present, uninteresting. Or boring if you prefer the more informal way of saying it."

A sad groan escaped his throat as the Aesir raised his hands to the sky.

"Where are the days of heroes long gone? Where is the brave who didn't hesitate to challenge the world for a lady, a kingdom or glory? Where is the man who can raise himself from the depths with his gut alone?"
Medusa scowled as she looked at her Champion who said nothing. "Too much poetry. There are plenty of real warriors alone if you know where to look."
"But so much potential is wasted, lost into drudges of paper and desks of wood where the potential of man is capped by those inferior to them."

"It isn't just bureaucracy." The Mage said between his teeth. "Just because they aren't aware of the World as we are, doesn't mean they don't have their own troubles."
The retired king actually nodded in agreement. "While that is true, I don't care. Their problems are just so small"
Baraqiel grumbled before patting Shirou's shoulder. "To beings like us it is hard to empathize with those who live less than a century or so. An analogy would be to you the lifespan of a butterfly or even-"
"Oh, so you don't empathize with human life at all?" Akeno asked with a raised eyebrow, making her father freeze.

Azazel could see the minefield Barqiel unknowingly stepped on and moved to the rescue. "Hard but not impossible. My brother here took several millennia until he could find a woman he actually loved."
Odin paused in shock. "Wait a minute. He took a long time to find someone to 'love'? As in real 'love'? As in 'only doing things on the wedding kind of love'?" Every question had the Old Man of the North smiling like a loon before he turned to Rossweisse. Who let her shoulders drop knowing she was about to be the butt of some joke. "Hmm, maybe there is some hope for you yet." The silver haired woman immediately stood up straight, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Nah."
All energy was drained from the Valkyrie and some couldn't help but look at her with pity. Even the bystanders who couldn't hear the conversation had an idea of what happened; a boss bullying his employee and she was unable to do anything about it. It wasn't even a matter of rank because the Aesir would actually respect her if she fought back.

Rossweisse just wasn't good at banter.

With that in mind, Azazel presented his suggestion. "Well, good fun as it is teasing your secretary…"
""Don't start it you as well…"" Shirou and Baraqiel said at the same time, both trading looks before the taller man sent the redhead a glare that had the magus rolling his eyes.

After the scene and a chuckle, Azazel threw in his suggestion. "Wanna do what we did last night?"
"Sure, sounds fun."
"If I may ask…" Luvia requested respectfully. "What exactly did you do last night?"
"I hope it doesn't involve any bars or anything of the type." Medusa added, gesturing to herself. "While I look slightly older than before, I doubt I could pass by an adult of any sort."
Rias giggled with mirth. "Magic could fix that."

"I am not transforming into a taller version of myself."

"... Was thinking about hypnotizing everyone-"
"Rias, no… Just no." Shirou interrupted delicately, making his lover huff playfully.

It was just supposed to be a joke so she moved on. "So, what exactly are we doing?"
As they approached the limousine, the same one of the previous day, Azazel revealed, "Just rolling around until we find something that catches our eye." To the Aesir, he added. "You're going to love this, Odin. Fuyuki is totally different throughout the day."
"Am I ready to be impressed? Yes, I am." The All Father said, all too pleased.

However, while the alternative pleased the god, it annoyed Rias. "Can't we just go straight to Medusa's temple?" She questioned with an expectant look at the purple haired deity. 'Pretty sure we will have a good time there. Better yet, a long time.'

Enough time that the rest of her peerage could join in and rest after spending most of the morning after their group caretaking to Odin's whims. Sure she couldn't hear their discussions and was completely unaware of Ise and Ravel's fight about staying in the Sun but that wasn't a comfortable environment for devils regardless.

So she really wanted to give them a break and once inside Medusa's temple the Aesir would be virtually untouchable as long as the Goddess of Snakes offered her protection. Technically speaking she would be even more powerful than him as Fuyuki's temple was considered her Major Temple.

The center of her power.

Yet the Old Man of the North wasn't going to make things easier by any means. "We can always go later, closer to the middle of the afternoon." He said with some cheekiness. Yes, the god knew exactly what she wanted, his familiars were always around. "Besides, I want to see what this Scapegoat sees during the day. Sure this place is prosperous but this is the hour we see how its people are using that prosperity."
"What do you mean, Lord Odin?" The Heiress of Gremory asked cautiously. Almost as if he was implying that she was lacking on something or doing a bad job.

He was quick to wave his hand. "Settle your horses, lass. It is just how things are. I noticed that Fuyuki is peaceful during the night… a few wayward drunks who can't hold their liquor, few loud sounds around. A sense of peace even under the Moon." The Aesir sounded pleased with Fuyuki and at the same time not. "People here are too… cowed, too nice. Isn't this supposed to be a big city? Azazel and I roamed around for hours and only came across a single party."
"It was Sunday." Rias spoke in her city's defense. "People have work and-"
"And some of them should be letting loose. Summer is about to end and people are already hiding like it was Winter." His remaining eye shifted to Shirou. "Of all present, I believe only you lived here your whole life, Mage of Swords. So tell me, are the Winters here mid or the people too used to fat bellies already?"

"I wouldn't say fat bellies but the Winter here… is nice." From what he could remember at least since he was missing almost ten years worth of memories. "No big storms, a gentle chill, you can even leave one or two windows open and have your house at just the right temperature." Then he let out a sigh. "Just remember to close it because it can snow during the night and you find yourself the next day having to either clean your sister's room if it is still cold or having to dry her stuff because it got a bit too hot."
"Oddly specific but not what I was asking." Although the retired king could tell the younger man was just speaking from experience, it wasn't the one he wanted. "What is the danger this town can offer… to keep its citizens sharp and aware?"

Rias stepped forward. "Are you implying that we are failing in protecting our people?" That managed to offend her. "Careful with your next, Lord Odin. Or, god or not, I will see you out of my city."
Turning towards the Heiress, Rossweisse lowered her head. "My apologies Lady Rias but please understand that my god's not questioning your care or capability-"
"This place isn't a utopia, nor is it forced to conform to its own laws." Odin interrupted his Valkyrie with a grin. "People here are free as birds so I question, are there any criminal elements that I didn't see? If so, are they enough to raise the fear and care of Fuyuki inhabitants? Because unless you have brainwashed the whole population, I am sure there are quite a few who love breaking the rules."

Azazel made a small frown before hiding it with his best poker face. 'Odd… What is Odin up to?' He wasn't the only one questioning the Aesir's actions.

'It is almost like he is trying to conduct the conversation in some way…' Luvia thought as she failed to fill the blanks of that puzzle. 'Even the way he phrased it…' Her eyes shifted to Rias who still looked a tad upset. '... was enough to throw my King off her game. Akeno isn't much help either, Baraqiel's presence is distracting her. Better saying, they are distracting each other.' She bit the inside of her cheek while thinking. 'But why would Odin wish to play these sorts of games? If he wanted something, all he had to do was ask.'

Regardless, she would raise the issue later at night, away from the Norse god's ears, meanwhile listening to his words extra carefully for more clues of his goals because she was starting to suspect that it wasn't a simple visit.

Attention still on Shirou, the Old Man of the North waited for his response. "Sure there are more… rough elements around the town but they all bid by a gentlemen's agreement of some sort."

"'Out of sight, out of mind' as they would say." Medusa pointed out while brushing her hair. "My protector is quite acquainted with them. In fact, they are our neighbors."
"Are they now?" Odin didn't hide a spark of interest. "Odd bedfellows aside, if the criminals here are so tame nobody can see them, what keeps the people of Fuyuki on edge?" He touched the side of his nose, close to his eye. "Because some of them are on edge even now and I can sense it. It isn't fear, it isn't nervousness but there is… something in the air?" A chuckle left his lips. "Is everyone worried about Winter already? I doubt it, from what you said it is even tamer than your hooligans."
Akeno gulped before approaching Baraqiel and whispering. "Is Odin-sama right?"

"Not that I know of." The man managed to retort smoothly as he crouched a little to facilitate his daughter's access to his ear. "But then again, he is a god. Nobody knows what he can sense but himself."

Once he was done speaking, the priestess took a slow step back as they all waited for what Shirou had to say. Somehow, Odin's doing even if they didn't know why, the conversation was steered towards a topic that could be considered taboo.

Not just around Fuyuki in general but to a certain redhead specifically.
Moving towards the car, the Mage of Swords opened the door before replying, "When it snows… it can get really cold. But it isn't Winter the people here learned to fear." His eyes met Odin's lonely one as he concluded, "It was fire. A fire from hell."
"The so-called botched ritual that happened a few years ago… Now that sounds like a tourist attraction."
"You prefer to see a park instead of my temple? Because that is all that was left of the ritual." Anyone could tell Medusa was slightly uncomfortable. "Back then they fixed everything and left only a boring park with nothing around. All traces clean, all damage fixed… as best as anyone could either."
Azazel nodded in agreement at the deity's words. "No god, human, angel, devil or yokai understands what happened back there. Everyone did their best yet…"

Feeling his friend's eyes on him, Shirou concluded. "... The tragedy stays. 'Out of sight, out of mind'."
"And a magic circle that remains to this day, even if out of sight." Their words only motivated Odin further.
Rias gave Azazel a glare and the man raised his hands defensively. "Oi, oi, oi. I didn't tell him a thing. Potential allies or not, I wouldn't risk telling anyone about that."
The Aesir laughed joyfully. "To be fair; I am a God of Magic. And I can feel it…" Odin took a deep breath before letting it out with a whistle. "There is magic everywhere but in this city… it is like someone picked a poisoned knife and tried to stab the planet with it."
"Lord Odin, if I may ask, how can you know that for certain?" Luvia asked after taking a step forward. "Even the best experts the devils could get couldn't say much about the ritual other than it was dangerous and involved the whole town."
"And that it is still in motion… incomplete but living, as if waiting for something. Some sort of obscure trigger or condition." All playfulness left the Old Man of the North as he observed the horizon with a severity which was missing over the last few hours. "One that may never be completed since it backfired. Spectacularly if that 'fire from hell' was that dangerous."
Baraqiel quickly understood what the god was implying. "You are saying that whoever started that ritual died before its conclusion…"
"Odds are good that is the case especially because I doubt they would allow a park to be built in the epicenter of his spell." Rias commented coldly. "Since they dared to risk a whole city worthy of people and who knows how many more I can only say good riddance."
"And so, I would like to check this park…" He looked around, "... unless anyone is against Divine Inspection," almost as if asked to be challenged.
When all eyes landed on Shirou, Rias, Akeno and Medusa were surprised he was already inside. "Are we going or what?" He said while crossing his arms and glaring at the dark window hiding the driver. "The park is on the other side of town and it will take a while to get there. Not even accounting for traffic."

"Monday traffic… in a limo… nobody is going to let us pass, will they?" Rias questioned while going inside.

After that everyone else did the same, the limousine having more than enough space thanks to Azazel and Rias not sparing any expense, the redheads found themselves in the company of Rossweisse as she actively tried to distance herself from her god.

It wasn't like the Valkyrie was abandoning him or anything since the distance between them was just a couple of meters or a few feet in total, enough to stay away from his personal space as the Old Man of the North found himself entertained by Medusa and Azazel.

The bigger group, which also included Akeno who was trying to stay close to her goddess and Baraqiel who, while trying to back up his brother, was trying to come up with excuses to include himself and his daughter in the conversation by asking about Medusa's methods on how she would approach ceremonies.

Both fallen angels were also collecting intel for Michael who still wished to promote the former Gorgon into the Mother of Heaven. So far none of her preferences went against the main tenets of the Church but there were some troubles. Too much vanity for a pure angel's tastes, not to mention the association with the Underworld.

However those weren't matters to be discussed even with the goddess herself. They were things on the back of the brothers minds as they watched how she interacted with Odin. Despite the detour from her temple, she adapted and engaged with the Old Man of the North.

Who respected the younger deity enough to not dismiss her outright as he did many others. Partially because of her courage against the Raging Dragon of Domination, partially because of Medusa's unique position as a new goddess of Japan.

The first goddess to move around in the modern age.

And without her faithful doing the moving either.

Luvia was the last one inside the limo, closing the door with an amusing thought. 'I remember when I was the one having doors open and close wherever I went.' Yet her position was no longer of leader, or future leader, but of a subordinate. Speaking of which, even at that moment she was taking care of her duties. "Buchou, I just finished calling the others."
Rias nodded, her eyes not leaving Shirou as her hand rested on his arm. He ended up uncrossing them to take her hand into his. "Did you tell them to take a cab?"

"Or whatever other means of transportation they could find in order to reach the Fuyuki Central Park." The blonde replied while sitting down besides her King and noticing the Valkyrie on the other side fidgeting in place. "They will get there, eventually. Wouldn't be a problem if we could just fly…"
Flying around in the middle of the day would expose the moonlit world the second somebody snapped a picture with their phone. Sure they could falsify the evidence, bribe some people and stuff but that would make more individuals aware regardless. Just because most governments agreed to keep things under wraps didn't mean they could just slip up.

In any case, that meant the rest of Rias Peerage would be relatively late to their excursion in the park but if she was to be honest, the redhead Heiress didn't want to stand even a ten feet close to that place.

Because her beloved looked rather annoyed at just the thought of dropping by. "Are you feeling well, Shero?" It was up to Luvia to give words to her thoughts which only earned a sigh from the magus.

"I am fine." He covered Rias' hand with both of his. "Seriously, I am fine."

"You sound fine." His first lover agreed. "But that doesn't mean you aren't bothered."
"More like annoyed." The Mage confessed with a frown. "It isn't like going back there is going to trigger a reaction-"
"But it used to." Rias interrupted him kindly.

While Shirou paused to give her a look, he was unbothered by her point. "Fine, it used to get a reaction but it won't anymore. Then again, it isn't like I make a point of going back there every day to brood or something…" The time for him to be held back because of tragedy was long gone. His family helped him, his lovers helped him, his friends helped him. "... Can't really say I fully moved on but going there isn't going to break me or anything." Moving his free hand to his chest, he added. "Also the ritual can't affect me anymore."

Separating himself from Rias, he raised an arm and allowed his Ki to take shape around his limb. The steel colored energy shone softly inside the covered windows of the limo but nobody questioned what he was doing. Baraqiel threw him a look but a hiss from Akeno directed his attention back to his daughter.

"Yoruichi helped me deal with the worst of the ritual and here," he pointed to his own head, "I own my mother's stubbornness for helping me talk about it… Besides that, a lot has happened since then. So I will be fine."

"Shero, regardless, if you don't want to go, just say it. Nobody will think less of you if you ask to stay away from that place." Before Reincarnating, Luvia had visited the park to satiate her curiosity about the suppoised ritual and the Mage of Swords' origin.

Suffice to say what the woman found was a foul presence that had no shape or power yet could still be felt. It was like breathing foul air while not smelling it but feeling the side effects nevertheless. After just a few hours she had left the premises swearing to never return unless absolutely necessary.

Shirou smiled at the Rook. "Thanks for the offer, really, thank you. But I won't run away from that place. I refuse to fear it or let it get in my head."
After a few seconds of silence, Rossweisse cleared her throat, earning the trio's attention. She felt like an intruder after hearing the devils' concerns but took all that in stride because she was a curious woman.

"Shirou, about this park you were talking about… is it that place?" Rias and Luvia looked at the Valkyrie with confusion while the magus paused, trying to make sense of what was being said. "The one where you… you know… your worst nightmare?"

Because Rossweisse remembered rescuing the Mage of Swords when he was supposedly being tortured by one of Lakmia's Pieces. The former Matron of Runeas wanted his flesh intact so she had tried to break his mind before forcing him to submit.

However what the Valkyrie found was that the torturer's mind broke first while Shirou remained mentally stable. Physically exhausted, true, because the ordeal was much and the torture had went by for hours but nevertheless he was surprisingly calm all things considered.

Even finishing off that devil personally because of some unfinished business.

"Was that where you…" Once again the silver haired woman stopped short from asking something she felt was really invasive.

"Ah…" Fortunately the context clues were enough for Shirou. "Yes, that is the place of my nightmares. My worst memories."

"I see…" Rossweisse replied with understanding before lowering her head once again. "I am sorry Lord Odin is being insensitive about this sort of topic."
"Did you tell him about…" It was his turn to hesitate, not wishing for anyone to hear what the torture he endured consisted of.

In a panic, the silver haired woman waved her hands around frenetically. "No, no. I didn't tell him anything I found in the Matron's massion."
"Uhh…" Rias threw an analytical look at the Valkyrie's direction. "Yes, you did save my Shiro from… Lakmia, the traitor." She clicked her tongue in irritation. "Looks like we are finding a lot of those lately." Soon enough her smile returned as she lowered her head to the older woman. "Regardless, I thank you for saving him. You should get a proper reward for such actions."
Shifting her attention to the pureblood devil, her expression softened as she allowed herself a small smile. "There is no need and you Pieces fought as hard as I did on that occasion. No, certainly harder."

"You still should be rewarded."
Action like a proper right hand woman, Luvia quickly supports her King. "Indeed, it is only fair. Shero is very dear to us, if we don't give you a proper thanks for saving him, we are dishonoring ourselves."

"Hmm…" Rossweisse felt a little cornered and looked to the only person who could help her.

"Is there somewhere you want to go or something you want to see in Fuyuki?" Shirou asked, going to her rescue. "I know that Odin is pretty much running the show but since the next stop after this one is Medusa's temple, we could take a scenic route, if you get my drift."

Scratching her chin, she mused. "Where I would want to go…" Quickly enough she began blushing before shaking her head. "No. Forget about it."
"Oh, come on." Such a reaction really got Rias' interest. "You already have somewhere in mind. Is that a place Odin never lets you go?" Standing from her seat, she moved to Rossweisse's side, forcing the woman to try and retreat when the Heiress got too close. Only to find a wall in the form of Shirou's shoulder who raised a brow of amusement at her reactions. "It isn't? So maybe something from Fuyuki?" The Valkyrie shook her head frenetically. "Or mayhaps something from Japan?"
That had the older woman pausing and Luvia moved closer, leaning on the Mage's other shoulder, to ask. "Something exclusive of Japan? Perhaps a sumo wrestling ring?"

A shake of the head.
"Our arcades are nice." Rias followed up.

Earning another shake.
"Some of the castles?" The Rook questioned next.

And got another shake.

"Okay, okay, enough bullying Rossweisse." Shirou decided to intervene at seeing the Valkyrie's growing discomfort. From her smile she was grateful yet that wasn't enough for him. "I still owe you a meal."

"I already said-"
"Oh, she is going to get a 'Shiro Special'." Rias playfully announced in a tone of mischief before approaching Rossweisse's ear and whispering. "So naughty~"
"Don't even joke like that, Rias." Shirou warned but the damage was already done and Rossweisse's head looked too much like a volcano ready to erupt for his tastes. 'It isn't for nothing that Odin likes to tease her.' Another distraction was necessary which had them returning to, "So, if you could go anywhere in Japan, where would that be?"

The question had been so casual that she barely registered it. "A 100 yen shop." Rossweisse answered innocently before blushing again and closing her mouth with both hands. Noticing the curious gazes in her direction, she gave up. "Screw it. I 'na go to a 100 yen shop! To think a country could have something so convenient!" Raising her hands on the limo's ceiling, she added. "Somewhere where I can buy everything I need and still have something left in my pocket. Where I can do my groceries then pause for a coffee and bread with butter, or donut if I'm feeling fancy, before getting back to work without having to worry about getting dinner because I can come back later."
Rossweisse spoke so much and so fast that by the time she was done she had run out of breath and once again presented a flush on her face. Not from embarrassment but from exhaustion as she needed to take several deep breaths to recover.

Leaving the other three to look at each other and question, 'What sort of life is that?' in their minds. The answer came equally fast for the trio as they nodded at each other silently. 'A frugal one.'

Because while none of them had needed to frequent 100 yens stores much, Luvia having never stepping a foot in one while both Shirou and Rias had gone from time to time for quick groceries or the novelty in the Heiress' case, they knew it was the ideal place for people with a tighter purse or struggling to make ends meet.

From appearance alone Rossweisse didn't look like that sort of person yet it was only when one remembered that she was effectively a demigoddess proficient in magic that it was possible to reach an understanding that nobody could know for sure.

Regardless, Rias could figure out her situation rather easily. "Say, Rossweisse, you have been working for Odin for a while, right?"
After controlling herself, the Valkyrie blushed again but let out a smile of gratitude as they didn't mention her gushing out about 100 yen stores. "Yes. Three years. Ever since I graduated from Sessrúmnir in Folkvangr," upon seeing looks of confusion from Rias and Luva, she added, "let's say it is the equivalent of a college for Valkyries on Lady Freya's territory."
"Basically Asgard for the Vanir." Shirou summarized making which the Valkyrie confirmed by nodding repeatedly.

"Right. That works. It is there where the Valkyries are trained to be the best of the best. And I graduated top of my class… and a whole decade earlier!" The trio of Fuyuki couldn't help but applaud at the accomplishment which made the silver haired woman embarrassed again. "Thanks, hehehe. After that I… got Lord Odin's assignment… because most Valkyries didn't want it."

"Because he is rather eccentric?" Luvia offered even if everyone knew it was more than that.

Still Rossweisse appreciated the subtlety. "Yeah, that. Also because the salary isn't that great…" She began to tap her index fingers shyly before closing her fists with an aura of determination. "But I just need to hold it for four years. Four years and I can get a command or a very comfortable desk job if I am so inclined." Thinking of the future made her pause. "But if I can get any position, I want to be a teacher. One with a huge paycheck. Like the Japanese ones. Did you know most teachers around the world barely make enough for a living? Sad, right? Probably would've happened with me too if I didn't get any recommendations but once I finish this assignment I can…"
For the next five minutes as the car made its way towards Fuyuki Central Park, Rossweisse went on about her plan to get several promotions in quick succession and end as a Valkyrie commander as a side job while working as a teacher.

The former job would only be active during certain types of crises and would demand another decade or so of work to give her experience. Yet she would have less to worry thanks to being Odin's bodyguard for the full length of her assignment combined with her capabilities.

Adding that was also what she was learning from the Aesir himself. The Father of Runes was precisely that and she could freely admit to having learned much from him. Only older Valkyries, those of the previous generation, could claim to know more.

With a curriculum like that Rossweisse was confident of having her future secured but not so sure about her composure during the conversation as eventually she noticed the three pairs of eyes watching her with several emotions varying between amusement and exasperation.

A nervous laugh and a scratch of the back of her head later, the Valkyrie lowered her head one more time. "Sorry, I got a little excited."
"It is fine." Rias replied immediately with a giggle.

Followed by Luvia. "I am honestly impressed that you managed to pull something like that off while working for Lord Odin. Kudos, I believe, are warranted."
"But are you sure you aren't running yourself a bit hagged?" Shirou asked with concern and the delicacy of a raging bull running in a museum.

Fortunately Rossweisse agreed with him. "Well… I did have to cut down some meals… and social interaction… and maybe spend a little too much bloody time running around with Lord Odin… If it wasn't for my Granny I probably would have only a set of clothes or worse and walk around in only armor…" Just then the woman realized how she was speaking. "Forget I said that, please."

"Oh no, I won't." Rias commented with a look of anger.

"Nor will I." Shirou added his own irritation. "I can't believe that Odin-"
"Please don't talk with him. If you do then he will send my 'complaint' to headquarters and I may be called back." The silver haired woman was almost begging, grabbing both redheads' hands. "Usually the rotation for Valkyries with Lord Odin is just a year but then we get no privileges or anything." She omitted that, 'Also they usually ask to leave even earlier because of harassment. I don't understand since he only goes after other women but I am not complaining.'

She could thank her grandmother for that one or else Odin would have tried something.

Nevertheless she remained innocent and pure. "I am so close to finishing my service. So close. Please don't say anything."

"If I may interject, since she is holding on we should respect Rossweisse's wishes." Luvia commented after a few seconds. "Besides, monetary sacrifices are small considering what she will get later."
The Valkyrie nodded with eagerness making the Heiress of Gremory relent even if the Mage of Swords still looked conflicted. "Fine… I won't speak with him…" He then tried to smile. "If you let me thank you for saving me, the right way."

"But I already-"
"Are you saying that my Shiro's life isn't worth a proper thank you. Have some shame, Valkyrie." Rias started with a pompous tone. "To me his life is priceless. But don't worry, for you we are going to find a price."

"I didn't-"

"Perhaps we should measure Shero and give her his weight in gold? Maybe on jewels?" Luvia played with one of her sapphires.

For the next several minutes Rossweisse tried to reject the proposed gifts but Rias was already making a list of things she would give the Valkyrie to make her life more comfortable for the next year while assuring she would stay with Odin.

Because she wasn't kidding when she said Shirou's life was priceless for her and so the redhead devil would drown the silver haired woman in gold or jewels if asked. Since she didn't, the Heiress would still do her best to make sure her newest friend's future was guaranteed.

Even a job offer was already in her mind, her lack of Evil Pieces to Reincarnate Rossweisse not even worthy of concern since the older woman was already plenty powerful and skilled. It was also good to have those who were not devils on their payroll just to be safe. If the offer was rejected then that was fine as well, the Gremory would always keep a door open for her.

Outside of the car the Monday moved normally for everyone else in Fuyuki as its visitors prepared to see the sight of its greatest tragedy.

With one unwelcomed extra who watched them from a distance before moving towards the park under a particularly tricky spell which made him invisible and undetectable by any means be they modern or magical.

For he had a part to play, a plan to enact.

"Odin, today you will listen to reason." His baritone carried a distinct nobility as the man flew towards the foulest place in Fuyuki, ready to inflict a tragedy just as great as the one which created it. "Or you shall bleed by my son's fangs and claws."
Nobody noticed a tall figure suddenly growing visible, wearing a black cloak with silver.

And a sinister smile as he landed between the trees, dead as they were without a single leaf to be seen.

His blue eyes began to shine as he took in his surroundings. "… Interesting…"

Floating in place for a few seconds, the hooded man quickly found the center of the park and raised a hand covered with silver mana creating a magic circle with a sequence of runes that spelled his Title: Trickster.

"Very interesting. Maybe the Old Man was right in coming here after all. Hmm~" Around him, the deity found himself watched by beings without eyes. "Most peculiar and yet…" The place was so foul he doubted his presence would be easily detected even if someone was looking. Even better, he could drop his camouflage and use other spells. "Perfect!"

A complex movement of his hands later and a huge magic circle began to form in front of him before it opened a gate towards another place in the World. A dark abyss for anyone watching, they could clearly see the creature resting inside just as its yellow eyes fixed themselves on the outside.

Raising his right hand, the man pulled an invisible link. "Don't worry, son. Don't worry. I am just waking up. Getting ready for the festivities." His grin turned a little sinister. "We have a scheme in the works that will be the most fun and you shall bathe in blood divine. Who knows, maybe we shall enact Fate today." He could feel the thirst for vengeance on the creature's eyes, one vastly more powerful than him but still under his control. "Or maybe not. Let's see how things play out, huh, son?"
With his free hand the man created another magic circle just in time to mute all the noise from the gate.

Else Fuyuki would hear a chilling wolf's howl capable of scaring even the dead.

…..

Hey guys, we are getting back to our usual programing of two chapters per month. My arm is better, not perfect, but better. Thanks for your patience if the story had to slow down, I am still searching a new rhythm but will work my hardest to make sure there will be two chapters per month once again.

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