Yo.
Been a while lads!
Hope you guys are doing good, I am too!
Which is how we have this chapter right here! Let's see what happens… MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Anyway, ignoring my lack of sanity, let's jump right into it.
Start:
The heavy air of the darkened room was thick with unease as the five devil lords, each a master of deception and power in their own right, gathered around a grand table carved from the deepest obsidian.
Shadows played across their faces, thrown by the dim light flickering from wall-mounted torches that seemed to burn as if fueled by the very darkness of their thoughts. At the head of this somber assembly sat Lord Bael, his posture relaxed yet imbued with an undeniable aura of command.
He was joined by the leaders of the house of Agares, Zepar, Sallos, and Furcas. Devil lords of immense prestige and power.
Arguably his four greatest and most useful pawns among the many who the Bael Clan head controlled with a merciless grp. And together, with him at the helm, they… or rather he, shaped and weaved the fate of all who lived within the dark society of the underworld.
A society where he was king, rightfully as he should be, with none to challenge the authority that solely belonged to him.
Unfortunately… that no longer was the case. There was someone who actually defied his authority.
Hence the reason he summoned his staunchest and most powerful allies/pawns.
Lord Bael cleared his throat, drawing the room's attention with an authoritative tone. "Gentlemen," he began, his voice resonating with a calm command. After a strategic pause, he continued, "Today's meeting is convened in light of a new development—one that strikes directly at the core of our underworld."
He let his words linger, allowing a heavy silence to fill the space as his eyes methodically met those of each lord present. After a moment, he added with deliberate emphasis, "Naruto Phenex."
The mention of the name seemed to charge the air with a subtle electricity, as various emotions flickered across the faces of those gathered—surprise, concern, and in some cases, a hint of fear.
Sensing their anticipation and the building anxiety, Lord Bael leaned forward slightly, his voice lowering as if to share a grave secret. "With his return, comes a formidable power intent on challenging our authority—the true leaders of the underworld. This is a situation we cannot, and will not, tolerate."
Being the first to show any sign of visible emotion, Lord Zepar's expression twisted into a sneer of disdain as he broke the tense silence that had settled over the room following Lord Bael's declaration. "So the Phenex thinks he can just return home and do as he likes? Arrogant fool," he spat contemptuously, the words laced with venom.
Lord Furcas, his arms crossed firmly over his chest, added his own growl of agreement, his voice a deep rumble of frustration. "If he is a problem, he should be taken care of now rather than later. Naruto Phenex wields vast influence and unimaginable power, he can become a destabilizing threat to our authority," he asserted, his brows furrowed in concern.
The murmurs of assent filled the room, each lord considering the potential threat that Naruto posed to their reigns. It was Lord Sallos, however, who sought a different angle, clearing his throat to draw all eyes to him. He turned to face Lord Bael, his gaze intense and probing.
"Lord Bael," he began, his voice smooth and calculated, "should we not consider the possibility of bringing Phenex to our side? He could prove to be a powerful pawn if we play our cards right."
Lord Bael, who had been listening intently, raised a hand to halt Lord Sallos's proposal, his expression unreadable. "While the idea of manipulating Naruto Phenex into an asset is appealing, it is, unfortunately, not feasible," he stated firmly, his voice carrying a finality that brooked no argument.
He leaned forward, his hands clasped together on the table, his eyes narrowing slightly as he recalled the night of the revelation.
"On the evening when the Phenex clan publicly announced Naruto's return, I had a private conversation with him. It was quite enlightening," he paused, ensuring he had everyone's full attention before continuing. "Naruto Phenex openly defied me. He made it abundantly clear that our paths are far removed from alignment. He does not view us as allies, nor does he intend to be maneuvered as one of our pawns."
The room fell into a heavy silence, the implications of Lord Bael's words sinking in. Each lord processed the information, their strategies and calculations adjusting to this new understanding of Naruto Phenex's stance.
"Would you all like to know how Naruto Phenex demonstrated his defiance?" The subtle leaning in was telling as the Bael clan head eyed his allies and his lips, set into a painfully neutral line, tugged downward in an unamused frown.
"He told me, to my face and in direct terms that Rias Gremory is under his protection, as is her clan and his, and that if I were to do anything to anyone under his protection, that he would see to it himself that I'm dead."
Gasps rang across the room, the allies of the underworld king taken aback and stunned by the audacity of the Phenex devil.
Lord Bael himself was the least amused in the room as his eyes momentarily closed before he reopened them and glared coldly at each one of his pawns, his gaze alternating between the four.
"I don't take it kindly to the threat he has made to me and I have responded back in kind. But the way he spoke to me… with such fearlessness… that is the defiance I speak of that could destroy our kingdom." The underworld king finished explaining.
…
…
Lord Agares finally spoke, his tone cautious. "This defiance... it suggests that Phenex is not only powerful as we already know but that he is also cunning. He seems to anticipate our moves and is prepared to counter them. We must tread carefully."
Lord Zepar nodded in agreement, his earlier contempt now replaced with a grudging respect for the challenge Naruto posed. "Indeed, if he is prepared to stand against Lord Bael himself, we must consider him a formidable adversary. A threat to the leadership of our society must be taken seriously, no matter how minimal said threat is."
"Agreed, though in this case, Naruto Phenex is no small threat." Lord Sallos begrudgingly stated as he crossed his arms.
Not everyone agreed with that opinion.
"Naruto Phenex is powerful, there is no denying that." Lord Furcas began, his voice firm and resonating with a hint of disdain. "But he's also brash and reckless. He is prone to making many mistakes that we could effectively exploit."
Lord Agares, however, grunted in disagreement, drawing all eyes to him as he leaned back in his chair, his expression one of skepticism. "I wouldn't be so quick to dismiss Phenex as incompetent," he countered, his gaze fixed on Lord Furcas. "His parents were astute leaders and businessmen. They would have imparted him with substantial knowledge on how to lead a clan effectively."
"And we can't forget that he also has the previous clan head as his advisor." He added.
"While it's true that his lineage might have prepared him well, remember that Naruto has only recently assumed the role of Lord Phenex," Lord Zepar pointed out thoughtfully. "Remembering teachings and applying them effectively are two very different things. He hasn't had sufficient time to truly put those teachings into practice."
Lord Sallos nodded, picking up the thread of the conversation with a strategic insight. "You aren't wrong about that Lord Zepar, but that's exactly what makes him dangerous," he stated, his voice low but clear.
"His inexperience could lead him to make unconventional moves—moves that are not bound by the norms we adhere to. This unpredictability could work against us."
"And just as Lord Agares mentioned, he has the previous clan head with him for guidance. There is just no telling what kind of damage he can impart on us." Lord Sallos concluded rather grimly.
Everyone was rendered silent for a moment.
Simply soaking all that was said about the new Phenex clan head who could prove to be the greatest adversary to their leadership of devil society.
Lord Furcas considered this, his brow furrowing as he processed the implications. "Unconventional doesn't necessarily mean effective," he argued. "It could also lead to significant blunders, which we can capitalize on."
"Perhaps." Lord Agares conceded. "But with his unpredictability, along with considering the chances that he is actually mentally astute in the matter of politics and business, and that certainly could be the case since he was absent in the past two centuries, one thing is for certain, he is not to be underestimated with."
Lord Bael, who had been listening intently, finally spoke, bringing a level of gravitas back into the discussion. "All valid points," he acknowledged. "We must prepare for all contingencies. If Phenex acts unpredictably, or he lives up to the example of his parents, regardless of the case, we must be ready to counter."
His eyes narrowed menacingly. "A threat to th-" Bang
As the heavy door slammed against the wall with a force that echoed throughout the chamber, every head turned sharply towards the source of the disruption.
A lone guard, his armor clinking with each trembling step, stood frozen under the formidable gaze of the five devil lords seated before him. Sweat beaded on his forehead, stark against his pale skin, as the air in the room grew thick with tension.
Lord Bael, who had been in the midst of a grave declaration, slowly rose from his ornate chair, his eyes narrowing into dangerous slits. The temperature in the room seemed to drop a few degrees as his voice, cold and controlled, broke the heavy silence.
"What is the meaning of this interruption?" he demanded, his tone icy. "Did I not explicitly state that we were not to be disturbed?"
The guard swallowed hard, his voice barely a whisper as he faced the ire of the most powerful devils in the underworld. "M-my lords, I beg your forgiveness for this intrusion," he stammered, his eyes darting nervously from one lord to the other.
Gathering a sliver of courage from the depths of his duty, he straightened slightly, his voice gaining a fraction of strength. "But there is a matter that requires your immediate attention. It's... it's the news, my lords."
The simple mention of 'news' caused a ripple of raised eyebrows and intrigued glances among the lords. Lord Sallos, usually the more composed of the lot, leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued.
"The news?" he echoed, his tone laced with both skepticism and curiosity. "What could possibly be so urgent that you risk our wrath by bursting in here like a panicked fledgling?"
Lord Zepar, his analytical mind always at the forefront, adjusted his glasses and waved a dismissive hand. "Let's hear it then. This disturbance has already been made; we might as well ascertain the cause."
"Younglings these days." Lord Furcas murmured in disgust as he eyed the guard. "Just get on with it."
Off to the side, Lord Agares barely quelled a smile, already aware of the news even before it was told.
The guard nodded, grateful for the opportunity to explain and possibly mitigate his transgression. He took a deep breath, steadying his nerves before speaking.
"It's Lord Phenex!"
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Time-skip: One day later
As the news rippled through the underworld, it carried with it a wave of electrifying energy that was felt in every layer of devil society—from the shadowed alleyways where lesser demons lingered to the luxurious halls where the high-born devils ruled.
The streets buzzed with an intensity that hadn't been seen in decades. Naruto Phenex, a name that invoked awe and fear, was now the catalyst for an unprecedented uproar. He wasn't just any devil making bold claims; he was the strongest of them all, challenging the very fabric of their world.
An unprecedented and utterly exciting development that took the entire underworld by storm.
The crux of the matter, which slowly came into focus as more details emerged, was Naruto's condemnation of the current leadership. He accused the great king and his followers—lords who had ruled the underworld for ages—of failing the very citizens they were sworn to protect.
Under their rule, he declared, the underworld had become a den of corruption and misery, where devils preyed upon each other, and the weak were exploited mercilessly.
Naruto's declaration was not just a critique; it was a call to arms for reform. He promised a new era, one where the society of devils would be reshaped into a just and fair community. His vision was radical—a society where every devil could thrive without fear of oppression or exploitation.
"The society we live in is a failed one," he had stated boldly in a gathering that had quickly become legendary. "A society that thrives on the suffering of its own is not worthy of existence. We need change, and I have returned not just to assume the responsibility of leading my clan, but to also deliver the change I speak of to the world I call home."
That was the words that had been declared yesterday.
And since then, the news spread like wildfire. In every corner of the underworld, it was all anyone could think and talk of.
Many devils felt a surge of elation, a spark of hope for a better future. The lower classes, especially the reincarnated devils who often found themselves at the bottom of society's harsh hierarchies, were particularly vocal in their support.
So were all the Middle-class devils, too, who saw a chance for change in the rigid structure that often stifled their advancements.
Even many from the high-born echelons, those not directly tied to the highest factions, whispered among themselves about the potential for a reformed society where merit could mean more than lineage.
Only those at the pinnacle of the pinnacle of devil society, where the old guards and their closest allies presided, the news was met with derision and outrage. How dare Naruto Phenex propose such radical changes? How dare he question the order that had maintained stability and power for those at the top for so long?
The intensity of the situation was captured live on a major news network, where a seasoned reporter, Lavinia Mephisto, discussed the unfolding events with her colleague, a well-known political analyst, Draken Abaddon.
They were broadcasting from a bustling square, the camera occasionally panning over the crowd that had gathered to watch the live discussion on large magical screens.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Lavinia began, her voice steady despite the cacophony around her, "what we're witnessing today could very well be a defining moment in our history. Naruto Phenex has not only challenged the great king and his followers, but he has also proposed a radical method to settle this challenge—a series of rating games."
Draken nodded, his expression grave. "Indeed, Lavinia. And not just any rating games. Phenex has put forth a proposal that if he loses, he will relinquish—" He paused for dramatic effect, knowing the next words would ignite even more debates, "—his claim to any leadership or high-ranking positions within our society."
The crowd erupted in murmurs and gasps. The stakes of the challenge were unimaginable; it was a gamble of the highest order.
"But," Lavinia continued, her eyes scanning the document in her hand, "Phenex is confident. He declared openly that losing is not an option for him. His confidence might seem arrogant to some, but it speaks volumes about his commitment to his cause."
Draken picked up the thread of the conversation, his tone analytical. "This isn't just about power for Phenex. This is about legitimacy. By putting himself at such a risk, he's showing that he truly believes in his vision for a better society—one where exploitation and manipulation are not the foundational principles."
The camera zoomed in on their faces as they delved deeper into the implications. "What's fascinating," Draken added, "is the widespread support Phenex has garnered. From the lowest tiers to many surprisingly sympathetic voices among the higher echelons, it seems his message of reform has resonated across a broad spectrum of our community."
Lavinia nodded, her eyes briefly flicking to the screen showing live reactions from the crowd. "The support is indeed notable. It suggests a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs—a dissatisfaction that Phenex has tapped into."
"Indeed." Draken nodded, adjusting his glasses as he looked at his colleague. "Interestingly enough, Naruto Phenex, the new clan head of the Phenex clan, doesn't even have a single member in his peerage, and while he is regarded by all as the strongest devil in history, one has to wonder if he's rushing matters when he could have challenged the hierarchy at a much more appropriate time."
"Considering his formidable strength, I personally believe that Lord Phenex does stand a chance at truly changing the structure of our society and defeating the Great king and his allies." Lavinia admitted, alternating her gaze between Draken and the camera. "But when the question was posed on if he plans on recruiting peerage members, interestingly enough, the recently appointed clan head just smiled."
Draken chuckled, prompting the attention to shift over to him. "He certainly has a way of being mysterious, but whether he plans to fight alone, or recruit peerage members, he does have around two weeks time before his first rating game."
"And tickets have already been sold out as the citizens of the underworld pays deep attention to this sensitive matter."
As the discussion continued, the viewers at home and those gathered in the square were left to ponder the gravity of Naruto Phenex's challenge. The excitement was palpable and all-consuming.
The time for change, it seemed, was now.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
In the dimly lit confines of a private chamber, away from the prying eyes of the underworld's gossip and political machinations, Lord Agares watched Naruto with a measured gaze. The air was thick with the weight of impending change, the kind that could shake the very foundations of their society.
"You really know how to cause a stir, Lord Phenex," Lord Agares remarked, the corners of his lips twitching upwards in a rare, wry smile.
Naruto chuckled, the sound echoing slightly in the quiet room. "Sometimes, to initiate change, one can't be subtle about it."
Lord Agares nodded, his expression turning thoughtful as he leaned back against the rich leather of his chair. "I fully agree. I've always wanted more for our citizens, noble or otherwise, to live in a manner where they'd be happy. That's been my wish ever since I met my first wife."
Naruto sensed the shift in the mood, the somberness that crept into Agares's voice. He walked over to a side table, pouring two glasses of wine from a decanter of deep ruby liquid. He handed one to Lord Agares, saying softly, "If I'm not wrong, your first wife wasn't a noble."
Accepting the glass with a nod, Agares took a moment to savor the aroma before sipping graciously.
"You're right. Catarina was from one of the extra demon clans. Her lineage wasn't considered prestigious or of any significant worth in our circles."
He paused, a distant look in his eyes as he continued, "And yet, she carried herself with an elegance that was both captivating and genuine. There was a kindness to her, a sincerity in her actions that you'd rarely find in the upper echelons of our society. It was... refreshing."
Naruto listened intently, the glass of wine in his hand forgotten as he was drawn into the story. Lord Agares's voice grew softer, almost reverent as he recounted his past.
"The first time I saw her, it was at a gathering much like the ones we frequent, but she was unlike anyone I had ever encountered. She didn't wear her heart on her sleeve, nor did she hide it behind layers of pretense. She was simply herself—graceful, compassionate, and incredibly astute."
Lord Agares chuckled, a sound filled with a mixture of joy and melancholy. "I must admit, I was bewitched. I found myself seeking her out, wanting to know her, to understand how someone from such a humble background could hold herself with the dignity of a queen without ever reigning over a court."
"And as we spent time together, it became clear that her views on our society were different. She saw the disparities, the injustices that many of us chose to ignore. And her passion for change, for a better underworld where everyone could thrive, it ignited something in me. I wanted to help her see that dream become a reality."
"Her dream became mine."
Naruto nodded, understanding more now about the man before him than he had from any intelligence report. "She sounds like she was a remarkable woman."
"Indeed, she was," Agares agreed, a softness in his eyes that was seldom seen by outsiders. "To honor her memory and honor our love. I still wish to change the underworld for the better, for us all… But until now, there was no way to do that when there wasn't someone out there who could pose such a dramatic threat to Lord Bael and his allies."
"At most, the only thing I could do in the past two centuries was become part of his inner circle, so that when the day finally arrives, I could help whoever it was, in this case, you, from the inside." Lord Agares added, downing the rest of his drink before he set the glass on the table.
"That is something I have been meaning to speak to you of." The shinobi admitted. "Being a part of Lord Bael's closest allies, aren't you afraid that when I succeed that the prestige of the Agares clan will plummet? You won't possess as much power and influence as you do now when this entire matter is settled."
Lord Agares chuckled softly. "I have something in mind that would help minimize the damage. But even if I didn't and the Agares clan becomes just like any other clan, that in itself is not a bad thing as we do wish for equity."
"And you're not worried about if I fail?" The blonde questioned curiously.
"If you do, I still maintain my influence and power, safeguarding the future of my clan and people. And if you win, I lose my vast influence and power but in exchange, I fulfill the dream and hopes of my beloved Catarina and the future of the underworld as a whole is brighter. Regardless of what happens, I can live with either case." The older devil shrugged.
"Fair enough." Naruto nodded, his respect for the older gentleman increasing. "Though I must thank you again for your suggestion with the rating game." His expression turned slightly sheepish. "I'm still a bit out of touch with our society, so I didn't even realize that a rating game, or a series of them, can impact the standing and hierarchy of our clans."
"It was no issue at all." Lord Agares waved off with a smile. "I'm the one who is grateful, not only are you helping me fulfill the wishes of my late first wife, but soon enough, I won't have to be around Lord Bael and his loyal pets either. And trust me, being around the source of the underworld's problems is not exactly… enjoyable."
Naruto chuckled lightly, a wry smile touching his lips as he shared in the sentiment. "I can only imagine what it's like." he remarked, his tone carrying a mix of empathy and mild amusement.
Lord Agares gave a rueful nod, pushing himself up from the plush couch with a grace that belied the tension of their earlier conversation. He stood, extending a hand towards Naruto, his expression one of resolve mixed with appreciation.
"To change the way our society functions…It's a path fraught with risks, yes, but it's one I must walk. Not just for Catarina's memory, but for the future of all under our realm, including my daughter.."
Naruto grasped his hand firmly, his grip conveying both support and caution. "Just be careful, Lord Agares. While it's crucial, this inside job could expose you to significant dangers."
"I'm well aware," Lord Agares acknowledged with a nod. "But fear of danger won't deter me from doing what needs to be done. I'll keep you updated in regards to any information I obtain, be it with how things develop within the council, or among our peers, their peerage, everything of importance."
"I appreciate that," Naruto replied, his tone sincere. "And remember, the Agares clan will always have an ally in the Phenex. We stand with you."
The corners of Lord Agares's lips lifted in a genuine smile, warmth radiating from his eyes. "And the Agares with the Phenex. You have our loyalty, Lord Phenex."
As they released their handshake, Lord Agares glanced briefly at the grand clock on the wall, his face shadowed momentarily by the weight of his next responsibilities. "Regrettably, I must return to attend to urgent matters. Yet, this has been a most lovely meeting. Thank you for your gracious hospitality."
"It was my pleasure," Naruto responded, the gracious host to the end. "I'm glad we could talk like this. Safe travels, Lord Agares."
With a final nod of acknowledgment, Lord Agares stepped into the swirling magic circle that had appeared silently on the floor. The runes glowed softly, casting a pale light across his face as he prepared to teleport away.
The circle activated with a soft hum, and Lord Agares vanished, leaving Naruto alone in the room. He stood there for a moment, contemplating the weight of their conversation and the tasks that lay ahead.
Though perhaps it was better to holdoff on those thoughts.
He did have a date that he needed to get ready for.
End.
My bad lads that this chapter took a bit longer than expected.
I was having a small case of a writer's block and just couldn't think of anything for a while. Fortunately, I'm past that now.
Anyway, putting all that to the side, I do hope you guys enjoyed this chapter, it was pretty fun to write and we have officially kicked off with the intensity that we're going to see from here on out.
More Chapters are posted on my p.a.t.r.e.o.n Feel free to check it out lads, here's the link
www.#patr#eon.#com/Demon_Knight939 (Just remove all the hashtags)
Now, that's really all I have to say for now so take care lads!
Peace.