Welcome to the next chapter of DxD – The Last Amagiri, but before starting the story. Let's answer some reviews:
Ericsofly2: Thanks!
Altair95: Thanks. Yes, we met nearly almost all the prominent figures from the Norse Faction after going into Asgard. Well, some get lovers easier than others and sadly there are late bloomers far later than others. It seems that like always neither of them can take a break and savor their time anywhere without something happening.
Weslyschraepen: That is kinda hard to say. All the girls that placed into his harem were because I felt that all of them would match him. Rossweisse and Akeno would probably work well with him, but that will be discussed more at the end of the chapter.
The Valkyrie Squad
Inside Valhalla, the glorious hall located in Asgard, which houses the Norse gods, there was a meeting going on with Chief God, Odin, and his son, Vidar on the listening end. And on the other end, in an attempt to convince the Chief God for his possible support in the future. But, of course, Zane first had to give his reasoning, which entails all of them to reveal the reasons behind the decision. As such, all of them had to talk about Hagun Island, which Odin, Vidar, and the members of the Valkyrie Squad listened to in detail.
All of them already talked about this decision beforehand alongside Zane.
'If we want to receive support from Odin-sama, then we need to reveal everything about Hagun Island. He might seem odd at times, but Odin-sama isn't a fool to support people from unknown origins who could become threats in the future. So, we all need to be honest in this discussion without holding anything back.'
Those were the words that all of them received from Zane before their official departure from Kibou Town.
From all their perspectives and experiences, from Zane, Kensei, Maria, Hisui, Alice, and Claire, all of them talked about their past experiences. Odin listened to all their word without missing a single sentence, examining if there were lies or inconsistencies in them, but, of course, couldn't find a single thing.
"To think that these six…no all of them experienced such a thing and came out of that kind of situation alive. But, I can see in their posture, more so the Japanese boy and foreign brown-haired girl," Brynhildr listened to all their words and almost couldn't believe in them. "All of them have been through life and death situations multiple times and took something from it each time. It's almost hard to bear knowing some children underwent such an ordeal and were forced to mature from it early."
Brynhildr's thoughts were the same as the other Valkyrie Squad members who stood beside her.
"And that about sums up the entire ordeal from Hagun Island. After getting ourselves off the island, all of us took refuge inside the hometown of Kensei and spent the last couple of years in peace," Zane explained as he pulled out what seemed to be a device from his pocket then slid it toward Odin. "I know this situation sounds unbelievable, but the device holds the proof that what we mentioned is the truth."
Among the things that Zane retrieved from inside Taro's office in Paradise Tower, which was the evidence about all the dealings that occurred on Hagun Island in case the old devils tried to deny their involvement. What one he handed off to Odin was one of the copies that he made from the originals he stored in his personal dimensional storage. Odin took the device then placed it inside of his own space for safekeeping.
"I'll go over this in detail on a later date, but I don't sense falsehood of any kind in the words that all of you have spoken to us," Odin stated after leaning forward linking his hands together as he stared at all of them wearing an undeniably serious expression on his face. "But, now that I heard about the incident that you all experienced due to those humans and old devils. I would like to hear what you plan on doing if we ended up deciding to align with this group you're planning on forming."
Zane and others felt the intense pressure from the stare Odin was sending them accompanied by the question, which what them aligning with the Norse Faction mean in the future.
"Even in his old age, he can release a presence like this," even Kensei who wouldn't back down in any situation felt a little unnerved about the pressure from Odin as Claire and Alice seemed to reach for his arm. "It makes me wonder what he would be like in his prime."
"This is the kind of pressure that I would expect from a god, but it's still a little much for us. It feels as if neither of us can come up with a single response," Maria thought as she lightly clenched her fist. "In situations like this, it'll be best to rely on Zane."
"…."
Zane maintained his composure despite the pressure and continued to think about the situation rationally.
It was a reasonable question since Odin had the responsibility of the entire Norse World on his older shoulders. Despite whatever situation that either of them was in, if either of them decided to take revenge on the old devils for what happened, then there was a chance it could affect the Norse gods as well.
"It would be an alliance, where we would receive some assistance from the Norse Faction if possible in return for us returning the favor in some way. But, the main purpose of it is to act as a deterrent for people such as the old devils who would attempt to come after some of the people in our group and anyone else," Zane explains before he continued. "Forming connections with the Norse World would mean that it's less likely anyone such as the even higher-class devils from the Underworld to come after us for what happened. So, unless it was something serious then we don't want to get the Norse gods involved."
"So, in short, the true nature of this alliance is meant to keep the devils from openly interfering with you all. But, if possible could you explain the kind of business that benefits our side?"
Odin was pushing the situation more and more to see what Zane would do.
"Things are going good," Zane thought as such before he summoned several papers in his hands, which he soon sent towards Odin. "Well, how about this for start?"
Odin took the pages in his hands, then started going over what was written in these pages using his eyes.
"Hmmm, all this does seem rather well written and these do appear beneficial," Odin mumbled to himself before stopping at what was written in one of the pages and seemed to start laughing lightly to himself breaking from his serious composure. "A-Are you serious about this?"
Vidar seemed to turn his attention toward what was written in the paper, then started laughing lightly to himself in a similar fashion. All the Valkyrie Squad members appeared to wonder what was written on the paper, but neither of them could ask due to the meeting. Kensei and the others seemed to also be confused about the suddenness of laughter between them.
"I am serious."
"Hohohoho, it appears as if you've attained quite the silver-tongued when compared to the last time we met since before you could barely hold a conservation with me," Odin said returning to his usual demeanor. "It isn't just him, all of you have impressed me from merely talking to you all for a couple of minutes. After hearing everything you all had to say and experienced, I am considering to form an alliance with all of you in the future after this organization of yours has been formed."
Hearing those from Odin caused some relief to wash away the stress that has been forming throughout them as it meant that the Norse Faction would be in their corner if things went alright.
"That's good to hear Odin-sama."
"When do you believe it'd be possible to finish this?"
"Well, if all my calculations are correct, then it would take over a year."
"That's understandable. Well, I believe that would complete the first part of this meeting," Odin stated before he pointed toward Zane's chest or rather what was around his neck. "I believe that the second reason that I wanted to talk to you comes next."
"Oh, you mean about the Magus Akashic."
"Yes, I recall hearing the name once, but I didn't believe that it was the genuine book," Odin said as she crossed his arms. "I believe that you have the right to know what that grimoire is if you want to be prepared."
"Then what is it?"
Zane wanted to know what the grimoire in his possession was since he hasn't heard anything from the being that resided inside of it aside from the first time he met her.
"Well, I'm sure that you've already realized, but the grimoire in your possession isn't a normal one and you didn't merely find it out of chance. The Magus Akashic is one of…."
[Wait, Odin-sama is in a meeting with someone at the moment.]
[I don't care. This meeting is something that I disagree strongly with.]
All of them could hear an argument occurring from outside, Odin, Vidar, and Valkyrie Squad members knew who the voice belonged to. Several footsteps could be heard approaching the room where their meeting was held as the door was forced open causing a loud noise to resound throughout the room. Standing at the entrance was an evil-looking handsome young man with light blue hair and amber eyes dressed in ornate robes similar to Odin.
"I never thought that Odin would be foolish as to accept foreigners into our region, more so Asgard like this."
The light blue-haired young man declared as he glared at the newcomers inside of the room causing pressure to creep up their backs. Unlike before, where Odin did the same thing, it was nothing more than a test to see if all of them could handle him. But, this time, it felt as if the evil-looking man would, in fact, attempt to attack them.
"Loki, what're you doing here? I don't recall calling for your presence. I am having a meeting with some important guests."
"Important guests? All I see are mere children who've barely lived a decade," the newcomer now named Loki had declared as he stared at them again still releasing the same pressure toward them. "Four of them are humans, a half-breed, and a cat. I can sense sacred gears from the two human women and the half-breed, one of them has a dangerous one that is likely one of the Longinus."
"This could go bad," Zane said to himself under his breath before there was a slight shine from his pocket. [Can all of you hear me? Kensei, Maria, Alice, Claire, and Hisui?]
[Yes.]
All of them replied, having a telekinetic conversation with one another through the Oracle Phones that Zane had made for them all.
[This situation might turn out for the worst.]
Zane stated as Loki and Odin continued their conversation.
[Is one of the Norse Evil Gods, Loki?]
Maria questioned.
[Yes, among the people who might be against this alliance, he would be the prime candidate. Loki could be one of the biggest xenophobes in the Norse Faction. He'd rather not be affiliated in the slightest with other factions far more because Christianity started spreading over into the Norse Faction.]
[What kind of influence does he have in this situation?]
Claire asked worried about the situation.
[The most that he can do is complain. He doesn't have much influence after Odin's decision more so since Loki is an Evil God who desires nothing but destruction using his oldest son, Fenrir, and cause Ragnarok by killing Odin. At the same time, he wouldn't do anything serious in front of Odin-sama and Vidar-sama, the latter is a counter-measure against Fenrir.]
Zane explained worriedly.
[Zane is right. I feel nothing more than malicious intent from him. Almost as if he's looking for a reason to kill us.]
Hisui added.
[Well, all we need to do is prepare ourselves if he attempts anything.]
Kensei said as their telekinetic communication with one another ended as Loki continued to state his opposition towards the meeting with them.
"Loki, this isn't anything serious. This is merely a conversation between us and these young lads who happen to have undergone a terrible ordeal and asked for our possible assistance."
"Humph, why should be gods bother with the issues of these meager children? No benefit can come from associated with them."
"Well, that really isn't something that you can decide," Vidar pointed out calmly. "For an Evil God such as yourself who seeks nothing more than Ragnarok using that child of yours."
Vidar spoke nonchalantly crossing his arms as he leaned back in his chair, causing Loki to narrow his eyes as he stared directly at Odin's third son who stared back wearing the same nonchalant look.
"It was bad enough that the religion that half-breed belongs to started soiling ours," Loki stated pointing at Claire leaking nothing more hostility toward her before turning to Kensei and Hisui. "But, now you decided to allow two from the Far East to enter Asgard as well. I can sense that one has connections to the gods there as well."
"That is true. It is for that same reason that I ask that you not attempt to do anything to them as harming that one, in particular, might end up angering the Chief God of Shintoism."
"Humph, mark my words. You're going to regret allowing people such as this to enter our faction," Loki stated as he turned around to walk out of the room before stopping in front of them. "I can't stand the fact that either of you is in a place like this where only the gods should be able to enter. Nothing more than a group of six rats attempting to act as if they're something important. Well, from the looks of it, it appears neither of you will last long."
"Well, people who thought and said the same thing, and here we are still standing talking to the Chief God. I would say that proves neither of us is simply rats."
Kensei pointed out with confidence as he stood there staring back at Loki who narrowed his eyes at him.
"You sure have a mouth on you for a simple human without a sacred gear," Loki pointed out before pointing his fingers at Claire. "But, I suppose since I can't eliminate you. Should I do this half-breed a favor in eliminating her? There's not a single person in the Human World or Underworld who would tolerate her existence let alone caring if you took your final breath."
"Loki."
Odin threateningly called out his name knowing he might not be kidding as a dangerous magic power manifested at his fingertips. Claire stared on wearing a frightened look on her face as Alice narrowed her eyes beside her as her shadow started twitching.
"Loki, I believe this joke of yours has gone far enough. As Odin-sama pointed out before, these people are some of his important guests."
Brynhildr commented as she seemed to narrow her eyes.
"Just because you're the strongest among the Valkyrie, doesn't mean that you can talk back to a…."
Loki stopped as he noticed a black blade aimed inches from his right eye, he noticed that it was Kensei sitting in his chair holding up Kurogane in a single hand.
"You dare point this meager blade at a god?"
Loki leaked killing intent that spread across the entire room, but Kensei didn't appear deterred at all.
"I'm sure that it might be classed as self-defense since you attempted to fire off the first shot," Kensei pointed out clearing a "kind" smile on his face, but his eyes stared seriously at Loki. "I don't care whether your a god or not. If direct ill will toward any of the people beside me, then you're my enemy. So, how about we find something out?"
"Find what out?"
Loki questioned.
"Will you be able to activate a magic circle in time? Or will I be able to lobotomize you?"
Kensei threatened back as lightning started to surround Kurogane focused on the tip of his blade, which was still positioned near his right eye. Loki narrowed his eyes as he stared back at Kensei leaking out an incredible amount of pressure, but he remained firm and unfazed. Seeing this Loki clicked his tongue as all of the power manifested in his finger vanished and Kensei removed his blade.
"You'll regret this, boy."
Those were Loki's final words before walking out of the room slamming the door behind him.
"Well, that went better…gah!"
Kensei was struck at the back of his head, at first, he had believed that it would be Claire, but he turned his head to see that it was Maria who stared at him with serious eyes.
"What was that for?"
"I can understand the reasons behind your actions in defending Claire and can't blame you for that," Maria said in an understanding tone before staring at him with serious eyes, then started poking him. "However, the one thing that I cannot condone if a certain hot-headed swordsman antagonizing an Evil God. We already have enough enemies and potential ones from the past to be worried about, so we don't need to be worried about gods coming after us."
It was the first time that Maria has started lecturing him about something, which was understandable considering he threatened to lobotomize an Evil God. But, he didn't regret a single thing.
"Come on, it might have helped with his personality."
Kensei tried joking, but Maria stared at him wearing a blank expression on her face as she continued lecturing him about the entire situation.
"Are you alright, Claire?"
Alice questioned as she placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Y-Yea, I'm fine, but I didn't expect to be threatened by a god of all things."
Claire tried playing it off, but she was a little shaken up about the situation and was still being comforted by Alice.
Odin, Vidar, and the Valkyrie Squad stared on at what happened to wear a different expression on their face that displayed shock about what just happened in front of them.
"I-I didn't think that there would be a human who'd threaten a god. There's not even heroes among Asgard who have ever stood up to either Odin-sama or Vidar-sama before."
One of the Valkyrie whispered among her peers.
"I know, neither of them from his side seemed surprised about it at all."
Another Valkyrie replied.
"Well, based on what all of them have been through over the years, it shouldn't be surprising that all of them will be able to endure something like this."
The silver-haired Valkyrie named Rossweisse added.
"Hmm, well he's definitely a candidate."
One of the Valkyrie pointed out.
"Candidate for what?"
"Boyfriend, of course."
The members of the Valkyrie Squad seemed to gasp about the sudden response from one of their own, causing the people in the room to turn in their direction. Reacting to this, the Valkyrie Squad started gathering around in a secretive fashion, even most using magic to keep their conversation secret.
"What are you talking about, Ortlinde?"
"Come on, you can't look at him and tell me that you aren't interested," Ortlinde replied as most of the Valkyrie all turned their attention toward Kensei who was still talking among them. "You can't look at him and tell me that he's not the slightest bit appealing."
"All of you should pick that special partner more carefully since they'll become the one who bears their children in the future. A maiden should choose the person who fits the perfect traits of that prince on a white horse."
Brynhildr said in a serious yet daydreaming tone at the same time.
"Come on, Captain, look at him, and tell me that he doesn't seem appealing to you."
Ortlinde stated directing Brynhildr to get a better look at Kensei.
At the same time, he turned his head in an attempt to avoid the scrutinizing comments and stares from Maria in a playful fashion. After noticing Brynhildr and the other Valkyrie Squad members looking at him, Kensei attempting to be courageous waved a hand and smiled. In response to this, Brynhildr and a number of the other Valkyrie had turned from him almost blushing lightly. Seeing this, Kensei merely shrugged his shoulders as Maria allowed one long breath to escape from her mouth seeming to be finished with the lecture.
"See, the Captain is blushing after he smiled and waved."
One of the other Valkyrie pointed out causing Brynhildr to cough into her hand in an attempt to regain her former composure before speaking.
"I do admit that he does have some qualities and traits that make him an adequate candidate. B-But, several things still need to be seen beforehand," Brynhildr said in a tone appropriate for a leader, but her inner voice had another opinion. "I can't believe that I reacted like that after he merely waved and smiled towards us! It was a simple gesture nothing to get too serious about. Just listen to me, I can feel my heart beating faster and faster thinking about it. Come on, Brynhildr, think about this carefully. You have to ensure he's truly the one."
After Brynhildr was done conversing with herself inside her head, Odin bowed his head in front of them.
"I apologize for that interruption. Loki can be more or less aggressive toward the other factions outside our Norse World. Of course, there are others like Loki who would rather not involve themselves with other factions. I'm one of the oldest gods among the Norse world and even I believe most of them are too stuck in the past."
Odin apologized and attempted to make a joke about the feelings that others shared about the business of outside factions and outsiders.
"Well, I did think that some people would bring up concerns about these guys arriving in Asgard. But, I don't see anything wrong with them. As a matter of fact, I can't wait to share a drink with the guys there."
Vidar nonchalantly stated as he laughed lightly.
"Well, there is a lot that we want to talk about further this plan with others. If I don't first discuss it with all the others, then it could lead to me having to hear their constant complaints further on," Odin pointed out. "Well, as it is a rare chance. I believe it would be a good idea for the Valkyrie here to show you all the different famous spots all around Asgard. Would you all be fine with that?"
Odin turned to the Valkyrie Squad who seemed to stand at attention.
"If that's a request from Odin-sama, then we would happily agree to this request," as Chief Valkyrie, Brynhildr replied in a prepared manner. "This could be my chance to get to know this gentleman, Kensei Amagiri."
"Since we have six Valkyrie here and six people, I believe it would be a good idea to let them split into six groups to make things easier for them to go where ever they wanted to go."
Vidar suggested after noticing the even numbers between the two groups, which would make things easier for all of them to see whatever places they wanted to visit.
"That's a good idea. Also, if I might make a suggestion for Zane and the lad named Kensei," Odin started as a sly almost perverted grin formed on his face. "There's a special club in Asgard ran by some female elves who I'm sure would love to meet an interesting fellow from overseas."
Hearing that from Odin caused most of the people in the room to give him various stares with Vidar laughing a bit because of the suggestion. Although, Kensei couldn't admit that he was interested in meeting elves since he had heard various stories about them and not for the reason that Odin pointed out.
"Meeting an elf would be interesting, but…."
"Nii-san, wouldn't do something like that, right?"
"O-Of course not."
Kensei replied after Claire gave him that question.
"Well, it'd be a shame if you didn't visit that place at least one," Odin still seemed to attempt to urge both of them into visiting the club ran by female elves. "Well, I believe that it would be that you all start your tour."
Having been urged to do so by Odin once again, the Kensei, Zane, Maria, Hisui, Alice, and Claire walked outside the meeting room with the Valkyrie Squad. This left, Odin and Vidar the only people inside the meeting room both were thinking about the previous events leading to that point.
"Well, I didn't expect that they would impress by those six after talking for a couple of minutes. Do you believe those guys who still follow the old traditions will listen to their proposal?"
Vidar pointed out and questioned leaning back in his chair.
"I know a lot of them will want nothing to do with outsiders if it was in terms of serious business, but the plan that Zane brought up would be something that those lot will consider. Zane has the advantage in this situation as he's knowledgeable about some of the problems that our faction has been having for quite some time and what Zane proposed in this might fix some of those issues," Odin laughed a little. "I keep feeling older the more I see young people growing up like this. He's grown into a tactical planner, coming up with something like this for their future."
"All of them are impressive in their own right. I don't think most people could survive what they did and maintain a rational mind."
"But, that Kensei lad showed a dangerous side of himself."
"You mean in dealing with Loki?"
"Yea, I don't blame him for acting in such a manner to protect someone else, especially since Loki threatened the girl. There aren't people who would go to such lengths to protect anyone from a god, but just how many people do you know who would immediately aim for their eyes," Vidar stared at Odin wearing a curious look. "In a tense situation where someone's life is in dangerous several thoughts interferes with their decisions. I don't know if it's because of some latent battle instincts, but there wasn't the slightest hesitation or lag between him unsheathing his sword and aiming it at Loki's eye, the most vulnerable spot for any being."
Hearing that explanation from Odin, Vidar realized his explanation was correct about Kensei clashing against the evil god.
"Are you saying he could be dangerous?"
Based on the explanation from his father to Vidar it sounded almost as if Kensei could end up being a threat.
"Well, a threat to whoever his enemy is," Odin pointed out before continuing. "That Kensei Lad and the others are still greenhorns learning more about themselves. I believe all of them will achieve great things as they all reach adulthood. Well, I guess I need to assist them in that using their conversation with the others."
Those were Odin's final words as he stood back up to his feet, picking up the papers that Zane gave him during their meeting. He then started heading outside of the room to discuss business with the members of Asgard who needed to be informed about this beforehand.
"So, this is where the Valkyrie trains, Schwertleite?"
Maria said looking around to see several young Valkyrie-in-training practicing with one another wielding practice weapons or magic. The member from the Valkyrie Squad named Schwertleite assigned to be her guide showed her around all of the various locations that the Valkyrie were trained following her polite request.
"I heard there that the magic of this realm is supposed to be the most advanced among the other worlds."
"Aside from the advancement in various magic forms made by the Norse gods. It is a common thing for Valkyrie to create and polish magic, techniques, and traditions, then pass it down to the next generation by carving it onto our body and soul, then so on," Schwertleite explained as Maria turned to face her. "But, I have begun to become interested in the powers and magics from other factions. I think that Loki-sama mentioned something about you and the other two girls having sacred gear. What kind are they?"
"Oh, the three of us all own Creation Sacred Gears," Maria replied holding out her hand manifesting a holy sword in her hand. "Mine is Blade Blacksmith, I can make any kind of holy sword with various attributes as long as I can imagine it. See."
To prove her point, Maria started altering the holy sword to different elemental attributes ranging from fire, water, wind, and lightning. Seeing this caused Schwertleite stare at the swords and nod her head.
"That's interesting, so as long as you're able to imagine it or have the skill to create it, then you can manifest any possible attribute. Sacred Gears are interesting creations more so since I heard they can both adapt and evolve based on their owner."
"Yea, well, if you ask me, Alice's Longinus is more impressive than mine," Maria replied as she stared at the holy sword in her hands. "As you said, sacred gears evolve and adapt based on the wielder, so, I'm going to take my Blade Blacksmith as far as possible to see how far these swords can take me."
Maria spoke on such confidence about herself that it impressed Schwertleite.
"So, is there anywhere else that you'd like to visit around here? Or would you want to talk to them?"
"I believe it would be interesting to converse with the Valkyrie trainees."
Upon hearing her suggestion, Schwertleite did as suggested, then Maria started a conversation with the Valkyrie trainees who were training there. All of them were surprised that there was someone from another faction, but all of them soon became interested in conversing with Maria as a new experience for them.
Elsewhere, Zane different from the others was being escorted around by one of the Valkyrie and the elf Brynhildr called Lena. She wasn't ordered to follow either of them around but did so of her own will, which Brynhildr didn't at all refute in the slightest. All three of them were walking around what seemed to be a commercial district that seemed to have multiple blacksmiths or craftsmen, some even from the Dwarven race putting their creations on display for the public.
"Ah, all of these items are incredibly well-made."
Zane stated as he leaned forward in front of a Dwarf who had various items various magic jewelry ranging from several bracelets, rings, and necklaces. Despite their normal appearance, he sensed that a magical presence could be sensed from them, causing him to become curious about the effects they could have individually.
"Hmm," the Dwarf sitting at the stand could see that Zane was staring at the item wearing an expression that was more than just curious. "You've got a good look in your eye young lad. Are you interested in purchasing anything in this area?"
"Well, if there is something that catches my eyes. But, I'm more interested in creating something using my hands and not the other way around. I can tell that a number of these items are meant to augment or focus the magical powers of someone else. I don't really require an item that augments my magic power, but I'm planning on creating items that will be able to support other people with various needs."
Zane replied placing his hand underneath his chin in thought, causing the Dwarf to stare at him wearing nothing less than an interesting expression.
"That's an interesting response. Would you mind telling me your last name?"
"Oh, it's Wayland. My name's Zane Wayland."
"That explains it. Among all those interested in creating a wide range of items are us of the Dwarven tribe who all loves the idea of creation, humans or other beings who finds an interest in it, and the Wayland Household. Plus, I believe I heard about one who went missing but decided to remain in the outside world on his own," the Dwarf in front of him started rubbing his beard. "By the way, my name is Dardir."
"Well, it's good to meet you Dardir."
"Would you be interested in telling me or rather showing me what you started creating after learning more about the outside room?"
"Sure thing, if you wouldn't mind showing me what isn't on display here," Zane requested back revealing a more knowing smirk on his face. "I know that there are some Dwarves who keep some inventions for themselves for research purposes, to keep others from misusing them or just in case the situation arises for their use."
"Hahaha, I like you, Zane. You sure do know us Dwarves."
"Well, the people of the Dwarven tribe are one of the people I look up to as craftsmen."
Both the Valkyrie and Lena watched as Zane continued happily conversing with Dardir about their various crafts, which made them appear almost like old friends.
"I didn't believe that Zane-san would make friends with a Dwarf like this. Most of them are far more reclusive and even if they arrived here wouldn't converse with others."
The Valkyrie pointed out.
"I believe it would be due to them sharing similarly interested in crafting."
Lena pointed out logically manner.
"But, I am surprised that you decided to come here, Lena. Most of the time, you wouldn't come for things such as this and would rather be alone. Did you find something interesting about Zane-san?"
"I believe you could say that, Grimgerde. But, I don't believe that I've figured out what that is yet."
Grimgerde listened to her response, which was the definition of attempting to use logical reasoning to figure out a person's own emotions. But, it was one of the unique traits that someone of her particular lineage would display towards individuals they find interesting.
"You have a lot to learn about acting your age."
"Shouldn't the Valkyrie Squad be more focused on finding men rather than me?"
It was those words that stabbed Grimgerde directly in her heart in the most brutal manner possible. At around the same time, Zane was finished conversing with Dardir after handing him a slip of paper that had a magic circle on it, which Lena noticed.
"What was that you handed the Dwarf?"
"It was a communication magic circle. It's kinda basic, but I want to be able to converse with him once in a while to discuss different ideas with one…. What's wrong with her?"
Zane questioned pointing to Grimgerde who was kneeling in the ground drawing something in the dirt while tears started dripping down her cheeks.
"It isn't like I chose to be single. Neither of us chose to be single. I know that we'll be able to find our own prince in the future as the Captain said."
Grimgerde seemed to be muttering various words of that nature about their dating life, which didn't take long for it to resonate in his head.
"Did you say anything about them not finding a boyfriend by mistake?"
"No, I pointed it out."
Hearing that blunt response from Lena caused Zane to let a nervous laugh escape from his mouth.
"Wow, I don't think I met anyone that brutally savage. You should know they've pretty sensitive about that topic."
"They shouldn't really be all that worried almost all of them are beautiful women but spends too much time on an assignment to focus on finding men to date."
"Well, you're not really wrong about that fact," Zane replied smiling wryly at her blunt response and Grimgerde on the ground with tears still rolling down her cheeks. "By the way, I was wondering this, but are you a dark elf? I'm asking only because your skin tone appears lighter than normal dark elves."
"I am, in fact, a dark elf, but my father is an elf and my mother a dark elf," Lena replied as she turned to Zane and caused him to realize where she was going with this. "I'm sure that you heard about this, but if an elf and dark elf has a child, then that child is either an elf or dark elf. But, despite being a dark elf, my skin tone is lighter than normal dark elves."
"I see. What about your parents?"
"They're living in a special area in the Human World outside the Norse World. I decided to come here because I became interested in the Norse World. I couldn't find anything to do until I met Captain Brynhildr who allowed me to work with the Valkyrie Squad. I do appropriate them for letting me work with them, but…."
"Who am I kidding, I'm going to end up growing up into an old spinster!"
"Hearing them like this gets kinda annoying."
Lena pointed out as Zane laughed again as Grimgerde seemed to continue crying.
In another location, Alice was sitting down holding a drawing pencil comfortably in her hands as she sketched out the buildings in front of her. All of them ranged from ancient structures that had an incredible amount of detail to their structures. Standing beside her watching Alice sketch out the various buildings and structures with faultless detail was Rossweisse.
"Wow, you're certainly drawing everything with such detail, that I can't find a single out of place."
Rossweisse's expression and tone displayed just how impressed she was about the attention to detail that Alice put into every single line whether it was simple or important.
"Thanks for the compliment," Alice replied not taking her eyes off the sketch. "I plan on drawing whatever I can in the Norse Faction while we're still here. But, there are several things so I likely won't be able to get all of it done."
"Well, if things going alright, then you and the others could always visit. I didn't know what either of you would be like after hearing that Odin-sama mentioned that you'd all be arriving in the Norse Faction. But, after hearing the things that your group has been through, I find myself interested in what will happen next."
"I find myself thinking about what's going to happen for us as well," Alice replied as she stared at the sketch in her hands after completing it and turned to another one before coming up with an idea. "Could you please step in front of that tower and pose?"
"Wh-What? You want a sketch of me?"
Rossweisse seemed surprised that Alice would want an actual sketch of her in front of something, which caused the blonde to turn in her direction tilting her head slightly.
"Of course. It is important to have at least one or two sketches with the residents of the Norse World."
Alice replied without showing the slightest sense of deceit in her words.
"A-Alright."
Rossweisse did as requested, then stood in front of the tower and did a pose that wasn't too much, but Alice saw that she was a little bit stiff.
"You don't need to be so stiff. You can stand in whatever rose feels natural."
Alice had suggested in an attempt to make her feel more comfortable, then Rossweisse did as such and stood in a more natural pose and smiled.
Seeing this, Alice nodded her head then began sketching out both Rossweisse and the tower behind her expertly using the drawing pencil in her hands. Several minutes passed until she was finished sketching the portrait of the silver-haired Valkyrie and the tower resting behind her.
"Alright done."
"Oh, can I see it?"
"Of course."
Once Rossweisse came in front of her, Alice showed her the finished sketch, causing her to make an astounded look on her face at the amount of detail that was put into the sketch. She really sketched everything out in front of her aside from her model, there were also the other nearby buildings and sky above her.
"I didn't think that the detail that you placed in sketching me, I can't even find a single thing wrong in the detail in my Valkyrie armor or facial expression.
"Rossweisse-san does have all the workings of a model."
"Y-You're exaggerating. There's no way that I could work as a model," Rossweisse waved her hand and laughed lightly about the comment. "Besides, I worked hard to become a Valkyrie by taking my studies seriously to where it was almost impossible for me to have fun once in my childhood."
"I believe that it is still possible for you to have fun once in a while whenever you're on days off. I also heard that Valkyries don't have lovers or boyfriends," Alice stated causing Rossweisse to border on becoming depressed as that was mentioned, but the blonde continued. "I believe that's because neither of you is trying at all. Most of the members of the Valkyrie Squad are all beautiful women to the point of seeming near untouchable by normal people. I believe that you'll find a man perfect for you, Rossweisse."
Alice spoke in an honest tone that displayed no deceit behind them, which caused tears different from sadness to stream down Rossweisse's cheeks.
"That's one of the nicest things that anyone's ever said to me," Rossweisse said as she wrapped both her arms around a confused Alice. "Alice, you're truly a kind and gentle girl!"
"So, are you, Rossweisse."
Not seeming to mind Rossweisse crying and hugging her, Alice merely hugged her back and started rubbing her back comfortably. The people walking by did find the situation odd, but believed that Alice was comforting her on a matter involving like like always and merely allowed them to have their moment.
In another location, where the area was more festive, Kensei and Brynhildr were seen walking through the crowd of people. He was holding four meat kabobs in his hands, which were purchased from a nearby stand and having eaten two already.
"I'd like to thank you again for bringing me here Brynhildr-san."
Kensei said turning to her wearing a smirk.
"It wasn't an issue at all. I'm merely doing what was requested by me from the Chief God," Brynhildr spoke to him in a calm, while in her hand. "We ended up together. This is my chance to see whether or not he's the one! All of his friends are in different places being lead by the other members of the Valkyrie Squad. …uh, this feels almost like a date! N-No calm down, don't waste this chance to learn more about him!"
"I was surprised since it looked like you wanted to be around me. You kinda turned her away the second I waved at all of you. And you seemed to have been ignoring me the entire time."
"O-Of course not, I was merely focused on doing my duty as Captain. I have no issues with you or anyone else in your group," Brynhildr replied. "I made him think that I didn't like him. Come on, Brynhildr, you need to find a way to fix this!"
"It's a good thing since everyone in the Valkyrie Squad looks like nice women including you," Kensei replied genuinely not knowing that Brynhildr blushed at that comment since she turned away from him, then threw the kabob sticks in a trash can. "I heard a lot about the Norse Faction from Zane and several stories that I read in several books. Well, there's still some stuff that I haven't seen yet, but so far the people and food are good."
"You should be careful with the food that you eat. Certain foods'll affect your health if overeaten."
Brynhildr suggested in a more kind and normal manner, which surprised Kensei a little bit before smiling.
"Don't worry about that. I ensure to make sure I'm in tiptop condition. That's one of the great benefits of training in martial arts, maintaining a conditioned mind, body, and spirit. But, thanks for the concern."
"W-Well, I'd hate for anything bad to happy to you..well, all of you," Brynhildr replied as both of them continued to walk down the streets where there seemed to be various couples who were with one another with touched a spot in her heart. "S-So, I was wondering what kind of life is it in the Shinto Faction."
"Hmm, well, I did live an interesting life from the time I was old enough to walk. There wasn't a single dull moment where it was handing out with old friends and fighting against whatever demon or evil spirit attempted to try me," Kensei said in a confident tone. "Well, the highlights from that time was hanging around my childhood friend who used to make it a habit to make me do several things because she was my fiancée."
"Well, that does sound fun….," Brynhildr said before stopping and started to sputter out after hearing that Kensei already had a fiancée, then started blushing. "F-F-F-F-Fiancée! Y-You have already had a fiancée."
"Yea, well, two, to be exact," Kensei replied scratching his cheek slightly as Brynhildr's mouth seemed to be gape once those words left his mouth. "In the Amagiri Clan, the next Clan Head is allowed marry to multiple women as long as they're in love with them. Most of the Clan Heads have been married to one woman, the most being two and three."
"I-I see," Brynhildr said recovering from the shock. "Alright, I freaked out a little bit. But, this could actually be my chance since he can be married to multiple women."
"That doesn't sound weird to you right. Since with most people, it sounds odd."
"In real-world standards that is unheard of, but you live in the kind of world where it's a normal occurrence. Vidar-sama for example has multiple mistresses, as well as several other gods and beings. Well, I believe that as long as you love them, then anything is acceptable," Brynhildr replied more honestly before noticing the surprised look Kensei was giving her since it sounded almost like a woman in love herself or waiting for it. "W-Well, while we're on the subject of gods, have you ever met one of the gods from Shintoism?"
From experience himself to Kensei, it sounded as if Brynhildr was avoiding the expression altogether, but he did want to continue conversing with her.
"Well, I have talked to the Chief God, Amaterasu-sama, but I haven't met her before. Or at least, I don't think that since she has been known to take on different forms whenever entering the Human World," Kensei replied much to her surprise about that. "But, there was this one time on my fifth birthday party, I met one of the Sword Gods, Futsunushi. I remember walking outside since it was snowing on the same day, then some evil spirit attempted to possess me. It the strongest one that I met before, but I managed to force it out, but I couldn't kill it in time before it escaped. Afterward, I encountered Futsunushi, and being able to talk to him for a couple of minutes was one of the best presents that I could have asked for."
Kensei spoke in a tone as if he was reliving that moment once again causing Brynhildr to be happy, but it was at the moment a question entered her mind.
"But, why would someone as revered as a Sword God by there? Is there some kind of connection? But, to have met a god from that age is still surprising nonetheless."
Brynhildr questioned before noticing Kensei holding onto the katana that was sheathed comfortably beside him.
"It was that meeting that further stirred up my motivation to become the strongest and see if I can reach the same level of martial arts as him. I and the stubborn child resting beside me are going to go as far as we possibly can and possibly even further than that."
Brynhildr heard the honest tone from Kensei, which displayed his truest desire to reach the same heights as the Sword God he appears to admire. If other people were to hear those words, then there's a chance that they'd be laughing at him, but Brynhildr instead found that honest declaration truly endearing.
"Well, I believe that would truly be something to witness," Brynhildr started before noticing that there was a large commotion occurring. "What's going on over there?"
"Let's go find out."
Interested in seeing what was going on, Kensei began heading off in that direction with Brynhildr following behind him. After walking past all of the people who gathered around as the crowd to witness this until reaching a place where they could see what was going on. In front of them, there was a shirtless man who stood in the middle of a ring drawn out on the ground using what seemed to be white chalk. The man himself had a well-built body nearly more than one of the heroes that Kensei and the others first met. Being carried outside of the drawn-out ring was a man who was apparently defeated.
"Hahaha, come on, isn't there any more challengers who want to challenge the great Vandil," the man who called himself Vandil announced in a loud voice that could reach the ears of several people. "Come on, no weapons, no magic, just this strong body! Anyone who can defeat me will win a hefty prize! I'll take on any challenge!"
Vandil continued calling out different people, most of the men seeming to be reluctant after seeing the other men who attempted the same thing.
"Something like this happens all the time here. As long as no serious physical or property damage occur anyone can hold challenges like this."
"Huh, this sounds interesting," Kensei said as his competitive spirit was being stirred up at the challenge. "Alright, I'll take on that challenge!"
Everyone turned to see Kensei holding out his hand in accepting the challenge, neither of them recognized him but saw Brynhildr standing near him and thought he was someone important. But, Vandil after seeing Kensei was wondering whether or not he was serious.
"Boy, I did say that I would accept any challenge, but I don't make a habit of challenging the immature children to serious competition. Look at this field," Vandil stated pointing at the circle that also has several symbols in it as well. "The one rule in this field is that those who enter this area aren't allowed to enter until one is declared the winner! I have no desire to trap a young man such as yourself in an inescapable prison with lose being your only salvation."
Hearing those words from Vandil caused the crowd to feel the emotions behind them, but the words didn't even deter Kensei in the slightest. He merely let a slight smirk form on his face as people more and more didn't believe that he could defeat them. There was a slight silence until a notable pressure was released from his body that caused almost everyone around him to gain goosebumps. It wasn't a terrible sensation, but it was something that neither of them expected to come from someone his age.
"To release such pressure on command. But, it didn't feel the slightest bit oppressive, almost as if he were just showing everyone his pure intention to accept the challenge."
Brynhildr was surprised about the pressure from him as the people started moving aside so that he could move up to the front.
"An inescapable prison with lose being your only salvation," Kensei mumbled out as he walked out of the crowd, then started walking at the corner of the drawn-out arena. "It's been a long time since I last heard words like that before, but comparing that and this isn't even close. I've survived a place that felt similar to that of an inescapable and it only further strengthened what I always believed."
Kensei declared outright as he stepped in front of the arena showing nothing more than his fighting spirit, which seemed to shine in his eyes.
"Even if someone believes that they can put me in a prison or detain me in some way. No matter what happens, I'm always free."
Hearing those words the crowd instantly started cheering feeling the strong emotions behind them, stirring up a series of emotions in Brynhildr.
"I apologize," Vandil stated as he bowed his head before looking forward at Kensei wearing a new resolve on his face. "I was treating you like a child rather than a challenger…no a warrior. I never heard such words from even another man in my life and it stirred up a newfound flame within me! Alright, if you accept the challenge then say it out loud, and let's begin."
"Brynhildr-san, catch this," Kensei requested as he threw Kurogane out in that direction and she thought it in her hands as requested. "I am Kensei Amagiri! And I challenge the great Vandil!"
"Hahaha, well said and great name! I, the great Vandil accept the challenge!"
Once the challenge was accepted, the crowd started cheering on feeling invigorated after hearing the declaration from both of them. Brynhildr seeing all this couldn't help but smile.
"Being able to stir up the emotions of people around him from just doing something like this," Brynhildr stated as she held the sword in her hands before noticing something that caused her to blush deeply. "H-He's taking off his shirt too! B-But, that girl, Alice wasn't kidding about his muscles being well trained. W-What would it feel to touch them myself?"
Just as Brynhildr said, Kensei has taken off his shirt revealing his honed muscles to the crowd around him before placing it inside of another dimension.
"I have a meeting sometime after this and can't get it too dirty from fighting."
"Hahaha, I see that you're well trained! Then, shall we begin?"
"Let's get started."
Kensei stated as he stood in a prepared stance, which caused Vandil to follow suit as the crowd appeared to get far more excited for the competition.
"Well, I don't know whether he is the one," Brynhildr mumbled before smiling. "But, I can't see myself hating him."
Just then both Kensei and Vandil started having their match as the entire crowd watched on in anticipation for the winner in the end.
A/N: And there goes the twenty-fifth chapter of DxD – The Last Amagiri, well, it was a long time that I've updated this one. In this chapter, it showed their meeting with the Chief God himself about the situation at hand and the potential in forming a connection with them. The meeting was going along smoothly until Loki arrived to do what he does best and attempt to deter the meeting with other factions, but more early on compared to the canon.
Kensei and the others started hanging around the Valkyrie Squad with Zane also talking to Lena, who is, in fact, a dark elf. I thought that since Elves and Dwarves were introduced in canon, but never shown, it'd be fun to have them introduced here. This was more of a chill chapter to get to somewhat know both the Valkyrie and see a little bit of Asgard.
Also, I would like to talk about the situation regarding the pairings, like in the previous stories the Magic Knight and Twin Dragons, I pick the girls who are the most compatible and not for no reason aside from giving him multiple girls to overshadow Issei. I know how some people feel about him, he does serve an important role in High School DxD and future events on his end. I also want to do something different in exploring Kensei's side and experiencing something different from the usual reincarnating to devils and experience the positive side to being a devil.
For his pairing, I wanted to attempt something more original, although, some of the girls are from Issei's harem, the others are also original characters I thought about or those haven't been mentioned much in canon like Amaterasu, Mirana, and Brynhildr. I won't name any names, but to the one who has been leaving several reviews calling me unoriginal by not removing one person from Issei.
I would like everyone to respect and understand the decisions that I make no matter who I decide on like whoever reads one of the best writers on the site Makoto x Chelia. So, in the suggestions in the reviews:
I have to admit that either Rossweisse and Akeno can work well with Kensei. For Rossweisse, she has an interesting personality that could work since he would support her in her goals and overall life. Akeno all the more can work more as their situations are similar to one another since their mothers died earlier on and their relationship with their fathers are complicated.
I like characters who have more depth in their characters and pasts, which is why those like Akeno and Rossweisse are one of my favorites. But, also, at the same time, I'd like to explore other characters who haven't been talked about or mentioned in an attempt to make it more original. I talked about adding in Misla Bael before, there are also new characters introduced like Latia and Iryuka.
As I said before, the entire point of the Last Amagiri is to go in a different direction aside from the normal storyline and explore different things.
So, until next time.
Kensei's Harem: Alice, Claire, Hisui, Kunou, Yasaka, Lu Lingqi, Mirana, Sarah, Minako, Koneko, Kuroka, Ravel, Amaterasu, Brynhildr.