Welcome to the next chapter of DxD – The Last Amagiri, but before starting the story. Let's answer some reviews:
altair96: Thanks. Yep, Lingqi ended up beating one of Wu Jun's most trusted subordinates after entering her Balance Breaker, who then allied with the Benefactor. Both Disciple and Teacher ended up sharing a drink, while Lingqi and Jeanne ended up having one final conversation. Yep, it looks as if her grandfather gained the ability of Beastification into a white tiger and became a Xian. Lingqi has become a part of the team, while the four legendary figures mentioned that.
Slimereader11: Thanks. And I wonder who's going to be introduced here.
shephawk: Thanks. I'm sure that this next volume is going to be an enjoyable one.
Cristian Njoroge: Well, you wouldn't be wrong considering the time frame.
AUO: I did think about doing Black Clover next after reaching some point in the three stories I'm in the middle of now too. It does sound like an interesting idea having an OC like that.
Guest: That'd be quite the scene, showing that Lingqi can take and give quite the headbutt.
The First Encounter
In another part of Japan, its citizens were performing their regular business, the most notable being those who were in charge of concession stands. One of them, in particular, was selling takoyaki, some of the people walking by all couldn't help looking there. But, it wasn't for the stacks being sold there, instead, their attention was mostly focused on the one sitting there, a woman.
Sitting at the bench was a beautiful, black-haired, black-eyed young woman with a hime cut, who looked to be in her late teens. From her flawless, unblemished skin, and well-proportioned figure, all of which looked as if it was sculpted by the gods, almost conceptualizing, Yamato Nadeshiko, that no other Japanese woman could compare to. Dressed in fashionable attire, which fit her entire frame.
"…."
She was doing nothing aside from eating the takoyaki purchased from the stands, in a manner that made it look as if she was born into a noble household. Almost no man or woman could take their attention off her, as if she's meant to be idolized. Remembering some had business to handle, the people left there with some kind of weight removed from their hearts.
After finishing, the young woman threw her trash into a trashcan, then turned her attention toward the store owner.
"Thank you for the wonderful takoyaki," the woman spoke in a gentle and beautiful voice that sounded melodious to others. "The ingredients and manner in which it was cooked were simply wonderful."
"Th-Thank you. Here's a free sample," the man pulled out another sample of takoyaki, then presented it to the young woman as if she was royalty. "Please accept them."
"I wouldn't want to be rude or reject your kindness," the young woman held out her hand and accepted them as a smile could be seen on her face. "I'll gladly accept these."
Having taken them off his hands, the young woman turned around and started walking in another direction. She still had the attention of the men and women until she left the area, causing the people to return to their business.
She continued walking down the street as she continued eating the takoyaki she had received as an offering. As she expected, no matter where she went, people couldn't help taking their attention from whatever they were all doing. And it was the main reason that she hadn't appeared in her original appearance around normal humans in a long time. However, it was much different compared to the last couple of times when she would often visit the Human World.
"Hmm~ Hmm~ Hmm~ I love that that humans of our wonderful faction have developed such delicacies such as this~ There are so many wonderful things that the humans here developed that the gods would love~"
For the young woman, her business was relishing in the peace and calmness around her, which radiated from all the people around her. She loved witnessing people loving and enjoying their lives no matter how short or fast they seemed to come to an end. But, sometimes it was the most wonderful things about humans that the supernatural beings could learn from.
"Oh, looks like there's another one here?"
Soon enough, the young woman stopped as she turned her head to see a poster pasted on one of the walls. It gained her attention as it was something that had been causing trouble for the people of Japan for almost over a year now. A black poster with white writings, with the insignia and message of the group who called themselves, Hikage, the shadows started spreading across multiple places.
"Hmm."
She looked around and could see that there were copies of the same posters plastered around certain locations too. Certain civilians were staring at the posters with a vested interest as if some of them were caught in a trance, which couldn't be broken. Noticing that, the young woman held her hand upwards as a golden aura, resembling a brilliant sun covered her hand.
Snap!
From that single snap, an unknown, almost divine power was released across the area, it touched the people it came in contact with. Blinking a little, the people who were caught in a trance found themselves returning to normal and returned to their regular duties. A faint black aura could be seen vanishing from around the posters in the surrounding area.
"That should do it."
[Uh, Amaterasu-sama.]
At that moment, a Yatagarasu could be seen appearing right beside the young woman, now revealed to be the Shinto Chief God, Amaterasu. She saw the three-legged crow, but no other human around the area was able to notice its presence at all.
"Yes?"
[I believe that it would be easier if you simply altered your appearance as you've done before instead of walking around in that form.]
"Ah, but where's the fun in that. I haven't appeared in the Human World in my natural form in a long time, since it's harder for me to control my divine presence. I want to be able to walk around in the open like an ordinary person for a change during this rare break from being the Chief God," Amaterasu gently and naturally replied as she tossed the empty takoyaki box inside a trash can. "But, I'm sure you didn't come here to talk about that, as I haven't been out of Takamagahara for more than five minutes."
[No, I have come to talk about Kensei Amagiri.]
"Oh, this sounds interesting. So, what has one of my favorite humans been up to as of late?"
At the mention of Kensei, Amaterasu looked on with more invested interest as a slight smile graced her beautiful face. For a long time, even before the Hagun Island Incident, the Yatagarasu and multiple other gods were aware of the interest that she had taken in Kensei.
[It would appear as if he has made contact with another faction, a young woman who has some connection to the Chinese Gods. Said person joined the organization that has been formed inside his hometown, which could make the third faction that their group has formed close ties with.]
"Hmm, hmm, he's growing into quite the interesting person. Aside from his mischievous side, he could be a spitting image of his maternal ancestor, Itsuki, when he was starting as an exorcist," Amaterasu said as she leaned against the wall. "Unlike others, he was a rare gentle soul who could see the good in all beings and could befriend and calm ferocious spirits. In serious battles, he never held the slightest shred of malicious. Itsuki was a rare human that you don't see born ever now and then."
[Since Kensei Amagiri is the last among his descendants, his existence is something special and should be well-protected no matter what.]
"Hahaha, well, if you want to attempt to protect or contain someone known as the Dragon Child, then you can go and try it. But, much like trying to control an actual Dragon, it might not end the way you think," Amaterasu joked as the Yatagarasu wouldn't attempt anything like that, and meant that as a harmless suggestion. It wasn't all that long until she turned her attention back to the poster. "Besides, Kensei and his group might be what is needed to fight against these groups that appeared."
[All the other posters we managed to locate have a spell placed on them, in which attracts the attention of the weak-minded and those who find themselves at their breaking point. These posters are placed in specific locations that are often located outside our area of influence. It gets difficult to locate if we're not actively looking for them. If that person is involved, then it would make sense that he'd be aware of those weak points.]
The Yatagarasu replied as Amaterasu looked more worried.
"Yes, I have no doubts that he's involved in this. No one else would take such methods to target civilians in such terrible situations. I don't doubt that he's also responsible for what happened to the Amagiri Clan too. I guess that you could say that this was Kensei's fate to finish the fight that even Itsuki couldn't finish."
Amaterasu said as she crossed her arms, being in deep thought.
"Well, even gods shouldn't interfere with humans too much unless the situation calls for it," Amaterasu continued walking forward as the Yatagarasu took flight into the air. "Hmm, but I should probably think of a time to meet up with Kensei. Knowing him, he might be one of the few people that might be able to talk to me normally."
Having that thought entering her mind, Amaterasu found herself joyfully walking through the streets filled with the humans of her faction. None of the humans were aware that the Chief God and admired Shinto goddess was walking among them.
At Kibou Academy, during their lunch period, Kensei and the members of the Public Morals Committee found themselves eating in the room. Their newest member, Lingqi was sitting right beside them at one of their tables as one big group. Enrolling into Kibou Academy as a third-year student, she was accumulating rather well in school life. Despite being her first time in school, Lingqi found herself making friends among the third-years after a couple of days there.
"Ah, this is quite a good school and town," Lingqi stated, smiling while she ate her prepared lunch. "There's a good atmosphere in all the classrooms too. It has about the same atmosphere that my hometown does."
"Hmm, that's because of the leylines around here being different from others. It's quite not the same as the ones in Kyoto, but the Amagiri Clan did a good job in building Kibou Town without affecting them."
Kunou added, noticing the difference between Kibou Town and Kyoto after quite some time, more so since she'd learned Senjutsu. Lingqi could tell the similarities between her hometown and Kibou Town and guessed that the two locations must have similar things.
"So, dragon veins are running under this town too," Lingqi added while spinning around the chopsticks in her hands. "Everything in Huwang Village, from the homes to the White Tiger Sect was built in a manner, which coincides with the dragon veins running across the mountains and rivers. It has a pleasant atmosphere, because of the pure Qi, which also attracts animals and youkai there. Year-round, those who become Masters train in the mountains and locations where the Qi is the purest."
"It sounds like a good place. As soon as you bring down Wu Jun, then maybe you could show us around there."
Kensei pointed out as Lingqi nodded her head in agreement.
"I plan on it. Though, I think that you have some firsthand experience in visiting one of the mountains there. You know, since you were there all that time ago."
"Ah, right."
Recalling that, Kensei let out a nervous and ironic laugh.
"I still can't believe that Kensei ended up rescuing the same disciples we ended up running into during our trip to China. It does look as if the meeting between you two was a work of fate. Almost as if the Heavens wanted both the Tiger and Dragon to encounter one another."
Claire pointed out in a joking manner as she stared at Kensei and Lingqi, both of whom simply stared straight at one another for a moment.
"I guess so."
Lingqi added, smiling a bit at the thought of that.
Despite hearing that for herself, Lingqi couldn't believe that Kensei was there at around the same time; and that it was him who assisted in rescuing those injured at Huwang Village. It felt as if fate had been attracting both of them together. For that reason, she wanted to see where that would end up taking her in the future.
"So, what's on our schedule today?"
Kensei asked, turning his attention over towards Claire.
"Well, aside from our usual after-school activities, we don't have much going on right now. Though, we do have our classroom visits coming up soon. Hmmm, I think that Ravel-san is supposed to be visiting tomorrow to hang out with us."
"Oh, I wonder if Ravel is looking forward to playing another game of Go."
Kensei wondered out loud, but Claire, Alice, and Kunou shared the same look, something Lingqi noticed too.
"Uh, Kensei, do you think that's such a good idea?"
"What's wrong with that idea? I mean, Ravel loves playing Go."
Kensei replied to Alice, who looked to be wondering where to take this conversation. Lingqi is still not aware of the situation at the moment, causing her to continue looking on curiously.
"Uh, Ken-chan, I don't think that it's a good idea for you and Ravel-chan to have a match."
"Why not?"
"This would make it the fiftieth loss."
"…," Lingqi almost spat out the tea that she'd drunk after hearing that, but she remembered meeting Ravel when all of them were in China. "I'm sorry he lost forty-nine times against Ravel."
"Don't sound surprised."
Kensei stated, sounding a bit hurt about that.
"I'm sorry, but that's the first time I heard something like that."
"It's not his fault, though. Despite looking like a pure and simple battle manic," Claire said jokingly, causing him to feel far more hurt about that second shot at him. "But, Ravel is nothing short of a rare genius whenever it comes to things such as strategies and planning in general. It's a shame that she never gets to use it whenever Riser is competing in the Rating Game. All their matches would go much smoother is she took control."
"That does sound wasteful. What kind of person is her brother?"
"Riser is the third brother. And it's not that he's a bad person, for the most part, but…."
"He acts like a spoiled playboy and a pervert."
Claire replied right after Kunou, who couldn't help nodding her head in agreement.
"It's so weird, considering their parents gave all of them about the same treatment. But, Riser turned out different from them. I admit that he has a lot of talent and potential, but doesn't train to reach it, which is holding back what he and his peerage could become," Kensei added about the situation, with Lingqi not having anything to go with aside from that. "Well, leaving Riser aside. I like having Go matches with Ravel since, despite losing, I learn more about thinking all about the moves that I make. Besides, I think that she might like playing with me."
Once Kensei said that Claire, Alice, and Kunou shared a skeptical look between one another, something that he noticed.
"You know, this isn't a couple of years back. I get what those looks mean."
Those words from him caused the three women to laugh among themselves, something that had caused Lingqi to join in on the laugh too. She loved seeing these kinds of interactions with them since it had shown the kind of bond the four shared. The entire group continued with their conversation and meal until their lunch period had ending a couple of minutes later.
After school ended, at the Kibou Alliance main building, inside their Research Department, one of the rooms that couldn't be accessed without an Oracle Phone. In that room, there was a multitude of different equipment and a wide range of computers. Members of the research team worked around on their ideas and designs, which were planned; most of which were special-made vehicles based on real-life ones.
"Hah, this is awesome."
Zane found himself marveling at the information before him while working on his personal computer.
In front of him, there was information recorded from Kensei's Oracle Phone, most notable being on the Demonic Sword, Gram, which had been something he sought to surpass. On the screen, a rendering of the sword's design could be seen, and a wide arrange of information originating from its aura and wavelength.
"Well, you sound like an idiotic child."
Lena said while standing behind him.
In her hand was information that regarded a bunch of special items that has been designed too, meant to assist their group in multiple ways.
"Eh, your comments aren't going to bring me down this time," Zane replied, turning around in his chair. "I'm in too good a mood at the moment. I ended up getting information about the Demonic Emperor Sword and a little more information about the True Longinus. Not that I could create a replica of a Longinus, but there's nothing wrong in researching methods for combating Gods too."
"Well, at least you're driven. You're on redeeming trait is your intellect and creativity," Lena said in a little bit more of a happier and natural tone, surprising Zane for a moment. "I went over the magical items ideas that have been thought up this week and added in my thoughts about them. So, here."
Not waiting for a response, Lena handed Zane the tablet she'd been working on, then started walking off in another direction. He almost couldn't think about what Lena said, since it was almost the nicest thing she said to him since. Zane turned to see Lena going to talk to another researcher, who asked for advice about the new designs of a vehicle she'd designed.
"Ah, that was surprising."
Zane scratched the side of his cheek, smiling a bit.
Soon enough, there was a dinging sound coming from the door, as Kensei could be seen entering the room.
"Well, this place seems busier than normal."
Kensei pointed out as he entered the research room.
"Our group thinks about different ideas and brings them to fruition all the time. I'm sure that the others who'll be utilizing them in the future will appreciate them."
"I don't doubt that, considering that this group comes up with good ideas all the time. And I see that you're going over the combat data from the battle in China."
"Yeah, this is the first time that I'm able to go over them as much as I want. I've been a little preoccupied finishing the vehicles we completed and docked to be tested on a later date. But, I think you, Maria, and Lingqi are going to enjoy riding them around."
Zane showed nothing short of confidence in the special-made vehicles that their group designed and finished.
"So, where's Claire and the others?"
"Well, Kunou and Alice went to train inside one of the training fields. Claire went to escort Lingqi over toward her scheduled medical examination with Abigail. And I came here because you said that it was finished."
"Hmm, right? Uh, and it was," Zane looked confused for a moment, not knowing for a moment what Kensei was talking about. It wasn't surprising considering that their group was responsible for creating and modifying a wide range of things. "Right, right, I was preoccupied thinking about Gram's and the True Longinus' data that I almost forgot about it. Here you go."
Zane reached inside of his dimensional storage, retrieving a black miniature stick that fits in the palm of his hands, with blue dragon scale-esque designs around it; there were runic letters engraved where his hands were. Having seen the item positioned in front of him, Kensei took it off his hands.
"Oh, so this is what had Tatsuwa turned into," Kensei spoke, spinning around the miniature staff, identified as the staff he won almost over a year ago. "Tatsuwa is far different compared to what it looked like before. You did an awesome job in making modifications to that staff I received almost over a year ago."
"Yeah, the person who created this staff was without a doubt a master blacksmith, making it almost unbreakable through using Norse magic. But, I modified it more to fit your fighting style and the skills that I honed for…ugh!"
Zane was stopped as Lena smacked a book on top of his head while wearing a blank expression.
"Knock off the boasting, it's irritating."
"Hahaha, you're so mean and ruthless."
Zane rubbed the top of his head, feeling a bit of a stinging sensation from Lena smacking the top of his head.
"Ehehehe," Kensei gave a nervous laugh, staring at Zane and Lena. "This almost resembles more of an abusive relationship, I wonder what a counselor would think about this."
"I can tell you're thinking about something about us being in a relationship."
Lena turned a scrutinizing look over towards Kensei, who glanced to the side.
"So, I'm going to start testing this out."
"Alright, give me a second."
As Kensei was heading to the middle of the room, the other researchers noticed what was going on and stopped whatever they were doing. Zane held out his hand, activating a magic circle that manifested a barrier, which had surrounded Kensei; large big enough to serve as a practice field.
Holding the stick in his hand, Kensei sent ki into Tatsuwa, causing it to extend outwards into a full-sized bo staff, emitting a familiar presence. It felt comfortable in his hands, then started spinning it around in his dominant hand at high speed. Afterward, Kensei started performing a wide range of different tricks using the staff in his hands, while switching from left to right hands.
[Ohhh!]
All the people, who knew Kensei for a long time felt surprised while witnessing once again the beautiful skills he has been honing for a long time. To them, it looked as if the staff was an extension of himself as the wind continued picking up inside the barrier. And then, with one fluid motion, Kensei jabbed the staff into the ground resulting in a miniature shockwave that shook the inside of the barrier.
If it had been a normal one, that hadn't been created by Zane, then there's no doubt that it would've been broken if, not at least cracked. Seeing that Kensei was finished practicing using the modified Tatsuwa in his hands, Zane removed the barrier that surrounded him.
"How was it?"
"Awesome as always."
Kensei replied as he shortened Tatsuwa in its base state, then placed it inside of his dimensional storage.
"I modified it using Sun Wukong's magical staff as the basis, so it can extend and retract too. If there's anything else that you want to be added to it, just let me know."
Zane smiled after seeing firsthand the amazing job that he did, something that Lena noticed.
But, she didn't mention a single word about it, instead of allowing him to have that moment to himself. it wasn't long until Kensei left outside of the Research Department, letting the researchers and inventors proceed unbothered.
Inside the Medical Department, which was headed by Abigail, there Lingqi found herself doing an examination. It was something that all newcomers went through after joining the Kibou Alliance for means of potential and future medical needs. Of course, Lingqi had no trouble doing something like this and was surprised their group did such things for them.
After asking about it, Claire, who was standing in the room too mentioned that this was Abigail's idea, something no one had trouble with. Hearing that explanation, Lingqi didn't doubt the reason that Abigail was the head of the Medical Department. At the moment, she was dressed in a white and black spots bra and shorts, having finished running on a track inside the medical room for measuring her heartbeat.
"This is marvelous," Abigail said, dressed in a proper medical attribute designed for them. In her hands, she went over the measurements that reached her Oracle Phone that enlarged into a tablet. "Well, it's no surprise that your physical stats surpass human standards, being superhuman. But, I haven't seen such measurements from the supernatural beings or hybrids in our group. If we're talking about strength alone, then you're the most powerful woman in our group."
"There's no doubt that's true considering that you gave Kensei a hard time during your match."
Claire added right after Abigail, making Lingqi feel the genuine emotions from their compliments.
"Thanks. But, I have a long road ahead of me in terms of development."
Lingqi said, then drank from her bottled water. In her hands, she started eating from a cookie she had received after having some blood too.
"Oh, right, Claire before I forget. I plan on having you and the others who drank that sage elixir prepared by Sun Wukong-sama later on too. I want to compare the effects it had compared to the previous one that I performed. I guess that I could do yours right after finishing up with Lingqi," Abigail informed, having heard that those involved in the incident drank the same thing as Kensei. "I wished that I had gone there since I'm interested in the medical knowledge that I could learn from the one who saved Kensei."
Claire couldn't help smiling at the comment made by Abigail, although, she had the power to heal injuries. She'd developed a keen interest in actual medicine in case the situation raised where her powers may have no effect. It was one of the reasons that even now, she was still considered their older sister figure.
"Alright, I got all that I needed for the first phase of the examination and took some blood too for emergencies. I know that you're much stronger than normal humans but rest for some time before doing anything like training. If you could please stand over here," Abigail kindly requested, directed Lingqi to stand at a specific, which she had done without question. "Alright, now Lisanna, if you would."
"Yes, Abi."
Heading in her direction was a blonde-haired nineteen-year-old young woman. Similar to the others, she was one of the Hagun Island captives, but now a college student and Abigail's second-in-command. Moving right in front of Lingqi, Lisanna held out her arms as a mysterious space was manifested around the younger young woman. It felt as if something was encroaching and retrieving something from her, but it didn't feel unpleasant.
"Oh, this is a sacred gear isn't it."
Lingqi said with interest, despite not doing so, she looked at her hands and could see her aura, while inside of this unknown space.
"Yes, this is called Effect Field," Lisanna replied, while her eyes were closed as she was getting different kinds of things from Lingqi. "I can create different fields that have different effects. I specialize in those that scan whoever is inside of it, making it more proficient than the medical scans normal people would use. Using this, I can sense almost anything about a person. There are some things that I can detect from certain people, but those are under special circumstances."
Lingqi seemed interested having heard that, then a minute or two passed before the scanning space vanished. A sigh could be heard escaping from Lisanna's face while looking at Lingqi impressed.
"So, what were the results, Lisanna?"
Abigail curiously asked.
"I don't think that I have sensed something like this from someone aside from Kensei before," Lisanna started, and continued. "Lingqi's constitution is different from that of normal humans, because of that she has much greater strength than a muscular man. Despite that, her muscles and skin feel as soft as a normal woman, see."
To prove that, Lisanna started pocking both Lingqi's arms and stomach muscles, feeling that the softness wasn't any different from normal women. If it was a part of the examination then she wouldn't mind that, but that changed as soon as Lisanna pocked her right breast, causing her cheeks to turn red.
"Lisanna don't start."
Abigail sighed.
"Come on, let me have this. She's a year younger than I am, but her breasts are bigger than mine," Lisanna said, then removed her fingers and continued explaining. "Well, Lingqi's constitution has the same potential as that of supernatural beings in terms of bodily development."
"Well, all the descendants of Lu Bu are born with a constitution much different from that of normal humans, which makes them much stronger than humans. But, since my grandfather ascended into a Xian in his lifetime, it made him become something that surpasses our ancestor."
Lingqi explained as Abigail nodded her head with interest.
"There are quite a lot of unique things that humans could be born with, which lets them fight against supernatural beings. But, I can't tell if it was a blessing from gods or something that had occurred naturally. Well, both you and Kensei would without a doubt pass the natural standards for humans. For Kensei, it is much different from your natural case…well, the same thing could be said about Naoto-kun and Nariko-chan."
Abigail explained, catching Lingqi's attention.
"Hmm, what does that mean," Lingqi uttered before recalling the words that her grandfather said before and also the particular presence she sensed. "Ah, right, I heard my grandfather mention that Kensei has dragon blood that is mixed with his human blood."
"Right, but not just him, his siblings too. A long time ago, to defeat a legendary Evil Dragon, his dad, Tetsuo-san drank the blood of a strong evil dragon. Because of that, it influenced his body and soul, thus causing his original Twice Critical to evolve too. So, I guess you can guess what it meant for his children too."
"Yeah, but the situation must've been desperate if his father drank blood from an Evil Dragon. It's not the same as drinking normal dragon blood, I heard that normal people would've died due to the experience alone."
"Trust me, we all found out firsthand what an Evil Dragon was like in person," Claire pointed out, thinking back to their fight against Niðhöggr. "After an experience like that, it makes me realize the reason that people go through the trouble of extinguishing their souls. If that much isn't done, then they'll just come back. But, because of that, Kensei could survive a certain incident a long time ago, which I'm grateful for."
"…Claire."
Lingqi said in a low tone, causing her to recall the Hagun Island Incident, which was something that she was told about in detail. And was aware that for almost a month, their group that Kensei was killed, but, survived a brutal assault.
"Well, because the three of them inherited dragon blood. All of them receive regular checkups either inside the Kibou Alliance or Hinata-sensei's medical practice to ensure nothing happens," Abigail explained, referring to the Youkai Doctor with proper honorifics since she does take lessons from Hinata from time to time. "Aside from the fact the three of them make them different from humans, nothing bad has happened. But, that also means that three of them cannot give normal blood transfusions since that'd pass down the dragon blood too."
What she said made sense, considering that the slightest amount of dragon blood could affect whoever receives it through possible ingestion or transfusion. Amid their conversation, Abigail's second black-haired assistant had entered the same area as the three of them.
"Ah, I hope that I'm not interrupting anything."
"No no, that's fine, Zack. Did you need something?"
Her second assistant, Zachery, or Zack, as he preferred being called held a piece of paper in his hands.
"Yeah, I finished examining that blood sample from that Gang person Lingqi asked me to run. I just came here to give it to her."
Zack replied, causing Lingqi to give a thankful smile.
"Thanks. And I apologize if it was any trouble."
"No no no, that's fine. I like doing things like this."
Zack reassured her, then turned around to continue doing whatever other business he had.
Seeing that he left, Lingqi started going over the examination that he had given to her about the blood sample of one of Jun's Dragon Claws. Although, the Kibou Alliance would imprison captured people inside a special barrier
Having finished reaching for the information printed out in front of her, a sigh could be heard escaping from her mouth.
"I hoped that I wouldn't be right about this."
Lingqi sighed, causing Claire to approach her.
"So, I was mistaken when he first activated his Balance Breaker."
"Yeah, it looks as if Wu Jun didn't just kill that dragon just to stir up Yu Haung and the other gods. Both he and the others among the Dragon Claws also drank the dragon's blood too."
Lingqi revealed, must to the surprise of the two blonde-haired young women listening to them too; all four of them were aware that this situation would end up becoming something more troublesome.
Tomorrow, soon enough, it was after school at Kibou Academy, the Public Morales Committee, Ravel had visited them. Much to their surprise, she didn't come there empty-handed bringing them snacks and tea, something that all of them appreciated.
"Hmm, Ravel-chan makes delicious snacks and tea~"
Kunou mewled, eating what Ravel brought.
"Yes, Kunou-san does make snacks better than I do. I know that Alice-nee loves these too, so I plan on saving some for her too," Claire added after drinking the tea. "Hmm, she would've been here, but there was a project the Art Club is doing together."
"I do love this tea. It's better than most of the ones that I have drunk thus far."
Lingqi praised the tea.
"I-It's no problem. I just happened to have had some time preparing tea and snacks," Ravel replied flustered as a hand was placed on her cheek while moving one of her white pieces. "But, please, I hope that all of you do enjoy eating them."
"Ravel sure is a triple threat."
"Uh, a what?"
Ravel seemed confused about what that meant.
"I mean being good at three different things. You're a good manager, strategist, and cook," Kensei replied as a red could be seen dusting her cheeks at the comment as he moved his black piece. "You're also a tsundere."
"I'm…not a tsundere," Ravel mumbled as she moved hers, then looked at the board. "Hmm, you're getting better and better at playing against me each time, Ken-sama."
"Well, I learn that losing means you learn from the mistakes and improve. I must say that learning from whatever I experience is essential in the Amagiri Clan too."
"Yeah, you're improving. But, I'm still going to win in five moves."
"Uh, what…crap, you're right."
Kensei stared at the board, noticing that there were still five more moves before his pieces got overrun.
"Do you want to surrender?"
"Nah, if I'm going to lose. I'll lose with dignity, and if there's a chance I'll win, I'll proceed."
"That's something that I like about you," Ravel mumbled flustered, as she moved another one of her pieces, thus leaving with four moves until their game was finished. "So, Riser-oniisama mentioned that the marriage between himself and Rias-sama has been moved ahead of time."
"Oh, is that so?"
Kensei was aware of the situation involving the Gremory Clan, considering that he heard about it once during a casual conversation with Sirzechs.
"I don't have much to think about it since I'm not close friends with Rias-sama. But, I have doubts that she plans on going along with it based on what I know about her."
"Hmm, I can't speak since it has nothing to do with me. I understand the situation the Underworld is losing almost half their pure-blooded devils from the Seventy-Two Pillars during the Great War. But, I wouldn't have gone along with an arranged marriage."
"I do agree with it too. I wouldn't want to be put into such a situation," Ravel replied, then turned a glance towards Kensei. "It might go along with the Underworld's Government and the belief about maintaining pure-bloods. But, if I had to be engaged with someone, then it'd be a hero who I would want to support no matter what."
"That'd be the luckiest person in the world," Kensei replied, causing Ravel to blush more, while he felt the eyes of two women on him. He maintained a casual look, but on the inside, he was aware of the meaning and wore a wry look. "Well, that was kinda obviously directed at me. Ravel has numerous traits that I do like, but I don't see the need to rush things. At least, I should wait until the two of us comes to better understand those feelings before it goes anywhere."
"So, Ken-sama is there anything going on nowadays?"
"Nah, aside from the usual things, there's not much going on around here. I mean, we are planning on testing out a couple of new inventions that Zane and the other researchers invented."
"So, Zane-sama has developed something else. I think that'd be interesting to see firsthand. I heard that he has a similar mind for inventing newer things like Ajuka-sama."
"If you want to be more involved in things such as this, then there's always a place for you here."
Claire pointed out, turning her attention toward Kensei and Ravel.
"I know, Claire-sama. I'm still a part of Riser-oniisama's peerage, even if it was on the pretense of me acting as a part of his ideal…harem," Ravel looked almost mentally hurt in realizing that once again to admit that her brother wanted her in his peerage to act as the ideal sister-type. But, her being loyal to her older brother was simply the one thing keeping Ravel there. "I'll continue to support him until…."
"I know, I know. Despite the kind of person Riser can be, I do love the fact that you're loyal to him," Claire stated, approaching Ravel, then placing a hand on her shoulder smiling. "From time to time, we've talked about wanting you apart from our group. So, I just wanted to remind you that our door is always open."
Hearing those genuine emotions from Claire caused Ravel to wear a grateful and emotional smile having heard it from her. Inside the room, Kunou and Lingqi smiled too about those words, knowing full well that it was among the reasons Claire was Kensei's second-in-command.
"Ken-sama, Claire-sama, I'm…," Ravel was going to tell them something, noticing that the familiar magic circle of the Phenex Clan manifested underneath her feet. "Huh, I'm being summoned somewhere? But, I thought that we weren't doing…I think that it's Riser…."
Before Ravel could finish, she vanished in a burst of flames, leaving the seat positioned in front of Kensei was all but devoid. The three people sitting inside the room looked on confused about what happened and wondered what happened. Staring at the empty seat, Kensei scratched the side of his cheek, then retrieved his phone.
"I'll call her mother to check and see what's going on."
Kensei stated before anyone inside the room could say anything.
Setting it down on the table, he contacted Ravel's mother, who was projected as a hologram wearing her usual genuine smile.
[Ara, this is a surprise. I didn't think that I'd receive a call from Kensei-san.] Lady Phenex spoke in a kind tone as she glanced around to find a newer face in the form of Lingqi. [Ara, Ravel mentioned before that a new member joined your group. But, I didn't quite expect her to be this much of a beauty.]
"Oh, thank you," Lingqi replied, happy about the compliment, then bowed her head. "My name is Lu Lingqi. And it is a pleasure to meet you."
[And she's polite too. I'd love to meet her in person next time you're here. But, where's Ravel?]
"Ah, right. About that, it looks as if Riser summoned her somewhere and she wasn't aware of it."
Hearing that from Kensei, Lady Phenex let a breath escape from her mouth, then placed a hand on her cheek.
[I see. It must have something to do with the meeting he was supposed to be having with Rias-san right now. I do apologize for the suddenness of that. But, it looks as if Riser summoned Ravel for some reason, even though he said there would be no need for it. If Riser went to the trouble of calling out for Ravel, then….]
"He's probably showing off."
Kensei stated as that comment caused his mother to almost laugh while covering her mouth using her hand.
[Yes, that might be the case. I hoped that Riser would conduct himself with more dignity and respect. Oh, Kensei-san, could you do me a favor?]
"As long as I'm able to achieve it, I will accept."
Kensei replied without rejection, something that caused Lady Phenex to make an appreciative smile.
Meanwhile, inside Kuoh Town, the town was under the previous ownership of Claire's mother, Cleria Belial, but it was now under Sirzechs' younger sister, Rias Gremory. At Kuoh Academy, school ended with the students beginning their after-school club activities. In the Occult Research Club, the club founded by Rias, there was a meeting that was proceeding.
It wasn't their usual club room meeting, instead, it was the discussion of marriage between Rias and Riser. Inside that room aside from Riser and Grayfia, who was acting as the mediator, Rias and her peerage were inside of the room. Of course, their King and President, Rias Gremory, was a beautiful crimson-haired, blue-eyed young woman with a voluptuous figure. Their Queen and Vice-President, Akeno Himejima, is a beautiful black-haired, violet-eyed young woman with the same voluptuous figure, if not a bigger bust.
Her Rook, Koneko Toujou, is an adorable white-haired, golden-eyed petite younger girl. Her Knight, Yuuto Kiba, is a handsome blonde-haired, blue-eyed young man. Her Bishop, Asia Argento, is an adorable blue-haired, green-eyed young woman. And Rias' first and sole Pawn, Issei Hyoudou, a brown-haired, brown-eyed young man, who took all eight Pawn pieces. He wields the Mid-Tier Longinus, Boosted Gear, making him the current Sekiryuutei.
At first, most on their side looked serious considering Riser was talking down to them because he had a full set of peerage members. But, once Riser's peerage was summoned, there looked to be a situation that proceeded on towards a direction neither of them expected.
"It was an important situation, Ravel. And I needed you here."
Riser reasoned, while Ravel crossed her arms and pouted.
"Important? You likely brought me here just to gloat," Ravel said in a tone that caused Riser to become nervous. "It was in the process of completing a game with Ken-sama. I was transported here when I was going to tell them something too."
"Uh, I thought that this was supposed to be a meeting," Issei stated, watching the situation in front of him, before taking note of the women around Riser. "But, damn this bastard has completed what I dreamed of doing."
Issei, in lesser words, was described as the embodiment of sexual desires, whose long-sought desire for as long as he could remember is making a harem. Being the presence of someone who'd accomplished what he wanted all this time, Issei was brought to tears. Noticing this, Riser paused from talking to Ravel and turned his attention towards Rias for answers.
"H-Hey, Rias…. This servant-kun over here is crying a lot while looking at me."
Riser asked, looking almost confused, if not displeased.
"This boy's dream is to have a harem. I think he was moved after looking at your servants."
Rias replied, to Riser's question, placing a hand on her forehead, while sighing.
"To be clear, I am not a member of Riser-oniisama's harem," Ravel pointed out, not wanting to be considered a member of her older brother's harem. Still fed up since she was brought here when she wanted to remain inside the same place as Kensei and the others. "I'm just his Bishop, and nothing more than that."
Having made that comment, Ravel ended up turning off in another direction but found herself locking eyes with Koneko. For some unknown reason, the two stared at one another, before the white-haired girl rolled her eyes, while the blonde-haired girl glanced away. It was an odd situation for the others who'd noticed such a thing to witness.
"Gross~"
"Riser-sama, this person is freaking me out~"
Ile and Nel, who stood side-by-side felt grossed out by Issei, who looked on angered about that. But, in response to that, Riser wrapped his arms around both the younger twins and pulled them closer to him.
"Don't say that, my cute girls. Looking up to upper stream folks is what a lowly one does. Let's show them how passionate we are."
Riser said, then started to tongue kiss Ile, who accepted it without rejection and then started letting out several erotic sounds from it. Noticing that, Rias looked in another direction irritated, something that others among her peerage did not want to see it. Asia looked flustered in noticing that, to the point of covering her eyes, while an irritated look could be seen from Issei.
He then started switching between the two younger twin sisters, while Ravel sighed placing her hand right on her forehead.
"Nn…afu…."
Nel started making an erotic sound.
To Issei, it sounded as if Riser was saying, [You'll never be able to do this.]
"You will never be able to do this."
"Don't say what I think you were saying! Damn it! Boosted Gear!"
Issei declared, causing Boosted Gear, a red-colored dragon gauntlet with a green jewel embedded in it.
"Riser-oniisama you're being childish. Ken-sama wouldn't do anything like this with Claire-sama and the others in front of others."
Ravel pointed out, removing her hand from her forehead, and sighed.
"Hah, then he doesn't have the guts to show this kind of love in front of peons," as Riser spoke with confidence, a magic circle could be seen appearing behind him and two people appeared behind him. Though, not one person said a single word, even Ravel and Grayfia, who knew at least one of them. But, almost all the members of the Gremory Group had looked more stomped. "I, on the other hand, will show the utmost love that I have for my peerage without showing fear."
"And if Ken-sama, was here, you'd say that to his face?"
"Of course, I would. I'm not afraid of him."
Riser openly.
"Is that so, Riser?"
"Yes, that is…so."
Riser paused, then turned around at a much slower and hesitant pace, where he found himself staring straight at a casual-looking Kensei. Not look mad that he was talked about without him being there, instead, he looked as if nothing happened. Instead of Claire and Kunou behind him too, it was Lingqi alone, who noticed there was a particular presence around the Old School Building.
Most were surprised to see Riser's sudden change in demeanor, going from being confident to be more docile. But, in Kensei's presence, Ravel looked happier compared to before, when she looked as if she didn't want to be there.
"Huh."
Issei looked confused as a sudden pulse spread throughout him, originating from the gauntlet located on his left arm. He turned to find that its jewel was blinking, but instead of to Riser's presence, it looked as if it was reacting to Kensei instead.
"Buchou, who is this guy? Is he another devil?"
Issei asked confused.
"No, he doesn't look familiar. I doubt that he's anyone's servant," Rias replied, then turned to Akeno, who was far more adept at sensing things than herself. "Akeno, what kind of feeling do you get from him?"
"I can't sense anything from him. So, he must be hiding his presence."
Akeno replied to Rias, unable to sense anything from Kensei.
"Despite not giving off a presence, he doesn't have one opening at all."
Kiba pointed out.
"…his scent doesn't belong to a human."
Koneko added, getting a particular scent from Kensei, but it almost smelt pleasant.
"Yo, Riser. I see that someone hasn't changed since the last time we saw one another. But, I see that you have made a habit of talking about someone behind their back."
Kensei pointed out, then started poking Riser's head a couple of times much to his annoyance.
"Kensei-sama, what're you doing here?"
Grayfia asked, confused about the fact that Kensei appeared there.
"Well, right after Riser here transported my Go partner. I called their mom to see what was going on, then I found out about this little marriage meeting. And then that was when she requested that I'd come here to ensure that your son didn't act like a childish jackass," Kensei casually replied, something that caused the mood around their club room to lighten up. Riser stared on in disbelief about that, but he continued. "I mean, she didn't say that, but it's basically what I got."
"And she would be?"
Grayfia asked, directing her attention at Lingqi, who was there too.
"Ah, this is a new member of my team and the Kibou Alliance," Kensei replied directing his attention to Lingqi as she bowed her head. But, noticed that more than the people she's encountered thus far, Grayfia held a dominant aura. "Her name is Lu Lingqi. Claire, Kunou, and Alice wanted to look around for reasons. And Lingqi wanted to come with me and was interested in seeing what kind of Ravel's brother was like."
"Oh, is that right? Well, I am the kind of man who could attract the attention of these beautiful women."
"Yeah, I didn't mean it like that," Kensei replied, looking on as Riser approached Lingqi wearing a confident smile and thought about where this was going. "Eh, Riser, I'd refrain from…."
"I think that you're a top-notch beauty among the human women that I've encountered in a long time," Riser said as, for the first time, Lingqi wore a confused and displeased look. As he continued speaking he reached his hand outward towards her. "If I had another Evil Piece, then I would without a doubt…."
"Riser, I'm serious. Lingqi isn't too keen on…."
"What scared that I'm going to take your new…," once Riser's arm wrapped around Lingqi's shoulder, he looked on as the back of her hand approached his face. "…girl?"
Once the back of Lingqi's fist struck Riser's face, it looked as if it blew off his entire head, causing him to fall back to the ground. Despite looking like a subtle motion, her fist held enough strength to do something like that, more so as Qi was channeled into it too. Now headless Riser fell to the ground, as the people witnessing such a thing were stunned and surprised, Asia to the point of looking faint.
"Holy shit," Issei called out surprised. "She killed him!"
[Riser-sama!]
Despite knowing about his regeneration, the members of his peerage and harem looked worried about their King. Although "that" side of herself was sealed off, Koneko was able to sense something inside of that last hit. Having seen such a thing, Ravel placed her hand on her forehead and sighed.
"Riser," Kensei spoke casually, without thinking about the situation, and cupped his hands in front of his mouth as he spoke. "If you're still capable of hearing me like that. I was going to tell you that Lingqi has an aversion to men she doesn't know touching her. So, sometimes she reacts by either punching them or throwing them aside. Well, for humans I guess she tosses them without hurting them. And for supernatural beings, she punches them. So, that's good to know."
"How're you so calm?! She just killed him!"
Issei replied, surprised about the situation as he held onto a faint Asia.
"He's not dead. I mean, if she wanted to, then she could've killed him," Kensei replied as Riser's body started twitching around. "Just give him a second. At this point, the one thing that's hurt is his pride."
"Shut up! I can't believe such a thing could've happened!"
"Kyaa!"
Asia screamed.
Issei and Asia looked on confused and stunned as Riser's head started regenerating in a burst of flames until it returned to its normal condition. He then stood up to his feet, looking more irritated about what happened, while a "humph" could be heard from Lingqi. Despite flames and demonic power raising from him, no different from a similar act of intimidation he did before, she didn't look concerned.
"I wouldn't attempt it if I were you. She's a hero descendant who reached Balance Breaker," Kensei revealed as Riser looked more dissuaded. "But, with or without it, Lingqi isn't someone that a High-Class Devil can fight with, and walk out broken. Don't forget, you're the one who touched her first. So, unless you want to shame your clan. I suggest that you continue with this meeting acting like an adult instead of like a spoiled brat."
Uttering those words, different from the ones that had been used beforehand, something that held the dominating tone no one could reject. Hearing those words and the stare that Kensei had given him, Riser relented despite all the pride within him, Riser was aware that he had almost nothing over him in a fight.
""So, Cool/…Cool.""
Both Ravel and Koneko found themselves uttering that at the same time, something the two noticed again; then it once again caused them to turn from one another.
"Well, so, leaving the interruption aside. Why don't you two continue with your meeting?"
Kensei questioned, glancing between Rias and Riser who recalled the reason that the two of them were there in the first place.
"…there's no reason for that. It was reaching its conclusion before you arrived here. A Rating Game was brought up in case Rias found herself not agreeing with the marriage," Riser replied, causing Kensei to wonder what her parents were thinking about in doing this. Or, if it was something that the Old Devils suggested. Since knowing what kind of people Zeoticus and Venelana are, neither would put their daughter at an unfair advantage. "Rias, how about we have a match in ten days? We could do it now, but that wouldn't be interesting."
His suggestion surprised Kensei a bit because it meant that Riser was giving her a fighting chance in the Rating Game. But, Rias didn't take that as its actual meaning, showing a good deal of pride herself.
"…Are you giving me a handicap."
"Are you against it? Is it humiliating? The Rating Games aren't something so simple that you can achieve victory by winning alone. If you can't use your servant's power to the fullest, then you will lose immediately. So, it's not weird for you to train with your servants for your first Rating Game. I've seen Devils who lost without using their power to the fullest countless times, no matter how great their potential and power was."
"…."
Rias remained silent.
"Ten days. If it's you, then you should be able to improve your servants," Riser said, then activated a magic circle that surrounded his servants. "Ravel is you…?"
"I'm remaining with Ken-sama. Since a certain someone interrupted me in the first place."
Ravel replied, turning her attention from her older brother, who clicked his tongue.
"Tsk, fine do whatever you want. Oi, you," Kensei turned to Riser, then pointed to himself as if to confirm whether or not he was talking to him. "Stop being a smartass! If you lay your hands on my little sister, I'll burn you!"
"Riser-oniisama, I don't need your help! And it's none of your business!"
"You know, Riser, you might be a childish pervert in a man's body. But, you're a good older brother."
Kensei replied, giving Riser a thumbs up, causing him to feel complicated.
"Ugh, this is why I hate dealing with you!"
Riser said those final words before vanishing in flames.
"So, since things have progressed to this point. I'll depart to inform the Gremory Household."
Grayfia gave the kind of respectful bow and farewell, befitting someone with the position of Sirzechs' Queen and a Maid of the Gremory Clan too. Similar to Riser, she had produced a magic circle and then vanished in a bright flash of brilliant light that faded.
"Alright. So, who're you?"
Once things settled down, Issei asked the question that had been on the minds of the people standing inside the Occult Research Club. Kensei, Lingqi, and Ravel remained in the club room, while the first couple of guests left the club room a minute or two ago.
"Well, since you asked nicely," Kensei replied stepping forward and coughing a bit. "My name is Kensei Amagiri. I am an aspiring martial artist and swordsman using the supernatural world as his grindstone. I'm also one of the leaders of another group that resides in another town."
"Amagiri? Are you from the Amagiri Clan?"
Akeno asked, recalling hearing that name a long time ago, to which Kensei nodded his head.
"Huh, what's the Amagiri Clan?"
"I heard that the Amagiri Clan was a clan of Shinto exorcists that has existed since around the Edo Period. It was among the strongest and most famous clans in Shintoism, who had practiced martial arts and spells. But…." Rias paused, being careful with her words, having heard about the situation, and came to a sudden realization. "You're the person that Onii-sama has talked a lot about."
"Yeah, that'd be me. And I heard about you a lot since your brother makes it a habit to brag about his baby sister from time to time," Rias sighed knowing that sounds like her brother. "And I know that you're Akeno Himejima."
"Ara, and how would you know about me?"
Akeno asked, genuinely interested in that.
"Your cousin, who could pass as your sister."
"Suzaku-neesama?"
Akeno uttered under her breath, knowing no other person aside from her.
Rias realized something, pausing for a moment and forgetting about the situation with Riser while tapping her fingers against her arm.
"You wouldn't happen to be related to a man named Tetsuo Uesugi."
"Ah, Sirzechs warned me about this once. Well, might as well get it over with," Kensei gave an internal wry smile, then replied. "Yeah, he'd be my dad. And so, that would mean I'm a samurai descendant too."
Her peerage realized their King's fascination with Japanese culture, including all the things related to it, such as samurai and ninjas. Bubbling up with anticipation as if her childish fantasies were coming true right in front of her, Rias let out a happy tone.
"Yeah, my desire of meeting a samurai descendant has come true," Rias made that declaration out loud as she surprisingly grabbed onto Kensei's hands without hesitating. At that moment, he couldn't reject the fact that she was a beautiful young woman, as stars could be seen in her eyes. "I can see that you're carrying around a sword inside of that bag strapped to your back! Is that a sword that has been passed down among the Uesugi Clan?! If possible, would you want to join my peerage?!"
Kensei felt a bit complicated as Rias was staring at him with sparkling, child-like eyes.
"Ah, as interesting as that offer is. Your nephew tried the same thing. Aside from the fact that I plan on doing a bit different things compared to what devils would do. And besides, you don't have enough Evil Pieces to be able to reincarnate me. But, I could advise about training the Sekiryuutei that could assist things."
"Fine."
Rias relented, sad about the fact that she wasn't able to reincarnate the samurai she wanted.
Decided to assist in advising Issei, who was the current Sekiryuutei that could become an important kind of person in the future. Agreeing to that, Kensei sensed the auras from the multiple people inside the room, he'd sensed the status and power within them.
"I'll be going outside then."
Ravel said, knowing that she would end up fighting against them in the future.
And that knowing about the advice given to them would be an unfair advantage. But, before heading outside their club room, she and Koneko once again locked eyes. There was some unknown tension between them, which is an unknown between neither realized either.
"I'll be following her too."
Lingqi stated, then started following behind Ravel, who was heading outside of the club room and the Old School Building itself. Seeing that neither of them was inside the room, Kensei had continued with the explanation concerning Issei and the Boosted Gear.
"You were a normal human with no relation to the supernatural world, right?"
"Yeah, before Buchou reincarnated me, I didn't know a single thing about the situation."
"Well, that explains it. All Longinus are top-tier Sacred Gears, but it doesn't matter if its user can't use them right and endure the strain that comes with it. Yours have one of the strongest dragons sealed in it, without prior training or being reincarnated to control it, then you would've rampaged," Kensei stated much to Issei's horror about that fact, but he continued with explaining the Boosted Gear. "You're weaker than average, but with some Boosts, you could reach High-Class Devils. But, Riser is a High-Class Devil, at most, you'd be able to at least face one of his weaker servants. If you trained, you'll be able to achieve and endure the greater power that Boosted Gear can provide someone. And achieve the secondary ability that Boosted Gear has."
Issei considered that explanation, first thinking that Boosted Gear would be something that would be able to close the gap between him and Riser. But, from this, he realized that there were still things that he needed to do before the Rating Game.
"There's not much that either of you could do in ten days. But, raising your basic stats would give you far more of a fighting chance against Riser and his peerage. Despite talking about training and preparing, Riser doesn't train either. If anything the one advantage that Riser's servants have is their experience in the Rating Game. I'm sure that Rias here is aware that pure-bloods rely on their talent and experience to become stronger, but that's just a recipe for disaster."
"Ara, that's quite kind of you. Would you like some tea and snacks?"
Akeno kindly asked.
"Sure, that'd be awesome."
At that, Akeno handed Kensei some tea and snacks, then he started to eat and drink, with notable enjoyment on his face. Noticing him standing there, Kiba wasn't able to see the slightest opening in Kensei's stance despite the fact he was more focused on the snacks and tea. Hearing that he was a samurai descendant, knowing about the others since Souji Okita was his teacher.
"Do you have a sacred gear too?"
Kiba decided to ask, noticing that Kensei was about finished with what Akeno had given to him.
"No, but I have defeated multiple sacred gear users and monsters from the time I was ten. I often spared against a Longinus user and fought another one," Kensei pointed out, much to their surprise. "I might not have a sacred gear. But, I have my inherited powers, a trained body, martial arts, weapons, and Senjutsu too."
Hearing that comment, Issei and Asia looked confused about what that meant; but Rias, Akeno, Kiba, and most of all Koneko looked on surprised about that. Noting that reaction from them, more so Koneko, who he knows is a nekoshou, but seemed to be reacting negatively about it being mentioned. Taking note of all those facts right in front of him, Kensei took into consideration what his response would be.
"So, how adept are you at it?"
Rias asked, almost in an attempt to alleviate some tension that'd built up in Koneko, something that Kensei took not of immediately.
"Well, I had the best teacher to instruct me about it all the step of the way. But, I mastered the basics in a month, and right now I'm at the point of being referred to as a master myself. Of course, before that, I was able to use ki, in the first place."
"Ki? You mean like Dragon Ball?"
Issei asked, noticing the similarities between them.
"Yeah, similar to Dragon Ball, but I can't nuke a planet from pointing at it," Kensei replied, then noticed that there wasn't much to say anymore. "Well, I guess that's about it for an introduction. So, I'll be leaving and I might take a long around town, while I'm at it."
"Sure thing, I don't mind that. There's a lot that we need to prepare for anyway."
Rias said, not minding Kensei looking around town.
"…wait."
Koneko called out, something that neither of them expected that she would speak up about.
"Yes?"
Kensei asked, turning around. He looked and noticed that Koneko was around the same age as Ravel, but was a bit shorter than her.
"…are you a human?"
Koneko asked, noting before that Kensei's scent didn't belong to a human, but didn't point that out since it would mean mentioning her heightened sense of smell.
"I'm human, there's no doubt about that. At most, I'm a special power user born under unique circumstances," he replied cryptically. "Well, there's no fun in giving out your life story to people you just met. So, let's save it for a later date. I'm sure everyone here has an interesting story to tell."
Having said those final words, Kensei gave one final wave before walking outside of the Occult Research Club. A silence soon came among the members of that club from all the things that had happened right then and there.
"Well, things ended up progressing in a direction that I hadn't expected," Rias replied, almost not thinking about the situation involving Riser. "I heard a lot about a group that Onii-sama and the others had gotten to know about a year ago. But, I never thought that I'd encounter one of them in this manner. I realized that both Onii-sama and Otou-sama have known their father for much longer than that. So, what did you all think?"
"He seems nice. And he does know my cousin too."
Akeno replied.
"He didn't give off a presence at all, but his stance was natural and almost unbreakable," Kiba replied, then gave a wry smile. "It made me almost want to attack him to see for myself. But, there's a chance that the moment that I did, then he would've beaten me in a second."
"Ugh, that guy is the same kind of handsome guy that I'd normally hate," Issei replied, knowing that he hated the kind of handsome guys who he'd hate. "He looked too cool and it makes me want to hate him, but I don't feel like doing that. He looks as if he's the main protagonist from a martial arts manga."
"Um, I don't know much about him. But, Kensei-san looks like a good person."
Seeing as the others said their piece, Koneko was left as the last one remaining who hadn't said what she thinks about Kensei. Rias wondered what her response would be considering her personal feelings when things such as Senjutsu were concerned.
"…he was cool."
Koneko replied, showing a bit more emotions than she had before.
Having encountered Lingqi and Ravel, both of whom had been talking among themselves waiting for him to leave the Old School Building. Seeing him exiting the building, the three decided to walk towards the main school building instead of teleporting out. Amid reaching toward the current building, the three started talking about the series of events that transpired.
"Well, those guys were interesting."
Kensei stated, liking the group that he had encountered.
"Yes, I can agree with that. I met the Hakuryuukou, then ended up meeting his destined rival, the Sekiryuutei," an interested tone could be heard from Lingqi's tone. "But, it's going to be a hard road catching up to his rival, who's lauded as the strongest Hakuryuukou and one who carries the blood of Lucifer."
"Hmm, yes, their group is full of potential, but…," Ravel paused, then turned a surprised glance over towards a casual Lingqi. "What, the Hakuryuukou is someone who carries the blood of the original Lucifer?!"
It was something that Ravel hadn't thought she'd hear from someone who carried the original Lucifer's blood; and if he had a Longinus too, then it must make him a half-devil.
"Ah, I forgot that I didn't mention that to Ravel. But, before revealing himself, he released vast demonic power that was leagues above pure-blooded and half-devils. To be honest, if I hadn't trained as much as I did until then, then I wouldn't have lasted long against him. It ended after the Governor-General of the Fallen Angels contacted and called him back from whatever his assignment was."
"To think that there's someone who's a blood relative to the original Lucifer, and having one of the strongest Longinus too. Lingqi-sama wasn't wrong when she mentioned the current Hakuryuukou would be the most powerful one in existence."
Ravel seemed interested in the conversation at hand.
"I'm interested in having one fight against this Vali Lucifer in the future. No doubt, that'd be another fight that'd be one to remember for a long time," Kensei's statement caused them to understand his reasoning, then stopped as a notification could be heard from his Oracle Phone. "Hmm, sounds as if I got a message."
Kensei opened his Oracle Phone messages, then noticed it was some photos, which Kunou had sent him in unison. Most of the photos showed multiple ones of Claire acting as if she was a child again looking through all the memorable locations around Kuoh Town; there were photos with Alice in them too. Seeing Claire smiling at revisiting her original home caused one to appear on his face.
Arriving at the main school building, the group of three were heading in the direction of three female students, all of which were conversing among themselves. All three young women looked to be second-years; the first one, a pink-haired young woman, Katase; the second one, a brown-haired young woman, Murayama; and the third one, a spectacled brown-haired young woman.
"I still can't believe that Rias-oneesama would be interesting in that pervert."
Murayama said.
"Mu, well there's nothing that we could do about it. All we can do is hope that he doesn't corrupt Rias-oneesama or Asia-chan."
Katase added.
"Hehehe, it looks as if you two are worried about Asia-chan. Come on, this is one of the first times neither of you is at the Kendo Club, so let's do something fun!"
Aika said, feeling as if she wanted to do something with the two Kendo Club members.
"…fine. But, let's head back to class since I think I forgot…."
Murayama began but found herself staring left in the same direction that Kensei, Lingqi, and Ravel were leaving towards the school entrance. At that moment, she found herself staring at his handsome face and build, causing her heartbeat to race.
"Ah…."
"What's wrong, Murayama…?"
Katase noticed her friend's sudden absent-mindedness, then she turned around to find herself realizing what the cause was. She too found herself staring at Kensei as if all previous thoughts became vacant as both their faces turned a bright red. Noticing both the brown-and-pink-haired young women stopping in their tracks to stare at the departing Kensei, Aika found herself letting out at out an interesting look.
"Hello, are you three transfer students or something?"
Aika called out, catching his attention.
"Hmm, no," Kensei paused stopping in his track, then looked at the three. "We just finished visiting some people from the Old School Building. My dad happens to be friends with Rias' father and brother, and well I happened to be in town too. All three of us were just leaving to catch up with some friends."
Kensei's casual and believable tone, which wasn't, in fact, a lie to some extent.
"Is that so? Well, fine, I was just curious since I haven't seen someone like you before," Aika said, before letting a bit of an internal perverted chuckle. "Hehehe, I haven't seen someone as handsome as him before. Let us see whether or not our handsome guy here is gifted in 'that' area too."
Aika fixed her glasses as she directed her attention toward the important area that has become something she'd been able to measure. From the intense attention directed at him, Kensei started feeling a bit uncomfortable for some reason as if wanting to protect his private area.
"I have no idea why, but I suddenly feel uncomfortable."
Kensei thought to himself.
"…," Aika paused for a moment, then blood started dripping from her nose. "…wow."
"Excuse me?"
Kensei seemed confused about what Aika uttered just then.
"N-Nothing. My friends and I are going to do something," Aika stated in a rush as she, Katase, and Murayama started heading out in another direction. "Wow, just wow, that thing of his was like one beautiful treasure."
"Well, that was a bit weird."
Lingqi said, not knowing what happened just then.
"Whatever happened, we shouldn't keep the others waiting."
Ravel added.
"Right, let's head out and see what kind of good places and food Kuoh Town has."
Kensei announced, curious about the different places that Claire has been looking forward to revisiting for a long time. Agreeing that their group shouldn't keep the others waiting, the three continued heading forward until they'd left Kuoh Academy through the front entrance.
A/N: And there goes the next chapter of DxD – The Last Amagiri, and this is the start of the eighth volume, the first chapter showed Lingqi's adjustment to this new lifestyle. But, before that, this was the official, first appearance of the Shinto Chief God, Amaterasu. I thought that this would be a good time to have her show up considering the situation in her faction. But, she's going to have more screen time in the future as she shows interest in wanting to see Kensei.
It was also the first time that Kensei (and Lingqi) first met the Gremory Group, which was also around the time of their Rating Game against Riser. Of course, there was already some building tension between the Phenex (Bird) and Nekoshou (Cat). And Koneko has started taking an interest in Kensei, more so since it appears as if he uses the thing she's most fearful of. So, let's see where this volume goes.
Kensei's Harem: Alice, Claire, Hisui, Kunou, Yasaka, Lu Lingqi, Sarah, Minako, Koneko, Kuroka, Ravel, Amaterasu, Brynhildr, Rossweisse, Ophis.