Act III: Thy Gremory

Gremory Castle

Appearing within Castle Gremory, the group of twelve arrived to find Sirzechs and Millicas awaiting them with the Satan rising an eyebrow before smirking at the sight of Naruto with both his sister and Kana on each of his arms. Though, his sister was looking stunning and her smile suggested that she was more than comfortable in her position.

Looks like things are going well with her and Ruto.

Not wasting anytime, Millicas rushed to hug his aunt and Rias was all to happy to return it which in turn allowed Naruto and Sirzechs to shake hands once more, the Satan saying. "Good to have you with us again, Ruto-kun."

"It is an honour, Lord Lucifer." Naruto responds with a knowing smile. A smile that told Sirzechs that he knew full well that he wanted to be addressed less formally but wasn't going to get that from him.

The Satan maintained his smile despite the tickmark on his forehead. He moved on and eventually met everyone and guided everyone to the ballroom being used for the event. As they traveled, Sirzechs asks. "How was your day with my Rias-tan?"

Glancing over, Naruto's deadpan caught the Satan offguard but heard him say. "Troublesome…"

Sweatdropping, Sirzechs asks. "It couldn't have been…"

He glances at his sister walking between him and Ruto, noticing the twitching eyebrow and faint dusting of pink upon her cheek that suggested it was best not to ask. The Satan just nodded looking forward nervously, not wanting to push his Rias-tan over the edge despite wanting to have her assist him all day like that.

As they reached the ballroom, Sirzechs turns to his cousins, sister, and the peerage before speaking. "Our guests have yet to arrive, but as you are no doubt aware that they will be the Sitiri House along with my fellow Satan and former member of that house."

Relai was the one to step up and ask. "We understand that, Lord Lucifer."

Yep, Sirzechs was now acutely aware that his cousins were out for him for something and it probably had something to do with whatever happened during this day. They were just being polite about it so no one could call tell and call them out on it.

Ballroom

Sirzechs led the group into the ballroom that only really had the servers and a single couple that all the Gremory present recognised, even Rias. They both looked over and spotted the new arrivals and waved them over to which the group did. For the Gremory Trio, this was a first though they obviously knew of them, everyone did, more so Relai as he has regular meetings and the like due to his running of his town.

Once in range, the first of the two, a woman who looked like she was in her mid-twenties, angelic face with glistening blue eyes and her darker crimson hair pulled back into a short ponytail. She stood at five-foot-five and wore a simply elegant long red dress, keeping her modesty in check as her large assets were very much covered completely despite their size that rivalled the heiress.

This was Zabrina Gremory. Head of Domestic Affairs within the Gremory House and right hand to Zeoticus, point of contact with the main house for Relai and his grandmother. Not that anyone will ever call her that, not even said devil, not that he would, as she, like him, is a workaholic and only met him after he took up office. Thus, they only have a working relationship with one another.

Zabrina's blue eyes flowed from the heiress to Ruto, then to Kana before finally landing on Relai with eyes softening slightly. "It is good to see you three have accepted the invitation, despite your workloads."

Ruto and Kana simply nodded, though Relai spoke after adjusting his glasses. "Yes, Lady Zabrina. We were ordered here along with the promise of assistance to clear our back log due to our presence here."

Zabrina nodded firmly before gesturing to the woman at her side, asking. "Have you met Wren-chan yet? She's up for the position for the walled town of Winifred mayorship."

The deviless in question looked similar age to that of Rias, but was by far more modest in her preposition and figure respectively. Her hair was only shoulder length, a completely petite frame with barely c-cup chest and yet her gentleness was what made her so attractive. It fooled everyone beside Ruto, Kana, Relai, and Sirzechs but they weren't going to call her out on it.

When she bowed, Wren spoke softly. "It is an honour to meet you, Lady Rias. If you ever need my assistance, you will but need to ask."

Rias nodded with a smile, finally, a cousin that doesn't immediately cause issues. Stepping out of Ruto's arm and extending a hand as she spoke. "Glad to meet you two, Wren-chan."

The two shook hands with smiles. Though, Wren noticed her cousins all staring at the Satan with a look of 'Look how ignorant she is' all over their faces. This told her that they had likely seen through her carefully crafted façade but not calling her out on it.

Just as Lady Zabrina had warned her in regards to her cousins. Though, her eyes did meet the cousin she was the closest too, blood wise. Her first cousin, who officially changed his name a few months ago. She approached and saw his eyes narrowed on her, suspicious of her intent most likely, and offered a firm. "It is most definitely a long time coming, Ruto-kun."

Naruto himself narrowed his eyes on the woman, though he felt Kana tense on his arm, but asks diplomatically. "Why is that, Wren-san?"

His face was not politely gentle anymore, just stern as she offered a hand. "You are the son of my aunt. Makes me your first cousin. Been lookin for you for some time but yea… you know how things get."

Naruto shook her hand and nodded, maintaining a diplomatic stance and replied. "That I do. Well, let's just get on from now on, Wren-san."

She nodded in response, though smirked lightly. "After all I have heard of you, I will definitely have work for you and your friends."

Her tone was informative to the trio, Kana, Ruto, and Relai, all suspecting what she was insinuating and nodded to confirm.

This interaction caused Sirzechs to narrow his eyes, easily picking up the two toned meaning beneath this interaction and was both interested and concerned about what was going on out there beyond civility. From the sounds of it, more than is ever reported.

For some reason, Akeno couldn't help but feel that more was said than was. Considering this encounter with what was said earlier when meeting Konuma-san and Naofumi-san, now with this Wren's unspoken language. Wait. Konuma-san is really good at her job. No wait. Her jobs were seduction, ass…

Oh…

The queen of Rias's peerage had a sense of danger flow over her and now that she was thinking on this level. She now suspected that Ruto, and maybe Kana, have been apart of some kind of conflict within the shadows of society.

Observing the six Gremory conversing calmly and quietly with one another, light smiles on, it is a rather disconcerting disconnect from the dark undertones she was envisioning of them all. Looking to her best friend, and sister-figure, Akeno noticed that she had clearly missed the actual conversation that was shared. Perhaps that was for the best.

Her eye caught Ruto's and his stare was telling. Akeno plastered on her infamous smile and his gaze left her. Definitely for the best that Rias is unaware of the truth. For now.

A few minutes in to the cordial discussion between family members, the door parts and another group entered. The heiress and her cousins all look over to see another group of red heads enter. The first was a massive bulk of a man, standing at least seven foot tall and squarish face, three scars donning it.

His emerald eyes were stern and unyielding as he strolled with purpose into the room, scanning the area for threats calmly with his hands behind his back. This brought attention to his crisp military dress uniform, donning a few medals from action in the civil war, and held the presence that was borderline overwhelming.

Though as his eyes met Naruto, Relai, and Kana's those hardened gems of battle were replaced by a soft, feather gentle smile and the welcoming aura flooded forward. He called out, rather loudly. "Relai, Ruto, and Kana-chan. Good to see you all still together."

Rias watched as the three mentioned perk up and smile back waving at him, well Kana was waving and the two men just nodded. After waving, Kana replied. "Of course we are together, Griffit-Oji!"

Both sides grinned at the name with the man bellow a hearty laugh as he approached, bringing the chirpy young girl into a bear hug and the two laughed happily. Rias was glad that not every cousin she had was trouble as this man looked like a gentle giant type, despite the intimidating entrance he had made.

She was broken from her thoughts by Zabrina, who called out. "Oh, so you came too, Griffit-chan."

Griffit looks over and spots the elder and smiled softly. "It has been a while, Lady Zabrina. I must apologise for my lack of attendance at the meetings. Things are a little chaotic right now."

Zabrina nodded firmly, replying stiffly monotonously. "They always seem to be, Griffit-chan."

A new voice spoke up, stepping out of the shadows of the towering man calmly. "It always has been, Honoured Lady Zabrina."

All eyes fall on the teen looking boy at the side of Griffit. He too wore a matching military uniform with pristine white gloves, thick frame glasses atop the squarish face and matching eyes and frame with the larger man just regularly sized, a solid six-foot. He had a confident and warm smile as he outstretched his arm saying. "It has been a while since we had been here, Relai."

Relai took the offered hand and nodded, stating. "That is has Gustavo. I have been meaning to request another game of chess, or maybe even shoji as I have been practicing both as you suggested."

Gustavo nodded with a smile, replying. "It would be nice. I have some time off next week so I shall be there then. I will inform Tullai the day before my arrival, if that is okay."

Relai nodded, adjusting his glasses and responded. "That is ideal, yes. I look forward to it."

Gustavo nodded before looking to Ruto and smirked. "I hope you are there too, Ruto-kun. I will finally get the better of you in shoji."

Ruto grinned, nodding as that did sound good, and so replied. "Count on it."

The two fist bump as the third and fourth Gremory members of this group step into view. The first seemed to be a near clone of Griffit just significantly smaller but getting there. Probably a lot younger and lacked the scars denoting heavy combat but spoke calmly. "Relai-nii, Ruto-nii, Kana-oba!"

Kana scooped the four-foot-two boy into a tight hug and near enough sang out. "Junior! You came!"

The boy nodded frantically, hugging his favourite aunt back and beaming smile on full. The other two addressed glanced, smiled at the fourteen-year-old, and nodded.

This is when the final member of the quartet stepped up, rather reserved but she hid it well and speaking up. "Ruto-san, Relai-san… Kana-san. It is good to see you all again."

Each one looked over and smiled softly at her, Naruto replying first. "Grace-chan. You came too, I am proud of you."

The others nodded too and caused the six-foot-one woman to blush rather prettily at the praise before she bowed towards him and replying. "I have been practicing as you said I should."

Lifting up and giving a truly, Asia-grade innocent smile, that stole the breaths of many of the uninformed, before Grace continued. "So, I have made some progress, yes."

Rias had to do a double take between her bishop and this new cousin of hers. Even Asia looked somewhat confused at this woman who smiled like an Angel but was very clearly a devil. Her vibrant, silky straight red hair and eyes so green, they could not be compared to anything nature could produce, yet held an innocence that should not exist in the underworld.

Relai chimed in here, breaking away briefly from his talk with Gustavo to say. "Progress is progress, Grace-chan. No matter how small it is not to be undersold."

Everyone nodded at that causing her to nod meekly but hold her smile and Wren steps forward, to add. "He is right, little cousin. Stand tall. You are Gremory. Be proud of yourself."

Bowing again, Grace returned upright and nodded with a smile and hint of determination as she says. "I will try my best, Auntie Wren."

Wren sternly nodded, hands on hips, though cracked a small smile just as Naruto stepped up and added. "We are with you, Grace-chan. Never forget that, okay?"

Grace again nodded, smiling softly as she meets Naruto's gaze. Wren though frowned as she gave her a once over, asking. "Did your father not have anything other than military garb? It is hardly flattering."

Grace looked to Wren before down at her outfit that matched her father's but lacked the medals. It was a snug fit, showcasing her almost slimmer figure and sizeable bust. Her wide hips and long legs beneath the dress trousers that led into perfectly polished dress shoes. Looking back up at her aunt-figure, she asked. "I… umm… like this. It reminds me… that… umm."

Naruto nodded, speaking softly. "It is fine, Grace-chan. Though, I must ask where your medical bands are?"

His gaze focused on her arms where the white cloth normally took residence. Grace nodded to the question replying with a bit more confidence as she was on something she liked to talk about. "This is a formal. So, father said that it was best that I leave it behind this time. Onee-chan said the same thing."

Nodding, Naruto then asked. "So, she's taking care of things back there then?"

Grace nodded again, offering. "Yes. She did not want to come to a… umm…"

Naruto smirked knowingly and just waved her off, as did Wren. They both knew that warrior nut would rather charge into a coop of flaming chickens than attend a stuffy event like this.

As everyone was talking and mingling among themselves, Rias was slowly coming to an understanding that she really has missed the mark in regard to her family and Household.

She watches as Kiba was drawn into the strategical conversation with Relai and Gustavo. A curious Asia was making her way towards Ruto, Wren and Grace. Her brother was discussing things with Griffit and Zabrina about what sounds like security concerns and threats. Her nephew was having a clearly intense conversation with Griffit-junior with Kana hanging around them.

Rias was jolted from her thoughts by her queen, Akeno commenting. "You seem troubled, Rias."

Looking to her right where her best friend stood as dutifully as always, Rias offered a wary sigh before saying. "I was thinking about how narrow minded I had been of late. Seeing as I have overlooked all of this."

Akeno nodded, understanding that as she too watched the interactions of the various groups in attendance before offering. "Well, they clearly had not forgotten you. So it is not too late is it?"

Rias gave the gathering another once over before looking to her best friend with a smile, saying. "I guess it isn't. Not yet at least."

Akeno smiled and nodded before spotting Ruto waving them over and giggling softly, and gestured over to him. "It seems our Ruto-kun is calling us over."

Rias's left eyebrow twitched at that, hands on hip, asking. "Since when is he 'our Ruto-kun?' Huh? Last time I checked…"

Akeno just giggled as she moved towards said devil and her friend just huffed in annoyance before moving off after her grumbling the whole way.

Sona Sitri has been curious about what her childhood friend had been up to for the last two days after the whole Phenex debacle, and how she is handling herself after her cousin got her out. A cousin who was of similar age as them both but clearly stronger then them which is what she had been curious about.

Sona was sure that she and Rias were strong for their age, yet this unknown Gremory came in out of nowhere and swiftly defeated Riser along with his entire peerage. Ruto Gremory. A man with enough magical ability that could handle a fellow high-class devil with ease and hardly bat an eye.

Surely, if Rias had any sense, his adoption into her peerage should have happened assuming she had any spare pieces. If she hasn't, then maybe she could have him as a bishop and help solidify the alliance between the Sitri and Gremory. It was only logical.

Reaching the ballroom, Sona glances over the contingent of her own family group and her peerage. All were in formal dresses and three-piece suits. Her own dress was strap navy-blue silk dress that was modest yet elegant and highlighted her frame just enough to be considered tasteful. She did not have an excessive body like Rias or Akeno but she felt like she could match them in beauty nonetheless.

Reaching the door, the Sitri heiress gave her peerage another once over and they were all perfectly presentable. This is when the door parted, revealing the ballroom and the soft music being played.

Taking a solid breath, Sona proceeded in with her head held up high and behind her parents who smiled and waved at the numerous Gremory devils. The two heads converge on each other but that was professionally ignored by the heiress as she scanned for her best friend and her particular cousin.

She spotted them among the crowd of red haired devils. Rias was standing at his side, yes that was him. Standing six-foot-one, spiky scarlet hair that was pulled back into a low twin braided ponytail, two bangs framing his angular face that hold his slit dark blue-green eyes and an award-winning smile.

Sona would admit, Ruto, if she recalled correctly, is an attractive man and seemed to have an amenable attitude too. Subservient but not submissive, seemingly sharp and knowledgeable but not arrogant nor boastful. Strong willed and dedicated to his duty. He came to beat Riser and save Rias. He did so and then left.

Hopefully, throughout this two House meeting, Sona plans that she and Tsubaki can get a more accurate read on this Gremory to assess his worth. If he does prove useful, then she will propose a new deal for his cooperation and another tie towards the two allies.

After the customary greetings, Sona looked to her queen and peerage who all nodded to her so she promptly proceeded with heading over to greet her friend who happened to be in a huddle with her target of observation among others. As she closed in, she hears the ongoing conversation them all, the other female Gremory saying. "Those uncouth men completely overlooked me until he bowed to me and asked what I was doing there. That showed the arrogant ones who was truly in control."

Ruto nodded, stating. "Although personally I would have liked to not have been in your shoes, Wren-san, I understand your frustration about being so rudely overlooked."

Rias nodded to that too, offering. "It seems like it would have been testing. I wouldn't have remained so composed myself."

The now identified Wren nodded to that with a sigh, swirling her white wine around then saying. "I am calmer than most but even I have my limits."

This is when Rias noticed Sona's approach and smiled at her, leading the others of her small group consisting of herself, Wren, Ruto, and Akeno, to follow her gaze to the arriving Sitri house members. The heiress greets first, smiling softly. "It is good to see you, Sona."

Sona nodded back smiling. "Same to you as I have been wondering about how you were doing after that… 'incident' so to speak."

It took Rias a moment to recall what she meant before realisation hit her. She was talking about the whole Riser issue, which felt like a lifetime ago after the craziness of the last few days and nodded, replying. "Oh that. Nothing to worry about."

Her waving off of something she had been stressed out about for the last few years did catch Sona off-guard slightly, though she noticed that the other Gremory in attendance all nod to that as if a well established fact. It was like they were dismissing the house of Phenex as nothing but an afterthought at best, an annoyance at worst. This is certainly a different kind of Gremory house than most expected to ever see.

Eventually, Sona nodded before asking. "I see. Care to introduce us to your family here?"

Rias nodded before gesturing to her side. "This is, as you may or may not know, Ruto Gremory. My father's cousin and so my second, once removed. He is also part of the domestic affairs department of…"

Naruto cut in rather delicately. "Technically speaking, Lady Rias. I am listed under the security department under Griffit."

Rias was surprised but Wren asked, thoughtfully. "I thought you were under domestic affairs with occasional jobs with the trade committee. That is what Lady Zabrina told me."

Naruto thought on that before nodding hesitantly. "On paper and the books, sure. Though, I have more time and jobs with the security groups along with Kana, as you well know."

Wren nodded before looking back to the two heiress, announcing herself. "Yes, well. My name is Wren Gremory. Ruto-kun's first cousin and Mayor of Winifred town within our domain. It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Sitri."

Sona was filing away all this information for later use and also knew that Ruto was looking more and more like a valuable asset and investment. She then nodded to the introduction and offered her own, as unnecessary as it seemed now. "Pleasure to meet you too, Lady Wren. My name is, as you know, Sona Sitri. Heiress of the Sitri House. With me are my peerage members and friends of mine."

She introduced her peerage all and the Gremory offered firm nods of welcome with Akeno waving daintily too. Sona then asked her friend. "So, Rias. What have you been up to for the last few days? I have been wanting to talk but you were not home."

Rias looked to Ruto who had a perfect diplomatic smile, Wren recognised it too and matched it flawlessly, allowing the heiress to say while tapping the wine glass in hand with her fingers. "I have been spending time with my cousins. My peerage and I have learnt a lot from them in such a short time, it has been rather… overwhelming."

She nodded at the end of that and Sona nodded before looking to Akeno, who nodded, then on to Ruto who nodded too. The Sitri asked. "I see. May I inquire about the details?"

Naruto's allowed Rias to handle this, recognising the gleam in this heiress's eyes easily enough. He basically raised a Sitri in Casey and knew all the tells of the Sitri's innate intelligence easily enough. His own heiress speaks up. "Well, first thing in the morning was township bureaucracy lessons with Relai-san and Ruto-kun. Taxes and the like… you know the types…"

Sona raised a brow at that, glancing back to the male Gremory who too was looking to Rias, who herself was looking to the ceiling as she thought on things. Wren asks Ruto. "Expect my call on that front, Ruto-kun."

Ruto looked to her with a raised brow, asking. "I thought you were a "mastermind" of bureaucratic might. Your words, if I recall correctly."

Wren nodded, smiling softly. "Exactly why I intend to call upon you."

Ruto sighed lightly, shaking his head with a gentle smile himself as he offered back. "I guess I should get used to this, right?"

Wren nodded softly, replying. "Most certainly. As a trade centre of the dukeship, Winifred has many security concerns and no doubt will need a few revisions soon."

That drew Rias's attention, asking. "Oh, that is your expertise, right Ruto-kun?"

Ruto nodded calmly and Rias returned to her friend, continuing. "We also had to deal with a pharmaceutical problem within the border town Relai-san runs. Then had to deal with a pair of visiting cousins that…"

Naruto clears his throat gently, drawing eyes to him and stopping Rias from causing an issue later down the line. When Rias's gaze meets his, she realises what she was saying and nodded before returning to Sona, adding. "After the visitors had left, we had security and resident concerns to handle…"

She remembered something else and looked to Ruto again, asking. "That reminds me. Your trip next month, may I come too?"

All the other high-class devils in attendance raised a brow at that, inadvertently putting out the less than discreet redirection earlier and listened as Ruto asked. "I assume you mean the one Relai and I are planning to take next month?"

Rias nodded with an enticing smile, one that hasn't failed her with her peerage yet having clearly forgotten that this was a different calibre of male she was dealing with. The more observant noticed Ruto's twitching lip of amusement at his cousin's attempt to sway him to her whims. Eventually, he gently bopped her nose causing her to stop the shamelessness and saying. "You will have to clear it with Lord Gremory, Griffit, and Relai. Though, mention it to Tullai too so she can adjust the plans as no doubt you will likely want to bring Akeno-san at the minimum."

Rias nodded still smiling before looking back to Sona, who had been slightly bewildered by the interactions and how different Rias is behaving around her House members. Her fellow heiress continued. "With that said, I have just been brought up to speed and meeting my housemates who are showing me their workplaces and duties they are fulfilling."

Sona, who has since received a glass of wine herself by her queen, nodded to that, adjusting her glasses saying. "So I see you are taking your role as heiress seriously now."

Rias nodded firmly, smiling softly still. "Yeah. It is daunting though… but I am a Gremory. I am not alone."

Sona watched as the other Gremory within earshot looked over with smiles of pride at the heiress but was still caught off by a distant bellow from the largest man in the room. "YOU TELL THEM OJOU-SAMA!"

This caused Naruto to nearly spit out his wine, Wren to chuckle lightly with a shake of her head, and Rias to go beet red in slight embarrassment when everyone else chuckled heartily. She did eventually glare back at the man who was talking with her brother, father, Lady Zabrina, and lord and lady Sitri that caused Griffit to chuckle along with those with him.

Sona smirked at this before looking to Ruto and asking, to move the conversation along. "I guess I must thank you, Ruto-san, for helping my friend get her head in the game and focused on her goals again."

Naruto looked to the heiress, his impeccable, Sitri-proof diplomatic smile on and replying. "Nothing of the sort, Lady Sona. Lady Rias just needed a small helping hand. As a member of the house, I was all to willing to lend it when she needed it. Though, I have had to remind her of the fact that she should rely upon us if she was in such dire circumstances."

Rias looked down into her drink, a slight tinge of pink as he was giving her that damn smile again. Not in front of her best friend like this, damn baka.

Sona nodded smiling too, offering back. "Yes. Rias can be a bit thick headed and stubborn sometimes. I fear you may need to keep reminding her on occasion."

Naruto and Wren nod to that, though Rias glared at the Sitri for those comments and ignored Akeno giggling of. "Ara-ara… she has you figured out, Bachuu."

Wren offered. "We plan on that, Lady Sitri. We are Gremory. Family is not left behind."

Naruto and Rias nod to that, as does Sona who looks back to Ruto and comments. "Well perhaps, I could be in need of your services too, Ruto-san."

The three Gremory and nadishiko shrine maiden raised brows at that in unison, Naruto asking in a tone that gave away nothing. "Lady Sona, I do not see how I could be of use to you. I am unfamiliar with Sitri House workings and am currently assigned to help Lady Rias in understanding our own house."

Rias, like the others, suspected that something else was afoot here and wasn't particularly pleased with the direction of this talk. Though, both Wren and Naruto knew she was likely trying to somehow open the door towards her likely offering a spot within her peerage. It would fit the frame work of what both knew of the Sitri's tactics of observing something they find interesting, what this conversation has been crafted to do, and present a path towards a goal they have in mind.

In this instance, likely gaining another advantage as she was present during the duel between the Gremory and Phenex and had brought her peerage along with her. Wren was not exactly thrilled at possibly loosing her closest blood relation to the Sitri and Naruto had no desire to serve in one of the peerages of an heiress. He liked his current life, minus the recent additions of course.

Sona nodded, pushing her glasses up and continuing. "That is certainly true, however as a governor of a territory, much like Wren-san, I think it would be beneficial for us both to work alongside each other. It could help broaden your horizons and for me, it could be helpful to understand the hows and why's from one more experienced than I in the subject."

Rias inserted herself here, clearing not liking how her friend was attempting to push her way onto her home turf, saying. "Unfortunately, Sona, Ruto-kun is already very busy with his own duties and barely has time for…"

"SO-TAN!"

"RIAS-TAN!"

Both heiresses paled and those not in the firing line took healthy two strides backwards in time to see them both be glumped by the respective sis-con siblings. Cheers and the like echoed, providing amble cover for the discreet conversation between cousins.

Wren whispering to Naruto. "Ruto-kun… was it me or was that Sitri trying to get you into her peerage?"

Naruto whispered back. "No, I suspected it too. I don't know whether I should be annoyed or angry at the premise."

Wren pulls a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she looks to him as he continued. "First it was the engagement to Lady Rias. Now it's her rival trying to steal me away from her with such an absurd idea."

He looks to her and she nods, a tight frown upon her face though Wren slowly replies. "You should keep a low profile for a few months. I know how this is going to sound, I honestly do, but coming and staying with me in Winifred is an option you should not overlook."

Yeah, Naruto knew exactly how that sounded. However as his cousin said, Winifred is a good place to stay low for a bit. All the foot traffic and the large contingent of Gremory staff he could blend in with. After a moment of thought, he asks. "You have your peerage there, right?"

Wren nodded calmly, glancing back at the spectacle of sisterly love briefly before answering. "They know how to keep their mouths shut. All my boys do. Plus, as I am still in the seeding stage of my take-over having your input would be invaluable. I have heard great things about the border town Relai-san manages. I would like to implement a few ideas there too."

Naruto was intrigued and so asked. "You must have done some research. Anything jumping out at you?"

Wren inclined her head and replied immediately, as if waiting for this question. "The power grid, improved plumbing and computer networks. Adaptive taxing strategies that are split between residents and businesses. That sort of thing."

Naruto chuckled lightly, commenting. "You really did your homework. We haven't even finished the power grid yet. Waiting on funding for that before we could start with the modern computer systems."

Wren nodded, knowing this before looking back at her cousin saying. "That is my point. If you do agree, I promise to make sure the funds are there to help finish the power grid. Then, you can bring those workers with you to help us implement the system in Winifred and improve it."

Naruto thought on it. The deal was rather solid and would help out Relai a healthy amount too. Clear out the reliance on his upcoming talks with the Asteroth, who likely have spies searching for anything they can find to advance their position in talks. Domestic funding would be safer in that regard. Looking back to her, he asks. "As much as I appreciate the gesture, what's in it for you?"

Knowing better than to insult his intelligence, Wren states flatly. "I want to get to know you as my closest family member in the household. I was so focused on myself that it took that rating game to remember to reach out to you. Apologising at this point is pointless, you are a grown man who doesn't need a parent figure but I do wish to at least acknowledge a familial bond between us."

Naruto nodded, glad she wasn't taking him for a fool and listened as she continued. "Not only that, I had heard what you said about the fact that we are a Duke Level house. That we Gremory stick together regardless of the situation. I want your help to show that to our constituents, that as long as they chose to live under our banner, then they are part of the family and we are looking out for them too."

Chuckling, Naruto asked. "Nice speech. Who prepared it for you?"

Smirking as she takes a sip from her glass, Wren swallowed before whispering. "My Queen. She suggested that it might be better to appeal to your family first ethics."

Naruto hummed at that, tilting his glass towards hers and replying. "She's right. Though, I will think on it and I will have to add a few caveats."

"I can handle that." Wren replied tapping her wine glass against his and smiling lightly. The two then take a sip before looking back at the finally calmed down Satan's talking with their siblings. After a few moments of silence, she asks. "We are never being like that, right?"

"Not a chance." Naruto swift response and she nodded, glad they were on the same page on that front.

This is when Akeno steps closer to them both, seeing the lull in their quiet conversation, and asks just as lowly as they had been. "Ruto-kun, may I have a word?"

Both Wren and Naruto noticed the tone used and the lack of volume, paired with the timing suggested something that should remain between them and both grew discreetly guarded as Naruto replied. "This sounds like it is serious, Akeno-san. What can I do for you?"

Akeno nodded subtly, glancing at the still busy Rias and Sirzechs, before looking between the two other Gremory and asking. "It is about the "security concerns" you mentioned earlier."

Now both Gremory's eyes grew noticeably colder as they gaze upon her with the male responding. "So, you figured it out then? I don't know if I should be surprised by your brilliance, or worried I am losing my touch."

Wren added. "I think she is just brilliant, Ruto-kun. No need to self either of you short. Though, I think that this little lady should be careful who she informs about this."

Upon Naruto's nod, Akeno swallowed hard before whispering back. "No – no I understand what this means and the security around it. I was just wanting to be sure and not threat about anything, that's all."

Both Gremory maintained their looks upon them before the warmth returned to their eyes and nodded before Naruto says. "You haven't told anyone. That was smart of you."

Wren nodded, adding. "Most certainly. Though, I must ask how you did."

Akeno nodded before explaining. "It was after Konuma-san and Naofumi-san visited…"

Wren frowned at that, as did Naruto, though the queen continued. "You said that they were good at their jobs. At first I thought it was seduction, but something in your tone did not settle right with me. Then you two talking earlier gave me an inclination to the other things Relai-kun mentioned."

Both Gremory nodded, Naruto saying. "You were correct in coming to us about it alone, but I do not believe your king is ready for such information. Am I clear?"

Akeno nodded seriously. She of all people know how bright and hopeful Rias is. This kind of work isn't for her and her innocence will only be hampered by this knowledge. She tuned back in to here Lady Wren speak. "In that case, should we ever catch wind of danger to Rias, we shall pass it on to you if Ruto-kun is unavailable to deal with it."

Akeno nodded subtly, noticing the two Satans looking at them. "Thank you for your consideration.""

Their subtle conversation ended just as the group gathered again with Sirzechs offering a smile, saying. "Ruto-kun, I see that you are matching my Rias-tan."

As if summoned, Kana appeared on Naruto's arm and informed. "She's matching me and I match him, Lord Lucifer."

Sirzechs smile was strained but remained strong and nodded, saying. "The three of you look great. I must ask for your tailor. They do great work."

Kana and Naruto nodded, the latter noticing Wren giving him those eyes he has already associated with, 'I want that too' and sighed inwardly. This is when his fellow Satan stepped forward, eyeing up the wildcard of the Gremory house and commenting. "So this is the infamous Ruto Gremory, huh?"

The shorter Satan made exaggerated motions of looking him up then down in front of everyone, before giving him a walk around once as if scrutinising every fibre of his being and took notice of the low braided ponytail, strong build and sandals as she swears she seen one of the Sitri family with this type of outfit before.

When she reach the front again, in the centre of the gathering, she nods before offering a hand and announcing. "My name is Serafall Leviathan, formerly Sitri, and Satan of diplomatic affairs. It is a pleasure."

Diplomatically, Naruto took hold of her hand and shook it, immediately sensing the probing into his power and blocking it subconsciously which clearly surprised the Satan long enough for him to pull his hand clear as he introduced. "My name is Ruto Gremory, Lady Leviathan. It is a true honour to be in your presence. I was basically raised on Magic Levi-tan so I believe I have seen every single show you have put to screen."

That successfully distracted the childish Satan from her curiosity about being deflected by his magic, Serafall lighting up and beaming. "I see! I see! I must be a big influence on you. No wonder you are so strong."

She crossed her arms and nodded repeatedly thought out earning sweatdrops though Wren caught the amusement hidden behind his carefully crafted smile but had to look away, or risk spitting her drink everywhere. Her cousin is by far the best at distracting and being able to lie to someone's face so brazenly and believably.

Sirzechs then announced. "I plan on having a spar with him in a few days. After seeing his mastery of magic against the Phenex, I feel like I need to see what he truly capable of."

Serafall snapped back to her colleague, then to the boy in question and added. "I saw the replay. I am more than a little interested in what you can do too, Ruto-tan. I saw you could use Ice and lightning."

Naruto nodded but clarified. "Lady Leviathan. The ice I used and the one you are predisposed to are not the same. I cannot cast ice magic like you can, unfortunately."

This was a surprise to all present but Serafall was now insanely interested, asking. "But… it looked like mine."

Naruto nodded and smirked. "That it does, Lady Leviathan."

Serafall pouted, clearly seeing she wasn't going to get a straight answer from the boy. "Your being a meanie Ruto-tan. Not telling your sweet kind Levi-tan how you pretended to be Levi-tan."

Sirzechs smirks asking. "I don't think there is a finer magical control than this young man, Serafall. To mimic ice like that, do you not agree?"

She hated to admit it, the fact that someone was stronger than her Sona-tan but Serafall wouldn't want to lie and nodded. "Indeed. I want to witness this duel though. Maybe Sona-tan could learn under him if he's good enough."

Naruto wanted to interject, but Rias did first. "He can't. He's training me and my peerage already."

This was certainly news to Naruto, Kana, and Wren, not that any of them would show it as the listen on as Sirzechs added. "As the two have been inseparable since the incident, Ruto-kun has been assigned as their magical instructor."

The glint in Sona's eyes did not escape notice of the middle management devils, the Sitri heiress interjecting herself. "Then perhaps, I shall attend with my queen and bishops. Our magical control is not to be taken lightly and can clearly be improved upon by the tutelage of a good instructor."

Naruto could lie to himself and say that was unlikely but if Sona ever met Casey… well… this would be a very short discussion. That bookworm would likely pull a similar stunt as he did with Riser, and likely style it the same way just to prove a point. That actually annoyed him as he could clearly see Casey doing that. Leon and Kazius would cheer him on too.

Thankfully, before the two heiress's, backed by their Satan-level siblings, could get into it Gustavo arrived with Relai in tow, asking. "Hey, Ruto. The foods here and we are planning and stocking up before going for a match of shoji. You in…?"

Naruto appeared at their sides in an instant, saying. "You know, have I ever told you that you guys are my favourite cousins?"

The three burst into laughter at that but unfortunately, their tactical retreat was halted when both heiress's appeared ahead of them and with hands on hip, glaring at the trio. The three men looked back, confused at the sudden animosity aimed at them but thankfully, Rias explained. "You said you were going to play shoji? Can you play chess?"

Gustavo replied with no little amount of hesitation, single finger pushing up his glasses. "Umm, yes, we are going to play shoji. We have a running leaderboard at the moment. Secondly, yes, we know how to play chess."

Both Relai and Ruto point to the man in the middle of the trip, Relai stating. "He is reigning champion of our chess tournament currently."

Gustavo chuckled nervously, looking to his left at Relai and saying. "Only by like one match. You still have a match in lieu."

Relai nodded, adjusting his spectacles thoughtfully before replying. "That is because I am more interested in Shoji at the moment. I must beat Aniki."

He glared across his cousin at the grinning Ruto, who holds up a victory sign and stating. "One day you may, just this day."

Gustavo chuckled with a grin, stating. "Oh, this I have to see. Orderly verses unpredictably. Truly a battle for ages."

This obviously caught the entire attention of both heiress's but the guys just continued their conversation, until obviously Rias slight cough drew their attention as she spoke. "Ahem, you know we are still here."

The three blink in unison, before bowing perfectly formerly and responding. "Our apologies, Lady Rias, Lady Sona. We shall be leaving now."

Rising up in perfect unison, before turning about, as if on parade, and strolling off as if nothing was wrong. Griffit burst into laughter. Zeoticus chuckled and even the normally stoic Zabrina looked amused but the two girls in question looked confused at first, then just plain annoyed as they watched them leave again.

Thankfully, Grayfia's legion of servants arrived and signalled that the food was to be served.

At the table…

Naruto wish he could sigh. Somehow, someway… who is he kidding, Zeoticus clearly he a hand in this. He had claimed he wasn't pushing for anything but the fact that this two house dinner included the middle management devils like himself, who just so happened to be sitting with Rias, Sona, their queens, and Kana, who near enough threatened the Sitri peerage member to get the seat beside him, meant that mister clan head is pushing them to spend as much time as physically possible.

This is getting annoying. Really fucking annoying.

Glancing to Kana, the two share a look and it suddenly felt a lot less irritating. Looking back to his food, Naruto pretended to be oblivious to the shared glances of confusion though Akeno had narrowed eyes for a moment. But Naruto nor Kana let nothing slip through.

Sona decided to kick off this question and answer session, asking. "Ruto-san… may I ask a question?"

Rias narrowed her eyes on her best friend, but Ruto nodded so Sona continued. "What is the most versatile spell in your arsenal, currently?"

Naruto shook his head, stating. "I will not be answering that, Sona-san. Nor will I answer any questions regarding my magical capabilities."

Rias looked smug, but tried to hide it as she ate her lamb. Sona's disappointment was well masked by most metrics but Kana and Naruto have more than enough experience reading body language to see it. Much to their surprise, her queen Tsubaki Shinra, a reincarnated nadishiko devil with a sacred gear spoke next. "Ruto-sama, may I ask what your relation is with Lady Rias?"

Naruto did not hesitate, replying. "Second cousin, once removed. It was mentioned in my introduction. Her father is my cousin."

He pointed to Kana, adding. "She's my third cousin too. Why do you ask, queen-san?"

Adjusting her glasses, Tsubaki replied. "Tsubaki – I do believe it too was mentioned in my introduction. As for why I asked, Ruto-sama, is that Lady Rias seems to be very close to you yet you seem to be keeping her at a distance. I was curious."

Naruto and Kana look to Rias, who looked back with an awkward smile before they both look to the queen again but before either could say anything, Sona did. "Plus, I have noticed your matching attire. It is something that…"

Kana spoke up next. "She's borrowing one of mine."

Drawing all eyes to the third Gremory at the table, Kana continued. "Nii-sama normally coordinate with one another at formal occasions. Lady Rias wanted to join us this time so I gave her that one which is the closest I had other than the one I am wearing."

Akeno jumped in here, enjoying this drama far too much to sit out of it. "We had spent the entire day with Ruto-kun, Kana-chan, and Relai-san. So when Grayfia came to inform us about this…"

She showed off her own large sleeved kimono dress and Sona nodded before looking to Ruto and asking. "These are all yours?"

Naruto shook his head, explaining. "Not all of them. Only the males ones. Knight Kiba is wearing one of mine, while Pawn Hyoudou is wearing one of Relai's older ones."

Kana adds. "We have had a few holidays in Japan over the years. Collecting them is like a side project of ours."

Naruto nodded, earning a completive hum from the Sitri heiress as she eyed up their relatively similar attire but does ask. "Then, the family sigils you all wear?"

Kana smirks, looking to Ruto who smiled weakly and offered. "I had spare time on weekends two summers ago. Got really into my needlework for a bit and the maid servants helped me out."

That surprised everyone but Kana, who chuckled at the memory of watching her brother spend hours in his room among mannequins, cutting boards, a myriad of cloth and thread colours and kimonos. That reminded her, looking to her brother and asks. "Say, Nii-chan, have you spoken to Chelsea recently?"

That name caught Rias off guard, recalling that maid from the servant quarters directly after Ruto saved her. Is it the same person they are talking about?

Naruto nodded, saying. "Saw her right after the match. She still works here until next week and she'll be transferred."

Kana nodded but Rias looked more than a little concerned, asking. "Transferred? Why? Has she…?"

"Calm down, Lady Rias." Naruto replied cutting her off. When she did so, he continued. "She has requested the transfer to a new location. There is a reason but that is both personal and confidential. Something we can discuss outside of present company."

Rias looked slightly more relieved than before but nodded upon realising that he was revering to Sona, which was a little weird to get used to as the two were near enough sisters at one point and told each other about everything. Guess that's…

That reminds her and asks her Sitri counterpart but abruptly Naruto cleared his throat and she froze. As did Kana. For some reason, Naruto's danger sense was going off and he felt that drastic measures were required and asked. "Lady Rias. You should be mindful of your words as our heiress. They carry weight that you should keep in mind."

Glancing over at her cousin, Rias nodded allowing him to look to Kana and say. "Kana, please use the manners I know you have. You are a lady, remember that."

Kana nodded carefully, adjusting her eating speed accordingly, not sensing any double meaning behind his words and proceeding carefully as to not make her brother any more irritated. She wants some tonight and doing that will be unwise to her counter intuitive to her satisfaction.

Before Akeno could get her jibe in, Naruto gave her a look and her breath caught on her throat and she too went back to her food. Sona wasn't sure if she should be impressed or intimidated by the fact that Ruto just managed to make the sadistic Akeno back down with a look or the fact that whatever Rias was about to say was silenced by a throat clearing.

What in the Satan's was that?

For Naruto however he was sure about he was going to take up Wren's suggestion and lay low for a bit under her jurisdiction in Winifred. Hopefully in a few months, the main house will forget about him in that time and he can get back to his own life goals, waiting for things to settle within the Asteroth household. Then, work towards that full alliance and get to…

At the head table…

As Naruto was dealing with the heiress's, Zeoticus was being questioned by his right hand woman by the name of Zabrina who was backed up by Griffit, who spoke first. "Are you sure about this, Zeo? That boy has been nothing but exemplary out in the field."

Zeoticus meets his old friend's gazes head on, replying. "That is why, Griffit-kun. As much as I hate to admit it, but my Rias… I have sheltered her a bit too much I fear."

Zabrina nodded, adding. "Indeed you have, Zeoticus-chan. We warned you both but with your son's added presence had shielded her from the truth."

The House head chuckled lightly before gesturing to the Sitri couple who were seated with Sirzechs, Venelana, and Wren nearby, Zeoticus mentioned. "We aren't alone in that respect. Though, I plan on fixing my mistake of loving my daughter too much by having her spend time with Ruto-kun as much as possible."

"That is what I am afraid of." Griffit grunts out, arms folded as he meets his friend firmly. This natrually caught the heads attention, but the man continued. "At this rate, you are going to stress him out too much. I would hate to lose him or worse, have to hunt him down."

Zeoticus frowned, feeling like he is missing something and Zabrina could see it thus informed. "That boy hides it well but we are old hands at this, Zeoticus. His desire is rather simple. So simple, he reminds me of you at times."

It didn't take long for Zeoticus to come to a conclusion and posed. "A girl?"

Both nodded, Griffit adding. "From the branch of the Astaroth family. A side branch. They are childhood friend's."

Zeoticus frowned at the news but Zabrina waved off his no doubt growing concerns, adding. "Relax, Zeoticus-chan. They are both aware of it not working out and have not crossed that line. Not unless a certain set of conditions are met. Conditions both are working towards from either side."

Swirling the wine in his cup, Zeoticus thought on it before voicing. "Conditions toward an alliance via marriage, yes?"

Both his fellows nodded, but Zabrina added. "Ruto-chan is smart. He knows that this is no easy task. He is one among many and cannot move this house alone."

Griffit added on seamlessly. "He is too loyal to the house to step out of line and pretends nothing bothers him…"

He lets a weighted sigh before adding. "His only black mark, however is her and their little group. He could never strike any of them, even if you ordered him too, there are four people he could never harm beyond the clan."

Zabrina then reports. "He is a great kid, Zeoticus. This marriage contract is no doubt troubling him but he will not go against your wishes. We know, however, that if the chance to marry his childhood friend arrives, nothing will stop him. Not even you."

Looking over to his own wife, Zeoticus could understand Ruto's feeling's slightly. Then again, he was an heir and Ruto isn't. Then will also prevent him from having them both. At least conveniently. Polygamy isn't illegal so technically it is doable. Then again, what's stopping them from creating an alliance with the Astaroth House?

Their current heir is dubious and suspect at best.

"Still…" Zeoticus began, as he lead them towards the table. "I will keep that in mind."

Griffit added. "And close to the chest."

The clan head nodded as they began to take their seats.

After dinner…

With the deserts consumed, the music playing and the mood lighting set, it was now time for the dance and dance they did. In order to not be dragged in between the two heiresses, Naruto took Kana's hand and the two danced the slow dance perfectly and in such a way that many questioned their relationship.

Then, Wren cut in after Kana though Ruto desperately tried to get out of it but she was… insistent on this. As they slow danced, she whispered. "I really hope you consider my proposal. It is important to me to build this bond."

She felt him him in contemplation before he offered. "I feel that it is a high probability for me. Dealing with both these heiresses is becoming a chore and cutting into my own time too much."

Wren chuckled lightly, commenting. "I have no doubt. In that case, I will have a room prepared upon my return."

Naruto hums again, and finally she lifts her head from his chest and looks at him and listens to him say. "Thank you."

They finished the song before stepping off when Venelana approached with her daughter in tow and Naruto knew exactly what was about to be asked of him. He sighed, mumbling. "Troublesome."

This earned an amused chuckle from the Wren. Before the wife of his cousin could speak, Naruto did. "Lady Gremory, I assume you wish for me to dance with your daughter, my heiress, and my fiancée, yes?"

Smiling softly, Venelana nodded adding. "It would only be right, Ruto-kun. Please do not let us down as this will be the first of many."

Naruto nodded, offering an arm and a smile towards Rias as he asks. "Would you allow me this dance, Lady Rias?"

Rias nodded softly and stepped forward to take up his arm and commenting. "I would be honoured, Ruto-kun."

The two took the floor and caught the eye of most as they began the slow dance. It was soon made apparent this was the final dance as they joined by Lord and Lady Sitri, Gremory, and Sirzechs with his queen.

It was clear that a message was being sent by Zeoticus to the others in attendance. A message that was received by Sona Sitri, who now understands that Ruto Gremory is likely going to be an important figure moving forward.

A member of the branch house of the Gremory who seems to have connections deep within the Gremory family and was strong enough to stand with his heiress, and any other high-class devil daring to stand against them.

Sona wondered if there was any way she could work this to her advantage. Who knew that there were such a valuable talent among the Gremory family and just out of sight until they stepped forward to come to her friends aid. Moving her gaze from her best friend and her betrothed, she was under no illusions of their current or future relations now, and over to the other Gremory house members.

Two stood out to her, three if you include Ruto but that is different story for now, and those two were seemingly in her intellectual level. Gustavo and Relai Gremory. According to Momo and Reya, those two have been discussing new strategies most the night. Tsubaki heard them discussing college level physics problems and playing around with ever increasingly unnecessarily complex solutions. A game of some kind.

Sona was very much intrigued by these two ever since they mentioned a chess tournament between them. She wanted in. It was most likely that she could find a suitable suitor among them. So, she takes the initiative, as if this was a game of chess, and moved towards the duo with a calculative smile.

The two Gremory glanced over at the approaching heiress, and for them both to glance her way to as Sitri spoke to them. "May I ask for this dance?"

Relai looked to Gustavo, who looked back before sighing and nodding stepping forward. "I shall accompany you for this dance, Lady Sitri."

The military man taking up the heiress's hand delicately in his white gloves and proceeded in to join the others. Relai on the other hand watched on with his head maid at his side when Kana suddenly appeared with him allowing him to ask her. "Are you sure about sitting aside, Kana?"

She didn't reply immediately, her face was blank and gave off nothing while she thought on how to answer. Eventually, Kana did though it was what he expected her to say. "You are the only one to know the truth, Relai. I am his regardless of anything else. No one can or ever will change that."

Relai adjusted his glasses but does not turn to her and just watches his brother figure stoically before posing. "It's been years since. Are you sure…?"

"Yes." She responds icily, glancing to him out of the corner of her eye as Kana continued. "As long as I have him, they cannot touch me, and best of all this is what I want too. I am free to do what I please and I choose to stay at his side. You know this so why are you making a fuss about it."

He too glances at her, a ghost of a smile as he replied. "Is it wrong for me to care?"

Kana looks back, face still blank and eyes lacking any warmth along with her voice. "Yes… it's creepy."

He nods before looking back at his brother with the heiress, Relai offering. "Still, I do not want to let him down either. We have to get stronger so those two no longer bother us."

Kana nodded, asking. "Is that why he's bothering with the princess?"

"No." Relai shook his head, though thought on it for a moment before replying. "It's an avenue to keep open. Like us though, he probably finds it bothersome dealing with her but is playing nice."

Kana hummed lightly before offering. "Maybe the long game then? She is going to be head of the clan at some point."

"Not as she currently is, she would be dead within the month of her crowning if she takes over with anything less than twelve wings and magical mastery to stand against the others." Relai informed earning nods from both Kana and Tullai. He continued. "Lady Zabrina knows this so is not stopping the engagement. The princess needs our brother's strength to protect her and keep the others in line."

Kana hummed again before adding. "She has to win his loyalty first though. A monumental achievement in of itself. Something she cannot do the way she is doing now."

"Indeed." Relai informed with a nod, adjusting his glasses before looking to his side at Kana, saying. "Do you think the princess can pull it off?"

Kana shrugged, not caring and voices as such. "Doesn't matter to me eitherway. As long as my brother is alive, then I am happy."

Tullai joined the soft conversation here, adding. "If she wishes to succeed in winning his heart or loyalty, she will have to return here and shed blood in his defence. Something she is incapable of doing."

The other two nod in that accurate statement but watched on and remained silent. Thankfully for Rias, two people overheard the hushed discussion and were in her court.

The first being Akeno who, thanks to her muted coloured dress kimono, had gone nearly unseen in the dimmed background away from the spotlit dance floor. Although thrown off at first by the abrupt change in the demeanour of the three, Akeno had gathered more information than she realised she needed.

The fact that Rias could be targeted if she took over the clan if she wasn't strong enough was a bit of a shock but could have been predicted if you thought on it enough. The bar was high though, as she knew that her friend only had four. She needed twelve to be safe.

That and the fact that those three believe that the elder Zabrina is pushing for Ruto to become her supporter to stop such an outcome was both comforting and terrifying. For Akeno, this meant that they had to somehow get into Ruto's good graces and become his friend, genuinely, but that is by far the hardest thing to achieve. He already dislikes them mildly. Her purple eyes harden, it seems like they have a new objective.

The other person to hear was Sirzechs. He suspected everything that was said and was really hoping his sister could pull this off. He and his parents have discussed this at length, coming to the same conclusion that the others had. The marriage contract is Rias's in to give her a way of getting close to Ruto.

Since the Phenex incident, Grayfia has been trying to dig up whatever she could on Ruto-kun for a clearer picture of who he is. He seemed like a gifted and driven child, even after his mother's abandonment of him and subsequent death. His drive and determination of never giving up had earned him a place in the hearts of his caregivers. At the age of thirteen he started exploring but by the age of fourteen, he seemed to take longer and longer breaks in between returning to the servant housing. He took a part time job in Lilith along with his childhood friend, Latia Astaroth and it became their meeting place.

Kana suddenly appeared alongside him in Lilith for the first time just after his sixteenth birthday. A few months later Relai did too, and by the time he turned seventeen the three were regularly seen within the border town furthest from the castle; Kalio Vista.

Silence then, the trio have been running all over the territory escorting traders and civilians alike from bandits, rogues, monsters and even two counts of fallen angels.

Officially, Ruto's official address is the castle's servant quarters, but unofficially it's the border town along with Kana and Relai. According to Lady Zabrina, he is listed as a member of domestic affairs with occasional jobs with the trade committee. However, even she had admitted that Griffit has had use for him too thus making him part of security.

Sighing, the Satan watches as his baby sister dances in the arms of her greatest hope. From what Grayfia has also reported, it seems that her continued use of station as wife of the Satan and daughter-in-law of the current House head is starting to cause frictions.

As Ruto, Kana, and Relai are Gremory House members, she can't use her authority as Head Maid of the Gremory to order them around. Unless of course, it is to pass a message from the head of house but that can be dubious at best, even more so if they ever suspect that she is using names in vain.

Although not a threat to him, Satan Lucifer, of his wife, the strongest queen, if a fight broke out the ramifications would be far reaching. Even more so if one of the three died or was critically injured by her specifically.

Sighing again, Sirzechs's decision to have his wife take a step back from these three Gremory is for the best in the long term. His parents too understood his reasoning and have agreed to have other servants deal with them if they are needed. Better safe than sorry.

Dance floor while Kana and Relai were talking.

As Rias and Ruto were slow dancing, she asks him. "Ruto-kun… can I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"What do you actually think of me?"

"Where has this come from, Lady Rias?"

"Well… I think Sona was trying to find away to get you in her peerage, and I thought…"

"Oh, yeah, she was. It was pretty obvious actually."

Rias snapped up to look at him after that statement, eyes wide and he smirked, continuing. "Wren and I figured it out immediately. It's why we went off on that tangent."

The princess of the Gremory whispered. "But… if that…"

"It won't." He replied confidently, as the step with the music, and Ruto continued. "I am a Gremory, remember? We stick with our family. Seems like I have to remind you of that again."

Rias nodded once before following in time with the music then asks. "In that case, what do you think of me, really?"

"I believe we covered this already, Lady Rias." Naruto spoke drily, to which she pout glared at him. It was cute. He chuckled lightly and offered. "You are a stereotypical princess archetype. Greedy, self-righteous, arrogant, lazy, and have a slight brother complex."

Rias glared at him for that but he matched it with a deadpan. The stare down wasn't long before she muttered. "I do not have a brother complex."

Naruto sweat dropped at that. "That's what you have an issue with?"

She shook her head lightly, replying. "No. I have many issues with what you said, but…"

"I never said they were bad." Naruto commented casually, earning a raised brow, and he shrugged fluidly, adding. "A lot of what I labelled you with applies to myself and my friends too. Though, you are going to have to eat a lot of humble pie to get rid of your arrogant streak and self-righteousness."

She pouted again, muttering. "I am not arrogant or self-righteous."

"You tried to take on a flaming chicken with half the number of pieces." Naruto spoke dryly again and Rias looked away, whispering. "I thought I could win."

"Makes it worse." Naruto replied with a sigh.

Hearing the second to last chorus, Naruto realised they were almost finished and thus whispered back. "Time for one last question."

Rias blinked at that, before blurting out what was on her mind all day. "Do you think we could work?"

Naruto was mildly surprised by that and the confidence she seemed to have with it. After a moment of thought, not that he needed it but rather to spare her feelings, he spoke lowly. "Not as we are now, no. Right now, any feelings you have for me are likely tide over from the fact I saved you. They will fade in time."

She asks softly. "You sound so sure."

Naruto chuckled as he nodded, adding. "Not my first rodeo."

Rias pouted, now wondering who else her cousin had saved before her. Ruto continued. "Secondly, I have other issues to deal with. I don't want to be in the spot light like you are always in. I just want to laze around and draw manga. Be my own boss, visit friends, and make my friends happy. I can't do that in the limelight. Too much work."

She shook her head in disbelief, from the work she's seen him do all day and he's worried about being too busy and stuff. Yet, before Rias could say anything the music ended and they parted, her body on autopilot. Ruto bowed formally, and she curtsy's.

The end of one hell of a day.

Gremory Territory; Kalio Vista (Border Town)

Govenor's Mansion

The privacy seals barely activated score Kana was up against the wall, legs around Naruto's waist, their tongues battling it out between them a both attempted to strip the others clothes off. It was hot, passionate, and Kana knew that her Naru has been discreetly staring at her all night thinking of this moment.

Her clothes parted, his hands groping and massaging her bare breasts as she runs her hands through his hair and grabbing handfuls of it. The clothes continued to fall around them as they hungrily made out and eventually, Kana pulled back. The two were panting but still had her back against the wall, pinned in place but her hand had now secured his dick.

She rubbed it against her own exposed lips and saw his lustful gaze narrow on her. Satan knows she loves that predator look he gets when she teases him but Kana also knows that she wants it just as much. With expert use of her hand, hips, and legs, Kana managed to pull him in and finds her breath catching as he fills her.

Naruto himself lets out a soft breath as Kana's walls part for him as she lowers herself, feeding his length into her depths gently and when fully sheathed, the two locked lips again. For a moment they just stroked tongues sensually, ignoring the fact that they were connected lower down for a full half minute.

When they parted, she giggled really cutely, which was unlike her, and he chuckled lightly as he nuzzled her nose with his own and she giggled again. When she looked up at him again, he perked her lips again and she giggled again before leaning back against the wall. The two were all smiles, despite their disheveled appearances as they just stare at one another.

This moment was broken by his thrust deep and Naruto watched as her face turned from happy, giggling to "oh by my Satan…" immediately and it was immensely satisfying to watch her fall into her lust. Into the pleasure.

Each thrust was firm but gentle. He slowly increased the depth he was hitting and watched the pleasure and joy on her face in response to each one. How her body reacted to each thrust, from her fluttering eyes, the movement of her tongue, the shape her lips were making, the way her bare, pale skin flexed, and how her breasts wobbled and jiggled so perfectly. The motions of her pink nipples.

"Faster…" she moans, clearly getting impatient at his steady pace which brought Naruto out of his admiration of her form and back to the task at hand as Kana also orders. "And deeper. Stop playing with me…"

In response, he thrusted in all the way and pressed up against the back. She gasped as now he as pinning her against the wall, but that act also allowed his tongue to invade her mouth once more. Whilst there he kept it deep, thrusting none stop but not pulling even half way out and hitting her deepest reaches continuously.

The continued even after she peaked, he didn't stop, did not let himself be pushed out and just kept his lips on her until her body shuddered and her walls convulsed around his dick. It was then he pulled back, panting and wheezing. Kana was in the same boat just lacked any lower body strength from those three orgasams she just had in quick succession.

Seeing this, Naruto pulled her in close into a hug and picked her off from the wall. She held on with her arms around his neck, giggling lightly the entire time, and watched him finally approached the bed.

Abruptly, Kana bucked her hips causing the man currently buried deep within her to stumble from the unexpected sensation. Together they fell forward toward the bed, before impact, Kana spread her six wings and flipped them mid fall. She slammed her lips on Naruto's and made out for a few moments before beginning her riding of her prize.

His hands met her breasts currently pressed against his chest but work their way down and were caught by her hands and pulled above his head. Their make out intensified as Naruto was feeling his end approach and she was not giving him any choice in the matter.

Kana could feel the swelling, from base to tip, and was ready. She was so ready for this but something. A little corner of her mind said that her brother would be mad. She shouldn't do this. That cannot be allowed. She had time. They had time. It is okay.

Her hold slackened on Naruto's arms and he immediately grabbed her ass and pulled her down, and thankfully her wings were not there to intercept the act s she had retreated them a moment before.

That was close.

Kana's room

Around midday Kana returned to her room, looking worse for wear, hair disheveled, and in good spirits. After that first round, they went another six, and then two this morning. Yep. It is official. Pattern number three is now her favourite kimono and the dark looking makeup seemed to give her Naruto an extra two rounds then normal.

As she finally pushes the door into her room open, Kana giggled and she swayed due to the weakened lower body from the morning session atop of the last night escapades but she wasn't complaining. Nope. Maybe she should take the day off and just go back and convince him to take the day off and see if they can beat their last record.

Those thoughts were broken by a knock on her door which earned a heavy sigh from the deviless. Finishing off her makeup removal and rinsing her face, Kana returns to her door and pulls it open, growling. "What…?"

At the door was a maid she didn't know but she stepped aside, red faced, and in her place stood the princess and that queen of hers. There was a dainty giggle, and a stare down with the princess who looked Kana up then down. She was still wearing the dress kimono from last night, improperly no less, and looked like she was in the process of washing her face.

All these were excusable, but what tipped off Rias Gremory of what had happened last night was the smell wafting from Kana. Having spent a little time slow dancing with him last night, it was safe to say that she knew Ruto's smell anywhere. For it to be coming from her so heavily meant only one thing.

Before she could stop herself, Rias asked. "Where were you last night?"

"Heaven." Kana snapped back without hesitation, before continuing. "Why are you here, princess? I don't have all day, you know? And I want to shower."

Rias presented a small bag with the kimono she borrowed last night, saying in monotone. "Your kimono I borrowed. I wanted to return it."

Kana took it and sure enough there it was, pressed and cleaned, so she looked back and nodding. "Thank you. Anything else?"

Rias shook her head slowly so Kana nodded and closed the door again leaving the princess in her state of stunned disbelief. Akeno though, could still smell the musk and was no rather curious about.

"Akeno, Chelsea; where is Ruto-kun?" Rias asks without looking back at either of them. Chelsea, who had come from the Castle with Oujo-sama at the request of Grayfia, used the training Ruto had given her to the fullest and couldn't detect him anywhere. Before she could voice it, Akeno does. "I can't sense him anywhere, Rias."

Frowning, Rias was about to ask when the queen continued. "Though, I can't sense Kana-chan either. Seeing as we know she's in her room…"

Akeno trailed off and the lone red head nodded and thought on how best to locate her cousin's room. Rias took a look down the corridor before catching a light hint in the air and followed her gut this time, walking down towards the other rooms.

It didn't take long before the taint of what they assumed was sex to fall off and thus knocked on the closest door. It took a few moments, before there was any chance of life coming to answer. Eventually, a small shimmer over the door and wall caught their attention. Suddenly, Ruto's signature appeared and the door parted revealing a bed head Gremory who had just yawned and began talking. "Look, Relai… couldn't it just…"

He trailed off upon seeing three women before him. The princess, the black haired one, and Chelsea. Blinking at that, Naruto looks to Chelsea and asks. "Chelsea. You a week early, right?"

The brownette did not get a chance to speak as Rias stepped forward and stated. "You and Kana?"

Naruto looked blankly at the princess, clearly not connecting the dots but then again, he was just awoken after getting to sleep so he isn't not in the best of minds or moods when he replied. "What…?"

Annoyed, Rias deployed her four wings in what she hoped would get his attention. The confusion wained a bit but it turned towards aggression as he growled, clearly not lucid fully but thankfully before he could properly move, Chelsea stepped between them and said. "Ruto-nii, calm down."

Her green eyes stare into his blue-green firmly and for a moment, neither moved. Taking a deep breath, Naruto nodded as his mind fully began to boot up. Chelsea twirled on Rias, and bowed lightly but spoke firmly. "My lady. Please close your wings. They are a sign of challenge and Ruto-nii, in his current awakening mind, would have attacked you had I not been here."

Closing up her wings, Rias nodded not wanting to actually fight him, knowing he was already stronger than her it would be a short fight.

After a moment of standing around, Ruto returned to his doorway having washed his face and was now more alert, asking. "What's going on?"

Rias spoke first. "I returned the kimono I borrowed to Kana just now."

Nodding, Naruto was still waiting for an explanation. Akeno giggled, drawing his eye for a moment but eventually she said. "She looked a little roughed up."

Again, Naruto nodded, not seeing any issues, folding his arms as he leans against the doorframe on a black T-shirt and shorts. Rias glared at him and said straight up. "You're sleeping with Kana-san."

Again, Naruto nodded, not seeing any issues, as his gaze flowed from the princess to priestess then to waitress. Rias and Akeno were surprised that he admitted it, with the latter asking. "You two are in a relationship?"

Naruto shook his head, explaining. "It's an itch. We scratch one another's. Just like how Tullai scratches hers with Relai, who scratches his with Bella, Kelly, Ryan and the other servants here. Is there a problem?"

His face scrunched up in confusion, before hardening as he stared at the princess and her queen who both looked equally shocked at the news. Naruto actually chuckled at their dumbfounded expressions, shaking his head as he asked. "Please tell me you aren't that… innocent… seriously?"

Seeing the flush coming to Rias's cheeks. It was likely of embarrassment, unlike Akeno's who had a wistful expression Naruto recognised immediately. Yep, that is the look of someone thinking about very naughty things and he wasn't going to disturb her thoughts. So he looks back to Rias and continued. "Like I keep telling you. We are a lot freer down here in the underworld."

He shrugs as he adds. "Social norms are different and our own. If anything, the fact that Kana is currently my only outlet for my rather high libido is rather telling of her skills. Though, I could go a few rounds more, I think I'd just sleep instead."

Surprisingly it was Chelsea who spoke up, whispered. "Umm… Naruto-nii… I was hoping that…"

Naruto raised an eyebrow, before smirking and nodding, understanding what wasn't said. "I see. Well, Chelsea-chan, we'll see when you transfer here."

She nodded while blushing rather prettily, much to the shock of Rias and the giggles of Akeno. Seems that the male Gremory was game to tumble among the sheets and was not afraid to go on the offensive.

Looking back at the guests, Naruto asked. "If that's all…"

Snapping out of her embarrassment, Rias snapped. "Training."

Naruto raised a brow, Akeno chuckled again whilst eyeing up the form of Ruto whilst licking her lips. Rias took a moment to collect herself before continuing. "You said you were going to train me and my peerage."

Again the male waved her off, replying. "Yeah, another time. I want to get some sleep as this is one my very mornings off. I have paperwork to deal with later and then a shift at work in the evening. I can't miss it either seeing as I skipped out on my last one."

"I am sure we can cover it." Rias commented, but Naruto shook his head, replying. "I have a life, Lady Rias, and it does not revolve around you. You need to understand that not everyone will bow down to your whims."

Rias frowned before asserting. "I really need to get stronger. Is there anything you can teach me now that will…"

"No." Naruto cut her off, frowning at her assertion. He continued. "Training is something you work hard at. Strength is gained from blood, sweat, and tears to protect what you hold precious. There are no short-cuts, no quick boosts, and certainly nothing you can do half-heartedly."

Rias nodded but he continued before she could get a word in. "If anything, Lady Rias, why not ask your mother or brother for help. Your father might be a bit busy but he is also an option."

"They are all busy. My father told me to come ask you." The heiress confirmed what he suspected. Another ploy to spend time together. Sigh, Naruto replied. "I am sorry, Lady Rias, but I really need to get some sleep before I get back to work. I have neglected my duties enough and I really can't help you anymore right now."

She sighs but finally understood that he wasn't helping her and nodded, Rias replying. "Then, tomorrow then?"

Naruto shrugged, stating. "Doubt it. I have a full schedule for the week, I am afraid."

Rias inclined her head, frowning as she strolled off. "In that case, until next time."

Naruto nodded, waving at them all before closing the door and heading back to bed. All that time with Kana had drained him enough to sleep for a few days. It had been awhile since they went at it two nights in a row and that many times. A stupid grin reaches his face as he sinks into his pillow again.

A/N: New Gremory's everywhere. Sona even tries her hand at recruiting from another noble family. A deeper look at the various parts of the Gremory House from Security to Trade to Domestic Affairs. Sirzechs brief summaries what Grayfia has managed to find out about Naruto thus far. Plenty of gaps but basic infomation at least.

Kana and Relai's rather bleak outlook on Rias's future regarding the family and the elder Zabrina's plan to rectify it.

Wren throwing a lifeline to Ruto. She will be popping up a lot more as Naruto does need to lay low for a bit. He finds out that her peerage his her harem, filled with pretty boys with the exception of her queen who runs things during Wren's "offdays" so to speak. The main reason for Naruto's invite to the town is revealed after his arrival. Is omitting the truth a lie?

Before you all ask, Wren is the youngest of the house to aquire Ten wings and ends up helping train Naruto for a time. It is why Zabrina is intrested in her growth and allows Ruto to work under her with no issues.

Finally, Rias finds out about Ruto and Kana. Then about Relai and most his staff. It was none of her business but whatever. Ruto turns her down as he has to get back to his actual life now and can't drop everything to help her train on a whim.

Act IV: Rias and her peerage do get some training before they head back, Ruto moves to his new temporary abode, and Latia is finally reintroduced after her week away. A small time skip as things calm down again. The Phenex family try to move in on Gremory Turf again in an attempt to frame the Gremory house. Then some nut-job Cadre starts threatening the safety of the Heiress. A three-man team is sent ahead of a military response.

o7