Chapter 112:
– Azazel –
Azazel leaned back into the plush velvet of the club's booth, his eyes fixed firmly on the stripper in front of him. She gripped the pole tightly, muscles in her thighs flexing as she twisted her hips in rhythm with the loud, pulsating music. Her bare breasts were full and round, bouncing gently with every move she made.
Azazel took another long drink of his whiskey, feeling the satisfying burn as it slid down his throat.
"Those are some nice titties," he remarked appreciatively, eyes never leaving the woman on stage. He reached into his pocket lazily, pulling out a handful of crumpled bills, then tossing them onto the stage in a casual gesture.
Human strip clubs were among his favorite creations. Only humans could conceive of such delightfully crude yet comfortable places, perfect for an ancient fallen angel to relax and indulge his baser instincts.
He felt someone settling into the seat next to him. The heavy, distinct scent of ancient magic gave away the identity before the newcomer even spoke. Azazel didn't bother turning, keeping his attention focused on the slow, sensual rotations of the dancer's body.
"Those are some nice titties indeed," Odin echoed.
Azazel snorted in mild surprise, finally glancing toward Odin. The Norse god was sprawled out comfortably, one arm resting casually along the back of the booth, his single good eye fixed appreciatively on the stage performance.
Behind Odin stood a Valkyrie, the deity's personal assistant, whose name Azazel had trouble recalling. But he vividly recalled her appearance—tall, perfectly shaped hips, a slim waist, and huge breasts barely restrained by the tight business suit she wore. Her long silver hair cascaded smoothly past her shoulders. At this moment, her pale cheeks were turning crimson, her silver-gray eyes darting nervously around at the half-naked women strutting confidently nearby.
"This place is so shameless! A den of sin and debauchery! Awawawa…"
Odin seemed to finally notice his secretary's discomfort. He turned slowly toward her, his voice gentle but firm.
"You look uncomfortable here. If it's too much, you're welcome to wait outside until we're finished."
She nodded instantly, relief washing across her delicate features.
"Thank you, Lord Odin. I'll wait outside," she replied, voice shaking slightly with embarrassment. She turned abruptly and moved through the crowded club so swiftly that any attentive observer might have easily noticed her supernatural speed. Fortunately for her, none of the human patrons were paying attention.
Because there were titties everywhere of course.
Azazel watched her exit, smirking slightly as he returned his gaze to Odin. He picked up his glass, swirling the dark liquor briefly before taking another measured sip.
"All right," he began, placing his drink back down on the table between them with a soft thud. "You didn't come here just for the show. Spill it, Odin. What's so urgent that you had to interrupt my downtime?"
Odin chuckled softly, shaking his head slightly as he signaled for the waitress to bring him a drink as well.
The waitress returned quickly, setting Odin's drink on the table between him and Azazel. Odin casually reached over, his large palm landing sharply on her backside with an audible slap. She jumped slightly, letting out a startled giggle as she walked away, casting Odin a flirtatious glance over her shoulder. Odin laughed softly, shaking his head with a satisfied grin before lifting the glass to his lips and taking a long, slow sip.
Azazel watched the interaction with mild amusement before turning his attention fully back to Odin. He leaned forward, waiting expectantly for Odin to finally speak.
Odin set the glass down slowly, his single eye meeting Azazel's directly. The older god cleared his throat, his expression turning serious. "I've just come from an important meeting," Odin began carefully. "It involved several pantheons. Greeks, Hindus, Celts, and more—all gathered together in secrecy. They're worried, Azazel. Worried about what's happening in the East."
Azazel's eyes widened, surprise momentarily overtaking his normally calm exterior. He straightened in his seat.
A major meeting between so many powerful factions had taken place without him hearing even a whisper?
Azazel felt a flash of irritation at his own ignorance. True, many considered him flaky, always lost in his scientific research, detached from the daily politics of the supernatural world. But Azazel took pride in his position, and staying informed was one of his few personal rules.
It bothered him deeply that he'd missed something this significant! He usually didn't fuck up like that.
"What do you mean, the East? And why wasn't I informed about this meeting?" Azazel asked. Although he obviously already had an idea.
"The other gods didn't include you because they weren't sure exactly what they're dealing with yet," Odin explained calmly. "They wanted to discuss this quietly first before alerting anyone else—especially someone with your tendency to become…distracted." Odin raised an eyebrow pointedly.
"I'm distracted, not stupid," he retorted firmly. "Go on then. Explain."
"Japan has emerged suddenly as a dominant force—economically, supernaturally—all without anyone paying close attention," Odin explained carefully. "This isn't normal, Azazel. And it's worrying a lot of powerful beings. Every god capable of prophecy has received some extremely troubling visions..."
Azazel snorted, then coughed, choking slightly on his drink. He shook his head incredulously. "Seriously?" Azazel scoffed after clearing his throat. "That's the big problem? A few visions, and everyone loses their minds. Why do gods always have to turn everything into an apocalypse scenario?"
Odin narrowed his gaze slightly. "This is serious, Azazel," Odin said sternly. "These visions are not a joke. They were detailed and clear. Something powerful and unknown is growing there."
Azazel sighed, leaning back into the plush velvet booth. "Fine, fine," he conceded reluctantly. "Maybe something is, maybe something isn't…"
Odin wasn't happy with Azazel's flaky response. The older god's expression grew tight, and he leaned forward, his single eye narrowing intensely on Azazel's face. "You know something," Odin said firmly.
"Maybe I do, maybe I don't," Azazel replied again. He knew he was pushing Odin's patience, but he enjoyed playing this game far too much. "Either way, I don't see how it's anyone else's business."
He lifted his glass, swirling the amber whiskey thoughtfully before taking another slow sip. The warmth spread through his chest and throat, soothing him as he stared out at the dancer on stage. She arched her back gracefully, breasts bouncing smoothly with every practiced rotation of her hips.
"Besides," Azazel continued slowly, lowering the glass onto the table and glancing back at Odin, "didn't the other pantheons always look down on Japan? Especially after Japan lost World War Two to godless America." Azazel snorted sarcastically at his own remark, his lips twisting into an amused sneer.
But even as he said it, Azazel knew his words weren't entirely true. America was far from godless. Christianity had a deep and widespread presence across North America. It wasn't controlled by a single, dominant pantheon—at least officially—but everyone in the supernatural realm knew it was under Heaven's subtle protection.
Still, Azazel liked to provoke Odin, especially when the older god was acting overly serious. Where was the usual fun Odin? The one who would get drunk and ogle titties with him.
The serious Odin was far too dramatic and boring for Azazel's tastes…
"I don't control how dumb the other gods choose to be, Azazel. They've always treated Amaterasu like she's nothing more than a child who spends her days playing silly games in her room. They've all conveniently forgotten she's actually a powerful and terrifying goddess who could turn each and every one of them into ash with just a thought." Odin paused briefly, leaning closer toward Azazel, his single eye glinting with an intense seriousness Azazel rarely saw. "And yet," Odin continued carefully, voice dropping slightly lower, "she isn't even the threat I've foreseen. It is something else."
Azazel grimaced involuntarily. Odin's prophetic abilities always gave him an edge in conversations like these, something Azazel hated. Still, Azazel refused to fully concede the advantage. He cleared his throat, shifting irritably in his seat as he met Odin's unwavering gaze.
"Fine," Azazel said gruffly. "Maybe something strange is happening there. But honestly, Odin, how many times have you gods gotten yourselves worked up over some vague vision or prophecy that ends up being nothing more than a complete waste of time and worry? I promise you all it's not a big deal…" Azazel lied smoothly. "I know what's happening there and it's harmless."
He was bullshitting.
Of course, a restaurant that connected to other worlds filled with near infinite resources and very powerful other beings that have all decided to ally with the Yokai was a VERY big deal!
Enough to start another Great War if the news got out too suddenly.
Odin clearly didn't believe Azazel's words, and the skeptical look in his single gray eye was unmistakable. Azazel watched the older god carefully, waiting to see if Odin would call him out on the obvious lie or just let it slide. To Azazel's surprise and relief, Odin sighed deeply and leaned back into the velvet cushions of their booth, shoulders relaxing a little.
"Fine," Odin finally conceded, his voice weary but firm. "I'll drop it for now. But you have to understand, Azazel—this isn't just some vague, trivial prophecy. It was clear, disturbingly clear. And it's still haunting me."
Azazel tilted his head slightly, raising an eyebrow. "Haunting you?" he repeated, genuinely curious now despite his outwardly indifferent tone. "What exactly did you see that's so scary?"
"I saw a sea of blue fire, Azazel," Odin murmured solemnly. "Not normal flames—bright, vivid blue flames everywhere, engulfing everything. There were golden tails too, flickering and shifting endlessly like they had minds of their own. And above it all, hanging in the sky, was an eternal full moon. Huge, oppressive—it felt as if it could crush everything that stood against it. Even now, talking about it sends chills down my spine."
Azazel let out an appreciative whistle, impressed by the vividness of the imagery.
"Damn, Odin. No wonder you're stressed out," he said, though his tone remained mildly amused rather than genuinely concerned. "I mean, I still don't trust prophetic visions—always way too dramatic for my taste—but I'll admit, this one sounds particularly intense."
Internally, Azazel analyzed the vision. Odin's description wasn't vague at all, and Azazel immediately recognized some of the symbols Odin mentioned. Blue fire and golden tails could only mean the kitsune family—Haru, Yasaka, maybe even Kunou when she matured enough. They were powerful beings. But Azazel didn't fully understand the symbolism of the eternal full moon. He made a mental note to visit the Fox Hole later and ask directly. He doubted it would be a problem for his pantheon though. The other Panthoens—not so much.
But that was a whole lot of not his problem!
He did think Yasaka would appreciate the heads up that the rest of the world was starting to notice the rise of her people, although they didn't yet know any concrete details. Just vague shit.
Azazel pushed these considerations to the back of his mind for the moment. The last thing he wanted was to dive deeper into supernatural politics right now. His whiskey glass was empty again, and he waved lazily at the waitress, who nodded in acknowledgment and disappeared toward the bar.
"You know, Odin," Azazel began casually, eyes drifting back to the stage, "maybe you should just stop worrying so much. Every vision you've ever told me about always sounds like the apocalypse, but the world keeps on spinning anyway. I bet this one is no different."
Odin gave him a skeptical glance. "Im well aware, but I've had plenty of prophetic visions in my time. This one felt different…"
Azazel shrugged noncommittally, unwilling to dive deeper into Odin's worry. The waitress returned, placing another glass of whiskey on the table before him. He nodded his thanks distractedly, taking a slow, thoughtful sip as he turned his attention back toward the stage, effectively signaling the end of the discussion for now.
The dancer had moved on to a new stage of her performance. She had her back pressed firmly against the metal pole, her hips rolling in precise, sensual movements. Azazel watched closely as her fingers trailed slowly, teasingly, down over her toned stomach, hooking delicately into the waistband of her skimpy lace panties.
She paused dramatically, hips thrust forward as she tugged downward, sliding the thin material off inch by tantalizing inch, fully exposing herself to the crowd.
Perfectly shaved.
Nice…
Cheers and whistles erupted from the audience, and Azazel felt himself smirk appreciatively.
"See, Odin," Azazel murmured smugly, gesturing toward the stage with his glass. "This is the kind of vision I'm interested in! Now lighten up and bring back fun Odin! Let's get so drunk that we upset both of our secretaries!"
"..."
"...Fine." Odin's serious expression finally cracked and he grinned as well. "Take it all off!" He downed the rest of his drink and pulled out a wad of cash and threw it at the dancers on the stage.
Of course, seeing the fat wad of money Odin just tossed out, the dancers were very happy to do as he asked. Azazel grinned, now there was the FUN Odin he preferred to hang out with!
They could worry about all the serious shit later when they were nursing their hangovers.
– Haru –
A couple days after my adventure with Naruko and Kushina...
I stood quietly next to Ranni, listening as her soft voice echoed through the massive grand halls around us. "Welcome, dear Haru, to the Academy of Raya Lucaria, seat of the Carian royal family," she announced in her graceful, gentle tone.
Her voice always calmed me. I loved listening to her speak.
I turned slowly in place, taking everything in. We stood at the castle's main entrance, surrounded by shimmering crystals that glowed faintly with a gentle blue light. Huge pillars rose up high above our heads, leading into intricately carved arches. Around us stretched towering walls covered in bright gems and clear, reflective stones. Even the floors beneath my feet were smooth and polished, reflecting my image perfectly as I stared down at my ten fluffy tails swaying curiously behind me.
Outside the castle, beyond massive arched windows, lay a vast lake stretching far into the distance. I narrowed my eyes, noticing movement just beneath the surface. As I peered closer, I realized there were enormous crabs lurking in the water and a few dragons circled slowly above as well.
A surprised whistle slipped out of my mouth before I could stop it. I'd seen many strange things, but this was definitely something else.
Ranni caught my expression and laughed softly. Her laughter filled me with warmth, and I smiled in response. "I understand thy surprise, Haru," she told me kindly. "'Tis quite unusual from thy perspective, I am sure. But this twas the place I was born. Tis my beloved home, and I am glad to share it with my own beloved at long last…" she said to me.
I smiled fondly at her before a few memories—no they were closer to echoes at this point—surfaced in my mind. "Ranni," I asked, my voice cautious, "are we back in the Lands Between? Is that where this castle is?" I couldn't help feeling a hint of worry at the thought. My memories of my previousprevious life were hazy, but they were dark.
A lot of blood, death, and violence.
Gently, she placed her hand on my arm, shaking her head slowly. "Nay, dear Haru," she reassured softly. "Fear not. This place doth reside not in the Lands Between. Using mine own considerable power, I hath taken all of Caria—my home and people—and hidden it away in its own dimension. Here we dwell safe, beyond reach of the accursed Fingers and the Greater Will!"
She spat the last words with clear hatred.
I had no idea what these "Fingers" or "Greater Will" were, but given Ranni's obvious disgust, I decided quickly that asking questions now wasn't the best idea.
Instead, I followed her silently as she guided me deeper into the castle's grand corridors.
As we moved forward, I noticed people approaching from the shadows along the halls. Servants dressed neatly in dark blue robes with silver trimming bowed deeply as Ranni passed. Beside them stood mages wearing long, flowing cloaks and holding staffs topped with glowing crystals.
They lowered their heads respectfully, eyes cast downward in reverence.
"All hail our beloved Moon Goddess!" one mage called out in a clear voice. Others quickly joined in, repeating similar praises.
"Our beloved Moon Goddess has returned to us!" cried a young woman, her voice trembling with genuine joy.
I watched them all with curiosity, feeling surprisingly proud at their obvious admiration and respect for Ranni. It felt good to see her treated with such sincere love and devotion. My tails swished contentedly behind me as I walked at her side, appreciating this new place and the people who inhabited it.
"Everyone here truly adores you, Ranni," I remarked quietly, leaning slightly toward her as we passed a group of mages who continued their cheerful praises.
She smiled softly, nodding gently in acknowledgment.
"Aye, Haru," she said, her voice warm. "'Tis true they cherish me, yet their adoration weighs upon me greatly. It doth please me immensely to finally bring thee here and share with thee this place I hold so dear."
Ranni led me further into the castle until we stood before a massive pair of ornate doors. They were carved intricately from dark wood, inlaid with shimmering gems that glowed softly with a faint blue light.
Ranni pushed the doors open gently, and I stepped inside behind her, glancing around carefully as we entered.
The room beyond the doors was a vast library. Shelves rose high toward the vaulted ceiling, packed tightly with countless books.
In the middle of the library was an enormous red wolf lying lazily on a thick, embroidered rug. Its fiery eyes narrowed slightly as they fixed warily on me, though the beast made no move to rise or challenge me.
Next to the wolf stood an exceptionally tall woman dressed in long, flowing robes that reached all the way to the floor. Her height was striking, easily towering over both Ranni and me. She gently stroked the wolf's thick fur, giving the good boy some scratches.
I noticed it immediately though. As Ranny had warned me about her mother.
Her mother's eyes were hazy and unfocused, as though her mind drifted elsewhere, disconnected from reality. Despite her distant expression, her lips curved upward in a welcoming smile when she saw us! "My beloved daughter is home," she said softly. "Come and hug your mother, dear Ranni."
Ranni's expression shifted quickly into embarrassment. Her blue cheeks flushed a deep purple shade as she hesitated, looking away slightly.
I chuckled softly at her sudden shyness and nudged her gently forward with one of my tails. "Go on, Ranni."
Ranni shot me an amused but grateful glance before stepping forward reluctantly. Her mother opened her arms wide, and Ranni embraced her gently, allowing herself to be held close.
I watched them with a smile. Seeing Ranni embarrassed and shy was adorable, a side she rarely showed anyone else. It made me happy to be there witnessing this moment.
After watching them hug for a moment, I remembered the reason I had come here today. Reaching into my pocket space, I carefully pulled out my cooking equipment, setting everything neatly onto a nearby table. Pots, pans, utensils, and ingredients appeared one by one, ready for use.
Today I had promised Ranni that I'd personally cook a special meal for her and her mother, and I intended to keep that promise.
Plus, Ranni had mentioned that my cooking did a lot of good for her mother mentally.
As I arranged my equipment, Ranni stepped away from her mother, smoothing out her robes and glancing toward me. "Mother, this is Haru," she said softly, gesturing in my direction. "He is my beloved and has come today to cook a meal especially for thee…"
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