Rias could barely stand after making her choice, shame burning through her as she forced the words out. It had taken everything she had. She didn't dare look at Akeno—guilt kept her gaze fixed on the floor.
Sirzechs let his satisfaction show with a sly smile.
"Since Rias has made her choice, let's settle it here. I'm quite fond of Tenra-kun myself."
He turned to Duke Phenex. "Uncle Phenex, any objections from your side?"
Duke Phenex's answer was calm, almost detached.
"No objections. Once Rias comes of age, let them marry."
Sirzechs nodded, then shifted his attention to Tenra.
"Well, Tenra-kun, do you have any concerns?"
Tenra's mouth twitched. The family heads and the Maou had already decided everything—what was left for him to say? Arranged marriages had never been his favorite idea, but thanks to his mother, Duke Phenex had always given him freedom, never once forcing his hand. This was the first time his father had made an unshakable decision for him.
He understood the reasoning. Tenra sighed inwardly, but in the end, he couldn't bring himself to refuse.
"No issues, Sirzechs-sama."
Sirzechs broke into hearty laughter, glancing at Rias, whose face was now a brilliant shade of red.
"Good! Then it's settled. As soon as Rias graduates and comes of age, you two will be wed!"
"Uncle Phenex, I have matters to attend to in my territory. Since everything's resolved, we'll take our leave."
Sirzechs rose, and Duke Phenex nodded.
"Come by whenever you're free, Sirzechs."
Sirzechs clapped Tenra on the shoulder.
"Tenra-kun, House Gremory always welcomes you."
He nodded to the room, then led Grayfia, Rias, and the others out. As they passed, Grayfia's silver eyes lingered on Tenra for a split second—cool, unreadable, and carrying a hint of something deeper. The moment vanished as she followed Sirzechs out.
Tenra frowned, unsettled. He wasn't arrogant enough to think the Underworld's strongest queen was interested in him, but that look stuck with him, its meaning elusive.
"We'll wait outside!"
Rias's voice, sharp and a little petulant, snapped Tenra from his thoughts as she and Akeno brushed past him.
He nodded, and only when she saw his response did Rias huff and leave, Akeno trailing behind. The room emptied, leaving only Duke Phenex, Tenra, and Yubelluna's group.
The Duke watched Tenra in silence, then finally spoke:
"When did you awaken your Sacred Gear?"
Tenra answered quietly, "When Mother was still alive."
Silence fell again. Duke Phenex's expression was complicated—he realized he'd never truly understood this child. Maybe he never had.
"Your Sacred Gear and identity are exposed now. Watch out for the Church and the fallen angels. If things get out of hand, come back to the family."
"I know."
"If there's nothing else, go. Don't keep your fiancée and that fallen angel girl waiting."
"Yes."
Father and son spoke as always—brief, no wasted words. Tenra nodded and headed for the door, Yubelluna's group bowing and following close behind.
But just as they reached the threshold, Duke Phenex's voice echoed again:
"Be careful around Sirzechs."
Tenra paused, uncertain. Was it the Maou's status, or some hidden power beyond mortal understanding? He glanced back, but Duke Phenex had closed his eyes, unwilling to elaborate. Tenra could only tuck the warning away for later.
Outside the hall, a servant informed Tenra that Lady Rias and her Queen were waiting in the guest room. He set off with Yubelluna's group—only to run into Lady Phenex, just returned from tending to Riser.
"Lady Phenex."
Tenra stopped, and Yubelluna's group bowed respectfully.
Lady Phenex regarded Tenra with gentle pride.
"You've grown up, Tenra. Tamako would be so proud if she could see you now."
Her words warmed Tenra's heart, but guilt stirred too.
"I'm sorry, Lady Phenex. About Riser…"
He'd beaten her own son so thoroughly in the duel. Any mother would feel pain. If Lady Phenex resented him from now on, Tenra wouldn't blame her—it was the price he'd accepted.
But he didn't regret his actions.
Lady Phenex shook her head, her tone soft but firm.
"Riser's had it too easy all his life. This setback might do him good. Don't dwell on it."
She smiled, then added,
"I've heard about the engagement. The Gremory princess is a good girl—cherish her, and don't disappoint her."
"Go on, don't keep her waiting."
Tenra was stunned. Lady Phenex offered only kindness, no blame, and gentle advice.
"Yes, Mother."
The word slipped out before he could stop it. Tenra froze, but there was no taking it back now.
He managed a rueful smile—he'd have to get used to calling her that.
After exchanging a glance, Tenra continued toward the guest room, Yubelluna's group trailing behind. Unbeknownst to him, Lady Phenex watched him go, hand pressed to her lips, tears glimmering in her eyes.
At last, he'd called her "Mother."
~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~
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