Chapter 36: Chapter 36
I was back in my backyard with the wooden box clutched against my chest, and for a moment I just stood there in the evening air, trying to process what had actually happened. The four Satans had not only agreed to my proposal—they'd given me something even better than I'd dared hope for.
The back door opened and Valerie stepped out, taking one look at my expression. "Well, you don't look like someone who just got rejected."
"They said yes." I held up the box, still somewhat in disbelief. "More than yes, actually."
Asia appeared behind her, wrapping a cardigan around her shoulders against the evening chill. "Oh, that's wonderful! I'm so glad they agreed to help."
I sat down on the back steps, setting the box beside me. The weight of what I was carrying—both physically and metaphorically—was starting to sink in. "They gave me modified Evil Pieces. Ones that work on humans."
"Modified how?" Valerie asked, settling beside me with her usual directness.
"Normal Evil Pieces reincarnate someone as a devil when they're used. These ones create the same bonds and grant similar abilities, but without the species change. You'd still be human, just... enhanced."
Asia's eyes went wide. "That's incredible! I didn't know such a thing was possible."
"It wasn't, until Ajuka Beelzebub decided to spend months redesigning the fundamental magical matrices just to see if he could." I opened the box, revealing the chess pieces nestled inside. Each one seemed to pulse with contained energy. "He figured out what I wanted them for and made them work."
The implications were staggering when I really thought about them. I could offer Asia and Valerie partnership instead of just protection. They could become genuinely powerful supernatural beings while remaining themselves.
But that also meant I'd be responsible for their safety in an entirely new way. If something happened to them because of choices I'd influenced...
"You're overthinking again," Valerie observed. "I can practically hear the gears turning."
"It's just a big decision," I said. "For all of us."
Asia reached out tentatively toward the box. "May I?"
I nodded, and she carefully picked up one of the Bishop pieces. The moment her fingers touched it, soft golden light flared around her hand. She didn't flinch or pull away—instead, she studied the phenomenon with fascination.
"It's warm," she said softly. "And it feels... familiar, somehow."
"Compatibility resonance," I explained. "It means the piece recognizes you as someone who could use it."
Valerie picked up a Knight piece without hesitation, getting the same golden response. "So we could actually do this."
"You could. But it's not something to decide lightly. Evil Pieces create permanent bonds—they link souls together. Once it's done, it can't be undone."
The weight of that permanence sat heavy in my chest. I'd be asking them to tie their very existence to mine forever. What right did I have to even offer such a thing?
"What would it mean exactly?" Asia asked, still cradling the Bishop piece. "The bond?"
"We'd be connected emotionally and spiritually. You'd be able to sense my general state—if I was injured or in serious danger. I'd know the same about you. And the pieces would grant you supernatural abilities based on their type."
"What kind of abilities?" Valerie wanted to know.
I tried to organize what I knew about the system. "Bishops get enhanced magical power and the ability to support others with healing and barriers. Knights gain superhuman speed and mobility. Rooks become incredibly strong and durable. The Queen piece grants a bit of everything."
She fell quiet, and I could see her processing that. Asia had lived most of her life believing she was cursed, that her Sacred Gear made her dangerous to everyone around her. The idea of having time to actually help people, to use her abilities for good over a truly long lifetime...
"There are risks," I continued, needing to be honest about the downsides. "Being connected to me would make you targets for anyone with a grudge. The supernatural world has politics, territorial disputes, outright wars sometimes."
"As opposed to the perfectly safe life we're living now?" Valerie's tone was dry.
She had a point. We were already involved with supernatural politics whether we liked it or not. At least this way they'd have the power to protect themselves.
"I suppose that's true," I admitted. "But still, this would be permanent. There's no going back once the bond is formed."
Asia carefully set the Bishop piece back in the box, but her eyes lingered on it. "Could we... could we think about it for a while? It's a lot to process."
"Of course. Take as long as you need—days, weeks, whatever. And if either of you decides you're not interested, that's completely fine too."
Valerie was still holding the Knight piece, turning it over in her palm. "What's the actual process? How does it work?"
"There's a ritual that needs to be performed. Ajuka offered to oversee it to make sure everything goes correctly. He said there are specific procedures and safeguards that have to be followed."
The idea of going through with it felt both thrilling and terrifying. I'd be offering them real power, real protection, a genuine partnership in dealing with supernatural threats. But I'd also be changing their lives irrevocably.
Was I being selfish? The practical benefits were obvious, but underneath that was the simple desire not to be alone in this anymore. To have people who truly understood what I was dealing with, who could stand beside me as equals rather than people I constantly worried about protecting.
"You know what I think?" Valerie said, interrupting my internal spiral. "I think you're making this more complicated than it needs to be."
"How so?"
"You're acting like this is something you'd be doing to us instead of something we'd be choosing for ourselves." She set the Knight piece back in the box with a soft click. "We're already in the supernatural world, Akira. We're already at risk just by being around you. This would just give us the tools to actually do something about it."
Asia nodded slowly. "She's right. And... I've spent so much of my life feeling helpless, like my abilities were more curse than gift. If there was a way to have real power to help people..."
The hope in her voice was unmistakable, and something tight in my chest finally loosened. Maybe I had been overthinking this. The dangers were real, but so were the benefits. And ultimately, it was their choice to make.
"Alright," I said, standing up and tucking the box under my arm. "Let's go inside and I'll tell you everything I know about how this works. If you're going to make this decision, you should have all the information."
As we headed for the house, I found myself actually feeling optimistic for the first time since getting the pieces. Whatever they decided, at least they'd be making the choice with full knowledge of what it meant.
And if they said yes... well, then everything would change, probably for the better.
The next morning found me knocking on Chysis's door with a specific request in mind. She opened it looking perfectly composed despite the early hour, her hair neatly styled and her expression mildly curious.
"Akira? This is unexpected. Is everything alright with the Evil Pieces arrangement?"
"Everything's fine with that," I assured her, stepping inside when she gestured. "I actually wanted to ask you about something else. Magic lessons."
Her eyebrow arched elegantly. "Oh? I thought you were quite capable already, given your ability to create Holy Water of Life."
"That's different. That's more like... advanced alchemy mixed with sacred gear abilities." I settled into the offered chair in her sitting room. "I want to learn actual human magic, not like the one we did last time"
Chysis leaned back, studying me with those sharp eyes. "Human magic? That's quite ambitious. Most humans who attempt it end up teleporting themselves into vampire territory or accidentally summoning things they can't control."
I just smiled. "Maybe they end up being mind controlled by magic users"
"Maybe—" She paused, catching the implication in my tone. "Ah. You're expecting to get pulled deeper into faction politics."
"I know I'm going to get pulled deeper," I corrected. "The Holy Water arrangement alone guarantees that. And when it happens, I'd rather not be completely helpless if diplomatic solutions don't work out."
She nodded slowly, approval flickering in her expression. "Very well, I can teach you the basics, though I should warn you—human magic is notoriously difficult to master."
"How difficult are we talking?"
"Devils use imagination and will to shape their magic. Humans have to use mathematical formulas, precise calculations, and exact geometric patterns." She stood and moved to a bookshelf, pulling out several thick volumes. "Every spell requires you to calculate energy requirements, environmental variables, and potential interference factors. In your head. While maintaining focus on the desired outcome."
I accepted the stack of books, immediately noting their weight. "These look... comprehensive."
"The fundamentals of human magical theory," she said, settling back into her chair. "Start with the blue one—it covers basic energy calculations and simple manipulation spells."
I opened the blue book to a random page and immediately regretted it. The page was covered with equations that looked like they belonged in an advanced physics textbook, complete with Greek letters and mathematical symbols I didn't recognize.
"This looks impossible," I muttered.
Chysis chuckled. "Most humans think so. That's why so few pursue formal magical training." She moved to sit beside me, pointing to one of the equations. "But it's not as complex as it appears. This one, for example, is just calculating the energy required to move a small object. Weight times distance, modified by environmental resistance and magical conductivity of the target material."
"Just?" I stared at the formula that took up half the page.
"The complexity comes from accounting for variables. Temperature, humidity, magical background radiation, your own energy levels, the phase of the moon if you're working with lunar-aligned spells..." She trailed off, probably noticing my expression. "Perhaps we should start with something simpler."
Three hours later, I was sprawled in my chair with my head in my hands, surrounded by open books and pages of failed calculations. My latest attempt at a basic light spell had produced a brief flash that immediately gave me a headache.
"I think my brain is melting," I announced.
"You're not doing too badly for your first session," Chysis said, though her tone suggested she was being charitable. "You managed to produce light, even if it was unstable."
"It lasted for about half a second and felt like getting punched in the skull."
"That's because you miscalculated the energy distribution by about thirty percent. The excess had to go somewhere, so it manifested as neural feedback."
I looked up at her. "In plain terms?"
"Your math was wrong, so the spell gave you a headache."
"Magic is hard," I said definitively.
"Human magic is hard," she corrected. "It's also incredibly versatile and powerful when done correctly. Devils are limited by their imagination and natural affinities. Humans can theoretically cast any type of spell if they can calculate the proper formulas."
"Theoretically being the key word."
"You're just not naturally inclined toward mathematical thinking," she observed with scientific detachment. "Most people aren't. But dedication can compensate for natural talent to some extent."
I sat up, rubbing my temples. "Well, I'm definitely dedicated. Even if this feels like trying to learn calculus while someone hits me with a stick."
"A surprisingly accurate description of learning human magic," Chysis said with amusement. "Though the stick-hitting usually comes from failed spell backlash rather than instructors."
"I'd recommend focusing on defensive and escape spells first. Offensive magic requires much more complex mathematics." She added.
I picked up the textbook again, staring at the incomprehensible equations with new determination. If the Rating Game was happening soon, that meant Kokabiel's attack on Kuoh wasn't far behind. And after that, things would escalate rapidly.
"Alright," I said, opening to the first chapter. "Let's try this again. And this time, maybe start with the absolute basics."
Chysis smiled approvingly. "Now that's the attitude you'll need"
As she began explaining the fundamental principles of energy calculation, I found myself thinking about the Evil Pieces sitting at home and the Rating Game approaching like a storm front. Ready or not, I was about to be pulled into the main plot. Not as a devil, but human.
At least now I'd have some basic magical defenses to work with. Assuming I could figure out the math.
. . .
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Chapter 37: Chapter 37
The late afternoon sun filtered through the trees as I made my way back from the training grounds, sweat still cooling on my skin from another brutal session with Chysis. My muscles ached, but it was the good kind of pain—the kind that meant progress.
"Akira."
I turned to find Chysis approaching, her usual composed expression tinged with something I didn't often see from her: worry.
"Do you know about Rias's rating game?"
I paused, noting the tension in her shoulders. "Sona mentioned it. Why?"
"Her chances..." Chysis shook her head, violet eyes distant. "They're not good. Riser Phoenix has years of experience, a coordinated peerage, and his regeneration makes him nearly impossible to defeat through conventional means."
The way she said it made my stomach tighten. This wasn't just academic concern—this was personal.
"There's more to this than just a rating game, isn't there?"
Chysis's jaw clenched almost imperceptibly. "Rias doesn't want to marry him. She never did. But the politics of devil society..." She trailed off, then met my eyes directly. "If she loses this game, she'll be forced into a marriage she despises. Her entire future will be decided by others."
The unfairness of it hit me like a physical weight. Here was someone with incredible power, from a prestigious family, and she still couldn't control her own fate.
"If you joined her peerage," Chysis continued quietly, "there would be a real chance she could win. Your power alone could shift the entire balance."
I'd been expecting this conversation eventually. The logical part of me understood her reasoning—with my abilities, Rias would have a genuine shot at victory. But the answer hadn't changed since the day I'd first refused Rias's offer.
"I appreciate why you'd suggest it. And you're not wrong about the tactical advantage. But I'm staying human."
Chysis sighed, though she didn't look surprised. "I knew you'd say that. Still had to ask."
"However," I said, watching her attention sharpen, "I'm not going to let her lose this game. I've already made sure she'll win."
She blinked. "What do you mean?"
"You'll see."
"Akira." Her tone carried that familiar note of exasperation I'd grown fond of. "You know how much I hate it when you're cryptic."
I couldn't help but smile. "Trust me. Rias will be fine."
For a moment, Chysis studied my face with those perceptive eyes of hers. Whatever she saw there seemed to satisfy her, because her shoulders finally relaxed.
"Thank you," she said simply. "Whatever you're planning... she'll need all the help she can get."
The evening air was thick with magical energy as I approached the Gremory estate. I could hear the sharp crack of spells being cast somewhere behind the main building, punctuated by the occasional shout of instruction.
Rounding the corner, I found Rias and Akeno in the middle of what looked like an intense training session. Rias was weaving between pillars of lightning while launching PoD energy blasts, her movements fluid but showing signs of fatigue.
"Akeno, try varying the timing more!" she called out between dodges. "If Riser can predict the pattern—"
She cut herself off as she noticed me approaching, immediately straightening and forcing a confident smile onto her face.
"Akira! Perfect timing. We were just working on some new strategies for next week."
The forced cheerfulness in her voice was painful to hear. Akeno descended gracefully, but I caught the brief look of concern she shot her king when she thought no one was watching.
"How's the preparation going?"
"Excellent," Rias replied, perhaps a bit too quickly. "We've been analyzing Riser's previous matches, studying his peerage's formations. I'm confident we can find the weaknesses in their strategy."
She was trying so hard to project strength that it made my chest tight. This was someone who'd been forced into an impossible situation, but she was still fighting—still refusing to give up even when the odds were stacked against her.
"Actually," I said, reaching into my jacket, "I have something that might help."
Both girls watched as I withdrew Incursio, the blade catching the last rays of sunlight. Their eyes widened slightly at the sight.
"Is that...?" Akeno began.
"My Sacred Gear. Finally manifested properly a few days ago." I held it out toward her. "I want you to use it in the rating game."
The silence that followed was complete. Rias stared at me like I'd just suggested she fly to the moon.
"Akira, I can't possibly—"
"Yes, you can." I kept my voice gentle but firm. "Akeno, take it."
She accepted the blade with obvious reluctance, her usual grace momentarily forgotten in her confusion. "I don't understand. This is your Sacred Gear. It's part of your soul."
"It's called Incursio. When you channel your power into it, it manifests as armor around your body. The armor provides enhanced physical capabilities and can turn you invisible at will."
Akeno's eyes were wide as she examined the weapon. "But why would you—"
"Because you need it more than I do right now. And because..." I paused, choosing my words carefully. "If it weren't for Rias introducing me to Chysis, I'd never have gotten strong enough to manifest this in the first place. Consider it returning a favor."
"This is more than a favor," Rias said quietly. "This is..."
"This is what friends do for each other." I met her eyes steadily. "You helped me when I needed it. Now I'm helping you."
Akeno was still staring at the blade in her hands. "I've never heard of a Sacred Gear that could be shared like this."
"Most can't be. But Incursio is... different. It's more like a living entity than a typical weapon. As long as the wielder has sufficient power and willpower, it will respond." I looked between both girls. "And Akeno has plenty of both."
"Try it," Rias urged softly.
Akeno closed her eyes, her demonic energy beginning to flow into the blade. The sword began to glow, and suddenly sleek armor materialized around her form. Not bulky or ostentatious—elegant, form-fitting, with subtle wings that seemed to be made of condensed lightning.
Both girls gasped.
"This power..." Akeno whispered, flexing her hands and watching electricity dance between her armored fingers. "It's incredible."
"You have a few days to get used to it," I told her. "Practice with the invisibility especially—in the right hands, that could end the fight before it really begins."
Rias was looking between Akeno and me with an expression I couldn't quite read. "Why are you doing this? Really?"
The honest answer was complicated. Because I liked them. Because the system they were trapped in was fundamentally unfair. Because sometimes the right thing to do was also the simple thing to do.
"Because no one should be forced to marry someone they don't love."
The armor faded as Akeno deactivated it, but both girls were standing straighter now, some of the weight lifted from their shoulders.
"We'll take good care of it," Akeno said solemnly.
"I know you will." I turned to go, then paused. "Oh, and Rias? Stop trying so hard to look confident. You're allowed to be worried—it just means you care about the outcome."
As I walked away, I heard Rias let out a shaky laugh behind me.
"He sees right through everyone, doesn't he?" she murmured to Akeno.
That night, I lay in bed staring at the ceiling. Tomorrow, Rias would begin her final preparations with Incursio. In a few days, she'd face Riser in a battle that would determine the rest of her life.
I'd done what I could. Now it was up to her.
. . .
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Chapter 38: Chapter 38
The morning mist was just beginning to lift as I stepped into the clearing behind Chysis's mansion, wooden practice sword in hand. Asia and Valerie were already there, going through the basic forms I'd taught them—or attempting to, anyway.
"Keep your guard up, Asia," I called out as I approached. "If your opponent can see an opening, it would be over for you. So be focused, alright?"
She nodded nervously, adjusting her stance. The improvement over the past few weeks had been remarkable, but there were still fundamental issues to address.
I moved into position and immediately launched a controlled attack at Valerie. She managed to deflect it, but her counter-attack was telegraphed from a mile away.
"Too slow," I said, easily dodging her swing. Then I turned and tapped Asia lightly on the shoulder with my blade. "And you're not committing to your attacks. You can't hurt someone if you're not willing to try."
Both girls reset their positions, but I could see the frustration building in their expressions. They'd been working hard—I couldn't fault their dedication—but there was something holding them back.
"Your forms are technically correct," I continued, blocking another exchange. "But you're fighting like you're going through a dance routine, not like your lives depend on it."
Valerie wiped sweat from her brow, breathing hard. "It's not that simple," she said, and there was an edge to her voice I hadn't heard before. "You make it look easy because you're already strong. But for us..."
She trailed off, but I could hear what she wasn't saying. They felt weak. Despite all their progress, they still saw themselves as the people they'd been when we first met—fragile, dependent, unable to protect themselves or others.
"You think you're still the same person I met you?" I asked.
"Aren't I?" Valerie's voice was quiet, but there was something desperate in it. "I'm still the vampire who couldn't even defend herself. I'm still—"
"No." The sharpness in my voice made both girls straighten. "You're not."
I set down my practice sword and looked at each of them in turn.
"Asia, when I first met you, you flinched every time someone raised their voice. Now you're voluntarily training with weapons every morning because you decided you wanted to be able to protect the people you care about."
She blinked, as if this hadn't occurred to her.
"And Valerie," I continued, "the person I first met would have given up l. She would have complained about the early mornings and the sore muscles and found excuses to quit. But you're here. Every day. Even when it's hard."
Valerie's hands tightened on her weapon.
"You want to know why you're not improving as fast as you'd like? It's not because you're weak. It's because you're still fighting against who you think you are instead of embracing who you're becoming."
The clearing fell silent except for the distant sound of wind through the trees. Then Asia spoke up, her voice small but steady.
"I... I've never thought of myself as someone who could fight."
"Then stop thinking and start doing." I picked up my sword again. "This time, I want you both to attack me like you mean it. Not like you're worried about hurting me—like you're trying to."
They exchanged a glance, some silent communication passing between them. When they turned back to me, there was something different in their eyes.
Valerie moved first, her attack coming faster and more aggressive than before. Instead of the hesitant strikes I'd grown used to, this was a committed assault. I had to actually focus to parry it cleanly.
Asia flanked me from the other side, her movements more fluid, less constrained by overthinking. For the first time since we'd started training, she was attacking with real intent.
I found myself smiling as I fought them both. This was what I'd been waiting to see—not perfect technique, but genuine determination.
From somewhere above us, I sensed Chysis watching from her balcony. I wondered what she was thinking, seeing her students finally start to fight like they meant it.
The exchange lasted several minutes before both girls finally stepped back, breathing hard but with expressions of accomplishment rather than frustration.
"Better," I said simply. "Much better."
"Akira!" Chysis's voice called from above. "Come here for a moment!"
I nodded to the girls. "Keep practicing. And remember—you're not the same people you were yesterday."
"It's starting," Chysis said as I entered her study, gesturing toward the large scrying screen on the wall.
The magical display showed an elaborate arena filled with spectators, the formal announcements already underway. In one viewing box, I could see the Gremory family looking tense. In another, the Phoenix clan appeared supremely confident.
"Nervous?" Chysis asked, settling into the chair beside me.
"Should I be?"
On screen, both peerages were taking their positions. Rias looked composed, but I could see the slight tension in her posture. Akeno stood beside her, no visible sign of the armor hidden beneath her usual attire.
"Did you really ensure her victory?" Chysis asked quietly.
"I gave her the tools. Whether she wins or loses is up to her."
The early stages of the match played out much as expected. Riser's peerage was experienced and well-coordinated, systematically eliminating Rias's pieces through superior teamwork and tactical positioning. It was painful to watch, even knowing what was coming.
"They're losing," Chysis observed, her voice carefully neutral.
"They're losing pieces. That's not the same thing."
By the time only Rias and Akeno remained, facing Riser and his queen, the Phoenix heir was practically radiating smug satisfaction.
"This has been amusing, Rias," his voice carried clearly through the scrying spell, "but it's time to accept reality. You cannot defeat me. Surrender now, and I promise to be... gentle in our marriage."
The casual arrogance in his tone made my jaw clench. This wasn't just about winning a game to him—it was about breaking someone's spirit.
"I'm not giving up," Rias replied, her voice steady despite the impossible odds.
Riser laughed. "Then you'll force me to be less merciful. Very well."
That's when Akeno stepped forward.
Golden light began to emanate from her position, starting as a faint glow and quickly building to something that made the entire arena take notice.
"What—" Riser began, then stopped as the light intensified.
The armor materialized around Akeno in a cascade of golden radiance, elegant and deadly, with wings that seemed to capture and reflect every source of light in the arena. For a moment, she looked less like a devil and more like an avenging angel.
The silence in the arena was absolute.
"Impossible," Riser breathed, and for the first time since the match began, there was uncertainty in his voice.
Akeno didn't respond with words. Instead, she simply vanished.
Riser spun, flames erupting around him in a defensive barrier, but it was too late. Akeno reappeared behind him, still invisible to everyone except those with the keenest supernatural senses, and struck.
The impact sent Riser flying across the arena, his flames sputtering as he hit the ground hard enough to crack the stone.
"No," he gasped, struggling to his feet. "My flames are absolute! No one can—"
Another strike, this one from a different angle. Akeno was using the invisibility to maximum effect, appearing just long enough to land a devastating blow before vanishing again.
Riser's confidence was cracking like ice in spring. "Stop hiding! Fight me properly!"
"As you wish," Akeno's voice came from everywhere and nowhere.
She materialized directly in front of him, lightning crackling around her armored form. Not the playful electricity she usually wielded, but something focused and deadly.
The bolt that followed wasn't meant to kill, but it was absolutely meant to hurt. Riser convulsed as the energy coursed through him, his regeneration struggling to keep up with the damage.
"This can't be happening," he whispered, staring up at her in terror. "I am immortal. I am—"
Another precisely controlled lightning strike dropped him to his knees. The Phoenix heir who had entered the arena with absolute confidence was now trembling on the ground, all traces of his former arrogance gone.
"Please," he gasped. "I... I surrender. I can't... this power is beyond anything I've ever faced."
The formal announcement rang out across the arena: "Winner: Rias Gremory!"
Beside me, Chysis was staring at the screen in stunned silence. Slowly, she turned to look at me.
"That armor..."
"Is my Sacred Gear, yes."
"How is that even possible? Sacred Gears are tied to the soul of their wielder."
"Most are. Incursio is different." I stood, feeling a strange sense of completion as I watched Rias embrace Akeno on screen. "It chooses worthy wielders, regardless of whose soul it was originally bonded to."
Well, it would be a good reason to make her believe this.
"And you determined that Akeno was worthy?"
"I determined that Rias deserved her freedom. The armor agreed to her desire."
Chysis shook her head slowly. "You continue to surprise me."
On screen, Rias was crying—not from sorrow, but from pure relief. She was free. Free to choose her own path, her own future, her own love if and when she found it.
"Boy, You better tell me more of your secrets" Chysis asked with a smile.
"Then it won't be fun like this, would it?"
I watched as the rest of her members rushed to congratulate their daughter, as Akeno carefully deactivated the armor and returned Incursio to its sword form, as Riser was helped from the arena by his peerage—humbled, perhaps permanently changed by his defeat.
. . .
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Chapter 39: Chapter 39
The soft chime of the doorbell echoed through the house just as I was finishing breakfast. I glanced at the clock—barely past eight in the morning. Who would be visiting this early?
Setting down my coffee cup, I made my way to the front door, already sensing familiar magical signatures on the other side. When I opened it, I found Rias and Akeno standing on my doorstep, both looking slightly hesitant despite their composed expressions.
"Good morning, Akira," Rias said, offering a small bow. "I hope we're not intruding."
"Not at all. Though you're up early for a devil." I stepped aside, gesturing them in. "Come in. Coffee?"
"That would be lovely," Akeno replied with her usual graceful smile, though I noticed she was carrying something wrapped in silk cloth.
As they entered, I caught the sound of footsteps on the stairs—light, trying to be stealthy but not quite succeeding. Asia and Valerie, no doubt curious about our early morning visitors.
"So," I said, leading Rias and Akeno to the living room, "to what do I owe the pleasure?"
Rias exchanged a glance with Akeno before meeting my eyes. "We came to thank you. Properly. What you did yesterday..." She paused, seeming to gather her thoughts. "You gave me back my future. I don't know how I could ever repay that."
"You don't need to repay anything. I told you—that's what friends do."
"Even so," Akeno interjected, unwrapping the silk cloth to reveal Incursio in its sword form, "this belongs to you." She held it out with both hands, treating it with the reverence it deserved. "Thank you for trusting me with it. I tried my best to take care of it."
I accepted the blade, feeling its familiar weight settle into my hands. For just a moment, I sensed something like contentment from the weapon—a job well done.
"How did it feel? Using it, I mean."
Akeno's eyes brightened slightly. "Incredible. The power, the responsiveness... it was like the armor was anticipating my movements before I even made them. I've never experienced anything like this."
"Incursio does that. It learns from its wielder, adapts to their fighting style." I set the sword carefully on the coffee table. "You handled it perfectly. Better than I expected, honestly."
A soft creak from the stairway caught everyone's attention. Two figures were peering around the corner. They'd clearly been trying to spy on our conversation.
"Asia, Valerie," I called out, not bothering to hide my amusement. "You can come out. They aren't here to sell anything shady"
Both girls emerged from their hiding spot, looking embarrassed at being caught. Asia's cheeks were bright red, while Valerie at least had the grace to look sheepish.
"Sorry," Asia mumbled. "We heard voices and were curious..."
Rias and Akeno both turned to look at the newcomers with polite interest, though I caught the subtle way Akeno's posture shifted slightly—not threatening, but alert. Old habits from years of protecting Rias.
"Rias, Akeno," I said, standing to make proper introductions, "I'd like you to meet Asia Argento and Valerie Tepes. They're... well, I suppose you could say they're under my protection."
Recognition flickered in both devils' eyes at the names, though they were too well-mannered to comment directly.
"It's a pleasure to meet you both," Rias said warmly, offering a small bow. "I'm Rias Gremory, and this is Akeno Himejima, my queen."
Asia curtsied nervously. "It's an honor to meet you, Lady Gremory. I've heard so much about you."
"Please, just Rias is fine," she replied with a genuine smile. "And you don't need to be so formal."
Valerie stepped forward with more confidence, though I could see the way her hands fidgeted slightly. "Valerie Tepes. We saw the rating game. And it was amazing!"
"Oh my, You watched it?" Akeno asked, seeming pleased by the idea.
"Chysis showed them your match after you won" I explained. "They were both quite impressed by your performance."
"It was amazing!" Asia burst out, then immediately looked embarrassed by her enthusiasm. "I mean... the way you moved, and the lightning, and the armor was so beautiful..."
Akeno's smile became more genuine. "Thank you. Though I have to admit, most of the credit goes to Akira. That armor is truly remarkable."
"Would you like some breakfast?" I offered, noting the way both devils' attention kept drifting to the kitchen where I could smell bacon still cooking. "I made too much, as usual."
"We wouldn't want to impose," Rias began, but her stomach chose that moment to betray her with a quiet rumble.
"I'll take that as a yes," I said with a grin. "Asia, could you help me set the table for five?"
"Of course!" She hurried toward the kitchen, clearly relieved to have something to do with her nervous energy.
As we all settled around the dining table a few minutes later, the atmosphere gradually relaxed. Rias and Akeno proved to be gracious guests, asking polite questions about Asia and Valerie's backgrounds without prying too deeply into potentially sensitive topics.
"So you're both training with Akira?" Rias asked as she delicately cut her bacon.
Valerie nodded, swallowing her bite of toast. "Every morning. He's a tough instructor, but..." She glanced at me, then back to Rias. "We're getting stronger. Slowly, but it's happening."
"That's wonderful. Training is so important, especially in our world." Rias's expression grew more serious. "There are too many threats out there for any of us to remain defenseless. After the rating game, I vowed to train harder and not be helpless ever again"
"Akira says the same thing," Asia said quietly. "Though I still have trouble with the... attacking parts of fighting."
"That's natural," Akeno said gently. "Your kind nature is making it difficult to intentionally cause harm" She had a gentle smile "But remember—sometimes fighting isn't about hurting others. It's about protecting the people you care about."
Something in her tone suggested she'd learned that lesson the hard way.
"Speaking of which," Rias said, turning to me, "I heard from Sona that there have been some unusual supernatural disturbances in the area recently. Nothing major, but enough to warrant attention."
I raised an eyebrow. "The kind that might affect people like us?"
"Possibly. We're keeping an eye on things, but it might be wise to be extra cautious for a while. We sensed something strange on outskirts and we will let you know if it's something dangerous"
*Always something,* I thought, though I wasn't particularly surprised. In a world full of devils, angels, fallen angels, and everything in between, trouble was pretty much a constant.
"I'll keep that in mind," I said aloud. "Thanks for the heads up."
The conversation continued over breakfast, touching on lighter topics—Akeno's favorite tea blends, Asia's interest in cooking, Valerie's complaints about early morning training sessions. It was pleasant, domestic even, and I found myself thinking how different this was from the formal meetings I'd grown used to in the supernatural world.
Eventually, both devils stood to leave, expressing their thanks once more for both breakfast and the previous day's assistance.
"If you ever need anything," Rias said as they reached the door, "please don't hesitate to ask. What you did for me... I won't forget it."
"Sure"
After they left, I found myself back in the living room with Asia and Valerie, Incursio resting on the coffee table where I'd left it.
"They seem nice," Asia said, settling onto the couch. "Very different from what I expected devils to be like."
"Most people are more complicated than the stories make them out to be," I observed.
Valerie was studying the sword with obvious curiosity.
I nodded, picking up the blade. "Want to see it in action?"
Both girls leaned forward eagerly as I channeled a small amount of power into the weapon. The familiar golden armor materialized around me, though I kept it at minimal power—just enough to demonstrate without overwhelming the room.
"Incredible," Valerie breathed "Just like that time, but less scary"
"The armor is just a tool," I said as I deactivated it. "It was Akeno's skill and determination that won the rating game. I bet if another member of her peerage used this, they wouldn't have win the rating game"
"Still," Asia said softly, "it must feel good to know you helped someone escape a terrible situation."
I considered her words as I set Incursio aside. "Yeah. It does."
The rest of the morning passed quietly, with both girls eventually heading out to run errands while I caught up on some reading. But their words stayed with me.
*It must feel good to know you helped someone escape a terrible situation.*
Asia was right. It did feel good. Better than I'd expected, honestly. There was something satisfying about using power not just for personal gain, but to genuinely help others.
Maybe that was something worth exploring further.
Outside, I could hear the sounds of the city waking up—traffic, voices, the ordinary rhythm of human life continuing on, largely unaware of the supernatural currents flowing beneath the surface.
*Unusual disturbances,* Rias had said. *Nothing major, but worth attention.*
I made a mental note to be more alert during our training sessions.
. . .
Read upto 20 chapters at /opeler
Chapter 40: Chapter 40
The afternoon sun filtered through the tall windows of Chysis's study room, casting long shadows across the mahogany shelves lined in order. The air carried the faint scent of tea leaves and ink, a combination, that had become oddly comforting to Akira over the past months.
"You're leaving?" Akira asked, flipping the page in anticipation.
"Yes" Chysis replied simply, her fingers drumming against the stack of papers on her desk "I have to return to the Underworld."
Akira's brow raised, shifting his gaze to her "Did something happen? Is there an emergency with the—"
"Kind of" Chysis's lips curved into a wry smile "Though not the kind you're thinking of" She leaned back in her chair, a smile tucking on her lips "Those bottles of Holy Water of Life you provided us.. they've caused quite the stir in Underworld"
"What do you mean?"
"The demand has exploded, Akira. Every noble house want a piece of what you've created. The Satans themselves are breathed down their neck, requested to expand their operations but they know it's limited so they could only sigh in defeat" She chuckled, shaking her head. "I never imagined your little gift would turn into such an uproar in Underworld"
Akira ran a hand through his hair, processing the information "How long will you be gone?"
"I don't know"
Akira nodded slowly, trying to mask the disappointment that threatened to show on his face.
"However," Chysis continued, rising from her chair with fluid grace "the Satans have decided to... sweeten our arrangement." Her smile turned mischievous. "They're granting you a significant portion of land here in Kuoh, along with a rather generous monetary compensation, and a familiar too" They feel the Holy Water of Life is too precious to be traded for mere evil pieces"
Akira blinked "A familiar?"
"Rias will guide you for it, so dont worry about it" Chysis walked around the desk, her footsteps silent on the plush carpet. "They've also agreed to fulfill any reasonable favor you might ask, as long as it doesn't threaten devil interests. Consider it their way of ensuring your continued... cooperation."
The weight of her words settled over him. This wasn't just about business anymore, this was about power, influence, and the dangerous game of supernatural politics he'd somehow stumbled into.
"Well.." he finally said, meeting her gaze. "Thank you."
Chysis reached out and ruffled his hair, her touch gentle but firm. "Don't thank me yet, dear. We are on the same ship, remember? You can ask for my help anytime without hesitation. After everything you've done for my family and our race..." She paused, her eyes growing distant. "You've earned that much and more."
A sudden thought struck him "Wait—how am I supposed to provide refills while you're in the Underworld?"
Chysis smiled and pulled a small crystal from her pocket. It was no larger than a marble, but it pulsed with an inner light that seemed to shift between purple and silver.
"Pour your magic into this," she instructed, placing it in his palm. The crystal felt warm against his skin. "It will glow and send a signal directly to me. I'll be able to teleport to your location within minutes."
Akira closed his fingers around the crystal, feeling its subtle vibration. "Chysis... I need you to know something."
She tilted her head, waiting.
"I'll never forget what you've done for me. Taking care of Asia, teaching me magic and combat techniques, putting up with my questions..." He met her eyes, his voice growing stronger. "You didn't have to do any of that, but you did. And I—"
Before he could finish, Chysis pulled him into a bone-crushing hug that knocked the air from his lungs. Despite her petite frame, her strength was overwhelming.
"You silly child," she murmured against his shoulder, her voice filled with emotion. "Do you think I helped you out of obligation? You saved my granddaughter from a fate worse than death. You brought light back into her eyes when I thought it was lost forever." She pulled back slightly, her hands gripping his shoulders. "You gave the whole devil race, hope, when they had none left. If anything, I'm the one in your debt."
Before Akira could respond, magic circles began forming around her feet, glowing with the deep crimson of devil magic.
"The mansion is always open for you," she said as the teleportation spell took hold beneath her "Consider it your second home. And Akira?" Her form began to fade. "Take care of yourself until we meet again"
With a flash of red light, she was gone.
Akira stood alone in his living room. The silence felt oppressive after months of Chysis's constant presence—her laughter echoing through the halls, her patient voice correcting his magical techniques, her protective instincts that had become as natural as breathing.
He sank into his favorite armchair, the crystal she'd given him resting in his pocket. The weight of responsibility settled on his shoulders, without Chysis's guidance, everything felt suddenly more precarious.
*Sigh!, Magic* he thought grimly. *I still haven't mastered even the basics.*
Human magic was frustrating in its complexity—layers upon layers of theory and technique that seemed to contradict themselves at every turn. Unlike the straightforward nature of his gacha abilities, magic required reserves, understanding, and most importantly, a teacher who could guide him through the subtleties.
He'd managed to learn basic teleportation, enough to move around Kuoh without drawing attention, but anything more advanced remained frustratingly out of reach. And now, with Chysis gone...
"I'm thinking too much," he muttered, rubbing his temples.
The sound of the television drifted from the adjoining room, punctuated by Asia's gentle and Valerie's softer chuckles. The familiar sounds brought a smile to his face despite his worries.
Both girls had been training relentlessly since moving in, pushing themselves harder than he thought wise. Unlike him, they didn't have a convenient system to grant them new abilities—they had to earn every scrap of strength through sweat and determination. He admired that about them, but it also worried him.
This world was dangerous. Devils, angels, fallen angels, dragons—threats lurked around every corner, and the peaceful façade of Kuoh Town could shatter at any moment. He needed to be strong enough to protect them, and they needed to be strong enough to protect themselves.
But maybe... maybe they all needed a break. With all this constant vigilance, he was fearing that he was just pushing himself into overthinking about future.
Standing up with newfound purpose, Akira walked into the living room where Asia and Valerie were curled up on the couch, watching what appeared to be a cooking show.
"Hey" he said, causing both girls to look up "How about we take a day off from training?"
Asia tilted her head "A day off?"
"I want to show you both around town. Today would be no training regimens, just... normal stuff." He gestured toward the window where Kuoh's streets bustled with everyday life. "Neither of you have really had the chance to just be regular individuals, right?"
Valerie's silver eyes widened slightly "Really?"
Akira smiled, turning around "Come on, get ready. I'll show you around the Kuoh"
The vibe of street was crisp and pleasant as they walked through Kuoh's shopping district. Valerie had insisted on linking arms with both him and Asia, creating an odd but comfortable chain as they meandered between shops and stalls.
"Oh!" Asia gasped, stopping abruptly in front of a small boutique. "Look at that dress, Valerie! The color would be perfect with your hair!"
Valerie's cheeks flushed pink as she nodded "I... I couldn't. It's probably expensive..."
"Don't worry about money" Akira said gently "Today's about having fun, remember? So, just enjoy"
Watching them browse through clothes with genuine excitement, pointing out items they thought would suit each other, Akira felt something warm bloom in his chest. This was what they deserved—moments of simple joy, free from the weight of their pasts.
Asia had never experienced a normal childhood, raised in isolation by the church until her exile. Valerie had been imprisoned, used as a tool by others who saw only her power. Neither had ever had the luxury of window shopping or debating the merits of different ice cream flavors.
"Akira!"
The familiar voice made him turn, and his heart sank slightly. Issei Hyoudou was approaching with his characteristic enthusiasm, his eyes immediately zeroing in on Asia and Valerie.
"Dude!" Issei's voice cracked with excitement and disbelief. "What did you do? How are you on a date with tw incredibly beautiful girls? I'm so jealous!"
Akira sighed, placing a hand on Issei's shoulder in what he hoped was a comforting gesture. "It's not a date, Issei. We're just—"
"Issei!" Another voice called out. Kiba Yuuto was waving from across the street, his perfect smile somehow managing to convey both patience and mild exasperation. "Come on, we have that thing to take care of."
Issei's face crumpled at the sight of blonde boy "But Kiba! Look at this injustice! How does he get two gorgeous girls while I get stuck with—" He caught himself, glancing at Kiba's approaching figure "I mean... why does the universe hate me?"
"Who is he?" Valerie asked quietly, moving slightly closer to Akira.
"That's Issei Hyoudou and Kiba Yuuto," Akira explained. "They're part of Rias's peerage."
Issei was still lamenting his fate as Kiba reached them and practically dragged him away, offering apologetic bows to the group as they departed.
Akira chuckled at the sight "Come on, let's check out that bookstore you wanted to see."
The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur of small discoveries and shared laughter. They bought books, tasted street food, and even stopped at a small shrine where Asia insisted on making offerings despite her complicated relationship with divinity.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, they found themselves at a small park overlooking the town. Valerie and Asia sat on a bench, comparing their purchases and chatting with an ease that she never felt before.
Akira stood a few feet away, watching them with a smile he couldn't suppress. This was the first time he'd seen either of them truly relaxed and happy. The walls they'd built around their hearts were crumbling, replaced by something precious and fragile—friendship, trust, maybe even family.
The walk to home was peaceful, filled with comfortable chatter about their purchases and plans for dinner. Asia and Valerie walked ahead of him, their shopping bags swinging as they debated the merits of different recipes they'd seen in the cookbook Asia had bought.
Akira followed behind, carrying the groceries and the kendo sticks he'd picked up for their training sessions, content to listen to their conversation. The normalcy of it all—the domestic concerns, the easy banter—felt like a gift after months of supernatural chaos.
As they turned the corner onto his street, however, that peaceful feeling evaporated.
Two figures stood outside his front door: one tall and casual with an easy smile, the other tall as well and radiating an aura that made Akira's instincts to be vary of his presence.
Azazel raised a hand in greeting, his expression as maddeningly cheerful as ever. Beside him, the teen stood with his arms crossed, silver hair catching the last rays of sunlight and blue eyes focused on Akira with an intensity that promised complications.
"Oh, wonderful," Akira muttered under his breath, already feeling the beginnings of a headache. "This day was going too well. And now this"
The last thing he needed right now was whatever chaos these two were about to bring to his doorstep.
. . .
Read upto 20 chapters at /opeler