Chapter 96: Lucifer's Sense of Crisis
Private Hyakkaou Academy.
In the intricate web of Japanese high society and the academic world, this name carried a weight that was both heavy and terrifying.
It was a school that was well-known to every other institution in the Kanto region, yet understood by very few.
Rumors circulated in the shadows of locker rooms and karaoke bars of other high schools. They whispered that there were only two types of people within those gilded gates: the predators and the prey. The ultra-rich who ruled, and the destitute who served.
The reason this school had mutated into such a grotesque microcosm of capitalism was simple.
It didn't prioritize grades, athleticism, or artistic merit.
It encouraged the most addictive activity known to mankind. A vice that could elevate a pauper to a king in a single heartbeat, or strip a millionaire of their dignity and future in the roll of a die.
Gambling.
For the average student at Teitan High, like Mouri Ran, Hyakkaou wasn't just a school. It was a monster's den.
And the legendary Student Council President of this generation, the woman who sat at the apex of that food chain, was currently sitting across from her.
Momobami Kirari smiled.
She propped her chin on her hand, her blue lips curving into an expression that was impossible to read. It was elegant, certainly. Beautiful, undeniably. But it felt like looking into the eye of a beautiful storm.
Mouri Ran felt the pressure instantly mount on her shoulders.
It wasn't a malicious intent, exactly. It was simply the weight of presence. The air around Kirari seemed heavier, colder, and sharper.
Suzuki Sonoko, sensing her best friend's stiffness, quickly waved her hand dismissively.
"Ran, relax! Your worries are totally unnecessary," Sonoko insisted, patting Ran's shoulder. "Kirari isn't as bad as people say. The rumors turn her into some kind of demon, but she's just... intense."
"Is that so?" Ran laughed nervously, her hands gripping her skirt.
Kirari's eyes shifted. She reached out, draping her arm casually around Sonoko's waist, pulling the heiress slightly closer.
"As expected of a good friend who's perfectly in sync with me," Kirari purred, her voice like liquid silk. "Sonoko, you're truly wonderful. You understand me so well."
"H-Hey!"
Sonoko blushed furiously and playfully pushed Kirari away.
"Kirari! That's enough! Stop treating me like one of your pets! Am I Shopkeeper Ren to you? Save that charm for him!"
Kirari chuckled softly, withdrawing her hand but keeping her gaze fixed on Ran.
"You're not qualified to be him yet, Sonoko. But Ran-san, Sonoko is right. The rumors about Hyakkaou Private Academy being a living hell are a bit exaggerated."
Kirari picked up her water glass, swirling the liquid gently.
"We only encourage games to sharpen the mind. Strategic thinking, risk assessment, reading people... these are essential skills for the ruling class. But regular classes are still held. We are an accredited institution, after all."
Mouri Ran nodded slowly.
Looking at the interaction, she felt her anxiety recede slightly.
This legendary 'Demon President' wasn't as cold and cruel as the rumors suggested. Seeing her tease Sonoko playfully humanized her.
Sonoko would never befriend a truly bad person, Ran reasoned inwardly. She has good instincts. Kirari-san must just be misunderstood.
Mouri Ran watched Kirari's slight smile. It was charming, albeit with a hint of slyness. But it wasn't the face of a monster who enslaved students.
In reality, Ran's thoughts were mostly accurate, but she was also naively overthinking it.
Kirari Momobami was indeed a monster to her enemies. She destroyed lives without blinking if it served the game. However, she operated on a strict code of loyalty. To her "circle"—which now included Sonoko and the people of this restaurant—she was merely eccentric, not lethal.
"I see," Ran sighed, her shoulders dropping in relief. "I thought your school was just about playing games all day. It seems the rumors outside are a bit too fantastical. I wonder who started them?"
"Perhaps it's the expelled students," Kirari said smoothly, without skipping a beat.
Her eyes narrowed by a fraction of a millimeter.
"After all, sometimes students make... poor financial decisions. When they leave, they tend to blame the system rather than their own lack of luck or skill. It's a matter of psychological endurance, really."
[Akarin's Note: Kirari is glossing over the "Life Plan" system, where students who incur massive debts essentially sell their entire futures (marriage, career, children) to the Student Council.]
Sonoko rolled her eyes at Kirari.
She knew the truth. What Kirari said was technically correct—they did leave because of debts—but it perfectly skipped over the predatory nature of the traps set for them.
However, Sonoko didn't argue. In her world, the Suzuki conglomerate world, losers were rarely afforded much sympathy.
"Hmm, if you put it that way, it's quite possible," Ran admitted, her kind heart accepting the explanation. "It seems your school doesn't have a rule that you must play, right?"
"That's right. Participation is... voluntary," Kirari lied effortlessly. "So I'm also quite helpless when people misunderstand us."
She suddenly shifted her gaze past Ran, her eyes lighting up.
"Oh my. Speaking of things worth waiting for... Ren is out."
Hearing this, Sonoko and Ran both looked up towards the kitchen entrance.
The noren curtains parted.
Ren emerged, pushing a sleek wooden dining cart. The wheels rolled silently over the floor.
He looked impeccable as always in his chef's attire. His silver hair was tied back, and he exuded a calm, welcoming warmth that instantly dispelled the lingering tension Kirari had created.
Seeing Sonoko and Ran, he smiled and nodded.
"Welcome," Ren said warmly. His gaze landed on the newcomer. "You must be Ran. The girl Sonoko often talks about."
Mouri Ran stood up immediately, bowing politely out of habit.
"Yes! Nice to meet you! Are you Shopkeeper Ren?"
Ren nodded. "I am. Please, sit. You've taken good care of this girl, Sonoko, usually. It must be hard work keeping her out of trouble."
"Hey!" Sonoko protested, slamming her hand on the table. "Shopkeeper Ren! Who takes care of who?! I'm the responsible one!"
Mouri Ran shook her head repeatedly, suppressing a giggle, completely confirming Ren's assessment without saying a word.
Sonoko huffed, turning her head to the side. "Whatever! Shopkeeper Ren, we want to order. Do you have any recommendations? It's Ran's first time here, so don't embarrass me!"
"I know what you mean, no need to emphasize it's her first time. I remember the preferences of every guest here very clearly."
Ren turned his attention to the cart. He picked up a covered bowl.
"First, for Sayaka."
He placed the bowl in front of the stiff-standing secretary.
"Here is your Flying Dragon Soup and a side of white rice. You look quite tired. Your complexion is pale and your energy is low. This will replenish your body and spirit."
Sayaka Igarashi was flattered. She adjusted her glasses, looking flushed.
"E-Eh? For me? Master Ren, you didn't have to..."
"Eat it, Sayaka," Kirari commanded gently, cutting her off with a smile. "Whatever Ren recommends won't be wrong. You work too hard for me. You should properly replenish yourself."
"Yes, President! Thank you, President! Thank you, Master Ren!" Sayaka bowed frantically.
Ren sighed, shaking his head. "No need to call me Master. Just Ren is fine."
He turned back to the high school girls.
"So, Sonoko, knowing you, you probably don't know what you want to eat yet. You usually decide based on the mood."
"You know me too well," Sonoko grinned.
"And Ran," Ren looked at the karate expert. "Is there anything specific you'd like to eat? Any cravings?"
"Anything is fine?" Ran asked tentatively.
"Anything is fine," Ren confirmed. "As long as I have the ingredients, I can make it. And even if I don't, I can usually improvise."
Mouri Ran thought for a while. She tapped her chin.
She was usually the one cooking for her father and Conan. It was rare for her to be asked what she wanted.
"I want to eat some meat," she admitted, a bit shyly. "Cooking at home... well, I usually make curry or hamburger steaks. I want something... different. But I don't know what to choose."
Ren thought for a moment. He looked at Ran's athletic build—the build of a martial artist who needed protein.
"Would you like to try authentic Chinese Cuisine? There are many excellent meat dishes that aren't commonly found in standard family restaurants."
"Oh? Chinese?" Ran's eyes lit up. "Yes! If possible... not too spicy, please."
"Alright. Then I know exactly what to make. A classic Dongpo Pork should suit your tastes perfectly. Tender, savory, and sweet."
"That sounds amazing!"
"And what about you, Sonoko?" Ren asked. "If you don't have a preference, I'll just make something fitting for the evening."
Sonoko waved her hand. "Forget it, forget it. Shopkeeper Ren, you decide. I trust your judgment more than my own right now."
"Understood. Please wait a moment."
Ren swiftly placed three glasses on the table.
"Also, Kirari, Sayaka, Lucifer. These are your drinks. It's a vintage red wine I opened earlier. Don't drink too quickly. Especially you, Kirari. Don't drink it like it's grape juice."
"Understood," Kirari smirked, taking the glass. "Go prepare quickly. I still have something to tell you."
Ren paused. He glanced at Kirari, his eyes narrowing slightly. He seemed to read the intention behind her casual demeanor.
"Are you really going to fight?" Ren asked quietly.
"Yes," Kirari replied. The playful tone was gone, replaced by the steel of a ruler. "This time, the challenge is a bit beyond my expectations. The stakes are... unique."
She took a sip of the wine, her blue eyes flashing.
"But you'll be fine. You just need to fight five matches for me."
"Five matches..." Ren muttered. He didn't ask for details. He didn't ask who the opponent was. He simply nodded. "Alright."
He turned and returned to the kitchen, the cart rattling softly.
At the other table, Lucifer sat with her arms crossed.
The Queen of Hell had been listening intently. She looked at Kirari with suspicion.
"What did you do?" Lucifer asked bluntly.
"It seems I pushed the people who want to unseat me into a corner," Kirari said lightly, as if discussing the weather. "A faction within the academy—and perhaps outside of it—is trying to stage a coup. Small problem."
"A coup?" Lucifer raised an eyebrow.
"They want my seat. They want my life plan. It's adorable, really," Kirari laughed softly. "Hmm. This wine is really good."
Lucifer and Cerberus didn't think much more of it. Human politics were trivial to demons.
Kirari, with the wine now served, didn't wait any longer.
Her steak was waiting, but her attention was focused entirely on the other plate.
The Pan-Seared Foie Gras.
It sat there, exuding a rich, decadent aroma that seemed to distort the air around it.
Picking up her knife and fork, she cut off a small piece.
The resistance was non-existent. The knife sank through the seared crust and into the creamy interior like it was cutting through warm ganache.
Immediately, the rich aroma of hot butter and caramelized fat burst forth, assaulting her olfactory senses.
Pan-fried foie gras is a deceptively simple dish. But in cuisine, the simpler the dish, the more it exposes the chef's skill. There is nowhere to hide.
Kirari lifted the fork to her lips. Her blue lipstick contrasted sharply with the golden-brown sear of the liver.
She took a bite.
Mmm.
As her teeth broke the delicate crust, the interior dissolved.
It felt like a savory soufflé. It was so tender, so impossibly smooth, that one would doubt if it was truly meat at all.
The flavor exploded in her mouth.
First came the intense, savory richness of the goose liver—fatty, umami-laden, and decadent. This was immediately followed by the sweet and creamy sensation of the butter it was basted in.
It elevated the already perfect texture to the level of a high-end dessert cake.
But Ren hadn't stopped there.
The subtle earthiness of black truffle powder and thin slices of roasted matsutake mushroom played the role of dark chocolate in this savory dessert. They provided a deep, musky base note that grounded the richness of the fat.
Soft on the palate. Fresh. Savory.
The garlic butter sauce added a punch of sharpness that cut through the grease, preventing it from feeling cloying.
It was a symphony of lipids.
No woman—no matter how stoic—would dislike a dish where eating meat felt like indulging in the finest pastry.
The wonderful texture coated her tongue. The excellent flavor lingered in her nasal cavity.
Kirari closed her eyes. Her usually pale face flushed with a genuine, rosy hue.
"As expected of my person..." she whispered, her voice husky. "This taste... it's truly unforgettable."
She opened her eyes and looked at the silver-haired demon across the aisle.
"Lucifer~"
"Hmm?"
Lucifer, who was sipping her wine and trying to look dignified, was startled by the sudden call.
Kirari smiled. It was a dazzling, victorious smile. She raised her glass in a mock toast.
"Lucifer. You may have won the first match by moving in here..."
Kirari's eyes gleamed with a competitive light that terrified Sonoko.
"But the follow-up isn't over yet. The game has many rounds. Right, Sonoko?"
Suzuki Sonoko waved her hands frantically, retreating into her chair.
"Don't drag me into this! You two can fight... This big sister can't compete with monsters like you!"
"Oh, Sonoko. You should have some ambition," Kirari teased.
Lucifer looked at Sonoko, then back at Kirari.
She saw the confidence in Kirari's eyes. She saw the way Kirari savored Ren's food, claiming it—and him—with every bite.
A sense of crisis instinctively rose in Lucifer's chest.
This woman... she's dangerous. She's not just a guest. She's a predator.
Lucifer narrowed her eyes. She quietly placed her wine glass down.
She reached into her pocket, took out her smartphone, and unlocked it under the table. Her fingers flew across the screen as she opened the search engine.
[Search Query: How to make a man completely obsessed with you?]
[Search Query: Can demons legally marry humans in Japan?]
[Search Query: Best distinct lipsticks to attract attention]
Kirari merely glanced at Lucifer's frantic typing from the corner of her eye. She smiled, knowing exactly what kind of seeds she had planted.
Then, she cut another piece of the foie gras, closed her eyes, and continued to enjoy the intoxicating delicacy that belonged to the man she intended to win.
(Cough cough...)
[Akarin Note:
Your Support Keeps This Story Alive!
If you're enjoying this novel, your support means the world to me. Simple actions like leaving a review, power stone, comment, or sharing the story let me know you're out there. It's the greatest motivation for me to keep updating until the very end and ensures this project continues.
For those who wish to support me more directly, you can join my Patreon at [patreon.com/AkarinTL]. As a thank-you, you'll receive access to 50 advanced chapters.
As a special offer, I've opened a few limited-time tiers at a discounted price! You will get all the benefits of "The Founding Pillars" (normally $20), but at a much cheaper rate.
These slots are extremely limited:
"The Plot Uncoverer": $4.99 (Save 75% / $15.01) - Only 3 slots
"The Dedicated Fan": $9.99 (Save 50% / $10.01) - Only 7 slots
"The Lore Diver": $14.99 (Save 25% / $5.01) - Only 15 slots
I hope I am still worthy of your support. My life truly depends on this... haha, I know I'm so shameless.]